MISSION STATEMENT

Bishop Luers High School is a Catholic educational community that instills in each student dignity, integrity, respect, and responsibility. Nurtured by Catholic truths, each student is able to face the challenges in his or her own life spiritually, academically, and socially, while serving God and others in a global and changing society.

VISION

Bishop Luers High School will vibrantly show the face of Christ in the actions and ministry of all students, families, teachers, and staff. It will also ensure that Catholic secondary education is available, accessible, and affordable for all who wish to attend.

BELIEF STATEMENTS

• We believe Bishop Luers High School is a Catholic high school built on a strong foundation of Gospel values, empowering all to live faith-filled lives.
• We believe in academic excellence where students and teachers actively engage in learning.
• We believe that every student can achieve his or her God-given potential.
• We believe in a safe school environment nurtured by mutual respect and personal responsibility.
• We believe cultural, economic, and racial diversity enriches our school.

PEACE PRAYER OF ST. FRANCIS

Lord, make me an instrument of Your peace.

Where there is hatred, let me sow love.

Where there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, faith.

Where there is despair, hope.

Where there is darkness, light.

Where there is sadness, joy.

O Divine Master,

Grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console.

To be understood as to understand

To be loved as to love; for it is in giving that we receive.

It is in pardoning that we are pardoned.

And it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.

Amen.

SCHOOL MASCOT

Knights

SCHOOL COLORS

Red & Black

KNIGHTS VICTORY MARCH

Red and black, our colors proudly flying,

We are the Knights, we’ll conquer, never fear.

Deep in our hearts, our love for Bishop Luers

Makes us feel we want to shout and cheer:

Rah! Rah!

Every time they ask us who the Knights are

We’ll be proud to show our loyalty.

We will sing a fighting song.

We will sing it loud and strong.

Bishop Luers march to victory.

V.I.C.T.O.R.Y Victory! Victory!

Bishop Luers High! 

ADMINISTRATION

Founded in 1958, Bishop Luers High School is a Catholic coeducational secondary school in the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend.  Our heritage is deeply rooted in the solid traditions of the Catholic faith and academic excellence.  The teachings and traditions of the Catholic Church are the guiding principles of behavior for all students while enrolled in a diocesan school.  The following structures assist the school's operation: The Bishop Luers School Board, the Staff Advisory Board, and the Student Council.

PRINCIPAL’S RIGHT TO AMEND

The Administration reserves the right to amend this handbook and its content for cause.  Parents and students may be given notification if changes are made.

The rules in this handbook are in addition to our broad, discretionary authority to maintain safety, order, and discipline inside the school zone. These rules support but do not limit our jurisdiction. They are intended to protect our students. This handbook serves as a guideline for administrators with discretionary authority to interpret and determine resulting actions.

SCHOOL PARTNERSHIP

ACADEMIC GUIDELINES

Students are responsible for knowing and completing the requirements of each course.  Students must enroll in at least six (6) classes per semester. It is expected that every student must actively engage in the educational process. Consequently, it is likely that each student realizes his/her primary responsibility for learning rests squarely on his/her shoulders. Parents, teachers, and friends may guide and direct the learning process, but real achievement in academic endeavors is impossible if a student is not actively involved. Each teacher expects a student to come to class fully prepared, ready, willing, and able to participate in the day's lessons. The following expectations more clearly explain how a student should approach his/her studies:

• Classroom Conduct and Attendance: Students are expected to be on time for each class and not miss class except for illness or other serious reasons. They are also expected to participate in all class activities and maintain order by refraining from disruptive conduct.
• Materials: Students are expected to bring all necessary materials to class. This includes textbooks, workbooks, notebooks, pens and pencils, paper, and any other materials the teacher requires.
• Homework: Students may expect an average of two hours of homework every night (20-30 minutes per class), although actual homework requirements may vary. This may be a combination of written assignments, reading, studying, and long-term projects or papers. All assignments should be neat, clean, and turned in on time.

ACADEMIC STANDARDS COMMITTEE

This committee, comprised of the principal, assistant principal, school counselors, athletic director, and dean of students, will decide on all academic and curricular issues about transfer students, non-residential education programs, and other educational matters.

ACADEMIC PROBATION

A student whose academic work is deficient can be placed on academic probation.  The administration sets the probation terms on a case-by-case basis.  A student can be asked not to return to Bishop Luers for the next semester if he/she does not meet the set criteria. Criteria may include minimum GPA, passing a minimum number of classes, mandatory study table, loss of co-curricular and/or extracurricular privileges outside the school day, loss of work permit, or other criteria the administration sets.

A student who earns a GPA less than 2.0 and/or fails two or more classes at the end of a semester will be placed on academic probation. A plan of action will be formulated to address the inadequacy in academic performance. If a student has three or more failures in any combination of classes at the end of a semester, he/she may not be eligible for enrollment for the following semester. If a student registers for summer school/credit recovery and completes the classes successfully, re-enrollment at Bishop Luers for the next semester will be considered. Students who are not on track to graduate by the end of their freshman year (at least eight credits), sophomore year (at least 22 credits), or junior year (at least 35 credits) may not be permitted to re-enroll for the following year.

CHRISTIAN SCHOLARSHIP AND ACADEMIC INTEGRITY

Christian scholarship is fair and disciplined. It means following the rules that the teacher has specified for an assignment and cooperating with the teacher in each assignment to develop each student's ability to know better and serve God. Cheating and/or plagiarism obstruct or subvert the rules of an assignment. They usually occur when a student puts grades before learning, forgetting or neglecting the priority of Christian scholarship over grades.

      Cheating: Definition of Cheating: Any act of intentional academic dishonesty, through which a student attempts to gain an unfair advantage through dishonesty. Cheating shall include plagiarism, forgery, unauthorized copying or sharing of information, and all other forms of academic dishonesty.  It is against Bishop Luers High School policy to participate in or knowingly have access to testing materials, answer keys, completed tests, or assignments curated from previous students, or other forms of completed coursework.  Knowing that academic dishonesty has occurred but not reporting it to a teacher or school administrator is punishable in the same manner as cheating on any test, quiz, or exam.

.    Plagiarism:  Entails taking the written composition of another person, or parts of passages of another person’s writings, or the ideas or language embodied in another person’s writings and passing them off as the product of one’s mind. Plagiarism should include not only cases where students duplicate the literary work of another person, but also all cases where unfair use of such a work is made by lifting out a portion or portions of work completed by others. Plagiarism can include taking the work of other artists, musicians, architects, designers, draftsmen, culinary artists, computer programmers, or other creators and presenting their work as an original idea or product without credit. The creation of original ideas is considered intellectual property and is protected by U.S. copyright laws.  It is against Bishop Luers High School policy to participate in or knowingly have access to testing materials, answer keys, completed tests, or assignments curated from previous students, or other forms of completed coursework.  Knowing that academic dishonesty has occurred but not reporting it to a teacher or school administrator is punishable in the same manner as cheating on any test, quiz, or exam.

All of the following are considered plagiarism:

• turning in someone else's work as your own
• copying words or ideas from someone else without giving credit
• failing to put a quotation in quotation marks
• giving incorrect information about the source of a quotation
• changing words but copying the sentence structure of a source without giving credit
• copying so many words or ideas from a source that they make up most of your work, whether you give credit or not.

 Source: www.plagiarism.org/plagiarism-101/what-is-plagiarism/About Plagiarism

      Most cases of plagiarism can be avoided, however, by citing sources. Simply acknowledging that specific material has been borrowed and providing your audience with the information necessary to find that source is usually enough to prevent plagiarism.  Source: www.plagiarism.org/plagiarism-101/what-is-plagiarism/About Plagiarism

For a first offense, the student will receive a referral for academic dishonesty. The dean of students will email the student’s parents and inform them of this academic violation. The teacher will allow the student to redo the assignment for a grade worth no more than 60%.  If the student is a member of NHS, the student will appear before the NHS academic advisor and a representative of the educational standards committee assigned by the principal. The student may be removed from NHS.

For a second offense, the student will receive a referral for academic dishonesty. The student will receive a grade of zero on the assignment or the exam. The dean of students will place the student on Academic Probation until the end of the school year and notify the parents. If the student is a member of NHS, he/she will be removed from NHS.

A further offense, the student will appear before the disciplinary review board with a parent/legal guardian.  Credit for the class may be revoked. The student may be asked to withdraw from Bishop Luers High School.

