Student/Parent Handbook

2016-2017

 

AMERICAN PREP MISSION, PHILOSOPHY & PURPOSE

 

MISSION:

American Prep International School (APIS) is committed to the harmonious development of the whole person for student excellence in academics, character & personality, useful service, and global citizenship. Moreover, it intends to continue its tradition of being the first complete e-learning international school in Thailand.

American Prep stresses the Core-subjects (English, Math, Science) with e-Learning plus Talent Development and Self-discipline / Values.

 

PHILOSOPHY:

With highly qualified and loving mentors, APIS has positioned itself to deliver its American curriculum which has recognizably well-crafted content standards. American Prep curriculum demands the best practices, high involvement, and serious engagement of the stakeholders. Through the collaborative efforts of the teachers, parents and the community, American Prep cannot fail in professionally achieving its mission, standards and objectives. High expectations are set for teachers and students with respect to continuous improvement in communication skills, creative imagination, contagious positive mental attitude, and contribution to society.

Hence, high student learning is the bottom line with emphases in the practical realities of life and problem solving skills so that the best in the students will be honed. Proper choices and creative imagination that links with the spiritual realm may lead them to happiness and success. This finds expression in the burning desire to cherish and pursue the divine mission to serve even the disadvantaged. This contextualized Western curriculum will bring value-added twists and flavor that impacts society in general through the transformation of the head, heart, and hands for the new generation with a new spirit!

GOALS:

• Challenge each student to develop his/her own full potential
• Train students to become proficient in spoken and written communication
• Expect students to develop critical, independent thinking skills

 

PURPOSE:

APIS is established and developed to meet the increasing need and demand for high quality education for Thai and international students. The school will focus on maintaining excellence in learning, while integrating social and family values along with instructional technology into the curriculum.

 

Scope:

This Student and Parent Handbook is a living document. The contents and policies are subject to change, evaluation and amendment as the need arises, by mandate of the, Faculty Council, Administrative Council, and School Board.

 

 

AMERICAN PREP EXPECTED SCHOOL WIDE LEARNING RESULTS

 

American Prep students will:

1. Become lifelong learners by

• being independent readers, thinkers and inquirers.
• working cooperatively and collaboratively with others.
• offering and accepting constructive feedback.

2. Demonstrate well developed cognitive skills by

• thinking critically.
• recognizing and dealing with personal biases and prejudices.
• evaluating others’ ideas and opinions objectively.
• employing a variety of reasoning tools.
• employing logical decision making processes.

 

3. Become skilled communicators by

• speaking confidently and fluently in all situations.
• developing listening skills.
• writing clearly and effectively.
• employing a variety of communication media and methods.

4. Become responsible and respectful members of the global community by

• being adaptable to and appreciative of different cultures while maintaining their cultural identity.
• being compassionate toward the needs of others.
• serving and contributing to the well being of others.

5. Demonstrate academic responsibility by

• following school rules, directions and time expectations.
• demonstrating effective note taking, outlining and research skills.
• applying basic subject area skills across the curriculum.
• working independently.

 

KEY POLICY AND PROGRAM DEFINITIONS

 

BULLYING.  Any act comprised of intimidation or cruelty to others.  Bullying can be exhibited through verbal, physical, or relational means.  Certain types of bullying are criminal behavior.  Bullying that is criminal behavior will result in expulsion from APIS. A student found bullying a second time may be dismissed for the school year. Special Note:  This is to include all types of bullying whether it be on school campus or off and through any medium to include internet, text messaging, phone calls, chat rooms, blog and personal web pages such as myspace.com

 

DISMISSAL.  Synonymous with expulsion; when a student is removed from APIS enrollment.

 

HATE SPEECH.  Racial slurs and discrimination on the basis of gender, race, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, etc.  Hate speech is a dismissal offense.

 

HAZING.  Includes any method of initiation or pre-initiation into a student organization. Also any pastime or amusement engaged in (with respect to an organization) which causes, or is likely to cause, bodily danger, physical harm, or personal degradation or disgrace resulting in physical or mental harm.  Hazing is a dismissal offense.

 

 

AMERICAN PREP DRUG POLICY & PROCEDURES

 

SCOPE.  This policy applies to all APIS students.

 

DEFINITION AND PENALTY.  A student must not use, possess, or distribute drugs, or have in his/her possession drug paraphernalia. Any involvement with drugs is inconsistent with APIS policy and mission and shall result in immediate expulsion.

