Holy Trinity School Washington, DC A Catholic Elementary School in the Jesuit tradition
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Holy Trinity School
Washington, DC
A Catholic Elementary School in the Jesuit tradition
2020 Student & Parent Handbook
2021
CONTENTS
LETTER FROM LEADERSHIP 1 School Hours 9 Inclement Weather Policy 16
OVERVIEW Parking 9 Library 17
Archdiocese of Washington 2 Arrival 10 Liturgies & Chapel Mass 17
Holy Trinity Catholic Church 2 Dismisal 10 Lockers 17
Holy Trinity School 2 Carpool Procedures 11 Lost & Found 17
History 2 Dances & Socials 11 McKenna Sandwiches 17
Mission Statement 2 Development 11 Meals 17
Philosophy & Strategic Goals 2 Diagnostic Testing 12 Messages 17
Accreditation & Memberships 3 Directory 12 Parents As Partners 17
Drugs and Alcohol 12 Parent’s Role in Education 18
ADDENDUM FOR 2020-2021 Field Trips 12 Parent-Teacher Conferences 18
School Day Details 4 Gifts 12 Photos & School Yearbook 18
Spiritual Life 4 Grading Scale 12 Positive Reinforcement Strategies 18
Community Life 4 Graduate at Graduation 12 Promotion Policy and
Health & Safety 4 Grandparents & Special Retention Policy 19
THE ABCS OF HTS Friends Day 12 Report Cards 19
Academic Awards 5 Health 12 Sacramental Preparation 19
Admissions 5 COVID-19 13 School Advisory Board 19
Tuition and Fee Policy 5 Allergies 13 School Property 20
Financial Assistance 5 Illnesses and accidents 13 Student Council 20
Re-Enrollment 5 Medications 13 Student Records 20
After School Activities 6 Student Health Records 14 Tag Days 20
Attendance 6 High School Admissions 14 Technology & Internet 20
Assemblies 6 Home & School Association 14 Student Techonology Usage
HSA Year-Round Activities 14 Responsibilities 21
Athletics 6 Blogs & Social Media 22
Back-to-School Night 6 Family Support 15
Fathers’ Club 15 Cell Phones 22
Birthday Celebrations 6 Virtual Reality Sites 22
Buddies 7 Grace Art 15
Amazon & Grocery Cards 15 Title IX 22
Catholic Schools Week 7 Tutoring 22
Child Safety 7 Room Parents 15
Social Justice 15 Uniforms 22
Prevention Programing 7 Virtus 23
Threats 7 HSA Events 15
October 15 RIGHT TO AMEND 23
Christmas Show 7 STUDENT & PARENT
Communication 8 November 15 SIGNATURE 23
Community Service/ December 15
Social Justice 8 January 16
Conduct 8 March 16
Counseling 9 May 16
Curriculum 9 Homework 16
Daily Operations 9 House Meetings & Days 16
Dear Parents and Students, Welcome to what we are sure will be one of the most amazing years in the storied history of Holy Trinity School. If there were any doubt about the special nature of our beloved school, the response of our community to the coronavirus challenges of the spring of 2020 were inspiring. Behind the slogans like “HTS Strong” and “HTS: Together Always,” the community continued to be a place where love matters most, where we teach and learn together, and where we grow in our faith. The way our community continued to serve those in need while living through the pandemic was powerful to witness. In this handbook, we share with you the timeless ideals of our Catholic elementary school committed to the Jesuit traditions of educational excellence, the service of faith and the promotion of justice. We also share many policies and procedures that help us all live well together on a daily basis within that Catholic and Jesuit context. In this special year, we also share an addendum with the unique guidelines for this year. Please read this document and addendum carefully and sign the acknowledge form. This agreement states that you, students and parents, intend to abide by the policies of Holy Trinity School. In choosing Holy Trinity, you have demonstrated a commitment to the values and philosophy of a Catholic and Jesuit education. The faculty and staff look forward to working with you to promote academic excellence and spiritual formation in the context of the teachings of the Catholic Church. Together, let us continue to form students in the Jesuit tradition of faith, knowledge and service. With gratitude, Kevin McShane Rev. C. Kevin Gillespie, SJ Principal Pastor
OVERVIEW
ARCHDIOCESE OF WASHINGTON to which all parents and teachers belong, works with
The Archdiocese of Washington (ADW) was created the principal. Holy Trinity School faculty is made up
in 1939 and includes the District of Columbia and the of about 45 professionals, the majority of whom hold
Maryland counties of Montgomery, Prince George’s, advanced degrees. As an archdiocesan school, HTS
Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s. The Archdiocese seeks provides a well-rounded program that focuses on the
to provide quality education, essential social services education of the whole child – intellectual, emotional,
and spiritual resources that reflect Christ in the world physical, moral, spiritual, liturgical, and sacramental.
through prayer, education and service. Nearly 100 Using the curriculum standards of the ADW, our teachers
Catholic schools across the Archdiocese bring Christ’s challenge each student while offering individualized
love, alongside an academically excellent education, to support for them to excel in ways that match their own
thousands of young people every day. Students learn to unique development.
respect others, develop a sense of community and carry MISSION STATEMENT
out the mission of care and service just as Jesus did. At Holy Trinity School, we welcome all to the Jesuit
HOLY TRINITY CATHOLIC CHURCH Catholic traditions of educational excellence, the service
Holy Trinity is a Jesuit Catholic parish that welcomes of faith, and the promotion of justice.
all to accompany one another in Christ, celebrate God’s PHILOSHOPY & STRATEGIC GOALS
love, and transform lives. Holy Trinity was established At Holy Trinity School we believe discernment aligns our
in 1792 and is the oldest Catholic church in continuous decisions with our values. That through reflection and
operation in the District of Columbia. Its leadership is critical thinking:
shared by the pastor and parish council, which is elected • It is Courage that gives us the strength to face
by the parishioners. The parish currently serves over 4,000 challenges and remain optimistic.
families and supports a wide range of activities. Holy • It is Humility that enables us to see beyond our own
Trinity School operates as part of the church program and experience and welcome others into our lives.
its budget is contained within the church budget. • It is Compassion that values the inherent dignity of
all people and kindness that is the foundation of
HOLY TRINITY SCHOOL how we want to treat each other at school and in the
HISTORY world.