Note: AP and Dual Credit courses may have more stringent policies and consequences when confronting academic dishonesty. These teachers adhere to the stated policies of the college institution on their course syllabus.

More than one cheating/plagiarism/academic dishonesty violation will result in ineligibility for the school year's academic honors, including Honors, High Honors, and Luers Scholar. Any cheating/plagiarism/academic dishonesty violation over four years will result in ineligibility for Valedictorian or Salutatorian.

E-Learning

The Bishop Luers E-Learning days will offer full access to online instruction provided by each student’s teachers. Teachers create lessons in Canvas, the school’s learning management system. These lessons are interactive and align with the curriculum for each specific class. Lessons will be posted on the scheduled E-Learning day, and students will have access to their teachers online throughout the day. If students do not have internet access at home, they may use a friend’s or relative’s home, the public library, or one of the many local businesses offering free Wi-Fi. Attendance for E-Learning days will be recorded through the All Students Canvas page assignment.

Remote-Learning

If the state institutes remote learning during the 2025-2026 school year, school policies will remain in effect. At that time, the administration will distribute detailed procedural guidelines electronically.

Grading Scale

Grade	Regular scale	Weighted scale	Percentages
A+	4.333	4.667	98-100
A	4	4.333	93-97
A-	3.667	4	90-92
B+	3.333	3.667	87-89
B	3	3.333	83-86
B-	2.667	3	80-82
C+	2.333	2.667	77-79
C	2	2	73-76
C-	1.667	1.667	70-72
D+	1.333	1.333	67-69
D	1	1	63-66
D-	0.667	0.667	60-62
F	0	0	0-59

HOMEWORK POLICY

• Homework assigned should serve one of the following purposes: practice, interaction, application, extension, or preparation.  Homework is not intended to teach material for the first time, to keep students busy, or to assess students’ final mastery of a topic. 
• It is expected that teachers will assign homework to enhance learning, which may result in different assignments for different students.  Students should expect to do homework nightly.  When there is no written homework, students are expected to read, look over notes, or study on their own.
• Each teacher at Bishop Luers will create their homework policy and distribute it at the beginning of the course.

Homework will count towards the final grade; however, the weight assigned to homework in determining the final grade will be up to the individual teacher.  No missing work will be able to be made up after the term has ended.

• The Rose-Hulman Homework Hotline is available to students at http://www.askrose.org/ or by calling 1-877-ASK ROSE toll-free from 7 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. (Eastern Standard Time). It's a free service and a free call!
• For every consecutive excused absence, students will have one calendar day to turn in any missing work.

Teachers may require students to stay after school to complete missing work once three or more assignments are missing.  If students must stay and work on missing assignments, they will be expected to complete the work before attending co-curricular practices. 

PROGRESS REPORTS

The student and parent/guardian can access grades and attendance by accessing PowerSchool. Passwords and usernames can be obtained from the school director of technology or the counseling office. Parents can also email teachers through the Bishop Luers website or PowerSchool.  Weight values determine the quarter, semester, and cumulative GPA.

WEIGHT VALUES OF CLASSES

Weight values are attached to each Honors, 3^rd-5^th year languages, dual credit, and AP course at Bishop Luers High School. Weight values are used to determine the Honor Roll.

STUDY TABLES

Study table time may be available for students after school.  If a student’s grades fall below a given criterion, he/she may be required to attend a study table.

SCHOOL COUNSELING DEPARTMENT

School counseling services are available for every student in the school. These services include assistance with educational planning, interpretation of test scores, occupational information, career information, college information, study help or tutoring, help with home, school, and/or personal concerns, or any question the student would like to discuss with the counselor.

Students or parents wishing to visit a school counselor can do so via phone, email, or in person. School counselors attempt to help students with school and/or personal problems. The main purpose of all counseling is to assist students in seeing themselves objectively so that they may make appropriate decisions.

Besides individual counseling, the Guidance Department is responsible for group guidance, testing, educational and occupational placement, parental orientation, and proper confidential referral, when advisable, other Advanced Placement Programs, College and Higher Education, Scholarships, and Standardized Test Schedules.

CLASS CHANGES

Students will have 5 days to request a class change for electives at the start of each course, but not for CORE classes. Core classes are English, Math, Science, Social Studies, and Theology. Changes to course levels (AP, Honors, Academic) MUST be initiated by the teacher or school counselor. There will be a $15.00 fee for every elective class change requested by a student or a parent. All class changes must be requested online on the “CLASS CHANGE FORM.”

COURSE WITHDRAWAL POLICY

With parent permission and the school counselor's approval, students may withdraw from a class without penalty within the first two weeks of a semester to take a study hall. If the request is made after the first two weeks of the semester, the student may withdraw from the class with a grade of WF (withdrawal fail) only and will be placed in a study hall.  A WF grade will be entered on the student’s permanent record. A WF grade is computed into the student’s grade point average as an F for the semester. Administration will review all withdrawal requests to determine if it is medically necessary, in which case, the WF may be waived. NOTE: Students must be enrolled in six classes each semester, so he/she may not withdraw from a class if they are already in a study hall.

CREDIT and CREDIT RECOVERY

Bishop Luers will allow students to transfer 8th-grade math or World Language credits to their permanent high school record. The request is not made automatically; it must be made in writing by May of the student’s sophomore year. Once transferred, the credits may count as electives and not be applied to the required math or language credit for graduation.

Online courses may be taken only by approved companies for credit recovery. They may not be taken as an alternative to taking a course at Bishop Luers. Please see the student’s school counselor to discuss acceptable options for credit recovery.

Students attending BLHS will be permitted to retake up to three (3) classes throughout their academic career. When a course is retaken, the higher of the two grades will be recorded on the student’s transcript and calculated into the GPA. The lower grade will be removed from the transcript and will not be included in GPA calculations.

Occasionally, a student wants to repeat a course to stay on track for the Academic Honors Diploma.  In these instances, all grades will remain on the permanent transcript, but the new grade will be used to calculate the student's GPA.

HONOR ROLL

Honor Roll is determined in the following manner: Honor roll is based only on quarter grades, not semester grades.  To achieve High Honors, a student must earn a 4.000 grade point average (4.000) with no grade below a B.  To achieve Honors, a student must earn a B+ (3.333) points with no grade below a B-.  A student must take at least six classes at Bishop Luers to be considered for the Honor Roll. The honor roll is determined by the official date of the end of the quarter. Any grade changes after the end-of-quarter date will not be considered for the honor roll.

LUERS SCHOLAR

A senior student may earn the distinction of Luers Scholar.  To receive this accolade, the student must be on the High Honor Roll every quarter for 15 quarters.

VALEDICTORIAN/SALUTATORIAN

Students must have completed at least six semesters at Bishop Luers to be considered for valedictorian or salutatorian. They may not have been at another school during their junior or senior year. 

2027 – Valedictorian will be the student with the highest GPA and who meets discipline and attendance requirements.

Salutatorian will be the student with the second highest GPA and who meets discipline and attendance requirements.

A student who has any academic dishonesty violations or truancies senior year is ineligible to be named as a valedictorian or salutatorian. A student may not have major violations in their senior year to receive these honors.