 

RIGHT TO INSPECT.   APIS reserves the right to inspect all property, with or without advanced notice, and with or without the student present. This includes inspection of all personal property, desks, lockers, storage areas, etc., at any time on a random or routine basis to detect the presence of illicit drugs, weapons or other prohibited items (See pages 8-9 for a list of items) in the enforcement of this policy.

PARAPHERNALIA.  Drug paraphernalia is defined as anything that smells, tastes, acts, or looks like drugs, or materials or implements used in the manufacture, distribution, or consumption of drugs. Examples of drug paraphernalia includes, but is not limited to: chemicals used in the manufacture of drugs; needles; droppers; bongs; pipes; etc.

 

ADMINISTERING MEDICATION.   APIS’s drug policy includes the stipulation that any and all medication, over-the-counter or prescription drugs, vitamins, and supplements, shall be kept and administered only by the nurse or school appointed staff member. Students may not have in their possession any over-the-counter or prescription medications, vitamins, or supplements of any kind, whether or not prescribed, including prescription drugs, unless approved by the nurse.  Any drug medication, vitamins, or supplements, whether or not prescribed, including prescription medications, held by a student, outside the control of the nurse, constitute a violation of the zero-tolerance policy.

 

DRUG TESTING A STUDENT.  Drug testing is not required to dismiss a student who has in any way broken the covenant to remain drug free. 

 

DRUG TESTING PROCEDURE.  When the decision is made to test,  APIS staff may immediately require the student to test individual through a APIS approved medical practitioner.  Such tests shall be accomplished through the analysis of urine, blood, hair sample, or other recognized testing techniques.

 

HONORING THE RULES

 

(1)  Keeping his/her locker clean and orderly. Maintaining clean lockers and common areas (toilets, hallways, stairs, etc) signals students are proud of their school.

 

(2)  Wearing his/her uniform correctly and maintaining a high standard of personal appearance. If a student looks sharp, he/she will be sharp and represent APIS in a worthy manner to the community.

 

(3)  Being on time and at the right place at the right time.  Academic responsibility is exhibited by ensuring commitments are met. This means attending classes and activities according to the  APIS schedule.

 

 

 

BREAKING THE RULES

 

SCHOOL JURISDICTION

Students, while under school jurisdiction, are required to comply with the regulations of the school as listed in the Parent Student Handbook and submit to the authority of staff members. Failure to do so is cause for disciplinary measures.

Direct Jurisdiction

Direct jurisdiction includes all aspects of school supervised activities and programs. This includes all on campus events and off campus school-sponsored programs (field trips, sports tournaments, games, and all extra-curricular activities). All school policies and guidelines are applicable when students are under the school’s direct jurisdiction. Administrators may choose any number of disciplinary actions, depending on the seriousness of the infraction, including suspension and/or expulsion.

General Jurisdiction

Students are expected to uphold the standards set by American Prep in all aspects of behavior after school.

 

DISMISSAL OFFENSES American Prep Management is the sole authority to authorize dismissal of a student.  *Some mistakes are tolerable, and are a natural part of maturation; other mistakes are intolerable and are classified as Dismissal Offenses. If a student continues to fail to learn from mistakes through detentions, he/she is identified as not conforming to the  APIS program and may be expelled from school.

 

DISCIPLINE OFFENSE TABLE

 

Dismissal Offenses (Unacceptable behavior)
Possession, use or distribution of illicit drugs; possession, use or distribution of drug paraphernalia; positive test for illicit drugs; refusal to provide a sample or take a test for illicit drugs or alcohol; distribution or use of legally prescribed drugs illegally possessed or not under control of the health center; ‘huffing’ ; glue sniffing, etc.
Violation of Thai Law (any class of felony to include, but not limited to:  assault; battery; arson, or acts leading to fire damage; robbery/grand theft; hate speech; etc.)
Hazing, of all manner/form(s)
Involvement in unlawful/anti-social acts; participation in gangs or racist groups; leader of a group causing civil unrest on or off campus
Possession, use, or distribution of firearms, explosives, knives, slingshots, or any other type of  weapon/instrument or device capable of killing or maiming
Alcohol – Third Strike Offense
Sexual misconduct, to include lewd/lascivious actions against another person/student; taking photos or displaying indecent photo images of other students by any means
Multiple, repeated or aggravated Major Offenses

 