Holy Trinity School (HTS) is Washington, DC’s oldest • It is Justice that calls us to see outside ourselves and
elementary school. It opened in 1818 as the Free work for a better world.
School for Boys and became co-educational in 1918. • It is Gratitude that reminds us of the many gifts
Today, approximately 330 girls and boys attend HTS we have been granted by God and encourages us to
in pre-kindergarten through 8th grade. The school is respond to others with generosity and an open heart.
administered by the principal, who works in conjunction • It is Perseverance that fuels our love of learning and
with the pastor and parish council. The School Advisory propels us to “Magis” which calls us to be inspired
Board (SAB) works in close harmony with the principal by God’s grace so we can aspire to more for God’s
and pastor and the Home & School Association (HSA), glory in ourselves, our community and our world.
2
Goal 1: Catholic Identity 3a: Create a framework for the metrics of enrollment
To integrate Catholic faith traditions and Jesuit management, especially monitoring diversity of students
identity into HTS curriculum and activities that at HTS.
promote student understanding and opportunities to 3b: Expand recruitment and retention efforts to sustain a
put faith into action. more diverse faculty and staff.
1a: Align current faith formation instructional practices 3c: Maintain and enhance cultural competence learning
with the Ignatian Pedagogical Paradigm (IPP) as a for students, staff, and families so that all in our
pedagogical tool. community are better able to understand and appreciate
1b: Include opportunities for fellowship among parents, those from different backgrounds than themselves.
students, and teachers that build community and 3d: Sustain family-school connections that build
connections within the school. understanding and support of HTS principles and
1c: Design and implement community-based social successes through regular communication tools and
justice projects that deepen student understanding engagement.
and provide opportunities for hands-on experience 3e: Continue HTS past parent and alumni connections
and connection. through ongoing communications and involvement after
1d: Enhance communication between HTS and the graduation.
rest of the parish by coordinating programming 3f: Collaborate with HSA to enhance volunteer
and information-sharing to promote deeper management with clarified expectations, accountability,
understanding of mutual contributions. and appreciation.
1e: Position HTS as a leader in Catholic education by Goal 4: Resource Development
sharing best practices in faith formation, putting To ensure that HTS has sufficient financial resources
that faith into action, curriculum, pedagogy, and to accomplish its mission.
governance.
4a: Expand fundraising efforts to include regular events
Goal 2: Education Excellence and outreach for short term operations and long-term
To provide instruction and resources that foster development for strategic institutional and financial aid
individual student growth and overall achievement. needs.
2a: Build and sustain an excellent professional staff 4b: Maintain tuition value that keeps costs below
dedicated to HTS standards and values. independent schools but garners income to address
2b: Review curriculum to focus on subjects that can be increasing financial needs of the school.
effectively taught, that set up the students for success in 4c: Monitor physical plant capital needs and contribute
high school, and that yields a schedule that can reduce money to a “capital reserve” fund to meet needs.
time pressure for students and faculty.
ACCREDIATION & MEMBERSHIPS
2c: Provide professional development, supervision, and Holy Trinity School is accredited through the Southern
resources that supports differentiated learning instruction Association of Colleges and Schools. In addition, HTS
for all students accepted by HTS. holds membership in the following organizations:
2d: Provide professional development, supervision, and Association for Supervision and Curriculum
resources for student behavior management strategy that Development (ASCD); Council for the Advancement and
aligns with Catholic, Jesuit, and HTS principles valuing Support of Education (CASE); National Association of
relationships and cura personalis. Secondary School Principals (NASSP); and the National
2e: Ongoing review of technology integration into the Catholic Education Association (NCEA).
classrooms and the learning process.
Goal 3: Community Engagement
To nurture a welcoming and dynamic community that
includes diverse perspectives and experiences.
2020-2021 | Student & Parent Handbook 3ADDENDUM FOR 2020-2021 Tardies
In this year of the coronavirus pandemic, we ask that you • Parents should make every effort to have their
agree to the following special school rules: student(s) arrive at school during the specific time
1. By sending our children to school in-person, we slot for their child’s grade.
acknowledge that we are taking a risk of exposing Uniform
them to the virus at Holy Trinity School, and we • First through eighth graders are expected to be in the
agree that we will not hold the school responsible regular, PE, or house uniforms on appropriate days in
or liable should our child or a family member test the building. During cyber school days, students are
positive for COVID-19. expected to wear a uniform top.
2. We agree to practice responsible social distancing Spiritual Life
measures at home by following health guidelines such Liturgies and Chapel Mass
as wearing masks in public, washing hands regularly, • Virtual prayer services will be offered to the entire
and socially distancing to the best of our ability. school, along with classroom prayer services that will
take the place of chapel masses for the time being.
