Student & Parent Handbook - Version 08-04-2021 - Pope John Paul II High School
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Student & Parent Handbook
Version 08-04-2021
2021-2022 | Student & Parent Handbook | Pope John Paul II High School, Lacey, WA | Page 1 of 45
MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Dear Parents and Students,
Welcome to Pope John Paul II High School! In choosing Pope John Paul II High School,
you have demonstrated a commitment to the values and philosophy of a Catholic education.
The Parent/Student Handbook reflects the policies of Pope John Paul II High School for the
2021-2022 school year.
The Pope John Paul II High School Student & Parent Handbook is available on the school
website and hard copies are available in the school’s main office. All school families must read
this document carefully. By enrolling, you and your student(s) agree to abide by the policies
of Pope John Paul II High School during the 2021-2022 school year.
The faculty and staff of Pope John Paul II High School 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: God watch over JPII High School. Grant that it will be a place of
authentic faith, scholarship, friendship and service. Bless each student with success in
academics and activities. Stand beside our parents, teachers and staff that they may be agents
of Your holy will. Shower the benefactors of our school with blessings to exceed their
generosity. Through the example and protection of Saint Pope John Paul II, may our JPII
community bring the light and truth of Jesus into the world.
Blessings,
Therese Allin
2021-2022 | Student & Parent Handbook | Pope John Paul II High School, Lacey, WA | Page 2 of 45
Table of Contents
Directory .................................................................................................................................................... 9
Administration and Staff 2021-2022 .......................................................................................................9
Faculty 2021-2022 ....................................................................................................................................9
Mission, Vision and the JPII Value......................................................................................................... 10
JPII Mission ..............................................................................................................................................10
JPII Vision ................................................................................................................................................10
The JPII Value .........................................................................................................................................10
Archdiocese of Seattle .......................................................................................................................... 10
Office of Catholic Schools ..................................................................................................................... 10
Grad at Grad (The Graduate at Graduation) ...................................................................................... 11
Admissions and Enrollment Policies ..................................................................................................... 12
General Information .............................................................................................................................12
International Students ...........................................................................................................................12
Students with Learning Differences .....................................................................................................13
Academic Information .......................................................................................................................... 14
Graduation Requirements ...................................................................................................................14
Community Service Requirements (for Graduation) ........................................................................15
Community Service Day .......................................................................................................................15
Credits and Grading .............................................................................................................................16
JPII Grading Scale .................................................................................................................................16
Grade Point Average ...........................................................................................................................17
Course Changes ...................................................................................................................................17
Honors and Advanced Placement Courses ......................................................................................17
Academic Honors/Soaring Eagles Honor Roll ....................................................................................17
National Honor Society .........................................................................................................................17
Academic Probation ............................................................................................................................18
Repeated Classes .................................................................................................................................18
Credits for College Courses .................................................................................................................18
Eligibility for Co-Curricular Activities ....................................................................................................18
2021-2022 | Student & Parent Handbook | Pope John Paul II High School, Lacey, WA | Page 3 of 45
Late Work and Incomplete Grades ....................................................................................................19
Finals .......................................................................................................................................................19
Standardized Tests.................................................................................................................................19
Report Cards ..........................................................................................................................................19
Transcripts ...............................................................................................................................................19
Transfer of Student Records .................................................................................................................20
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) .....................................................................20
Student Support and Counseling .......................................................................................................... 21
Community Period ................................................................................................................................21
Counseling Department .......................................................................................................................21
Campus Ministry ..................................................................................................................................... 21
Liturgies ...................................................................................................................................................22
Retreats ..................................................................................................................................................22
Freshman Retreat: Theme - Build Community ................................................................................22
Sophomore Retreat: Theme - Act Virtuously ..................................................................................22
Junior Retreat: Theme - Faith and Prayer .......................................................................................23
Senior Retreat: Theme - Courageous Leadership ..........................................................................23
School Policies ........................................................................................................................................ 23
Attendance ...........................................................................................................................................23
Excused Absences.............................................................................................................................24
Unexcused Absence .........................................................................................................................24
Tardiness .............................................................................................................................................24
Policy on Absenteeism ......................................................................................................................24
Inclement Weather/Emergency Schedule Changes .......................................................................25
School Dances.......................................................................................................................................25
School Sponsored Activities .................................................................................................................25
Student Guests.......................................................................................................................................25
Transportation ........................................................................................................................................26
Visiting Campus .....................................................................................................................................26
Volunteers ..............................................................................................................................................26
Campus Safety ....................................................................................................................................... 26
Closed Campus .....................................................................................................................................26
Right to Inspect......................................................................................................................................26
Weapons ................................................................................................................................................26
Supervision of Students .........................................................................................................................27
2021-2022 | Student & Parent Handbook | Pope John Paul II High School, Lacey, WA | Page 4 of 45Health and Medical information ........................................................................................................... 27
Immunization Policy ..............................................................................................................................27
Communicable or Contagious Disease .............................................................................................27
Medications ...........................................................................................................................................28