Major Offenses (Dangerous or offensive behavior)
Tampering with fire alarm systems, or other fire suppression devices; use of an open flame, or possession/use of any flammable material, fireworks, etc.
Physical harassment that causes injury to another and brings into question the Safety/security of others (actions may lead to suspension)
Verbal harassment of another student surrounding gender, race,  national origin, sexual orientation, disability, etc; communicating a threat that brings into question the security and safety of people
Bullying 1st strike (requires mandatory counseling)
Receiving, buying, contributing, or transacting in any manner, stolen property; black marketing of goods
Improper possession of otherwise legal drugs without approval by the nurse
Possession or use of alcohol; (1st strike will result in evaluation; 2nd strike will result in mandatory treatment and counseling; 3rd strike is dismissal from  APIS). To include all school sponsored events.
Abnormal behavior; possession of items presenting a danger to oneself or others
Damage beyond fair wear and tear or Vandalism to  APIS property or another persons property; destroying property off campus when part of an  APIS sanctioned group or activity (see note1)
Possession of Facsimile Firearms and other Weapons  that appear like an actual weapon
Breaking or entering into any  APIS facility without authorization of a  APIS staff member present; unauthorized possession of  APIS keys.

^Note1    Parents will be responsible for remuneration of damages to  APIS

 

Examples of Unacceptable Behavior that Disrupts  APIS’s program

Disrespectful, disruptive, or disobedient behavior toward  APIS administration, faculty, staff,; expelled from the classroom for disruptive behavior during class

Misconduct , including fighting; slurs, jokes, or unthinking speech against a person because of  race, creed, color or culture

Violation of Off Limits Area (refer to pages discussion On and Off Limits Areas)

Attempting or purposefully hacking into/compromise the integrity of  APIS computer systems;  damaging hardware,  software; use of blocked sites, spamming, etc.

Possession, use, or distribution of tobacco products (smoking, snuff, etc.)

Unauthorized absence from an appointment or class (one-half the class period or more).

 

Examples of Harmful Behavior

Aggravated roughhousing & throwing objects, out-of-control horse play

Viewing  pornography by any means; possession of pornography

Writing or displaying profane words, images, graffiti, etc.; use of profanity in any language

 

Examples of Behavior Contrary to a Disciplined/Orderly Campus

Personal Appearance /hygiene violation

Academic Neglect-Failure to bring books/materials to class; do homework;

Major Uniform Violations e.g., torn, ill fitted, dirty, improperly worn or altered uniforms; combining different uniform combinations, etc.

Courtesy infractions, e. g., rudeness, interrupting, ignoring, etc.

Use of Profanity

Tardy to class,  assembly, etc. (1-5 minutes late)

Public displays of affection (as determined by Thai cultural sensitivities)

 

 

PROHIBITED ITEMS ON CAMPUS

Many items found at home are not permitted on the APIS campus for reasons of safety, and maintaining good order and discipline. Consequently, infractions constitute discipline offenses when items are brought to APIS.  It is extremely important for parents to ensure their student does not bring prohibited items to campus to avoid confiscation and disposal of what may be an expensive item. The list below is not exhaustive and it remains the responsibility of each parent to leave prohibited items at home.   A call to the principal can clear up questions, when in doubt.

 

 

 

PROHIBITED ITEM	REASON
Guns/firearms (to include gun-like objects such as air-soft  pistols), firearms, explosives, knives, and martial arts type weapons, etc.	Illegal; safety; liability issues to the patron
Drugs and drug paraphernalia	Illegal; safety
Any form of tobacco or tobacco paraphernalia, such as loose tobacco, cigarettes, snuff, cigars, cigarette butts, cigarette papers, cartons, or empty packages	Illegal for minors; unhealthy; safety
Alcohol and alcohol containers, empty or with contents, in any form	Illegal for minors; unhealthy; safety
Magazines or electronic copies containing drug, sex or violent content, i.e. pornography, etc.	Violates good order and discipline; inconsistent with  APIS values
Any item that can produce an open flame, such as candles, incense, lighters, matches, etc.	Health and safety
Any harsh chemicals or containers such as aerosol cans, liquid metal polish, etc.	Health and safety
Live plants and animals	Health and safety
Any item determined by the Principal or single item over 50,000 Baht in value	All of the above reasons

DISCIPLINE PROCESS

 

Actions Leading to Dismissal.  Students are dismissed for committing any dismissal offenses.  Major offenses can lead to dismissal if a student repeatedly commits these levels of offenses.  Minor offenses signal a student is becoming ‘at risk’. Persistently bad decisions will result in consultation with section principal. If actions continue where the student fails to conform to the  APIS program after a consulting with  APIS Management, the Management will recommend dismissal to the Head of School.

