SCHOOL EMBLEM AND SCHOOL MOTTO

The School Emblem (or logo) is the Franciscan Coat of Arms. One arm of Jesus Christ is
represented as Crossed with one arm of St. Francis of Assisi, over the Cross which drew them
together.

The School Motto: Ad Astra Per Aspera

Means “to the stars through difficulties”

Revised June 2024

This handbook will be reviewed during the school year

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Heritage, Vision, Mission Statement & Core Values_____________4

History of Mount Alvernia High School ______________________5-7

The School Administration & Student Leaders _________________ 8-10

Procedures
➢ Lateness _________________________________________11
➢ Absence _________________________________________11
➢ Leaving School Early ______________________________ 11
➢ Illness __________________________________________ 12
➢ Lost & Found ____________________________________ 12
➢ Confiscated Items _________________________________12
➢ Visitors _________________________________________ 12

Getting the Most Out of School ___________________________ 13-15

Policies and Discipline

Overview & Chain of Command __________________________ 16-17

Rules of Mount Alvernia High School

➢ Dress ___________________________________________18-19
➢ Attendance & Punctuality ___________________________ 19
➢ Academic Performance _____________________________20
➢ School Environment _______________________________ 20-22
➢ Out of Bounds ____________________________________ 22
➢ Off-Campus ______________________________________23
➢ Punishment ______________________________________ 23-25
➢ Rewards ________________________________________ 25-26

Criteria for Graduation __________________________________ 27

Sixth Form Rules (Grade 12 & 13) _________________________ 28-29

Rules for Examination ___________________________________ 30

Mt. Alvernia High School Song ___________________________ 31

The National Anthem ___________________________________ 32

The National Pledge ____________________________________ 32

Prayer of St. Francis ____________________________________ 32

Appendix
Uniform Specification & Pattern __________________________ 34-35
Appropriate and Inappropriate Shoe________________________ 36-37

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 HERITAGE STATEMENT

The Mt. Alvernia High School was founded in Montego Bay in 1925 by the Franciscan Sisters of
Allegany at the request of the Roman Catholic Church to provide education for the Catholic girls
of the area. Although the original goal of the founders, Mother Theophane and Mother
Alacoque, was the education of the economically poor, responding to the needs of society, the
school expanded to include students from all religious as well as socio-economic levels of the
community. The Franciscan Sisters supervised and managed the school for 80 years until 2005.
Since September 2005, the school has been sponsored by the Roman Catholic Diocese of
Montego Bay and continues to maintain the Franciscan tradition.
VISION
“To create a positive, supportive, and student-centered environment along with Christian
principles exemplified by Saint Francis of Assisi, thereby empowering our students to achieve
excellence.”
MISSION STATEMENT
“To develop the intellectual, social, and moral character of our students by providing quality
education that will contribute to the national development of Jamaica and therefore enabling
them to compete effectively in the global economy.”
We, the members of the Mt. Alvernia school community, are committed to the development of
the whole person. We strive, through mutual cooperation with the home and society to educate
and nurture young women, preparing them for responsible citizenship.

We aim to achieve these objectives through Christian principles in the spirit of St. Francis of
Assisi, giving special attention to the following:

LOVE We believe in the love of God and neighbour.

We strive to achieve this through prayer and our
relationships with each other.

DISCIPLINE We believe in self-discipline as a necessity for the

development of individual talents and abilities.
We agree to create and maintain a disciplined
environment.

RESPECT We believe in the goodness of all creation and

equality of all persons under God. We agree to foster
respect for self, life and property.

SIMPLICITY We believe that all things come to us from God.

We encourage simplicity of lifestyle in a spirit of
gratitude.

HONESTY We believe that truth should always prevail.

We encourage honesty in all aspects of life
especially in our dealings with others.

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 HISTORY OF MOUNT ALVERNIA HIGH SCHOOL

Mt. Alvernia High School began in 1925 as St. James Academy, a small boarding school, and
was soon after renamed Mt. Alvernia Academy. It was established by the Allegany Franciscan
Sisters to fill the need for the Cambridge University Junior Examinations and the London Royal
School of Music Examinations. The number of students attending classes increased steadily over
the years.

In 1939, Mother Antoninus, OSF, succeeded Mother Theophane as Principal. The school
population was only twenty-seven. In 1943, a centre for the Music examinations of the Royal
Schools of Music was established at Mt. Alvernia and soon after, the school was considered
capable of presenting candidates for the Cambridge School Certificate Examinations.

In 1953, Sr. Eloine Marie became Principal of the school and immediately began working
towards having Mt. Alvernia established as a grant-in-aid school. The curriculum was further
enlarged, and qualified teachers with degrees were employed in order to meet the requirements
of the Ministry of Education. Finally, in August 1959, Mt. Alvernia became a grant-aided school
with an enrollment of 71. Since then, the school population increased even more rapidly, and
new blocks of classrooms were erected to keep pace with the growing numbers.
In 1971, Sr. Joan Clare was appointed Principal, and over the next fifteen years, the enrolment
increased from 347 to 1,516. A new wing consisting of three floors was built, and a third floor
was later added to the old wing. A few notable achievements over the years are as follows:
1960 - First Graduation
1966 - Became an Examination Centre for Cambridge
“O” Level examinations
1968 - Sixth Form established.
1970 - The Commercial Department was expanded
1972 - French was added to the curriculum
1979 - Social Studies was added to the curriculum
1983 - German was added to the curriculum
1988 – Computer Studies was added to the curriculum
2009 – Technical Drawing added to the curriculum
2012 – Grade 12/Sixth Form re-established.

Extra-curricular activities have also flourished over the years, and students have participated in
several inter-school competitions with success. With the opening of the Montego Bay
Community College in 1978, the Sixth Form was closed. French and German have been removed
from the curriculum because of an acute shortage of teachers. Grade 12/Sixth Form was re-
established in 2012.
Sister Angella Harris was appointed principal in 1995 and continued the heritage of a high level
of achievement in academics, sports, and the overall development of the school.

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Miss Carmen Hall became principal in 2005 and maintained a high academic standard.

In September 2008, Mrs. Therisa Cherian, a Roman Catholic with a wealth of teaching
experience, was selected as the principal and retired in 2015.

In January 2016, Mrs. Stacey Reynolds, a Roman Catholic and a Senior Educator with a wealth
of experience and charisma, took over the helm as Principal. Mrs. Reynolds later transitioned to
Immaculate Conception High School in 2020.

In February 2021, Mrs. Kayon Whyne, a Roman Catholic, was appointed to serve as Mt.
Alvernia High's principal.

The untiring efforts of dedicated members of Staff working with our students ensure that a rich
history continues to be written.

