Parent/Student Handbook 2020-2021 - Franciscan Montessori ...
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Founded 1977
Parent/Student Handbook
2020-2021
(Revised August 28, 2019)
14750 SE Clinton St.
Portland, OR 97236-2316
Phone: 503-760-8220
Fax: 503-760-8333
Email: info@fmes.org
Web: www.fmes.org
iiMission Statement
The Franciscan Montessori Earth School provides students from early childhood through young adolescence
the skills to acquire individual fulfillment, academic excellence, moral and spiritual development, confidence
and independence for lifelong learning. Through the academic and experiential learning process developed by
Maria Montessori, and influenced by the spirituality of St. Francis, students are guided to respect themselves
and others, and to be stewards of the earth.
Dear Parents:
This handbook has been prepared by the staff of the Franciscan Montessori Earth School.
We have found the policies developed in this handbook an aid in fostering harmony and cooperation
among the staff, parents and students.
We realize that our role as a school is as a secondary partner and collaborator with your child.
Please read this information and use it as a reference throughout the year. We hope by working together
we can “Follow the Child” into new levels of growth and challenge for all of us.
In the words of St. Francis of Assisi we bless you and your family. May the Lord bless you, may He show
His face to you and grant you peace.
Blessings,
Sister Therese Gutting, F.S.E.
Head of School
iiINDEX
Mission Statement .....................................................0 Birthdays and Holidays at School ..............................9
Abbreviations & Definitions………………………..ii Noon Nutrition/(N2) Program ................................. 10
School History ...........................................................1 FMES Food Mission ................................................ 10
Vision Statement........................................................1 Grace and Courtesy ................................................. 11
FMES Affirmative Action Policy ..............................1 Hydration ................................................................. 11
School Affiliations Internationale, Amsterdam, Classroom Snacks .................................................... 11
Netherlands ................................................................1
Gardening at FMES ................................................. 11
School Goals and Objectives .....................................2
Carpools................................................................... 11
Learning Differences .................................................3
Financial Policy ....................................................... 12
Atrium Program (Religious Education) .....................3
Tuition Assistance ................................................... 12
Middle School Adolescent Program ..........................3
Early Withdrawal Policy ......................................... 13
FMES Before & After Care: Montessori Aspect .......4
Charitable Giving .................................................... 13
Daily Schedule ...........................................................4
Annual Fund ............................................................ 13
Daily Routine......................................................... …4
Social Misconduct Policy ........................................ 13
Morning Drop-off Procedure .....................................5
Harassment Policy ................................................... 14
Afternoon Pickup .......................................................5
Anti-Bullying Policy................................................ 15
Inclement Weather .....................................................5
School Commitment ................................................ 15
Parent Alert ................................................................5
Freedom ................................................................... 16
Illness at School .........................................................6
FMES Fair Share Volunteer Program ...................... 16
Attendance Policy ......................................................6
Parent Participation.................................................. 16
Tardiness....................................................................6
Telephone, Cell Phone and Electronic Equipment .. 16
Absences ....................................................................6
Internet Usage/Cell Phone Policy ............................ 16
Medication at School .................................................6
Cell Phone Guide Lines: .......................................... 16
Allergies ....................................................................6
School Photographs ................................................. 17
Health ........................................................................6
Fire/Earthquake/Disaster and Dangerous Person
Immunizations ...........................................................6 Drills ........................................................................ 17
Clothing .....................................................................7 Safety Committee .................................................... 17
Pets in School ............................................................8 Philosophy of the FMES Extra Curriculum Sports
Program ................................................................... 17
Outside Play...............................................................8
Notification of Outings ............................................ 19
Authorized Pick Up List ............................................8
School Safety .............................................................8
Family/Visitor/Volunteer ID .....................................9
Observations/Conferences .........................................9
Observing in Children’s House .................................9
Observing Elementary and Middle School ................9
iFranciscan Montessori Earth School 14750 SE Clinton St., Portland OR 97236-2316
UE Upper Elementary
ABBREVIATIONS & DEFINITIONS
MA Montessori Aspect (Before & After Care)
FMES Franciscan Montessori Earth School
N2 Noon Nutrition
AP Adolescent Program (Middle School)
E2 Earth Experience
FSE Franciscan Sisters of the Eucharist
RA Responsible Adult
NWAIS Northwest Association of Independent
FACTs School Administration Software
Schools
ParentsWeb The FACTs Portal for Parents
WCEA Western Catholic Educational Association
CH Children’s House
LE Lower Elementary
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Email: info@FMES.orgFranciscan Montessori Earth School 14750 SE Clinton St., Portland OR 97236-2316
By providing protected environments, based on the
School History respect for human work and the integrity of social
relationships.
The Franciscan Montessori Earth School was
established in 1977 for children six years of age to 12 Recognizing the need for balanced relationships, all
years of age, as a direct response to many parents FSE programs offer guidance as a means to realizing
wishing a continuation of the exceptionally positive and accepting one’s own personal dignity and
Montessori Pre-School experience for their children. uniqueness as a way of entering Transcendence.
Under the stewardship and administration of the
We further believe “the family is the nucleus in
Franciscan Sisters of the Eucharist, the first
which every living culture is rooted and grows . . .
classroom opened in a rented facility in Northeast
the family must be considered the privileged
Portland with 17 students. In September 1981, the
foundation for the transmission and enrichment of a
first Children’s House was opened to accommodate
people’s wisdom, the soil in which are cultivated the
children ages two and a half to six years. The
ethical and spiritual values that give a living culture
Transition-Erdkinder (Adolescent Program) was
its fullest dignity.” (Gospel Message and Human
begun with 17 students in 1985. With the Children’s
Cultures. From Leo XIII to John Paul II, Herve
House Environment and the Adolescent Program, the
Carrier, S.J., Pittsburgh: Duquesne University Press,
Franciscan Montessori Earth School developed a
1987, page 65.)
