2012-2013 secondary handbook

Secondary School Student and Parent

Handbook

2012-2013

Accredited by Western Association of Schools and Colleges

Secondary School Student and Parent

Handbook2012-2013

Table of ContentsTable of Contents

Principal’s Welcome ·············································································· 04

ABOUT APIS ······················································································· 06

Mission Statement ················································································ 06Core-Emphases of APIS Education ························································ 06Christianity and APIS ············································································ 07

SCHOOL LIFE ······················································································ 07School Agreements ·············································································· 07School Day ··························································································· 07School Calendar ··················································································· 08PowerSchool ························································································ 09School Uniform and Personal Appearance ············································ 09A Typical Classroom ·············································································· 12School Lunch ······················································································· 12School Library ······················································································ 12School Nurse ························································································ 12Student Representative Council ···························································· 13Closed Campus ···················································································· 13

ACADEMICS ························································································ 13Academic Integrity ··············································································· 13Middle School Graduation ···································································· 14Credit for Advanced Courses in Middle School ······································ 14Graduation Requirements for High School ············································ 14High School Course Offerings ······························································· 15Attendance Policies ·············································································· 17Tardies (Late Arrivals) ············································································ 18Homework ··························································································· 18Making up Missed Work ······································································· 19Grading System ···················································································· 19Report Cards ························································································ 20Tests ····································································································· 21Standardized Testing ············································································ 21Student Progress Reports (SPRs) ··························································· 21Secondary Learning Support Center ····················································· 21Honor Roll / High Honor Roll ································································ 22National Honor Society ········································································· 22Academic Probation ············································································· 22Academic Retention ············································································· 23

STUDENT GUIDELINES ······································································· 24Student Identification Card ··································································· 24Email ···································································································· 24Textbooks, Library, and School-Owned Materials/Property ··················· 24Lockers ································································································· 24

2012-2013A

sia Pacific International School

Lost and Found ···················································································· 25APIS English Language Policy ······························································· 25Cellular Phone Policy ············································································ 26Computer Use Policy ············································································ 27Electronic Devices ················································································ 27Extra-Curricular Activities ····································································· 27Field Trips ····························································································· 28Behavioral Expectations ······································································· 28Bullying ································································································ 29Public Displays of Affection ·································································· 30Drug, Alcohol and Tobacco Policies ······················································· 30Smoking ······························································································ 30Skateboards ························································································· 31Sports Equipment ················································································ 31Gymnasium and Auditorium Etiquette ·················································· 31Disciplinary Actions ·············································································· 31

HEALTH/EMERGENCY ········································································ 32Physical Examination and Medical History Requirements ··············· 32Required Immunizations ······································································ 33Tuberculosis Testing Requirements ······················································· 33Student Illness ······················································································ 33Student Need for Medication ································································ 33Medical Exemption from Physical Education ········································· 34Emergency Information ········································································ 34Emergency Procedures ········································································· 34Fire Drills ······························································································ 34Inclement Weather ··············································································· 34

APIS PARENTS ···················································································· 35Communication with Parents ······························································· 35Parent Conferences ·············································································· 35Parent Involvement ·············································································· 35Field Trip Chaperone Guidelines ··························································· 36Procedure for Parent Concerns ····························································· 36Procedure for Early Departure ······························································ 36Guardianship and Student Living Requirements ··································· 36Change of Address ··············································································· 37Visitor Policy ························································································· 37

OTHER ································································································· 37Official Transcript Requests ··································································· 37Letters of Recommendation: Boarding Schools ····································· 37Withdrawal from APIS Policy ································································· 37

Student/Parent Handbook Acknowledge Form ····································· 39

Dear Students and Parents:

Welcome to Asia Pacific International School’s secondary school. I invite you to discover the amazing difference APIS is making in the lives of students. It is our goal to educate our students to become independent and confident global citizens guided by Christian values and discipline. At APIS you will find an educational family that both nurtures and challenges students through the use of rigorous, relevant, college preparatory curriculum with an emphasis on humanities.

Together we work to create and maintain an educational environment of excellence where teachers and students work together respectfully and responsibly to reach their full academic and social potential. Caring teachers chosen for their training, passion for their academic discipline, and their love of children guide our students in an exploration of the world through literary analysis, scientif ic experimentation, mathematical problem-solving, and historical inquiry. Students develop skills and express their creativity through art, music and specialty clubs. They strengthen their bodies in P.E. and through participation in school athletics. But more than this, they have the chance to interact with a community of educators who truly desire to see them reach their full potential. Each day at APIS, we encourage one another with the goal of guiding our students as they discover their passions and ideals, so that when they have moved on from our care they will be men and women of courage, competence, and integrity.

Our mission states, “APIS strives to educate its students, in a loving and caring Christian environment, to become globally enlightened citizens, who are able to bridge the gap between East and West and are ready to welcome the exciting challenges of the New Pacific Century.” At Asia Pacific International School we take this mission

seriously and give our students the individual care and attention they need to be successful and to flourish. Attractive, highly functional facilities are enhanced through the use of state of the art technology and research-based curriculum. All of our classrooms have been purposefully designed and resourced with current educational tools to equip our teachers in challenging our students to reach academic excellence.

I welcome each and every one of you to our APIS family. I look forward to meeting and partnering with you towards our goal of achieving excellence for all students. Please feel free to stop by and visit our world-class school. I am happy to welcome visitors to this beautiful school and look forward to a wonderful school year. Our doors are always open!

Sincerely,

Scott PaulinSecondary [email protected]

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Secondary School Student and Parent Handbook

About APIS

The Mission Statement

APIS strives to educate its students, in a loving and caring Christian environment, to become globally enlightened citizens, who are able to bridge the gap between the East and the West and are ready to welcome the exciting challenges of the new Pacific Century.

Core-Emphases of APIS Education

Education for the 21st century must accomplish and go beyond the traditional expectations of graduating students with exceptional literacy and numeracy skills. We believe our four areas of emphases are critical building blocks for providing each child with a truly international and distinctive education that will prepare them well for the New Pacific Century.

Area Emphasis on building "East Asian Competencies"

APIS offers a rigorous, US-style Pre-K-12 curriculum with an added emphasis on the East Asian culture and civilization to help our students gain the competitive edge necessary to take on the challenges of the new Pacific Century. Hence, at APIS, our foreign language emphasis is currently on three major East Asian languages: Chinese, Japanese and Korean. As part of the Enrichment Program, our students will also be immersed in Korean literature, history, and culture. We encourage our students to go beyond English which is our language of instruction and acquire proficiencies in at least two East Asian languages.

Curricular Emphasis on Science, Math and Computer Education

Technology is a main driver of economic as well as social changes in this era of globalization. In our state-of-the-art classrooms and science labs, we take advantage of our superb IT-infrastructure in every possible aspect of the learning experience to provide an innovative and up-to-date education in science, math and computers. The ultimate aim of our curricular emphasis is to develop our students’ potential to become future leaders in a world where keeping up with the latest changes in science and technology is of the utmost importance.

Co-Curricular Emphasis on Performing Arts Program

The APIS education philosophy is anchored in our commitment to help our students nurture their unique talents and aid in their own personal growth. APIS is committed to establishing an extensive Honors Performing Arts Program (with a particular emphasis on music). We offer instruction in a wide range of musical instruments taught by a truly exceptional group of faculty members and to purpose built music rooms and practice studios, to help our students further develop and explore their talents.

Spiritual Emphasis: A Loving and Caring Educational Environment Rooted in the Christian Faith

With its foundation deeply rooted in the Christian faith, APIS strives to provide a truly loving and caring Christian environment where students of Christian faith and students from all religious and cultural backgrounds can be nurtured together to achieve the highest possible level of intellectual and personal development.

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2012 - 2013Christianity and APIS

Firmly founded on the Christian faith, APIS seeks to foster the spiritual growth of its members in a loving and caring Christian environment where both Christians and non-Christians can work and learn together.

We believe that an environment where both Christians and non-Christians are working and learning together is highly advantageous for all. Such an environment can, we believe, lead to spiritual growth that is more robust and enduring than would otherwise be possible in more traditional settings. For the non-Christian student, it amounts to being afforded a unique opportunity to understand the Christian faith, a movement which has been incalculably important in the shaping of world history and culture. We believe that this alone is of tremendous educational value. Lastly, for all students, this model helps equip them to successfully live and work in a very diverse and increasingly close global community.

Christian education at APIS is departmentalized, as opposed to being infused into every part of our curriculum. The Chaplain and the Spiritual Life and Education department at APIS administers to spiritual guidance and Christian education of our students. Any course offerings not led by the Spiritual Life and Education department are, by design, identical to those offered in a standard, non-religious context. In other words, the availability and opportunity to access Christian education specialists and programs set APIS apart from other secular schools.

While a plurality of worldviews is acknowledged at the school, APIS does not espouse other religious traditions. Neither have we designed the Spiritual Life & Education department to incorporate them in our spiritual life and practice. We do encourage all students and staff to pursue spiritual life and knowledge, but to this end, the school does not endorse or offer as part of our program practices rooted in religious traditions other than Christianity. This we see as essential to maintaining clarity in the theological position of the school.

