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The John Carroll Student Handbook
Please note, the School reserves the right to modify these policies at any time without notice.
Mission & Values
The John Carroll School is a Catholic, co-educational, college-preparatory learning community empowering a diverse student population to attain its highest potential. Through innovative practices and curriculum, we prepare students to positively influence a global society as critical thinkers and creative problem solvers while being socially responsible, spiritually centered and morally grounded in our Catholic beliefs.
Our Promise
We will provide a Catholic foundation of values, challenging academics and real-life experiences . . . so that our students will embrace opportunities and excel as responsible participants in the global society.
We will do everything possible to instill in all of our students: a strong sense of self; the capacity to achieve their personal and professional aspirations; a global perspective; and a strong, moral compass to guide them throughout life.
Spiritual Life
Covering spiritual opportunities and values.
Rooted in our rich Catholic heritage, the community of The John Carroll School is Christ-centered and nourishes the inner spirituality of our young men and women. While a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit is what sustains us on the journey of Christian living, we also pride ourselves on showing respect and appreciation for other faith traditions. Recognizing that we are all born in the image and likeness of God, we take the necessary steps to help all members of our school community grow in their relationship with God.
Growing together as a community of faith, the spiritual needs of our students at John Carroll are met in a variety of ways:
- Our four-year Religion curriculum imparts a deeper knowledge of the Catholic faith and equips our students to make good moral choices for themselves and the world in which they live.
- A robust retreat program enables our students to share and reflect upon how God is actively working in his or her life.
- Celebrating our faith through prayer and liturgy, our students experience God through his life-giving Word and Sacrament.
- Intentional and shared reflection of their service to others provides our students with the opportunity to find their place in the Body of Christ.
The deep inner spirituality fostered within the John Carroll community develops leaders who serve responsibly, compassionately and respectfully in our global society.
Citizenship
Covering stands of integrity, unscheduled mods, Honor Code and the Honor Pledge.
This section of the student handbook applies to any student:
- who is on school property
- who is in attendance at the School
- who is at any school-sponsored activity
- who is traveling in connection with a school-sponsored activity
Standards of Integrity
The mission of the School is “to develop young men and women of moral integrity.” The purpose of this statement of standards of integrity is to preserve and promote the ideals of honesty, trust and personal integrity. Academic honesty is the cornerstone of the School and ensures that a John Carroll diploma represents true learning and accomplishment.
Students are expected to conduct themselves with honesty and integrity. Integrity is a sense of personal wholeness derived from moral soundness and upright character. Every student is bound to refrain from lying, cheating, stealing and plagiarism.
Lying is the making of false statements, the denial of fact or the intentional creation of false impression with the intent to deceive.
Cheating is giving, receiving or attempting to give or receive unauthorized help that could result in an unfair advantage in completing schoolwork.
Stealing is taking, obtaining, or withholding anything without the consent of the owner.
Plagiarism is the representation of words or ideas of another as one’s own in any academic work. To avoid plagiarism, every direct quote must be identified by quotation marks or by appropriate indentation and must be properly cited in the text or in a footnote. Acknowledgment is also required when material, stored in print, electronic or other medium, is paraphrased or summarized. Students with questions about what constitutes plagiarism should seek advice from their teachers.
In matters where a student’s integrity is in question, the School reserves the right to search any suspected student, or his/her belongings, including electronic devices, cloud storage, locker and car. The School also reserves the right to utilize both the disciplinary process (detentions/demerits) and/or academic consequences (zero on assignments/assessments) upon investigation and discovery that there has been an academic dishonesty.
Unscheduled Mods
Students must remain in the vicinity of the main lobby, Patriot Café, Student Services hallway, Learning Commons, Streett Family Courtyard or Brown Fitness Center (by appointment) during unscheduled and lunch mods. Students may not be in the Dresher Academic Wing or the Upper or Lower Gym unless given permission from a faculty member and supervised. The School must always know the location of students should the need arise to contact them.
Honor Code
In order to promote The John Carroll School standards of integrity, students will be asked to sign the Honor Code. Signing the Honor Code represents a personal commitment to abide by this code of conduct.
“I commit to uphold and promote, by my actions and words, the values of honesty and respect for others in our John Carroll community. I will not lie, cheat, or steal, and I will work to discourage the behavior of others who do.”
Honor Pledge for Specific Academic Work
In order to promote academic integrity, students will be asked by teachers to sign an Honor Pledge for specific academic work. The pledge will be a frequent reminder of the importance of honest academic effort.
“On my honor, I have neither given nor received unauthorized aid on this graded academic work.”
Academics
As a Catholic, independent, college preparatory school, The John Carroll School educates the whole person; each student develops spiritually, intellectually, physically, and socially. Intellectual growth and preparation for college require high academic standards. The following academic policies reflect a commitment to academic excellence.
In order to continue to upgrade the academic program, the School reserves the right to adjust the academic requirements for graduation.
Veracross
The John Carroll School uses a school information system called Veracross to store and access student data. Veracross is used to manage every aspect of the School from school events, transcripts, report cards, student courses and grades, course requests, billing and more.
It is expected that parents and students will use their own unique usernames and passwords to access the Veracross database. Passwords should never be shared between parents and students. Each user account requires a unique email address and password.
It is vitally important that family data be kept updated in Veracross. Please contact the School if any household data has changed (e.g., new address, new phone number, change in marital status, custody, etc.). Parents have the ability to manage their household data through the Veracross Parent Portal. If you cannot access Veracross for any reason, please contact the School.
Grading
Covering the grading system, report cards and grades.
The school year is divided into four quarters. Report cards are issued electronically at the end of each quarter (four times per year). The passing grade is 70. To receive credit, the average in each subject must be at least 70.
Some courses are evaluated on a (P) pass/(F) fail basis. Parents may access their student’s grades at any time using web-based school information system Veracross. This program is secure and is password-protected.
Grading System
A = 100-90
B = 89-80
C = 79-75
D = 74 - 70
100
4.4
4.65
4.9
99
4.4
4.65
4.9
98
4.4
4.65
4.9
97
4.3
4.55
4.8
96
4.3
4.55
4.8
95
4.2
4.45
4.7
94
4.2
4.45
4.7
93
4.1
4.35
4.6
92
4.1
4.35
4.6
91
4.0
4.25
4.5
90
4.0
4.25
4.5
89
3.9
4.15
4.4
88
3.8
4.05
4.3
87
3.7
3.95
4.2
86
3.6
3.85
4.1
85
3.5
3.75
4.0
84
3.4
3.65
3.9
83
3.3
3.55
3.8
82
3.2
3.45
3.7
81
3.2
3.45
3.7
80
3.0
3.25
3.5
79
2.8
3.05
3.3
78
2.6
2.85
3.1
77
2.4
2.65
2.9
76
2.2
2.45
2.7
75
2.0
2.25
2.5
74
1.8
2.05
2.3
73
1.6
1.85
2.1
72
1.4
1.65
1.9
71
1.2
1.45
1.7
70
1.0
1.25
1.5
69 and below
0.0
0.0
0.0
Academic Policies
Covering late work, academic review and eligibility, appeals, course changes, course withdrawals, failing courses, grade promotions and holiday assignments.
Late Work
A school-wide policy will emphasize to students the importance of completing tasks on time. It will also support teachers in reinforcing the idea that meeting deadlines is important in life.
- At the beginning of each course teachers must present to students and parents a written policy on late work
- Assignments turned in late cannot receive full credit unless absence or a health issue is a factor
- In order to receive credit, late work must be turned in within, at most, eight school days unless absence or a health issue is a factor
- Not Turned In (NTI) will be entered into Veracross for all missing work unless absence or health issue is a factor
Academic Review & Eligibility
If a student has two failing grades at the mid-quarter, that student is required to attend a mandatory study hall every day from 2:50-3:30 p.m. to receive the help s/he needs to be successful. The student can still participate in her/his sport or activity after 3:30 p.m. without penalty. If students still have two failing grades at the end of a quarter marking period, they are ineligible to play sports or participate in any extracurricular activities until the next mid-quarter and s/he must continue to report to the mandatory study hall from 2:50-3:30 p.m. If students have less than two failures at the next mid-quarter, they can resume playing a sport or participating in extracurricular activities and they are no longer required to attend study hall. Students can only regain eligibility at the end of a marking period. This policy does not carry over to the next academic year.
Ineligibility Appeals
If a student or parent wishes to appeal the ineligible status, the student must consult with their counselor concerning procedures, and file an appeal letter signed by the student and parent(s), no later than 3:00 p.m. the Friday following the establishment of quarter grades or the issuance of grades.
