Middle School Handbook 2014 - 15 by Graded School

Graded

Middle School Handbook 2014 - 2015

Jeff Lippman Principal

Mark Engstrom Assistant Principal

Table of Contents

Graded is an American

school that serves an international community of learners by inspiring individual excellence in a collaborative setting, fostering intercultural competence, and empowering students to become engaged, ethical citizens in a dynamic world.

From the Middle School Team..................................................................................................4 Calendar Dates .........................................................................................................................5 Graded at a Glance ................................................................................................................6 Program Overview ...................................................................................................................8 Student Support ......................................................................................................................12 Libraries ....................................................................................................................................14 Attendance................................................................................................................................15 Citizenship, Community and Conduct...................................................................................17 Academic Integrity...................................................................................................................21 Assessment.................................................................................................................................31 Health and Safety .................................................................................................................25 On Campus ..............................................................................................................................27 Transportation .........................................................................................................................29 Checkout Procedures ..............................................................................................................31 Looking for a particular item? Search using the Control/Command + F option.

2014-2015 Calendar dates

Dear Graded students and parents, Welcome to the 2013-2014 school year! The “Middle Years” are a journey of significant emotional, social, physical, spiritual and intellectual growth. This handbook maps out some of the ways in which we approach the adolescent journey. With this in mind, we hope our students engage and explore while learning new skills, honing strengths, and striving to be confident, happy and caring citizens. At Graded Middle School we know: • each person is deserving of respect and caring; • all community members - students and staff - are capable of learning; • all community members have the right to learn and work in an environment that fosters a feeling of comfort and self-esteem and that is safe and attractive; • conflict should be handled in ways that show respect for oneself and others and for the physical safety of all; • individuality and diversity in backgrounds and culture need to be respected; all community members can make choices that contribute to our mutual success. In order to facilitate a developmentally appropriate environment of growth and change, we continually examine the work we do to ensure our practices are commensurate with best practices in Brazil and around the world. The procedures and practices outlined in this handbook are a result of considerable thought and deliberation by our staff in conjunction with student and community input. We are very pleased that you have chosen to join us during this school year. Please take the time to review this handbook because it provides a common framework and language for our community. Please remember that our door is open to comments, questions, concerns or compliments.

First Semester July 31 August 21 September 7 September 12 September 15-19 September 22 October 10 October 12 October 16 October 17 November 2 November 6 November 20 November 27 November 28 December 11

First Day of Classes Middle School Open House Brazilian Independence Day Holiday Professional Half Day School Trips No School No School Nossa Senhora Aparecida Holiday Afternoon Parent-Teacher Conferences Full Day Parent-Teacher Conferences & Graded Founders’ Day Finados Holiday Professional Half Day No School: Consciência Negra Holiday No School: Thanksgiving No School: School Holiday Last Student Day

Desejando a todos um ano maravilhoso! Sincerely, Jeff Lippman and Mark Engstrom on behalf of the Middle School Team Middle School Principal and Assistant Principal

Second Semester January 22 First Day of Classes February 16-20 No School: Carnival Holiday March 6 No School: Innovate Conference April 1-2 Cesgranrio Testing for 9th Grade April 3 Good Friday April 13 Parent-Teacher Conferences April 20 No School: School Holiday April 21 No School: Tiradentes Holiday April 25 PTA’s Celebration of the World May 1 Brazilian Labor Day Holiday May 23 Graduation June 4 Corpus Christi Holiday June 5 No School: School Holiday June 11 Last Student Day (Half Day)

Graded at A Glance Mission

Graded is an American school that serves an international community of learners by inspiring individual excellence in a collaborative setting, fostering intercultural competence, and empowering students to become engaged, ethical citizens in a dynamic world.

Overview

Graded School, founded in 1920, is an independent school offering an educational program from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade for students of all nationalities. It is the oldest and largest American school in Brazil, known in the community for its high quality English-based, college preparatory educational program. Current enrollment is approximately 1220 students: Preschool: 146 Lower School (grades 1-5): 416 Middle School (grades 6-8): 283 High School (grades 9-12): 375

U.S. & Canada: 37% Brazilian: 42% Latin American (non-Brazilian): 7% Asian: 7% European: 6% Other: 1%

Core Values

Learners at Graded strive to be: Balanced They understand the importance of a well-rounded education that incorporates academics, arts, athletics, and community service. Communicators They value the importance of clarity in communication across multiple languages and through a variety of digitally collaborative venues. Critical thinkers They embrace interdisciplinary study and explore multiple perspectives to approach complex problems and to make reasoned decisions. Curious They actively commit to learning, acquiring the skills necessary for rigorous intellectual inquiry and independent research. Inclusive They appreciate the strength inherent in diversity and are open to the perspectives, values, and traditions of other individuals and communities. Innovative They engage in creative and imaginative thinking that enables them to extend their learning in original and insightful ways.

Graded´s educational program includes the best of both the U.S. and Brazilian educational systems and effectively prepares students to enter some of the best universities in the United States, Brazil, and other countries throughout the world. The school has offered a very strong International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program since 1985. Graded’s overall academic program includes a strong college-preparatory curriculum, robust Brazilian Studies, and a series of standardized tests including MAP, PSAT, ACT, and the SAT.