In Jamaica, the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany have been involved in the field of education for
over one hundred and fifty years.

As a student of Mt. Alvernia High School, you are now a part of this Franciscan family.
Welcome!

Listed below are the schools in Jamaica that are, has/had been sponsored by the Sisters.

Tertiary Secondary Primary Preparatory Early

Childhood

• St. Joseph's • Mt Alvernia • Chetwood • I.C.P.S • St. Joseph's

Teachers' High School Memorial • M.A.P.S Infant
College • Immaculate Primary
Conception School
High School • St. Aloysius
• Marymount • St. Francis
High School

* Mt. Alvernia Prep, Mt. Alvernia High, and Chetwood were under the Franciscan Sisters until
2005.
AIMS and OBJECTIVES
Our Aims and Objectives are expressed in detail what we hope to achieve as we share with our
students. Our Mission Statement expresses the many values that we hold dear.

The basic aim of Mt. Alvernia High School is to develop a well-integrated Christian person,
morally upright and emotionally stable.

In order to encourage and facilitate this integration, we strive to:

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1. To provide experiences that will help the student to understand who she is, what is worth
standing for, and how to live a life enlightened by reason and sustained by Christian
Principles.

2. To develop the intellect, to cultivate skills and create abilities, to discover latent talents, and
to promote a sense of values in an atmosphere enlivened by the Gospel spirit of freedom and
charity.

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 THE SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION AND STUDENT LEADERS

To foster such attitudes as would lead to greater moral and social awareness, self-discipline, and
a willingness to serve, with a view to leading useful, exemplary lives.

It is with our Mission Statement as well as our Aims and Objectives in mind that we create an
atmosphere at school and present certain guidelines and policies.

ADMINISTRATION

The school is run by a Board of Management and is administered on a day-to-day basis by the
Principal and assisted by two Vice-Principals.

THE DEAN OF DISCIPLINE is responsible for the overall conduct of the students. He/she
evaluates and processes disciplinary matters and/or makes the necessary recommendations to the
Principal. Cases involving all disciplinary matters are decided upon by the Principal and/or
Vice-Principals, Guidance Counsellors, and/ or Grade Coordinators, and Grade Teachers on a
case-by-case basis.

THE DEAN OF STUDIES is responsible for tracking the academic performance of students.
He/she recommends strategies that need to be made to students on improving overall
performance, deals with complaints of students in subject areas, and Guidance is also given on
studying tips, time management, etc.

HEADS OF DEPARTMENTS are responsible for supervising teachers in the department in

planning and implementing curriculum in the respective subject areas, and preparing classes for
internal tests and exams. They will guide teachers in implementing the curriculum, maintain
professional standards, maintain and analyze proper records/data of examinations/grades,
maintain inventory, and report to the administration.

GRADE SUPERVISORS/CO-ORDINATORS monitor each set of grades. They see to the

smooth functioning of these grades and take over day-to-day activities when the Grade Teacher
is absent. Along with the sixth-grade teachers, the coordinators plan ways to inspire cooperation
among all the grades and to maintain discipline.

CULTURAL AGENT is responsible for liaising with Administration and HODs in developing
and implementing cultural activities in the school, liaising with Cultural Agencies and other
Social Agencies in implementing programs, plans, and seminars for staff to assist them in
integrating culture in their lesson /celebrations.

BOOK-RENTAL CO-ORDINATOR is responsible for ordering rental books, distributing

them, and collecting them at the end of every school year. The coordinator works with the
secretaries to take inventory and maintain records for the smooth running of the book rental
program.

FORM TEACHER/GRADE TEACHER supervises a class and guides and supports the girls
placed under his/her care. Students refer all concerns and questions to the form/grade teacher,
who strives to maintain a high standard of discipline and class spirit.

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SUBJECT TEACHERS are responsible for implementing the curriculum, planning lessons,
setting appropriate tests, giving classwork and homework, setting and marking projects,
recording all grades, preparing and handing out reports, and meeting parents/guardians with
students on any subject matter.

GUIDANCE AND COUNSELLING

1. The school offers the services of two/three Guidance Counsellors who provide individuals
with the opportunity to speak with them about personal or school-related concerns.
2. Counselling sessions are done by appointment, which must be strictly kept and promptly
attended. However, emergency cases will be given priority.
3. Each class is assigned a Guidance Counsellor who implements a program that helps students’
growth and development.

BURSARY & ADMINISTRATIVE DEPARTMENT: The bursar and team are responsible for
all financial and maintenance aspects of the institution. This includes keeping track of school
fees paid, scholarships received and disbursed, collection and recording of school fee payment
vouchers, etc. The administrative department is responsible for providing administrative support
to the offices and the general public. Additionally, they contribute to the day-to-day operations of
a school by offering an array of administrative support to ensure that everything goes as
smoothly as possible.

THE ANCILLARY DEPARTMENT is responsible for maintaining the healthy atmosphere of

the classrooms, offices, and physical plant.

The CANTEEN & TUCKSHOP DEPARTMENT is responsible for preparing and providing
the students and staff members with wholesome meals and proper customer service.

LIFE IN THE CLASSROOM

Upon entering Mt. Alvernia High School, you will meet a group of girls from various
backgrounds. You will spend many hours each day with them in your Grade. Each student should
try to maintain harmonious relationships with both teachers and students. Try to be a team player,
respectful, and supportive.

STUDENT LEADERS
HEAD GIRL
DEPUTY HEAD GIRLS
PREFECTS
STUDENT COUNCIL PRESIDENT

GRADE PREFECT
A Prefect is assigned to each grade. She is a role model and guide. She helps students to
understand and observe the school rules. The Prefect visits her grade at least once per week and

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assists with building class spirit and school spirit. The Class Prefect will collect the list of late
students from the Form Teacher on Thursdays for late detentions to be served on Fridays.

GRADE CAPTAIN
Each class elects a Grade Captain at the beginning of the school year. Under normal
circumstances, she holds this office for the entire year. She serves the form and the school by:
a) reporting any misconduct to the Grade Teacher,
b) seeing to it that the lists of class duties are carried out by the girls in her form
c) reporting to the Front Office when a teacher is absent
d) maintaining some sort of order while the class is without a teacher,
e) being a good example to her peers.

VICE-CAPTAIN
The Vice-Captain is elected at the beginning of the year. She assists the Grade Captain whenever
necessary. If the Grade Captain is absent, she ensures that all the duties are carried out.
STUDENT COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVE
The Student Council is an organization of students who help to maintain discipline at all times
and who act as a liaison between the student body and the Principal. The Student Council
members are democratically elected, one from each grade. Associate membership may be
obtained by writing a letter to the President of the Student Council. The executive of the Council
is made up of an elected President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer. The President of
the Student Council sits on the School Board.
PEER LEADER
The Peer Leader exhibits leadership qualities and is able, largely through example, to influence
others positively. She is generally selected during the first term of Grade 7 and, along with other
Peer Leaders, she receives training in Leadership and in Conflict Resolution. She plays an
important part in maintaining a positive tone in the Home Room.