 

SUSPENSION POLICY

 

APIS Management may suspend a student to: allow time to investigate any situation, or execute discipline otherwise unavailable that serves APIS interests. The length of suspension shall vary depending upon the nature of the incident or the time required to complete an investigation or implement the full discipline. Students suspended for any reason shall have 48 hours from their return to campus to make up for class work during the period of suspension, it is the student’s responsibility to meet with his/her individual teachers to coordinate make-up.  Suspensions will factor into the evaluation process for future attendance at APIS. While on suspension the student is not allowed to attend any  APIS sponsored function, nor be present on school grounds. Conditions for reinstatement and continuance should be clearly stated at the time the discipline is administered.

 

DISCIPLINARY PROBATION

 

DISCIPLINARY PROBATION STATUS.  Is assigned for ‘at risk students’ either entering CA APIS for the first time and for attending students failing to conform to the  APIS Program, probation status is assigned by the Section Principal.

 

DISCIPLINE PROBATION AGREEMENT.  A disciplinary probation agreement is drawn up by the Principal to provide the student a plan to get off and stay off of disciplinary probation status. Parents receive a copy of the agreement signed by the Principal and the student. The student will sign and receive a copy and add any other goals they believe are necessary to succeed.

 

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ON-LIMITS & OFF-LIMITS AREAS

 

Areas that are off limits to all students unless supervised by a member of the faculty are:

• Any building under construction
• Garden and car park at the in front of the school
• Staff offices
• Staff work room next to Science Lab
• Front Office and sick room

 

EMERGENCY AND SAFETY PROCEDURES

 

FIRE DRILLS

In order to maintain a safe and orderly campus in the event of an emergency, the school has established a warning system and subsequent emergency drills.  Practice drills are conducted during the school year as set by the administrative staff.  The purpose of these drills is to acquaint students with safe and proper procedures to follow.  Emergency procedures are placed in each classroom.  This information includes location of emergency exits and designated destinations. If an emergency occurs, parents will be apprised of the situation via SMS and telephone.

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PERSONAL PROPERTY & SECURITY

Each Student is responsible to secure and maintain all personal property, including American Prep property on loan to include textbooks.

 

SECURITY REGULATION. Each student must be prudent, exercise good judgment and common sense, and take, at minimum, the following precautions:

 

• Keep valuables at home and not bring them to campus
• Mark all property
• Keep personal keys or combinations private

 

Anything short of these precautions is considered carelessness.  American Prep will not be liable for loss or theft.  Be careful with safeguarding personal property. Respect the property of others.  Parents will have the responsibility for replacing student belongings. Protection and securing personal belongings is a responsibility of each student.

 

VALUABLES.  Expensive watches, jewelry, laptop computers, electronics, and large amounts of cash are not appropriate for a school environment.  These items should be left at home.

 

REPORTING LOSS.  Report loss or damage to the Section Principal’s Office. DO THIS IMMEDIATELY. The report should include a description of the missing articles. Include the identifying description marked on the item. Depending on the value of your loss, the Section Principal’s may require the student to file a police report.

 

Keep Your Money Safe.  There is no need for large sums of money.

 

Lost and Found Property Reporting.  If a student finds property that does not belong to him/her, he/she must report it immediately to the Section Principal.

 

 

DAMAGE TO  AMERICAN PREP  PROPERTY

DAMAGE REPORT.  Students are responsible for their books and lockers. If someone damages or abuses APIS property, then it must be reported immediately to the Director.

 

DAMAGE TO AMERICAN PREP PROPERTY.  If students damage American Prep property, they shall be held responsible for the repair or replacement of it.  When damages arise, a statement of charges will be signed and the student account charged accordingly for parents to pay for the damage.

 

WILLFULL DESTRUCTION OF PROPERTY.  Willful damage to APIS or student property is contrary to good order and discipline. If a student intentionally damages someone else’s property, he/she will face serious disciplinary action and the requirement to reimburse for damages.  Depending on the amount of damage, he/she could be dismissed. In serious cases, the Section Principal may suspend a student while he/she conducts an investigation. The student can remain in suspended status until damages are paid.

 

CAMPUS VISITORS

Student, staff, and faculty safety is of primary concern. Therefore, all visitors must first report to the office staff at the front office.

 

The following guidelines are to be followed in order to ensure a successful experience:

• All visitors must sign in at the front office and exchange their ID card for a visitors pass.
• A friend of a student may visit classes for one day only if prior permission has been obtained from the school Director.
• Parents who wish to visit their children’s classes during a visit to APIS, need to make advance arrangements by contacting the teachers, and the school director in order to schedule time that will be convenient and productive for all.
• The visitor should dress in accordance with the school’s dress code.
• The school may set limits on the activities of visitors.
• If a former student would like to attend a class or special school activity he/she must get permission from the school director. If a returning student was dismissed from the school or asked to withdraw for any reason that student is required to obtain written permission to attend any school function.