Health Room ..........................................................................................................................................28
COVID-19 ...............................................................................................................................................28
Dress Code / Appearance .................................................................................................................... 28
Philosophy ..............................................................................................................................................28
Personal Appearance ..........................................................................................................................29
Enforcement of Dress Code.................................................................................................................29
Technology Policies ............................................................................................................................... 29
Privacy ....................................................................................................................................................30
Acceptable Use ....................................................................................................................................30
Unacceptable Uses ..............................................................................................................................30
Illegal or Destructive Activities .........................................................................................................30
System Security ..................................................................................................................................30
Unacceptable Conduct ...................................................................................................................30
Plagiarism and copyright infringement ...........................................................................................31
Cell Phones and other Personal Electronic Devices .........................................................................31
School Office Phone Use ......................................................................................................................31
Emails ......................................................................................................................................................31
Web Pages .............................................................................................................................................32
Student Web Pages ..............................................................................................................................32
Non-Compliance ..................................................................................................................................32
No warranties .........................................................................................................................................32
Vandalism ..............................................................................................................................................32
Communication ...................................................................................................................................... 32
Procedures for Communication Between the Parents, Teachers and Administrators .................33
Procedure for Scheduling and Approval ...........................................................................................33
Student Messages .................................................................................................................................33
Use of Student Information and Pictures ............................................................................................33
Emergencies and Crisis Procedures ..................................................................................................... 33
Emergency Contact Form ...................................................................................................................33
2021-2022 | Student & Parent Handbook | Pope John Paul II High School, Lacey, WA | Page 5 of 45General Emergencies ...........................................................................................................................33
Fire, Earthquake and Lockdown Drills .................................................................................................34
Discipline and the Student Code of Conduct...................................................................................... 34
Philosophy and Expectations for Student Behavior ..........................................................................34
Administration and Review of Behavior Policies................................................................................35
Assault .................................................................................................................................................35
Cheating.............................................................................................................................................35
Disruptive Behavior ............................................................................................................................35
Dress Code .........................................................................................................................................35
Eating or Drinking in Classrooms ......................................................................................................36
Extraordinary Parental Conduct ......................................................................................................36
Extraordinary Student Conduct .......................................................................................................36
Forgery ................................................................................................................................................36
Gambling............................................................................................................................................36
Harassment, Intimidation or Bullying ................................................................................................37
Hazing .................................................................................................................................................37
Improper Public Display of Affection ..............................................................................................37
Initiating a False Alarm ......................................................................................................................37
Insubordination ..................................................................................................................................37
Language ...........................................................................................................................................37
Leaving campus without permission ...............................................................................................37
Parking lot conduct ...........................................................................................................................37
Physical Violence/Fighting ...............................................................................................................37
Stealing ...............................................................................................................................................37
Use of Electronics ...............................................................................................................................38
Use/Possession of Weapons .............................................................................................................38
Vandalism ...........................................................................................................................................38
Law enforcement ..................................................................................................................................38
Suspension ..............................................................................................................................................38
Dismissal ..................................................................................................................................................39
Appeals Process ....................................................................................................................................39
Harassment / Bullying Policy at JPII .....................................................................................................40
Harassment .........................................................................................................................................40
Operational Definitions of Harassment ...........................................................................................40
Bullying and Cyberbullying ...............................................................................................................41
Threats ....................................................................................................................................................41
Retaliation / False Allegations..............................................................................................................41
Alcohol and Drug Policy.......................................................................................................................42
Tuition Policies ......................................................................................................................................... 42
Registration ............................................................................................................................................42
2021-2022 | Student & Parent Handbook | Pope John Paul II High School, Lacey, WA | Page 6 of 45Tuition Payment: Responsibilities and Methods .................................................................................43
Delinquent Accounts ............................................................................................................................43
Terms of Withdrawal ..............................................................................................................................44
Withdrawal Tuition Responsibility/Refund Policy ................................................................................44
Schedule of Fees ...................................................................................................................................44
Tuition Assistance Program...................................................................................................................45
2021-2022 | Student & Parent Handbook | Pope John Paul II High School, Lacey, WA | Page 7 of 45RIGHT TO AMEND
From time to time, circumstances may require that JPII change its general policies described in this Handbook. JPII
reserves the right to amend, supplement or rescind any provision of this Handbook at its sole discretion, with or
without prior notice. Inserts or updated pages will be distributed to students and parents reflecting changes to
the Handbook as appropriate. This Handbook is subject to interpretation by JPII which shall be binding. This
Handbook supersedes all prior handbooks or policy statements regarding the school’s general student policies.
NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATORY POLICY
Pope John Paul II High School admits students of any race, sex, sexual orientation, faith tradition, color, national
and ethnic origin, and disability to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made
available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, sexual orientation, color,
national and ethnic origin, age or disability in administration of its educational policies, admission policies,
academic and financial programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.
Although we do not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, sexual orientation, color, national or ethnic origin, it
remains our primary purpose and mission to provide a Catholic secondary education. Under some circumstances,
medically justifiable limitations may be placed on the admission/retention of students with infectious diseases
and/or life-threatening illnesses. Likewise, limitations may be placed on the admission/retention of students
whose needs the school is unable to meet. Decisions regarding admission/retention of these students is decided
on a case-by-case basis by the principal or his/her designee.
ACCREDITATION
Pope John Paul II High School is accredited by the Western Catholic Education Association. Accreditation is one
way of ensuring that the school meets acceptable environmental standards, has a valid school improvement plan,
and is engaged in an on-going self-study and on-site peer evaluation process.
2021-2022 | Student & Parent Handbook | Pope John Paul II High School, Lacey, WA | Page 8 of 45Directory
Administration and Staff 2021-2022
Principal Therese Allin tallin@popejp2hseagles.org
Academic Administrator Ann Ashe aashe@popejp2hseagles.org
Director of Communications & Admissions Dan Ashe dashe@popejp2hseagles.org
Business Manager Monica Davis mdavis@popejp2hseagles.org
Development Director Todd Weiss tweiss@popejp2hseagles.org
Athletic Director Anthony Herness aherness@popejp2hseagles.org
Administrative Assistant Margie Antles mantles@popejp2hseagles.org
Executive Assistant Caiti Schmitz cschmitz@popejp2hseagles.
Counselor Julie Suek jsuek@popejp2hseagles.org
Faculty 2021-2022
Spanish/Academic Advisor Gary Baits gbaits@popejp2hseagles.org
Theology/Humanities Mary Frances Brennan mbrennan@popejp2hseagles.org
Fine Arts Travis Conn tconn@popejp2hseagles.org
Theology/Campus Ministry Jacob Hayden jhayden@popejp2hseagles.org
Spanish Anthony Herness aherness@popejp2hseagles.org
Lang. Arts/Band/Comm. Service Stephen Holland sholland@popejp2hseagles.org
Mathematics/College Advisor Kimberly Karaman kkaraman@popejp2hseagles.org
Performing Arts
Humanities/Tech. Advisor Joshua Myers jmyers@popejp2hseagles.org
Science/Mathematics Margarita Fox mfox@popejp2hseagles.org
Science/Health Dr. Tracy Russell trussell@popejp2hseagles.org
Language Arts/PE Phil Suek psuek@popejp2hseagles.org
2021-2022 | Student & Parent Handbook | Pope John Paul II High School, Lacey, WA | Page 9 of 45Mission, Vision and the JPII Value
JPII Mission
The mission of Pope John Paul II High School is to provide a Catholic secondary education within a challenging
academic, spiritual, and co-curricular environment that will develop men and women who are intellectually
strong, spiritually alive and committed to serving the needs of others.
JPII Vision
Pope John Paul II High School will nurture and challenge every student to be transformed for a lifetime of
courageous leadership and service through discovery and development of their God given gifts.
