ISSP School Handbook

SCHOOL HANDBOOK

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SCHOOL HANDBOOK - International School Saigon Pearl

CONTENTS

MISSION, VALUES, BELIEFS, VISION .....................................................................GENERAL INFORMATION ........................................................................................FACULTY AND ADMINISTRATION ...........................................................................SCHOOL PROCEDURES AND INFORMATION ........................................................Accreditation .............................................................................................................Admissions ...............................................................................................................After-School Activities Program (ASAP) ....................................................................Attendance Policy .....................................................................................................Birthday Parties, Celebrations and Invitations ..........................................................Change of Contact Information .................................................................................Dress Code ...............................................................................................................Elevators ...................................................................................................................Emergency Drills .......................................................................................................English Language Learners (ELL) .............................................................................English Language Policy ...........................................................................................Expected School-Wide Learning Results (ESLRs) ....................................................Field Trips .................................................................................................................Food Services ...........................................................................................................Health Services ........................................................................................................Helping your Child to Succeed..................................................................................Homework Policy ......................................................................................................Information Technology .............................................................................................ISSP Website ............................................................................................................Library Media Center ................................................................................................Lost and Found .........................................................................................................Newsletter .................................................................................................................Open House ..............................................................................................................Parent-Teacher Conferences ....................................................................................Performances ...........................................................................................................Report Cards ............................................................................................................Special Dress Days...................................................................................................Standardized Testing and Assessment .....................................................................Student Code of Conduct..........................................................................................Student Council ........................................................................................................Student Supplies and Kits .........................................................................................Textbooks .................................................................................................................Travelling Parents .....................................................................................................Tutoring ..................................................................................................................... Appendix 1: Recommendations For Students With Diagnosed Infectious Diseases ............Appendix 2: School Handbook Signature Form ........................................................Appendix 3: Trip Permission Form ............................................................................

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Dear ISSP Families,

It is with great pleasure that we warmly welcome you to The International School Saigon Pearl, and we encourage you to peruse this School Handbook carefully. Our purpose at ISSP is to work with our families to pursue your hopes and dreams for your children within a caring and engaging learning environment that attends to the needs of each and every student.

We hope that this handbook will enhance our partnership by sharing clear information concerning our expectations, practices, and procedures. Parents are a vital part of our school community. We encourage all members of our school community, students, parents, and staff, to communicate honestly and respectfully with a common goal to achieve personal excellence in every student.

The signature of our school is A culture of caring within an engaging learning environment. We believe all students can achieve and be leaders in their special areas of interest. ISSP is fun and engaging while we provide students with a depth and breadth of learning opportunities that prepare them for the 21st century. To ensure access to our world class American international curriculum, we have specialized services for students including:

The English Language Learner (ELL) Program for students with little English proficiency

The Talent Development Program aligned to Johns Hopkins University Center for Talented Youth

ISHCMC American Academy counseling support for families and students transitioning from ISSP to the American Academy’s college preparatory program.

ISSP facilities are purpose-built, with technology integrated across the curriculum and blended into school life. Students have online learning opportunities to enhance classroom instruction. State of the art facilities will connect ISSP students to the wider world of education with activities designed to enhance the learning experience.

ISSP is also unique in its curriculum design. We have developed a program of best practice in American international education enhanced by advantages traditional to the Vietnamese education system with a program of Chinese Language studies starting as early as Kindergarten.

Our highly qualified faculty is committed to seeing each child progress in strong literacy and numeracy skills while nurturing the development of your child’s character. Art, music, physical education, aquatics, Vietnamese (for Vietnamese passport holders), Host Country Studies and Mandarin are taught by specialists.

We are delighted to welcome you to the ISSP community and we very much look forward to creating fabulous memories with you over this school year and beyond.

Yours in education,

Jeff Wornstaff Lois MareSuperintendent Campus Principal

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MISSION, VALUES, BELIEFS, VISIONMission

A caring and engaging learning environment, nurturing confident and creative learners for future success.

Values

At ISSP, we work with students to encourage the following values:

»Developing Cooperation »Demonstrating Ethics »Preserving Cultural Heritage »Living a Healthy Lifestyle »Accepting Responsibility »Appreciating Aesthetics

Beliefs

At ISSP, we are committed to providing a dynamic learning community focusing on student success for all.

We Believe In:

»Creating joy in learning »Contributing to the artistic, athletic, intellectual, creative and social growth of children »Valuing traditions and cultural diversity »Protecting the environment »Providing a quality American standards-based curriculum »Embracing best teaching practices » Identifying and developing the potential in each child »Enabling students to transfer successfully to other schools in the US and abroad

Vision

To inspire personal excellence in caring environment

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GENERAL INFORMATIONParents are encouraged to communicate directly via e-mail, the student communication book or planner or by requesting a scheduled appointment with their child’s teacher as the need arises. If you wish to speak to the teacher in the morning, kindly do so between 7:45 - 8:00 am. At 8:00 am the teachers begin student instruction. Questions about the school’s programs and services should first be directed to the child’s teacher and then, if the question requires further clarification, to the Campus Principal.

In the early childhood section, kindergarten and first grade, teachers use a communication book that goes back and forth between school and home. Please check this book daily for information related to your child. You are encouraged to write comments to the teacher if there is significant information that needs to be shared. Students from third through fifth grade will use Edmodo to record information and homework. Parents are asked to check their child’s communication book and Edmodo nightly to make sure that he/she is keeping it up-to-date and completing the required work. You may be requested to sign to acknowledge that your child has completed the homework and reading assigned.

We believe that a strong partnership between home and school is essential to the development of ISSP students and to the success of our school community as a whole.