Montessori program for children ages two and a half
to 15 years, the first in the Pacific Northwest. Therefore we believe and uphold the sacredness of
marriage. Strong, supportive relationships between
The Franciscan Montessori Earth School of Portland,
husband and wife, parent and child, family and
Oregon is an integral part of the Franciscan Life
school, and family and Church, provide the
Center Network, the apostolate of the Franciscan
environment in which students can know a security
Sisters of the Eucharist, which identifies with the life
permitting them to face the challenges of growth and
and doctrine of the Catholic Church and knows
development (recognizing that this family
continuity through the pattern of community life
configuration is not always operative).
lived within the Life Centers of the Franciscan Sisters
of the Eucharist. The Franciscan Life Center Network Respect for family life is a prime family value. An
consists of four major centers. integral part of family life, education requires a
balance of prayer, work and recreation.
Vision Statement Roman Catholic religious doctrine is inherent in all
our programs, with the invitation for those not of the
The Educational Programs of the Franciscan Sisters Roman Catholic faith to participate according to their
of the Eucharist maintain that all life is sacred, and ability, while simultaneously respecting their own
therefore this religious community is dedicated to religious beliefs.
protect and promote the inherent value of each
individual human life:
FMES Affirmative Action Policy
By teaching the respect for human life in all its
phases of development; The Franciscan Montessori Earth School admits
students of any race, color, religion, national or
By maintaining that individual uniqueness is an
ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs and
entrance into the dynamic of becoming;
activities generally accorded or made available to all
By recognizing that autonomy (the unfolding of schools. It does not discriminate on the basis of race,
personhood) is achieved in following harmoniously color, national or ethnic origin in administration of its
the natural rhythms in nature, through mutual human educational policies, tuition assistance and loan
interdependence, and reverence for all life forms; programs, and other school-administered programs.
By establishing prepared environments, that provide
elements and experiences of created matter of the School Affiliations Internationale,
natural and human environment, valued in Amsterdam, Netherlands
themselves for their inherent integrity, order and
beauty, and as media of personal growth; The Franciscan Montessori Earth School has been
recognized by the Association Montessori
International, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
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Email: info@FMES.org Web page: www.FMES.orgFranciscan Montessori Earth School 14750 SE Clinton St., Portland OR 97236-2316
As a private Catholic pre K-8 School, the Franciscan home, school and community; attitudes of
Montessori Earth School is an accredited member of cooperation, balanced emotional integration; and
the Northwest Association of Independent Schools an aesthetic sensibility.
(NWAIS and WCEA), is registered with the State of
3. Students can develop a complementary social
Oregon, Department of Education, and is recognized
structure, which will balance the contrasting
by this state as a legitimate private school, qualifying
needs of the individual and the needs of the
for Block Grants, Title I funds and any other such
group. Guidance that follows the natural human
services available through the State of Oregon
tendencies, the prepared environment, and
Department of Education for private schools. The
lessons in “grace and courtesy” are catalysts to
Before and After School Care Program (Montessori
this end.
Aspect) is licensed with the State of Oregon’s
Children’s Services Division. All salaries and 4. Students should experience consistent
operating costs come principally from tuition. expectations throughout the school environment.
Outside of salaries for staff, administration, and The Before & After Care environments, known
services rendered, no profit accrues to any individual. as Montessori Aspect, should act in concert with
All monies received are used to provide a highly the expected Montessori pedagogy in the
qualified staff, a well-equipped and maintained classroom. Objectives for achieving this goal
learning environment, and an effective program of focus on the reality that Montessori is not merely
learning. An Annual Fund is active and necessary to a method of education but a philosophy for life.
continue to provide this excellent Montessori
Specific processes for experiencing learning in this
education.
context include:
School Goals and Objectives 1. Providing a carefully prepared environment with
specific materials, activities, and opportunities
The major goals are: that are developmentally appropriate to a
particular plane of development;
1. Students have an inner guide, a natural force,
which drives them to “construct” themselves 2. Connecting the child to the environment by
toward their unique potential. With this process providing carefully prepared presentations or
“a new beginning for humanity takes place.” lessons, using a specific material that relates a
specific concept;
Our educational aim with children must be to aid
the spontaneous development of the mental, 3. Affirming that students have natural human
spiritual and physical personality, and not to tendencies in their own development that are
make of the child a cultured individual in the evidenced by their spontaneous activities;
commonly accepted sense of the term . . . “after 4. Incorporating consciously these natural human
we have offered to the child such didactic tendencies within the learning process;
material as we adapted to provoke the
development of his senses, we must wait until the 5. Providing opportunities for students’ relentless
activity known as observation develops. And exploration through their natural senses and
herein lies the art of the educator; in knowing freedom of movement, cooperative work and
how to measure the action by which we help the observation;
child’s personality to develop.” 6. Maintaining a program that will free students to
--Maria Montessori explore their inner spiritual resources through
exposure to religious paths and moral
2. Students develop and educate themselves in a development.
way that is natural. The goal developmentally is
that the child may remain in touch with his/her Montessori education is based also on the observation
own nature and develop a reverence for the that children learn according to their physical,
organic order of the universe, resulting in a psychological, and spiritual stages of growth. In the
whole, integrated human being vitally involved first three years of each stage, new development
in his/her own development and sensitive to the occurs; it is crystallized in the second three years of
needs of others. Such development includes a each plane of development. Children exhibit a great
healthy, well-coordinated body, active and deal of insecurity, disorder, and signs of non-
creative imagination, and resourcefulness with a conformity at the beginning of each new plane. They
sense of interdependence; sound attitudes toward
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need the recognition of their peers, in addition to that Baptist and Paul--beginning to identify our unique
of their family. call and response in our culture and the world today.
