Greetings! Please look to this page for the latest information and newest happenings at

Our Lady of Consolation School.

God’s love!

PRAYER TO OUR LADY OF CONSOLATION

Mary, we turn to you with confidence,

You who are always ready to listen with a mother’s affection and powerful assistance. Consoler of the afflicted,

health of the sick, refuge of sinners, grant us comfort in tribulation, relief from sickness, and liberating strength in our weakness.

You, who are free from sin, lead us to combat Sin. Obtain for us victory of hope over anguish, of joy and beauty over boredom and disgust, of eternal visions over temporal ones,

of life over death. Amen

OUR LADY OF CONSOLATION: PRAY FOR US. AMEN

OLC School:

Knowing Christ, Teaching Christ,

Becoming Christ”.

THE 2012 OLC

Memory Night

Monday, May 21^th, 2012

Our Lady of Consolation

Church Hall

6:00 – 7:00 Video Presentation of Highlights of the School Year: “2011/2012 -Our Lady of Consolation School: A Beautiful Legacy!”

7:00 General Meeting:

Immediately Following Will Be Presentations by Students of Every Grade

An encore showing of our school video will follow the students’ performances.

Thank you!

OLC SCHOOL UPDATE 5/9/12

Congratulations to our 3^rd Grade for a beautiful First Holy Communion on Saturday. It went flawlessly. Special thanks to Mrs. McLaughlin, who directed her 29^th First Holy Communion at OLC. That’s dedication!!!

OLC Italian Language Courses Graduation

We had an excellent graduation. The Italian language class students gave short presentations (all in Italian) for parents/guardians, relatives, and friends. We had a large turnout. Following that, there was a graduation ceremony with diplomas and pins distributed to the children. We concluded with a graduation party with pizza and an awesome amount of homemade Italian dinner treats and desserts. We thank our teacher, Mr. Renato Sifoni for another super job. Everyone had a nice time at the celebration! Ciao'

(Benefits 8^th Grade)

REMINDER: Posters for OLC Memory Night We are requesting each family to make one poster with memories from OLC. Please send the poster to school by Tuesday, May 15^th. TY! We will display them in the Church Hall for everyone to reminisce.

Thank you everyone for making our 2012 Our Lady of Consolation May Procession a wonderful event! Every year the OLC public devotion to Mary is a beautiful sight to see! The teachers and students worked very hard to prepare for this ceremony and it turn out as always, great! (The children sang VERY LOUD.) Thank you for being a part of this special event.

Yours in Christ, Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco ~ Principal

We are proud to present our

STUDENTS OF THE MONTH

April 2012

Spiritual

PreK Cassidy McQuoid

Kindergarten Daniel Wowack

Grade 1 Lilly Keller

Grade 2 Gianna Marie Vishio

Grade 3 Dylan Sypherd

Grade 4 Riley Yohn

Grade 5 Natalie Bowers

Grade 6 William Gerstle

Grade 7 Nikolas Huff

Grade 8 Justin Darmohray

Congratulations to these pious students!

BOO

Dear Parent/Guardians,

Greetings and let me wish you an early Happy May! As the school year is coming to a close, many thanks to everyone for making our school, during this arduous time, still a beautiful place to be! Some of the latest news includes:

Please keep several special intentions in your prayers. We are especially praying for a full recovery for Mr. De Marco.

Connelly grant class trip (Grades 4-8) to Academy of Natural Sciences went very well! The children told me they had a great time!
OLC Student/Faculty game coming soon! OLC Spirit Night May 2^nd (See flyer)

· 2012 May Procession: 7:00 PM on the 7^th.

Spring Fling this year will be “Bingo and Carnival of Prizes” on Saturday at 6:00.
Excellent news! May Book Fair – BOGO- Every student and teacher in the school will receive a $14.00 (approximately) credit to purchase anything they want from the Book Fair. BOGO will only apply to cash purchases (not the $14.00 voucher purchase). Book Fair will be open to all parents to come and shop. Younger grades (PreK, K, and 1) need to ask their parents to come help with their class.
Italian Class Graduation and Party is today 3:30 – 4:30 in the School Hall. Everyone is invited. (Lots of good Italian food coming!)
Secretary Day this Thursday. Happy Secretary’s Day Mrs. “T”!!!

· Thank you for your Earth Day casual dress down day participation. We raised $258.00 for the 8^th grade dance committee.

All 7 OLC School DVD videos will soon be available for purchase. Special price for entire set. More information coming.
Prior to the end of the school year, a picture will be taken including all the students, faculty, and staff. This picture will be made into a post card or 5x7 and distributed to all the students and teachers.
OLC Fun Day – 7^th grade will design t-shirts and plan the event. Water ice, pretzel, and water bottle will be given to every child. Our DJ and magician are scheduled.
Please note: Make up snow day is May 30^th. Also the first week of June will be 12:00 dismissals. Last full day is June 1^st.

OLC Memory Night” May 21^st (See attached letter) We request each family to construct one poster with Memories from OLC. Posters are due by May 15^th. On that evening we will also unveil our video, “Our Lady of Consolation School 2011– 2012 A Beautiful Legacy”. Two showings will take place, one at 6:00 and the second at the conclusion of the evening. Each grade will present a 5 minute presentation based on memories from OLC.

This month we honor Mary:

Mary's Peace Prayer
Mary, Mother of God my mother, Queen of Peace, ask your Son Jesus to
give me the gift of peace. Pray for me for peace; peace in my heart, peace
of mind and of soul, peace in my family,

peace with all whom I meet, the
peace of Jesus.

God’s love and grace!

Happy Mother’s Day!!!

Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco

Principal

Happy Earth Day!

OLC SCHOOL UPDATE

Happy Easter Everyone! 4/3/12

Congratulations to the 3, 7, and 8 Grades for fantastic performances of “Journey to Jerusalem” and “Living Stations”! This year we again combined the two plays and it was great! Special thanks to Mrs. McLaughlin, Mrs. Barbara Sharp, and Mrs. Antoinette Devine for directing the children. Thanks also to all who attended. We had a good turnout. It was a very spiritual evening.

(Several parishioners told me it was beautiful.) God bless!

Annual Kindergarten Easter Bonnet Parade was great!

2012 Connelly award winner!!!

All the staff of

Our Lady of Consolation School

wishes you and your family a

joyous Easter Season!

The Lord is Risen!

Yours in Christ, Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco ~ Principal

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Greetings and Happy Spring! As we enter an early spring season of rebirth, let me wish you and your families a wonderful Easter with the risen Lord!

Thank you to all who attended our Family Bingo last Saturday. Special thanks to all our helpers!

Thank you also to everyone who attended the Forty Hours activities.
Congrats to Margaret McLaughlin and the 3^rd grade for a great First Penance on Tuesday evening.
Third Trimester Progress reports will be issued on April 26^th. Remember if a student fails a subject as a final grade, he/she must attend summer school or receive 30 hours of tutoring.
Important note: Teacher roll books are legal documents and may be subpoenaed as evidence in a court case. Any student who is absent or late needs to bring a note to school the day he/she returns. The note must include a reason why she/he was absent or late. (This is needed in addition to the phone call.) TY!
Connelly grant class trip (Grades 4-8) to Academy of Natural Sciences on 4/17.
Congratulations go to our 6^th, 7^th, and 8^th Grades for a super job leading our Stations of the Cross!

Congratulations to Daniele Elliott for winning a $1000.00 academic scholarship to Saint Hubert’s High School.
The children thoroughly enjoyed the Franklin Institute presentation on weather. This was provided free through a grant by the Connelly foundation. The children told me the coolest part was turning the School Hall into a giant cloud!) Highlights will be part of the highlight video to be presented on OLC Memory Night.
A big thank you to the 8^th grade dance committee for a very good meeting Monday evening.

· · Spring uniform option started this week.

Second Safe Environment Lesson will be presented on April 24^th.

· · First make up Snow Day is Tuesday, April 10^th. Second make up snow day is Tuesday, May 29^th. Enjoy the long Memorial Day weekend!

· The annual Kindergarten Easter Parade will be held on April 4^th.

· Home and School Spring Fling evening on April 28^th.

· We wish a Happy Secretary's Day to Mrs. "T" on the 26^th!

Finally, this month we celebrate the greatest feast on our Catholic calendar. Jesus’ passion, death, and resurrection shows us that through the darkness there is light and new life for each of us. It is important to keep the faith through the trying times.

Have a relaxing and joyous Easter!

God Bless!

Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco

Principal

We are proud to present our

STUDENTS OF THE MONTH

March 2012

Perseverance/ Hard Working

Pre K Connor Davis

Kindergarten Patrick Dugan

Grade 1 Matthew Lorenzi

Grade 2 Victoria Root

Grade 3 Nicole Huff

Grade 4 Mackenzie Wynne

Grade 5 Robert Gerstle

Grade 6 Charles Marone

Grade 7 Marylee Palumbo

Grade 8 Tara Keller

Congratulations to these motivated students!

OLC Pizza Order Form

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Greetings! Wednesday, April 18^th is “OLC Pizza Day”. Students can pay $1.00 for pizza. All pizza profits will go to OLC School.

To order pizza, please complete the tear off sheet and place it in an envelope along with the total’ fee. ($1.00 per slice.) (Checks should be made payable to Our Lady of Consolation Catholic School)

Gratzi!

Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco

Principal

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OLC Pizza Order Form

Name _______________________________

Student Name_________________________

Grade_______________________________

Number of Pizza Slices ($1.00 each) ________

Total Enclosed_________________________

Please enclose this form in an envelope and include cash or check for the full amount. On the envelope please write the student’s name and grade.

Please send in all orders no later than

Tuesday, April 17^th . Thank You!!!

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Important Notice

The Philadelphia crossing guard at the Princeton and Hegerman corner will now be assigned to the corner of Edmund and Princeton. I have requested a crossing guard for the Hegerman/Princeton corner. Please be especially careful crossing all street intersections. Thank you,

Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco ~ Principal

Happy Spring Everyone!!!!

OLC SCHOOL UPDATE 3/21/12

We are praying for several special intentions and also for our school families, students, teachers and staff.World Down Syndrome Day!

World Down Syndrome Day was established in 2006 by Down Syndrome International, with the goal of raising awareness and mobilizing support and recognition of the dignity, rights and well-being of people with Down syndrome across the world. March 21, the 21st day of the third month of the year, was chosen to symbolize the third copy of chromosome 21 present in Trisomy 21, the most common form of Down syndrome. This year, World Down Syndrome Day is especially significant as it is the first time that the day will be officially observed by the United Nations. Today we join the global community, by raising awareness in celebration of people with Down syndrome, their abilities and achievements.

We are proud to present our

STUDENTS OF THE MONTH

February 2012

“Courageous”

PreK Gregory West

Kindergarten Tu Van Do

Grade 1 Lilly Keller

Grade 2 Gavin Papaleo

Grade 3 Damian Dangler

Grade 4 Brenna Paxson

Grade 5 Kayla Zimmerman

Grade 6 Nicholas Basciano

Grade 7 Miriam Minto

Grade 8 Rosemary Paxson

Congratulations to these brave students!

2012/2013 BLOC SCHOLARSHIP FORMS are now available at our OLC school office.

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Greetings and Happy March! Even though the winter has so far been mild, I am sure we are all looking forward to the wonderful season of spring!

Here are the latest happenings at our school:

Congratulations to Mrs. O’Donnell and her new baby! Baby Madison Lee was born yesterday. (6lbs. 12ounces) Mom and baby are doing fine.
Ann Marie Kuvik, who has extensive previous teaching experience and is familiar with our school, will substitute until Mrs. O’Donnell returns from maternity leave.
Thanks to all for a very good Catholic Schools Week celebration. Highlights will be part of our 2011/2012 school year video that will be shown in May.
Thanks also to everyone for an awesome Talent Show. The children get better every year! “Last Dance” was a touching moment.
Terra Novas testing begins this week. (See form for details.)
We have a great response to our Italian course this year. First class is today (3:30 – 4:30)
9:00 School Mass on Friday cancelled due to Terra Nova testing.
40 Hours Devotions start this Sunday. (See handout for particulars.)
First Penance and Holy Communion Commissioning Mass on Sunday, March 11^th at 11:00.
Open House and Registration at Saint Matthews on Thursday (3/15) at 6:00-8:00 PM. More info coming.
OLC Bingo night is Saturday, March 10^th.
Second Trimester Report Cards distributed on Friday, March 16^th.
The children thoroughly enjoyed the Walnut Street Theater’s production of the environment themed play called “Go Green”. All four performers commented on how well behaved our students were. They also stated they asked excellent questions at the wrap session as well.

Transition Prayer: Dear Lord, Remind me the future is unknown. Remind me I am both powerless and powerful. Grant me the mindset, the depth, the willingness to be here now. To do the next Right thing. To accept what I can’t change. To be engaged in where I can.

Help me see the way forward.
One day at a time.

God’s Love and Peace,

Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco

Principal

OLC Italian Language Course

(Grades 1 – 8)

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Greetings! Our Lady of Consolation Catholic School is very proud to announce we are again offering Italian Language for our children. (We are combining the basic and advanced courses in one class with two groups.) (The advanced instruction is for students who participated in class the last two years.) The course day will be Wednesdays. 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM - on the following dates: 2/29/12~ 3/7/12 ~ 3/14/12 ~ 3/21/12 ~ 3/28/12 ~ 4/11/12 ~ 4/18/12~ 4/25/12. (8 Sessions) Graduation on April 25^th will include an Italian based skit, award ceremony, and Italian Food Celebration Graduation Party. I am happy to say our Italian language teacher is again Renato Sifoni, a former student of mine, who is presently teaching Spanish at Father Judge Catholic High School.

Parents/guardians are responsible for drop off and pick up. (Front glass doors of OLC School) Class will be held in the 6^th Grade Classroom. (Mr. Sifoni requested a classroom with a smartboard for PowerPoint and Internet presentations.) If you have any other questions or need more information, please feel free to contact me.

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We are proud to present our

STUDENTS OF THE MONTH

January 2012

“Respectful”

PreK Gabriella Picariello

Kindergarten Gianna Cerne

Grade 1 Noah Boyd

Grade 2 Julianna Sellecchia

Grade 3 Abigail Petner

Grade 4 Cameron Davis

Grade 5 Aaron Keller

Grade 6 Devin Wiest

Grade 7 David Ruggiero

Grade 8 Rebecca Sypherd

Congrats to these great students!

Terra Nova Testing Tips for Parents on Terra Nova Test-Taking

1. Reassure your child that he or she does not have to answer all the questions
correctly to pass. It is not expected that students answer every question correctly.

2. Tell your child to attempt to answer all of the questions and not to leave any blanks. There is no penalty for guessing, and students can get partial credit on the open-ended items.

3. Remind your child that the test is important.

4. Explain to your child the importance of using time wisely. If your child gets stuck on a question, encourage him or her to make the best guess or place a mark in the test booklet by that item and go back to it after finishing that section of the test.

5. Make certain your child gets a good night’s sleep and a good breakfast before taking the test.

6. Try to make the morning of the test a pleasant one. Do not add to your child’s stress.

7. Get your child to school on time the day of the test.

8. Remind your child to listen carefully to the instructions from the teacher and to read the directions and each question carefully.

9. Encourage your child to stay focused on the test, even if other students finish early.

10. Remind your child that it is okay to jot down notes or work on scrap paper as a help in taking the test -- i.e., -- but to mark all answers on the answer sheet.

STUDENTS' TEST-TAKING STRATEGIES

Preparing for Tests

• Maintain good study habits: Do your class work.

o Have a clear understanding of homework assignments before leaving class.

o Keep a record of assignments received and completed.

o Make a study schedule and follow it.

o Tell your parents about schoolwork and homework.

o Turn in homework on time.

o Get make-up assignments when returning from an absence.

o See teachers for additional help.

• Seek and use past homework assignments, class notes, and available review materials.

• Follow directions.

• Find out when tests will be given out.

• Get a good night's rest and eat a normal breakfast before testing.

During Tests

• Read and pay careful attention to all directions.

• Read each passage and accompanying questions.

• Read every possible answer--the best one could be last.

• Read and respond to items one at a time rather than thinking about the whole test.

• Reread, when necessary, the parts of a passage needed for selecting the correct answer.

• Don't expect to find a pattern in the positions of the correct answers.

• Don't make uneducated guesses. Try to get the correct answer by reasoning and eliminating wrong answers.

• Decide exactly what the question is asking; one response is clearly best.

• Don't spend too much time on any one question.

• Skip difficult questions until all other questions have been answered. On scrap paper, keep a record of the unanswered items to return to, if time permits.

• Make sure to record the answer in the correct place on the answer sheet.

• Only change an answer if you are sure the first one you picked was wrong. Be sure to completely erase changed answers.

• Work as rapidly as possible with accuracy.

• After completion of the test, use any remaining time to check your answers.

• Keep a good attitude. Think positively!

STUDENTS' TEST-TAKING STRATEGIES CONTINUED

After Tests

• Examine your test scores; ask the teacher to explain your test scores if needed.

• Congratulate yourself on identified areas of strength.

• Identify areas of weakness which you will want to improve for a better performance next time.

• Ask your teacher to suggest areas of study that will help you perform better on the next test.

TEST ANXIETY

Students may experience anxiety about tests and may experience heightened anxiety before a testing situation. A certain degree of test anxiety is normal and may help students prepare more effectively, work more efficiently, and remain focused during testing. Too much anxiety, however, can negatively affect performance. The following strategies may assist students, parents, and teachers in reducing test anxiety.

Student Strategies for Reducing Test Anxiety

• Share your feelings of anxiety with parents and teachers.

• Think of the test as an opportunity to show what you know.

• Review homework and materials which pertain to the test topics.

• Relax, breathe deeply and stay focused on the test.

• Remember the test is only one way your academic performance is measured.

PARENT TEST-SUPPORT STRATEGIES

Preparing for Testing

• Note test dates on your home calendar; schedule appointments on non-testing days.

• Encourage your child to take responsibility for homework and class study.

• Help you child learn how to find information independently.

• Praise your child for work done well.

• Encourage your child to ask questions at home and in class.

• Get to know your child's teachers.

• Attend parent-teacher conferences.

• Confer with teachers on a regular basis for progress reports.

• Gather available test preparation materials.

• Assure your child knows that you value a good education.

Testing Day

• See that your child is rested and eats breakfast.

• See that your child arrives at school on time and is relaxed.

• Encourage your child to do the best work possible.

• Do not send your child to school if illness is apparent.

• Do not remove your child from school on test days for appointments.

After Testing

• Examine all test reports sent home.

• Determine areas of strengths and weaknesses.

• Praise your child's testing strengths and make a plan to address identified weaknesses.

• See your child's principal, counselor or teacher if additional information is required.

TEST ANXIETY

Parent Strategies for Reducing Test Anxiety

• Discuss the test openly and in a positive way.

• Have realistic expectations of your child's performance while encouraging his/her best efforts.

• Emphasize that the test is only one measure of academic performance.

• Emphasize that test scores do not determine a person's worth.

2012 OLC Talent SHOW

WOW!

Many thanks go to all who attended our 2012 OLC Talent Show! It was a very entertaining and fun evening. It was also bittersweet since it was our last one. I appreciate all the hard work the performers put into their acts so they were so ready for the show. Our children are very talented! The final song of the evening, ”Last Dance” was particularity touching. Special thanks to Mrs. Donatelli - Technical Director, stage crew, announcers, and music people. They were all outstanding! Highlights of the OLC Talent Show will be included in our 2011/2012 School Video shown in May.

Thank you again,

God’s peace, Mr. Cameron D. DiCicco

2012 OLC Talent Show

Important Update: Father Carbonaro made the show free since this is our very last one. You still may donate a can good for the food cupboard.

