Energized Engaged Empowered
Primary Student Parent Handbook
Contents PRINCIPAL’S WELCOME
5
MISSION AND LEARNER PROFILE
6
THE SCHOOL DAY
10
ATTENDANCE EXPECTATIONS
14
STUDENT BEHAVIOR
18
DRESS AND STUDENT PRESENTATION
24
LEARNING AT ISHCMC
26
COMMUNICATION
32
GENERAL PARENT INFORMATION
36
HEALTH CENTER
40
SAFEGUARDING POLICY
48
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Welcome to Primary On behalf of the ISHCMC family, we would like to extend a warm welcome to our 2016-17 school year. The purpose of this handbook is to provide parents and students with helpful information regarding our school’s policies and procedures. These practices support the school’s mission to ensure that our learning environment is one that is energizing, engaging, and empowering for all. It is not intended to house all school practices and further information may be found on MyISHCMC and other documents (e.g. Admissions Package). We are an IB Primary Years Program (PYP) school and much of this document is aligned with PYP philosophy and practice. For more information on our curriculum, please see the Primary Years Program (PYP) Handbook. This document is the product of a collective effort by staff, students, and parents. Due to the nature of high-functioning schools, changes may take place as procedures once deemed fit may need to be altered. As a result, this document will be updated periodically and parents will be made aware of any changes through our virtual learning environment (VLE) and/or newsletter. We look forward to a successful school year full of energizing, engaging and empowering learning opportunities. Here’s to an exciting school year! Kurtis Peterson, Lianne Kalapaca and Sam Sherratt The Primary Team
Sam Sherratt - IB PYP Coordinator, Kurtis Peterson - Primary Principal, Lianne Kalapaca - Primary Vice Principal
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MISSION AND LEARNER PROFILE
Mission
As an IB World School, ISHCMC constructs a Culture of Achievement in an environment where students are energized, engaged and empowered to become active participants in their communities.
ISHCMC’s Vision To be widely recognized as a school that nurtures a creative and collaborative learning environment in which students and teachers seek to achieve beyond their goals, flourish as individuals, display compassion, embrace challenge, take principled action on local and global issues and enjoy being part of their community.
ISHCMC Values At ISHCMC we value: • Individual learners • Creative and inquiring thinkers • Learning beyond the classroom • International Mindedness • Reflection and goal setting • Collaboration and connectivity • Environmental Sustainability • Healthy and Mindful choices • Honest and Principled actions
ISHCMC Principles of Learning: • All learners are capable of achieving their goals in a guided environment where there is an appropriate balance of standards, challenge and support. • Learning builds on prior knowledge and experiences and is contextual, meaningful and valuable. • Learning is an active process that takes time and is strengthened through opportunities for errors, practice, reflection, and further revision of ideas. • Motivation is a key factor in learning. • Learning is effective when differentiated. • Learning should take place in a safe engaging environment. • Learning should encompass the personal, local and global, aiming to make for a better world.
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IB Learner Profile The Learner Profile permeates all that we do at ISHCMC: it is the backbone of academic, social and emotional development. Through the process of inquiry and the application of the essential elements we encourage ISHCMC students to be:
Inquirers
ISHCMC learners develop their natural curiosity. We acquire the skills necessary to conduct inquiry and research and show independence in learning. We actively enjoy learning and this love of learning will be sustained throughout their lives.
Knowledgeable
ISHCMC learners explore concepts, ideas and issues that have local and global significance. In so doing, we acquire in-depth knowledge and develop understanding across a broad and balanced range of disciplines.
Thinkers
ISHCMC learners exercise initiative in applying thinking skills critically and creatively to recognize and approach complex problems, and make reasoned, ethical decisions.
Communicators
ISHCMC learners understand and express ideas and information confidently and creatively in more than one language and in a variety of modes of communication. We work effectively and willingly in collaboration with others.
Principled
ISHCMC learners act with integrity and honesty, with a strong sense of fairness, justice and respect for the dignity of the individual, groups and communities. We take responsibility for our own actions and the consequences that accompany them.
Open-minded
ISHCMC learners understand and appreciate our own cultures and personal histories, and are open to the perspectives, values and traditions of other individuals and communities. We are accustomed to seeking and evaluating a range of points of view, and are willing to grow from the experience.
Caring
IISHCMC learners show empathy, compassion and respect towards the needs and feelings of others. We have a personal commitment to service, and act to make a positive difference to the lives of others and to the environment. 8
Risk-takers
ISHCMC learners approach unfamiliar situations and uncertainty with courage and forethought, and have the independence of spirit to explore new roles, ideas and strategies. We are brave and articulate in defending our beliefs.
Balanced
ISHCMC learners understand the importance of intellectual, physical and emotional balance to achieve personal well-being for ourselves and others.
Reflective
ISHCMC learners give thoughtful consideration to our own learning and experience. We are able to assess and understand our strengths and limitations in order to support our learning and personal development. We regularly refer to the IB Learner Profile through our written/taught/assessed curriculum, school community behavior and expectations, and parent meetings/communication. Each homeroom has: • The Learner Profile posted for easy reference when teaching and learning; • Essential agreements mutually agreed to by students and teachers that refer back to the IB Learner Profile.
Accreditation Our School holds full accreditation status with the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). ISHCMC is an IB World School. We are fully authorized by the International Baccalaureate Organization to deliver all three IB programs. The School is also a member of the East Asia Regional Council of Overseas Schools (EARCOS), the Mekong River International Schools Association (MRISA) and COGNITA Pacific Asia. We are also a member of the National Association of College Admissions Counselors (NACAC).