School Life

School Agreements

The following three school agreements govern students at all times:

Practice Mutual Respect Be an attentive listenerUse appreciations only (No put downs)

Classroom teachers may also have their own specific routines and expectations in the classroom.

School Day

The school day begins at 8:10 a.m. for all grades. The middle and high school students are released at 3:35 p.m.

A word to parents who drive their students to school: Please make every effort to arrive on time. On-time arrival sets a positive learning tone for the rest of the school day. Equally important, please arrive on time to pick up your student at the end of the school day. Immediately following your child’s dismissal from school, teachers have daily responsibilities to grade assignments, record grades, participate in faculty meetings, meet with parents, and prepare for classes.

8


School Calendar

The school calendar is distributed to all parents at the beginning of the school year and can be found on the school website. Extra copies are available in the school office. Please note holidays, early dismissal days, and other special events. The school year consists of two semesters, totaling 180 school days. Each semester is divided into two grading periods, or quarters, of approximately nine weeks each.grading periods, or quarters, of approximately nine weeks each.

2012-2013 SCHOOL YEAR CALENDARAUGUST ‘12

S M T W Th F S1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8 9 10 1112 13 14 15 16 17 1819 20 21 22 23 24 2526 27 28 29 30 31

01 New Faculty Reports06 Returning Faculty Reports7-9 Faculty Retreat11 New Student Orientation13 First Day of School15 Independence Day Holiday23 Back to School Night &

Convocation Service29-31 All Secondary Retreat

01 New Year’s Day21-25 MAP Testing Elementary28-2/1 MAP Testing Secondary

JANUARY ‘13S M T W Th F S

1 2 3 4 56 7 8 9 10 11 12

13 14 15 16 17 18 1920 21 22 23 24 25 2627 28 29 30 31

SEPTEMBER ‘12S M T W Th F S

12 3 4 5 6 7 8

9 10 11 12 13 14 15

16 17 18 19 20 21 2223 24 25 26 27 28 2930

3-7 MAP Testing Elementary10-17 MAP Testing Secondary14 Teacher in Service

[No School for Student]

9-11 Lunar New Year Holiday28 Teacher in Service

[No School for Students]FEBRUARY ‘13

S M T W Th F S1 2

3 4 5 6 7 8 910 11 12 13 14 15 1617 18 19 20 21 22 23

24 25 26 27 28

OCTOBER ‘12S M T W Th F S

1 2 3 4 5 67 8 9 10 11 12 13

14 15 16 17 18 19 20

21 22 23 24 25 26 27

28 29 30 31

1-5 Chuseok Holiday03 Foundation Day19 End of 1st Quarter26 KORCOS

[No School for Students]

01 Samil Day22 End of 3rd Quarter25-29 Spring Break29 Good Friday

MARCH ‘13S M T W Th F S

1 23 4 5 6 7 8 9

10 11 12 13 14 15 1617 18 19 20 21 22 2324 25 26 27 28 29 3031

NOVEMBER ‘12S M T W Th F S

1 2 3

4 5 6 7 8 9 1011 12 13 14 15 16 1718 19 20 21 22 23 2425 26 27 28 29 30

9-10 Parent-Teacher Conference22-23 Thanksgiving Holiday

12-13 Parent-Teacher Conference

22-26 MAP Testing SecondaryAPRIL ‘13

S M T W Th F S1 2 3 4 5 6

7 8 9 10 11 12 1314 15 16 17 18 19 2021 22 23 24 25 26 2728 29 30

DECEMBER ‘12S M T W Th F S

1

2 3 4 5 6 7 8

9 10 11 12 13 14 15

16 17 18 19 20 21 22

23 24 25 26 27 28 29

30 31

21 End of 2nd Quarter End of 1st Semester

25 Christmas Day

03 Teacher in Service [No School for Students]

05 Children’s Day17 Buddha’s Birthday

20-24 MAP Testing Elementary

MAY ‘13S M T W Th F S

1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8 9 10 1112 13 14 15 16 17 1819 20 21 22 23 24 2526 27 28 29 30 31

No School – All Off

Half Day (Full Day for Faculty)

No School for Students(Full Day for Faculty)

01 High School Graduation05 Middle School Graduation06 All School Spirit Day07 End of 4th Quarter End of 2nd Semester Last Day of School08 Last Day for Faculty

JUNE ‘13S M T W Th F S

12 3 4 5 6 7 89 10 11 12 13 14 15

16 17 18 19 20 21 2223 24 25 26 27 28 2930

52 Wolgye-ro 45 ga-gil, Nowon-gu, SeoulTel: 82-2-907-2747 Fax: 82-2-907-2771

9

2012 - 2013

PowerSchool PowerSchool is a web-based student information system that facilitates communication among school administrators, teachers, parents, and students. All teachers will use PowerSchool (http://portal.apis.seoul.kr/public) to post newsletters and all class related updates. PowerSchool gives parents and students access to real-time information including attendance, grades, assignments, and other important information.

On PowerSchool, students and parents can:- Check assignments and scores- Email questions to teachers- Read teacher comments- Read classroom news- Read news from the principal- Check monthly lunch menu At the beginning of the semester, a letter will be sent out to parents on how to access PowerSchool with instructions on how to create an account. Students will also be given their own IDs and passwords along with detailed instruction on how to use PowerSchool.

School Uniform and Personal Appearance

School Uniform

APIS has a school uniform and students are required to wear it. The daily uniform is expected to be worn in its entirety.

All footwear, except for f lip-f lop sandals, is acceptable for wear as long as it meets the school’s expectations of cleanliness and neatness.

Skirts and shorts must be tailored to within four inches of the top of the student’s knee. Summer and Winter Uniforms are to be worn as follows:

1. Summer Uniform

Mandatory

Elementary School(K3~G5)

Middle School (G6~G8)

High School(G9~G12)

Shirt

Short-sleeved White Shirt

Optional:Brown Necktie with Stripes for boys.

Brown Ribbon with Stripes or Brown Tie with Stripes for girls.


Optional:Brown Necktie with Stripes for boys.

Brown R ibbon with Stripes or Brown Tie with Stripes for girls.


Optional:Green Necktie with Stripes for boys.

Brown Ribbon with Stripes or Green Tie with Stripes for girls.

Pants (Boys) Dark Brown Pants (same for all divisions)

Skirt (Girls) Light Brown Plaid Skirt (same for all divisions)

• The official summer uniform can be worn optionally during the following seasons:- The start of school year to October 31st- April 1st to the end of school year

• Students should not mix match other uniform items from different seasons. However, they may wear the APIS sweater/cardigan or the APIS jacket or the grey PTO Hoodie in addition to the summer uniform.

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2. Winter Uniform

Mandatory

Elementary School(K3~G5)

Middle School(G6~G8)

High School(G9~G12)

Shirt

Long-sleeved Striped Shirt

Boys: Brown Necktie with StripesGirls: Brown Necktie with Stripes or Brown Ribbon with Stripes

Long-sleeved Striped Shirt

Boys: Brown Necktie with StripesGirls: Brown Necktie with Stripes or Brown Ribbon with Stripes

Long-sleeved Green Shirt

Boys: Green Necktie with StripesGirls: Green Necktie with Stripes or Brown Ribbon with Stripes

JacketGreen Jacket

with APIS pin badgeGreen Jacket

with APIS pin badgeGreen Jacket

with APIS pin badge

Pants (Boys) Dark Khaki Pants

Skirt (Girls) Dark Green Plaid Skirt

Optional(must be worn in

addition to the School

Jacket)

Sweater(Boys) Green V-neck Sweater Khaki V-neck Sweater

(APIS pin badge)Brown Cardigan(APIS pin badge)

Cardigan(Girls) Green Cardigan Khaki Cardigan

(APIS pin badge)Brown Cardigan(APIS pin badge)

Mandatory(when an

outer coat is worn)

APIS Formal Coat or Goose Down

Jumper

Same for all divisions(If outer coat is to be worn, it must be either APIS formal outer coat or APIS goose

down jumper. Non-school outer coats are not to be worn.)

MandatoryP.E.

Uniform for all

divisions

Winter P.E. Uniform with APIS Logo(School approved shirts/PTO Hoodies allowed)

During the winter season, school jacket, shirt, tie and pants/skirt must be worn to the school. To add warmth, students may add cardigan/sweater as an option.

Students may not wear other sweaters, hoodies, jackets, sweatshirts, etc. over their uniforms. This includes during transit to school (bus or walking).

Middle School (Boys) High School (Boys) Middle & High School (Girls)

11

2012 - 2013 Middle School (Boys) High School (Boys) Middle School (Girls) High School (Girls)

Students must wear the school uniform unless a special “dress-down” day is announced.