We begin the study of two other great monotheistic
The policy of the school is to accept all eligible
religions--Judaism and Islam. Each session begins
students regardless of racial, cultural, religious or
with a silent work time offering the skill of centering,
socio-economic background.
meditation, prior to their work with UE materials.
Learning Differences Middle School: In the seventh and eighth grades the
students explore the origins of religious belief. The
FMES recognizes and values the academic potential idea of the “sacred,” myth and ritual, creation
of students of diverse learning abilities. Although accounts, origins of natural law, the Mosaic Law, and
our program is not geared specifically to students the foundations of Christianity. They then investigate
with learning disabilities or attention problems, the other great religions of the world besides Judaism
students can experience success at FMES when and Christianity--Hinduism, Islam, and Buddhism,
supported by an honest and cooperative teacher- viewing them in relationship to the Judeo-Christian
student-parent relationship. Parents are expected to Tradition.
inform the School if their child has a previously
diagnosed learning or attention difference. If a The following is a breakdown of the additional
student is having serious academic or behavior information provided for Catholic students as an
difficulty, the Guide and/or Administrator may introduction to the sacraments:
request that he or she be evaluated by an independent
Primary: Eucharist and Baptism
professional diagnostician who can hopefully clarify
the nature and source of the difference. Such an Lower Elementary: Eucharist, Baptism and Penance
evaluation may be a prerequisite for the student’s
continued enrollment at FMES. The results of such Upper Elementary: Eucharist, Baptism, Penance and
an evaluation will be used to develop strategies to Confirmation
help the student. The School may also decide that the
Middle School: An understanding of the Catholic
student’s interests will be served better in a learning
church and an exploration of world religions.
environment different from the one the School can
offer.
Middle School Adolescent Program
Atrium Program (Religious The Adolescent Program is the middle school,
Education) encompassing seventh and eighth grade, of the
Franciscan Montessori Earth School.
All children are welcome to take part in the
spirituality component of the school. The Catechesis Preparation for the middle school began in 1982, as
of the Good Shepherd is a Christian process serving the oldest group of students approached the end of
CH, LE and UE. their elementary work. Several of them, with the
support of their parents, wanted to continue their
The following is a breakdown of the information Montessori education. Coupled with this interest was
shared in the Christian Orientation Program. the enthusiasm generated by a number of experiments
Primary: We focus on the life and teachings of Christ in Montessori secondary education, which were
with emphasis on Messianic prophecies, Infancy springing up across the United States. After
Narratives, parables of love and protection, parables thoroughly researching the possibilities, the school
of the Kingdom of God, and the geography of Israel. community decided to open a Junior High program.
Like most other experiments then underway, this one
Lower Elementary: We continue to develop the was to be an “urban compromise”--that is, a
above concepts and move more deeply into the secondary program guided as much as possible by
teachings of Christ, such as the parables dealing with Dr. Montessori’s insights into adolescence, but not a
values and mercy. true rural, residential Erdkinder. In a research report
developed at that time, the school declared: “While it
Upper Elementary: We move further into the is our hope that the Junior High (Middle School)
development of values and talents; we study Creation program evolve into the Erdkinder we realize the
and Redemption, the call and response of Abraham, wisdom of beginning with a program which is not
Moses and other Old Testament prophets, John the only consistent with Montessori principles, but also
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more easily accomplished and more traditional.” The The variety of ages, activities and materials, as well
program opened in September 1985 with 17 seventh as the personnel, offer a rich and captivating
and eighth year students. From the beginning it has environment for your child. It promises to help your
offered a broad spectrum of activities--all developed child gain social skills and insight into new and
as a response to the skills internalized by these young varied learning approaches while having fun.
people in the course of their Montessori education.
Montessori Aspect consists of two segments:
Montessori Aspect Before Care (AM) and
FMES Before & After Care: Montessori Aspect After Care (PM). Montessori
Montessori Aspect Aspect AM/PM is available on most days during
breaks.
As is apparent from the school's philosophy
statement, Before & After Care, (Montessori Aspect) Children arriving at school before 8:30am and those
is an integral part of the total program at the FMES. leaving after 2:30pm (for CH), or 3:30pm (for
Elementary), must be supervised; all will be charged
Our Before & After Care Program, Montessori for participation in the Montessori Aspect Program.
Aspect (MA), is an environment prepared and Montessori Aspect is not offered for the half day
developed upon the principle of respect for the Children’s House students.
student's capacities and developing self-direction.
MA hourly fee is $7.25 and is prorated based on time
Appropriate materials are available for students based of participation. MA fees are billed monthly.
on their interest and developmental levels.
Care provided after 6:00pm closing time will be
Consideration for the culture of the students, their charged at $3.00 per minute.
home and backgrounds is apparent through the
activities available and the materials used.