Accreditation

Graded is accredited by AdvancED which requires periodic review and evaluation by an

outside team. In the 2012-13 school year, Graded conducted a comprehensive self-study and evaluation visit, and was awarded accreditation for five more years. We are also accredited by the Brazilian Ministério de Educação e Cultura (MEC) and by the International Baccalaureate

Reflective They regularly assess their strengths and limitations as learners in a spirit of continuous improvement and personal growth. Responsible They act with honesty and integrity, have a personal commitment to service, and strive to make a positive difference in the lives of others and in the community. Risk-takers They have the courage to explore new ideas, roles, and strategies as they encounter unfamiliar situations and new challenges. These core values were generated by stakeholders in the Graded community and further informed by the IB Learner Profile and the National Educational Technology Standards (NETS)

Organization (IBO).

Program Overview Middle School is a period of transition. To assist students in successfully crossing the bridge from childhood to young adulthood, the Middle School offers a variety of exploratory and experiential opportunities - both social and academic. Graded provides a wide range of inclusive activities that encourage student involvement and personal responsibility. The Middle School is committed to the community at large, placing value on outreach opportunities to increase cross-cultural awareness and promoting respect for all individuals. The program is designed to provide the best environment and opportunities for students to identify their own areas of success, to increase their competencies and to continue to define who they are, what they are capable of, and what role they see themselves playing in a global society. The School Day Students should be at school at 8:00 as classes begin promptly at 8:10. The last class of the day ends at 15:10. Students engaged in extra-curricular activities finish at 16:15 (most often) or 17:45 (on occasion) depending on the activity. Please note that Wednesdays are early dismissal days for students. The dismissal is at 14:40. Each day, students have four 80 minute periods of instruction and 30 minutes of Community Time. The regular day also includes 45 minutes for lunch (and recess) as well as two 10 minute breaks. The day operates on a “four-day rotating block” schedule (A-D). The scheduling of blocks of time gives ample opportunity for labs and extended projects to be a regular part of each student’s experience. It also provides for a more unified and less frenetic day for both students and faculty. This model allows students to have classes at different times of the day, thus avoiding the same subject always being studied at the same time, such as always at the end of the day. It also ensures a more equal distribution of classes. For example, holidays often fall on a Monday or Friday, thus Monday and Friday classes may typically be missed. Instead a four-day schedule means that the next school day’s schedule is simply the next day letter, which avoids a student regularly missing the same class. Core Courses The program for all Middle School students includes core courses of Humanities*, Mathematics, Physical & Health Education, Portuguese and Science. Students in the Brazilian Studies program have Brazilian Social Studies (conducted in Portuguese) in grade six, seven and eight. Students not in the Brazilian Studies program have World Geography in grades seven and eight. Some students may also be in an ELL class if they are recent English language learners. *The traditional subjects of English and Social Studies are combined into one course, “Humanities,” which forms one of the major building blocks of the Middle School student’s schedule. In this class broad areas of inquiry in the subjects of history, economics, sociology and geography often form the basis for continued study and improvement of the traditional areas of Language Arts: reading and literature, writing, and public speaking. Elective Courses To encourage a diversity of interests, students also take elective courses. We offer elective courses in Music, Theatre Arts & Movement, Leadership & Service Learning, Visual Arts and Additional Languages. Music classes include Band, Orchestra and Vocal Music. Theatre, Improv, Theatre Design & Technology, and Dance are included in Theatre Arts & Movement. Community Building and Service Learning involves students working with an adult facilitator to design and implement unique community service projects.

Community Time (CT) Middle School Community Time supports our students through a series of activities focusing on intrapersonal/ interpersonal skills, character development, and collaborative activities to promote understanding and a sense of community. In addition, we encourage students to see themselves as part of our larger world. A typical Community Time schedule for one week is: Monday - Assembly; Tuesday - Advisory; Wednesday - No CT time; Thursday - Advisory; Friday - Activity. Graded Core Values that are supported through CT: • Learners at Graded strive to be: • Critical thinkers: They embrace interdisciplinary study and explore multiple perspectives to approach complex problems and to make reasoned decisions. • Inclusive: They appreciate the strength inherent in diversity and are open to the perspectives, values, and traditions of other individuals and communities. • Innovative: They engage in creative and imaginative thinking that enables them to extend their learning in original and insightful ways. • Reflective: They regularly assess their strengths and limitations as learners in a spirit of continuous improvement and personal growth. • Responsible: They act with honesty and integrity, have a personal commitment to service, and strive to make a positive difference in the lives of others and in the community. Field Trips, Classroom Without Walls (CWW) Excursions, and Other Related School Travel In addition to various local daylong field trips, all students are involved in the Classroom Without Walls (CWW) program, which takes place each academic year in the first quarter. These overnight trips are designed as an extension of the Middle School curriculum and give students the opportunity to explore a variety of interests, engage in team-building, enhance cultural awareness, and learn about themselves and each other as well as the wonderful country of Brazil. CWW trip itineraries and travel arrangements are reviewed by security experts in addition to the scrutiny and analysis provided by the school. Students who do not participate in field trips and CWW are considered absent from school. School-sponsored travel is also available through various groups and activities, such as Band, Choir, Destination Imagination, Humanities trip, The Graded Intercultural Center, Junior Varsity Sports, Model UN and Mathcounts. It is important to note that when students are traveling outside of the school they are expected to represent all that is valued by Graded. After School Clubs, Activities and Athletics The Middle School athletics program is part of the Upper School athletics program. Graded competes with other international schools in Brazil. Students from ages 11-14 are eligible for JV and from 14-19 for Varsity sports. The team sports offered are: 1st semester: Basketball/Field Soccer; 2nd semester: Softball/Volleyball/ Futsal (indoor soccer). The JV (junior varsity – made up mostly of Middle School students) practices are usually held from 15:15 to 16:00 with practices sometimes going until 17:45.

