Student Handbook - Catholic High School

2022-05-30 08:22:39 By : Ms. Sophia Woo

The regulations and other provisions outlined in this handbook are material conditions of the contractual agreement between Catholic High School, each student enrolled in the school, and his parents. In addition, this handbook is designed to serve several important purposes:

—  It provides a handy source of the basic information the student needs for planning and carrying out his course of study.

—  It serves as an official source of school policies and requirements for participation in academic,

extracurricular, and informal activities at Catholic High School.

—  It provides information to enable parents to assist and support the efforts and activities of their

sons. It is especially important that parents read and become familiar with the handbook’s sections on admission, attendance and behavior policies.

—  It contains brief statements of the history and philosophy of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart and of Catholic High School. The board of directors and the administration hope that students and parents will find the information articulates the foundation of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart, which in turn serves as the basis for educational formation at Catholic High School.

The mission of Catholic High School is to teach Gospel values in an environment of academic excellence according to Catholic tradition and the spirit of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart. 

In order to pass on the educational charism that belongs to the Brothers of the Sacred Heart, the brothers and their lay partners have composed a number of documents, including Educational Mission and Ministry (1985 and revised in 2007), and Partners in Mission (2019).  Excerpts from those documents are below and introduce major sections of this handbook. 

As Brothers of the Sacred Heart, we inherit a tradition of quality Catholic education.  This tradition stems from the religious commitment, personal dedication, and professional competence of the many men, past and present, who have devoted themselves to the education of youth.  Our tradition in education has developed as each generation of teachers has learned the lessons of experience from previous generations.     While our philosophy and teaching methods share many aspects in common with all of Catholic education, particularly Catholic education directed by religious communities, over the years we have developed a basic educational philosophy and fundamental pedagogical techniques which have become our hallmark. This educational spirit is lived out in the attitudes, values, and practices that we have traditionally emphasized. We value our spirit and wish for it to continue to play a major part in the role of Catholic education. We want to retain our educational heritage and share it with future Brothers and with the dedicated lay people who join us in the educational apostolate.   We believe in a holistic approach to education. We believe that a young person learns from his or her total experience of the school setting. We attempt to address the religious, academic, social, psychological, physical, and cultural development of the young person through the school’s programs, courses, and policies.        Because we believe that a student learns through his or her experience of the total school environment, we devote ourselves to build within the school a community spirit that is characterized by a pervading influence of Christian values, a strong insistence on an orderly and disciplined atmosphere, a personal approach to education, and a firm commitment to academic excellence.

As a result of our emphasis on holistic education, we hope our graduates are well rounded young people who: 

Because of our emphasis on spiritual growth and religious values, we hope that our students graduate with:

Because of our efforts at firm and friendly discipline, we hope that our graduates:

Because of the caring nature and personal attention given to our students, we hope our graduates:

As a result of our commitment to academic excellence, we hope our graduates:

In summary, education according to the tradition of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart is holistic education rooted in religious values, structured through friendly discipline, nurtured by personal attention, and committed to academic excellence. While such an approach to education may not be unique to us, it is characteristic of us. This educational spirit consists of ideals and practices that we, through experience and reflection, have grown to value as essential to our school apostolate.  

André Coindre was born in early 1787, into a family of middle-class means, his father at first a tailor and then a salt salesman. André had two living siblings, a sister and a brother. Another sister died while only a baby. André’s birth in Lyon, France came little more than two years prior to the start of the French Revolution, an event that was to color not only his entire life but also that of France itself. The Revolution of 1789-1799 shook the nation to its foundations. Napoleon Bonaparte brought an end to this period of chaos when he came to power in the Consulate of 1799, declaring that France had finished with the romance of the Revolution. Five years later, he literally crowned himself emperor in the presence of Pope Pius VII and the era of the First Empire began. Set against this background was the early development of André Coindre. The Coindre family members were active in the underground Church during the Revolution. Young André decided upon the priesthood and entered the minor seminary in 1804, graduated to St. Irenaeus Major Seminary in 1809, and was ordained a priest for the Archdiocese of Lyon on June 14, 1812. One freezing cold winter afternoon, two little girl orphans—tattered, chilled to the bone, and famished—were huddled up against the door of St. Nizier Church in Lyon, when Fr. André Coindre stopped and asked the children what they were doing there. Moved to act, he took the smaller into his arms and the other by the hand, and wondered what to do next. So began Fr. Coindre’s efforts to minister to the neglected children of the Revolution. Through the preaching, fervor and inspiration of Father André Coindre, in 1821 a group of men, initially ten in number, took vows in the Institute of the Brothers of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary and dedicated their community to the well-being of the young people who bore the brunt of social upheaval. Time and experience have changed many things including the name of the Institute, now known as the Brothers of the Sacred Heart, but nothing has altered its link to the founding charism and the desire to make the love of God known in our world through the ministry of education. 

Initially, the brothers’ new community went through very difficult times, but by 1847 it had grown and prospered to the point that five missionary brothers were sent to the United States at the request of the first bishop of Mobile, Alabama. The arrival of the brothers in America in 1847 signaled the beginning of the transformation of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart from a strictly French congregation into a worldwide institution made up of many nationalities. The brothers’ work did not remain limited to Mobile for very long. In 1854 they established St. Stanislaus College in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, and in 1869, St. Aloysius College in New Orleans. Continued expansion resulted in establishment of schools and orphanages in several Midwestern states, in the south and southeastern United States, as well as in New York, New England and Canada. Today, the Brothers of the United States Province serve in Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Houma and Thibodeaux, Louisiana; Mobile, Alabama; Bay St. Louis, Mississippi; Klagetoh, Arizona, Pascoag and Woonsocket, Rhode Island; East Elmhurst, New York; Metuchen, New Jersey; Nashua, New Hampshire; Saint Albans, England; Rome, Italy; Digos City, Davao, and Bogo, Philippines; Lusaka, Zambia; and Amatongas, Mozambique. 

In 1894, the Brothers of the Sacred Heart established a school in Baton Rouge under the name St. Vincent’s Academy. From a humble beginning, with 106 students, the school continued to grow so that by the late 1920’s the old frame building that housed St. Vincent’s no longer could contain its student body of nearly 300 boys. As a result, a new school building, gym and brothers’ residence were begun in 1928 and completed in January 1929 on North Street at Fourth Street. At that time, the school became known as Catholic High School. 

Even though the depression years were very difficult, enrollment at the school continued to increase. By the early 1940’s the lack of schoolroom space made it necessary to begin turning away applicants. Therefore, the brothers started looking for a piece of property on which to build a school to accommodate a larger student body. On June 5, 1946, 36 acres of land were purchased, but lack of building funds delayed construction of the school for nearly 10 years. Through the generosity of many friends in Baton Rouge, in 1956 the Brothers of the Sacred Heart were able to begin construction of their long hoped for new school. In September 1957 the faculty, along with 450 students, moved from the original property near the state capitol to the new campus — the present location on Hearthstone Drive. Today’s Catholic High School plant consists of well-equipped classrooms, laboratories, administrative offices and athletic facilities: 

•    The school gymnasium was constructed in 1963. •    In 1971, the Roe F. Cangelosi Mall was built for student use. •    In 1972, a wing containing classrooms, a library and a student union was added. •    An all-weather track, a new baseball field and expanded parking facilities were added in the early 1980s. •    In 1982 and 1992, Catholic High bought the residences at 720 and 808 Hearthstone Dr. for use as offices. These buildings house the offices of the President, the Finance Department staff, and most of the Advancement Team Staff. •    The Fine Arts/Computer Center opened in 1985 as a major addition to the school plant. The 18,000 sq. ft. facility consists of Chorus and Band Room, ensemble rooms, art rooms, and seven additional classrooms. •    In 1990, a new Maintenance Workshop became the center of all campus maintenance activity. •    In 1991, anticipating the school’s 100th anniversary, a host of benefactors provided the Centennial Courtyard for the Catholic High campus. •    In 1994, the school’s centennial year, Catholic High officially dedicated the Centennial Courtyard. The principle feature of the courtyard is a bronze sculpture entitled Dialogue of the Heart. The work of artist Bill Hopen, the sculpture was donated by Frances L. Landry in memory of her late husband, Jules F. Landry, CHS ’23. •    In the fall of 2002, Catholic High dedicated a 23,000 square foot Health & Physical Education Center that includes additional classroom space, multiple locker room areas for the school’s athletic teams and physical education classes, a wrestling practice room and a fully equipped weight training room. Following a generous sponsorship of the Catholic High School mission, this facility was rededicated in May 2014, and named the Ryan D. “Jume” Jumonville ’91 Health and Athletic Performance Center. •    In September 2005 CHS dedicated its new science building, the Brother Gordian Udinsky Science Center, a 10 classroom structure that provides state-of-the-art facilities and equipment for use in instruction of physics, chemistry, biology, environmental science and computer science. •    In the spring of 2015, a renovation of the Track and Football Field was completed. •    In March of 2019, CHS broke ground on the CHS Student Center in memory of Brother Donnan Berry, S.    C..  The building was completed in the fall of 2020 and was open for use in October of that year.  It includes a new student union, additional classrooms, the campus ministry office and a faculty workspace.

Catholic High School has been recognized six times as a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence by the U.S. Department of Education.   Catholic High School is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and is approved by the Louisiana State Department of Education. The school is affiliated with the National Catholic Educational Association, the National Association of Secondary School Principals and the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development. Athletic teams participate under the auspices of the Louisiana High School Athletic Association. One of the school’s greatest assets is the outstanding achievement of its graduates. Many prominent leaders in the Baton Rouge area were students nurtured through their crucial adolescent years by the Brothers of the Sacred Heart and dedicated lay faculty and staff members at Catholic High. 

Compassion and trust cannot be practiced in a vacuum; they can only be implemented in an environment that is created by caring educators for whom both values are central concerns.  That environment is best described by the term “sanctuary,” a place where students sense the compassion which motivates those who care for them, where they feel safe to become the best person God created them to be, and where they are known, valued, and treasured. Such a well-ordered, structured, and nurturing environment—a sanctuary—uplifts students academically, socially, and emotionally.  It promotes students’ respect for authority and one another and helps them to develop a sense of self-discipline.  Ultimately, it contributes to the students’ experience of God’s love, love of neighbor, and love of learning.  Partners in Mission An essential aspect of education in the tradition of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart is that the school be a sanctuary for students. Catholic High School considers a school environment that provides a sanctuary for every student and faculty member to be an essential component of a CHS experience. In the spirit of Father Coindre, Catholic High School continually works to develop policies and practices that allow the school to be a sanctuary from those social forces that would interrupt a student’s maturation into the person God has called him to be. Catholic High School considers a school environment that provides a sanctuary for every student and faculty member to be an essential component of a CHS experience. In order to provide and maintain such a sanctuary, Catholic High prohibits any behavior that negatively labels, demeans, or isolates a particular individual or group. This includes any actions that are perceived as racist, sexist, homophobic, or otherwise exclusive, negative, or offensive towards another individual or group. Included in such behavior is the display of Confederate battle flags, Swastikas, or other material that the administration deems is divisive, demeaning, negative, offensive, or inappropriate.  Any student who engages in such actions will be subject to corrective measures, which may include probation, suspension and/or dismissal.  

Parents are the primary educators of their children. A CHS education is therefore successful only when done in partnership with parents. To that end, Catholic High School strives to communicate with parents through a variety of media. The CHS website provides basic information, including the school calendar and Principal’s Newsletter. Catholic High School provides an email address for each student, which will serve as the primary source of electronic communication. CHS will communicate with parents through the email address provided by the parents at registration. CHS also uses Rediker PlusPortals to communicate with parents about student academic progress. This service also allows CHS to text parents and students. More information about these services is in the Academic Excellence section of the handbook. An important expression of partnership with parents is the diligence performed by CHS to insure that its students enjoy a safe environment free from abuse or harassment. The CHS Board of Directors has adopted policies intended to prevent any type of abuse of students while in the care or supervision of CHS. Key elements of these proactive policies include the thorough screening and supervision of all employees and volunteers, the education of employees, volunteers and students regarding prevention strategies, and a serious response to any allegation of abuse. These Board policies, entitled “Prevention of Abuse” and “Work Related Harassment” are located in the General section at the end of the student handbook.   Additional opportunities for partnership with parents are extended through the CHS Men’s Club and CHS Mothers’ Club. The Men’s Club is open to fathers and grandfathers of current students, CHS alumni and fathers of alumni and other men who wish to be associated with CHS as friends. Likewise, the Mothers’ Club is open to mothers and grandmothers of current students, mothers of CHS alumni and other women who wish to be associated with CHS as friends. 

The school presumes that both biological parents have access to their children unless a parent provides legal evidence of sole custody rights. It is the custodial parent’s responsibility to provide the school with a court certified copy of a court order. Copies of legal documents (custody of child, court approved guardianship or tutorship, or court approved visitation rights) must be on file in the student files located in the counseling center. Unless a court has ruled otherwise, non-custodial parents have the right to copies of their children’s academic records and to discuss the child’s progress with school personnel. Custody matters between parents or guardians are to be settled off campus.  

Catholic High School will follow the procedural guidelines according to our Safety Plan manual. A copy of the Safety Plan is located in every classroom on campus. There is an Automated External Defibrillator located in the main hall, science building, student union, gym and health/ PE building on campus.  

Catholic High School admits students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin or religious preference. In admitting students, we look for young people who can profit from and contribute to the religious and educational mission of the school. While accepting the fact that there is limit to what any one institution can do, we believe that the school is to serve a broad cross section of students with regard to both academic ability and socioeconomic status. Promoting and maintaining a diversity of students within the school community is a positive value consistent with the tradition of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart. Therefore, in the admission of students, high priority is given to those whose families have supported our schools and Catholic schools in general, and great care is taken to ensure that the school does not become available only to the social, academic, or athletic elite. In keeping with the philosophy of education of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart, Catholic High School seeks to create a diverse student body. Therefore, we reserve the right to accept students who may not be Catholic, who may not be attending Catholic schools, or who belong to a minority group. Typically, the students offered admission to CHS for the 2021-2022 school year:

Additional information regarding admission, including a document entitled “Sharing Our Vision” and online application forms are available on Catholic High School’s website. Candidates for admission to the 2022-2023 freshman or eighth grade classes at Catholic High must submit completed application forms by Friday, November 19, 2021. Offers of admission are contingent on documented successful completion of elementary scholastic requirements as well as records of behavior and attendance considered acceptable by the Catholic High School administration.

For students transferring to CHS, all provisions of the school’s admission policy apply. In addition, any grades expressed numerically are converted to letter grades. 

Once a student has been asked to leave Catholic High School because of academic or behavioral problems, he will not be readmitted. If a student has left CHS for any reason acceptable by the administration, readmission will be contingent on available space at the time the student wishes to be readmitted. If space is available, as defined by the principal, then regular admission criteria and procedures apply. 

Brothers of the Sacred Heart schools create school cultures in which prayer is a natural and routine part of daily life. We need to ensure that celebrations of the Eucharist, the Sacrament of Reconciliation, and other school-wide prayer experiences are not just available, but a rich part of school life for every student. We need teachers to help students discover the mystery of God’s self-revelation in all branches of learning, and we need classrooms, campus facilities, and even exterior spaces to be rich in images and symbols that evoke our Catholic faith. Finally, we need to provide service opportunities through which our students can put their developing faith into action, and we must lead our students to assume responsibility as lay leaders in the life of the larger Church. Ultimately, in the tradition of Father Coindre’s charism, religious formation must lead others to faith as a lived reality that empowers individuals to persistent commitment to and love of others.

The primary goal of Catholic High School’s campus ministry program is to enable students to integrate their faith with their daily living. Campus ministers, who are responsible for the overall program, work closely with the Religion Department. They provide for the students’ needs in liturgies, the sacraments, prayers, retreats, pastoral counseling and religious education. 

The student ministry team is composed of juniors and seniors who have heard the call of God to minister to their peers. Team members are selected following a discernment process at the end of their sophomore or junior year. In a program that begins with a three-day summer workshop and continues into the school year, team members receive training in small group leadership, prayer development and other ministry skills. The student ministers meet monthly for faith sharing. The team staffs retreats for underclassmen and conducts small support groups for eighth and ninth graders. The team also plans liturgies and provides the faculty with current information concerning the spiritual needs of the student body. 

Each year, the campus ministry team plans, organizes and leads both domestic and international mission trips for CHS students.  Students receive information about the trips in the fall and must complete an application in order to be considered for participation. Once participants are selected, the students, parents and chaperones meet to set appropriate expectations and goals. 

The Religion Department strives to blend academic religious studies and the dynamics of human development, encouraging students to undertake the lifelong search for ultimate values and personal growth. Service to others, especially those in need, is stressed at every level. Community service is viewed as an essential facet of the religious education of a Catholic High student. In this respect, a program of required community service has become an integral part of religion courses. Thus, the student actually applies the concept of putting the Gospel into practice. 

The main way we follow the example of Jesus Christ is through serving others, especially those who have trouble helping themselves. The CHS service program therefore is an integral part of religion courses in each year of the student’s curriculum (see Course Descriptions). By participating in the service program, students gain a broader perspective on how people live in the Baton Rouge community, discover the unique gifts they have to offer others, and experience the joy and peace that comes from serving others. To highlight the importance we place on service, students must successfully complete the service requirements called for in each religion course in order to receive credit for that course. Community service is introduced in eighth grade, where students must serve a minimum of 5 hours. Freshmen provide a minimum of 10 hours and sophomores contribute at least 15 hours of service. Juniors and seniors participate in special programs as noted below. The service project for all grade levels will account for 15 percent of students’ 4th quarter grade. The heart of the service program is the Christian Service Experience, which juniors must successfully complete. Students serve people who are most in need and thereby learn to see the face of Christ in those who struggle to survive on a daily basis. The 40 hours of service must be completed and verified before the student may be admitted to the senior year at CHS. Seniors perform 20 hours of community service to those who are most in need, namely the poor, underprivileged persons, the handicapped, and elderly. 

Because of the essential role of prayer in the formation of one’s relationship with God, students participate in varied and regular experiences of prayer. Each October, seniors participate in an overnight closed retreat in order to set the tone for their final year at Catholic High. Students in grades 8, 9, 10 and 11 participate in one-day retreats, with special attention given to the needs of each age group. Student ministers who relate well with younger students serve as peer ministers for underclassman retreats. 

As pastoral counselors, campus ministers work toward the total faith development of each student, attempting to help him fulfill his social, psychological and religious needs. Campus ministers are available to students on a daily basis for spiritual guidance and faith counseling, listening, helping and lending support. 

All students and faculty celebrate school Masses regularly.  Special emphasis is placed on having all students participate in order to make our liturgies transformative experiences for students. Students serve as liturgical ministers as lectors, greeters, altar servers, and extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion. In addition, the student choir sings at all liturgies, often with the accompaniment of student musicians. We hope that our liturgies will inspire students to become actively involved at their parishes, and we strongly encourage students to become leaders of their parishes’ youth organizations. In these various ways, students are challenged to assume their responsibility as lay leaders and to consider vocations and the many ministries offered by the Church. 

Twice a year the Campus Ministry Department holds reconciliation services to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation for all students. We hope that the powerful experience of God’s forgiveness through the sacrament in a school setting will inspire students to celebrate the sacrament regularly in their parishes. 

The Campus Ministry Department, as well as other school organizations, promotes numerous charity drives throughout the school year. The purpose of these drives is not only to raise money for important charities, but also to help students form solidarity with our brothers and sisters who are suffering throughout the world. Students participate in food drives benefitting the Great Baton Rouge Food Bank, which strongly depends on students’ contributions in order to feed the hungry in the Baton Rouge area. During Advent, many teachers have their classes adopt a family and purchase gifts for them. Some teachers also have their classes donate money to other charitable organizations. During Lent, the entire school participates in Operation Rice Bowl, the official Lenten charity drive of the United States Catholic Church. The Campus Ministry Team provides all teachers with resources to help explain the purpose of Operation Rice Bowl and inspire students to participate in the drive. Lenten contributions also benefit the Brothers of the Sacred Heart mission in Amatongas, Mozambique. Teachers emphasize that participating in this drive allows students to participate more fully in the life of the Church. In addition, the school has a dedicated fund drive every year to raise funds for either Mission Amatongas or the local Habitat for Humanity organization.  The Habitat for Humanity drive sponsors a home that is constructed with student and faculty labor

Communal and private prayer is essential in forming an intimate relationship with Christ and thereby being transformed by his loving presence. Therefore, great emphasis is placed on prayer throughout the entire school day. Every school day begins with a student leading prayer over the intercom.  Every class starts with prayer led by both teachers and students.  In religion classes, students frequently lead prayer services, which include music, scripture readings, and personal reflections. 