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THE SCHOOL DAY
The School calendar runs from mid-August until mid-June. An updated calendar of starting times, events and holidays is available through the school website and school Virtual Learning Environment (MyISHCMC). Primary EE 2 - 3
Primary EE 4 and G1
Primary KG
Primary Grades 2 - 5
7:45-8:15 Free Play
7:45-8:15 Student arrival at school
7:45-8:15 Student arrival at school
7:45-8:15 Student arrival at school
8:15-8:30 Registration & Mindfulness
8:15-8:35 Registration & Mindfulness
8:15-8:35 Registration & Mindfulness
8:15-8:35 Registration & Mindfulness
8:30-9:00 Circle Time
8:40-9:20 Period 1
8:40-9:20 Period 1
8:40-9:20 Period 1
9:00-10:00 Morning Break
9:20-10:00 Period 2
9:20-10:00 Period 2
9:20-10:00 Period 2
10:00-11:15 Learning Through Play
10:00-10:40 Period 3 10:40-11:00 Morning Break
10:00-11:00 Morning Break 11:00-11:40 Period 5
10:00-10:40 Period 3 10:40-11:00 Morning Break
11:15-11:30 Circle Time
11:00-11:40 Period 4
11:40-12:20 Period 5
11:00-11:40 Period 4
11:30-12:00 Lunch
11:40-12:20 Period 5
12:20-13:05 Lunch
11:40-12:20 Period 5
12:00-12:30 Nap or quiet time
12:20-1:05 Lunch
13:05-13:45 Period 6
12:20-1:05 Lunch
12:30-1:30 Learning Through Play
13:05-13:45 Period 6 13:45-14:25 Period 7
1:45-14:25 Period 7 14:25 End of day
13:05-13:45 Period 6 13:45-14:25 Period 7
13:30-13:45 Circle Time
14:25-14:45 End of day
15:15-16:00* ASA
13:45 End of the day
15:15-16:00* ASA
14:25-15:05 Period 8 15:15-16:00* ASA
*ASA timing may vary depending on the activity and the grade level
Morning and Afternoon Procedures
Morning (classes are open starting at 07:45) Grade Level
Procedure
EE2, EE3, EE4, KG
Students are escorted by an adult to the classroom at 07:45 Supervision is the responsibility of the parent or guardian
Grades 1-5
Supervision provided from 7:45 - 8:15
Notes: • EE and KG students must be supervised by an adult prior to 07:45 • Grade 1-5 students have the choice of playing or going to class from 7:45- 8:15. • Thursdays are a late start; as a result, classes are not open for students until 8:15. • Hand ball sports are allowed on the basketball court but kicking sports (e.g. football) are not. • Students are not allowed upstairs before 7:45 unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. • Students are responsible for their school items in the supervision area.
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Afternoon Grade Level EE2, EE3, EE4, KG
Procedure Students are collected directly from the classroom by an adult or significantly older sibling (age 12 or older).
Grade 1
Teachers will escort students to the covered red tiled area for collection by an adult or significantly older sibling (age 12 or older).
Grade 2
Teachers will escort students to the bottom of the stairs for collection by an adult or significantly older sibling (age 12 or older).
Grades 3-5
Students are dismissed by homeroom and specialist teachers and should go directly to their ASA, to their bus, or home with their parent and/or guardian.
Notes: • EE2-Grade 2 students cannot leave the school premise without a parent, guardian, or sibling (age 12 or over). • Grades 3-5 students can leave the campus unaccompanied. • Students in Grade 2 or below still waiting to be picked up 15 minutes after dismissal will be taken to the Primary Office. • Grades 3-5 students still waiting to be picked up after 15:20 will report to the Library. • If your child is to go home with a friend or be collected by someone other than the regular adult or older sibling, please notify the homeroom teacher. • No child is allowed to go home in any car or bus other than his/her own unless the teacher is informed. To ride or change the bus please notify the teacher and Primary Office. • Supervision ends at 15:15 (inside school) and 15:20 (at gate and outside school)
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ATTENDANCE EXPECTATIONS
ISHCMC believes that attendance is a fundamental aspect of learning. The goal of each student should be to attend all school days listed in the school calendar in order to optimise their learning opportunities. Persistent absences can result in: • Increased stress upon the student who must catch-up on missed work. • Problems within student relationships if a student cannot fulfil group class/homework commitments. • Gaps in the student’s learning because a student does not receive the extended opportunity to be in a developmental learning environment.
Attendance Excused Absences Absences are considered excused when they meet any of the following conditions: • Attending school sponsored activities • Illness or injury prevents the student from physically attending school • Local health professional orders the isolation of the student • Death of an immediate family member • Emergency medical, dental or other similar emergency appointment • Student is observing an event specifically required by the religion of the student or student’s parents • Student is obtaining a visa or fulfilling other Vietnamese residency requirements • A reason not listed above that has been approved in advance by the Primary Principal
Unexcused Absences Absences are considered unexcused when they fail to meet any of the conditions listed under Excused Absences. Example of events that would be deemed unexcused are: • Family vacations and visits • Healthcare visits that could be arranged outside school hours • Assignment completion • Local or overseas educational courses or camps • Attending family graduation ceremonies overseas
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Students who are ill should not attend school. Please refer to the Health Center section of this document for policies and procedures. Parents are expected to contact the teacher if their child is going to be absent. If a child is absent without explanation for an extended period (more than 2 days) the classroom teacher will contact the parents. For more information on health regulations, please see the Health Center section of this handbook. Please note that teachers will not provide work for unexcused absences. If your child cannot attend a class (e.g. swimming) for health reasons, please notify the classroom teacher and our Health Center. To achieve grade level promotion, students must attend 95 percent of the school year (i.e. 5 percent unexcused absences). Students who do not meet the attendance requirements may not be promoted to the next grade level.
The Importance of Punctuality
When students start and finish the school day on time, it creates a safe and optimum learning experience for all of our students. A late arrival or late collection after school often causes unnecessary stress on students and disruption to their day. Moreover, health and safety procedures require the school to have an accurate student list shortly after the start of the school day. Please note the following procedures for all homeroom and specialist teachers: • 08:15 - start of the school day • Arrival after 08:25 - class registration is closed, students EE4-Grade 5 report to the office to participate in mindfulness. • 08:35 -students receive a late pass from the office and proceed to homeroom. Parents whose children consistently arrive or are collected late will be contacted by administration to discuss ways to improve morning routines.