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TEACHER RESPONSIBILITIES SCHOOL EMAILS TEACHING ASSISTANTS

1 Ms. Lois Mare Campus Principal [email protected]

2 Ms. Tran Thi Phi Yen Admissions/Business/Operations Director

[email protected]

3 Ms. Le Thi Lien Hoan Vietnamese Director [email protected]

4 Ms. Elizabeth Hinson English Language Learning (ELL) teacher

[email protected]

5 Ms. Jessica Maley English Language Learning (ELL) teacher (Part time)

[email protected]

6 Ms. Claire Connor Librarian [email protected] Ms. Thuy (Tracy)

7 Ms. Anna Santos Butterflies Pre-Nursery [email protected] Ms. Thuong Ms. Trang

8 Ms. Lanie Nacario Bumble Bees Nursery [email protected] Ms. Ha Ms. Dung

9 Ms. Cathie Turek Pre-School [email protected] Ms. Ngan Ms. Ngoc

10 Ms. Brenna Milroy Pre-School [email protected] Ms. Xuan Ms. Ngoc

11 Ms. Carolyn Hancock Pre-Kindergarten [email protected] Ms. Tram

12 Mr. Bruce Delaney Pre-Kindergarten [email protected] Ms. Duyen

13 Ms. Stephanie Short Kindergarten [email protected] Ms. Lam

14 Ms. Vicky Lusk Kindergarten [email protected] Ms. Bich

15 Mr. Todd Aydelott 1st Grade [email protected] Ms. Mai

16 Mr Ethan King 1st Grade [email protected] Ms. My

17 Ms. Alisha Holdbrook 2nd Grade [email protected] Ms. Thy

18 Ms. Krisy Yeager 3rd Grade [email protected] Ms. Van

19 Mr. Tim Yeager 4th Grade [email protected] Ms. Tran

20 Mr. Tom Schneider 5th Grade [email protected] Ms. Chung

21 Ms. Jess Worden Art Teacher [email protected] Ms. Loc

22 Ms. Takayo Nakai Music Teacher [email protected]

23 Mr Jerett Knoblock P.E./Aquatics Teacher [email protected]

24 Ms. Gao Hong Mandarin Teacher [email protected]

25 Ms. Le Thi Thanh Thuy Host Country Studies [email protected]

26 Mr. Luu Le Minh Trung Vietnamese Teacher [email protected]

27 Ms. Le Minh Ha Vietnamese Teacher [email protected]

28 Ms. Huynh Thi Khanh Phung HOS Assistant [email protected]

29 Ms. Nguyen Thi Quoc Hung Nurse [email protected]

30 Ms. Thao School Bus Coordinator/Store [email protected]

31 Ms. Ho Vinh Quang Accountant (payroll) [email protected]

32 Mr. Tran Duc Hai Facility Manager [email protected]

33 Mr. Pham Duc Huy HR Officer [email protected]

FACULTY AND ADMINISTRATION

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SCHOOL PROCEDURES AND INFORMATIONAccreditation

In April, 2011, ISSP hosted an initial visit from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Accrediting Commission for Schools. As a result of the successful visit, we received candidacy status. It is rare for schools in the first year to receive such an honor. Accreditation ensures that we deliver a safe, quality educational program that is recognized internationally. Students may successfully transfer to other international schools and to schools in USA and other countries. In addition, ISSP has partnered with the Cognita Global Network of Schools and has a through school relationship with the International School Ho Chi Minh City (ISHCMC) - American Academy Grade 6-12 college preparatory program. ISHCMC-American Academy is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), and the Council for International Schools (CIS).

Admissions

International School Saigon Pearl welcomes students of all nationalities and passports to apply for enrollment. ISSP does not admit students if a program appropriate to their needs cannot be accommodated. ISSP accepts students who can be successful in the regular academic program.

Students will be formally admitted to ISSP when the following steps have been completed:

»Admission interview with Campus Principal »Grade 1-5 non-native speakers of English complete the entrance test »Application form and fee completed and paid »Copy of student passport or birth certificate submitted »Annual health check-up completed and stamped by doctor or hospital »Medical report and immunization record supplied; Along with 2 passport photos »Campus Principal reviews application and makes a final decision on admission »Parents are notified of the student’s placement and given a start date »Tuition fee is paid before student attends class

Entrance Age Requirement

AGE AS OF AUGUST 31 OR PREREQUISITE GRADE18 months Pre-Nursery2 years Nursery3 years Pre-School4 years Pre-Kindergarten5 years Kindergarten6 years Grade 1Completion of Gr. 1* Grade 2Completion of Gr. 2* Grade 3Completion of Gr. 3* Grade 4Completion of Gr. 4* Grade 5Completion of Gr. 5* Entry to ISHCMC-American Academy Grade 6Note: * Successful completion at an accredited school and aligned to American curriculum Standards.

After-School Activities Program (ASAP)

Activities are offered to students after school by community members, parents, and staff. The activities offered depend on the interests and abilities of our community. An after-school snack is offered for students remaining for the ASAP. Activities begin at 3:15 pm. Parents must make arrangements to pick up students at 4:00 pm.

Attendance Policy

Consistent school attendance is of primary concern to our school. We believe that every minute a child spends in school is important. In many cases, difficulties in school can be directly linked to absenteeism.

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Students are expected to be at school on time every day unless they are ill. Students should remain in school until the end of all classes. Additionally, we expect families to plan travel only during scheduled school vacations. Please refer to the school calendar when making travel arrangements.

School Hours

Classes begin promptly at 8:00 am. The campus opens to students at 7:30am for breakfast; students may enter the classroom after 7:45 am. Dismissal time is 3:00pm. Students may remain after school if they are registered in an after-school program.

