|
4.1 Admission and Placement 4.2 Academic Honesty 4.3 Attendance and Absences 4.4 Assemblies 4.4.1 Primary 4.4.2 Secondary 4.5 Behaviour Expectations 4.5.1 General 4.5.2 The Big Three 4.5.3 Classroom Expectations 4.5.4 Student Responsibilities 4.5.5 Teacher Responsibilities 4.5.6 Parent Responsibilities 4.6 Behaviour Management 4.6.1 General 4.6.2 Primary 4.6.3 Secondary 4.7 Breaks 4.8 Bullying 4.9 Buses / Vans 4.10 Class Size 4.11 Class Parents 4.12 Early Withdrawal 4.13 Food and Drink 4.14 Homework 4.14.1 Primary 4.14.2 Secondary 4.15 Lost and Found 4.16 Lockers / Cubbies 4.17 Orientation 4.17.1 Primary 4.17.2 Secondary 4.18 Non – completion of work 4.18.1 In Class Work 4.18.2 Homework and Assignments 4.19 Open School Night 4.19.1 Primary 4.19.2 Secondary 4.20 Phone Use 4.21 Search of Student Property
4.21.1 Searches of Student Property 4.21.2 Lockers 4.21.3 Seizure 4.21.4 Notice of Policy 4.21.5 Procedure for Students Found with Illegal Items 4.22 Sensitive Issues of Behaviour and Dress 4.22.1 Philosophy 4.22.2 Dress Code 4.23 Student Off Campus Privileges 4.24 Student Records
4.24.1 Student Records 4.24.2 Student Transcripts 4.24.3 Departure from VIS / Transfer Documents 4.25 Student Use of Motorised Vehicles 4.26 Student Visitors 4.23 Student Off Campus Privileges 4.1 Admission and Placement While designed to meet the academic and social needs of college-bound international students, our programme welcomes the enrolment of all expatriate children and qualified Lao National students willing to engage in serious academic study. Placement in a grade level is determined by the student’s age and/or by the last grade they completed in their previous school. A September 1st birth date is used as a guideline for placement for all grade levels. For the 2009-2010 school year a September 1st birth date is followed explicitly for placement in the Preschool 3 (3 year old), Preschool 4 (4 year old), and Primary Preparation (5 year old) classes. Students must turn the required age prior to September 1. In higher grades factors such as maturity, educational background, and achievement level are also taken into consideration to assure each child can be successful at VIS. New students at all grade levels will have a general admissions assessment. Children entering the school in the Primary Preparation class (5 year old) through Grade 12 (18 year old) are given academic tests in Math and English. Parents are requested to provide the school with educational records demonstrating the educational background and achievements of the student. It is particularly important that the school be given all of the records documenting any special educational needs. For Primary grades, English as Another Language (EAL) students will be assessed before or during the student’s first week in school and placed in the appropriate level of the EAL programme. Grade 9 and 10 students must have at least intermediate English language skills, Grade 11 and 12 Students must have advandced English language skills. Secondary applicants must undergo an English evaluation prior to admittance at VIS. 4.2 Academic Honesty Academic honesty is the responsibility of schools, teachers, parents and students. The following points summarize the VIS Academic Honesty Policy which applies to all members of the VIS learning community. | Personal skills | Learners at VIS are independent and possess a sense of integrity that gives them confidence in their work. They are capable of self-evaluation and the work they produce is authentic where they appreciate and respect intellectual property rights. They conduct themselves properly in relation to written examinations, research and all other forms of assessment. This implies that they understand plagiarism, collusion, duplication of work and are aware of other forms of malpractice with regards to academic honesty. They are also aware of the repercussions of failing to abide by the VIS Academic Honesty Policy. | | Social skills | Learners are comfortable and confident in collaborative work, and are willing contributors to the efforts of the group. They are capable of fairly and honestly, carrying out and accepting peer-evaluations. They acknowledge work of others when necessary. | | Technical skills | Learners at VIS are fully aware of and are able to use the various ways of acknowledging other people’s work. For example, the learners know how to write references, a bibliography, how to quote from a text, using systems such as APA referencing. Students are aware of copyright laws and how they can use resources and stay within the proper frame of possible usage of such resources. | 4.3 Attendance and Absences School attendance is important and all students are expected to attend on a regular basis. Failure to come to school every day inevitably affects students learning and grades. Wherever possible, family trips and vacations should be scheduled for times when school is not in session. VIS students should be on time for classes which begin at 7.50am sharp. Attendance is taken each morning in homeroom and given to the VIS Office. The attendance sheet should be marked to show absent students. The receptionist will call the parents of all absent students to confirm their absence. Any student who arrives after homeroom is considered late and must check in with the receptionist before going to class. The receptionist emails the daily student absent list by 9:30 each morning. Students are required to complete all missed work, unless there are extenuating circumstances and other arrangements have been made. For students in the Primary grades the parents should contact the classroom teacher to arrange the collection of homework. Students in the Secondary school away longer than one day should arrange to have homework collected. It is often beneficial if the homeroom teacher assigns buddies in class to automatically do this. If a student knows of his/her absence in advance, it is the responsibility of the student to let teachers know and collect homework in advance. Students who arrive at school before 10:00 will be considered to be present for the full day. Students who arrive after 11:00 or leave before 12.00 will be considered to have attended for a half day. A student who misses school for three days or more due to illness may be asked to provide a doctor’s certificate. 