Leaving School During The Day
Students cannot leave campus during the school day without notification of teachers and administration. Please note the following procedure:
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Steps
Person Responsible
1. Notify the classroom teacher prior to the appointment
Parent
2. ‘Sign-out’ form signed by teacher and Principal
Student/Parent
3. Submit form to security
Student/Parent
Note: • In the case of departure due to illness, the Health Center will help with this procedure.
Student Visitors
Parents wishing to have a student from another school visit must obtain prior permission by emailing the class teacher. The class teacher will then discuss with the Principal and decide on an outcome. At least one day’s notice is required. Permission will normally be granted for a maximum of two school days during which the visitor will accompany the host to classes and be subject to school regulations. The host family is expected to take full responsibility for the visiting student. Visiting students are asked to either wear school uniform or colours and style that match as close as possible to the school uniform.
Unsupervised Students on Campus
Students should not be on campus after school or on the weekends without supervision by an adult.
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STUDENT BEHAVOR
The IB Learner Profile, PYP Attitudes, and Transdisciplinary Skills provide the backbone for our social and emotional programming and behavior expectations. ISHCMC community members are expected to support themselves and each other. PYP Attitudes
Respect for one’s self
ISHCMC Student
Respect for the property of all
Transdisciplinary Skills
Respect for others
IB Learner Profile
At ISHCMC, we aim to develop a community where all members take responsibility for their actions. We firmly believe in working with students to be reflective and develop strategies that allow better choices in the future. The school has a general procedure for supporting students with behavior expectations that varies depending on the age of the student. Steps include the following:
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One: Redirection Teachers guide the student in order to get them to consider their actions: What are they doing? Why are they doing that? What could or should they be doing? They will also review essential agreements with students.
Two: One-to-one Discussion Teachers will hold a private conversation about the behavior concerned and to make a plan for improvement. (e.g. strategies for controlling anger) Contact may be made with parents at this point.
Three: Consequences and Strategies Student undertakes an action that reflects on the behavior (e.g. a written apology to those concerned). Other strategies and steps may be implemented (e.g. behavior monitoring checklist or contract). Parents and principal will be included.
Four: Involve the Admin Student sent to the Primary Office. A ‘Time to Think’ will be completed and signed by a member of the admin team and student, with appropriate follow-up and communication given to the homeroom teacher and parent.
Notes: • Step 4 refers to the following: o Any major infringement of behavioral expectations (e.g. theft, fighting, bullying, etc.) o When a student has continually made poor choices. In this case a ‘’zero-tolerance’’ for repeated inappropriate behaviors will be enacted where students will be removed from the classroom and work in another location until they are ready to address their actions. The school reserves the right to suspend and exit students for the following reasons: • Pose a threat to the well-being of other students and/or staff • Parent support and follow-up has not been deemed acceptable by school administration • Further information (e.g. assessment) is required by the school
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Bullying
At ISHCMC we recognize that bullying can have a significant impact on student safety, learning and the school climate. Therefore bullying is one of the offences for which suspension or expulsion will be considered as a consequence. Definition of Bullying Bullying is not a term that should be used lightly. Bullying means aggressive and typically repeated behavior by a student. It is targeted towards one or two people and is done over a period of time. The behavior is intended to: • Cause harm, fear or distress to another individual, which may include physical, psychological, social or academic harm, can also include damage to the individual’s reputation or to their property. • Create a negative environment at ISHCMC for another individual that may or may not include the use of technology. Examples and Mediums of Bullying Physical
Verbal
Social/Relational
Digital
Pushing
Name calling
Gossiping
Slapping
Mocking and Insults
Spreading rumours
Text/instant messaging
Tripping
Threats
Excluding others from a group
Blogs/personal websitesing
Hitting and/ or Punching
Racist/ excluding: use of other language
Humiliating others with public gestures, graffiti
Online personal polling websites
Inappropriate Touching
Sexist/ homophobic/ transphobic
Shunning/ignoring
Social networking websites
Reporting Bullying Incidents to Staff and Consequences In cases of bullying, the Counsellor and the Vice Principal will be informed immediately. Parents will be informed and asked to come in for a meeting to discuss the problem. Bullying behavior or threats of bullying will be investigated promptly and measures taken to stop the bullying. ISHCMC understands that students often feel fear and are reticent in reporting an incident and therefore pledge to implement protective measures. The safety of the student reporting an incident of bullying will be a driving factor in the School’s response. Students who are bullied, who bully others, or who witness bullying will receive the necessary support so they can learn effective strategies for interacting positively with others and for promoting positive peer dynamics. Our students may be suspended for bullying and/or may be considered for expulsion. Possible
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reasons for expulsion may include the following: • Violent acts • Repeating previous suspension for bullying • If the student’s continuing presence at ISHCMC creates, in the school’s opinion, an unacceptable risk to the safety of another person
Forfeiture of Tuition Fees
If a student is suspended or expelled, tuition fees for the period of suspension or for the remainder of the term after expulsion will not be refunded.
Behavior of Students (off-campus)
Off-campus behavior is fundamentally the responsibility of the individual student and parents. Students must continually be aware, however, that they are always the representatives of ISHCMC in the larger community and should conduct themselves in such a manner. Behavior that impairs the harmony or efficacy of the School community may be dealt with by the School administration. The School reserves the right to take whatever disciplinary action it deems appropriate.
Eating at ISHCMC
At ISHCMC, we firmly believe that food and the act of eating are essential parts of the school day. We promote a healthy, balanced diet among all members of our school body and expect all to eat responsibly and respectfully.
