parent/student handbook - Our Lady of Good Counsel High School

PARENT/STUDENTHANDBOOK2012-2013A Xaverian Brothers Sponsored School17301 Old Vic Boulevard | Olney, MD 20832 | 240-283-3200

ADMINISTRATIONPRESIDENTPaul Barker, Ed. D. | 240-283-3309PRINCIPALPatrick Bates | 240-283-3302ASST. PRINCIPAL FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRSAmanda Stortzum | 240-283-3206ASST. PRINCIPAL FOR STAFF DEVELOPMENTCharles Ehrman | 240-283-3207For a complete list of faculty and staff members, please visit: www.olgchs.org/directory.DID YOU KNOW?The school seal was created with the founding of Good Counsel in 1958. TheLatin verbiage in the original seal says “Faciat Maria Nos Videre” which freelytranslated means “that Mary may make us to see” - to see what God wants us todo in every problem and every difficulty that confronts us in life.SIGNIFICANCE OF THE GC SEALCross–Religion | Book–Book of Wisdom | Crescent–Traditional Symbol of Mary1 | P age

Table of ContentsMISSION .................................................................... 3Mission Statement .......................................................... 3Statement of Beliefs ....................................................... 3Graduate Profile ............................................................. 3Philosophy ..................................................................... 3Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools ........................... 4The Spiritual Values for Xaverian Charism ................... 4The Falcon Challenge .................................................... 5Student Expectations ...................................................... 5Traditions ....................................................................... 5Admissions Criteria ....................................................... 6ACADEMIC LIFE ....................................................... 6Block Scheduling ........................................................... 6Academic Integrity......................................................... 7Eligibility ....................................................................... 7Field Trips ...................................................................... 7Grade Point Average ...................................................... 7Promotion ...................................................................... 7Withdrawal from a Course ............................................. 8Graduation Requirements .............................................. 8Accommodations ........................................................... 8Homework ..................................................................... 9Exams ........................................................................... 9Summer Work ................................................................ 9Honor Roll ..................................................................... 9International Baccalaureate Program ............................. 9Ryken Program ............................................................ 10Make-up Work ............................................................. 10National Honor Society ................................................ 10Academic Probation ..................................................... 11Report to Parents .......................................................... 11Study Hall .................................................................... 11Schedules ..................................................................... 12STUDENT LIFE ....................................................... 12Attendance ................................................................... 12Building Use ................................................................ 13Dining Hall ...................................................................14Campus Ministry ..........................................................14Code of Conduct ...........................................................17Disciplinary Actions .....................................................22Separation from Good Counsel ....................................23Demerit System ............................................................24Dress Code ...................................................................24Dances and Other Extracurricular Activities ................26Emergency Closings .....................................................26Identification (ID’s) ......................................................26Lockers .........................................................................26Lost and Found .............................................................26Messages ......................................................................27Parking and Automobiles .............................................27School Bus Rider Policy ...............................................28Student Council ............................................................28Telephones ...................................................................28Visitors .........................................................................28SUPPORT SERVICES ............................................. 29Campus Store ...............................................................29Computer Labs and Technology Access and Usage .....29Counseling ....................................................................31Health Room ................................................................33Steve Dean Media Center .............................................34Resource Room ............................................................34STUDENT ACTIVITIES AND ATHLETICS .............. 35Clubs and Activities .....................................................35Awards .........................................................................35Athletics .......................................................................36Spectator Behavior .......................................................37BUSINESS AND FINANCIAL .................................. 38USE OF STUDENT IMAGES AND MEDIAREQUESTS ............................................................ 38Our Lady of Good Counsel recognizes that education is a responsibility that it shares with each parent and guardian. Theschool strives to involve them continuously in the total educational program. It is the mutual responsibility of the administration,faculty, parents, and students to support the school regulations. Parents have the right to be informed about their child’sprogress and performance.Parents have the responsibility to support and cooperate with the administration and faculty. The Catholic Church and thisCatholic school recognize parents as the primary educators of their children. The education of students at our school is apartnership between parents and the school. If, in the opinion of the administration, the partnership is irretrievably broken, theschool reserves the right to require the parent to withdraw his or her child. This is a very serious decision that is not madelightly.The school asks that the parents and students be familiar with the guidelines set forth in the handbook.The school retains the right to amend this handbook when appropriate and will give proper notification to parents and students.2 | P age

MISSIONMISSION STATEMENTAs a Xaverian Catholic learning community, Our Ladyof Good Counsel High School is committed topreparing students with diverse learning abilities for thechallenges of life by providing programs and activitiesthat advance academic excellence and service to others;foster spiritual, emotional, and social growth; promoteinclusion of all community members; and embody theXaverian values of humility, trust, zeal, compassion,and simplicity upon which the school is founded.STATEMENT OF BELIEFSOur Lady of Good Counsel High School believes:• Each person is uniquely created by God andpossesses special abilities and interests that must berecognized, respected, and developed.• It is the school’s responsibility to provide anopportunity to develop in each student a personalrelationship with God and the Church, anunderstanding of Catholic religious tradition anddoctrine, an active participation in the Communityof Faith, and an understanding and appreciation ofthe Xaverian values of humility, trust, zeal,compassion, and simplicity.• The education of all students should be challengingand goal oriented in an inclusive educationalcommunity that promotes academic success,academic integrity, and physical and psychologicalhealth.• Lifelong learning is fundamental for constructiveand responsible participation in a diverse andchanging society.• It is important for the school community to reachout and support the larger community in which itresides.• Members of the community should, according tothe fundamental principles of Theodore Ryken,“fall in love with the service of God” by providingfor the poor and marginalized.GRADUATE PROFILEUpon completion of a rigorous education rooted in theprinciples and ideals of the Catholic Church and theXaverian Brothers, the Good Counsel graduate will:• Grow in personal faith and wisdom.• Be prepared for higher education and understandthe importance of life-long learning.• Embody the Xaverian values of humility, trust,zeal, compassion, and simplicity.• Continue the Xaverian commitment to serve thepoor and marginalized, promote human dignity,and pursue justice and peace.• Respect the diversity and uniqueness of others.• Seek solutions to life’s challenges.PHILOSOPHYAs a Catholic school, Good Counsel’s program is basedupon and inspired by the Gospel of Jesus Christ and theteachings of the Roman Catholic Church. Every effortis made to foster a spirit and sense of communitysupported by a belief in the dignity and uniqueness ofeach individual. Christian values are emphasized in allaspects of the school, but especially through religiousstudies, retreats, community worship, and variousservice projects.Good Counsel strives to incorporate these Christianvalues throughout its entire curriculum. Thiscurriculum offers a core of required and electivecourses including International Baccalaureate,Advanced Placement, Honors, and College-Prepclasses. Good Counsel teachers personalize theeducational process and work with students at all levelsof development.The school fosters a communal spirit which includesthe gathering of students into smaller “communities.”Activities involve projects that help the poor and needy,retreats, and community worship.This emphasis on personal development andcommunity reflects the democratic values of ourcountry. With a stress on individual rights and personaland social responsibilities, teachers and studentsgrow in an awareness of the world around them, and theconstructive roles they can play in it.Since education at Good Counsel encompasses thewhole person, it extends beyond the classroom. Theschool provides a wide variety of extracurricularactivities and cultural opportunities, utilizing theresources of the nation’s capital. The value GoodCounsel places upon athletics is reflected in the widevariety of intra- and inter-scholastic sports offered to allstudents.Good Counsel recognizes that education is aresponsibility it shares with each parent and guardian;therefore the school strives to involve themcontinuously in the total education program. Throughword and example, the Good Counsel faculty and staff3 | P age

foster an interest in learning and respect for truthintended to last.In today’s world, the loving, good person, evenalone, can make a difference.XAVERIAN BROTHERS SPONSOREDSCHOOLS (XBSS)Our Lady of Good Counsel, a United States Departmentof Education “Recognized School of Excellence,” isone of 13 Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools in thecountry. The Brothers, educators since 1839, sponsorcollege preparatory schools in Connecticut, Kentucky,Maryland, Massachusetts, and New York, as well as inBelgium, Bolivia, England, and Democratic Republicof Congo. The Brothers first opened schools in theUnited States in Louisville, Kentucky, over 100 yearsago. The Xaverian Brothers are lay religious, takingvows of poverty, celibacy, and obedience. Thecongregation was founded in Belgium and is unique inthat it is an international congregation established by alayman. Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools (XBSS)support, influence, and share the responsibility forschools that further the goals of the Xaverian Brothers.THE SPIRITUAL VALUES OF XAVERIANCHARISMRecognized in the Xaverian charism are certain valuesthat distinguish the spirituality of the Xaverian Brothersand are rooted deeply in the Brother’s history andtraditions. These values are humility, trust, zeal,compassion, and simplicity.HumilityTheodore James Ryken encouraged his brothers to havethe humble attitude of Christ. The Xaverian Brothersare formed in the belief that each person is unique,gifted and loved by God, yet sinful, incomplete andordinary, sharing all things that are important with therest of humanity.Humility allows all members of the XaverianSponsored School community to accept and affirm theirgiftedness as well as to acknowledge the giftedness ofothers. Likewise, humility enables one to acceptpersonal limitations in oneself and others. Humilityinspires a sense of connectedness, not only within thecommunity, but beyond. Humility is not a passiveattitude, but an attitude leading to action – and thataction is service.Humility promotes harmonious relationships allowingmembers of the school community to affirm each other,to learn from each other, and to work together.Humility is a powerful source of unity and is needed ifthe Xaverian Brothers Sponsored School is to promotetruly inclusive and collaborative relationships.TrustTrust is the meeting place of mind and heart, faith andcourage. Trust in God forged the Xaverian charism asthe Brothers learned to respond in faith and courage tothe enormous difficulties encountered in establishingtheir first schools. This trust is a characteristic of theXaverian charism: Omnia cum Deo, nihil sine Deo.(All with God, nothing without God.)It is a spirit of the Lord who encourages, enlightens,and inspires all believers, especially those engaged inthe demanding mission of evangelization and ministryof educating and forming young people. A XaverianBrothers Sponsored School is urged to provide thecontemplative time and space needed for members ofthe school community to fix their gaze on thetranscendent in order to grow in faith in spite of life’sdifficulties.ZealThe word “zeal” is traditionally used among theXaverian Brothers to mean the single-minded devotionto, the ardent enthusiasm for, and the intense drive tofulfill the Church’s ministry of education. TheFounder’s zeal for the Church’s work of evangelizationformed the spirit and charism that the XaverianBrothers have transmitted to their Sponsored Schools.Furthermore, the renowned zeal for evangelization ofSt. Francis Xavier led Theodore James Ryken to selectthis saint as the patron of the Congregation.Single-minded devotion to the mission of XaverianSponsorship unifies and strengthens the Xaverianeducational ministry. Ardent enthusiasm for theChristian formation of young people increases aperson’s desire for personal growth and learning.Intense passion for the more abundant life proclaimedby Jesus Christ inspires and forms the Christiancommunity.CompassionCompassion, as exemplified in the Gospel of JesusChrist, calls for the openness necessary to let oneself betouched by another’s life and the courage to reach outin loving service to others. Compassion is the eyes, theears and hands of Christian charity. It is the heart4 | P age

seeking action. Compassion compels those in aXaverian Brothers Sponsored School to look at life witheyes of Christ, suffer with those who suffer, toaccompany them and to seek appropriate action toeliminate the sources of suffering. Compassion leadsone to a lifestyle rooted in mercy and forgiveness.SimplicitySimplicity is another aspect of the Xaverian charismand is rooted in humility, trust of God, zeal for theChurch’s ministry of education and compassion.Simplicity frees the heart, the mind, and the soul for thework of evangelization and education.The Xaverian Brothers Sponsored School communitymakes simplicity a way of thinking, feeling and actingin order to offset the modern tendencies of materialismand consumerism, which can minimize the spiritualvalues of God’s kingdom. The value of simplicity in alldecisions related to the life and mission of the school sothat inclusivity of all persons and outreach to the poorand marginalized is upheld.Programs and activities of the Xaverian BrothersSponsored Schools educate and form students in Gospelsimplicity and responsibility for their neighbor.STUDENT EXPECTATIONSThis value-oriented, coeducational school sets fivegoals for the growth of each student. These goals areemphasized throughout the student’s stay at the school.1. KNOWLEDGE AND GROWTH IN CATHOLICFAITH, fostered by religious studies courses,prayer, community worship, mandatory freshman,sophomore, and junior retreats, and an optionalsenior retreat.2. ACADEMIC ACCOMPLISHMENT, measured bythe scholastic requirements for graduation andpersonalized teacher-student contact.3. SERVICE, as reflected by each student takingresponsibility for others. A service requirementand a wide variety of service opportunities areprovided to encourage each student to grow ingenerosity and self-sacrifice that have always beenthe hallmark of the committed Christian.4. LEADERSHIP, shown when each student sees thatone’s strength and positive talents should be usedas an influence for the good of others.5. CHRISTIAN CHARACTER, demonstrated byeach student recognizing and respecting the rightsof others, while exercising one’s own rights withpoliteness and maturity.THE FALCON CHALLENGEThe Falcon Challenge, developed by a group ofstudents and faculty members, defines what a studentaspires to be as a member of the Good Counselcommunity. The following statement reflects this goaland explains the objective in becoming a richer, safer,and more respectful community:We, as Good Counsel Falcons, are dedicated to creatinga comfortable and accepting environment. As GoodCounsel community members, we do our best to upholdthese values and carry ourselves in a way that benefitsall. We recognize the importance of a sense ofcommunity and share the goal of strengthening schoolpride.A Good Counsel community member is expected tolive the values of the XBSS (simplicity, trust, zeal,compassion, humility). We challenge ourselves and ourpeers to respect all students, faculty, staff, parents, andvisitors regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, gender,class, or sexual orientation. We embrace diversity andare dedicated to embodying and displaying respect,responsibility, and integrity.TRADITIONSThe traditions of Our Lady of Good Counsel HighSchool are representative of the school’s mission andhistory.The school seal contains a cross, a crescent moon, and abook containing the words “Faciat Nos MariaVidere.” The cross represents our mission and heritageas a Catholic school and our goal of leading ourstudents to lives founded in Christian beliefs. The bookis a symbol of our dedication to academic preparation.The words “Faciat Maria Nos Videre,” a plea to ourschool’s patron, mean “Mary, make us see.” Theschool colors, blue and gold, also represent ourdedication to academics and the Mother of God.Traditionally, gold is representative of academia; blueis the color of the school’s patron, Mary.The origin of the falcon as the school’s mascot lies inthe early history of the school. Myth has it that one ofthe original Xaverian Brothers at Good Counsel,Brother Giles, kept a falcon as his pet. This falconwould often be seen on Brother Giles’ arm at schoolfunctions. The falcon became the school’s mascotbecause whenever Good Counsel scored a touchdown,Brother Giles’ falcon would fly a loop around the5 | P age