In the event of a dress-down day, students may not wear:

clothing with holes see-through clothes spaghetti-strap dresses cut-away or revealing shirts or blouses exaggerated hair styles or coloring exaggerated body piercing or ornamentation short skirts or dresses, short shortship hop-style clothing shirts or blouses with writing and/or graphics deemed in poor taste items that present a safety hazard to self and others (e.g. roller shoes)

The physical education uniform is to be worn only on days students have physical education. The only options for student dress on P.E. days are:

The School P.E. Uniform consisting of uniform shorts or sweatpants and shirtThe P.E. Uniform Shorts or sweatpants and this year’s Retreat T-shirtThe winter P.E. UniformThe PTO hoodie over the above options

Athletic team uniforms may not be worn for P.E. Athletic shoes with socks must be worn with the P.E. uniform. Students are not allowed to wear flip-flop sandals.

Students who violate the uniform policy will be given one verbal warning per semester. If students violate this policy for a second time, the parents will be called to bring the proper uniform to school or the student will be sent home. Additionally, students may be issued after school detentions for uniform violations.

Personal Appearance

APIS students are expected to dress modestly and decently. Students are expected to keep themselves neat and well-groomed. Students are expected to show respect toward themselves and the school by setting high their dress and grooming standards.

A student’s uniform should fit his or her body. All shorts, skirts and pants must be hemmed at appropriate lengths. If the student is asked to raise her/his shirt by a teacher or principal and her/his underwear/boxers show, a dress code violation may be given. Undergarments, midriff and back should remain covered at all times.

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Unusual hairstyles are considered inappropriate. All boys’ hair is to be cut above the eyebrows, above the bottom of the ears and no longer than the bottom of the collar. Hair should appear neat and well-groomed and the rest of the face should be clean-shaven.

Any visible body piercing is not allowed with the exception of one pair of earrings. Earrings must be modest and not draw unusual attention. Visible tattoos are not allowed during the school days or school related activities. For girls, makeup should not draw attention and should be applied modestly.

A Typical Classroom

Teaching styles and delivery of instruction of course will vary from teacher to teacher; however, there are similarities that will be seen in each and every class. At APIS we believe that the typical classroom will be:

a safe and caring environmenta place where everyone respects individual differences and the diversity of our culturesa place where learning experiences are designed to reach students who learn in different wayswhere students become responsible for themselvesfamilies become more actively involved in the education of their childrena place where we awaken the love of learning in every child

School Lunch

Hot lunch is served daily. Each month’s lunch menu is posted on PowerSchool prior to the start of each month and is posted daily in the cafeteria. Lunch fees are due at the beginning of each semester. All students are required to purchase lunch.

Out of courtesy to others, you are expected to:1. Eat lunch at your designated time2. Return your trays and dishes to the service window3. Put trash into trash cans placed around the cafeteria4. Not take dishes or trays outside of the cafeteria5. Not sit on top of the tables

School Library

The APIS Library & Media Center has various collections of books including electronic books available on the E-book Reader. For students in middle/high school, teachers are able to sign up for library time so that students can utilize the variety of available resources in completing classroom projects. The library is also open for students before school, during lunch, and after school. Library hours are 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Student may check out up to five books for 2 weeks. APIS books and resources can be searched anytime and anywhere by using the library website (www.apislibrary.seoul.kr). For more information on the library, please refer to the Library & Media Center section of our school website'

School Nurse APIS maintains a full-time health services office. Students who are injured or become ill will be accompanied or directed to the Health Services. The school nurse is also available to respond to

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2012 - 2013health-related questions. Should the need arise for health-related care external to APIS, the school is located near several medical clinics.

Students should only go to the nurse’s office during class time when they are too ill to remain in class. For minor medical attention, students should see the nurse between classes or at lunch break.

Other than in the case of an emergency (vomiting, bleeding, major injury, etc) students must check in with their teacher and receive a pass to the nurse before going to the nurse’s office. Other than those in need of emergency care, as indicated above, students arriving at the nurse’s office without a pass from their teacher will be sent back to class.

Students who abuse the privilege and services offered by the nurse or use the nurse’s office as a way of avoiding class may receive disciplinary action. If a student is too ill to be in class on a regular basis, parents should seek outside medical diagnosis.

Student Representative Council

What Does the Student Representative Council Do?

The Student Representative Council, which meets weekly, exists to provide an important link among the students, faculty and administration to provide a method of developing democratic leadership and citizenship. Officers are elected each spring from the ranks of the upperclassmen. Homeroom reps are elected to serve the entire school year. Students are encouraged to contact their SRC representative or officers to express their views or to give suggestions concerning school programs.

Student Representative Council Officers and homeroom representatives must meet academic eligibility rules.

Closed Campus

APIS maintains a closed campus. Students must remain on campus during the entire school day, including after school activities.

Academics

Academic Integrity

In general, questions concerning the Guidelines for Academic Integrity at APIS should be addressed in light of an action which “makes a student look more academically able than he/she actually is, by using another student’s or person’s work and representing it as his/her own.” The following statements address the questions regarding various academic situations and possible questions which students, faculty, parents, and administrators might raise for clarification. These comments are not intended to be exhaustive or cover all situations. They are intended as guidelines for working positively with each individual incident.

Acceptable behaviors

Students working together to complete a common task (e.g. group project) Receiving help from a parent, friend, or tutor provided that the core work is a

representation of the students own workProperly citing resources use on assignments

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Unacceptable behaviors

Copying someone’s work and presenting it as one’s own Copying published materials without citation and proper acknowledgment of the original

author Permitting others to copy one’s own work Use of unauthorized notes (cheat sheets), guides, electronic devices or anything that gives a

student an unfair advantage during a test or quiz

The response to egregious unacceptable behaviors will be stern, including the possibility of being immediately dropped from the class with a grade of “F” recorded on the transcript and in GPA.

Middle School Graduation

At the end of the 8th grade year the school sponsors a graduation celebration, awards ceremonies, and other related year-end activities. It is our hope and intention that every eighth grader will participate in the exciting and meaningful events which reward their hard work and consistent effort.

Participation in these activities, however, is a privilege; every student is not automatically entitled to these activities. Final decisions on participation will be made at the end of May and take into consideration the following:

Students must earn an overall average of at least a “C” (2.0 GPA) in order to be promoted. Students with less than a C average may not be promoted to ninth grade.

Students are expected to maintain a consistent level of effort and production. Students whose grades plunge significantly, or who are identified by their teachers as having “stopped studying,” or who develop attendance and tardiness problems may be excluded from graduation exercises.

Students are expected to treat each other with respect, to interact respectfully with all adults, to respect the school building and grounds, and to interact respectfully as citizens of our community. Certain behaviors, such as vandalism, fighting, or the use of drugs, alcohol, or tobacco may eliminate a student from the ceremonies and activities. Persistent or flagrant disrespect to other students, adults, or to the building itself may also result in exclusion.

Credit for Advanced Courses in Middle School

High school credit for high school level courses taken in Middle School will not be granted. Students who successfully complete such courses will, however, be eligible to proceed to the next level course in that subject.

High School Graduation Requirements

Students preparing for specific college interests require careful planning of their course of study during their high school years. Colleges are looking for diversity and rigor in the high school academic record and thus most colleges throughout the world require more than the minimum graduation requirements. APIS students must have a minimum of 24 units of credit required for graduation distributed among subject areas as follows:

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2012 - 2013

Subject Area Graduation Requirements

English 4 units of credit (4 years)

Korean Language & Literature 2 units of credit (.5 unit of credit for each year for 4 years)

Social Studies 2 units of credit (2 years)US History required for US citizens

Mathematics 3 units of credit (3 years)

Science 3 units of credit (3 years)

Foreign Language 3 units of credit (3 years)

Fine Arts/ Technology 1 unit of credit from Fine Arts or1 unit of credit from Technology

Physical Education 2 units of credit (.5 unit of credit for each year for 4 years)

Electives 5 units of credit

Total 24 units of credit

Transfer Students: Transfer students who are unable to fulfill the total credit requirements for foreign language, Korean language & literature, and physical education will have these specific requirements waived. The same minimum credit requirement of 24 units still must be completed for graduation.

High School Course Offerings

The following is a listing of all approved college-prep course load with current and projected course offerings during the four-year college preparatory program at APIS. Not all courses will be offered for registration each year and all offerings are dependent upon adequate enrollment.

