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⇒ Starting the School Year
When is the first day of school?
The first day of school for the 2023-2024 school year is Wednesday, August 23.
Is there orientation for new students?
Yes, there will be a new student orientation as well as a new parent orientation. Orientation will be held at school a few days prior to the start of school.
Is there any summer work that students need to complete?
Yes, typically grades 2-8 work on math exercises through iXL. Information will be given to your child prior to summer break.
Rising 1st Grade - 4th Grade:
This summer students will access RAZ kids to practice reading. Students are required to login to RAZ for 60 minutes per week. RAZ kids has a library of interactive ebooks at various levels of reading difficulty to meet the needs of all readers. Login information will be sent home by your child's classroom teacher. In addition, rising 4th through 8th grade will have a reading assignment.
Do morning and afternoon carpool work the same way?
Morning and afternoon carpools run differently. Please refer to the Carpool Procedures page for details.
How do I know to which class my child is assigned?
Homeroom assignments will be emailed to parents prior to the first day of school.
How do I know which supplies to purchase?
We have partnered with 1st Day School Supplies as a convenience for our parents to purchase school supply kits. More information regarding ordering the supply kits will be forthcoming. If you do not wish to order the school supply kit, a list of supplies for each grade will be made available on the school website. Please note any special teacher instructions listed.
I have a new phone number (email, etc.). Who do I contact to update the school directory?
Please contact the school office with any changes.
I’m new to the school and really could use some extra help.
Our Welcome Saints program is a school tradition designed to welcome you to our school family. All new parents are assigned a seasoned volunteer parent to help answer any questions and to provide assistance during your first year at SJS.
Do I need to submit a health form prior to my child starting school?
Yes! Our school nurse, Mrs. Ezenwa, must have a completed Virginia State school health entrance form, including an updated immunization record, for all new students prior to August 1, 2023. All rising 7th grade students must present proof of immunization for meningitis and TDap booster.
⇒ School Hours, Attendance and Inclement Weather
What time does school start and end each day?
School begins each day at 8:00am. Students are expected to be in their homerooms and ready to begin class when the 8:00am bell rings. Students arriving after 8:00am are considered tardy and are required to report to the front office.
Students are dismissed from school at 3:15pm. For details on morning and afternoon carpool policies, please refer to the Carpool Procedures page.
What is the earliest time I can drop off my child in the morning?
Morning Carpool drop-off begins at 7:40 a.m.
I’m running late! What happens to my child if I arrive after afternoon carpool has ended?
The school accommodates late arriving parents by offering second and third carpool rounds. Students remaining after the third round of cars will be brought to the front office to call home. Students will be sent to Extended Day when the school office closes and parents will be charged accordingly. For further details, please refer to the Carpool Procedures page.
My child has a play date after school. What kind of special arrangements must be made?
At any time a student is riding in a different carpool, the school must be notified in writing – name of the driver and description of car. An email should be sent to [email protected] and the homeroom teacher. Please note that a child who is leaving with a walker, must have a Walker Permission form on file.
Does SJS offer Before or Extended Day Programs?
Yes, SJS offers both before and afterschool programs for a fee. Visit our Extended Day Program page for details.
How do I communicate planned (vacation) and unplanned (illness) absences to the school?
For each absence, parents must provide an email indicating the dates and reason their child is not in school.- Unplanned Absences (illness or family emergencies): Please send an email to your child’s teacher and [email protected] in the morning indicating why your child will not be in school. If you know that your child will be absent for additional days please indicate the expected date of return.
- Email [email protected] indicating the reason for the absence.
- Planned Absences: Vacations during the school year are highly discouraged but sometimes are unavoidable. If you know in advance that your child will be absent, please send an email to your child’s teacher and [email protected] as early as possible prior to absence, indicating the dates and reason for absence.
My child is sick. How long must he/she stay home before cleared to return to school?
No student may return to school until 24 hours after a fever has broken and fever free for 24 hours without medication. If a student is sent home from the clinic with a fever, he/she may not return the next day. Additionally, if the student is put on an antibiotic, he/she must be on the medication for 24 hours before returning to school.
If a student is well enough to come to school, the student is expected to participate in all activities. There will be outside recess (weather permitting) for all students. Please visit the Nurse's page for more information.
What is the school policy for inclement weather?
In addition to the traditional 180 school days, 3 extra days are added to the school calendar to accommodate days off due to inclement weather or other non-weather related emergencies. In the event these inclement weather/emergency days are not used, schools may dismiss for summer after completing the required 180 school days.
If, however, during the course of the year the school uses more than three inclement weather/emergency days, it is not necessary for the school to extend its school year beyond the 183 budgeted days, provided the school has surpassed 1038 hours of instructional time.
If during the course of the year, the school uses inclement weather/emergency days, it may be necessary to modify the published school calendar.- If Fairfax County School System closes due to inclement weather, St. Joseph Catholic School will be closed.
- If Fairfax County delays the opening of school on a day when we are scheduled for early dismissal, we will follow the delay BUT will extend our school day until 3:15 PM.