The appeal board will consider the appeal and may consider any of the following: student, parent, and/or teacher input, discipline records, student effort and ability.
The appeal board consists of the Assistant Principal, the Athletic Director and a Counselor. The appeal board may confirm the student’s ineligibility, postpone ineligibility or reinstate eligibility. The decision of the appeal board shall be final.
Course Changes
Student-initiated course changes should be made within the first two weeks of the first semester and two weeks before the beginning of the second semester. Students must meet with a College Counselor to begin the process. Teachers may initiate course changes, based on placement issues, at any time.
Course Withdrawals
Students enrolled in Senior-level courses not required for graduation will be allowed to drop such a course without penalty up to the Q1 Mid-Quarter Report. After Q1 Mid-Quarter Reports, no student will be allowed to drop such a course until the end of the first semester. This would include taking the semester exam. Students who drop the class at the end of the semester will have a “WP” (Pass) or “WF” (Failure) noted on their report card and transcript. Once students begin the second semester of a year-long course, they will be required to complete the course. The teacher, counselor and department chair will make recommendations and the administration will make the final decision regarding course changes.
Failed Courses and Grade Promotions
A student must pass all of the courses in which he/she is enrolled for the school year. Students who fail for the year but are eligible to return to school the following year must make up the failure in an approved summer school program. World Language failures will result in repeating the course during the next academic year. Senior failures must be made up at an approved school before a diploma is granted. Students who neglect to undertake summer make-up, or who fail in it, are not eligible to return to John Carroll.
Dismissal for Failure
Students will be subject to academic dismissal if any of the following criteria is met:
- The student is unable to make up credits failed during the year in a scheduled course(s);
- Make-up is expected to be done in summer school, night school or through tutoring approved in advance by the Assistant Principal for Academics; or
- The student has failed any three credits during the academic year; four credits over two consecutive years; or five credits over three years.
Assignments Over Holidays
Teachers may assign work to be completed over holidays. This is necessary at times to keep up with course content, especially with lost class time due to weather and other events.
Advanced Placement (AP)
For information on Advanced Placement, visit our departments and view the AP outlines at the bottom of each department page.
Exams
Covering exam scheduling, absences, AP exams and Senior exemption.
Scheduling
Examinations are administered according to a published schedule; students requiring more time may remain in the examination room for an additional 15 minutes.
Absences
Attendance on exam days is required. Special exceptions for absence from a scheduled exam will only be considered in extreme cases and must be pre-approved by the Dean of Students. If a student is absent due to illness, he/she will be expected to set up a schedule for taking the examinations as soon as possible by contacting the Dean of Students.
AP exams
Students enrolled in AP courses are required to take the College Board exam(s) in May. There is an additional fee for these exams. Payments are due in October. The Senior final exam exemption policy does not apply to AP courses.
Senior Exemption
Exemptions apply to second-semester exams only; all Seniors must take their first semester exams. Seniors with a cumulative average of 90 in any second semester or year-long course are exempt from the final examination.
Graduation
Covering Graduation requirements, Capstone projects and Graduation ceremonies.
Graduation Requirements
For information regarding graduation requirements, click the link below.
Capstone Projects
A Capstone Project is a graduation requirement for distinction program and STEAM seniors. Students who are pursuing both an AP Capstone Diploma and a Diploma with Distinction in Fine Arts, Science or STEAM will complete one project with a theme related to the chosen area of distinction.
For more information visit the special programs page.
Graduation Ceremony
All Seniors must attend both the Baccalaureate and Graduation ceremonies; however, the School reserves the right to withhold the privilege of a student participating in either of these ceremonies. In the event of inappropriate behavior during either ceremony, the School may hold a student’s diploma until the completion of assigned discipline.
Service Learning
For information on service learning, please visit our Service Learning page.
Awards & Honors
Covering Honor Roll, Diplomas with Distinction and honor societies.
A number of departmental and school-wide awards are given at the end of the school year. Criteria for these awards are available from department chairpersons, counselors or the Assistant Principal for Academics.
Honor Roll
The school honor roll is divided into two categories, First Honors and Second Honors, and is based upon a student’s weighted grade point average* (GPA). Courses are weighted using a three-level weighting scale as outlined in the Academic section of this handbook.
First Honors: Weighted GPA of 4.2 or higher
Second Honors: Weighted GPA of 4.0 to 4.19
In addition to meeting the GPA requirement for the Honor Roll, students may not fail any courses.
*GPA is determined by dividing the total number of grade points by the number of numerically graded courses.
Diplomas with Distinction
For information regarding requirements for special diplomas and academic programs, visit the special programs page.
Policies & Procedures
Attendance
Covering arrival, attendance kiosks, excused and unexcused absences, extended absences, parental absence, extracurricular eligibility, testing attendance and Senior Privilege.
To achieve any measure of academic success, regular attendance at school is essential. Late arrival and early dismissal disrupt learning and affect all students. Parents and students should make every effort to schedule appointments outside of school hours and ensure that, in general, students arrive to school on time and stay in school for the duration of the school day, typically 8:00 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. If illness or unavoidable circumstances cause absence, late arrival, or early dismissal, the School expects students to follow the procedures listed below. Failure to follow these procedures may result in disciplinary action.
Arrival
Students must arrive early enough to deposit backpacks and non-uniform clothing in lockers before the first mod of the day. Students must report to the first mod in full uniform. Food and drink (medical reasons exempted) are not allowed in scheduled classes.
If a student has off first mod, he/she must:
- Arrive at school in uniform
- Deposit any items in lockers PRIOR to the 8:00 a.m. bell
- Report to the Patriot Café for attendance
Note: Once attendance has been taken, students may not enter the academic wing as it can be disruptive to classes in progress.
Attendance Kiosks
Students who arrive after 8:00 a.m. and leave prior to 2:45 p.m. must sign in or out at the attendance kiosk at the main lobby in front of the building. Students are only permitted to enter and leave the front of the building at the security desk.
Students who qualify for Senior Late Arrival and Early Departure privileges must check out at the front of the building at the attendance kiosk.
Students leaving early due to any medical reasons must see the school nurse before signing out.
Students should not order food or have it delivered to school during the school day.
Excused and Unexcused Absences
Any student arriving after or leaving before 11:15 a.m. will be marked absent.
Students are allowed up to ten (10) each semester.*
- After 10 absences in a semester, there will be a mandatory parent/student meeting with Dean of Students and a detention will be served with each subsequent absence.
- After 15 absences in a semester, there will be an attendance contract given.
- After 20 absences in a semester, student may lose academic credit for a class and/or be dismissed.
Students are allowed up to ten (10) combined late arrivals/early dismissals each semester.
- After 10 absences in a semester, there will be a mandatory parent/student meeting with Dean of Students and a detention will be served with each subsequent absence.
- After 15 absences in a semester, there will be an attendance contract given.
- After 20 absences in a semester, student may lose academic credit for a class and/or be dismissed.
Note: If a positive COVID-19 test is reported with documentation, days of required quarantine will not be counted towards the student's total number of absences.
Individual cases and concerns may arrange a meeting with the Dean of Student Services to discuss unique circumstances surrounding excessive absences and/or lates/early dismissals.
Notifying Missed Attendance
Parent(s) should inform the School of any absences, late arrivals and early dismissals through the link in the Veracross Parent Portal. This should be done no later than 8:00 a.m. on the day involved. Parents may enter known absences, late arrivals and early dismissals in advance, and are encouraged to do so.
The School will notify parents by email (the current one on file in Veracross) by 10:00 a.m. regarding any student absences/late arrivals once Mod 1 attendance is established. Parents have access to their student’s attendance record through the Veracross Parent Portal. The School records daily attendance data in Veracross. Parents should regularly check Veracross to see their child's attendance record. If discrepancies are found, please email attendance@johncarrol.org
Extended Absences
If a student has a planned extended absence of three (3) or more days, he/she should communicate with teachers at least one week prior to absence. This should also be entered as a multi-day absence through the Veracross Parent Portal.
Parental Absence From Home
If a student has a planned extended absence of three (3) or more days, he/she should communicate with teachers at least one week prior to absence. This should also be entered as a multi-day absence through the Veracross Parent Portal.
Extracurricular Eligibility
Students must arrive before 9:00 a.m. to participate in co-curricular activities for that day unless it is an approved late arrival with proper documentation.* If it is an approved arrival with documentation, the student must arrive before 11:15 a.m. and provide the Attendance Moderator with the approved documentation upon arrival to school.
If a student has both a late arrival and an early dismissal on the same day, he/she must be in attendance for a total of at least 3.5 hours to participate in co-curricular activities that day.
Approved late arrivals generally include medically-related appointments, court summons, religious holiday, college visit, MVA tests and funerals. A note from a parent is not considered proper documentation, with the exception of funerals and religious holidays.
