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Parent FAQs

What does the "Jesuit" in "McQuaid Jesuit" mean?

    The Jesuits are one of the largest religious orders in the Catholic Church. The Society of Jesus was founded in 1540 by St. Ignatius Loyola, a Basque nobleman and soldier, who found God in all things. Today there are over 20,000 Jesuits serving the Church in 112 nations on six continents.  (more)

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Back to School

  1. Does my son need a physical before starting classes in the fall?  New York State law requires parents or guardians to furnish a certificate of physical examination for any student new to McQuaid Jesuit. The physical exam must be conducted after January 1 of the year the student enters school.  Students entering seventh and tenth grade are also mandated by New York State to have a physical exam with their physician prior to the start of their school year. (more)
  2. Does my son need a physical before playing a sport?  New York State Education Law stipulates that all athletes must have an annual medical examination either at McQuaid Jesuit or at your own physician’s office. Prior to the start of each new sports season, the student must individually see the nurse for clearance. (more)
  3. When do students receive academic schedules?  Schedules come out in July.
  4. Is McQuaid Jesuit going to use an online book vendor this year? No!  All required novels, workbooks, supplements, art kits, and AP text books may be purchased directly from the McQuaid Jesuit bookstore beginning in mid-August. A small number of AP texts will be available in mid-July to accommodate summer  assignments. (more)
  5. Does my son need a gym uniform? Yes.  They are on sale in the bookstore; but, buy only one at first... kids grow fast!
  6. Is there a list of required school supplies?  Yes, for the middle school.  The list is available online, in the bookstore area of the McQ website.  No, for the high school.  Individual teachers will let students know during Schola Brevis or the first day of classes.
  7. When can I purchase my son's academic year 2008-09 books? AP Books for classes with summer assignments will be available after July 17th.  All other required materials for the 2008-09 school year will be available in the McQuaid bookstore for purchase after August 15th.

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Bookstore

  1. Are there summer bookstore hours?  Yes.  Visit the bookstore site for more information.
  2. When can I purchase my son's academic year 2008-09 books? AP books for classes with summer assignments will be available after July 17th.  All other required materials for the 2008-09 school year will be available in the McQuaid bookstore for purchase after August 15th.
  3. Can my son get a Varsity Letter Sweater? Yes, if a student has earned a Varsity Letter (academics or sports/extra cirricular) he may wear a Varsity Letter Sweater in place of a blazer (except for the Mass of the Holy Spirit and Advent Mass). Varsity Sweaters can be ordered and sized at the bookstore. An authorization form must be completed and signed by the appropriate administrators (Dean of Student Affairs and either the Registrar or the Athletic Director).
  4. Is McQuaid Jesuit going to use an online book vendor this year? No!  All required novels, workbooks, supplements, art kits, and AP text books may be purchased directly from the McQuaid Jesuit bookstore beginning in mid-August. A small number of AP text books will be available in mid-July to accommodate summer  assignments. (more)
  5. Does my son need a gym uniform? Yes.  They are on sale in the bookstore; but, buy only one at first... kids grow fast!
  6. Is there a list of required school supplies?  Yes, for the middle school.  The list is available online, in the bookstore area of the McQ website.  No, for the high school.  Individual teachers will let students know during Schola Brevis or the first day of classes.

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Calendar and Schedule

General

  1. What do the numbers 1…6 on the monthly calendars indicate?  Student schedules are arranged on a rotating basis.  Every day is arranged with a different pattern of classes, and each is assigned a number, 1,2,3,4,5,6.  These "days" flow consecutively throughout the school year and are indicated on the school calendar.
  2. What is the schedule on exam days? The school day begins at the regular time with students reporting directly to the exam room.   Exam room assignments are posted throughout the school.  Students may not leave the building before 10:30 AM in the high school and 11:00 AM in the middle school.
  3. Does each grade level do a class trip each year?  Typically, the middle school students and freshmen participate in class trips.  These are organized by the faculty advisor for each respective year.  However, class trips are not "policy" at McQuaid, but their organization is left to the discretion of the advisor.