Daily Schedule
Students of different ages share experiences in a
setting reflecting a familial environment. 7:00am Montessori Aspect available
We are proud of the many activities that Montessori 8:15-8:30am Students move from Montessori
Aspect has to offer: games, building materials, Aspect to classroom
puzzles and books. These, in addition to the variety 8:30am-12:00pm Children's House Half Day
of options the school offers, such as the library, gym, Program
and play structures, makes Montessori Aspect an
integrated before and after school program. Working 8:30am-2:30pm Children's House Extended Day
and playing in the Montessori Aspect environment Program
helps us realize that the Montessori philosophy is a 8:30am-3:30pm Elementary (LE and UE)
way of life.
8:30am-3:30pm St. Francis Academy (SFA)
Because we want the students to take pride in
2:45pm Early Dismissal every
this program with us, we ask that parents wait
Wednesday for Elementary (LE
patiently while the students get themselves ready
and UE) & AP. Supervision until
to leave for the day. It is important for them to
3:30pm is included in tuition.
finish the process of their work by themselves.
First they choose it, then they work/play with it, 2:30-6:00pm Montessori Aspect available
then they put it away properly. Sometimes
parents find it hard to wait, but to continue the Daily Routine
Montessori approach for your child, it is
necessary to follow the same process as in the Consistency in your child's daily routine and your
classroom. Your awareness of this process will attitude toward this routine are vital to his/her
help you understand why at times you wait for feelings of security.
your child. We would like to emphasize the importance of
If you need your child immediately upon your arrival, the student’s timely arrival in the classroom.
call the office ahead of time. We can alert your child Children’s House, Elementary and AP students
and give them a "head start" with departure should be in their classrooms no later than
preparation. 8:30am.
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Dr. Montessori stated that work has a beginning, Be sure each morning your child's belongings are
middle and end. It is not an exaggeration to say that a together and that last minute business is taken care of
child deprived of the proper beginning in the before you enter the school yard.
classroom is psychologically and objectively
deprived of the most important part of his/her day. Make good-byes cheerful and brief.
Too late an arrival tends to make a child feel like an If complications develop while you are in the car,
“outsider” because the work has started before he/she pull into the parking lot so you can take the time you
arrived. need to get things taken care of without impeding the
Give your child plenty of time to get ready for flow of traffic.
school, the same amount every day. Travel the same Never park in driveway and leave your car.
route. Attempt not to rush, because we don't want to
associate rushing and an accompanying sense of guilt
with the school experience. Essentially, if you Afternoon Pickup
establish a happy pattern of beginning each day with
regular and predictable events preceding your child's Please arrange to have your students picked up at
arrival at the school, he/she will be eager and able to their dismissal time (12:00pm, 2:30pm or 3:30pm).
get the most out of his/her day, while at the same Children's House, Lower Elementary, and Upper
time establishing a positive attitude. Elementary students leave through the Lobby door.
Students who are not picked up at dismissal will go
After the initial orientation period, please leave your to Montessori Aspect until their ride arrives. (MA is
child at the reception area or front door of the not available for the half day CH program.) After
classroom. An apprehensive child is usually quickly dismissal at 3:30pm parents picking up students from
involved in an interesting activity. Montessori Aspect are to follow the phone procedure
in the lobby.
Students are met for the 2:30pm and 3:30pm
dismissals.
Inclement Weather
Children’s House: Children are brought from the
classroom to the Main Hallway.* At times of inclement weather, the policy regarding
school closure for the Franciscan Montessori Earth
Lower Elementary: Children are to be collected at School will be the same as for the CENTENNIAL
the classroom door.* school district and/or PORTLAND PUBLIC
SCHOOLS, whichever has the latest start time or
Upper Elementary: Children are brought from the
closure. Listen to the radio (KINK 102 FM, KEX
classroom to the Main Hallway and Lobby.*
1190AM, OPB 91.5FM or watch television (KOIN
Middle School: Children are met in the courtyard Channel 6, KPTV Channel 12) or check our web
outside of Clare Hall. page. It is not necessary to verify the report with a
phone call to the school. You will also receive a text
*Unless otherwise instructed by Guide. message and email through Parent Alert. There is no
Montessori Aspect available when the school closes,
or in the morning if we have a late start time due to
Morning Drop-off Procedure inclement weather. If we start late, Montessori
The first priority is the safety of the students and the Aspect will be available (on its usual schedule) in the
second is smooth, efficient, flow of traffic. Drivers afternoon. After 6:30am our school, whenever
MUST remain in their cars, pulling out as soon as the possible, will be mentioned by name regarding
students are safely clear. This procedure applies to closure or late opening.
children who are able to disembark and get inside
independently, or a sibling who is able to help them. Parent Alert
If your child needs help, or you have business inside
the school (no matter how brief), please park in the Parent Alert is a mass notification system comprised
parking lot or on the street and walk in. of SMS text messaging to cell phones to
communicate school closures due to weather,
Hints that will help this procedure be smooth and emergency situations, etc. Alerts will be sent to the
comfortable for children and drivers alike: cell phone numbers of your family marked as
“custody” in FACTs. We may send to additional
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contacts within your FACTs account in emergency Absences
situations. If you do not receive a SMS text, please
contact the school to add your cell phone number to If your child shows signs of fever, unusual rash, etc.,
our system we ask that you keep them home. If a child is
uncomfortable at school, we may call and ask that
Illness at School your child be picked up. If your child will be absent
the school must be notified. If the child or a sibling
If a student becomes ill during school hours, the has contracted a contagious disease, the school must
parent will be contacted immediately. When be informed.