MONITORS
They are selected from Grades 9 & 10 students to help in maintaining discipline out of class
among the Grades 7 – 9 students.

CLUBS & SOCIETY PRESIDENTS

They are elected members of the clubs and societies who work alongside the executive members
and faculty advisors to organize and carry out different club activities.

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 PROCEDURES
LATENESS
If you are not in the schoolyard by 8:00 a.m., you are late for school. Your Grade Teacher will
make a record of this in the class register. Prefects close the school’s gates at 8:00 a.m. and
reopen them at 8:30 a.m. If you arrive after 8:30a.m, sign the late book at the Security post,
collect a late pass, and head to class. The late pass must be presented to the Teacher in the class.
The school will start at 8:00 a.m. and end at 2:40 p.m. every day.

A student who is late three (3) days in one week will serve late detention on the following
Tuesday after school for one hour. Failure to serve a late detention will result in a
suspension. If absent, you MUST serve the detention in the next sitting.

ABSENCE
On the day you return to school, you must bring with you a letter signed by your parent/guardian
stating the reason for absence. Hand this to your Grade Teacher. You will not be admitted to
classes without this letter.
A student who comes early for school is marked “Present”. If the student is late, she is marked
late. However, if the student has to leave shortly after arrival to fulfill an appointment and does
not return within an hour, she will be marked “absent” for the session.
A student is marked “Absent” from class registers if she is at school but NOT IN CLASS, e.g.,
at the Nurse/Sick Bay for that session (s).

LEAVING SCHOOL EARLY

If you need to leave before the scheduled end of the day, you must take a letter from your parent
stating:
i) The reason for the request
ii) the time you are to leave school
iii) How will you get from school to the destination (for the funeral, etc)
iv) the name of the medical practice /practitioner (for a medical appointment)
It is the Coordinator who will actually grant you permission to leave, so hand the letter to her as
soon as you get to school. DO NOT WAIT UNTIL IT IS TIME TO LEAVE. In addition, out
of courtesy, advise your Grade teacher that you have requested to leave the Campus early.

A school day has two sessions. The first session is before lunch, and the second session is after
lunch.
A student who leaves school while school is in session must also “Sign out” and record the
“time of departure” in a special book at the Security Post.
When the student returns, after the fulfillment of the appointment, she must “Sign in” and record
the “Time of return.”

Parents must provide VALID IDENTIFICATION to remove students from the campus
during the school day. A letter authorizing a designate MUST be sent.
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ILLNESS
If you fall ill during a class, report this to the subject teacher, who will send you to the School
Nurse. You are not allowed to go to the Sick Bay without permission. On your return from Sick
Bay, a note from the nurse is needed in order to be admitted to class.

LOST and FOUND

Report immediately to the Front Office regarding any item lost or found. Announcements about
lost items will not be made over the PA system. Unclaimed items for more than one term will
be disposed of.

CONFISCATED ITEMS
‘Illegal’ items will be confiscated by a teacher or a Prefect. The item may be held until the last
day of the term in which the item was taken from you. Any illegal item, according to the law, for
example, weapons, drugs, etc., will not be allowed and will result in the police being informed.

VISITORS
All visitors are to report to the security personnel at the gate and follow his/ her
instructions. Under normal conditions, students are not allowed to entertain visitors on the
school campus at any time. If it is an emergency, your teacher will be asked to allow you to leave
your class to come to the Front Office. NEVER RECEIVE ANYTHING AT THE SCHOOL
FENCE FROM ANYONE. Visitors and/or Parents are not permitted on the blocks without
permission from the Principal.

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 GETTING the MOST from SCHOOL
CLUBS
Each girl is encouraged to become a member of at least one club. Meetings are usually held once
per week from 2:45 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Grasp the opportunity to use your talents, build character,
or learn something new. Choose from:

Interact Red Cross

Photo Imaging Math
Dance School Choir
Debating/ Speech Science
Environment Watch Heritage
4–H Club Modern Language
Merchant Marine Corps Good Samaritan
Girl Guides/Ranger Guides GEMs
I.S.C.F. (Inter School Christian Fellowship) Students’ Council
Key Club Tourism in Action
Tennis/Table Tennis Track and Field
Netball/Basketball/ Drama
Peer Leaders Curvy Divas
Quiz Writers Club
Fashion Club
Chess Club

Club meetings are held on the Grade 7 block. A teacher must be present for such activities.
Being an active member of a club is a requirement for Graduation.

If your club /team requires you to wear gear for the activities, you must change into it before
leaving the compound.

BREAKFAST
Breakfast is served every morning from 7:00 to 7:45. Students, at a cost, can enjoy a full meal.
Those who leave home very early in the morning are encouraged to visit the Canteen before 7:45
am. Note that students leave the room with enough time to get to their grades in time to be
marked early at registration.

HOUSES
Our four houses are:
CORDETTE LAURENTINE FRANCISCAN ANTONINUS
(Red) (Blue) (Brown) (Yellow)

Each house has a House coordinator (teacher), House Captain (student), Sports Captain, and
Treasurer.

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You will be placed in a house and continue affiliation with it for your entire stay in school. You
will develop loyalty towards your House by attending all House Meetings and participating in its
activities.
The inter-house competitions held each year are in Sports, Netball/Cheerleading.

HOMEWORK
All assignments given must be noted in a special book as they are given by the teacher. This
book is taken to school every day, and you refer to it every time you sit at home to do your
assignments.
Homework should not be viewed as punishment but as something that brings reward, since it
reinforces what was taught in class. (see page 16 #1(a).)

The following guide shows the minimum amount of time needed daily at each grade level:
Grade 7 2 hours
Grades 8 and 9 3 hours
Grades 10 and 11 4 hours
Students who neglect to complete / hand in homework will be assigned a detention.
RENTAL BOOKS
Rental Books must be covered and taken care of by each student. Failure to do so will result in
these books becoming unavailable to the next set of students. If Rental Books are in short
supply, students are expected to buy their books. A student cannot be encouraged to be in
class without the relevant textbooks. Lost or damaged rental books must be replaced by
students. Failure to do this will result in rental books not being issued the following year.