4.4 Assemblies 4.4.1 Primary An Assembly schedule is developed for the year with Primary Assemblies occurring every 3 to 4 weeks. Primary Assemblies are facilitated by grade levels with students taking the lead in hosting the assembly. Each Assembly may have its own theme or focus depending on the hosting class/grade level, or can be general. It always includes routine segments, such as farewells, welcomes, birthdays, Primary Action group announcements & Primary Head reflection. Notification of Assemblies will be published in Dragon Tales. 4.4.2 Secondary Assemblies in the secondary school take place approximately once a month. They are scheduled during the common advisory time for Grade 6-12. Assemblies are student-led and have their own theme which focuses around showcasing learning and key community events for example learning in particular grades, study trips, Cultural exchange, VIS Idol etc. Notification of Assemblies will be published in Dragon Tales. 4.5 Behaviour Expectations 4.5.1 General The goal of the whole school policy is to encourage among all of the student’s self-discipline and respect for authority and for each other that will enable VIS to function as a caring and supportive institution. An essential element of this goal is to ensure that this policy is known throughout the school and implemented by all. Behaviour and discipline are judged by the extent to which the attitude and actions of the students contribute to or restrict the effective learning in the classroom and the quality of life and functioning of the school as a caring and involved community. The intent is to provide a cooperative, supportive and safe environment where the individual feels respected, valued, and secure. To achieve this the following standards have been established to encourage good relationships between students, teachers, and parents. At VIS we are committed to creating and maintaining a positive school environment for everyone. All students are expected to actively create and maintain this environment through the following qualities and behaviours; § Respectful, Appropriate Behaviour Student behaviour and dress promotes learning, cooperation, safety and respect for others. Respect for others includes respect for their individual differences, culture and property. Conflicts are resolved through discussion and assistance from staff. § Active Participation Students come to all classes, arrive on time with all materials ready and homework completed and are ready to participate in all learning activities. Students demonstrate real effort in completing assignments and participating in class resulting in their best possible performance. § Academic Honesty Any work that is presented as a student’s work actually is that student’s work § A School Free from Tobacco, Alcohol, Drugs and Weapons As a condition of attending VIS, students do not use, possess, or allow themselves to be under the influence of tobacco, alcohol or drugs at school or during a school activity. Similarly, a condition of attending VIS is that students do not bring weapons to school or school activities. We expect that in most cases, if students fail to achieve the standards set above, they will quickly correct themselves through guidance by their teachers and parents. The school will work closely with students and parents to achieve this result. In cases where this does not prove effective the school may find it necessary to take other disciplinary actions, including loss of free time, temporary removal from class, and detention after class hours, suspension from regular classes, school or after school activities or expulsion from the school, which includes forfeiture of fees paid. It should be noted that violation of the school’s policy on alcohol, illicit drugs or weapons will result in serious consequences which may include expulsion. 4.5.2 “The Big Three” In addition to the general guidelines all students are expected to know and follow specific school rules. All of the following specific rules are covered by ‘The Big Three’ behaviour principles at VIS § Speak and behave respectfully to others § Act in ways that support learning § Act in ways that are health, safe, and clean 4.5.3 Classroom Expectations At VIS we expect students to be proactive about their behaviour and to take responsibility for their own learning. Therefore students should: § Be respectful to others § Demonstrate positive behaviours and attitudes § Be polite and helpful to every member of the VIS community § Use appropriate language at all times § Ask for help § Speak Out against bullying § Have and use the homework planner 4.5.4 Student Responsibilities and Expectations We aim to educate the whole child. We therefore organize our school to promote academic excellence alongside the growth of social responsibility, nurturing the emotional development of each individual, and encouraging the development of personal values. We believe that learning involves human interactions; therefore our school aims to create social environments that facilitate effective learning and healthy self-esteems. We encourage the peaceful resolution of conflicts at all levels. The development of responsible action is essential. Students are encouraged to assume responsibility for their learning under the careful guidance of professional educators, and to understand the need for positive action to support their responsibilities. The IB Learner Profile is the framework through which to guide students. For example: § Caring- to show empathy, compassion and respect towards the needs and feelings of others. § Principled – firstly to act with integrity and honesty, with a strong sense of fairness, justice and respect for the dignity of the individual and groups; and secondly to take responsibility for their own actions and the consequences that accompany them. § Reflective – to be able to give thoughtful consideration to their own learning and experiences. 4.5.5 Teacher Responsibilities Each Homeroom Teacher, Advisor, Subject Teacher and Teacher Assistants are responsible for facilitating the development of Classroom Expectations with their classes. It should reflect the IB Learner Profile and attitudes and be developed and recorded in terms of what behaviour should be evident. It should be applicable to both the students and adults. Avoid using “don’t” statements. An example of expectations could look like this: 1) Be RESPECTFUL to others through words and actions. 