JSerra Catholic High School - Pep Squad Constitution 2021-2022

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JSerra Catholic High School - Pep Squad Constitution 2021-2022
JSerra Catholic High School
                            Pep Squad Constitution 2021-2022
Philosophy
As a member of the JSerra Catholic High School Pep Squad, you are a representative of JSerra Catholic High School and
all of the Catholic values it upholds. This is reflected in all of your words and actions, on and off campus, and especially
when dressed in uniform or any other JSerra labeled apparel. Throughout your commitment, it is imperative that you
conduct yourself in a polite, modest, and respectful manner at all times, and participate in Pep Squad activities and
events with pride, honor and enthusiasm. Cheerleaders and Dancers are expected to be leaders and role models in all
aspects of school life and in the community, as they always represent JSerra Catholic High School and its mission. Your
actions and behavior will reflect directly upon JSerra Catholic High School and the Pep Squad, so it is critical that you
participate in this program with pride and honor. The privilege of representing JSerra in this fashion, being a member of
the JSerra Catholic High School Pep Squad, must be earned and maintained so that both the school and its Pep Squad
participants gain the maximum benefits of such a program. In taking ownership of your leadership role, Pep Squad
participants will foster an environment of school spirit, Catholic values and the pursuit of excellence, while personally
receiving opportunities to grow in leadership, sportsmanship, values, and virtues. This yearly commitment begins the
day the new Squads are posted and extends until try-outs the following year.

Mission Statement
The JSerra Catholic High School Pep Squad promotes school spirit and encourages excellence in all we do. To achieve
this, we strive to be leaders who exhibit virtues of self-discipline, modesty, loyalty, dignity, and charity wherever we are
and in whatever we do. We are determined to support our fellow Lions in all their athletic endeavors, and to promote
good sportsmanship and school spirit at each event. In addition, the Pep Squad philosophy dictates that all cheer/song
leaders uphold the morals and values of JSerra Catholic High School, becoming leaders who live in accordance with
Gospel values. We will create positive relationships based on respect of oneself and of others, trust, and teamwork,
while supporting our teams and performing at rallies.
Purpose
    •   To uphold the high morals, ethical standards, and strong values of JSerra Catholic High School.
    •   To support JSerra Catholic High School athletics.
    •   To lead and inspire others in supporting JSerra Catholic High School athletics.
    •   To develop leadership skills in accordance with Gospel values.
    •   To exhibit virtues of self-discipline, modesty, loyalty, dignity, and charity throughout the school and community.
    •   To promote and uphold school spirit, good sportsmanship, and Lion Pride.
    •   To foster positive relationships based on trust, teamwork, respect of oneself and others, in all our endeavors.
    •   To serve and assist the school and community through active participation.
    •   To develop citizenship and organizational skills.
    •   To perform and represent JSerra Catholic High School at games, rallies, and special events with pride, excellence,
        and a positive attitude.
    •   To develop, enhance, and encourage dedication and determination amongst Squad members.

General Requirements for Pep Squad Participation
    •   Each Pep Squad member must adhere to the JSerra Catholic High School Parent Student Handbook.
    •   Each Pep Squad member must adhere to the Pep Squad Constitution.
    •   Each Pep Squad member must fulfill all required financial obligation.
    •   A completed Athletic Packet and physical is required prior to the first day of Pep Squad Tryout Clinics.
    •   All Pep Squad members must remain in excellent physical condition, with no injuries that could prohibit full
        participation.
    •   Members must maintain a 2.0 GPA each quarter to be a member of the Pep Squad.
    •   Each Pep Squad member/family is expected to participate in fund-raising events.

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JSerra Catholic High School
                             Pep Squad Constitution 2021-2022

Attendance/Participation
Communication is Key! Because we are a performance team, we need to know if a member is absent, late, sick, hurt.
1. Coach must receive some sort of communication via email, text or call from the parent regarding issue.
2. Captain must have communication with team member before practice or event starts.
An absence is an absence regardless of it being excused by the school. Participation is required to be a Pep Squad
member who performs.