Visual Arts choices include Art, Computer Graphics, and Digital Video. Students interested in learning another language (in addition to English and Portuguese) may take French and/or Spanish in 8th grade. We also offer Reader’s and Writer’s workshop classes and a public speaking class to develop communication skills. In addition, students can explore the complexity of our interdependent world in Introduction to International Relations.

Students may also choose to engage in a wide variety of other activities including Middle School Theatre productions, Global Issues Network, Model United Nations, Knowledge Bowl, Destination Imagination, Community Service, MathCounts, and After-school Choir. Students are definitely encouraged to get involved as this is an integral part of the Graded experience. These activities allow for many learning opportunities, afford students a chance to take risks in a safe environment, and learn about teamwork. We also offer Wednesday afternoon

Intramurals where students compete against each other in a variety of sports. Most of the sports and some of the activities, allow for a limited number of Middle School students to travel within and outside of São Paulo to compete or participate inter-scholastically. Since there are usually more students who wish to participate than there are places available to travel, a number of criteria are used to decide which students may travel. However, since maximum participation is encouraged traveling groups are not selected too early in order to ensure opportunities for as many people as possible. Attitude and sportsmanship are very important considerations in the selection process. Skill and aptitude are two other factors used in the selection of a traveling group.

Vacation Reading Some subjects may require an enrichment reading assignment during vacation time. This is not optional, and the readings are to be finished by the first day of class. Reading assignments are distributed by the teachers and are also available on the school’s website. Sleep, Eat Right and Exercise Optimal learning, playing, socializing, growing and living requires us to get a good rest, eat well and exercise.

Those students on the traveling list as well as any students designated as alternates must continue to participate in practices and rehearsals while maintaining an acceptable level of academic performance and demonstration of Learning Habits until traveling time. Also, all team members must continue to demonstrate good citizenship in all areas of their school life. If there is reason for concern over a student traveling for an event, there will be an After School Eligibility Form that will be filled out by the student’s teachers. The coaches/sponsors of a particular sport/activity will meet with the Principal, Assistant Principal, MS Counselor, and/or Athletic Director to make the ultimate decision concerning eligibility. All students who maintain appropriate academic and social standing are eligible to participate in after school activities. Please note that unless authorized, any student who does not attend class, and does not participate in PHE class (excused or unexcused) may not participate in after school Graded sponsored athletics or activities the same day. Community Service Students engage in many community service activities throughout the year. The students sponsor special programs for less privileged people, raise awareness and funds for the environment, and help our local Graded community. Community service initiatives are run through Community Time and Leadership & Service Learning classes. Activities to raise money for community service and class projects must be approved one week in advance. Students may not sell products for personal gain on school grounds at any time. Homework Homework supplements or extends a student’s class work. Students are expected to complete assignments within the prescribed timelines. The amount and kind of work which is assigned for outside the class period varies according to the subject and to what projects or work is being done in class at any given point in the year. Due to individual differences in work style, learning styles, and energy management, different students will need different amounts of time to complete homework. Late Work Assessments, assignments, and exercises are to be handed in within the timeline established by the teacher. Late assessments, assignments, and exercises can adversely affect academic achievement. Students who do not complete work on time will be assigned Supervised Structured Support (SSS). Supplies When admitted to the school each student receives a grade specific supply list. Students are issued textbooks for class use. Students are expected to take good care of all issued books. Lost or damaged books must be paid for at the replacement rate cost. Students must supply their own lock for their locker. Some courses require students to purchase their books. Information about these books is distributed by the teachers and available on the school website. In addition, all middle school students are required to bring a laptop computer to use both in school and at home. 10

Student Support After School Assistance If a student has questions about or difficulties with a subject, after-school help with the teacher is available from 15:15 - 16:00 at least two days a week. It is best for students to arrange such meetings in advance because many teachers have other after school commitments due to after school activities and professional development meetings. Students who come for after school help must stay with that teacher until 16:00 and then go home, unless they are involved in another supervised activity. The sessions are not designed to re-teach a class given that day but are a forum for teachers and students to discuss and review specific questions. Counseling Mission: The Graded Counseling Program is an integral part of all student experiences, providing proactive and responsive services to meet personal, social and emotional needs of the Graded Community. Through collaboration with all relevant education professionals and coordination of programs, we ensure that comprehensive services are available to all students. We value a student-centered approach that empowers students to reach their full potential in an ever-changing society. Our counselor is available to meet with students or parents during the school day. Students may drop into the counselor’s office or may schedule an appointment for a specific meeting. Parents are also invited to call the Middle School office to schedule appointments with the counselor. Parents may wish to talk with teachers or a counselor about grades, transitions, course requirements or other issues. Our counselor has an open door policy, please stop by and introduce yourself or feel free to call or email the MS Secretary if you would like to set up an appointment.