2) Be PRINCIPLED and use appropriate language. 3) Be COOPERATIVE and be an active listener. 4) Be COOPERATIVE completing all your tasks on time. 5) Be a THINKER and ask a classmate for help if you do not understand what you have been asked to do, 6) Be a COMMUNICATOR and tell a teacher if you are upset because of the way another person treated you 4.5.6 Parent Responsibilities Parents are responsible for reviewing, discussing with their child and supporting the behaviour expectations at VIS. As an important stakeholder in their child’s education parents will be part of the process of behaviour management. VIS believes in working in partnership with parents and students. It is important that the key stakeholders in the partnership support each other to foster social responsibility and the development of personal values. VIS encourages peaceful resolution of conflicts at all levels. The development of responsible action is essential. Parents are encouraged to assume responsibility for their role in the learning process and to understand the need for positive action to support their child’s development. 4.6 Behaviour Management 4.6.1 General The strategies employed by VIS when dealing with inappropriate behaviour are based on the following principles § Prevention is better than cure § Actions are immediate and relevant § Intervention and counseling and mediation are part of the process When giving a consequence a teacher should ensure that the students are provided with opportunities and skills for reflection and reconciliation. Specific approaches are outlined in this section. 4.6.2 Primary All teachers have a role to play in the management of student behaviour. The diagram shows the role of primary staff in VIS student behaviour management. | Who | What | Homeroom / Specialist Teacher | In class/playground duty behaviours- § Reinforce learner profile, attitudes and action cycle § Follow stop think do and other behaviour management techniques § Meet with parents if behaviour pattern continues § Complete SEN Referral Form § Keeps records on behaviour and strategies used Behaviour to referred to Primary Head § Serious damage/removal of property § Safety of student/others at risk | | Primary Head | Behaviours dealt with § Serious damage to property § Safety of student/others at risk Reinforcing learner profile and attitudes § Meets with the student-strategies, § Meets with the student, parents, teacher, SEN, counselor § Documents and files all records on disciplinary action. § Keeps the parents, teacher, counselor and director informed. Suspension and expulsion- in consultation with director § Behaviours-Students physical and mental safety put at risk § Serious damage/removal of property | SEN/ Counselor | § Meets and provides recommendations and strategies for the student, teachers and parents. § Involved in developing re-entry plan with student, parents, primary head, teachers | Director | § Attends suspension/expulsion meeting § Student may be referred to the Director if Primary Head is not available | 4.6.3 Secondary The following actions are followed by the Secondary teachers to help students reach their potential by providing support and guidance. These actions may vary according to the student’s individual needs. | Behaviour Management Actions | | Level | Action(s) | | One | Approach to Learning, Participation and Organization Skills | Punctuality and Attendance | Homework / Class work / Project work | | ü Teacher / Student discussion regarding approach to learning, participation or organization ü Advisor is notified by email | ü Absences / Punctuality tracked by individual teachers or Advisor ü Teacher / Advisor /Student discussion regarding absences or punctuality ü Advisor notified by email | ü Homework / Class work / Project work non-completion or lack of quality tracked by the individual teacher ü Teacher / Student discussion ü Students expected to attend the VIS Catch Up Session the following lunchtime to complete the work – refer to VIS Catch Up Session Information ü Parents and Advisor notified by email by the classroom teacher on the day the work is not completed | | Two | ü Teacher and Advisor discuss strategies and a student plan is developed ü Parents notified and a discussion with Parents and Student occurs | | Three | ü Teacher and Advisor meet with the Parents and Student to discuss problem and strategies. ü Support sought from the IB Coordinator, SEN, EAL or Counselor as needed ü Student works with Counselor | | Four | ü Parents and Student meet with Advisor, IB Coordinator, SEN / EAL Coordinators and the Counselor to discuss further strategies and develop a Behaviour or Academic Contract ü Parents and Student work with Counselor | | Five | ü IB Coordinator follows up with Director which may result in suspension | Some of the strategies that could be implemented are: § Advisor / Coordinator Tracking Advisors and IB Coordinator can track students when they have concerns relating to attendance, approach to learning, participation, organisation, punctuality or homework across all subjects. This requires each class teacher to make a brief note or sign the Students Tracking Form each lesson. They are intended as a tool to help the Advisor or IB Coordinator to identify areas where they can support the students. § After-School Imposition This is given to students who demonstrate disrespectful or unethical behaviour and consists of several hours of work to assist the school such as inventories, checking books or sorting resources. Parents will be notified of the incident and imposition via email. § Contracts The goal of every Secondary student at VIS is to complete course requirements in each subject. The aim of Academic Contract are to ensure that students in Grade 9-12 are identified and supported so they have every opportunity to be successful in their programme of learning. If a student’s academic achievement does not reach the minimum course expectations, a system of Academic Contracts will be introduced. Alternatively at Level Four above, a contract is developed in order to improve the student’s learning behaviours. A contract, including goals and consequences, will be developed by the IB Coordinator, the student and parents working together § In school suspension Students may be expected to complete an in school suspension for the following reasons: § Damage to school property § Interference with the educational programme § Forgery § Unexcused absence / Truancy A student placed on internal suspension will spend the day in school but will not attend classes and will not have any contact with other students. § Work it Out If a student is repeatedly disruptive within the learning environment the teacher they may feel that the temporary removal of the student from their class is appropriate. If a student is asked to leave class they are sent directly to the IB Coordinator. The student is required to complete a reflection and an email will be sent to the Parent and Advisor 4.7 Breaks Students have one break each morning and a lunch break. Secondary students are allowed to go to their lockers during breaks. Students have assigned play areas and should go to these areas. 