Singing: “K-9 Crunches”

Anna Kane – Danny Kane – Riann Kane

Singing: “Someone Like You”

Erin Fagan

Singing: “Crazier”

Madison Boyd

Dancing: “To Burning Up”

Gianna Marone – Rebecca Sypherd – Brianna Hourmozis

Singing : “Without You”

Breanna Orosz

Dancing “Life’s A Happy Song”

Nicole Huff – Hannah Boyd

Singing : “What Doesn’t Kill You”

Gavin Papaleo

Dancing: “To Monster High : Fright Song”

Kayla Zimmerman – Kelyci Zimmerman – Alyssa Weber

Singing; “Rolling In The Deep”

Kayla Elliot

Dancing : “You Make Me Feel”

Sarah Blaney – Rebecca Mansi –Breanna Sterling –

Danielle Sellechia

Singing : “Stuck in the Moment”

Gia De Vincentis

Dance: “Disco Inferno!”

8Th Graders

7:00 PM Show Annual Surprise Finale!

Join us. Everyone is invited to stand up and dance the

last dance!

Special thanks to:

Announcers: Kayla Keleman – Danielle Elloitt

Stage Crew: Colleen Kelly – James Dudley

Kevin Davis – Kevin Kelly

Music: Nicki Corcoran - Francesca Abbott

Special Thanks to Our Mystery Singers!

Front Door: Mrs. “T”

Technical Advisor: Mrs. Donatelli

TY to everyone involved with the show.

It’s been a terrific experience!

Director: Mr. Cameron D. DiCicco

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Greetings. I have important news to report. Our Technology/Gym teacher, Mr. Hoffman will not be returning to OLC this year due to ongoing medical issues. I told Mr. Hoffman we will be praying for his recovery. Cynthia Nicoletti who is certified, has an Education Masters Degree, and has previous teaching experience, will cover the Technology and Gym classes.

Yours in Christ,

Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco

Principal

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Dear Parents/Guardians,

Greetings and Happy February! As we enter the second half of the school year, thank you for your many prayers. They are appreciated! I am trying to make the school year as “normal” as possible for the children. Together with God’s graces, we can get through this transition time.

Some of the latest OLC school news includes the following:

We have many 2012 Catholic Schools Week activities planned. The theme this year is “Catholic Schools: Faith – Academics- Service.
Free pretzel for the children and staff today.
Open House at Saint Mathew School tonight. All are invited. 7:00 – 8:00 PM

· Today is a special dress down day. Each floor of the school will dress as a different decade. 1st floor 60's ~ 2^nd floor 70’s ~ 3^rd floor 80’s. Should be fun!

Please note several important February calendar changes: Sixth Annual OLC Academic Expo 7:00 in Church Hall scheduled for 2/2/12 will be moved to May 21^st and be changed to “OLC Memory Night” ~ February 15^th Teachers In-Service Day is cancelled. Regular school day – Pizza Day moved to the 15^th ~ Dress rehearsal for OLC Talent Show also moved to the 15^th-2:30 Church Hall ~ Casual Red and Pink Dress Down Day moved to 2/14/12.
FATHER JUDGE PRESIDENT’S SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM Two of our 8^th graders won this prestigious award. They are Jonathan Basciano and Justin R. Darmohray. The grants are renewable for four years, for a total of $6000.00!

OLC Bingo Night will be Saturday, March 10^th.
Congratulations To Our 2012 Principals For The Day! (See Handout)

Second Trimester Progress Reports were sent last Friday.
Walnut street Theatre “Go Green” 2/28/12 10:00 School Hall. This show is free since it is from a Connelly Foundation Grant.
8^th Grade CORA Days on the 10^th and 17^th.

Terra Nova testing begins on 3/2/12. Students should get plenty of rest and eat a good breakfast. This test is very important. More info coming soon.
OLC Talent Show is back again this year! See handout.

· Reminder: Our Lady of Consolation School will have a half-day dismissal (12:00) this Friday, February 3^rd.

· On Friday, we conclude our weeklong celebration of Catholic Schools Week with special recognition of the students, parents, teachers, staff, volunteers, and administrators who work hard every day to make OLC school “Faith – Academics- Service ".

Finally, this month we begin Lent.

Lent is a season of being invited by God in a deeply personal way. “Come back to me, with all of your heart,” our Lord beckons. It is up to us to answer that call.

God’s love,

Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco

Principal

New this year is a special dress down day on Wednesday, February 1^st. Each floor of the school will dress as a different decade. 1st floor 60's ~ 2^nd floor 70’s ~ 3^rd floor 80’s. So get out the old leisure suits, hippie clothes, disco outfits, platform shoes, shoulder pads, and big hair for the day!!!

Congratulations To Our 2012

Principals For The Day!

PRE-K ~ Nicholas Petruck

Kindergarten ~ Emily Miranda

First Grade ~ Brynley Martin

Second Grade ~ Serenity Solinsky/Curt Schrumpf

Third Grade ~ Hannah Boyd/Nicolle Huff

Fourth Grade ~ Maureen McCauley/Tyler Burns/Joseph Del Percio

Fifth Grade ~ Danielle Sellechia/Rebecca Mansi

Sixth Grade ~ Avery Taggart

Seventh Grade ~ Andrew Spiller

Eighth Grade ~ James Dudley/Colleen Kelly

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OLC SCHOOL UPDATE 1/25/12

Please note: February 15^th In-Service Day is cancelled. We will have regular school on that day.

Catholic Schools Week begins Monday, 1/30/12 OPEN HOUSE – Monday 1/30/12 9:00 – 11:00 AM Come visit our excellent school!

For CSW we are asking for can goods to be donated to the needy during these tough economic times. We also need prizes for our famous OLC Carnival of Prizes. There will also be a half day dismissal on Friday, February 3^rd. New this year is a special dress down day on Wednesday, February 1^st. Each floor of the school will dress as a different decade. 1st floor 60's ~ 2^nd floor 70’s ~ 3^rd floor 80’s. So get out the old leisure suits, hippie clothes, disco outfits, platform shoes, shoulder pads, and big hair for the day!

Thank you to everyone who attended our OLC Parish-Wide Meeting last Monday night.

PRESIDENT’S SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

Super News! We have another President’s Scholarship Program winner! Jonathan Basciano, one of our 8th grade students, won the same award (PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARSHIP) to Father Judge High School as Justin Darmohray! Congratulations to Jonathan!

Jonathan has been selected to receive a $1500.00 Academic Scholarship to Father Fudge High School, renewable for four years, for a total of $6000.00. Almost 230 students competed for one of these scholarships Jonathan’s overall score on the Scholarship test was one of the highest. The scholarship test was an advanced test scored above the 8^th grade level. Way to go Jonathan. These two awards show the academic program of OLC School is paying great dividends.

God’s love, Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco ~ Principal

PRESIDENTS'S SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

Super News! Justin R. Darmohray, one of our 8^th grade students, has been selected to receive a $1500.00 Academic Scholarship to Father Fudge High School, renewable for four years, for a total of $6000.00. Almost 230 students competed for one of these scholarships. Justin’s overall score on the Scholarship test was one of the highest. The scholarship test was an advanced test scored above the 8^th grade level. Way to go Justin!

Just received word that

Jonathan Basciano another one of our 8th grade students, won the same award (PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARSHIP) to Father Judge High School as well!

Congratulations to Jonathan!

Awesome!

God’s love,

Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco

Principal

Please note date change: Sixth Annual OLC Academic Expo 7:00 in Church Hall scheduled for 2/2/12 will be moved to May 21^st and be changed to

“OLC Memory Night”.

We are proud to present our

STUDENTS OF THE MONTH

December

Compassion

PreK Aiden Daniels

Kindergarten Emily Miranda

Grade 1 Rileigh Bratek

Grade 2 Curt Schrumpf

Grade 3 Nicholas Leone

Grade 4 Evelynne Davis

Grade 5 Sarah Blaney

Grade 6 Justin Shaw

Grade 7 Crystal Sullivan

Grade 8 James Dudley

Congratulations to these caring students!!!

CELEBRATE CATHOLIC SCHOOLS 2012!

Knowing Christ, Teaching Christ, Becoming Christ”.

1/18/12

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Greetings! Here are the activities planned for our celebration of Catholic Schools Week 2012.

January 30^th Monday: “Catholic Schools: “Faith, Academics, Service” Thank you Parents/Guardians Day ~ Open House 9:00 – 11:00 AM Come and visit our great school! TY Parents/Guardians for all that your do for us!

January 31^st Tuesday: “Catholic Schools: “Faith, Academics, Service”

Volunteer Appreciation Day ~ We thank all our volunteers for their super service!!!

February 1^st Wednesday: “Catholic Schools: “Faith, Academics, Service”

Student Appreciation Day ~ We honor our fantastic students! ~ “Help Community Day.” Students are asked to bring in much needed can food items. Free pretzel for every student. “50’s, 60’s, 70’s, 80’s Dress Down Day”

February 2^nd Thursday: “Catholic Schools: ““Faith, Academics, Service” Appreciation Day We honor our excellent teachers! ~ “Principal for the Day” activities ~ Please note date change: Sixth Annual OLC Academic Expo 7:00 in Church Hall scheduled for this day will be moved to May 21^st and be changed to “OLC Memory Night”. ~ Carnival of Prizes winners announced.

February 4^th Friday: “Catholic Schools: “Faith, Academics, Service” Administration Appreciation Day ~ We appreciate our pastor, Rev. Dennis J. Carbonaro. School Mass at 9:00. Lunch for staff provided by OLC Home & School. OLC School Family Banner exhibited in Church. 12:00 Dismissal.

Now here is where we again need your help. We are requesting items for the annual OLC Carnival of Prizes. Anything you can donate would be greatly valued. (We also need baskets!) Baskets will be constructed and the children will then have the opportunity to buy chances. (.25 or 5 for $1.00.) Last year we made over 100 baskets for the children! The children really love this event. Donations should be in school by 1/27/12 so we have time to assemble the baskets. The drawings will be held on February 2^nd and 3^rd.

We want to make the 2012 Catholic Schools Week a good one.

Many Thanks For Your Outstanding Support Of Our

Lady of Consolation Catholic School. We Truly Appreciate It.

The Faculty and Staff ~ Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco ~ Principal

OLC SCHOOL UPDATE 1/17/12

OLC Bingo Night scheduled for Saturday, January 21^st will be moved to

Saturday, March 10^th.

February 15^th In-Service Day is cancelled. We will have regular school on that day.

Thank you! God’s peace, Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco ~ Principal

1/9/12

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Greetings in the Lord. It is with sadness that I write this letter. I know that the decision of the Blue Ribbon Commission is difficult for us to accept. My heart goes out to our students, teachers, staff, and you our parents who have supported our school. Father Carbonaro and I went to all the classrooms this morning to discuss with our school children the situation. Our main message is one of hope. From pain and anguish, there will be new life and an end to darkness. We also informed the children that our school counselor is ready to assist anyone who needs her services and that we will finish the school year with all scheduled activities. On Tuesday, January 10^th Father Carbonaro and I will attend another meeting for all the schools affected by the new changes. As soon as I receive information, I will communicate it promptly. I pledge to you I will do everything in my power to make this major transition a good one. If there are any questions, needs, or concerns please contact me. Your children are the BEST and only deserve the BEST!

God’s mercy,

Mr. Stephen D .DiCicco

Principal

(PS> I had to delay morning announcements today over the PA due to a temporary local power failure that occurred at 7:30 am. Sign from God?!)

Happy New Year!

Hats off to Sister Barbara and the Pre K for inviting former OLC student and army veteran, Jeffrey Thomas to our school last week. (One kindergarten student, Patrick Dugan said, “That’s the first real soldier I ever saw. Others claim to be but this is the real thing!”)

Thank you for the numerous gifts, Christmas decorations, Christmas candies, treats, ties, and Dunkin Donuts gift cards

My whole family thoroughly enjoys opening the gifts on Christmas morning. Thank you for bringing joy to my family!

You are always in my prayers!

Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco ~ Principal

Catholic School Parents/Guardians

A Message from the Blue Ribbon Commission

January 2012

In January, 2011, the Blue Ribbon Commission, appointed by Cardinal Justin Rigali began a

comprehensive study of the elementary, special education and secondary schools of the

Archdiocese of Philadelphia as well as the Parish Religious Education Programs in the parishes

across the Archdiocese. The Commission identified the critical trends facing the future of

Catholic schools in particular which include: declining Church attendance and contributions,

shifting demographics, diminishing enrollment and rising tuitions as well as underutilized school

buildings. Above and beyond the tuition, fees and fundraising, the Archdiocese as well as its

parishes has provided over fifty million dollars to underwrite the costs of providing quality,

Catholic education. In fact, over the past ten years, that accumulated figure is $751,000,000.

As a result of this study, the Blue Ribbon Commission developed a comprehensive strategic plan

focused on the ability to provide quality, affordable and sustainable Catholic education for

present and future generations across the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Expecting each school to

provide this outcome on its own has become much more difficult over the years as you have

heard from the announcements of school closings each June.

At a meeting for priests, school administrators and directors of religious education on January 6,

2012, the Blue Ribbon Commission will provide the specifics of their plan. This renewed vision

provides great hope for the future of Catholic schools and their service to the children and

families in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. The time is here for all of us to step forth with the

support, good will and ongoing involvement enabling our long held tradition of Catholic Schools

to be here for our children and for the children of future generations.

A copy of the Blue Ribbon Commission report will be available on Friday, January 6, 2012 on

the following website @ www.faithinthefuture.com. The site will become available after the

Press Conference on January 6, 2012 which will begin at 4 PM. You can view the Press

Conference on line which will be streamed live at www.archdiocese-phl.org.

Saint John Neumann and Saint Katharine Drexel pray for us

in this time of transition and change in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.

2011 OLC Christmas Pageant

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Greetings! Another huge thank you to all who sang, acted, narrated, made costumes, helped set up, and attended our 2011 OLC Christmas Pageant. The turnout out was again unbelievable!!! This is what Christmas is all about. It is the 4^th year in a row that we used all of the church hall chairs and we still had standing room only!

Our Christmas Pageant is held each year to commemorate the birth of our Lord and Savior and we are very, very grateful for your participation. Special thanks to Mrs. Sharp, the 8^th Grade, all the teachers and school children, and in particular our baby Jesus, Ella Nicholl, Mrs. Nicholl’s (second grade teacher) baby for a beautiful reenactment of the first Christmas.

It was Ella’s first birthday on the 15^th!

May your Christmas be filled with

God's Blessings!

Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco Principal

Connelly Class Trip Friday: January 6 ~ Grades 4-6

Arden Theatre Presentation of "Charlotte'sWeb" went very well!!!

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Greetings and Happy January! Let me be the first to wish you and your family a blessed and joyous 2012 New Year! This month we remember Mary, Mother of God on January 1^st.

OLC School news:

· New Year School Mass moved to Thursday, January 5^th at 9:00 AM.

· A big thank you to our OLC Home and School Board and Mrs. Matarazzo for organizing the Secret Santa this year!

· Thanks to all who participated in our annual OLC Christmas Tree Lightning Mass.

· Parent/teacher conferences went very smoothly.

· It very important that all students are here in the morning on time. Remember front doors close at 8:00 am. Anyone coming in after that is considered late. TY!

Hats off to all our OLC Band members for an impromptu Christmas Concert. They sounded great!
Congratulations to our OLC basketball teams on a nice start to the season!

· Thank you for your toy donations. Your generous gift will help those less fortunate have a nice Christmas.

· Our 2011 OLC Christmas Pageant was very successful. The Church Hall was packed. At the grand finale, pictures were taken for almost 15 minutes! (See attached letter.)

· This year we have three 8^th grade students who qualify for the Neumann scholarship test. Good luck to each of them!

Catholic Schools Week begins January 29^th. The theme this year is “Catholic Schools Faith/Academics/Service. We are looking forward to an outstanding event!
NOTICE: When inclement weather occurs, please listen to KYW radio, local TV stations, or click on the “Special Announcement” button on our school website for the latest school closing/early dismissal information. There is also a “Two hour delay” option. Detailed information on this is available on our school website. All students should have an Emergency Plan on where to go if we dismiss early. Please note: Catholic schools in the city do not have a separate school number. The announcement will simply state, “All Archdiocesan Parochial Schools are open or closed or closing early at a specified time.” Please do not call the school or rectory.
Second Trimester Progress Reports on January 27^th. (The year is moving quickly!)
The teachers’ in-services this year are centered on implementing the new core curriculum for ELA and Math and Understating by Design teaching techniques.

Prayer for the New Year: Dear Lord, We pray that this new year will bring us closer to You. May we take the time to get to know You. Help us to truly celebrate the gifts You have graciously given us and use them to serve You and spread Your word,
May we also see and love you in all the people we meet, so that in turn, they can see You in us. Amen

Felice anno nuovo!

God’s love!

Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco

Principal

Our Lady of Consolation Catholic School

Proudly Presented Our

2011

Christmas Pageant

on December 15^th, 2011

7:00 PM Church Hall

At the conclusion join us in singing:

“O Come All Ye Faithful” -“Joy to the World”

“We Wish you a Merry Christmas”

Come and Celebrate the Season!

We are proud to present our

STUDENTS OF THE MONTH November 2011

Initiative

PreK Nicholas Petruck

Kindergarten Ryan Petner

Grade 1 Katie Vishio

Grade 2 Alexis Brown

Grade 3 Michael O’Leary

Grade 4 Joseph Del Percio

Grade 5 Jacob Rodriguez

Grade 6 Ryan Lorenzi

Grade 7 Gianna Labovitz

Grade 8 Katherine Darmohray

Congratulations to these take charge students!

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Greetings and Happy December! As we enter the Advent season, take a break from shopping and try to renew and deepen your relationship with Jesus. It’s relaxing!

Some of the latest school news:

· New Liturgy changes have begun. Are you ready?!

· We are starting a new tradition at OLC School for Christmas. The school children may bring a Christmas family photograph to school. Attach a hook or ribbon to the photo and be sure to put a name and grade on the back. We will hang the pictures on the OLC Christmas Family Memory Tree in front of the school.

· To all who participated in the Mayfair-Holmesburg Thanksgiving Day Parade, thank you! A high point came when the Parade Marshall announced to a very large crowd at Frankford and Cottman Avenues, “Our Lady of Consolation School”. OLC pride is doing well!

Thanks also to everyone for a smooth transition to two-way traffic on Princeton Avenue. Special thanks goes to Mrs. Sellechia who volunteered to be our new traffic safety monitor.
Our November Home and School Meeting on report cards, core curriculum standards, and financial planning went very well.

Many thanks for supporting our Craft Fair - Pizza Day – Veteran’s Day - Family Bingo –and Book Fair. We have been very busy! A big thank you to our Home and School Association and the many volunteers who ran the events.

Thanks to all who purchased pies. Special thanks to Mrs. Sipps for her efforts for the sale!

The children had a great time at the Turkey Socials. One student told me “He looks forward to this every year!”

· We had a super Canned Food Drive! Your generous donations enabled many people to have a happy Thanksgiving holiday.

· 1^st Trimester Marks close December 3^rd. Report Cards will be distributed to the students

on Friday, December 9^th. A Parent/Teacher conference form will be sent home today.

Second Sunday in Advent ~ December 4^th ~ Second Trimester Begins Monday, 12/5
Picture Retake Day ~ 9:00 Monday, 12/5 Free Dress Down Day: Friday - 12/23/11.
Santa Secret Workshop Church Hall ~ 12/6 and 12/7. Schedule on web site.
December 8^th ~ Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception (Holy Day of Obligation) - No school for students. – Teacher Workshop December 13^th - No school for students.

· Our great Parish Tree Lighting tradition will occur on December 3^rd after 5:00 PM Mass.

· Another super event for December is the 2011 OLC Christmas Pageant 7:00 PM on the 15^th.

· In this week’s Communication Envelope you will find a copy of some of the OLC First Grade Thanksgiving Recipe Book. Enjoy!!!

Let us reflect on this Christmas Prayer:

Christ born in a stable is born in me
Christ accepted by shepherds accepts me
Christ receiving the wise men receives me
Christ revealed to the nations be revealed in me
Christ dwelling in Nazareth You dwell in me
Christ, grant that people may look at me and see Your Presence. Amen
Have a very Blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year!