3. We agree to teach our children how to conduct
Service Opportunities
themselves in accordance with health guidelines
• Following are a few examples of service activities
being followed at HTS.
for the upcoming school year: Prepare McKenna
Please note: Asterisks throughout the handbook denote a sandwiches; Write cards for Holy Trinity parishioners;
substantive change in the category because of new policies Help an elderly neighbor with yard work; Make face
due to COVID-19. See summary changes below: coverings to donate; Complete extra chores for your
School Day Details parents or help a sibling with homework; Participate
Arrival & Dismissal in class-approved service projects
• This year, there will be staggered arrival and dismissal Community Life
for each grade into the building. After School Program
• In order to limit exposure to additional people inside • There will be no after school offered for fall 2020.
the school building, parents will not escort their Assemblies & Large Gatherings
child(ren) into school each morning. • Due to social distancing limitations, assemblies will
Item Drop Off be held virtually until further notice. This includes
• If you are dropping off an item for your child, please but is not limited to field trips, house meetings,
call the Health office or front Upper School office. Grandparents & Special Friends Day, and the
Someone will come outside to retrieve the item and Christmas Show.
deliver it to your child. Clubs
Library • A variety of virtual clubs will be offered for fall 2020.
• Students will not be able to visit the library, but
Health & Safety
rather, the library will visit them. Students will fill
School Nurse
out request forms for specific genres or book titles,
• Holy Trinity now employs a full-time nurse on
and the books will be delivered directly to the
campus.
student. We will continue to build our school of
COVID-19
readers!
• Students exhibiting symptoms of covid-19 will be
Lunch
taken to the isolation room and must be picked up
• A boxed lunch will be provided Monday-Friday in
within the hour, without exception.
place of the typical hot lunch and pizza on Fridays.
• Please keep your child home until he/she has received
• Students will eat lunch in their classroom.
a negative COVID-19 test or has been symptom-free
School Hours
for 14 days.
• School hours will be flexible this year because of
the staggered arrivals and dismissals for each grade. • Please see the Parent Guide to Spaced learning at HTS
School offices will be open from 7:45am - 3:00pm. and HTS Health and Hygiene Guidelines and FAQ for
more information.
4THE ABCS OF HTS Archdiocese of Washington church before January 1,
2019
ACADEMIC AWARDS
Yearly awards are presented to Upper School students 3. Must be in good standing with your church and have
for academic achievement, effort, citizenship and the consistently contributed financially between January
exemplification of the spirit of HTS. 1, 2019, and December 31, 2019
4. Must make and execute an annual pledge for calendar
ADMISSIONS
year 2020 that includes a commitment to participate
When applying to Holy Trinity School, applicants must
with his/her child in regular Sunday worship at their
adhere to the following guidelines:
Archdiocese of Washington church, to participate in
• Candidates for pre-kindergarten must be at least four the activities and ministries of the parish as his/her
years of age by September 30 of the school year they circumstances allow, and to contribute financially
apply for to the support of the parish (in addition to school
• All applicants must provide a copy of the child’s birth tuition payments)
certificate, baptismal certificate (if applicable), and Parishioners of Archdiocese of Washington parishes other
immunization records on a complete health report than Holy Trinity may receive this rate if they meet these
• All applicants must submit letters of recommendation criteria and provide a recommendation from their pastor.
from the principal and teacher of their current Upon demonstration of financial need, parishioners of
school along with a complete transcript, including Holy Trinity may receive tuition assistance for the second
report card grades and comments, attendance and and subsequent children.
conduct information, standardized test scores, and, if
Please visit www.htsdc.org/tuition-fees for further
applicable, psychological-educational evaluations
information.
• Each candidate for admission must successfully
Please note: Parents are responsible for the whole tuition
complete readiness testing administered by Holy
upon accepting a child’s placement in class. Tuition and
Trinity School faculty.
fees are not refundable.
The Archdiocese Admissions Non-Discrimination Policy
A signed Enrollment and Tuition Agreement is
can be found on the website of the Catholic Schools
required each year.
Office of the Archdiocese of Washington:
www.adwcatholicschools.org. Financial Assistance
Holy Trinity School is committed to working with
We mantain a priority for acceptance of siblings and
families to make sure an HTS education is attainable
ADW families. Special consideration does not guarantee
for their children. We encourage parents who feel they
acceptance. All acceptances are made on a space-available
cannot attend HTS because of finances to apply, as a
basis.
variety of scholarships and/or financial assistance packages
Tuition & Fees Policy are available for families who need help in paying tuition.
Grades K-8 Priority is given to families who have been in the school
Archdiocese of Washington Rate | $15,400* for at least one year. A confidential financial disclosure
Outside ADW/Non-Catholic Rate | $19,250 statement is required. Contact the finance department at
finance@htsdc.org with all inquiries.
Pre-Kindergarten
Archdiocese of Washington Rate | $19,275* Re-Enrollment
Re-enrollment of current students takes place mid-
Outside ADW/Non-Catholic Rate | $22,000
January. This is an opportunity for both the parents and
*To be eligible for the Archdiocese of Washington the school administration to determine whether HTS is
parishioner rate, your child must be a baptized Catholic the appropriate school for the student. The school may
and at least one parent: decide that re-renrollment of a particular student/family
1. Must be a baptized Catholic is not in the best interest of the child or the school. Some
reasons may include: the child’s need for an educational
2. Must have registered as a parishioner at an
2020-2021 | Student & Parent Handbook 5setting which cannot be met at Holy Trinity; refusal on from school for an appointment for 3½ hours or more
the part of the parents to obtain requested diagnostic will be counted as absent for a half day. Three early
testing or to follow through on recommendations that withdrawals each of which are less than 3½ hours will be
result from testing; patterns of behavior on the part of the considered a half day absence. One exception: 8th graders
student or parents which show consistent lack of respect are granted two high school shadow days.
for school, school authorities, or school policies and Students who are absent due to illness have one day for
procedures; and/or failure on the part of the parents to each day of absence to make up the missed assignments,
pay tuition and fees. quizzes or tests. For example, if a student was absent for
AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES* three days s/he would have three school days to complete
There will be no after school program for the 2020- the missed work. Arrangements for regular classroom tests
2021 school year. Virtual clubs will be offered as a missed because of an absence are to be made with the
supplemental activity for after school hours. individual teachers. These tests must be taken within one
week of the original test date.