4.8 Bullying Bullying is when a pattern of harassment and abuse is created from direct or indirect physical or psychological intimidation. VIS has a ‘Zero Tolerance’ to bullying and specific approaches to Bullying are outlined in the Secondary and Primary Procedures Handbooks. | Types of Bullying | Direct Examples | Indirect Examples | | Verbal abuse | · verbal Insults · Racial/ethnic insults · Sexual harassment | · Persuading another person to criticize or insult someone · Spreading malicious rumors · Anonymous phone calls, emails and text messages. · Threatening and obscene gestures | | Social/Emotional bullying | · Using guilt ‘you won’t be my friend if…’ · Manipulation · Being unfriendly · Forming tight groups or cliques against someone | · Deliberately turning away or averting one’s gaze to ignore someone · Rolling eyes · Persuading people to exclude someone · Posting on websites/blogs · The use of multi-media messages | | Physical means | · Striking or hitting · Throwing things · Using a weapon · Removing and hiding belongings | · Persuading another person to assault someone | 4.9 Buses / Vans The school owns and/or leases vans for transportation to and from school. Vans seat up to 12 passengers. Vans are equipped with seat belts and all passengers must be seat belted at all times. A VIS Teacher Assistant rides along with the driver and students each day to help supervise. Parents arrange for the van service in the school office with the Senior Secretary. Following is the daily schedule for each van: Arrival at VIS Approximately 7:45am Departure from VIS 3:00 pm Departure from VIS 4:00 pm Vans also transport classes back and forth to scheduled swimming lessons when we can have them. 4.10 Class Size VIS School Board Policy sets class sizes at a maximum of 20 for Early Years (3 & 4 year old classes) and Primary Preparation (5 year old). All other classes have a maximum class size of 24. 4.11 Class Parents The role of Class Parent in the primary school is one of strengthening community spirit and providing support to parents, students and the school. The selection of Class parents is coordinated by the Primary Head and the Class Parent Facilitator. Teachers can nominate parents that they feel would be appropriate for the role. In some cases there will be two class parents as some parents want to take on the role but are not confident in English in a large group or at meetings. Class parents may be invited to become involved at the teacher’s discretion and under their direction. This might include but is not limited to the facilitation of farewell parties, arranging helpers for a field trip, a special day or project, etc. Class parents will be asked to become involved in facilitating the parents of that class when the PTA or the school organizes an event; for example International Day Tour of the World in October, Fun Fair in February and Book Swap in Library Alive Week. 4.12 Early Withdrawal Parents who are planning to withdraw their student(s) during the school year are asked to inform the VIS office in writing at the earliest possible opportunity. All outstanding fees must be paid, textbooks and library books returned before official records can be released by the school. The school is divided into two (2) semesters. No fees will be refunded after 60 days have passed in a semester. 4.13 Food and Drink It is up to the professional judgment of each teacher if he/she wishes to allow food or beverages in their class however the Science labs, the Library and computer lab have been designated as no food or drink areas. Students use the Canteen during break and lunchtimes. Students are expected to remain seated for an initial period of time to allow for the completion of their food. They then can remain in the canteen or use other facilities for play. The school has a hot lunch programme. Anyone interested should see the Dragon Café representative for more information. 4.14 Homework 4.14.1 Primary We believe that homework should: § Promote self-discipline, organization and effective study habits § Promote positive attitudes towards independent and life-long learning § Provide parents with insights into their child’s development and learning experiences, and invite their involvement in an appropriate way. Students are responsible for: § Completing and turning in assignments on time and to the best of their ability § Asking for clarification from the teacher if the assignment is not understood § Recording assignments appropriately (Grades 3- 5) § Developing a Monday - Thursday homework routine (Grades 3-5) § Requesting assistance if needed, after attempting to complete an assignment independently (Grades 3—5) Teachers are responsible for: § Providing appropriate homework tasks Monday-Thursday to meet the needs of all students § Ensuring that assignments are understood by students § Providing feedback on homework tasks Parents are responsible for: § Providing the time and facilities to support the students in the homework § Encouraging effort, achievement and a positive attitude towards homework Reading for Pleasure in Early Years to Grade 5: We expect that all children will enjoy at least 10-15 minutes of uninterrupted reading at home each day. The child who develops a love of reading gains a lifelong desire to read and learn. In the Early Years, parents are asked to read to, and with, their children. As children move through the year levels this will change as children read to, and with, their parents and then become independent readers. EY-Grade 1 will not be assigned formal homework. Parents are asked to talk over the children’s day at school. Students may also be asked to collect materials and/or information to bring to class. Grade 2-5 Homework can be assigned Monday – Thursday. Students in Grade 2 and Grade 3 should be given homework tasks to take between 10 and 15 minutes per day. Tasks may include: review, extension or application of work taught in class and collection of materials and/or information for class. Grade 4 and Grade 5 students can expect 20 or 30 minutes of homework daily. Tasks may include: application and review of work learnt in class, collection of information and materials and independent research and projects Homework is not given on weekends or over school vacation periods. 