Tutoring In some cases, students may need reinforcement in certain areas beyond what can be covered in class or in after-school help sessions. In these cases, teachers may suggest to the principal or counselor that a tutor could help. All such recommendations must go through this channel, at which point the parents will be advised. It is recommended that parents wishing help in this area contact the counselor. All tutoring for pay must take place off campus. Individualized Study Plans (ISP) Students who need further academic support (as determined by quarter grades or classroom performance) may be place on an Individualized Study Plan (ISP). An ISP asks that the student, the student’s advisor, the student’s parents and either the Principal, Counselor, or Assistant Principal all meet to develop the plan. The ISP involves identifying areas of concern both at school and home, creating an Action Plan that the student will follow-up on, and developing consequences for not following the plan. An ISP will be routinely evaluated at Student Support Team meetings (SST) and Grade Level meetings with follow-up usually overseen by the student’s advisor. The length of time a student is on an ISP will be determined at the initial meeting but will be re-evaluated at each grading period. ISPs are often developed and reflected upon via special Child Study Team meetings.

English Language Learners The mission of the ELL department is to assist English Language Learners in acquiring language proficiency and independent learning strategies to become successful participants in their academic classes and across the curriculum. We strive to facilitate language growth in listening, speaking, reading and writing while treating each learner as an individual. The Middle School English Language Learning program is designed to foster the acquisition of social language and to assist students in acquiring the cognitive and academic proficiency necessary for success in the mainstream curricular program of the school. In the Middle School we believe that additional language learners will make a more rapid academic, social, and emotional adjustment to the school environment through mainstream immersion. Optimal Learning Center (OLC) Mission: The OLC supports students with identified special needs, providing early intervention remediation, academic support, and in-class assistance. Learning specialists collaborate with students, parents, and classroom teachers to develop individualized student support plans using differentiation strategies to maximize students’ potentials. Students develop self-advocacy skills to become confident, autonomous learners. The OLC provides academic assistance to students identified with a learning or other disability (i.e.: ADHD and diagnosed Social/Emotional disorders) that significantly impedes their school performance and necessitates additional support. Standard accommodations include (but are not limited to) eligibility for 50% extra time on all exams and access to a computer for spontaneous writing assignments. Additional accommodations for students with an identified learning difference in math and/or spelling include use of a calculator and an opportunity to correct spelling errors. A Student Support Plan is developed for each student which outlines their unique strengths and difficulties. This plan is shared with teachers, parents and the student.

Libraries The library and its resources are designed to support the school’s curriculum, promote leisure learning and nourish curiosity. Our staff welcomes the Graded community from 07:30 to 17:00 on school days, and in the morning during summer and winter recess when staff are present. • Resources are available in English, Portuguese, Spanish and French. • Newspapers, journals and magazines • CDs of audiobooks, music and test preparation, e.g. TOEFL and SAT\ • Laptop (in-library use only) and desktop computers • Black & white and color printers • AV equipment for projects, reserved through a teacher: flip cameras, mini-camcorders, digital cameras, tripods • USB sticks • Computer lab for academic use • Conference room (you can study here if not in use) • Online library catalog (Destiny) • Online databases: EBSCO, GALE, Facts on File, Humanities e-Book • Online tools: NoodleTools, Dicionário Houaiss, Oxford English Dictionary, ThinkMap, BrainPop, Safari Montage, Tumblebooks Readables Many Users, Many Uses Out of respect for the needs of all library users, and in response to a student initiative, the main floor is designated for quiet activities, including small group and class use. The upper floor is for silent study and reading. Study groups may use the conference room when available. The computer lab is for academic use, not games. Borrowing Policies Details are available in bookmark form at the circulation desk. Generally, we require borrowers to accept responsibility for the privilege of using our library by returning or renewing resources on time and paying for any damaged or lost items. All materials must be returned at the end of each semester, unless other arrangements are made with a librarian. Please note: Lower school students are welcome when accompanied by an adult.