appropriate, the student may need to go home; your
It is inevitable when students are together that they
child should have the security of knowing the place
will come in contact with other students’ germs.
where he/she is to go in case of illness and you are
not at home. If the student cannot go home, or the Unfortunately, symptoms often do not appear until
parent cannot be reached, the student will remain at after the class has been exposed. We have found that
by the third year, most students have built up
school until the parent is contacted.
immunity to colds, etc., and our children rarely miss
In cases of extreme medical emergency, when the a day of their third year in Children’s House.
parent cannot be reached, the student will be taken to
Portland Adventist Hospital (503-257-2500). All Medication at School
efforts will be made to reach the parents and inform
them of the nature of the emergency and the action If a student is to take medication during school hours,
taken. Parents are required to sign the medical the Medication Form must be completed and left
permission in the online enrollment packet. with the office staff who will lock it in the medicine
cabinet. Medication Forms are found in the wall file
This form is found in ParentsWeb and must be signed in the Lobby. Leave the form and the medication at
before classes begin in September. Please update this the front desk in the lobby.
form immediately if phone or address changes.
All medication is kept in the office. The medication
will be administered during the day per your
Attendance Policy instructions. Please indicate whether the medication
is to be refrigerated and if it will be picked up each
The normal school day begins at 8:30am and ends at
day.
noon and 2:30pm for Children’s House and 3:30pm
for all other levels. Wednesday is early dismissal. Nonprescription drugs such as cough drops, vitamins,
Where Children’s House ends at noon and 2:30pm aspirin, etc., are also left at the office. Do not put
and all other levels end at 2:45pm Prompt and regular them in your child’s lunch box or allow your child to
attendance is required at all classes. Daily records of keep nonprescription drugs on their person.
attendance are kept for each student by the Guides. If
a student is absent the school is to be informed. If a
Allergies
student is absent without such notification, school
staff will notify the parent or guardian by telephone. If your child has food and/or medicine allergies,
Besides being a state law and a school requirement, please be sure to notify the school, and to fill out the
attending regularly is in a student’s best interest. It medical portion of the enrollment form on FACTs.
ensures the maximum opportunity for learning and
for completing course requirements.
Health
Tardiness Students entering FMES must have a complete
physical checkup before entering school. The
Students are expected to be ready to work when class Oregon Certificate of Immunization Status is
begins. If they are not ready to work, they are tardy. required when your child enters school.
(Readiness to work means having all necessary
books, papers, writing tools, or other required Immunizations
materials prepared for immediate use).
An Oregon Certificate of Immunization Status
(CIS) form showing all pertinent vaccination
information or applicable exemptions is required to
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be on file for each child by the first day of school, or understand that the school expects its students and
an official record of vaccinations given by your staff to conform to its dress code.
Doctor.
Modesty is an attitude. It begins by being
Ensuring that the school has a signed and dated, comfortable with oneself. Modesty is taught and
current and accurate Certificate (CIS), or a current practiced when one learns to keep others from being
Doctor’s record for each student is the Parent’s exploited. When we teach modesty we teach that one
responsibility. If you have any doubts, check with the does not try to attract too much attention to oneself.
office to ensure accurate and complete records are on We encourage the students to dress in a moderate and
file. If needed, blank forms are available here at the comfortable way, discreetly covering their body with
school. reverence and respect. Consequently we teach the
students to avoid fad styles and immodest dress.
If your child’s records are incomplete or not on file
with the school: Each Guide, Assistant and Staff person is responsible
for the application of the code.
1. Get a Certificate of Immunization Status (CIS)
The Dress Code on campus is considered “school
form from the school, or from the State Health
attire.”
Department and fill out the month and year for
each dose of vaccine your child has received. Appropriate school attire includes:
2. Submit a complete and accurate record clearly All clothing should be in good condition without
indicating it was issued by your Doctor. holes or tattered hems.
3. On the CIS form indicate that your child is All clothing should be without branding
exempt from being immunized for the following and/or graphics that could be deemed
reasons: offensive (i.e. profanity or suggestive
language; promotion of alcohol, tobacco,
a) Medical (please submit a letter signed by a
cannabis or illegal substances)
licensed physician with CIS form)
b) Nonmedical (parent’s signature required on All clothing should be without political
page one, page two and in the Nonmedical branding
Exemption box) All clothing should be neutral in theme (i.e.
no princess dresses, military fatigues, goth-
Again, your child’s Doctor is the best resource for all look)
immunization questions. You may also call the
All shirts should cover the midriff, be
school if you have general questions about current
requirements. modestly cut and not sheer
Sleeveless shirts should have a two-inch
strap width.
Clothing Leggings should be worn with shirts that
Our Mission Statement says “The Franciscan fall at the lower hip
Montessori Earth School provides students Shorts/Skirts/Dresses should fall to a
from early childhood through young length of two inches above the knee
adolescence the skills to acquire individual Skirts/Dresses should not have slits that
fulfillment, academic excellence, moral and extend past two inches above the knee
spiritual development, confidence and Hats/Caps should not be worn in class
independence for lifelong learning. Through
Shoes should allow the student to kick
the academic and experiential learning process
without loss of a shoe (i.e. no flip flops) and
developed by Maria Montessori, and
influenced by the spirituality of St. Francis, be lower than 2 inches in heel height
students are guided to respect themselves and Hair should be of natural color (no dye) and
others, and to be stewards of the earth.” styled modestly (i.e. no mohawks or spiked
styles)
It is within this context that we expect students to
Makeup is not appropriate at the Children’s
dress in a manner appropriate for a Catholic
Montessori educational program. It is the House and Elementary levels. At Middle
responsibility of both the student and parent to School, it should be modestly applied
Piercings of the ears only
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Tattoos should not be visible (this includes Pets in School
temporary and henna tattoos)
Children love to share their pets at the Earth School.