Students who are picked up by parents or drivers should be met promptly at the end of the school day. Students are to be picked up at the designated dismissal area, not at their classroom doors - with the exception of Pre-Nursery through Kindergarten students, who must be picked up at their classrooms by an adult showing an identification card. Student safety is our first concern in establishing these guidelines.

Absence

Parents are requested to inform the school office by phone, email or communication book on or before the day of absence if possible. If the absence is prolonged, parents of grade 1-5 students should contact the teacher(s) by e-mail or leave a request at the office for class work and homework assignments.

Dismissal Before End of School Day

If it is necessary for a student to leave school before the end of the day, parents must send a note to the teacher stating the reason for early dismissal and identifying the individual who will pick up the student. The student should be met in the office so she/he can be signed out and the adult issued with a gate pass.

Leaving the Campus

Students are expected to remain on the school campus for the duration of the school day. If a student is to depart before the regular dismissal time, parents are requested to send a note to the teacher with the student. The student must obtain a gate pass from the office to leave school. For security reasons, please do not make these requests by telephone.

Tardiness

It is important for all students to arrive at school on time. If your child is late, he/she must pick up a tardy slip from the Campus Principal’s office. Teachers begin the day with a morning meeting that outlines procedures for the day. Students who miss this often are unaware of the day’s expectations. Tardiness of even one student hinders the learning of all students in the class.

Transportation Students have the following options for travel to and from school:

»Bus service is provided by ISSP for an extra fee, subject to availability of space. Please contact the Admissions Office to arrange transportation or email: [email protected]

»Private cars, car pools, privately contracted services, and taxis

»Students who live in Saigon Pearl: Please walk carefully from the residences to the school. Guards are available to assist with crossings. Younger children should be accompanied by an adult. Grade 3-5 students may walk home if parents sign a permission form for this purpose.

» If a parent wishes to make a change in the regular arrangement for his child’s transportation home, it is essential that the parent send a note or email to the Admissions Office requesting the change and explaining the details of the change and the reason for it. An additional email to Ms. Khanh Phung ([email protected]), the Campus Principal’s administrative assistant, is also recommended. Once again, the safety of children is our first concern in establishing this guideline. If your child travels by school bus, please email or call.

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Birthday Parties, Celebrations and Invitations

Student birthday celebrations may be held in conjunction with the snack period, lunch period, or near the end of the school day. Parents are asked to keep celebrations simple and to first check all plans with the classroom teacher in advance. The teacher will cooperate with the parent in assisting with the celebration. We ask that if a birthday cake or other food treats are brought to school, that there is a sufficient amount for all students in the class and that plates, napkins, and cutlery are provided as well. Please do not send gifts (loot bags) for each child in the class. This often creates a disruption and leads to competitive aspects that we wish to avoid. Invitations to private parties may be distributed at school ONLY if all children in the class are invited.

Change of Contact Information

Inform the office in writing if you change your mailing address, telephone number, e-mail address, work contact number, and/or emergency contact information.

Dress CodeAll ISSP students are required to wear the official ISSP uniform to promote an image of ISSP students looking neat, smart, and respectful. All uniform items must be purchased at the school.

ISSP uniform: »Shirts »Shorts »Cargo Pants »Skirts (girls) »Hats

In addition:

»Shoes must be neat, safe, and appropriate for the activities of the school day. »Hats are required for all outdoor activities. »Hats and headscarves must be removed inside the school building unless worn for cultural or religious reasons. »P.E. clothes may be worn to school on P.E. days.

Dress for Physical Education (P.E.) and AquaticsPhysical education is a valued part of the program offered by ISSP.

The following items are required for P.E. classes: »Official ISSP physical education T-shirt and shorts »Socks and appropriate sport shoes »Cap/hat for outdoor activity »Sunscreen »Water bottle

On days of swimming instruction students need: »A bathing suit »Towel »Sunscreen »Goggles

Elevators

In the interests of safety, students may use elevators only under adult supervision.

Emergency Drills

Emergency drills are held periodically during the school year. When the emergency bell rings, students exit the classrooms in an orderly manner and line up in the field adjacent to the school property close to the school entrance. Attendance is taken and procedures are followed to ensure student safety.

English Language Learners (ELL)

The ELL program provides support in English language to students who are not native speakers of English and

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whose level of English is insufficient for them to be successful in regular classes without assistance. The ELL teacher teams with the classroom teacher to determine the needs of the students. Non-native speakers of English are evaluated upon application to determine their proficiency in English and appropriate grade level for entrance to our school. ELL support is provided beginning in kindergarten. Our small class sizes provide many opportunities for children to develop English language skills. Children are immersed in literacy and learn English best in the language rich classroom. Differentiated instruction in the mainstream classroom provides opportunities for individual assistance or small groups as needed.

English Language Policy

The ISSP English Language Policy is a shared vision and mission to develop English language proficiency successfully across a high quality academic curriculum. English is the primary language of instruction at ISSP. Strong first (home) language ability contributes to second or other language proficiency. ISSP recognizes and embraces the multicultural and multilingual composition of the school’s community. The many students who have a home language other than English are expected to achieve twin goals of mastering a high quality academic curriculum and acquiring English language proficiency. Parents must understand the importance of home language proficiency and must assume responsibility for maintaining home language development.