DIPLOMA REQUIREMENTS

The Graduation Pathways requires all students to meet the following three components by mastering one of the categories under EACH component:

Graduation Pathways Requirements

 

 

Curriculum Area	CORE 40	ACADEMIC HONORS
English	8 Credits	8 Credits (All 8 Semesters)
	All four years	All four years Academic or Higher
Math	6-8 Credits	8 Credits (Progressively more difficult)
	2 – Algebra I 2 – Geometry 2 – Algebra II 2 – STRONGLY recommended senior year	2 – Algebra I 2 – Geometry 2 – Algebra II 2 – Additional (Must be in math all 8 semesters)
Social Studies	6 Credits	6 Credits
	2 – World History or World Civilization 2 – US History 1 – Government 1 – Economics	2 – World History (Academic or Higher) 2 – US History (Academic or Higher) 1 – Government (Academic or Higher) 1 – Economics (Academic or Higher)
Science	6 Credits in Lab Science	6 – 8 Credits in Lab Science (Progressively more difficult)
	2 – Biology 2 – Integrated Chem/Phys or Chemistry 2 – Additional Upper Level	2 – Biology 2 – Chemistry 2 – Upper Level Recommended: 2 Physics and 2 Upper Level
World Languages	Recommended	6-8 Credits
	Many Indiana universities strongly recommend two years of the same language for admissions purposes; some require it.	2 years of 2 different languages or 3 years of one language (If you choose to do 3 years of one language, you must replace the additional year with 2 credits from approved Academic Honors classes.)
Health	1 Credit	1 Credit
Physical Education	2 Credits	2 Credits
Fine Arts		2 Credits
		Art, Theatre, Music, Band or Choir
Theology	8 Credits	8 Credits
	Theology is required each semester enrolled at Bishop Luers.	Theology is required each semester enrolled at Bishop Luers.
Electives	4 Credits	3 Credits
Additional Requirements	8 Credits from Directed Electives	Complete ONE of the following:
	Additional credits from: English Math Science World Language Career Area (At least 6 credits in a technical career sequence)	Earn 4 credits (2 or more courses) in AP courses and take corresponding exams Earn 6 college credits in courses from the approved dual credit list Earn 3 credits from the dual credit list AND 2 credits in AP courses with exams (as above) Score at least 1250 on SAT – 590 minimum EBRW, 560 minimum math Score at least 26 on the Composite Score on ACT, with writing
GPA Requirements	2.5 recommended for college admission	3.000 or Higher (No grade below a “C”)
Total Credits	49 Credits	52 Credits

 

BOOKS AND PERSONAL PROPERTY 

Students are responsible for their own books and personal property.  Electronic devices such as MP3 players, radios, headsets, iPods, electronic games, cell phones, and other electronic devices are forbidden unless they are directly connected to a school activity and approved by the Administration.  The Administration may choose to confiscate and search for any such devices.  Return of a device to a student will occur at the discretion of the Administration. Calculators used to play games will be considered inappropriate electronic devices and confiscated.  It is mandatory that lockers will always be locked and that only locks issued by Bishop Luers High School are used on lockers.  Bishop Luers High School will not be held liable for losing a student’s personal property. 

BUILDING HOURS 

Students are permitted in the school building at 7:00 a.m. each school day. They are to remain in the cafeteria until 7:30 a.m. Before 7:30 a.m., students may only be in other areas of the building if under the direct supervision of a Bishop Luers High School staff member. A bell will ring at 7:30 a.m., indicating that students have permission to be in their locker and classroom areas of the building. (Students will only remain in the cafeteria until longer on delayed start days.) 

Students are to vacate the building by 3:00 pm each day. The only students who should be in the building before 7:30 am or after 3:00 pm are those with a practice, meeting, Friday School, or detention immediately before/after school and who are under the direct supervision of a Bishop Luers High School staff member. If a student’s practice, game, or meeting is scheduled for later than 3:30 pm, the student must leave at 3:00 pm and return at the time of the student’s practice, game, or meeting.  Students who do not adhere to this policy will face disciplinary action.  

CAFETERIA 

Bishop Luers High School uses an automated point of sale software system.  All students have an account accessed by a student ID scan card.  A hot lunch or salad bar with milk is offered daily. The choices must all come from the hot lunch line or salad bar. Students may not mix and match items without paying extra. A la carte and snack items are also available at assorted prices. 

The lunch card/student ID card has a picture of the student on it. All students’ photos are taken at registration. Lunch cards require a $5.00 fee at registration and a $5.00 replacement fee if the card is lost. Students are expected to always have their student ID during the school day. Student IDs will be scanned when receiving lunch. 

Money for lunch accounts is collected in the front office.  Students may bring money to the front office, put it in an envelope with their name on it, and turn it into the front office staff in the morning before 9:00 am.  Please make deposits for at least one week at a time.  Families may use one check, and it will be divided per the instructions given with the check. Another option for making lunch deposits is Pay Online Portal. Families may sign up on My Payments Plus with the student’s ID number. Balances and account activity can be checked online.  

Any student with a milk allergy will be offered juice with their meal only after a doctor’s note is given to the cafeteria manager.  

Families who complete the free and reduced lunch application should return it to the administrative office.  New applications must be filled out yearly to qualify for free and reduced lunches.  To qualify for a free or reduced lunch meal, a fruit or a vegetable must be on the lunch tray with a protein (entrée) and one other component, such as milk, bread, or grain. If these qualifications are not met, each item will be charged to the student’s account at full à la carte price.  

Breakfast is offered every day from 7:15 a.m. to 7:35 a.m.  

Money remaining on the lunch card at the end of the school year will be refunded to seniors or rolled over to the next year for returning students and/or their siblings.  

CHARGING POLICY: The maximum a student may charge is $15.00 (one week's worth of lunches). Charging ala-carte items is not permitted. Students may not charge items throughout the 4^th quarter.   

All food must be eaten in the cafeteria. Due to health regulations, cafeteria food is not permitted in classrooms or hallways. We are a closed campus school, meaning students may not leave for lunch, bring in fast food, or have food delivered.  

Students are to remove all materials placed on tables before leaving the lunchroom.  Trays are to be taken to the window at the end of the lunchroom or to the trash if portable trays.  

Students who throw food or other items in the cafeteria or do not follow cafeteria rules may be subject to disciplinary action, including suspension.  

All school rules, including cell phones and dress code, apply when students are at lunch. 

FOOD AND DRINK 

Eating is permitted only in the cafeteria and designated areas.  Food is never to be taken outside the cafeteria. Fast food/food from restaurants may not be brought into the school during lunchtime.  The use of chewing gum is prohibited during school time.  Food and drinks should not be kept in lockers unless in a sealed container or lunch box/cooler.  Students who bring breakfast food and/or breakfast drinks to school in the morning must eat/drink them either outside the parking lot entrance or in the cafeteria.  Food and beverages will not be permitted outside the building.  No open containers are allowed in the hallways. Clear school-approved water bottles may be carried throughout the school during school hours.  

CHAPEL / SPIRITUAL LIFE 

The Chapel is open daily.  Students and staff are invited to pray privately in the chapel in the morning and stop in for prayer throughout the school day during a study hall. All students and staff are invited to pray daily at 7:30 AM. Weekday Masses are celebrated as announced. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is available during the school day as announced and by student-made appointment.  All-school Masses, Prayer Services, and Eucharistic Adoration are held as announced.  Pastoral Care for students and staff is available from the Pastoral Minister and Priest Chaplains daily upon request or by appointment. Students at all grade levels must attend a retreat on or off campus. Students may visit Pastoral Ministry during study hall or with special permission from a teacher. Any student going to the Pastoral Ministry must have a pass signed by a teacher before proceeding to the Pastoral Ministry Office.  

Students who participate in pastoral ministry should actively practice their faith. Through their speech and actions, it should be apparent that they are actively living it. Anyone engaged in any known activity that would be scandalous or providing certain witness contrary to that service will either be asked to withdraw from service or placed on probation, depending on the nature of the infraction. The following are examples of behavior that will result in disciplinary action: major violations, sexual misconduct, drinking, drugs, cheating, lying, and disrespect to authority.  

DANCES 

1. All students and their guests must observe all school policies, including dress code, parking, and driving regulations, alcohol, drug, and tobacco rules, and all discipline policies.  

2. All people who attend school dances are expected to act as mature and responsible young adults.  

3. Dancing must be acceptable.   

4. The adults/administration in charge of the dance will determine the acceptable definition.  

5. All students must be in the dance within 1 hour of the start time, or they will not be allowed to enter.   

6. Students will not be allowed to return once they leave the dance.  Anyone who does not conform to this standard of behavior will be asked to leave school property/function and may be subject to further consequences at the supervisor's or administration's discretion. 

7. Whether dances occur on or off school property, they are considered a school event; students, guests, and adults present are within a “school zone” and subject to all rules and policies of the school as well as laws related to school zones. 

8. Students with guests who are not Bishop Luers High School students must register their dates at the school office before the scheduled dance.  The Bishop Luers High School student is responsible for the date’s behavior. 

9. Dress at dances must be appropriate.   

• Short dresses/skirts (more than 2” above the knee) and excessively low cut, or see-through, are not permitted.  Slits, etc. must also be modest. Dresses must be appropriately modest.  The administration at the dance has final discretion on what appropriate modesty is. 

• Any person whose apparel would be embarrassing to other students, the sponsors, or the chaperones will not be admitted. 