Attendance Parents are kindly asked to call the office by 9:00 AM if their son/daughter will be not be at school that day. Success in the academic program in the Middle School depends on regular and punctual attendance. Our educational philosophy places high value on the learning process during these formative years, and students need to be active participants in their classes to achieve the maximum benefits of a Graded education. We realize, however, that there are some times in which students cannot be in school. Graded trusts that parents will remove their children from school only when they feel it absolutely necessary, and therefore all parentapproved absences are deemed “excused.” To help ensure the safety, health, and security of our community, it is very important that the school is contacted if your child is not able to come to school. In all cases (other than sudden illness) students are expected to get an “Absence Form” (please see example below) from the Middle School office in advance of their absence and fill this out when they meet with their teachers to set a make-up schedule. If this process is followed, full credit will be given for all work that is made up in the time-frame agreed upon between student and teacher. Projects, papers and homework must be turned in directly to teachers as arranged, missed tests and quizzes must be made up during a pre-arranged time. The Graded Middle School attendance policy encourages student ownership of their learning, and this ownership should be rewarded by giving full credit for missed work that is made up in the agreed upon time. If a student is absent from school, then that student will not be allowed to participate in after-school or evening school events on the day of the student’s absence unless otherwise mutually arranged by school and home. Extended Absences When a family must take a student away from school for an extended period, prior notice equal to the anticipated time away must be given to the School office and the student’s advisor and teachers. In most circumstances, effort will be made to provide students with work that might be accomplished outside of school. Lengthy absences (more than three days) should be reported to the Assistant Principal, who will help the student work out a make-up plan that is fair to the student and teachers. The school cannot take responsibility for diminished achievement resulting from a student’s absence. Teachers and administrators are unanimous in recommending that, whenever possible, trips and home leave be planned to coincide with school holidays. The student is responsible for making up the missed work. Punctuality Students are expected to be prepared and on time for classes. In the event of tardiness, the following procedure is used. • Parents are kindly asked to call the MS Office if their son/daughter will not be arriving to school on time. • Students are to go straight to class if they arrive late to school unless they arrive to school after 8:20 a.m. In this case they must obtain a tardy pass from the Middle School Secretary in order to enter class. • Students who demonstrate a tardy trend may engage in actions such as detention, discussions, parent meetings and other consequences. Early Departure or Different Departure Students who will be departing early (or in some way other than their normal method of transport) must obtain a departure gate pass from the Middle School office in order to leave class or campus. Gate passes are issued only upon receipt of a written note from a parent, or a verified via a phone call.

School Dismissal After a student is dismissed from their last class, commitment, or after school activity, they need to quickly make their way home. In the event that a student needs to wait for a ride home they may work in a quiet place, ensuring the school is aware of their whereabouts. If their work is up to date, students may wait for their ride home in the Student Center or the MS Office. Please note that school dismissal is at 14:40 PM on Wednesdays and 15:10 all other days.

Citizenship, Community and Conduct Students at Graded are expected to conduct themselves, both on and off campus, in a manner which reflects well on themselves, the school, their families, and their countries. They should maintain standards of conduct that model the school’s mission statement and core beliefs. The Superintendent and/or the Principals reserve the right to take appropriate disciplinary action in the case of a violation of these standards. The school expects parents to support its behavioral expectations and to direct any questions regarding an action taken by the school staff to the particular staff member involved or the Principal without delay. Graded Language Policy In our mission we are committed to “fostering intercultural competence and empowering students to become engaged, ethical citizens in a dynamic world.” To this end, our language philosophy and aims are as follows: Philosophy We believe that language is the primary means of communication, and its acquisition is a lifelong process and a central component of intellectual and personal growth. Proficiency in one language is transferable to other languages, and aids the student in acquiring competence in other curricular areas. As an expression of culture and identity, the continued development of the mother-tongue language is critical. Language learning promotes internationalism and multicultural understanding and must be fostered in all aspects of the school community. All teachers must strive to recognize the language needs of all students and work to serve these needs within the context of their subject areas, and outside the classroom as well. Aims Our language programs aim to enable students to learn and use language effectively, accurately, and confidently, in a variety of contexts and purposes, in both oral and written forms. We promote the appreciation, understanding, and analysis of literature, and encourage students to explore language as a means to understand differing perspectives of people from other cultures; we emphasize written and oral expression for students to develop their own voice. We aim to develop students’ awareness of the role of language in all subject areas and in other ways of knowing, and to provide opportunities for enjoyment, creativity, and intellectual stimulation through knowledge of language and literature. Languages offered at Graded Throughout grades 1-12, all students study English language and literature; students also study Portuguese as a first language. All classes except language classes and Brazilian Social Studies are taught in English. Portuguese, Spanish and French are taught as second languages. Through its IB Diploma Program Graded offers Group I courses in English Literature, English Language and Literature, Portuguese Language and Literature, Spanish Language and Literature. Group II courses are Portuguese B, Spanish B and ab initio, French B and ab initio. Students may take IB language exams at either higher or standard level. Mother Tongue: Instruction and Language Use The school provides orientation for tutors outside school who teach language and literature to students wishing to develop mother-tongue competence in languages other than English and Portuguese.

