es student-parent handbook 2014-2015

8/11/2019 ES Student-Parent Handbook 2014-2015

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AISR EAGLE Honor Code AIS R is a school that honors and promotes respect for others, inclusiveness, individual differences, and appropriate behavior. We believe that ethics and values are essential in a principled community, and expect behavior that upholds the dignity and self worth of all community members.

In order to reinforce these beliefs, AIS R has defined what it means to be an AIS R Eagle: Ethical, Adaptable, Global, Learning, and Environmental. AIS R students are expected to live these dispositions, and avoid behaviors that are inconsistent with their spirit and meaning.

Together, these five overarching characteristics comprise AIS Rs Honor Code, and students are reminded of this code in many different ways throughout the year.

The goal of the AIS R Honor Code is to educate and inspire our students to be responsible, productive, and ethical world citizens, perhaps one of the most important components of AIS Rs Mission.

Parents and students are encouraged to discuss the AIS R Honor Code on their own, and to always strive to be an AIS R Eagle no matter where life takes you.

I am an AIS R EAGLE, therefore I am...

EEthical: I am honest I make good choices I am empathetic I stand up for the rights of others I demonstrate academic integrity

AAdaptable : I am flexible and take responsible risks I am cooperative and collaborative I am open to multiple possibilities I welcome constructive feedback I am a leader and a follower

GGlobal : I respect others I seek to understand others I am compassionate I accept cultural differences I know and respect the customs of my host country

LLearning: I am inquisitive, persistent and reflective I seek opportunities to improve I reason critically I communicate effectively I think creatively

EEnvironmental : I am responsible I take action to minimize my ecological footprint I advocate for sustainable practices I reduce, reuse and recycle I am a model of healthy living


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AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLRIYADH STRATEGIC PLAN

BELIEFS

We believe: The pursuit of excellence is worth the cost. All people have worth. Education is a shared responsibility of parents,

students, school and community. People learn in different ways at different

rates. Achievement builds self esteem and promotes

learning. Accountability improves performance. Ethics and values are essential in a principled

community.

OBJECTIVES

Each student will demonstrate an ability to think creatively, reason critically and

communicate effectively by identifying and developing alternative solutions to real world problems

Each student will communicate effectively to a variety of audiences in a variety of ways.

Each student will meet or exceed clearly defined grade appropriate standards of knowledge and skills as measured by various indicators including standardized tests.

Each student will continuously choose to

improve

relationships

with

others,

grow

in

character and act in an ethical manner.

STRATEGIES

We will develop at each grade level a written curriculum, which is aligned with the strategic objectives and a means of assessing and monitoring both curriculum and alignment.

We will develop a variety of activities and experiences throughout the educational

program to develop creative thinking, critical reasoning and effective communication.

We will integrate the use of technology throughout the educational program to assist all students in support of our strategic objectives.

We will systematically familiarize and involve staff, students and parents with the strategic plan and its implementation.

We will improve our facilities to ensure that they support and contribute to a high quality education.

We will enhance support for teachers in their efforts to meet the needs of all students within the scope of our educational program.

We will effectively communicate the strengths of the school, promoting ourselves as a flexible, caring institution.

PARAMETERS

Students meeting specified enrollment criteria will be accepted.

Programs for students whose exceptional needs exceed the scope of our educational program cannot be offered.

If, despite our best efforts, our educational

program cannot meet a students needs, the students enrollment will be discontinued.

Educational programs will be initiated or retained when they: Meet a clearly demonstrated mission

related need Address the impact on other programs/

services Survive a cost benefit analysis Can be adequately staffed Set in place an evaluation procedure.

Any behavior on the part of any student, staff member or patron of the school which diminishes the dignity or self worth of a student, staff member or patron will not be tolerated.


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Welcome to AISR Elementary School Dear Parents and Students,

Welcome to AIS R Elementary School Where Learning Happens! From the Early Years program to Grade Five our goal at AIS R Elementary is to create an environment rich in caring, positive expectations and participationso that each childs innate potential for healthy development and learning will be realized. We strive to

appreciate the whole child and thus are attentive to their cognitive, social/emotional and physical needs. At AIS R, students are valued and distinguished in a variety of ways that allow them to express their uniqueness and explore their potential. We believe in nurturing the whole child and cultivating learner habits by fostering and encouraging an environment that causes learning through purposeful planning, intentional teaching, and authentic performances.

Our student population is approximately 700 from PreK Grade 5. Throughout the week students from Kindergarten through Grade Five have classes in math, writers workshop, readers workshop, science and social studies. Students also explore and experience art, music, physical education, integrated technology, STEM, and the Arabic language. Additionally, students are offered a variety of enrichment opportunities in ourafter school program (ASA). AIS R Elementary is a place where learning is dynamic, hands on and differentiated, and children are assessed based on their growth over time.

We provide our students with multiple ways to learn, grow, and play. Students at all grade levels participate in grade level assemblies, holiday concerts, after school activities, Earth Week, United Nations Day, talent shows, publishing parties, walk a thons, field trips, learning celebrations, Terry Fox Run, and Week W/out Walls (to name a few). Our faculty and staff are dedicated to teaching the whole child, accepting each child unconditionally for who they are, and to providing children with varied opportunities to be actively involved indevelopmentally appropriate learning experiences.

AIS R elementary school students are expected to follow our AIS R EAGLE Honor Code, which defines what it

means to be an AIS R EAGLE: Ethical, Adaptable, Global, Learning, and Environmental. Our elementary school Kg1 Gr. 5 behavior reflection process, Gold Feather Initiative, and classroom expectations are grounded in these principles. We believe our elementary school children are AIS R Eagles and that they Make a Difference. We commit to providing an environment that honors our school mission and one where children thrive and our parents are partners. Our greatest hope for our students is to be happy and love learning.

For additional information, please visit the ES Blog at http://blogs.ais r.edu.sa/jcanar/

Jenny Canar Elementary School Principal

Travis Klump Elementary School Assistant Principal

Mike Romard Elementary School Assistant Principal


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Table of Contents 1. Our School

Daily Schedule 1 ER Day Schedule and Dates 2 Communication 2

Parent Contact Information 3 Assistance 3

Important Rules of Conduct Message to Parents 3 Our Objectives 3 Students Rights 3 Teachers Rights 3 All School Rules 3 Playground Rules 4 Dining Hall Rules 5 Bullying 6 Non Negotiables 6 Disciplinary Procedures 6 Suspension 7

2. Attendance Absences 7 Gate Schedule 8 Drop off/Pick up 8 Students Departing Campus 8 Tardiness 8 Early Pick up 8 Late Pick up 9

3. Academics Academic Freedom and Controversial Issues 9 Addressing Academic Concerns 9 After School Learning 10 Assessments 10

MAP Testing 10 Homework Guidelines 10 Parent Teacher Conferences 11 Progress Reports 11 Report Cards 11


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Volunteers 24 Withdrawal 24 Youth, Alumni, and Non Parent Visitors to AIS R 24

8. Support Program Counseling Program 25

Classroom Counseling 25 Child Study Team (CST) Meetings and Parent Conferences 25 Individual Counseling 25