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Responsibilities Parents
• Provide a healthy snack • Provide a healthy lunch by either sending it with the student in the morning or purchasing it from Global Café in advance to ensure food availability • Limit junk food and chocolate in snacks and lunch • Exclude soft drinks
Teachers
• Ensure fruit is available for students and that it will be eaten in a respectful manner • Model lunch behaviors by occasionally eating lunch with or near students • Put food and eating on classroom agendas throughout the school year • Have high expectations for students and student etiquette when eating • Supervise lunch based on school expectations
Students
• Purchase lunches before school • Purchase lunch during lunchtime (Grades 4 and 5 only) • Treat lunch staff with respect and manners (e.g. saying ‘please’ and ‘thank you’) • Eat their lunch in the canteen area or classroom in a respectful manner, sitting with classmates in designated areas • Avoid wasting food • Clean lunch tables, plates, and utensils by placing items in the appropriate location • Place all rubbish in the appropriate rubbish or recycling bin.
Notes: • Lunch menus will be made available to all members of the school community from reception or Global Café or the school VLE (MyISHCMC) • Food deliveries from outside companies are not allowed unless authorised • EE2, EE3, EE4, KG students eat their lunch in their classrooms and Grades 1-5 students eat at the canteen.
Academic Honesty
At ISHCMC the IB Learner Profile is embedded in students’ everyday life and therefore, is the cornerstone of our school policy and student expectations. It is expected that all students, as they progress through their education at ISHCMC will receive regular instruction that helps maintain academic honesty. The responsibility for the promotion of academic honesty is shared across the community and includes administrators, homeroom and subject teachers, librarians and parents.
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DRESS AND STUDENT PRESENTATION
Daily Dress • • • • • • • • •
School polo shirt Comfortable shoes (toes covered), preferably with rubber or soft soles Athletic shoes may be worn but must be clean and neat Hat for outside play Socks Flipflops/beach sandals are not allowed outside the pool Skirts and shorts must be worn at purchased-length unless altered due to being too large All attire must fit appropriately For students in EE2-4 low, flat, light, sandals with a secure ankle strap can be worn with or without white socks
Dress Code: Accessories and Expectations
At ISHCMC, presentation is important. While we acknowledge that we must consider the cultural diversity of our families, we balance this perspective with the health and safety needs of our student body. Primary students at ISHCMC are permitted to wear the following: • Earrings (1 set of simple studs) • Watch • Simple neck chain • Bracelet • Medic Alert Bracelets or Medic Alert Pendants • Hair covering for religious purposes All jewellery worn should not be of significant sentimental or monetary value as the School will not be responsible for lost items. All students who wear jewellery must be able to take it off for safety reasons (e.g. PE) and be willing to remove for classes where it is a health and safety issue. If a student cannot take it off independently, it is not to be worn.
Hair
Long hair is to be tied up during PE lessons and is encouraged during the rest of the day. Makeup is not allowed unless for special occasions (e.g. Halloween); however, nail polish is permitted.
Uniform Protocols for PE Classes
For Physical Education classes, boys and girl wear the school’s Physical Education T-shirt with PE shorts. These are available from the school shop. A swim cap is to be worn for swim lessons and training. Appropriate sports shoes are to be worn on PE days and all students are expected to have hats for all lessons. Older students are permitted to bring a change of uniform on PE days.
Uniform Health and Safety
Students need to wear a hat when outside in the sun. ISHCMC operates a “no hat no play in the sun” policy. If students do not have a hat, they can play in the covered courts and covered play area near the sandpit. In the event of cool weather students can wear a sweater available through the Uniform Shop, or official Rhino Hut gear available from the PTO.
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LEARNING AT ISHCMC
The school curriculum is authorised by the International Baccalaureate Organisation and current curriculum development in the School is in line with the international programmes (IBPYP, IBMYP, IBDP) developed by the IB for students in schools around the world. The curriculum guide for each section is developed separately by the different sections of the school. For more information on our written, taught, and assessed curriculum, please refer to our Primary Curriculum Handbook.
Homeroom Teacher
Homeroom teachers are responsible for most aspects of learning and the general welfare of students. If matters of concern regarding a student arise the first point of contact for parents with the School is the homeroom teacher. In addition, teaching assistants support teachers with learning in all subject areas.
Student Support Services
A variety of specialists provide students with the support they require in order for new and returning students to have a successful learning experience. The team that makes up the Student Support Services includes the following: Counsellor The School employs a counsellor and offers support in the areas of academic, social and personal development. The services of the Counsellor are available to both students and parents. The Counsellors work closely with the teachers and in group meetings to ensure that the students at each grade level receive the information and support they need to cope with the demands placed upon them. Learning Support The School has learning support teachers to support mild to moderate learning needs throughout the Primary school. The School does not undertake to provide for all specialised educational needs. The Learning Support Team will meet to discuss progress and initiate strategies for support at school and at home. English as an Additional Language (EAL) The International School Ho Chi Minh City offers English as an Additional Language (EAL) Support Program. All students enrolling in Grade 1 and above whose mother tongue is not English and who have not completed two full years in an English medium school are assessed by the EAL team before starting school. EAL teachers are responsible for the support of all students in a grade level deemed to be in need of extra support. EAL teachers and class/subject teachers share responsibility for the English language development of these students. Our program uses a combination of withdrawal (pullout) and in-class support (push-in). EAL teachers continually assess students’ progress in English and student progress is also frequently discussed between EAL and class/subject teachers. All EAL teachers work closely with class/subject teachers to ensure consistency of goals and expectations. Exiting is done through mutual decision by both EAL and class/subject teachers. This is conducted twice a year, at the end of each semester and parents will be notified in writing if their child will 27
exit the program. The average time a student spends in the EAL Support Program varies according to previous experience and motivation. Library The Library provides an important resource centre for all school students. A variety of subjectrelated materials, reference sources, works of fiction and periodicals are available, together with CD ROM, internet facilities and on-line databases. In IB schools, the library is a hub for learning where students research topics, select books, as well as learn and apply digital literacy skills. The library hours are 07:30 - 16:00 (Monday-Thursday) and 7:30 - 15:15 on Fridays. Students are encouraged to borrow books on a regular basis. Books can be checked out throughout the school day with the loan period being two weeks. Parents are also able to borrow books from the library to enhance reading opportunities at home. We view all library items as treasured resources and hope that the students will value them as well. It is particularly difficult to replace library books in Vietnam. A charge will be made for any lost books. All books and materials loaned to a student must be returned prior to the issuance of school reports and/or other documentation. Information Technology (IT) The Primary school has a variety of IT tools to enhance learning inside and outside the classroom. All classrooms have access to iPads with Grades 3 and 4 enjoying a 1-1 iPad program. Grade 5 have their own laptops while all grades have access to the computer lab and desktop computers. In addition, all homeroom classes have been equipped with interactive whiteboards.