stadium and return to Brother’s arm. Brother Giles’falcon has been preserved and is in the Alumni displaycase in the Gallery Hallway.ADMISSIONS CRITERIAApplicants to Our Lady of Good Counsel High Schoolare evaluated for admission based upon the followingcriteria:• Submission of the Good Counsel Application withapplication fee, at www.olgchs.org• Appropriate ability as demonstrated on theArchdiocesan High School Placement Test.• High level of academic achievement in the seventhgrade and first quarter of the eighth grade.• A demonstrated sincere desire to attend GoodCounsel.• Recommendations of Principals and/or otherteachers.• Satisfactory disciplinary and attendance history.Our Lady of Good Counsel High School admitsstudents of any race, color, national and ethnic origin toall the rights, privileges, programs and activitiesgenerally accorded or made available to the students atour school. We do not discriminate on the basis ofrace, color, national and ethnic origin in theadministration of our educational and admissionspolicies, scholarship programs and athletic or otherschool administered programs. Our Lady of GoodCounsel reserves the right to revoke acceptance at anytime for academic and/or disciplinary reasons.ACADEMIC LIFEOur Lady of Good Counsel is a college preparatoryhigh school, committed to offering each student aprogram for educational growth and success. Thecourse of studies is multi-leveled, including the RykenProgram for students with mild learning disabilities,Honors courses in all subjects, a wide variety ofAdvanced Placement courses, and an establishedInternational Baccalaureate Program.Good Counsel admits students of any race, color,national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges,programs, and activities made available to the studentsat our school. We do not discriminate on the basis ofrace, color, gender, national and/or ethnic origin in theadministration of our educational and admissionspolicies, scholarship programs, and athletic or otherschool administered programs.The faculty is made up of approximately 115 teachers,counselors and administrators. Five have Ph. D.degrees and approximately 75% have master degrees.All teachers must have a bachelor’s degree.Additionally, all teachers are certified or are pursuingcertification in their teaching area by the MarylandState Department of Education.The student/faculty ratio is fourteen to one; the averageacademic class size is twenty-two to one; and theaverage student to computer ratio is four to one.BLOCK SCHEDULINGThe class schedule at Good Counsel is designed to easestudent stress, to offer a more effective use of time, andto enhance student learning. The schedule mirrors whatour students will experience when they go to collegeand enter the workplace. Good Counsel’s blockschedule offers students eight, ninety-minute classperiods. Each day is designated “Blue Day” or “GoldDay.” Students will have four, ninety-minute classeseach day. The schedule offers students and teachersmany benefits that are unavailable to them in thetraditional seven-period schedule.1. Innovative teaching strategies and methodsemphasize learning as a process. Technology isintegrated into the classroom experience.2. Additional time during class allows teachers tomeet individual learning needs of students.3. Students are able to reflect upon course content andmake meaningful applications of what they havelearned.4. The study period enables students to make betteruse of the Media Center, Resource Rooms, andComputer Labs.5. An optional eighth class offers students the abilityto advance in a specific area of study or toaccelerate beyond the requirements in a particulardiscipline.6. Focusing on a maximum of four classes per dayreduces stress.7. Time management skills are developed to moreclosely emulate college and work schedules.8. A less hectic atmosphere exists within the schoolcommunity.6 | P age

ACADEMIC INTEGRITYThe Center for Academic Integrity, a consortium of 200colleges and universities, defines academic integrity as“a commitment, even in the face of adversity, to fivefundamental values: honesty, trust, fairness, respect,and responsibility.” Students who make the decision tocheat or commit plagiarism undercut these values.Any school work submitted to meet courserequirements must represent the efforts of theindividual student. Any form of academic dishonesty isprohibited. Consequences for academic dishonestyrange from a minimum of loss of credit for the workand parent/guardian notification to a maximum ofexpulsion, both for the student passing the work off ashis/her own and for any student who cooperates orparticipates in any way. Schoolwork may include but isnot limited to class work, research, projects, tests,quizzes, homework, etc.Typically, the school handles academic dishonesty asfollows:• First offense: loss of credit, parent/guardiannotification• Second offense: loss of credit, parent/guardiannotification, student placed on academic probation• Third offense: loss of credit, parent/guardiannotification, student and parents/guardian meetwith principal to determine consequencesThe school reserves the right to amend the aboveprocedures based on circumstances.Students can expect that a cheating incident could affectinclusion in the National Honor Society and otherschool organizations/activities.Good Counsel’s Student Academic Integrity Statementis: “With the Xaverian value of Trust in mind, I affirmthat I have neither given nor received inappropriatehelp on graded work.”ELIGIBILITYTo be eligible for participation in any extracurricularprogram, the student must have a 2.0 GPA for eachquarter without any failures in any of their classes.Note, first quarter eligibility is based on the previousschool year’s final “year to date” GPA. Students mustachieve a minimum 2.0 GPA to be eligible forparticipation in extracurricular programs for the firstquarter. Eligibility for a given marking period beginson the day on which report cards are distributed andlasts the full quarter. Eligibility is determined by usingthe grades of the most recent quarter. A student mayalso forfeit eligibility due to persistent academic,attendance, and/or disciplinary problems.Participation in any extracurricular activityrequires a full-day attendance at school andpresence in all class periods on the day of theactivity.FIELD TRIPSField trips are privileges and students can be deniedparticipation if they fail to meet attendance, academic,and/or behavioral requirements. Students who fail tosubmit a field trip permission form will not beallowed to participate in the field trip. Telephonecalls will not be accepted in lieu of the writtenpermission form.GRADE POINT AVERAGEThe student’s grade point average (GPA) is computedat the end of each year, using only the final lettergrades. The GPA is computed cumulatively. For eachcourse the student takes, the following point value isassigned:A (100-90) = 4B (89-80) = 3C (79-70) = 2D (69-60) = 1F (Below 60) = 0Add one point for each Advanced Placement (AP) andInternational Baccalaureate (IB) course. Add 0.5for each Honors course. Adding all points and dividingby the number of credits determines the GPA.PROMOTIONTo be promoted to the next grade, a student must passevery course that he/she is taking. The passing grade is“D”. All course work must be completed by the lastday of classes. If a student fails a course, he/she will bewithdrawn from Good Counsel. A student who fails onecourse can make up the course in summer school. If thestudent earns a passing grade, then he/she will bereadmitted. Students who fail two courses must makethem up in summer school with passing grades.Students must appeal to the principal for re-7 | P age

admittance. Students who fail three or more coursescannot be readmitted to Good Counsel.WITHDRAWAL FROM A COURSEStudents who initiate course changes after the officialstart of the school year will be assessed a $25 fee forthe changes. If a teacher or administrator initiates aschedule change, no fee will be charged.A student may drop a course and add a new coursebefore the end of the first week of school for classesthat meet daily. If the class meets on alternating days,the student may drop/add within the first two weeksthat the course meets. All requests need the approval ofa parent, the teacher(s), resource teacher, and theAssistant Principal for Academic Affairs. The StudiesOffice will make these changes only if the classes arenot closed.After this drop/add period, a student may withdrawfrom a course within the first 25 percent of the time thecourse meets. Students who choose to withdraw from acourse during this period will receive a grade of “W” onhis/her transcript that will indicate course withdrawal.If a student drops a course after this deadline, a failinggrade of “F” will be recorded on the transcript. Beforea student is allowed to withdraw, he/she must meet withhis/her counselor and the Assistant Principal forAcademic Affairs to discuss the situation. Allwithdrawals need parental approval. A student canwithdraw from a course as long as he/she meets theseven-credit requirement during the academic year.A student may change a level of a course (i.e., honors toregular, etc.) up through the first 25 percent of a course.Before a student can change the level of a course,he/she needs approval from the teacher(s) involved,resource teacher, his/her parent(s), his/her counselor,and the Assistant Principal for Academic Affairs.GRADUATION REQUIREMENTSAll students are required to take seven credits per year.They may take eight. A one credit class meets everyother day for the full block period for the entire year. Ahalf credit class meets every other day for the full blockperiod for one semester. In order to graduate, studentsneed 28 credits. The following is a list of requiredsubjects:Religious StudiesEnglish4 credits4 creditsMathematicsLanguage (in one language)ScienceSocial StudiesFine ArtsHealth/P.E.TechnologyElectives4 credits3 credits3 credits3 credits1 credit1.5 credits1 credit3.5 creditsStudents transferring from non-Catholic schools areexempted from 1 credit in Religious Studies for eachyear they are in a non-Catholic school. The number ofcredits exempted in Religion will be deducted from thetotal credits needed to graduate.Each senior must complete all academic work for all ofhis/her courses by the last official class day for seniors.To receive the Good Counsel diploma, a senior mustpass every course he/she is taking and he/she must havecompleted the senior service requirement. Any seniorwho receives an “F” grade or an “incomplete” for acourse, must register for summer school and make upthe necessary academic work to receive a diploma.Seniors will be allowed to make up no more than twofailures for the year. All such academic work must becompleted by the end of the summer session followingthe senior year.ACCOMMODATIONSIf a student has been diagnosed with any disability thatmay require accommodations within the school setting,current documentation should be submitted uponadmission to Our Lady of Good Counsel High Schoolso that the school may review this information anddetermine what, if any, accommodations can beprovided. Documentation must include the diagnosis,the functional implications of the disability for theschool environment and recommendedaccommodations.Official Accommodations Plans are distributed toteachers the week following the end of the Add/Dropperiod of Quarter One. A copy will also be mailedhome. It is the student’s responsibility to advocate forhis/her accommodations.Information presented at a later date may be reviewedon an individual basis, and the school will determine ifthe student’s needs can be met at that time. Ifappropriate, an Official Accommodations Plan (Profile)will be developed and distributed to teachers at thebeginning of the next marking period.8 | P age

Due to the Ryken Studies Program’s essentialcomponent of small class sizes, it is the policy of theschool that we are not generally able to consider anystudent for admittance to the Ryken Studies Program atany time other than prior to his or her freshmen year.Acceptance into the Ryken Studies Program is donethrough the special screening process indicated on theapplication.HOMEWORKGood Counsel students are expected to spend aminimum of two hours on homework every schoolnight in preparation for their classes. It is highlyrecommended that students complete homework on thenight it is assigned. Doing this permits students to reapthe full benefit of block scheduling. The emphasisshould be on careful reading of the material andreviewing class notes, as well as on completing allassigned written work. Copying another student’shomework is a form of cheating and is, therefore,unacceptable.EXAMSRules and Procedures for Midterms and Finals:1. The dress code is in effect for the entire examweek.2. No food, drink or refreshment may be taken intothe exam room.3. Absences will be excused only if you experience afamily emergency or are seriously ill. Parents mustcall the Attendance Office the day of your absence.You must present a doctor’s note (or some proof offamily emergency) upon your return. Unexcusedabsences will result in an automatic failing gradefor the exam(s) missed.4. If you are late to an exam, report to the AttendanceOffice for an admit-to-class slip. If you are 15minutes or more late, you will NOT be permitted totake the exam at the scheduled time.5. Students are required to stay in the exam room theentire exam period.Cheating on the exam involves the taking and thepassing off of one’s own answers, work, or ideas ofanother. Cheating is a serious breach of honesty andjustice. All offenders will be dealt with severely andwill automatically lose credit for the examination. Thispolicy applies to both the student passing the work offas his own and for any student who cooperates withhim/her.When there is a weather related delay, exams will starttwo hours later than the original scheduled exam time.If school is cancelled the exams that are scheduled onthat day will take place the following school day.Exam days are scheduled half days (see schoolcalendar).SUMMER WORKThe Summer Reading Program encourages students tobecome life-long readers, challenges them to grow,enables them to familiarize themselves with authors andliterary works, and allows the faculty and staff to modellife-long reading.The Summer Reading List is developed according tofaculty/staff suggestions. Students read one bookfrom this list over the summer. In the fall, all studentsparticipate in Literary Day where they attend onediscussion group. The teacher facilitating the summerreading discussion group will assign each student agrade of P (pass) or F (fail) based upon his/herparticipation. The student must pass the discussiongroup in order to receive a grade of P on his/hertranscript. This grade does not affect the students’GPA.Some academic departments may assign additionalsummer work to prepare students for the next schoolyear.HONOR ROLLThe Principal’s List is composed of students who haveattained 90 percent or above in all subjects. FirstHonors are awarded to students who have 90 percent orabove in at least three subjects, with no grade less than80 percent.Second Honors are awarded to students who have nograde under 80 percent. Grades for Physical Educationare not included when determining honors unless astudent receives an “F” in Physical Education.INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB)PROGRAMThe International Baccalaureate Program is designedfor self-motivated, consistent achievers, who are willingto accept the challenges of a demanding curriculum.The IB Program seeks to educate the whole person byproviding students with a global perspective of the9 | P age

academic disciplines, by helping students learn how tolearn, by promoting positive intellectual and socialvalues, and by providing opportunities that will enablestudents to succeed in the modern world.IB Diploma candidates sit for exams in English,Modern Language, Social Studies, Science,Mathematics, the Arts, and one elective subject.Students study three of the courses at the Higher Leveland three at the Standard Level. Diploma candidatestake Theory of Knowledge, participate in the CAS(Creativity, Action, and Service) program, and write anExtended Essay.All students at Good Counsel benefit from theincorporation of the IB Program into the school’sprograms. The aims and objectives of the IB guidepermeate and influence the entire curriculum.RYKEN PROGRAMTheodore Ryken opened the first Xaverian Brothersschool in 1864 to serve the needs of young immigrantstudents who wanted a quality Catholic education.Dedication to those with special needs has been ahallmark of the Xaverian Brothers for over 125 years.Based upon this tradition of caring, the Ryken StudiesProgram was established at Good Counsel.Acceptance to the Ryken Studies Program is donethrough a special screening process indicated on theapplication. Since the Ryken Studies Program has thecomponent of small class sizes, it is the general policyof Good Counsel not to consider any student foradmittance to the program at any time other than priorto freshman year.The Ryken Studies Program is a college preparatoryprogram that is designed for highly motivated studentswho have been diagnosed with learning differences.The primary focus of this program is to assist studentsin their core courses (English, Mathematics, Religion,Science, and Social Studies) through the use of variedteaching styles and strategies that focus on skilldevelopment in a small group setting.MAKE-UP WORKMaking up work (class work, assignments,presentations, quizzes, tests, etc.) for missed classesexcused by the school is the responsibility of thestudent. While absent from school students shouldcontinue to access teacher websites to stay up to date onmissed assignments. The student must personallycontact the teacher on the day the student returnsto school. Students should NOT wait until the nextclass to meet with a teacher. At that time, the teacherwill clearly indicate a precise, reasonable deadline forcompleting the in-class and out-of-class work missed.Only extraordinary circumstances would warrant adeadline beyond one week after the student’s return. Ifa student is absent for three or more days, the parentshould contact the student’s counselor to assist insecuring assignments. To facilitate this process, thecounseling administrative assistant will need a day’snotice to procure these assignments.The make-up of work for classes missed due toabsences not excused by the school is up to thejudgment of the teacher. Make-up work for classesmissed due to suspension is explained in the disciplinesection of this handbook.NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETYOur Lady of Good Counsel sponsors the XaverianChapter of the National Honor Society. Membership isopen in the fall of each year to qualified juniors andseniors. The following qualifications for membershipare carefully considered and evaluated by the FacultyCouncil:• Each candidate must have completed at least onefull academic year at Good Counsel maintaining a3.5 cumulative GPA (3.7 for class of 2016) with no“D’s” or “F’s.” Transfer students who are alreadymembers of the NHS are automatically givenmembership.• Each candidate must demonstrate involvement inactivities, which reflect a high level of commitmentto scholarship, leadership, character, and serviceabove and beyond the basic requirements of theschool.Students are invited to complete an applicationafter they have met the GPA requirement. Theapplication has a precise due date and directions thatgive the student ample time to complete itsrequirements.• Membership decisions are determined by a fivemember faculty council based on a review of astudent profile and faculty input. It is important tonote that this is a selective process and not allnominees will be appointed to the Xaverian Chapterof the NHS. Satisfaction of the Scholarshipcriteria does not guarantee selection.• Members of the National Honor Society are requiredto participate in a variety of school-based and10 | P age