SCHOOL RESOURCE CENTRE (SRC)

This space provides students with an atmosphere for reading and studying. The computers and
the internet may be used for research. Take advantage of this facility and use it well! Note that:
i) The SRC is a work area for everyone. Silence must be observed
ii) Computers must be used with care
iii) The clerical staff is there to assist
iv) Bags MUST be placed in the designated area
v) Chairs should be left in place when you leave

The INTERNET is for research ONLY. No playing of games, gambling, chat rooms, social
media sites, group sites, or viewing of pornographic material. Students found engaged in these
activities will be severely punished.

ELECTRONIC RESOURCES
1. Laptops and tablets are permitted for formal use in classes at the grades 10 to 13 levels.
Lower school students MUST get authorization to take these devices: in these instances,
parents must provide written consent to the school for their child/ward to take a device to
school.
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2. Games, gambling, pornographic, and social media sites must never be utilized while on the
school compound. The internet must always be used productively for educational purposes
only.

3. Mount Alvernia High School will not be held liable for the loss, theft, or damage of students’
personal laptops. Students are to safeguard their laptops while on and off the compound.

CAFETERIA/TUCKSHOP
A healthy body is important for good performance at school, and you are welcome to make use
of the Cafeteria/tuckshops. To facilitate quick and efficient service and maintain a comfortable
and clean environment:
i) Get in line. Do not bundle.
ii) Keep talking to a minimum.
iii) Be respectful to the servers.
iv) Dispose of trash properly
v) Do not eat in the Cafeteria

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 POLICIES and DISCIPLINE
(An Overview)

Discipline at Mount Alvernia High School is meant to train students in habits of self-control and
a Christian thoughtfulness for the rights, needs, feelings, and property of others – habits we
consider absolutely necessary for harmony and efficiency both in and out of school. It is through
discipline, too, that the students learn respect for neighbour and acquire a sense of responsibility
and other habits such as punctuality and regularity of study. It must be stressed that our rules are
not meant to suppress but rather to channel proper freedom, initiative, and friendliness.

Mount Alvernia girls are expected to maintain a high standard of behaviour. All girls are
expected to be ladylike in their dress, speech, and behaviour at all times and in all places – no
chewing gum, no rag over the shoulder or in the hand. As long as you are registered as a
student here, do not wear shorts when visiting this Campus. You should be appropriately
dressed. Appropriately dressed means you are NOT allowed to wear tight pants, ripped
jeans, no clothing with chest, stomach or thigh exposed, spaghetti strap blouses or dresses.
Each girl is encouraged to attend church on Sunday or Saturday according to her religious
beliefs.
Every student MUST know the rules, or be subjected to punishment when rules are violated.
The Prefect Body assists in the enforcement of these rules and acts with authority as a
disciplinary arm of the school. Respect and obedience are due to ALL school officials and
student leaders.

ANYTHING DETRIMENTAL TO THE GOOD NAME OF THE SCHOOL IS

FORBIDDEN. ANYONE DISGRACING THE SCHOOL WILL EITHER BE
SUSPENDED AND/OR EXPELLED.

Chain of command for reporting disciplinary matters

The school has established the following chain of command that students should follow when
reporting problems or concerns.

STUDENT FORM TEACHER/SUBJECT

S Teacher/Prefect

GRADE SUPERVISOR/HOD

DEAN OF VICE PRINCIPAL

DISCIPLINE

PRINCIPAL

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Any deviation from these rules of the school will result in either detentions, restrictions,
demerits, suspensions, or expulsions. The sanctions will be decided based on the nature of the
deviation from the rule by the principal or her designate.

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 RULES FOR MOUNT ALVERNIA HIGH SCHOOL

A. DRESS
1. The complete uniform must be worn each day. The white uniform of the specified length (6
inches from the knee with a 2-inch hem), full-length white slip, and school tie with a 1-inch
wide cloth belt. Dark-brown female-only low-heeled shoes (1 inch or less), no male or
unisex shoes, dark brown school socks, folded 2 inches above the ankle (ankle socks are not
allowed). The complete uniform, or school T-shirt and jeans, with plain white sneakers and
white socks, is worn on field trips. For games, the official uniform of a white T-shirt, blue
skirt with bloomers (available at the school bookstore), plain white sneakers or crepe, and
white socks are worn.
If your brown shoes are being repaired, you must wear your plain white sneakers and white
socks. Each student must have a white pair of sneakers and white socks during their tenure at
this school.
(See pages 34-35)

In extreme circumstances such as fire, flood, Hurricane, break-in, etc., where a student is
unable to wear her full school uniform. She should wear the following:
✓ School Shirt (with logo- PE, House, or Polo),
✓ Black knee-length, loose-fitting skirt,
✓ school shoes and socks(brown)

2. Jewellery, nail polish, make-up, extravagant hairdos, shaping of eyebrows (either by

plucking, waxing, or threading), and tinted/bleached/colored hair are NOT PERMITTED.
Bleaching of the face and skin is not allowed. Only small, round gold knobs and a watch
with gold, silver, and white or leather straps no more than half an inch wide are allowed with
the uniform. Fingernails should be kept clean, short, and well-manicured.
Visible body piercings, tongue piercings, multiple ear piercings, tattoos, and any other
negative fads that may exist in society are strictly forbidden and will affect chances for
graduation.

3. For accessories in the hair, only one colour is allowed at a time. Choose from black, blue,
brown, or white (do not, for example, wear one brown clip and one white clip at the same
time); only two or three accessories of one colour will be allowed. Hair accessories should
be simple. Beads, sequins, glitter, etc., are not allowed. Headbands and rubber bands in the
hair are not allowed.

4. Only navy blue, black, or white sweaters are to be worn to school. There should be no
jackets, track tops, hoodies, sweatsuits, shirts, etc. Any deviation from this rule will result in
the confiscation of the particular item. Navy blue sweaters made of wool are available for
sale at the bookstore.

5. A student who wears an incomplete uniform to school must take with her a letter of
explanation from her parents. The parent will be called on the same day and a request is

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 made for the next day. If there is still no letter, the student will not be allowed to go to class.
This should be given to the Grade Supervisor, who will issue a permission slip for a
specified period.

6. Hair styles should be simple and neat. Hair colours should not be changed. “Sister locks”
should not be acquired during tenure at the school.
7. No shaving of the head(sides/back); offenders will be sent home until it’s grown.

For rules above will result in a detention. Further violations will result in a demerit
and/or suspension. Parents may be called in if students do not comply after repeated
warnings.

B. ATTENDANCE AND PUNCTUALITY

1. Attendance on ALL school days (including closing days) is compulsory except on account of
illness or when previously excused (for grave reasons) by the Principal. Attendance during
the period for examinations is compulsory.

2. A written excuse for absence MUST be given to the Grade Teacher and Grade
The coordinator is on the day a student returns to school. The Grade Coordinator will give
the student an admission slip to go to her classes. This must be presented if the student is to
be admitted to the school for registration and classes. A student who does not present this
letter will be asked to sit out of classes for the day.