Learning @ Home What is it?
Learning at home is an important part of a student’s education as effective and authentic learning opportunities can: • • • •
Develop a love for reading Inspire students to develop their own inquiries Support and deepen classroom learning through engaging activities Increase the involvement and responsibility of learning between parents, students, and teachers • Assist EAL and Learning Support students with language development Evaluation of Student Learning updates are electronically generated for parents. These reports
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Learning @ Home Guidelines
Action When it happens
Learning Beyond the Classroom Sometimes
Reading Everyday
What is it? Reading for pleasure or information for a minimum of 15 (KG-Gr 1) to 30 (Gr 2-5) minutes
What it is not‌ Questions to Ask/What to look for Reading that is required What are you reading? Are you for school-based learning. enjoying it? What is it about? Shall we read it together?
Students inquire into learning that leads back to the classroom. For example, Skype interview with a grandparent, conducting a simple experiment, cooking, responding to a blog post.
Skill-based worksheets, online math practice, extra work to develop areas of growth (unless EAL or Learning Support), repetitive tasks.
Let’s look at your class blog. What questions are you asking at school? Have you got anything extra to do at home? Can I help you with anything?
Student-initiated action that is noticed (by parents, teachers and classmates) and celebrated.
Something that students are told to do.
Be looking for things that your child decides to do that are related to and because of what they are learning at school or passionate about. If you notice something, take a photo, video them or just write it down and share with the teacher. 29
Responsibilities Student
1. 2. 3. 4.
Teacher
1. Provide appropriate and stimulating tasks 2. Ensure assignments are understood by students 3. Provide timely feedback
Parents
1. Provide the time, resources, and facilities to support independent learning 2. Encourage effort, achievement and a appositive attitude towards home learning 3. Create systems that develop student responsibility 4. Communicate with the teachers if there are any issues (e.g. too difficult or taking too long)
Complete tasks to the best of their ability Ask for help when unsure Bring the requested work back to school on or before it is dued Record tasks accurately when required
update parents on the learner’s academic and social progress at school. Parents access these assessments through our web-based curriculum organizer (Managebac). Please make sure that our IT department has the relevant email address for you and your family. There will be various events (e.g. Three-way Conferences, Look4Learning, and Student-led Conferences) throughout the school year where parents, teachers, and students will come together to celebrate student learning. When any cause for concern arises, individual conferences may be arranged at any time to discuss how best to address a student’s needs. Grade Promotion Students will normally proceed to the next year level at the beginning of each year. However, where it is felt that a student would benefit from repeating a year or being promoted a grade level, a full review of the student’s academic potential will be undertaken and a meeting involving parents and the School held before any decision is made.
Learning Outside of the Classroom
ISHCMC firmly believes that social and academic learning opportunities available outside the classroom should be encouraged by all. Mandatory events (e.g. Field Trips and Excursions), volunteer activities (After School Activities), and elected/selected positions (Student Representative Council, House Leaders, Sports Teams) help to develop confidence, independence, and IB learner traits among our students.
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Excursions/Fieldtrips
Excursions are an integral and compulsory part of ISHCMC’s curriculum program. Excursions provide a key source of learning experience for students and an important stimulus to place learning into a real-life context. We believe that children learn best when they are engaged in their own learning and when their learning is closely linked to personal experience. Our excursions provide opportunities for students to better appreciate and understand their local environment by providing important real-life experiences to either stimulate a student’s interest in a new unit of study, or provide an opportunity for the student to gain greater insights into a concept or an idea already under investigation. All excursions must be linked to clearly-identified learning opportunities. Parents will be provided with the details of all excursions in advance of the excursion occurring and will be asked for their informed consent for their child to attend.
After School Activities (ASAs)
ASAs take place either after school or on Saturday mornings and are organised by teachers, some outside instructors and parent volunteers. A wide variety of activities are available for students to further their interests, develop academic areas of growth, and to try new ideas. At the beginning of each semester information is provided with online sign-up provided to parents. Every effort is made to provide students with the activity of their choice, however, some activities are heavily subscribed. Please note that ASAs for KG students start Term 3 (January).
Student Representative Council (SRC)
The Primary SRC is a student-elected body who represent student interests and perspectives at ISHCMC.. They are an extremely important in supporting and enriching our learner-focused school as they work to drive forward various initiatives and lead by example.
The House System
The School’s internal activities and sports are organized on a house basis. The School has established four ‘houses’ or groups into which each student is assigned. All students and teachers are assigned to either the red house (Cobras), green house (Dragons), yellow house (Tigers) or blue house (Buffaloes), when they first enter the School. Each house has two elected leaders from Grade 5 who support team spirit and various house-based initiatives throughout the school year. House points are awarded to individuals and teams inside and outside the classroom. They can be awarded for demonstration of the Learner Profile, cooperative work, sporting competitions and various other activities. A trophy is awarded at the end of the year for the team with the most house points collected throughout the year.
Sports Teams and Competitions
ISHCMC Rhinos and Stingrays are well represented in the Primary school with regular competitions in a number of athletic and (increasingly) non-athletic ventures including swimming galas, basketball and football (soccer) tournaments, dance recitals, and math competitions. Some teams develop out of ASAs while others are selected through a try-out system. All try-out information will be posted for the ISHCMC school community well in advance.