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Summer

  1. Is there a summer reading list?  Yes!  Please visit our online bookstore.
  2. What summer athletic programs are offered at McQuaid Jesuit?  Our school never closes!  During the summer, students from all over the Rochester area attend various athletic camps at McQuaid Jesuit. Everyone is invited to participate.  (more)
  3. What is HAP?  HAP stands for the "Higher Achievement Program," a five-week program for boys who have successfully completed seventh grade.  It consists of academics, activities, sports, a trip to Letchworth Park and opportunities to take trips to local landmarks. The program runs from June 25th to July 27th (8:45 to 1:50) with a graduation ceremony on the last day.   (more)

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September

  1. What is Schola Brevis? Schola Brevis is a tradition practiced in all Jesuit schools all over the world. It literally means "brief class session." During these short periods, the teacher gets to know the students, introduces the course, and sets standards and expectations for classroom behavior and academic performance.  Big brothers are present to help.
  2. When does Rel. Stud. #1 (Gr. 12) begin? Senior (12th) religious studies (Rel. Studies) classes are offered in trimesters.
  3. What does ED stand for? Early Dismissal is at 1:54 PM,  unless specified otherwise. 
  4. What does FM stand for? FM stands for "faculty meeting."
  5. What is Parent Mini-Class Night? Mini-Class Night is a chance for parents to follow their son's schedule and meet his teachers.  It is also a chance to meet other members of the McQuaid Jesuit community, including the administration and other parents.  Please note that there is not time to visit in between classes, but cookies and punch are available in the cafeteria before and after.
  6. What is the magazine drive? Each fall, the students of McQuaid Jesuit participate in a magazine drive, an annual fundraiser to support their school.  In the magazine drive, each student is asked to sell at least eight magazine subscriptions to friends and family members through Reader's Digest's QSP fundraising organization.  Prizes are awarded to each student who reaches his sales quota.  In addition, students participate in various games and other activities, held in the cafeteria during lunch periods.  Finally, prizes are awarded to the school's top sellers.  In 2005, McQuaid Jesuit students raised more than $55,000 in support of their school. (more)
  7. What is the Sports Assembly?  The Fall Sports Assembly is basically a "pep rally" at which fall athletes and teams are introduced to the larger school community.  It is a chance to build McQuaid Jesuit spirit.  It takes place during FLEX and participation by all students is mandatory. 
  8. What is senior parent night? The college counselors are available to explain the college admissions process.
  9. What is MAGIS? Magis is a Latin word meaning “more” or the “greater good”. All seniors participate in the Magis program, which takes place after all senior classes and exams are completed. This program will account for approximately forty hours of the four-year service requirement. This program includes the senior's participation in an in-school orientation and periodic relfection sessions. A student must complete all components of the Magis program in order to receive his diploma. (more)
  10. What is Jacket Day? A representative is present in the cafeteria to take orders for varsity jackets.
  11. What is the Mass of the Holy Spirit?  Can parents attend? Jesuit high schools celebrate the Mass of the Holy Spirit at the beginning of every school year. Through the Mass of the Holy Spirit, the new school year is dedicated to God and a blessing is invoked upon all students, staff, faculty, and administrators. Yes, parents are invited to attend the Mass of the Holy Spirit.  Dimissal for all students is 10:00 AM. (more)
  12. What is the Simba Bonfire? The Simba Society is an informal group of McQuaid Jesuit students who organize cheering sections at McQuaid Jesuit athletic events.  The bonfire is an annual event at which McQuaid Jesuit fans gather to kick off another year of spirit!
  13. The Middle School "A Day for Others" states that there are "No Classes." Does this mean that there is no school and my son can stay at home?  Are there classes for the high school?  All students should report to school on this day.  High school students have classes, while middle school students have a day of service and reflection.  In other words, it is a regular day for high school students and a special in-school-but-no-classes day for middle school students.
  14. What is Freshman Parent Information Night? The freshman counselors are available to explain the group and individual guidance process for students.
  15. What is the "Activities Fair"? All students are invited to learn about the various clubs and activities offered at McQuaid. (more)

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October

  1. What is the McQuaid Jesuit Invitational? The McQuaid Jesuit Invitational is the largest cross-country invitational east of the Mississippi. (more)
  2. What is the Parents' Association? The Parents' Association has as its goal the promotion of greater family involvement in McQuaid Jesuit, thereby strengthening and encouraging close bonds among parents/guardians, faculty/staff/administration, students, and the Board of Trustees. All parents are invited to attend our monthly meetings.  Meetings are in the choral room.  (more)
  3. What is the 7th Grade Activity Night? This is a fun night for seventh graders and their teachers.  Games and food are available for all!
  4. On in-service days, it says “no classes” (vs. “no school”).  Do the boys come to school that day?  If so, what do they do? In-service days should read "no school" rather than "no classes."  Students do not report to school on days described as "no school."  Students are required to report on days described as having "no classes."
  5. What is SAT & ST? The Scholastic Aptitude Test and other standardized tests are required by most colleges and universities in the application process.  While juniors and seniors typically take these, anyone may register, whether college is in the near or more distant future.
  6. What are the PSAT/CAT tests? McQuaid Jesuit students participate in the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (sophomores and juniors) and the California Achievement Test (middle school, freshmen, and sophomores).  Seniors have the day off and typically arrange college visits on this day.  Students report to their homerooms at the regular time and dismissal is at 11:45 AM.  Dress code is required.
  7. What is Wine Tasting? This is an annual social event sponsored by the Parents' Association.  It is a great chance for McQuaid Jesuit parents to meet other McQuaid Jesuit parents.  Contact Francine Patella Ryan for more information.
  8. What is SophomoreParent Information Night? The sophomore counselors are available to explain the guidance process for students.
  9. What is Freshman Knight Day? These are student led days of reflection for freshmen. Students should report to their homerooms at the regular time and dismissal is at the regular time.  Dress code is "McQuaid Jesuit apparel."
  10. What is the M.S. dance? The middle school students have their own dance in the Hogenkamp Auditorium.  McQuaid Jesuit boys are invited; girls from any school may attend.