We have such a diverse school population we must
Unacceptable school attire remember to be respectful of all families when pets
includes: are visiting. Cats need to be in arms or carrier, dogs
in arms or on a short leash. Rodents and birds are in
Clothing with holes or tattered hems cages. Owners are responsible for their animals at all
Clothing with branding and/or graphics that times.
could be deemed offensive (i.e. profanity or
suggestive language; promotion of alcohol, Outside Play
tobacco, cannabis or illegal substances)
Students will be expected to participate in outside
Clothing with political branding
play at school, except on rare occasions when a
Themed clothing (i.e. princess dresses, written request explains to the teacher reasons for
military fatigues, goth-look) remaining indoors. Most days students will spend
Clothing that is sheer, immodestly cut or some time out of doors.
bares the midriff
Sleeveless shirts with less than a two inch
Authorized Pick Up List
strap width (i.e. camisoles, tops with
spaghetti straps, strapless tops) If your child is to be taken out of school by someone
Leggings worn with shirts that fall above the other than the authorized person(s) on the school’s
lower hip records, that person must have permission IN
Shorts/Skirts/Dresses that fall more than two WRITING to remove your child from the school
inches above the knee or have slits that premises. For reasons of personal safety for your
child, a phone call will not suffice to release your
extend beyond two inches above the knee
child.
Shoes that come off when kicking such as
flip-flops and shoes with a heel height
greater than two inches School Safety
Dyed hair and extreme hair styles such as Great effort is expended to secure the safety of the
mohawks or spiked styles children during their time at school. For all Parents
Makeup for Children’s House and and staff who work and or volunteer to be with the
Elementary students; heavy makeup for students, three steps are required:
Middle School students
1. Once during the time your child is in our school
Body piercings beyond ear piercing attendance at a Code of Ethics presentation, must
Visible tattoos, including temporary and be attended by the persons volunteering. The
henna tattoos Franciscan Sisters of the Eucharist require this
code be presented to all staff and volunteers
For the Children’s House. Students should be working with our children.
provided with clothing they can manipulate by
themselves. For example, students should wear 2. Meet all Children Services Division state
requirements for volunteers and staff who work
pants without large belts so the pants can be removed
with children. This includes a Criminal
easily when using the bathroom. For the younger Background Check.
students we suggest elastic-wasted pants that can be
pulled up and down easily. 3. Driver must be at least 21 years of age and
provide a copy of valid driver’s license, driving
This is not meant to be a complete list of record, proof of adequate insurance coverage and
unacceptable items. If the staff finds something to be initialed agreement from the school.
inappropriate, the student will be asked to remedy
(the next day) his or her attire when they return to
school. A second inappropriate incident concerning
dress will require the parent to be contacted.
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Family/Visitor/Volunteer ID prevents fatigue. So you will see students on the move:
carrying, kneeling, sweeping, polishing, etc.
When you visit the school or volunteer, it is
necessary to wear your Family/Visitor ID while you
are in the building, alerting all students and staff of Observing Elementary and Middle
your purpose. These are available at the Lobby desk. School
In order to release the creative power present in every
Observations/Conferences healthy student, all exercises are geared for success and
accomplishment and to reduce chances of failure. Outside
Contact between parents and teacher is very pressure is eliminated. This covers competition,
important. You will notice on the school calendar comparison, external rewards and punishments. The guide
specific conference times have been set aside. The tries to “reveal the child rather than mold him.”
staff expects the same professional courtesy of other
professionals when appointments need to be made or During your visit, then, notice the variety of purposeful
canceled. These meetings serve to keep you abreast activities (including group work) which are self-chosen
of your child's progress in school. and self-directed, the amount of movement, the lively and
natural (rather than directed) social interaction of the
When you wish to discuss a problem regarding your student, the relaxed, unhurried atmosphere, the
child, please speak with his/her guide. Call the office, spontaneous interest in work. Watch the adults moving
write a note or send an email to the guide and an within the flow of activities, assisting, but not interfering,
appointment will be arranged. remaining calm, patient, respectful. To be noted, too, is
It is most important that you keep the guides the student's freedom to respond in his own particular way
informed of any changes in the home situation that (provided he does not disturb) so that his individual needs
might affect your child, or anything that comes up in and inclinations can be met.
conversation with him/her that you think the school Please keep in mind that your observation is only for a
should know. short period of time, and that each hour of every day
Observation appointments for parents, friends and within a Montessori classroom varies. There is no set
potential students begin in November. When you or schedule or routine. Student's moods and requirements are
your friends come to observe, please report to the different, and we try to interpret their particular needs and
Reception desk before going to the classroom. satisfy them.
Sign ups can be made in the binder in the lobby. "Who touches the child touches the most sensitive point
Special appointments can be made directly with your of a whole child which has roots in the most distant
child’s Guide. past and climbs toward the infinite future. Who touches
the child touches the delicate and vital point where all
can yet be decided, where all can be renewed, where all
Observing in Children’s House is pulsating with life, where the secrets of the soul lie
hid."
One frequently hears the Montessori environment --Maria Montessori
referred to as an "ocean of activity." Activity is truly
the keynote of Montessori: mind and muscles must
function freely and together and with a purpose. To Birthdays and Holidays at School
help our visitors recognize the various types of work
the children are involved in, we are listing some of The moment of birth, which is the beginning of
the very important principles to keep in mind. children’s own personal time line, is of great
importance to them.