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COMMUNICATION
Good parent/teacher communication is vital to the education process and we endeavour to provide information to parents in a manner that is timely and appropriate. Our school Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) called MyISHCMC will provide parents with up-to-date information on classroom activities, upcoming events, and curriculum information. Communication from School to Parents Urgent
• Phone call • Text
Important
• • • •
Important but not Urgent (e.g. Upcoming Events)
• School calendar • MyISHCMC • School website (www.ishcmc.com)
Phone call Student Communication Log/Planner Email MyISHCMC
Procedure
The first and most important point of contact with respect to your child is the classroom teacher. It is extremely important that this relationship has the opportunity to develop and thrive. The following diagrams will help to direct your queries: Academic Inquiries Teacher
PYP Coordinator
Vice-Principal or Principal
Director of School
Non-Academic Inquiries ` Teacher
PYP Coordinator
Vice-Principal or Principal
Director of School
Health and Safety Issues Vice-Principal or Principal
Deputy Director of School
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Parent Information and Evenings
Every month parents have the opportunity to attend a coffee morning where they will learn more about school programming and initiatives. As well, there will be evening events (ISHCMC on the Couch) where guest speakers will discuss various academic and non-academic issues.
Parent Participation at School
We welcome parent involvement at school. Support for learning can include reading with children, helping in the classroom, supervising during a field trip, and sharing their culture during intercultural events. Please talk with the teacher regarding how you may become involved in the life of the school and your child’s learning.
The Parent Teacher Organisation (PTO)
Parents are encouraged to join the Parent Teacher Organisation. The goal of this committee is to foster closer relations between parents, the faculty and wider school community. Membership is open to all parents/guardians of current ISHCMC students and to all current teachers at ISHCMC. Mission Statement The PTO is committed to supporting the Teachers, Parents and Students through social and educational activities and improving a forum for the ideas and concerns of its members within an intercultural community. Objectives 1. To promote positive communication between teachers, administrators, parents, students, and the community with the framework of the PTO Guiding Principles and Constitution. 2. To provide a mechanism for parents and staff to raise and discuss matters pertaining to the school community. 3. To enable parents and staff to share ideas and information about education and how to improve the students’ academic and non-academic performance. 4. To provide support, both materially and otherwise, for the various activities of the School. 5. To provide a mechanism for the School to be represented in the broader community. 6. Parents are urged to become involved and to contact the Secretary of the PTO for further details.
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GENERAL PARENT INFORMATION
Birthdays and Celebrations
We want to work with parents to ensure that we celebrate birthdays in a manner in line with our learning and eating expectations. Celebrations (including a simple birthday cake) will generally take place at the end of the school day (last period). Please note that candy and soft drinks will not be allowed. The distribution of birthday party—and other celebratory—is the responsibility of parents and students. Please keep in mind the feelings of all students in the class and grade level.
Electronics
We ask that students to not bring phones or other electronic devices to school as we lack a safe location in which to store. Moreover, we want to encourage students to interact with others through discussion and play-based opportunities.
School Supplies
The School provides students with workbooks where and when applicable. Items loaned to students by the School for regular use (e.g. home readers, laptops or iPads) are expected to be treated with care and respect. At the end of each school year, and prior to a student’s final departure, a return form has to be completed in order to gain access to school documentation. Please ensure your child has a clearly labeled school bag. A separate bag for books from the library is also required.
Lost and Found
Parents are asked to make sure that all possessions brought to school are marked with the student’s name. Great care should be taken with possessions and respect shown to items belonging to others. Found items are placed in a variety of areas around the school with expensive items being held at the Primary office.
Money at School
Due to the absence of lockers and secure places to store money in Primary school, students Grade 3 and below are strongly discouraged from bringing money into the school. Older students can bring money at their own risk.
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Personal Items at School
Expensive toys, electronic toys, plastic swords, guns, weapons, or knives are not permitted on the campus. Arrangements with the teacher should be made before animals are brought onto campus. We recognize the need to share toys and experiences. Please give guidance in selecting items, which will stimulate language development. Individual teachers have their own rules regarding “show and tell”. Please familiarize yourself with the rules before sending objects or animals to the classroom. It is not necessary for students to bring toys to play with outside in the playground. Items are brought to school at your own risk. Students are advised not be bring expensive items to school as the security of these cannot be guaranteed. Where behavior patterns emerge (e.g. theft) that are a discipline issue, they will be addressed by the School.
Smoking
The School is a Non-Smoking Campus.
Student Insurance
All enrolled students must maintain adequate health insurance coverage, inclusive of travel insurance for school excursions abroad. Although students are covered locally for field trips this is a limited coverage and parents should carry their own insurance as well for additional coverage and for accidents at school. If you need assistance in obtaining insurance, please see the Parent Relations we can put in in touch with the School’s insurance provider.
Student Withdrawal
Written notice of an intention to withdraw a student from the School is required at least one full term prior to the last day of the student’s attendance. On receipt of a letter giving notice to the admission department, a “Notice of Withdrawal Form” and a “Sign Out Forms” will be issued to the student. These forms should be signed and returned by the parent(s) to the Admissions Coordinator. Parents will be expected to settle all outstanding dues on fees or other school expenses e.g. lost or damaged materials, including damage to tablet pcs, field trips etc prior to the departure of the student. School records will only be released after all financial obligations have been met. In cases where special letters of attendance or particular documentation are required for transfer to another school a written request for these should be submitted to the Counsellor with at least three weeks in advance.