4.14.2 Secondary The purpose of homework is to reinforce the skills taught during the day and to provide extended activities to facilitate the application of newly acquired knowledge. Homework provides students with the opportunity to develop their self management and study skills and it is their individual responsibility to complete tasks. Homework assignments are taken very seriously; they are often graded and reflected in the student’s overall achievement at school. Students at VIS should anticipate homework and organise their after-school timetables to facilitate their work. All homework should be recorded in the student planner which is distributed to students at the beginning of a school year. i) Grade 6-8 In Grades 6-7 homework and individual study, on average, should take approximately one to one and a half (1-1 ½ ) hours per day whilst in Grade 8 homework should take approximately one and a half house to two hours (1 – 1 ½ ) hours per day. This is based on expecting regular assignments in these subjects: Languages, Mathematics, Social Studies and Sciences. This average will vary from day to day and by students. The purposes of homework at this level are to practice and reinforce what the child is learning; to apply, creatively explore, and manipulate what is learned in class; and especially to develop stronger self management and organizational skills. To support these purposes, projects and reports may require planned work for periods extending over several weeks. Assigned activities may also include completion of work begun in class, reading, organising and preparing for the next school day; reading and using newspapers, magazines, novels, the Internet and other media; and discussions with parent and others about world events and ‘real-life’ problems. ii) Grade 9-12 In Grade 9-10 two (2) hours per day and Grade 11-12 two – three (2-3) hours per day would be an expected average. Again, this time will vary day to day and by student, and longer-term assignments will require time management. Major purposes of homework at these levels are to continue to develop independent study habits, time management and organizational skills which will be essential in tertiary study; and to extend, continue and reinforce learning started in the classroom – at this level successful completion of homework assignments if clearly related to academic achievement. In addition to reading, organising and preparing for the next school day, homework will include individual or group research or projects and use of a variety of media. Teachers are responsible for - ensuring that homework and assignments are set prior to the beginning or end of a lesson, - providing time for students to accurately record their homework and assignment requirements in their homework planner, - providing time for the preparation and planning for long term assignments and homework, - monitoring student’s progress through clearly defined milestone checks, - coordinating assessment due dates using the online calendar for each grade level. 4.15 Lost and Found Lost and found boxes are located in the hallways of the Primary and Secondary buildings. Regularly lost and found are laid out on benches in the entrance walkway for parents and students to claim. 4.16 Lockers / Cubbies Students in the primary school are allocated with cubbies in which they keep their books and supplies. They are also allocated a hook outside the classroom in which to hang their bags. Every student in the secondary school will have a locker. 6th to 8th grade students have lockers on the second floor, and 9th to 12th grade students on the first floor. Advisors will distribute lockers on the first day of school, and combination locks will be provided by the school. The advisor will keep a note of the combination of each lock that is issued: numbers will be given to IB Coordinators. If a student forgets the combination, s/he will come to the IB Coordinator to get the number. Students will be expected to pay the replacement cost of locks not returned at the end of the school year. Other locks (not issued by the school) are not permitted. 4.17 Orientation The average stay of a family at VIS is approximately three (3) years. Thus, the school is very experienced in welcoming new students and saying good-bye to departing students. 4.15.1 Primary At the beginning of the school year a general Primary Orientation session is held for the students and parents of Grade Prep – Gr 5. Teachers will be introduced to new students and their parents, and have the opportunity to show them the learning spaces they will be using and other school facilities. A separate session is held for Early Years 3 and 4. Students arriving throughout the school year will be included in the “buddy system” where they are paired with a student who is not new to the school. This “buddy system” provides new students with someone to show him/her around and answer any questions. The Primary Action Group (PAG), support the class teachers and students with information about the “buddy system”. The Primary Action Group also facilitates a “friendship table” at lunch and break times for any student who is in the process of finding new friends. 