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November

  1. What is All Saints? The day is a Church solemnity, instituted to honor all the saints, known and unknown. It is a holy day of obligation and Mass is celebrated in the school. (more)  
  2. What is Sophomore Service Day? These are student led days of reflection and service held off campus for Sophomores. The focus of the Service Day activities revolve around each students relationship with God, relationships with fellow classmates and a better understanding of McQuaid Jesuit experience. During these Retreat Days, students perfom community service at many organizations throughout the Rochester area. This day is excellent preparation for eventual participation in the Senior Magis program.  (more)
  3. What is the flu clinic? Faculty, administration and staff may receive flu shots on this day.
  4. What is the Open House? Attend our Open House between 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM. Take this opportunity to meet our teachers and students, see samples of students' work, and check out McQuaid Jesuit's excellent facilities. Current McQuaid Jesuit parents will be available to answer questions and share their experiences with you. Be sure to pick up an application and put your name on our mailing list. Financial aid forms will be available. (more)
  5. What is the Parent-Teacher meeting? This is a chance for parents to meet with teachers to review recently issued report cards.
  6. What is the Fall Play? During the academic year McQuaid Jesuit and Mercy students join to present two major theatre productions, one comedy or drama and one musical. Casting for these shows is open to students in grades 9–12, however certain shows may call for middle school students as well. There is also a need for students interested in the technical aspects of theatre, including set construction, lighting, sound, etc. (more)
  7. What is College Financial Aid Info? Junior parents are invited to meet with a financial planner from Saint John Fisher concerning issues of college financial aid.
  8. When is Rel. Stud. #1 (Gr. 12)? Senior (12th) religious studies (Rel. Studies) classes are offered in trimesters.
  9. What is the 8th Grade Activity Night? This is a fun night for seventh graders and their teachers.  Games and food are available for all!
  10. What is the Emmaus Retreat? Juniors at McQuaid Jesuit are offered the chance to make an Emmaus retreat. The Emmaus retreat is an experience based on the gospel story in Luke where the resurrected Jesus encounters two of his disciples on the road to Emmaus on the first Easter Sunday. This retreat is a three day, two night experience where students are led on a journey of prayer and reflection by exploring their lives, their relationships with others and coming face to face with the person of Jesus Christ. (more)
  11. What is the Alumi Bull Roast? The Bull Roast is a chance for alumni to return to McQuaid Jesuit and visit with their friends in an informal setting. (more)

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December

  1. Who was Saint Francis Xavier? Francis Xavier was one of the original companions of Ignatius Loyola, the founder of the Jesuits. Xavier is the patron of McQuaid Jesuit. (more)
  2. What is the Parents' Association? The Parents' Association has as its goal the promotion of greater family involvement in McQuaid Jesuit, thereby strengthening and encouraging close bonds among parents/guardians, faculty/staff/administration, students, and the Board of Trustees. All parents are invited to attend our monthly meetings.  Meetings are in the choral room.  (more)
  3. What is MAGIS?  Magis is a Latin word meaning “more” or the “greater good”. All seniors participate in the Magis program, which takes place after all senior classes and exams are completed. This program will account for approximately forty hours of the four-year service requirement. This program includes the senior's participation in an in-school orientation and periodic relfection sessions. A student must complete all components of the Magis program in order to receive his diploma. (more)
  4. What is the Immaculate Conception? On the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, Catholics celebrate the conception of Mary, the Mother of God, who by special grace and in anticipation of her own motherhood, was conceived without original sin. This is a holy day of obligation and Masses are celebrated at McQuaid Jesuit. All parents are invited to join our community's celebration. (more)
  5. Can anyone attend the High School (H.S.) concert? Certainly. But, please know that space is limited, so arrive early!
  6. What is the family Advent Liturgy? This is the Parents' Association's annual celebration in anticipation of Christmas. Mass is celebrated in the student chapel and a light breakfast is shared afterward. All McQuaid Jesuit families (and extended families) are invited!
  7. Can anyone attend the Middle School (M.S.) concert? Certainly. But, please know that space is limited, so arrive early!
  8. What does ED stand for? Early Dismissal is at 1:54 PM,  unless specified otherwise. 
  9. What does FM stand for? FM stands for "faculty meeting."
  10. What is the Advent Liturgy? Bishop Matthew Clark joins the McQuaid Jesuit community on an annual basis to celebrate the season of Advent, of waiting for the coming of the Lord at Christmas. Attendance is mandatory for all students. Families are more than welcome.