Attendance for Testing
Students who are taking Advanced Placement (AP) tests are permitted to arrive late and/or leave campus at the completion of the test(s). Any student taking an AP test will be marked present. After the AP test is finished, students should sign out using the attendance kiosk in the front lobby before they leave campus.
Senior Privilege
Seniors may be allowed the privilege to leave school early or arrive late to school during unscheduled mods with school approval starting after the first mid-quarter marking period. This privilege can only be used when the required forms are completed, received and approved by the School. The privilege can be denied, revoked or reinstated at the School’s discretion.
Conditions of Eligibility
To be eligible for Senior Privilege, students must:
- Provide written consent/release of liability. The student and one parent/legal guardian must both sign the agreement. Students become eligible within 24 hours of a completed agreement being filed with the Dean of Students;
- Be in good academic standing (minimum GPA of a 3.0);
- Have 35 service hours completed; and
- Be in good disciplinary standing and have a good record of attendance.
Expectations
Seniors understand and agree that:
- If students have a scheduled class after school, they may not leave early;
- On their way out of school, students are required to sign out;
- Students must arrive before mod 2 (regardless if they have off mod 2) and sign in upon arrival
- The privilege may not be exercised any earlier than the end of Mod 7;
- Students must be in attendance for community time (e.g., Mass, assemblies, etc.) and Senior Privilege is not in effect on days with whole school activities, programs or assemblies at the beginning or end of the day (e.g., pep rally, Senior Retreat, awards assemblies, etc.);
- If they have commitments to practices, rehearsals or meetings after school, they may not return to campus before the end of the school day; and
- The School’s Code of Conduct applies to behavior on and off campus.
Suspension of Privilege
It is understood that the administration may revoke the privilege of any individual student at any time and for any reason. In particular, failure to meet the above expectations could lead to the loss of the privilege. Parents/legal guardians may also revoke the privilege of their student at any time and for any reason by providing written notification to the Dean of Students.
Students who violate the procedures for the Senior Privilege and leave when they should not are reminded that unexcused departure from campus is a two-demerit offense.
If the Senior Privilege is suspended, it is the student’s responsibility to contact the Dean of Students to request reconsideration.
Inclement Weather Policy
In the event of inclement weather, John Carroll follows Harford County Public School for closings and delays. When school is closed due to bad weather (either all day or closing early), all use of the building/facilities is canceled.
We will provide notification through email, social media, the School's website and the Remind app. If you haven’t signed up to receive Remind text notifications, please text @jcpatriots to 81010.
The School has three inclement weather days built into the 2023–2024 calendar. After three closures, students will shift to virtual learning and the School will send more detailed information.
Technology
Covering the accepted use policy, device use, social media policy and digital use expectation.
Acceptable Use Policy
The school community believes in the educational value of technology and recognizes the potential it affords to promote educational excellence and to enhance student learning. The ability of the individual to select appropriate technology, efficiently access data and effectively communicate support for decisions are desirable skills in a technological society.
Consistent with the learning objectives and core values of the School, students are provided with multiple opportunities to acquire the aforementioned skills, while becoming proficient with a variety of technologies and productivity software applications. At John Carroll, the use of computers, networks, and Internet are encouraged to extend and refine learning, build conceptual understanding, investigate current issues, consider a variety of viewpoints and access research findings. Students are reminded that the use of John Carroll’s network and computers is a privilege and not a right.
Therefore, students should acquaint themselves with the rules of acceptable use. Failure to adhere to the spirit of this acceptable use policy will result in disciplinary action.
- Safe use of the John Carroll network for email, Internet access and file storage is a responsibility and should be consistent with the school code of conduct. The School reserves the right to inspect all student files and emails.
- Students should view their laptops as an educational tool and therefore should use them in a manner consistent with the purposes of a Catholic, college-preparatory education.
- Each user is personally responsible for all uses and contents of his/her account. Students are directed to use only their own assigned password.
- Students are responsible for their own equipment.
- Unauthorized copying, removing or distributing software, music, videos and other media, may violate copyright laws and software license agreements and are therefore prohibited. Modifying, manipulating or otherwise tampering with applications, files and data on the network, or any attempt to, is prohibited.
Since the Internet and other accessible networks are open systems, the School cannot guarantee privacy or security. Therefore, users should not put anything on the network and should not publish anything online that they would not want others to see or read. The System Administrator has the right to monitor all activities and analyze, remove or alter any saved data or email accounts.
No one may use the School’s network for threatening or abusive purposes. Users should not transmit materials which promote hatred or intimidation. The School is required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) to prohibit Internet access for children age 16 and younger to obscenity, child pornography and material that are harmful to minors.
Students should not open or forward questionable attachments. Students should not knowingly introduce a virus to the network.
Violations of school policies for the acceptable use of technology may result in any or all of the following:
- Loss of internet access and/or email accounts;
- Legal action by the school or other involved parties; and/or
- School disciplinary action up to and including dismissal.
Cell Phone and Earbud Use
Students may use their cell phones before and after school and during the school day in their lunch and free mods in all areas of the building except for the Academic Wing and its hallways from 8:00 a.m.–2:45 p.m. In the Academic Wing, students can only use cell phones and/or earbuds for educational purposes with a teacher’s permission. Otherwise both cell phones and earbuds should not be seen in the Academic Wing and its hallways. Cell phone and earbud use is also prohibited during Masses, assemblies, evacuations and other times at the administration’s discretion. If a student is seen violating the School’s cell phone and/or earbud policy, teachers and staff are asked to confiscate the electronic device and turn in to the Dean of Students. Students will be required to see the Dean of the Students at the end of the day for the device as well as to receive the disciplinary action for the infraction. The School reserves the right to search any student’s electronic devices.
Social Media Policy
As a member of The John Carroll School community, it is important that all members understand that they represent the institution as a whole to their friends, families, and the community at large. When a member behaves inappropriately online or offline, the entire community suffers. In order to fulfill our mission to develop young men and women of moral integrity, it is important that we have the highest expectations for behavior.
Social media is a wonderful, connecting phenomenon that has truly changed the way we communicate. It is a powerful, enhancing tool with both social and academic values. Our goal is to help make sure members of the John Carroll community are using social media in a safe and responsible manner. Partnering with parents, it is John Carroll’s mission to instill Catholic values to develop young men and women spiritually, intellectually, physically and socially. We seek to develop young men and women of moral integrity, preparing them to serve and create a more just and compassionate society.
The John Carroll School defines social media as any form of online publication that allows interactive communication, including but not limited to, social networks, blogs, Internet websites, Internet forums and wikis. Examples include but are not limited to Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, YouTube, Google+, Instagram, TikTok and Tumblr.
John Carroll uses the Archdiocese of Baltimore definition of bullying, which states that “bullying, harassment or intimidation means any intentional written, verbal or physical act, including an electronic communication, that i.) physically harms an individual; damages an individual’s property; substantially interferes with an individual’s education or learning environment; or places an individual in reasonable fear of harm to the individual’s person or property; and ii.) occurs on school property, at a school activity or event, or on a school bus; or substantially disrupts the orderly operation of the School.”
Digital Use Expectations
Per the law, and in line with the policies of the Archdiocese, taking pictures, videos and any audio/video recordings without the consent of an individual is illegal and will not be tolerated. Disciplinary action will be taken for any student engaged in such action or engaged in sharing recordings made without the consent of the individual.
- Engaging in bullying behaviors, or any online activities intended to harm (physically or emotionally) another person, will result in severe disciplinary action and/or loss of privileges. In some cases, cyberbullying can be a crime. Remember that your online activities are monitored and retained.
- John Carroll students are expected to communicate online with the same appropriate, safe, mindful, courteous conduct as offline. Posts, chats, sharing and messaging may be monitored. Users should be careful not to share personally identifying information online.
- John Carroll students are responsible for their own behavior when communicating with social media. They will be held accountable for the content of the communications that they state/post on social media locations.
- John Carroll students are required to follow the Acceptable Use Policy (AUP). Users may not disrupt the learning atmosphere, educational programs, school activities or the rights of others.
- Users have no right to privacy while using the John Carroll network. The John Carroll School monitors users’ online activities and reserves the right to access, review, copy, store or delete any electronic communications or files.
- If inappropriate behavior is reported to the School from an outside source, the School will investigate the allegation. Users have no claim to privacy or protection from discipline if the content is openly available on a public site (example: non-private or private Twitter account). Vulgar and profane speech reflects poorly on the entire institution and will be dealt with according to the Student Handbook.
Disciplinary Policies
Covering the Drug and Alcohol Policy, drug testing, bullying and harassment, academic dishonesty and surveillance.