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Transportation
ISHCMC contracts a third party operator to provide daily pick up and drop off services for students to locations where there is sufficient demand. Buses are equipped with seat belts and adult supervision a mobile phone number are provided. For further information please contact Ms. Diem via email: transport@ishcmc.edu.vn
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HEALTH CENTER
The Health Center is staffed by professionally trained and licensed medical personnel. Location: Room 111 Phone: +84 8 38989098 ext. 105 Email: nurse@ishcmc.edu.vn If any child becomes unwell or injured while at school, the Health Center staff will provide basic First Aid care to the student. In case of an emergency, parents will be called to pick up the students, or in severe cases an ambulance will be called and the student will be escorted to Family Medical Practice, District 2. If the student has a fever (temperature above 37.6C), or any of the medical issues listed below, the parents will be called to pick up the student from school. All students must be collected in a reasonable time frame. An authorised maid or driver may collect the student. Students will not be allowed to return home unaccompanied unless authorised by parents and the Principal. The following medical problems are indications for sending a student home: 1. Fever above 37.6°C • Students must remain at home until fever free for 24hrs without medication. 2. Persistent nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea • Students with nausea and vomiting must remain at home for 24hrs after the last episode of vomiting, without any medication. • Students having diarrhoea two or more times must remain at home for 24hrs after the last episode of diarrhea and they have returned to a normal diet. 3. Communicable/ Infectious diseases • Students must remain at home for 24hrs after they have commenced antibiotic treatment. • Students with suspected conjunctivitis will be sent home and medical treatment must be commenced. Students may return to school after 24hrs of prescribed medication for conjunctivitis, or have medical clearance from the doctor. • Students with Herpes infection lesions should have medical clearance from a doctor before returning to school. Students are often enthusiastic about coming to school regardless of their physical condition. We rely on your good judgment to keep your student at home when it is appropriate. It is a requirement of the school that a student must not be sent to school if they are unwell. The Health Center staff has a duty of care for the health and safety of all students and staff in the School. Health Center staff monitors the incidence of illness and maintains infection control in the school setting. Every opportunity to promote correct hand washing, handling of body fluids, and environmental measures is taken to reduce disease transmission while at school. Please inform the Health Center if your child is unwell with a communicable/infectious disease by phone or email. This is important to protect the other members of our community.
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4. Special Considerations for EE2, EE3 Students • Students with Herpes infections must remain at home until all scabs or lesions have dried. • Students using nappies with a fungal infection, such as candidiasis or thrush should remain at home until all signs of the infection have resolved. • Children with unusual lethargy or the inability to participate in regular activities should remain at home. • Children suffering form irritability or persistently crying should remain at home.
Medical Form
ISHCMC requires all students to provide a completed ISHCMC School Medical Form including providing a copy of immunization records. The medical form and copy of immunization record must be given to Admissions prior to attending school. It is essential that any changes to student’s information be provided to the Health Center by email: nurse@ishcmc.edu.vn or letter delivered to the Health Center. The ISHCMC School Medical Form must be completed every 3 years from commencement date. Parents are required to inform the School of any long-standing illnesses, allergies, or asthma. In addition, an Action Plan (Allergy Action Plan, Asthma Action Plan, Diabetes Action Plan, etc.) must be completed in conjunction with your doctor. A school action plan will then be developed by the Health Center and this must be signed by a parent, so that emergency care can be administered. Medical concerns outside general childhood illnesses should be discussed with the Health Center staff to determine appropriate school based procedures and care.
Medication at School
Students are not permitted to self-administer medication while at school. The administration of any personal medication must be authorized by parents and students must attend the Health Center for administration of medication by Health Center Staff. Medication will be kept in the Health Center. If a medication(s) needs to be administered while at school or on a school field trip/excursion, a signed “Medication Administration Form” must be completed by the parent or guardian and given to the Health Center Staff along with the medication. The medication must: 1. Be in a clearly labeled container or envelope. 2. Include the name of the student taking the medication and doctor who prescribed it. 3. Include the prescribed dose, time(s), and route of administration. 4. State the reason for taking the medication. 5. Include any known precautions or side effects relating to the drug. *Medication received not fulfilling the above requirements will not be administered. Students with Severe Allergy/Anaphylaxis requiring an Epi-Pen may keep this emergency 42
medication with them, with Health Center staff approval. Students who are found to have medications with them while at school or on a school trip will have the medication confiscated and returned to their parent/guardian at the end of the excursion.
Immunisations
It is a requirement of the school that immunisations records are provided. If your child has any vaccination updates these must also be provided to the Health Center. Many communicable diseases may be prevented by immunisations. The International Vaccination Schedule is used as a reference when advising parents about the “routine” immunisations programs which most children commence at birth and continue with the appropriate up-dates throughout their schooling. It also outlines the special vaccinations, which are advisable when living in Vietnam. The Principal will grant approval on a case-by-case basis for any child who does not have the school-required vaccines. Please visit www.cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules/ to get more information about immunisations schedules. Please note that the following vaccines are required for school admission:
DPT (Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus) Hepatitis A Measles Hepatitis B
Mumps Chicken Pox (Varicella) Rubella Polio
The following vaccines are highly recommended for Vietnam. (Please discuss with your doctor): Rabies Japanese Encephalitis BCG (TB) Human Papillomavirus (HPV) (recommended for boys & girls ages 11 +)
Meningococcal Typhoid Pneumococcal
When there is an incidence of an infectious disease occurring within the school community, the Health Center staff will notify the Principal and the appropriate members of staff, and the school community will be informed as necessary. If head lice are suspected, the student will be sent to the Health Center to have their hair inspected. If live head lice are found the student will be sent home and a letter will be sent to the classroom. The student’s hair will be re-inspected before returning to class and then again on the 7th day. The following table determines the length of time an infected child must be excluded from school and includes information concerning the mode of transmission.
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Disease
Mode Of Transmission
Return To School
Chicken Pox (Varicella)
Airborne droplets of nose and throat secretions coughed/sneezed into the air by an infected person
On the sixth day after the lesions first appeared, or earlier if the lesions are crusted and dry and no new ones are forming
Dengue Fever
The bite of an infected mosquito
When fever free for >24 hours without medication and generally well
Fifth Disease -(Erythema Infectiosum) “Slapped Face�
Person-to-person spread by direct contact with nose and throat secretions of an infected person
When the child is fever free >24 hours without medication. Once the rash begins they are no longer contagious. Rash may come & go for several weeks. Notify any pregnant staff.