English Language Learner Program 26 Learning Support Program 26

9. Technology Usage and Guidelines Ethical Computer User Agreement 26 Unacceptable Use of Electronic Resources 27 Web Publishing Guidelines 27 Lap Top Use in the Classroom 28 Guidelines & Procedures for Technology Usage 28 Technology Requirements at Home 28

Appendix 30

Guardianship Form 31 Elementary School Rotational Calendar AIS R Yearly Calendar Campus Map


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Our School

Daily Schedule

7:20 Campus open; Morning Recess

*7:35 First bell; Instruction begins

**9:35 9:50 Recess G.3,4,5/Snack G.1,2

**9:50 10:05 Recess G.1,2/Snack G.3,4,5

10:10 12:05 Instruction

*12:05 12:25 Recess G.3,4,5/ Lunch Kg2,G.1,2

*12:25 12:45 Recess Kg2,G.1,2/ Lunch G.3,4,5

12:30 PreK/Kg1 Dismissal

12:50 2:45 Instruction

*2:45 School Dismissal

2:50 Scheduled ASA or ASL begins

2:55 All buses depart campus

3:55 ASA ends

4:00 ASA buses depart

*Reminder bell will sound **Please refer to your PreKKg2 Homeroom Schedule

for recess times


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Communication Open, honest and ongoing communication is critical to the success of the educational partnership we strive forbetween students, parents and teachers. The following are sources for school related information:

K12 Activity Calendar: A calendar of all AIS R events is distributed to all students. Blogs: The Elementary School blog, http://blogs.ais r.edu.sa/jcanar/ , contains news and information about

Elementary School activities. Classroom Blogs: All classroom events, homework, and activities can be accessed via your childs classroom

blog. Email: Families can email teachers and administration with questions and concerns. In addition, each

family is given a Gmail account that can be used to communicate with the school. Moodle : http://moodle.aisr.org/: AIS Rs blended learning platform allows parents and students

online access to Newsflash, the ES Dining Hall Menu, and general school information and resources.

Each parent is issued a Moodle ID and password. Newsflash: A weekly newsletter of upcoming events, articles, and items of special interest to parents

and students is emailed to all parents and can be viewed online through Moodle. Skyward: This is a school information system that allows parents to view their childs report cards,

MAP scores, and school messages. Each parent is issued a Skyward ID and password. Please keep your

skyward contact information current. Website: Browse the schools website to find general information about each grade level and general

school information www.aisr.org.

ER Day Schedule

Time equivalent to Full Day Half day schedule

7:35 8:45 Period 1: 7:35 8:10

8:45 9:35 Period 2: 8:10 8:45

9:35 9:50 Snack Gr.1 2: 8:45 8:55 Recess Gr.3 5: 8:45 8:55

9:50 10:05 Snack Gr. 3 5: 8:55 9:05 Recess Gr. 1 2: 8:55 9:05

10:10 11:00 Period 3: 9:10 9:45

11:15 12:05 Period 4: 9:45 10:20

12:50 1:40 Period 5: 10:20 10:55

1:55 2:45 Period 6: 10:55 11:30

Dismissal at 11:30


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Parent Contact Information: It is extremely important to have up to date contact information, so that the school is able to contact parents in case of an emergency. If contact information has changed, parents can update their information via Skyward, send an email to [email protected], or call the Elementary School office.

Assistance:

For all Skyward, Gmail, and Moodle inquiries, parents can email [email protected] or [email protected].

Important Rules of Conduct

Message to Parents : Our expectations will not be as successful at school without parent support at home. If we need to contacta parent by phone or e mail, we will appreciate immediate cooperation. Working together will help the student understand good behavior expectations at AIS R. Students will better understand these behavior expectations when reviewed at home with parents.

Our objectives To ensure the safety of all students at AIS R To achieve consistent, positive behaviors throughout the school To provide students with clear expectations concerning behavior To maintain a spirit of cooperation To improve home/school communications and cooperation regarding behavior expectations that

will benefit all students

Students Rights

To have a classroom environment that is most conducive to learning To be provided with positive support of appropriate behavior To know behavior expectations and the consequences of inappropriate behavior To be safe

Teachers Rights To have a classroom environment that enables optimal teaching To determine and expect appropriate behavior from students To be supported by parents, a principal, and other school personnel when assistance is needed

with a student

All School Rules

AIS R Elementary students will:

be responsible for his/her behavior. follow directions the first time they are given. treat staff, students and equipment with respect. make healthy food choices and not chew gum, drink soda and eat candy. keep food in the dining hall and classrooms. keep hands, feet, and hurtful words to oneself.


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use appropriate language at all times. solve problems without fighting. keep our school litter free. walk, rather than run in the hallways and in outdoor walking areas. leave dangerous objects or illegal substances at home. keep personal items (toys, candy, DSs, Frisbee etc.) away from school. Cell phones must stay in

back packs. stay in the boundaries of the ES area unless accompanied by an adult. follow AIS Rs dress code. follow AIS Rs Honor Code.

Playground Rules:

The ES Playground is open from 7:20 2:45. Supervision begins at 7:20am.

Playgrounds are not supervised after dismissal at 2:45pm. Outside of ES playground hours, AIS R is not responsible for the safety of individuals on the AIS R campus.

While on the playground, students will: stay in assigned duty play area. demonstrate respect for each other by using polite and safe actions and language. No name calling,

teasing or cursing. keep hands to oneself. No pushing, tripping or fighting. stop all games immediately after the bell rings and whistle is blown, return all playground

equipment to the baskets and line up in the designated area. not climb and jump off the playground equipment. not throw rocks, sand, or other harmful objects at any time. keep games open to all students.

place backpacks on their lines (no backpacks at play areas.) not have personal toys. play by the rules of the game they are playing. use the playground stairs and/or ramp and not jump from the wall. remain at recess, do not climb stairs or re enter classrooms (without prior teacher approval). keep iProducts (handheld devices) in backpacks (or classrooms). No devices allowed during recess

unless directly supervised by the respective HR teacher

While playing four square, students will: line up against the compound wall and no cut. use four square balls only. follow all AIS R four square rules. talk through disagreements. enter at square (#1) at the front of the waiting line.

While playing soccer, students will: share the field. allow everyone to play. use soccer balls only.


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follow the rules of soccer. be careful not to hurt/foul others. one person gets the ball when it goes out of play. talk through disagreements.

While on the zip line, students will: take turns; only one student at a time. line up without cutting in line. hang on until the end. collect the zip line bar when the current rider has stopped and begin your turn at the top. do not stand in the path of the zip line.

While playing basketball, students will: share the balls. use basketballs only. follow the rules of basketball. be careful not to hurt/foul others. one person gets the ball when it goes out of play.