                                                            Practices
                         Expectation                                                    Consequence
                        Tardy (+15 min)                            Sits out 1 quarter and anything learned before you got to
                                                                                              practice
       Unexcused absence from 1st practice of the week            Sits out from new material learned when absent, sits out 1
                                                                                       quarter of next game
       Unexcused absence from 2nd practice of the week            Sits out from new material learned when absent, sits out 1
                                                                 quarter of the game (half time, time outs and quarter routines
                                                                                  at the discretion of the coach)
         Unexcused absent both practices in one week                                Sits out the half the game
               Leaving practice early (+15 min)                  Will not be in new material that was missed, time outs and sits
                                                                                           out a quarter
                                                             Games
                         Expectation                                                    Consequence
                 Tardy (+15 min) no warnings                                   Sits out an entire half of that game
                Unexcused absent for JV game                                Sits out the Varsity game (if applicable)
                Unexcused absent for a game                                       Sits out half of the next game
                                   Practices for Rallies and Special Performances
                         Expectation                                          Consequence
         Absent for practice for a rally or special event                           Sits out of performance

Excessive absences: Missing more than 7 events (this includes games, events, and practices) will result in removal
from the Pep Squad and might jeopardize the try out process the following year. Warnings will be given by your
coach. Pep Squad members must give a 30-day notice to be excused from an absence this includes games (i.e:
vacation etc.)

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JSerra Catholic High School
                         Pep Squad Constitution 2021-2022

Guidelines
  •   Pep squad members are to ATTEND all practices.
  •   Doctor/dentist appointments, etc. are not acceptable excuses for missing practices (unless in an emergency and
      the advisor and coach has been informed). If a member must miss practice, the advisor and coach must be
      notified before the practice is scheduled to begin.
  •   It is the responsibility of the Pep Squad athlete to remain focused and attentive during practice due to the safety
      of other teammates and themselves. Squads are expected to use their time wisely and to be cooperative and
      productive.
  •   Athletes must be fully dressed in designated outfit with hair ready and jewelry removed at the designated
      practice time.
  •   Athletes must wear shoes and socks for all practices. No exceptions.
  •   All scheduled practices, games and performances are mandatory.
  •   Family events, and schoolwork are not excuses for missing practice, games or leaving early.
  •   WORK is NOT an excuse for missing a game, practice, or mandatory event. Please plan such events around Pep
      Squad obligations.
  •   Excessive absences: Missing more than 7 unexcused events (this includes games, events, and practices) will
      result in removal from the Pep Squad and might jeopardize the try out process the following year. Warnings will
      be given by your coach.
  •   Members must attend a minimum of 4 classes on the day of an activity, event, or game in order to participate.
  •   In the case of being benched, a pep squad member must attend a game, event or practice, in uniform and sit
      with the team, and/or the coach. No cell phones, no eating, no homework while sitting out. You will be
      required to participate in the game.
  •   In the case of suspension, a Pep Squad Member cannot attend school, a game, event or practice in uniform. A
      suspension may also result in being removed the program.
  •   If a pep squad member quits or is removed from the program, they are ineligible to tryout in future years.
  •   A failed drug test will result in immediate removal and/or ineligibility from the Pep Squad Program.
  •   Participation in Fall and Winter sports is not permitted. If you participate in a Spring sport your Pep Squad
      obligation should come first.

Camp (Mandatory):
  •   All Pep Squad members must attend summer camp. If you miss camp you will sit out of the material learned for
      the year.