Epstein Barr Virus (Mononucleosis)
Close contact and is transmitted by saliva or sharing drinks
When child is feeling well enough, as this virus remains for several months after initial illness
Hand Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD)
Spread from person-to-person by droplet, saliva, and contact with the blisters
When the fluid in the blisters has dried and must be fever free for >24 hours without medication
Head Lice (Pediculosis)
Direct contact with an infected persons hair (head to head), or personal belongings, such as hats, or clothing
After the first treatment has been given. Health Center staff will inspect the student before returning to class and again in 7 days.
Hepatitis A
Spread from person-to-person by putting something in the mouth that has been contaminated with the stool of an infected person. In rare cases, Hep A is spread by contaminated drinking water or eating raw seafood that has been collected from contaminated waters.
One week after the onset of jaundice or one week after the onset of other signs and symptoms if no jaundice is present. A medical clearance from a doctor is required to return to school.
Hepatitis B
Infected blood enters open cuts, scrapes, or breaks in the skin. Sharing needles or having intercourse with an infected person can also spread the disease.
A medical clearance from a doctor is required to return to school.
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Disease
Mode Of Transmission
Return To School
Hepatitis C
*Same as Hepatitis B Infected blood enters open cuts, scrapes, or breaks in the skin. Sharing needles or having intercourse with an infected person can also spread the disease.
*Same as Hepatitis B A medical clearance from a doctor is required to return to school.
HIV & AIDS
Infected blood enters the body through open cuts, scrapes, or breaks in the skin, or through sharing needles or having unprotected intercourse with an infected person.
No exclusion from school or sports. School uses universal precautions when handling all blood and body fluids
Influenza (Flu)
Spread from person-to-person mainly by droplets through coughing and sneezing of infected persons. Also can be spread by direct contact with infected surfaces.
When free of symptoms and fever free for >24 hours without medication.
Impetigo (School sores)
Skin-to-skin contact with open sores.
When sores have fully healed or earlier, provided that appropriate treatment has begun. Sores on exposed surfaces should be covered with moisture proof dressings.
Malaria
The bite of an infected mosquito
When fever free for >24 hours without medication and generally well
Measles (Rubeola)
Direct contact with nose or throat secretions, or airborne droplets of these secretions coughed into the air. Tiny droplets can be suspended in the air for 2 or more hours. Measles is easily spread.
When fever free >24 hours without medication AND the rash is fading (usually takes 5-7 days). A medical clearance from a doctor is required to return to school
Meningitis
Direct contact with nose and throat secretions from an infected person.
A medical clearance from a doctor is required to return to school
Mumps
Person-to-person spread by direct contact with the saliva of an infected person.
Nine days after the beginning of the salivary gland swelling
Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
Contact with discharge from the eye, nose, or throat of an infected person. Also contact from fingers, clothing and other shared articles e.g. make up that has been contaminated with the discharge.
Once treatment has commenced and for 24 hours and the redness/ discharge/irritability is improving
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Disease
Mode Of Transmission
Return To School
Ringworm (Tinea)
Direct skin-to-skin contact or indirect contact from combs, towels, clothing, toilet articles, and hats of infected persons or animals
Once treatment has commenced (treatment usually lasts several weeks)
Rubella (German Measles)
Spread by respiratory droplets or direct contact with an infected person
Seven days after the onset of rash and with >24 hours free of fever without medication
Rotavirus (Diarrhoea)
Spread by contact with contaminated hands, surfaces, and objects that have been exposed to infected faeces
Until diarrhoea has ceased for 24 hours without medication
Scarlet Fever (Scarlatina) Commonly associated with Strep Throat
Contact with nasal and/or oral secretions of an infected and/or carrier of streptococcus
24 Hours after treatment has been started if free of fever >24 hours without medication
Shigella (Diarrhoea)
Spread by faecal-oral contamination
Until diarrhoea has stopped for 24 hours without medication.
Streptococcal Pharyngitis (Strep Throat)
Direct or indirect contact with throat secretions of an infected person
24 Hours after treatment has been started if free of fever >24 hours without medication
Trachoma
Direct contact with the eye, nose, and throat secretions of an infected individual
Once appropriate treatment has commenced
Tuberculosis (TB)
Airborne droplets of respiratory secretions coughed or sneezed into the air by a person with active TB disease
After 2 weeks of treatment, one is considered non-infectious. Can return with receipt of a medical certificate and after 2 weeks of treatment.
Whooping Cough (Pertussis)
Direct or indirect contact with nose and throat secretions of an infected person by inhaling droplets of these secretions coughed into the air
Five days after treatment has commenced
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SAFEGUARDING POLICY
Cognita policy statement
Safeguarding children describes the action we take to promote the welfare of children and to protect them from harm. We believe that safeguarding children is everyone’s responsibility and that everyone who comes into contact with children and families has a role to play. We define safeguarding as • Protection children from maltreatment • Preventing impairment of children’s health or development • Ensuring that children grow up in circumstance consistent with the provision of safe and effective care and • Taking action to enable all children to have the best outcomes (Cognita Safeguarding policy and guidelines manual 2014) Seven key areas of safeguarding • Child protection • Attendance, positive behavior and anti-bullying • Curriculum provision, including digital citizenship • Extra-curricular provision - ASA, Visits and trips, including sports events • Site security and Health and Safety • Safer recruitment • Staff code of conduct and professional expectations.
Key message for staff, students and parents We are a listening school using the 3 P’s approach • Protect • Prevent • Promote
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NOTES
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An International School for children aged 2 -18
International School Ho Chi Minh City 28 Vo Truong Toan Street, District 2, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Tel: +84 (8) 3 898-9100 Email: admissions@ishcmc.edu.vn www.ishcmc.com