The JPII Value
Become Who God Intends You to Be...
Build
At JPII, you will experience a challenging, holistic education that prepares you for college,
career and life.
Believe
At JPII, you will explore your faith in Jesus Christ and the belief that God created each
person uniquely to learn, contribute and lead.
Belong
At JPII, you will join a welcoming community where every person is known, supported and
encouraged to engage with others.
We are intentionally shaping “stewards of the future” who are ready to serve and lead.
To live in the light and truth of Jesus…now and forever.
Saint John Paul…pray for us.
Archdiocese of Seattle
The ministries of the Archdiocese of Seattle continue the work of evangelization to encounter Christ, who calls
and sends missionary disciples, and who himself provides lifelong formation and nourishment in the Church.
Office of Catholic Schools
In the spirit of communion, solidarity, and subsidiarity, the Office for Catholic Schools provides high quality
professional development, resources, and best practices to expand the evangelizing mission of our Church as we
help one another form the school leaders God has designed for our time.
2021-2022 | Student & Parent Handbook | Pope John Paul II High School, Lacey, WA | Page 10 of 45Grad at Grad (The Graduate at Graduation)
Pope John Paul II High School educates students to pursue truth, act virtuously and build community.
You will witness this in each student because they…
• Possess fundamental skills and knowledge demanded by each academic discipline
• Pursue educational opportunities beyond high school
• Think logically, critically and creatively in problem solving and self-expression
• Analyze contemporary issues from multiple perspectives
• Respect other peoples, languages and cultures
• Access resources and technology to interpret, evaluate and present information
• Interpret implications and consequences of assumptions behind different points of view
Therefore they are Intellectually Strong
• Recognize self and others as loved by God
• Understand Catholic Christianity and know major doctrines and practices of the Catholic Church
• Know Christ’s Mission and participate actively and fully in the Church’s life
• Build personal relationship with Christ through Eucharist, prayer and reflection
• Practice reconciliation with family, friends, Church and God
• See faith in Jesus as an obligation to live life as a person for others
Therefore they are Spiritually Alive
• Accept personal responsibility for their growth
• Strive for integrity, commitment and excellence in all things
• Make life choices based upon Catholic social teachings
• Challenge prejudices and stereotypes
• Seek opportunities to expand their mind, heart, imagination, feelings and consciousness
• Seek aesthetic, artistic and creative experiences through the arts
• Engage in co-curricular activities that develop leadership, interpersonal and collaborative skills
Therefore they are Open to Growth
• Accept responsibility for building and maintaining loving relationships with others
• Demonstrate empathy, compassion, understanding and respect
• Accept the love of God and others
• Know the moral teachings of the Catholic Church as it relates to sexuality
• Make responsible decisions regarding personal health and well-being
• Listen respectfully and express themselves genuinely
Therefore they are Loving
• Recognize service as fundamental to faith
• Act with generosity toward all
• Demonstrate compassion for victims of injustice
• Know the impact of social, environmental and political issues on the human community
• Understand the contradictions and moral ambiguities between the Church’s social teachings and popular culture
• Know that faith demands active commitment to a just society
Therefore they are Committed to Doing Justice
2021-2022 | Student & Parent Handbook | Pope John Paul II High School, Lacey, WA | Page 11 of 45Admissions and Enrollment Policies
General Information
Pope John Paul II High School’s college preparatory program is designed for those students who are motivated to
learn and grow in their relationship with God and others within the context of a Catholic Community. Admission
will be based on the following criteria:
1. For incoming freshmen, a placement exam and writing prompt which are administered in the winter.
2. Transcript grades and standardized test scores from the current school attending.
3. Positive references from current math, English and science teachers, the principal or school counselor.
4. A letter from a student’s parish or church pastor, other faith leader, and/or a prominent community leader
who knows the student’s character and motivation to succeed.
5. Possible interview.
6. Successfully completing the admissions process.
The placement exam for incoming freshmen is the High School Placement Test (HSPT), a multiple choice exam
that measures student skill levels in English, math, reading and science. This exam along with other objective data
will be used to assess a student’s potential for success and future academic placement. Seventh and eighth grade
transcript grades will be evaluated in conjunction with HSPT scores and other available objective test scores.