3. A. A student is late for school if she arrives after 8:00 a.m. If she arrives before
At 8:30 a.m., she will be allowed to go to her class, even though she is late. Students arriving
after 8:30 a.m. must go to the Principal’s Office.

B. The school will not be responsible for your child/ward before 7:00 a.m. and after 5: 00
p.m. After 5:00 p.m., the students should wait in front of the security office.

4. Late arrival for classes will be punished. Students are to be in class within five minutes of
the bell. If more than five minutes late, a student must get a note from the previous teacher
and stand at the door.

5. A student who absents herself from a class will be suspended. If a test is given on the day of
the offense, the student will be given the opportunity to sit the test at a later date.

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C. ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE
All reports will be emailed to parents. Only Blue and Gold Reports will be printed by the
school.
1. A standardized test will be administered every six weeks to students. Students must always
be prepared. A timetable will be distributed at the start of the year. Students will sit these tests
each morning, before the lunch period. Regular timetabled classes will resume after lunch.

2. A report will be distributed at the end of each term to highlight the performance of these
tests.

3. Students will be placed on Academic Probation if their grades fall below the school’s pass
mark (60%). Students on Academic Probation MUST follow the requirements of the
probation program, in an attempt to improve their grades by the next report cycle.

4. The school reserves the right to repeat students deemed unqualified to matriculate to the next
grade level, once the space is available. A student who repeats the grade more than once will
be taken to the Principal/Board Chairman for a review. A Student who repeats the grade more
than once will be taken to the Board Chairman for review.

5. A “Blue Report” will be distributed to all students attaining an average of 80% -89.99 % and
a “Gold Report” will be distributed to students with averages of 90% or more in recognition
of their achievements.

6. Students with an average of 80-89%, for the year, will receive a Silver Honor Roll Pin, while
those with an average of 90-100%, for the year, will receive a Gold Honor Roll Pin at the
Annual Prize Giving Ceremony.

D. SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT
1. Students stand whenever a teacher or visitor arrives at or leaves a classroom.
2. Students should step aside to allow teachers or visitors (adults in general) to pass by,
especially in the corridors or on the stairs.
3. Students should have a polite manner and tone of voice when speaking to anyone. An attempt
must be made to keep the noise level in the school at a moderate level.
4. Students must be quiet during announcements and listen attentively.
5. Classrooms, corridors, and bathrooms are to be kept clean. GRAFFITI ON WALLS WILL
NOT BE TOLERATED, OFFENDERS WILL BE PUNISHED. Porches and stairways are
SILENT ZONES. Walk up and down stairs or porches. Do not run. All must walk on the right
side without bundling (single file). No student is to be on the corridors at Break Time or
Lunch Time.
6. Classrooms are “OFF-LIMITS” at lunch, break, and after school. (Unless permission is given
by a teacher) and QUIET ZONES at all times.
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Mount Alvernia High School Student Handbook
7. The only eating areas are where benches are provided in the yard. Garbage should be
deposited in the bins provided and never be left behind.
9. NO eating is allowed in the classrooms, labs, workrooms, library, or corridors. In the event of
rain, eating in the classroom is permitted. Rubbish must NOT be left behind.

10. Students are not to be outside their classrooms during class time except in cases of
emergency.

11. Students are NOT allowed to enter a classroom without the teacher’s permission. Students
are to stand at the door and wait to be acknowledged by the class teacher.

12. Students are not to have cell phones during the school day (i.e., 8:00 a.m. – 2:40 p.m.). In
case of an emergency, a call will be placed from the Front Office/Guidance Councilor
Office. ALL phones MUST be placed in the designated area. The school will not be held
liable for phones damaged, lost, or stolen.

13. Students do not receive visitors during school hours. In case of emergency, a parent may be
allowed to speak with a student, and this is done in the vicinity of the Front Office.

14. Students are not allowed to buy from outside vendors during school hours.

15. Lending and borrowing are forbidden. Students are not allowed to disturb/disrupt any class
to borrow anything.

16. Diaries, novels, and non-text books are not to be read in class. Videotapes, audio Tapes,
radios, tape recorders, cameras, iPods, MP3s, camcorders, electronic games, magazines, or
pornographic material must NOT be taken to school or be seen with them in their uniform. A
fine of $500 will have to be paid for the return of these items.

17. Large sums of money should be given to the Grade Teacher for safekeeping. If any girl
keeps her money, she is fully responsible for it.

18. Students are not to take any alcoholic beverages/cigarettes/drugs of any kind to school.
Possession of any one or more of these items will result in suspension.
19. Food should not be brought to any student during school hours. This will not be permitted;
however, for medical reasons, it is sanctioned through the school’s nurse.

20. Students are not to enter into financial arrangements among themselves. There must be no
buying or selling and “partners” in the school. Students caught will be suspended.
21. A student who leaves school without permission will be suspended.
22. Copying, cheating, or talking during exams is forbidden. If cheating is discovered, that
examination paper can be canceled, and the student suspended.
23. Chewing gum is not allowed.
24. Grade 7 – 9 students are not allowed to sit under the guinep tree during lunchtime.
25. Students are expected to sit down and eat/drink. There should be no eating/drinking on the
streets.
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26. Any student who was sent to school but absent herself (truancy) will be suspended.
27. Grades 10 – 11 students are not allowed to walk along the corridors in the lower school block
during school hours except when raining.
28. Students should NOT place any nude photographs of themselves or others or make comments
about persons on social media; students who are caught will be suspended. Derogatory
comments on the school/and or members of the school posted on websites will result in either
a suspension or expulsion.
29. Students leaving the compound after school must take all their belongings with them. They
are not allowed to return unless accompanied by a teacher, parent, or guardian.
30. Students who intend to migrate must give in writing a letter to the school stating the date on
which this will be done. Failure to do so will result in school records/ transcripts/ referee,
reports being withheld.
31. Grade 11/12/13 students who are sitting CSEC/CAPE examinations should not be seen at
school in civilian clothes while school is in session.
32. BULLYISM, EXTORTION, and SEXUAL HARASSMENT OF ANY SORT are strictly
forbidden. Students found doing so will be suspended/ expelled.
33. A student with a cell phone should leave it in the storage facility upon arrival at school for a
fee of $30.00 and $70.00 if late. Students will collect their phones after school. Phone room
operates from 7:00 AM- 8:00 AM and 2:45 PM- 3:30 PM.
If you are late in collecting your phone, it will be held over to the next school day.
N.B.: If phones are damaged, lost, or stolen pursuant to the school’s phone disclaimer,
Mount Alvernia High School will NOT be held liable. Parents are encouraged to
provide their child/ward with a simple cell phone to facilitate communication while
their child/ward travels to and from school. Cell phones confiscated during formal
school hours will be held for FOUR (4) weeks and a fine of $5000.00 paid upon return.