ATTENDANCE Parents are requested to email the homeroom teacher
Absences and contact the Health Office (202-337-2339 x213
The following are valid reasons for excused absences from or health@htsdc.org) before 8:10am leaving a detailed
school (if properly documented upon the student’s return message if a student is going to be absent on a particular
to school): day. As a safety measure, we alert parents if their child
1. Illness of the student (after three days of illness, is not in school. Please make sure the office has current
student must provide medical documentation that phone numbers for both parents.
indicates that the student is able to return to school); Send any contact changes to updates@htsdc.org so our
2. Death in the student’s immediate family; school records can be adjusted immediately.
3. Necessity for a student to attend a judicial Tardies*
proceeding; Parents should make every effort to have their student(s)
4. Lawful suspension or exclusion from school by the at school on time for the 2020-2021 school year.
principal ASSEMBLIES*
5. Temporary closing of facilities or suspension of Due to social distancing limitations, assemblies will be
classes due to severe weather, official activities, held virtually until further notice.
holidays, malfunctioning equipment, unsafe or
unsanitary conditions, or other conditions requiring ATHLETICS*
closing or suspension of classes; and There will be no extracurricular athletic program for the
2020-2021 school year.
6. Other absence(s) approved in advance by the
principal upon the written request of a parent or BACK-TO-SCHOOL NIGHT*
guardian. Sufficient notice should be given to the Virtual Lower School and Upper School Back-to-School
school in order to provide expected student work Nights will be held in September. Parents are strongly
to be completed while absent. Failure to provide encouraged to attend in order to learn what their students
sufficient time may result in an unexcused absence. will be doing during the upcoming academic year and
Any absence that does not fall into one of the above what their responsibilites are in supporting their students.
categories, or is not properly documented by the student’s BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS*
parent/guardian, is an unexcused absence. Please check with your child’s classroom teacher
Students attending medical appointments during school in advance before providing a snack or treat to
hours require a written note by the parent. Parents are commemorate your child’s birthday, as some of our
required to sign out their child. If the child returns to students are affected by food allergies or are on restricted
school during the same school day, s/he must be signed diets.
back into school in the office. Students who are away Invitations to birthday parties may not be sent to school
6for distribution unless all children in the class are being reports of bullying, harassment and intimidation will be
invited to the party. Out of sensitivity for all students, treated seriously. The principal’s review and investigatio
discussion about parties should not take place at school of a credible allegation will be done in a prompt,
unless all children have been invited. Invitations should confidential and thorough manner.
always reflect the inclusive policy of the school. Reprisal or retaliation against anyone who reports acts
BUDDIES* of bullying, harassment, and intimidation is strictly
HTS offers a number of opportunities for younger prohibited. All reports of reprisal or retaliation will be
and older students to interact. This includes reading to treated seriously. The principal’s review and investigation
younger students, helping with homework and working of a credible allegation will be done in a prompt,
together on a service project. One of the highlights of confidential, and thorough manner.
8th grade is the adoption of a first or second grader as a Bullying, harassment, and intimidation mean any
buddy. Together, the buddies go to mass, participate in intentional written, verbal, or physical act, including
social and service opportunities and spend time together electronic communication (cell phone, computer, iPad,
in field trips. Working with another age group offers our etc.), that:
students the chance to look outside of themselves and 1. Physically harms an individual, damages an
also helps foster the strong community bond at school. individual’s property, substantially interferes with an
CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK individual’s education or learning environment, or
The theme for Catholic Schools Week is Catholic Schools: places an individual in reasonable fear of harm to the
Faith, Excellence, Service. Catholic Schools Week includes individual’s person or property
special days for parents, students, staff and the parish 2. Occurs on school property, at a school activity or
community. event, on a school transportation vehicle or bus, or
substantially disrupts the orderly operation of a school
CHILD SAFETY
Holy Trinity School’s most important responsibility is the Threats
protection and safety of the students who are entrusted In the event of any actual or perceived threat of violence
to our care. All teachers, staff, employees and volunteers or other inappropriate/illegal behavior, Holy Trinity
who work with children are required to complete a School reserves its right to take any and all actions it
background questionnaire, get a criminal background deems necessary for the health and safety of our school
investigation check and attend training sessions before community, including the individual(s) making the threat.
they are allowed to work with children in any capacity. These actions may include contacting law enforcement
offices, mental health professionals and/or any other
The school is required by law to report to Child outside experts as the school official(s) deems necessary. A
Protective Services any suspected cases of child sexual or student who makes a threat of violence may be required
physical abuse or cases of neglect. Our responsibility to to remain off school property until a mental health
report abuse/neglect includes school employees, parents, professional certifies that the student is not a danger to
and guardians. For details on the Archdiocesan Child him/herself or others, or may be subject disciplinary action,
Protection Policy, visit our website at www.htsdc.org/ including expulsion.
parents/virtus
Prevention Programming CHRISTMAS SHOW*
As a Catholic school, Holy Trinity School believes and The annual Christmas Show, under the leadership of
teaches that each of us is called to love our neighbor the music department and the 8th grade class, includes
and to treat them with respect. HTS is committed performances by all students in all grades. Students
to providing a physically safe and emotionally secure rehearse during school hours and parents are notified in
learning environment that is free from bullying, advance if special attire is required.
harassment and intimidation in any form, including Due to social distancing limitations, the annual
cyberbullying. Bullying, harassment, and intimidation of Christmas Show will be held virtually until further notice.
any member of the school community are prohibited. All
2020-2021 | Student & Parent Handbook 7COMMUNICATION reflection, education, advocacy or donation. It may
The school uses the following methods to communicate be initiated by the parents, student or school or a
with the general parent body on a regular basis: combination of each. Service may take place during the
Tuesday Folder summer or school year. If completed during the summer,
This folder is brought home by each student every hours must be submitted during the first week of school.