In class we speak the target language (English in an English-medium class, Portuguese in a Portuguese-medium class, Spanish in Spanish class, and French in French class. In our public spaces we recognize the social importance, educational value and comfort of people speaking their ‘mother tongue’. Thus, in our halls we may hear an array of different languages. In our group interactions we focus on a language of inclusion. Community Expectations Mutual respect and consideration are the keys to making our school a great place to be. Below are some more specific details that will no doubt create a positive experience for everyone. Leave distractions to learning at home • Candy and other snacks (including gum) should stay in appropriate areas. • Personal electronic devices, toys, games, or other electronic equipment must be placed in your locker when you arrive at school and left there until you leave. The school is not responsible for valuables brought to school. Do not bring large sums of money or other valuables to school. Self Regulate • The campus can get crowded at times, and the halls can get slippery in the rain. Please walk at all times. • If somebody else does something that bothers you, please don’t be tempted to retaliate. There are better ways of making your feelings known. • Please keep displays of affection to a cheek-to-cheek greeting or handholding only. • Sports balls are for field and court use – never in the halls or classroom areas. Maintain a safe, calm and clean school environment • Facilities are shared during breaks, lunch, and recess; please be mindful of other classes and groups. • Please help the cafeteria function smoothly by keeping food on your plate and chatting calmly with your friends. • Clean your table and push in your chair. • The only place you are allowed to throw food is into the trash. • Recycle or dispose of trash in appropriate containers. Keep the disposal area clean. • Please keep in mind that Graded is a smoke-free campus. Drugs and drug-related items are treated as serious offenses. • Place litter in trash cans and place aluminum cans, plastic, and paper in recycling bins. Out of respect for your colleagues and the environment, it is every student’s obligation to help keep our campus clean and attractive inside and outside the classroom. • Tampering with or inappropriate use of electronic devices (such as unauthorized photos or recordings) is vandalism and/or harassment • Weapons or items that are used as weapons (including laser-pens, matches, lighters or fireworks) are not tolerated on campus.

established for the safety and well-being of all students in our school. Behavior that interferes with the teaching and learning or safety of our students will need to be improved. Failure to abide by school rules or to maintain appropriate conduct will result in disciplinary consequences. School rules apply in school, on school grounds, on school buses and at school related activities. Any incident that happens outside of school, but still affects the learning environment at school will be handled as a disciplinary incident. It is true that all decisions regarding major disciplinary measures are done with multiple people, will include parent communication, and will involve digital student reflection that is shared with the parents. Common sense and a concern for the safety of all shall prevail in situations where a rule has not been formalized. The purpose of disciplinary consequences is to help students internalize positive community values. The school works to turn mistakes and lapses in good judgment into learning opportunities. Students who violate school rules will be subject to consequences. The severity of the violation and the student’s individual discipline record will be considered when assigning consequences. Because of the various influences that affect the nature of discipline cases, it is difficult to codify offenses and consequences. The Principal, Assistant Principal, or Counselor may assign alternative consequences. If a student has violated a school rule within the classroom, the teacher will initiate procedures to correct the observed behavior. The teacher will work cooperatively with the student, parent and counselor to assist the student in understanding his/her responsibility for a change in conduct. Depending on the nature of the offense, the school may pursue the following avenues: • Telephone call home • Conference with student and/or parent • Special projects • Meeting after class • After-school reflection time • Behavior Contracts • Parental Conferences • In-school suspensions • Out-of-school suspensions • Other consequences deemed appropriate by the school administration to protect the rights of other students and assist the student involved to grow and mature • For the worst offenses, students may not be able to return to Graded. Violations of the standards of basic conduct that prevail in our community can result in immediate suspension or worse from school; some specific examples include: • Harassment – relational aggression in physical or verbal ways on campus • Cyberbullying • Stealing • Dishonesty • Vandalism / Destruction of property • Frequent violations of school citizenship, community and respect expectations • Use of drugs and alcohol on campus

Graded Disciplinary Philosophy We believe that realizing Graded’s mission and core values is a continuous, developmental process and mistakes and lapses in judgment are learning opportunities. Our community works to instill Graded’s shared values through open dialogue, teaching, and counseling. The ultimate goal for all Graded students is to develop appropriate, autonomous, and self-correcting behavior. All Graded disciplinary procedures are derived from these beliefs.

Guiding Behavior If a necessary change in behavior is not evident after classroom interventions or teacher assigned consequences and parent contacts, contact will be made to the Assistant Principal or Principal regarding the issue. Students who go through this process will meet with the Assistant Principal to discuss the infraction and receive an appropriate consequence, participate in reflection, and their parents may be notified. The Assistant Principal will use a variety of methods in working with students to guide their behavior.

Disciplinary Procedures Information As a school, our priority is to assure a safe learning environment, free from disruptions. Rules and regulations are

Behavioral Contracts: Students who are having difficulty controlling classroom behavior may be placed on a daily behavior contract with a teacher, multiple teachers, or the Middle School. This contract will be signed by

all parties involved and are designed to help students make better choices. If student violate the terms of their behavior contracts, further consequences may be considered even to the extent of asking a student to leave the school. Dress Appropriately for School We operate on the premise that students can and should be able to choose their own clothing. Graded has no uniform policy, however, students are expected to dress appropriately for school. The expectations for appropriate dress are that students: • Wear neat and clean clothes • Wear proper footwear befitting the activity and /or weather at hand • Do not dress in an overtly provocative manner • Wear t-shirts and sweatshirts/sweaters/clothing that display inoffensive and developmentally appropriate words, pictures or slogans • While in class do not wear hats, including baseball caps, visors, bandanas and toques unless otherwise stated by the instructor • Ensure that underwear is indeed underwear and consequently remains unseen • Ensure clothes do not offend any of our diverse cultural sensitivities • In PHE students must wear proper clothing that is conducive to movement and safety: T-shirts, tennis shoes and socks, shorts or sweat pants/warm-ups. Jeans and cargo pants are not considered appropriate.