community-based activities, which help to highlightthe members’ commitment to the goals of theorganization and to further the mission of Our Ladyof Good Counsel High School.ACADEMIC PROBATIONAcademic Probation is a set period of time duringwhich a student’s academic performance is closelymonitored. After consulting with teachers andcounselors, the Assistant Principal of Academic Affairsplaces a student on Academic Probation. Parents arenotified by letter. During the probation period,counselors will review academic progress. At the endof the probation period, a decision is made to (1)remove the probation status, (2) continue the probationstatus, or (3) separate the student from Good Counsel.REPORTS TO PARENTSRecords and TranscriptsUpon a parent/guardian’s written request to the StudiesOffice, and with approval from the Business Office,school records will be sent directly to the school ofchoice. The first transcript requested will be sent freeof charge. Two dollars is charged for each additionaltranscript.Parents/guardians have the right to access thecumulative record of their child. Parents are required tomake this request at least 24 hours prior to obtainingaccess, which shall be granted in the presence of acounselor or an administrator. All teachers have accessto student files, as do the counselors, the clerical staff,and the administration. The State Department ofEducation and local public health department haveautomatic access to all student files. Any otherindividual seeking access must have written permissionfrom a parent/guardian.Our Lady of Good Counsel abides by the provisions ofthe Buckley Amendment with respect to the rights ofnon-custodial parents. In the absence of a court orderto the contrary, Good Counsel will provide the noncustodialparent with the academic records of his/herchild and other school related information regardingtheir child. If there is a court order specifying noinformation is to be given, it is the responsibility of thecustodial parent to provide Good Counsel with anofficial copy of the court order.Reporting PeriodsThere are four marking periods each year. Report cardswill be distributed to students at the end of October, themiddle of January, and towards the end of March.Report cards will be mailed home in June. The ParentPortal is used as the academic progress report toparents.Parent ConferencesAt the end of both the first and second marking periods,Parent/Teacher Conferences may be scheduled onlineor through the Registrar. Parents are encouraged tomake an appointment with the student’s counselorand/or teacher of any course in which their child hasearned “D” or lower for a marking period. Studentswho receive below 52 percent at the end of the firstsemester may be required to meet with the AssistantPrincipal for Academic Affairs, the counselor, and theirparents to develop an academic improvement plan.Teachers may be reached throughout the year by voicemail or e-mail. Individual numbers are listed on theschool’s website, www.olgchs.org. Email is the bestmethod to communicate with a teacher.STUDY HALLStudents who are not scheduled for class during aspecific period are assigned to a Study Hall. Studentsare expected to report to Study Hall on time soattendance may be taken. This time is to be used in anappropriate and educationally productive way.Depending on availability of space, students may signout to go to the Media Center, a Resource Room, or theComputer Lab.During Study Hall time, students are to be engaged instudy, without conversing with other students. Studentsmay not leave without an appropriate pass from theteacher. In addition, students may not eat or drink atany time during Study Hall.Seniors in good academic and discipline standing willhave the option of not being assigned to a study hall forone period out of the two day cycle. When seniors arenot scheduled into a study hall, they may be eligible toparticipate in senior checkout on the school days thatthey are not scheduled for the last period of the day. Toparticipate in senior checkout, seniors must have asenior checkout permission slip on file in the attendanceoffice and sign out in the attendance office before theyleave the school building.11 | P age

SCHEDULESMonday, Tuesday and Thursday ScheduleLunch Periods:1 (11:20-11:45) | 2 (11:49-12:15) | 3 (12:19-12:45) | 4 (12:49-1:15)Wednesday ScheduleBlue DayBlue DayGold Day9:00 – 10:10 Period 1B Period 1G10:15– 11:25 Period 2B Period 2G11:30 – 1:30Period 3B Period 3G(Lunch) (Lunch)1:35 – 2:45 Period 4B Period 4GLunch Periods:1 (11:30-11:57) | 2 (12:01-12:28) | 3 (12:32-12:59) | 4 (1:03-1:30)Friday with Large Community ScheduleBlue DayGold Day8:00 – 8:30 Students report to the KaneCenter at 8:00.8:30 – 9:55 Period 1B Period 1G10:00– 11:20 Period 2B Period 2G11:25 – 1:20Period 3B Period 3G(Lunch) (Lunch)1:25 – 2:45 Period 4B Period 4GLunch Periods:1 (11:25-11:50) | 2 (11:54-12:20) | 3 (12:24-12:50) | 4 (12:54- 1:20)Note: On Fridays with Faculty/Staff meetings in the morning (seethe school calendar), school does not start until 8:30 AM.Two-Hour Delay Schedule (No Community)Blue DayGold Day8:00 – 9:25 Period 1B Period 1G9:30 – 10:55 Period 2B Period 2G11:05 –11:15COMMUNITYPeriod 3B Period 3G11:20 – 1:15(Lunch) (Lunch)1:20 – 2:45 Period 4B Period 4GGold Day10:00 – 10:50 Period 1B Period 1G10:55 – 12:50Period 3B Period 3G(Lunch) (Lunch)12:55 – 1:45 Period 2B Period 2G1:50 – 2:45 Period 4B Period 4GLunch Periods:1 (10:55-11:20) | 2 (11:24-11:50) | 3 (11:54-12:20) | 4 (12:24-12:50)STUDENT LIFEATTENDANCERegular attendance is extremely important to theacademic success of the student. School holidays,vacations, and professional days are published on theannual calendar at the end of this handbook. ThePrincipal's monthly newsletter updates the calendar on aregular basis.Absences and tardies are noted on the student'spermanent record. Classes begin promptly at 8:00 amMonday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday (some Fridayshave an 8:30 start) and at 9:00 am on Wednesday. Theend of the school day is at 2:45 pm. Seniors may leaveafter their last class if they are scheduled in seniorcheckout, have a senior checkout permission slip on filein the attendance office, and have signed out in theattendance office at the end of the day.A student who is absent from a single class for ten ormore days, due to excused as well as unexcusedabsences, will be placed on an attendance plan thatcan affect eligibility to participate in extracurricularactivities. This plan of action will be designed to assistthe student in continuing his/her studies and plans forattendance. A Dean of Student, Administrator, and/orthe student’s counselor will meet with the student tomonitor the student’s attendance. Failure to follow theattendance plan may result in loss of academic credit.Excused absences include:• Personal illness• Death in the immediate family• Religious observances• College visits (must be requested one week inadvance through the Counseling Department)All other absences are considered unexcused. TheDeans of Students hold final authority in determiningwhether a particular absence is excused or not. It is thestudent's responsibility to seriously consider the effectwhich regular attendance has on academic success andto realize that unnecessary absences hinder academicgrowth and may result in loss of credit. Likewiseif/when parents allow a student to be absent for reasonsnot excused by the school, they are reminded thatabsences exceeding ten will result in a plan of actionthat will mandate attendance.Parents are required to call the school's 24-hourattendance line (240-283-3233) before 8:00 am each12 | P age

day of a student's absence. If no call is received, thestudent will be regarded as truant and normal truancyprocedures will be initiated which may include loss ofcredit and/or detention. When a student returns toschool, he/she must present a note from the parentto confirm the telephone call on the day(s) ofabsence. The note is to be presented to theAttendance Office before school in the morning.Failure to adhere to this policy will result indisciplinary action.Medical and dental appointments are to be made so thestudent will not miss class. If, however, a studentMUST leave school during the day, he/she must presenta note to the Attendance Office before school. The notemust include the date, reason for and time of dismissal,time of anticipated return if applicable, parentsignature, and parent work/cell telephone number.A student must sign out with the Attendance Office orthe Health Room before leaving the building. Studentswho leave campus during the school day must haveparental permission and permission from theAttendance Office. Students who leave campuswithout signing out will be placed on disciplinaryprobation and face additional disciplinary action.Homework for AbsenteesIf a student is absent for three days or more, parentsshould contact the counseling administrative assistant at240-283-3224 to ask that homework be gathered. Thecounseling secretary will leave a request with theteachers. The homework assignments will be availableby the end of the next school day in an envelope onhis/her counselor’s door. Please note that someteachers post assignments on their OLGCHS web siteand/or provide weekly/monthly assignment lists.Physical Education ExcusesThe student is to bring the teacher a note from his/herparent if he/she is to be excused from participating inphysical education class for reasons of illness or injury.This note must be presented before the start of class.When such an excuse is granted, the student will beunable to participate in athletic events on that day aswell. Repeated or extended excuses (more than 3 times)require a physician's certificate in order to be deemedexcused.LatenessSchool begins promptly at 8:00 am except onWednesdays when classes begin at 9:00 am and onsome Fridays, when classes begin at 8:30 am. Anystudent arriving later than ten minutes into the class willnot be admitted to class without a note from theAttendance Office. Students and parents areresponsible for the knowledge that traffic is a constantproblem in the Washington area. Consequently, it isthe student’s and parent’s responsibility to allowsufficient time to arrive to school on time. Studentsshould plan to arrive to school no later than 7:45 am.Any unexcused tardy, within the first ten (10) minutesof class, will result in three demerits. Unexcusedtardiness between 10 – 30 minutes will be classified asan unexcused absence and will result in one-hour ofSaturday detention. Unexcused tardiness in excess of30 minutes will also be classified as an unexcusedabsence and will result in two hours of Saturdaydetention. Making up work that is missed due to anunexcused tardy/absence will be left to the teacher’sjudgment. Class time missed due to tardiness may bemade up after school or may result in loss of credit forwork missed. If a teacher (or substitute teacher) doesnot arrive within the first ten (10) minutes of class, onerepresentative of the class should report the situation tothe main office. Students who dismiss themselves willbe considered to be skipping class.Participation in any extracurricular activityrequires a full-day attendance at school andpresence in all class periods on the day of theactivity.All notes regarding attendance or lateness must bepresented to the attendance office upon the student’sreturn.BUILDING USEIn order to maintain a safe environment at GoodCounsel, the building is open as follows: The mainfront door is opened at 7:30 am each school day forvisitors. All other doors to the school building areopened at 7:30 am. The school building is locked at3:30 pm. Students who are in the school building before7:30 am or after 3:30 pm must be with either a teacheror moderator. Students in the Litton Gymnasium, KaneCenter, or weight rooms are to be with a coach,moderator or teacher. Students not under the directsupervision of a teacher, coach, or moderator, mustreport to the Dining Hall at 3:30 pmand remain there until their transportation arrives. Amoderator will be present in the Dining Hall until 6:00pm. Parents who arrive to pick up their children shouldenter the North Parking Lot and pick them up outsidethe Dining Hall exit. As of 6:00 pm, any remainingstudents will be escorted out of the building. Parentsare hereby notified that if their children are not picked13 | P age

up by 6:00 pm, then they will be left unsupervisedoutside of the building.Dining Hall Polices for 3:30 – 6:00 pm:• Students must sign in upon arrival.• Students are expected to arrive by 4:00 pm.Any student arriving after 4:00 pm must havea pass from their teacher, coach, or moderatorto excuse their late arrival.• Phone calls in and out of the Dining Hall areallowed only under the direct supervisionand/or permission of the Dining Hall proctor.• The after school use of the Dining Hall is aprivilege. This privilege can be revoked for asingle or a pattern of inappropriate behavior.• Students who display any type of inappropriatebehavior will be asked to immediately leavethe Dining Hall.• After signing out of the Dining Hall, studentsmust exit the building.• At 6:00 pm, the Dining Hall will be closed,and any remaining students must exit thebuilding at that time. (If all students exit theDining Hall before 6:00 pm, the Dining Hallwill close before 6:00 pm.)• Food and/or drinks are prohibited in theDining Hall Study Area from 3:30-6:00 pm.• Dining Hall Study Area is closed on schooldays with an early dismissal.Students are required to stay in the building during theschool day unless a specific school activity isscheduled. Students may go to the parking lot only ifthey have permission from an administrator or a Deanof Students.The use of Locker and Team Rooms is limited to onlyin-season athletes before and after school. Studentsenrolled in a Physical Education class are permitted touse the appropriate Locker Room only during theirclass period. Failure to comply with the Locker Roompolicy will result in disciplinary action.DINING HALLA free and balanced lunch menu is available each day.Students are expected to use good table and eatingmanners and must clean up after themselves. Allstudents sitting at a table are responsible for thecondition of the table upon dismissal. Theconsumption of food and drink is confined to theDining Hall. Students are to remain in the Dining Hallduring their assigned lunch period. All backpacks andbooks must be left in the student’s lunch-period class.The teacher will lock the room to protect personalbelongings.CAMPUS MINISTRYCampus Ministry integrates the school’s Catholic andXaverian mission and identity into day-to-day lifethrough four pillars: Word & Worship, Retreat,Christian Formation and Service. A Director, aChaplain, two Associate Campus Ministers, and oneAssociate Campus Minister for Xaverian Servicecollaboratively coordinate Campus Ministry.Word and WorshipPrayer is a sustaining force in the community on a dailybasis and at special events. The entire communitygathers for prayer at least four times each year: theMass of the Holy Spirit, the Feast of St. FrancisXavier, the Immaculate Conception, and the Feast ofOur Lady of Good Counsel. Other liturgies include theJunior Class Leadership Mass, the Senior/Mother Mass,the Baccalaureate Mass, Life Issues Day, AshWednesday, and Holy Week. Students who areinterested in being involved in the Liturgy should seeCampus Ministry about becoming a lector, acolyte, ormember of the Liturgical Planning Team. As a Catholicschool, worship lies at the very core of who we are andwhat we believe. Students are expected to be present forall school liturgies and may not be absent without anexcused note. Parents are asked to ensure theirchildren’s presence for all school Masses, especiallythose which immediately precede a school holiday.Mass is celebrated on each Holy Day. In addition, dailyMass is celebrated Monday/Friday at 7:15 am, andTuesday/Thursday at 7:30 am in the Chapel. ThroughReligion class, students are given the opportunity toplan and to participate in a class Mass in conjunctionwith their study of the Sacraments, and may have theopportunity to receive the Sacrament ofReconciliation with their religion classes. Ourchaplain serves as spiritual director and pastoralcounselor for the school community. He also providesfor the sacramental needs of the school and is alwaysavailable for individual confession, if requested.RetreatsEvery year, each student is provided an opportunityfor spiritual formation through a retreat experience.The Freshmen Retreat is held in the fall and invites thefreshmen to reflect on their first months at GoodCounsel and to grow in their identity as Catholic School14 | P age