Every good parent and educator knows that demonstrating love to young people always involves setting limits, communicating clear and reasonable expectations, and providing accountability to ensure that the young person meets these expectations. It is perhaps the most unloving thing to indulge a child’s every whim and desire. Doing so would simply guarantee that the child would remain self-centered and never achieve his or her potential. Therefore, a critical component of the holistic perspective in the tradition of Father Coindre’s charism is a disciplined love that seeks to direct, motivate, correct, and support each young person along his or her life journey. … Our emphasis is on friendly discipline, which admonishes and corrects, but at the same time teaches and encourages. While we expect and demand respect for authority and adherence to rules and regulations, we advocate discipline that is respectful of the dignity of the individual, is consistent and fair, and is based on a relationship of mutual trust and cooperation.

Catholic High School believes that learning requires a disciplined atmosphere that fosters both personal freedom and responsibility for one’s decisions. Therefore, CHS has developed a behavior policy designed to create a sanctuary for its students by providing orderly growth and development of the individual student and by promoting the health and safety of all. Students must behave in a manner consistent with their status as members of the Catholic High School community. Student conduct must reflect an awareness of one’s own personal and academic needs and sensitivity to those of his fellow students. All students must cooperate in advancing the educational process in general and in maintaining the reputation and integrity of Catholic High School.

SPECIAL NOTE: It is neither the province nor the desire of Catholic High School to prescribe what limits or freedom parents may specify for their sons’ behavior. Nevertheless, there are times and places in which behavior of students reflects on Catholic High School. In all such cases, student behavior definitely becomes the province of CHS and the school’s policy will be applied by the faculty and administered judiciously and rigorously by the school administration. 

Student conduct must conform to provisions of the Catholic High School Behavior Policy as prescribed in this Student Handbook. At all times a student must conduct himself appropriately and in a manner befitting a Christian gentleman. The following is exemplary but not exclusive of such behavior: being sensitive to the needs of others, being cooperative with those in authority, displaying honesty and integrity, and furthering the mission of Catholic High School. If a student fails to conduct himself in a manner consistent with this policy, he subjects himself to corrective actions, which may include probation, suspension or dismissal. The assistant principal for discipline makes the final decision concerning any interpretation or application of these regulations, and determines any corrective action that may be appropriate. The 24-7-52 policy of Catholic High School mandates that off campus a student must conduct himself in a manner consistent with his status as a member of the Catholic High School community. Violations of civil or criminal law involving moral turpitude or other conduct that in the professional opinion of the school administration would reflect on or cause discredit to the reputation of Catholic High School by being contrary to the moral, religious or orthodox ethical principles of the Roman Catholic Church or the philosophy, policies, goals and commitments of Catholic High School as indicated in the Student Handbook, make a student subject to corrective actions, which may include probation, suspension or dismissal. A student accused or suspected of serious wrongdoing may be placed on a study program pending the outcome of a judicial proceeding or internal investigation. If a student is present when wrongdoing is evident (such as but not limited to fighting, smoking, vaping, vandalism, use of alcohol or other illegal drugs, and so forth), then that student must remove himself from that situation; otherwise, he shares in the consequences related to such behavior. These consequences may include probation, suspension or dismissal. 

Every Catholic High School student agrees to abide by the Honor Code (see page 27), which, among other things, requires each student to conduct himself in an honest manner.  Any student who fails to be honest will be subject to corrective actions, which may include probation, suspension and/or dismissal. 

Every Catholic High School student is required to treat others with respect. Any student who fails to be respectful of others will be subject to corrective actions, which may include probation, suspension and/or dismissal. 

Every person has a right to his or her own dignity and individuality. Thus, any student who harasses, bullies or demeans another person, in any manner or by whatever means, subjects himself to appropriate corrective actions which may include probation, suspension or dismissal. CHS is aware of the growing prevalence of the use of electronic communication for harassment and bullying, and considers such behavior, commonly referred to as cyberbullying, to be a clear violation of the dignity to which each person is entitled. This prohibition against acts of harassment applies to all students, regular and temporary, part-time or full-time employees, volunteers, itinerant instructors, and consultants. It also applies equally to clergy, religious and laypersons.

Note: Cyberbullying is illegal in the state of Louisiana. Instances of cyberbullying by Catholic High students may be reported to the authorities. For a more detailed description of cyberbullying, see the Acceptable Use Policy at the end of the Behavior Policy section.  

For Catholic High students, fighting on or off campus is a serious offense calling for strict corrective measures. Fighting is defined as an act of physical aggression resorted to when alternatives are available for avoiding such an act. 

It is very important for students and parents to understand that certain behavior perhaps condoned elsewhere is not permitted at Catholic High School. In this respect, a pertinent example is the use of vulgar or abusive language. The school administration realizes that, with changing mores, language once generally considered vulgar or profane is now freely used in movies, television and by many people in everyday situations including social media.  Nevertheless, the student must learn to moderate his behavior in accordance with time and place. Based on the principles and judgment of the school administration, the policy of Catholic High School considers certain language, although perhaps condoned elsewhere, as inappropriate on campus, online or at CHS sponsored activities off campus. Such language is considered disrespectful and completely unacceptable (see section on Respect). 

Certain substances and objects are considered harmful, dangerous or otherwise inappropriate for students to possess on the campus, including all parking lots. The school reserves the right to examine a student’s car (on or off campus), clothing, cellular telephone, locker, book bag, wallet or other enclosure in order to prove or disprove possession of any questionable materials. Inappropriate materials may be confiscated by the school, and if so, their return will be at the discretion of the assistant principal for discipline. 

Catholic High School defines ‘drugs’ to include any substance, legal or illegal, that is promoted, commonly believed, or used in such a manner as to alter natural states of consciousness, emotions, or alertness. The sale, purchase, possession or consumption of drugs, other than appropriate medical use, and administered in a manner consistent with the policies of Catholic High School, including but not limited to anabolic steroids or alcohol, is strictly prohibited. Attending, sponsoring or participating in activities where alcoholic beverages or narcotics are illegally sold, purchased, possessed or consumed (including entering a bar), is strictly prohibited. Further, the possession or association with items that, in the judgment of the principal, promote inappropriate use of drugs or illegal substances is strictly prohibited.   Except for cellular telephones (see following paragraph), and the student’s school-issued laptop, students may not bring onto campus any radio, tape player/recorder, gaming devices, smart watch, video camera, beeper or other electronic communication equipment of any type. All such equipment that is the property of Catholic High may be used only for school purposes, as specified in the Student Technology Policy. “Smart watches” or similar devices are not allowed to be worn on campus during the school day. If a student is caught in violation of this provision, his smart watch and the connecting device will be confiscated and subject to search. 

The school recognizes the convenience, entertainment, educational, logistical and safety advantages of smart phones and personal electronic devices. A student may have these electronic devices in his possession while on campus, but they must remain off and stowed from the beginning to the end of the academic day. Use before and after school is restricted to outside of buildings. Cell phone use inside buildings is prohibited during the school day; however, teachers have the discretion to allow use of these items for legitimate educational purposes. Violation of this rule may result in confiscation of the device and/or other corrective action. The school reserves the right to examine any such confiscated device, and when appropriate, a student may be held accountable for violations of this behavior policy if there is evidence of such violation on the confiscated device. Further, the school reserves the right to examine any student’s electronic device on suspicion of wrong-doing and upon reasonable belief that evidence of such wrong-doing is present on the electronic device to be examined. If a student’s cellphone is confiscated, a parent must pick the phone up from the assistant principals’ office, once the assistant principal for discipline has released the phone. The school does not notify parents when a cellphone is confiscated or when it has been released. Students are responsible for notifying their parents if their cellphone has been taken, when and if it is ready to be picked up by a parent. During the academic day, any telephone communication that a student may have (incoming or outgoing) must be through the office of the assistant principal for discipline.  

Use or possession of any medication while a student is on campus that is not already registered with the Counseling Center must be reported to the assistant principal for discipline. The school is not permitted to give a student even simple medication such as aspirin or its substitute without express written permission of one of the student’s parents. Once all such provisions have been met, the student may obtain a prescribed dosage at the Counseling Center. 

Smoking, vaping, e-cigarettes and related devices used by a student is strictly prohibited at all times on school property and the area immediately adjacent to the school. Also, use of and/ or possession of any tobacco or vaping product is prohibited for students at all school related functions. Students who are observed using tobacco or vaping may be subject to dismissal (see Catholic High School Alcohol and Drug policy). 

A weapon is defined as any instrument whose purpose is to cause serious bodily harm. No student is permitted to possess any type of weapon while on Catholic High property (including all parking lots) or at any school related function. 

Objects that in the opinion of the assistant principal for discipline serve no purpose at school, would be distracting and could cause disruptions may not be brought onto the campus (including parking lots). 

With the exception of school authorized raffles, no form of gambling or games of chance are allowed on the campus. 

Student debit accounts are managed through the myCHS link on the CHS website. Payments may be made online utilizing a credit or debit card or through E-checks (processing fees apply). In addition to online payments, cash, checks, and credit cards are acceptable forms of payment at the Bruin Shop on campus between 7:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. (Closed daily for lunch). Payments made at The Bruin Shop are not immediately available and may take up to 24 hours to process. In accordance with school policy, payments are not taken over the phone and cash back on checks or debit cards is not permitted. Students must always carry a positive balance on their debit card. Negative balances will result in additional fees being assessed. CHS notifies parents through email when a student account balance goes below $20 so that parents can make a payment to avoid service fees. Once an account goes negative, a service fee of $25 is charged to the account, along with the negative amount, plus an additional $25 to bring the account to a positive balance. CHS uses the parent’s form of payment on file with myCHS to reconcile the account. Students may check their balances at any time during the day at The Bruin Shop, the kiosk in the Union cafeteria, or as they check out in the cafeteria. Questions regarding student accounts can be emailed to Pinney Johnson, pjohnson@catholichigh.org. Questions regarding the use of myCHS should be emailed to Bradley Katzmarzyk, bkatzmarzyk@catholichigh.org.  

A student who marries is not allowed to remain at Catholic High School.

 Paternity, per se, is not a reason for dismissal from Catholic High School. When a student’s paternity is confirmed, he and his family must receive counseling at the diocesan office of Catholic Charities.  

A student may not invite or bring visitors to the campus without prior permission of the assistant principal for discipline. 

As the school is neither a public forum nor a public property, no person is allowed to distribute any type  of printed materials on campus or send email blasts without permission of the assistant principal for discipline.

Individual students are not permitted to sell any items, either for profit or nonprofit, without permission of the assistant principal for discipline. Fundraising for extracurricular organizations must have approval of the activities director. 

Typically, Catholic High School will not respond to nor act upon an anonymous communication regarding wrongdoing or a violation of CHS rules or state or local law. Should one be interested in notifying the school of such wrongdoing, one must disclose his or her identity in the communication or make such communication in person. However, in the interest of student safety CHS has provided students with access to the STOPit app, an anonymous reporting app by which students can communicate with the administration about any issue which could affect student health and safety. Regardless of the form of communication, a report in and of itself does not guarantee that the school will take action. A final determination of action is up to the discretion of the assistant principal for discipline.  To access the STOPit app, search for it on either Google Play or the Apple App Store and install it on any smart device.  When prompted, enter the code coindre855chs. 

A student’s permanent record after graduation consists of the following:

The following items from the students’ records are returned to the student before graduation: elementary school records, copy of birth certificate, copy of social security card and immunization records. The student’s behavior record is not part of the official student record and will not be provided upon request.

The purpose of the CHS dress and grooming policy is to embody the importance the Brothers of the Sacred Heart place on an orderly and disciplined environment.   A student must always be appropriately and neatly dressed. He must wear dress or casual slacks that are not excessively baggy or tight. Pants with cut or frayed hems or frayed cuffs are not allowed. He must wear a dress or sport shirt with a collar, dress shoes and dress socks, and a belt with pants designed for a belt. Belts must be brown or black leather and must not have a large or “novelty” buckle.   Clothes considered unacceptable for school wear include denim clothes of any color, camouflaged clothing, cargo or painter pants, pants with pockets stitched on the exterior, suspenders, shorts, T-shirts and shirts displaying any type of advertisement or wording (worn as outer or undershirts) and ankle socks. No clothing except CHS outerwear may display a logo more than two inches in diameter. To be acceptable for school wear, shoes must be leather (suede is acceptable) dress shoes, must fit properly and must have a relatively flat sole. Shoes that appear too casual or that have a sneaker appearance (including “dress sneakers” such as those designed by Steve Madden, Hey Dude, Cole Haan, etc.), sandals, athletic footwear, backless shoes, and the like are not acceptable. Dress shoes that reach slightly above the ankle are acceptable, shoes that lace up well above the ankle are not acceptable, nor is any type of boot.   Clothing worn as outerwear is limited to clothing issued and/or sold as an approved Catholic High School article of clothing. Use of outwear not issued and/or sold as an approved Catholic High School article of clothing will be permitted on a limited basis during inclement or extremely cold weather (35 degrees Fahrenheit or lower as posted on the Catholic High School website) and at a time designated by the assistant principal for discipline.   CHS students may not wear makeup, nail polish, earrings or other body piercing jewelry or display a tattoo of any sort during the school day or at any school-related function. Students may wear unobtrusive jewelry such as a single small necklace, ring, watch and/or bracelet.  

CHS recognizes that there are different types of hair, and that no single set of descriptions will perfectly capture the school’s expectations about haircuts, but the following guidelines will keep a student in compliance with the school’s expectations.  These guidelines allow for some individual preferences regarding haircuts, while ensuring that hair is neat in appearance and not a distraction. A student’s hair may be of only moderate length, height and thickness in the front, back, top and sides.  A common guideline for length is 3-4 inches on the top and 1-2 inches on the sides. Students are expected to comb, brush, style or otherwise groom their hair before they arrive on campus.  Students who come to school without having done so should expect consequences.   Students with straighter hair should keep their hair at a length so that it is naturally off of their ears, collar and eyebrows.  Students with wavy or curly hair should keep their hair to a moderate length so that it does not get too high or extend out too far on the sides.  Any transition from shorter to longer hair should be gradual. Completely shaven heads, mohawks or faux mohawks, shaving or carving lines into the natural hairline or eyebrows, braided, dyed, bleached or tinted hair and the like are not acceptable.   Each student is to be clean-shaven each day. Sideburns may not extend lower than the middle of the ear, and must be neatly groomed.  

NOTE: The assistant principal for discipline decides all matters of dress and grooming.

Student identification cards must be worn every school day around the student’s neck using the school-issued lanyard for his grade level. The student should wear the ID when he arrives on campus. The identification card must be visible at all times and must be worn outside of bulky clothing including outerwear. If a student remains at school after classes conclude, he should continue to wear the ID unless he is involved in an athletic practice or other activity for which the lanyard would be impractical. ID’s do not need to be worn at school functions outside the normal school day (e.g. convocations, club meetings, conventions, athletic events, etc. unless instructed to do so). A student who does not wear his identification card when required to do so will be subject to corrective action. A student is required to be in compliance with all dress and grooming rules from the moment he steps onto campus for a school day until he departs for the day. If a student has eighth period physical education he may remain in his physical education uniform after eighth period. Students involved in after school extracurricular activities, for which regular school dress would be impractical, should dress appropriately for the given activity.  

A student is expected to use the buildings, furnishings and equipment only for the purposes intended. A student who by his action causes damage to school property is obliged to replace that property whether the damage was intentional or not. Committing or attempting to commit any act of vandalism against school property, including any school owned computer, the property of another school, the property of any member of the faculty, staff or student body, either on or off campus, or any act that affects a person’s life, health or property, is considered a very serious offense. Consequences for such an act may include suspension or dismissal. 

Students should take pride in their school and assume responsibility for the cleanliness of its buildings and grounds. 

Each student is responsible for any of his books or personal items that are lost, damaged or stolen. Catholic High seeks to provide a secure environment, but assumes no responsibility for lost or stolen items. 

Before and after school a student is permitted in any of the following areas:

During lunch, students may be in the Student Center, Pavillion, Mall, Plaza, Centennial Courtyard, or Library. Students are not allowed to loiter in the Science Center lobby or courtyard, the Fine Arts Courtyard, or the walkway leading from the Fine Arts Courtyard to the Plaza.  During the times noted above, no student is permitted in the following areas: 

In the hallways and in the stairwells, a student should keep to the right; he must not run, push, shove or make unnecessary noise. During class periods, hallways are places of silence. At the first tone, students should be in or moving toward their first period classrooms. Students must be silent and attentive during daily announcements, fire drills and other safety drills.

With the exception of between classes, students may only use the restrooms located in the main hall.  Additionally, during lunch, students are allowed to use the restrooms located on the first floor of the Student Union.  Any student who uses the restroom during class must have a signed note from a faculty member, and that note must be brought to the assistant principal’s office after using the restroom. 

A student may use his assigned locker before his first period class, between classes and after school. Each student must assume responsibility for the contents of his locker and the school will not be liable for any losses that the student may incur. Lockers must be kept locked with school issued locks. Students also have access to lockers during P.E. Each student must assume responsibility for the contents of the P.E. locker he uses and the school will not be liable for any losses that the student may incur. P.E. lockers must be locked with CHS issued locks.  Lockers remain the property of Catholic High School. The school reserves the right to open and search lockers at any time.

Consumption of food (including candy) or drink is not permitted anywhere in buildings other than the Union or the Mall. As an exception, students may bring water in a sealed water bottle and it may be consumed during class.  

Gum chewing is prohibited on campus at all times.

Any student who wishes to park on campus during the school year must complete and turn in a CHS Student Parking Agreement and pay the required parking fee. This fee defrays the costs associated with student parking, including security. Students and parents must certify that they have read, understand and are bound to the terms of the agreement. A student who has been issued a parking tag is allowed to use the parking lot for its intended use. A student who drives a car to school must conduct himself at all times in accord with the behavior principles in this handbook and all pertinent laws. On campus, the student must comply strictly with provisions of the school’s official parking regulations given to students when they apply for the parking tag. Any student, in the opinion of the school’s administration, who jeopardizes the safety of any person during commuting or parking activities, or who fails to comply strictly with provisions of the school’s official parking regulations, may lose on campus parking privileges. When a student parks on campus, he should not loiter in the parking lots. Rather he should promptly exit his vehicle and the parking lot and enter campus. Students must follow the direction of the parking lot proctors. The following are the terms of the CHS Student Parking Agreement to which the student and the parent are bound when issued a parking tag: 

It is hereby agreed and understood that the parking fee paid for parking in the main parking and Westmoreland parking lots is to help defray the cost of security for these lots, among other costs.  

It is also agreed and understood that the parking fee for these lots does not include loss or claims for any damage to the vehicle while parked in these lots. The owner’s personal vehicle insurance will be the only coverage for any/all loss concerning their vehicle.  

I agree to indemnify, hold harmless, waive and relinquish all claims, including negligence against Catholic High School and its officers, agents, employees and volunteers including claims of bodily injury, including death and property damage as a result of, arising out of, or caused by, parking in these lots, except claims arising out of, or intentional misconduct of Catholic High School. I also agree that this fee is non-refundable. 

CHS has always valued a positive relationship with its neighbors.  Students are not to park in the neighborhood without the homeowners’ permission. Of utmost importance, parking in the neighborhood prevents vehicles from safely passing each other.  It also prevents firetrucks or other emergency vehicles from accessing homes or the area safely, makes it unsafe for homeowners to back out of their driveways, and leads to safety concerns for pedestrians as it relates to blocked lines of sight for drivers and pedestrians.  Any student who has permission to park in the neighborhood or at local businesses must have written permission via a form that is on file in the Assistant Principal’s Office. 

From the time he arrives at school until the end of his last scheduled class period, a student must remain on campus. The assistant principal for discipline is the only person who can give a student permission to leave campus or to enter a restricted area. Faculty members are instructed to correct any and all student misbehavior. However, no faculty members are assigned responsibility for direct supervision of students who choose to remain on campus after school while not involved in extracurricular activities. Of course, the school is unable to provide any sort of supervision of a student once he leaves the campus. 

A student’s attendance record is based on the official CHS calendar which is considered a part of this handbook and is available on the CHS website.  BESE policy states that in order to receive credit for a course, no student may miss more than 15 days of school for full year courses or 7.5 days for a semester course.  Because they involve actual absences from the school schedule, tardiness and early checkout are treated as absences under Catholic High’s attendance procedures. The assistant principal for discipline makes the final decisions on matters concerning students’ attendance and absences. 