God’s love!

Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco

Principal

December 18, 2011

Fourth Sunday of Advent

Luke 1:26-38 What are some ways we might be

called to say “Yes” to God?

December 25, 2011

The Nativity of Our Lord

Matthew 1:1-25 How does your family celebrate the

birth of Our Lord?

There are four main parts to the Mass:

the Introductory Rites, the Liturgy of the Word,

the Liturgy of the Eucharist and the Concluding

Rites.

1. The Introductory Rites welcome the

assembly to Mass and prepare us to celebrate.

These rites include the Penitential Rite, the

Gloria, and the Opening Prayer.

2. The Liturgy of the Word includes

Scripture readings, a homily, the Profession of

Faith, and General Intercessions.

The homily, which follows the readings,

offers an explanation of the Scripture and how it

applies to daily life. The community recites the

Creed as a profession of our faith in God. The

Liturgy of the Word concludes with intercessory

prayers during which the community asks God

to help us in our needs.

3. The Liturgy of the Eucharist includes the

presentation of the bread and wine, the

Eucharistic Prayer, and the reception of Holy

Communion.

During the Preparation of the Gifts the

offerings of bread and wine are received by the

priest. They will become the Body and Blood of

Jesus. This is also the customary place and time

for the offering from the assembly (parish

collection). This money is used to support parish

services and assist the poor and needy.

During the Eucharistic Prayer, through

the words of consecration, the bread and wine

become the Body and Blood of Jesus. After the

“Our Father” and the “Lamb of God,” the

faithful receive the Body and Blood of Christ in

Holy Communion. The Communion Rite

concludes with the “Prayer after Communion.”

4. During the Concluding Rites, the priest

blesses, dismisses and sends the assembly forth

to serve the Lord.

For Discussion

How does Sunday Mass enrich your life, your

relationships, and the rest of your week?

THE STRUCTURE OF THE MASS

Parents/guardians, in giving your children all

that you never had, remember to give them

what you do have, your faith.

December 2011

Parent/Guardian Feedback Form

First Trimester ~2011

One semester is complete!

We value your input! Feel free to list or describe any questions or concerns you may have on the school year so far.

What is working well this year?

Suggestions/New Ideas for Our Lady of Consolation School.

Name_____________________________

If you would like a response, please write your phone number here.

Home #_____________________ Work #____________________

Please place in a sealed envelope. Write “School Feedback ~ For School

Office” and return to your child’s teacher. (Option: You may email me at sdicicco@olcphila.org.) Thank you and God bless!

Nurse and Medical News Update

Our school nurse, Mrs. Coleman, changed her day that she is at OLC School. She will now be at our school on Wednesday. Our school nurse is contracted by the School District of Philadelphia and is here one day a week. (Wednesday)

How Do You Know If Your Child Can Attend School?

This year a large number of our school children and staff have been sick. Although we want our school children to not miss any time at school, here is a quick list on when to keep a child at home.

· Did the doctor diagnose a contagious illness that should keep your sick child at home? Illnesses such as pink eye, scabies, head lice, impetigo, strep infection, whooping cough, and chicken pox are highly contagious. In this case, your youngster should remain isolated from other children until the risk of passing on the illness has passed.

· Does your sick child have any of these symptoms listed below? If so, most providers indicate your son or daughter should stay at home until the illness is no longer contagious and he/she feels well enough to return to school or be around other youngsters.

- Fever above 100 degress Fahrenheit, and the sick child looks and acts ill

-- Signs of possible severe illness such as uncontrolled coughing, difficulty breathing, wheezing, persistent crying, or lethargy

-- Diarrhea, such as loose or runny stools or a sick child who can't get to the bathroom in time

-- Vomiting; once a youngster has vomited, most health providers recommend or require that your sick child cannot return to school or daycare for a minimum of 24 hours

-- Any sort of rash, especially when accompanied by a fever or behavior change

While having a sick child is a hardship for most families, it is important to enact the Golden Rule (do unto others as you would have them do unto you) in that if you wouldn't want your son or daughter playing with a sick child who exhibits certain illnesses, then the same holds true for them as well. Providers report that families will often drop off a sick youth with a fever or who has just recently thrown up because of work arrangements. That creates not only a major health risk to all youngsters but is terribly unfair to the sick child as well. Plus, recovery time is shorter with a sick patient who is given plenty of rest, and some good ol' TLC.

As always, thank you for your help and cooperation!

God’s love, Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco ~ Principal

SCHOOL UPDATE 11/21/11

Thank you to all who participated in the Mayfair-Holmesburg Thanksgiving Day Parade ! It was a fabulous day for our school. TY!

Our Technology/Gym teacher, Mr. Hoffman is ill.

Crystal Marincola is our current substitute for all

technology and gym classes.

A Thanksgiving Prayer

Hands clasped around the table Heads bowed silently in prayer

Grateful moments We've been allowed to share

Joyful for the laughter Mindful of the tears

Every precious second Treasured through the years.

How fortunate our hearts have been How thankful now are we For every single blessing Bestowed to us from thee!

The entire staff of Our Lady of Consolation School wishes you and your family a joyous Thanksgiving Day holiday!

God’s love Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco ~ Principal

1st DIVISION - Forms on Frankford Ave north of Rhawn St.

Phila Police Dept Pace Car - Vehicle
Mayfair Holmesburg Parade - Banner
Warriors Watch Riders - Vehicle
Caspers Party Bus - Vehicle
Viriva Community Credit Union - Float
Gino's Pizza Cafe - Banner
Motion N Dance - Float
Daisy Troop 9048 & Brownie Troop 906
Cub Pack 100
Pat's Music Centers Inc - Banner
Parade Grand Marshal - Ed Kelly - Banner
Pennypack Concerts / Glimmer Twins - Float
Methadone - Banner
Mayfair Civic Association - Banner
Mayfair Business Association - Banner
Sue Thanksgiving golf cart & trailer - Float
Mayfair Community Development - Banner
Anna Marie's Academy of Dance
St. Petri Boy Scouts Troop 372

2nd DIVISION - Behind Division 1 between Rhawn & Welsh on Frankford Avenue.

Tacony Townwatch - Vehicle/Banner
Optimist Club - Banner
Dance Kidz
Councilman Bobby Henon - Banner
Holmesburg Civic Association - Float
Holmesburg Recreation - Banner
Goals Martial Arts - Banner
Holmesburg Jam - Float
Frusco's Steaks - Vehicle
Girl Scout Troops 965 / 91232
Boy Scout Troop 37 Rhawnhurst Presbyterian Church
Moss Athletic Association Cheerleaders
Frankford Dental Care - Banner
Dress Up Time / Dominique - Banner
Philly Kustom & Performance Inc - Vehicle
DJ Chris B. / Eagle Entertainment
Our Lady of Consolation School
Holmesburg Bakery - Banner
3rd Federal - Banner
Father Judge High School Band
San Antonio (LPO-17) Division, USNSCC ROTC
Rising Sun VFW Post 2819 - Vehicle
Crestlawn Legion Post 832 - Vehicle
Cheltenham America Legion Post 492 - Vehicle
Greater Pennsylvania Military Vehicle Historical Society - Vehicle
Samuel Fels High School Drum Line and Drill Team

3rd DIVISION - Staging Between Frankford Avenue and Leon Street on Welsh Road

Lulu Temple Shrine
Shriner Clubs and Units
Free and Accepted Masons

4th DIVISION - Staging North of Welsh Road on Frankford Avenue

Dunphy Ford - Banner
Advantage Auto - Banner
Stems and Seeds - Float
Monroe Muffler - Vehicle
Representative Kevin Boyle - Banner
District Council 21 - Banner
Torresdale Cheerleaders
Jim Daly Insurance Agency Inc - Banner
Bow Wow Meow Pet Mobile - Vehicle
Bellalisa Hair Studio - Banner
Avalon String Band
Infinity Jewlers / Infinity Gifts - Banner
Prudential Prime Real Estate - Banner
Philly Pretzel Factory - Vehicle
Penn Academy Dancers
Out on the Town - Vehicle
Lincoln High School Student Association - Banner
Lincoln High School Prom King and Queen - Vehicle
Lincoln High School ROTC
Michele's Family Hair Care - Banner
Boy Scout Troop 226 Drum & Bugle Corps
Police Explorers
Northeast Ambulance - Vehicle

5th DIVISION - Staging in Brown School School Yard

Vogt C.A. Cheerleading
Aztec - Sign Co. - Banner
Sippel Brothers - Banner
Durning String Band
Giggles Gifts Inc. - Banner
Domenico Menswear - Banner
Blind Dog Rescue Alliance
Steins Florist - Vehicle
Crispin Cheerleading
Llyod Sixsmith Sporting Goods - Banner
F & J Mini Mart - Banner
Girl Scouts - Good Shepard Church
Goodchilds / Mike Lecompt Repair / Maggies Waterfront Café - Float
Holy Terrors Youth Organization - Float
Remax - Vehicle/Banner
Bensalem Ramblers Cheerleaders
Beneficial Bank - Banner
Joe Ems -State Farm Insurance - Vehicle/Banner
Stan's Health Foods - Banner
Greater Kensington String Band
10 Baby Strollers - Decorated

6th DIVISION - Staging in Brown School School Yard

Grey Lodge / Hop Angel
Delaware Valley Siberian Husky Rescue
Holmesburg Cheerleaders
Disston Chiropactic - Banner
Lansing Knights
Torresdale Flower Shop - Vehicle
Foot Lites Dance Studio
Mr & Mrs William Dixon - Vehicle
Representative Mike MeGeehan - Banner
Michaels Glass - Banner
Romeo Delight - Float
Extreme Towing - Banner
Gallagher Brothers Windows - Banner
Mannal Funeral Home - Banner
Life Victory Church
Rapid Restoration - Vehicle
Andalusia Jug Band - Float
Polonia Bank - Banner
Sharp Decisions - Banner
Swenson Arts & Technology High School ROTC
Shades of Green School of Irish Dance
Red Paw Emergency Relief Team
US Senator Alyson Schwartz - Banner
John F. Fluehr & Sons - Banner

7th DIVISION Staging - North of Welsh Rd on Frankford Ave Near Stanwood St.

Hegeman String Band
Curran's Irish Inn - Banner
Perzel Insurance Agency - Banner
Pride of Erin School of Irish Dance
FirstTrust Bank - Banner
Seafood Bay - Banner
Mayfair Glass & Metal - Float
ACE Public Adjusters - Banner
Republic Bank - Vehicle/Banner
I am Phresh Dance Studio
Kiki Furniture and Bedding - Banner
Frankford High School Army Junior ROTC
Liberty Floor Covering - Vehicle
Celtic Flame Irish Dancers
Donnie's Truck - Vehicle
Mayfair Shop-N-Bag - Banner
Santa's Elves and Helpers
Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus - Mayfair Shop-N-Bag Float
Philadelphia Fire Department Engines - Vehicle
Police Trail Car

The Mayfair Holmesburg Thanksgiving Parade is sponsored by the Mayfair Business Association

The order of march is at the direction of the parade committee and may be changed at any time.

Wishing all a safe, happy, healthy holiday.

We are proud to present our

STUDENTS OF THE MONTH

October 2011

Responsibility

PreK Gregory Fagen

Kindergarten Anna Kane

Grade 1 Sophia Gradel

Grade 2 Gabrielle Dugan

Grade 3 Breanna Orosz

Grade 4 Madison Boyd

Grade 5 John Nugent

Grade 6 Morgan Huff

Grade 7 Christian Huff

Grade 8 Christopher Gillespie

Congratulations to these dependable students!!!

THANK YOU TO ALL WHO MADE OUR 2011 OLC CRAFT FAIR A GREAT EVENT!

*************

Important Traffic Announcement

Princeton Ave is now two way traffic.

Some points to keep in mind:

· Morning drop off will remain on the south side of Princeton Ave.

· Children must cross at corners only.

· U turns are prohibited.

· We are reminding everyone to be sure to look both ways for traffic in two directions when crossing at the corners.

· Please drop off children quickly to maintain the flow of traffic.

· Please do not drop off directly in front of the school. This is the School Bus Zone.

Together we will make the safest environment for our children.

Thank you and God bless! Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco ~ Principal

I looking for volunteers to help monitor our morning arrival (7:45 -8:00 each) day. If interested, please send the bottom form to the school office. TY!

*************************************************************

I would like to help with traffic safety during the morning arrival at OLC School (7:45 – 8:00)

Name____________________________

Phone #__________________________

Greetings!

Our 7^th Annual Grandparents’ Day Tea was awesome! The Church Hall was packed. Special thanks to our pastor, Father Carbonaro, our Home & School Association, our OLC Service Club, Mr. Vishio, Mrs. Naccarato, and Mrs. “T” for all their fine efforts. You helped make this year’s annual tradition the best. A big thank you to all the grandparents who attended our tea. The Grandparents’ Tea is a day to honor you because you are such a valuable part of our lives! God bless!

PENNSYLVANIA CATHOLIC CONFERENCE

The Public Affairs Agency of the Catholic Dioceses of Pennsylvania Since 1960

Tell Your Legislators: Our Catholic Community Supports School Choice!

The Pennsylvania General Assembly is now considering legislation to significantly increase the Education Improvement

Tax Credit (EITC) program and also start a school voucher program to help low-income and possibly many middleincome

families. Just like the EITC scholarships, parents would be able to use the voucher to pay tuition at any school

they choose – public or private.

Legislators are in their home districts from now until mid-September. Visit, call, write or e-mail your state legislators and

ask them to vote YES on school choice. Send an easy e-mail message or look up your legislators’ contact information at

www.pacatholic.org/advocacy

School choice is good for parents.

All parents should be able to select a school that best suits their children. The state should support parents in meeting

their obligation to educate their children, not the other way around.

School choice is good for Catholic schools.

Not every qualified student will choose a Catholic school, but it is likely that many will. The EITC program has helped our

schools without sacrificing our core mission and high standards. Vouchers will allow even more children to choose a

Catholic education. More students will help us keep our schools vibrant and available to everyone.

School choice is good for all of us.

Pennsylvania needs a more effective and less costly way to educate our children. Nonpublic schools already save

taxpayers $4 billion/year. School choice saves tax dollars because non-public schools often provide an excellent

education for a fraction of the cost of public schools, and the difference between the voucher and the cost of tuition will

be returned to the state.

Voice your support for school choice. Make a difference for Pennsylvania’s future.

Involvement of parents, educators, Catholic school alumni, parishioners, and all citizens and

taxpayers will be critical to the success of school choice. By getting involved, you can make it

happen. Join our advocacy network by sending a message to your legislators at

www.pacatholic.org/advocacy.

Learn more about school choice at www.pacatholic.org/schoolchoice

Find us on www.facebook.com/pacatholic

STUDENTS OF THE MONTH

September 2011 ~ Most Prepared

PreK~ Isabella Russell

Kindergarten ~ Davis DeCrosta

Grade 1 ~ Riann Kane

Grade 2 ~ Colin Bauer

Grade 3 ~ Lauren Gerstle

Grade 4 ~ Maureen McCauley

Grade 5 ~ Danielle Sellecchia

Grade 6 ~ Meghan Davis

Grade 7 ~ Marian Kostick

Grade 8 ~ Gianna Marone

Congratulations to these very organized students!

OLC School Proudly Presents Our

2011/2012

SERVICE CLUB

8^th Grade 7^th Grade

Francesca Abbott Christian Huff

Jonathan Basciano Nikolas Huff

Nichole Corcoran Gianna Labovitz

Justin Darmohray Mary Lee Palumbo

Katherine Darmorhray Andrew Spiller

Vincent Darmohray Paige Stancavage

James Dudley

Danielle Elliott

Christopher Gillespie

Brianna Hourmouzis

Kayla Kellerman

Colleen Kelly

Gianna Marone

Rebecca Sypherd

5^TH Grade

6^th Grade Madison Boyd

Nicholas Basciano Rebecca Mansi

Justin DeVito Jacob Rodriguez

Charles Marone Danielle Sellecchia

Fred Palumbo Kayla Zimmerman

PENNSYLVANIA CATHOLIC CONFERENCE

The Public Affairs Agency of the Catholic Dioceses of Pennsylvania Since 1960

Tell Your Legislators: Our Catholic Community Supports School Choice!

The Pennsylvania General Assembly is now considering legislation to significantly increase the Education Improvement

Tax Credit (EITC) program and also start a school voucher program to help low-income and possibly many middleincome

families. Just like the EITC scholarships, parents would be able to use the voucher to pay tuition at any school

they choose – public or private.

Legislators are in their home districts from now until mid-September. Visit, call, write or e-mail your state legislators and

ask them to vote YES on school choice. Send an easy e-mail message or look up your legislators’ contact information at

www.pacatholic.org/advocacy

School choice is good for parents.

All parents should be able to select a school that best suits their children. The state should support parents in meeting

their obligation to educate their children, not the other way around.

School choice is good for Catholic schools.

Not every qualified student will choose a Catholic school, but it is likely that many will. The EITC program has helped our

schools without sacrificing our core mission and high standards. Vouchers will allow even more children to choose a

Catholic education. More students will help us keep our schools vibrant and available to everyone.

School choice is good for all of us.

Pennsylvania needs a more effective and less costly way to educate our children. Nonpublic schools already save

taxpayers $4 billion/year. School choice saves tax dollars because non-public schools often provide an excellent

education for a fraction of the cost of public schools, and the difference between the voucher and the cost of tuition will

be returned to the state.

Voice your support for school choice. Make a difference for Pennsylvania’s future.

Involvement of parents, educators, Catholic school alumni, parishioners, and all citizens and

taxpayers will be critical to the success of school choice. By getting involved, you can make it

happen. Join our advocacy network by sending a message to your legislators at

www.pacatholic.org/advocacy.

Learn more about school choice at www.pacatholic.org/schoolchoice

Find us on www.facebook.com/pacatholic

OLC School UPDATE 9/21/11

Thank you students, parents, and staff for a great start to the 2011/2012 school year!

The Tacony History Day Parade was a huge success! Thanks to all who attended, marched, carried banners and flags, or rode on the bus. Special thanks to parishioner and OLC School graduate, Frank La Pera, for providing a wonderful restored vintage PTC bus for the day. (The children loved it!) Mr. La Pera told me we will have the bus for the Mayfair Thanksgiving Parade on Sunday, November 20^th.

A big thank you to Mr. Green who fixed several of our classroom air-conditioners!

If you want to attend our annual Grandparents’ Day Tea on October 2^nd, please send the attendance paper to the office.

OLC Band Assembly went very well last Monday. Still time to join our band. Please send OLC Band

form to the office ASAP. TY!

Big news! Mrs.Wright had her baby. Mom and baby “Lilly Anne” are doing well!

God’s peace!

Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco ~ Princi

Thank you everyone for two wonderful Back to School Nights! We welcome our many new families to OLC!

Our Lady of Consolation School just received a check for $351.00 from TARGET's Take Charge of Education Program. A big THANK YOU to all who have already designated OLC School to receive the education funds! FYI - Target will donate 1% of the Target visa or Guest card purchases to a school of your choice.
Thanks again for choosing Our Lady of Consolation School!

We had our first Home and School Board meeting Monday evening. It went from 7: 00 PM until 9:20PM! They were still talking when I pulled of the parking lot at 10:00! We are looking forward to a great year continuing our many unique OLC activities and planning new ones for our school children and families.

OLC School Association 2011 ~ 2012 Board Members

Helene Vishio ~ Ways and Means

Lisa Seone ~ Executive Assistant

Nicole Kane ~ Executive Assistant

Terri Dugan ~ Executive Assistant

Eleanor Donatelli ~ Faculty Representative

Stephen D. DiCicco ~ Principal

Daneane Hogan-Stecher ~ President

God bless! Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco ~ Principal

9/12/11

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Greetings in the Lord! Attached is the SIP (Shelter in Place Plan) for OLC School. Please review it carefully. We are in the process of updating our SIP (Shelter in Place) supplies. Here is where we need your help. We are requesting that you prepare an emergency kit for each of your children. Please use a gallon-sized clear zip bag with each child’s name clearly marked on it.