34. The National Anthem is played each morning at 8:00 a.m. immediately following the second
bell. It marks the official start of the school day. Students are expected to STOP all activities
and stand appropriately, where they are.
35. Students are responsible for their personal belongings at all times and as a result, MUST
protect same. Personal possessions are never to be left unsupervised by students. These
include but are not limited to money, books, bags, shoes, clothes/uniforms, etc. Students
must take home all their possessions at the end of the school day. Books and other items left
on the teacher’s desk or beneath the desks will be confiscated.

Students who do not obey these rules will be given detention and demerits/ suspension.

E. OUT OF BOUNDS

The following areas are out of bounds:

i) The Teacher’s Staff Room
ii) Laboratories and Practical Areas out of class time
iii) Sick Bay

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 iv) The Convent, its grounds, and its driveway
v) Directly in front of the blackboard and the teacher’s desk
vi) Loitering in and around the Hostel area (Guidance Room) is not permitted.
vii) Behind the new wing (Grade 10, 11 Block), unless supervised.
viii) Between Mt. Alvernia Prep and Mt. Alvernia High. (On the road)

F. OFF-CAMPUS

1. Students are not to loiter on the streets or in business places after school. Do not loiter or
enter any business establishment, Shopping Centers, or Plazas while in uniform, without the
written consent of a School Administrator (the Principal, Vice Principals, or Dean of
Discipline). This will result in an immediate suspension.

2. Students, while off campus, are to exercise proper behaviour. All Teachers and Prefects
have the right to correct students at all times, even off-campus.

3. The school uniform must NOT be worn in public after 5:30 p.m., except at school-sponsored
events or with special permission granted by the Principal. You may be approached,
questioned, and punished by any member of staff who encounters you.

4. Students in uniform should NOT eat or drink on the streets or in public vehicles.

5. A student attending Mt. Alvernia High School must refrain from participating in beauty
contests, community contests (e.g., Miss Granville), or public fashion shows.

G. PUNISHMENT
1. (a) There will be an afternoon RESTRICTION beginning from 3:00 p.m. (of no more than
one hour) for work-related and other offenses. All restrictions will be recorded in the
student’s report/file. Anyone absent from Restriction, unless excused beforehand, will be
reported to the Dean, who will record this on the Student’s file. Failure to serve two
restrictions without an explanation may result in “In-House” suspension. The restriction
should be served by students on the same day it is given. Parents will receive a copy of the
restriction. Students must sign to identify that they received the parent’s copy. Three
restrictions will result in a suspension.
(b) DETENTIONS are given for minor infractions. These are to be served on the same day
that they are given. Students getting restrictions/ detentions are given permission to come to
the office and make calls to parents so that pick-up times can be rescheduled. Failure to
serve 2 detentions will result in a suspension.

1.
2 In–house suspension will involve the student being suspended from classes during the day
. and sent on assigned internal “Community Service”. In-house suspensions may be assigned
by a Vice-Principal or the Dean of Discipline as well as the Principal. Students may be
assigned to yard duties or to work in any Lab that may need assistance at the time. Internal
Community Service is supervised by the Dean of Discipline.
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 INFRACTION SANCTION
Cheating Awarded a zero & Public Apology
Plagiarism Public Apology/Community Service
/Suspension
3.
Bullyism Community Service/Suspension
Fighting Expulsion
Physical acts to inflict pain/bodily harm Suspension
Loitering before or after school Navy Blue uniform and public Apology
Use of Indecent Language Navy Blue uniform and public Apology
Truancy Suspension & Completed Assignments
Device Misuse Confiscation of the device
Vulgarity on or off campus Navy Blue uniform/ Suspension
(Brawl/spitting/outrageous behaviour)
Sexual Impropriety Suspension
Immoral conduct/Pornographic materials/ Suspension
Behaviour, including posting nude pictures
on social media
Smoking/vaping Suspension
Destroying/defacing school property, e.g., Replace/repair & Public Apology.
graffiti
Refusal to follow a reasonable request by a Based on the discretion of the
school official/Defiance of authority Principal/School Board
Extortion Suspension
Stealing Suspension
Lying Write an essay and a public Apology.
Chewing Gum Detention
Selling on campus Detention/Suspension
4.
A student who engages in a fight, or physical assault to another student or member of staff, or
brings an offensive weapon (e.g., knife, icepick, scissors, pepper spray) to school will be
reported to the police and immediately be taken through the process for expulsion. Drugs like
cigarettes, alcohol, acid, marijuana, etc., in the possession of a student will be treated
similarly.
5.
A student may be taken out of the regular white uniform and placed in NAVY BLUE DRESS
based on the offense committed, involving, but not limited to, tarnishing the reputation of the
school.

6. Any student who maligns the reputation of the school, a student, or a staff member in
cyberspace (Facebook, Twitter, or any social network) will be suspended for 5 – 10 days.

7 A student who has been suspended three times in a school year will have her case reviewed
. and a recommendation made to the Board for her expulsion. A suspension of 10 days will
automatically see the student being recommended to the school Board.

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8. All Students on suspension may be required to serve official external community service at a
site stipulated by the school. This includes, but is not limited to, the Hope Clinic, operated by
the Catholic Church.
Students will also be required to write a reflective essay (no less than 200 words) and
participate in either external and/or internal counseling at the end of the suspension period.
The essay must be presented to the Principal before the student is readmitted to classes.

All breaches of rules are governed by various sanctions that will be applied at the
discretion of the principal or/and his/her designate. The principal reserves the right to
suspend students for all serious breaches as well as make a recommendation to the board
for the expulsion of any student who commits such offenses.

H. REWARDS
1. Stars are given by teachers for good work.

2. Honor Rolls in the Hall of Excellence record students’ outstanding behaviour, work, and
punctuality.

3. A “Blue Report “will be issued to students with averages over 80%. Three Blue Reports in
one year qualify a student for an Honor Roll Pin. “A Gold Report” will be issued to students
with an average of 90% or more.

4. At the annual Prize-Giving Ceremony, students who have excelled receive awards for
attendance and punctuality, good character, academic performance, service to clubs/school,
most improved in academics and behavior, character prizes, and a certificate of excellence
for extracurricular activities.

5. Honor Roll Pins are awarded to students in recognition of their achievements at the Prize
Giving Ceremony each year.

6. At the Graduation ceremony, Grade 11 and 13 students have the opportunity to be awarded
prizes for excellence in certain areas, which will be presented at the Commencement and
Graduation Ceremony.