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JSerra Catholic High School
                           Pep Squad Constitution 2021-2022

                            Important School/Event Dates (Mandatory)
 August                                                       December
 Freshman Orientation: Aug 9                                  Kids 4 Kids Party: Dec 15
 Welcome Back Bash: Aug 21
 October                                                      January/February
 Fall Pep Rally: Oct 15                                       Open House: Jan 11
 Varsity Homecoming Game: Oct 15                              Winter Pep Rally: Feb 4
 8th Grade Visitation: TBA
 Open House: Sept 28
 Athletic Open House: Oct 26
 PINK OUT and BLACK OUT Games: TBA
 November                                                     March
                                                              Swallow’s Day Parade: March 19
                                                              Spring Pep Rally: TBA (Varsity Only)
 *Football Cubs Camp TBA                                      *Dates subject to change

Co-curricular Involvement
As a Pep Squad member, students are encouraged to participate in co-curricular activities with the caveat that the Pep
Squad schedule of games, practices and performances take priority.
Participation in Fall and Winter sports is not permitted. If you participate in a Spring sport your Pep Squad obligation
should come first.

Rules and Regulations
    •   All members must cooperate with fellow Pep Squad members, Coaches, Advisor and Choreographers.
    •   To uphold the highest standard, Pep Squad members are encouraged not to post publicly to online communities
        in any misrepresentative way (i.e., Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snap Chat, etc.). As the Pep Squad Coaches
        may be monitoring online communities, any misrepresentation of the Program and/or JSerra Catholic High
        School is prohibited. Posting of material (including photos, verbal chat messages, etc. that reflects negatively
        against JSerra Catholic High School and/or the Pep Squad is cause for dismissal from the Pep Squad). The final
        decision will be made at the discretion of the Coaches and Head of Student Affairs.
    •   Members shall not use language or behavior which may cause embarrassment to JSerra Catholic High School
        and/or the Pep Squad. This includes but is not limited to public displays of affection, use of inappropriate (i.e.,
        sexual) language, poor sportsmanship or attitude at any games, events, or appearances.
    •   Members shall exercise appropriate discretion and modesty in apparel and appearance.
    •   Members may not exhibit poor sportsmanship at any time.
    •   No gum chewing at practices, games or performances is permitted.
    •   No socializing while performing at functions is permitted.
    •   Use of cell phones, and/or other electronic equipment is not permitted during a scheduled practice, game,
        performance, or Pep Squad event. All cell phones and/or other electronic equipment must be turned off or to
        “silent” mode prior to and throughout the duration of all scheduled practices, games, performances, or Pep
        Squad events. In the event of an emergency where contact via cell phone and/or other electronic form of
        communication is necessary, special consideration will be given.

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JSerra Catholic High School
                            Pep Squad Constitution 2021-2022
    •   Members who perform their duties with destructive complaining or indifference or who fail to meet any of the
        above “Rules and Regulations” may be dismissed from the Pep Squad. The final decision will be made at the
        discretion of the Coaches and Head of Student Affairs.
    •   Misbehavior includes social networking pages/videos/tweeting involving a member of our Pep Squad/Cheer,
        Dance or Mascot must not contain inappropriate remarks regarding other classmates or athletes, inappropriate
        pictures or postings regarding drugs, sex, or alcohol paraphernalia. This behavior is not tolerated, and the
        athlete may be dismissed from the squad.
    •   If a member has been removed from Pep Squad for any reason, they will no longer be eligible to tryout in
        subsequent years.