4.17.2 Secondary New students to VIS at the beginning of the school year are invited to an Orientation session prior to the start of the school year. This will provide new parents and students an opportunity to meet the teachers, connect with the students’ advisor and tour the facilities. Schedules and buddies will be established on the first day of the new school year by the Advisor. Students arriving new to VIS during the year are provided with a tour of the facilities by the VIS Office and introduced to their Advisor. Their schedule will be provided by the advisor. Upon arriving in class, new students are paired with a student who is not new to the school. This “buddy system” provides new students with someone to show him/her around and answer any questions. 4.18 Completion of Work In Secondary, final deadlines for coursework in different subjects are agreed upon between subject teachers and students. These deadlines are negotiated with the following aims in mind: - to give students sufficient time to satisfactorily complete the assignments, - to spread the assignment load for students as much as possible, Teachers are responsible for providing students with structured timelines or milestones to support them in meeting deadlines. Failure to meet internal school deadlines is considered unacceptable. It is quite acceptable to submit work before deadlines, and students are urged to allow time for a thorough proof-reading of the final document before it is submitted. 4.18.1 In Class Work i) Illness / Exceptional Circumstances When a student fails to complete class assessments due to: - Illness: The absence must be covered by a note from the parent or guardian, a medical certificate - Exceptional circumstances: e.g. family or personal problems, the absence must be covered by the Coordinators or Counselors permission. If not, a result of 0 will be recorded for that assessment. Common tests must be sat by students on the same day. For students who are absent due to illness or for other circumstances (accompanied by a note), and with the Coordinator’s permission, their results shall be estimated or the student will sit an equivalent assessment on their return to school. ii) Non-Participation / Lack of Time When a student fails to repeatedly complete class tasks or class assessments due to non- participation or lack of time the teacher should evaluate the whether it is due to - learning difficulties, or - behavior After the implementing appropriate strategies, if the problem continues, teachers will take the following action; | Reason | Action | | Learning Difficulties | Complete a referral to the EAL/SEN/Counselor and notify the Coordinator | | Behavior | Refer to the Participation Criteria and Actions | 4.18.2 Homework and Assignments All homework and assignments, in hard copy, are due to the teacher concerned by the start of class on the due date. If a student is not able to submit work on the due date they must; - provide the teacher with a written explanation, When this is provided a new due date will be negotiated between the teacher and student. If this is not provided - student will receive a 0 for the homework or assessment, - an email will be sent to the parents on the day the homework or assessment was due, - students will be required to attend VIS Catch Up Sessions to complete the work, - actions, as outlined in the Learning Behavior Criteria and Actions, will be implemented to support the student It is recognised that this practice will have little effect on the criteria referenced assessment results for Grade 6-10. It will be reflected in the learning behaviors when reporting and provide students with the training that they will need for Grade 11 and 12. It is also recognised that this practice will affect internally assessed grades for the IB Diploma, and could also impact on the VIS Diploma and Leaving Certificate requirements. 4.19 Open School Night 4.19.1 Primary The Open School Night for EY – Grade 5 parents is scheduled in the first few weeks of each new school year. A general presentation is provided by the Primary Head and PYP Coordinator. Each grade level team chooses a focus from the Primary Years Programme for their presentation which should also include overviews of the curriculum, and the learning and teaching strategies they intend to use. These take place in a shared venue. A short session follows in each classroom where the class teacher addresses classroom procedures and expectations and answers questions of a general nature. Information on the Specialist subjects is available for Grade Prep- Grade 5 parents. The PYP Coordinator facilitates the presentation with input from the single subject teachers (SST). Questions regarding individual students are not dealt with at this meeting. 4.19.2 Secondary Each year there is an Open School Night during the first month of the start of classes. On this evening, parents are invited to visit the school and learn from their child’s teachers about the curriculum, teaching methods and general classroom procedures. Questions about an individual student should be dealt with separately at a parent-student-teacher conference. 4.20 Phone Use Mobile phones are not permitted in the classroom. Students are permitted to use the reception phone only in urgent situations and not during class time. Students must check with their homeroom teacher before using the school phone. In an emergency they should ask the receptionist for help. Students and teachers should not have mobile phones turned on during class time. Students may use their phones during non class times. Students not complying with this policy will have their phones confiscated. The phone will be returned to the student at the end of the day. Repeated confiscations will be returned only to the student's parents 4.14 Search of Student Property Vientiane International School believes that it is important for the school to provide a safe and healthy environment for students to have the maximum opportunity for academic achievement. For this reason this policy is considered important for providing a safe school environment. 4.21.1 Searches of Student Property If the Director or his/her designee has a reasonable suspicion that a student has in their possession (whether on their body, in a bag or backpack, in a school locker or any other storage place or item) items that are illegal under Lao laws, prohibited by School policy/regulations, or items that are reasonably determined by the Director or his/her designee to be a potential threat to the safety or security of others, then the Director or his/her designee may conduct a search of the student’s property then located at the School. Personal searches of students may be made only in the presence of two adults of the same sex as the student being searched, and a written report will be made to the parent and to the Director, if the Director is not present for the search. 