Expected School-Wide Learning Results (ESLRs)We expect our students to develop successfully as: Critical Thinkers and Problem Solvers Who:

»Solve problems creatively »Analyze, evaluate, synthesize and apply information »Demonstrate competence in research and study skills »Collaborate and work effectively with others

Effective Communicators Who: »Comprehend and interpret oral and written information »Express their ideas and knowledge clearly, logically and creatively in written and visual forms »Use technology to access, create, integrate, and produce digital information »Use and respond to creative and artistic expression

Life-long Reflective Learners Who: »Demonstrate academic and personal integrity »Take an active role in their own learning »Work independently and are self-directed »Recognize and develop their strengths and talents

Socially Responsible Global Citizens Who: »Value and preserve the environment »Understand that physical and mental well-being is a lifelong commitment »Accept and respect the diversity inherent in a multi-cultural world »Express confidently a sense of themselves, their culture and their country »Exhibit self-discipline and accept individual and group responsibility

Assemblies

Monthly assemblies are held for Grades 1-5. Assemblies focus on our values and our ESLRs. Field Trips

Ho Chi Minh City and the surrounding area provide wonderful opportunities for students to enrich their learning beyond the school boundaries. Students participate in field trips that are closely linked to classroom units. Parents with suggestions for field trips are encouraged to contact the teacher. Often walking trips will be taken within the Saigon Pearl Community. Please give permission for these trips on the form that requires your signature indicating that you have read this handbook. You will be notified of other scheduled trips in advance. Parents will be asked to sign a field trip permission form that indicates full details about the field trip. Overnight field trips are planned as part of the Grade 5 curriculum and there is a necessary extra charge. Male and female staff and sometimes parents chaperone the overnight field trips.

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Food Services

Lunch

All students must eat lunch at school. Students may bring a lunch, pre-order, buy lunch at the school canteen or have lunch delivered to them. For Grade 1-5 classes, if a lunch must be delivered from home, it needs to be labeled in English with the student’s name and grade and placed on the table designated for the class. Home delivered lunches should arrive by 11:30 am.

Early childhood children eat lunch in their classrooms. During the lunch period, good manners and good eating habits are reinforced. If your child is being fed by you or your household help, you might be pleasantly surprised at how well s/he demonstrates independence at school.

Our food service is provided by The Caterers. Asian and Western meal choices are available. Menus are sent home either with newsletters or separately. Payment for food service may be made at the Admissions Department. Payment by the quarter is encouraged.

Snack

Students are provided with a snack in the morning. Carbonated beverages are not sold nor permitted at ISSP. Please do not send breakable containers for beverages; re-sealable bottles are suggested for liquids. All students should have their own labeled water bottles.

Health ServicesA clinic, staffed by a registered nurse, is located on the first floor of the school and provides services to all students. A record is kept of all treatment, and parents are notified in the event of any serious illness or injury.

Illness

Parents are to notify the School Nurse of any infectious diseases or of any change in the health status of a student, (e.g. a vaccination, illness or operation). Many of the most common illnesses (colds, influenza, hepatitis A & B, chicken pox, and conjunctivitis) result from viral infections; antibiotics are ineffective in treating or preventing the spread of the illness. Viral illnesses require time for the body to overcome infection. To ensure the sick student does not transfer contagion to others, it is important for parents to keep students at home if they are sick.

ISSP maintains a “Fever Free” environment and requires all students not to attend school if they have a temperature over 37.5 degrees Celsius. Children should stay at home until the fever has been reduced for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medicines. This policy supports our efforts to maintain a healthy environment for all and to minimize the spread of viral infections.

Parents are requested to inform the office of the reason for the absence, including illness, prior to 8:00 am. Ms. Phung Huynh / Email: [email protected] / Telephone: 08 2222 7788 (Ext. 109)

In the event of extended illness where the student will be absent for a number of days, parents are requested to contact the clinic and the classroom teacher.Ms. Nguyen Thi Quoc Hung / Email: [email protected] / Telephone: 08 2222 7788 (Ext. 118)

Injuries

The school nurse will call parents if a student must go home due to illness or injury. In the event of a serious injury or illness, the nurse or an office staff member will contact the parent or guardian before transporting the student to the nearest medical facility for further emergency care. The nurse or a designated person will accompany the student to the hospital and meet the parent there.

Lice (Head Lice)

If head lice are found on a student at school, a parent or guardian will be called to pick up the child. After treatment with the correct medicated shampoo, the student may return to school if the hair is free of eggs or lice. Care should be taken to check other family members and vigilance will be needed to continue checking the child’s head and to take appropriate steps to rid the bedding and fabric furniture in the house of lice. This is always a sensitive issue which requires diligence on the part of the parent. As a service to your child’s class, should you find head lice on your child, please contact the school nurse.

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Medical Records

At the start of the school year, parents are requested to complete and submit the ISSP Medical Questionnaire and keep the school updated of any new medical information, immunization, emergency contact details which will be recorded within the school database. The school nurse has to complete, update and file medical records for all students.

Medication at SchoolStudents requiring prescribed medication during school hours must have on file the prescription from their physicians as well as the written authorization from the parent or legal guardian. The parent‘s written authorization must include:

»The name of student receiving the medication. »The name and description of the medication. »Scheduled times for the administration of the medication. »The dosage to be given. » Instructions for administration of the medication. »Description of any possible side-effects. »Any other contra-indications, instructions or warning.

All medications must be in the original pharmacy container. The container must be clearly marked with the patient‘s name, type of medicine and dosage.

A few over the counter medicines (Tylenol, Ibuprofen) are available and can be given if a parent‘s permission is on file.

Nurse’s Office Functions

»Provides care to students who have been injured or who are present with an acute illness »Evaluates and refers cases to other medical facilities as appropriate »Contributes to the control of communicable disease through immunization record keeping » Isolates students with contagious diseases »Administers medication and treatments as ordered by health care providers »Provides first-aid kits on campus, school buses, field trips and sports events

Nurse’s Office Visits during the DayThe following procedures have been instituted regarding visits to the nurse’s office while classes are in session:

»Except in an emergency, students will have a pass from the classroom teacher to see the nurse. »Otherwise, they should see the nurse during a recess or lunch period. »Early dismissal due to illness will occur only after the student is evaluated by the nurse and upon her recommendation that the student should go home. A parent will be contacted.