Other Rules:

Fighting is absolutely unacceptable. Play fighting such as wrestling, Karate, or Tae Kwon Do is not

allowed Jumping off playground equipment is allowed only at a height approximately equal to the student Only light touch tag on the shoulder is allowed. All tag games must be played on the grass field Loud voices are allowed and may be encouraged High pitched screaming and shrills are not permitted

While on Parallel Bars, students should hang and swing with feet down under bars using both hands

Walk, not play, between buildings Walk to/from the Dining Hall Share all recess materials including: balls, field, play equipment, courts Do not stand in front of/behind the students on swings

Dining Hall Rules: Use walking feet Listen and respond to adult directions for dismissal Keep your place in line (no cutting) Use indoor voices Use manners while eating Stay seated Keep your eating place clean Raise your hand to leave your seat and if you need help Throw away your waste into the garbage can


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Bullying:

Our objective is to ensure a safe, positive and supportive environment for our students. Therefore, any student who bullies others will be immediately referred to the counselor for counseling and subject to disciplinary action by the principal that may include a parent/guardian conference, detention, suspension or no program.

Bullying is the unwelcome verbal, written or physical act directed at a student by another and has the intent or effect of:

physically, emotionally or mentally harming a student.

damaging, extorting or taking a students personal property.

placing a student in reasonable fear of physical, emotional or mental harm.

placing a student in reasonable fear of damage to or loss of personal property.

creating an intimidating environment that substantially interferes with a students educational opportunities.

Non Negotiable: Fighting Blatant disrespect Gross misconduct such as damaging school property, substance abuse, or possession of a weapon of

any kind

Disciplinary Procedures

Most of our students are well behaved and usually accept responsibility for their behavior. Each teacher has shared a class discipline plan that students are expected to follow. However, when a classroom or school rule is not followed, students must know that disciplinary action will be taken. All students Kg1Grade 5 follow the Behavior Reflection Process:

Step 1: Verbal reminder Step 2: Remove child from situation Step 3: Thinking time (remove the child from the group) Step 4: Complete a reflection form and get it signed by a parent Step 5: Referral to the Principal

When a student is sent to the Principal, one or more of the following may take place: The student completes a reflection form that is sent home to be signed by the parents

The

principal

discusses

the

problem

with

the

student The principal phones the parents informing them of the incident

A conference is scheduled with the student and his/her parents. Should infractions continue after a parent conference, the student may receive either an in school or out of school suspension.

Continued disruptive behavior may result in recommendation for no program .


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Suspension:

When severe disciplinary action is necessary, a student may be suspended from all classes and school activities for a specified number of hours and/or school days. Parents and or guardians will be informed byletter and a phone call explaining the reason for the suspension. Reasons for immediate suspension include but are not limited to profane or obscene language, physical violence, teasing other students, bullying or harassment, showing disrespect towards school faculty/staff, and any act, which may harm or place other students in an unsafe and dangerous situation.

A student who continually violates school rules will be withheld from school sponsored activities such as field trips and after school activities. The school Principal reserves the right to make the final decision on these matters. While a student attends an in school suspension or is suspended from school, he/she will not be allowed to take part in any activities during or after school.

Attendance Students are expected to attend school regularly and to be on time in order to receive maximum benefit from

the instructional program and to develop habits of punctuality, self discipline and responsibility. There is a direct relationship between good attendance and school success. Students who have good attendance generally achieve better grades and enjoy school more.

Parents may demonstrate support for the education of their child by making a commitment to attend school each day except when ill. Families who match school vacations with family vacations help their child receive the full benefit of the classroom instruction offered. Missed learning activities may be accessed via your childsclassroom blog or provided by the teacher. All summative assessments are expected to be completed for reporting purposes. Extended absences due to traveling are discouraged and some activities may not be able to be made up.

Absences : If students are absent from school for an extended period of time, of 5 days or more, please notify the

teacher and the office.

When the child returns from the absence please provide a note of explanation.

The school does not provide report cards prior to the end of a trimester.

Students who are absent for more than twenty days in a trimester may receive an N/A on the report card.

Students who are absent for more than thirty days during the school year may not be promoted to the next grade level.

All absences on the report card are recorded as such regardless if excused or unexcused.

A skyward message can be enabled by the parent for the purpose of notification in the event of absences. For instructions please contact the skyward coordinator at [email protected].


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Gate Schedule : School begins at 7:20am and ends at 12:30pm for PreK and Kg1 and 2:45 pm for Kg2 to G.5.

MORNING ARRIVAL OPEN CLOSE

PreK & Kg 1 PICK UP OPEN CLOSE

AFTERNOON PICK UP OPEN CLOSE

AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITY PICK UP OPEN CLOSE

EARLY RELEASE DAYS OPEN CLOSE

All transportation arriving after the gate closure time has to park in the visitors parking lot (no exception).

Drop Off/ Pick up: The school does not provide transportation for the students. Students may enter the school campus starting at 7:20am and should not arrive prior to this time. Supervision of students does not start until after 7:20am.

Transportation must arrive no later than 12:20pm for Pre K & Kg1 dismissal and no later than 2:20pm for grades Kg2 through Grade 5 dismissal. Buses depart at 3:00pm sharp. After School Activity pick up is from 3:50pm to 4:00pm.

Parents must write a note to the teacher when their child changes transportation. The child should take the note to the parking lot supervisor to be sure he can find the correct bus or car.

Parents and nannies must wait for children in the designated areas.

Taxis and limousines can only park in the outside visitors parking lot.

Students Departing Campus Students must remain on campus from the beginning of the school day until dismissal time. Students are not permitted, under any circumstances , to depart campus without parent/guardian accompaniment during school hours. School staff is not permitted to accompany students off campus unless authorized by the division Principal in the case of an emergency.

Tardiness: Students are expected to be in class on time. Students arriving late to school must report to the Elementary School Office before going to the classroom. Attendance is taken at 7:50am. After 7:50am students must get atardy slip from the office before proceeding to class.

Repeated tardies will be referred to the school principal or counselor, with a parent conference to follow if habits are not improved. Punctuality is a life long behavior we promote beginning in the early school years.

Early Pickup: When it is necessary to collect your child during the school day, a parent or guardian must check in with the Elementary School office to request a Gate Pass. All students shall be picked up from the office. If the child rides the bus home, please inform the regular bus monitor or driver so the monitor will not look for the child after school and hold the bus. Any child departing campus early must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.


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Late Pickup: AIS R Elementary School does not provide after school care. All students must be picked up at departure time.

If 12:30pm or 3:00pm transportation is late, students may wait in the Elementary School office or the Learning Commons no later than 4:00pm after notifying the office secretaries. After 4:00pm, students must wait in the Guard House. Drivers who are late can only park in the visitors parking lot and parents, nannies ordrivers must retrieve young children (Pre K to Kg2) from the office. Older students (G.1 to G.5) may walk to the Guard House after the office is notified of transportation arrival.

Students waiting for transportation may not roam around the campus.

All students walking to and from school must depart the campus by 3:00pm unless staying for After School Learning or an After School Activity.

Academics

Academic Freedom & Controversial Issues: At AIS R, Academic freedom is defined as the belief that teachers and students are free to pursue the searchfor global knowledge and understanding, in its many forms, and share their methods and findings in a manner that is reflective of the AIS R Eagle Honor Code, the IB Learner Profile, as well as the professional expectations further discussed in this policy. In the classroom, academic freedom also means that teachers encourage discussion of controversial issues and develop in students a quest for knowledge, understanding and diverse points of view. Teachers present issues in a fair and unbiased manner to allow students to arrive at balanced views. The exercise of academic freedom will not violate the cultural norms, laws, or regulations of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, nor will it extend beyond the agreed upon curriculum and standards of AIS R.