English (4 units of credit)

Honors English 9-12 / English 9-12AP English Language & CompositionAP English Literature & Composition

Mathematics (2 units of credit)

GeometryHonors Algebra I / Algebra IHonors Algebra II / Algebra IIAlgebra II with TrigonometryHonors Intermediate Algebra

Intermediate AlgebraHonors Pre Calculus / Pre Calculus

AP Calculus AB*AP Statistics

Honors Non AP StatisticsNon AP StatisticsEnrichment Math

Science (2 units of credit)

Honors Biology / BiologyAP Biology*

Honors Chemistry / ChemistryAP Chemistry

Honors Physics / PhysicsHonors Environmental Science

Environmental Science

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Social Studies (2 units of credit; 1 unit of credit in Korean

History and Society required)

Honors World History / World HistoryHonors U.S. History / U.S. History

Honors Asian Studies / Asian StudiesAP World History*AP U.S. History

PsychologyHistory in Literature

Honors Economics / EconomicsHonors Government World Affairs

Government World Affairs

Korean Language Arts (2 units of credit)

Korean Language & Literature 9-12(Korean Language Arts course taught at the grade level

prescribed by the Korean Ministry of Education)

Foreign Language (4 units of credit)

Japanese Language I-IVAP Japanese

Chinese Language I-IVAP Chinese

Physical Education (2 units of credit)

PE IPE IIPE IIIPE IV

Fine Arts (1 unit of credit)

ChoirOrchestra

BandAP Music Theory

Art IArt II

AP Studio Art

Technology(1 unit of credit)

Honors Computer ScienceComputer Science

Digital Media ProductionInformation Technology

Electives (5 units of credit; 1 unit of credit in IT

required)

History in LiteratureChoir

OrchestraBand

AP Music TheoryArt IArt II

YearbookForensics: Speech and Debate

ReligionPsychology

Creative Writing

This is a partial listing. Additional courses will be announced each year according to interest and enrollment.

*prerequisite

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2012 - 2013

Attendance policy

APIS’ expectation is that all students will attend school each day of the school calendar year. Furthermore, we expect students to participate fully in each day’s activities.

APIS recognizes the need for absence in case of illness or family emergency. However, excessive absences disrupt the learning environment and undermine your student’s academic progress. Parents should call the office to report student’s absence on the morning of the absence, or as soon as is reasonably possible.

Accumulating in excess of 9 period-absences in a class per semester, whether excused or not, will result in a loss of credit for the course or courses involved. Additionally, teachers may not accept make-up work or late work due to an unexcused absence. This policy applies to all absences except school-sponsored trips and events, bereavement, or absences arranged through advance written request by the parent/guardian and the approval of the principal or designee. Extenuating circumstances surrounding excessive absences may be reviewed by school administration.

Excused Absences (Verification Within Three Days)

A student’s absence shall be excused for the following reasons:

1. Personal illness 2. Medical, dental, optometric, or chiropractic appointment 3. Attendance of funeral services for a member of the immediate family

a. “Immediate Family” shall be defined as mother, father, grandmother, spouse, son/son-in-law, daughter/daughter-in-law, brother, sister, or any relative living in the student’s immediate household.

Excused Absences (Prior Administrative Approval)

Upon advance written request by the parent/guardian and the approval of the principal or designee, justifiable personal reasons including but not limited to:

1. Observation of a holiday or ceremony of his/her religion2. Attendance at religious retreats 3. Attendance at an employment conference4. College visitation

Unexcused Absences

Unexcused absences include, but are not limited to the following:

1. Oversleeping, car trouble, missing ride, etc.2. Cutting class3. Any absence not cleared within three school days following the student’s return to school3. Extended weekends or family vacations

Students diagnosed with communicable diseases must remain out of school until they have fully recovered. Full recovery will be determined by a physician. Should student’s illness last five or more consecutive days, a physician’s certificate will be required for re-admission to school.

In case of accident or sudden illness during the school day, the school health service office will make every reasonable effort to contact parents. Please be certain the office is informed of your most

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current contact information (e.g. home, office, and emergency telephone numbers). Upon the student’s return to school following an absence, the student must bring a note of explanation written and signed by the parent. The note should be presented to the school office.

Tardies (Late Arrivals)

Learning time is precious at Asia Pacific International School. We expect every student to attend school on a regular basis, arrive on time ready to learn, and remain in class until dismissal time.

School begins at 8:10 a.m.

All tardies will be considered unexcused unless we receive notification from the parent. It is essential that a parent calls the office to report a tardy.

Accumulating in excess of 3 first period tardies per semester, whether excused or not, will result in detention. Tardies due to late APIS bus are not counted toward detention. Any student arriving to school after 8:10 a.m. is considered tardy and must check in at the school office. Arriving more than 20 minutes late to a class will be treated as an absence for that class.

Dismissal for any reason other than participation in an official school activity prior to 1:30 p.m. is also considered a half absence.

Students are provided adequate passing time between classes. Arriving late to class during the day results in immediate detention.

Multiple tardies are a significant issue which can negatively impact a student’s learning and will result in the involvement of administration.

Homework

Purpose of Homework: Homework is an integral part of the academic program at Asia Pacific International School, having both intrinsic and extrinsic value, and therefore can be expected for each student in all divisions of the school. Research confirms that meaningful and relevant work or activities which students are asked to complete outside of lesson/class time (homework) raise student achievement at all age levels. The purpose of homework is to provide students with opportunities to deepen their understanding and skills relevant to the content that has been initially presented to them at school within the school day. Unless specifically directed otherwise, parents should encourage children, but not do the work for them, as an important aim of homework is to help children learn how to work independently.

Amount of Homework: Homework at APIS is regularly assigned in all academic subjects and is directly related to the course curriculum. Generally, students should expect to receive on an average approximately 2-3 hours of homework per day. At exam times, however, or when large projects come due, more time will be necessary. Therefore it is important not to procrastinate with long-term projects or cram for a test you should have studied for over a period of a few days. “Due Date” does not mean “do date”. Students who choose to take AP level courses in the future years should expect more homework daily, as these subjects are more demanding and require more time on the part of the student.

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2012 - 2013Requesting Homework When You are Sick:

Students or parents may request homework from the teachers in the event a student is sick. The procedure for doing so is to contact the teacher via email to request assignments. Additionally, teachers post daily work on their course page on PowerSchool. Students may check there for assignments when they are out sick.

Homework Responsibilities: Students must accept the responsibility for getting your work completed by the due date. Assignments not completed by the due date normally result in a failing grade and cannot be made up! No assignments or test or quizzes may be made up following an unexcused absence. After an excused absence, students have the same number of class periods to make up the work as the number of class periods he/she missed. If there are additional questions about homework, students and parents are encouraged to contact the teachers.

Making up Missed Work

Given the importance of your child attending classes and given the demands of their classroom duties, the administration does not obligate our faculty to prepare advanced assignments and/or lessons. Students may request work from teachers in advance of an absence, but teachers are not obligated to provide independent study. Students should check their course pages on PowerSchool for assignments. Once your child does return to school after an excused absence, she/he is given one day for each day absent to make up missed work and assignments. Work missed and not made up will negatively impact student learning and grading so students are encouraged to make every effort to work with their teachers to make up missing assignments and lessons.

Grading System

Achievement in courses is reported each quarter as a percentage. Only semester percentages are used to calculate GPA. The letter grade equivalents for those percentages are listed below. Grade points are assigned to semester grades only according to the scales below.

Class Ranking: Asia Pacific International School does not rank students.

GPA Computation:

Honors and AP CoursesAPIS provides all students access to a rigorous, relevant course of study. The majority of High School core academic courses are benchmarked to Honors-level standards, and all students are initially placed in these honors-level courses, but placement is not static. Honors courses will be weighted .33 grade point in computing GPA for the transcript. A student who cannot maintain an 83 % average at the semester as measured against the honors-level standards will be re-designated to regular level academic course on the transcript and receive a 4 percentage point increase to the semester mark. Any change in honors/regular course designation or semester grade will be reflected at the end of the year on the student transcript.

Students taking an AP course are expected to maintain a 70% minimum semester grade. An additional 0.5 grade point is weighted in computing semester GPA on transcript for students earning a 70% or higher in the AP course. Students unable to maintain a minimum grade of 70% in an AP course may be transferred to a non AP course if a lower level course is offered in the same subject.

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Transferring Grades/Credits from Other Schools: Grades earned at other institutions and transferred to APIS will be copied on the APIS transcript from the official transcript of the previous institution but will not be used in calculating the GPA. Their classes will be converted to the credit system used at APIS based on the amount of time spent in those classes. The term TC “Transfer credit” will be substituted on the APIS transcript for grades transferred under such circumstances. Additionally, transfer credit will be granted in all areas in which credit is given at APIS. Courses not offered at APIS will be evaluated on an individual basis by the school administration. Copies of transcripts from other schools attended will be attached to the APIS transcript when requests for transcripts are received.

Valedictorian/Salutatorian: The Valedictorian/Salutatorian must have attended APIS at least two years during grades 10 to 12. Students’ weighted grade point averages are used in making this determination.

Grade Point Average (GPA): The numerical equivalent of the letter grade system at APIS is as follows:

A+ 97-100 4.33A 93-96 4.00A- 90-92 3.67B+ 87-89 3.33B 83-86 3.00B- 80-82 2.67C+ 77-79 2.33C 73-76 2.00C- 70-72 1.67D+ 67-69 1.33D 63-66 1.00D- 60-62 0.67F <60 0.00

All grades, including final grades, are calculated by teachers through the averaging of percentages rather than through the numerical averaging of letter grades. Once the percentage is determined, it is translated into a letter grade according to the above table. Letter grades are given a numerical weighting for grade point averaging as follows:

A = 4 B = 3 C = 2 D = 1 F = 0

Report Cards

Report cards are issued four times a year after the completion of each of the four quarters. They are given to the students to take home to their parents and, thus, are not mailed. At the first and third quarters report cards, parent teacher conferences will be held to go over the student’s report card and discuss his or her academic progress.