An excused absence is one in which the student is absent for a legitimate reason as determined by the assistant principal for discipline. The student is allowed to make up all work missed during his absence. 

An educational absence is one in which the student is excused from his regular classes to participate in a school sponsored activity. Such absences are not counted as days absent from school, but the student must make up whatever assignments are missed. 

An unexcused absence is one in which the student is absent without an approved reason or simply as a matter of convenience to himself or his family (e.g., out of town trips, work, getting a haircut or a driver’s license, etc.). He must make up the time and the assignments missed during his absence. Unexcused absences may result in corrective action, and repeated unexcused absences may result in probation, suspension or dismissal. 

Any student who misses an amount of school time considered as excessive by the assistant principal for discipline must meet with him to discuss the relevant circumstances. Depending on such circumstances, a doctor’s note may be required in order to allow the student to complete outstanding assignments or tests. A student who has missed more than 7.5 days in a semester may be placed on probation, or under certain circumstances, may be asked to withdraw from Catholic High School. 

SPECIAL NOTE: Parents and students are expected to keep absences to a minimum. When a student misses school, it is his responsibility to consult his teachers within three days of his return to school concerning missed work. Lack of serious effort on the part of the student in making up work or tests in a timely manner may result in a grade as low as F on the missing work. A student who is absent for a single day prior to or on the day of a planned and announced quiz, test or assignment, must make up the work on the day he returns to school. 

The school reserves the right to detain students during or outside regular school hours as a result of inappropriate behavior or other violations of the Behavior Policy. The assistant principal for discipline may assign a student to Saturday school as a result of serious or repeated violations. In all cases, the assistant principal for discipline and the principal shall use their discretion in deciding appropriate consequences in response to student behavior.

A student may be placed on probation if in the judgment of the Catholic High School administration he has participated in or experienced a serious behavioral incident or experienced chronic behavioral or chronic attendance problems. Probation places a student in jeopardy of being dismissed from Catholic High. During probation time, no serious misconduct will be tolerated and the student is expected to show positive improvement in all behavior and overall attitude. At the end of a probationary period, a student may be removed from probation, may have the probationary period extended or may be dismissed from school. If the probation is imposed on a student due to substance use, the probation will last through the student’s graduation.

Students on probation are subject to drug testing at the discretion of CHS (See alcohol and drug policy on page 34). Students on probation are also subject to periodic review of their electronic devices, whether personal or issued by the school, at the discretion of the assistant principal for discipline.

A student may be suspended for serious misconduct or repeated occurrences of less serious misbehavior, including attendance problems. Suspension places a student in jeopardy of being dismissed from Catholic High.

A suspended student is not allowed to attend classes or any school related activities. He must make up the assignments missed during his suspension time.

Dismissal requires that a student immediately withdraw from Catholic High School. A dismissed student is not allowed to attend any CHS activities. A student is dismissed from Catholic High School if after undergoing the dismissal process the principal decides he can no longer attend Catholic High School. A student begins the dismissal process, described below, when in the professional judgement of the assistant principal for discipline, a student’s behavior warrants it. Typically, such a student would already be on probation, but behavior that in the opinion of the administration threatens the safety or well-being of students, or of Catholic High School, or other serious behaviors, may mean that a student is considered for dismissal without already being on probation.

All discipline situations that may lead to a student’s dismissal are discussed in a meeting with the principal, assistant principal for discipline, the student, and the student’s parents. At the conclusion of this meeting, the student and parents will leave campus. The student may not return to school until he is directed to do so by the assistant principal for discipline.

The principal and the assistant principal for discipline meet with the CHS Committee on Discipline, which is composed of faculty and staff members. The committee considers the situation and makes a recommendation to the principal. The principal then decides what actions will be taken. The assistant principal for discipline will communicate the principal’s decision to the parents.

An appeal of dismissal may be made only to the president. A request for an appeal of the principal’s decision must be requested in writing by the student’s parents within 7 calendar days beginning with the day of notification of the decision. Consideration of a request for an appeal of a dismissal presumes that the student and his parents have honestly and thoroughly communicated with the school officials in the discipline process.

Deliberate withholding of information from school officials, lying or deliberate misleading of school officials by the student or his parents during the discipline process may be the basis for a denial of an appeal request. An appeal will be granted only if there is new relevant information or of there were substantive irregularities in the disciplinary procedures. The president will contact the student’s parents to notify them whether an appeal of the decision will be granted.

If an appeal is granted, the student and the student’s parents will meet with the president. After discussion of the new relevant information or discussion of irregularities is in the disciplinary procedures, the parents and student will leave the meeting. After reflection and possibly consultation, the president will contact the parents to communicate his decision confirming or altering the principal’s decision.

Actions of the principal are final unless an appeal is granted by the president. If an appeal is granted, the president’s decision is final.

The Honor Code and the Honor Board at Catholic High School were created by the school and students in 1997.

With the following policies and procedures, students attending Catholic High School will feel a sense of responsibility for maintaining the high moral and ethical standards set forth by the Mission Statement of Catholic High School. Such empowerment will promote a sense of school pride and spirit.

This honor system, which promotes discipline and accountability, is based on self-respect and respect for the entire community of Catholic High School - students, faculty, staff, parents, alumni and the Brothers of the Sacred Heart. The Honor Code provides individuals with the opportunity to develop physically, emotionally, academically and spiritually in an atmosphere of trust.

On my honor, I will do my own work, uphold the ideals of Catholic High School and the Brothers of the Sacred Heart, protect the good name of the school and see that all others do the same. I vow to transmit the school greater and better than it was transmitted to me.

I will do my own work both in and out of school. I will not plagiarize the work or ideas of others, nor will I allow another student to use any part of my work as his own.

I will not lie. I will not forge the signature of another student, my parent, a teacher or authority on notes or school documents including, but not necessarily limited to, reports, tests or status reports.

I will report myself to the Honor Board for any infringement of the above rules and regulations. I will ask another student to report himself to the Honor Board for any infringement of these rules and regulations. I will report to the Honor Board another student who fails to report himself when asked to do so.

During orientation each student will receive a copy of the CHS Honor Code. Each student must rewrite the Honor Code in his own handwriting and sign it along with his parents. This handwritten and signed copy will be collected by his teacher at first period during the first week of school. At the Honor Board and Honor Code school-wide assembly, all new students must sign the permanent Honor Code. The list of Honor Board members will be posted on Moodle and a copy of the list will be available in the assistant principal’s office.

If a student is observed committing an offense that falls under the purview of the Honor Code, a teacher or another student will ask the student involved to report himself to a member of the Honor Board. The student should turn himself in within 48 hours. Turning oneself in is not an admission of guilt but is simply an initiation of the Honor Board process.

Within two weeks following initiation of the process, the student involved will be asked to appear before the Honor Board to discuss his case. At that time disposition of the case will be made by the board in consultation with the assistant principal for discipline. Following an appearance before the Honor Board, parents will be contacted by a moderator to discuss the Honor Board’s decision. All Honor Board proceedings are held in strictest confidence.

The Honor Board is comprised of thirteen members (three sophomores, four juniors, and six seniors) and is moderated by three faculty members. Elections for membership are held in the spring of the preceding school year. Student nominations are reviewed by faculty and administration before peer election. Students elected to serve on the Honor Board are required to attend the Honor Board retreat held during the summer. Honor Board members are expected to attend all case hearings. Should a member be unable to do so, members are expected to communicate scheduling conflicts with a moderator prior to the case hearing. Meeting negligence can result in dismissal from the Honor Board.

Catholic High School believes that one of the greatest obstacles to our students’ fulfilling their God-given potential is illegal drug use or abuse of alcohol and other drugs. Educational efforts, pastoral/counseling and disciplinary action constitute the threefold approach that we use to confront this obstacle.

As an educational institution, Catholic High School provides a comprehensive no-use alcohol and drug prevention curriculum. As part of our holistic approach to education, our faculty and staff receive training in drug-use recognition and prevention. They also learn interdisciplinary methods for teaching about the physical, psychological and relational effects of drug use, as well as the legal consequences of such use.

In addition to classroom instruction, CHS offers membership in extracurricular organizations that offer drug and alcohol awareness activities, peer support and community outreach.

Catholic High School remains dedicated to the concept of a drug-free campus and drug-free students. A student subjects himself to correction, including probation, suspension, or dismissal, in the following situations:

• Possessing, using or purchasing alcohol or other drugs, including nicotine or vaping products.

• Selling or otherwise distributing or intending to distribute alcohol, other drugs, or drug paraphernalia, including vaping products, regardless of time or place.

• A second positive identification of alcohol, vape, or other drug use.

As part of our pastoral response to the drug problem, CHS may require drug testing of any student for whom, in the professional opinion of the administration, there is reasonable concern that the student has used some substance, or who has previously failed a school-administered drug test or admitted prior use. When a student is suspected of such use in most cases the student will be screened (at the parent’s expense) and, if necessary, referred for treatment in the community also at the parents’ expense. Parents will be consulted during this process. Students who admit to or test positive for substance use will be evaluated by a substance abuse counselor, who may refer the student for further individual or family counseling treatment.

Once a student has been referred for treatment, he and his parents must continue the treatment process until released by the counselor providing the services. If the student refuses or prematurely terminates counseling, he may be asked to withdraw from CHS.

A student who has a second positive identification of alcohol or other drug use will face the possibility of dismissal, and may therefore go through the dismissal process outlined in this handbook.

The educational philosophy of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart as articulated in Partners in Mission states, "The ultimate purpose of education is to equip young people with the skills they need to participate fully in and contribute to the building of the reign of God."

In the 21st-Century Information Age, providing our students with opportunities and tools that create and expand learning communities within schools and throughout the world is essential. It is a goal of Catholic High School (CHS) that graduates can use digital tools productively and ethically to make informed and moral decisions while engaging in the missionary and evangelization work of the Catholic Church. CHS students are issued a computer for use in and out of school to help accomplish this goal. The school understands that to develop positive technology skills and habits; there must be a balance between freedom and security.

CHS has developed policies to ensure consistent, responsible, and productive technology uses to maintain this balance. It is our expectation that students, parents, and faculty abide by these policies. All users must be aware that any electronic action taken by them will reflect on the school. In all instances covered by this policy and in any area of uncertainty, the principal or principal's designee has the authority to resolve any problems or situations that may arise. In developing this policy, CHS has tried to anticipate as many situations as possible.

As new and unusual situations may occur, the principal or principal's designee makes the final decision concerning any interpretation or application of these regulations, even in instances that are not directly addressed in this policy.

Catholic High School provides its users the privilege of access to the internet, including websites, resources, content, and online tools. Access to the internet will be restricted as required to comply with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) regulations and school policies. Web browsing will be monitored, and web activity records may be retained indefinitely. Students are expected to respect the web filter as a safety precaution and shall not attempt to circumvent the web filter when browsing the internet.

YouTube is blocked and should not be accessed on the school-issued laptop unless directed by a teacher. Using a proxy site or Chrome plug-in or extension to bypass the filtering system is prohibited.

Determination of whether material is appropriate or inappropriate is based solely on the material's content and the intended use of the material, not on whether a website has been blocked or not. Attempting to visit sites that are blocked is considered hacking. If a user (faculty or staff member, or student) believes a site is unnecessarily blocked, he or she should send an email to the Help Desk requesting a website be added to the whitelist. The website connectivity issue and content will be reviewed and added to the whitelist if the content is appropriate

Students are issued IDs and passwords for network access as well as other application accounts.

• CHS seeks, where possible, to honor the privacy of the individual. It reserves the right, however, to access any file, email, network transmission, or other information stored or communicated electronically and will do so if a compelling reason arises.

• The school retains the right to monitor any digital activity in any manner actively it sees fit. The student has no reasonable expectation of privacy.

• It is the student's responsibility to ensure the confidentiality of his password, and likewise, students are prohibited from doing anything to compromise the privacy and security of other students.

• Students must never share personal information, including phone number, address, social security number, birthday, or financial information, over the internet without parental permission.

• Students are held responsible for any communication that comes from their account regardless of who had access to that account.

• Students must never transmit personal information of others, including addresses and telephone numbers, without their permission.

• If a student sees a message, comment, image, or anything else that makes him concerned for his personal safety, he should immediately bring it to an adult's attention.

• There will be no recording audio or video of any person or thing on this campus without permission.

Examples of prohibited technology use include, but are not limited to the following:

• using any method used to circumvent the firewall (VPN, Hotspot, etc.), including sharing this method with others

• using any method used to obtain, use, and make public network SSID keys and passwords

• attempting to DDOS local resources or external resources

• attaching any device to any CHS network without prior authorization

Copyright infringement, Soliciting, and Licensing

• infringing software copyright or licensing agreements

• conducting commercial or private/personal business enterprises

• promoting private businesses, product advertisement, or political lobbying

• sending unauthorized bulk or random messages (e.g., junk mail, ads, etc.)

• soliciting for organizations that are unrelated to the institution's mission or purpose

• destroying the integrity of computer-based information

• downloading MP3s, movies, and any other medium which is against the law

• accessing any games while on campus, images, etc., of a violent or immoral nature at any time or place

• maliciously installing or invoking a computer virus or other disruptive mechanism

The CHS Help Desk is a full warranty repair shop for Fujitsu and Lenovo computers and is provided to help students troubleshoot and maintain their computers. The CHS Help Desk is open from 6:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

• Students visiting the help desk are expected to be patient and respectful at all times.

• Students must not visit the CHS Help Desk between classes unless the problem can be identified and solved within 60 seconds.

• Students are permitted to go to the CHS Help Desk during their lunch or unassigned periods and before or after school.

• Teachers may permit students to go during class; however, the student must have a brown note filled out and signed by the teacher before visiting the CHS Help Desk.

• Tardy slips will not be issued to students who visit the CHS Help Desk while they should be in class.

• Before visiting the CHS Help Desk, students should initiate a restart and ensure that their files are backed up appropriately in OneDrive in case a reimage is necessary. Students are responsible for files lost due to the failure to properly back up.

• Only authorized students and faculty are certified to go behind the front counter of the CHS Help Desk.

While the school-issued laptop is available for personal use, it remains the property of the school.

The student is responsible for:

• proper care of the laptop;

• bringing the school-issued laptop to school, fully charged, every day;

• the care and maintenance of the computer;

• running virus scans with Kaspersky - verifying there are no issues (such as database out-of-date, not scanning or not working);

• backing up files to OneDrive so if the computer must be reimaged for problems or routine maintenance, information will not be lost;

• notifying the CHS Help Desk of any physical damage to the laptop as soon as the damage is discovered.

Computer malfunction is not an acceptable excuse for failure to turn in work.

Students are allowed to download acceptable programs/apps of their choice for use outside of the CHS campus. While on campus, CHS blocking software prevents students from accessing games/apps either on the internet or on their local machine. Student attempts to circumvent this process will result in disciplinary consequences.

All students admitted before the 2017-2018 school year have been issued a Google Applications account, giving them access to Gmail through the chsbr.net domain. Students who entered in 2017 and after are issued a Microsoft Office 365 account only. This account serves as the primary means of electronic communication between students, faculty, coaches, and moderators. In all forms of electronic communication that may be used at school or home, students must always act in a manner that is consistent with the school's goals and values.

Microsoft Outlook email accounts are to be used to communicate with teachers and peers about school-related material. The school reserves the right to view all email accounts associated with the laptop. Email should not be used for chatting with peers, especially during instructional time. Students should check their email daily and are expected to use proper etiquette when emailing.

Students are prohibited from playing games during school hours.

With permission from teachers, students can listen to downloaded music; however, the music must be downloaded before entering campus. Explicit lyrics are prohibited.

Students should always use the internet, all network resources, and online sites courteously and respectfully. Students should recognize that there is also unverified, incorrect, or inappropriate content among the valuable content online. Students should only use trusted sources when researching the internet. Students should remember not to post anything online that they would not want students, parents, teachers, future colleges, or employers to see. Once information is online, it is public and permanent not private—and can sometimes be shared and spread in ways never intended making it.

Catholic High School uses several tools to prevent plagiarism of content (using information as their own, without citing the original creator including words or images) from the internet. Students should not take credit for anything they did not create themselves or misrepresent themselves as an author or creator of something found online. Research conducted via the internet should be appropriately cited, giving credit to the original author. 

Sharing school-related files for a project, activity, or assignment that is to be done independently is considered cheating. Any violations will be presented to the Honor Board.

Any production, distribution, or viewing of inappropriate, sexually suggestive, or pornographic images is strictly prohibited. The school may be obligated to contact law enforcement in situations involving inappropriate images of individuals who may be under the legal age of consent.

Students are not allowed to access social media networking sites on school campus via a laptop or cellphone during school hours. Communicating via the internet, email, or social networking sites in a manner that reflects negatively on CHS is not acceptable.

At Catholic High School, we model and teach digital citizenship lessons which are created using Common Sense Media's website. The site offers a section for parents, educators, and advocates. Common Sense is the nation's leading nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of all students and families by providing the trustworthy information, education, and independent voice they need to thrive in the 21st Century.

Cyberbullying will not be tolerated. Harassing, insulting, demeaning, impersonating, tricking, excluding, and cyberstalking are all examples of cyberbullying. Cyberbullying includes inappropriate communication, but is not limited to, the following:

If a student is asked to stop sending communications, that student must cease the activity immediately.

Violations of this Acceptable Use Policy

Violations of this policy may have disciplinary repercussions, including: 

Catholic High School reserves the right to amend any item in this policy during the year. Parents will be notified of changes through the Principal's Newsletter, and students will be notified by email.

Consistent with Father Coindre’s values, we view academic excellence as the development of each student to the maximum of his or her potential. We commit ourselves to this goal as a means of helping students become the whole and complete persons that God created them to be. To accomplish this, we pursue our own ongoing professional development, establish a demanding curriculum that emphasizes command of the basics, work at presenting well prepared and interesting classes, and continually adapt our curriculum and methodologies to meet changing needs.

Because all of creation, history, and culture are means God has chosen to reveal truths about Himself, we believe in making efforts to motivate students to appreciate the value of learning as a good in itself. What motivates all Catholic education is the belief that knowledge of the created world leads to knowledge of God and of human potential. The ultimate goal regarding motivation is for each student to accept responsibility for lifelong learning and self-motivation. So, in addition to providing students with a curriculum that is valued in the workplace and that opens options for them in higher education, the school should nurture in students the habit of lifelong learning and ground them solidly in traditional Christian values.

Through its philosophy, admission policies, curriculum and facilities, Catholic High School strives to create an atmosphere for learning and self-growth. Such an atmosphere provides each student an opportunity to realize his potential and to develop healthy attitudes and responsible behavior that will permit him to pursue further studies and to assume his place in society as a concerned Christian gentleman committed to the service of his fellow human beings.

Catholic High School conducts an eighth grade program and a four-year high school program. Students must complete four years of high school studies in order to graduate.

Catholic High School has a college preparatory curriculum and is not staffed or equipped to provide special education services or significant adaptations of its traditional instructional practices for students with learning disabilities. Catholic High School does serve a number of students with relatively mild learning disabilities and is able to provide what it deems to be reasonable accommodations for those students. Acceptance of an offer of admission to Catholic High School signifies that a student and his parents agree that CHS is not obligated to provide adaptations of its traditional instructional practices beyond what it considers to be reasonable accommodations for students with mild learning disabilities.

Because of the wide variety of interests, needs and abilities found among students, the curriculum is constantly evaluated and revised. Continuing curriculum improvement gives students an opportunity to develop insights that will enable them to best contribute to the political, social, economic, moral and intellectual life of both civil and church communities.

In setting up its curriculum, Catholic High School strives to provide educational opportunities that will enhance the growth and development of all its students. In order to encourage students to work to their fullest potential, to use their talents most effectively and to give themselves the broadest possible education, Catholic High School encourages each student to plan his own academic schedule with the assistance of his teachers, his school counselor and his parents. Thus the student is guided in developing his future plans and in assuming responsibility for meeting his goals.

Offerings are designed, within budgetary constraints, to permit the student to elect courses that are within his range of ability and interest. In the areas of English, foreign language, mathematics, science and social studies, courses are available to meet a broad scope of student needs. A fine arts program encourages the student to develop his musical and artistic abilities. Business, computer education, engineering, physical education and religion programs promote formation of a well-rounded, well-informed individual.

Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in Algebra II or above.