The discussion of controversial issues should not be avoided just because there may be differences of opinion on the part of parents, students, and professional staff on these issues. However, any subject discussed shall be a part of the adopted curriculum, and the discussion shall be led and/or directed by a member of the professional staff who has the necessary technical and conceptual expertise.

Prior to the initiation of discussion about a subject that might be sensitive or controversial, a teacher will seek the guidance of the principal.

Being respectful and tolerant of the culture, practices, and norms of this country is expected of all employees, family members and students. Since the students and staff of the school are guests in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, controversial issues which might be offensive to the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will

be avoided. Further, as a global community, the culture, practices and norms of all cultures will be respected to ensure that all teachers and students create an environment of tolerance where the pursuit of knowledge, by an individual or group, is in no way impaired by the academic freedoms of others.

Addressing Academic Concerns: Parents may email homeroom teachers at any time to address questions, issues or academic concerns. If you have not received a response from the teacher within 72 hours, please contact the Elementary School office.


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Parents should arrange a teacher/parent conference whenever there is a need for additional information or if a problem arises.

Parents are encouraged to discuss resolutions of concerns with teachers before contacting counselors or the administration. If there is continuing concern, parents, teachers and administrators will meet to resolve any issues.

After School Learning : Teachers offer After School Learning (ASL) hours on a regular basis for those students needing extra support.ASL hours are conducted after school from 2:45pm to 3:50pm. The teacher will inform the parents of the scheduled days for ASL hours. Parents need to arrange transportation for their children on those days.

Assessments : AIS R Elementary School uses a variety of assessments to inform instruction, evaluate student achievement, and ensure student growth and progress. These assessment practices include: Diagnostic Assessments, Self Assessments, Formative Assessments, Summative Assessments, Common Assessments, and External Assessments. Summative assessments measure performance and summarize the development of learners at a particular time. These assessment results are shared with parents and are carried out at the end of each learning period/unit of instruction. Summative assessment results are reflected on each trimester report card. No other form of assessment is reflected on the report card. Parents may contact teachers via email or scheduled appointment to discuss assessment results.

MAP Testing The Measure of Academic Progress (MAP) test is given twice annually (spring and fall) to our AIS R elementary school students, grades 1 5. Its' primary purpose is to inform instruction and give a students instructional level in the areas tested (Reading, Language Usage, Math, and Science). Growth is measuredfrom test to test. Results of MAP testing are shared with parents after the completion of all spring tests.

When

a

child

takes

the

MAP

test,

consideration

must

be

taken

for

any

of

the

following:

concentration,

time

taken to read and answer each item carefully, interest, carefulness, alertness during testing, distraction during testing, optimal performance (health, rest, wellness). We have experienced that some children also may have slight test anxiety or underperform due to a number of variables given on any testing day. This, too, must be taken into consideration. Please direct all questions regarding MAP testing to the ES Counselors

Homework Guidelines: 1) HW is not mandatory.

2) HW targets a childs independent level and is therefore differentiated. At no time should all children be

completing the same HW, at the same time, in the same way (unless evidenced by a pre assessment or

formative assessment). To ensure homework is doable, teachers must differentiate assignments so they are

at the appropriate level of difficulty for individual students (Tomlinson, 2008). How to differentiate? Consider: amount, time, type, competence, efficiency, choice, and personally

relevant

3) When assigned, the student(s) will be given feedback on their HW performance.

4) HW is formative and does not factor into a childs report card.

5) When assigned, HW is communicated with the respective parents/families (i.e. email, blog post, assignment


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notebook) and doesnt exceed 30 minutes Gr.1 3 and 45 minutes Gr.4 5. Tomlinson, C. A. (2008). The goals of differentiation. Educational Leadership, 66 (3), 2631.

Kindergarten students do not receive homework other than home reading.

Parents are urged to read nightly to their child(ren).

Parent Teacher Conferences : Conferences between parents and teachers are very helpful in creating an understanding with regard to educational goals and objectives, solving problem situations, developing plans for helping students at home, and informing parents of student progress.

AIS R hosts parent teacher conferences twice a year. Teachers meet with the parents/guardians during a scheduled time to review and discuss student progress. The school calendar is marked with these dates. Also,an invitation is sent prior to the conferences with instructions on how to schedule an appointment. All conferences with the homeroom teacher require a scheduled appointment.

Conferences may be scheduled at the request of the parents, teachers, counselors or administrators. Throughout the year to set a conference, please contact your homeroom teacher via email.

Progress Reports : All elementary students receive a progress report in the first trimester. Subsequent progress reports will be sent to parents when there is a concern about a students progress or when there has been exceptional progress. Progress reports are prepared by the teacher and sent home mid trimester.

Report Cards : Kg2 to Gr.5 use continuum based report cards. Student progress is reported to parents three times a

year. A student must attend at least twenty days of school during a trimester to receive a completed report card.

Report Cards are not issued before the end of the trimester. If a student is withdrawing before the end of the 3rd trimester, a final report card will be issued if the student has been in attendance at least 20 days of the 3rd trimester. In such cases, a grade for Specialists may not be listed due to limited attendance.

The final report card is published in skyward on the last day of school. For early departing students, the report card can only be viewed after the last day of school.

All report cards can be accessed via Skyward.

Retention/Promotion Policy: The curriculum and instructional programs at AIS R have been designed to assure that students complete one grade level each academic year.

Criteria for promotion/retention decisions shall include age, achievement, social adjustment, parent support, the availability of alternative programs, and teacher recommendations. Parents will be consulted in cases where retention or promotion is considered. The school principal makes the final decision regarding promotion and retention. Children retained or who skip a grade are automatically moved to Conditional Placement status.


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Specialist Classes & The Rotation Schedule : The Elementary School offers Specialist classes that include Counseling, PE, Art, Learning Commons, Music, STEM, and Language. The classes rotate on a 6 day schedule. This means students will have Specials within a 6 day schedule, rather than a 5 day week. A calendar identifying the 6 day rotation is in the appendix of this handbook.

Art:

The elementary art program strives to develop the creativity and aesthetic sensitivities of all students. Instruction is aimed at providing students with experiences that instill self esteem through the creation of each special project. A collection of treasures is made!

Students are instructed in the use of a wide variety of art media and techniques and engage in studio activities designed to develop visual language and vocabulary.

Students learn to make aesthetic decisions about their work. They view and discuss the artistic achievements of cultures and people throughout history. Art activities and concepts may enhance and reinforce the curricular programs from each childs regular classroom.

STEM:

STEM is an interdisciplinary program that incorporates elements of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics through project based learning modules. Students will attend STEM classes once a six day cycle and complete projects both independently and in cooperative groups. STEM is not reported on the ES Report Card.

Learning Commons:

The mission of the Elementary School Learning Commons (ELC) is to instill a joy of reading in each of our students while teaching them about book care, ELC etiquette, and the skills they need to locate materials in the ELC. While we gently recommend age appropriate books, we allow students to choose books of

interest

to

them.