Tuesday. The Tuesday folder contains announcements, Following are a few examples of acceptable service
reminders about scheduling, conduct logs and test activities for the 2020-2021 school year:
papers. Parents review the materials in the folder, sign it Prepare McKenna sandwiches
to indicate they have received it and return the folder to Write cards for Holy Trinity parishioners
school on Wednesday.
Help an elderly neighbor with yard work
Tuesday Newsletter
Complete extra chores for your parents or help a sibling
The Tuesday Newsletter is sent by email from the
with homework
principal each week. It includes information on school
news, upcoming events, student accomplishments, HSA Help with the Annual Gala Auction
and SAB activities and other important information. The Participate in class-approved service projects
newsletter is sent to all parents via email.
Visit the parish’s website additional volunteer
Please notify the office immediately at updates@htsdc.org opportunities: www.trinity.org/do-something-good-for-your-
should your email address change so we can be sure you neighbor.
receive timely communications.
Commitment*
Website Students in 5th through 8th grades must commit to the
Students, parents and prospective families can visit www. following non-paid service:
htsdc.org to get information about academics, admissions
• 10 hours in 5th grade (in-school service)
and student life at HTS. Teachers maintain their own
webpage to inform students and parents about class • 20 hours in 6th grade (in-school service)
assignments, upcoming tests and projects and other • 30 hours in 7th grade
important classroom information. Parents may also find
• 40 hours in 8th grade
information about the HSA and the SAB, fundraising,
health forms, uniforms and registration for CYO, After Students must complete the Record of Service form for
School, clubs and the Hot Lunch Program. each activity. Please make sure the form is signed by
the person in charge of the service project, then submit
COMMUNITY SERVICE/SOCIAL JUSTICE them to your Religion teacher at the beginning of each
Holy Trinity’s Jesuit tradition calls us to form Children month. A service hours progress report will be sent home
for Others by engaging students in service opportunities quarterly for each grade.
at every grade level and encouraging an understanding
For additional information, please visit www.htsdc.org/
that service is done in a thoughtful and reflective manner.
students/community-service-program/
Recognizing that every child has an innate sense of justice,
HTS embraces this early stage of development to motivate CONDUCT
students towards action and a call to social justice. In accordance with the stated philosophy of Holy Trinity,
Students are involved in a variety of service activities which emphasizes deep respect for the human dignity
within the school, parish and community. By committing and uniqueness of every child, each student will be
to service, we believe that students develop positive considerate of the rights of others in all interactions. All
attitudes and a values system, which guides their lives students are expected to cooperate with the spirit and
as thoughtful, active members of their local and global policies of the school which are designed to foster mature
communities. development and personal responsibility. This requires
courtesy in all personal relationships, promptness in
Opportunities
fulfilling obligations, concern for the environment and
Community service may be direct service, prayer/
adhering to all school rules.
8The principal or assistant principals reserve the right behaviors to increase understanding of the whole child.
to determine the appropriateness of an action if any Our counselor also works with teachers to implement the
doubt arises. archdiocesan Personal Safety and Family Life programs
Items such as, but not limited to, questionable books throughout the school.
and pictures, knives, guns, matches, cigarettes, radios, In addition, Dr. Thomas Applin, a local child psychiatrist,
toys, trading cards, cell phones, laser lights, cameras or is a consultant for Holy Trinity School. He is available
anything that will detract from a learning situation are to meet twice a month from 8:30am to 10:00am on
not allowed at school at any time. Fridays only in half-hour increments. This service is
Students are are expressly forbidden from running a free to all Holy Trinity parents, faculty and staff. Dr.
“personal store” to sell candy, food, novelty items or any Applin began his pediatric residency at the University of
additional products to other students. Connecticut, and completed his child & adolescent and
adult psychiatry residencies at Georgetown University. He
The school administration, in accordance with state laws, has been a consultant for Holy Trinity School for more
will determine the appropriate disciplinary measures to be than 30 years.
taken concerning the presence of these items in the school.
Items taken away from students will be returned to the In the event of an emergency or crisis, the Archdiocese
parent(s)/guardians on the last day of the school year. of Washington may send a team of school counseling
professionals to HTS. One-time, initial counseling
Off-Campus Conduct services may be rendered to students by school or
The administration of Holy Trinity School reserves the archdiocesan counseling staff in an emergency.
right to discipline its students for off-campus behavior
that is not in line with behavior expectations of its CURRICULUM
students during the course of the school day. This Holy Trinity takes an integrated approach to learning
off campus behavior includes, but is not limited to, by applying students’ skills and building upon their
cyberbullying. knowledge in a variety of settings. Core subjects taught in
Honor Code the classroom (language arts, mathematics, social studies
Holy Trinity School’s Honor Code has a long tradition. and science) are thoughtfully complemented through art,
Developed originally by the Student Council, it has been library, music, physical education, religion, Spanish, and
modified over the years by our student body to what our technology. Individualized attention for students is made
students believe today: possible through Holy Trinity’s low student-teacher ratio.
As a Holy Trinity student, I am a person for others. Holy Trinity School follows the standards-based
curriculum of the Archdiocese of Washington. Catholic
I will make good choices by: schools in the Archdiocese of Washington, rooted in
• giving truthful answers Gospel values and the teaching mission of the Church,
• playing fairly and by the rules are learning communities of faith and service dedicated to
educational equity and excellence for all students.