My child is in Extended Day. What is the policy for weather related closures?
If the school is closed for the day, there will be NO Extended Day. If school opens one to two hours late due to inclement weather, Extended Day will open as follows:- One hour late school opening – Extended Day will open one hour later than the usual time. It will open at 8:00 am.
- Two hours late opening – Extended Day will open tours later than the usual time. It will open at 9:00 am.
Please visit the Extended Day Program page for more details.
⇒ School Uniform and Dress-Out Days
What is the official SJS Uniform?
The dress code provides a standard for our students, which fosters an environment conducive to learning and respectful behavior.
The uniform is slightly different for each grade and therefore it is best to reference the School Uniform page for the full details, per grade.
Where do I purchase uniforms?
Our school vendor is Flynn O’Hara. Uniforms may be purchased online at www.flynnohara.com or by visiting the Flynn O’Hara store located in Fairfax. Please refer to the uniform section of the Parent Handbook for uniform guidelines.
Do you have any used uniforms to purchase?
The PTO will hold used uniform sales throughout the year.
What are the official dates for Fall and Spring uniforms?
Spring/Fall Uniform: August – October
Winter Uniform: October – April
Spring/Fall Uniform: April - June
What are the guidelines for birthday dress out? Picture Day?
Dressing out of uniform is a privilege. As such, the attire should be equal to or better than the SJS School uniform:
Dress-Out Guidelines:
● Shirts/tops must have sleeves.
● Any writing on shirts must be in good taste and not promote alcohol, or cigarettes, or firearms or political/social points of view.
● “Fanny messages” are not appropriate.
● NO flip flops, backless shoes, or “Wheelies.”
● No yoga pants, leggings or similar items are allowed unless covered by a knee-length skirt, dress, or long tunic reaching three inches above the knee.
● No sweat pants or pajama pants are allowed. During the fall/spring uniform time ONLY, long Bermuda shorts are allowed. ABSOLUTELY no short shorts are allowed.
Dress out for Picture Day: Must be dress up clothing including a collared shirt for boys.
What are the guidelines for Spirit Wear dress out days?
Dress out and Spirit Gear Days: Students may wear jeans. No jeans with rips or holes. Students must follow the Dress-Out Guidelines mentioned above as well as in the SJS Parent/Student Handbook.
Do you sell spirit wear?
Yes! Our 8th grade class sells spirit wear at the beginning of the school year. Items purchased through the spirit wear sales can be worn on the occasional spirit wear dress out days.
What sports are offered?
St. Joseph Catholic School participates in the Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) for sports. Basketball, tennis, and track and field are open for boys and girls. Cheerleading and volleyball are open for girls. St. Joseph Catholic School has started a golf club as an introduction to the game of golf.
⇒ Academics
What is the curriculum for the school?
Curriculum encompasses the sequentially ordered learning experiences which the school provides for its students. The total curriculum includes the development of Catholic values and attitudes, as well as the attainment of knowledge and skills necessary for the student’s spiritual, moral, intellectual, social and physical development.
For more information, visit the Diocese of Arlington Curriculum website.
Is the school accredited?
St. Joseph Catholic School is accredited by the Virginia Catholic Education Association (VCEA), whose accreditation process has been approved by the Virginia Council for Private Education Committee on Accreditation as authorized by the Virginia State Board of Education.
Do the children learn a foreign language?
All children (K – 8th grade) in the school study Spanish, as a core subject within the curriculum.
How often do the children have PE each week?
K-3rd grade: 2 times per week
4th-8th grade: 1 time per week
Does the school offer any electives for middle school students?
Saint Joseph Catholic School 7th and 8th grade students enroll in 2 electives each trimester to enhance the core subjects. Electives complement the skills that students need daily to succeed.
Does the school offer sex education classes?
Catechesis in sexuality is an important and sensitive component of a comprehensive program of catechesis. According to the Second Vatican Council, "As they (children and young people) advance in years, they should be given positive and prudent sexual education”. Education in sexuality includes all dimensions of the topic: moral, spiritual, psychological, emotional, and physical. Its goal is training in chastity in accord with the teaching of Christ and the Church, to be lived in a wholesome manner in marriage, the single state, the priesthood, and religious life. Saint Joseph Catholic School incorporates Diocesan chastity lessons into our Religion classes as well as providing an optional program in grades 6, 7 and 8.
How much homework do the children have?
The suggested time allotment for homework depends on the type of assignment and the age and grade of the student. Kindergarten may occasionally have homework assignments or projects. No definite time limit can be determined for all grades since students work at different speeds. The following is merely a general guide for written work:- Grades 1 and 2: 20—30 minutes
- Grades 3 and 4: 45-60 minutes
- Grades 5 and 6: 60-75 minutes
- Grades 7 and 8: 75-120 minutes
Do I need to purchase a laptop for my child to use at school?
No. Students are assigned a Chromebook each year to use during class time.
How much of the day is a student on a computer?