All students have one fixed time for book exchange with their class per six day cycle. Books are checked out during your childs Learning Commons special, and the books are expected to be returned by the morning of the next scheduled class. Students return books by placing them neatly in the red collection box located in their classroom or in the return drop located in the hallway outside the ELC. If books are not returned or renewed by the due date, they are considered overdue. Students who have overdue books will be notified and will have their checkout privileges temporarily limited or denied until the books are returned. In Pre K to Grade 2, notices will be sent home to inform parents of overdue books; in Grades 3 5, students will be informed directly by the ELC staff. Students are responsible for the books they check out. If a book is lost or damaged beyond repair, a fine will be assessed based on the full cost of the book +

20% of the cost as a processing fee. We are happy to issue a refund if the book is found and returned in good condition. Students in Grades Kg2 5 are welcome to visit the Learning Commons before school and during recess to browse, read, and checkout books. Parents are also welcome to visit and check out booksanytime during the school day (up to a limit of 5 books). For more information about the ES Learning Commons, we invite you to visit our Learning Commons blog at http://blogs.ais r.edu.sa/eslearningcommons/ .


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Language:

Children in grades Kg2 Grade 5 attend Arabic classes twice a six day cycle for 45 minutes. ECE and UES Arabic targets all learners at all levels of Arabic progression. Our language classes are designed for students to learn and practice reading, writing, and conversing in Modern Standard Arabic. The purpose of our Arabic program is to generate high levels of language acquisition for all learners. Our program differentiates for three levels. They are Native, Heritage, and Non Native and are defined as such: Native : Native speakers have been immersed in both the Arabic culture and Arabic language and have experienced formal education in both reading and writing Modern Standard Arabic (MSA). The approach focuses on enriching the childs linguistic experience through the use of authentic childrens literature, while teaching independent reading and comprehension skills. Heritage : Heritage speakers are familiar with the Arabic culture and an Arabic dialect that is spoken in their family. For these students, dialect is part of their linguistic biography, yet they have limited or no experience with MSA. The Heritage program develops fluency in spoken and written MSA, and the goal forthese students is to become, comfortably proficient. Non Native : Non Native Speakers have no background in either the Arabic culture or the Arabic language. The focus of this program is Arabic culture and communicative skills (speaking and listening). Non Native Speakers will develop functional uses of the language for everyday life.

Features of our Arabic program include, but are not limited to, the following: Language is taught through context, with new information connected to existing knowledge Student levels of language acquisition and learning styles are accommodated through differentiated

instruction aligned to individual needs Instruction is based upon research based best practice Assessment is formative and summative, supports student learning, and informs instruction

At an additional cost, students in Grades Kg2 Gr.5 also have the opportunity to participate in the extendedArabic Language Program (ALPS) through the after school language program.

Music:

The elementary music program strives to help students acquire a lifelong love of music.

At each grade level students are introduced to and explore: rhythm, melody, harmony, tone, expression, and style. As children study these concepts, they develop voice, music reading, listening, moving, and creativity.

Physical Education: Students in Grades Kg2 Gr.5, participate in a developmental program where they are involved in a wide range of safe, physical activities.

Our

students

will: perform a wide variety of gross motor and fundamental motor skills. perform a variety of sports related activities. perform a variety of gymnastic skills, in a safe manner. participate in activities to increase muscular strength, muscular endurance and flexibility. demonstrate fair play and cooperation.

ALL Students Kg2 Gr. 5 are required to wear the designated AIS R ES PE uniform on days in which they have PE. ES PE uniforms can be purchased from the ES office.


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Integrated Technology: Technology integration gives students a solid, yet practical, foundation in basic computer skills through theuse of a broad range of software in all subjects of study, especially language arts, science, social studies and math. Students learn to use standard tools such as word, web 2.0, spreadsheets and graphics programs; to explore multimedia software and associated peripherals; and to acquire such fundamental skills as keyboarding and the use of appropriate computer vocabulary.

Food Services Dining Hall: Dining Hall services are offered to Grades 1 5 for lunch. A menu is sent home at the beginning of each month outlining the food offering for each day. The menu can also be accessed on Moodle.

Kg2s eat their lunch in the Dining Hall but must bring their own lunch from home.

All children need to bring their own snacks for their snack break (ECE 9:35 am; UES 9:50 am)

Students are supervised in the Dining Hall at all times by Educational Assistants and a Dining Hall Supervisor.

All lunches are purchased through the AIS R finance office and the amount is credited to the students ID card.The cost is 16 SR per lunch but a minimum deposit of 200 SR in finance is required. Parents are responsible foradding monies to their credit lunch account. A parent can access their childs lunch account via Skyward.

When a student's hot lunch account slips into the negative balance, a Skyward message is automatically sent home to the parent informing them of the negative account. In addition, the Elementary Dining Hall staff sends paper IOU tickets home with each child via the grade level EA.

Any student who chooses to eat hot lunch and has exceeded a negative balance of 48 SR or more will eat

lunch

in

the

ES

Office.

The

ES

Office

will

call

home

to

inform

the

parents. Any credit left at the end of the year will roll over to next year for returning students, and withdrawing students may obtain a refund for any leftover funds from the Finance Office at the end of the year.

All ID cards are kept in the Dining Hall and distributed daily prior to lunch.

Indoor and outdoor hand washing facilities are available.

Lunch card sharing between friends is not allowed.

All children need to bring their own snacks for their snack break.

Everyone is expected to follow the Dining Hall rules to ensure order and safety. This includes but is not limited

to

the

following:

Use walking feet Listen and respond to adult directions for dismissal Keep your place in line (no cutting) Use indoor voices Use manners while eating Stay seated Keep your eating place clean Raise your hand to leave your seat and if you need help Clean as you go: Throw away your waste into the garbage can


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No cash purchases are allowed in the ES Dining Hall Food may be warmed in the Dining Hall but not made such as popcorn, instant noodles etc. Food and drinks are only allowed in the Dining Hall or the classrooms during snack. No food or drinks

are allowed on the playground or the building hallways.

Guidelines for

Snacks

and

Lunches

All Children need to bring their own snacks for their snack break.

Nutritious snacks are essential to keep students energy at appropriate levels to keep them satisfied and attentive to the learning tasks at hand. Sweets and foods with a high level of sugar provide false bursts of energy and may leave students hungry and sometimes irritable. Please find below healthy suggestions for snacks and lunches.

Crunchy: Fresh whole fruits such as apples and grapes Crunchy crudities of veggies such as carrots , celery, cucumbers and peppers alone or with a dip Rice cakes Lightly flavored or plain popcorn Wholegrain pretzels Sugar free cereal Peanut butter (use non hydrogenated brand) Nuts

Sweet :

Fresh, whole fruits such as peaches, apples, mangoes, kiwis, strawberries, grapes and plums Plain or fruit yogurt Dates, dried fruits, coconut water Freshly squeezed fruit juices (make your own and bring them in a bottle) Organic dark chocolate Jam sandwiches Homemade breads Homemade cupcakes Homemade muffins

Salty: Olives, Pickles Tabouli, hummus Boiled eggs Whole wheat tortilla chips Baked chips Cheese cubes


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arrangements with another adult. We cannot keep sick children for prolonged periods in the Nurses Office. Please assist by picking up your child promptly once you are notified of an illness or injury.

A student will be sent home in the event of: A. a fever of 100 F or above.