students. It also introduces the freshmen to theXaverian history and charism. The Sophomore Day ofService is a one school day experience, integrating faithand action. Students participate in service at variouslocal placements, and conclude the day with reflectionand celebration of the Eucharist. The three-day JuniorRetreat allows students to explore relationships withself, God, and others. Three optional Senior Retreatswill be scheduled this year. Senior Retreat focuses ondeepening one’s relationship with God and helpingseniors to listen to God’s Call in their lives. FreshmanRetreat, Sophomore Day of Service, and Junior Retreatare mandatory. Please consult the school calendar forspecific dates.The school considers retreats to be an essential partof the overall educational process. In terms ofimportance, retreats take precedence over all sports andextra-curricular activities. Should a student desire toswitch his/her retreat date due to a serious conflictwith an athletic or personal commitment, therequest must be made by a parent in writing no laterthan four weeks prior to the scheduled retreat forsophomores and no later than eight weeks prior tothe scheduled retreat for juniors.The L.I.F.E. program is part of the Retreatpillar. “Living in Faith Experience” (L.I.F.E) isdesigned as both a preparation for and follow up to theJunior Retreat. L.I.F.E. is held once a month, on aweeknight from 6-8 pm at school, and is open to alljuniors and seniors. The meeting itself is a mini-retreat,consisting of prayer, icebreakers, talks, and small-groupsharing. Each month’s meeting has a designated themeand provides a positive way for students to discuss theirfaith and deal with relevant issues in a safe, supportiveenvironment.Christian FormationThrough its programs, Campus Ministry seeks toform all students in the Xaverian Christian tradition andstrives to foster Christian character and values. Allstudents are challenged to develop skills of leadershipand an awareness of the call to work for justice andpeace.Student leaders (retreat, L.I.F.E., Peace and Justice)have a responsibility to model servant leadership, asshown to us by Jesus Christ, and to grow in faith asthey deepen their relationship with God. These leadersare chosen through a process that begins in late April ofeach year. All leaders are required to attend theXaverian Leadership Institute (XLI) in June. Studentsinterested in applying to be a leader should be attentiveto announcements regarding the application process inearly April and should be sure to reserve the dates ofXLI. All juniors, as well as freshmen and sophomoresselected at the beginning of the school year, are invitedto participate in the Xaverian Leadership Formationprogram, which provides on-going training to studentslooking to improve their leadership skills through aseries of workshops on a variety of topics. In the fall ofjunior year, ten juniors are selected to serve on theschool's XBSS team, which collaborates with theircolleagues from other Xaverian schools in transmittingthe uniquely Xaverian charism to the wider studentbody.In response to the XBSS call, to educate students inGospel values and Catholic social teaching, the Peaceand Justice program offers students opportunities tolearn about and respond to a variety of social issuesthroughout the year. The Peace and Justice Teamconducts various activities that call the OLGCcommunity to share its gifts of time, treasure, andtalent. All drives and charitable fundraisers held atschool must be approved by the Advancement Officeand coordinated through the Campus MinistryOffice. The number of school-wide drives is limited soas to draw focused attention to a select number of socialconcerns each year.Xaverian ServiceCommunity service is an integral part of GoodCounsel’s identity as a Xaverian Brothers SponsoredSchool. Promoting personal and spiritual growth,students are encouraged to live the Xaverian ideal and“fall in love with the service of God.”Service Requirements:Freshmen: Freshmen are required to perform 10hours of service in an approved program that mayinclude service to Good Counsel, a church/parish, aschool, or any non-profit agency or activity that is inaccord with Catholic Church teaching.Sophomores: Sophomores are required to perform 20hours of service in an approved program that mayinclude service to Good Counsel, a church/parish, aschool, or any non-profit agency or activity that is inaccord with Catholic Church teaching, preferablyserving the poor and/or marginalized. In addition totheir 20 hours, Sophomores also participate in aSophomore Retreat /Day of Service.Juniors: Juniors are required to perform 30 hours ofservice in an approved program serving at non-profitagencies that work with poor and/or marginalized15 | P age

people and are in accord with Catholic Churchteaching.Seniors: Seniors are required to perform 40 hours ofservice to poor and/or marginalized people. Thisservice may be with a single non-profit agency or withvarious non-profit agencies focused one specifictheme; e.g., homeless people, the elderly, the sick. Aminimum of 5 hours must be in direct contact with thepeople being served.Seniors must describe a plan of service and submit it forapproval to the Associate Campus Minister for Serviceby Friday, September 14.In addition to their 40 hour commitment, seniors areexcused from classes for a school day in order toperform service at So Others May Eat (S.O.M.E.), asoup kitchen in the District of Columbia, with a groupof their peers and a faculty/staff moderator. Seniorsmissing their assigned date without a doctor’s note mustschedule a visit to S.O.M.E. to serve both breakfast andlunch on a non-school day. Service at S.O.M.E. is arequirement for graduation and must be completed byMay 28, 2013 in order to be eligible for a passingservice grade.Seniors who do not receive a passing service gradewill not receive their diplomas and their transcriptswill be withheld from colleges until they havecompleted all service requirements. The grade willremain a failure even after the completion of therequirements in the summer months.Service Policies: Hours served in addition to therequirement may not be carried over from one academicyear to the next. Students, however, are encouraged toturn in all records of service, even those different fromand beyond their requirements, so that these recordsmay be used when verifying service hours for collegeapplications, scholarships, etc. Helping with familymatters does not fulfill service requirements. Studentscannot be released from school to complete servicerequirements. It is important to recognize thedifference between free labor (or simply workingwithout payment) and true Xaverian service. Only tenhours can be claimed per day of work unless explicitpermission to do more has been granted by theAssociate Campus Minister for Service.While each student is individually responsible forfinding places to serve, students should check theXaverian Service bulletin board, daily announcements,and the Good Counsel website for updates throughoutthe year. Fundraising done for a team or in-schoolorganization does not qualify for community servicehours. Club meetings do not qualify as service; onlyactual service projects performed by club members canbe counted. Service performed by organizations atGood Counsel may qualify for service hours whenperformed outside of regular school hours. Commutingto and from the service activity cannot be included inthe service hours.The following is a key for students to follow whenmaking material donations to non-profit organizationsfor Service Hours. If students are working as a group,divide the number of goods by the number of peoplehelping to determine the amount of hours earned. Foritems not explicitly mentioned here, students mustsubmit an Intent to Serve Request prior to makingdonations.ServiceHoursFull MealsSandwichesProjectLinusBlankets2 10 253 20 50 14 40 755 60 100 26 80 1257 100 150 38 120 1759 140 200 410 160 225*Students can earn no more than 10 service hours per calendar day.Religion classes will coordinate class stewardshipprojects during the school year.Service Portfolio Pieces:Online Intent to Serve Request: Students wishingto serve at places not listed on the Campus Ministrywebsite MUST submit an “Intent to Serve Request” tothe Associate Campus Minister for Service through theService section of the school website beforecompleting the service activity. Students will receivenotification of approval/problems within one week.Service hours offered by other teachers or coaches mustalso be verified by the Associate Campus Minister forService.Service Verification Form: Students must submit aService Verification Form to the Campus Ministryoffice as soon as possible upon completion of theirservice hours. These forms are available online andmust be submitted in duplicate to the Campus Ministryoffice. One copy of the form is returned to the studentin Community as a receipt.16 | P age

PLEASE NOTE: NEW POLICYForms for service completed during the summermonths must be submitted by September 14, 2012 inorder for the hours to count towards the servicerequirements. A student whose hours are completedthroughout the school year, submitted within onemonth of the activity, and are received by May 1,2013 will earn an “A” for service. A student whosehours are completed, submitted within one month ofthe activity, and are received between May 2 andMay 28, 2013 will earn a “Pass” for service. Hoursthat are received more than one month after theircompletion will not count towards the servicerequirements.Students who perform group service activitiesmoderated by Good Counsel faculty or staff canusually, although not always, expect the moderator tosubmit proof of student participation directly to theAssociate Campus Minister for Service. Students arestill responsible for checking that these hours have beencorrectly entered and are listed on the Service section ofthe school website.Any misrepresentation of information on ServiceForms will result in academic disciplinary actionand/or an automatic failing grade in XaverianService for the school year.The Service grade becomes part of the student’stranscript. Since it is not awarded academic credit, itdoes not affect the GPA. The grading scale is asfollows:• A: Student completed service requirement and all ofthe associated paperwork on time (within one monthof service or ultimately by May 1, 2013).• P: Student completed service requirement andsubmitted paperwork within one month of serviceand between May 2, 2013 and May 28, 2013.• F: Student failed to complete service requirementand/or all of the associated paperwork before May29, 2013.Service grade changes cannot be made after May 29,2013.Any service performed by underclasspersons during thesummer will be applied to the following school year.Service performed after the due date of May 1 will beapplied to the present year or to the following year,depending on the need of the student.in order to integrate the service experience into thereligious life experience as a whole.CODE OF CONDUCTStudents of Our Lady of Good Counsel High Schoolknow that they are a part of an elite group of students.They have made the commitment to:• Live the Catholic faith.• Respect self and others.• Show pride in their school, community, andself through spirit, service, behavior, andappearance.• Help each other grow spiritually andintellectually.The conduct of a Good Counsel student flows from theMission Statement of the school. At Good Counsel,faculty and students give evidence of and experienceChristian values. Students are encouraged to grow intheir understanding of moral and honorable behavior ina manner which promotes genuine respect for one’sself, as well as other people’s property, space, and time.In order to build a community where trust and respectare at the foundation, it is important to strive for thehighest standards of honesty, integrity, andresponsibility for one’s actions. In order to achieve anatmosphere where the Catholic faith, academicexcellence, service, leadership, and Christian charactercan be pursued, students and their parents must supportthe policies and regulations set forth by Our Lady ofGood Counsel High School.Good Counsel’s Code of Conduct is an agreementbetween students, parents, and the school thatreinforces the school’s philosophy and expectationsand guides behavior toward one another.Consequently, the Code of Conduct stresses rights andprivileges that are balanced with responsibilities. Eachstudent, parent, faculty member, staff member, andadministrator is personally responsible for ensuring theChristian spirit of the school. The following is a listingof the primary rights and responsibilities of studentsand parents.Student Rights and ResponsibilitiesStudent Rights: Students have the right to attendschool in an atmosphere of mutual respect. Studentshave the right to learn in a safe environment.Reflection Paper: Prior to the completion of theacademic year, each student will submit a reflectionpaper to his/her Religion teacher. This paper is written17 | P age

Student Responsibilities:1. Behave towards others like you want them tobehave towards youa. Be respectful of fellow students and all adultsb. Be courteousc. Conduct yourself in a manner becoming ayoung, Christian adultd. Listene. Use only language conducive to the Christianbeliefs and attitudes of a Catholic school2. Regularly attend school and school-relatedfunctionsa. Arrive to all classes on timeb. Never be out of class without a hall pass3. Be prepared for schoola. Bring books, paper, pens, pencils, and othersupplies to classb. Complete assignments on timec. Check school email every day, failure tocheck email will not be an acceptableexcused. When absent, make up work promptlye. Be in dress code when you arrive and untilyou leave school4. Participate in class and other activitiesa. Ask for help when you don’t understandsomethingb. Participate in clubs, sports, and otheractivities according to the rules andrequirements of those activitiesc. Contribute to the school in a positive manner5. Work to prevent and resolve problemsa. Do your work honorably without the sharingor taking of someone else’s workb. Follow class and school rulesc. Behave in a safe manner(1.) Drive safely and park only in designatedareas(2.) Abstain from fighting and/or gambling atany time(3.) Do not bring onto campus any item ormaterial that may be considereddangerous(4.) Do not use, possess, and/or distribute anyprohibited, controlled, or illegal drugs,including alcohol and tobacco products,and/or drug paraphernalia, on campus orat school functionsd. Ask for help if there is a probleme. Use appropriate verbal and non-verbalcommunicationf. Be honestg. Take responsibility for your own actions andrecognize consequencesh. Meet the academic and social expectations ofthe schooli. Secure all of your valuable possessions bylocking your locker(s) and keeping yourmaterials with you or in a locked classroom atall times6. Provide community service by fulfilling therequirements of the community service programs.Parent Rights and ResponsibilitiesParent Rights: Parents have the right to be informedof their child’s academic progress and behavior.Parents have the right to be consulted when decisionsare made that affect their child. Parents have the rightto be informed of all serious disciplinary actionsconcerning their child and they may exercise their rightto appeal expulsions to the Office of the President.Parent Responsibilities:1. Set goals for your childa. Cooperate with the school to support disciplinepoliciesb. Expect your child to achieve in school to thebest of his/her abilityc. Set up rules and expectations at home thatsupport the school(1.) Be present at all parties in your home(2.) Never provide alcohol for students2. Communicate with your child and the schoola. Meet with your child’s teachersb. Tell your child that you expect him/her toattend school every day, be on time to classes,complete homework, and cooperate withschool personnelc. Attend Parent Association meetingsd. Attend functions in which your childparticipatese. Inform the school of any unusualcircumstances that may affect your child’slearning and/or behavior3. Help your child to learna. Provide a regular place to do homeworkb. Be available to assist your child withhomework when neededc. Help your child to organize his/her schoolwork and timed. Ask the school for assistance if needede. Encourage your child to do homework on thenight it is assigned.18 | P age