Include in the bag the following items:

· Bottle water

· Snack to eat (non-peanut ingredients)

· 2 napkins

· Book to read or coloring book and crayons

· Students who must take medication beyond school hours should have an extra dose.

Please send to your child’s teacher by Friday, 9/16/11. The Emergency Kit will be returned to you at the end of the current school year. Thank you for assistance in our important safety plan!

God’s love,

Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco

Principal

Our Lady of Consolation

SIP

(Shelter in Place) PLAN

· Implemented when directed by the police/fire department.

· All staff and students will move to school hallways.

· Windows and doors will be closed and sealed with duct tape.

· Emergency kits will be utilized.

· Because of Police and Fire Department directives, no person may leave or enter the shelter area to avoid exposure under the SIP Plan.

· Wait until the all-clear signal is given. Parents are asked to listen to media (radio/tv/internet) for this signal to come and pick up their children.

· During the emergency event, OLC School (if possible) will post important information on the “Special Announcements” Page of our web site. (www.olcphila.org)

Principal’s Letter

2011

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Greetings and welcome to a new school year at Our Lady of Consolation Catholic School! I hope your summer is going well. We have been very busy getting the school ready for another great year. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Some of the latest 2011/2012 school year information is listed below:

I am happy to announce that we hired Ashley Laine, a former OLC graduate, to teach first grade this year as a long term substitute. Ms. Laine brings an excitement to teaching that will result in a great learning experience for the first grade. Christine Nicholl is moving to second grade and will bring her valuable teaching skills to that grade. Laura Wright is taking a year’s leave of absence for the birth of her baby. Please keep her in your prayers.

I am also pleased to announce Kathy Fagan is our new 7^th grade teacher. Mrs. Fagan brings a wealth of experience with an expertise in Math. She will be a valuable new asset to our school.

Super news! We received the Connelly Access Program (CAP) program grant. This means our children will receive free class trips and in-school educational assemblies. More info to come.
Through the work of volunteers and donations we received new rugs for the third floor classrooms and several rooms were painted. Also, a new tile floor was installed in the entrance area of the School Hall. Special thanks goes to Joseph Gerstle, Joseph Cascerceri and the Princeton Avenue Development Corporation (PADCO) for their help.
On the curriculum front, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and Our Lady of Consolation Catholic School will initiate Core Curriculum Standards this year. Our teachers will be in-serviced on this new endeavor.

Special Announcement ~ I 95 Construction Project Please Note: Most of the heavy work on Princeton Avenue will be complete by September. (The existing I-95 ramp will be removed.) However, construction will continue in the area. Possible delays and alternate routes may occur. Princeton Ave. is scheduled to accommodate two way traffic soon. Thank you for your patience. The project, when complete, will create a much safer environment for our children.
Important reminder: Each family is asked to contribute $10.00 per week in the Sunday collection. TY!
Our Home and School By-Laws are complete and are posted on our website. Our 2011/2012 OLC Home and School Association has several new activities this year. More info to come.
Our OLC Band Program will begin its fourth year.
The Our Lady of Consolation Catholic School 2011/2012 “Our Lady’s Little Lambs”

Junior Pre-K3 and Pre-K4 Program is almost full. Please contact us immediately if you

are interested in registering.

Our new OLC 2011/2012 full year color school calendar is complete. It will be given to all staff members and each school family. Please refer to it for important dates and information. (It looks super!)
Our OLC School Handbook has been updated and is displayed online. Please refer to it for important information.

We will continue our strict OLC No-Bully Policy this school year.
We again offer our OLC Morning and Afternoon CARES programs.
(ALL HALF-DAY DISMISSALS THIS YEAR (GRADES 1 – 8) WILL BE AT 12:00.

· All staff at OLC have an email address. They are displayed on our web site for your convenience.

Every teacher has her/his own website linked to the school site. Please refer to them for the latest information and homework.
Our Student of the Month Program will continue this year.
Students’ birthdays will be announced and a birthday card given.
We will hold our seventh annual “Grandparents’ Day” on October 2^nd. (Forms enclosed)
We want your opinions! A “Feedback Form” will be sent out each trimester and is currently on-line on our school website.
We will be using our school digital video/still camera for school pictures and a school highlights video. This video will be shown on our OLC School Highlight Video Night on May 21^stat 7:00. Our seventh OLC Academic Expo will be held during Catholic School Week on Thursday, February 2^nd at 7:00 PM. Both events last year were well attended and great successes!
Our 7^th annual “Fun Day” will be held on June 13^th.
Security is very important. We will continue Visitors ID badges and School Staff Picture ID Badges.
Daily morning readings by students in Grades 4 – 8 will commence in September.

Important Note – We will continue the full day Faculty Meetings. The 2011/2012 Faculty Meeting dates will be September 6^th - November 11^th – January 13^th – March 9^th – May 11^th.

Students will not report to school on those dates.

Your child will be receiving several important papers the first day of school. Please be sure to read and complete all forms and papers. These forms are also posted on our school website. www.olcphila.org. We ask that all forms be returned by Friday, September 9^th. Communication envelopes will be sent out every Wednesday of each month to keep you informed. Be sure to check out our web site at (www.olcphila.org) for the latest information and new updates at the “Special Announcements” page.

Listed below are the names of our faculty and staff members. The schedule for the opening of school, a September calendar, and a few reminders are also included. Please feel free to call the school office or email me at (sdicicco@olcphila.org) if you have any questions.

The following forms are attached and are available at our website:

· Family Record - 1 per family (Be sure to include an email address.)

· OLC Handbook Policy Agreement Form - 1 per family

· Media/Photo Release Form - 1 per child

· Student Internet Access Contract - 1 per family

· Lunch Fee Payment - 1 per family

· Emergency Early School Closing Form – 1 per family

Our Lady of Consolation Faculty and Staff 2011 - 2012

Pastor ~ Rev. Dennis J. Carbonaro

Principal ~ Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco

Pre-Kindergarten ~ Sister Barbara Ann Perry S.S.N.D.

Kindergarten ~ Eleanor Donatelli

First Grade ~ Ashley Laine

Second Grade ~ Christine Nicholl

Third Grade ~ Margaret McLaughlin

Fourth Grade ~ Antoinette Devine

Fifth Grade ~ Michelle O’Donnell

Sixth Grade ~ Pasquale De Marco

Seventh Grade ~ Kathy Fagan

Eighth Grade ~ Barbara Sharp

Secretary ~ Rosemarie Temprano “Mrs. T”

Computer (Pre-K-8) ~ Edward Hoffman

Physical Education ~ Edward Hoffman

Nurse ~ Elizabeth Coleman

CORA Educator ~ Suzanne Moses

CORA Counselor ~ Dr. Phyllis Levin

Title 1 Reading Specialist ~ Sharon McKay

ARRIVAL

Students may begin entering the school at 7:45 AM. (Please do not drop off earlier. The schoolyard is not supervised before that time. ) Students who arrive after the 8:00 AM bell are late and will be marked late. (Upper Grades - 5 lates will result in a detention ~ Lower Grades - 5 lates will result in a mandatory meeting with administration.) Please do not drop off your students in front of the school building. (Bus Zone) You create a safety hazard when you do so. Please do not park along the street and walk your children to the door. Please drop off quickly. (If you want to park your car and walk your children, please do so on a side street.) Pre-K and Kindergarten: bring your child to the front door of the school. Your child will be brought to the classroom by a student safety.

Grade 1: Please pin an index card to your child’s uniform on the first day of school indicating how your child will be going home each day.

DISMISSAL

Lines will be dismissed beginning at 2:30 PM on full days in the following order:

Bus

Car riders

Tulip Street

Torresdale Avenue

Parents are asked to keep the corner and the paths of the lines clear. Please do not stand in front of the school. Since this is a Bus Zone, standing there is a safety hazard for you and the children.

UNIFORMS

Students are expected to be in proper uniform beginning on the first day of school. Please review the uniform policy, as it will be strictly enforced.

LUNCH

The lunch fee is $100.00 per child. $50.00 is due Friday, 9/17/10. (You may pay the entire fee now.) The balance of $50.00 per child is due by 1/19/11. Hot lunch will begin on Monday, 9/19.

PRETZELS

Beginning on 9/12/11 pretzels may be bought each day. We are raising the fee per pretzel to 60 cents. ($3.00 per week) (The price we pay for the pretzels has more than doubled in the past two years due to high flour costs.) We will continue with the pretzel company we hired at the end of last year. The children and staff really enjoyed them. Children may bring a healthy snack for recess. Children in Grade 4 and Grade 8 should not bring snacks containing peanuts of any kind as students in those grades have severe peanut allergies.

I look forward to a super new year serving as your principal. Remember we are copartners in the education of our most precious gifts from God, your children!

Thank you so much for choosing OLC!!!

God’s Love and Peace!

Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco

Principal

Please note: OLC has a very strict no-bully

policy for our school.

VIOLENT/THREATENING/HARASSING AND

INAPPROPRIATE CONDUCT will not be tolerated.

Dismissal and Early Pick-Up

Parents/Guardians must send a note to the teacher if a child is being picked up early. If your child is going home with someone other than parents/legal guardians or if a student is changing the way they are going home, Our Lady of Consolation must be notified in writing. This is a very important security issue.

Thank you!

Our Lady of Consolation CARES Program

Philosophy

The CARES Program provides professional care, supervision, and recreation for those registered in the program. CARES services working families wishing both parochial school education and supplementary day care for children enrolled at Our Lady of Consolation School.

This is a professionally operated program in a Catholic environment, which compliments the value of the school and the family. Activities are planned involving homework time, snack time, arts and crafts, and recreational activities. The program strives to provide security, care and consistency for children of working parents.

Experienced and devoted teachers and teacher-aides staff the CARES Program. The staff works together to provide the best care for each child while maintaining an atmosphere wherein respect and understanding for others is realized.

Fees for CARES Program are its sole support. The school does not subsidize it.

Parental Responsibilities

Keeping children’s safety in mind, parents must adhere to the instructions given.

• Parents/ guardians must fill out an emergency card for

each family and KEEP IT UPDATED. (At least one emergency phone number must be the number where we can reach a parent or guardian.)

• Once a child has reported to the CARES Program, no parent

or guardian should take a child without notifying the staff and signing out the child.

• Parents should not expect a child to be released to

anyone whose name is not on file. LAW CANNOT GRANT THE RELEASE.

• Parents/guardians should not call school to direct their

child to another place after dismissal.

• Parents should pay for cares services by Friday of the

previous week.

• Late fees will be applied to the fee if the CARES fees

and times are not observed!!

• If the child(ren) behavior is not Christian then they

will be asked to leave the CARES Program.)

Responsibilities of the child

• Children will be expected to respect the staff, each

other, the environment, and materials provided.

• Children are NEVER to leave the CARES site without

permission from the staff.

• Children must obey and listen to the directions given by

the staff.

• No one is permitted to misbehave in the bathrooms,

hallways, etc.

Children are responsible for having their assignments and books and for their personal belongings. For safety reasons, children are NOT permitted to return to their own classroom without that teacher present.

Policies and Procedures

The CARES Program serves children enrolled in Our Lady of Consolation School. The program operates on days when school is in session (including half days, except when otherwise notified). The program hours are dismissal until

5:45 PM. Children will meet in the designated area after the final dismissal bell. Children will change into play clothes that they brought with them from home. We are a peanut free program, please do not send any snacks with peanut products.

Written Homework will be supervised. Children will not be permitted to return to the classrooms for assignments or books. Parents/guardians are responsible for signing written homework and overseeing study homework. The remaining time will include: outdoor play, small group play, organized games, arts and craft activities or films.

Fees

As previously mentioned, the program is entirely financed by a fee paid in weekly installments. This fee covers the payment of personnel and provision of snacks, supplies and equipment.

The program fee is: Half Days:

• $15.00/day/1 child Add $16.00/1 child

• $20.00/day/2 children Add $21.00/2 children

• $23.00/day/3 children Add $24.00/3 children

• $27.00/day/4 children Add $28.00/4 children

The fee is to be paid the Friday before your child attends the program. Fees are payable in cash or checks. A $25.00 fee will be assessed for any returned checks. You will receive a receipt at the end of each trimester. Families consistently late in paying their fee will lose their place in the program.

Pick-up

The program promptly ends at 5:45 PM. Please respect the time of closure. Only authorized adults may pick a child and must sign the child out. A late fee will be applied when the pick-up is not being honored. There will be a $5.00 per minute late fee.

In case of Early Emergency Closings, we will try to reach parents or guardians by phone. Parents/guardians should be ready to carry out emergency plan previously decided. This plan must accompany your registration form to be kept on file. There will be a phone number where the program can be reached in case of an emergency or if a parent/guardian is late for pick-up.

If your child is sick, please have the office notify the CARES Program.

OUR LADY OF CONSOLATION AFTER CARES PROGRAM The AFTER CARES Program is an after school program for children in Pre-K through 6th grade. The program was created to help parents whose schedule differs from the school schedule. AFTER CARES is located in the school building in the Kindergarten classroom. The program follows the school calendar from September to June.

The children are permitted to bring their own snacks to After CARES (optional). They may read, play, rest or watch a movie when needed. The children remain in the classroom until parent comes to pick up child(ren) and signs them out.

All fees are payable on every Friday for the following week. If fees are not paid child(ren) may not stay! Please send fee with days or dates needed in an envelope marked with child(ren) name and grade.

HOURS: Monday-Friday 2:30PM-5:45PM

Fees: 1 Child $15.00 per day-2 children $20.00 per day

Registration Fee: $20.00 per family

Thank you everyone for a fantastic 2011 OLC

Festival of the Saints!!!

Our Lady of Consolation Morning Cares Program

The Morning Cares program is a before-school program for children in Pre-Kindergarten through 8^th Grade. The program was created to help parents whose schedule differs from the school schedule. Morning Cares is located in the school building in the Grade 1 classroom. Please bring your child/children to the front school doors. The program follows the school calendar from September to June.

The children are permitted to bring their own breakfast with them to Morning Cares (optional). In the morning program children may play, read, use the computer, rest, or watch video before going to class. The children remain in classroom until the bell rings for the beginning of the school day.

All fees are payable monthly. A calendar will be sent at the beginning of each month. Mark the days and arrival times for your child on the calendar and return with payment promptly.

HOURS: Monday – Friday 6:30 AM

FEES: 1 Child $10.00 per day ~ 2 Children 15.00 per day

REGISTRATION FEE: $20.00 per family

If you would like to register your child/children in Our Lady of Consolation Morning Cares Program, fill out the form below and return it with the Registration fee ($20.00). TY!

I want to register my child/children in

Our Lady of Consolation Morning Cares Program.

CHILD’S NAME__________________________GRADE IN 9/11__________

_________________________ ___________

ADDRESS_______________________________ZIP CODE________________

PHONE NUMBER__________________________________________________

Please return form and registration fee in an envelope.

Attn: Ms. Ashley Laine– OLC Morning Cares Program

IMPORTANT FORMS FOR 2011/2012

SCHOOL YEAR

ALL FORMS DUE TO SCHOOL OFFICE BY FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9^th 2011. TY!

Emergency Early School Closing Information

Dear Parents/Guardians,

When adverse weather conditions warrant, the Philadelphia Parochial and Public Schools may have to close early. Neither the Pastor nor the Principal of Our Lady of Consolation makes this decision. We, like you, must listen to the local media outlets for the announcement. Please listen to KYW for the announced closing time. Our Lady of Consolation School will close at that announced time. If the announced closing time occurs during the Lunch Period, students who normally go home for lunch will be asked to stay home. New this year! OLC School signed up for School Reach This means a phone call or text message will be sent to notify you of any dismissal time changes. Parents/Guardians should not pick up students before the announced closing time. This helps prevent further disruptions for the children. Do not call the school or rectory. . Please check the “Special Announcements” page of our web site for details. Please note: In the event of early dismissal CARES will be cancelled.

Every child should be aware of what he/she should do in the event of an emergency early school closing. Every child must also hand in the EMERGENCY EARLY SCHOOL CLOSING PLAN FORM to her/his teacher by Friday, September 9th.

Thank You And God Bless!

Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco

Principal

EMERGENCY EARLY SCHOOL CLOSING PLAN

STUDENT’S NAME__________________GRADE____ROOM______

In the event that there is an Emergency Early School Closing at Our Lady of Consolation School, this is the plan that my child will follow:

□ will go home in usual manner.

□ other: Please explain (Please note, your child’s plan may not involve making a phone call from the school.)

_________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

BUS ONLY;

Please explain what procedure you would like us to follow for dismissing your children in the event that bus service is cancelled:___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

Parent/Guardian’s Signature Date

Due Friday, September 9^th, 2011

***********************************************************************************

OUR LADY OF CONSOLATION SCHOOL

FAMILY RECORD

PLEASE PRINT

(One per family.)

Family Name: ___________________________________ Phone: __________________

Address: _____________________________________________ Zip: ______________

Emergency Contact Name: _________________________________________________

Phone: Relationship: __________________

Children in Our Lady of Consolation School:

Child’s Full Name Grade Date of Birth

_______________________________________________________________________

Father's Full Name: ________________________________________________________

Place of Employment: ______________________________________________________

Work #: _____________________________

Cell Phone #: _______________________

E-Mail Address: _________________________________________________________

Mother's Full Name: ______________________________________________________

Place of Employment: _____________________________________________________

Work #: _____________________________ Cell Phone #: ________________________

E-Mail Address: __________________________________________________________

Transportation to and from school:

Please circle one.

Bus Torresdale Line Tulip Line Car Line

Due Friday, September 9^th, 2011

******************************************************************************************************

OUR LADY OF CONSOLATION SCHOOL

POLICY AGREEMENT FORM

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Greetings! Please read the school handbook carefully. (It is online at www.olcphila.org) When finished, please fill out the bottom form and return it to school with your child by Friday, September 9^th.

Thank You and God’s Peace,

Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco

Principal

-------------------------------------------------

We have read and understand the contents of Our Lady of Consolation Handbook. We agree to abide by the policies and procedures established by Our Lady of Consolation Catholic School.

Please sign and return by Friday, 9/9/11.

Parent’s/Guardian’s Signature Date

Student’s Signature Date

Please sign and return by Friday, 9/9/11.

************************************************************************

If students are to be productive members of the 21st Century workplace, they must move beyond the skills of the 20th Century and master those of the 21st Century. The characteristics of the 21st Century classroom will be very different from those of the classrooms in the past because the focus is on producing students who are highly productive, effective communicators, inventive thinkers, and masters of technology.

During your children’s formative years at the elementary and secondary levels, an understanding of technology including Web 2.0 tools will be used that will assist them in their learning over the course of their school experience. New tools arise every day. Some common tools that your children may encounter and use are, but are not limited to:

· Elluminate Live! Now called Blackboard Collaborate is a virtual web-conferencing and collaboration tool that allows individuals to “meet” in a virtual space to talk and share content.

· Blogs - A blog is a website where student work can be published online. It is also a tool often used for collaboration and communication among students and teachers. "Blog" can also be used as a verb, meaning to maintain or add content to a blog.

· Google Apps: A online suite of productivity and digital tools

· Wikis - A wiki is a website that allows visitors to add, remove, and edit content online.

· Podcasts - A podcast is a digital audio file that is distributed over the Internet for playback on portable media players (such as .mp3 players) and personal computers.

· Videos – a video is a recording displaying moving images and audios. Digital video files can incorporate photos, voiceovers and music.

· Social bookmarking - Social bookmarking is a way for internet users to store, classify, share and search Internet bookmarks.

· Really Simple Syndication - RSS is used to publish frequently updated content such as blog entries, news headlines, or podcasts. It allows users to “subscribe” to internet content. A commonly used tool for RSS is Google Reader.