Aerospace Engineering is the study of the engineering discipline which develops new technologies for use in aviation, defense systems, and space exploration. The course explores the evolution of flight, flight fundamentals, navigation and control, aerospace materials, propulsion, space travel, orbital mechanics, ergonomics, remotely operated systems and related careers. In addition, the course presents alternative applications for aerospace engineering concepts.

Civil Engineering and Architecture Honors

This course exposes students to the design and construction of residential and commercial building projects, design and teamwork, communication methods, engineering standards, and technical documentation. Topics include building components and systems, structural design, storm water management, site design, utilities and services, cost estimation, energy efficiency, and careers in the design and construction industry.

Prerequisite: Must complete the interview process with the Technology Staff and receive Instructor Approval.

Computer Architecture is a one semester course designed to prepare students as entry-level service technicians. Students will demonstrate an understanding of how a computer functions through troubleshooting computer hardware, software and networking operations. Topics will include hardware diagnosis and repair, software installation, configuration and troubleshooting, and peripheral support. Students enrolled in this class will also staff the CHS Help Desk, and they will be required to work the Help Desk outside of class time.

Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in Algebra II or above.

Computer Science I teaches the fundamentals of computer programming. Topics include problem solving techniques, algorithm development, and program design with a focus on Python. Robotics and Cyber Security are embedded throughout the course. This course is offered in the fall semester.

Prerequisite: Computer Science I (may be completed during the same school year or a previous year)

Computer Science II is an advanced-level semester course that builds upon concepts of computer programming covered in Computer Science I. This course focuses on data structures, object-oriented development using classes, methods, and inheritance with Java and Python. Current topics such as data mining, data visualization, web scraping with Python, the Internet of Things with Arduinos and Raspberry Pi, and Cyber Security are also included in this course. This course is offered only in the spring semester.

Prerequisite: Computer Science I and Instructor Approval. Available to 12th graders only.

Students will develop the knowledge and skills needed to explore the technological aspects of Cybersecurity with hands-on practice. This course covers the following categories of topics: foundational knowledge required for cybersecurity including reconnaissance and exploits; cryptography; risk assessments; and legal and ethical issues.

Engineering Design and Development Honors

Prerequisite: Instructor approval and coursework from one of the following:

This course must be scheduled with Religion IV - Religion, Science, and Humanity. 51

Engineering Design and Development (EDD) is the capstone course in our high school engineering program. It is an open-ended, engineering research course in which students work in teams to design and develop an original solution to a technical problem that addresses the need(s) of a person (people) and highlights one or more of the corporal works of mercy. The course applies and concurrently develops secondary level knowledge and skills in mathematics, science, and technology. The course also addresses the business aspects of commercializing technology as it relates to intellectual property, manufacturing, marketing, etc.

Prerequisite: Instructor Approval; Computer Architecture

An advanced-level course designed to build upon concepts of technology applications introduced and developed in previous secondary technology courses. This course will include preparation for CompTIA, A+ and Network+ certification exams.

Independent Study - Computer Science is an advanced-level semester course designed to build upon the concepts of computer programming learned in Computer Science I and II. Students design and work on a semester long project that uses the application of Computer Science concepts to solve real world problems.

Must be scheduled with Media Arts I.

In Introduction to Engineering Design (IED), students are introduced to the engineering design process, applying math, science, and engineering standards to identify and design solutions to a variety of real-world problems. They work both individually and in collaborative teams to develop design solutions using engineering documentation practices, design methods, measurement, concept sketches, and 3D modeling software.

Principles of Engineering (POE) exposes students to a variety of engineering disciplines. Through problems that engage and challenge, students explore a broad range of engineering topics, including mechanisms, material strength, structures, energy and power, electronics, programming, hydraulics and pneumatics, and statistics. They develop problem solving skills, hone their interpersonal skills, engage their creative abilities, and apply their knowledge of research and design to create solutions to various challenges, document their work, and communicate solutions. It also allows students to develop strategies to enable and direct their own learning.

Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in Algebra II or above.

Webmastering is a semester course designed to introduce the design, structure and maintenance of websites. Students create websites using HTML5 and CSS3, develop programs using JavaScript, compare popular Content Management Systems such as WordPress and Google Sites, use frameworks such as Bootstrap and Ruby on Rails, and create virtual reality images on A-Frame.

Students are required to schedule an English course in each year of attendance at Catholic High School. Students who have completed English I through IV before their senior year are required to schedule English V DE, English V H, or an English elective in the senior year.

Covers four areas of study: vocabulary, grammar, composition and literature. Grammar includes a review of parts of speech, spelling, sentence structure, punctuation and subject/ verb agreement. Composition requires writing single and multi-paragraph papers. Literature includes short stories, novels, drama and non-fiction. Research process is studied and practiced. Outside readings and research projects are required. 52

Concentrated study in four areas: grammar, composition, vocabulary and literature. Composition requires writing single and multi-paragraph papers with stress on integrating grammar and mechanics skills. Vocabulary development is emphasized. Literature is thematically based and includes elements of the novel, short story, drama, poetry, fiction and non- fiction. Course includes intensive unit on use of the library and the research process. Outside readings are required.

Concentrated study in four areas: literature, grammar, composition and vocabulary. Literature focuses on elements of the novel and the short story. Also, special emphasis is given to the structures of poetry and drama. Grammar lessons are reflective of deficiencies in student writing. Composition emphasizes writing paragraphs and short essays. Vocabulary development is stressed. Research projects and outside readings are required.

Includes three components: composition, vocabulary and literature. Composition includes review of grammar and mechanics of all aspects of multi-paragraph themes and expository writing. Vocabulary development continues at a higher level. Literature is genre based and includes elements of the novel, short story, drama, poetry and non-fiction; literary analysis is stressed. Outside readings and research are required.

Interweaves three areas: composition, literature, and vocabulary. Composition centers on in-depth study of the essay with an emphasis on style and effectiveness. Literature is genre based and theme related. Literary analysis includes the novel, short story, poetry, ancient and modern drama. Vocabulary development aims at proper usage. Research papers, extended readings and oral presentations are required.

Includes three sections: American literature, composition and vocabulary. American literature is a chronological study using an anthology and outside readings. Composition involves various types of expository writing. Vocabulary development continues at a higher level. Outside readings and research paper required. Includes discussion of relevant historical aspects of course subject matter.

Survey of American literature. Extensive study of authors, themes and traditions. Vocabulary stressed. Expanded outside readings and reports required, including one major research paper. Includes discussion of relevant geographical and historical aspects of course subject matter. Concentrated review of composition mechanics and syntax is conducted in preparation for the PSAT and the ACT.

AP English Language and Composition

The AP English Language and Composition course aligns to an introductory college-level rhetoric and writing curriculum, which requires students to develop evidence-based analytic and argumentative essays that proceed through several stages or drafts. Students evaluate, synthesize, and cite research to support their arguments. Throughout the course, students develop a personal style by making appropriate grammatical choices. Additionally, students read and analyze the rhetorical elements and their effects in non-fiction texts, including graphic images as forms of text, from many disciplines and historical periods. AP Exam is required. The fee for the AP exam is $95.

Includes three sections: British literature, composition and vocabulary. British literature is a chronological study. Composition is primarily literary criticism with review of some expository forms. Vocabulary development continues at a higher level. Outside readings and research paper required. Includes discussion of relevant historical and cultural aspects of course subject matter. 

Includes three sections: literature, composition and vocabulary. Literature is a survey of world literature with special emphasis on British literature. Composition emphasizes literary criticism and includes detailed review of expository forms. Vocabulary development continues at a higher level. Extensive outside readings and reports required, including one major research paper. Oral presentations required.

English IV Dual Enrollment: LSU English 1001 (1st semester) and English 2000 (2nd semester)

Permission of the instructor, current teacher's recommendation, ACT scores of 18 in English, 19 in Math, and 38 English and Composite sum, as well as an application essay are required. Additional cost of $600 ($300 due in September and $300 due in March) for LSU tuition.

Students taking this course will earn CHS English IV or V credit as well as six hours of college credit through LSU (English 1001 and 2000). LSU credit is transferrable to most universities. This composition course is comprised of eight papers and two projects written to university standards and focusing on rhetoric, analysis, inquiry, argument, and critical thinking. College attendance requirements are enforced; after five absences in a semester, the student’s grade is lowered.

An accelerated course with extensive and intensive reading of literary classics. Outside readings and reports, including research projects. Compositions as well as oral presentations on all readings. Includes discussion of relevant historical and cultural aspects of course subject matter. AP Exam is required. The fee for the AP exam is $95.

This course is the same as English IV Dual Enrollment for students who have earned English IV credit.

Students must have earned credit for English I, II, III, and IV.

This class may be independent study or synchronous class depending on enrollment and schedule logistics. Students in English V Honors will study various aspects of the human experience through works of literature and creation of original composition. Students will read whole class and self-selected literature and compose in various formats. Students' understanding of the readings and research will be assessed through participation in class discussions, presentations, and writing assignments.

Includes concentration in three areas: study skills, reading and vocabulary. Study skills units focus on test taking proficiency, memory aids and note taking practice. Students receive instruction and review multilevel comprehension skills, sequencing, context clues, skimming, scanning and reading for a purpose. Vocabulary is stressed through reading, written activities and a study of word roots. Students practice basic sentence construction and paragraph organization.

A survey course dealing with interpersonal and group communication, public speaking, oral reading skills, media and advertising. Includes development of listening and interpretive skills and training in research, organization and presentation of ideas and attitudes to an audience.

Publications I and II (Yearbook)

This course includes the use of desktop publishing, photography, and journalistic writing. Proofreading, layout design, and time management are emphasized in creating publications. The final project is the production of the CHS yearbook, the Bruin. In the fall, students attend the annual meeting of the Louisiana Scholastic Press Association at LSU during one school day. Attendance after school is periodically necessary to meet deadlines, and mandatory works sessions are held at the beginning of summer break to finish the book. Students are to submit a final layout to complete the course.

Publications I and II (Newspaper)

This is a basic course in journalistic style and technique, including newspaper skills in writing, video journalism, photography, page layout using InDesign and copy reading. The class will produce the student newspaper Bearly 54

Published, with emphasis on developing specific skills for writing news stories, editorials, features, columns, interviews and sports stories. Additionally, students will produce and broadcast video segments. Students will also address media law issues.

Broadcast Journalism I* and II* (Bruin Broadcast Network)

It is preferred that students have taken Media Arts I or II before taking this course to gain experience in Adobe Photoshop and Premiere Pro. Students in this course will be responsible for creating content for the Bruin Broadcast Network. Topics will include live video streaming and production; graphics construction; film editing and production; documentary filming, editing, and production; equipment maintenance, organization, and set-up; and HD video workflow management. Some attendance at broadcasted events may be required.

Art I is a yearlong, basic studio art course that includes art appreciation and art production focusing on the elements of design. Two-dimensional and three-dimensional art are produced using various drawing, painting, and sculptural media. Techniques are taught through teacher demonstrations, visual and historical examples, and personal attention by the teacher. Course grades are determined by projects, sketches, and daily effort. Participation in and attendance at the Spring Art Show are required. This course is designed for students who are interested in producing art and learning the traditional fundamentals of art. Art I may be taken to fulfill the STREAM Curriculum Elective.

Prerequisite: Art I or Media Arts I

Art II is a yearlong course designed to provide students with a basic knowledge of the use of the principles of design within a work of art. This course is for the student who has demonstrated artistic talents and knowledge of the elements of art, learned in Art I or Media Arts I. Knowledge of the elements of art should be evident through composition, while incorporating various principles. Students will produce works of art in two and three-dimensions using various fine arts media. The course also includes the rendering of different surface qualities, as well as, a review in one-point perspective while learning two-point and three-point perspective. Techniques are taught through teacher demonstrations, visual and historical examples, and personal attention by the teacher. The students will use their computers for producing one required computer generated artwork. Participation in and attendance at the Spring Art Show are required by the student.

Prerequisite: Art II and selective admission

Art III is a studio arts course designed for the advanced art student. Lessons taught are for the student interested in pursuing the knowledge of learning the techniques of rendering surface qualities in their subjects and learning the use of a variety of art media. With the student goal of compiling a comprehensive portfolio and developing exhibition skills, this course is designed with a concentrated study of the following art forms: drawing, painting, and sculpture. Inspiration for their artwork will come through examples in art history and from their own life experiences. The students will use critical thinking skills to develop original, creative work and have the technical skills necessary to present their work. In the fourth quarter, the students select an area of concentration to focus on a specific subject and/or art medium. At least one of their area of concentration projects will be a computer generated artwork. Participation in and attendance at the Spring Art Show are required.

Prerequisite: Art III and selective admission

Art IV is the highest-level studio arts course. It is designed for the advanced art student who has the goal of fully developing his art talents and to nurture the development his creativity and imagination. Lessons taught are for the student interested in furthering his knowledge of learning the techniques of rendering surface qualities in subjects and learning more in depth the use of a variety of art media. With the student goal of compiling a comprehensive portfolio and developing exhibition skills, this course is designed with a concentrated study of the following art forms: drawing, painting, and sculpture. The students will use critical thinking skills to develop original, creative work and have the technical skills necessary to present their work. In the fourth quarter, the students select an area of concentration to focus on a specific subject and/or art medium. At least one of their area of concentration projects will be a computer generated artwork. Participation in and attendance at the Spring Art Show are required.

Painting and Drawing is a semester course designed for the student who has taken Art I and has an interest in furthering his knowledge of drawing and painting within an art composition. The class is project based, with 4-5 projects completed by the end of the semester. Students work in-depth in pencil, pen, acrylic paint, and watercolor paint. Projects will include, but not be limited to, optical illusion, zentangle, street art, calligraphy, value study, watercolor, and acrylic paint. Computers will be used for producing one required computer generated artwork. Course grades are determined by daily class participation, projects, originality. At least one of their area of concentration projects will be a computer generated artwork. Participation in and attendance at the Spring Art Show are required.

Sculpture is a semester course designed for the student who has an interest in three-dimensional art forms. Students will design and sculpt free-standing, low relief, and high relief sculptures. Sculpture media will include clay, papier mache, cardboard, paper, and aluminum. Students will use their own original photographs and designs for their sculptures. Course grades will be determined by daily class participation, projects, originality, and class critiques. Participation in and attendance at the Spring Art Show are required.

Advanced Technical Drafting is an in-depth study of technical drawing using computer-aided drafting software to solve engineering problems. Subject matter includes orthographic, pictorials, geometric construction, basic architectural drafting, sectional views, threads and fasteners and working drawings.

Prerequisite: Advance Technical Drafting and Instructor Approval

Architectural Drafting is an in-depth study of architectural design which includes basic design principles, designing house plans, construction detail drawing, and perspective drawing. Students also learn about construction materials and techniques with hands on instruction. AutoCAD and Revit software are used in the course. Portfolio and drawings are completed using AutoCAD software.

Media Arts I is a semester course that introduces students to the design process using a combination of media. Students practice using the elements of art through a variety of art experiences. It includes sketching and drawing, construction techniques, 2D and 3D modeling, photography, photocopying, and printing. Students will work independently and collaboratively while practicing new skills and techniques. Submission of one piece of artwork to the art show is required. *Must be taken within the same year as Introduction to Engineering Design **Media Arts II or Media Arts III must be taken in a later year in order to receive the full art credit in the STREAM program and to satisfy TOPS requirements.

This course is open to sophomores and above. Media Arts II is a survey course that covers various genres of art created using digital tools. Initial topics include photography, image creation, and image manipulation. Elements of art such as composition, perspective, color, and lighting are explored. These elements carry over into topics such as 3D computer modeling, computer animation, and video creation. Within these areas, students explore staging, movement, walk cycles, storyboarding, camera direction, composite shots, motion tracking, and other visual effects.

Students explore technology and computer skills related to the music industry while experiencing national music and technology standards. They refine the use of music in computer software and the internet to develop creativity, innovation, information literacy, media literacy, information communication and technology literacy. This course analyzes current uses of music technology to create and perform music. Students use technology to create record, produce, mix, distribute and otherwise interact with music and music media.

AP Studio Art: 2-D Design (2 semesters)

Prerequisite: Art I, II, and III. Fee: TBD.

This course is a yearlong studio art class taught at a college level, demanding a very high level of student responsibility, creative expression and creative commitment. 2-D Design focuses on the use of the elements and principles of design within an artwork. The medium used for the projects are flexible; drawing, painting, photography, computers, etc. Students work intensively both in class and outside of class to prepare a portfolio of college level work for submission to the Advanced Placement College Board. Students will conduct an in-depth, sustained investigation of materials, processes, and ideas. Sustained investigations accompany an Inquiry Statement to support the artwork. Students will participate in class critiques, maintain a sketchbook to develop ideas, and practice responsibility for their work, materials and space. Students will submit 5 Independent works and 15 Sustained Investigative works to the College Board for grading.

AP Studio Art: Drawing (2 semesters)

Prerequisite: Art I, II and III. Fee: TBD.

This course is a yearlong studio art class taught at a college level, demanding a very high level of student responsibility, creative expression and creative commitment. AP Drawing focuses on the qualities of drawing within an art of work. Work must display an understanding of light and shade, full range of depth and value, mark making. Students work intensively both in class and outside of class to prepare a portfolio of college level work for submission to the Advanced Placement College Board. Students will conduct an in-depth, sustained investigation of materials, processes, and ideas. Sustained investigations accompany an Inquiry Statement to support the artwork. Students will participate in class critiques, maintain a sketchbook to develop ideas, and practice responsibility for their work, materials and space. Students will submit 5 Independent works and 15 Sustained Investigative works to the College Board for grading.

Beginning Men’s Choir

A progressive program designed to teach music fundamentals through singing. Students learn sight-reading skills. The choral program collaborates closely with the choral program at St. Joseph’s Academy.

Intermediate Men’s Choir

A progressive program designed to teach music fundamentals through singing. Students learn sight-reading skills. The choral program collaborates closely with the choral program at St. Joseph’s Academy.

Advanced Men’s Choir

A progressive program designed for development of vocal skills and techniques. The program involves study and exercise in preparation and performance of a variety of choral literature. Participation required in a Christmas concert, a spring concert and in competitions sponsored by the Louisiana Music Educators’ Association. Placement level is determined by audition with the chorus director. The choral program collaborates closely with the choral program at St. Joseph’s Academy.

Advanced Chorus II (Schola Cantorum and Chamber Singers)

A progressive program designed for development of vocal skills and techniques. The program involves study and exercise in preparation and performance of a variety of choral literature. Participation required in a Christmas concert, a spring concert and in competitions sponsored by the Louisiana Music Educators’ Association. Placement level is determined by audition with the chorus director. The choral program collaborates closely with the choral program at St. Joseph’s Academy. Students provide music at all school liturgies.

This course is open to all students by audition or approval of the band director. Instruction includes fundamentals of rudiments, keyboard, timpani, sight reading and the performance of various types of percussion ensemble literature. Required participation at school functions, including football games, marching festivals, pep rallies, Christmas and spring concerts and graduation. After-school practices are required. Students and parents should understand that an integral part of the grade in band courses is participation in rehearsals, performances and festivals. This course is a year-long commitment.

The purpose of this course is to enable students to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to understand and appreciate the influence of music in one’s personal life as well as in varied cultures, societies, and historical periods. No previous musical experience is required.

The goal of AP Music Theory is to develop a student's ability to recognize, understand and describe the basic materials and processes of music that are heard or presented in a score. The achievement of these goals is approached by initially addressing fundamental aural, analytical and compositional skills using both listening and written exercises. Building on this foundation, the course progresses to include more creative tasks such as the harmonization of a melody by selecting appropriate chords, composing a musical bass line to provide two-voice counterpoint or the realization of figured-bass notation. AP exam is required. AP exam: $95.

General Band Information: Placement level is determined by audition. All band classes carry a course fee of $185.00 each. All band courses require practice outside school hours. Summer band camp is required of all members of the marching band. Because of required after school band practices, students who participate in athletics and band must make arrangements with appropriate coaches and the band director prior to registering for band class.

This course is open to all students by audition or approval of the band director. Instruction includes basic tone production, concepts of pitch relationships, sight reading and the performance of various types of band literature. Required participation at school functions, including football games, marching festivals, pep rallies, Christmas and spring concerts and graduation. After-school practices are required. Students and parents should understand that an integral part of the grade in band courses is participation on rehearsals, performances and festivals. This course is a year-long commitment.