Drug and Alcohol Policy
At the core of the John Carroll experience is a safe, healthy, and caring environment, conducive to learning and to the spiritual, intellectual, physical, and social growth of our students. For this reason, John Carroll recognizes student involvement with alcohol and other drugs to be not only illegal and potentially damaging to a young person’s health, but also totally incompatible with the School’s mission and standards.
In support of our mission, and in light of the social pressure on adolescents each year, we resolve as a school to address these issues comprehensively. This effort includes prevention, education and a partnership with parents.
The following policies are in place to support the School’s expectation that students are to be alcohol and drug free.
Alcohol, Illegal Drugs, Prescription Drugs, Inhalants, Vaping and/or E-Cigarette Devices, Performance Enhancing Supplements, and Synthetic Drugs
(Examples of Synthetic Drugs include but are not limited to K2, Spice, Bath Salts, etc.)
Involvement with alcohol and other drugs are entirely incompatible with our educational mission, with what is in the best interest of students’ safety and health, and with the law. The John Carroll campus and the “extended campus” (wherever our students and teachers are for school-sponsored field trips, dances, athletic and other competitions, etc.), i.e. anytime under school jurisdiction, are sacrosanct. Anyone possessing, using, selling, exchanging or under the influence of substances on campus or at a school function is liable for dismissal, even for a first offense. Our school environment and the extended campus must be considered absolutely off limits.
The School also reserves the right to require students to undergo alcohol and drug assessment, including drug toxicology screening if there is just cause in the judgment of the administration. The student and his/her parents must authorize the release of a copy of the drug screening results to the School. Any student who is 18 years of age or older must authorize the School to communicate with his/her parents about the findings of any alcohol and drug assessment, including drug toxicology screening. If a student is permitted to return to the School after a drug or alcohol violation, the student must complete an assessment/treatment program approved by the school administration. The testing process is described below.
The School reserves the right to conduct reasonable searches of students and areas under their control (e.g., desks, lockers, cars, personal belongings including electronic devices) in cases of suspected violation of school policies (e.g., drugs, alcohol, tobacco, vaporizers, weapons, theft, academic dishonesty, harassment). If evidence of unlawful behavior is discovered, the appropriate law enforcement agency may be notified. The School reserves the right to use drug detection canines to scan personal items including lockers and vehicles on campus.
Alcohol Detection Device
The School possesses an electronic alcohol detection device and the School may require students to submit to random testing or testing based on suspected violation of this policy. Refusal to submit to the test will be considered insubordination which is a three-demerit offense and may result in the involvement of law enforcement officials.
Drug Testing
The John Carroll School reserves the right to test students for alcohol and/or other drugs based upon suspicion and/or information. The testing focus is education, deterrence and rehabilitation. The School also has the right to take disciplinary action as necessary and appropriate based upon the results of testing. The drug testing process is as follows:
- The parent will be contacted with the results of the test by either the Dean of Students or the Dean of Discipline
- The test will be carried out discreetly with the school nurse and a school administrator using an FDA-approved drug test
- If a student tests positive, the school may require lab testing within 24 hours to confirm the result and to determine substance abuse levels
- A positive test result will automatically result in a three-day, out-of-school suspension (3-4 demerits) and may result in an automatic dismissal and/or a review board
- If a student is allowed to remain at John Carroll a contract will be initiated requiring
- all disciplinary requirements to be fulfilled
- completion of a drug counseling program with a licensed counselor
- continued drug testing at the students’ expense
- A student who refuses to comply will be subject to automatic suspension in addition to disciplinary sequences as a student at John Carroll
- If a student or parent comes to either a counselor, the school nurse or an administrator requesting testing to be done and asking for help (prior to a request/requirement made by the administration to take a drug screening test) then no disciplinary action will be taken but further requirements such as counseling and on-going drug screening may be required to remain a student at John Carroll
- If a student is found using, in possession of, or in the company of those using or having possession a vaping/e-cigarette device while on the John Carroll School premise, the student will receive an automatic one to three day suspension. Students will also be required to complete a drug test prior to the suspension and may be subject to disciplinary action
- All students permitted to remain at the School following any drug or substance issue will be required to complete a cessation class with the school nurse and/or an administrator
- Students who are on suspension for any drug, substance, or alcohol offense are not permitted to be on campus for any reason without the expressed approval of the Deans of Students
Bullying, Harassment and Intimidation
Bullying, harassment or intimidation of any student on school property or at school-sponsored functions or by the use of electronic technology is strictly prohibited. Such behaviors are contrary to school life in a Christ-centered community, which respects the dignity and uniqueness of all God’s children. To foster a school environment where all students are educated in a safe and caring atmosphere, John Carroll will follow established procedures for prevention and intervention. Students should see a counselor or an administrator immediately if they are the recipient or become aware of any harassment or intimidation. Standing by idly is never an appropriate response to bullying, harassment, or intimidation. Bullying, harassment and intimidation should be reported as soon as it is discovered.
Harassment Policy
The School is committed to providing a learning environment that is free from harassment. Harassment means unwelcome verbal, written or physical conduct (including through electronic media) based on a protected classification (e.g., race, sex, disability, etc.) that has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s work or education or that creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment. Some examples of behaviors that the administration considers harassment include but are not limited to:
- Hazing and initiations
- Display of symbols associated with racial, ethnic and/or religious insensitivity
- The use of slurs and epithets
- Assault/violence based on protected classification, including sexual assault
- Social media posts, web pages and text exchanges that subject members of the school community to hostility or intimidation by others are not permitted. The School may inspect any social media sites and/or technology exchanges through both public and private accounts and hold students responsible for content posted or exchanged that is out of line with the School’s mission and values.
The School treats allegations of harassment seriously and reviews and investigates any complaint of harassment of students or employees, by anyone, whether or not the alleged behavior occurred during the school day, at school or during school-related activities. Investigations will be conducted in a prompt, confidential and thorough manner and appropriate corrective action will be taken.
It is the responsibility of students and parents/guardians to:
- Report all incidents of harassment to a school administrator or counselor
- Discontinue all discriminatory, intimidating, harassing or unwelcome conduct immediately upon being informed that he or she is perceived to be harassing another individual
Retaliating against anyone who complains of discrimination or harassment or against anyone who cooperates in an investigation of such behavior. Any such retaliation will not be tolerated and serious disciplinary action will be taken against anyone retaliating against harassment investigations or discipline imposed as the result of the investigation. The Archdiocese of Baltimore has posted a reporting form on its website: Bullying Reporting Form. This form is an electronic form and should be printed after completion and delivered to the school administration in a timely manner. In addition, administration may call for mediation between students involved in discrimination and harassment cases.
- Mediation of students involved in bullying and/or harassment instances will be facilitated by the Counseling Department
Other Policies
Academic Dishonesty
Academic dishonesty is defined as a student’s use of unauthorized assistance with intent to deceive an instructor or other such person who may be assigned to evaluate the student’s work in meeting course requirements. Examples of academic dishonesty include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Plagarism
- Cheating
- Multiple submissions
- Multiple submissions
- Falsification
- Complicity in academic dishonesty or contributing to another’s acts of academic dishonesty
Consequences for academic dishonesty consist of the following:
- Multiple detentions, up to three demerits based on the gravity of the offense
- Ineligible to apply to honor societies
- Failing grade on assignment/assessment
- Required completion of academic integrity program after school
Anonymous Messages
From time to time, the administration is contacted by an anonymous source. Only signed or in-person communication will be acted upon. No response will be made to anonymous messages. The Deans of Students and other school administrators will decide if circumstances warrant an investigation or a different response on a case-by-case basis.
Use of Surveillance Cameras
John Carroll has an extensive surveillance camera system. When items are stolen or students are reported out of bounds, the administration will view the camera recordings to investigate wrongdoing. Students need to know that their actions are being recorded inside and outside the building. The surveillance cameras help provide school security and can and will be used to enforce discipline policies.
Disciplinary Procedures
Covering disciplinary warnings, detentions and demerits, review board procedures, behavioral contracts and dismissal from school.
Student conduct at any time or place that has a negative effect on school order and discipline, or negatively impacts the safety and welfare of others, or negatively impacts the reputation of the School, in the sole judgment of the school administration, may be subject to the following disciplinary procedures.
The School reserves the right to investigate circumstances and question students without a parent/guardian’s presence or permission. Disciplinary cases are often time sensitive and students will be questioned to determine the facts. It is the School’s expectation that students are honest at all times.
Warnings
As a first step in the disciplinary process, teachers may address student behavior through warnings that may occur either formally (given in Veracross) or informally – addressed at the time of the infraction. Warnings may include an after-school detention with the teacher but these are non-cumulative.