Student should have at least a C average in their current course work.
Reference forms from a student’s current school should reflect positive comments about the student’s potential
for academic success, personal character, motivation and commitment to community. A letter from a student’s
pastor, other faith leader, and/or a prominent community leader will also add to the Admission Committee’s
understanding of a student’s personal profile.
The application form will contain a section that will give a student an opportunity to describe their involvement
in and service to their parish, school or civic communities.
The writing sample will be taken during the placement testing time and will take approximately 30 minutes. The
sample will be used in conjunction with other academic data to determine a student’s academic profile.
An interview with parents/guardian and student may be requested by the school to further assess a student’s
readiness for the rigors of the curriculum offered at Pope John Paul II High School.
International Students
International students who are not permanent residents of the United States will be admitted in accordance with
the requirements of the United States Department of State and/or the United States Department of Homeland
Security. Any foreign student who is not a permanent resident of the United States who desires to enroll in JPII
must have complete legal documentation required by the United States government in order to do so.
2021-2022 | Student & Parent Handbook | Pope John Paul II High School, Lacey, WA | Page 12 of 45Students with Learning Differences
Students with special needs shall be given the same consideration as all applicants. However, prior to admitting a
student with diagnosed learning differences, Pope John Paul II High School shall make a determination as to
whether it can provide an appropriate education for that student in light of the school’s resources and
staff/support capacity. Each student will be considered on an individual basis. JPII will consider:
1. the severity and degree of the disability; the level of support needed from special services and any special
equipment or related services the student may require;
2. the school's resources, such as available support personnel, class size, and accessibility of school facilities;
3. the accommodations, if any are necessary, and the school’s ability to provide those accommodations;
4. the student’s Student Support Plan (SSP) if one exists, and/or the school’s ability to meet a current IEP or
behavioral plan; and
5. any other considerations that may apply to the particular situation.
Parents and/or the public school district in which the student resides shall be responsible for any additional special
education services that a student may require.
Pope John Paul II High School will accept any student for whom an appropriate program can be designed and
implemented. Each student is to be considered for admission based upon his/her emotional, academic, and
physical needs; the school’s ability to support the student in adhering to all health/medical requirements; and the
resources available to the school in meeting those needs. JPII determines continued enrollment based on these
factors.
There is a limit to what schools have the capacity to do. However, the school will not discriminate against
otherwise qualified individuals on the basis of disability if, with reasonable accommodations, school staff can assist
a student in meeting the requirements of the school program.
Truth | Virtue | Community
“What really matters in life
is that we are loved by Christ and that we love Him in return.
In comparison to the love of Jesus, everything else is secondary.
And, without the love of Jesus, everything is useless.”
2021-2022 | Student & Parent Handbook | Pope John Paul II High School, Lacey, WA | Page 13 of 45Academic Information
The course of studies at JPII is designed to prepare students to succeed in college, career, and life. Within this
college preparatory framework, we seek to direct students into courses that will challenge their capacity and
potential. Every student at JPII will be given ample opportunity to be successful.
Graduation Requirements
The courses required for graduation from JPII exceed the entry requirements of Washington State public colleges
and universities and most private universities. There are 7.125* total credits possible each year and 28.5* over a
four-year high school career. 26 credits plus successful completion of the assigned community service
requirements are required for graduation. Academic rigor of coursework will be considered in graduation
honors such as valedictorian and salutatorian.
Department General College Requirements JPII Diploma Requirements
English 4 4
Mathematics 3-4 4
Social Studies 3 3
Science 2-3 3
Modern Language 2-3 3
Fine/Performing Arts 1 1
P.E./Health 1 2*
Theology 4
Electives 2
Total Credits Required 17 26
* Beginning with the class of 2020, Community Period courses reflect the earned Lifetime Fitness 0.125 credit per year.
2021-2022 | Student & Parent Handbook | Pope John Paul II High School, Lacey, WA | Page 14 of 45Community Service Requirements (for Graduation)
Pope John Paul II High School's Community Service Program develops students who understand service as
fundamental and intrinsic to their faith. They demonstrate compassion for victims of injustice and know that they
are called to actively commit to building a just society. It is the program's objectives, through direct service to
others, to challenge students' perceptions and stereotypes of those they serve and create empathetic,
compassionate and courageous leaders for change. The Community Service program is an extension of this school
culture of service into the surrounding community. It is through this contact that not only the lives of those served
are changed, but the lives of our students. Details on expectations to meet the community service requirements
for graduation will be covered in the Community Period class. Service experiences are selected and designed to
bring about an affective change of heart in our students.