Also your child’s image may be used in a photo or video posted on:

· School website and/or communications

· Archdiocesan or Office of Catholic Education website and/or communications

· Parish website and/or communication

Your child’s safety and security are our number one priority. All websites and tools have been and will continue to be thoroughly examined by experienced educators and are used commonly in education today. The Acceptable Use Policy for Technology is posted on our Archdiocesan website. http://www.catholicschools-phl.org/about-oce/technology.

Please review the permission form below and complete it so that we are aware of your expectations as a parent of a child(ren) in our school. Thank you.

Parental Permission Form

General Technology Use including

Web 2.0, Online Collaboration, Photos and Media Release

r I grant permission for my child to sign up for a personal account on approved educational sites and in accordance with site and school guidelines.

r I grant permission for my child to use his/her school created student email address or a teacher created class account when signing up for accounts.

r I grant permission for my child’s work to be published on the school web site, the classroom wiki, and/or on other student classroom sites as prescribed by the teacher.

r I grant permission for my child’s photo to be published on the school web site, the classroom wiki, and/or on the other classroom sites as prescribed by the teacher. When photos are used in almost all cases names are not included. Names will be included with photos rarely and only in cases where there is special recognition such as with academic or sport awards/recognition..

r I grant permission for my child’s photo to be published in the school newsletter, in the local newspapers, the Catholic Standard and Times, on school brochures, printed materials and the Archdiocesan website.

r I give permission for my child’s photo to be posted on the school or Archdiocesan website or social network page associated with the work of the classroom.

r I give permission to the school to permit my child to participate in supervised interviews with the news media concerning events related to the school and its programs.

I have read, understand, and agree to all of the above

Student’s Name: Grade:

Parent’s Name:

Parent Signature: Date:

r I grant permission for my work to be published on the school web site, classroom wiki, and/or on other classroom sites as prescribed by the teacher.

r I grant permission for my work to be published in the local newspaper and on school promotional materials

Student’s Signature __________________________________________Date _____________

Please return 9/9/11

*****************************************************************************

LUNCH FEE

FAMILY NAME: ___________________________

# of children: ________________

Amount due: $100.00 per child for the year.

$50.00 due by 9/16/11; $50.00 due by 1/18/12

Amount enclosed: ___________

OFFICE USE ONLY

DATE: ____________

_____ CASH

_____ CHECK #____________

_____ M.O. # ______________

Received by: ______________

Please sign and return by Friday, 9/9/11.

************************************************************************

Student Internet Access Contract

I understand that when I am using the Internet or any other computer/ telecommunications device, I must adhere to all rules of courtesy, etiquette and laws regarding the copying of information as prescribed by Federal, State or local laws, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and Our Lady of Consolation School.

My signature below and that of my parent(s) or guardian(s) mean that I agree to follow the guidelines of this Acceptable Use Policy for Internet access at all Catholic schools.

____________________________________________ Grade ____________

Student Name (PLEASE PRINT)

____________________________________________ Date______________

Student Signature

Parent or Guardian:

We ask that you review this policy with your child and sign this Student Access Contract.

I hereby release Our Lady of Consolation School and the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, its personnel and any other institutions with which it is affiliated, from any and all claims and damages of any nature arising from my child’s use of, or inability to use, the Internet Access, including but not limited to claims that may arise from the unauthorized use of the system to purchase products or services.

I will instruct my child regarding any restrictions against accessing materials that are in addition to the restrictions set forth by this Acceptable Use Policy. I will emphasize to my child the importance of following rules for personal safety.

As the parent or guardian of this student, I have read the Acceptable Use Policy for Our Lady of Consolation School. I hereby give my permission for my child to use the Internet and will not hold Our Lady of Consolation or the Archdiocese of Philadelphia liable as a result of my daughter’s/son’s use of the Internet on school premises. I understand that my child has agreed not to access inappropriate materials on the Internet.

_________________________________________

Parent/Guardian Name (PLEASE PRINT)

_________________________________________ ________________

Parent/Guardian Signature Date

Due Friday, September 9^th, 2011

Our Lady of Consolation School

Acceptable Use Policy

PURPOSE

Computers are a valuable tool for education and one of this school’s purposes is to encourage the proper use of computer related technology including the Internet. Students and all users of computer technology have a responsibility to use these tools properly and in accordance with the policy below:

GOALS

To provide a variety of electronic tools to help students and teachers develop the ability to evaluate and synthesize information from a variety of sources and enable them to work effectively with various computer/communications technology.

To encourage critical thinking and problem solving skills this will be needed in this increasing electronic and global society.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF USER

With right access comes the responsibility to use the source both correctly and wisely. Access to the Internet, for instance, may mean that some material found would not meet guidelines set in our Acceptable Use Policy. Monitoring and controlling all such material is impossible. The school will make every effort to discourage the appearance of such materials. However, the opportunities and information made available by the Internet make it necessary to provide access in order that our students can take advantage of the many resources on the information superhighway.

General Guidelines for use of the Internet

· All users are required to take simple Internet training (how to sign on, log off, etc.) from the computer coordinator or his/her designee.

Only students issued passes or permission, and who have completed training may use the school’s computers to access the Internet.

Use of the stations is limited to those who have clear need for research, with a teacher assignment to back it up. Use will be limited if necessary.

Transferring copyrighted material to or from a diocesan school without express permission of the owner is a violation of Federal Law. The user is deemed responsible to see that this does not occur.

Use of electronic mail and other Internet facilities to harass, offend or annoy of other users is strictly forbidden.

E-mail accounts through the school’s computer are restricted.

Any attempt to circumvent system security, guess passwords or in anyway gain access to secured resources is forbidden.

Use of the Internet for commercial gains or profits is not allowed from an educational site.

Users will not move, repair, reconfigure, modify or attach external devices to the systems.

The systems operator has the right to monitor all activities.

Additional rules and restrictions may be added at any time.

DISCIPLINE

Violations of these rules will be dealt with by the Administration of the school.

Students’ rules:

1. For reasons of personal safety, students will NEVER post personal contract information about themselves or other people. This may include address, telephone number, school address, etc.

2. Students will not access material that is profane or obscene (e.g. pornography) or that advocates illegal acts, violence or discrimination towards other people.

3. Students will not plagiarize works they find on the Internet. Plagiarism is taking the ideas or writings of others and presenting then as if they were one’s own.

4. Students will not use obscene, profane, lewd, vulgar, rude or threatening language.

Nor will they through means of the Internet, harass or annoy any other users.

5. Students will not knowingly or recklessly post false information about a person or organization.

6. Students will not make deliberate attempts to disrupt computer systems, or destroy data by spreading computer viruses or by any other means. These actions are illegal.

7. The illegal downloading of copyrighted software for use on home and school computers is prohibited.

Violation of these rules may result in any or all of the following:

-Loss of Internet access

-Disciplinary or legal action by the school or other involved parties.

8. The school or the Archdiocese of Philadelphia reserves the right to amend this policy.

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OUR LADY OF CONSOLATION SCHOOL UNIFORM POLICY

Pre-K Uniform

Navy blue t-shirt w/OLC logo
Navy blue sweatshirt w/OLC logo
Navy blue sweat-shorts
Navy blue sweat-pants
Sneakers

Kindergarten Uniform

Embroidered white golf shirt
Navy blue t-shirt w/OLC logo
Navy blue sweatshirt w/OLC logo
Navy blue sweat-shorts
Navy blue sweat-pants
Sneakers

Girls: Grades 1 ~ 8

· Plaid Jumper - No more than 2 inches above the knee

· Long or short sleeve white blouses w/peter pan collar. No eyelet or lace trim on blouses

· Embroidered navy blue cardigan

· Navy blue knee socks or navy blue tights

· Blue and white, plain blue or black and white saddle shoes

· No sneakers, shoes w/heels, slip-ons or black shoes

Boys: Grades 1 ~ 8

· Navy blue dress slacks

· White long or short sleeve shirt w/navy tie o

· Embroidered navy blue vest or v-neck sweater. Must be worn when winter uniform is in effect.

· Belts are required

· Embroidered white golf shirt. May be worn when spring uniform is in effect.

· Black lace-up shoes. No sneakers, slip-ons or “Peaks”

· Socks must cover the ankle

Winter Uniform Boys/Girls Option:

· White long-sleeve Turtleneck (In place of shirt and tie.)

Optional Girls Winter Uniform

· Long navy blue uniform pants (no cargo or bellbottoms).

· White long-sleeve turtleneck.*

· Pullover navy blue v-neck sleeveless vest.* *This is worn as a set.

Boys and Girls Optional Spring Uniform

· Navy blue walking shorts with a belt, white knit shirts that must be tucked in.

· White sneakers (no color or logo), white crew socks worn above the ankle. Gym shorts may not be worn in place of walking shorts.

Gym Uniform

· Navy blue sweat-pant-no logos

· Navy blue sweat-shorts-no more than 2 inches above the knee

· Navy blue T-shirt w/OLC logo

· Navy blue sweatshirt w/OLC logo. Must be worn when winter uniform is in effect.

· Sneakers-must be athletic sneakers not fashion sneakers

· Socks-must cover the ankle

Kindergarten Uniform

· Embroidered white golf shirt

· Navy blue t-shirt w/OLC logo

· Navy blue sweatshirt w/OLC logo

· Navy blue sweat-shorts

· Navy blue sweat-pants

· Sneakers

All

· Gym Sweatshirt is optional for the winter uniform. Please note: If the sweatshirt is not worn a navy blue T-shirt w/OLC logo is required.

· Girls winter sweater is also optional.

· Wristbands: One wristband per arm may be worn.

· Students may not wear make-up, nail polish or fake nails.

· Girls may wear one pair of post earrings in the earlobe only.

· Boys may not wear earrings.

· Hair must be worn neatly. No fad haircuts; no bleached or dyed hair.

· Headbands should complement the school uniform.

The Gym t-shirt and sweatshirt must be purchased through school. The golf shirt is to be purchased at Flynn & O’Hara, 6243 Frankford Avenue.

Thank you!

**********************************************************************

D VOLUNTEER SIGN UP SHEET

2011/2012 SCHOOL YEAR

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Greetings! We need your help to volunteer in the areas listed below.

We rely on the help of our volunteers in many ways and always appreciate their efforts on behalf of our students. It is our hope that you will consider lending us a few hours of your time. We have many projects during the school year and your support will guarantee their success.

We ask God’s blessing on you and your families as you volunteer to become more involved in the activities of Our Lady of Consolation School. If you are able to contribute in any way, please let us know by signing below and returning this form by Friday, September 9^th. We will be in contact as needs arise.

Thank You and God Bless!

Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco

Principal

Please indicate with an “X” any of the areas you would like to help.

Lunch Program (12:00 – 1:00) Everyday Day □ Day/Days □ ______

Clerical Work □

Answer School Phone □

Honors Math Teacher □

Music Teacher □

Art Teacher □

Other □

Name__________________________Phone#_______________

Days/Times Available___________________________________

Child’s Name__________________Grade___________________

Please return this form by Friday, September 9^th. Thank you!

***********************************************************************************

***************************************************************

We congratulate our new 2011/2012 OLC Student Council officers!

Brianna Hourmouzis ~ President

Rebecca Sypherd ~ Assistant-President

Sophia Gerstle ~ Corresponding Secretary

Kayla Kelemen~ School Spirit Secretary

Our Lady of Consolation School

Tuition and Fees

2011-2012

TUITION PARISHIONER NON-PARISHIONER

HALF HALF

One Child $2,725.00 ($1,362.50) $4,200.00 ($2,100.00)

Two Children $4,025.00 (2,012.50) $5,500.00 ($2,750.00)

Three or more $4,700.00 ($2,350.00) $6,200.00 ($3,100.00)

KINDERGARTEN

Each Child $2,725.00 ($1,362.50) $4,200.00 ($2,100.00)

PRE-K-OPTIONS

3 half days $2,000.00 ($1000.00)

3 full days $3,100.00 ($1,550.00)

5 half days $2,200.00 ($1,100.00)

5 full days $3,200.00 ($1,600.00)

FEES

Registration $100.00 per child

Home & School Activity Fee $100.00 per family

Lunch Fee $100.00 per child ½ in July- ½ in Jan.

Home and School Fee $5.00 per family

TUITION COLLECTION 1^ST HALF IN JULY AND 2^ND HALF IN JANUARY

DISCOUNT ON TUITION-if tuition is paid in full by September 1^st-$100.00 discount

VERY IMPORTANT REMINDER

There are NO TUITION REFUNDS after September 30^th. After September 30^th you are responsible for the FULL TUITION. If you leave a month, 6 months later, no matter when the withdrawal takes place.

SMART PROGRAM-is available for payment on a monthly basis. Tuition is to be paid directly to Smart Program Department. There will be no exceptions made for late payments. Every family must pay there tuition on time. If not you will be responsible for all late fees.

Anyone who may be getting Children’s Scholarship or BLOC Grant, please notify the rectory as soon as possible so that we can notify SMART and have corrected amounts on the monthly statement.

School Tuition Payment:

All tuition payments must be paid up to date in order for students to be permitted to return to school in the fall. Please continue monthly payments for July – August – September. Thank you!

Voucher Support

Senate Bill 1 would benefit our schools. Here’s how. We need your help to send along letters to the names below to urge their support for Senate Bill 1 (Opportunity Scholarships). Please lend your assistance and support. TY!

Senator Mike Stack	Senator Larry Farnese	Senator Shirley Kitchen

5^th District	1^st District	3^rd District
12361 Academy Road Philadelphia, PA 19154 Phone: 215.281.2539 Fax: 215.281.2798	1802 S. Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19145 Tel: 215-952-3121 Fax: 215-952-3155	1701 W. Lehigh Avenue, Suite 104 Philadelphia, PA 19132 Phone: 215-227-6161 Fax: 215-560-1316

Letter 1: Competition
Word Count: 220

Dear Editor,

I live relatively close to three gas stations. One of them sits alone on a busy road and the gas is always the most expensive. The other two are right across the street from one another on a similarly busy road, and the cost of gas at those two stations is usually much cheaper. These gas stations are all within a few miles of each other, but one thing keeps the cost down at the two that sit across the street from each other: competition.

The average public school spends $13,907 per student each year. The average tuition at a non-public school is between $3,500 and $6,500. Because non-public schools have been competing for students since their inception, they have found more efficient and effective ways to provide academically excellent education for less money.

Pennsylvania public schools have had ample opportunities - and plenty of money - to improve their academic results and offer safe, nurturing environments for our children. Waiting any longer is detrimental to our children. It is time that we give all parents other educational options for their children. I bet that the same concept that keeps gas prices down in my neighborhood – competition - will ultimately improve our public school system as well.

Letter 2: Cost to the State
Word Count: 217

Dear Editor,

In following the issue in “Insert Newspaper Name and Story Date Here,” the constant refrain being sung by the opposition to school choice is that of a supposed crippling increase in spending. While an increase in spending frightens most Pennsylvanians as we continue to tighten our family budgets and worry about the spending of our government, there is one major flaw in the argument: it is not true.

Schools, just like other organizations, are cutting their costs and improving efficiency. In the past eight years, state educational spending has increased by 40%, to $26 billion per year, and yet student achievement remains stagnant. The average public school spends $13,907 per student each year. The average tuition at a non-public school is between $3,500 and $6,500. The Opportunity Scholarships proposed in Senate Bill 1 will not exceed the tuition cost at the school and the difference will even be returned the state, which we all know could benefit from those funds.

Pennsylvania should make academically excellent schools available and affordable to families who are only trying act in the best interest of their children. We need to shift the focus of this conversation from what is best for the bureaucracy of the school districts to what is best for our children, and, ultimately, our future.

Letter 3: Reaction to Polls
Word Count: 178

Dear Editor,

I am writing to response to “Insert Story Name and Date Here.” The story cited polling data supposedly illustrating that the majority of Pennsylvanians are opposed to giving parents the opportunity to choose the school that their child attends. What the story did not point out, however, was the wording of the questions asked. The poll used bait words and negative phrases to influence the outcome.

When discussing the education of our children, who are our most precious resource and the best chance we have for correcting so many of the ills in society, adults need to leave the politics at the door of the capitol building. This is simply an issue of what is best for children and for their parents. Even though public school spending has increased 40% in the past eight years, we aren’t seeing any positive return for that money. Test scores, parent satisfaction and student graduation rates are not increasing. It is time to arm parents with the ultimate educational weapon: the choice of the best institution for their child.

Letter 4: Parents are primary educators
Word Count: 225

In “insert story name and date here,” your reporter repeated the now tired argument against school choice, that of “insert argument: cost, accountability, etc.”

As a parent, I understood my daughter’s learning style and taught her so many basic skills: how to eat with a fork and spoon, how to recite her ABCs, how to tie her shoes. Those moments of learning and discovery are my most cherished as a parent. As parents, we are, quite simply, the first and primary educators of our children.

As our children age, we take on more colleagues in the work of education –babysitters, day care workers and, most importantly, teachers. Teachers are vitally important to my daughter’s development as a student and as a member of community; teachers impart knowledge that I don’t have or that I’ve long forgotten. They offer guidance and measure success. However, I remain the CEO of my daughter’s education. And yet, when the public schools are failing my child, offering little to no improvement for her academically, I have nowhere to turn.

Senate Bill 1 puts me back in charge of my daughter’s education, just as I should be. It gives me the chance to be selective, instead of resigning myself to send her to the only school I can afford. Please support Senate Bill 1 so that parents can become the CEOs of their children’s education and development.

Gratefully,

Student from School

OLC Tuition may be paid through the “SMART” program which allows for a monthly payment. If interested in this type of payment or if you need more information, please call the rectory at

215-333-0442. TY!

Our Lady of Consolation School will receive funds from TARGET's Take Charge of Education Program. A big THANK YOU to all who have already designated OLC School to receive the education funds! FYI - Target will donate 1% of the Target visa or Guest card purchases to a school of your choice.
Thanks again for choosing Our Lady of Consolation School!

Our Lady of Consolation Catholic School

“Our Lady’s Little Lambs” 2011/2012

Junior Pre-K3 and Pre-K4 Program

We are very pleased to announce our

“Our Lady’s Little Lambs”

Junior Pre-K3 and Pre-K4 Program”

Our Lady of Consolation Catholic School offers two Pre-Kindergarten programs, one for children two years away from kindergarten (Pre-K3) and one for children who will be entering kindergarten the following school year (Pre-K4).

Our Pre-K 3/4 Program offers children a nurturing learning environment that is caring, challenging, hands on, and academically developmental. Since we believe our children should enjoy their time here, there are also many fun activities. Appropriate child-centered experiences are provided to stimulate inquisitiveness and to develop the child’s self-assurance and independence.

Our program provides many hands-on-learning experiences in an academic readiness environment. Language is developed through a multitude of methods. Songs, plays, poems, and stories are just some of them. Centers are provided where children can experience a variety of sensory experiences in an individual or group setting. Gross and fine motor skills are developed through physical activities, play, and the creative arts. Through songs, storytelling of scripture, prayers, games, and art activities, the children learn about God's great love for each of us

This coming year our children will also be given technology instruction in our computer lab. To provide the most up-to-date communication, the Pre-K 3 / 4 Program will have its own website linked to the school’s main website at www.olcphila.org. For your child’s comfort, the “Our Lady’s Little Lambs” classroom is fully air-conditioned.

If you are interested in registering your child in our fine program:

Please contact the school office at 215-624-0505or email at

sdicicco@olcphila.org. Thank you!

Pre-K Uniform

· Navy blue t-shirt w/OLC logo

· Navy blue sweatshirt w/OLC logo

· Navy blue sweat-shorts

· Navy blue sweat-pants

· Sneakers

Our Lady of Consolation Catholic School “Our Lady’s Little Lambs”

2011/2012 Junior Pre-K3 and Pre-K4 Program

Parents may choose the program best suited to their child’s needs from the options listed below

OPTION A

Pre-K 3/4 Years Old

Three (3) Half /Day Program ~ Monday – Wednesday - Friday

7:45 - 12:00 ($ 2000.00)

OPTION B

Pre-K 3/4 Years Old

Five (5) Half /Day Program ~ Monday through Friday

7:45 - 12:00 ($2200.00)

OPTION C

Pre-K 3/4 Years Old

Three (3) Full Day Program ~ Monday – Wednesday - Friday

7:45 - 2:30 (Days are flexible) ($3100.00)

OPTION D

Pre-K 3/4 Years Old

Five (5) Full Day Program ~ Monday through Friday

7:45 - 2:30 ($3200.00)

If interested or need more information, please contact us at 215-624-0505 or email me at sdicicco@olcphila.org. TY!

EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSING

Parents must listen to KYW in order to know when or if Our Lady of Consolation School will be closed, or closing early due to inclement weather or other emergency. Our Lady of Consolation will be closed if the announcement is made that “all public and parochial schools in Philadelphia are closed”. (KYW also has a web site that you can access.)

When it becomes necessary to close the school for an emergency during the school day, your child will be expected to follow THE SCHOOL CLOSING PLAN YOU HAVE FILED WITH YOUR CHILD’S HOMEROOM TEACHER. Please listen to KYW for the announced closing time. Our Lady of Consolation School will close at that announced time. If the announced closing time occurs during the Lunch Period, students who normally go home for lunch will be asked to stay home for the day. Parents/Guardians should not pick up students before the announced closing time. This helps prevent further disruptions for the children. Please inform your child where he/she is to go in an Emergency Dismissal. PLEASE DO NOT CALL THE SCHOOL OR RECTORY. (Excessive calls jam our phone lines.) Please check the “Special Announcements” page of the school web site for details.

Thank you!!!!

*********************************************************************************

“OLC Opening 2 Hours Late Policy”

Our Lady of Consolation will open two hours late if the announcement is made that “all Parochial Schools in Philadelphia are opening two hours late”. (KYW has a web site that you can access through a link on our school website at www.olcphila.org.) Please check the “ KYW link on the school web site for details. PLEASE DO NOT CALL THE SCHOOL.
School doors will open at 9:45 AM. Morning announcements and teaching will begin at 10:00 AM.
Do not send your children to OLC School before 9:45 on a two hour delay schedule. Adult supervision will begin at 9:45 AM. It cannot be guaranteed before that time; therefore, the school cannot be held accountable before 9:45 AM.
Early Morning Cares is cancelled on a two hour opening late schedule.
Atlantic Express bus riders should wait at their pickup stops 90 minutes from their regularly scheduled assigned time.
In the event that an announcement is made that bus transportation is cancelled, students are responsible for transportation to and from school.

Thank you!!!

Dear Parents and Guardians:

Greetings! As you well know, inclement weather or other emergencies, have a way of interrupting the school calendar. For the first time in our modern history, the schools in the City of Philadelphia may be on a two hour delay for the start of the school day. This may be necessary throughout the winter months to either cancel school for the day or have a “delayed opening.” If this should occur, parents and guardians are asked to tune in to the local news, visit the Catholic Schools Website www.catholicschools-phl.org, or our school website, www.olcphila.org.

In the event of a delayed opening, all schools and early childhood programs will open at 10:00 AM. Dismissal time will remain the same. Yellow bus transportation will run on a 90 minute delayed schedule. The transportation schedule for a delayed opening is posted on the back. All school trips that are scheduled will be canceled. I strongly encourage you to make arrangements for your child’s supervision when schools are closed or delayed and to review these arrangements with your child periodically.

Sincerely,

Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco

Principal

** Dismissal times will not be affected but will remain the same **

Yellow Bus Transportation Schedule for a Delayed Opening

Normal Pick Up Time	Delayed Opening Pick Up Time
7:10	8:40
7:15	8:45
7:20	8:50
7:25	8:55
7:30	9:00
7:35	9:05
7:40	9:10
7:45	9:15
7:50	9:20
7:55	9:25
8:00	9:30
8:05	9:35
8:10	9:40
8:15	9:45
8:20	9:50
8:25	9:55
8:30	10:00
8:35	10:10
8:40	10:15
8:45	10:20
8:50	10:25
8:55	10:30
9:00	10:35

“OLC Opening 2 Hours Late Policy”

· Our Lady of Consolation will open two hours late if the announcement is made that “all Parochial Schools in Philadelphia are opening two hours late”. (KYW has a web site that you can access through a link on our school website at www.olcphila.org.) Please check the “ KYW link on the school web site for details. PLEASE DO NOT CALL THE SCHOOL.

· School doors will open at 9:45 AM. Morning announcements and teaching will begin at 10:00 AM.

· Do not send your children to OLC School before 9:45 on a two hour delay schedule. Adult supervision will begin at 9:45 AM. It cannot be guaranteed before that time; therefore, the school cannot be held accountable before 9:45 AM.

· Early Morning Cares is cancelled on a two hour opening late schedule.

· Atlantic Express bus riders should wait at their pickup stops 90 minutes from their regularly scheduled assigned time.

· In the event that an announcement is made that bus transportation is cancelled, students are responsible for transportation to and from school.

*******************************************************************************************************************

New Absence Note!

Greetings! New absence form this year! Every family will receive two new absence notes for each child attending Our Lady of Consolation Catholic School. Please use only this form for any absence. (We also request a phone call to school on the day of your child’s absence.) After an absence form is used a new one will be sent home to replace it. This method will ensure more accurate record keeping. Thank you in advance for your cooperation!!!

God’s peace! Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco ~ Principal

Our Lady of Consolation

SIP

(Shelter in Place) PLAN

· Implemented when directed by the police/fire department.

· All staff and students will move to school hallways.

· Windows and doors will be closed and sealed with duct tape.

· Emergency kits will be utilized.

· Because of Police and Fire Department directives, no person may leave or enter the shelter area to avoid exposure under the SIP Plan.

· Wait until the all-clear signal is given. Parents are asked to listen to media (radio/tv/internet) for this signal to come and pick up their children.

· During the emergency event, OLC School (if possible) will post important information on the “Special Announcements” Page of our web site. (www.olcphila.org)

Dismissal: Please keep the corner and the paths of the dismissal lines clear. We ask that everyone stand behind the orange safety cones. This improves our security and makes it safer for you and the children.

***********************************************************

2011/2012 SCHOOL YEAR

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Greetings! We need your help to volunteer in the areas listed below.

Thank You and God Bless!

Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco

Principal

Please indicate with an “X” any of the areas you would like to help.

Lunch Program (12:00 – 1:00) Everyday Day □ Day/Days □ ______

Clerical Work □

Answer School Phone □

Music Teacher □

Art Teacher □

Other □

Name__________________________Phone#_______________

Days/Times Available___________________________________

Child’s Name__________________Grade___________________

********************************************************************************************************************

OUR LADY OF CONSOLATION SCHOOL

FAMILY RECORD

PLEASE PRINT

(One per family.)

Family Name: ___________________________________ Phone: __________________

Address: _____________________________________________ Zip: ______________

Emergency Contact Name: _________________________________________________

Phone: Relationship: __________________

Children in Our Lady of Consolation School:

Child’s Full Name Grade Date of Birth

_______________________________________________________________________

Father's Full Name: ________________________________________________________

Place of Employment: ______________________________________________________

Work #: _____________________________

Cell Phone #: _______________________

E-Mail Address: _________________________________________________________

Mother's Full Name: ______________________________________________________

Place of Employment: _____________________________________________________

Work #: _____________________________ Cell Phone #: ________________________

E-Mail Address: __________________________________________________________

Transportation to and from school:

Please circle one.

Bus Torresdale Line Tulip Line Car Line

LUNCH FEE

FAMILY NAME: ___________________________

# of children: ________________

Amount due: $100.00 per child for the year.

$50.00 due by 9/16/11; $50.00 due by 1/18/12

Amount enclosed: ___________

OFFICE USE ONLY

DATE: ____________

_____ CASH

_____ CHECK #____________

_____ M.O. # ______________

Received by: ______________

***********************************************************************************************************************

OUR LADY OF CONSOLATION SCHOOL

POLICY AGREEMENT FORM

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Thank You and God’s Peace,

Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco

Principal

-------------------------------------------------

We have read and understand the contents of Our Lady of Consolation Handbook. We agree to abide by the policies and procedures established by Our Lady of Consolation Catholic School.

Please sign and return by Friday, 9/9/11.

Parent’s/Guardian’s Signature Date

Student’s Signature Date

************************************************************************************************************************

OUR LADY OF CONSOLATION SCHOOL UNIFORM POLICY 2011/2012

Pre-K Uniform

Navy blue t-shirt w/OLC logo
Navy blue sweatshirt w/OLC logo
Navy blue sweat-shorts
Navy blue sweat-pants
Sneakers

Kindergarten Uniform

Embroidered white golf shirt
Navy blue t-shirt w/OLC logo
Navy blue sweatshirt w/OLC logo
Navy blue sweat-shorts
Navy blue sweat-pants
Sneakers

Girls: Grades 1 ~ 8

· Plaid Jumper - No more than 2 inches above the knee

· Long or short sleeve white blouses w/peter pan collar. No eyelet or lace trim on blouses

· Embroidered navy blue cardigan

· Navy blue knee socks or navy blue tights

· Blue and white, plain blue or black and white saddle shoes

· No sneakers, shoes w/heels, slip-ons or black shoes

Boys: Grades 1 ~ 8

· Navy blue dress slacks

· White long or short sleeve shirt w/navy tie o

· Embroidered navy blue vest or v-neck sweater. Must be worn when winter uniform is in effect.

· Belts are required

· Embroidered white golf shirt. May be worn when spring uniform is in effect.

· Black lace-up shoes. No sneakers, slip-ons or “Peaks”

· Socks must cover the ankle

Winter Uniform Boys/Girls Option:

· White long-sleeve Turtleneck (In place of shirt and tie.)

Optional Girls Winter Uniform

· Long navy blue uniform pants (no cargo or bellbottoms).

· White long-sleeve turtleneck.*

· Pullover navy blue v-neck sleeveless vest.* *This is worn as a set.

Boys and Girls Optional Spring Uniform

· Navy blue walking shorts with a belt, white knit shirts that must be tucked in.

· White sneakers (no color or logo), white crew socks worn above the ankle. Gym shorts may not be worn in place of walking shorts.

Gym Uniform

· Navy blue sweat-pant-no logos

· Navy blue sweat-shorts-no more than 2 inches above the knee

· Navy blue T-shirt w/OLC logo

· Navy blue sweatshirt w/OLC logo. Must be worn when winter uniform is in effect.

· Sneakers-must be athletic sneakers not fashion sneakers

· Socks-must cover the ankle

Kindergarten Uniform

· Embroidered white golf shirt

· Navy blue t-shirt w/OLC logo

· Navy blue sweatshirt w/OLC logo

· Navy blue sweat-shorts

· Navy blue sweat-pants

· Sneakers

All

· Gym Sweatshirt is optional for the winter uniform. Please note: If the sweatshirt is not worn a navy blue T-shirt w/OLC logo is required.

· Girls winter sweater is also optional.

· Wristbands: One wristband per arm may be worn.

· Students may not wear make-up, nail polish or fake nails.

· Girls may wear one pair of post earrings in the earlobe only.

· Boys may not wear earrings.

· Hair must be worn neatly. No fad haircuts; no bleached or dyed hair.

· Headbands should complement the school uniform.

The Gym t-shirt and sweatshirt must be purchased through school. The golf shirt is to be purchased at Flynn & O’Hara, 6243 Frankford Avenue.

Thank you!

We ask Parents/Guardians to drop off their children in the morning on Edmond Street. Please do so quickly to help expedite the car traffic. Please do not drop off in front of the school on Princeton Ave. This is now a traffic lane. You create a safety hazard when you do so. (Students may be dropped off along the lane next to the rectory.) Please drop off quickly. Please do not park on Princeton Ave and walk your children to the door. (If you want to park your car and walk your children, please do so on a side street.)

By following these guidelines smoother traffic flow and a

safer environment will result.

Thank you for your patience and cooperation!!!

Morning Arrival Reminders

Please keep in mind these morning drop off rules:

· Whenever possible, please drop off students along side streets.

· If you choose to drop off along Princeton Ave, please do so after the extended curb. (Not in front of the school or traffic lanes.)

· Please do not get out of the car or park your car along Princeton Ave. (This area is zoned “no stopping”.) This blocks the flow of traffic and creates dangerous situations. If you need to walk your child to the school entrance, please park your car on the surrounding side streets.

· Do not block any driveways, school entrances, or loading areas.

· Please remind your children to cross only at the corners and to obey the crossing guards.

Thank you!

PARENT TEST-SUPPORT STRATEGIES

Preparing for Testing

• Note test dates on your home calendar; schedule appointments on non-testing days.

• Encourage your child to take responsibility for homework and class study.

• Help you child learn how to find information independently.

• Praise your child for work done well.

• Encourage your child to ask questions at home and in class.

• Get to know your child's teachers.

• Attend parent-teacher conferences.

• Confer with teachers on a regular basis for progress reports.

• Gather available test preparation materials.

• Assure your child knows that you value a good education.

Testing Day

• See that your child is rested and eats breakfast.

• See that your child arrives at school on time and is relaxed.

• Encourage your child to do the best work possible.

• Do not send your child to school if illness is apparent.

• Do not remove your child from school on test days for appointments.

After Testing

• Examine all test reports sent home.

• Determine areas of strengths and weaknesses.

• Praise your child's testing strengths and make a plan to address identified weaknesses.

• See your child's principal, counselor or teacher if additional information is required.

TEST ANXIETY

Parent Strategies for Reducing Test Anxiety

• Discuss the test openly and in a positive way.

• Have realistic expectations of your child's performance while encouraging his/her best efforts.

• Emphasize that the test is only one measure of academic performance.

• Emphasize that test scores do not determine a person's worth.

Our Lady of Consolation Technology Program ~ The Technology Program at Our Lady of Consolation School offers bi-weekly computer class instruction for the entire student body. During computer instruction time, students learn the basics of computing and then advance to more advanced skills such as word processing, building a database, and desktop publishing. They also participate in a second class called Integrating Teaching Across the Curriculum or (ITAC) for short. The computer lab is used by subject teachers in conjunction with the Technology teacher to instruct students in research and class projects for subject based uses.

The Bully Free Pledge

I promise not to be a bully.

I promise to help those who are bullied.

I promise to respect others and to treat them as I would like to be treated.

I promise not to hit others, exclude others, or call them mean names.

I promise to take the 4 steps to dealing with bullies.

I promise to do my best to create a bully-free school.

Don’t be a Bully. Be a Friend!

Please check the OLC Church Bulletin section called the “Principal’s Corner” and also our web site (www.olcphila.org) for the latest happenings at OLC School.

Curriculum Guidelines
All curriculum guidelines are posted on the

Catholic Education website
(www.catholicschools-phl.org) under

Elementary Education.

Religion guidelines should be posted soon

which will complete the series.

To find out more about Catholic Education check out this new website: www.keepingfaithinmind.org.

History of

Our Lady of Consolation School

In February 1928, ground was broken at the southeast corner of Princeton Avenue and Edmund Street for a combination church and parochial school building to serve the growing Italian parish of Our Lady of Consolation. By October of that year, the new church-school facility was dedicated by Bishop Michael Crane. Upon the construction of the modern-day church on the Tulip Street, this building was renovated into a classroom building at a cost of approximately $100,000 in 1958, with a rectory added at the southeast corner of Tulip Street and Princeton Avenue in 1960. Rev. James V. Rosica, the pastor of the church at the time, came to the parish as a 26-year-old priest in 1933 and was credited largely for lifting the parish out of post depression debt and bringing the parishioner total to 1,350 families by 1967.

Our school, like our church, was founded to serve the Italian immigrant families that were moving into the area. It soon became an integral part of the entire community. Under the dedicated leadership of our pastor, Rev. Michael C. Dilorio, principal and faculty and supported by the parents, the school continues to provide rigorous academic training, a safe comfortable environment, and a faithful example of, and instruction in, the Catholic faith. The administration, faculty and staff have given decades of combined service to further these goals.

Today we provide instruction for children of various nationalities in grades kindergarten through eight. Our recently renovated building houses the latest in technology in an effort to afford our children every advantage.

We draw our strength as a community from a long tradition of value oriented Catholic education based on the teachings of Jesus Christ. We are committed to graduating children who will live rewarding moral lives in an ever-changing, challenging world. We are confident that as a community we are capable of providing each child with this gift.

UNITY

I dreamed I stood in a studio

And watched two sculptors there.

The clay they used was a young child’s mind

And they fashioned it with care.

One was a teacher, the tools she used

Were books and music and art.

One, a parent with a guiding hand,

And a gentle loving heart.

Day after day the teacher toiled

With a touch that was deft and sure.

While the parent labored by her side

And polished and smoothed it o’er.

And when at last their work was done,

They were proud of what they had wrought.

For the things they had molded into the child

Could neither be sold nor bought.

And each agreed he would have failed

If he had worked alone.

For behind the parent stood the school,

And behind the teacher the home!

Anonymous

Our Lady of Consolation Catholic School

Home and School Association

Constitution and By-Laws

PREAMBLE
This Association is a group of parents/guardians, teachers and administrators dedicated to addressing the social and educational needs of students and parents/guardians of Our Lady of Consolation Catholic School which is an integral part of the parish and as such operates in accord with its mission. This Association will provide a cooperative support system and encourage the spiritual development of a thriving Catholic community.

ARTICLE 1
The Official name of this Association shall be: Our Lady of Consolation Catholic Home and School Association.

ARTICLE 2

The Pastor of Our Lady of Consolation Parish shall administer Archdiocesan guidelines in reference to the School and the Home and School Association.

ARTICLE 3- PURPOSE

1. To acknowledge the role of the parents as the first and foremost educators of their children and to work in cooperation with the school administration to ensure quality education and formation of the children.

2. To function as an advisory and support group to Our Lady of Consolation Catholic School.

3. To foster a caring Catholic community of parents/guardians of OLC students.

4. To promote parental involvement in all school programs.

5. To build a better understanding and create a common interest between parents and faculty through open communication.

6. To use the talents of the parish community for quality education in the school.

7. To establish a positive spiritual and emotional environment for the entire school community.

ARTICLE 4 - MEETINGS

The Association will hold at least four regular meetings during the course of the school year. Special meetings may be called by the Executive Committee.

ARTICLE 5 - MEMBERSHIP
All parents/guardians of students in OLC and faculty and school administration are eligible for membership in the Our Lady of Consolation Catholic Home and School Association. Active eligibility consists of being current in the payment of dues.

ARTICLE 6 - EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

The Executive Committee shall consist of the Officers of the Association, Chairpersons of any standing committees, a Faculty Representative, the Principal, and the Pastor. The Executive Committee shall have responsibility for the Association's affairs.

ARTICLE 7 – OTHER COMMITTEES

Chairpersons of Other Committees shall be nominated by the President and appointed with the approval of a majority of the Officers, Principal, and Faculty Representative on the Executive Committee. This recommendation will be presented to the Pastor for his consideration.

ARTICLE 8 - OFFICERS

Number and Titles: The officers of the Association shall be President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, Ways & Means, Membership, and Executive Assistants.

ARTICLE 9 - NOMINATING PROCEDURE

Nominations for cabinet positions may be made by an individual who wishes to run for an office position. All nominations will be notified by an Executive Board member to confirm the nomination.

ARTICLE 10 – ELECTION PROCEDURE

If there is more than one candidate for an office, ballots will be distributed to members of the Home & School Association. The ballots will be collected and counted by the Executive Board members.

ARTICLE 11 – TERMS OF OFFICE

The officers shall serve for two years.

ARTICLE 12 – INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS

Newly elected officers will be installed during the first general Home & School meeting and assume their duties to coincide with the beginning of the school year.

ARTICLE 13 – DUTIES

A. PRESIDENT

The President shall preside at all meetings of the Association and of its Executive Committee, and performs such other duties as are incumbent on this office. The President shall represent the Association at appropriate Parish and Archdiocesan functions.

B. VICE PRESIDENT

The Vice President shall perform such duties as assigned to this office and, in the absence of the President, perform all the duties of the President.