4.21.2 Lockers i) Lockers are School Property All lockers assigned to students are the property of the School. At no time does the school relinquish its exclusive control of its lockers. The Director or his/her designee shall have custody of all combinations to all lockers or keys to the locks. ii) Legitimate use of School Lockers The School assigns lockers to students for the students' convenience and temporary use. Students are to use lockers exclusively to store school-related materials and authorized personal items such as outer garments, footwear, grooming aids, or lunches. Students shall not use the lockers for any other purpose, unless specifically authorized by the Director, in advance of students bringing the items to school. Students are solely responsible for the contents of their lockers and should not share their lockers with other students nor divulge locker combinations to other students, unless authorized by the Director or his/her designee. iii) Search of Locker Contents The Director or his/her designee shall supervise the search of lockers. In the course of a locker search, the Director or his/her designee shall respect the privacy rights of the student regarding any items discovered that are not illegal or against school policy and rules. 4.21.3 Seizure During any search under the Search and Seizure policy, the Director or his/her designee may seize any items that are illegal under Lao laws, prohibited by School policy/regulations, or items that are reasonably determined by the Director or his/her designee to be a potential threat to the safety or security of others. The Director or his/her designee shall take and hold items that have been seized during a search, and such items may be used by the School as evidence for any disciplinary proceedings. The Director or his/her designee shall notify as soon as possible the parent/guardian of a minor, or a student eighteen (18) years of age or older of any items seized during a search. In addition, the Director or his/her designee shall notify as soon as possible the Chairman of the Board Directors of any items seized during a search. 4.21.4 Notice of Policy A copy of the policy regarding student property searches shall be provided annually to each student and parent/guardian of the student assigned a school locker. 4.21.5 Procedure for Students Found with Illegal Items If a Student is found to have items that are illegal under Lao laws, prohibited by School policy/regulations, or items that are reasonably determined by the Director or his/her designee to be a potential threat to the safety or security of others, the following procedure shall be used regarding this matter: - Parents/Guardians notified and asked to meet with VIS director, school guidance counselor and advisor
- Student will be suspended
- The suspended student will return to school with parents after suspension.
- A student behavior plan to help the student will be put into place under the supervision of the school guidance counselor. The plan will be monitored and discussed as needed with the student, guidance counselor, parents, advisor and director.
Should a second offence happen then the Director may decide to repeat the procedure above or expel the student. If expulsion is considered then the procedures for this will be followed as written in the VIS General Handbook. 4.22 Sensitive Issues of Behaviour and Dress 4.22.1 Philosophy The school serves an international community in providing education of the highest possible standards to students from a variety of backgrounds. It is important that all members of this wide community are respected and all students are asked to recognize that sensitivity to community issues is more important than personal preferences. Personal freedom is an essential element of a free society but to offend others in the name of personal freedom is not. VIS is a place of learning and we wish to preserve an atmosphere where learning is foremost and where distractions are minimized. VIS is not a place to make fashion statements by wearing inappropriate clothes. Rules on clothing, like clothing itself, can often cause offense; additionally, as an international community we should be aware that the display of undergarments, provocative slogans, bare midriffs, ripped trousers, excessive jewelry, or elaborate hair styles can be offensive, and sometimes even dangerous in subjects such as Science. Enforcement of school rules in all activities such as school trips means that all parents can be assured that these events are an important part of the curriculum and that we attach the same importance to them and expect the same standards of behavior as we do with class activities. Displays of affection between students are distracting, often embarrassing, and occasionally offensive. Affection is charming in its place, but this is a place of learning and while personal relationships should be friendly, any form of intimate contact is not appropriate. Eating or drinking in any class or formal activity can be a distraction. In a class in which ideas are exchanged, many people would see the consumption of any food or the chewing of gum as showing a lack of respect for others. Unless there is permission from the teacher, food and drink should be consumed only during breaks. The chewing of gum should not take place in lessons or in any situation when students and teachers are working together. Using mobile telephones, IPODs, CD players or other electronic equipment during a school activity indicates inattention to the activity, distancing from the school community, and a general lack of consideration for others. These accessories should never be used in class unless permission is given by the teacher in charge. These issues are discussed with students at the beginning of the year. Many of the standards refer more to sensitivity than to behavior, thus when there is a situation in which the school feels a student is being insensitive, the parents will be informed. It is possible in the case of inappropriate dress or display of affection that a student may be sent home. This would not necessarily mean a suspension from school but it would mean that more sensitivity would be expected in future. 