• Dress that reveals bare midriffs or are see-through are not permitted. 

• Dress may not advertise alcohol, tobacco products, drugs, or gang activity. 

• Dress of any offensive nature will not be permitted. 

• Shoes must be worn. 

• Shirts must be buttoned and worn. 

• Pants must be worn. 

• Students who do not follow the dress code announced for the dance may be denied admittance. Tickets will not be refunded. 

10. Suspected use of alcohol or drugs will be referred to the police officer on site.  A breathalyzer test may be administered. 

11. There will be no pass-outs during the dance. 

12. Students who are suspended or expelled are prohibited from attending a school-sponsored dance. 

13. All individuals, except for the clean-up crew, must leave school property within 15 minutes of the dance's end. 

14. Loitering in the parking lot is not permitted. 

15. Bishop Luers High School students are responsible for their guests' actions and may be subject to disciplinary action based on those actions.  

EMERGENCY INFORMATION AND CHANGE OF ADDRESS 

Each student must have an emergency/general information form completed by parents/guardians on file in the school office. Failure to have this information on file by the first day of the school year may result in the student being denied school attendance until it is on file.  

Any student moving to a new address or changing general information (i.e., phone number, address, contact person, emergency information, etc.) must report these changes to the school office within five business days. 

ENVIRONMENTAL TOBACCO SMOKE 

As per Diocesan Policy P5430, all facilities and grounds on Bishop Luers campus shall be tobacco-free. No one, whether an administrator, an employee, a student, or a visitor, is allowed to use tobacco on campus, including grounds, buildings, and school vehicles. We ask that students, staff, and visitors refrain from using tobacco 24 hours a day on campus. Possession or use of tobacco products in any form such as cigars, cigarettes, pipe, chewing tobacco, electronic cigarettes/electronic nicotine delivery devices, vape pens, juuls, etc., is prohibited on campus, including grounds, buildings, school vehicles, and at school-sponsored functions away from school property 24 hours a day. 

FIELD TRIP POLICIES 

Field trips are a privilege. Students who attend a field trip are subject to the school’s rules and regulations as if they were within the confines of the school and its classrooms. A student may be denied the opportunity to participate in a field trip for behavior or attendance. Students with less than a C- in a subject may not be permitted to attend a field trip. The administration has final approval on who is eligible for participation in field trips. 

Any student attending a field trip must have a properly completed parent/guardian permission slip.  A phone call or a note permitting a parent/guardian is not acceptable.  A parent/guardian has the right to deny permission to a student to go on a field trip.  In these cases, students will be kept in the media center when they are not in class. 

GYM AND WEIGHT ROOM 

Students must always have faculty/coach supervision and permission to use the gym and/or weight room. Shoes that may mark the floor are not permitted, and dangerous activities are not allowed. The supervisor’s decision concerning shoes or activities is final. Students who are found unsupervised in the gym or weight room may lose the privilege of using these facilities and may be given further disciplinary consequences. Gym and weight room privileges may be suspended due to discipline issues.  

PHILOSOPHY OF ATTENDANCE

Bishop Luers High School believes that regular school attendance is essential to academic success, spiritual formation, personal responsibility, and the development of lifelong habits. Classroom instruction, collaboration, participation, and engagement cannot be fully replicated outside of the school environment.

Consistent attendance:

• Promotes academic achievement
• Supports student accountability and discipline
• Encourages healthy routines and responsibility
• Builds community within the classroom
• Supports Indiana accountability and attendance reporting requirements

This policy is designed to:

1. Comply with Indiana attendance law and diocesan expectations
2. Clearly define attendance expectations
3. Provide parents and students with understandable procedures
4. Establish proactive truancy prevention measures
5. Create consistent consequences and interventions
6. Protect instructional time while supporting students facing challenges

DEFINITIONS OF ATTENDANCE

Per Indiana Code §20-33-2-3.2, a student is considered in attendance when physically present:

• In school; or
• At another location where the school’s educational program is being conducted.

Attendance is recorded each class period, and students are expected to:

• Attend all assigned classes daily
• Arrive on time
• Remain in class for the full period

Follow proper sign-in/sign-out procedures

ATTENDANCE CATEGORIES

1. PRESENT / IN ATTENDANCE

Students are considered present when:

• Physically attending class
• Participating in approved school-sponsored activities
• On approved field trips
• Receiving approved homebound instruction
• Participating in approved educational programming
• In the nurse’s office, counseling office, or main office temporarily

2. EXEMPT ABSENCES (COUNTED AS PRESENT)

The following absences are exempt under Indiana law and will not count against attendance totals when proper documentation is provided:

State-Recognized Exempt Absences

• Serving as a page or honoree of the Indiana General Assembly
• Serving on an election board
• Court subpoena appearances
• National Guard or Civil Air Patrol service
• Indiana State Fair educational participation
• FFA or 4-H official participation
• Approved educationally related non-classroom activity
• Religious observances
• Homebound instruction
• Placement in instructional inpatient treatment programs

Requirements for Educationally Related Non-Classroom Activities must:

• Be approved in writing by the administration
• Support educational objectives
• Align with school curriculum or philosophy
• Represent a unique educational opportunity
• Require absence during the school day

3. EXCUSED ABSENCES

Parents/guardians may excuse up to ten (10) absences per school year.

After the tenth parent-excused absence, all future absences MUST include medical or official documentation to be considered excused.

Excused Absence Categories

A. Illness

• Parent verified illness (up to 10 days annually)
• Physician-verified illness
• Chronic illness with documentation on file

Physician Notes Must Include:

• Student name
• Date of appointment
• Time of appointment
• Physician name
• Office phone number/address
• Confirmation student was seen

Documentation must be submitted within two (2) school days after the student returns.

B. Medical / Dental / Counseling Appointments

Medical appointments during school hours are discouraged whenever possible.

Students leaving for appointments must:

1. Provide parent documentation before leaving
2. Sign out through the front office
3. Return promptly after the appointment
4. Sign back in upon return
5. Provide physician verification

C. Funeral / Bereavement

D. Religious Observances

E. Military Family Circumstances

F. College Visits

• Three (3) college visits or job-shadow experiences annually (Juniors and Seniors)
• These do not count toward the ten parent-excused absences

Verification from the institution must be submitted

G. Family Emergencies

4. UNEXCUSED ABSENCES / TRUANCY

A student is considered truant when they:

• Are absent without parent/guardian notification
• Leave campus without permission
• Skip class during the school day
• Miss class without authorization
• Fail to follow sign-in/sign-out procedures
• Exceed the ten parent-excused absences without proper documentation

Students arriving more than five (5) minutes late to class may be considered truant depending on circumstances.

Parents/guardians have two (2) business days to resolve attendance discrepancies.

DAILY ATTENDANCE PROCEDURES

Parent Notification

Parents/guardians must notify the school office by 7:45 a.m.

If the school is not contacted:

• Phone, email, or text notification may occur
• Attendance staff may follow up directly

EARLY DISMISSAL PROCEDURES

Students leaving school early must:

1. Present parent communication before school
2. Receive administrative approval
3. Sign out through the office
4. Sign back in upon return

Students leaving campus without permission will be considered truant.

TRUANCY PREVENTION & INTERVENTION PROCESS

LEVEL 1 INTERVENTION

3 Unexcused Absences or Developing Attendance Concerns

Possible interventions:

• Parent contact
• Attendance warning
• Student conference
• Counselor involvement
• Attendance monitoring

LEVEL 2 INTERVENTION

5 Unexcused Absences or Attendance Concern

Per the Indiana truancy prevention law:

• Parents will receive formal truancy notification
• Attendance conference will be scheduled within ten (10) days
• Truancy intervention plan may be established

Conference Participants May Include:

• Dean of Students
• Attendance officer
• School counselor
• Teacher(s)
• Parent/guardian
• Additional support personnel

Truancy Intervention Plan May Include:

• Attendance goals
• Counseling referrals
• Academic supports
• Check-in/check-out procedures
• Behavioral expectations
• Parent accountability measures
• Restrictions on extracurricular participation

LEVEL 3 INTERVENTION

10 Unexcused Absences (Habitual Truancy)

A student with ten (10) unexcused absences in a school year may be classified as habitually truant.

Possible consequences/interventions include:

• Mandatory Attendance Review Board
• Attendance contract
• Loss of extracurricular eligibility
• Driver’s license reporting (if applicable)
• Referral to juvenile court or county attendance officer

Additional disciplinary action.