C. SECRETARY

The Secretary shall keep and distribute the minutes of all Association and Executive Committee meetings (no later than one week following a meeting), notify members of their appointment to committees, collect agenda topics, and perform such duties as are incumbent on this office.

D. TREASURER

The Treasurer shall receive all monies of the Association, disburse funds as authorized, keep financial accounts, and produce financial reports to the Pastor on a quarterly basis, as the Executive Committee may require.

E. WAYS AND MEANS

1. Shall organize volunteers to help with yearly events.

2. Shall perform tasks at yearly events by the Home & School Association.

3. Shall foster strong parent/guardian involvement in school activities.

F. MEMBERSHIP

Shall prepare and keep records of all members.
Shall perform various tasks at yearly events sponsored by the Home & School Association.

G. EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS

Shall interact with other officers, as to be familiar with the normal functions of the executive branch.
Shall be ready to assume an executive officers position if needed or requested.
Shall perform various tasks at yearly events sponsored by the Home & School Association.

ARTICLE 14 – VACATED OFFICER POSITION

A. In the event the President resigns before the completion of a term, the Vice President shall become the President of the Association.

B. In the event of any other member resigns before the completion of a term, or the Vice President assumes the Office of President, the remaining Officers and the Pastor will appoint an Association Member to complete the term of the vacated position.

ARTICLE 15 - MONIES

The Home & School Association shall follow all accounting principles of the parish.

ARTICLE 16 - AMENDMENT OF BYLAWS

These by-laws may be amended at a special meeting called for that purpose. The proposed amendment must be submitted in writing at a regular meeting at least one month prior to the special meeting and so announced to the entire membership. A two-thirds vote of the members present at the special meeting is required for amendment.

* Since these are new by-laws, they are provisionally in use for one year, (2008-2009); after which the Pastor and Executive committee will execute a thorough review.

HOMEWORK HELPONLINE

HOMEWORK HELPONLINE is a FREE interactive online homework service that provides help in Math, Science, Social Studies, and English for students in Grades 4 – 12 from 2 -11pm. (You will be connected to a tutor.) HOMEWORK HELPONLINE is available to any computer by logging onto the Free Library’s web page at www.library.phila.gov.

HOMEWORK HELPONLINE is funded with

Technology Federal Library Funds.

Please Note>THERE IS A LINK TO THIS SITE ON OUR “LINKS Page”.

God Bless!

Our Lady of Consolation

Catholic School Handbook

2011/2012

4816 Princeton Avenue

Philadelphia, Pa. 19135

215- 624-0505

Nurse’s Office

215-624-3551

www.olcphila.org

ADMINISTRATION

PASTOR

Reverend Dennis J. Carbonaro

Principal

Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco

sdicicco@olcphila.org

MISSION STATEMENT

OLC School:

Knowing Christ, Teaching Christ,

Becoming Christ”.

PHILOSOPHY

At Our Lady of Consolation School we strive to allow each child to develop into reasonable and happy members of the parish and community. In order to accomplish this, we seek to provide an atmosphere of trust and security based on cooperation between students and faculty, home and parish. While striving to maintain a Christ-centered atmosphere of love, special awareness is placed on the

child’s growing awareness of peace and justice in the world.

With this as our fundamental philosophy, we, as Catholic teachers, commit ourselves to the realization of these principles. Our personal concern, animated by a strong sense of teaching as a vocation as well as a profession, is the distinctive characteristic of

Our Lady of Consolation School.

ADMISSION AND REGISTRATION POLICY

Our School admits students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin to all of the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to its students. The School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, its admission policy, or in any school-administered program.

Pre- K

Pre-K3 ~ Child must be three years old by September 1^st.

Pre-K4 ~ Child must be four years old by September 1^st.

· Certificate of parish registration is required.

Baptismal certificate is needed unless the child was baptized at Out Lady of Consolation..
State birth certificate is needed. Hospital certificate of birth is not accepted.
Proof of immunization, including measles and rubella (PA Law Act 67-1974).

KINDERGARTEN

Child must be five years old by September 1^st.

· Certificate of parish registration is required.

Baptismal certificate is needed unless the child was baptized at Our Lady of Consolation.
State birth certificate is needed. Hospital certificate of birth is not accepted.
Proof of immunization, including measles and rubella (PA Law Act 67-1974).

FIRST GRADE

Child must be six years old by September 1.
Child must have attended Kindergarten.
All of the documents that are required for Kindergarten are required for First Grade.
If the child attended Kindergarten at Our Lady of Consolation, simply complete the paper that will be sent home.
No outstanding tuition can be owed to any other school.

GRADES 2-8

Certificate of parish registration is required for Catholics; non-Catholics must meet with a parish priest.
Transfer from previously attended school must be presented.
Proof of appropriate immunizations is necessary.
Copy of latest report card is required.

SPECIAL FEATURES

In addition to the Core Curriculum, Our Lady of Consolation School offers the following special services:

· Computer Lab with Technology Teacher ~ Our lab is internet/network connected with high speed cable internet service. All classrooms and offices are wired for high speed internet service.

· Pre-K Program (3 and 4 years old) ~ This program offers morning and afternoon half-week/full week and full and half-day Pre-K classes.

· Extensive Website – www.olcphila.org ~ Our website offers our School Calendar, Handbook, Faculty E-Mail, Special Announcements, Parent/Student Pages, Alumni Page, Picture Page, Teacher Homeroom Sites, learning links, and many more special features.

· Kindergarten Program ~ Our program offers a full day Kindergarten class.

· Title One Extended Day Program ~ This academic program offers after-school tutoring for qualified students.

· Title One Reading Teacher ~ Offers reading remediation to qualified students.

· CARES ~ After school child care program. (Separate handout available)

· Morning CARES Program ~ Program available to children PreK to 8^th Grade. (Separate brochure available)

· Air-Conditioned and Carpeted Classrooms

· Music Program includes classroom instruction, Liturgical Song, and special student performances..

· Physical Education Teacher ~ Our extensive Gym Program offers exercises and many interesting group activities. All grades attend gym classes every week.

· Library ~ Books circulate for one week. Our library is fully computerized.

· Language Study ~ Language study in Italian offered.

· Band Program ~ This program provides individualized instrumental instruction with band rehearsals and concerts. There are band performances at Christmas and spring.

· CORA ~ Under Pennsylvania State Act 89, our children receive speech therapy, educational remediation, counseling for children and families, and group sessions for special needs children.

· Nurse/Health Services ~ By state law, the nurse may administer first aid only as specified within standing medical orders. The nurse should be informed of any health problems. Medications may be taken only in the presence of the nurse or her designate, and only from the original prescription bottle registered with her by the parent. If a child becomes ill during the school day, he/she will be sent to the nurse. In case of an accident, parents will be notified immediately. The Nurse and the School Office must have phone numbers where parents/guardians may be reached quickly. The nurse plans the assessment process of mandated examinations in Kindergarten, first and sixth grades. She conducts annual screenings and immunization programs as dictated by the state.

· Volunteer Aides ~ Aides are welcome to assist at our school.

NDS Hot Lunch Program ~ This program is available for a fee to students in all grades. Juices and milk will be available for sale. Soda products will not be sold. Students may not bring soda to school. Children must abide by the rules and regulations and cooperate with the Lunch Program Staff.

Home and School Association ~ This is an organization providing parents and teachers an opportunity to meet in order to support the educational programs of the school. Attendance at meetings is strongly encouraged.
Student Council ~ The purpose of this organization is to promote good citizenship, encourage a high standard of scholarship, arouse a spirit of pride within the school, demonstrate the practical application of democracy, and contribute to the general welfare of the school. Representation on the Student Council is made up of students in Grades four through eight who are elected by their peers.

DAILY SCHEDULE

School Hours: 8:00 A.M. to 2:30 P.M. Students who arrive after 8:00 A.M will be marked late.

UNIFORM POLICY

A student’s appearance, self-respect and performance have a tendency to complement one another. We ask for the cooperation of the parents in these regulations.

This uniform policy will be strictly enforced. The gym t-shirt and sweatshirt must be purchased through school. The golf shirt is to be purchased at

Flynn & O’Hara, 6243 Frankford Avenue.

Girls: Grades 1 ~ 8

Plaid Jumper - No more than 2 inches above the knee
Long or short sleeve white blouses w/peter pan collar. No eyelet or lace trim on blouses
Embroidered navy blue cardigan
Navy blue knee socks or navy blue tights
Blue and white, plain blue or black and white saddle shoes
No sneakers, shoes w/heels, slip-ons or black shoes

Boys: Grades 1 ~ 8

Navy blue dress slacks
White long or short sleeve shirt w/navy tie o
Embroidered navy blue vest or v-neck sweater. Must be worn when winter uniform is in effect.
Belts are required
Embroidered white golf shirt. May be worn when spring uniform is in effect.
Black lace-up shoes. No sneakers, slip-ons or “Peaks”
Socks must cover the ankle

Winter Uniform Boys/Girls Option:

White long-sleeve Turtleneck (In place of shirt and tie.)

Optional Girls Winter Uniform

Long navy blue uniform pants (no cargo or bellbottoms).
White long-sleeve turtleneck.*
Pullover navy blue v-neck sleeveless vest.* *This is worn as a set.

Boys and Girls Optional Spring Uniform

Navy blue walking shorts with a belt, white knit shirts that must be tucked in.
White sneakers (no color or logo), white crew socks worn above the ankle. Gym shorts may not be worn in place of walking shorts.

Gym Uniform

Navy blue sweat-pant-no logos
Navy blue sweat-shorts-no more than 2 inches above the knee
Navy blue T-shirt w/OLC logo
Navy blue sweatshirt w/OLC logo. Must be worn when winter uniform is in effect.
Sneakers-must be athletic sneakers not fashion sneakers
Socks-must cover the ankle

Pre-K Uniform

Navy blue t-shirt w/OLC logo
Navy blue sweatshirt w/OLC logo
Navy blue sweat-shorts
Navy blue sweat-pants
Sneakers

Kindergarten Uniform

Embroidered white golf shirt
Navy blue t-shirt w/OLC logo
Navy blue sweatshirt w/OLC logo
Navy blue sweat-shorts
Navy blue sweat-pants
Sneakers

All

Gym Sweatshirt is optional for the winter uniform. Please note: If the sweatshirt is not worn a navy blue T-shirt w/OLC logo is required.
Girls winter sweater is also optional.
Wristbands: One wristband per arm may be worn.

Students may not wear make-up, nail polish or fake nails.
Girls may wear one pair of post earrings in the earlobe only.
Boys may not wear earrings.
Hair must be worn neatly. No fad haircuts; no bleached or dyed hair.
Headbands should complement the school uniform.

NOTES DO NOT EXCUSE BEING OUT OF UNIFORM.

DEMERIT OR DETENTIONS WILL BE ISSUED.

MORNING ARRIVAL

Adult supervision begins at 7:45. It cannot be guaranteed before that time; therefore, the school cannot be held accountable for problems that may arise before 7:45. Students must arrive by the stated time or they will be marked late. It is very important that all students arrive on time. Students who are habitually late may be issued a transfer from Our Lady of Consolation School.

PLEASE NOTE: NO CARS MAY BE DRIVEN INTO ANY OF THE SCHOOLYARDS DURING SCHOOL HOURS TO EITHER DROP OFF OR PICK UP STUDENTS; ALSO, PLEASE DO NOT DOUBLE PARK ON ANY OF THE STREETS SURROUNDING OUR LADY OF CONSOLATION SCHOOL.

Every child must cross at the corners. Please encourage your children to obey the crossing guards, teachers, and safeties who accompany the lines. Also, do not block any of the driveways, school entrances or the loading areas. We ask Parents/Guardians to drop off their children in the morning on Edmond Street. Please do so quickly to help expedite the car traffic. (Please do not drop off in front of the school on Princeton Ave.) By following these guidelines smoother traffic flow and a safer environment will result.

The safety of our children is a prime concern of

Our Lady of Consolation School.

ABSENCE PROCEDURES

· In case of absence, send in a note with the following information:

Name of Student Grade Room Reason for Absence Dates Signature

A doctor’s note must also be sent in to school if a child misses three or more days.

If your child is going to be absent or arrive late at school, you are required to call the school. Please leave a message on voice mail. The number to call to report absences or lateness is 215-624-0505. Please call by 7:45A.M.
If your child’s name appears on an attendance report from the homeroom teacher and you have not phoned in to let us know, you may receive a call from the school to verify the absence or check on your child’s whereabouts. Please help us in this endeavor by calling. Your child’s safety and welfare are of great importance to us.
Any child who stays home without his/her parent’s knowledge is liable to suspension. Any child who leaves school without permission is liable to suspension.
In order to arrange for assignments of children who are absent due to illness, kindly make that request when phoning in your child’s absence. This work may be picked up by the parent at the school office no earlier than 2:00 P.M. It is the responsibility of the student to complete work and tests that have been missed due to absence.

LEAVING SCHOOL DURING SCHOOL HOURS DISMISSAL/EARLY PICKUP

Doctor and dentist appointments should be made for school holidays and early dismissals. When an emergency arises, a parent or guardian must send a written request for an early dismissal, giving the reason for the request. The note is given to the Homeroom Teacher, and it will then be sent to the main office for the Principal’s signature. The child must be picked up at the main office by the parent or authorized person designated by the parent.

A note to the teacher is mandatory if a child is being picked up early. If your child is going home with someone other than parents/legal guardians or if a student is changing the way they are going home, Our Lady of Consolation must be notified in writing. This is a very important security issue.

EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSING

Parents must listen to KYW in order to know when or if Our Lady of Consolation School will be closed, or closing early due to inclement weather or other emergency. Our Lady of Consolation will be closed if the announcement is made that “all public and parochial schools in Philadelphia are closed”. (KYW also has a web site that you can access. It is also linked to our school website at www.olcphila.org.)

When it becomes necessary to close the school for an emergency during the school day, your child will be expected to follow THE SCHOOL CLOSING PLAN YOU HAVE FILED WITH YOUR CHILD’S HOMEROOM TEACHER. Please listen to KYW for the announced closing time. Our Lady of Consolation School will close at that announced time. If the announced closing time occurs during the Lunch Period, students who normally go home for lunch will be asked to stay home for the day. Parents/Guardians should not pick up students before the announced closing time. This helps prevent further disruptions for the children. Please inform your child where he/she is to go in an Emergency Dismissal. Please check the “Special Announcements” page or the KYW link on the school web site for details. PLEASE DO NOT CALL THE SCHOOL. Thank you.

OLC OPENING 2 HOURS LATE POLICY

Our Lady of Consolation Catholic School will open two hours late if the announcement is made that “all Parochial Schools in Philadelphia are opening two hours late”. (KYW has a web site that you can access through a link on our school website at www.olcphila.org.) Please check the “Special Announcements” page or the KYW link on the school web site for details. PLEASE DO NOT CALL THE SCHOOL OR RECTORY.
School doors will open at 9:45 AM. Morning announcements and teaching will begin at 10:00 AM.
Do not send your children to OLC School before 9:45 on a two hour delay schedule. Adult supervision will begin at 9:45 AM. It cannot be guaranteed before that time; therefore, the school cannot be held accountable before 9:45 AM.
Early Morning Cares is cancelled on a two hour opening late schedule.
School bus riders should wait at their pickup stops two hours from their regularly scheduled assigned time.
In the event that an announcement is made that bus transportation is cancelled, students are responsible for transportation to and from school.

ACADEMICS

Our Lady of Consolation School sets high standards of academic achievement, striving to allow each child to reach his/her potential. All curriculum is in compliance with the Office of Catholic Education and the State Board of Education.

ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS

Class participation is expected on all levels of instruction. Homework refers to both WRITTEN and STUDY assignments. All homework should be closely supervised by parents. The following time allotments are suggested minimums for each grade:

Grades 1-2 Grades 3-4 Grades 5-6 Grades 7-8

30 min. 60 min. 90 min. 120 min.

VACATION POLICY

Vacations should not be taken during school time. If a parent insists on taking a child on vacation, parents are responsible for teaching any new concepts that their children miss. Teachers are not required to give assignments. In addition, children will be responsible to return to school fully prepared for quizzes and tests and with completed assignments. When vacations are taken during school time, Out Lady of Consolation School is not responsible for poor grades and the missing education that may result.

The planning of family vacations is strongly discouraged during school hours.

REPORT CARDS

Report cards are issued three times during the year for students in Grades 1 - 8. They are to be signed by parents or guardians upon inspection, and returned to school the next day. Parent/Teacher conferences are scheduled with the first report card.

ACADEMIC HONORS

Children in Grades 4-8 are eligible for Honors with the following criteria:

Principal’s Honors: General average of 95.0 or above in each numerically graded subject, and 3 or 4 in each Non-Academic area. (No subject grade less than 92)
First Honors: 90 or above in each numerically graded subject, and 3 or 4 in each Non-Academic area. (No subject grade less than 87)
Second Honors: 85 or above in each numerically graded subject, and 3 or 4 in each Non-Academic area. (No subject grade less than 82)
Effort Award: May be given to a student who has made an improvement or who is working to the best of her or his ability but did not qualify for honors. A 3 or 4 in each Non-Academic area is also required.

Children will be awarded Honor Certificates, which are distributed with report cards.

PROGRESS REPORTS

Progress Reports will be issued approximately halfway through the trimester. These warnings/reports are sent to the parents of any child who is in danger of failing. Their purpose is to allow the child to improve the grade and avoid the failure. The school calendar lists the dates on which Progress Reports will be issued. If your child receives one, please sign and return it to school so that we know that you have seen it.

RETENTION

The primary grades are those grades in which fundamental skills are to be acquired. Retention at this level can give the student a second opportunity to build a stronger foundation for subsequent schoolwork. Students in Grades 4-8 may be retained if the student’s final general average (the average going down the report card) is a failure. The ultimate decision in regard to non-promotion (retention) in Grades K-8 is a joint one between the Principal and the teacher(s). Parents will be informed at the beginning of the second trimester of the possibility of retention.

DISCIPLINE POLICY

The essence of Christian discipline is self-discipline. Students must realize that the observation of rules of behavior is a life skill and foundation for a moral life. Our Lady of Consolation School strives to instill non-violent behavior in all who are a part of this school community. We rely on parents to support us in the effort. Violence is any mean word, look, sign, or act that hurts a person’s body, feelings, or things. No one is entitled to use violence. Violence is not tolerated at our school.

· Students are expected to be cooperative and exhibit appropriate behavior at all times.

· Faculty members will issue demerit and detention slips. The slips must be signed by a parent or guardian and returned the next school day.

· A detention will be issued following the reception of a third demerit slip.

· Further action may be taken by the administration should a student receive a third detention. That action may include, but is not limited to: in-school suspension, out-of- school suspension, issuance of a probationary conduct contract.

· After two formal suspensions, a student is liable to be dismissed.

· In certain circumstances an infraction, because of extraordinary circumstances, may warrant an immediate dismissal.

A DEMERIT will be issued for the following:

Inappropriate behavior
Being unprepared for class
Chewing gum
Eating candy at inappropriate times
Failure to return signed disciplinary forms, test papers, etc. after one day grace period.
Disobeying bus and lunchroom rules. N.B. Repeated infractions may result in the loss of bus or lunchroom privileges.
Repeated, unexcused lateness.
Bringing electronic devices such as Game Boys, beepers, personal CD or tape players, etc. to school. These items will be held in the school office until picked up by a parent or guardian.

A DETENTION will be issued for the following:

Unchristian or disrespectful attitude or behavior toward another person.
Cheating.
Fighting.
Forging a signature.
Failure to report to detention.
Accumulation of three demerits.

N.B. Detentions will be served on Wednesdays from 2:30 PM until 3:15 PM.

Parents/Guardians assume responsibility for transportation for the student on the day that the detention is served. If a detention is missed without a note given before the detention time, the detention will be doubled.

Formal suspension is a serious disciplinary action taken by school authorities against a student whose actions constitute a major disciplinary infraction and are contrary to the good order of the school. (Archdiocesan Policies & Procedures #S319.1)

Suspension IS a major step toward possible dismissal.