Helping Your Child to SucceedISSP students will be more successful if parents:

»Help instill student pride, confidence, and a positive attitude about their school and teachers »Support school policies on behavior and attendance at all times, including after-school events »Provide the time and environment for students to complete homework »Encourage students to take responsibility for completion of all homework assignments »Bring concerns directly to the appropriate teacher first, before approaching others in the school »Read the newsletters and keep them at home for reference »Check the communication books or planners daily and respond or comment as appropriate »Dedicate time and thought to the continual improvement of ISSP »Share information honestly with teachers about problems the child has had or experienced regarding learning, behavior, or the emotional area, and regarding changes in the family situation (divorce, separations, illness, death)

Homework Policy

Homework is a valuable part of the learning process at ISSP. Consistency and parental support are key factors in the success of our homework program. The following guidelines should help you and your child plan sufficient time for his/her daily homework.

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Pre-Kindergarten - Grade 1 10 - 20 minutes dailyGrade 2 20 - 30 minutes dailyGrade 3 - 5 30 - 60 minutes daily

Parents of children at all grade levels are responsible for supporting their child’s educational environment by establishing a home atmosphere that is conducive to learning and monitoring/supervising their child’s home study. This atmosphere should include specific study times and a specific study location for doing the homework. Although some homework is enhanced by parental involvement, some is not. Teachers will inform parents of the suitable involvement level as needed. As the school is strongly committed to promoting literacy in our students, all children, with the support of their families, are expected to read or be read to on a nightly basis. Do not worry if you cannot read in English. Reading and discussing stories in your home language will assist your child to develop the reading habit.

Information Technology

Students are introduced to computers, interactive whiteboards, multi-media projectors, and other forms of technology. Students will be instructed on appropriate use of computers and are expected to comply with school guidelines.

ISSP Website

Please take time to visit our website at www.issp.edu.vn. The website is updated periodically.

Library Media Center

At the heart of our educational community, the Library Media Center provides access to information and ideas for students and staff. In addition to regularly scheduled class visits to check out books and to develop reading and research skills, students have access to the Library from 7:30 am until 3:15 pm. Students may borrow two items for a period of two weeks. The Library is open until 4:00 pm on Wednesdays. Parents and students can browse and enjoy the library collection.

Although no fines are charged for overdue items, students who have overdue books may not borrow additional items until the overdue has been cleared. Students are financially liable for the replacement cost of lost, damaged or unreturned library materials at the end of the school year.

The Library is a place of research, study, and learning. Respectful behavior is expected of all students at all times.

Lost and Found

Please label with your child’s name all items brought to school: lunch boxes, book bags, sweaters, uniforms, hats, etc. Lost and found boxes are located in the Admissions Office. Any found items will be placed there. Items with names are easily returned. Students should check at the office for lost items as soon as the loss is noticed.

Newsletter

The newsletter is an important communication tool. Newsletters provide essential information regarding significant school events. Reading the newsletter regularly is a good way to keep current on what is happening at school. The newsletter is also available on the website.

Open House

Open House is held early in the school year so that parents may become familiar with classroom expectations and curriculum. It is a very important day that helps parents to understand what children are learning at ISSP.

Parent-Teacher Conferences

Official parent-teacher conferences are held twice yearly in the first and third quarters. Their purpose is to discuss the student’s current level of progress and set goals for the remainder of the school year. These conferences are scheduled; it is very important that parents attend at the appointment times. Our teaching assistants are able to translate if the language is Vietnamese. Should you require a translator in a language other than Vietnamese, please bring one to the appointment. Parents or teachers may request additional conferences throughout the year.

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Performances

Music and drama are a part of life and activities in the school. Assemblies, special presentations, and school-wide music concerts provide an opportunity for the students to sing, play a musical instrument, act, and dance.

Report Cards

Students and parents need regular feedback on academic and social progress. Report cards and parent conferences provide excellent opportunities for parents and teachers to help students set goals for themselves and to join together to celebrate a student’s effort and success.

The ISSP academic year is divided into two semesters. Report cards are issued at the end of each semester on the last school day in December and the last school day in June.

Withdrawal and Request of Transcripts (Report Cards)

In early childhood and elementary, if a child withdraws at the end of the academic year, the report card serves as a transcript. If records are required before the actual withdrawal date, parents should use their copy of the most recent report card. Report cards will be withheld from students who have missing books and outstanding financial obligations to the school.

Special Dress Days

Special Dress Days/Spirit Days are sometimes organized at the school. On non-uniform days, students are expected to wear clothing that is appropriate in a school setting and conforms to the standard set by the school uniform. Students choosing not to participate in special dress days must wear the regular school uniform.

Standardized Testing and Assessment

In addition to testing that is part of the regular class program, elementary students take part in standardized assessments. We use these assessments to determine children’s instructional levels and to measure academic growth throughout the school year, and from year to year.

»1. Reading - The Fountas and Pinnell Benchmark Assessment System. This assessment is administered during a one-on-one, student and teacher assessment conference. The student reads aloud and talks about the books. The levels range from A (the easiest) to Z (the most challenging).

»2. Writing Assessment - Students write to a prompt and are evaluated according to a scoring scale (a rubric).

»3. Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) - In the fall and again in the spring, Grade 3-5 students will participate in assessments from the NWEA. These assessments are called Measures of Academic Progress (MAP). Students will be tested in reading, mathematics and science. Computers are used for the testing.