CHRONIC ABSENTEEISM

Students missing ten percent (18 days) or more of the school year for any reason may be considered chronically absent.

Even medically excused absences may negatively impact:

• Academic performance
• Credit attainment
• Participation eligibility
• Graduation progress

The school reserves the right to require additional documentation or interventions in cases of excessive absences.

ATTENDANCE REVIEW BOARD (ARB)

The Attendance Review Board exists to support students experiencing significant attendance concerns.

The ARB may include:

• Dean of Students
• Assistant Principals
• Counselor
• Attendance Officer
• School nurse
• Teacher representative
• Parent/guardian

Possible ARB Outcomes

• Attendance contract
• Mandatory counseling
• Academic intervention plan
• Attendance probation
• Suspension
• Loss of privileges
• Recommendation of withdrawal

The principal retains final authority regarding attendance decisions.

TRUANCY CONSEQUENCES

1. Warning
2. Warning
3. Detention
4. Detention
5. Detention
6. Detention
7. Detention
8. Friday School
9. ISS (1 Day)
10. ISS (2 Days)
11. OSS (2 Days) + Attendance Review Board

FAILURE TO SERVE CONSEQUENCES

• Failure to serve detention → Friday School
• Failure to serve Friday School (1st offense) → 1 Day ISS

Repeated failure to serve Friday School → 2 Day OSS

TARDY POLICY

Punctuality is essential to maintaining an effective learning environment.

Students receive:

• Two (2) free tardies per quarter

Tardy Consequences (Per Quarter)

1st–2nd: No consequence

3rd–5th: Detention

6th–7th: Friday School

8th- 9th: ISS (In-School Suspension)

10th: OSS + Attendance Review Board + Possible loss of privileges

Students tardy to school must report to the office for a late slip.

Parents may not excuse repeated tardiness.

EXTRACURRICULAR ELIGIBILITY

Students absent due to illness should remain home for the evening.

To participate in extracurricular or cocurricular activities, students generally must:

• Attend at least four consecutive class periods that day
• Avoid truancies that day
• Be in good disciplinary standing

Students serving disciplinary consequences or classified as habitually truant may lose participation privileges.

Administrative exceptions may be granted.

MAKE-UP WORK

Students will be provided opportunities to complete missed work.

• One day to make up work for each day absent
• Teachers may assign equivalent work rather than identical work
• Extended absences handled individually

Out-of-School Suspension

• Work may receive up to 60% credit
• Exams may receive full credit
• Work must be completed within the assigned timeline

DRIVER’S LICENSE REPORTING

Under Indiana law, driving privileges may be impacted for students under age 18 who:

• Are habitually truant
• Receive repeated suspensions
• Are expelled from school

The school may report qualifying students to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles.

PERFECT ATTENDANCE

Perfect attendance requires:

• Presence for every class period throughout the school year
• No truancies
• No ISS
• No OSS

The following do not count against perfect attendance:

• Exempt absences
• Approved field trips
• Funeral absences
• Approved college visits

Medical appointments do count against perfect attendance.

SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES & SUPPORT SERVICES

The school recognizes that attendance concerns may result from significant personal challenges.

Additional support services may be offered for students experiencing:

• Pregnancy
• Foster care placement
• Homelessness
• Mental health challenges
• Severe illness
• Family crises

Support may include:

• Counseling
• Academic accommodations
• Attendance plans
• Mentorship
• Outside agency referrals

ADMINISTRATIVE DISCRETION

The administration reserves the right to:

• Investigate questionable attendance patterns
• Require physician documentation at any time
• Modify consequences based on circumstances
• Establish attendance contracts
• Determine appropriate interventions
• Protect the integrity of the educational environment

The principal retains final discretionary authority over all attendance matters.

 

Technology, Internet, And Digital Communication Policy

Technology resources are provided to support learning and Bishop Luers High School's mission. Students are expected to use all technology responsibly, respectfully, legally, and in a manner consistent with Catholic values.

Classroom Technology Expectations

School-issued technology is an instructional tool. Teachers determine when technology may be used during class and may restrict its use when necessary to support instruction, assessment, classroom management, or student engagement. Students are expected to follow all teachers’ directions regarding the use of technology. Failure to comply may result in disciplinary consequences. Teacher permission to use technology in one classroom does not automatically extend to other classrooms or school settings.

Off-Campus Internet and Social Media Use

Students may be subject to school discipline for online conduct occurring on or off campus when such conduct substantially disrupts the educational environment, threatens safety, harms students or staff, violates school policies, or damages the school's reputation.

Acceptable Use

Students must use school-issued devices, accounts, and networks for educational purposes. Users are expected to protect passwords, respect privacy, follow copyright laws, and safeguard school information.

Prohibited Use

Students may not access, create, possess, transmit, or distribute content that is illegal, obscene, threatening, harassing, discriminatory, pornographic, or otherwise inappropriate. Students may not attempt to bypass security systems, access another person's account, install unauthorized software, or intentionally damage technology resources.

Digital Communication Expectations

All electronic communication must be respectful and appropriate. Students should assume that any digital communication may become public.

Photography and Recording

Students may not photograph, record, livestream, or post images, videos, or audio involving students, staff, classrooms, disciplinary matters, or school activities without authorization. Students are never permitted to post images or videos of staff members without permission.

Monitoring and Privacy

School-owned devices, accounts, and networks remain the property of Bishop Luers High School. Students should not expect privacy when using school technology resources.

Technology Damage

Students and families are financially responsible for lost, damaged, stolen, or unreturned school-issued devices, chargers, and accessories.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Academic Integrity Policy

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, including current and future generative AI technologies, machine-learning applications, automated content generators, writing assistants, image generators, research tools, and similar technologies, may be used only in accordance with teacher expectations and school policy.

The purpose of AI is to support learning, critical thinking, creativity, and skill development—not to replace student effort, judgment, or original work. Students remain responsible for all work submitted in their name, regardless of whether AI tools were used.

Permitted Use of AI
Students may use AI tools when specifically authorized by a teacher or when used to support learning activities such as brainstorming, research, concept review, study assistance, outlining, grammar support, or feedback. Any use of AI must align with the expectations established by the classroom teacher.

Prohibited Use of AI
Students may not use AI tools to complete assignments, assessments, projects, essays, discussion posts, homework, or other academic work in a manner that misrepresents the student's own knowledge, understanding, effort, or abilities. Submitting AI-generated content as original student work constitutes academic dishonesty.

Teacher Authority
Teachers have the authority to determine when AI use is permitted, limited, required, or prohibited within their courses. Students are responsible for understanding and following the expectations communicated by each teacher.

Academic Integrity
Students must be prepared to explain, defend, and demonstrate understanding of any work they submit. If a student cannot demonstrate ownership of submitted work, the work may be considered academically dishonest.

Consequences
Unauthorized or inappropriate use of AI may result in academic and disciplinary consequences, including assignment failure, loss of credit, detention, suspension, disciplinary review, or other consequences outlined in the Student Handbook.

Bishop Luers High School reserves the right to investigate suspected misuse of AI and to utilize available methods and professional judgment when determining whether submitted work reflects authentic student learning.

General Expectations: Students are expected to use all technology responsibly and in a manner that supports learning. Cell phones, AirPods, headphones, smart watches, and other personal electronic devices must remain out of sight during instructional time unless specifically approved by a teacher or administrator.

Prohibited Conduct Includes: Unauthorized recording, social media use during class, bypassing school filters, cheating through technology or AI, cyberbullying, viewing inappropriate content, or misuse of school-issued devices.

School Computer Expectations: School computers are for educational purposes only. Students must stay on approved websites/apps, protect login credentials, handle devices responsibly, and follow teacher directions regarding technology use.

Offense	Computer Violations	Cell Phones / AirPods / Headphones
1st	Detention	Device Confiscation 5 days
2nd	Detention	Device Confiscation 5 days
3rd	Friday School	Friday School + Device Confiscation 10 days
4th	ISS	ISS + Device Confiscation 10 days
5th	OSS + Review Board	OSS + Review Board

 

Serious Violations: Administration may accelerate consequences for severe violations, including threatening content, explicit material, harassment, tampering with school systems, or recording/sharing inappropriate incidents. Law enforcement may be notified when required.