This course is open to all students by audition or approval of the band director. Instruction includes basic tone production, concepts of pitch relationships, sight reading and the performance of various types of band literature. Required participation at school functions, including football games, marching festivals, pep rallies, Christmas and spring concerts, district and state music festivals and graduation. After-school practices required. Students and parents should understand that an integral part of the grade in band courses is participation in rehearsals, performances and festivals. This course is a year-long commitment.

This course is open to all students by audition or approval of the band director. Instruction includes basic tone production, concepts of pitch relationships, sight reading and the performance of various types of band literature. Required participation at school functions, including football games, marching festivals, pep rallies, Christmas and spring concerts, district and state music festivals and graduation. After-school practices required. Students and parents should understand that an integral part of the grade in band courses is participation in rehearsals, performances and festivals. This course is a year-long commitment.

Dance I * Semester Course (St. Joseph’s Academy)

This course is an introduction to classical ballet training focuses on establishing a strong technical dancer, poise and coordination through ballet skills. Students will learn the basic fundamentals by using the ballet barre, centre work and basic ballet terminology. Course requirements include participation in one production at the end of the semester, participation points, and three skill quizzes. Attire is strictly enforced, and students must be responsible obtaining appropriate attire as directed by the instructor. *Costume fee: $50.

Dance II * Semester Course (St. Joseph’s Academy)

Prerequisite: Dance I or letter of recommendation from professional teacher.

Students who have successfully completed Dance I or have a strong ballet background from a qualified, recognized school, institution or teacher may enter Dance II. Intermediate skills in classical ballet training are necessary, including barre, centre work, adagio, allegro, petite and grande allegro. Course requirements include participation in one production at the end of the semester, participation points, and three skill quizzes. Attire is strictly enforced, and students must be responsible obtaining appropriate attire as directed by the instructor. *Costume fee: $100.

Dance III * Semester Course (St. Joseph’s Academy)

Prerequisite: Dance I and Dance II

Students who have successfully completed Dance I or Dance II are qualified to enroll in the course. Students will focus on contemporary dance technique and modern dance. Students will focus on turns, leaps, stretch, improvisation, conditioning for performance, contemporary dance vocabulary, history and choreographic work for semester performance. Contemporary dance videos, PowerPoints and other tools will be used to increase art education. Attire is solid black leotard, black shorts at mid-thigh, paws and black tights. Students will be expected to perform in school activities during the semester.

Theatre I * Semester Course (St. Joseph’s Academy)

This course is designed to develop and exercise basic acting skills through practical application of the fundamental elements of the actor’s art. Students will explore the physical, vocal, emotional and technical aspects of acting in a format that encourages freedom of imagination and personal growth. The course emphasizes the interpretation of the text through work on scenes and monologues from both the acting and directing perspectives. Students will develop the skills necessary to participate in a stage performance.

Theatre II* Semester Course (St. Joseph’s Academy)

This is a follow-up course to Theatre I and is designed to develop advanced performance skills for the theater. Students will become proficient in self-evaluation, peer critique and textual analysis. Monologues and scene work will be drawn from historical and classical texts. Difficulty of memorization, execution of theatrical styles and historical research make this class more advanced than the introductory course.

Theatre III/IV* Semester Course (St. Joseph’s Academy)

This is a continuation of Theatre I and II and is designed to develop advanced performance skills for the theatre. Students will become proficient in self-evaluation, peer critique and textual analysis. Monologues and scene work will be drawn from historical and classical texts. Difficulty of memorization, execution of theatrical styles and historical research make these classes more advanced than the introductory courses.

Technical Theatre* Semester Course (St. Joseph’s Academy)

Students develop the skills to design and produce sets, costumes, make-up, lighting, and sound employing knowledge the historical/cultural components of each element. They develop the habits of collaboration required as part of a production team. Students gain essential information and practical experience related to the people, processes, and equipment that enable and enhance live performance. This course is enhanced by the incorporation of several local theatre professionals who are highly specialized in the more complex technical and electronic aspects of theatre production

Introduction to the French language: reading, writing, speaking and listening. Emphasis on vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation and comprehension. Enrichment through study of French culture and geography.

Extension of French I. Additional readings, increased vocabulary and extensive grammar study. Expanded study of French culture.

This course provides a more in-depth study of the French language, with an emphasis on continued, independent reading and writing. Almost exclusive use of the target language develops proficiency in conversational skills and increases oral comprehension. Extensive study of French and Francophone culture and history and an introduction to literature provide the students with a well-rounded knowledge of the French and Francophone world.

Conducted almost entirely in French, this course focuses on the mastery of the French language through reading, writing, listening and speaking activities. Students also develop a better understanding of French and Francophone literature, geography and cultures, as they are exposed to a variety of authentic instructional materials (literary and non-literary texts, video, and audio). Daily interactive practice and rigorous work prepare students for college placement tests.

AP French/ French V Honors (2 semesters)

The AP French course provides a French-only experience to advanced students. This highly interactive course stresses interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational communication. In class, students demonstrate proficiency in reading, listening, writing and speaking as they review and refine the use of the target language in a variety of settings. Authentic instructional materials include printed and digital readings, podcasts, videos, audio broadcasts and other thematically-based sources which expose them to diverse francophone cultures around the world. Additional AP-specific practice targets the mastery of formats, themes and contexts that prepare them to take the required AP French and Culture exam at the end of the course. *AP exam is required. AP exam fee $95.

Latin I exposes students to the language, culture, and history of the Romans with an emphasis on Latin grammar, vocabulary, and translation skills. The result of the student’s study of Latin is improved knowledge of both English vocabulary and grammar, an expanded understanding of the relationship of the ancient world to his own, and appreciation of other cultures.

Continuation of Latin grammar with emphasis on translation skills and vocabulary building. Includes study of Roman culture, mythology and geography.

Latin III Honors / Latin IV Honors

Latin III and IV enable students to translate extended selections of authentic Latin prose and poetry and discuss their translation choices with appropriate grammatical terminology. This is a course of literature in the original language. Students will be exposed to such authors as Caesar, Cicero, Eutropius, Ovid, and Catullus. Students will review and master the basics of Latin grammar and vocabulary. Daily translation exercises provide an opportunity to read and comprehend more advanced literature in addition to in-depth discussions of Roman history, geography, culture, and religion. 60

AP Latin follows the Advanced Placement syllabus which guides the student through an in-depth, college-level study of Caesar’s De Bello Gallico and Vergil’s Aeneid in the original Latin. Students will further develop their fluency in reading Latin through vocabulary study, daily sight reading, and review of grammar and literary devices. In discussing major themes, historical and political relevance, and rhetorical technique, students will come to appreciate these authors and learn to write analyses and critical interpretations of their works with appropriate references to the Latin text. AP exam is required. AP exam fee $95.

An introduction to the Spanish language. Reading, writing, speaking and listening. Emphasis on vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation. Enrichment through study of Hispanic culture and geography.

Continues and builds upon the material of Spanish I. Gradual emphasis placed on oral communication. Introduces simple readings in Spanish. Enrichment through study of videos on Spanish and Latin American culture and geography.

An honors elective course that requires genuine interest in the study of the Spanish language and its culture. Includes review of grammar and vocabulary from previous courses and proceeds with more in-depth study of both. Emphasizes gradual development of written and oral communication skills in Spanish. Introduction to the writings of Spanish and Latin American authors. Includes discussion of relevant political and cultural developments in Spanish speaking countries.

Taught in Spanish, this course concentrates on the history, geography and culture of Spain and Latin America. It includes oral discussion of relevant political and cultural developments in Spanish speaking countries and readings from Spanish and Latin American authors. It is recommended for those who wish to develop fluency in Spanish. Listening and speaking practice is conducted to prepare students for college placement tests for the Spanish language.

AP Spanish/Spanish V H

In this course the students will develop a strong command of the Spanish language focusing on mastery in reading, writing, speaking, listening comprehension and culture. The course will be conducted almost entirely in Spanish and the students will be required to speak, read and write in Spanish in class every week. Students will be exposed to a variety of authentic and level appropriate materials: written, audio, and visual. The class will include a rigorous review of grammar explored through texts, literature and other authentic realia. AP exam is required. Students who select Spanish V H will have the option to take the AP exam. AP exam fee $95.

Program designed to achieve physical fitness by developing the student’s coordination, endurance and strength. Emphasis on development of skills and techniques in team and individual sports including football, basketball, softball, volleyball, pickle ball, dodge ball, and team handball. They will also take part in physical aptitude testing with things like sit-ups, push-ups, long jump, and vertical jump and running events.

Students will cover physical and emotional health issues, alcohol and drug abuse along with other various health issues. The students will also be trained in First Aid/ CPR.

Physical Education II (10th Grade)*

Continues the basic program designed to promote physical fitness (SAS) and encourage active participation in sports. Includes advanced strategies and techniques for team and individual sports including flag football, basketball, soccer, softball, volleyball, and pickle ball.

Physical Education III (11th Grade)*

Continuation of Physical Education II.

Physical Education IV (12th Grade)*

Continuation of Physical Education III.

Physical Education III or IV Summer (11th or 12th Grade)*

This course is open to students who want to schedule two full year electives, subject to approval. The course will combine online assignments, weekly physical activity requirements, as well as instruction and activity opportunities on campus. The content of the course is consistent with the fall and spring Health and P.E. courses associated with each grade level.

There is a fee associated with this course.

Physical Education IV Activity (12th Grade)*

Seniors may select this course if they are a member of the extracurriculars listed below. Seniors in these extracurriculars will receive their P.E. credit if they remain a member of the extracurricular throughout their senior year. If a student in that activity ceases to be a member of the extracurricular, that student will have to be placed in a regular P.E. course. Note that being placed in P.E. may require a significant schedule change. Extracurriculars: tennis, golf, band, ultimate, lacrosse, swimming, bowling, cross country, track, soccer, or cheerleading.

Physical Education Varsity (10th, 11th and 12th Grade)*

This course is required for varsity athletes in football, basketball, wrestling, baseball, soccer, and lacrosse. You will have the option when scheduling of selecting your sport. Athletes will receive details about the course from coaches prior to scheduling. Athletes in more than one sport should consult with their coaches about which course is most appropriate.

This course will provide an overview of the field of sports medicine as well as expose students to fundamental skills involved in a sports medicine healthcare setting. Topics covered in this class include an examination into the different career paths in the sports medicine field and how each medical profession contributes to a coordinated sports medicine healthcare delivery team. Students will be provided the opportunity to examine a sports medicine facility and explore their policies, procedures and protocols utilized in patient care. A cornerstone of the field of sports medicine is risk management and injury prevention. Students will explore a variety of topics in injury prevention and be able to participate in skills that healthcare providers utilize to reduce injuries in sports medicine settings. The course requires attendance at assigned athletic events so students get real experience applying the principles of the course.

This course will provide students with an overview of sports injuries' anatomy and pathology and management skills basics. Students will learn about the body's response to an injury, how to treat sports injuries, and how to apply rehabilitation principles and exercises. An emphasis is placed on common sports injuries for each body region. Students will also be introduced to the systematic process healthcare professionals use when dealing with an injury, including evaluating an injury, initial and continued treatment, planning a rehabilitation plan, and return to play protocols for those injuries. The course requires attendance at assigned athletic events so students get real experience applying the principles of the course.

Catholic High School requires students to be enrolled in a math course each academic year. In order to accommodate specialized needs and aptitudes, the Mathematics Department offers several course options. Placement in mathematics is dependent on courses previously taken, proficiency and skills in mathematics and standardized math scores. Students will enter the math curriculum at a level appropriate to their background and will complete their curriculum with the appropriate course given the entry point and their math performance during high school. The standard mathematics sequence includes algebra I, geometry, algebra II, advanced math/pre-calculus and calculus. Both honors level, academic level and foundation level courses are available in each subject. Additional courses offered include algebra III, advanced placement calculus and advanced placement statistics.

This survey course includes the study of variables, simple equations, rational and irrational numbers, algebraic functions and their applications, polynomials, special products, factoring, linear equations and their graphs (Math XL Login and TI-30XIIS Scientific Calculator are required).

Comprehensive study of algebra I at an accelerate pace, capable of and interested in pursuing an advanced high school mathematics curriculum. Includes study of variables, simple equations, rational and irrational numbers, algebraic functions and their applications, polynomials, special products, factoring, linear equations and their graphs, quadratic equations, inequalities (TI-30XIIS Scientific Calculator required).

A study of plane figures with emphasis on sharpening inductive and deductive logic and reasoning skills. Topics include points, lines, planes and angles, parallel and perpendicular lines, congruent triangles, writing proofs, quadrilaterals, proportion and similarity, basic trigonometry, circles, polygons and area, solid and coordinate geometry (Math XL Login and TI-30XIIS Scientific Calculator are required).

Comprehensive study of geometry at an accelerated pace. A study of plane figures with emphasis on sharpening inductive and deductive logic and reasoning skills. Topics include points, lines, planes and angles, parallel and perpendicular lines, congruent triangles, writing proofs, quadrilaterals, proportion and similarity, basic trigonometry, circles, polygons and area, solid and coordinate geometry (TI-30XIIS Scientific Calculator is required).

Algebraic study of open sentences in one variable, systems of linear and quadratic equations and inequalities, polynomials, factoring, rational and radical expressions and equations, conic sections, graphing equations, rational equations, exponential functions, and logarithms (Math XL Login and TI-30XIIS Scientific Calculator are required).

Comprehensive study of algebra II at an accelerated pace. Topics include concepts of Algebra II with a more in-depth study of polynomials, systems of equations, complex numbers, quadratic equations and systems, exponential and logarithmic functions, analyzing conic sections, radical and rational expressions and equations, probability, matrices, sequences and series, and introduction to trigonometry (TI-83 or TI-84 Graphing Calculator is required).

This course is to prepare students for an entry-level college math course. Topics include functions: polynomials, rational, radical, exponential and logarithmic equations (Math XL Login and TI-30XIIS Scientific Calculator is required).

Advanced Mathematics: Functions and Statistics

This is a college algebra course. Topics include solving equations and inequalities; function properties and graphs with transformations; inverse functions; linear, quadratic, polynomial, rational, exponential and logarithmic functions with applications; systems of equations and basic trigonometry (Math XL Login and TI-30XIIS Scientific Calculator is required).

This is a course covering college algebra and trigonometry. Topics include polynomial, rational, exponential and logarithmic functions, including graphing and transformations. A full course in trigonometry and trigonometric identities. Graphing and applications are covered, including vectors, polar graphs and complex numbers expressed trigonometrically.

This course provides comprehensive coverage of college algebra and trigonometry topics at an accelerated pace. Topics include polynomial, rational, exponential and logarithmic functions, including graphing and transformations. A full course in trigonometry and trigonometric identities, graphing and applications are covered, including vectors and polar graphs and complex numbers expressed trigonometrically. Additional topics include sequences and series, parametric graphs and binomial theorem (TI-83 or TI-84 graphing calculator required).

A college preparatory class, which introduces basic calculus concepts including functions, limits, continuity, and differential and integral calculus and applications (Math XL login).

A challenging college level learning experience. Includes topics on functions and graphs, limits and continuity, differential and integral calculus with applications (TI-83 or TI-84 graphing calculator required.

A challenging college level course. Includes in-depth topics on functions and graphs, limits and continuity, differential and integral calculus with applications. Calculus AP includes extra emphasis on independent learning, assimilation and integration of topics, and writing and proving mathematical concepts (TI-83 or TI-84 Graphing Calculator is required). AP Exam required. Exam fee: $95.

Prerequisite: Calculus Honors or AP Calculus AB.

This is a challenging course including differentiation and integration of functions in one variable in rectangular, polar and parametric forms. Also covered are polynomial approximations using sequences and series and applications of these concepts (TI-83 or TI-84 Graphing calculator required). AP Exam required. Exam fee: $95.

The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. Students will be exposed to four broad conceptual themes: Data Analysis and Display, Experimental Design, Probability, and Inferential Statistics. Students who successfully complete the course and exam will receive credit for a one-semester introductory college statistics course. TI-83+ or TI-84+ calculator required (TI-84+ recommended). AP exam is required. AP exam is $95. 

Catholic High School Mathematics Department Placement Policy

The Mathematics Department at Catholic High School has developed a department policy concerning placement in the mathematics classes. In order for a student to enter the Honors track and/or remain in the Honors track he must meet the criteria of the department. Eligibility for an honors level mathematics class depends on both ability and performance. A student will be placed in an honors level course based on ability. Continued placement in an honors level mathematics class will be based on performance.

Mathematics Courses available for 2021 – 2022 (Typically taken in the listed grade level below)

8th Grade: Algebra 1 Foundation 8, Algebra 1 Honors

9th Grade: Algebra 1, Geometry, Geometry Honors

10th Grade: Geometry, Geometry Honors, Algebra II, Algebra II Honors

11th Grade: Algebra II, Algebra II Honors, Advanced Math, Precalculus, Precalculus Honors, Calculus Honors, Calculus AB AP Probability and AP Statistics (elective)

12th Grade: Algebra III, Advanced Math, Precalculus, Precalculus Honors, Calculus, Calculus Honors, Calculus AB AP, Calculus BC AP, Probability and AP Statistics (elective)

Progression from one course to the next:

Algebra I  Foundation             

Algebra 1, Algebra I Honors, Geometry, Geometry Honors Placement in 2022-2023 school year is at the discretion of the Algebra I Foundation 8th grade teacher and the math department chair. Placement is based on work ethic and performance.

Geometry Honors – must have an A average for all quarters and semesters

Geometry Honors – must have all As/Bs for the semesters

Algebra II Honors – must have an A average for all quarters and semesters

Algebra II Honors – must have all As/Bs for the semesters

Algebra III – determined by performance in Algebra II

Advanced Math – determined by performance in Algebra II

Precalculus – determined by performance in Algebra II

*it is not possible to take Precalculus Honors from Algebra 2

Precalculus Honors – must have all As/Bs for the semesters

Calculus *it is not possible to take Calculus Honors from Precalculus

Calculus AB Advanced Placement –determined by performance in Precalculus Honors

Calculus BC Advanced Placement –determined by performance in Calculus AB Advanced Placement

Offered as an elective in addition to the student’s regular math course. Students must have the recommendation of their current math teacher *and* an A average in Precalculus or an A/B average in Algebra II Honors or higher.

Placement in some science courses depends on mathematics placement. A student will not be placed in the honors mathematics program for science placement purposes unless they meet the mathematics department requirements.

Catholic High’s religion curriculum provides classroom instruction and theological study aimed at helping students to believe in God’s love and actively pursue God’s plan in their lives. Designed to mirror the faith journey they are living, the subject material at each grade level forms the foundation for the next year. The religion curriculum for 8th, 9th and 10th grade students builds on the fundamental elements of Church history, Sacred Scripture, and the sacraments. The 11th & 12th grade curriculum prepares students to contemplate their personal moral development in light of Catholic social teaching and the complex world into which they will graduate. The service requirement for each grade level helps to complete each student’s religious formation at Catholic High.

Religion 8 - Church History/Morality

This course offers a comprehensive study of the history of Christianity, primarily from the Catholic perspective. Special attention is given to the issues, debates, struggles, and achievements of the Church, particularly with respect to their relevance today. Students are also introduced to basic morality from a pre-adolescent/adolescent perspective. Students are invited to consider the challenges of maturing as a sexual person within the context of Catholic/Christian values and community.

Minimum community service time: 5 hours.

This course is designed to give students a general knowledge and appreciation of the Sacred Scriptures. Our hope is that students will come to an encounter the living Word of God, Jesus Christ, through their study of the Bible. Students will learn about how the Bible was authored by God through inspiration, and encounter its value to people throughout the world. Students will learn how to read the Bible, closely examining the major sections and the books included in each section. This course will emphasize the importance of the Gospels, where students are invited to know and love Jesus Christ more personally.

Minimum community service time: 10 hours.

Religion II - Sacraments/Spirituality/Sexuality

This course is designed to help students understand that they can encounter Christ today in a full and real way in and through the sacraments, especially through the Eucharist. Students will examine each of the sacraments in detail so they can learn how they may encounter Christ in their daily lived experiences. Christ is emphasized as the primary sacrament. The study of spirituality focuses on the liturgy, the liturgical year and calendar, understanding the development of the Mass and the meaning and significance of the parts of the Mass. Students learn the elements of prayer and how best to use their own unique spirituality to approach their relationship with God. The course also deals with Catholic teachings regarding human sexuality using the Theology of the Body developed by Pope John Paul II.

Minimum community service time: 15 hours.