• working hard and giving my best effort in all I do
To access curriculum standards by grade, please visit
• showing respect to others with my words and actions www.htsdc.org/academics/curriculum-standards
• taking responsibility for my choices
DAILY OPERATIONS*
COUNSELING School Hours
Our full-time school counselor works with students, School hours will be flexible this year because of the
individually and in groups, consults with teachers and staggered arrivals and dismissals for each grade. School
parents about the personal, interpersonal and academic offices will be open from 7:45am - 3:00pm.
needs of students, coordinates referrals with resources Parking
outside the school, conducts classroom activities Parking near the school is difficult given our location
related to various guidance needs (e.g., making friends, in historic Georgetown. Please use great care and
understanding why feelings get hurt, responding to peer consideration when driving near the school as children do
pressure, etc.) and observes student interactions and cross the streets as they are leaving. Parking enforcement
2020-2021 | Student & Parent Handbook 9officers are extremely vigilant about ticketing for drop-off.
infractions! Signs are posted in front of the school and on • Parents do not accompany their child(ren) into the
the north side of N Street allowing 15 minute parking building.
from 7:30am until 6:30pm, except during carpool time
(dismissal and 15 minutes after). Parking for evening • Students must be in their homerooms by their set
school events is usually available at Georgetown Visitation staggered arrival time.
Preparatory School, just two blocks away at 35th Street • Because classes use this time to discuss the schedule
and Volta Place. for the rest of the day and receive other important
Arrival* information, it is very important that all children be
To ensure the safety of our children, we have set up the present at the beginning of homeroom. Tardiness
following procedures: makes it difficult for students to make a strong and
confident start to the day.
• In order to limit exposure to additional people,
parents will not be allowed inside of the school • Any student who arrives after 8:10am must sign in
building for the 2020-2021 school year at the Health Office (Lower School) or Main Office
(Upper School) before going to homeroom.
• No parent or visitor will be allowed entry or exit
through any door other than the lower level door • Parents dropping off homework, lunches, etc.,
facing 36th Street in the Lower School (by the Health should leave the items in either the Health Office
Office) or the Main Office door in the Upper School (Lower School) or Main Office (Upper School).
Parents should call the health office or main office
• Every parent or visitor must sign in and out; there are once outside, and someone will come outside to
no exceptions retrieve item(s) from you. It will be delivered to your
• Every parent or visitor must wear a visible visitor student’s classroom.
badge while in school buildings • Drop off and dismissal is not intended for
PRE-K & KINDERGARTEN – If you have Pre-K or unscheduled conferences. Teachers are preparing for
Kindergarten kids and are parking to walk them in the safe arrival or dismissal of all students and have
the building, please park somewhere other than the duties that have been assigned to them.
school side of 36th Street. Parents of early childhood • For all scheduled conferences or meetings, parents
students must sign in before taking their children to sign-in through the main office (Upper School) or
class and sign out as they leave. Sign-in/out is located health office (Lower School) and wear a visitor’s
in the Health Office. Parents may drop off their badge while in the school buildings.*
children after 7:50am and must leave by 8:10am. If
you arrive after 8:10am, please leave your student(s) There will be a staggered dismissal for both the Lower
in the health office. After the 8:15am prayer & School and Upper School unless it is an early dismissal
announcements, an assistant will escort students to day. At Upper School pick-up time, if you are in line along
their classrooms. 36th or even P, please stay off your phone. If someone
needs to get by or get out of a parking spot, please
GRADES 1 to 4 – Parents may drop off students at the accommodate them, even if it means pulling out of your
playground between 7:30am and 8:00am. Several place in line and going around the block. Proper behavior
teachers and staff are on duty to supervise the is expected of all Holy Trinity students on the way to and
students’ entry into the building. from school, whether walking, carpooling or using public
GRADES 5 to 8 – Parents may drop off students in transportation. Students should walk on the sidewalk
front of the Upper School starting at 7:30am. Upper and stay off of the church steps and walls. Students may
School students should enter through the cafeteria not change out of their uniforms before leaving school,
door and proceed to Trinity Hall where they will be except for sports team practices. At no time will students
supervised. be allowed to remain outside school unsupervised, which
In General includes waiting for a ride.
• Do not leave cars parked in carpool lanes during Proper behavior is expected of all Holy Trinity students on
10the way to and from school, whether walking, carpooling kiss and drive lane only. Early Childhood Parents
or using public transportation. Students should walk on and long good byes need to park in a nearby legal
the sidewalk and stay off of the church steps and walls. spot.
Students may not change out of their uniforms before 3. No cell phone use while in carpool line unless your
leaving school, except for sports team practices. At no engine is OFF.
time will students be allowed to remain outside school
unsupervised, which includes waiting for a ride. Students 4. All will follow carpool guidelines – parents, nannies,
may not stay unsupervised in the Upper School after babysitters, grandparents, etc.
dismissal. 5. Cars must be in the carpool queue. Parents may not park
Carpool Procedures* across the street and ask children to come to the car. If
HTS strives to make our dismissal efficient, orderly and parents do not wish to be part of the carpool line, they
safe for all. Teachers direct carpool procedures following must park in non-carpool lanes and walk to meet the
the system described below; please follow their directions student.
to keep things safe and moving along in a timely fashion. Save Time, Save Gas*
Carpool A – All carpools that include only Upper Fine tune your arrival for the 3:05-3:10pm window. The
School students (5th-8th) will come through P Street, lines have usually dissipated by that point, so you can roll
turn left on 36th Street and continue to the front of the up, load up and roll out quickly.
Upper School for pickup. Please call the school office to inquire about families who
Carpool B – All carpools that include any Early live in your zip code and visit www.htsdc.org for further
Childhood students (pre-kindergarten and information on carpool procedures.
kindergarten) will come through O Street from 35th DANCES & SOCIALS*
Street, turn left onto 36th Street and left again onto N Dances are approved by the Principal and sponsored and run
Street, hugging the left side of N Street for pickup by the Student Council. They are open only to students in
Carpool C – All carpools that include any Lower School 7th and 8th grades who currently attend HTS. Dances are
(1st-4th) students (including carpools with both Upper chaperoned by teachers. Appropriate behavior is expected.