4. Encourage and praise your childa. Recognize your child’s efforts andaccomplishmentsb. Help your child develop pride in him/herselfand the school5. Monitor your child’s educationa. Discuss school with your child every dayb. Establish and maintain communication withthe faculty and administrationc. Make sure your child is in dress code everydayStudent ConductRealizing that an all-inclusive listing of variousexpectations would be impossible to outline on thesepages, the school reserves the right to take appropriateaction for any offense that, in the opinion of the faculty,staff, or administration, violates the good behaviorexpected of a Good Counsel student. Our Lady ofGood Counsel High School reserves the right to takedisciplinary action, up to and including dismissal,against any student who participates in any activityafter school hours and off school grounds, if thatactivity, in the sole discretion of Good Counsel, wouldrender the continued matriculation of that student atGood Counsel inconsistent with the overall mission andgoals of Our Lady of Good Counsel High School. OurLady of Good Counsel values its neighbors and thesurrounding neighborhoods, therefore the Code ofConduct applies to campus and within a half milevicinity of the campus. Please be aware that underreasonable suspicion, the school reserves the right tosearch students, backpacks, cars, lockers and othermaterials brought on campus. The school employs theuse of a passive alcohol detection system. Our Lady ofGood Counsel High School reserves the right torandomly test students for alcohol and drug use duringthe school day and during school functions.Any behavior that disrupts classes, causes disorder,violates the rights of others, violates specific rules ofthe school, or is unsafe will result in disciplinaryactions. The following topics define areas of specificschool rules and the consequences for not followingthem.Student expectations for Mass and Large Assembliesare the following:• Sit in the assigned area• Be respectful• Be attentive to speakers and programs• Follow all directions of faculty and staff members• Be in dress code (Failure to comply may result inSaturday Detention.)Boys are required to wear the uniform blue oxfordcloth shirt with the GC logo and a tie for Mass Days.Girls are required to wear the uniform blue oxfordcloth shirt with the GC logo for Mass days.WeaponsA student shall not possess, handle, transmit, or concealany object that can be deemed dangerous on schoolgrounds or at any school related function. Weapons aredefined as implements that can cause bodily harm,including but not limited to knives, metal knuckles,nunchakus, guns, rifles, firearms, and any object usedas a weapon. Consequences for violating this rulerange from a minimum of suspension, strict disciplinaryprobation, and counseling to police referral andexpulsion.Bomb/Facsimile Possession or Bomb ThreatsA student shall not possess, handle, transmit, threaten,or conceal any object that can be construed to be abomb or a bomb facsimile. Consequences for violatingthis rule range from a minimum of police referral,suspension, strict disciplinary probation, and counselingto expulsion.Fighting or AssaultA student will not use physical force or cause or inflictphysical injury to any member of the Good Counselcommunity or anyone else while on school property.When off school property, if the Good Counsel studentis still in dress code or in any Good Counselparaphernalia, the same rule applies. If the fight occursbetween two Good Counsel students, both students willbe held responsible for the fight and must accept theconsequences. It is the responsibility of students toprevent and resolve problems before fighting becomesan issue. The consequences for fighting range from aminimum of a one-day suspension and counseling toexpulsion.Alcohol, Drugs, and TobaccoA Good Counsel student is expected to refrain from thepossession, use, and/or distribution of alcohol or anyprohibited, controlled, or illegal drugs, and/or drugparaphernalia. Good Counsel will use whatever meansavailable to work toward a safe and drug-free campus.These include working with the canine unit of theMontgomery County Police, involving local authoritiesin all cases, and increasing our own surveillance and19 | P age

andom checks. The consequences for students whoengage in any of the above behaviors or are under theinfluence of alcohol or drugs on campus or at schoolfunctions will range from the minimum of policenotification and immediate suspension coupled withcounseling, assessment of chemical dependency, andStrict Disciplinary Probation to the maximum ofexpulsion. The school will conduct an investigation ofa student who exhibits behavior of being under theinfluence of alcohol/drugs, and if the investigationconfirms the suspicion, the school will take disciplinaryaction. Generally, the consequence for possession, use,and/or distribution of any prohibited, controlled, orillegal drug and/or drug paraphernalia on campus or at aschool function will be dismissal from Good Counsel.Our Lady of Good Counsel is a tobacco-free campus.Students may not be in possession of, use, or distributetobacco on campus or at any school function.Violations of this rule will result in a minimum of oneday’s suspension up to a maximum of a five-daysuspension coupled with counseling, Strict DisciplinaryProbation, and community service. In addition to thestrict rules on campus, students may not smokeanywhere within a two mile radius of the school.Violations of the off-campus smoking policy will resultin a minimum of one hour of Saturday Detention.Juvenile (under the age of 18) possession and/or use oftobacco violates Maryland State law.Internet/Cyberspace PolicyGiven the recent proliferation of Internet web pages andchat rooms in which adolescents participate, GoodCounsel reminds its student body that Christian conductextends to one’s personal life beyond the confines ofschool grounds and school activities. Good Counselstudents are strongly advised not to representthemselves in inappropriate ways that would beinconsistent with student conduct outlined in theStudent Handbook Code of Conduct when on Internetsites like My Space, Facebook, Webshots. Studentsinvolved in improper conduct involving the Internetwill face disciplinary action from the school.Use of the Internet to degrade or defame individuals,groups, or institutions is inconsistent with conductbecoming a Good Counsel student. Online posting orpresentation of any derogatory, threatening, and/ordefamatory information or images is unacceptable.Posting or presentation of images, photographs, and/oraudio recordings of individuals without their expresspermission is unacceptable. Good Counsel reserves theright to regularly review its policies regarding studentuse of cyberspace as novel uses and applications ariseand to take disciplinary action to the maximum ofexpulsion for students who violate these policies.Communication Devices, Radios, Players,Video Games, and Laser PointersPagers, cellular telephones, or other communicationdevices are to be turned off and not in use from 7:55 amto 2:50 pm. Unless given permission, use of thesecommunication devices during the school day willresult in confiscation of the device. Violations of thisrule will result in consequences that range from aminimum of two hours of Saturday Detention to amaximum of suspension and Strict DisciplinaryProbation. Requests for authorization to possess aportable communication device due to unusualcircumstances must be made to a Dean of Students,who will decide whether to grant or deny the request.During the school day, the use of iPods, portablegaming systems, or CD players is prohibited in classesand during school functions that require the fullattention of participants.The possession and/or use of laser pointers is prohibitedon school property and at all school related functions.Possession of these devices will result in a minimumconsequence of confiscation up to a maximum of thestudent’s removal from school events and/or schoolproperty.Theft and/or Damage of PropertyA student shall not steal and/or damage the property ofanother person or the school. This includes all computerhardware and software (computer viruses, etc.).Possession of any other person’s property withouthis/her permission is considered theft. Students mustimmediately turn any found items to the nearest adult orto the lost and found in the school’s main office.Vandalism, destruction of property, and/or theft willresult in consequences that range from a minimum ofsuspension and restitution to a maximum of expulsion.Defacing student or school property, such as writing ona desk or bulletin boards, will result in disciplinaryaction that ranges from detention to suspension and/ordisciplinary hearing.All students are expected to protect their personalpossessions through the use of a locked locker(s) andby not leaving their possessions unattended.20 | P age

Harassment/Bullying/IntimidationDiversity is one of the strengths of our society as wellas one of the hallmarks of a great educationalcommunity. Our Lady of Good Counsel is committed tomaintaining an educational setting which ismulticultural, multiethnic and multiracial. Respectingcultural differences and promoting dignity among allmembers of the school community are responsibilitieseach of us must share.The school views bullying and intimidation as types ofharassment.Racial and ethnic harassment is a growing concernacross school campuses. It has taken various forms,from criminal acts (assault and battery, vandalism,destruction of property) to anonymous, maliciousintimidation, most often directed toward persons whoserace or ethnicity is readily identifiable. "With respect tothe fundamental rights of the person, every type ofdiscrimination, whether social or cultural, whetherbased on sex, race, color, social condition, language orreligion, is to be overcome and eradicated as contrary toGod's intent." (Vatican Council II, Gauidium et Spes,No. 29). In the educational context, harassment anddiscrimination interfere with students’ opportunities toenjoy the educational program offered by Our Lady ofGood Counsel.We are committed to providing a learning environmentthat is free from discriminatory intimidation, insult,ridicule, or other forms of harassment. Sexualharassment or other harassment based on race, color,religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation,or disability is unlawful under both federal and statelaw. Any student who believes he/she has been thevictim of harassment should report such conduct to acounselor, a Dean of Students, an administrator, aschool nurse, a teacher, or another staff person. Wewill conduct an investigation of the complaint, and ifthe investigation confirms that harassment hasoccurred, we will take corrective action. Theconsequences for harassment range from a minimum ofa conference and counseling to a maximum ofexpulsion.Sexual HarassmentSexual Harassment is behavior, sexual in nature, thatinvolves unwanted, unwelcome sexual advances,requests for sexual favors, and/or other inappropriateverbal, written, or physical conduct of a sexual naturethat takes place when such conduct has the effect ofunreasonably interfering with the individual’s workand/or academic performance or creating anintimidating, hostile, or offensive work or learningenvironment. Sexual harassment will not be tolerated.Both state and federal laws prohibit sexual harassmentsince it interferes with a student’s ability and right tolearn and to participate fully in activities at school.Prohibited Conduct may include, but is not limited to:• Grabbing, touching or patting• Sexual propositions• Sexually offensive pictures, magazines, notes,calendars, cartoons, or jokes• Unwanted flirtations or advances• Verbal abuse• Repeated pressure or requests for sexual activities• Rewards for granting sexual favors or withholdingrewards for refusing to grant sexual favors• Graphic comments about an individual’s body ordress• Sexually degrading names• Spreading rumors or commenting about sexualbehaviors• Pressuring someone repeatedly for dates orunwanted sexual activitiesHarassment is verbal or physical conduct thatdenigrates or shows hostility or aversion toward anindividual or his/her friend or relative that:1. Has the purpose or effect of creating anintimidating, hostile, or offensive work/learningenvironment.2. Has the purpose or effect of unreasonablyinterfering with an individual’s work/socialperformance.Harassing conduct includes but is not limited to insults,slurs, threats, intimidating, or hostile acts relating to aperson’s race, gender, etc. Also included is visualmaterial that denigrates or shows hostility toward aperson or group because of race, color, gender, etc.The Harassment Policy also prohibits thefollowing behaviors:1. Retaliation Against the ComplainantAny conduct which could reasonably be perceived asretaliatory, such as accosting, calling, or writing to thecomplainant, or encouraging third parties to harass thecomplainant because of her/his complaint is prohibitedand shall be considered an independent violation of this21 | P age

policy. A complaint of retaliation may be pursuedusing the steps followed for a complaint of harassment.2. Knowingly Making False or Malicious ComplaintsReporting Harassment/Bullying/IntimidationTo file a knowingly false or malicious complaint ofharassment or of retaliation is a violation of theHarassment Policy. Such conduct may be pursued usingthe steps followed for a complaint of harassment.Students who feel that they are being harassed shouldreport the incident(s) to a counselor, a Dean ofStudents, an administrator, the school nurse, a teacher,or another staff person. When reporting an incident, itis helpful to provide as much information as possibleincluding:• A description of the incident(s)• The number of incidences with dates and places• The names of any witnesses• If appropriate, documents, papers, and/or otherexhibits.The consequences for harassment range from aminimum of a conference and counseling to amaximum of expulsion.Public Display of AffectionDisplays of romantic affection between students are notappropriate in the school environment. Kissing andother behaviors deemed inappropriate by the school areunacceptable and will not be tolerated. Studentsinvolved in public displays of affection will receivedisciplinary action.DISCIPLINARY ACTIONSWeekday DetentionA teacher may detain a student after school or mayrequire a student to arrive before scheduled classesbegin in the morning. Such teacher-assigned detentionsmay be given any day.Saturday DetentionSchool-wide detention is held on Saturdays from 8:00am to 11:00 am. The number of demerits received orthe seriousness of the offense will determine the timespent in detention. A teacher or the school assignsthese detentions to students who have failed in meetingthe expectations established. Students must be in dresscode at each detention session. Notification ofdetention will be made through a Report to Detentionslip, email, and/or a phone call home from a teacher, anadministrator, or the Dean of Students. Sporting events,working hours, and vacations are not viable reasons notto attend detention. Attendance at an assigneddetention is mandatory. Students who have anunexcused absence for the assigned Saturday Detentionare not allowed to participate in any extracurricularactivities on the Saturday of the assigned detention.Unexcused absences from detention will result inadditional disciplinary action. Repeated unexcuseddetentions are considered a major disciplinaryinfraction. Repeated offenses will result in more seriousconsequences that may include (1) DisciplinaryProbation, (2) Strict Disciplinary Probation, (3)Suspension, or (4) Dismissal.Student expectations for Saturday Detention are thefollowing:• Detention will be held from 8:00 am to 11:00 am.• Doors will open at 7:50 am.• Doors will close at 8:05 am. After this time, nostudents will be admitted to detention.• Students must be in dress code in order to beadmitted to detention.• Food, drinks, and/or cell phone use are prohibitedat detention.• Once students have completed their detentionhours, they are required to leave the building.Disciplinary ProbationProbation may result from a single action or a pattern ofinappropriate behaviors. A student is placed ondisciplinary probation for a set period of time duringwhich the student remains at Good Counsel on a trialbasis. During this time, the student’s teachers, acounselor, the Deans of Students, and theadministration closely monitor the student’s behavior.A Dean of Students notify the parents and determinethe conditions of the probation. If a student violates theterms of probation, removal from Good Counsel will beconsidered. At the end of the probation period, adecision will be made by the school to (1) remove theprobation status, (2) continue the probation status, or(3) remove the student from Good Counsel.Strict Disciplinary ProbationStrict Disciplinary Probation may result from a singleaction, a pattern of inappropriate behaviors, or violationof regular disciplinary probation. Strict DisciplinaryProbation has all the qualities of regular disciplinary22 | P age

probation, but also includes the restriction ofparticipation and attendance at all extracurricularactivities, which includes clubs, sports, dances, sportingevents, and other extracurricular, school-sponsoredactivities. As with regular disciplinary probation,Strict Disciplinary Probation is set for a specific periodof time during which the student’s behavior is closelymonitored by the student’s teachers, a counselor, theDeans of Students, and the administration. If a studentviolates the terms of Strict Disciplinary Probation,removal from Good Counsel will be considered. At theend of the probation period, a decision will be made bythe school to (1) remove the strict disciplinary status,(2) continue the strict disciplinary status, (3) assignregular disciplinary probation, or (4) separate thestudent from Good Counsel.SuspensionSuspension may result from a single action or a patternof inappropriate behaviors. A suspended student isbarred from attending class and from participating inany school activities (on or off campus) for the durationof the suspension. The Deans of Students willdetermine the length of the suspension, which is usuallyfrom 1-5 days. The Principal has the authority to assignsuspensions in excess of five days.Procedures: When a Dean of Students responds to adisciplinary infraction that may warrant suspension,he/she will:• Meet with the student before imposing anysuspension, or as promptly as possible if it isnecessary to remove the student from schoolproperty because he/she poses an immediate dangerto persons or property, or poses an ongoing threat ofdisrupting the education process. At this time, theDean of Students will:o Inform the student of the allegations againsthim/her and provide an explanation of theevidence that supports the allegations.o Give the student an opportunity to tell his/herside of the story.o Make a decision to suspend or not suspend.If the decision is to suspend the student, the Dean ofStudents will:• Notify the parent/legal guardian of the suspension,preferably before removing the student from schoolgrounds. This notification will include:oooEffective dates of the suspensionInform the parent(s)/ legal guardian of theallegations and a brief explanation of evidencethat supports allegations.Offer to schedule a conference with theparent/legal guardian before the end of thesuspension period to review the incident and thepossible consequences. In attendance at thisconference would be the Deans of Students, thestudent’s counselor, the student, and his/herparent(s)/guardian. After the conference, theDean of Students will notify the parent(s)/legalguardians of the determined consequences.During the suspension period, the student is responsiblefor keeping up with his/her assignments by contactingclassmates and/or using teacher websites. The student isrequired to see his/her Blue and Gold day teachersduring the first day of classes after suspension. Thestudent is then responsible for submitting all makeupwork to his/her teachers during the next class period.Tests and quizzes missed during the suspension will bemade up at each teacher’s convenience.SEPARATION FROM GOOD COUNSELThe school reserves the right to separate any studentwhose conduct is unbecoming a Christian student orharmful to the community. Students who are chronicdiscipline and attendance problems or who fail tocontribute to the school in a positive manner may bedismissed. Prudence guides such action, and except inserious instances, a preliminary warning will be given.Prior to the dismissal, a conference will be heldbetween the Principal, the Deans of Students, thestudent’s counselor, the student, and his/her parent(s).When the decision is that a student will not bepermitted to return to Good Counsel, one of thefollowing options is exercised:Appeal: A written request can be made to the schoolPresident requesting an appeal hearing of thePrincipal’s decision. The school President must receivethe written request within three school days. Appealhearings will be granted only when evidence ofprocedural errors of due process and/or additionalinformation that would render the student innocent ofall infractions has become available since the time ofthe principal’s decision.Withdrawal: The student is given the opportunity towithdraw from Good Counsel of his/her own accord. Awithdrawal request must be received in writing from theparent/guardian.Expulsion: The school expels the student.23 | P age