»4. IPT - All kindergarten to Grade 5 non-native speakers of English are assessed using the IPT - English Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening Tests. Pre-School and Pre-Kinder students are assessed in speaking and listening using the Pre-IPT.

Student Code of ConductThe Code of Conduct is simple and based primarily on the concept of respect. Students who are respectful use acceptable language and show appropriate behaviors. Hurting others through words or physical actions is not accepted and students who commit such acts will be subject to consequences appropriate to the misconduct. The Code of Conduct states the following:

»We show respect to all people and all things. »We listen when a teacher or other presenter speaks. »We follow instructions of school staff members. »We maintain our environment safely and without waste.

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Whether riding to and from home or on field trips, students are to follow the same standards of behavior expected at school.

Additionally, students who ride the buses are expected to do the following:

»Be on time. The bus cannot wait for students who are late arriving at the designated pick-up. »Treat the bus monitor, the bus driver and other students with courtesy and respect. »Respect the responsibility of the bus monitor to ensure students are safely seated and wearing seat belts. »Talk quietly and remain seated at all times. »Drink water only (eating is not permitted on the bus). »Keep all body parts inside the bus: do not reach or lean out the windows. »Be responsible for personal belongings. »Adhere to the ISSP Code of Conduct. »Provide a note signed by a parent and present it at the HOS Office at the start of the school day if asking for a change of bus routine. Email messages may also be sent to the teacher and Ms Thao (the bus coordinator) at: [email protected].

The bus driver or monitor will record and file a written report of conduct infractions with the Campus Principal. Penalties for bus violations are:

»First offense: verbal warning »Second offense: written warning and parent/guardian contact »Third offense: suspension from the bus for up to two weeks

Repeated or serious bus misbehavior could result in a student’s privilege of riding the bus being suspended indefinitely.

Inappropriate BehaviorBehavior that is not in a student’s best interest or that poses a threat to others will lead to serious disciplinary action. The following offenses are considered major violations:

»Verbal or physical bullying » Insubordination demonstrated toward a teacher or staff member »Disruption of classes and interference of the teaching/ learning process »Endangering or threatening the safety of oneself or others (this includes fighting) »Theft »Damaging school or personal property »The possession of any object that can be considered a weapon

Inappropriate Behavior ConsequencesDisciplinary steps are taken to deal with inappropriate behavior while preserving the dignity and self-esteem of the child. One or more of the following steps may be implemented:

»Counseling by a teacher, yard or canteen supervisor, or Campus Principal

»Signing the School Standards Book. The book is maintained in the office. Students “sign in” to indicate that they have not observed one or more of the school procedures.

»Problem Solving Sheet. Students complete a form indicating what the problem was and how s/he can improve.

»*In-School Suspension. The student will be removed from regular classes and will work in a supervised area for a part or a full day.

»*Out-of-School Suspension. A student may be suspended from school for repeated violations of the discipline policy or for behavior that is viewed by the Campus Principal as inappropriate during the school day, during a school-sponsored activity, on or off school grounds. An out-of-school suspension from school means that a student is prohibited from being on or near the school campus or attending any school-sponsored activities during the period of the suspension. The parent or guardian of the student will be notified as soon as possible when a student is to be suspended from the school.

*Parents/guardians are contacted.

15


Items not to be brought to School:

»Anything expensive or sentimental which may get lost or broken » iPods, Game Boys, MP3 players and similar items »Pokeman and Maple Story type cards »Anything that could be dangerous (sharp items, matches, lighters, etc.) »Money, valuables and mobile phones (unless requested by the teacher for a specific purpose) »Chewing gum is not allowed on campus at any time

Student Council

Students from grades two through six will learn responsibility and government by participating in an organized group facilitated by teacher leaders.

Student Supplies and Kits

There is a charge for consumables. These student kits consist of notebooks, writing books, communication books or planners, mathematics workbooks, etc. The cost varies according to grade level. Additionally, individual teachers will inform students of other materials required for their classes.

Textbooks

Textbooks are provided to students on a loan basis. Students are expected to take care of these books and return them in good condition at the end of the school year. Reasonable wear and tear is expected. However, if a textbook is damaged, defaced, or lost, the student must pay for its replacement. Costs are set at 90% of the replacement value plus shipping charges.

Travelling Parents

The classroom teacher and the school office should be notified in writing when a child is being left under the supervision of someone else while parents are traveling. Parents must provide specific details about who has permission to make decisions related to transportation issues and health emergencies.

Tutoring

Parents who desire tutoring for their child should discuss the matter with the classroom teacher. Payment for tutoring services is a private matter to be arranged between the parents and the tutor. No teacher may tutor his/her own students for remuneration. If parents have made arrangements for outside tutors for their child, the tutor must meet with the classroom teacher in order to ensure that the student receives the correct help.