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2012 - 2013 “Holds” on Report Cards:

If a student does not receive a report card in homeroom, it is because he or she has a “hold” placed on distributing the report. Typical reasons for a report card being on hold might be overdue books or fines, not returning textbooks to a teacher, not returning a uniform to a coach, etc. Once the student takes care of the reason for the hold, he/she will be issued the report card.

Grade Changes on Report Cards: If it is necessary to make a change in a student’s grade, the student should talk with the teacher first. If the teacher agrees, then it is the responsibility of the teacher to request a grade change approval from the Principal. Once this has been done, the student will receive a new copy of his/her report card.

Tests APIS teachers attempt to schedule tests to help students/teachers plan effectively and to minimize the possibility of students taking multiple tests in a single day. Students are encouraged to discuss any concerns or questions regarding this schedule with their teacher.

Standardized Testing

The purpose of standardized testing at Asia Pacific International School is to provide information to the students, the parents, and the teachers about the child’s academic strengths and weaknesses.

All middle/high school students will take a test called Measures of Academic Progress (MAP). MAP tests will be administered three times this school year to determine a student’s instructional level and to measure academic growth throughout the school year, and from year to year in the areas of Reading, Language Arts, and Mathematics. All students will take the tests on a computer. Following each testing, parents will receive a report showing the student’s growth.

Student Progress Reports (SPRs) Student Progress Reports (SPRs) are issued by teachers to objectively inform a student and his/her parents about how the student is performing in class between report card periods. They may be sent out at any time during the quarter with at least one SPR issued at the mid-point of each quarter.

Additionally, APIS will utilize PowerSchool to communicate class assignments, homework, major projects, and other important information that will assist parents in supporting your student from home.

Secondary Learning Support Center

The Secondary Learning Support Center offers the following services to middle and high school students:

support in core classes for English language learnerssupport in core classes for students with mild to moderate emotional, social, behavioral,

and special learning needsacademic help/tutoring during the school day in the Learning Center for EAL students

with greater need

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after school help with homework and organizational skills for any student on a drop-in basis

after school extra support for EAL studentsafter school support in core classes in coordination with subject area teacher

Location: room 201Student Drop-in times: 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. for after school services

Honor Roll / High Honor Roll

The honor rolls are calculated, published, and posted at the end of each quarter and semester. A high honor roll certificate is awarded to students who achieve high honor roll for a minimum of three quarters of each year. An honor roll certificate is given to a student who achieves a combination of honor roll and/or high honor roll for a minimum of three quarters of the school year. Only semester honor roll will be noted on the student’s transcript.

To earn a place on the High Honor Roll, a student must have a weighted G.P.A. of 3.65 or higher. To earn a place on the Honor Roll, a student must have a weighted G.P.A. of 3.25 up to 3.64. A student cannot have any grade of 75% or lower (even if the G.P.A. requirement above is still met). A student earning an “Incomplete” in a course will not be eligible for Honor Roll recognition until the “Incomplete” has been completed and thus turned into a numeric grade.

National Honor Society

The National Honor Society’s purposes are to create an enthusiasm for scholarship; to stimulate a desire to render service; to promote worthy leadership, and to encourage the development of character in all students. At APIS, students in grades 10 or above who demonstrate good character, dedication to service, and leadership, and who maintain a fine scholastic record (91% un-weighted cumulative average or better) may apply to become a member. A student must have attended at APIS for at least one full semester before they apply.

All applications are reviewed by a faculty committee which determines which students have met all of the necessary criteria for membership. Those students who are selected are then inducted into the society during an assembly, usually sometime in the spring.

Members of the society are expected to maintain their commitments to others through service as well as keeping their grades up to the required standard. Students who are not selected are encouraged to find out what area the committee felt they needed to strengthen so that they can work on the indicated area(s) and apply again the following year.

Members of NHS may have membership privileges withdrawn if significant breaches of the principles of the Society (scholarship, leadership, service and/or character) are substantiated. Withdrawal of membership will occur only after the NHS Faculty Council reviews a student’s written explanation of the alleged failure to meet the Society’s guidelines.

Academic Probation

In the event that a student performs poorly for two quarters, a student’s parents will be asked to attend a conference with the Principal and the classroom teachers. The Principal and teacher will present the parents with their child’s progress report or report card and inform them of the concerns and conditions of Academic Probation.

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2012 - 2013In cases of student academic performance that is consistently unsatisfactory, students may be placed on Academic Probation. This takes the form of a written contract agreement between the Principal, parents, and child of conditions that must be met by the student within a given time frame. If these conditions are not met, parents may be asked to withdraw the student from the school.

APIS’s Academic Probation policy makes distinctions between students who have the ability to succeed and choose not to and those who truly put forth effort in their studies, yet still do not obtain the academic results they want.

The purposes of placing a student on Academic Probation are twofold:

To communicate the concern of the teacher(s) and administration to the students and parents.

To formally notify the student to take greater responsibility for his or her education. Students and their parents should regard Academic Probation as an opportunity to address some of the behaviors that interfere with the student working at or near their potential.

Academic Probation is automatically triggered by poor student performance evidenced by a combination of unsatisfactory grades and less than satisfactory marks in the area of “Effort” on the report card. Guidelines for a letter of Academic Probation are as follows:

An initial letter of Academic Probation is issued at the end of a quarterly report period, depending upon the severity of the student performance. In most cases, this occurs in the second consecutive quarterly reporting period; however, depending upon the severity of a student’s attitude and demonstration of learning, a letter of Academic Probation may be issued in a single quarterly reporting period.

The grades and/or probationary status of students whose parents have received a letter of Academic Probation will be reviewed at mid-quarter of the next grading period in order to determine progress. However, communication between the parent and school is welcome before and after the mid-quarter review.

Parents of students placed on Academic Probation for two or more quarters within a period of four consecutive quarters of enrollment at APIS may be asked, after a conference with the parents, teacher(s), and Principal, to withdraw their child from Asia Pacific International School.

All letters of Academic Probation are mailed directly or hand-delivered to the parents, with a request for a signed copy to be returned to school for inclusion in the student’s permanent records.

Students placed on Academic Probation may not participate in non-academic extra-curricular classes until they reach non-probationary status as determined by the probationary contract.

Academic Retention

The decision to retain a student at the present grade level is among the most serious in the educational life of a student. Young children, due to a multiplicity of factors, are not always best served when retention decisions rely too heavily on purely quantifiable numbers. A number of factors must be taken into consideration prior to the final decision, such as the student’s ability, study habits, physical, social and emotional adjustment, previous retention, and extenuating circumstances (family death, health, divorce, etc.).

Most importantly, the decision to retain should be based on the best information available that

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supports the premise that the student will benefit from retention by becoming more proficient in the minimum skills and competencies expected. When data does not support this, retention may be counterproductive. The final decision to retain a student will be made by the Secondary Principal with relevant supporting data and input from the parents, and faculty.

Student Guidelines

Student Identification Card

At the beginning of the semester, the school office will issue all new students a picture identification card. The card may be used to check out library materials. Students shall immediately report loss or theft of the card to the school office. The card can be replaced at a cost of 8,000 KRW. The plastic case costs 1,000 KRW and the lanyard costs 6,000 KRW.

Email APIS students use Google mail. A Google email account will be created for new APIS students at the beginning of the semester. We encourage you to explore and utilize the following useful features of Google:

Google Drive is a file storage system linked to your Google account and accessible via the Internet, so you can access your files from almost any device. On Google Drive, you can share files (Google Documents) with people easily. Google Documents is a free web-based program which includes word processing, as well as spreadsheet and presentation software capabilities. One of the biggest advantages of Google Documents is that users can collaborate on-line, creating and editing documents in real time. These documents can be e-mailed among users as well as edited using the web interface. More detailed information can be found on https://support.google.com/drive.

On Google Sites, you can easily create and update your own site. Google Sites allows you to display a variety of information in one place—including videos, slideshows, calendars, presentations, attachments, and text—and share it for viewing or editing with a small group, an entire organization, or the world. More detailed information can be found on https://support.google.com/sites.

Textbooks, Library, and School-Owned Materials/Property

Throughout the year, students will be assigned and have access to materials and property belonging to the school. The student remains personally responsible for the careful and respectful handling and timely returning of the materials. Normal wear and tear is expected. Student will be held fully accountable for misuse and abuse. Students are charged a book deposit of 200,000 KRW at the beginning of the school year.

Lockers

All secondary students are issued individual lockers and will be held accountable for responsible use and keeping their lockers clean and organized at all times. Students are required to purchase a school provided combination lock from the school office. For new students, the cost is already included in their invoice. Students who lose their locks can purchase a new lock at the school office for 12,000 KRW. Before the end of the academic year, the principal will inform students when to empty their lockers.