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Mid-Term Exams

  1. What is the bus schedule? Every district is different. Parents should contact their local districts to determine their son's transportation accomodations.

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 Campus Ministry

  1. What are the retreats and who goes? Juniors at McQuaid Jesuit are offered the chance to make an Emmaus retreat. All students in their senior year have the opportunity to attend one of the four Kairos retreats offered throughout the year.  Knight Days are student led days of reflection for Freshman and Middle School students. Sophomore Days student led days of reflection and service held off campus for Sophomores. (more)
  2. What is MAGIS ?  Magis is a Latin word meaning “more” or the “greater good”. All seniors participate in the Magis program, which takes place after all senior classes and exams are completed. This program will account for approximately forty hours of the four-year service requirement. This program includes the senior's participation in an in-school orientation and periodic relfection sessions. A student must complete all components of the Magis program in order to receive his diploma. (more)
  3. What is Christian Service? Every McQuaid Jesuit high school student must fulfill a service requirement of one hundred hours by the last day of classes his senior year in order to be eligible for a McQuaid Jesuit diploma.  Each middle school students must fulfill a service requirement of ten hours. This requirement is an essential part of the goals and characteristics of all Jesuit high schools. (more)
  4. Is there Mass on all holy days?  If so, do all students attend or is it optional? Mass is celebrated on all holy days.  All students attend Mass on these special days during the year. (more)
  5. Is Mass celebrated on a daily basis?  Yes, Mass is celebrated daily in the chapel, as well as at special times during the year, including holy days, the Mass of the Holy Spirit, the Advent Eucharistic Liturgy, and the Baccalaureate Mass.  In addition, Mass is celebrated at 11:00 AM on the first Sunday of every month when school is in session.  Also, the Sacrament of Reconciliation is celebrated during Advent and Lent.  Daily Masses are optional; all other Masses are mandatory for all students.  Parents are always welcome! (more)