B. Vomiting.

C. persistent diarrhea.

D. injury or illness of a serious nature that the nurse determines a doctor's attention is required.

E. any contagious disease (e.g. "Pink Eye" or conjunctivitis with symptoms such as drainage from the eye, redness, swelling, burning, itching or runny eyes). They must see a physician and start on treatment before coming back to school.

F. head lice or pediculosis. Removal of all nits must be done before the student will be allowed to return to school. The student will report to the nurses' office before returning to their class so that they can be checked. If nits are found, they will be sent home.

G. a severe rash that cannot be identified. Students must see their physician for rash diagnosis and treatment.

For Preschool/Daycare: Any child with any of the following will be sent home.

Green or yellow discharge from the nose or eyes Vomiting A temperature 100 F or above Lethargic behavior Complaints of discomfort or pain which does not go away after a rest

These guidelines are for the well being of your child, as well as for the safety of the other students and staff.

The nurse may not excuse a student from PE. Should the nurse feel that a student is unable to participate thatday, the nurse may send a note to the PE teacher stating so, but the final decision becomes the responsibility of the PE teacher. Parents may ask that their child be excused from PE through a letter to the PE teacher, indicating the reason(s) for the request.

Medications: The school nurse must administer all medication that is taken during school hours. Medicines are administered to the students only with written permission from the doctor or the parents. Any prescription drugs required by a student during school hours must be given to the nurse complete with the students name, class, time and dose to be given. The nurse administers all medications. All medicines must be left at the nurses office unless special arrangements have been made with the nurse. Misuse of prescribed drugs is considered an act subject to disciplinary action. It is extremely important to complete the health form which isrevised yearly.

Communicable Diseases: Common childhood diseases can easily be communicated through a classroom. It is very important that parents notify the school as soon as a doctor has diagnosed a student with a communicable disease.

Early reporting helps the school alert the parents of students who may have been exposed to the disease, which, in turn, can help control the spread of the particular disease.

If a student is diagnosed with a contagious disease, he/she can return to school after a written permission from his/her doctor. The note needs to be sent to the Nurses Office prior to returning to class.


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Emergency Parent Contact : It is extremely important that we have up to date emergency numbers and information on each child . If youare unable to provide us with this complete information at the time you register your child, or if the information changes, please contact us. To update or change emergency information already on file, please call the Elementary Office, the school nurse, email [email protected], or update the information in your Skyward account.

Thank you for being a responsible parent!

Policies and Procedures

Parent Conduct and Communicating Concerns: When faced with a potentially concerning situation, parents are asked to be proactive, communicate effectively and keep in mind AIS R's uniqueness and independence as a school entering its 51st year in

existence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. We recognize that not all parents will understand every policy or school rule, but ask that parents follow the appropriate channel of communication and ask questions or submit suggestions to AIS R faculty and administration in an open, constructive and positive manner at the appropriate time and place.

Classroom concerns should first be directed to the teacher who is most closely involved with understanding and assisting with a parent concern. When a concern has not been adequately resolved to a parent's satisfaction, they may then be addressed with the appropriate principal, in the child's designated division. If a parent is seeking advice about a broader issue or concern, s/he may seek the counsel of the Director of Educational Advancement. If a problem is not resolved to a parent's satisfaction, the issue may then be addressed to the Superintendent, but only after the parent has first gone through the appropriate channels of

communication (i.e. addressed with the AIS R employee most directly related to the concern, and the principalthereafter). Concerns relating to School Board Policy may be addressed in written form to the Superintendent,who will forward the concern to the Board of Trustees for consideration. AIS R does not accept anonymous letters, chain letters, or petitions as these would contravene Board Policy and Saudi Arabian law.


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Parent EAGLE Behavior and Addressing Concerns With AISR Faculty Members and Following the above AIS R Communication Flowchart, parents may address concerns with AIS R faculty members through email or a scheduled meeting. At no time should an AIS R faculty member be approached toaddress concerns during instructional time with students or outside of school hours unless appropriately scheduled.

At all times, AIS R parents are required to act in a respectful and positive mission driven "partnership" in solving a problem or issue. As valued community members, AIS R expects all parents to adhere to the principles of the AIS R Eagle Honor Code and Board Policy. If a parent chooses to act or react in a manner that does not uphold these values and principles, the teacher, principal or Superintendent will cease the interaction and/or meeting and reschedule to another date when the parent is able to act in a manner that is consistent with expectations of the organization. Positive, respectful communication is always the primary focus of all meetings between parents and AIS R employees.

If a parent repeatedly chooses to behave in a manner that does not honor AIS R's values and principles, and/or is not in line with Board policy, they will be subject to a Superintendent and Board of Trustees review, which could result in a written censure or termination of their child's enrollment at AIS R. As a private, independent school, the AIS R Board has the right to determine enrollment continuation or termination of anyfamily who does not follow school expectations. Past instances of immediate action have included issues of slander (i.e. making false and damaging statements against an employee or community member), malicious gossip, harmful acts and accusations that negatively impact the reputation of the school. As a matter of process, the Superintendent will review and assess the situation and inform the Board accordingly with detailsof the misconduct, to include a recommendation.

After School Activities: The After School Activities Program offers a wide range of activities for students in Grades 1 5. Most of the activities are designed by individual teachers and are aimed at specific grade levels. These activities are in areas of sports and recreation, arts and crafts, computers, drama, and enrichment. The minimum number of participants in an ASA is 10. If there are not 10 students in the ASA, it will be cancelled. The opportunity for

your child to participate in an alternative ASA may be possible but limited due to occupancy.

Information regarding this exciting program will be issued to the students periodically throughout the school year. Confirmation of student enrollment in an ASA is communicated to the parents. Transportation at 3:55pmis the responsibility of parents. Some compounds provide bus transportation for ASA days.

Students staying after school have to stay in the Learning Commons if not enrolled in any activity or taking after school learning with their teachers. Students are not permitted to roam the campus during after school hours.

If a students transportation is continually late, the student may be withdrawn from the ASA program.

Animals/Pets in the Classroom: Students are discouraged from bringing their pets to spend the day at school. If, with teacher permission, theywish to show their pet to the class it must be with the understanding that someone can take the pet home shortly after it has been shown. Parents must accompany the animal at all times. An animal cannot be on campus for more than 2 hours. No poisonous or biting animals are permissible on the campus at any time. Any animal bite should be reported to the school nurse immediately.


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Birthdays and Special Events: If a homeroom teacher schedules a special activity, the teacher will notify the parents in advance. If parents determine that a child should not participate in any of these activities, parents should notify the homeroom teacher and alternative activities will be arranged. To honor AIS R EAGLE Honor Code and Being models of healthy living the following Health Policy Guidelines are enforced:

Birthdays will only be celebrated during snack/recess or the last 15 minutes of homeroom and are keptsimple. No birthday celebrations are permitted in the Dining Hall or other shared, common space and no outside entertainment is allowed.

The celebration of birthdays may take many different forms and may not include food. If a birthday is celebrated with a healthy treat (see p.14), the homeroom teacher must be informed. Healthy treatsare limited to individual servings and must be pre cut/bagged prior to the celebration (i.e. healthy muffins, Orange Slices, pre bagged raisins etc.). Healthy foods only .