DEMERIT SYSTEMThe Demerit System is used to address rule infractions.Students may receive demerits from teachers, staff,and/or administrators for the following:• Uniform violation (1 demerit)• Chewing gum (Chewing gum is not permittedanywhere on campus at any time.) (5 demerits)• Consuming food/drink in hallway/classroom (Foodand drinks are only allowed in the Dining Hall.)(3 demerits)• Profane or abusive language (3 demerits)• Late to class (3 demerits)• Leaving class or study hall without the appropriatehall pass (3 demerits)When a student has accumulated 10 demerits, he/shewill receive one hour of Saturday detention. When 20demerits are accumulated, the student receives twohours of Saturday detention. When 30 demerits areaccumulated, three hours of Saturday detention will beassigned, plus the student will be placed onDisciplinary Probation. When 40 demerits areaccumulated, the student will be placed on StrictDisciplinary Probation and must serve three hours ofSaturday detention.The accumulation of 40 or more demerits seriouslyjeopardizes the student’s ability to return to GoodCounsel and may result in a Disciplinary Hearing withthe Principal, the Deans of Students, the student’scounselor, the student, and his/her parent(s).The accumulation of 50 demerits will result in one dayof suspension plus five hours of Saturday Detention.The accumulation of 60 demerits will result in threedays of suspension plus six hours of SaturdayDetention, and will result in a Disciplinary Hearingwith the Principal, the Deans of Students, the student’scounselor, the student, and his/her parent(s). Thishearing will determine whether the student will beallowed to return to school or be separated from GoodCounsel.DRESS CODEOur Lady of Good Counsel High School recognizes thatparents are ultimately responsible for the appearance oftheir sons and daughters. As a member of the schoolcommunity, each student accepts responsibility foradhering to the following standards and guidelinesestablished by Our Lady of Good Counsel High School:BOYS:Shirt:• Uniform blue oxford cloth shirt with the GC logoand a tie. If a t-shirt is worn under the shirt, it mustbe plain white, light gray, or navy blue.• Good Counsel blue golf shirts, long sleeve or shortsleeve, may be worn in lieu of the oxford dress shirt.The blue short sleeve golf shirts may be worn duringthe 1 st and 4 th quarters only. If a t-shirt is worn underthe shirt, it must be plain white, light gray, or navyblue.Tie:A tie must be worn with the uniform blue oxford clothshirt. Ties with extreme or offensive designs areunacceptable.Dress Pants:Solid khaki, neatly hemmed, uniform pants with the GClogo and a belt.Belt:Uniform, solid brown or solid black belt.Sweaters:Only a uniform sweater with the GC logo may be worn.Socks:Crew length, at least two inches above the ankle.Dress Shoes:Only approved uniform shoes may be worn. Uniformshoes must be clean and free of writing and/ ordecorations.• Sperry Topsiders (Men’s Authentic Original BoatShoe: Color-Sahara, Item Number 0197640)• Sperry Topsiders (Men’s Billfish 3-Eye Boat Shoe:Color-Tan Beige, Item Number 0799023)• Bass Exeter Dirty Buck SuedeGrooming:Facial Hair is not permitted. If there is a medical reasonwhy a boy cannot shave, a note from a dermatologistmust be submitted to the health office each year.However, the student will be required to keep all ofhis facial hair very closely trimmed.Jewelry:Neither earrings nor any other body piercing areallowed on boys.Boys are required to wear a uniform blue oxfordcloth shirt with GC logo and tie for Mass days.24 | P age

GIRLS:Shirt:• Uniform blue oxford shirt with the GC logo. If a t-shirt is worn under the shirt, it must be plain white,light gray, or navy blue.• Good Counsel blue golf shirts, long sleeve or shortsleeve, may be worn in lieu of the dress shirt. Theshort sleeve blue golf shirts may be worn during the1 st and 4 th quarters only. If a t-shirt is worn underthe shirt, it must be plain white, light gray or navyblue.Kilts:Uniform khaki kilts - Kilts are to be no more than 3inches from the knee and neatly hemmed. The waistshould never be rolled. Shorts underneath the kiltcannot be visible.Dress Pants:Solid khaki, neatly hemmed, uniform pants with the GClogo and a belt.Belt:Uniform, solid brown, or solid black belt.Sweaters:Only a uniform sweater with the GC logo may be worn.Jewelry:Earrings in the earlobes are the only permissible bodypiercings.Socks or Tights with Kilts:UNIFORM SOCKS, knee highs (navy or white), orsolid colored navy or white tights must be worn withkilts.Socks with Pants:Crew length socks, at least two inches above the ankle.Dress Shoes:Only approved uniform shoes may be worn. Uniformshoes must be clean and free of writing and/ ordecorations.• Sperry Topsiders (Women’s Authentic Original 2-Eye Boat Shoes: Color-Sahara, Item Number9155240)• Sperry Topsiders (Women’s Bluefish 2-Eye BoatShoes: Color-Linen Oat, Item Number 9276619)• Bass Exeter Dirty Buck SuedeCosmetics are to be applied lightly and in good taste.Girls are required to wear the uniform blue oxfordcloth shirt with the GC logo for Mass days.Uniform Vendors:Flynn & O’Hara UniformsTwinbrook Shopping Center2208B Veirs Mill RoadRockville, MD 20851301-383-8958Flynn & O’Hara Uniforms Toll Free1-800-441-4122Website: www.flynnohara.comGorman’s Garments and Gear3333 Olney-Sandy Spring Road, Suite 001Olney, MD 20832email: gormansgg@gmail.comTattoos:Tattoos and body scarring are not permitted on anystudent. Students must cover previously existingtattoos at all times, including athletic events.All Students:As a member and representative of the Good Counselcommunity, whenever a student is wearing his/heruniform, it is to be worn appropriately.• The uniform is to be neat, clean, and in goodcondition.• Shirts are to be completely tucked in.• Hairstyles must reflect the tone of the dresscode; namely, neat and clean. Untraditionalhairstyles, including but not limited to, spiked hair,mohawks, and unnatural color dyes areunacceptable.• The school reserves the right to determine whatis appropriate and/or acceptable in clothing, facialhair, hairstyle, and accessories.Students will not be permitted in class when not indress code. Any class time missed due to being outof dress code will be considered as an unexcusedabsence. Students will be sent to the office for beingout of dress code and will be expected to:• Correct the problem immediately or a detention willbe assigned. This may include, but not be limited to,removing the hem of a skirt or hemming a skirt orpants, ironing, changing clothes, shaving, removinga t-shirt, etc. If the problem is not quickly corrected,the student will receive a minimum consequence ofSaturday Detention. If the problem cannot be25 | P age

corrected at school, parents will be notified to either:• Bring appropriate clothing to the student.• Take their child home to correct the problem.• Give permission for their child to drive home tocorrect the problem.If the student and/or parents cannot correct the problemthat day, the student will remain in the Office of Deanof Students for the day and will face further disciplinaryaction with a minimum consequence of three hours ofSaturday Detention.If a student is to be out of dress code for a medicalreason, parents must send a note to a Dean of Studentson the day the student is not in compliance. If thesituation continues for more than one day, the studentmust submit a doctor’s note to a Dean of Students thatindicates the need for the modification and the length oftime they must be out of dress code. The student willthen be issued a dated sticker that has to be worn onhis/her shirt or sweater that indicates permission to beout of dress code. A new sticker will be issued eachday.DANCES / OTHER EXTRACURRICULARACTIVITIESWhile in attendance at all school dances andextracurricular activities (including sporting events),all of the rules of Our Lady of Good Counsel HighSchool apply. In order to maintain a safe environment,no one is permitted to leave and then reenter any event.Access to dances will be limited by fire code capacity.In addition, Good Counsel students are responsible forthe behavior of any guests that they bring to GoodCounsel events. Parents are expected to pick up theirchildren on time at the end of an event. All dances areover at 11:00 pm and parents are expected to pick uptheir children at that time.• Good Counsel reserves the right to test for the use ofalcohol and/or illegal substances.• All students must present picture identification fromtheir high school.• All students must be in appropriate attire. Straplessand/or backless tops, short skirts and shorts, andbare midriffs are not acceptable attire.• All students must follow the directions of thechaperones and security personnel.In accordance with our expectation to encourageChristian Character in all Our Lady of Good Counselstudents, sexually explicit dancing is strictly prohibitedat school dances. Anyone in violation of this rule willbe asked to leave immediately.Because of our common values, our shared religiousheritage, and our educational missions, the followingCatholic schools have agreed that any negativebehavior at any school venue or event shall be reportedto the student’s home school where he or she will beheld accountable as if the behavior took place at thestudent’s home school. Other schools not listed heremay choose to participate at any time.Academy of the Holy CrossArchbishop CarrollBishop McNamaraConnelly School of the Holy ChildDeMatha Catholic High SchoolElizabeth SetonGeorgetown Preparatory SchoolGeorgetown Visitation Preparatory SchoolGonzaga College High SchoolThe Heights SchoolOur Lady of Good CounselSt. Ann’s High SchoolSt. Anselm’s Abbey SchoolSt. John’s College High SchoolSt. Mary’s RykenSt. Vincent PallottiStone Ridge School of the Sacred HeartEMERGENCY CLOSINGSOur Lady of Good Counsel follows decisions made byand for Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS).When MCPS cancels all classes, classes are cancelledat Good Counsel. If MCPS classes are delayed twohours, Good Counsel will begin classes at 10:00 am.If MCPS closes early due to weather, Good Counselwill close accordingly and all after-school and eveningprograms at Good Counsel will be cancelled. Listen toWTOP for announcements or check the OLGCHSwebpage for updates.IDENTIFICATION (ID’S)Each student is issued a picture ID early in the schoolyear. This ID is to be carried by students at all times. Itserves as permission to borrow material from the MediaCenter and is necessary for admission to detention andother school-sponsored events. There is a fee to replacelost ID’s.26 | P age

LOCKERSAll Good Counsel students are issued a hall locker witha built-in combination lock. The school-issued locks areto be used for the student PE/athletic lockers. Newschool locks can only be purchased from the GoodCounsel Bookstore or at the main office. Non-schoollocks are not permitted and will be removed by theschool. All PE/athletic lockers must be locked with theschool issued lock.All lockers are the property of the school and aresubject to inspection by the school administration at anytime. Each year students will be assigned a new locker.No student may change his/her assigned locker withoutpermission of the Deans of Students. Each student isresponsible for his/her belongings. No student can storehis/her books or belongings in the locker of anotherstudent. It is the student's responsibility to be sure thathis/her lock is securely locked at all times. Money andvaluables are not to be kept in lockers.Members of athletic teams are assigned lockers near thegymnasium on a seasonal basis. Each athlete isresponsible to keep his/her equipment locked at alltimes. A school-issued lock must be used on theselockers.LOST AND FOUNDLost and found items should be turned in at the mainoffice. At the end of each quarter unclaimed items aredonated to charity. Stolen items should be reported tothe Discipline Office.MESSAGESIf a parent has an urgent message for a student, call240-283-3202 and explain the situation. Only in thecase of emergency can messages be delivered to theclassroom. Encourage students to check their cellphones at the end of each day to check for textmessages and voice mails.PARKING / AUTOMOBILESGood Counsel has entered into a TransportationManagement Plan with Montgomery County. TheTransportation Management Plan states, and GoodCounsel has agreed, that parents and students willnot use Batchellor’s Forest Road when entering orexiting the school.Students who drive to school must have an Our Lady ofGood Counsel Parking Pass and park on campus. Thereis to be no exceptions to this rule. The Number ofpermits sold corresponds to the number of spacesavailable. THEREFORE, ONLY JUNIORS ANDSENIORS WHO HAVE PARKING PERMITSCAN DRIVE TO SCHOOL AND PARK ONCAMPUS.Parking permits are available for junior and seniors whodrive on a daily basis (parking permits must be sharedbetween juniors and seniors who do not drive on a dailybasis). Eligible drivers must submit a signedregistration card, a copy of their valid driver’s license(not a learner’s permit), and the parking fee to theDiscipline Office. The fee for parking passes is $100and is nonrefundable. In the case of car pools, morethan one student can register for the same permit andtransfer the permit from vehicle to vehicle. Studentsmay not, under any circumstances, sell their permit toanother party. The school reserves the right to revokeparking privileges based on a student’s disciplinarystatus.All students parking on campus must follow theregulations below:1. Drive slowly and safely on campus (10 mph).2. Juniors and seniors may only park in theirdesignated numbered parking space.3. Do not park in fire lanes or on the grass.4. Do not park in the faculty and staff spaces.5. Do not park in the visitor or reserved spaces.6. Do not park in handicapped spaces without properpermits.7. Do not park where your vehicle impedes traffic flowor in any way blocks other vehicles.8. Do not to go to the parking lot at any time duringthe school day without the permission of a memberof the administration or a Dean of Students.9. Do not drive or ride off campus during the schoolday without signing out in the attendance office orthe health room.10. Do not drive other students off campus during theschool day.11. Do not use Batchellor’s Forest Road when enteringor exiting the school.12. Do not allow other students to enter your car duringthe school day.13. Any time your vehicle is parked on campus, it mustclearly display your permit hanging inside thevehicle from the windshield rearview mirror withthe permit number appearing through the windshieldin an unobstructed fashion.14. Do not loiter and/or litter in the parking areas.27 | P age