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    Finances

  1. Are current parents expected to donate to McQuaid Jesuit? McQuaid Jesuit charges approximately $2,000 less in tuition than it costs us to educate each student. The cost to educate a McQuaid Jesuit student is approximately $10,000 (about 20% less than the public school average) with tuition  set for $8,300.  In other words, all McQuaid Jesuit families receive over $1.5 million in financial assistance per year without ever realizing it.  Additionally, McQuaid Jesuit provides approximately $775,000 in additional need-based financial aid to over 25% of our families. Most of this $2.275 million is raised through donations from alumni, parents, friends, faculty, staff, and from the Religious who teach there. While these donations are freely given with no expectations, we are indeed grateful to those who are able to help us "bridge the gap."   Current parents play a vital role in this endeavor and we invite them to consider a gift of time, talent, and treasure to McQuaid Jesuit on an annual basis. (more)
  2. How much is tuition for the 2008-09 school year?  For grades 7 though 11 the tuition is $8,300.  For grade 12 it is $8,460.  For seniors there is an additional fee for graduation, the mother-son brunch, the yearbook, etc.
  3. When do I pay the tuition?  It depends upon your payment plan.  When you registered your son you filled out a green payment plan sheet.  The choices were one-pay, one-pay credit card, two-pay, or 11-pay (EFT – electronic funds transfer).  The first deduction for the 11 pay plan is July 20th.  The other plans will first be billed in early to mid-July with the payment due August 1st.
  4. How much is the 11-pay plan amount?  Each month from July through May, the amount withdrawn from your checking or savings account will be $755.  The final month of May will be $750 for grades 7 – 11.  For seniors the amount is $7770 per month with the last month at $760.
  5. Do I get charged for paying monthly? No.  There is no fee for the 11-pay plan.  However, there is no cash discount either.
  6. What are the cash discounts?  If you pay by cash or check (not credit card) there is a $100 discount for the one-pay plan and $50 discount for the 2-pay plan ($25 off each of the two payments).
  7. May I pay using a credit card? Credit cards are only accepted for the one-pay plan and there is no discount.  With your bill you will receive a form to fill out giving us your credit card information. 
  8. When is the monthly deduction made for the 11-pay amount?  The first deduction is July 20th.  The deduction is always on the 20th of the month unless that falls on a weekend.  Then the deduction is on the Monday. 
  9. How will I know if you are using my correct bank account? In mid-July you will receive a statement from our agent via e-mail showing your name, address, etc.  On the statement will be your bank account number.  Please check the statement over for accuracy and contact our agent with any changes. 
  10. What if I want to make a change to my EFT or change my bank account?  Contact the Treasurer’s Office (256-6106) for any changes.
  11. What if I don’t have money in my account on the 20th of the month?   At least 2 days ahead, contact the Treasurer’s Office so the EFT may be stopped.  You will then be expected to pay by check as another automatic withdrawal will not occur until the next month.
  12. May I reduce my monthly payment amount by paying ahead?  Yes.  You may pay any amount any time to reduce the monthly amount.  Just contact the Treasurer’s Office a few days in advance to let us know your intentions.
  13. What if I am having trouble making my payments?  Talk to the Treasurer.  She can help you work out a payment arrangement plan.  If your son is in grades 9 – 12, you may wish to file for financial aid.  To do so, contact Mr. Christopher Parks, Dean of Admissions at 256-6117.  Aid is usually applied for by April 15th before the school year begins.  However, there may be some aid still available for unusual circumstances. 
  14. How is the financial aid recorded?  The aid is prorated based upon your payment plan. 
  15. If my son withdraws, will tuition be refunded? If your son withdraws before the first day of school, all but $200 of tuition paid will be refunded.  During the school year, payments of tuition that exceed the amount charged on the 11-pay plan at the date of withdrawal will be refunded. 
  16. What if I don’t make the payments?  You will be notified that your son will not be able to sit for exams in December or in June.  If you contact the Treasurer before that situation occurs payment arrangements may be worked out. 
  17. How do I contact the Treasurer? Call Mrs. Betsy Archibald at 256-6106 or the Assistant to the Treasurer, Mrs. Joan Ferris at 256-6196.  Voice mail and e-mail are available.

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      Forms, Etc.

       

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      Parent Social

  1. How can parents be socially involved at McQuaid Jesuit?  Attending the monthly Parents' Association Meetings are a great place to start.  The relaxed format features speakers at each meeting who provide insight and information about the school, the philosophy, or other issues of interest to McQuaid Jesuit parents. There are also numerous volunteer opportunities (contact the BASH office or refer to the Volunteer handout you should have received in your student’s packet for information on specific tasks where volunteers are used).    There are also several social events scheduled throughout the year (Mothers' Tea, Euchre Card Party, Family Advent Liturgy, BASH) in which the entire family can participate.  BASH in particular is an event that requires a lot of volunteer help.   Sports game attendance is another great way to meet and socialize with other McQuaid Jesuit families.

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       Transportation

  1. How do I sign up for transportation to school (busing)? It depends on your school district.  Most suburban districts will contact families, sending transportation forms, etc., after the district's annual student census process.  You should contact your district if this has not occurred.  The City of Rochester grants RTS bus passes to its residents, and this is coordinated through McQuaid Jesuit's Dean of Student Affairs office.  Please contact Mrs. Theresa McGuire (extension 114) for more information.  
  2. Does my son have to take the bus, and if not, where can I drop him off/ pick him up?  No, your son does not have to take the bus.  Out of courtesy, though, please inform your bus driver if your son will not be on the bus for more than a couple days.  Parents may drop their sons off/ pick them up at any entrance to the school except in the main circle. Please DO NOT enter the main circle. Also, for safety reasons, please DO NOT stop your car in traffic and drop your son off at the curb of either Elmwood or S. Clinton Avenues.  
  3. If my son drives, does he need a parking permit?  Where can he park?  McQuaid Jesuit issues a limited number of parking permits to its student drivers.  These may be purchased from the Dean of Student Affairs office.  Seniors have first preference. Please DO NOT park in the main circle or in front of the auditorium. Violators will be ticketed.
  4. What is a "late" bus?  "Late" buses typically offer students transportation home after regularly scheduled buses have departed for the day, enabling them to participate in after-school activities.  Unfortunately, local school districts do not offer this service to McQuaid Jesuit students.  

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1800 S. Clinton Avenue  |  Rochester, NY 14618  |  585.473.1130