4.22.2 Dress Code The school employs a simple dress code that requires students to dress neatly and cleanly at all times. Clothing should be respectful and modest, and should be clean and in good repair. Pointers to help identify appropriate dress: · Immodest clothing (e.g. revealing tops, exposing midriff, short skirts/shorts, and low cut pants) may be distracting to fellow students or offensive to adult members of the community so are not to be worn on school campus. · Offensive language on clothing and clothing displaying inappropriate wording or pictures, or advertising tobacco, alcohol and other drugs is strictly forbidden. Students dress in the school is decided by the school administration. If deemed inappropriate, students may be sent home to dress in the correct manner. 4.23 Student Off Campus Privileges No students are allowed to leave campus during school hours for any reason unless they are accompanied by a supervising adult and their parents have been notified and have approved. Secondary students must obtain a permission slip from the school office and present it to the guard at the school entrance. 4.24 Student Records 4.24.1 Student Records The student files are located in locked files in the VIS Office. Access to student files is limited to teaching staff and administration. Parents may request to view their child’s file but this can not be removed from the VIS Office. 4.24.2 Student Transcripts The Director's Secretary keeps all student transcripts up to date. The most recent years are kept in a secure section of the school server and are accessible only to staff. Transcripts are made up from grades assigned on end of semester report cards. Interim Parent Updates or other reports are not applied to transcripts. Official copies, embossed, stamped and signed are available by written request to the school office. Transcripts will be sent by the VIS School Office to schools, universities or prospective employers, but they will not be issued to students or parents. 4.24.3 Departure from VIS / Transfer Documents Parents are asked to inform the school in writing when their children will depart from VIS, including in the written notice the last day of school attendance. The VIS Office will prepare leaving documents for the student’s next school which will include a Certificate of Attendance, (indicating the student’s date of arrival and date of departure, grade entered and exited), relevant comments about the school and its program along with certified copies of school reports for the past two (2) years. 4.25 Student Use of Motorised Vehicles Students are not allowed to personally operate any motorized vehicle (including cars, motorcycles or other vehicles) to, from or on school premises or at other school events or other places where school events occur. The Director may grant an exception for students aged 16 and older to drive a specified motorcycle to and from school premises and school events and permission to park the motorcycle on school premises. Students can apply for permission in the school office. 4.26 Student Visitors Student visitors are welcome at VIS and should sign in with the security personnel at the guard house next to the first covered court. Visitors are then directed to the receptionist in the main office. From time to time former VIS students come back to visit the school. These visits can be helpful to the student as he or she bids a final farewell to friends and familiarity, and also help remind current students that moving on is "normal" and manageable. Returning students visits are only for one day and need to be arranged at least one day in advance. The student is encouraged to arrive at break time and may not join his or her former classmates in class unless permission is granted by school administration and arranged with class teachers. 4.27 Student Supplies Students are expected to purchase their own stationary supplies. They can be purchased from the VIS Store or elsewhere. Stationary Lists are circulated to returning and new students prior to the beginning of the school year to allow time for purchasing to occur. Students are expected to have the correct stationary on the first day of school. There are some items that can only be purchased from the school store as they are specially made such as the Art and IT workbooks. One PE shirt and a Secondary Student Planner is distributed to each student at no charge. Extra PE shirts can be purchased from VIS and a replacement Secondary Student Planner incurs a charge. 4.28 Suspension and Expulsion Students may be suspended either in school or out of school for the following reasons: § Use of drugs or alcohol § Abusive and intimidating behavior § Destruction of school property § Interference with the educational programme § Theft § Possession of weapons § Unexcused absence The following guidelines will be in place when a student is considered for suspension by VIS Management: § Suspension will be from 1 to 5 school days § Parents will be notified and a meeting with the parents, student and management will be scheduled before the student is allowed to return to school § Following a suspension, administration will assign the student to an appropriate staff member for support help which will include a written behavior management plan § Students suspended more than twice in a school year will be referred to the School Expulsion Committee for review § All suspensions will be recorded and placed in the student’s file A student can be expelled for repeated suspension or for a single act of gross misconduct. Any student being considered for expulsion will be involved in the following process: 1) The Director will convene the School Expulsion Committee to hear the case and notify the parents in writing. Parents will have the opportunity to address the committee prior to the hearing. Parents will be notified in writing as soon as possible of the committee’s decision. 2) The School Expulsion Committee shall consist of: § A teacher or staff member selected by the student as an advocate § The school Director § A School Board member § The school Guidance Counselor, the homeroom teacher or the Coordinator at the student’s level A student will be expelled when a unanimous decision is made by the committee. |