Uniforms and Appearance
                                                      Appearance
                        Expectation                                                   Consequence
          Must arrive to any Pep Squad Event in full            Sits out 1 quarter of the game, if shows up in the wrong
              uniform/shoes/hair and make up                                                 attire
    Finger Nails: sport length, clear, nude, light pink nail                  Sits out until nails are acceptable
     polish or French manicure, no nails filed to a point
                    NO ARTIFICIAL NAILS
   Hair: game hair must be ready by call time to coaches                     Sits out until hair is done properly
                         specification
  Jewelry: no jewelry should be worn at practices, games                      Sits out until jewelry is removed
                      and performances
       Tattoos: tattoos should be covered at all times                    Sits out until tattoo is covered properly
 Clean and complete uniform including approved uniform                       Sits out until uniform is complete
                            shoes
When representing the Pep Squad, all members must maintain the highest standards including, but not limited to:
   • Official Pep Squad uniforms will be determined by the Coaches and Advisor.
   • Uniforms shall be kept clean and neat at all times. Skirts, shells, and other uniforms must be well pressed and
        maintained.
   • Hair should be neat, clean, and away from face; extreme hair styles are not permitted – this includes dying of
        hair color that does not match your actual hair color. All hair accessories should be worn in moderation and
        complement the uniform, and must be approved by the Coach and Advisor. Hair extensions are permitted as
        long the hair extension color matches your own actual hair color. No colored extensions nor feathers will be
        permitted. If you have hair extensions, you should be able to adhere to whatever hairstyle deemed appropriate
        for the given game, performance or event. For example, if you have hair extensions and cannot cleanly pull your
        hair back into a ponytail, you must remove them.
   • Uniforms should not be altered. If the need arises, alterations must be pre-approved by the Coaches
   • As a member of a Pep Squad, hair and makeup should look professional and stage-ready every time there is a
        scheduled game or performance. Exact specifications are to be determined by Pep Squad Coaches.
   • If any part of the uniform is lost or damaged or no longer fits correctly, the Pep Squad member assumes
        financial responsibility to replace the item.
   • Membership on the Pep Squad can be physically demanding, and we encourage all members to maintain a
        healthy lifestyle.
   • When sitting out for a “consequence” Pep Squad members must be in full uniform at all times. When the
        weather is cold Pep Squad members need to wear the Pep Squad uniform jacket. No cell phones allowed.
   • Loaning out of Pep Squad uniforms for any reason is prohibited.
   • Only members in proper, assigned uniform may perform. Members not in uniform must sit out.
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JSerra Catholic High School
                            Pep Squad Constitution 2021-2022
Financial

                                                   Pep Squad Fees
Junior Varsity Team Info
New Member Junior             $3800 for the year                                First payment due May 15, 2021 $1900
Varsity Cheer/Dance           Includes 2 uniforms                               Final payment due July 30, 2021 $1900

Continuing Junior Varsity     $3200 for the year                                First payment due May 15, 2021 $1600
Member                        Does not include existing replaceable uniform     Final payment due July 30, 2021 $1600
                              items, costs will vary according to item
Continuing JV Member to       $3750 for the year                                First payment due May 15, 2021 $1875
Varsity Cheer                 Does not include existing replaceable uniform     Final payment due July 30, 2021 $1875
                              items, costs will vary according to item
                              Includes 1 new uniform
Varsity Team Info
New Member Varsity            $4050 for the year                                First payment due May 15, 2021 $2025
Cheer/Dance                                                                     Final payment due July 30, 2021 $2025
                                 Includes 2 uniforms
Continuing Varsity               $3450 for the year                               First payment due May 15, 2021 $1725
Member                           Does not include existing replaceable uniform Final payment due July 30, 2021 $1725
                                 items, costs will vary according to item
                                 No new uniforms
Senior Pep Squad Member $100 Senior fee for Senior gifts, shadow box,             Payment due by July 30, 2021
                                 sash, etc
   • Fees include: camp, coaching fees, uniforms, supplies and transportation with NO REFUNDS
   • Payments are made on line at JSerra.org-parents-forms and fees-Pep Squad Fees
   • Uniforms info: Uniforms will remain the same as 2021. New Pep Squad Members will purchase the uniform
        included in the fees. Members are required to replace all uniform items, lost, stolen or ill fitting. Member may
        borrow used uniforms from former members as long as the uniform fits appropriately. Note the length of the
        uniform is subject to approval by the coaches/advisor.
   • New practice clothes, shoes, backpack and poms will be included in your fee.
   • If a member resigns or is dismissed from the Pep Squad, he or she is not entitled to a refund and is still
        obligated to fulfill his or her complete financial responsibility. Pep Squad payments will be paid on line
        through the JSerra.org-parent-forms and fees-Pep Squad Fees
   • Pep Squad Members will be benched for practices/games/events if financial payments are not made on the
        due dates (unless otherwise discussed with the Vice Principal of Student Life, Donna Vandenberg)
   • If a Pep Squad Member “grows out” of a uniform piece they are responsible to replace it (uniform pricing
        sheet will be given out)