With these outcomes in mind, the requirements of the service program are as follows:
• While encouraged to do more, students will be required to offer 80 hours of community service as a
graduation requirement during their four years of high school.
• Placements must provide students with as much direct contact with those they serve as possible and
appropriate.
• The school will select and approve placements that serve the poor, homeless, shut-ins, disabled, elderly, ill,
disenfranchised, illiterate and those with the greatest need of assistance.
• Students are expected to complete their service hours outside of school time. Service to the school is an
expected part of the school culture but will not be counted as service hours.
• Faculty and staff are expected to participate in school service projects and model a life of service.
• Students will reflect upon and share their service experiences.
• Selected placements or service sites will be approved based upon age appropriateness of students and will
be patterned as follows:
o 9th grade 10 hours (at least two different placements)
o 10th grade 20 hours (at least 3 or 4 different placements)
o 11th grade 20+ hours (no more than 2 or 3 different placements)
o 12th grade 30+ hours (only 1 placement) AND electronic reflection project
• Sophomores, juniors and seniors may opt to perform their service hours during the summer. Summer
service may be performed out of state/country at approved service sites with approved service agencies.
Community Service Day
The Community Service Day is usually held the day before Christmas Vacation. The day begins with Mass and then
sends the students and staff (and often alumni) out in groups to serve the community in a variety of areas. In the
afternoon, all classes return to campus to discuss and then write a personal reflection on their service experience
and then culminate with an ASB led Christmas celebration.
2021-2022 | Student & Parent Handbook | Pope John Paul II High School, Lacey, WA | Page 15 of 45Credits and Grading
26 credits are required to graduate from JPII. Students are expected to take a minimum of 7 courses each semester
as well as their Community Period. Academic credits are assigned each semester for each course in which a
passing grade is earned. A passing grade in a semester class generates one-half credit. Grades at the semesters
are used to determine student cumulative grade point averages.
Transfer credits must be approved. These credits are entered into a separate space on the JPII transcript and will
be listed under the school where they were earned. JPII will also keep the transfer transcript and will attach it to
the official JPII transcript, when requested, when sending transcripts to colleges and universities.
JPII Grading Scale
JPII uses the following grading scale. To qualify for the honors points, the course title must include either Honors
or AP designations. All internal JPII GPA’s are calculated with general and honors values. Reporting to colleges
and universities, the GPA is calculated using the Simple Grade Point scale. Both cumulative GPA’s, JPII and Simple,
are reported on transcripts and report cards.
Percentage Letter General Honors Simple
(Rounded) Grade Grade Points Grade Points Grade Points
97-100 A+ 4.30 4.80 4.00
93-96 A 4.00 4.50 4.00
90-92 A- 3.70 4.20 3.70
87-89 B+ 3.30 3.80 3.30
83-86 B 3.00 3.50 3.00
80-82 B- 2.70 3.20 2.70
77-79 C+ 2.30 2.80 2.30
70-76 C 2.00 2.50 2.00
65-69 C- 1.70 2.20 1.70
0-64* F 0.00 0.00 0.00
* D grades are not possible at JPII. Students need to achieve at least a C- or higher to earn credit in any class. Students
who earn below 65% have not met the standard for the course or for advancement to the next course.
2021-2022 | Student & Parent Handbook | Pope John Paul II High School, Lacey, WA | Page 16 of 45Grade Point Average
A student’s grade point average is determined by dividing the total grade points earned by the potential credits
attempted for a given academic semester. Semester grades and GPA’s will be rounded up to the nearest
thousandth in order to calculate student rankings.
Course Changes
Schedules are designed intentionally with the good of the student in mind; therefore, changes are discouraged.
In the event that students are misplaced, students/parents may request course changes. All requests for course
changes must be submitted within twelve (12) class days of the start of a semester. Transfers must be approved
by the administration. If a student drops/changes a course after twelve (12) days into a semester, the student will
receive a grade of “F” and loss of credit in the class dropped unless there are mitigating circumstances such as
medical issues. These changes must be approved by the administration before taking effect.