 

CANTEEN PROTOCOL

 

TALKING. Talking is permitted in a moderate tone at the table during mealtime, but conversations should be conducted in English

 

TABLE ETTIQUETTE.  Proper conduct and table etiquette is observed at all times.

 

CANTEEN CLEANUP.  It is the duty of every student to ensure their eating area is clean. Their tables and chairs are straight, their trash is picked up and their tables are free of dishes, and debris.

 

CELL PHONES

 

CELL PHONES.  Students are allowed to bring cell phones to campus to be used only during break and lunch time and must be turned off during class.  Violation of this policy will result in confiscation of the phone and or loss of privilege. If the phone is confiscated it will only be returned to the parent.

 

COMPUTER GAMES AND MUSIC ON LAPTOPS. Playing computer games and listening to music on your laptop or other digital device is only allowed with the express permission of the subject teacher and for very limited periods also. Breaking of this rule will lead to temporary confiscation of the electronic device.

 

 

CAMPUS CLEANLINESS & PERSONAL HYGIENE

 

BATHROOM SANITATION.  One of the most important skills that can be learned is good sanitation. Good sanitation prevents illness and disease. All students are required to clean up after themselves when they use the bathroom. Flushing the toilet, wiping up any spills, and cleaning the sink are mandatory.

 

 

STUDENT UNIFORMS AND

PERSONAL APPEARANCE

 

MANDATED WEAR.  Students shall wear the prescribed student uniform at all times as determined by the Principal.  Cleanliness is important for good health and appearance. Students are expected to keep themselves neat and well-groomed. Students show positive attitudes toward themselves and the school by looking good. Worn out, stained, frayed, or clothing with holes may not be worn to school.

Boys:

• School shirts (of appropriate size) tucked in pants.
• School authorized (of appropriate size) pants.
• School belt holding the pants at the waist (Note: it is against good order and discipline for others to be able to see undergarments).
• Tie up to the collar with all of the buttons buttoned.
• Athletic shoes are acceptable if worn as they were designed.
• Hair cut to the bottom of the collar or held with a hair-band (Note: modification or these guidelines are at the discretion of the school director to).
• Hair if dyed should be of a natural color.

Girls:

• School shirts with all but the two bottom buttons buttoned and tied up to the collar.
• School skirt worn at a modest length.
• Athletic shoes are acceptable if worn as they were designed.
• Excessive jewelry and/or make-up should be avoided.
• PE shorts must be of an appropriate length and size.

*Tattoos deemed by APIS Management to be of a vulgar, pornographic or offensive nature are not permitted.

 

NON-UNIFORM DAYS At times during the school year students are permitted to come to school in clothing other than their school uniform.  These special days are assigned by the administration and have guidelines.  Note: the special days are a privilege and therefore can be terminated if students fail to comply with the following guidelines for personal appearance.

• No sandals, or flip flops
• Jewelry and hair requirements remain as a normal school day.
• No clothing with foul language, references or images of alcohol, drugs, or sex will be permitted.
• Clothing should be clean and free of holes etc.
• No exposure of bare midriff.

 

 

ACADEMIC TERMS & POLICIES

Normal school day

The school day starts at 8:30 (with flag raising and homeroom period) and continues to 15:30. The school campus is open to students Monday through Friday from 7:30 to 16:30 only when the students are supervised by school faculty and involved in a school sponsored program.  Other students should be off school grounds by 16:00.

Morning Assembly                           

Students are to arrive with their student identification card no later than the 8:30 flag ceremony to ensure that student attendance can be taken and that they are informed of school wide announcements. Students who arrive late will be considered tardy – please refer to the section on tardiness.

Homeroom Class/Parent Teacher Conferences

Students must begin and end their regularly scheduled classes in their assigned homeroom.  This is crucial for student accountability, review of the homework diary and specific issues that concern individual students.

Report Cards

American Prep International School runs on a quarterly system in which student’s grades are collected and recorded four times a year. The only grades that will be documented on the transcript and the only ones receiving credit are the end of semester grades.  Student progress and achievement are measured by daily marks, tests, class participation, and teacher observation.  Progress is recorded on the OpenSis school database) and may be viewed by parents after certain cut-off dates as announced by the school.  Report cards are printed and mailed home or given to students at the end of each quarter.  For middle and high school students who are struggling in a course, an academic alert will be sent to parents at the halfway point of each quarter.