Academic Integrity Academic Dishonesty Examples of academic dishonesty include: • Cheating: intentionally using or attempting to use unauthorized materials, information, or study aids in an assignment or assessment; copying from another student; submitting work for an in-class examination that has been prepared in advance; representing material prepared by another as one’s own work; submitting the same work in more than one course without prior permission from the school; not following the rules of an assessment • Fabrication (making things up; lying): intentionally making up data, information, documents, research or forging signatures • Facilitating academic dishonesty: intentionally or knowingly helping or attempting to help another engage in academic dishonesty. This includes telling peers what will appear on tests and quizzes in advance. • Plagiarism: intentionally representing another person’s ideas, “facts” or original work without giving proper credit (e.g. citations, footnotes, endnotes). To avoid plagiarizing, be sure to do the following: - If you copy a quote, cite it - If you paraphrase, however loosely, you must use a citation - In general, if you borrow an idea from someone else, you must give that person credit - If a fact is common knowledge, then no citation is needed. Common knowledge is on the level of the fact that São Paulo is the largest city in Brazil. If you have the slightest doubt whether or not to cite something, cite it. If you cite common knowledge, it is fine. If you fail to cite something you should, then you are plagiarizing. Consequences of Academic Dishonesty Graded aims to develop “engaged ethical citizens” who value intellectual property and who use information ethically. Academic dishonesty violates this code of behavior. Therefore students who are involved in academic dishonesty will be: • referred to the Principal • required to complete the work under supervised conditions within a new short timeline set by the teacher Additionally: • parents of the student will be notified by the teacher • a note with details of the incident will be placed in the student’s official file on Veracross. • In the event of a second incident and the student will serve a suspension. • students who knowingly plagiarize or are involved in other forms of academic dishonesty on an ongoing basis will compromise their standing as a Graded student.

Communication Graded makes a great effort to include parents, students and our larger community in discussions concerning school issues involving our greater community. Through clear and open communication by both parents and school staff we can ensure that all students have the best educational experience possible. There are a number of ways the school will communicate with parents. These include, but are not restricted to: Email Correspondence: Parents should establish a reliable email connection and give the email address to the Middle School office as early in the school year as possible. Website: The school’s website is www.graded.br. Our website includes great detail about our program and community. Please do have a look. Graded Gazette: The regular Middle School newsletter may be found in our school newsletter called the “Graded Gazette.” The Gazette is distributed electronically on a weekly basis on Thursdays. Agenda/Planner Books/Organizational Systems: At the beginning of the school year, each middle school student has the option to receive a school agenda. Students may use alternative organizers such as electronic devices provided they demonstrate to the teacher(s) that they can use this device effectively. Open House: Early in the school year parents are invited to an evening meeting to meet their child’s teachers and to learn more about the program. Parent Meetings: Periodically, parents are invited to attend meetings with the Principal or other school members to receive updates on the program and to share questions and concerns. Meetings are also conducted by the PTA and often involve guest speakers. For detailed times and locations, please consult the school calendar.

Assessment Graded School recognizes that teaching, learning and assessment are deeply linked. Students and teachers work in partnership to enable students to demonstrate what they have learned, assess their progress and identify specific strategies to maximize their potential on their class assessment to demonstrate learning. We are guided by the following: • We believe that like instruction, effective assessment is appropriate, engaging, targeted toward specific learning outcomes and challenging. • Assessment comes in many types from diagnostic, formative, and summative, and serves different purposes. • Assessment should be well-structured and differentiated, often requiring collaboration amongst different learners. • Meaningful assessment requires a variety of tools, including informal checks in class, observation and student dialogue, formal quizzes and tests, academic prompts, and open-ended assessment tasks. • Quality assessment is authentic and transparent, providing students with a fair and attainable venue to proudly exhibit what they have learned. • Assessment serves improvement. These principles are reflected in our practices as outlined by Graded School’s Continuum of Assessment Practice and align to Graded’s Professional Growth and Supervision Plan. Descriptors of Achievement The Graded School Grading Scale serves to support students and parents in understanding students’ progress in developmentally appropriate structures. In the Middle School achievement aligns to deepening levels of application, critical thinking and originality. Grades 7

Category Criteria Exceeded

Where to Take Concerns: Notes or emails that provide teachers with information about special events or difficulties in a student’s life are helpful. Parents should first contact the advisor or teacher with any information or concerns. Alternatively, parents may contact the Principal, Assistant Principal or Counselor.