Detentions
A detention is the second step in the disciplinary system and is reserved for more serious infractions of the Code of Conduct and/or the result of chronic warnings. Major detentions are cumulative and recorded in a student’s record on Veracross.
Students may receive a detention from faculty or staff and should be notified regarding the infraction. Parents will also be notified via an email when a behavior notification has been entered into Veracross. The student will be notified to meet with one of the Deans as soon as their schedule allows.
When a detention is issued, it should be served the day it is assigned by the Dean of students. Extra-curricular activities and transportation will be taken into consideration. Most detentions will be served the day they are received.
Detention is held from 2:50-3:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday.
Demerits
A demerit is more serious than a detention and occurs when a student accumulates four detentions. Demerits can also be issued for a single event or serious misconduct. The right to determine demerits for accumulated detentions or misconduct rests with the Dean of Students. Four detentions will result in the issuance of a demerit. The administration will endeavor, where possible, to give due consideration to those students who voluntarily come forward and admit to an offense out of a sense of honor and personal integrity.
One demerit is equal to four cumulative detentions. Twelve cumulative detentions, or three demerits, will result in suspension from school.
- Profanity, vulgarity or other inappropriate language
- Inappropriate behavior in class
- Unauthorized cell phone use during the school day
- Parking in unauthorized places
- Failure to report after school for a warning with a teacher
- Chronic lateness to school or class
- Violation of the Acceptable Use Policy for social media and/or computer usage
- Disruptive, divisive and/or rude behavior or general disregard for school standards
One–three detentions
- Failure to report for a major detention
- Misuse of food in the cafeteria
- Unexcused departure from the school schedule
- Misconduct that causes expulsion from class, assembly, or any school function
- Reckless driving or activity involving vehicles on school property
- Dishonesty or forgery (parents may not give permission to sign their name)
- Falsifying attendance records
- Gambling
- Student presence in unauthorized area of the school
One demerit
and
Four detentions that now count towards the 12 maximum amount before suspension
- Unexcused absence from school
- Departure from school grounds
- Cheating/plagiarism. In addition to disciplinary penalties, any instance of plagiarism can result in a failing grade for the assignment/test
- Any repeat of a one-demerit infraction
Two demerits
and
Eight detentions served that now count towards the 12 maximum amount before suspension
Note: There may be times when a two-demerit offense may equal a one-day suspension from school.
- Use of slurs or epithets based on protected classifications (e.g., race, ethnicity, sex)
- Use or possession of vape or nicotine substance on school property or at school-sponsored activities (on or off campus)
- Bullying, harassment and/or intimidation
- Violation of school's drug and alcohol policy
- Fighting
- Insubordination
- Damage to property
- Theft
- Failure to follow the Health Services procedures with respect to prescription drugs as well as any over-the-counter medications
- Repeated cheating and/or plagiarism case (including unacknowledged or improperly documented use of electronic resources)
- Unauthorized use or misuse of school computers, the internet, email, or other electronic resources
- Other conduct inconsistent with the philosophy or standards of the school
- Any repeat of a one- or two-demerit infraction
Three demerits
and
suspension from school (can be a one- or three-day suspension depending upon severity of infraction)
and
A meeting with the Review Board
Note: If a student is allowed to return following a Review Board and/or a suspension, the student will be required to return with a behavior contract signed by parents and student)
- Violation of the School's drug and alcohol policy on campus
- Violation of an existing disciplinary contract (a disciplinary contract is typically required of a student returning from suspension)
- Violation involving weapons or "look-alikes"
- Other conduct inconsistent with the philosophy or standards of the school
Four demerits
and
suspension from school
and
potential meeting with the Review Board
and
potential automatic dismissal
Note: A student who receives four demerits (with or without any significant prior disciplinary record) or accumulates four demerits is normally dismissed from school
The list of infractions includes but is not limited to those listed above. The administration reserves the right to determine the consequence for any and all infractions.
When a student commits repeated violations of the school disciplinary policy, suspension can be a consequence for such behavior.
The administration determines if an out-of-school or in-school suspension is appropriate for students based on evidence of previous disciplinary problems that have led to detentions and demerits. When determining in-school suspension or out-of-school suspension, the administration will consider:
- frequency of the same offense
- number of different offenses
- intensity of any or all offenses
If a student is allowed to remain at John Carroll after a suspension, the student and a parent will be required to sign a behavioral contract.
Disciplinary Review Board
The purpose of a disciplinary review board is to provide the student with an opportunity to speak for his/her actions and to ensure fair process. Disciplinary hearings are conducted before a review board comprised of administrators and/or faculty members. The hearing typically takes place within three school days from the time of the suspension and includes the student’s parents. After meeting with the student and his/her parents, the review board makes a recommendation to the Principal. The Principal along with the Administration team determines whether it is in the best interest of the student and the School for the student to remain at John Carroll and, if so, the terms for continuation.
Review Board Procedure
Students who are suspended should request an advocate. The advocate can be any current member of the John Carroll faculty or staff. The advocate’s role is to support the student during the disciplinary review board and he/she will be given an opportunity to address the review board directly during the process. It is the student’s responsibility to notify the administration who his/her advocate will be. The school administration will notify the advocate of the date, time, and circumstance of the review board. In addition, the administration will inform the advocate of the student’s contact information to be used during the suspension.
- Students, with their parents, should arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the start of the review board to meet with your advocate and the Dean of Students. Students should be dressed in the school uniform.
- The student and the parents will wait together while the Dean of Students explains to the review board the infraction(s) that led to the suspension.
- The student will then be brought to the review board along with the Advocate for questioning. It is at this time that the student will address the review board and answer questions directly. Students are welcome to a prepared statement to share if they choose to do so.
- The student will be excused and the Advocate will remain for questioning and a statement.
- The student’s parents will then be brought in for a statement. Parents are not asked questions but given the opportunity to share mitigating circumstances as well as conditions at home during the suspension.
- The student and parents will be excused and then the review board will deliberate.
- The Dean of Students will contact the parents with the final decision from the Principal and Administrative team within 24 hours or as soon as possible depending upon scheduling. Following the decision, an appeal can be made directly to the Principal via email and a response will be given in 48 hours.
- If a student is permitted to return to school, the student and parent shall meet with the Dean of Students to review behavior contract prior to the start of school.
Any student who goes before a review board will be placed on a behavior contract for the following school year.
Behavior Contract
When a student falls short of the School’s behavioral expectations, the School reserves the right to place students on a contract. The terms of the contract are decided by the administration and must be agreed to in writing by the student and one parent/guardian. Failure to agree to the contract will result in dismissal from John Carroll. Failure to abide by the contract after agreement may result in immediate dismissal without review. All students who are suspended and allowed to return to school will be reinstated only after the behavior contract is agreed upon.
Dismissal
A student who has been dismissed may not come onto school property or attend any school function without prior permission from the Dean of Students. A student who has been dismissed may reapply for admission after dismissal and his/her application will be reviewed. The minimum expectation would be for him/her to have satisfactorily completed two semesters or a reasonable equivalent at another academic institution prior to any consideration.
Dress Code
Covering the boys and girl dress codes, medical exemptions and casual days.
The purpose of the Dress Code at The John Carroll School is to provide an atmosphere conducive to learning and assist in the maintenance of discipline. The Dress Code reflects the School’s mission to support and develop in students a sense of self-respect and integrity while also preparing them for the wider world of work and service. John Carroll students, through their appearance, represent the School, as well as the moral and religious principles on which the School stands.
Dress Code violations warrant a major detention. Final decisions regarding the appropriateness or legality of a uniform item or a student’s general appearance rest with the administration. Any student requesting a departure from the Dress Code for medical reasons must present a note from a physician to the school nurse (see Medical Exemption from the Dress Code).
Year round
All Students
- Arrive on campus in uniform. Students are not permitted to enter the building wearing pajama pants, sweatpants, unapproved sweatshirts, etc.
- Wear black or brown leather shoes with solid white or black, matching socks.
- No canvas or suede shoes, slippers or moccasins, including UGGs. Boat shoes (e.g., Sperry) are acceptable.
- Shoes cannot extend above the ankle and must be tied, clean, in good repair, properly fitting and worn correctly.
- Wear hairstyles that are not a distraction and/or draw unnecessary attention. Hair must be a naturally occurring hair color. For boys, hair on the sides may extend to the bottom of the ear and must not extend below the top of the collar in the back. The Dean of Students will make the final determination as to what haircut or style is appropriate.
- Cover all visible tattoos and/or body piercings (no earrings for boys). Nose or other piercings are not permitted.