 

Classroom Environment

Proper respect for the teacher, classmates, and the school is expected at all times.  Students are expected to obey individual teacher’s classroom rules.  Students who are disrespectful to teachers or fellow students will face appropriate disciplinary action(s).

 

GENERAL SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT

 

AMERICAN PREP INTERNATIONAL focuses on the heart as well as the mind and addresses social, physical, emotional and cultural needs as well as academic ones. The traditional academic subjects are valued. In addition, there is an emphasis on the balance between the acquisition of essential knowledge and skills and the search for meaning and understanding. The program provides opportunity for learners to construct meaning, principally through concept-driven inquiry. The threads of children’s learning are brought together in A trans-disciplinary program of inquiry, which in turn allows them to make connections with life outside the school.

 

Education at American Prep International School enables children to develop sensitivity to the experiences of others through the curriculum, the attributes listed in the student profile, the attitudes that are an explicit element of the program, and the expectation of socially responsible action as a result of the learning experience. The Elementary classroom is an environment that supports learning. As well as the physical setting of the classroom environment careful consideration must also be given to the process of teaching and learning. The key to any successful Elementary classroom is one where students feel valued. The relationship between all members of the classroom and school community must be positive and mutually respectful. The learning environment ensures that there are regular opportunities for the students to work collaboratively and that there are shared responsibilities with everyone caring for the day-to-day maintenance of the classroom.

Electronic Equipment

Students are not allowed to use Walkman, Disc-mans, MP3 players, or cell phones on campus except during lunch and break time or after school.  This equipment should remain in the student’s locker or bag throughout the school day.  Failure to comply will result in confiscation of the equipment by a staff member and/or principal for a period of no less than one week.

Parent-Teacher conferences

Conferences are held with the parents of all children in kindergarten through grade 9 at the end of the first and third quarter.  Parents may request additional conferences with a teacher at any time throughout the semester.  Please contact the teacher via e-mail, in writing or by calling the school office to request and arrange a mutually convenient meeting time.

 

 

HOMEWORK/PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITIES

The purpose of homework is to promote academic achievement. Homework complements the student’s academic experience.  American Prep International School defines homework as meaningful and quality work assigned to students that is intended to be completed during non-instructional hours.  Homework helps develop skills necessary for lifelong learning, including:

 

• Self-discipline
• Productive work habits
• Task commitment
• Time management and organization skills
• Initiative
• Responsibility
• Positive attitudes and enthusiasm towards learning
• Problem-solving skills

 

Younger children need more parental assistance with homework than older children. Here are some additional recommendations for assisting your child with their homework:

 

• Ask to look at homework once it has been marked and returned.
• Ask your child’s teachers about their homework and testing policies.

 

The amount of homework normally increases as students’ progress through school. It should be realized that a student striving to do his/her best, who may have great difficulty grasping the subject matter, has poor study habits, or does not use their school time efficiently may take a longer period of time with his/her assignments. If you have concerns about the amount of time your child is spending on their homework, please contact the (course) teacher.

 

Grade Level approximate amount of daily homework.

Grade 1-3        10-40 minutes

Grade 4-5        45-90 minutes

Grade 6-9        15 min./day per academic class

 

 

STUDY SKILLS & TIME MANAGEMENT

 

Homework is an essential element of successful schoolwork. The following guidelines will help students manage their time.

 

• Listen carefully to all directions regarding homework
• WRITE ALL HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENTS IN THE APIS HOMEWORK DIARY, INCLUDING DUE DATES AND ANY OTHER REQUIREMENTS.
• Ask questions if you do not understand the assignment
• Budget time wisely
• Begin assignments promptly. Turn them in when due.
• Strive for the best results, rather than the minimum just to get by
• Take the initiative to make up work missed for any reason
• Study independently unless a group project is assigned

 

ACADEMIC NEGLECT

Teachers give work assignments and requirements for passing their courses. Any choice to avoid working to become educated is called “Academic Neglect”. Examples include not doing homework or not studying for a test.

 

DISRUPTION AND REMOVAL FROM CLASS Students removed from class will be escorted to the Section Principal’s Office to determine further action.

 

FINAL EXAMINATIONS

 

QUALIFICATIONS TO SIT FINAL EXAMS  In order for a student to sit for final examinations, he/she must be in good standing. The following qualifications apply, and any waiver requires approval of the full Head of School’s Approval:

• Tuition for second semester must be paid in full, or notice of withdrawal received by admissions.
• All accounts must be fully paid.
• Students are only allowed to be absent from exams with prior of approval of section principal.