16


App

endi

x 1:

REC

OM

MEN

DA

TIO

NS

FOR

STU

DEN

TS W

ITH

DIA

GN

OSE

D IN

FEC

TIO

US

DIS

EASE

S C

ondi

tion

Early

Sym

ptom

s In

cuba

tion

perio

d M

etho

d of

infe

ctio

n A

ttend

Sc

hool

D

urat

ion

of e

xclu

sion

C

omm

ents

Chi

cken

pox

(V

aric

ella

)

Red

rais

ed s

pots

that

cha

nge

into

blis

ters

afte

r a fe

w h

ours

. U

sual

ly ra

sh p

rese

nts

on tr

unk

and

face

. Mild

feve

r

10 –

21

days

D

irect

and

indi

rect

con

tact

w

ith d

isch

arge

from

nos

e an

d th

roat

N

o 05

day

s af

ter a

ppea

ranc

e of

blis

ters

Vac

cine

is a

vaila

ble

for c

hild

ren

over

the

age

of 1

2 m

onth

s

Con

junc

tiviti

s (P

ink

eye)

B

urni

ng, t

earin

g, re

dnes

s an

d itc

hing

of o

ne o

r bot

h ey

es

24 –

72

hour

s

Dire

ct c

onta

ct w

ith e

ye

disc

harg

e vi

a fin

gers

, to

wel

s, w

ashc

loth

s, d

oor-

hand

les

No

Dur

ing

acut

e st

age

or 2

4 ho

urs

afte

r the

rapy

has

be

en c

omm

ence

d

Dip

hthe

ria

Sor

e th

roat

, pat

chy

grey

m

embr

ane

on th

roat

. N

asal

di

scha

rge

may

be

bloo

dy

02 –

05

days

D

irect

or i

ndire

ct c

onta

ct

with

dis

char

ge fr

om n

ose

and

nose

N

o 02

wee

ks o

r unt

il th

roat

cu

lture

s ar

e ne

gativ

e

Par

t of s

tand

ard

reco

mm

ende

d va

ccin

e sc

hedu

le fo

r al

l chi

ldre

n

Hep

atiti

s A

Feve

r, lo

ss o

f app

etite

, nau

sea

with

or w

ithou

t vom

iting

. Fat

igue

, he

adac

he, a

bdom

inal

pai

n, m

ay

have

jaun

dice

.

15 –

50

days

. U

sual

25

Ora

l – fe

cal s

prea

d. E

atin

g ut

ensi

ls, f

ood,

drin

ks

No

02 w

eeks

afte

r ons

et, o

r on

e w

eek

afte

r ons

et o

f ja

undi

ce

Vac

cine

ava

ilabl

e fo

r al

l chi

ldre

n ov

er 0

2 ye

ars

of a

ge. P

reve

nt

by a

ttent

ion

to

hygi

ene

Hep

atiti

s B

Feve

r, lo

ss o

f app

etite

, nau

sea

with

or w

ithou

t vom

iting

. Fat

igue

, he

adac

he, a

bdom

inal

pai

n, m

ay

have

jaun

dice

.

45 –

160

day

s.

Usu

al 6

0 –

90

days

Blo

od, s

erou

s flu

ids,

se

men

, vag

inal

sec

retio

ns

No

Cas

e by

cas

e ev

alua

tion

Vac

cine

ava

ilabl

e fo

r al

l chi

ldre

n fro

m b

irth.

P

reve

nt b

y ed

ucat

ion

of p

reve

ntio

n

Lice

S

calp

irrit

atio

n, o

r det

ectio

n of

lic

e eg

gs in

hai

r H

atch

in 6

-10

days

Dire

ct c

onta

ct w

ith h

air,

com

bs, b

rush

es, h

ats,

pi

llow

s, to

wel

s et

c….

No

Unt

il tre

atm

ent h

as b

een

appl

ied

and

hair

is n

it fre

e.

Pre

vent

by

educ

atio

n,

shor

t or t

ied

hair

Mea

sles

(Rub

ella

)

Cou

gh, f

ever

, wat

ery

eyes

. B

lotc

hy ra

sh o

n 3-

4th d

ay o

ver

face

and

trun

k. W

hite

spo

ts in

m

outh

.

8 -1

2 da

ys

Dire

ct o

r ind

irect

con

tact

w

ith d

isch

arge

from

nos

e an

d no

se

No

Unt

il na

sal d

isch

arge

cl

eare

d, o

r 04

days

afte

r on

set o

r cra

sh

Vac

cine

ava

ilabl

e fo

r al

l chi

ldre

n ov

er 0

1 ye

ar o

f age

Men

ingi

tis

(Hae

mop

hilu

s B

) A

cute

illn

ess.

Fev

er, s

tiff n

eck,

na

usea

, hea

dach

e, ra

sh.

2 –

4 da

ys

Dire

ct o

r ind

irect

con

tact

w

ith d

isch

arge

from

nos

e an

d no

se

No

24 h

ours

afte

r ons

et.

Dep

endi

ng o

n ch

ild’s

co

nditi

on

Vac

cine

ava

ilabl

e fo

r al

l chi

ldre

n ov

er 2

m

onth

s of

age

M

enin

gitis

(M

enin

goco

ccal

) A

cute

illn

ess.

Fev

er, s

tiff n

eck,

na

usea

, hea

dach

e, ra

sh

01 –

10

days

us

ually

3 –

4

days

Dire

ct o

r ind

irect

con

tact

w

ith d

isch

arge

from

nos

e an

d no

se

No

24 h

ours

afte

r ons

et.

Dep

endi

ng o

n ch

ild’s

co

nditi

on

Mum

ps

Sw

olle

n gl

ands

beh

ind

the

jaw

, an

d be

low

the

ear

12 –

25

days

–

usua

lly 1

6 -1

8 da

ys

Dire

ct o

r ind

irect

con

tact

w

ith d

isch

arge

from

nos

e an

d no

se

No

09 d

ays

afte

r ons

et o

f sw

ellin

g

Vac

cine

ava

ilabl

e fo

r al

l chi

ldre

n ov

er 1

2 m

onth

s of

age

17


Per

tuss

is

(who

opin

g co

ugh)

S

pasm

odic

cou

gh, v

omiti

ng. N

ot

all c

ases

“who

op”

6 –

20 d

ays

Dire

ct o

r ind

irect

con

tact

w

ith d

isch

arge

from

nos

e an

d no

se

No

21 d

ays

afte

r cou

gh b

egin

s,

5 da

ys a

fter a

ntib

iotic

s co

mm

ence

men

t

Vac

cine

ava

ilabl

e fo

r al

l chi

ldre

n ov

er 0

2 m

onth

s of

age

Pol

iom

yelit

is

Feve

r, he

adac

he, n

ause

a,

vom

iting

. Mus

cle

pain

, stif

fnes

s of

bac

k an

d ne

ck. P

aral

ysis

. 04

– 2

1 da

ys

Dire

ct a

nd In

dire

ct c

onta

ct

with

dis

char

ge fr

om n

ose

& th

roat

or o

ral f

ecal

sp

read

No

1 –

6 w

eeks

from

ons

et o

f sy

mpt

oms

V

acci

ne a

vaila

ble

for

all c

hild

ren

from

birt

h.