A SUSPENSION will be given for the following:

Vandalism (restitution must be made).
Theft (restitution must be made).
Truancy (this includes leaving school grounds during the school day without permission).
Possession of drugs, alcohol or tobacco products.
Acts of intimidation, retaliation or threat making.

N.B. Students are responsible for completing all assignments during a suspension.

Students will be admitted to class only after a parental interview has been held with a member of the administration of the school.

In some circumstances, the seriousness of an offense may incur immediate dismissal. The Pastor and the Principal reserve the right to insist on transferring a student if there is agreement that a particularly grave situation warrants expulsion.

If a student exhibits poor behavior, he/she may be deprived of participation in class activities. E.g. field trips, assemblies, graduation ceremonies, dances, etc

(No refund will be issued to the offending student, since these events are paid for in advance and are based on a group rate.)

The student’s teacher(s) and administration will make this decision.

OLC Discipline Code Additional Points

Suspensions served at home must be under parental supervision. All assignments must be completed and handed in upon the day the student returns to school. Parents/Guardians must meet with administration to reinstate the child.

Personal Detentions Option: Teachers and staff members may issue a personal detention for student offensives. (24 hours notice will be given.) Personal detentions do not count towards a suspension.

OLC Discipline Summer School may be required for any student who:

· fails conduct as a final grade for the school year.

· commits a major disciplinary offense.

· has excessive lateness or absences for non-medical reasons.

4. Administration reserves the right for final judgment in these matters.

VIOLENT/THREATENING/HARASSING AND

INAPPROPRIATE CONDUCT

It is the intent of the school to provide an educational environment free from all forms of improper threats, intimidation, hostility and offensive and inappropriate behavior. Such improper conduct may take the form of unwanted verbal of physical conduct, verbal or written derogatory or discriminatory statements, and behavior not otherwise conducive to the educational and religious mission of the school. Conduct by students or parents/guardians, or anyone acting on their behalf, incompatible with the educational and religious mission of the school is grounds for disciplinary action, including but not limited to the immediate dismissal of the student, as well as reporting the incident to the appropriate legal authorities where appropriate. In addition, in the case of threats of violence or harassment, in any form, including oral, written or electronic, by a student against any member of the school community, the student, if suspended but not dismissed, may be required to have psychological or psychiatric clearance before returning to school. Unacceptable conduct – either by a student or a parent/guardian - includes, but is not limited to, the following:

FIGHTING

Fighting is absolutely forbidden. Since the school is a “safe place”, no student needs to “defend himself/herself” by fighting. A student involved in a fight may receive a suspension or expulsion. The administration reserves the right for final judgment in these matters.

HARASSMENT

Harassment is not tolerated at Our Lady of Consolation School. Our students are to act in a Christ-like manner. Any student who feels they are being harassed should report this immediately to a teacher or school administrator.

WEAPONS POLICY

According to state law a weapon “shall include but is not limited to, any knife, cutting instrument, nunchaku, firearm, shotgun, rifle and any other tool, instrument or implement capable of inflicting serious bodily injury.” No student shall possess, handle, transmit or conceal such a weapon or any replica or toy that may be construed as such. Students who violate this policy are subject to suspension or expulsion at the discretion of the administration and proper legal authorities will be contacted.

SUBSTANCE ABUSE

The possession or use of any drugs, alcohol, or tobacco on school property or at any school-related function off school property, will be cause for immediate suspension and/or counseling or expulsion. The administration reserves the responsibility of judgment in these matters as to whether the violation warrants suspension or expulsion.

THREATS

All terroristic threats that come to the attention of the school will be taken seriously and investigated immediately. Threats will be dealt with at the discretion of the administration.

CELL PHONE POLICY

Students may bring a cell phone to school under these conditions:

· Cell phone use is not permitted in the school building before or during school time. After school, the students should not use cell phones until they have left the building. (Safeties may not use while on duty.)

· When in school, the phone must remain in the student’s book bag at all times.

· When in school the phone must be turned off at all times.

· Any use of the cell phone (eg: calls, texting, or pictures taken) in school or on school premises will result in an immediate suspension of that student.

· Students must secure the cell phone in their school bag. The phone must be turned off. If a phone is not in a book bag or rings on school premises, the school will invoke the cell phone policy. The phone will be confiscated. Parents /guardians will be able to pick up the phone at an appointed time.

· Note: “Forgetting” to turn off the cell phone is not an excuse.

· Use of a cell phone during a test (i.e. text messaging) will be considered cheating and proper action will be taken.

· If a student has a cell phone taken by a staff member more than once, all cell phone privileges will be revoked for that school year.

· Please note: Students may not bring any other electronic devices. These items will be held in the school office until picked up by a parent or guardian.

· Administration reserves the right for final judgment in these matters.

Off-Campus Illegal Behavior

Off-campus illegal behavior may result in disciplinary action, including dismissal from Our Lady of Consolation School. Off-campus behavior that is contrary to Catholic teaching and/or brings disrepute or embarrassment to the school, or is in any way related to the school, could lead to disciplinary action, including dismissal.

LUNCHROOM POLICY

In order for a smooth-running, successful lunch program, good behavior and manners are expected. The following policies and procedures are needed to ensure an orderly, calm lunch period for all:

Students are to follow the directions of the lunch parents in the lunchroom and in the schoolyard.
Students are to sit in the assigned seats.
Students must ask for permission to get up from the table.
Students are to clean up after themselves and take their turns as table captain. (Please pack 2 napkins with your child’s lunch. Younger children may need to bring moistened towelettes.)
Students may speak to one another using a quiet tone of voice.
Students are to use proper table manners.
Students are NOT permitted to have fast food lunches.
Students are to remain seated until their table is called.

Reminder: Students are not permitted to have

any fast food lunches or soda drinks for lunch.

Lunch Schedule 12:00 – 12:30 PreK

11:30 - 12:00 Kindergarten

12:00 - 12:30 Grades 5 to 8

12:30 - 1:00 Grades 1 to 4

Keep in mind that repeated infractions of the school or lunchroom rules during lunch period may result in the loss of lunchroom privileges.

* Parent volunteers are always welcome.

BUS POLICY

These rules apply to students riding the School District of Philadelphia buses. They also apply when students are riding a bus during a class trip or school function. Please review the rules with your child.

BE AT THE BUS STOP ON TIME. You should not have to run to make the bus.
WAIT FOR THE BUS IN AN ORDERLY FASHION IN YOUR ASSIGNED AREA. Pushing, shoving, or creating a disturbance might result in injuring someone or in being late for school.
TAKE YOUR SEAT IMMEDIATELY. Remain seated while the bus is moving or when instructed to do so by the bus driver.
ENTER AND LEAVE THE BUS ONLY AT THE FRONT DOOR AND ONLY AFTER THE BUS HAS COME TO A FULL STOP. (In case of emergency, the driver may give you other instructions).
KEEP YOUR HEAD AND HANDS INSIDE THE BUS WINDOWS AT ALL TIMES. Throwing objects, no matter how small, on the bus or out the windows is extremely dangerous.
SAVE YOUR LUNCH AND SNACKS UNTIL YOU ARRIVE AT YOUR DESTINATION. Eating and drinking are not allowed on school buses.
AVOID SHOUTING AND OTHER LOUD NOISES. In addition to disturbing others, loud noises could distract the driver and cause unsafe operation of the bus.
LEAVE THE BUS IN A QUIET AND ORDERLY MANNER. Join your schoolmates in the schoolyard or go to the office if school has begun.
GET OFF AT ASSIGNED STOP.

Failure to comply with these rules may result in loss of bus privileges

and/or further disciplinary action at school.

GENERAL INFORMATION

CHANGE OF ADDRESS OR PHONE NUMBER

Please notify the main office by means of a written note if your address or home or work phone number has changed. All records will be changed accordingly. This information is very important. In the event of an emergency we need current information for your child.

CUSTODY

If a student is in the care of one parent and there are restrictions of which the school should be aware, it is the responsibility of the parent to send in such information. Legal documentation of custody must be presented to the school. The custodial parent is responsible for providing the non-custodial parent with all school information (copies of report cards, school notices, etc.)

FIELD TRIPS

Educational field trips are taken during the school year at the teachers’ discretion. Written permission from parents is required. Children without written permission should come to school on the day of the field trip, and classwork will be provided for them. Students who are not permitted to participate due to financial or disciplinary restrictions, must also report to school, and classwork will be provided for them.

STATIONERY

Stationery is sold school Monday through Friday from 8:10 AM to 8:20 A.M.

COMMUNICATION ENVELOPES

Communication Envelopes are sent home every Wednesday. These envelopes contain important information concerning Our Lady of Consolation School. The envelopes are to be signed by a parent and returned to school the next day. This year we plan to implement an email and or cell phone communication system.

VISITORS

Visitors are to enter the school through the glass doors on Princeton Avenue. They are to sign in at the desk there, and sign out when leaving. Visitor Identification Tags are required. Parents or other visitors are not permitted to visit classrooms or travel in the school buildings without permission of a school administrator.

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES

Parent/Teacher Conferences may be scheduled by sending a note to the teacher with your child, by calling the office and asking that the teacher contact you or by e-mailing the staff member.

FIRE SIP (SHELTER IN PLACE) DRILLS

In accordance with Philadelphia Fire Department regulations, FIRE/SIP drills are conducted regularly to familiarize students with emergency procedures.

STANDARDIZED TESTING

The Terra Nova Test is administered each year. The results are communicated to parents and are utilized by the school for curriculum planning.

TEST GRADES

In order for parents to be aware of the academic progress their child is making with regard to weekly tests, tests are to be signed by parents and returned promptly.

GRADUATION

Eighth grade students who have completed the prescribed course of study and maintained a suitable discipline record are eligible for graduation if all financial obligations have been met. The Administration and the eighth grade teachers determine procedures for graduation.

PERFECT ATTENDANCE

A student will earn a Perfect Attendance Certificate at the end of the school year if he/she has had no absences. (The only exception is if the student attended the funeral of a close family member.)

INTERNET ACCEPTABLE-USE-POLICY

In an effort to insure the safety of our students and guard the liability of Our Lady of Consolation School and the Archdiocese, an ACCEPTABLE-USE-POLICY has been developed. This AUP has gone through several drafts with the diocesan lawyers. Please read it very closely and discuss its contents with your child.

Purpose:

· To encourage the proper use of computers in education.

Goals:

· To provide electronic tools to develop the ability to evaluate and synthesize information from a variety of sources, and enable students and teachers to work effectively with various computer/communications technology.

· To encourage critical thinking and problem solving skills.

Responsibilities of User: With the right of access comes the responsibility to use the source both correctly and wisely. Access to the Internet may mean that some material found will not meet guidelines set in our AUP Monitoring and controlling all such material is impossible, but the school will make every effort to insure that only appropriate sites are accessed.

General Guidelines For Use Of The Internet:

· All users are required to take simple Internet training (how to sign on, log off, etc.) from the computer coordinator or his/her designee.

· Use of the stations is limited to those who have a clear need for research, with a teacher assignment to back it up. Use will be limited if necessary.

· Transferring copyrighted material to or from a diocesan school without express permission of the owner is a violation of Federal Law. The user is deemed responsible to see that this does not occur.

· Use of electronic mail and other Internet facilities to harass, offend, or annoy other users is strictly forbidden.

· E-mail accounts through the school’s computer may be restricted.

· Any attempt to circumvent system security, guess passwords, or in any way gain access to secured resources is forbidden.

· Use of the internet for commercial gains or profits is not allowed from an educational site.

· Users may not move, repair, reconfigure, modify or attach external devices to the systems.

· The system operator has the right to monitor all activities.

· Additional rules and restrictions may be added at any time.

Discipline:

Violations of these rules will be dealt with by the administration of Our Lady of Consolation School.

Student Rules:

· For reasons of personal safety, students will never post personal contact information about themselves or other people. This may include address, telephone number, school address, etc.

· Students will not access material that is profane or obscene (e.g. pornography) or that advocates illegal acts, violence or discrimination towards other people, not in accord with the philosophy of Our Lady of Consolation School.

· Students will not plagiarize works they find on the Internet. Plagiarism is taking the ideas or writings of others, and presenting them as if they are one’s own.

· Students will not use obscene, profane, lewd, vulgar, rude or threatening language. Nor will they, through means of the Internet, harass or annoy any other users.

· Students will not knowingly or recklessly post false information about persons or organizations.

· Students will not make deliberate attempts to disrupt computer systems, or destroy data by spreading computer viruses or any other means. These actions are illegal.

· The illegal downloading of copyrighted software for use on home and school computers is prohibited. Violation of these rules may result in any or all of the following:

1. Loss of Internet access

2. Disciplinary or legal action by the school or other involved parties.

ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY

FOR TECHNOLOGY

Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia

PURPOSE

Technology is a valuable educational vehicle. Our schools are committed to teach its students, faculty, administrators, staff, and school community to work and to learn effectively with technology and to ensure responsible use of technology. The policy outlined below applies to all technology use including, but not limited to Internet use. The Acceptable Use Policy for Technology applies to all students, faculty, administrators, staff, volunteers or community members allowed access to school technology resources.

GOAL

The school’s goal is to prepare its members for life in an electronic, global community. To this end, the school will:

• provide a variety of technology based tools

• teach technology skills

• integrate technology with curriculum

• encourage critical thinking and problem solving skills

• facilitate evaluation and synthesis of information

• encourage ethical practices

RESPONSIBILITIES OF USER

Our schools will make every effort to provide a safe environment for learning with technology including Internet safeguards. The students, faculty, administrators, staff, and school community are granted the privilege of using the computer hardware and software, peripherals, and electronic communication tools including the Internet. With this privilege comes the responsibility to use the equipment correctly, respect the name and intellectual property of others, and follow the policies outlined below.

TECHNOLOGY USE GUIDELINES

Educational Purpose/ Appropriate Use: All technology use and Internet access at schools for all faculty, staff and students is provided solely for educational purposes. Educational sites and teacher created assignments are to be used to enhance student learning. Students must not access entertainment sites, for example social networking sites or gaming sites, except for educational purposes under teacher supervision. Expressed permission to use the Internet and hardware/software in any area of the school must always be obtained.

Copyright/Intellectual Property: All sources obtained for teacher and student work should be properly cited. Users are to respect the rights of and the intellectual property of others in accordance with Federal Copyright Law. Transferring copyrighted material to or from a school without expressed permission of the owner is a violation of Federal Law.

ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY

FOR TECHNOLOGY

Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia

Examples of Unacceptable Uses:

o Users must not use equipment to harass, threaten, deceive, intimidate, offend, embarrass, or annoy any individual.

o Users must not post, publish, or display any defamatory, inaccurate, violent, abusive, profane or sexually oriented material. Do not use obscene, profane, lewd, vulgar, rude or threatening language. Do not knowingly or recklessly post false information about any persons, students, staff or any other organization.

o Users must not use a photograph, image or likeness of any student, or employee without express permission of that individual and of the principal. Users must not use school equipment to create any site, post any photo, image or video of another except with express permission of that individual and the principal. Maintaining or posting material to a Web site or blog that threatens a likelihood of substantial disruption in school, including harming or interfering with the rights of other students to participate fully in school or extracurricular activities is a violation of the Acceptable Use Policy and subject to the disciplinary measure found herein.

o Users must not attempt to circumvent system security, guess passwords, or in any way gain access to secured resources, another person’s files or another person’s password.

o Users must not install, move, delete, download, upload, reconfigure, or modify any software or files on school equipment without permission.

o Users must not move, repair, reconfigure, modify, or attach external devices to the systems without permission.

o Users must not deliberately visit a site known for unacceptable material or any material that is not in support of educational objectives. Students must not access entertainment sites, for example social networking sites such as myspace.com or facebook.com or gaming sites, except for educational purposes under teacher supervision.

o Users are not to plagiarize content and may not present the work of another as their own without properly citing that work.

o Users must not violate license agreements, copy disks, CD-ROMs, or other protected media. Users must not use technology for any illegal activity. Use of the Internet for commercial gains or profits is not allowed from an educational site.

Reporting: Users must report immediately any damage or change to the school’s hardware/software that is noticed by the user.
Electronic Devices: Users must adhere to local school policy regarding the use of additional electronic devices including but not limited to personal digital assistants (PDA), calculators, gaming devices, cellular phones, and pagers. Access will be determined by the administrator of the school. The school’s technology policy regarding authorization, use, responsibility, integrity, intellectual property, and monitoring will be applied to these devices.
Administrative Rights: The Office of Catholic Education or the school administration at any time may add additional rules and restrictions. The school has the right to monitor both student and employee use of school computers.

Violation of the above rules will be dealt with by the administration of the school. Violation of these rules may result in any or all of the following:

Loss of use of the school network, computers and software, including Internet access. The student will be expected to complete work on a non-networked, stand-alone computer system.
Issuance of demerits/detentions, if applicable.
Disciplinary action including, but not limited to, dismissal and/or legal action by the school, civil authorities, or other involved parties.

Our Lady of Consolation Catholic School reserves the right at anytime to amend or add to the policies, rules and regulations contained in this handbook, and to make such changes applicable to current and new students when the situation dictates.

OLC School:

Knowing Christ, Teaching Christ,

Becoming Christ”.

THE 2012 OLC

Memory Night

Monday, May 21th, 2012

OLC Italian Language Courses Graduation

To order pizza, please complete the tear off sheet and place it in an envelope along with the total’ fee. ($1.00 per slice.) (Checks should be made payable to Our Lady of Consolation Catholic School)

--------------------------------------------------

OLC Pizza Order Form

Please send in all orders no later than

2012/2013 BLOC SCHOLARSHIP FORMS are now available at our OLC school office.

Mr. Stephen D. DiCicco

OLC Italian Language Course

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Preparing for Tests

During Tests

After Tests

TEST ANXIETY

Student Strategies for Reducing Test Anxiety

PARENT TEST-SUPPORT STRATEGIES

Preparing for Testing

Testing Day

After Testing

TEST ANXIETY

Parent Strategies for Reducing Test Anxiety

Felice anno nuovo!

Our Lady of Consolation

SIP

(Shelter in Place) PLAN

· All staff at OLC have an email address. They are displayed on our web site for your convenience.

Our Lady of Consolation Faculty and Staff 2011 - 2012

ARRIVAL

DISMISSAL

UNIFORMS

LUNCH

PRETZELS

FAMILY RECORD

PLEASE PRINT

Phone: __________________ Relationship: ____________________________________

Bus Torresdale Line Tulip Line Car Line

*****************************************************************************

LUNCH FEE

FAMILY NAME: ___________________________

OFFICE USE ONLY

OUR LADY OF CONSOLATION SCHOOL UNIFORM POLICY

Pre-K Uniform

Kindergarten Uniform

Optional Girls Winter Uniform

Boys and Girls Optional Spring Uniform

Gym Uniform

Kindergarten Uniform

Please indicate with an “X” any of the areas you would like to help.

Pre-K Uniform

Our Lady of Consolation Catholic School “Our Lady’s Little Lambs”

2011/2012 Junior Pre-K3 and Pre-K4 Program

OPTION D

EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSING

Our Lady of Consolation

SIP

(Shelter in Place) PLAN

Please indicate with an “X” any of the areas you would like to help.

FAMILY RECORD

PLEASE PRINT

Phone: __________________ Relationship: ____________________________________

Bus Torresdale Line Tulip Line Car Line

LUNCH FEE

FAMILY NAME: ___________________________

OFFICE USE ONLY

OUR LADY OF CONSOLATION SCHOOL UNIFORM POLICY 2011/2012

Pre-K Uniform

Kindergarten Uniform

Optional Girls Winter Uniform

Boys and Girls Optional Spring Uniform

Gym Uniform

Kindergarten Uniform

Thank you!

Pre-K Uniform

Our Bus Transportation Company is Atlantic Express

The following is their contact information:

Monday, May 21^th, 2012

Phone: Relationship: __________________

Phone: Relationship: __________________