FAQ
Where can I find information on school policies and other information? A Parent/Student Handbook is available.
When does school start? St. Bernard’s School follows the Norwood Young America School District #108 school calendar.
What are the hours of the school day? The school day starts at 8:00 a.m. with Mass except on Wednesday and ends at 3:10 p.m. This is subject to change due to bus transportation schedules. No students are to be dropped off prior to 7:30 A.M. without permission unless the student arrives by bus.
Is there bussing? Yes, there is bussing for children residing in Norwood Young America School District #108 and Waconia School District #110.
Is there before and after school child care? Yes, we provide service from 6:00 AM –6:00 PM
What is tuition? For tuition rates please see the Registration Form or the Parent/Student Handbook.
What if I can’t afford tuition? Everyone is welcome to St. Bernard School and we will find ways to make the tuition affordable through scholarships and/or lower cost or free lunches.
Do you have a hot lunch program? Yes, hot lunch is available at a cost of $45/month. That includes 20 lunches with a second serving optional.
Will I be able to volunteer in the school? Yes, there are numerous volunteer opportunities available for parents who work outside the home as well as for those that stay at home.
Is there a dress code? Yes. A copy of the dress code policy can be obtained through the school office and in the Parent/Student Handbook for your easy reference or can be viewed on the dress code page.
What types of school communications are there? There is a weekly newsletter from the principal. Also, some classrooms have newsletters, mailings and memos throughout the year. Many of our communications are available on-line at www.st-bernard-cologne.org. and in the parish bulletin.
Are there any sports at St. Bernard School? There are no formal sports programs at St. Bernard School. Children participate in their Community Education sports programs and many parents say this is a good way for their children to meet other children they may be going to school with after they leave St. Bernard’s.
What kinds of extracurricular activities are offered? There are Brownie and Girl Scout groups, Cub and Boy Scout groups, and Choir. Students in Grades 3 – 6 have the opportunity to be a member of the St. Bernard Children’s Choir, which sings at parish masses about once a month during the school year. Along with Children’s Choir is an opportunity for students to play guitar for weekend masses, school day masses, and the annual talent show. The ability to play 20 basic chords and 1 basic strum pattern is needed.
What kind of special classes do the children have? Technology, Library, Spanish, Music, Physical Education and Art.
Do you have special ways to challenge gifted children? Each grade level has different means to challenge those children that are excelling and need a little more to keep them interested through Differentiated Instruction methods.
When is recess? There is a morning and lunch recess each day.
Do the children attend mass? Yes, children attend mass at 8:00 a.m. every day of the school week, except Wednesdays. Each classroom takes turns planning and actively participating (e.g. reading, gift bearing, singing, etc) in the mass.
Where do the children go to school after 6th grade? Most of our students go on to Central High School in NYA, but some go on to Waconia High School as well as some Catholic and private schools. Our students are well prepared for whatever school they decide to attend after St. Bernard School. As a matter of fact, over the years, many St. Bernard’s alumni have graduated from high school with honors and have gone on to do wonderful things with their lives.