Teachers will incorporate the use of Chromebooks or iPads within the curriculum. Each grade varies with the amount of time the devices are used. St. Joseph Catholic School utilizes the Chromebooks as a supplement to the curriculum. Students will also have Computer class one time per week.
⇒ Student Life
Can my child bring his/her cellphone to school? If so, what is the usage policy?
Students are not permitted to use or carry cellphones during the school day and may not be used by the student during arrival or dismissal. Cell phones must remain in the backpack, locked in the locker, and in the off or silenced position. Disruptions to class, or violations of student privacy caused by a student using a cellphone will be dealt with on a case by case basis. Non-compliance with this policy will result in disciplinary action. Please refer to the SJS Parent/Student Handbook for details.
How often do the children attend Mass and what do they wear?
The school celebrates Mass once a week. The students also attend Mass on Holy Days of Obligation that occur during the school week. Special Masses, such as Feast Days and Sacraments are also celebrated. Parents and visitors are encouraged to attend. Please be mindful that the doors to the church will lock promptly at the start of Mass. For the safety of all, the doors may not be opened once they are locked.
School uniforms are to be worn to Mass. Please refer to the SJS Parent/Student Handbook for more details.
Does the school have a counselor?
St. Joseph Catholic School employs a full time school counselor. A teacher or parent may refer a student to the counselor or a student may request an appointment with the school counselor. For more information, please visit our Counselor's Corner.
Does the school offer a hot lunch program?
Yes, for details and how to sign up, please visit our Lunch Program page.
What are acceptable snacks my child can bring to school?
For specifics, and classroom allergies, please ask your child’s teacher. Snacks are eaten in the classroom. St. Joseph Catholic School is a nut and peanut/tree nut free zone in the classroom for snacks eaten in the classroom.
How do I make arrangements for my child to take medication during the school day?
Please refer to the Nurse's page for details on how to set this up.
What is the St. Joe Six?
This character-developing program was created by Mrs. Daughtrey and Mrs. Bilbo. The program is to encourage student growth in the areas of Reverence, Respect, Responsibility, Reliability, Readiness, and Results. The goal is for students to model these traits in their day to day interactions with others. When a student is seen demonstrating any of the six characteristics by a faculty member, a “St. Joseph Six Slip” is given for their model behavior. The six slips are sent home and parents should know that this is a high praise and a much valued award! We rely on parent’s help in our endeavor to create a positive learning environment for all our students. With support and guidance on these behavior expectations in school and at home, our students will create habits that will enable them to be living examples of the St. Joe Six.
⇒ For Parents/Guardians
What if my child is not Catholic. How does that affect him/her?
The presence of students from other faiths provides a wonderful diversity to the school. However, the presence of non-Catholic students in the school shall not alter the primacy of Catholic religious formation as an integral component of the educational program in the school. As such:- Non-Catholic students are expected to participate in the religious formation and education programs of the school. (except for the reception of the Eucharist)
- Non-Catholic students must participate in liturgies, retreats, other religious functions, and religion classes for credit.
- Non-Catholic students may be exempt from formal co-curricular or extra-curricular sacramental preparation programs, but not from the catechesis held during the school day.
- Students are expected, for testing and discussion purposes, to be knowledgeable of the Catholic Church’s positions on scripture, revelation and moral practices. While Catholic teaching respects the various faith traditions of the students attending the Catholic school, parents must be aware that it is the Catholic position that will be taught.
What if we are not Catholic but are interested in learning more about becoming a Catholic?
We welcome you to contact our Director of Religious Education, Mr. Reyes Ruiz, at 703-880-4332.
I’m not sure how to volunteer. How can I learn about opportunities and get involved?
There are many opportunities for you to become active in your child's education. Please visit the PTO page for details. Additionally, please attend Back to School Night and watch for various events in the electronic newsletters (Bernie’s Bark and Friday Update) for volunteer opportunities, including lunch and recess.
I was told I could not volunteer in my child's classroom or at school-sponsored events until I complete the Diocesan Child Protection Program. What does that mean and how do I get approved?
All volunteers and employees in the Diocese of Arlington who have “significant contact with children” are required to complete the diocesan Child Protection Program, formerly known as “Virtus.”
ALL VOLUNTEERS who interact with children at any Parish or School sponsored activity such as Scouts or Religious Education, Youth Ministry, etc., must complete the Child Protection Certification Program. For details on how you can be certified, please visit our Child Protection Program page or contact Beth Covert at [email protected]
How do I pay my tuition?
Tuition can be paid through FACTS – our electronic tuition management system. Payments can be made over 10 months or the full balance can be paid at one time through FACTS. For questions regarding tuition or FACTS, please contact Tisha Hilliard at [email protected]
How can I see my child’s grades?
St. Joseph Catholic School uses PowerSchool as a tool for parents to login and see current grades and assignments.
What is Schoology?
Schoology is a school management system that is used to communicate with teachers and keep up with assignments. It is a collaborative platform that connects teachers and students with the tools required to create a personalized & collaborative learning environment. -