School and Lower School students) will come down Parents should pick up children promptly at the time the
Prospect Street from 35th Street, then turn right on 37th dance is scheduled to end. Three dances are scheduled each
Street and right again on N Street to flow down the right school year; check the school’s Google calendar for exact
side of N Street. Teachers will supervise the crossing of N dates.
Street at the top of the block so that these students will be
picked up next to the Nevils Building on the Georgetown DEVELOPMENT
As a nonprofit institution, Holy Trinity is dependent
University side of the street.
upon the philanthropic generosity of many. Gifts
N Street will be one-way from 2:15pm to 3:15pm each provide the necessary operating support of each student
day to allow these twin lines to flow downhill freely with through our dedicated faculty, library and technology
a one-lane exit to the stop sign at 35th and N Streets. resources, and comprehensive financial aid among other
The DC Department of Transportation requires that opportunities.
our carpool line not block traffic. Therefore, you may be Our shared goal is to ensure that we maintain an
asked to take another lap around the block to allow other enriching experience for each individual student
cars to get through. Should this happen, you will receive through academics, spiritual growth, and social justice
priority in line on the next lap. opportunities. To support our goals and to sustain
Parents, please follow these guidelines: our campus, we will embark on plans to improve
1. Teachers/staff/parents need to help put children into and renovate existing facilities as well as continue to
cars. Children may not leave the curb unless escorted incorporate technology into our classrooms.
by an adult. For additional information, please visit our website at
2. Parents may not leave their cars unattended while www.htsdc.org/development
in the carpool line. 36th Street (church-side) is a
2020-2021 | Student & Parent Handbook 11DIAGNOSTIC TESTING password protected page will be sent home the first week
Diagnostic testing may be required if it is determined of school.
that more information about a child’s learning profile is To emphasize Holy Trinity School’s developmental
needed. Parents must agree to this testing as a condition educational model, letter grades are not given in
of continued enrollment and must provide a follow-up the Lower School. Students are given the following
evaluation within one month of the evaluation. assessments on their report cards: Consistently, Usually,
Please contact the main office for a list of resources. Developing Skill and Requires Support.
DIRECTORY GRADUATE AT GRADUATION
The password protected family and teacher directory is The hallmark of Jesuit education is its focus on educating
available online at www.htsdc.org/parents/directory the whole person: mind, body and spirit. In 1980, the
Please send any updates to your contact information to Jesuit Secondary Education Association (JSEA) created
updates@htsdc.org the Profile of the Graduate at Graduation as a significant
standard and guide for achievable outcomes linked to
DRUGS AND ALCOHOL this vision. The profile has five characteristics: Open to
Students who possess drugs and/or alcohol at school or at Growth, Intellectually Competent, Religious, Loving, and
any school function face suspension and/or expulsion. Committed to Doing Justice.
FIELD TRIPS* HTS has developed a guide of achievable outcomes for
Class field trips within the city and to nearby points of Jesuit education in the elementary school setting. By
interest are scheduled throughout the school year in order addressing four of the five characteristics of Jesuit education
to take advantage of the wonderful opportunities provided (Open to Growth, Loving, Religious, and Committed to
by our location in the nation’s capital. These trips are Doing Justice) using a broad description, we acknowledge
designed to supplement the classroom curriculum and our collaboration with parents (our students’ first teachers)
always have an educational objective. Permission slips in attaining each attribute in developmentally appropriate
must be signed by parents prior to all field trips. Parents ways.
are sometimes asked to drive or chaperone. All drivers and In creating our HTS profile, the faculty under the
chaperones must be VIRTUS trained (please see VIRTUS direction of the principal and pastor, identified tangible
description below). attributes and behaviors for the fifth characteristic,
Intellectually Competent, which represent grade level
GIFTS benchmarks. These attributes represent what we as
Students should not exchange individual gifts at school, teachers intend to develop in our students. For additional
as this gesture only creates hurt feelings among other information, please visit www.htsdc.org/about-hts/graduate-
students. Invitations to slumber parties or birthday parties at-graduation
should be sent to the home of students via the U.S. mail
unless an invitation is being given to every student in the GRANDPARENTS & SPECIAL FRIENDS DAY
entire grade. Due to social distancing limitations, Grandparents &
Special Friends Day will be held virtually until further
GRADING SCALE notice.
The following grading scale is used in the Upper School:
• 100 = A+ HEALTH
In order to minimize the incidence of life-threatening
• 93-99 = A accidents and allergic reactions, HTS provides CPR and
• 85-92 = B First Aid training and education to eligible Holy Trinity
• 77-84 = C Church and School faculty and staff.
• 70-76 = D Holy Trinity now employs a full-time nurse on campus.
The health coordinator or school nurse will be responsible
• 69 and below = F for notifying classroom teachers about the nature of life
Upper School students’ grades are accessible through an threatening situations faced by students. This notification
online database portal. Information regarding log-in to a will include an explanation of the severity of the health
12threat, a description of the signs and symptoms to be aware Washington Catholic Schools Policies.
of, and what allergens (food, materials, etc.) to avoid. • Schools do not provide medications for student use.
Students sent to the Health Office because they are not • Medications should be taken at home whenever
feeling well will stay in the office until a determination possible. The first dose of any new medication must
is made about the extent of the illness. If the child is too be given at home to ensure the student does not have
ill to remain in school, a parent will be notified. An ill a negative reaction.
child must be picked up within an hour of notification.
Per Archdiocese of Washington policy, children are not • Medication Authorization forms are required for each
permitted to remain in the health room for an extended prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medication
period. administered in school.