Administrative Discretion: Administration reserves the right to adjust consequences based on severity, intent, frequency, and impact on the school environment.

Mission and Philosophy

Discipline at Bishop Luers High School is rooted in the Catholic principles of dignity, accountability, responsibility, restoration, and growth. The goal of discipline is not simply to punish misconduct, but to help students learn from mistakes, restore trust, and contribute positively to the school community.

School Authority

This policy applies on campus, at school-sponsored events, while traveling to and from school activities, through electronic communications that affect the school environment, and whenever student conduct substantially impacts the safety, operation, educational mission, or reputation of Bishop Luers High School.

Disciplinary Consequences Defined

• Warning – Verbal or written notice of misconduct.
• Detention – 45–60 minutes after school. Failure to serve results in Friday School.
• Friday School – Friday from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Failure to serve results in ISS. Repeated failure results in OSS.
• In-School Suspension (ISS) – Removal from classes for 1–5 days. Students may not participate in extracurricular activities.
• Out-of-School Suspension (OSS) – Removal from school and all activities for 1–10 days.
• Behavior Contract / Probation – Formal behavioral expectations required for continued enrollment.
• Review Board Referral – Formal review of serious or repeated misconduct.
• Expulsion – Removal from Bishop Luers High School in accordance with diocesan policy.

Progressive Discipline Matrix

Violation Type	1st Offense	2nd Offense	3rd Offense	4th+ Offense
Dress Code	Warning	Detention	Friday School	ISS
Food/Gum/Hallway	Warning	Detention	Friday School	ISS
Classroom Disruption	Detention	Friday School	ISS	OSS
Technology Misuse	Detention	Detention	ISS	ISS/OSS
Skipping Class	Friday School	ISS	OSS	Review Board
Disrespect	ISS	OSS	Review Board	Possible Dismissal

Category I – Minor Violations

Examples include dress code violations, food or beverages in unauthorized areas, hallway misconduct, horseplay, classroom disruption, minor inappropriate language, ID violations, and similar low-level misconduct.

Category II – Serious Violations

Examples include skipping class, leaving campus without permission, disrespect toward staff, racial or ethnic slurs, forgery, failure to serve consequences, possession of another person's property without permission, driving violations, repeated Category I offenses, and non-cooperation.

Category III – Major Violations

Violation	Minimum Consequence	Possible Escalation
Fighting	3-Day OSS	Review Board / Expulsion
Recording a Fight	1-Day OSS	3-Day OSS
Bullying/Harassment	ISS	OSS / Review Board
Threats	Immediate OSS	Expulsion / Police
Vaping	OSS	Review Board
Marijuana	OSS	Review Board
Alcohol	OSS	Review Board
Theft	OSS + Restitution	Review Board
Vandalism	OSS + Restitution	Review Board
Drug Distribution	OSS	Expulsion
Weapons	Mandatory Expulsion	N/A
Gang Activity	OSS	Expulsion

Bullying, Harassment, and Intimidation

Bullying, cyberbullying, intimidation, retaliation, and harassment are prohibited. Verified incidents will result in disciplinary action. Severe, repeated, or threatening behavior may result in OSS, Review Board referral, or expulsion.

Fighting and Physical Confrontations

Students involved in fighting, provoking a fight, encouraging a fight, recording a fight, or gathering to promote a confrontation may be disciplined. Self-defense claims will be investigated individually. Physical aggression that causes injury or creates substantial disruption may result in additional consequences.

Substance Abuse Violations

Violation	1st	2nd	3rd+
Vaping/Tobacco	OSS + Parent Meeting	OSS + Review Board	Possible Dismissal
Marijuana	OSS + Review Board	OSS + Probation	Possible Dismissal
Alcohol	OSS + Review Board	OSS + Probation	Possible Dismissal

Technology and Electronic Devices

Technology violations include unauthorized recordings, cyberbullying, misuse of school devices, inappropriate online conduct affecting the school environment, bypassing network restrictions, and violations of the Acceptable Use Policy.

Computer-only discipline progression: Detention, Detention, ISS, ISS, OSS, and Review Board consideration unless the violation rises to a major offense.

Academic Dishonesty

Offense	Consequence
First Offense	Complete the assignment for a maximum credit of 60% and parent contact
Second Offense	Zero on the assignment or test and Academic Probation
Third Offense	Loss of credit Review Board referral

Disciplinary Points System

Detention = 1 point; Friday School = 1.5 points; ISS = 2 points; OSS (1-2 days) = 2.5 points; OSS (3+ days) = 3 points.

Accumulation of 10 points in a semester results in an automatic Review Board referral.

Automatic Review Board Referrals

• 10 disciplinary points in a semester
• Second OSS in a school year
• Fighting
• Drug or alcohol possession
• Threats toward students, staff, or school
• Significant bullying or harassment
• Theft or vandalism involving substantial loss
• Any conduct that may result in expulsion

Extracurricular Eligibility

Students assigned OSS are ineligible to participate in practices, games, performances, meetings, trips, or extracurricular activities during the suspension period.

Review Board and Appeals Process

The Review Board serves as an advisory body to the Principal. Students and parents will be informed of allegations, allowed to respond, and permitted to provide relevant information. The Board will make a recommendation to the Principal. The Principal retains final decision-making authority. Appeals must be submitted in writing. The Principal's decision shall be final.

Expulsion and Diocesan Policies

All diocesan policies regarding suspension, expulsion, gun-free schools requirements, due process, and student conduct remain in effect and supersede ANY conflicting handbook language.

The Bishop Luers High School Dress Code exists to promote a safe, respectful, and distraction-free learning environment. Students are expected to present themselves in a manner that reflects the values of Bishop Luers High School and supports the educational mission of the school.

General Expectations

Students must be in dress code from arrival until dismissal. Clothing must be clean, appropriately fitted, and free of rips, tears, fraying, or excessive wear. Any item that is disruptive to the educational environment, inconsistent with school values, or compromises safety may be prohibited by the administration.

Accessories and Personal Appearance

Permitted accessories include modest earrings (no large hoops), stud-style nose piercings, watches (no smart watches), rings, bracelets, and necklaces. Prohibited items include wallet chains, ear gauges/plugs, non-religious head coverings, bandanas, durags, and accessories deemed distracting, unsafe, or inappropriate. Smart watches are not permitted. Hair, grooming, makeup, tattoos, and personal appearance must not disrupt the educational environment.

Uniform Shirts (Monday–Thursday)

Students must wear an official Bishop Luers polo shirt, sweater, crew neck sweatshirt (with school polo underneath), or quarter-zip pullover. Undershirts must be solid red, black, white, or gray and may not display writing on the sleeves. Polo shirts must remain tucked in throughout the school day. Polos are not required under sweaters or quarter-zips, but you must stick to the undershirt guidelines.

Friday Spirit Wear

Students may wear approved Bishop Luers spirit wear, team apparel, club apparel, sweaters, polos, or quarter-zips. Spirit wear must be school-issued, school-approved, or purchased through an approved school fundraiser.

Pants and Belts

Only black or khaki dress pants are permitted. Jeans, denim, sweatpants, cargo pants, joggers, leggings, yoga pants, and similar styles are prohibited. Pants must be worn at the waist with a visible belt and must be appropriately fitted.

Skirts

The official Bishop Luers uniform skirt is the only approved skirt. Skirts must be no shorter than four inches above the back crease of the knee. Opaque black tights or leggings must be worn with the uniform skirt.

Shoes

Athletic shoes and traditional dress shoes are permitted. Open-toed shoes, Crocs, slippers, sandals, moccasins, house shoes, Ugg-style footwear, and knee-high boots are not permitted. Heels may not exceed two inches.

Mass Days

Students are expected to wear the standard Bishop Luers uniform on all Mass days unless otherwise announced.

Dress-Down and Special Event Days

All dress-down attire must be modest, appropriate, and free from offensive language, images, or messages. Tank tops, halter tops, crop tops, off-the-shoulder tops, sleepwear, boxer shorts, biker shorts, and revealing clothing are prohibited. Shorts must be mid-thigh length or longer.

Administrative Discretion

Because trends and styles change over time, the administration reserves the right to determine whether a student's attire, grooming, accessories, or appearance complies with both the letter and spirit of this policy. Administrative decisions regarding dress code compliance are final.