All treats must be labeled for allergy purposes, specifically for NUTS.

Campus Access: For safety and security issues, the AIS R campus, exclusive of shared facilities with Al Bustan Village, cannot be

accessed by students, or their families for any reason other than official AIS R school business beyond school operating hours. Outside of school hours, AIS R is not responsible for the safety of individuals on the AIS R campus. AIS R school hours are defined 7:20 4:00 from Sunday to Thursday, in addition to the scheduled hours of any AIS R sponsored event such as, but not limited to, sporting events, PTSO events, performances, testing, etc.

Parental Access During the School Day: When entering campus, parents will be required to use their official AIS R ID or another form of identification. While parents are encouraged to Learn With Us and are welcome on campus to participate in organized

events,

we

kindly

request

that

they

not

interrupt

classroom

activities,

recess/break

times,

or

participate

in

student lunch time in any way.

Beyond organized events, parents must call ahead or report to the respective divisional office and schedule appointments to access AIS R faculty and/or staff members. During school hours, parents may not access theirchild without notifying the divisional office and receiving permission from the divisional Principal as this tends to be disruptive to the learning environment. This will allow AIS R to maintain a high level of student safety, focused learning, and campus security.

Child Maltreatment and Protection Regulation:

AIS R supports child advocacy rights and protection. Reports of maltreatment will be taken seriously and investigated. Maltreatment is defined as physical, sexual, and verbal abuse or neglect. Local authorities and/or parent employers/sponsor will be notified if maltreatment is verified. Please be a responsible citizen and notify the school principal if you are aware of a child being mistreated. Early counseling, guidance, and intervention can stop child maltreatment. AIS R has a child protection policy that is strictly enforced.

Dress Code: AIS R takes pride in the appearance of its students. We know that student dress and appearance are directly related to school atmosphere, student conduct and the quality of schoolwork. In keeping with the traditions


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and customs of the host country, modesty in school attire must be maintained. It is impossible to develop guidelines for every fad regarding dress and appearance. Please use the following guidelines in selecting appropriate clothing and determining a suitable appearance for your child.

Clothing worn to school must be clean, well maintained and loose fitting. Boys and girls must keep pants on their hips without bare midriff or buttocks exposed. Modesty must prevail.

Clothing must be without rips, tears, or holes. Clothing that displays offensive or distracting pictures or words or adult advertising will not be

permitted. Clothes should be age appropriate! Shirts, blouses or dresses must have sleeves that cover the shoulders and upper arms. (Gr.3 5) Shorts, dresses or skirts may be no higher than the top of the knee (Gr.3 5). For safety, students should wear secure footwear to school. Shoes that stay on the feet are best

for play and running at school. Caps and hats may be worn outside and removed once inside the school buildings. Sunscreen is

highly recommended! ALL Students Kg2 Gr. 5 are required to wear the designated AIS R ES PE uniform on days in which

they have PE. ES PE uniforms can be purchased from either the ES Office or the Eagles Nest.

In general, these dress guidelines are in place both to conform to our host countrys traditions and to maintainan academic learning climate for our school. Students with dress or appearance that does not conform to these guidelines will not be permitted to attend class. The school administration reserves the right to make the final decision on any questions regarding appropriate dress or appearance. Parent support and understanding for the above guidelines is needed and greatly appreciated.

Eagles Nest: The Eagles Nest is a school sponsored store that sells a variety of school related items including school PE uniforms, t shirts, sweatshirts, pencils, notebooks, water bottles, and other miscellaneous items. Store hours are posted on Moodle. Elementary school students are welcome to make purchases at the Eagles Nest but must be accompanied by an adult.

Elevator Usage: Elevator usage is restricted to only those individuals who have authorization from school administration. Authorization will be granted based on individual health necessities.

Field Trips: Curriculum related field trips are organized during the year. School faculty chaperon students on such trips. Parent volunteers may join if requested by the school staff organizing the trip. Students must ride in the provided school transportation to and from the field trip. All students must be picked up from school after a field trip and not from the field trip location. For a student to attend a field trip, all necessary forms must be signed and submitted on time. A child may not be given permission due to behavior concerns, academic concerns, or excessive absences. The homeroom teacher has the final say on whether a child can participate ina field trip due to any (or all) of the aforementioned concerns as documented in prior parent communication. A parent will be notified 72 hours in advance if a child is unable to participate in a field trip.


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Guardianship: A form is included in the appendix of this booklet and can be found on the blog , http://blogs.ais r.edu.sa/jcanar/ , for parent(s) to sign and grant temporary guardianship to another adult when the parent(s) is out of the city/country. Parents must do this for emergency purposes. The appointed guardian must sign the form and submitted to the ES Office before the date of travel.

Language Policy: English is the primary language of instruction at AIS R. As a result, students are expected to speak English while at school to be mindful of our communitys shared common language. We believe that language plays acentral role in not only the academic, but also the social and cognitive development of our students. We also believe that language plays a significant role in the development of community identity and inclusion.

Lost and Found: Parents are requested to clearly label their students belongings (i.e. clothing, book bag, lunch container, water bottle) with the name and grade to facilitate the return of missing items. Unclaimed Lost and Found

items

are

donated

to

charitable

agencies.

On Campus Events: Guests : Guests other than immediate family members can attend AIS R events. However, we have a one AIS R student, one guest policy. Requests to bring a guest must be submitted to the principal a minimum of three days before the event. The inviting family must attend with the guest and stay with the guest while on campus.

Filming events: Student assemblies, performances, and events may be recorded by AIS R and a copy of this footage may be available on request. Adult guests for student assemblies and performances are permitted to take video recordings of the performance solely for their own use and enjoyment. We ask that video recordings of student performances not be posted on the Internet or video sharing and social networking sites.

Middle School/High School performances: Tickets must be purchased for all MS/HS performance from the respective divisional office prior to the event. All ES Students and their guests must be accompanied by and AIS R school parent.

Parents as Role Models: While AIS R strongly encourages parents to attend events on campus, such as Back to School Nights, Parent Teacher Conferences, assemblies, sporting events or performances, it should be noted that AIS R expects parents to be positive role models at all times while on campus, especially when in the presence of students. Furthermore, parents are expected to adhere to and support all AIS R rules and policies as detailed by the AISR Board of Trustees, Leadership Team, and Student Parent Handbooks, especially in relation to student absences, dress code, expected student behavior, campus visitation and operating hours.


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Prayer Room: ES provides a supervised prayer area for students wishing to pray. Prayer is permitted during non academic times only.

Proper Storage of Modes of Transportation: Bicycles, roller blades, wagons, skateboards, scooters (or any wheeled vehicle) are not permitted on the AIS R

campus, unless as part of an authorized school activity . All bikes must be appropriately stowed and locked in the designated bike racks outside the AIS R school gate. All non lockable modes of transportation need to remain at home. AIS R will not be responsible for lost or damaged modes of transportation.

Resource Room: In an effort to continue to offer our students the necessary resources for their learning, AIS R has established a digital resource inventory system to keep track of borrowed textbooks and other resources. Each division has a resource room with a check out system, and all learning resources will be checked out using this system.