Fundraising
   •   Every Pep Squad member will be required to bring in at least 2 Cubs to each Cubs Camp (TBA)
   •   Purchasing a media guide ad for the Football and/or Basketball programs is optional
   •   Other fundraising opportunities may be added that would be deemed mandatory for every Pep Squad family

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JSerra Catholic High School
                            Pep Squad Constitution 2021-2022
Academics
Academic Probation – Any student, who earns a total GPA below 2.0 on any quarter or semester grade report, shall be
placed on academic probation for the following quarter. While on academic probation, earning below a 2.0 GPA on any
quarter or semester grade report, shall make the student ineligible to participate in any extra-curricular activities until
he or she has been released from academic probation. In addition, the Academic Review Committee shall have
discretion to declare a student ineligible to participate in extra-curricular activities if it is determined that he or she is
performing below acceptable academic standards for such student (regardless of the student’s total GPA). Evidence that
a student is performing below acceptable academic standards shall include, among other things, the student earning
two “D” grades and/or an “F” grade on any quarter or semester grade report or being placed on academic probation
after having previously been placed on and removed from academic probation. Any student who is on academic
probation for two consecutive quarters shall be subject to dismissal from the school if he or she fails to earn a total GPA
of at least 2.0 at the end of the second probationary quarter. For daily participation, unless there are extenuating
circumstances (i.e., death in the family), students are ineligible to participate or attend an athletic contest/practice or
any extra-curricular activity unless they are in attendance by the beginning of the third hour of the school day on the day
of the practice/event.

P.E. Credit
Each Pep Squad participant will be given 5 units of PE Credit per semester, if they complete the entire Pep Squad year.

Safety Guidelines
All members are required to follow and adhere to all safety guidelines, procedures, and directions given by the coach.
Members must always remain focused and on task. In case of injury, it is the responsibility of the member to
immediately inform the Coach. If a student is injured or ill at a practice, game, or performance, it is the responsibility of
the student to inform the Coach immediately. All coaches are CPR, AACA certified and Heads Up Concussion Trained.

If an athlete has an injury, they are still required to attend all practices and games unless they have a doctor’s note that
states they cannot attend. If an athlete has a concussion, they must have a doctor’s note clearing them of their
concussion and then complete the CIF Return to Play Protocol prior to being able to return to practice, games and/or
performances.

Performances
The primary purpose of the Pep Squad is to support JSerra Catholic High School athletic squads through performing at
games, pep rallies, and other school functions as determined by the Pep Squad Coaches.
    • Members are expected to arrive at all performances at the time designated by the Coach. It is necessary to
        arrive early to stretch, warm up and practice as a squad. A member will be considered tardy if they do not arrive
        at the specified time, regardless of performance or game time.
    • Excessive talking is not permitted at games. Members are to keep their mind on the game and the surroundings,
        follow Captains’/Coaches’ directions, and be always safe.
    • Members are expected to be respectful and polite to all players, officials, fans and cheerleaders.
    • Members are expected have signs, banners, and run-throughs made in advance, and at each game. Signs and
        banners must be positive in spirit and enthusiasm without derogatory remarks about opposing team or Pep
        Squad.
    • Performances and games are mandatory.
    • Pep Squad members must be at school at least 4 periods on the day of a game to cheer at that game.