Progressive Discipline for Dress Code Violations

Students are expected to correct dress code violations immediately. Repeated violations will be treated as a refusal to comply with school expectations.

Violation	Consequence
1st Violation	Warning, correction of violation, and documentation.
2nd Violation	Detention and parent notification.
3rd Violation	Detention, loss of next Spirit Day/Dress-Down Day privilege, and parent contact.
4th+ Violation	Progressive discipline up to ISS, OSS, and/or Disciplinary Review as determined by administration.

Students may be required to change clothing, have appropriate clothing brought to school, or remain in the office until the violation is corrected. Failure to comply with staff directions regarding dress code corrections may result in additional disciplinary consequences.

Bishop Luers High School is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and Christ-centered learning environment free from harassment, discrimination, intimidation, and bullying. Harassment may be verbal, written, physical, visual, or electronic, and includes conduct based on sex, race, ethnicity, national origin, or any other protected status.

Sexual harassment includes unwelcome sexual comments, advances, requests for favors, inappropriate touching, gestures, messages, images, or other conduct of a sexual nature that interferes with a student’s educational experience or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment.

Racial harassment includes unwelcome comments, slurs, jokes, gestures, images, or conduct directed toward an individual’s race, ethnicity, color, or national origin.

Students who experience or witness harassment must report the incident to a teacher, counselor, dean, assistant principal, principal, or other school official. Reports will be investigated promptly to the extent possible. Harassment, discrimination, bullying, or retaliation may result in disciplinary action up to and including expulsion.

LOCKERS

Lockers remain the property of Bishop Luers High School and are assigned for student use. Students are responsible for maintaining their assigned locker in a clean, secure, and orderly condition.

Only school-approved locks may be used. Students are responsible for all items stored in their lockers and should not share lockers or combinations. Graffiti, damage, misuse, or unauthorized use of another student's locker may result in disciplinary action and restitution for damages.

Students should have no expectation of privacy regarding lockers or locker contents.

SEARCHES, INSPECTIONS, AND CANINE SEARCHES

To maintain a safe learning environment, school officials may inspect lockers, desks, backpacks, personal belongings, electronic devices, and vehicles when deemed necessary. By enrolling at Bishop Luers High School, students and parents acknowledge and consent to reasonable searches conducted in accordance with diocesan policy.

Refusal to cooperate with a search may result in immediate disciplinary action, including suspension pending administrative review.

The school reserves the right to utilize trained detection dogs to conduct random searches of lockers, vehicles, backpacks, and other property located on school grounds. Illegal items or substances discovered may be turned over to law enforcement.

As a Catholic high school, Bishop Luers upholds the dignity and sanctity of all human life from conception through natural death. When issues involving pregnancy, parenthood, marriage, or abortion arise, the school will follow all diocesan policies and work closely with students and families to provide appropriate pastoral, educational, and counseling support. All decisions regarding continued enrollment, support plans, and disciplinary action will be made in consultation with diocesan authorities when required. Diocesan policy supersedes local handbook language in these matters

Bishop Luers High School maintains a comprehensive school safety plan designed to protect students, faculty, staff, and visitors. Emergency drills, including fire, severe weather, lockdown, evacuation, shelter-in-place, and other safety procedures, are conducted throughout the school year.

Students are expected to follow all staff directions promptly, quietly, and respectfully during drills and emergencies. Failure to comply may result in disciplinary action.

Student Seclusion & Restraint

Bishop Luers High School is committed to providing a safe and respectful educational environment. Seclusion or restraint shall be used only when a student's behavior presents an immediate risk of physical harm to self or others and only in accordance with Indiana law and diocesan requirements. Seclusion or restraint will never be used as punishment, coercion, retaliation, convenience, or routine classroom management. Any use must be supervised, documented, and limited to the duration necessary to restore safety.

Child Abuse Reporting

All school personnel are mandated to report suspected child abuse or neglect as required by Indiana law and diocesan policy. Reports are made to the appropriate civil and diocesan authorities. Student safety remains the highest priority.

Gun-Free School Policy

Possession, use, transmission, sale, or concealment of a firearm on school property, at a school-sponsored activity, or while traveling to or from a school activity is strictly prohibited.

Violations may result in immediate removal from school and expulsion in accordance with diocesan and state requirements.

Threats to School Safety

Threats of violence, intimidation, weapon-related statements, bomb threats, social media threats, or any conduct that could reasonably be interpreted as endangering school safety are strictly prohibited.

All threats will be taken seriously, investigated thoroughly, and may result in disciplinary action, law enforcement involvement, suspension, expulsion, or other appropriate consequences. Statements made as jokes, pranks, or online comments are not exempt from investigation or discipline.

Video Surveillance

Video cameras operate throughout campus and on school property to enhance safety and security. Video recordings may be reviewed and used during disciplinary investigations, safety assessments, and legal proceedings when appropriate. It is not school policy to share video recordings with parents or guardians when multiple students are involved. If the authorities must be contacted, Bishop Luers High School will share all evidence associated with the incident.  

Visitors & Guests

All visitors must enter through the main entrance, report directly to the Main Campus Office, and show a valid government-issued photo identification to obtain a visitor badge before entering the building. Students may not open secured entrances or allow unauthorized individuals into the building.

Student records are maintained in accordance with diocesan, state, and federal requirements and may be released only as permitted by law and diocesan policy. Official transcripts, diplomas, and records may be withheld when financial obligations remain outstanding.

Transcript requests must go through Admissions Office.

Bishop Luers High School offers a variety of support services, including school counseling, academic support, campus ministry, pastoral counseling, library/media services, and parent communication resources. We also provide mental health services through Catholic Charities. Students are encouraged to seek assistance whenever academic, personal, social, emotional, or spiritual support.

Substance Abuse

Bishop Luers recognizes substance abuse as a serious health concern. Students suspected of experiencing substance-related concerns may be referred for evaluation, counseling, or treatment recommendations. Possession, use, distribution, sale, or being under the influence of drugs, alcohol, controlled substances, drug paraphernalia, or unauthorized substances at school or school-sponsored events remains a violation of school policy, resulting in disciplinary action up to and including expulsion.

Families are responsible for all tuition, fees, fines, and other financial obligations associated with enrollment. Tuition rates and fees are established annually. The school reserves the right to withhold transcripts, diplomas, report cards, participation in graduation activities, re-enrollment privileges, extracurricular participation, and other school services when financial obligations remain unpaid. All tuition payment plans, financial aid programs, withdrawal procedures, and collection practices are governed by diocesan policy and school business office procedures.

Tuition & Financial Commitment

Tuition rates are established annually by the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend. A Financial Obligation Agreement must be completed each year to establish the family's financial responsibility and determine the appropriate tuition rate. All tuition and fees must remain current for continued enrollment and re-enrollment.

Financial Responsibility Statement

Enrollment at Bishop Luers High School constitutes acceptance of all tuition, fee, payment, and collection policies established by the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend and Bishop Luers High School.

Payment Options

Option 1 – Full Payment Pay the full tuition balance by the published school deadline. Payment may be made by cash, check, money order, ACH, or approved credit card.

Option 2 – FACTS Semester Plan Pay one-half of the tuition balance at the beginning of the school year and the remaining balance at mid-year. Applicable FACTS service fees will apply.

Option 3 – FACTS Quarterly Plan Pay the tuition balance through four scheduled payments during the school year. Applicable FACTS service fees will apply.

Option 4 – FACTS Monthly Plan Pay the tuition balance through monthly payments over the course of the school year. Applicable FACTS service fees will apply.

Payments may be processed through ACH draft or approved credit card methods on available FACTS payment dates.

Financial Assistance

Financial assistance is available based on demonstrated need and available funding through school resources, private donations, and the Annual Bishop's Appeal. Families seeking assistance must complete the FACTS Grant & Aid Assessment Application through the Business Office.

Fees

All fees are non-refundable.

• Course Fee – $225

• Book Rental Fee – $350

• Registration Fee – $155

• Late Registration Fee – $190

• Curriculum/Activity Lab Fee – $60

• Parking Permit – $45 (Replacement Permit – $10)

• Athletic Participation Fee – Varies by sport

• Schedule Change Fee – $15

• School Improvement Fee – $210

• Memorial Fee – $15

• Technology Fee – $450

• Lock Rental Fee – $5 (Replacement Lock – $10)

• Student ID Card – $10 (Replacement ID – $10)

• Catholic Identity Fee – $25

• Student Insurance Fee – $35

• Café Deposit – $5 • Activity Pass – $55

• Safety & Security Fee – $30

• Laptop Replacement – $1,000

• Laptop Charger Replacement – $60

Free & Reduced Lunch Program

Bishop Luers High School participates in the federal Free and Reduced Lunch Program. Eligibility is determined by federal income guidelines and household size.