- Hats or hoodies of any kind are not allowed.
Boys
- All boys must be clean-shaven; beards and mustaches are not permitted; sideburns must be trimmed and cannot extend below the bottom of the ear.
- There are no medical exemptions allowing facial hair for students who have sensitive skin.
- Boys must wear solid khaki dress pants from either Flynn & O’Hara or Lands’ End.
- Khaki-colored jeans, cargo pants, corduroys, joggers and form-fitting pants are not considered dress pants.
- A black or brown belt and/or dress suspenders must be worn at all times, with shirts tucked in.
Girls
- All girls must wear either a uniform skirt or khaki dress pants.
- Skirts must be the appropriate length.
- Classes of 2027-2028 are required to have skirts to the knees. Girls in the Classes of 2024–2026 may continue to follow skirt guidelines from previous years (three inches above knee).
- Black shorts (Fall/Spring), leggings or tights (Winter) must be worn under skirts. See details by season below.
- Pants must be khaki-colored. Jeans, cargo pants, corduroys, joggers and form-fitting pants are not considered dress pants. Belts are not required, and shirts do not need to be tucked in.
Fall & Spring (First & Fourth Quarters)
Boys
Boys have the option to wear a polo or white dress shirt and tie.
- Polos: Classes of 2027-2028 may only wear the black, short- or long-sleeve polo displaying the John Carroll mitre logo. Boys in the Classes of 2024–2026 may continue to wear black (including the Under Armour Patriot logo version), white or yellow polos.
- Only plain black can be worn under black polos, and only plain white under white or yellow polos.
- Long-sleeve T-shirts are not permitted under short-sleeve shirts.
- Dress Shirts: White, long-sleeve button downs must be worn with a tie.
- Only plain white shirts may be worn under button downs. Sleeves may be neatly folded up to the elbow.
- Shirts must be fully buttoned to the top. Shirt collar must be visible, and collar buttons must be fastened with the tie positioned properly with the collar.
- Outerwear is not required in the Fall/Spring.
Girls
- Girls are required to wear polos.
- Classes of 2027-2028 may only wear the black, short- or long-sleeve polo displaying the John Carroll mitre logo. Girls in the Classes of 2024–2026 may continue to wear black (including the Under Armour Patriot logo version), white or yellow polos.
- Only plain black can be worn under black polos, and only plain white under white or yellow polos.
- Long-sleeve T-shirts are not permitted under short-sleeve shirts.
- Black shorts and/or compression shorts must be worn under skirts, but should not be visible below the hem line.
Winter (Second & Third Quarters)
Boys
- White, long-sleeve, button-down shirts must be worn with a tie and outerwear.
- Only plain white shirts may be worn under button downs. Sleeves may be neatly folded up to the elbow.
- Collar buttons must be fastened with the tie positioned properly with the collar.
- Shirt collar must be visible.
- For outerwear, boys may wear a black blazer, a black, pullover sweater or a black sweater vest. Both the sweater and sweater vest option should display the John Carroll mitre logo.
- The Classes of 2024-2026 may also continue to wear light blue, button-down shirts; navy blazers; and previously approved outerwear including crew neck and 1/4-zip sweatshirts, 1/4-zip black pullovers and the fleece jacket.
- Khaki-colored jeans, cargo pants, corduroys, joggers and form-fitting pants are not considered dress pants.
- Belts and/or dress suspenders must be worn at all times, with shirts tucked in.
Girls
- Classes of 2027-2028 are required to wear only white, long-sleeve, button-down blouses with pointed collars with required outerwear.
- Blouses must be purchased from Flynn & O’Hara or Patriots’ Corner.
- Only plain white shirts may be worn under button downs.
- Shirt collar must be visible.
- Shirt tails should not show when wearing sweaters.
- For outerwear, girls may wear either a black, pullover sweater or a black sweater vest. Both the sweater and sweater vest option should display the John Carroll mitre logo.
- The Classes of 2024-2026 may also continue to wear previously approved outerwear including crew neck and 1/4-zip sweatshirts, 1/4-zip black pullovers and the fleece jacket.
- Girls in the Classes of 2024–2026 have the option of wearing a blouse (details above) or polos, as outlined in the Fall/Spring guidelines. Outerwear as detailed above must also be worn with polos, and polos do not need to be tucked in.
- Black tights or 7/8-length leggings must be worn under skirts (for all classes).
- Tights and leggings should be solid black and free of patterns, textures, etc.
- Leggings should not flare at the bottom.
Medical Exemption
There may be times throughout the year when a student will need to be temporarily excused from the dress code due to a medical reason. In these cases, parent and/or student should contact the Dean of Students to request temporary permission to be out of the school dress code.
In emergency cases where non-dress code footwear is medically necessary (i.e. – ankle injury, etc.) students/parents will need to request permission from the Dean of Students. In cases where a medical exemption is permitted, a required medical note from a medical office will be required and tennis shoes are permitted for no more than one week. Following, the first week of medical necessity, students must have alternative dress shoes approved by the Dean of Students.
For a dress code exemption lasting longer than two weeks, in consultation with the administration and the school nurse, every effort must be made to find a uniform shoe, shirt, or pant that is medically acceptable and uniform compliant.
Dress Down Days
Dress Down Days are days when the student body is permitted to wear casual clothes. These days are scheduled around special events throughout the year. Participation in Dress Down Days is not required. Students may choose to wear their normal uniform.
Casual wear consists of the following:
- Jeans
- Sweatpants
- Leggings with a long shirt that covers the bottom (tunic length)
- Sweatshirts
- T-shrits
- Tennis shoes, moccasins, canvas shoes
The following may not be worn:
- Torn clothes
- See-through, low-cut, form-fitting or spaghetti strap shirts
- Shirts that do not cover the midriff
- Shorts
- Open-toed shoes
- Non-uniform skirts or dresses
- Clothes with any drug/alcohol symbols or inappropriate references
Support Services
Health
Covering general health policies, special health conditions, medications and medical emergencies.
A nurse is on duty during school hours and will care for any student needing health services for illness or injury.
General Health Policies
All students attending John Carroll must have a current physical and updated vaccine record on file, or they will be excluded from school, sports practices/games and field trips until these documents are completed. Students must be up-to-date on all vaccines required by Maryland Department of Health Center for Immunization. The John Carroll School does not allow for religious or medical exemptions for immunizations.
Students who wish to see the School Nurse during the school day must obtain a pass from their classroom teacher or, if between classes, from the teacher of the next class, then report to the Nurse’s Office.
If, after evaluation by the nurse, it is determined that the student is too ill to return to class, the nurse will call the parent to take the student home or get consent for the student to drive home. The student is not to call/text the parent requesting to go home due to illness. If a student is sent home early for illness, the nurse will give a dismissal pass and the student will be signed out in the front office. Students who are sent home early for an illness may not return for after-school activities.
Students with a temperature of 100° or greater, or who are vomiting, will be dismissed from school. Students with other illnesses or injuries will be dismissed from school at the discretion of the school nurse. Students must remain at home until they have been fever-free and not vomiting for 24 hours. Any communicable disease, serious illness, hospitalization or accident is to be reported to the School Nurse. Certain illnesses, such as strep throat or pink eye should be treated for a full 24 hours of medication before returning to school.
Special Health Conditions
Parents of students with serious or chronic health conditions (e.g., severe asthma or allergies, diabetes, seizures, emotional problems, etc.) should schedule a conference with the School Nurse to discuss any special health considerations. In the best interest of your student, and with discretion, medical information will be made available on a need-to-know basis to substitute nurses, athletic trainers, coaches, faculty and counselors.
Medications
A signed parental consent form must be filed in the nurse’s office for any discretionary medications to be administered by the school nurse, such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, cough drops, antacid and allergy medication. All prescription drugs, as well as any over-the-counter medications not listed above, must be accompanied by a Physician’s Authorization Form.
Ideally, parents will make every effort to arrange for prescription medications to be taken outside of the school day. For those students who need to take prescription medication while at school, a parent must bring the medication, in the original container, to the Nurse’s Office along with the Physician’s Authorization Form. Please administer the first dose of any new medication at home, so a parent may observe for any side-effects. A parent must pick up any remaining medication by the end of the school year, or it will be discarded; no medications will be kept in the nurse’s office over the summer break.
No medication may be carried by the student, with the exception of Emergency Medication (see below) and cough drops. All medications must be kept in the nurse’s office. Teachers and administration may be authorized to store or supervise the taking of medication while on field trips.
Emergency Medication
The School allows students to “self-carry” emergency medication (inhalers, EpiPen’s, diabetes supplies, etc.) with prior written approval by the medical provider. Students will be asked to sign a contract and demonstrate proper use of the medication, if they wish to exercise the self-carry option.