Religion III - Christian Morality

The focus of this course is the broad but fundamental question, “How ought one to live?” Students are challenged to internalize Catholic Christian morality and develop the conscience that will properly guide them as they enter the adult world. The course emphasizes masculine spiritual development as a framework for moral decision-making. Students will be introduced to the 7 themes of Catholic social teaching along with recent Church history and documents.

Minimum community service time: 40 hours.

Religion IV - Living as a Disciple of Jesus Christ in Society*

This course is dedicated to a study of Catholic social teaching. The intention is to move from consideration of the personal morality of individuals to a study of how we form societies that seek to create structures that promote and preserve the dignity of each human being. Issues covered include abortion, capital punishment, euthanasia, stem cell research, prejudice and discrimination, economic justice, war and peace, human rights and environmental concerns. All issues are examined in the light of the gospel and the social justice documents of the Catholic Church.

Religion IV - Ecumenical and Interreligious Issues*

This course is an exploration of religious faith from experiential and rational perspectives. Included is an examination of the nature of religion and its common characteristics across all major world faiths. Students will be taught the core tenets of Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and others. Special emphasis will be on three Church documents which address the relationship between Catholicism and other faiths - The Decree on Ecumenism, The Declaration on the Relation of the Church to Non-Christian Religions, and The Declaration on Religious Freedom.

Religion IV -Philosophy of Religion*

A basic introduction to the philosophy of religion. The class is a seminar, with the expectation that students will keep up with the reading and actively engage in discussions. The course will focus on philosophical treatment of the more pressing issues in the philosophy of religion including arguments for the existence of God, the relationship between science and religion, and free will. In keeping with requirements of Religion IV, the course will integrate social justice and world religions as they relate to the above themes.

Religion IV - History and Charism of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart*

This course is designed to give students a broad and deep understanding of the mission, history, charism, and lifestyle of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart. The course focus will be on gathering and publishing the oral histories of the Brothers, building on the work produced by previous classes. Students will also participate in trips to historically significant sites for the Brothers, including St. Stanislaus College in Bay St. Louis, MS. Texts will be selected from the foundational writings of the Brothers, especially those of their founder, Fr. Andre Coindre, as well as the Brothers’ Rule of Life and selected short biographies of the Brothers connected to our region. The class will also involve interaction with students from other Brothers of the Sacred Heart schools in the United States.

Religion IV - Catholicism in Literature, Film, and Art*

This course will use literature, film, art, and music to explore the fundamental teaching and beliefs of Catholicism. Born out of a desire to help students understand Catholicism in a personal way and bring the tradition of the faith to life, this course will utilize these different media (movies, literature, art, and music) to explore how Catholicism influences and is influenced by these media. It requires the ability to analyze media and assess the use of signs, symbol, and ritual in our faith.

Religion IV – Science, Religion and Humanity*

This course will explore the interaction and relationship between science and religion with a particular focus on human responsibility for creation. A significant part of our analysis will involve considerations related to the seven themes of Catholic Social Teaching, as we will consult historic and contemporary church writings in the form of Vatican documents and letters. In addition, both fiction and non-fiction selections will serve as dialogue and discuss starters for a wide range of topics and ideas. *This is a required course for those who will be receiving a STREAM certificate. This course must be scheduled with Engineering Design and Development Honors.

Religion IV Dual Enrollment - Ecumenical & Interreligious Issues*: LSU Religious Studies 1000

Students taking this course will earn a CHS Religion IV half-credit as well as three hours of college credit through LSU (Religion 1000). This course explores the histories, teachings, texts, narratives, practices, internal diversity, demographic scope, material culture, and controversies surrounding, some of the world’s most impactful religious cultures. In addition to surveying a wide range of religious worlds, we will also consider some of the different ways professional scholars have theorized the category “religion,” as well as the ways in which the study of religion differs from the practice of religion, and what is at stake with respect to both such endeavors. As the semester progresses, students will come to master a historically grounded, evidence-based understanding of the history of religions and the complex role of religion in the contemporary world. As a general education course in the humanities, this course has the following learning objective: LSU graduates will demonstrate an understanding of historical, cultural, and philosophical complexity, which supports sophisticated discourse. *Additional cost of $300 due in September for LSU tuition.

Students are required to schedule a science course each year while attending Catholic High School. In addition, Catholic High School requires that all students take physics as their senior year science subject. The typical sequencing for academic level science classes is: Biology, Environmental Science, Chemistry, and Physics. The typical sequencing for honors level science classes is: Biology Honors; Chemistry Honors; AP Chemistry, or AP Environmental Science, or AP Biology; and Physics Honors or AP Physics C: Mechanics.

Introduces the student to various aspects of the physical sciences. Features include current science issues in the disciplines of physics, chemistry, space and earth sciences and life science. The beginning student will be expected to develop laboratory and study skills needed for success in advanced science courses

A study of the scientific processes of plant and animal life. Includes lectures, demonstrations and laboratory work. Emphasis on appreciation, understanding, practical application of interrelationships and interdependencies of biological structures and functions

In-depth survey of the complex interdependencies of animal and plant life. Includes classroom lectures, demonstrations and laboratory work. Stresses individual investigations and research with emphasis on practical application and scientific preparedness.

An integrated science course in which students investigate relationships between humans and their environment. Great emphasis is placed on demonstrations, laboratory investigation, and current events. These diverse activities are designed to enable students to develop skills necessary to make sound decisions on environmental matters that may impact science and society.

*Prerequisites: biology, chemistry and department approval.

The goal of this course is to provide students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world, to identify and analyze environmental problems both natural and human-made, to evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and to examine alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them. There are several major unifying constructs, or themes, that cut across the many topics included in the study of environmental science. The following themes provide a foundation for the structure of the course. AP exam is required. The fee for the AP exam is $95.

Concepts stressed are the model of the atom, periodicity of atomic properties, bonding, the mole concept, mass and volume relationships in reactions, solutions, acid base reactions, kinetic molecular theory, oxidation reduction reactions and organic chemistry.

A classroom and laboratory course with an ambitious sequence of topics: The mole concept, mass and volume relations in reactions, the gas laws, solutions, oxidation reduction, advanced atomic structure, molecular structure and qualitative analysis. Much emphasis is placed on use of mathematics and the inductive reasoning process in dealing with these concepts. Prerequisite: departmental approval.

*Prerequisites: Chemistry and department approval.

AP Chemistry is equivalent to a one-year introductory college general chemistry course. Students will learn about the fundamental concepts of chemistry including structure and states of matter, intermolecular forces, and reactions. Students utilize to hands-on lab investigations and use chemical calculations to solve problems. AP Exam is required. AP Exam Fee: $95.

*Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry and department approval.

This course is the equivalent of a two-semester college introductory biology course for biology majors. Students will study the core scientific principles, theories and processes that govern living organisms and biological systems. Students will do hands-on laboratory work to investigate natural phenomenal. AP Exam is required. AP Exam Fee: $95.

A humanistic and historical approach to an introductory course in physics. Course includes fundamental principles related to the physical phenomena of motion, force, energy, matter, waves, electricity and magnetism, as well as concepts in modern physics. Problem solving applications, demonstrations, laboratory investigations and design projects reinforce and enrich the course content.

Involves a more in-depth, algebra-based approach to the physical phenomena examined in physics including a more sophisticated mathematical approach to problem solving. Emphasis on making connection with the world around us and developing a historical perspective to scientific inquiry. Problem solving design/research projects, demonstrations and laboratory investigations are an integral part of the course content.

*Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus and enrolled in Calculus; department approval.

This course forms the first part of the college sequence that serves as the foundation in physics for students majoring in the physical sciences or engineering. The sequence is parallel to or preceded by mathematics courses that include calculus. Methods of calculus are used wherever appropriate in formulating physical principles and in applying them to physical problems. Strong emphasis is placed on solving a variety of challenging problems, some requiring calculus. The subject matter of the AP Physics C: Mechanics course is classical mechanics and includes topics in kinematics; Newton’s laws of motion, work, energy and power; systems of particles and linear momentum; circular motion and rotation; oscillations; and gravitation. Use of calculus in problem solving and in derivations is expected to increase as the course progresses. Calculus is used freely in formulating principles and in solving problems. AP Exam is required. AP Exam: $95.

A survey of the history of Louisiana from native cultures and its discovery by Europeans through establishment of the State of Louisiana and its role in the development of the nation. Combining lecture and seminar format, the course explores social, economic, political, and cultural developments and institutions that have contributed to the heritage and characteristics of the region.

A study of the structure and function of government and the role of citizenship. Topics include the Constitution as the basis of American government, the federal government, state and local governmental structures, law and court decisions, national and international

Continues the exploration of US government from Civics I with a focus on the rights and responsibilities of citizens, as well as the American free enterprise system, economic system, federal budget and tax policies.

AP United States Government and Politics*

This course provides an analytical perspective on government and politics in the United States. This course involves both the study of general concepts used to interpret politics and the analysis of specific case studies. It also requires familiarity 69

with the various institutions, groups, beliefs, and ideas that constitute U.S. political reality. The course will cover certain topics are generally covered in college courses such as the Constitution, institution of the national government, civil rights, political parties, interest groups and mass media. Students will take the AP Exam in May of their freshman year. AP exam fee: $95.

AP Comparative Government and Politics*

This course compares economics, political challenges, trends, upheavals and institutional characteristics across six nation states: China, Great Britain, Iran, Mexico, Nigeria, and Russia. Students will take the AP Comparative Politics Exam in May of their sophomore year. AP exam fee: $95.

A survey of the history of our country from its founding to the present. Emphasis on the political, social and economic phases of the nation’s development.

Designed to provide the advanced student with an intensive study of the history of our country from the origin of the early Americans to modern times. Emphasis on the social, political and economic history of the United States. Critical reading and analysis of historical events, book reports, special projects and research papers required.

A comprehensive survey designed to provide the student with analytic skills and factual knowledge at a college level. Students learn to assess historical materials and interpret various views of American history in order to arrive at a better understanding of important historical events. AP exam is required. Supplementary text and summer reading required. AP Exam fee: $95

AP Economics: Micro and Macro (10th, 11th and 12th Grade)

The AP course in microeconomics is to give students a thorough understanding of the principles of economics that apply to the functions of individual decision makers, both consumers and producers, within the economic system. It places primary emphasis on the nature and functions of product markets and includes the study of factor markers and of the role of government in promoting greater efficiency and equity in the economy. AP exam is required. AP exam fee is $95.

AP Human Geography Full year course (St. Joseph’s Academy)

The AP Human Geography course introduces students to the systematic study of patterns and processes that have shaped human understanding, use, and alteration of Earth’s surface. Students learn to employ spatial concepts and landscape analysis to examine human socioeconomic organization and its environmental consequences. They also learn about the methods and tools geographers use in their research and applications. AP exam is required. AP exam is $95.

Law studies is a study of general law, including business law, the civil and criminal court system (with emphasis on torts and contracts) and their applications in everyday business situations. This course is taught by a local practicing attorney.

This class will have students think critically about films that are based both on historical events and films that assume cultural identity and are social commentaries. Students will watch a number of films in the class, as well as individually, and be expected to write papers and create presentations based upon set criteria. Eligibility: no grade lower than a C in any semester of a social studies course.

A study of the development of society through the ancient, medieval and modern periods. This course emphasizes the social, political, cultural and economic development of Western civilization. The course focuses on developing students writing skills and their ability to analyze primary source documents.

The AP European History course focuses on developing students' understanding of European history from approximately 1450 to the present. The course has students investigate the content of European history for significant events, individuals, developments, and processes in four historical periods, and develop and use the same thinking skills and methods (analyzing primary and secondary sources, making historical comparisons, chronological reasoning, and argumentation) employed by historians when they study the past. The course also provides five themes (interaction of Europe and the world; poverty and prosperity; objective knowledge and subjective visions; states and other institutions of power; and individual and society) that students explore throughout the course in order to make connections among historical developments in different times and places. AP Exam is required. AP exam is $95.

A college level course that studies history on a global scale, in order to develop a greater understanding of the evolution of global processes and contacts in different types of human societies. The course highlights the nature of changes in global frameworks, their causes and consequences, as well as comparisons among major societies. An emphasis is placed on developing the student’s ability to synthesize information from various sources into a comprehensive view of the world’s history. Students will take the AP Exam in World History in May. AP Exam Fee: $95.

The class explores the history of psychology, the human life span, sensation, and perception, altered states of consciousness, personality, individuality and abnormal behavior. Students will learn about the roots of human behavior.

The class is an introduction to psychology that will prepare students to take the AP Psychology exam. It expands on the subjects of the single semester psychology elective. *AP exam is required. AP Exam is $95.

Accounting is a study of the standard system of recordkeeping with an emphasis on fundamental concepts of accounting. Independent student application of concepts is required in this class, especially during work involving practice sets. This includes journalizing, posting, work sheets, statements, closing ledger and practice sets. This course is especially recommended for students planning a college major in business.

Accounting is a study of the standard system of recordkeeping with an emphasis on fundamental concepts of accounting. Independent student application of concepts is required in this class, especially during work involving practice sets. This includes journalizing, posting, work sheets, statements, closing ledger and practice sets. This course is especially recommended for students planning a college major in business.

Personal & Family Finance covers a variety of issues relevant to students as they enter adulthood. Topics include cost of college, TOPS, budgeting, managing a checking account, taxes, payroll deductions, insurance, owning a home, credit, saving and investing. Financial responsibility and independence are stressed.

The purpose of the unassigned class period during the school day is to provide the student the opportunity to do reference work, to use the library, to arrange conferences with teachers, school counselors and campus ministers, to complete assignments and the like. The intent of this feature of the academic program is to develop in the student a sense of self-responsibility, self-discipline, efficient use of unstructured time and serious study habits needed both here and at the college level.

As part of its ongoing effort to work as partners with parents, the CHS faculty uses PlusPortals, an online tool, to inform parents about a student’s standing in their course. Students’ grades will be updated at least every two weeks, and parents can log on to their account to check their son’s academic status in each class. Parents should pay particular attention at the mid-point of each quarter, so that any academic problems their son may be having in a class can be addressed before the end of the quarter. Through PlusPortals, parents have access to student documents such as schedules, transcripts and report cards. It is essential that the service be activated and parents become familiar with it. Catholic High will not mail report cards home. Families without access to the Internet should call the school and CHS will make the necessary accommodations so parents are aware of their son’s academic progress and current status. Parents and students receive information in the summer of their incoming year about setting up their PlusPortals account so they receive school communication in a timely manner. Additionally, the school will communicate with students via their school issued email accounts and parents via the email addresses on file with the school’s registrar.

Catholic High School uses Moodle, a course management system, to organize course content, deliver materials, and communicate with students about assignments and assessments. Parents may access their son’s Moodle account as a guest so that they can stay informed about their son’s schoolwork.

Eighth grade students must have seven units. Eighth graders with exceptional aptitude in English, math or science are eligible to take classes for high school credit in those subjects. An eighth grade student who fails any subject during the regular school session must successfully complete remedial work in that subject area in a summer session approved by the Catholic High School administration before he may advance to the freshman year at Catholic High School. While 8th grade students do receive high school credit for eligible courses, all grades earned in the 8th grade year are not calculated to determine the student’s GPA.

Any high school credit earned prior to 9th grade will appear on the student’s transcript as a P for pass.

Algebra I, Algebra I Honors, or Intro to Algebra

Physical Science, Biology H        

Spanish, Latin, Art, Fine Arts Survey

Program of Studies for High School

Catholic High School’s course and credit requirements are designed to meet the standards for a high school diploma set forth in the Louisiana TOPS Core Curriculum requirements.

Course and Credit Requirements for Grades 9-12

If a freshman, sophomore or junior falls short of his respective 7, 14 or 20 credits at the end of the regular school session, he will be required to make up the needed unit(s) in summer school at Catholic High School. A student who does not remediate failures will not be allowed to continue at Catholic High School. Exceptions will be considered only in the case of non- availability of courses in summer school.

Any student who in the view of the Catholic High School administration fails to satisfactorily complete the hours of community service required in his religion course will not be allowed to return to CHS.

In order to receive a Catholic High diploma, a senior must complete credit requirements, participate in the senior retreat, and complete his Religion IV service requirement.

A senior who fails required courses still may participate in school functions, including graduation exercises. He will receive a Catholic High School diploma only if he passes the failed course(s) in the summer school session immediately following his senior year. For courses not offered in summer school the administration will determine remediation requirements. Four credits of math, science and English must be earned between the 9th and 12th grade years.

Students who miss tests or assignment deadlines must complete the missing work in a reasonable amount of time. Teachers will work with students to establish deadlines and expectations that balance personal attention to a student’s circumstances and our effort to teach students personal responsibility and accountability.

Students who need to make up a test should contact the teacher and make arrangements to take the make up test. If a student does not take the make up test at the agreed upon time, then the teacher will assign a new date and time for the make-up test, and will contact the student’s parents so they are aware of the situation. If the student does not make up the test at the new time, he may be subject to disciplinary consequences from the assistant principal for discipline, and he may receive a lower grade on the test for his failure to make it up in a timely manner. The assistant principal for discipline will schedule the make-up test with the student and administer it.

Policies governing small daily assignments will vary from teacher to teacher, so students should be aware of each of his teacher’s expectations in that regard. Teachers will review their make up and late work policy with students at the beginning of the school year.

When daily homework assignments (typically an assignment given in class and due the next day; frequent and of relatively small point value) are not completed on time, and without a legitimate reason that the student has discussed with his teacher, the student should expect either

Students should not expect open-ended deadlines for small daily assignments. Teachers will contact parents of those students who show a pattern of missed daily assignments.

Major assignments (typically, an assignment students have a week or more to complete; only a few such assignments of this type in a course, and with a relatively large point value; e.g. projects, papers, term papers, etc.) that are not turned in on time will receive a new deadline and a lower grade for each day they are late. Students who fail to meet the final deadline will be required to complete the assignment in detention or Saturday school at the discretion of the assistant principal for discipline and the academic assistant principal.

If circumstances require Catholic High School to suspend on-campus classes, one of the following plans will allow education to continue uninterrupted, and they will be communicated via email and text messaging. In the case of wide-spread power outages or family displacement, school, online or in person, would simply be cancelled.

PLANNED SINGLE E-DAY or LATE NOTICE E-DAY

In the event of a last-minute cancellation or a single day planned closure, teachers will post assignments on Moodle by 8 a.m. of the affected day. Students must complete the assignments, and they will be recorded as absent from classes whose assignments are not completed by the following school day

Should CHS be required to suspend on-campus classes for an extended period of time, CHS will move to the Teacher Supported Online Learning (TSOL) synchronous platform. Classes will be held synchronously (in real time) according to the schedule below, and will be held through Microsoft TEAMS. Students are expected to be online in the class, according to teacher requirements. Students must be on time, visible, and present for the entirety of the online portion of the class so that attendance can be documented. Students not online and not visible will be considered absent. Students will follow these TSOL guidelines:

In TSOL, classes will be held on a block schedule with Periods 1-4 on Mondays and Thursday, and Periods 5-8 on Tuesdays and Fridays. Wednesdays will be reserved for teacher office hours so students can virtually meet individually with teachers as necessary. Wednesdays should be used by students to complete work assigned on Mondays and Tuesdays. Teachers will use Wednesdays to collaborate with one another on best practices for TSOL.

TSOL Platform Schedule (All Classes on Campus Suspended - Remote Only)

Lunch Break: 10:40 - 11:30 a.m.

Only seniors may be exempt from final exams. A senior may be exempt from final exams if he meets the following criteria: for full year courses, a student who has a first semester A, and a third and fourth quarter A is exempt from the final exam. In addition, seniors can be exempt from their semester senior religion course exam in either semester. Students must have an A for the first quarter and an A going into the final exam of the given semester religion course. The teacher will notify a senior who qualifies to be exempt from an exam by the beginning of “dead days.”

New students receive copies of their course selection sheets at the mandatory meeting for incoming students and their parents.

Returning students receive a list of their requested courses in early May. During the following week, students may request course changes. This process must be completed before the end of the academic year. After that time, course change requests normally are not considered. Specifically disallowed are requests to move a course (including unassigned periods) from one class period to another or to change from one teacher to another. Note: Published and/or scheduled courses may be deleted in a given school year if a sufficient number of students do not request the course or if scheduling conflicts prevent a sufficient number of students from scheduling the course.

Once the school year has begun, correction of inadvertent scheduling errors and solutions of certain administrative problems may be necessary. Otherwise, schedule changes during the school year typically are made to adjust the level of a student’s placement in a particular course.

