Important Information and Protocols

Saint Katharine Drexel Religious Education Program

 

Arrival and Dismissal Procedures

 

Arrival:

  • Grades 1 & 2: A parent or guardian must walk the child to the designated Religious Education entrance.
  • Grades 3–8: Students should wait in the hallway until their catechist arrives. They should not enter the classroom unless a catechist is present.

 

Dismissal:

  • Parents/guardians may enter through the Church main entrance 10 minutes before dismissal time to wait inside. Catechists will escort the students out for pickup.

 

Early Dismissal:

  • If your child needs to leave early, please send a note to the catechist and inform the Religious Education Coordinator.
  • Upon arrival, the adult picking up the child should call the office. A staff member will open the door and have you sign out your child.
  • No student will be released without adult supervision.

 

Additional Guidelines

  • Drive carefully in the parking lot—safety is our top priority.
  • No food is allowed in classrooms. Snacks may be eaten in the hallway before class.
  • On special occasions, food may be served in the Parish Hall.
  • Regular attendance is expected. Three or more absences may require a parent meeting. Confirmation preparation is a multi-year process that begins at Baptism and continues through all grade levels.
  • For security, the Religious Education entrance is the only door to be used for drop-off and pick-up.
  • Doors open 15 minutes before class.
  • Doors are locked 15 minutes after class begins and reopen 10 minutes before class ends.
  • The Church main entrance may only be used in emergencies.

  

Electronic Device Policy

  • Cell phones and electronic devices are not permitted in the classroom or during Religious Education activities.
  • Phones may be used in the hallway to communicate with parents/guardians—not for social calls.
  • Devices used inappropriately will be confiscated and may need to be retrieved by a parent.

 

Parent and Student Roles

 

Role of the Parent

 

Parents are the first and most important teachers of the faith. Our Religious Education Program exists to support you in this mission. You can help by:

  • Talking with your child about their class experiences.
  • Reviewing homework and projects.
  • Attending Sunday and Holy Day Masses with your child to model and reinforce the importance of the Eucharist.
  • Volunteering as a catechist, aide, hall monitor, or activity coordinator. Please contact the office if you're able to help.

 

Transportation:
 Parents are responsible for their child’s transportation to and from classes. If a child has permission to walk, written authorization must be on file.

 

Role of the Student

 

Academic Expectations:

  • Weekly attendance and punctuality
  • Bring textbook, folder, and completed homework
  • Participate respectfully in discussions and activities
  • Complete special projects and tests as assigned
  • Strive for effort and excellence—not just “getting by”

 

Homework & Progress:

  • Homework and assignments are to be completed weekly.
  • Grades are based on classwork, homework, participation, and attendance.
  • Progress reports will be sent home in January and May.

Absence Policy:

  • If your child is absent, please notify the Religious Education Office.
  • Missed work must be made up at home.
  • Three absences are allowed from September to May.
  • Excessive absences may require repeating the grade. The Religious Education Coordinator will determine next steps.


Behavior Expectations:
 All students are expected to be respectful, responsible, and kind. If behavior concerns arise, parents will be contacted.

 

Basic Classroom Rules:

  • Arrive on time
  • Raise your hand before speaking
  • Respect others and property
  • Use kind and appropriate language
  • Walk in the building
  • Keep hands to yourself
  • Use the restroom before class
  • Eat or drink before entering class
  • Turn off all cell phones during class

 

Dress Code:
 Students should dress modestly and appropriately for a faith-based environment.

 

Please contact the Religious Education Office with any questions or concerns. We look forward to working with you and your children to grow in faith together!