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JSerra Catholic High School
                            Pep Squad Constitution 2021-2022
Squads
Candidates will be eligible to try out for the following Squads structured by grade levels for the 2021-2022 school year:
   • Varsity Squads: Sophomores, Juniors and Seniors
   • JV Squad: Freshman, Sophomore and Juniors
The above is contingent upon interest. Squads may be added, combined and/or eliminated.
   • Varsity Squads will cheer/dance at home and away Varsity Football and Varsity Basketball games, as well as
       other athletic events at the Coach’s/Advisors discretion this includes CIF games.
   • Junior Varsity will cheer/dance at: Freshman and Junior Varsity Home Football and Basketball games (some
       Reserve games may be added).
   • Select JV Away Football and Basketball games (transportation not provided).
   • Select Varsity Football and Basketball home games.
   • Other athletic, school, and citywide events at the Coach’s discretion.
   • School holidays: games will be mandatory unless otherwise directed.

Squad Captains
Captains are picked through an application and interview process. Captain candidates interview a one on one with the
coaching staff. The Pep Squad Coaching Staff reviews applicants conduct and participation from previous and current
seasons (if applicable). Applicants must give a speech to the entire Pep Squad program. The entire Pep Squad program
votes on Captains. The coaches must approve all final decisions for Captain.

Communications
Please keep in mind the following protocol when you elect to pursue a concern you may have regarding your son’s or
daughter’s experience on the Pep Squad:
                1) Head Coach, Team Coach or Pep Squad Advisor
                3) Vice Principal of Student Life
                4) Principal
Communication between the Parents, Coaches, and participants is a key factor to the success of our program. The goal
of this program is that each Pep Squad member is nourished and honored spiritually, mentally, physically, and
emotionally. In order for this goal to be accomplished, it is vital that all parties involved respect each other and have an
open line of communication. Please respect and adhere to the order in which all concerns be addressed.
Weekly updates will be e-mailed before the start of practice each week. It is the responsibility of the Pep Squad
member to check for these updates, as well as reference the JSerra Pep Squad Shutterfly website. Advisor will e-mail
and coaches/captains will text squad members with reminders and last-minute updates. Please respect the coach’s
time, parents should not discuss any matters during game time.

Parents
For the Pep Squad to be effective with the student it is essential that a spirit of cooperation, trust, and support exist
between the Coaches and the Parent. It is for this reason that we ask the family to become familiar with the philosophy,
policies, and procedures developed and enforced by JSerra Catholic High School. Under normal circumstances a student
is not to be deprived of participating on the Pep Squad on grounds relating to the attitude of parents/guardians.
Accordingly, it shall be an expressed condition of participation that the parents/guardians of a student shall also conduct
themselves in a manner that is consistent with the Catholic-Christian principles of the school. These principles include,
but are not limited to policies, principles, or procedures set forth in the Parent-Student Handbook. All interpretations of
these norms are made at the discretion of the school administration and Board of Directors in cooperation with the Pep
Squad Coaches

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JSerra Catholic High School
                        Pep Squad Constitution 2021-2022

                               JSerra Catholic High School
                      Pep Squad Constitution Contract Form

Student Name (Please Print):

__________________________________________________________________

I have read, understand, and will abide by the guidelines set forth in the Pep
Squad Constitution.
I have READ and FULLY UNDERSTAND the JSerra Pep Squad Attendance/Participation and Appearance
Guidelines. I agree to abide by all these Rules and Regulations, including their interpretation and
enforcement.

       ______________________________________________                                 __________
       Parent(s) Signature                                                            Date
       _____________________________________________                                  ___________
       Student Signature                                                              Date

The signature of a parent and participant on the consent form/contract signifies that you are
willing and able to meet the requirements and responsibilities stated in the contract.

JSerra Catholic High School Pep Squad members will be expected to adhere to this contract
and retain this packet for future reference.

Turn this page in with your Pep Squad Try Out packet

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