The student is helped to become independent, confident
and self-controlled. This is why the structured materials The time line in Children’s House. If you can loan
are designed for individual use. These materials are also us a few snapshots of your child as he/she has grown,
self-controlling and self-correcting. They create patterns the children always enjoy sharing these in the
of success and progress and encourage precision requiring birthday celebration. They like to see each other as
small muscle manipulation. Free movement of the body is babies and toddlers!
involved in nearly every exercise. This freedom helps to In an effort to make birthday celebrations more
fix interest and attention, leads to concentration and meaningful, we have compiled a list of suggestions
for you to consider when you are preparing a snack
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for school. One possible snack would be a plate of A milk only option is available for those that bring
sliced cheese and a plate of crackers that the children lunch from home. Milk tickets are $0.50 and can be
would serve themselves, family style. Another purchased at the lobby desk.
possibility would be containers of vegetable dip and
FMES strives to have a N2 known for its healthy
carrots and celery or containers of yogurt and bowls
menus and commitment to socially responsible
of granola and fruit pieces. When the children
practices. Research shows that good nutrition directly
prepare their own snacks the experience is much
affects our children’s health, concentration and
more significant to them. They decide what fruit
behavior. Noon Nutrition Principles
they want in their yogurt and they pass each of the
things around. They decide how many pieces each Menus are seasonal and include ingredients that
person can get. They find a way to share the food so are local and sustainable.
that everyone is satisfied. Suddenly a birthday party
Vegetarian options are available daily.
turns into an excellent opportunity for community
building! We ask that you please think carefully Trans fats are not used in our kitchen.
about what you send for birthday treats or snacks. A
Daily lunch menu to include proteins, whole
snack that involves some simple preparation on the
part of the children. Send sufficient snack so that it grains, fruits, vegetables, and milk free from
can be divided between all the children with a few to bovine growth hormone (rBST).
spare. When purchasing food for our school lunch program
we will buy from local farmers and local sources as
The previous food suggestions are only the tip of the
much as possible. We will strive to supplement our
iceberg and should by no means be considered the
lunches by growing vegetables and fruit in our school
only choices. If you are interested in preparing this
gardens. We will strive to make from scratch our
kind of snack with your child, feel free to call your
soups, sauces and other hot dishes. Our bread
guide for other ideas or clarification. Birthdays only products will be made from whole grains.
come once a year.
Part of our “grace and courtesy” exercises includes
practicing our table manners at lunchtime. This
Noon Nutrition/(N2) Program includes carefully setting the table, laying out the
The Noon Nutrition/N2 program is our hot lunch food, and after an enjoyable meal together, clearing
program and will begin the first day of school in the dishes and tables.
September.
FMES Food Mission
All meals are served family style and include entrée,
fruit and/or vegetable, and milk. Gluten free bread, As a grower, and server of food, FMES embraces and
pasta and tortillas are available by request for an celebrates its responsibility toward our children’s
additional charge. healthy minds, bodies, soul and the world. In this
capacity we strive to:
Families receive the monthly hot lunch menu on the
15th of the month before via email. Please return the Teach children how to cultivate a garden, and we
completed menu with payment by the 25th. Payment incorporate school-grown fruit and vegetables in
may be made by cash or check made out to FMES. our school lunches and snacks.
If your child will not be at school and you have Involve our children in preparing food, a practice
ordered lunch for that day, please contact the front that contributes to offering healthy, fresh, from-
office by 10:00am to cancel your order and receive a scratch snacks and meals and that teaches
lunch credit. If school is canceled, credits will be students the arts of the kitchen, emphasizing
given automatically. Credits should be used the Maria Montessori’s educational focus on
following month and they must be used by the end of personal independence.
the academic year.
Eat our daily meal in a relaxed manner while
While there are circumstances where we accept daily emphasizing the art and grace of communal
orders, we ask that it be an occasional exception. eating.
Lunch costs $5.00/meal (milk is included); $1.00 for Integrate food into our curriculum, as it provides
an extra portion; gluten-free options incur an a rich platform for learning about history and
additional charge. other cultures.
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Partner with local farms and markets to obtain as Gardening at FMES
much of our food as possible from nearby
growers who care about the quality of their As part of our school’s mission to assist children in
product and who attend to healthy growing caring for the Earth, we maintain various gardens on
practices. the grounds. These form the outdoor classroom for a
sequence of garden-related lessons taught by the
garden specialist over a child’s six years in Lower
Grace and Courtesy and Upper Elementary. Though they do contain some
Lunch and snacks are a very important part of the flowers, natives, and other ornamentals, their primary
Montessori day. At FMES we strive to encourage focus is vegetables, and the vegetables are meant to
“Grace and Courtesy” at all times. As part of this supplement our children’s nutrition through snacking
education our children take part in exercises that and as part of the lunch program. Children are
include practicing our table manners at lunchtime, allowed to wander in the garden during their recess
carefully setting the table, laying out the food, and and after school and can eat the following crops,
after an enjoyable meal together, clearing the dishes intentionally planted for snacking, at will: peas,
and tables. Meals begin with a moment of carrots, cherry tomatoes, golden raspberries, kale,
“Thanksgiving and Gratitude”. Parents may join their beans, and various herbs. In addition children
child for lunch at school if they wish. Please let us participate in harvesting, preparing, and eating other
know before 9:00am on the day you plan to stay. crops from the garden, both as part of their lunch and
at special cooking classes. These crops might
include: potatoes, beets, carrots, Brussels sprouts,
Hydration leeks, parsnips, radishes, squash, herbs, turnips. We
While most of us know the health benefits of have observed that a child’s participation in
drinking plenty of water each day, sometimes we gardening radically increases his or her chances of
forget the importance of water for our children. trying a new vegetable, and as a result of the school’s
Water makes up almost 90% of your child’s brain garden program, many children have asked their
and 75% of their muscles. To stay properly hydrated, parents to buy and prepare nutritious vegetables, such
children need to consume as much fluid as they lose, as kale, at home.
and kids tend to lose a large percentage of their body
fluid during the day, simply because they are growing Carpools
and so active.