15. Car stereo volume must be low enough such thatsound carries no more than five feet from the audiosource.16. Students are responsible for contents found in theircars.17. Under reasonable suspicion, Good Counselreserves the right to search any vehicle parked onits campus.If these rules are violated, the student’s parkingprivileges will be suspended for the remainder of theschool year and the vehicle will be towed. THEREARE NO SECOND CHANCES!Montgomery County Police enforce handicappedparking restrictions and the “no parking” fire lanes.These regulations are enforced 24 hours a day. Studentsand parents are responsible for tickets and towing fees.The Administration cannot revoke parking tickets orreimburse the towing charge.Students who drive to school must have an Our Lady ofGood Counsel Parking Pass and park on campus.Therefore, students are not allowed to park on Old VicBoulevard or in any of the surrounding neighborhoodsor businesses during school hours. Reckless use ofvehicles endangers life and property and will not betolerated. Students who violate any parking/drivingregulations will forfeit their parking/driving privilegesand can face additional disciplinary action.Good Counsel will use whatever means available towork toward a safe and drug-free campus (whichincludes but is not limited to all parking areas andoutdoor spaces). This includes working with the canineunit of the Montgomery County Police, involving localauthorities in all cases, and increasing our ownsurveillance and random checks.SCHOOL BUS RIDER POLICYRiding the school bus to or from school is a privilegeand an extension of the school day. Students arehighly encouraged to use the school bus or to usepublic transportation. Riders are expected to conductthemselves in a manner consistent with behavior in theclassroom or at any school related activity.Inappropriate behaviors such as use of profanelanguage, standing while the bus is in operation,vandalism, loud or rambunctious activity, or any otherbehavior inconsistent with proper student conduct, isunacceptable. Infractions will be reported to the Deansof Students, who will take appropriate disciplinaryaction that may include suspension of bus ridingprivileges for periods of one day to an indefinite banfrom riding, as well as other disciplinary action.STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATIONThe SGA is the official representative arm of thestudent body within the school. This governing bodyconsists of an Executive Committee (President, VicePresident, Secretary and Treasurer), classrepresentatives, committee members, and communityrepresentatives. The Council organizes and supportsspecial activities and programs, such as dances andcharity projects; fosters school spirit; and provides adirect line of communication with the administration.The Student Council works closely with the facultymoderators and the Assistant Principal for StaffDevelopment to plan and coordinate student activitiesand projects throughout the year.TELEPHONESCellular telephones or other communication devicesare to be turned off from 7:55 am to 2:50 pm.Unless given permission, use of these communicationdevices during the school day will result inconfiscation of the device. Violations of this rule willresult in consequences that range from a minimumof two hours of Saturday Detention to a maximumof suspension and Strict Disciplinary Probation.VISITORSAll visitors to Our Lady of Good Counsel during thenormal school day, including parents, must use themain entrance and report to the Main Office to receive avisitor identification badge. A visitor must present astate-issued identification card. The card will bescanned through Raptor software, which is used toidentify registered sex offenders and alert us tosituations including custody issues. Visitors can onlypark in the Reserved Visitor Parking in the WestParking Lot in the front of the school. Students fromother schools are not permitted to visit unless theyare participating in Our Lady of Good Counsel HighSchool’s visitation program.28 | P age

SUPPORT SERVICESCAMPUS STOREThe Good Counsel Bookstore facilitates the purchasingof all texts and paperback books that students needthroughout the year through an online service. Contactthe bookstore for additional information. The store alsohas school supplies and a wide array of clothing items,which include the Physical Education uniform, a varietyof sweatshirts, jackets, and other Good Counselmemorabilia. Alumni items are also available. Thebookstore is open during school hours and visitors arewelcome.The school loans English, language, math, science, andsocial studies textbooks. Reimbursement for damagedor lost books is the responsibility of the student.COMPUTER LABS AND TECHNOLOGYACCESS AND USAGEThe primary purpose of technology at Our Lady ofGood Counsel High School (OLGCHS) is toenhance and support the school’s educationalprograms. Use of the school’s technology, whichincludes computers, projectors, software and Internetconnection, is strictly for academic and administrativepurposes and must be consistent with the educationalobjectives and mission of the school.The use of technology at Our Lady of GoodCounsel High School reflects on the character ofour school community; therefore, all users mustconduct themselves accordingly by exercising goodjudgment and complying with this policy and all relatedadministrative regulations and guidelines.1. Users must act in a responsible, ethical, andlegal manner when utilizing technology.• Users should not expect that files stored on thenetwork are private.• OLGCHS reserves the right to and will monitor,view, edit and/or remove any materials stored byusers that it deems unacceptable.• The network must not be used to obtain, download,view, post or gain access to unacceptable material.2. Students are not allowed to use their owncomputers in school or to attemptconnection to the school’s network with anycomputers, electronic handheld devices or othertechnological devices not supplied by theschool.• Students must use laptop and desktop computersprovided and configured by the school’sDepartment of Information Technology.• Students in need of a computer for classpresentations must reserve the computer throughtheir instructor at least 48 hours in advance ofthe presentation.• Any exceptions to this rule must be made byspecial arrangements with and approval of theDepartment of Information Technology.3. Examples of unacceptable use include, butare not limited to, the following:• Damage to or tampering with hardwarecomponents and configuration• Tampering or attempting to tamper with account orresource permissions• Violation of copyright laws• Wasting of limited resources, including disk space,Internet connection, and paper• Attempting or gaining unauthorized access toresources or entities (i.e., other people’s accounts,unauthorized servers, etc.)• Using the Internet for personal business or financialgain (examples include on-line shopping, gaming,blogging, and browsing social networking sites)• Use of the school’s technology resources for illegalactivity• Storage of inappropriate software which may beused for illegal activities.• Inappropriate representation of Our Lady of GoodCounsel High School or members of itscommunity in any web posting, blog or otherelectronic communication• Cyber bullying and Text bullying• Use/attempted use of another user’s networkaccount• Sharing your account password with others4. Unacceptable use of technology will resultin immediate action.• Disciplinary decisions will be consistent withschool policies.• Users may be banned, or their usage limited, for anextended period of time.• The Faculty, Resource Teachers, Department ofInformation Technology and appropriate legalauthorities will work in collaboration to enforce thisacceptable use policy.29 | P age

Student Network Account PolicyStudent Network Accounts: Upon entry to OurLady of Good Counsel High School, each studentreceives a network account and password to access theschool’s technology resources. Account information isdistributed to new students at the start of a school year.• Students are required to use only their assignedaccount and password each time they log onto aschool computer.• Students should memorize their accountinformation or find a safe place to store theirpassword.• Students should never share their passwords withanyone.• Should a student believe that their account has beencompromised, they should report the problem tothe Department of Information Technology inroom 319 immediately.• Before leaving a computer, always be sure toproperly log their account off of the network.• New students are asked to test their accounts bylogging onto a computer during the first week ofclass. Any problems should be reported to theDepartment of Information Technologyimmediately.File Storage: Each student has 7 GB of storage spaceavailable on the school network. Students areencouraged to save academic work on their networkfolders or external USB storage drives. (Note:Students are encouraged to purchase external USBstorage drives for transporting project files to and fromschool.)Computer Lab and Media Center Policiesand ProceduresEach computer lab is equipped with Pentium 4 basedcomputers. All computers run the Windows XP orVista operating system. Microsoft Office 2007productivity software is standard on all computers.Computer labs and Media Center are supervised bymoderators who actively monitor student activity.This includes electronic monitoring and periodicallywalking around the lab to view computer screens. Anytechnical problems or suspicious behavior will bedirected to the Department of Information Technology.Specific lab policies and procedures include:1. Food and Drink: No eating or drinking isallowed in the labs or Media Center.2. Technology Usage: Use of the computers andthe school’s Internet connection is strictly foracademic purposes. No game playing is allowed.3. Noise: When not being used for classroominstruction, the environment in the computer labsshould be that of a quiet, study environment.While there may be occasional group workamong students which necessitates somediscussion, it should be kept to a low level.4. Headphones: Students are required to haveheadphones for activities involving audio data inall computer labs and the Media Center. Standardheadphones with a mini-phone stereo 3.5 mmconnector will plug directly into the headphonejacks on all school computers. You may ask theteacher in charge if there are any available.5. Printing: Each lab is equipped with a highspeed networked laser printer. Students arelimited to printing a total of 20 pages perdocument from computers in the labs andMedia Center. Copies in excess of 800 pagesper year will incur a fee.6. E-mail: Checking school e-mail is onlyacceptable as it relates to educational purposes.7. Chat sessions: Chat sessions and InstantMessaging are not allowed.8. Color Printing and Scanning: One computerin each lab and two in the Media Center areconnected to a scanner. Students in need of theseresources can request access from the moderatorin charge.9. Only students who are currently enrolled in OurLady of Good Counsel High School’s ArtProgram and who have specific classassignments from their perspective art teachersmay use the Art Lab.10. The cost of equipment replacement, repairs, andaccessories will be incurred by the student ifthey become inoperable through studentnegligence.Moderators may instruct students who do notcomply with the lab policies and procedures toleave the labs. Moderators may also take furtherdisciplinary action as appropriate.Policy Enforcement: While the use of technologyis strongly encouraged, its focus must be educational.Therefore, any personal use of technology may be30 | P age

deemed unnecessary at any time during the schoolday. The Department of Information Technology,moderators, and/or any other school officials have theauthority to place and enforce limitations as they seefit. Any violations of these rules will be viewedseriously and will result in loss ofcomputer/Internet privileges and disciplinaryaction up to and including separation from school.Violations or suspected violations of the acceptableuse policy, network account policy or lab policywill be enforced through the Department ofInformation Technology and the Discipline Officeand should be reported to the Department ofInformation Technology immediately.Academic Dishonesty: The school reserves theright to open files and/or to confiscate anyunapproved technology. Information stored in or sentto electronic devices that could be used for cheatingmay indicate academic dishonesty. This will bereported to the Assistant Principal for AcademicAffairs for appropriate action.COUNSELINGThe Counseling Department provides comprehensive,quality counseling services to every Good Counselstudent through individual and group counseling andconsultation with parents as needed. Counselors meetwith students to discuss academic issues, college andcareer options, and personal and social concerns. Everystudent is encouraged to establish a relationship withhis/her counselor.Staff:Eleanor Donaghue, PhD.Director of Counseling240-283-3219edonaghue@olgchs.orgLoren BassRyken Program Director240-283-3215bass@olgchs.orgJill KasprzakDirector of College Counseling Services240-283-3227kasprzak@olgchs.orgTodd Handelman240-283-3213handelman@olgchs.orgJustin Junghans240-283-3355Junghans@olgchs.orgJennifer Smith240-283-3246smith@olgchs.orgShena Thompson-Jones240-283-3239Thompson-jones@olgchs.orgCathi Garofalo, Administrative Asst.240-283-3223garofalo@olgchs.orgCris Hart, Administrative Asst.240-283-3224hart@olgchs.orgCounseling Center 240-283-3224E-mail: counseling@olgchs.orgServices provided by the Counseling Departmentinclude:Personal CounselingMany times there are issues not directly related toeducation that provide an obstacle to success at school.Some of these include: personal problems, familydifficulties, friends, substance abuse, human sexuality,or other issues. Students should feel free to discussproblems of this nature with their counselor. Studentsmay request an appointment with their counselordirectly or through the counseling administrativeassistant or by email. Counselors will meet withindividual students as requested by the individual, theparent/guardian, teacher, and/or administrator.Confidentiality is an important aspect of therelationship between the student and counselor. Thecounselor will maintain this confidentiality with twoexceptions: (1) if the student is a danger to him orherself or to others, and/or (2) if the student is beingabused physically, sexually, or emotionally. Underthese two circumstances, ethical and legal guidelinesrequire that information be shared with parents and/orappropriate individuals. In this situation, the counselorwill discretely assist the student in a manner that willprotect all those involved to the extent necessary.Academic Counseling includes short and long-termgoal setting for college and career, help in navigatingacademic difficulties, and strategies for academicsuccess.31 | P age

Requests for completion of psycho-educationalassessment forms should be made through theschool counselor.Testing Programs include Explore for freshmen andPSAT for sophomores and juniors. We highlyrecommend that juniors take the SAT at Good Counselin the spring and again in the fall of senior year. Wealso encourage juniors to take the ACT in the spring ofjunior year. The College Board code number (CEEB)for Good Counsel is 211083. Use this number for allcollege applications and testing registrations.On-line Career Counseling is included in theNaviance Program. Naviance is a program that focuseson career, college, and educational goal planning.Sophomores are encouraged to take the “Do What YouAre” career assessment in Naviance; juniors areexpected to have completed this assessment by January.Visit www.olgchs.org/naviance to access this program.Counselors can use this information when meeting withthe students to discuss course selection for thefollowing year.Conflict Mediation Services are available tostudents with peer and/or adult counselors. Studentsmay request a mediation. Counselors, teachers, andadministrators may also refer students for mediation.Peer Counselors are trained students who areavailable to talk with individual students, co-lead smallgroups, and assist the Counseling Department. Peercounselors provide an effective way for students to dealwith conflicts and to learn valuable life skills.College AdvisementAll counselors assist the student in the college searchand selection process. The Director of CollegeCounseling Services coordinates resources, meetscollege representatives, and meets with parents andstudents as requested. All students are encouraged toutilize Naviance and other sites recommended by thecounselors to explore college options and to discussthese options with their counselor and/or the collegecounselor.They are also encouraged to attend any collegeinformation meetings offered. See the collegecounseling web site for information about thesemeetings. Students should familiarize themselves withthe information on the college counseling web site(visit: www.olgchs.org click on academics then click oncollege counseling under academic links).The college advisement program is as follows:• All of the counselors assist the students in thecollege selections process. Counselors meet withninth and tenth graders to encourage the students toparticipate in activities that complement thestudent’s interests and discuss the importance ofacademic success in classes as well as in highstakes testing. Each year the counselors discusscourse selection with the students. They help thestudent select the most rigorous courses in whichthe student can succeed and those that matchpotential college studies.• In junior year, the Director of College Counselingvisits all of the junior Religion classes to teach thesoftware program Naviance, discuss standardizedtestsing, and discuss many aspects of the collegesearch process. The students are encouraged toexplore potential college choices, to review theseon Naviance, to talk to the reps at our College Fair,and to visit colleges when possible. The counselormakes suggestions regarding which teachers torequest for recommendations and what toemphasize in their college survey questionnaire.Juniors and their parents are encouraged to meetwith the college counselor and/or their son ordaughter’s counselor to discuss and refine collegeoptions and to consider various college visits.• At the outset of senior year, the Director of CollegeCounseling visits all of the senior Religion classesto explain the college application process. Thecounselors explain the nuts and bolts of the actualapplications process. They meet with each studentto discuss college goals that have been refined, theemphasis of the counselor’s recommendation letter,and such issues as early action. They assist asneeded in the decision process. Seniors areencouraged to use Naviance to schedule visits withthe college reps who come to Good Counsel in thefall.All students have access to the College Room whichhas Internet access for in-depth research on collegesand universities. The College Room is open for quietstudy from 7:45 am until 3:30 pm each school day.Additional information is available on the collegecounseling section of the OLGCHS website and in thecollege planning guide available in the counselingoffice.32 | P age