▪ Principal’s Award
▪ Principal’s Award for Excellence in Business
▪ Principal’s Award for Excellence in Humanities
▪ Principal’s Award for Excellence in Science
▪ Principal’s Award for Excellence in Visual Arts
▪ Helen Lindsay Award for Excellence in Mathematics
▪ Franka Hylton Award for Excellence in Spanish
▪ Kurian & Theresa Cherian Award for Excellence in Biology
▪ Dr. Horace Chang’s Scholarship for Science
▪ Sr. Angella Harris Award for Leadership
▪ Sr. Joan Clare Award for Academics &Sports
▪ Molly Plummer- Henry Award for Excellence in Tech/Voc
▪ Hall & Beckford Award for Excellence in CAPE History
▪ Stacey Reynolds Scholarship for Excellence in Literatures in English
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▪ The Most Reverend Bishop Burchell McPherson Award for Excellence in Extra Curricular
Activities
▪ Dawn Chin-Jones Award for Excellence in Sports
▪ HSA Award for Excellence in CSEC and CAPE Examination

Attendance - Outstanding attendance over 5 years

Gold Star - Average of 80% or more for 5 years
Silver Star - Average of 70-79 for 5 years

Character Awards are given for Courtesy, Loyalty, Initiative, Perseverance, and Helpfulness.
Those placing first and second in each grade receive Grade Awards.
Always do your best, and enjoy your years here at Mt. Alvernia High School.

The Alumnae Association

All past students of Mt. Alvernia High School are eligible for membership with the Alumnae
Association. Regular meetings are held on the last Thursday of every month at the school.
At each Graduation Ceremony, a special award, the Kurian & Theresa Cherian Award, is donated
by the Association to the best Biology student in the class.

Home School Association

Cash Prizes are donated by the HSA to the Top Student(s) of Grade 11 who obtain distinctions in
all subjects at CXC/CSEC Examinations.

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 CRITERIA FOR GRADUATION

The Selection Committee will consist of:

▪ Vice Principals
▪ Dean of Discipline
▪ Guidance Counsellors
▪ Grade Co-ordinators
▪ Grade 11 Form Teachers

Students omitted from the list can write a formal appeal to the Principal.

CRITERIA
1. If any form of serious misconduct has occurred, students may not graduate.
This includes disgracing school in uniform, acquisition of tattoos, body piercings, tongue
piercing, bleaching of the face/skin, running away from home, posting nude photographs on
social media, etc.
2. Any form of suspension may affect a student’s chance of graduating.
3. Attendance at all graduation rehearsals is compulsory.
4. Students must have at least a 90% attendance record (180 sessions) AND at least an 80%
punctuality record (120 sessions).
5. Students who are selected for graduation can be taken off the list if any serious misconduct
occurs before graduation day.
6. Mothers-to-be will not graduate.
7. Completion of S.B.A.s is due for CXC/CSEC in the subjects that have already been
registered.
8. Students must have been involved in at least one extracurricular activity every year up to
grade 10.
9. All students should sit at least EIGHT subjects, including Mathematics and English, in the
CSEC exam in Grade 11 at Mt Alvernia High School in order to graduate.
10. Students should not owe any outstanding fees, and ALL Rental Books must be returned.
11. Should attend ALL CXC examinations registered for. A valid reason should be presented to
the Grade Coordinator if an exam is missed.

ACADEMIC WORK
1. An academic performance of an average of 60% minimum during her five-year stay will
award the student a Diploma.

2. The student should have a stay of 5 years at Mt. Alvernia High or at any High School
equivalent to it. If a student transferred to Mt. Alvernia High from a Junior High School or a
Comprehensive High School, only marks at Mt. Alvernia will be used when averaging.

3. If a student is an eleventh-grade repeater, she will not be considered for graduation.

4. Suspensions will be served at home if/when the student is to be brought before the School
Board for expulsion or when it is deemed that external counseling is needed.

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 SIXTH FORM RULES
(GRADE 12 &13)

All rules apply to the sixth form cohort as indicated in the GENERAL rule book with the
exception of the following:

1. All grade 12 and 13 students must adhere to all school rules regarding dress, conduct, and
graduation. The uniform length must be at least two inches below the knee. The skirt should
be kept as an A-line in pattern and must not ‘hug’ the hips. Students who refuse to comply
will be barred from classes.

2. Grades 12 and 13 students are permitted to take laptops/tablets to school. They are to be used
outside of class and only in the sixth-form area.

3. Loans of computers/laptops to other students are prohibited.

4. Cell phones are permitted, but they should not be used in class. Students are not allowed to
wear earphones on campus, on the road, or walk around while using phones on the road. Cell
phones must be used in the Sixth Form area only. Cellphones must never be loaned to
Grade 7-11 students. This is an automatic suspension.

5. Grades 12 and 13 students are not allowed to keep cell phones for students of grades 7-11. If
caught, the phones will be seized and the grade 12 or 13 students will be suspended.

6. No grades 12 and 13 students are permitted to leave campus during the school day before the
end of classes. If a student becomes ill while attending regular classes, she must report to the
nurse, who will make a decision on whether or not she goes home. The student will collect a
permission slip from the nurse and submit this slip to her form teacher the next day she
returns to school.

7. The rules governing jewelry and nail polish still apply as found in the general rule book.

8. Hair Styles: Shoulder-length hair extension is allowed, but NO BRIGHT COLOURS. Braids
are allowed, but NO BRIGHT COLOURS. ONLY BLACK HAIR AND NO
ADORNMENTS.

9. Complete school uniforms must be worn each day. Skirts must never hug the body.

10. iPods and MP3 players are not allowed.

11. Jackets and track tops with hoods, and sweat suits are not allowed. Students must wear navy
blue or white sweaters. (Navy blue sweaters are on sale in the bookstore.)

12. Grades 12 and 13 students are not permitted on the grades 7-11 blocks when school is in
session. Students must walk on the paved walkway below grade 7 to attend science classes.

13. Students must have at least a 90% attendance record, at least 80% punctuality record, and an
average of no less than 60% to matriculate to grade 13, external exams, as well as graduation.

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14. Students must pass at least four (4) subjects in grade 12 with grades 1-3 in order to be
allowed to continue to grade 13. Students who do not fulfil this requirement may write an
appeal to the Principal to be considered for admission to grade 13.

15. Any student who is suspended while in grade 12 will be barred from matriculating to grade
13 or participating in the graduation ceremony.

16. Students must be active in at least one extra-curricular activity in order to graduate.

17. Students in grades 12 and 13 must meet all deadlines for submission of School-Based
Assessments (SBA). Late assessments will only be accepted in extreme cases of a medical
emergency.

18. Failure to complete and submit the SBA (School-Based Assessment) for CAPE units 1 and 2
will prevent students from registering for exams, participating in the graduation ceremony, or
matriculating.