 

GRADING SYSTEM

All academic teachers issue progress report grades for each of the four grading periods (two per semester).  Semester grades, which are calculated using the grading period grades and a final examination grade, are issued by the teachers and become a permanent part of the student’s transcript.  All letter grades are for grades 6-9 and are based on the following percentages:

 

 

Letter Grade	Description	Percentage Range
A	Excellent work; well above basic expectations	90-100%
B	Above average work; above basic expectations	80-89%
C	Average work; meeting minimal requirements	70-79%
D	Below average work, but still making basic attempts	60-69%
F	Failure; lack of basic academic efforts	0-59%
I	Incomplete work that still must be completed	NA
WD	Withdrawn from the class	NA

 

ACADEMIC ALERTS.  Teachers may initiate personal contact with parents and send a written academic alert as soon as a student is:

(1)  failing a course or,

(2)  receiving a “D” in a course or,

(3)  beginning to work below his/her ability

 

A teacher may also issue a positive academic alert at any time.  Grades of “Incomplete” must be made up within one week, or they become grades of “F”.  Copies will be supplied to the school director.

 

If a student misses an examination through an unexcused absence, he/she receives a zero. When a student has an excused absence, he/she is responsible for contacting the instructor before the scheduled test to arrange to make up the examination. Failure to make up the exam within seven school days will result in a grade of zero for the missed examination. Only the school director may give approval for an examination to be taken early.

 

The student’s Grade Point Average (GPA) is then determined by assigning the following numbers to the letter grade and averaging all classes together:

 

Letter Grade	Grade Points for Class
A	4
B	3
C	2
D	1
F	0

 

Students are required to take a full schedule of classes, or 8 periods per day. There are no free periods.

 

ACADEMIC WITHDRAWAL & DISMISSAL POLICIES

A GPA of 1.00 is required in order to maintain good academic standing. If a GPA falls below 1.00 at the end of a grading period, the student will be automatically placed on Academic Probation by the school principal.  Students then have one grading period in which to attain a GPA of 1.00 or better. Failure to do so will result in a review of the student’s overall record by the director, who may request that the  APIS Management convene a board to review the situation and determine if dismissal is appropriate.

 

New Students whose GPA for the previous semester or whose cumulative grade point average for all secondary schooling does not meet the normal admission criterion of 1.00 may be admitted on Academic Probation. The student must then attain a GPA of 1.00 or better in the first semester (2 grading periods of enrollment). Failure to do so will result in review of the student’s record and may result in academic suspension or dismissal.

 

When students complete all course requirements, including final exams, they receive letter grades on their transcripts.

 

ACADEMIC PROBATION

Academic Probation applies to new and enrolled students who have:

 

• A “D” and an “F” in any two academic subjects during any grading period
• Three D’s in any 3 academic subjects during any grading period
• A GPA lower than a 1.0

 

The following actions are taken after academic performance results are published at the end of each grading period.

 

 

Grading Period	Actions
1st	§ Formally counseled § Letter sent to parents; parents invited for a conference as needed
2nd	§ Counseled § Letter sent to parents; parents invited for a conference as needed § Student loses sports eligibility for the grading period if below 1.0
3rd	§ Formal letter sent to patrons § Student loses sports eligibility for the grading period if below 1.0 § Student may be dismissed, if no improvement is shown
4th	§ Meeting with parents to discuss retention of Student § Student loses sports eligibility for the grading period if below 1.0 § Student may be dismissed, if no improvement is shown

 

 

SANCTIONS FOR ACADEMIC DISONESTY

 

Cheating consists of taking or lending, without authority, a person’s work, information, ideas, research, or documentation without properly identifying the originator.

 

• The following list is not intended to be all-inclusive, but it defines a variety of methods of cheating.
• Looking at someone else’s paper during an examination, test, or quiz
• Talking with another student during an examination, test, or quiz
• Using any unauthorized notes to complete an examination, test, or quiz
• Assisting or permitting someone else to cheat during an examination, test, or quiz
• Copying another student’s work, or allowing someone else to copy one’s own work
• Copying or closely paraphrasing passages from any source without giving proper credit to the original author of the source
• Giving test information to other students in other periods of the same course
• Fabricating or altering laboratory data
• Creating distractions during which time cheating may go unnoticed by the teacher

 

Quite often, teachers hold different expectations with regard to homework. Some teachers encourage students to work together, whereas other teachers may expect an assignment to be completed independently. Students should make absolutely certain they understand the teachers’ expectations regarding assignments and testing.

 

PROCEDURES FOR CHEATING INSTANCES:

• The teacher will confer with a student if he or she suspects one of cheating
• The teacher will refer the case to the director
• Director in consultation with the teacher will confer on appropriate actions.