A teacher’s suggestion that a student’s schedule change is discussed with the teacher’s department chairperson before being proposed to the academic assistant principal, who, in turn, must approve the request before it is explored with a student or his parents. A student’s request for consideration of a schedule change must be discussed with the student’s school counselor before being proposed to the academic assistant principal. After consultation with the chairpersons of the departments affected by the proposed change, the teachers involved, the student’s school counselor, the student and his parents, the academic assistant principal makes a final decision on the proposed schedule change.

Civil Engineering and      Architecture H

Engineering Design and Development H

French I, II, III H, IV H, AP

Latin I, II, III H, IV H, AP

Spanish I, II, III H, IV H, V H

Religion 8 – Church History/Morality

Religion II, III, IV, IV DE

English I, I H, English II, II H

English III, English III H

English IV, English IV H

English V (Dual Enrollment),          English V H

Health, Physical Education and Health Occupations

Physical Education II, III and IV

Physical Education Summer III or IV

Biology, Biology H, AP Biology

Environmental Science,  AP Environmental Science

Chemistry, Chemistry H,              Chemistry II H

Physics, Physics H,                                        AP Physics C: Mechanics

Art I, II, III, IV

Media Arts I, II, III

Beginning Men’s Choir

Intermediate Men’s Choir

Advanced Men’s Choir

Advanced Chorus II (Schola Cantorum & Chamber Singers)

Advanced Band A, Advanced Band B

Advanced Dance I, II, III, IV, V

Theatre I, II, III, IV

Algebra I, I H, II, II H, III

Advanced Mathematics: Functions & Statistics

Calculus, Calculus H, AP Calculus AB,          AP Calculus BC, AP Statistics

AP United States Government and Politics

AP Comparative Government and Politics

American History, American History H, AP US History

AP European History, AP World History

Catholic High School offers a STREAM Curriculum (Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Art, and Math) available to all students in grades 9-12. All students will meet the science and math course requirements and for interested students, electives are available among STREAM-related courses. Students may choose to follow a designated STREAM curriculum consisting of the required coursework in math and science with additional credits earned in STREAM electives. Students meeting STREAM curriculum requirements will receive a STREAM certificate in a student’s senior year. Students may also take available STREAM electives throughout their time at Catholic High School without working towards the STREAM certificate.

STREAM Certificate Requirements (see specific courses below)

9TH GRADE                                                 

Media Arts II and III

Art I or Art II

Civil Engineering & Architecture H

Media Arts II and III

Civil Engineering & Arch H

Engineering Design & Development H

Media Arts II and III

Religion, Science, & Humanity (Rel IV)

For qualified students, honors courses are available in English, mathematics, social studies, science and foreign languages. Each department establishes requirements for admission to honors courses. Students who meet the requirements are placed in honors courses during the course selection process early in the second semester. A student who does not meet departmental requirements for an honors course at the end of the first semester but who subsequently qualifies may file an admission petition with the appropriate teacher during the first week in May.

A student who successfully completes the Honors Program earns an Honors Diploma. In order to successfully complete the Honors Program, a student must meet all CHS graduation requirements and the following criteria:

Catholic High School offers Advanced Placement (AP) classes that meet the standards set by the College Board. AP classes are considered part of the Honors Program. Students in AP classes take standardized AP tests each spring and may earn college credit based on their score. Catholic High School administers AP tests for those AP courses offered at CHS, as well as for some subjects offered through the Honors Program.

AP students are not required to take a final exam during Catholic High School’s exam week, but they are required to take the AP exam for that course. Freshmen in the AP United States Government and Politics course can opt out of the AP exam but will be required to take a final examination for the course. Students who are absent for the AP exam, sent out of the exam because they have caused a disruption of the testing environment, or are observed to have made less than a good faith effort on the exam, will be required to take the regular academic exam for that subject during Catholic High School’s underclassman exam week. The score on that non-AP exam will be averaged into a student’s grade for the AP class. Seniors take note: if you are an AP student who must take a non-AP exam due to any circumstance described above, your grade for the course may not be complete before graduation. In this instance, you will receive a blank diploma until your final grade is available.

An honors course will be offered only if a sufficient number of students preregister for the course.

If scheduling conflicts prohibit a student from meeting the exact course requirements of the Honors Program, the administration may approve an alternate program for the individual student.

Any course designated on the transcript as honors or AP counts towards an Honors Diploma.

From time to time the administration may add courses to or remove courses from the Honors Program. Any addition or removal of a course must be announced by the end of the school year prior to the academic year for which the change will take effect.

Once a student receives honors credit for a particular course, the honors credit remains even if the course is later removed from the Honors Program.

In rare circumstances, students may be allowed to take courses for high school or college credit in courses not offered at CHS. In order for a course taken other than at Catholic High or St. Joseph’s Academy to be recorded on a Catholic High transcript, a CHS student must have prior permission from the academic assistant principal. All courses taken outside of CHS and SJA are recorded on transcripts as pass/fail courses. Exceptions may be made to this policy.

A senior completing four years of a foreign language and having an ACT English and Reading scores of 18 or above, qualifies for the State of Louisiana Seal of Biliteracy, which will be recognized during Honors Convocation.

Report Cards: Report cards are issued four times a year. Each division of the school year is referred to as a quarter. The first two quarters make up the first semester. The third and fourth quarters make up the second semester. The letter system of grading used is as follows:

          (89 x .4) + (95 x .4) + (97 x .2) = 35.6 + 38 + 19.4 = 93.

      According to the scale above, the student would receive an A for the first semester.

The WCGPA is determined by the following formula:

Weighted cumulative grade-point average = GPA + {number of honors program core curriculum semesters (see below) completed with grades of A, B, or C x .02}.

In determining the WGPA, all semester grades are included; however, weight is given at the end of each semester to a limited number of Honors Program Core Curriculum semesters. Weight is not given until a student completes the 1st semester of his sophomore year.

Time and semesters of Honors Program Core Curriculum semesters that are given weight:

Remaining true to the tradition inherited from Father Coindre, we view being with young people as a privilege and opportunity. Through unconditional, selfless personal attention to the young people in our care, we witness to the compassionate love of Christ. Such personal attention, however, must be modeled on the characteristics and example of Father Coindre. It requires an active type of presence and attention. This means consciously choosing to be attuned to students’ needs, and displaying accessibility through our words, posture, and actions. It also means responding with appropriate compassion and encouragement while maintaining high expectations. Finally, it means respectfully accompanying students with confident patience as God’s grace and their own efforts gradually take effect.

Catholic High School provides many opportunities for students, with parental approval, to take part in extracurricular scholastic, service, social and athletic activities. Such activities are designed to help the student develop his talents and interests and to learn how to live, work and share cooperatively with others. Student activities not only add to the enjoyment of school life, they also permit the student to develop broader insights and experiences in cultural, political, social and athletic areas. Students are invited to consult with moderators or coaches to express an interest in taking part in any of the school organizations or Louisiana District 5-5A interscholastic athletics.

Catholic High considers clubs and organizations an important part of the life of the student and the life of the school. A student involved in an extracurricular activity is required to attend the scheduled events of the organization.

No student organization or individual may sponsor a raffle or any type of gambling activity. Before any money raising activity by a student organization or an individual may begin, it must be submitted to the activities director who then communicates with the principal or director of advancement for final permission.

Before any school organization or athletic team schedules any activity or event, the date must be cleared through the activities director and placed on the official school calendar.

The Catholic High School administration has defined and determined the school’s newspaper, yearbook and Bruin Broadcasting Network (BBN) as instruments for the purpose of developing communication skills. Content of the publications must be in keeping with the philosophy and mission of Catholic High School.

The following policy applies to holding club offices at Catholic High School:

• A student may hold an office in a maximum of two extracurriculars.

• A student may hold the office of president of only one extracurricular, but he may hold concurrently a lesser office in one additional club.

Exceptions to these rules can be made by the activities director in consultation with the administration.

Note: A published club or organization may not be available in any given year, depending on sufficient student interest or faculty moderator availability.

The Art Club is composed of students interested in art and those who can either draw or design. Eligible: Students in grades 8-12.

The mission behind Bears in the Wild is to connect students who love the outdoors. Bears in the Wild plans monthly outings such as hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and rock climbing. They participate in service projects which include activities such as cleaning up parks, trail maintenance, and volunteering at local races. Eligible: Students in grades 8-12.

The Board Games Club plays a variety of board games and card games every meeting. We aim to provide a friendly and welcoming environment for everyone, whether you have never played any board games before, or you own a huge collection of your own. Players are encouraged to bring in games they find fun and share them with other club members.

The Bruin Broadcast Network is a student-run, live, internet stream that periodically streams various Catholic High School student activities, including athletic events, choir events, band events and student-run news broadcasts. Eligible: Students 8-12.

The CHS Cheerleaders are made up of juniors and seniors from both CHS and SJA. From running the C-H-S flags down the sidelines after a touchdown to performing complicated stunt sequences at pep rallies, the cheerleaders promote and uphold school spirit. Eligible: CHS/SJA students in grades 11-12 selected through a tryout process.

The Drama Club is an organization of CHS/SJA students whose desire is to improve their acting and technology skills in the theater. Eligible: Students in grades 8-12.

The eSports Club aims to foster a community where members can participate in competitive or casual video game tournaments against other participating schools. This group seeks to provide an opportunity where students can learn communication and strategy skills that promote teamwork, sportsmanship, and creativity while remaining true to the traditions and teachings of Catholic High School and the Brothers of the Sacred Heart.

Members of this organization are athletes and coaches who have an interest in serving God through their interpersonal relationships and in the fellowship of the Church. Eligible: Students in grades 8-12.

The fishing club offers all CHS students the opportunity to share, explore and learn more about the sport of freshwater, saltwater and offshore fishing. All skill levels from beginner to experienced anglers may participate. Guest speakers will meet with club members twice a month in the library. Those students interested in competing on the fishing team are eligible to participate by registering for our CHS team through B.A.S.S. High School Nation. High school club members enjoy camaraderie and competition, as well as education and conservation programs. As part of the B.A.S.S. High School Nation, young anglers can compete in the B.A.S.S. High School Nation Championship. Teen anglers can also attend the High School Elite Experience, a free opportunity for anglers who live near certain Bassmaster Elite Series tour stops. All B.A.S.S. members must be in good academic and discipline standing as well as be current on dues/membership to compete in Bassmaster Tournaments.

The French Club participates in the annual ALCFES convention and other activities to expand and enrich the study of French language and culture.

Eligible: Any student in grades 8-12 who is interested in learning about French language and culture.

The Games Club is an opportunity for students who like gaming to meet and play games together. Eligible: Students in grades 8-12.

The objective of the Grizzly Hospitality Group is to teach students all aspects of the restaurant and hospitality business including restaurant concept building, service and culinary job training, menu building, marketing, human resources, and budgeting. Ultimately, the group hopes to inspire creativity, initiative, and a passion for food and entrepreneurship. Eligible: students in grades 8-12.

Intramural sports are organized programs that enable Catholic High students to participate in single, dual and team sport activities. Intramurals promote wellness and provide opportunities for enjoyable activity and fellowship, while offering constructive use for improved usage of leisure time.

Eligible: Students in grades 8-12.

The Junior Classical League participates in interscholastic competition, service, conventions and other activities promoting the Latin language.

Eligible: Students in grades 8-12 currently enrolled in Latin or students who have completed Latin II.

Lacrosse teams at Catholic High are governed by the Louisiana High School Lacrosse League (LHSLL). While lacrosse is not an LHSAA sanctioned sport, it operates under the direction of the CHS Athletic Director. Lacrosse is a spring sport offering teams at the Varsity, JV and freshman levels. These teams workout four days per week in the summer and practice approximately three days per week in the fall. Practices in the spring happen on campus five days per week from 6:00-8:00 am for Varsity and JV teams. These practices count as credit towards every student’s PE requirement. Spring practices for the freshman team happen in the afternoons from 3:30-5:30 pm four days per week. The Varsity team competes in the West District of the LHSLL. Eligible: Students in grades 8-12.

Mu Alpha Theta is a mathematics club that participates in various math activities and competitions. Eligible: Students in grades 8-12 who have a love of math and are interested in competing in math events.

The National Honor Society is an academic and service club.

Eligible: Students who maintain a 3.8 weighted cumulative GPA in grades 11-12.

The Patriots Club seeks to promote patriotism and appreciation for our nation and its veterans through service to others by embodying the values and spirit of the Catholic High School community. With guest speakers and service projects, the members actively participate in different modes of patriotism.

Eligible: Students in grades 8-12.

The Photography Club is composed of student photographers who take pictures for the school newspaper, yearbook and certain public relations materials. Eligible: Students in grades 8-12.

The CHS Quiz Bowl team promotes academic excellence while participating in competitions in Baton Rouge and nearby cities. Eligible: Students in grades 8-12.

The Respect Life Club consists of students who are committed to a consistent life ethic that respects the sanctity of all human life from conception to natural death. The club works to educate others about the right to life by sponsoring activities that promote valuing all human life. The group known as JPII is a subset of Respect Life. Named after St. John Paul II, it is a faith-based organization dedicated to education and discussion on the concepts of chastity, morality and masculinity in today’s world. Through scripture, prayer and discussion, JPII aims to develop a generation of young men who honor God by their words and actions. Eligible: Students in grades 8-12.

JPII (St. John Paul II)

JPII is a faith-based organization dedicated to education and discussion on the concepts of chastity, morality and masculinity in today’s world. Through scripture, prayer and discussion, JPII aims to develop a generation of young men who honor God by their words and actions. Eligible: Students in grades 8-12.

Robotics Club - Bear Bots

The Bear Bots is a competitive robotics team with a concentration on smaller robots. Students work in teams to design, build, and program robots to achieve goals set out for each competition. The robots are coded to sense the environment and react to various stimuli. Opportunities to compete are scheduled throughout the school year. Eligible: Students in grades 8-12.

Robotics Club – Bear Metal

Bear Metal participates in the First Robotics Competition. During the six-week build season, the team builds and codes the competition robot, which will weigh anywhere from 100-120 pounds. Eligible: Students in grades 10-12.

The Science Club is devoted to pursuing science in a fun, inclusive environment that allows a space for students to explore their interests with hands on activities and encourages understanding scientific impact on the world and interaction with other science related communities. Eligible: Students in grades 8-12

The Spanish Club is a language club that participates in conventions and activities promoting the Spanish language.Eligible: Students in grades 8-12 currently enrolled in Spanish or students who have completed Spanish II.

This club strives to promote the development of oral communication skills; critical thinking; appreciation of literature and the spoken word; argumentation; understanding and appreciation of civics and public affairs; and respect for the opinions and talents of others. Students participate in speech and debate competitions and mock trial tournaments Eligible: Students in grades 8-12.

The Student Ambassadors’ purpose is to help with the recruiting and retention process of all new students.

Eligible: Students with one year of CHS experience.

The Student Council is the student organization that acts as liaison between the students, faculty and administration of Catholic High School. The Student Council is responsible for planning and carrying out the many student activities that take place throughout the school year, such as school dances, food drives, and Challenge, among others. Eligible: Students in grades 8-12.

This club meets twice a week to practice and prepare for competition in the sport of Ultimate Frisbee. The team regularly travels to tournaments all across the South. The Bears won the High School National Championship in Chicago, IL in 2017. Many alumni continue to play in college. Eligible: Students in grades 8-12.

Youth Leg conference and the Model United Nations conference give high school students an opportunity to participate in Louisiana government and in our world assembly where they can express their ideas for laws and resolutions. Eligible: Students in grades 8-12.

Interscholastic Athletics District 5-5A Sports Program includes competition in the following varsity sports as well as junior varsity (jv), freshman (f) and eighth grade (8g) where indicated.

Basketball (jv, f and 8g)

Cross Country (jv, f and 8g)                     

Track (jv, f and 8g)

Football (jv, f).                                                

Below are criteria for athletic and extracurricular lettering at CHS.

Catholic High School is a member of the Louisiana High School Athletic Association. Once a student has attended a class at Catholic High School, he has declared Catholic High to be his school of first choice and all LHSAA eligibility rules apply. The school awards a letter to any athlete who completes a season and meets the lettering participation requirements of a sport. If in the judgment of the head coach a student has made a significant contribution to the program during the season, that student may receive a letter without strict fulfillment of the participation requirements of a sport. Participation requirements for lettering in each sport are as follows:

Baseball: Play in one half or more of the innings during the season.

Basketball: Play in two-thirds of the scheduled games.

Bowling: Play in two-thirds of the scheduled matches.

Cross Country: Participate as one of the top seven runners in at least one half of the meets during the season or in district or state championships.

Football: Play in at least 16 quarters during regular season.

Golf: Play in at least one half of the matches scheduled or participate in the regional tournament.

Lacrosse: Attend all practices and play at least two quarters in at least two games, or have three or more years of experience, the latest on varsity.

Soccer: Play in at least one half of soccer games during the regular season.

Swimming: Score at least 30 points during the season or place third or higher in the city meet, or place fifth or higher in the state meet.

Tennis: Play in more than one half of the matches during the season, including district and regional tournaments.

Track: Score one or more points in the district meet or score 25 or more points during the season.

Wrestling: Score at least 15 points (pin, 2 points; decision, 1.5 points; draw, 1 point) and/or wrestle in at least one half of the season matches.

Members of state championship teams receive a special team picture and a six-inch patch shaped like the state of Louisiana.

Members of state runner-up teams receive a four-inch patch with a shape emblematic of the respective sport.

Catholic High awards plaques rather than jacket patches to recognize individual achievement in any sport. Such plaques are presented to athletes selected for all-district or all- state first teams, city champions and the like. Plaques are awarded at the sports convocation, along with special awards such as most valuable player, best plays on offense or defense and the like.

For outstanding performance in various extracurricular activities, students may qualify for several types of awards. Such awards include pins, certificates and plaques. In addition, sophomores, juniors and seniors may receive letter jackets for such performance.

Each extracurricular club has established criteria for a member to qualify for a letter jacket.

Such criteria are subject to approval by the activities director and the school administration.

Catholic High’s athletic teams have achieved the following state championships, runners-up and District (metro/city/regional) championships:

101           

Total            

Catholic High’s award program is designed to recognize student excellence and achievement in areas of academics, extracurriculars and service. In the area of service, the program includes recognition of alumni and other members of the CHS family who contribute substantially to the school and its programs.

Recipients of academic awards and extracurricular club awards are selected at the end of each school year. Athletic award winners are selected and/or voted upon by coaches and players after each sport’s season.

If a club or organization wishes to initiate an intraclub award, the proposal for each award must be presented to the administration at the beginning of the school year and the individual club must finance the trophy.

If a student fails to attend an award presentation program to receive an award, he risks forfeiture of the award unless he has arranged with the proper authority for an excused absence. If a student transfers to another local high school before an earned award is presented, he becomes ineligible for the award.

Descriptions and qualification requirements for awards granted by CHS are listed below:

The Golden Bear is the highest award of Catholic High School. The Golden Bear trophy was designed exclusively for Catholic High and it is the unique property of the school. The award is granted annually to the valedictorian and the salutatorian of the graduating class as well as to outstanding students for excellence in academic or extracurricular achievement. The Golden Bear award is intended to be a senior award earned for excellence over the course of a student’s time at CHS. On rare occasions, a junior may be nominated for a Golden Bear. Before nominating a junior for a Golden Bear, the department chairpersons or club moderator must get approval from the administration.

Golden Bear Award - Special Awards

Certain seniors may earn the Golden Bear Award by demonstrating excellence in multiple areas or by qualifying for other prestigious honors and awards. Golden Bear awards in this category may be presented too:

• The senior selected by the administration as the most exemplary in service, loyalty, achievement, scholarship and character. He is named the year’s Outstanding Graduate.

• The senior who most distinguishes himself in service to the school. He is the winner of the CHS service award.

• The senior selected by vote of the senior class that most exemplifies courage, honor, leadership, patriotism, scholarship and service. He is the winner of the American Legion Award.

• The senior who is most outstanding in the dual fields of athletics and academic achievement. He is named the Student Athlete. He is the winner of the Student Athlete Award.

Golden Bear Award - Academic

The Golden Bear Award is given to the outstanding senior in Art, Band, Chorus, Engineering and Technology, English, French, Health and Physical Education, Latin, Mathematics, Religion, Science, Social Studies and Spanish. The following are the criteria used in selecting the outstanding senior in each subject area:

• The winner must have the highest academic average in the respective subject area, based on semester grades.

• He must have taken a minimum of three courses in that subject area, including the highest level available to a student who enters CHS as a freshman.

• He must have attended Catholic High School for at least two years.

• He must have shown outstanding proficiency in the subject area in both written and oral work.