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 RULES FOR EXAMINATION

ATTENDANCE/PUNCTUALITY

1. You MUST be present for ALL examinations

➢ In case of SERIOUS matters such as illness and accidents, your parent must accompany
you to school. When you return, see the PRINCIPAL and take in evidence, e.g., a medical
certificate or police report, to support the claim. Please do so before 8:30 a.m. Failure to
do this will result in ZERO being recorded for EACH examination missed.

2. ALL EXAMINATIONS WILL START ON TIME.

3. You must be seated in the examination room 10 MINUTES before the scheduled start of each
exam. NO ADDITIONAL TIME WILL BE GIVEN ONCE THE INVIGILATOR IS ON
TIME AND THE CLASS IS NOT SETTLED BEFORE 10 MINUTES.
4. If you are LATE for an examination, NO ADDITIONAL TIME will be given to you to
complete the examination.
5. If later than 30 MINUTES, you WILL NOT be permitted to sit the exam and a zero will be
awarded.
6. Grade 10 students will stay HOME if there are no exams scheduled.
7. Grade 10 students should arrive for exams at 8 am, regardless of the exam schedule.

CONDUCT DURING EXAMINATIONS

1. Examination Rooms and their corridors are SILENT ZONES

2. Absolutely NO BORROWING OR LENDING allowed during examinations.
3. No bag, pencil case, space maker, etc., should be taken to the exam room for Grade 10 only.
4. CHEATING is a serious offense.
5. NO TALKING IN THE EXAM ROOM. If you have a concern, raise your hand to get the
attention of the invigilator. Speak ONLY to the INVIGILATOR during EXAMINATION
6. Your ID number must be written at the top of EACH answer sheet.
7. No pencil case, space maker, or other containers should be on your desk for Grades 7- 9.
8. ALL BAGS must be PLACED at the FRONT of the CLASS BEFORE EXAMS START

EXAMINATION MATERIALS

1. The school will provide ALL the ruled papers needed for your examinations.
2. Take to every examination:
✓ ID Card (NO EXAM PASSES WILL BE ACCEPTED)- Hence exam will not be done.
✓ Two or more pens
✓ One pencil
✓ One sharpener
✓ One 12-inch ruler
✓ One eraser

3. For Mathematics, Visual Arts, Technical drawing, and others – remember the specific
materials required.
4. No cell phone, tablet, digital device, or watch with phone is allowed in the examination
room.

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 MT. ALVERNIA HIGH SCHOOL SONG

There’s a school on a hill called “Alvernia”,

And her students fond and true,
Are all the staunch supporters
Of the glorious brown and blue;
And whene’er her aims are challenged
They would rather die than yield.
You can hear the school that backs them up
Go singing down the field:

CHORUS
O Alvernia, Alvernia, we sing to you,
We will be loyal to the glorious brown and blue,
O Alvernia, Alvernia, as years go by,
Give us a cheer, ‘rah, ‘rah
Give us a cheer, ‘rah, ‘rah
Cheer Alvernia High.

In our sports and in our classes,

We will rally round the goal,
We will strive with every effort
To keep our champion role.
And whene’er the call is sounded
To defend our worthy shield,
You can hear the school that backs them up
Go singing down the field:

Songwriter: Marguerite Vernon, Past Teacher

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 THE NATIONAL ANTHEM
Eternal Father, bless our land Teach us true respect for all.
Guard us with Thy mighty hand. Stir response to duty’s call
Keep up free from evil pow’rs, Strengthen us the weak to cherish,
Be our light through countless hours. Give us vision lest we perish.
To our leaders, Great Defender, Knowledge send us, Heavenly Father
Grant true wisdom from above. Grant true wisdom from above.
Justice, truth be ours forever, Justice, truth be ours forever,
Jamaica, land we love. Jamaica, land we love.
Jamaica, Jamaica, Jamaica, Jamaica,
Jamaica, land we love. Jamaica, land we love.

THE NATIONAL PLEDGE

Before God and all mankind, I pledge the love and loyalty of my heart, the wisdom and courage
of my mind, the strength and vigour of my body in the service of my fellow citizens. I promise
to stand up for Justice, Brotherhood and Peace, to work diligently and creatively, to think
generously and honestly, so that Jamaica may, under God, increase in beauty, fellowship and
prosperity and play her part in advancing the welfare of the whole human race.

PRAYER OF ST. FRANCIS ASSISI

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

Amen

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 APPENDIX

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 UNIFORM PATTERN SPECIFICATIONS

COLLAR: Peter Pan style 3 inches all the way around

BLOUSE: Open front closed with buttons to join with skirt six (6) inches below the
waistline.
BELT: One (1) inch with a square buckle. Plain plastic buckles are permitted.
SKIRT: Six (6) inches from the knee, two (2) inches of hem. Knife pleats, four (4) ON
EITHER SIDE OF THE FRONT AND BACK box pleats. Inset on the right
side
SLEEVE: Short sleeves with false cuff one (l) inch deep with one eighth (1/8) inch seam
allowance stitching.
SLIP: Full white slip, same length as the uniform.
SOCKS: Dark brown socks
SHOES: Dark brown shoes with one solid colour: No metal decorations, zippers, or studs.
Shoes must be low-heeled and with no high tops.
The shoe must not be lighter brown than the dark brown sock.

Uniform material (Dacron and Cotton), ties, and PE uniform are available in the Book Store.
No jewelry is allowed, but a simple watch (No SMART WATCHES) may be worn. Only
small gold knobs for pierced ears, if so desired.
Only brown, royal blue, black, or white ribbons or clips in hair (one colour at a time and only
3 pieces allowed).

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 UNIFORM PATTERN

UNIFORM PATTERN
BACK VIEW
FRONT VIEW

3” Peterpan
collar all the way
around

Right side and left

side loops of 1/4”
attached to the Pleats are
uniform. 6” below
Plastic
the belt.
Buckles
Buttons below the
belt

Four knife pleats

on either side of SLIP
the front and
back box pleats
Socks folded 2”
Uniform is 6” below
above the ankle
the knees with a 2”
hem

Full length
slip

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 APPROPRIATE AND INAPPROPRIATE SHOE

The following footwear is APPROPRIATE for school

ONLY Dark Brown, Flat Shoes are allowed

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 The following footwear is INAPPROPRIATE for school
NB: The shoe cannot be lighter than the sock.

∙ Incorrect Style and Incorrect ∙ Incorrect Style and colour

tone – No two-tone shoes.

∙ Incorrect Style, Incorrect tone, ∙ Incorrect Style

and Incorrect colour

∙ Wrong shade of brown ∙ Incorrect Style and colour

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