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2012 - 2013When using lockers the following rules must be observed:

- Students should keep all their belongings in their lockers and keep them locked at all times. Any items left on the top of student lockers will be removed and placed in Lost & Found.

- Students should not share their lockers with other student nor share their locker combinations with other students.

- Once lockers have been assigned, students are not allowed to change lockers with other students. If the need arises for a student to change his/her locker, the student should seek the teacher’s approval.

- All damages to the locker will be the student’s responsibility and the student will be expected to pay for any and all repair costs due to student’s negligence.

- An inspection of lockers in the school may be conducted if the principal reasonably believes that such an inspection is necessary to prevent or substantially reduce the risk of a physical injury to any person, damage to personal or school property, or a violation of law or school rules.

Lost and Found

APIS is not responsible for lost or stolen items. Students are not permitted to bring non-school related items to school, such as electronic games, cameras, mp3 players etc., as often they are misplaced. Lost items will be placed in the Lost and Found box located in the office. Expensive items that are found will be turned into the office and not placed in the box. When expensive items such as wallets, pocketbooks or special identification cards are lost or stolen, the student should notify the teacher immediately, who in turn, notifies the office. All unclaimed items are donated to charity at the end of each quarter.

APIS English Language PolicyEnglish as the Language of Instruction and Inclusion at APIS English is the language of instruction as well as an essential part of the inclusive and collaborative learning culture at APIS.

1) English is the language of the global community.- All language is important and should be respected. Our choice of English as the

language of instruction merely reflects its significance and its efficacy as a linguistic medium to bridge the gap between the East and the West. While English is not the only possible language to serve this purpose, we chose English because our school was founded espousing its importance as a global language. This choice is also what motivated many of our parents to enroll their children at APIS.

- At the same time, we fully recognize the importance of providing continued support to improve the fluency of the students’ native languages as it is critical in developing linguistic proficiency. For Korean (which is the host country language and is one of the three foreign language areas of instruction that we offer at APIS), we have made a concerted effort to meet the linguistic development needs of the native speakers.

- In communicating with our faculty and parents about the importance of native language development, we are cautious and mindful about sending a clear message to our students and parents that our choice of English as the instructional language at APIS is not meant to discourage the use and learning of native languages at home or outside of school. With this shared understanding of language acquisition and partnership with parents about fostering native language development at home, the

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English focus at APIS is intended to support the additive multilingualism in our students.

2) English is a deliberate choice at APIS to develop an inclusive and collaborative social and learning environment- Since English is a common language spoken by all members of APIS, we promote the

use of English to create an inclusive social environment. - Languages carry with them powerful and pervasive cultural legacies. Languages, for

example, dictate attitudes about hierarchies and power distances in relationships as well as the transmitter/receiver orientation in communication (i.e., who bears the burden of clear communication).

- For our community, we believe English is the most suitable language in promoting collaboration, a free flow of ideas, creativity, and learning.

- By making a deliberate choice to adopt English as a language of instruction and inclusion, APIS is choosing to shape our tradition and organizational culture.

ExpectationsStudents are required to speak English during all times at school, including classroom and hallways, and during recess periods.

Exceptions1. During foreign language courses and Korean Enrichment programs, and when communicating

with faculty members teaching foreign languages. 2. Communicating at the Nurse’s office. 3. Communicating with non-English speaking staff members.4. Exceptions are made for students whose English ability is developing (EAL) and for students in

grades K and 1.

Consequences for repeated offences

Should a student consistently choose not to follow the APIS English Language Policy and they are able to do so, the principal will schedule a meeting with the student and the student’s parent to come up with a solution.

Cellular Phone Policy

No cellular phones may be used during class unless a teacher gives special permission. Students may bring the cellular phone to school for security reasons, but the phone must be turned off and stored the entire time a student is in class.

Consequences:

First offense: The cell phone is taken away by the teacher. The student may pick up the phone at the end of the period.

Second offense: The cell phone is taken away and turned into the office. The phone may be picked up by the student at the end of the day.

Third offense: The cell phone is taken away and turned into the office. The parents are called to pick up the cell phone and conference with school administration.

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Computer Use Policy

Computers are one of many tools at APIS that can greatly facilitate learning. Students are given many opportunities to use computers and are encouraged to utilize technology for assignments, reports, projects, or any other school related endeavors. However, students are expected to show respect, responsibility, and safety when using computers at APIS.

The following policies apply to every APIS computer and computer technology user:

School computers and related technology are to be used only for school and education-related purposes.

Computer software copyrights and licensing agreements must be honored. Students must not degrade the performance capacity of any computer or computer related

technology. All documents must be stored only in the user’s assigned folder. Students are not permitted to access any file or folder not belonging to him/her. Gum, candy, food, and drink are not allowed when students use a computer anywhere in

the school. Students may not download any file from the Internet without formal permission from the

teacher. Students must not load any program onto a school computer without explicit permission

from the teacher. Students must not alter desktop settings of school computers.Students must not make any changes to the computer’s interface or operating system.

Students will be obliged to respect any additional computer and computer related-use regulation set forth by the teacher. All students and their parents are required to read and sign an acknowledgement of the school’s formal Acceptable Use of Technology Policy.

Electronic Devices

Audio and Electronic Game Devices:

The use of these devices is not conducive to an academic environment, and can interfere with interaction between people. For that reason, the use of these devices may be restricted during school hours. Should you not follow this rule, electronic devices may be confiscated by any teacher or administrator. The school is not responsible for loss or damages to such personal items.

Extra-Curricular Activities

APIS firmly believes in the importance of extra-curricular activities and the role they play in the development of a well-rounded student. We believe that activities help students to develop character, responsibility, dedication and they provide many life lessons. Activities also contribute to each high school student’s college application process. Our desire, which is backed by the recommendations of the finest universities, is for our students to demonstrate “distinguished excellence” in their activity participation not to be “mega-members” of as many activities as they can sign up for.

According to a former University Admissions counselor at Harvard, Universities recommend that students pursue distinguished excellence in an activity that the student enjoys and has natural ability

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and affinity for. Students should have a passion for the activities they are involved in. Distinguished excellence is defined as a student’s participation that is marked by quality, depth and impact. They are looking for consistency, commitment and dedication. The challenge is to make a mark and make your participation memorable.

There is no one right activity. Universities are interested in hearing you respond to questions about your activity involvement such as…”Why did you do this?” “How have you changed by being involved in this activity?” “What difference did you make with your participation?” Finally, student’s schedules these days are so busy and many are over scheduled.

As APIS continues to grow, it is our desire to provide our students many choices of activities to participate in. Where you choose to spend your time says a lot about you as a person. We encourage you to get involved, make a difference and leave your own legacy.

All students are encouraged to participate in activities sponsored by APIS. Extra-curricular participation is extended to all students as a privilege, not a right. Our goal at APIS is to seek successful student participation in the interscholastic programs. Inherent in this are specific expectations, rules, and responsibilities the student must adhere to and follow for the duration of the activity.

In order to be part of an APIS activity, you and your parents agree to follow the conditions listed below:

A student-athlete must maintain a minimum 2.00 Grade Point Average ( GPA.) from the previous quarter with no “F” to be eligible to participate interscholastically

Failure to maintain this average will remove you from the team/club until the next SPR’s reflect your GPA is 2.00 or above with no F.

Field Trips

Field trips may be arranged by any teacher or team whose curriculum content suggests that students will benefit from an out-of-school learning experience.

Field trips are a privilege and are therefore earned by students through appropriate study and behavior. Teachers will explain these expectations to students so each student may earn the right to attend the field trip. If a teacher or administrator has determined that a student has not earned the privilege of attending a field trip or could be detrimental to the success of the fieldtrip, the student is still expected to attend school on the day of the trip.

An appropriate alternate assignment will be provided and the student will be supervised by an adult while in school. Appropriate behavior is expected and all school rules remain in effect during the field trip. Inappropriate behavior will result in disciplinary measures, which may include the possible loss of future trip privileges.

Students are required to have a permission slip signed by a parent before participating in the field trip and parents are responsible for the entrance/admission fees and lunch for the student, when applicable.

Behavioral Expectations

APIS fosters a positive school climate where all students have the right to learn. Students are expected to understand and respect:

school community agreements

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2012 - 2013the rights of the teacher to teach the class and be free from distractions

other students’ right to learn and be free from bullying and harassment

individual differences and the diversity of our cultures

every student’s desire to participate and be welcomed into the A.P.I.S. familyAll students are expected to maintain high behavior standards where self-discipline is practiced as a norm. This behavior applies to both inside and outside the classroom regardless of whether or not an adult is present.

Bullying

“Bullying is defined as intentional, repeated, one-sided hurtful acts, words, or other behavior committed against another student. It is hurting or threatening to hurt another person, excluding others by leaving them out of a group of friends, or spreading gossip or rumors about another student. Teasing, saying mean things, and name calling are also forms of bullying. A respectful and tolerant school is one in which students include others in play, build each other up with words and actions, and listen to each other to understand differences.”