College ApplicationsStudents who begin the college selection process earlyand submit applications by October 15 reap the greatestbenefits. Students must create a Common Applicationaccount (choosing a username and password) and signthe F.E.R.P.A. form in the Family Connection sectionof Naviance. This information will be used solely toenable online submission of transcripts andrecommendations.In order to effectively process college applications, thecounseling department needs a minimum of threeweeks for processing the Transcript andRecommendation Requests. Requests are processed inthe order in which they are received and at a cost of$2.00 each. It is strongly recommended that Transcriptand Recommendation Requests be submitted in atimely manner.Emergency processing can be requested for anapplication not submitted at least three weeks before thecollege deadline. See the Director of Counseling foremergency processing of applications submitted in lessthan three weeks. These require a $20 late fee and theDirector of Counseling’s approval indicating that theemergency processing of the request will not jeopardizethe fulfillment of requests received on time.Additional information is available on the collegecounseling section of the OLGCHS website and in thecollege planning guide available in the counselingoffice.Letters of RecommendationIn the spring of junior year, students are asked toidentify up to three teachers of core classes who maybest represent their academic accomplishments andpotential for growth in a letter of recommendation.Students are encouraged to base their teacher selectionson successful class performance and expected major incollege. After being notified by the CounselingDepartment as to which teachers will write the letters, itis the student’s responsibility to thank the teacher andto provide additional information as applicable.If additional teacher recommendations are required bythe university, it is the student’s responsibility torequest a recommendation from another teacher andprovide that teacher with all necessary information andmaterials. If applications have already been processed,the student needs to see Ms. Hart in the CounselingOffice. Additional information is available on thecollege counseling section of the school’s website(www.olgchs.org/college) and in the college planningguide available in the Counseling Office.College VisitsStudents may take one “excused” college visit day.College Visit Request Forms are available in theCounseling Office and must be submitted to theAttendance Office one week in advance.HEALTH ROOMThe mission of Health Services at Our Lady of GoodCounsel High School is to provide a quality schoolhealth program to ensure the opportunity for eachstudent to reach an optimum state of physical, mental,and social well-being in order to receive maximumbenefit from his/her educational experience.A complete physical and current Immunization Recordmust be on file for all incoming freshman and transferstudents. We use the Montgomery County PublicSchool (MCPS) Health Inventory Form (SRS-6) andthe Maryland Department of Health and MentalHygiene Immunization Certificate (form 896). It is astate requirement that the Immunization Record be onfile before the student begins classes.The Health Room is open Monday through Friday from7:45am to 3:30pm. The Health Room is staffed by twofull time Registered Nurses:Marianne Kusbit, R.N. BSN240-283-3229Email: kusbit@olgchs.orgCarleen Kelley, R.N. BSN240-283-3225Email: kelley2@olgchs.orgSchool Health Services include:• Evaluation of sudden illness and injuries.• Medication administration.• First aid and emergency care including crisisintervention.• Health counseling regarding potential or identifiedhealth problems.• Collaboration with students, parents, counselors,teachers, administrators, and communityprofessionals to identify health concerns that mayinterfere with learning.• Health education, wellness and health promotionactivities, and serves as a resource for faculty and33 | P age

parents.• Development of health care plans for students withspecial needs and chronic illnesses.Please notify the Nurse if your child has:• Any change in health.• Any change in medication.• Any change in home address, phone number, andemergency contact.Leaving School for Health Reasons:• The student must sign in to the Health Room on theDaily Log.• The nurse will contact the parent/guardian.• Transportation will be discussed and arranged forthe student.• The student will be issued a pass to leave school bythe nurse.• The Attendance office will be notified.• Students who leave campus without signing outwill be placed on disciplinary probation andface additional disciplinary action.Medication Policy• Prescription and over the counter medicationsMUST be delivered to the school by the parent orguardian in the original prescription container, withthe pharmacist’s label attached. Written parentalauthorization must accompany each medicationorder. A Maryland State School MedicationAdministration Authorization Form (availableonline) must accompany each prescriptionmedication.• Any student who carries prescription medicationwith them in school may face disciplinary action.The only exceptions are prescribed emergencymedications: epipens or inhalers.• At NO TIME may a student attend school whiletaking narcotics for pain control.• Generic over the counter medications are availablein the Health Room. A completed MedicationConsent Form (available online) is required beforeany medication will be dispensed. A newMedication Consent form is required each year forevery student.• Any change in dosage of a prescription medicationmust be authorized in writing by the prescribingphysician.• Any change in dosage of an over the countermedication must be authorized in writing by theparent.• The first day’s dosage of any new medication musthave been given at home before it can beadministered at school.• The parent/guardian is responsible for collectingany unused portion of a medication within oneweek after expiration of the physician’s order or atthe end of the school year. Medication not claimedat that time will be destroyed.STEVE DEAN LIBRARYThe Steve Dean Memorial Library’s purpose is to meetthe educational and recreational reading needs of ourstudents. The Library’s resources assist in achievinglearning objectives and in fostering life-long readers.The Library is open from 7:30am to 4:00pm Mondaythrough Thursday. On Friday the hours are 7:30am to3:30pm. The library’s catalog Destiny is available forstudent access online both at home and at school. TheLibrary also offers 24/7 access to online databases forresearch and homework. The computers in the Libraryare to be used only for school work. Students signifytheir agreement with the school’s policy on computerand Internet use when the students use the computers.The Library’s collection contains over 9,000 printmaterials. It also contains ebooks available online andthrough our ereaders, playaways (audio recordings) anddatabases. We subscribe to magazines and newspapersfor pleasure reading. Our holdings not only support thecurriculum, but offer appealing young adult books toencourage pleasure reading.Students may check out materials for a three weekperiod. Materials may be renewed if not needed byothers. Although there are no fines for late returns,disciplinary action may be taken.RESOURCE ROOMSEach academic department has a Resource Room. TheResource Room serves as an office area for theteachers in a specific department. On a normal day, theResource Rooms are open from 7:45 am until 3:30 pmMonday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday and 7:45am until 3:00 pm on Friday. A student wishing to meetwith an individual teacher before or after school shouldvisit the appropriate Resource Room.34 | P age

STUDENT ACTIVITIES& ATHLETICSCLUBS AND ACTIVITIESIn light of the school's philosophy, Good Counsel offersa variety of extracurricular and co-curricular activities.These organizations are designed to support andencourage students’ effort to use their gifts and talentsin service to others as well as an opportunity to developand strengthen leadership skills.Students are encouraged to participate in at least oneactivity each year. Participating members must beacademically eligible. Students may forfeit eligibilityfor activities due to academic or disciplinaryproblems.Clubs and Activities in the past have included:Art ClubAmnesty InternationalAustringer MagazineBlack Student AssociationBook ClubCamp Good CounselDrama Club (Good Counsel Players)International Students’ AssociationKey ClubLatino Students AssociationMath TeamIt’s AcademicS.A.V.E.Speech and DebateStudents for LifeAt the conclusion of each year outstanding clubmembers are recognized at the annual activitiesawards banquet held at Good Counsel. Awardwinners and their families are invited to attend. Theactivity moderator will notify awardees.AWARDSAwards and Honors for Each Class• Academic Excellence | Outstanding scholasticachievement in each class.• Religious Achievement | Outstandingdedication and achievement in building a Christianatmosphere at Good Counsel.• Service | Outstanding service to school andcommunity.• Leadership | Outstanding leadership in the classand school.• Christian Conduct | For the member of the classbest exemplifying the words and actions of aChristian.Graduation Awards and Honors• The Class Speaker | In the fourth quarter, theten members of the senior class with the highestcumulative GPA's are invited to compete for thehonor of being the class speaker at graduation.They present speeches which are judged by a panelof teachers/administrators.• Subject Awards | Each academic departmentpresents an award to the senior who has mostdistinguished himself/herself in that subject.• The Student Council Plaque | Awarded inrecognition of outstanding extracurricularachievement.• The John Jayarajah Award | Awarded inrecognition of the most improved student over thefour years.• The Xaverian Brothers Sponsored SchoolsCitizenship Award | Awarded in recognition ofthe student best showing the qualities of goodAmerican citizenship.• The Cardinal's Award | Awarded in recognitionof outstanding religious dedication andachievement.• The Parents' Association Award | Awarded inrecognition of outstanding leadership in school andcommunity.• The Brother Gregory Turlik Award | Awardedin recognition of outstanding volunteer service toschool and community.• The Brother Bonaventure Scully Award |Awarded in recognition of the senior with thehighest academic rank in the class.35 | P age

• The Brother Gerald Edward Award |Awarded in recognition of Our Lady of GoodCounsel's outstanding Catholic student.• The Brother Mark Trophy | Awarded to theoutstanding senior who has given the most ofhimself or herself to make Our Lady of GoodCounsel an exceptional school.ATHLETICSThe philosophy of Good Counsel High Schoolpromotes maximum opportunity for each student todevelop as a Christian. Athletics play an important rolein this development and are, therefore, encouraged at alllevels. Good Counsel has two full-time CertifiedAthletic Trainers on staff. The Athletic Trainer is hereto provide medical coverage at home contests, evaluateinjuries, and provide care, treatment and rehabilitationof injuries. The Certified Athletic Trainer is under thedirection of our Team Orthopedic Physician. Theathletic program is designed to encourage participationand to train as many students as possible. More than 50teams each year are fielded in the following sports:BOYS:Baseball | Basketball | Cross Country | Football |Lacrosse | Soccer | Swimming | Tennis | Track |WrestlingGIRLS:Basketball | Cheerleading | Cross Country | FieldHockey | Lacrosse | Poms | Soccer | Softball |Swimming | Tennis | Track | VolleyballCO-ED:Golf | Ice HockeyIn order to try out for a team, each student MUST havea physical exam by a physician and a Good CounselAthletic Medical Form on file. These MUST becompleted each year the athlete wishes to participate.Unfortunately, there are times during the season whenstudents are asked to leave class early for a game. Theadministration, faculty, coaches, and students arenotified in advance as much as possible. Students areresponsible for all work and assignments that aremissed due to early dismissal.Good Counsel provides transportation to and from mostathletic contests. Students may not drive themselves orany other student to or from games unless an AthleticConsent Form is on file. The athlete must return toGood Counsel on the supplied transportation unlesshis/her parent/guardian is present to supplytransportation home.For any schedule changes or updates, please check theathletic webpage on the school’s website.Most athletic equipment and uniforms are issued by theAthletic Department. Some articles may need to bepurchased by the students. The coach will informteam members of the items needed and the cost.Each team member is responsible for his/her issuedequipment and uniforms. If there is loss, theft, ordestruction due to poor care, or failure to returnuniforms and/or equipment to the Athletic Department,the player will be billed for replacement costs. Personalpossessions are the responsibility of the individual, notthe school. All possessions must be locked in a locker.The use of Locker Rooms is limited to athletes onlybefore and after school. Students enrolled in a PhysicalEducation class are permitted to use the appropriateLocker Room only during their class period. Failure tocomply with the Locker Room policy will result indisciplinary action.If thunder is heard or lightning is seen, any athleticcontest (game, scrimmage, or practice), in progressshall be suspended immediately by the official incharge of the contest or by the head coach. All playersand fans must leave the field immediately. The contestwill not resume until 30 minutes have passed withoutany lightning or thunder. Athletic DepartmentPersonnel and/or coaches and/or officials will consult todecide if the contest will continue or be discontinued.Players on all teams must attend all practices andgames. Good Counsel sports must be a priority duringthe Good Counsel season. Players excused from classdue to illness or to a family emergency will be excusedfrom athletics on that day. The student must attendall classes that day to be eligible for participation ingames and/or practices. Athletes that have latepractices and choose to remain on campus until thepractice begins must report to the Dining Hall at 3:30pm36 | P age

Our Lady of Good Counsel is a member of theWashington Catholic Athletic Conference (WCAC),which is comprised of the following schools:Academy of the Holy CrossArchbishop Carroll High SchoolBishop Ireton High SchoolBishop McNamara High SchoolBishop O'Connell High SchoolDeMatha Catholic High SchoolElizabeth Seton High SchoolGonzaga College High SchoolOur Lady of Good Counsel High SchoolSaint John's College High SchoolSaint Mary’s Ryken High SchoolPaul VI High SchoolAthletic EligibilityGood Counsel is a member of the Washington CatholicAthletic Conference (WCAC). The WCAC rules statethat athletic eligibility starts at the beginning of the firstsemester of 9 th grade and continues for eightconsecutive semesters. There is no “red shirting” in theWCAC. The WCAC also has a transfer rule whichstates that a student athlete is not eligible to participateon a varsity team for 365 days after enrolling if he/shetransfers from another area high school after thebeginning of their sophomore year.game or elsewhere and, at home games, make themwelcome.• Be gracious in victory and show dignity in defeat.• Recognize and be willing to applaud theachievements and competitive spirit of opposingteams and players.A spectator will NOT:• Use profane language or indecent gestures towardsofficials, opposing players, coaches, cheerleaders,or fans.• Use a laser pointer at any time.• Boo or razz anyone at any time.• Attempt to distract an opposing player during agame.• Enter the playing field or court during the contest.• Drown out an opponent's cheering section(especially when the latter is small) by shoutingwhen the cheers begin.• Damage, deface, or litter the property of anopposing school.• Use any type of mechanical noisemakers such asair horns or electronic amplifying devices.• Display posters or signs, which are offensive toothers.• Possess or use any tobacco, drug, or alcoholicbeverage at any athletic event.Additionally, as in the requirement for all extracurricularactivities, athletes must have a 2.0 GPA foreach quarter without any failures in any of their classes.Note, first quarter eligibility is based on the previousschool year’s final “year to date” GPA. A student mustbe present all day and in all their classes on the day ofpractice or of the contest in order to participate (seepage 6).SPECTATOR BEHAVIORThe WCAC and Good Counsel High School providethe following spectator guidelines:A spectator will:• Remember that spectators' conduct reflects uponthe good name of the school.• Be "sportsperson-like" at all times.• Control his/her temper.• Accept decisions of the officials.• Treat officials and the opposing school's players,coaches, cheerleaders, and fans with respect,consideration, and courtesy at the scene of the37 | P age

BUSINESS &FINANCIALThe tuition for each academic year is established by theBoard of Directors the preceding March and announcedby letter to parents/guardians of current and prospectivestudents. Good Counsel makes every effort to maintaina moderate tuition, while justly fulfilling its ownfinancial obligations. The school is helped with thisobjective by the contributed services of the religiousand lay faculty and the generosity of the parents’organizations.In light of the above, and in accordance with the Boardof Director’s policy, Good Counsel offers three optionsfor tuition payment:1. Full payment to the school by August 1.2. Enrollment with FACTS Tuition Management,authorizing a direct debit to a bank account3. Enrollment with FACTS Tuition Management,authorizing a direct debit to a credit card.Your choice of payment method will be indicated onyour Business Information Card when you register forGood Counsel the first time. Freshmen, Sophomores,and Juniors will indicate a choice on their courseselection sheet in March. Appropriate forms (ifnecessary) will be sent home based on your choice.Payments through FACTS may be spread over 10months, August through May.Each March, a non-refundable deposit is required toreserve a space for the upcoming school year.Parents further understand that their obligation to paytuition fees for the full academic year is unconditionaland that no portion of such fees will be refunded orcanceled in the event of the student’s absence,withdrawal, or dismissal from the school for anyreason.Parents agree to the policy of the School that anystudent whose account has not been settled inaccordance with the required payment schedule will notbe permitted to register, to attend classes, to takesemester or year-end examinations or to receive adiploma. Parents understand that the School reservesthe right to withhold the release of any records ortranscripts relating to the student until the student’sfinancial amount is paid in full. If legal action isrequired to collect any outstanding amounts due underthe Tuition Contract, parents agree that the Schoolshall be entitled to recover from them, in addition tosuch amounts, all collection cost including, withoutlimitation, attorney’s fees and court costs.USE OF STUDENT IMAGES AND MEDIA REQUESTSFrom time to time, the school, for publications like the school prospectus and the school magazine,uses various images of students. In addition, various media organizations contact the schoolregarding story ideas or photographs of student activities. The school reserves the right to use anyimages of students while representing the school in any capacity on or off the campus proper.Any parent who does not wish his or her child’s picture to be used must notify the principal in writingprior to the beginning of the school year. The school also reserves the right to control media accessto students on the campus proper or those representing the school in any capacity as well. Thesupervising adult of the activity or sport, or the Director of Marketing and Public Relations willdetermine the availability of students to the media.38 | P age