The John Carroll School adopted a policy allowing the availability of stock epinephrine in the health suite for use in the event of an anaphylactic emergency. This epinephrine is not available outside of normal school hours or on field trips. Students with known history of severe allergies are still expected to maintain emergency action plans, medical orders, and their own supply of emergency medication.
Counseling
For information regarding counseling, please visit our counseling page.
Student Life
Policies & Guidelines
Covering backpacks, unscheduled time, ID cards, food and drink, Senior Privilege, class rings, valuables and posters.
Backpacks
All backpacks are to be stored in lockers during school hours. Backpacks are not allowed in classrooms and/or laboratories during the school day without permission from the administration or without permission from the school nurse for medical reasons. Students who are off the last class of the day may take their backpacks to the cafeteria.
Unscheduled Time
Students decide at the beginning of the mod where they can profitably use their unscheduled study time. Students must remain in the chosen location until the end of the mod.
ID Cards
Photo ID cards will be issued to all students. It will be necessary for the student to have an ID card with them at all times while at school or attending a school activity on or off campus. As the ID card also doubles as a debit card for purchases in the lunch room and school store it is very important for students not to share their pin number and card.
Food and Drink
Food and drink is only permitted in the Café or designated areas. Food is not permitted in the Learning Commons. Students may take clear water bottles into classrooms with water only as the content.
Senior Privilege
Seniors may use the Upper Gym with the permission of the Athletic Director. Unacceptable conduct in these areas may result in the loss of this privilege and/or other disciplinary action. Early dismissal and late arrival privilege details will be presented by the Dean of Students at senior class assemblies prior to the effective date of these privileges. Senior privileges can be suspended at any time and are reserved for students in good standing.
Class Rings
A student must be an active member of the Junior class with intentions of graduating from John Carroll when receiving the class ring. The manufacturer of class rings requires a deposit when class rings are ordered in October of the Junior year. Once the manufacturing process begins, there can be no refunds. Participation in the ring ceremony is required for all Juniors, as it is an entire class activity. If a student does not purchase a ring they will be included in the ceremony, along with those who purchase a ring.
Valuables
Students are cautioned not to bring valuables to school (e.g., large sums of money, jewelry or electronic devices).
Valuables should be locked in lockers or athletic lockers. Personal property should not be left unsecured at any time in the athletic locker room or team bus.
Posters
Posters of any kind must be approved by the Director of Student Activities before being posted. Posters are to be displayed on the Patriot News Center bulletin board panels and should not be hung in the entrance halls. All posters, fliers and information sheets must be removed promptly after the event.
Facilities & Resources
Covering lockers, schedules, lost and found, cafeteria, office hours, student parking, elevator and APGFCU cards.
Lockers
Each student is assigned a locker, is responsible for its security and is responsible for valuables placed in the locker. Students should not give their locker combination to other students. The locker must be locked at all times when not in use. Students may not change assigned lockers without permission from the administration. Students may only go to their lockers during class changes. Student lockers (both academically and athletically) are school property and may be searched at anytime there is reasonable suspicion or concern.
Note: The Athletics locker rooms are considered out of bounds during the school day without expressed permission from a faculty member. Disciplinary consequences will be delivered for students found out of bounds.
Schedules
Student schedules are available 24/7 on Veracross. In addition, each student receives one copy of his/her class schedule at the beginning of the school year.
Lost and Found
Books and other items which are found are to be returned to the security desk in the front of the school.
Cafeteria
The cleanliness and good order of the cafeteria are the responsibility of each student. Students are expected to cooperate with the requests of the cafeteria moderator to insure the cleanliness of the cafeteria. Students may not have food delivered to the School.
Office Hours
The school office is open from 7:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. during the school year. The School operates on a modified schedule in the summer months.
Student Parking
All student cars must be registered with a visible John Carroll parking permit. An annual fee is required. Seniors are given preference for parking spaces, and only Seniors may park on the oval. Students wishing to go to their cars during the school day must report to the main office for permission. Students may not loiter in the parking lot either before or after school. Students parking on campus without a visible permit, parking in illegal or unassigned spaces, speeding or using a vehicle in a dangerous manner will be subject to disciplinary action.
Elevator Access
For students who wish to use the elevator, elevator keys are available from the School Nurse. A parent should write a note explaining the need for an elevator key and the probable period of time it will be used. A $5 refundable deposit is required for release of an elevator key to a student.
APGFCU Card
John Carroll is excited to announce our new partnership with APGFCU®. As of the 2022–2023 school year, APGFCU is the official financial institution partner with the CampusCards program, which allows students, faculty and staff to make purchases in the cafeteria and school store by linking an APGFCU account to their student ID. If you are not already a member of APGFCU, please open an account before the beginning of the next school year to take advantage of this new partnership. Prior to opening an APGFCU Campus Card account, families should email Leanne Salyer or Vicki Thacker for their student's ID number for the Campus Lunch Card.
To learn more and open an account, visit the APGFCU website or go to one of APGFCU’s many convenient branch locations.
Note: If you are a returning student, you will no longer be able to use the HARCO account for these transactions and you will receive a new APGFCU ID card at the beginning of the school year.
Student Activities
Covering after-school activities, assemblies, field trips and fundraising.
After-School Activities & School Dances
Dances and activities at John Carroll are for the students and their guests. Students who wish to bring a guest other than a John Carroll student must register the guest when the ticket is purchased. Students may register ONLY ONE guest. Tickets will not be available at the door. Unregistered guests are NOT permitted to enter any dance/activity. Guests are the direct responsibility of the sponsoring John Carroll student. If the John Carroll student does not see that his/her guest observes the school regulations, then he/she incurs the penalty connected with the violation.
- Students must be present during the major part of the school day in order to attend after school events (e.g., dances, sports events, plays, etc.).
- Students and their guests must dress in an appropriate fashion. Dress guidelines are published for each dance.
- Once admitted to the dance, students may not leave and return. If students leave the dance, they must also leave the school grounds. Students leaving before 10:00 p.m. will be required to sign out.
- The door closes one hour after the dance begins (e.g., at 9:00 p.m. for a dance beginning at 8:00 p.m.). Consideration will be given to students arriving up to a half-hour later than the deadline; however, a penalty will be imposed.
- No loitering in automobiles or in the parking lot.
- All school rules with respect to drugs, alcohol, tobacco and vaporizers apply to everyone who attends the dance/activity.
- Rowdy or dangerous dancing may result in removal from the dance with possible further disciplinary action.
- As a Catholic, co-educational institution, part of our mission is to foster in students respect for themselves, one another and the community as a whole. Some modern dance styles are contrary to our mission and are unacceptable. Inappropriate dancing can expect one or more of the following consequences: penalty time off the dance floor; a phone call to parents; dismissal from the dance; and be kept from attending future dance(s).
Violation of the above procedures may result in disciplinary action.
Assemblies
Students must sit in assigned seats unless otherwise directed. Students are expected to listen courteously, and should not read, write or use earphones during an assembly. Students are expected to remain in the assembly for the entire assembly. In “mixed level” classes (for example: a sophomore in a mostly junior class) students should attend class and go to the assembly with that class. Thus, there will be some freshmen and sophomores at the junior/senior assembly and some juniors and seniors at the freshmen/sophomore assembly. If a student is unclear as to which assembly the student should attend, it is the student’s responsibility to check with the teacher. Attending the wrong assembly and missing class may lead to disciplinary action.
Field Trips
The School requires parents to provide written consent for a student to participate in any trip sponsored by the School during the school day, after school, on weekends, holidays or during summer vacation. If parents do not receive a field trip permission slip, the trip is not an official school trip.
- If the parent permission form is not returned to the teacher/trip moderator by the established deadline, the student will not be permitted to go on the field trip.
- A student may be denied permission for a trip if he/she fails to meet academic or behavior standards.
- If a student fails to comply with the advisor’s directives on a school trip, the advisor will report the infraction to the administration upon return to school, and the student will be subject to the School’s disciplinary procedures.
- If a student’s behavior warrants removal from the trip, the parents will be contacted to arrange for the return of the student home at the parents’ expense.
Fundraising/Selling Items
Students, parents, alumni and friends may not fundraise in the name of the School without prior approval.
All fundraising activities must be approved at least 30 days prior to the planned activity or event. All individuals and groups must have a current faculty or staff member submit a Fundraising Request Form to Mrs. Kathy Walsh, Chief Advancement Officer, and receive prior written approval before proceeding with the event/activity.
All charitable gifts, whether in-kind or monetary, made by a donor to John Carroll as a part of a fundraising activity or event must be processed through and acknowledged by the Advancement Office as outlined in John Carroll’s Fundraising Policy.