• In case of ties, the following are considered:

• Quarter grades in the respective subject area throughout four years of high school.

• Extra projects, achievements and rally nomination for all students under consideration.

Golden Bear Award - Extracurricular

Students with at least two years in a club and who demonstrate excellence or outstanding performance in extracurricular organizations may qualify for the Golden Bear Award. In order to grant such awards, organizations must meet certain criteria:

• The organization must have been in existence for at least four consecutive years. Each school year the club must have met on an average of at least once a month.

• Each club must participate in at least three major events in which the majority of the members are involved. One such event must be a service project. In order for a member to be nominated for a Golden Bear award, he must maintain active membership and meet all club criteria.

• In order to qualify to grant the Golden Bear Award for a given year, each club will be evaluated by the activities director as to fulfillment of its purpose and mission. Organizations that may grant the Golden Bear Award this year are the Art Club, Bearly Published, Bruin, Bruin Broadcast Network, Drama Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, French Club, Junior Classical League, Mu Alpha Theta, National Honor Society, Photography Club, Spanish Club, Speech and Debate, Student Ambassadors, Student Council, Ultimate, and Youth and Government.

• The moderator of each qualifying organization selects at least two but not more than five outstanding members as candidates for the award. A vote by the members and the moderator then determines a single nominee for the club’s award. The club moderator, in consultation with the events coordinator, then presents the nomination for approval by the school administration.

Golden Bear Award - Hall of Fame

Inductees into the Catholic High School Hall of Fame receive the Golden Bear Award. Inductees are special individuals who have shown outstanding leadership, character and dedication, and whose membership in the Hall of Fame would prove an inspiration to the students of Catholic High. To qualify for selection, a person must either have graduated from CHS at least five years prior to induction or, if not a graduate, he/she must have been associated with the school for at least five years prior to induction. Nominations are open to the public

Catholic High awards a letter jacket for academic, athletic and extracurricular activities. If the student letters for multiple years or in more than one activity, he may receive a metal pin at the discretion of the moderator or coach to attach to the letter on the jacket, thus indicating the additional achievement(s). A student is eligible to letter each year in high school. Letter jackets are awarded beginning in the fall of the student’s sophomore year. If a freshman letters, he may receive a pin. The school issues the student only one jacket during his high school career. The cost to a student for a letter jacket is $50, to be paid at the time the jacket is ordered. Additional insignia or patches may be added at the expense of the student. Athletic patches for city, district or state achievement are awarded at the discretion of the athletic director. A student who transfers from another school must be enrolled at Catholic High for one year before he is eligible to receive a letter jacket. If a student transfers from Catholic High to another school in the greater Baton Rouge area before his letter jacket is awarded, he will not receive the jacket.

Academic letter awards are based on weighted cumulative grade point averages. To earn an academic letter a student must have a weighted cumulative grade point average of 3.5 or higher. The weighted cumulative grade point average is calculated at the end of each school year (for athletic and extracurricular lettering criteria, see section on Student Activities).

Two categories of students are honored at graduation:

• Academic Program Scholars - graduates completing the academic curriculum with a weighted cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher. These students wear white colored stoles at graduation.

• Honors Program Scholars - graduates successfully completing the Honors Program by meeting the criteria located in this Student Handbook. Graduates designated as Honors Program Scholars receive the CHS Honors Diploma and wear gold colored stoles at graduation.

• Also, National Honor Society members who complete their NHS service and attendance requirements with an eight-semester weighted cumulative GPA of 3.8 or higher will wear orange cords at graduation.

CHS Men of the Year

Selection as a Catholic High Man of the Year is recognition of a student’s outstanding career performance and development at the school. Whereas the Golden Bear is awarded for excellence in more specific areas, Men of the Year are selected by the faculty for outstanding performance in multiple areas, including academics, religion, human relations, extracurriculars and service.

Grizzly Greats is an athletic Hall of Fame established to honor past Catholic High athletes or persons who have contributed significantly to the school’s athletic program other than by actual participation. Anyone who graduated from CHS at least five years previously or, if not a graduate, who has supported the school’s athletic program for at least five years is eligible for induction.

Delario Eames, a Catholic High graduate of the class of 1973, was a distinguished student and a person of great integrity and courage. He attended Louisiana Tech University on an athletic scholarship, and in 1977 he earned a degree in aviation. He then enlisted in the United States Navy and served as a carrier based fighter pilot until February 1981 when he was killed while participating in a training exercise over the Pacific Ocean.

The Delario Eames Memorial Courage Award is presented to a student, graduate or friend of Catholic High School who, by his or her actions, has demonstrated the mental and moral strength to confront, resist and overcome significant danger, opposition or hardship. In order to be considered for this award, nominees must possess extraordinary courage, spirit, resolve and tenacity.

St. Joseph’s Academy

Students of St. Joseph’s Academy who excel in Catholic High extracurriculars may receive certificates, pins, plaques or letter jackets as stated in their respective clubs’ award criteria.

In addition to Catholic High, certain support organizations in the community present a number of prestigious awards to students who excel or demonstrate outstanding performance in various areas and activities.

The various award winners are honored at six events that take place each school year. The events are the Academic Convocation, Fall Sports Convocation, Winter Sports Convocation, Leadership Convocation, Spring Sports Convocation and the Golden Bear Honors Convocation.

Recipients of academic awards and extracurricular club activity awards are selected at the end of each school year. Academic awards are presented at the Academic Convocation and extracurricular club activity awards are presented at the Leadership Convocation. Athletic award winners are selected and/or voted on by coaches and players after each individual sport season. Results are made known at the respective sports convocations.

A number of special awards go to student athletes for special achievements. Also, certificates of participation, varsity lettermen certificates and all-district and all-state plaques are presented. Listed below are the awards conferred at the respective presentation events.

• Certificates to seniors for outstanding performance at State Literary Rally

• Presentation of Nationally Recognized Finalists

• Presentation of Principal’s Award to students who achieved a 4.0 grade point average

• Recognition of Honor Graduates

• Recognition of CHS Men of the Year

• Certificates for outstanding performance at State Literary Rally

• Certificates and/or honor pins for academic achievement

• Certificates for semifinalists and commended students in National Merit Scholarship competition

• Certificates for participants in foreign language festivals

• Certificates for participants in Cyber Discovery

• The F. Wayne Frey ‘71 and Majorie “Grammy” Frey Memorial Endowed Scholarship

• The Brother Adrian Gaudin, S.C. Scribe Memorial Endowed Scholarship

• The Mildred Creaghan Robichaux and Gertrude Creaghan Memorial Endowed Scholarship in Honor of Brother Carl Evans, S.C.

• Jordan T. “Jordy” Rourke ‘06 Memorial Endowed Scholarship

• Brent David Pecue ‘80 Memorial Endowed Scholarship

• Barefoot Pedals Foundation in honor of Jeff Nola ‘94

• Jacob Meek ’17 Memorial Award

• Coach’s Award

• The Steve Deumite Memorial Golden Grizzly

• Coach’s Award

• Coach’s Award

• The Robert Selleck Memorial Outstanding Offensive Player

• Coach’s Award

• Coach’s Award

• Coach’s Award

• Certificates for outstanding performance at District/State Literary Rally

• Certificates for club officers and outstanding participants in certain extracurriculars

• Baton Rouge State Fair Foundation Student Volunteer Award

• Rensselaer Award for achievement in mathematics and science

• Bausch and Lomb Award for achievement in science

• Woodmen of the World Award for achievement in social studies

• Knights of Columbus Patriotic Award

• Book Award for achievement in English

• Clyde Didier Memorial Student-Athlete

• Brent Pecue Memorial Team Spirit

• Coach’s Award

• Coach’s Award

• Coach’s Award

• Coach’s Award

• The Brett Devall Memorial Outstanding Distance Man

• Coach’s Award

The initial REGISTRATION FEE for new students is $550 payable upon acceptance.

Tuition includes the individual use of a school-issued notebook computer.

Returning student REGISTRATION FEE for 2022-2023 is $450

(New Students and Returning Students)

TUITION PAYMENT OPTIONS (All tuition and registration is interest free, payable in advance on-line through FACTS. In March 2021, parents will be invited to schedule a tuition payment plan through FACTS. The following are payment options:

#1 Annual Payment—due on July 5, 2021

#2 Semi-Annual Payments—due on July 5, 2021 and December 3, 2021

#3 Monthly Installment Payments through FACTS—see below for details.

Note: All tuition payments will be made on-line through FACTS. There is no FACTS charge for annual payments. However, FACTS will charge a $45 annual fee for the Monthly Installment Plan and a $10 annual fee for the Semi-Annual Installment Plan.

Work Study Program / Financial Grants

In keeping with the educational tradition of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart, no student is refused admission or asked to leave Catholic High School solely because of his family’s inability to pay tuition.

Financial assistance is available for students whose families are unable to pay the full cost of tuition. Applications after the deadline will be considered for extraordinary circumstances. However, requests for emergency grants will be considered as described below. Applications are to be completed and submitted online through a program called FACTS Management Company. Any parent who does not have access to a computer or who needs help completing the online application can get assistance by contacting Mrs. Pinney Johnson at Catholic High School by phone at (225) 383-0397 or by email at pjohnson@catholichigh.org.

The online application for financial assistance for CHS tuition can be reached through the FACTS link in the Financial Assistance section of the CHS web site.

Upon receiving a completed application for financial assistance, the CHS Financial Assistance Committee, headed by the president, will review the application and determine what amount and type of assistance will be offered. Financial assistance may be offered in the form of a partial tuition grant, an opportunity for the student to participate in a summer work study program for credit toward orientation and tuition expenses or a combination of partial grant and work study.

The president may use his discretion in cases where extreme financial problems jeopardize a student’s continued attendance at Catholic High School. The student’s parent(s) must contact the president in such cases.

Parents are asked and expected to honor their financial obligation to Catholic High School through the timely payment of tuition and fees. However, when CHS families experience severe financial situations, parents should contact the CHS president as soon as possible to discuss possible adjustments in scheduled tuition payments. Again, no student will be asked to leave CHS solely on the basis of his parent’s inability to pay full tuition. If no alternative arrangement for payment is made and authorized by the CHS president, when a student’s tuition account becomes two months in arrears, the student may be subject to suspension from classes. No student may take semester examinations until all financial obligations to the school have been satisfactorily addressed as defined by the CHS president.

The Office of Advancement serves to advance the mission of Catholic High School through an organized model of support that engages Advancement, Admissions, Alumni Relations, Communications and Planned Giving by fostering philanthropic relationships with parents, alumni and friends. Through outreach, pride and promotion of the school, the Office focuses to create long-term sustainable relationships that support critical initiatives such as the annual fund, capital campaigns, endowments, scholarships, honorary/memorial gifts, and planned giving which directly impacts the very best holistic educational experience for our students.

3040 Government Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70806│ 225.239.7010 │ jkelly@catholichigh.org │catholichigh.org/giving

Daily announcements are an important part of the school’s communication effort. Each day, announcements are broadcast over the school’s public address system and a copy of the script is posted on the school website. Any message to be included in announcements must first be approved by a faculty member.

We ask parents to refrain from calling the school office to leave routine messages for students. Only emergency messages from parents will be delivered. Parents may email students throughout the school day.

The Bruin Shop is conveniently located between the mall and gym in the main building and is open during the school year from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (closed daily for lunch). On non-school days store hours will appear on the school calendar. The Bruin Shop sells required class materials and workbooks, P.E. shorts and shirts, required outerwear, fan apparel, gifts and general school supplies.

The only sources for authorized school merchandise are The Bruin Shop or through the school’s website. Other online sites and local stores do not have the school’s permission to sell CHS merchandise and items purchased from them will not be considered acceptable as required school apparel or merchandise!

Personal articles found around the campus should be taken to The Bruin Shop immediately. Whenever something of value is lost, and it has not been turned in to the store students should file a report in the office of the assistant principal for discipline.

Catholic High School neither offers nor provides insurance to cover an accident, injury, or damage to students and/or their personal property while they are on or off campus or while they are engaged in academic or extracurricular activities sponsored by CHS. By enrolling their sons at CHS, parents thereby acknowledge that fact, and they agree to accept the full financial responsibility, on their own or in conjunction with their personal insurance provider, for the cost of any treatments or services for their sons needed as a result of an accident, injury, or damage to students and/or their personal property regardless of when or where such accident, injury, or damage may occur.

Catholic High School has in the past obtained, and seeks to renew each year, a Student Accident Catastrophic Medical Insurance policy that covers all students. However, this policy is limited and it is designed for and only covers catastrophic injury and loss.

Catholic High reserves the right to use students’ pictures in school publications and on the school website. Enrollment of a student in Catholic High School constitutes the consent of his parents or guardians for the use of the student’s pictures in school publications, on the school’s website and in school advertisements in print and broadcast outlets.

Taking/posting/sending photos, videos or voice recordings of CHS employees at any time without their express consent is prohibited. Students who engage in such activities are subject to disciplinary consequences.

Catholic High School has installed security cameras at various locations around campus to help increase the safety and protection of people and property. While these cameras are not monitored 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, they will record and preserve data for a period of time, allowing more effective response should a security issue occur.

In an effort to maintain a safe and secure school campus, Catholic High has added fencing and gating around the campus. A student’s standard issued ID card contains a chip that allows entrance through the gates during designated times. In order to preserve security, students will only be allowed to have one ID card at any given time. If a student loses or forgets his ID card, he must purchase a new card and the old card will then be deactivated. Students must not do anything that defeats the purpose of the fencing and gating, in particular, but not limited to, propping open the gate for other students, or sharing their ID with anyone. Students who leave gates open, or allow others to use their ID to gain access to campus, will be subject to disciplinary consequences.

A Statement of Policy by the Board of Directors Catholic High School

“The mission of Catholic High School is to teach Gospel values in an environment of academic excellence according to Catholic tradition and the spirit of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart.” (The Mission Statement of Catholic High School)

Catholic High School is committed to assuring that all employees’ and volunteers’ relations with the young further their human, spiritual, physical, moral, and social growth. It is equally committed to vigilance against any influences which are inimical to growth in these areas.

In light of its mission and its relationship of trust with young people, Catholic High states its strong commitment to preventing the sexual and physical abuse of the young who are the beneficiaries of this mission. It states with equal strength its commitment to preventing all forms of physical or sexual abuse. The concrete forms which define this policy of commitment to prevention of abuse are detailed in the subsequent paragraphs.

Catholic High School employs only persons willing to submit to thorough screening by use of procedures including, but not necessarily limited to, confidential written references; formal checking with the National Child Abuse Central Registry and with national and state law enforcement agencies; and personal interviews aimed at determining their suitability for work with young people and at ascertaining their readiness to supervision of their work with the young.

Catholic High School conducts close supervision of all employees and volunteers aimed at preventing sexual and physical abuse. Supervision at Catholic High includes the express promulgation of guidelines for conduct by employees and volunteers in their relationships with the young and with adults. Supervision at Catholic High aims not only at preventing behaviors which of themselves fall under the legal definitions of sexual and physical abuse but also at eliminating those words, actions, and comportments which are potentially exploitative, abusive, or demeaning.

Catholic High School educates its employees and volunteers who work with young people in (a) the means of recognizing symptoms of abuse, (b) their responsibilities for reporting suspected instances of abuse or neglect, (c) state, parish, and municipal laws defining and governing sexual and physical abuse, and (d) the procedures of supervision.

Likewise, Catholic High educates its students regarding state, parish, and local laws pertaining to physical and sexual abuse, and how to recognize symptoms of abuse. Students are also informed regarding procedures to be followed in case of suspected or perceived abuse.

All employees and volunteers at Catholic High School will take seriously all allegations of sexual or physical abuse and neglect, regardless of the role and identity of the accused, by reporting the allegation to the competent school authority.

The school’s first concern will be the protection, confidentiality, and welfare of the person(s) involved in the allegations, and the first action will be the immediate removal of the accused from the ministry site until the matter is resolved.

In the event of an allegation of sexual or physical abuse, after protecting the person making the charge from possible further distress by removal of the accused from the ministry site, the competent school authority will abide by all state, parish, and municipal laws about reporting the allegation to civil authorities and will cooperate with such authorities in the discharge of their duties.

Any employee of or volunteer with Catholic High School who admits to guilt, is found guilty of, or pleads nolo contendere to a charge of abuse will be terminated.

Approved by Board of Directors April 21, 1994

A Statement of Policy by the Board of Directors

“The mission of Catholic High School is to teach Gospel values in an environment of academic excellence according to Catholic tradition and the spirit of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart.” (The Mission Statement of Catholic High School)

Catholic High School is committed to assuring that the relations between and among its employees, volunteers, students and various publics are marked by mutual respect and an appreciation for one another’s rights.

In light of its mission, Catholic High states its strong commitment to preventing all forms of harassment. It is school policy that all employees and volunteers are responsible for assuring that the workplace and academic environment are free from harassment. This policy is detailed in the subsequent paragraphs. While primarily dealing with the issue of sexual harassment, the policy applies to all forms of harassment in the workplace and academic environment.

Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual or harassing nature. Sexual harassment occurs when:

Catholic High School employs only persons willing to submit to thorough screening by use of procedures including, but not necessarily limited to, confidential written references; formal checking with national and state law enforcement agencies; and personal interviews aimed at determining, when appropriate, their suitability for work with young people in conjunction and cooperation with colleagues and at ascertaining their readiness to submit to supervision of their work.

Catholic High School conducts close supervision of all employees and volunteers aimed at preventing all forms of harassment. Supervision at Catholic High includes the express promulgation of guidelines for conduct by employees, volunteers, and students regarding their conduct. Supervision at Catholic High School aims not only at preventing behaviors which of themselves fall under the legal definitions of harassment, but also at eliminating those words, actions, and comportments which

are potentially harassing, exploitative, abusive, or demeaning.

Catholic High School educates its employees and volunteers in (a) the means of recognizing indications of harassment, (b) their responsibilities for reporting suspected instances of harassment, (c) state, parish, and municipal laws defining and governing harassment, and (d) the procedures of supervision.

Likewise, Catholic High School educates its students regarding state, parish, and local laws pertaining to harassment; and, through written and verbal policies and directives, informs students as to what is and is not appropriate behavior, both at school and at school-related functions and activities. Students are also informed regarding procedures to be followed in case of suspected or perceived harassment.

All employees and volunteers are responsible for maintaining a workplace free from any form of harassment. No employee or volunteer shall threaten or insinuate, either explicitly or implicitly, that an employee’s refusal to submit to sexual advances will adversely affect that employee’s employment, evaluations, wages, advancement, assigned duties, or any other condition of employment or career development. No employee or volunteer shall commit or allow other personnel to engage in other unwelcome or unwanted sexually harassing conduct including, but not necessarily limited to:

--sexual flirtations, touching, advances, or propositions;

--verbal abuse of a sexual nature;

--graphic or suggestive comments about an individual’s dress or body;

--sexually degrading words to describe an individual;

--the display in the workplace of sexually suggestive objects or pictures.

An employee who has a question regarding this policy or who has a complaint of harassment at work by anyone, including any supervisor or administrator, co- worker, vendor, student, supplier, or other, must bring the problem to the attention of the principal or the president. Allegations related to the principal or the president should be submitted directly to the Board of Directors.

The employee is hereby assured that the filing of a complaint will in no way result in any form of retaliation.

All individuals at Catholic High School, but especially those charged with offices or roles of supervision, shall take seriously all allegations of harassment, regardless of the role and identity of the accused, by reporting the allegation to the principal or the president, whose first concern will be the protection, confidentiality, and welfare of the person(s) named as victim(s) in the allegations. If circumstances dictate, the principal or the president may require the immediate removal of the one accused of the harassment from the ministry site until the matter is resolved.

In the event of an allegation of harassment, after protecting the alleged victim from possible further distress by reasonable and appropriate means, including the possible removal of the accused from the ministry site, the principal or president will immediately initiate an investigation in an impartial and confidential manner.

Any member of the Catholic High School community who admits to or is determined to have been guilty of harassment will be subject immediately to disciplinary action ranging from a written warning to termination or dismissal, depending upon the severity of the violation in each case.

Approved by Board of Directors April 21, 1994

Come on and fight, all you Bruins, and triumph on the field!

Big Bruin cohorts are cheering for the

This day we’re all out for vict’ry

No matter what the cost

‘Cause we’ll fight forever

“Til the last white line is crossed.

We’ll be true to you

When storm clouds hover and.        

When the skies are blue.

May your ills be few.

Dear Alma Mater we’ll be

C…H…S!