Honors and Advanced Placement Courses
Admission to Honors or Advanced Placement courses is made on a year-by-year basis. Teachers in a given subject
area will make a recommendation for a student’s placement in an Honors or Advanced Placement course based
on the student’s current academic performance. Students and parents should refer to course syllabi for specific
requirements for admission to an Honors or Advanced Placement course.
AP Courses have been designed to meet or exceed the curricular requirements as established by the College
Board. The curricular content is equivalent to an entry-level course in college. AP tests are administered in May
of each year on the College Board scheduled dates. It is recommended that the enrolled student take the AP exam.
Depending on performance on these tests and the discretion of the college or university, students may receive
college credit or advanced placement. Students will be charged a fee to take the examinations. It is recommended
that students be enrolled in no more than two AP classes in a given year.
Academic Honors/Soaring Eagles Honor Roll
The JPII Honor Roll is published twice a year. Highest Honors are for those students who maintain a 3.9 or higher
average. The requirement for First Honors is a GPA of 3.7 or higher. For Second Honors, the requirement is a GPA
less than 3.7, but at least 3.4 or greater. Honor roll GPAs are based upon the JPII Grade Scale. All honors GPAs will
be rounded to the nearest tenth for determination of honors.
National Honor Society
The National Honor Society recognizes students who display outstanding qualities of scholarship, service,
leadership, and character. Students must have a cumulative simple GPA of 3.4 or above over at least two semesters
at JPII to apply for membership in the Light & Truth Chapter of the National Honor Society. Students must not
have received any disciplinary action resulting in suspension from JPII or have a significant pattern of disciplinary
infractions. The selection of each member into the National Honor Society shall be by a majority vote of the NHS
Faculty Council.
2021-2022 | Student & Parent Handbook | Pope John Paul II High School, Lacey, WA | Page 17 of 45Academic Probation
Probation may occur if a student is not meeting the academic requirements of his/her particular grade, or if there
is continuing serious academic deficiency. A student can be placed on academic probation by the administration
in consultation with the teachers. The administration will determine the length of the probation period. During
academic probation, the student will be ineligible to participate in co-curricular activities, required to meet with
the Academic Advisor weekly, required to attend at least two step-up sessions weekly, and sign an academic
probation contract. This process may also require conferences with parents, tutoring, testing, and or counseling
as determined by JPII staff. If there is no improvement during the probation period, or if a student fails two subjects
at the end of the semester, the student may be asked to withdraw from JPII. In such cases, families may appeal to
the administration.
Repeated Classes
If a student takes a class for a second time for any appropriate reason such as credit retrieval (as determined by
the administration), both grades will appear on the student’s transcript and count in the overall GPA. If passed,
the credit will count in the total required for graduation.
Credits for College Courses
Occasionally students will take college courses while enrolled at JPII High School. Students need prior approval
from the administration. Students are allowed to take up to two courses per semester for credit through a
community or four-year college while enrolled at JPII. Credit determination will be handled as transfer credits. JPII
does not provide financial support for tuition for college courses.
Eligibility for Co-Curricular Activities
To be eligible to participate in interscholastic athletics, school plays or musicals, Student Government, or any other
co-curricular activities, students must maintain a GPA of 2.0 or better, with no “F” grades. In order to run for
Governing Board (ASB Officers and Class Officers), a student must have at least a 2.7 GPA for the previous semester
as well as current courses.
Grade checks will be made at three-week intervals throughout the school year. Dates will be posted. In the event
that a team reaches the playoffs, grade checks will be made weekly for that team. Students who receive a Warning
of failing any class at grade check will be on probation. This probation will begin on the school day following
notification. While still failing, the student will be held out of games, shows, banquets, competitions and/or
conferences until passing in all classes. The student will become eligible immediately after bringing a passing
grade report to the athletic director for all classes on the Grade Clearance Form. This form will be required for
each event until the following official grade check shows passing all classes.
Semester failures will allow students to participate in turnouts/practices but will hold them out of games, events,
shows, banquets, conferences and/or competitions for a period of two (2) weeks for one (1) failure, four (4) weeks
for two (2) failures and five (5) weeks for three (3) failures. If the student is passing all classes, they will be eligible
on either the 3rd, 5th or 6th week of the new semester.