You will be notified immediately if your child has lost a book and requires a second copy. If a book is lost or damaged beyond repair during the school year, students are responsible for paying the replacement cost. A new book cannot be checked out until the lost/damaged book is paid for. A receipt will be issued and will be required for refund purposes in case a resource is found later. At the end of the year, all resources checked out must be returned in the same condition as they were loaned (except for normal wear). Students who check out materials from the Resource Room are responsible for returning the same copy at the end of the year (according to the barcodes). If a different copy is returned, the copy checked out will be considered lost unless it is found or turned in by another student. If resources are not found, fines will be assigned, report cards and school records will be held, and access to Skyward will be blocked until they are paid.

Safety:

Emergency drills are held during the school year to practice procedures and behavior necessary in emergency situations.

Student Placement: It is the practice of AIS R elementary school to observe newly enrolled and placed students closely for at least three weeks to determine whether she/he has been appropriately placed. If a teacher, counselor, and/or administration feel the grade placement is not appropriate or the AIS R program does not meet the childs needs, the school reserves the right to review the case for possible reassignment or no program.

Student Supplies: The school provides textbooks, workbooks, materials and some supplies necessary for instruction. Students are expected to care for them as if they were their own and are liable for loss. Supplies are needed prior to thefirst day of school for students in Grades Kg2 Gr.5. A supply list is available in the ES office, Admissions office, and the aisr.org website. When required, supplies such as writers notebooks, book bags, and music recorderswill be purchased through the respective teacher, and you will be charged accordingly.


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Telephone Usage: Due to limited phone lines and a limited number of office personnel, student use of school phones must be foremergency use and not to arrange personal visits with friends after school. Cell phones may not be on during school hours and will be confiscated if ringing during class time.

Toys, Electronic Games, and Other Treasures :

Toys must stay at home unless arranged with the classroom teacher for show and tell. Knives of any kind, toy guns, squirt guns, or sharp objects do not belong at school at any time. All personal items of value should not be sent to school, because we cannot guarantee the safety of such items. Consequently, we discourage students from bringing special personal items to school such as electronic games, sports equipment, jewelry, or motorized cars, etc. The school will not be held accountable for missing or broken personal items. We ask students to share their special items with friends at home and not bring them to school. If a cell phone, tablet,or other digital device is brought to school, it must remain in the childs backpack unless being used in the classroom under teacher supervision. In this case a BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) Student Agreement Form has been signed and submitted by the parent.

Volunteers: We are pleased to welcome parent volunteers in our school. All volunteers must clear security and sign in at the Admissions Office and collect a Volunteer badge. All volunteers must wear their Volunteer badge at alltimes. Many parents work directly with the classroom teacher and volunteer numerous hours of their time. Prior to volunteering in a classroom, parents will need to make arrangements with the teacher and inform the divisional office, so as not to disrupt instructional time. Visitor cell phone use in the classroom is not permitted.

Withdrawal: Parents who plan to withdraw their children from AIS R must complete the Withdrawal Notification form found on AIS Rs website at least two weeks prior to the students last day of attendance. It is located at http://www.aisr.org/ms/withdrawal notification.html. Each withdrawing student will receive an official and unofficial final transcript, their original health form and a letter of attendance. Additional copies of officialdocuments and Ministry of Education attestation may be ordered at http://www.aisr.org/hs/ordering transcripts/ordering transcripts.html. Report cards for the childs last completed quarter are available. No report cards are issued prior to the end of the quarter. If a student is withdrawing before the end of the 4th quarter, a final report card will be issued if the student has been in attendance at least 20 days of the 4 th quarter. In such cases, a grade for Specialists may not be listed for Q.4 due to limited attendance.

Youth, Alumni and Non Parent Visitors To AISR: After checking into campus with appropriate ID, all youth, Alumni and non Parent visitors must report to the respective divisional office for campus access and require prior permission to visit with an AIS R student. Visitswill only be permitted during scheduled lunch times. Note: See On Campus Events for guidelines regarding youth visitors for after school events.


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Support Program

At AIS R, we believe that all students can flourish when given time, guided practice, and encouragement.teachers, K 5, differentiate instruction and assessment practices to best meet the needs of their students. Oncstudent has been accepted, the schools practice is to accommodate student learning needs to as great an extas possible. The elementary school offers a Counseling Program, an English Language Learner program, an

Literacy

Support

Group

program.

Also

teachers

offer

After

School

Learning

sessions

on

a

regular

basis

aschool. While teachers and counselors provide additional support, AIS R does not have a Special Needs Prograor provide significant additional support for students who have exceptional needs, nor offers a selective progrfor gifted children.

Counseling program: Counselors are an integral part of the educational team at AIS R. There is a counselor at both ECE (Kg1 Gr.2)and UES (Gr.3 5) levels. Counselors at AIS R are trained to provide short term individual and group counselingto address mental, physical, social, and emotional concerns that may be impacting students learning and/ortheir well being. Counselors confer with teachers and parents regarding strategies to ensure optimum learning

potential of the student. If a student requires additional assistance, counselors can assist with locatingresources outside of school. AIS R counselors offer support and information to parents in a variety of ways:individual meetings, emails, newsletter, parent forums, and Moodle. Parents are encouraged to conferencewith their childs counselor by phone, email, or in person regarding any aspect of their childs well being atAIS R.

Classroom Counseling: During the school year, counselors conduct classroom guidance lessons from the Second Step Counselingprogram on topics that include empathy, problem solving, and anger management. Counselors alsoconduct lessons about Personal Safety following the Speak Up, Be Safe. They meet each homeroom once asix day cycle. This provides the students with an opportunity to know their counselor and affords thecounselor an opportunity to better know the students. Counselors also promote the AIS R Eagle HonorCode which encourages students to be Ethical, Adaptable, Global, Learning, and Environmental.

Child Study Team (CST) Meetings and Parent Conferences: Counselors, together with teachers, parents, and administrators, work collaboratively to find the mosteffective methods to help each child reach his/her academic potential. This partnership is the cornerstoneof our program. At times, a Child Study Team (CST) is required to discuss individual students and todevelop effective strategies and/or monitor their effectiveness in order to ensure the students success inthe classroom. All CST meetings include the respective grade level counselor.

Individual Counseling: Students may be referred by parents, teachers or they may self refer to the counselor for counseling on anindividual basis. If the problem or issue requiring counseling is easily resolved in a short time, then thecounselor will schedule time to work with the student. If the problem is more serious or complex and islikely to require long term counseling, the counselor will provide the family with names and contactinformation for private counselors available in Riyadh.


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English Language Learner Program: The ELL program at AIS R recognizes the contribution of international students to the education of allstudents. In the context of our rapidly changing world, the interaction between students of differinggeographical, national, ethnic, and linguistic backgrounds provides the basis for future understanding andcooperation. The common task of learning English as an additional language unites ELL students in theiracademic pursuits and at the same time provides them with the skills to interact with the larger Englishspeaking community of the world. The ELL teachers determine entry to and exit from the program through

various assessment methods.

Learning Support Program: We believe that each child has individual and unique needs and some students require more support thanothers. If these students are to reach their full potential w

es student-parent handbook 2014-2015

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