Rin

gwor

m

Rou

nd, s

caly

spo

ts o

n th

e sk

in

or s

calp

N

ot k

now

n D

irect

con

tact

with

ski

n of

in

fect

ed p

erso

n N

o U

ntil

treat

men

t has

bee

n st

arte

d, le

sion

s co

vere

d

No

parti

cipa

tion

in

cont

act s

ports

, sw

imm

ing

Rub

ella

(Ger

man

fe

ver)

Mild

illn

ess,

sw

olle

n ne

ck

glan

ds. F

ine

pink

rash

on

face

sp

read

ing

to fa

ce a

nd li

mbs

.

14 –

21

days

, us

ual 1

6 –

18

days

Dire

ct o

r ind

irect

con

tact

w

ith d

isch

arge

from

nos

e an

d no

se

No

7 da

ys a

fter o

nset

of r

ash

Vac

cine

ava

ilabl

e fo

r al

l chi

ldre

n ov

er 1

2 m

onth

s of

age

. Avo

id

cont

act w

ith p

regn

ant

wom

en

Sca

bies

S

mal

l red

spo

ts ty

pica

lly

betw

een

finge

rs, e

lbow

cre

ases

. V

ery

itchy

D

ays

– W

eeks

Dire

ct c

onta

ct w

ith s

kin

of

infe

cted

per

son,

clo

thin

g an

d be

ddin

g

No

Unt

il tre

atm

ent h

as b

een

star

ted,

lesi

ons

cove

red

No

parti

cipa

tion

in

cont

act s

ports

.

Sca

rlet f

ever

S

udde

n on

set f

ever

, vom

iting

, so

re th

roat

2

-5 d

ays

Dire

ct o

r ind

irect

con

tact

w

ith d

isch

arge

from

nos

e an

d no

se

No

24 h

ours

afte

r ant

ibio

tics

com

men

cem

ent

Nas

al d

isch

arge

may

re

mai

n in

fect

ive

for

long

per

iods

Stre

p th

roat

S

udde

n on

set f

ever

, vom

iting

, so

re th

roat

2

-5 d

ays

Dire

ct o

r ind

irect

con

tact

w

ith d

isch

arge

from

nos

e an

d no

se

No

24 h

ours

afte

r les

ion

has

been

trea

ted,

cov

ered

by

dres

sing

No

parti

cipa

tion

in

cont

act s

ports

or f

ood

prep

arat

ion

Tube

rcul

osis

A

sym

ptom

atic

to c

hron

ic c

ough

, fe

ver,

wei

ght l

oss.

Typ

ical

ly

clos

e fa

mily

mem

ber i

s ca

V

aria

ble

D

ropl

et s

prea

d N

o 14

day

s af

ter

com

men

cem

ent o

f an

tibio

tic th

erap

y

Vac

cine

ava

ilabl

e fo

r al

l chi

ldre

n fro

m b

irth.

Typh

oid

feve

r Fe

ver,

head

ache

, ras

h. N

ause

a,

diar

rhea

or c

onst

ipat

ion

8 –

14 d

ays

Ora

l fec

al s

prea

d N

o 7

days

afte

r co

mm

ence

men

t of

antib

iotic

ther

apy

Vac

cine

ava

ilabl

e fo

r al

l chi

ldre

n ov

er 0

2 ye

ars

old.

18


19


Appendix 2: School Handbook Signature FormDear ISSP Parents and Students,

This handbook has been carefully prepared to provide you with valuable information about how ISSP operates and the rules that we live by as a community. We ask that you sit down as a family and carefully review the various sections of this handbook. If you have any questions about the contents of the handbook, please do not hesitate to contact us. Parents are to sign and date this form before it is returned to the school. Forms are to be returned to the classroom teacher within two weeks after receiving the handbook.

Lois MareCampus Principal

I have received and read the ISSP School Handbook:

Please print your name___________________________________________________

Relationship to student___________________________________________________

Parent’s Signature ____________________________ Date _____________________

20


21


Appendix 3: Trip Permission FormDuring the course of the school year many opportunities present themselves for students to take trips off campus. These may include field trips in support of various curricular events, sports outings, class parties, trips with special organizations and visits to other schools. Trips may include visiting a park, museum, zoo, restaurant, farm, place of business, factory, or the Saigon Pearl environments.

Although the school may seek your permission for a particular trip, your signature line below will authorize ISSP to include your child(ren) on such a trip even in the event we are unable to reach you or if we have not received the specific response form detailing the trip. Trips are always supervised by ISSP staff. My child(ren) may attend any off-campus official trips.

Please print the name or names and grades of your children:

__________________________________________________ Grade ______

__________________________________________________ Grade ______

__________________________________________________ Grade ______

Specific restrictions or comments (if any):

Signature of Parent or Guardian ________________________________

Date _______________________

22


Documents

ISSP School Handbook