COVID-19 • All medication taken in school must have a parent/
Students exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 will be guardian signed authorization. Prescription
taken to the isolation room and must be picked up within medications, herbals and OTC medications taken
the hour, without exception. for 4 or more consecutive days also require a licensed
healthcare provider’s (LHCP) written order. No
Please keep your child home until he/she has received a medication will be accepted by school personnel
negative covid test or has been symptom-free for 14 days. with the accompanying complete and appropriate
Allergies medication authorization form.
Make sure your students’ teacher and our Health • The parent or guardian must transport medications
Coordinator are aware of any allergies your child may to and from school.
have. While we are not a peanut-free school, we take
care in making sure children with allergies are kept • Medication must be kept in the school health office.
safe. Before sending in food, check with the homeroom • Parents/guardians are responsible for submitting a
teacher concerning any allergies anyone in your child’s new medication authorization form at the start of
class may have. the school year and each time there is a change in the
Illnesses and Accidents dosage or the time of medication administration.
As germs can easily spread in a classroom setting, students • A licensed Health Care Provider (LHCP) may
should not be sent to school if they are sick. HTS follows use office stationery, prescription pad or other
the basic protocols presented by the CDC and WHO appropriate documentation in lieu of completing
that dictate how to handle illnesses in schools: Part II. The following information in lay language
• Any student presenting flu-like symptoms during with no abbreviations must be included and attached
the school day (a fever over 100° F and sore throat, to medication authorization form #8 – found at
cough, congestion, headache, body aches, chills, www.htsdc.org/students/health-office: student name,
or upset stomach) will be asked to leave school date of birth, diagnosis, signs or symptoms, name
immediately. of medication, exact dosage to be taken at school,
route of medication, time and frequency to give
• These students will be required to remain off- medications as well as exact time interval for
campus until their fever and all other symptoms have additional dosages, sequence in which two or more
resolved. medications are to be administered, common side
• Students must be fever-free for 24 hours without the effects, duration of medication order or effective
use of fever-reducing medicines like Advil or Tylenol start and end dates. LHCP’s name, signature and
before returning to school. telephone number, date of order.
• Please keep your child at home for 24 hours after the • All prescription medications, including physician’s
last episode of diarrhea or vomiting due to illness samples must be in their original containers and
Medications labeled by a LHCP or pharmacist. Medication must
In no case may any health, school, or staff member not exceed its expiration date.
administer any medication outside the framework of • All OTC medication must be in the original, small,
the procedures outlined here in the Archdiocese of sealed container with the name of the medication and
2020-2021 | Student & Parent Handbook 13its expiration date clearly visible. Parents/guardians During the first six weeks of school, the Archdiocese
must label the original container of the OTC with: of Washington high schools sends representatives for
name of student, exact dosage to be taken in school, brief recruiting visits to area elementary schools. Eighth
and frequency or time interval dosage is to be graders will be allowed two excused absences to attend
administered. shadow days at prospective high schools. Our counselor
• The student is to come to the health office to receive coordinates mock interviews for 8th graders prior to their
medication. scheduled visits.
• Students are not permitted to self-medicate. The High schools will have their own open houses on weekends
school does not assume responsibility for medication in the fall for parents and students to attend together.
taken independently by the student. Exceptions By late autumn, parents email their child’s list of schools to
may be on a case-by-case basis for students who HTS in order for us to mail the students’ records to the high
demonstrate the capability to self-administer schools. Individual recommendations by the 8th grade Math
emergency life-saving medications, (e.g. inhaler, Epi- and English teachers are required for all schools except the
pen) with proper authorization on file. Catholic ADW schools, which accept a common form from
• Within one week after expiration of the effective date HTS that includes all 8th grade teachers.
on the order, or on the last day or school, the parent HOME & SCHOOL ASSOCIATION
or guardian must personally collect any unused All Holy Trinity parents and teachers belong to the Home
portion of the medication. Medications not claimed & School Association (HSA) – www.htsdc.org/parents/
within that period will be destroyed. HSA
Student Health Records The mission of the Home & School Association is to
The DC Department of Health requires all students to provide a structure in which parents partner with the
have appropriate imunizations and correctly completed administration and faculty to support the spiritual and
and signed medical health forms. Forms must be academic excellence of the children of Holy Trinity
completed according to the directions provided and School.
returned to the school by the date required.
The HSA’s goal is to facilitate cooperation and
The forms are available at www.htsdc.org/students/health- communication between the school and the parent body
office and to involve parents in supporting the school. The HSA
HIGH SCHOOL ADMISSIONS elects officers – President, Communications Officer and
The most important goal is finding the right match for Treasurer – who serve two-year terms. Additionally, the
your 8th grader. Students need a challenging place that will President sits on the School Advisory Board (SAB).
allow them to enjoy their high school years while being The HSA engages in many community building activities
prepared for college. and endeavors during the year. All of the events rely
TIMELINE* heavily upon parental support to make them successful.
During the Spring, the Archdiocese of Washington The money raised by HSA fundraising goes into the HSA
sponsors a high school fair primarily for 7th and 8th grade budget and is allocated for various items needed by the
students. school. The HSA follows the recommendation of the
principal and pastor for allocating funds at the end of the
In September, Mr. Hennessy will explain the system to year.
7th graders during the first days of school. The message
to them is: 7th grade counts – for absences, lateness, final Each family is required to contribute 20 hours of
average in each subject, first round of exams at the midyear, volunteer time each year and is expected to attend
relationships with teachers who might be recommending parent-teacher conferences and class meetings as
them in 8th grade, and preparation for standardized tests. requested. A critical part of HTS is the cooperation and
integration of home and school.
At Back-to-School night in September, Mr. Hennessy hosts
a meeting for 8th grade parents as their children will begin HSA Year-Round Activities
preparing their applications for high school. This meeting This is a brief overview of the community building
precedes the general meeting and classroom visits. activities; the two larger fundraisers (Trinity Classic and
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