Delinquent Accounts

In accordance with diocesan policy, tuition and fee obligations must remain current. The school reserves the right to deny continued enrollment or re-enrollment, restrict participation in extracurricular activities, withhold report cards, transcripts, diplomas, academic records, and graduation privileges, and refer unpaid balances for collection. Payments are applied first to outstanding balances and then to current-year obligations.

When a student withdraws from Bishop Luers High School, all outstanding fees and tuition obligations must be satisfied before records are released.

Tuition for a quarter that has not yet begun may be refunded. Once a student attends any portion of a quarter, that quarter's tuition becomes non-refundable.

Annual fees are non-refundable after the first day of school.

Families participating in the Indiana Choice Scholarship Program may be responsible for additional balances resulting from prorated voucher funding adjustments.

To maintain a safe, orderly, and respectful learning environment, students are expected to move through the building responsibly at all times.

General Hallway Expectations

• Students must walk at all times. Running, pushing, horseplay, excessive physical contact, or any behavior that disrupts the school environment or creates a safety concern is prohibited.
• Students are expected to move quietly, directly, and purposefully to their destination.
• Students are allowed approximately five (5) minutes to travel between classes. During this time, students should report directly to their next class, the cafeteria during lunch periods, or another approved destination.
• Restroom use should occur during passing periods whenever possible.

Digital Hall Pass Requirements

• Students may not be outside of a classroom during instructional time without an approved Digital Hall Pass or direct staff authorization.
• Students must travel directly to the destination listed on their pass and return promptly when their business is complete.
• Students are expected to check in with the receiving teacher or staff member when arriving at a destination and notify their classroom teacher immediately upon returning.
• Loitering or lingering in hallways, restrooms, locker rooms, offices, stairwells, or other areas of the building is prohibited at all times, including during lunch periods.

Building Movement Guidelines

• Students should remain in authorized areas of the building and may only be in hallways during passing periods or while using an approved Digital Hall Pass.
• Students may not cut across the gym floor unless directed by a staff member.
• During lunch periods, students must remain within the designated cafeteria area. Students may not enter academic hallways or other areas of the building beyond the cafeteria restrooms without staff permission.

Emergency Drills and Safety Procedures

• During fire drills, tornado drills, lockdowns, shelter-in-place events, and other emergency situations, students must immediately follow all staff directions.
• Students are expected to remain silent, move quickly and orderly to the designated safe location, and remain attentive for further instructions.
• Failure to follow staff directions during a drill or emergency situation may result in disciplinary consequences, as student compliance is essential for the safety of the entire school community.

Students who fail to follow hallway, stairwell, building movement, or Digital Hall Pass expectations may be subject to disciplinary action. These procedures are designed to promote safety, accountability, and an effective learning environment for all members of the Bishop Luers community.

Digital Hall Pass System

Bishop Luers High School uses a digital hall pass system to help manage student movement during the school day. Physical planners are no longer used for hall passes.

Student Expectations

• Ask for teacher permission before leaving the classroom.
• If permission is granted, the teacher will create a digital hall pass.
• Students are allowed three (3) out-and-back passes per school day for routine destinations, including restrooms, drinking fountains, lockers, and printers.
• Hall passes are intended to last approximately 5–7 minutes. Minor circumstances, such as waiting in line or the distance between locations, may be considered.
• Students must travel directly to their destination and return promptly.
• Upon returning to class, students must report back to their teacher so they can be checked back into class.

Teacher-to-Teacher Passes

• Students may request passes to visit another teacher's classroom for academic or school-related purposes.
• Teacher-to-teacher passes do not count toward the three daily out-and-back passes.
• Students traveling to another teacher's classroom must be checked out by the sending teacher and checked in by the receiving teacher.
• It is the student's responsibility to make the receiving teacher aware of their arrival. Students are encouraged to promptly check in with the receiving teacher upon entering the classroom to ensure their pass is properly recorded.
• Teachers may choose to make themselves unavailable during certain times and can close their room to student visits.

Medical Accommodations

• Hall passes are a privilege and are not guaranteed at any specific time.
• Students who require additional or unrestricted hall pass access due to a medical condition must provide appropriate documentation to the Front Office.
• Approved accommodations will be communicated to staff and honored accordingly.

General Expectations

• Students should plan restroom, locker, and other routine needs responsibly throughout the school day.
• Students must remain in approved locations while using a hall pass.
• Students found outside of an approved location, exceeding reasonable pass time limits without cause, or misusing the digital hall pass system may be subject to disciplinary consequences.

The digital hall pass system is designed to promote student safety, accountability, and instructional time while providing reasonable access to student needs throughout the school day.

Parking on campus is a privilege, not a right. Students who drive to school are expected to operate their vehicles safely and comply with all school parking regulations.

Student Parking Eligibility

• Parking permits are available to licensed student drivers.
• Parking permits must be purchased through the Business Office.
• The permit must be displayed in the front passenger window.

Restricted Parking Areas

Student parking is prohibited in:

• Staff parking areas
• The first three parking lanes adjacent to the cafeteria
• The front entrance parking area
• The maintenance shop parking area
• The cafeteria entrance area  
• Any space reserved for staff, visitors, or special use

Students are responsible for knowing and complying with all parking restrictions.

Reserved Student Spaces

Certain spaces may be reserved for students who have purchased or earned designated parking spots. Students may not park in a space reserved by another student.

Off-Campus Parking

Parking on nearby residential streets is extremely limited. Students are strongly discouraged from parking on Noll Avenue or other neighboring streets.

Students who park off campus remain subject to school policies and disciplinary action when parking choices create safety concerns, neighborhood disruptions, attendance issues, or violations of school expectations.

Vehicle Searches

Vehicles parked on school property are subject to search in accordance with school policy and applicable law when reasonable suspicion exists.

Driving Expectations

Students must:

• Observe all traffic laws and school traffic patterns.
• Drive safely and courteously.
• Maintain a maximum speed of 15 miles per hour on school property.
• Yield to pedestrians at all times.

Reckless driving, excessive speed, unsafe operation of a vehicle, or conduct that endangers others may result in:

• Loss of parking privileges
• School disciplinary action
• Towing of the vehicle at the owner's expense
• Additional consequences as determined by the administration

Pedestrians who interfere with traffic, jump on vehicles, or engage in unsafe conduct may also be subject to disciplinary action.

Parking Violations

Parking violations may result in:

1. Warning and notification
2. Temporary suspension of parking privileges
3. Long-term or permanent loss of parking privileges
4. Vehicle towing at the owner's expense

The administration reserves the right to determine consequences based on the severity and frequency of violations.

In accordance with Indiana law, Bishop Luers High School must have documentation of all required immunizations on file before a student may attend school. Students who do not have the required immunization records may be excluded from school until compliance is achieved.

Students who are unable to participate in Physical Education classes, athletic activities, or other school-related activities due to a medical condition must provide documentation from a licensed physician. The physician’s statement must identify the restriction, the reason for the restriction, and the anticipated duration. Medical exemptions from participation do not waive the Physical Education credit required for graduation.

Medication Policy

 

Whenever possible, medications should be administered at home rather than during the school day. When medication must be taken at school, the following procedures must be followed:

1. All medication, whether prescription or over-the-counter, must be provided in its original container.

2. The container must be clearly labeled with:

o Student’s name

o Name of the medication

o Prescribed dosage

o Administration instructions

3. A written authorization from the parent or legal guardian must accompany the medication and include:

o Student’s name

o Name of the medication

o Reason for administration

o Dosage

o Time(s) the medication should be administered

4. All medication must be stored in and administered through the Health Office unless otherwise authorized by the school.

5. Students may not carry or self-administer medication, including aspirin, acetaminophen (Tylenol), cough medicine, or other over-the-counter medications, unless specifically authorized by a physician and approved by the school.

Medication authorization forms are available through the school office and may be used for both regularly scheduled and as-needed medications.

Failure to comply with medication procedures may result in disciplinary action and/or confiscation of the medication.