 

 

ACADEMIC ABSENCES

 

 APIS SCHOOL ATTENDENCE POLICY

Because guided instruction by the teacher is paramount to any student’s success, excessive classroom absences, whether excused or unexcused, compromise the APIS’s goal of educating the student. To receive full credit for any class, a student must be in attendance at least 80% of the time for each semester. The only exception is the attendance at a school-planned function (e.g., field trips, athletic contests, etc).  Any absences beyond this number will be considered excessive and he/she will be penalized a full letter grade in that class for the semester.

 

• With this first policy in mind, parents and students alike should realize that APIS strongly discourages planned absences from any academic day for any reason. We do realize that certain absences may be necessary.  Any parental requests for exceptions to this policy must be approved by the director at least two weeks prior to the student’s departure from  APIS unless it is a family emergency.  If the director approves the absence, the student will be responsible for coordinating with teachers, in advance of his departure, any work he/she will miss.  Failure to comply with this deadline, however, will result in an unexcused absence, and the student will not be allowed to make up any work missed.

 

• Student absences before and after breaks are not authorized. It is the parent’s responsibility to make sure that the student does not leave school until the completion of the last academic class period prior to a break and that he/she returns to the campus on time after the break.  Failure to comply with these deadlines will result in an unexcused absence, and the student, although responsible for all of the information missed, will receive 0’s for all assignments and assessments missed. An absence of at least two consecutive academic days requires a doctor’s note or explanatory note from the parent.

EMERGENCY WAIVER

In extraordinary situations that require an extended absence, such as hospitalization, or a family emergency, parents or (legal) guardians should apply to the director for a waiver.

TRUANCY

Skipping class is considered a major offense and the student will receive appropriate disciplinary action.

iNFORMING THE sCHOOL

1. If you are absent, your parents must contact the school on that day.
2. On the day you return to school you must bring a note from your parent explaining why you were absent.
3. If you know you will be absent from school in advance, your parents must write a letter to the school explaining why you will be absent and how many days you will be away from school.
4. If you need to leave school before the end of the school day, your parents must write a letter explaining why you are leaving, what time you will leave, and who will pick you up from the school. You must give this note to Academic office BEFORE you leave the school.

RETURNING TO SCHOOL

The written note must include the date or time of the absence, the reason for the absence, and should be signed by the parent or (legal) guardian.  If a note is not received by the school the student may not make up the missed work.  The note should be provided to the student’s homeroom teacher.  Students who intend to be absent from school-sponsored activities must fill out a Leave of Absence from and submit it to the office before they can be excused.  Any student who has not submitted the Leave of Absence form prior to leaving will be considered absent and it will be counted toward their absence record.

 

Parents planning to take a student out of school must have their child complete the Leave of Absence form, and upon completion submit this to the section principal before the absence takes place. Parents are strongly urged to avoid non-illness and extended absences, because such absences create an extra burden for students upon their return.  Excessive absences undermine the goal of a consistent work ethic, which the school seeks to instill in all its students.  Medical appointments and out of school commitments should be scheduled for after-school hours.

Medical

A child who has a fever, is vomiting, or has a severe cough and runny nose should be kept at home.  A student who becomes ill, or injured, during the school day should go to the nurse’s office for medical assessment, treatment, and referral.

 

Student’s who do not feel well or who have injured themselves must inform their subject teacher at the time.

 

 

GENERAL CLASSROOM RULES

 

American Prep publishes a list of Classroom Rules. Every teacher posts them in his or her classroom. Instructors have the authority to add their own requirements for expected behavior in their classrooms. The following is the minimum expected behavior for students to exhibit:

 

• Bringing all necessary materials to class
• Being on time and ready to work when class begins
• No talking when the teacher or another student talks
• No sleeping in class and no heads down on desk
• No food or drink permitted in classroom to include CHEWING GUM.
• Meet personal appearance standards in all respects
• No cell phones, MP3 players etc.
• No computer games or listening to music without express permission of the subject teacher.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PARENT CONTRACT

 

We the parent(s) and student(s) of American Prep International School have read the Student/Parent Handbook for the 2011-2012 School Year, and by affixing our signatures we hereby agree to abide by all policies and procedures outlined in the handbook.

 

Please return this page to the homeroom teacher.

 

 

Parent Name____________________________

 

Parent Signature__________________________ Date____________________________

 

 

 

Student Name_________________________

 

Student Signature_________________________ Date____________________________

 

Witness ________________________________  Date ___________________________

Homeroom Teacher

 

Date Returned____________________________