Ineligibility Rules and Procedures

The Academic Review Team (ART) comprised of Mr. John Muehlberger, Mrs. Maureen Engen, Mr. Rich Weitz, and Mrs. Karla Davis have been working to document procedures for managing MASH, Detention, Study Hall and eligibility to participate in activities. Of particular concern is the issue of student eligibility.

Currently a student is assigned to Study Hall when they have 1 grade below 66.5% or 2 grades below 74.5%. This policy will remain in effect. However modification of the ineligibility policy will be implemented in the second semester.

Previously ineligibility was declared when a student was on the Study Hall list for two consecutive weeks. The new policy states, “when a student has at least one failing grade (below 66.5%) for two consecutive weeks, they may be declared ineligible to participate in extra curricular activities”. Failing grades do not have to be in the same course for two consecutive weeks. For example, a student with a failing grade in Biology two consecutive weeks would be ineligible as well as a student that has a failing grade in Biology one week and in Technology the next.

Ineligibility applies to performances in sports, spirit team, Scholar’s Bowl, drama, music, or any other extra curricular activity sponsored by St. James. In addition, students who are ineligible should not be allowed to go on field trips that cause them to miss any class time other than the class making the trip. Because students assigned to study hall are not eligible to represent St. James Academy, participation in extra curricular activities or field trips that extend beyond the regularly scheduled class meeting times should not be assigned for grades. For example, students playing basketball should not be required to participate in a game for a grade. However students may attend activities in a non-performing status.

A student can petition for an exception to ineligibility. In order to do this, the student must initiate a meeting with at least one member of the ART to request special consideration. The ART will not seek out the student nor will exceptions be granted if the student does not initiate a petition. A coach or activity sponsor cannot make this petition. The students must advocate for themselves. The ART when determining whether or not an exception can be granted will consider the following factors:

Is the student putting out maximum effort in class
- The student should obtain a written note from the teacher to attest to the student’s level of effort
Is there a chance for significant grade improvement before next game/activity
- The student should obtain a note from the teacher that attests to the fact that there will be no assignment or assessment that will allow the student’s grade to improve. For example the students are working on long-term projects.
Is the student attending study hall regularly and is the student using their time effectively

Students who are given an exception to the eligibility rule may be required to sign a contract approved by the ART. The student will be monitored weekly. The student’s grades must improve to passing or their conduct must remain in accordance with the terms of the contract to remain eligible. The final decision regarding eligibility will rest with the Dean of Students, Mr. John Muehlberger.