Third-party fundraisers (seeking financial donations for other causes) are not permitted. Fundraising projects and events must directly benefit John Carroll, which is itself a non-profit organization and certified 501c3 with annual fundraising goals and priorities to meet.
Individual teams, clubs and programs are permitted to hold camps, clinics, workshops and/or tournaments, with the purpose of engaging prospective students and fundraising for their team, club or program. For any additional fundraising requests outside of camps, clinics, workshops, tournaments, etc., there is a limit of two fundraising events per year (per team, club or program).
Furthermore, students and/or family members and/or outside agencies are not permitted to sell any items before, during or after school (or at school-based events in the evening or weekend) without the expressed written consent of the School’s administration. Any student who attempts to fundraise and/or sell items without approval will face disciplinary action.
Safety
Covering emergency drills and reckless behavior.
Emergency Drills
Evacuation directions are posted in each classroom, office and common space. Students will follow exit instructions, walk quickly but not run, and refrain from speaking. It may be necessary for special instructions to be announced over the public address system. Shelter-in-place and lockdown drills will also be scheduled and completed, as required.
Reckless and Careless Acts
Respect for the rights and property of others, including John Carroll’s property, is fundamental to developing young men and women of moral integrity. Damaging property, personal or school, will not be tolerated. Restitution must be made for all damage, even accidental damage, to personal and school property.
Administrative Policies
Use of School Name and Logo
The School owns the name of the School and all logos. No individual or group may use the name of the School or any logo which represents the School without prior permission from the Strategic Marketing and Communication Department. This restriction includes, but is not limited to, items of apparel, printed materials and electronic sites (e.g., blogs).
Campus
Covering building use, emergency closing, asbestos and trespassing.
Building Use
Prior to 7:45 a.m. and after 4:00 p.m., students are not permitted in the academic wing without permission.
The gym may be used by John Carroll students outside of the regular school hours (e.g., on weekends, holidays, summer), only with the explicit permission of the School and under the direct supervision of a faculty or staff member. Use of the School outside of regular school hours (e.g., athletics, decorating for dance, variety show rehearsal), is permitted only when a faculty or staff member/advisor is in attendance.
For more information about our facilities, visit our Campus page.
Emergency Closings
In the event of inclement weather or other emergencies, it may be necessary for John Carroll to be closed, open late or dismiss early. John Carroll’s emergency policy is announced via our emergency communication system, Remind, as well as through the School website and social media. Typically, the School’s emergency policy is the same as that announced by Harford County Public Schools (with the exception of extreme heat); however, if HCPS is not in session and/or not utilizing emergency closures for weather-related events then the decision is made by The John Carroll School. The best and most accurate way to receive school related emergency closing information is to register for the School’s emergency communication system. If school is operating as usual, an announcement WILL NOT be made.
When school is closed due to bad weather (either all day or closing early), all use of the building/facilities is canceled.
Asbestos
Federal law requires all schools to inspect their buildings for asbestos containing materials and to develop Management Plans for those materials that are found. The School has completed this Inspection/Management Plan and has submitted a copy to the Maryland Department of the Environment.
The asbestos Inspection/Management Plan is available for review, by appointment, during regular business hours. If you would like to review this report, please contact the school office for an appointment. All appointment requests will be honored within five business days of their receipt. Additionally, copies of the Inspection/Management Plan can be made available, upon written request, for the cost of reproduction.
Furthermore, the school maintenance and custodial staff have received specialized asbestos training, and visually survey the building every six months. Additionally, should asbestos removal be required, other than in-house small scale minor repairs, only fully EPA accredited contractors will be used. Asbestos removal will continue as necessary.
Trespassing
Trespass notice will be issued to any non-authorized person on the school property at any time.
Personal Information & Contact
Covering changes to personal information, FERPA and email responsibility.
Changes to Personal Information
If a family should change their mailing address, phone number and/or email address, it is the family’s responsibility to notify the School. Notification can be made in writing or by emailing the School Registrar. Parents are able to update their contact information in the Veracross Parent Portal.
Family Educational Rights & Privacy Acts (FERPA)
The School protects the right of privacy of students and their parents by ensuring that the school’s policies comply with the guidelines of FERPA. In brief, FERPA requires schools to provide parents and eligible students access to records directly related to the students; to permit parents and eligible students to challenge those records on the grounds that they are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy or other rights; to obtain the written consent of parents and eligible students before releasing personally identifiable information about the students contained in education records to other than organizations or individuals described in statutory exceptions; and to notify parents and eligible students of these rights.
Non-custodial parents will be given access to the academic records and to information regarding the academic progress of their children, unless there is a court order specifically stating that the non-custodial parent is denied access to such information.
Email Responsibility
The School uses email as a preferred way of communicating with parents. It is expected that families have an email address that is checked regularly, and that the School is notified of any changes to that email address.
Student Conduct & Safety
Covering conduct, visitors and after-school supervision.
Conduct
Realizing that an all-inclusive listing of various expectations would be impossible to outline on these pages, the administration reserves the right to take disciplinary action for any offense that in the opinion of the School’s administration, violates the good behavior standards expected of a John Carroll student. The School reserves the right to take disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal, against any student who participates in any activity after school hours, on or off school property, if that activity, in the sole discretion of the administration, would render continued matriculation of that student at The John Carroll School, inconsistent with the overall mission, goals and image of the School.
Visitors
Student visitors may visit only with the express permission of the Dean of Students, and permission must be obtained at least one day in advance of the scheduled visit. Students should not have paid food services (e.g., Door Dash) drop off food at the front of the School during the school day. In cases where parents are dropping off a forgotten lunch and/or school supply, they may leave it with security at the front desk.
After-School Supervision
School ends at 2:45 p.m., with the exception of D Day early dismissals (2:15 p.m.) and other special, early dismissal days. The faculty school day ends at 3:30 p.m. After that time, direct supervision of students is not provided, unless a student is involved in a school-sponsored activity.
Student Status & Legal
Covering continuation at The John Carroll School, legal custody, student status and military information requests.
Continuation at John Carroll
The School reserves the right to determine if a student will be permitted to return for the next school year.
The Principal will make the final judgment concerning a student’s continued enrollment at John Carroll. The Principal is guided in this decision not only by concern for the individual but by a responsibility to the school community. In making such a decision, the Principal will generally consult with members of the administration and may meet with the student and his/her parent(s).
In the event that a student withdraws, the parent or legal guardian must notify the school administration. Official transcripts/school records will not be released until such notification and the following conditions are met: all tuitions and fees obligations are satisfied; all state textbooks are returned in satisfactory condition; all school uniforms and equipment have been returned; all media center/library materials are returned; and all school store charges satisfied. All school-owned computers and peripherals must be returned.
Legal Custody
It is the responsibility of the parents to keep the School informed of the legal custody and legal guardianship of their students. This includes information about residential and non-residential parents. The School must be informed of the non-residential parent’s visitation rights, access to school records, attendance at school activities and responsibility for paying tuition.
In cases where parents are divorced, the School must receive the following: a certified copy of the first page of the decree bearing the case number; the pages referring to custody and contacts with the School; and the page bearing the judge’s signature and court seal. It is the responsibility of the parents to inform the School of any subsequent modifications during the student’s tenure at the School.
Legal Status of Student
A John Carroll student may not be married. A student must live at home or in a place specifically approved by the parent/legal guardian or a court of law in concurrence with school policy.
Military Request for Student Information
By law, the School has two obligations: (1) to inform parents that they may “opt out” – e.g., request that the School not release any directory information to the military; and (2) in the absence of a parental request to withhold the directory information, military recruiters can properly require us to provide three information items – e.g., student names, addresses and telephone listings.
Any parent or legal guardian who does not want his or her student’s name, address and telephone listing to be forwarded when a request is made by the military must notify the School’s Counseling Department no later than September 30 of each school year.
It is the policy of the State of Maryland that all public and publicly funded schools and school programs operate in compliance with:
- Title VI of the federal Civil Rights Act of 1964; and
- Title 26, Subtitle 7 of the Education Article of the Maryland Code, which states that public and publicly funded schools and programs may not:
- i. Discriminate against a current student, a prospective student, or the parent or guardian of a current or prospective student on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability;
- ii. Refuse enrollment of a prospective student, expel a current student, or withhold privileges from a current student, a prospective student, or the parent or guardian of a current or prospective student because of an individual’s race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability; or
- iii. Discipline, invoke a penalty against, or take any other retaliatory action against a student or parent or guardian of a student who files a complaint alleging that the program or school discriminated against the student, regardless of the outcome of the complaint.
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