Carpooling is encouraged by FMES as a way to more
efficiently transport students to the school, benefiting
Classroom Snacks the environment and the families involved. When
Classroom snacks provide students an important FMES families choose to form carpools it should be
nutritional bridge between meals. Food choices affect acknowledged by all students and adults involved in
classroom behavior and student learning. When the carpool that safe transport is the first priority and
providing snacks for your child or for the whole that driving an automobile safely requires the driver's
class, we ask that you make choices with optimal full attention. Seat belts must be worn by all
nutrition in mind with a focus on simple, healthy passengers at all times and additional restraint
foods. We ask that you include the following: devices (car seats for small children) need to be
provided to all drivers by the parents of the children
Vegetables (example: carrot sticks, celery, needing them.
zucchini sticks with dip etc.)
Fresh fruits Considering the above, families involved in the
Whole grains (example: crackers, pita bread, rice carpool are strongly encouraged to set ground rules
cakes) for behavior in the vehicle so that drivers and
Rich protein source (example: yogurt, cheese, children are fully aware of the expected behavior and
hummus, tofu salad, nuts) the consequences of failure to comply. For example,
unruly behavior that is distracting to the driver could
When providing dairy products, please ensure
be handled by a plan such as the following:
they are free from Bovine Growth Hormone
(rBST) When the driver feels that they are distracted by the
behavior of one or more children in the car the driver
can respond with:
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Email: info@FMES.org Web page: www.FMES.orgFranciscan Montessori Earth School 14750 SE Clinton St., Portland OR 97236-2316
reminders by the driver and discussion of the rules day, a pro-rated tuition is assessed based on
of the road, the number of instructional days remaining
in the school year.
if behavior persists, safely pulling off the road and
waiting until everyone is in control, Tuition contract: Contracts are sent in early June via
U.S. Post to families choosing to pay tuition in
if behavior persists, discussion with the parents annual or semi-annual installments. Please sign and
and children involved, return the contract with the first tuition payment. For
if behavior persists, exclusion from the carpool. those paying monthly, Smart Tuition registration is
considered acceptance of the tuition contract.
Families involved could also discuss rules for making
up days when scheduled drivers are unable to drive, Montessori Aspect (Before/After Care):
what to do when drivers/students wish to stop for Hours of operation: 7:00 to 8:15am and 2:30-
errands in route, payment terms for inequities in 6:00pm
driving share, etc.
Rate: $7.25 per hour, per child ($3.00 per minute, per
Arrangement of carpools is left up to the families, child after 6:00pm) billed monthly.
FMES cannot be held responsible for carpool
organization, implementation or problems. A list is Pre-registered time cancellation policy: During
made available of families interested in carpooling. school breaks parents must pre-register for
Montessori Aspect. If illness or family emergency
requires absence, a 24-hour notice of cancellation is
Financial Policy required for fees to be waived. Without advance
The school operates solely on revenues from tuition notification, fees associated with the pre-registered
and fees, or those generated by its own internal time will be billed.
fundraising activities (we receive no outside Possible Tax Benefits
support/subsidies).
Costs associated with the Children’s House program
Tuition Payment Options (pre-kindergarten) and Montessori Aspect program
Annual (2% discount): One payment in full, due July (before and after school care) may be considered
15, 2019 by cash/check. Visa/Mastercard payments child care expenses and quality for the federal Child
are accepted, but do not qualify for discount. There is Care Tax Credit or be eligible for Flexible Spending
a $30 fee for failed transactions. Account spending (an account using pre-tax dollars
to pay for qualifying expenditures). For more
Semi-annual (1% discount): Two payments of one- information on the Child Care Tax Credit, visit the
half tuition, due July 15, 2019 and January 15, 2020 IRS website and/or consult a qualified tax advisor.
by cash/check. There is a $30 fee for failed For Flexible Spending Accounts, contact your
transactions. employer’s Human Resources Department.
Monthly: 12 monthly payments; July 15, 2019
through June 15, 2020 online via Smart Tuition. Tuition Assistance
There is a $25 account set-up fee.
Tuition assistance is the Administration’s attempt to
Monthly payments are invoiced 20 days be fiscally responsible yet sensitive to the needs of
before the due date. parents who have long supported the school through
their tuitions. Assistance is particularly intended
Payments accepted via checking account, to help families over a one year period during
Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American unexpected, temporary financial difficulties that
Express (credit/debit transactions incur can arise. It is intended that such funds will,
2.85% convenience fee). thereby, be available for use by other families facing
financial difficulties in the following school year (i.e.
For failed transactions, Smart Tuition bills a preference is typically given to families in difficulty
$30 fee. who did not request tuition assistance during the
For students moving to a new level or preceding year). Parents are free to consult with the
starting school after the first instructional administration for help in completing the request.
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