2021-2022 | Student & Parent Handbook | Pope John Paul II High School, Lacey, WA | Page 18 of 45Late Work and Incomplete Grades
Students leaving school early for a field trip, athletic contest, or other school sponsored activity, must complete
tests/quizzes and assignments prior to their departure, or, at the teachers’ sole discretion, make other
arrangements to complete the missed work. Homework and projects are due on the date specified by a teacher.
Usually, if a student is absent from class, the student may have one day to make up missed homework for each
day of excused absence. Otherwise, acceptance of late work will be at the discretion of the teacher.
All work must be completed during the term it is assigned. A grade of Incomplete may be given by a teacher at
the end of a semester for students who have had extended absences, if given with the approval of the
administration. Incomplete grades will be accompanied by a contract between the student and the teacher for
completion of work. If the contract terms are not met, the grade reverts to the previously earned grade.
Finals
All students are expected to take their final exams at the scheduled exam times. To maintain the integrity of finals
for all students, JPII does not administer final exams prior to scheduled testing time. Any student requesting an
exception to this policy needs to contact the administration to make arrangements. Teachers are not authorized
to make special arrangements for finals until approved by administration.
Standardized Tests
JPII administers the PreACT test in the spring for freshmen and sophomores, and the PSAT to all juniors in the fall.
The purpose of these tests is twofold:
• Provides an opportunity for students who would choose to take the ACT/SAT test in the future, to get
acquainted with the format of these tests.
• Allows teachers to evaluate and adjust the learning process at JPII.
The school provides these assessments to the students at no additional cost. The PreACT test series is designed to
measure college readiness based upon standards formulated by the ACT Board with the contribution and
verification of a large consortium of colleges and universities. For juniors, taking the PSAT test enters them in
competition for National Merit Scholarships.
Report Cards
The purpose of report cards is to inform the student and parent of progress towards academic goals. Report cards
are sent home at the end of each semester, twice a year. Parents have access to student grades throughout the
year using the Schoology platform. Any assessment data the school collects from formal tests or classroom
assessments is used to help inform instruction and curriculum.
Transcripts
Transcripts are permanent records of all courses taken and semester grades earned while a student is at Pope John
Paul II High School. This record is maintained by the Academic Administrator and represents the school’s record
of each student’s academic performance. Student rank will not be listed on the transcript. Students must request
to have official transcripts sent to colleges or universities. There is no charge for this request. Unofficial transcript
copies are also available upon request.
2021-2022 | Student & Parent Handbook | Pope John Paul II High School, Lacey, WA | Page 19 of 45Transfer of Student Records
If a parent is registering a student in another school, JPII will release the student’s records upon receipt of a
“Request for Records Form” from the school where the student is enrolled or intends to enroll. The records will be
sent directly to the new school, not given to parents to deliver, and all debts/fines or unfulfilled contract
obligations owed to the school by the parent, must be discharged before records are forwarded.
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age ("eligible
students") certain rights with respect to the student's education records. They are:
1. The right to inspect and review the student's education records within 45 days of the request for access.
Parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal (or appropriate school official) a written
request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The principal will make arrangements for access and
notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.
2. The right to request an amendment of the student's education records that the parent or eligible student
believes are inaccurate or misleading. Parents or eligible students may ask Pope John Paul II High School to
amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write to the school principal, clearly
identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the school
decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the school will notify the
parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of the right to a hearing regarding the request for
amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or
eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.
3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student's
education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception
that permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests.
4. A school official is a person employed by Pope John Paul II High School as an administrator, supervisor,
instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a
person or company with whom the District has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney,
auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, or assisting
another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has legitimate educational interest if the
official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. Upon
request, Pope John Paul II High School discloses education records without consent to officials of another
school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll. (NOTE: FERPA requires a school to make
reasonable attempt to notify the student of the records request unless it states in its annual notification that
it intends to forward records on request.)
The right to file a complaint with the US Department of Education concerning alleged failures by Pope John Paul
II High School to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The address of the Office that administers FERPA is:
Family Policy Compliance Office
US Department of Education
600 Independence Avenue SW
Washington DC 20202-4
2021-2022 | Student & Parent Handbook | Pope John Paul II High School, Lacey, WA | Page 20 of 45You can also read