Here are some examples of physical, emotional or social bullying, in three escalating levels.

Level 1 Making threatening gestures.

Teasing publicly about clothes, looks, and so on.

Holding nose or other insulting gestures.

Ignoring someone and excluding them from a group with the intent to cause sadness.

Level 2 Verbal abuse and swearing.

Threatening physical harm.

Defacing school work or other personal property.

Harassing phone calls, e-mails, text messages, and/or any online social networking mediums.

Insulting size, intelligence, athletic ability, race, color, religion, ethnicity, and so on.

Posting slander in public places such as writing derogatory comments about someone in the school bathroom.

Playing mean tricks to embarrass someone.

Level 3 Making graphic threats verbally or through e-mail, text messaging, and/or any online

social networking mediums.

Physical harm, such as hitting, kicking, pinching, and/or other acts to inf lict pain or intimidation.

Practicing extortion such as taking lunch money.

Destroying personal property.

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Harassing — or writing graffiti — with bias against race, color, ethnicity, and so on.

Enforcing total group exclusion against someone by threatening others if they don’t comply.

Consequences of Bullying

Bullying is not tolerated in any form at Asia Pacific International School. If students are caught bullying, the following consequences apply:

First Offense: Student reviews bullying policy with classroom teacher. Teacher completes a Discipline Referral Form and adds to student file in the office. Parents of the victim will be notified.

Second Offense: Student reviews bullying policy with the Principal. Student calls parents at home to explain their poor choices/behavior. Principal completes a Discipline Referral Form and adds to student’s file.

Third Offense: Principal calls parents at home to explain student’s poor choices/behavior. Principal completes a Discipline Referral Form and adds to student’s file. A meeting is scheduled with the teacher, parents, student, and Principal.

The administration reserves the right to amend any or all of these policies where a particular behavior is deemed to merit a more appropriate consequence from which is listed above.

Public Displays of Affection

APIS is dedicated to a Christ-centered learning environment where students feel safe to discover their potential. Wholesome and God pleasing relationships among our students are encouraged.

A public display of affection (PDA) is defined as any action which implies an exclusive or romantic relationship between two individuals. While we recognize that special relationships may exist, we also believe that these special friendships deepen the need for restraint and discipline. Public display of affection (PDA), during school hours and at school sponsored events are not allowed.

If teachers or administrators observe a public display of affection, the students will initially receive a warning and counseling regarding the concerns. Persistent warnings will result in disciplinary actions and a conference with the administration and parents.

Drug, Alcohol and Tobacco Policies

The use or possession of non-prescribed drugs, tobacco products or alcohol by a student enrolled at Asia Pacific International School is strictly prohibited on campus or at school related activities whether at school or at a different location. The school reserves the right to require a student to submit to a drug test, at the school’s expense, at any time.

Smoking

APIS is a smoke-free zone by local code. Smoking is strictly prohibited anywhere on campus. Smoking is a major misbehavior for students and consequences will follow any violation.

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Skateboards Skateboards are not to be ridden anywhere on campus. Students are strongly suggested to not bring them to school. Skateboards must be kept in a student’s locker if they are brought to school.

Sports Equipment Sports equipment (i.e. soccer balls, basketballs, tennis rackets, etc.) are not permitted in classrooms. These items should be stored in student lockers.

Gymnasium and Auditorium Etiquette

Part of any good education, learned at home or in school, is how to behave appropriately in various social or cultural situations. Gymnasium and Auditorium etiquette may differ from time to time depending on the nature of the event. For example, shouting at a concert is inappropriate, while totally appropriate at a basketball game. In all situations, however, all students and spectators should behave with respect to performers and other spectators in a respectful manner. Students are to remember that they represent and are ambassadors of APIS. Any student or spectator that infringes on the rights of others may be asked to leave the venue.

Disciplinary Actions

Warning: For minor discipline issues, teachers will give verbal warnings to students. If the teacher feels it necessary, they may fill out a discipline referral and report the student to the office. The Dean of Students or Principal will conference with the student and review the discipline policy.

Detention: Teachers may ask students to stay during lunch or after school in the case of repeated minor discipline issues or a major offense. If a student has consistent problems with completing homework or classwork, teachers may require the student to stay in at recess, lunch or after school. Parents are required to make special transportation arrangements when students are asked to stay after school by teachers.

Suspension: In the case of major offenses, the Dean of Students or Principal can suspend the student from school for a determined period of time.

In-School Suspension (ISS): Students are separated from their classmates and spend the day working on an individual project. In some cases, if specifically requested by the teacher, students may work on classroom activities during the ISS.

Out of School Suspension (OSS): Should the major offense be severe or repeated behavior, and out of school suspension is issued. Students are required to stay with their parents at home or in their place of business. Students who receive an OSS will not be allowed to make up tests, quizzes, projects or homework given during their suspension.

Expulsion: Students not deemed fit for continued enrollment by reason of extraordinary misbehavior, including a single, major misbehavior episode, may at sole discretion of the Principal, in consultation with the Director, become subject to immediate expulsion from school. Expelled students will not be considered for readmission.

The following list is an example of offenses. This list is not all-inclusive and should not be taken as such. Consequences for these offenses can range from a verbal warning to expulsion.

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Minor Offenses:

Disturbing or disrupting class Running in hallways Gum chewing Eating or drinking in classViolating the school uniform policyArriving tardy to class

Major Offenses:

Repeated minor offenses Excessive tardies or absencesCheatingRefusal to speak English Disrespect/disobedience to teacher Skipping or cutting classLeaving school without signing out with the office Lying to school personnel Swearing or abusive language Damage to school property Bullying or fighting Harassment of any form, including cyber harassment and bullying Stealing or extortion Possessing contraband (including, but not limited to tobacco, alcohol, drugs, weapons,

fireworks, inappropriate printed materials)

Detention policies and procedures:1st detention: phone call and e-mail sent home from the school office2nd detention: parent is informed of detention process by the school office3rd detention: parent is informed and a meeting is set-up with administration4th detention: in-school suspension; administration/parent/student conference5th detention: in-school suspension; administration/parent/student conference6th - 7th detentions: out-of-school suspension; administration/parent/student/counselor/

conference8th or more detentions: out-of-school suspension; possible referral for expulsion/withdrawal

*Consequences for disciplinary actions may be increased or decreased at the discretion of administration.*The detention record will reset after each quarter.

Health/ Emergency

Physical Examination and Medical History Requirements

All newly enrolled students are required to submit the APIS medical history form prior to student’s first day of enrollment. Immunization records indicating up to date vaccinations must be on file in Health Services. Medical history will be provided directly by parent using APIS’s standard Medical History Form.

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Required Immunizations

Prior to the first day of enrollment at APIS, students must be fully immunized against the following: diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, polio, measles, mumps, rubella, hepatitis B, and any immunizations required by law.

Tuberculosis Testing Requirements

In addition to the immunizations above, a TB test (Mantoux or PPD) is required of each student prior to the first day of enrollment. If the TB test is positive, certification by a physician of a negative chest x-ray is required.

Student Illness

A student who is diagnosed to have a communicable or contagious disease should be kept at home until fully recovered. A doctor’s certificate is needed in order to return to school. We also believe that if a student is sick, they should stay home.

A student should stay home if they show any of the following symptoms:

Fever of over 100.4°F (38°C)Diarrhea (more than one abnormally loose stool) Severe coughing causing “croupy” sounds Severe wheezing or respiratory distress Yellowish tint to the skin or eyes (jaundice) Tearing, irritation, and redness of eyelid lining Unusual spots or rashes of unknown origin Infected areas of skin with yellow crusty areas Severe headache, stomachache, and/or vomiting Unusual behavior (crankiness, listlessness, crying more than usual, obvious general

discomfort)

Student Need for Medication

Students may not self-medicate while on school property. Administration of any medication to any student, whether medication be over-the-counter or prescription, requires written permission from parent. Medications will be administered only under the following conditions:

Parents must furnish a written statement from the physician regarding any prescription medication to be administered. Physician’s written statement must include prescribed dosage and administration time.

Parent must provide written inventory as to amount and type of medication (prescription or non-prescription). Note must include expressed permission in writing to administer said medication.

Only the school doctor or another person designated by the Principal is permitted to administer medication.

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Medical Exemption from Physical Education Students must provide a doctor’s note to be exempted and excused from physical education class. At the discretion of the administration, students who wish to be exempt from PE and related activities due to medical reasons will be required to obtain an excuse note from the school doctor.

Emergency Information

APIS requires current emergency medical and contact information for every student. APIS maintains an Emergency Medical Card on file for this purpose. Required up-to-date information includes name and contact telephone numbers (home and workplace) of both parents and telephone numbers (home and workplace) of two persons responsible for their student when neither parent can be reached.

Emergency Procedures

What Are Those Air Raid Sirens? National Emergencies?

The nation of Korea is very security conscious and holds occasional air-raid drills, often on the 15th of the month. If you are not in school when the air raid siren sounds, you should go indoors and follow the directions of the Korean authorities. In the unlikely event that school has to be closed due to a national emergency, students using the school buses would normally be sent home as usual. Those not using the bus would be dismissed to walk home or would be allowed to call home. APIS works closely with the U.S. embassy to keep evacuation plans up-to-date. We do not expect emergencies; however, we must plan for them as remote as their possibility might be. In cases of emergency, APIS will utilize radio and television resources as well as posting all information on our website (www.apis.seoul.kr). We will additionally attempt to utilize email and cellular phone contacts for parents.If students are in school when an emergency happens, APIS will NOT attempt to transport students home. For a period of time the students will be kept at school awaiting the arrival of parents to pick their students up. (Please note: we will only release your students to whom you have designated on your emergency information sheet). If students are at home when an emergency happens, the APIS buses will not run. Students should NOT report to school. Every effort will be made to communicate with parents. Students should not return to school until they are so advised.

Fire Drills

Directions for fire evacuation are posted in each classroom. Students must move quickly and silently to their assigned exit. Teachers accompany their students. The signal for a drill to begin is a long, continuous ring of the fire alarm. If the fire bell sounds between periods or during lunch, students are to go immediately to their homeroom gathering point. Several unannounced drills will be conducted during the school year.

Inclement Weather

A school day may be cancelled in the event of extraordinary weather conditions, such as rain, snow, and yellow dust. Such events rarely occur, but should they occur, the school will make every reasonable effort to contact parents by 6:30 a.m. that morning. An announcement will also appear on PowerSchool.

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APIS Parents

Communication with Parents

Communication between the home and school is one of the many keys to success for the students. At APIS we encourage on open line of communication.

Teacher – Parent Our teachers upload class news to inform parents of events happening in the classroom in our school’s PowerSchool. If a teacher needs to communicate with a parent in regards to a specific issue, the teacher may write a note, call the parent on the phone, or arrange a personal meeting with the parent on campus. Translation will be provided for the parents that do not speak English or do not feel comfortable speaking in English.

School – Parent A monthly newsletter for parents is sent home containing news from the Principal, and also includes general news, information, and reminders. It is also posted on PowerSchool.

Parent – Teacher There are several ways to communicate with your child’s teacher, such as writing notes, phone calls, e-mail and personal meetings. If a parent needs to speak with a teacher, the best way is to email the teacher or make an appointment through the school office. Parents are not allowed to enter the classrooms when class is in session and it is very difficult for teachers to give parents their full attention should a parent just “drop-in.”

Parent Conferences Parent-teacher Conferences: Conferences are held in November and April. The students are to attend these conferences with their parents. Students, their parent(s) and the teachers will examine the student’s successes, goals and areas in need of improvement. All conferences are conducted in English.

Parent Involvement

All outstanding schools count on positive parent participation. Parent involvement is held in high esteem at Asia Pacific International School. The following is a general illustration of possible parent volunteer opportunities at APIS. Throughout the school year, there may also be additional events and activities that are not included on the list. If you are interested in partnering with us, we encourage you to contact our school office. Additionally, we have a Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) which will be looking for volunteers.

Volunteer opportunities requiring yearly commitment: Regular classroom helperLibrary parent

Volunteer opportunities requiring task commitment: Fund-raising events, book fair, cultural events School-sponsored events

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Volunteer opportunities requiring a one-time commitment: Seasonal classroom celebrations Field Trip chaperoneGuest speakers Assisting one of the fundraisers or school events

Field Trip Chaperone Guidelines

Teachers frequently request that parents attend classroom field trips to assist as chaperones. Following are guidelines for parents when they chaperone a school-sponsored field trip.

Since field trips involve a large group of children, always try to think in terms of “What if every child did this?” Insist on respectful, responsible, and safe behavior at all times.

It is easy for grown-ups to socialize and forget that they are the most helpful when they help supervise the students and reinforce expectations. The trip is far more enjoyable if the adults share the job of setting limits as needed.

If a particular child does not respond to parent requests, the parent should inform the teacher.

There if often a tendency for a parent to hover around his/her own child. Parent chaperones are the most helpful when you assist with all the students and not just their own child.

Procedure for Parent Concerns

Asia Pacific International School is committed to open communication and problem solving. When conflicts and/or concerns arise parents are asked to go directly to the faculty member and attempt to resolve the concern. Both parties should be open to hearing the other’s point of view.

For those parents with limited English-speaking abilities, a translator will be provided. Most of the time, resolution can be reached at this step.

If the faculty member and parent cannot successfully resolve the concern, then either party may request that the Principal’s help in facilitating the efforts to resolve the concern with the best interest of the student in mind.

Our goal is to maintain open and positive communication between home and school so that our students can be successful learners.

Procedure for Early Departure

To maintain a safe and secure environment, students at APIS may not leave school grounds during the school day without a parent or guardian contacting the office to check them out.

Parents or guardians who need students to leave campus during the school day must send a written permission note with the child to the teacher. The teacher will then dismiss the student at the appropriate time and send him/her to the office where they must sign out. Failure to appropriately sign out will be treated as a cut.

Guardianship and Student Living Requirements

All students attending APIS must live with at least one parent while enrolled. The Principal may make exceptions upon receipt of a written request from the parents, designating a guardian satisfactory to the school.

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Change of Address

Please notify the office of any change of address or phone number as soon as it occurs so that parents/guardians can be contacted in an emergency. Failure to do so may place your child and the school at risk of not being able to contact someone when needed.

Visitor Policy

Parents and adult community members are permitted to visit the school. APIS’ students’ school-age friends who are not APIS students may not visit school at any time during the school day. Parents and adult community members who wish to visit for any reason must contact the school office prior to arrival. Visitors, upon arrival at school, must check in and obtain a Visitor Pass. The pass must be displayed at all times and returned to the office upon departure.

Other

Official Transcript Requests

The high school transcript is a permanent academic record that follows the student once they leave APIS, either in order to transfer to another high school or graduation. An official transcript can be obtained from the school office by completing and submitting the request form from the school office. Cost per official transcript is 2,000 KRW. Official transcripts require at least 48 hours for preparation.

Letters of Recommendation: Boarding Schools

All letters of recommendation requests must be submitted directly to the school office. They are not to be submitted directly to teachers. The Principal will disseminate all recommendation requests to teachers. Recommendation forms, particularly of the boarding school variety, typically are open-ended and, in fact, unreasonably labor intensive. In order to respect the time of the teachers, please allow 2 weeks for completion of these forms. APIS reserves the right to limit the number of recommendations provided for any one student.

Withdrawal from APIS Policy

Parents are expected to make a good faith effort to contact APIS within two weeks of intention to withdraw their student. This lead time allows reasonable time to prepare the student’s transcript and other records. Official student transcripts will be mailed directly by APIS to the student’s receiving school. Official transcripts cannot be transmitted to any receiving school by a parent or any other third party.

Students are required to submit a completed check out form as a condition of withdrawal. All obligations including full payment of outstanding fees and tuition must be met before school records will be released. Refunds will only be made in accordance with the school’s tuition and fees refund policy

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Non-refundable Fees:

• Application Procedure Fees• Registration Fees• New Student Fees • The USD Portion of the Tuition• Any payment made with the installment plan

When tuition and fees are paid in full, refunds will be made in accordance with the following schedule:

Withdrawal Refund Schedule

Date of Withdrawal Refund of Tuition (KRW Portion Only) & Bus FeesUntil 7/31/2012 80% of the annual tuition and 90% of bus fees

8/1/2012 ~ 8/12/2012 75% of the annual tuition and 80% of bus fees





3/23/2013 ~ 6/7/2013 0% of the annual tuition and bus fees

* The above schedule applies only to the tuition & fees paid in full.* The USD portion of the tuition is NOT subject to refund.* No refunds will be given in the event of a large scale withdrawal due to a major disaster such as war, civil strife,

labor unrest, or a natural disaster.

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2012 - 2013

Parent/Student Handbook Acknowledgment Form

Asia Pacific International School Secondary School Academic Year 2012-2013

Please complete, cut out, and return the following form to the school office.

Student’s Name (please print)

Grade

Parent’s Name (please print)

Our signatures indicate that we have received, read, understand, and agree to abide by all policies and school agreements set forth in the Asia Pacific International School Secondary School Student/Parent Handbook.

Student’s Signature

Date

Parent’s Signature

Date

아시아퍼시픽 국제외국인학교 139-724 서울특별시 노원구 월계2동 820번지Tel : (02) 907-2747 Fax : (02) 907-2742

Asia Pacific International School 820 Wolgye 2-dong, Nowon-gu, Seoul, 139-724, Korea Tel : +82-(0)2-907-2747 Fax : +82-(0)2-907-2742

www.apis.seoul.kr

Nurturing Future Leaders of the New Pacific Century at the Hub of East Asia