5-6

Criteria Clearly Mastered

Messages for Students & Outside Communications: If parents have messages for students, they should call the office and the message will be relayed through the office. To respect the learning community, please do not try to contact your child on his/her cell during class time.

3-4

Criteria Met

Telephone Use & Cell Phones: Middle School students may not use cell phones to send or receive calls/ messages during class time. Unless prearranged with the teacher, cell phones should be turned off. Should the need to make a phone call become necessary, the phone in the Middle School office is available for student use.

Criteria Not Met

Well Below Criteria

Conferences: Student Led Conferences take place in the spring and the autumn each year. Students will lead these conferences, sharing successes, areas of growth, goals and challenges. Conferences can also happen anytime of the year should a meeting be requested by either parents or teachers.

Open Door: Please know the school community is welcome to come by the MS Office anytime. Emergencies: The school website will provide up-to-date information in the case of very rare school closings due to emergencies.

Descriptor Student work exceeds the criteria for achievement of the learning goal(s) in original and insightful ways. Work reflects a consistent and thorough understanding of the content, concepts or skills. There is strong evidence of analysis, synthesis, and/or evaluation. Student work demonstrates achievement of the learning goal(s) in original and insightful ways. Work reflects a consistent understanding of the content, concepts or skills. There is clear evidence of analysis, synthesis, and/or evaluation. Student work demonstrates achievement of the learning goal(s). There are no major errors or omissions regarding any of the content, concepts or skills. There may be some evidence of analysis, synthesis and/or evaluation. Student work demonstrates a limited achievement of the learning goal(s), This is an area of concern and students who score in this range will have the opportunity to be assessed again. Student work shows minimal achievement towards the learning goal(s). This is a serious area of concern and students who score in this range will have the opportunity to be assessed again.

GRADE REPORTING All grading and reporting, as part of the school’s overarching assessment philosophy, strives to be comprehensive, 23

equitable, and transparent in the spirit of continuous improvement. The purpose of grading is to communicate achievement of academic standards and habits of learning to all stakeholders. Grade Report Parents and students can monitor a student’s progress in every course by accessing their Veracross accounts. At the end of each quarter a Grade Report is also sent out to all parents and students. This report will include the following components: • The final numerical grade from 1-7 and an academic report for each subject area which may include narrative comments from the teacher • A Learning Habits Report • A summary of attendance and tardies • A summary of the grade level Community Time activities for the quarter Grades Calculations The final grade for each quarter will be based on the most consistent, most relevant, most recent data. Passing grades will range from 3-7. Learning Habits Descriptors In the Middle School we value not only the academic achievement of each student, but also the development of healthy learning habits that will serve our students at life-long learners. The follow learning habits are evaluated and reported on the Grade Report each quarter. Criteria Inclusive

Perseverace/ Risk-taker Curious

Responsible

Exemplary Good 4 3 Demonstrates respect for others and the community and works collaboratively with others Exhibits perseverance when faced with challenges Exhibits an active learning style which demonstrates a commitment to deepening their understanding. Demonstrates responsibility by arriving prepared for class with assignments and materials.

Developing 2

Needs Improvement 1

grade level once during their academic career at Graded. If students do not successfully complete recuperação, then promotion decisions are facilitated by the principal in consultation with a group of teachers, parents, and other specialists as appropriate. If a student fails more than two required courses, they may not be promoted to the next grade level, or may be asked to seek alternative school options. Recuperação Procedures Recuperação provides students authentic remediation and holds students accountable to our academic standards. Over the course of the quarter, students who do not meet academic standards will have the opportunity to relearn and re-assess. If they still are unable to meet the minimum standards, they will have recuperação at the end of the school year. Recuperação at the end of the school year: During the June/July Holiday recuperação will have two components: a take home packet and a formal assessment to be administered at school before classes begin in August. The student must pass both components in order to successfully complete the recuperação. The school may recommend remedial classes or tutoring during the break in order to successfully complete the recuperação. Conditions for Promotion and Retention in the case of recuperação: • If the student passes the recuperacao assessments, they will be promoted to the next grade level. • If a student fails two recuperacao assessments the student will be retained • If a student fails one recuperação assessment, the principal, counselor, Brazilian Studies Director and members of the grade level team will meet as a conselho to decide whether the student should be promoted or retained. The student may only be “promoted by conselho” one time during their MS career. Recuperação may also be given in December/January. This will allow the possibility of moving their grade from the 1-2 range to a 3. This will be pending the grade received in the 3rd and 4th quarters. This means that a student who fails first semester, completes and passes the recuperação and then passes both 3rd and 4th quarters will not need to complete a recuperação at the end of the school year. If the student completes and passes recuperação but then receives failing grades in either the 3rd or 4th quarter, the original first semester grades will stand and the student will be required to complete a recuperação over the June/July Holiday. Incomplete Grades on a Report Card A student must reconcile an incomplete grade on their Grade Report within the time frame established by the teacher. If an incomplete is not reconciled then a student earns a 1-2 or the grade commensurate with the amount of work done on the missing / late work in question.

Promotion and Retention IIn Middle School, academic credit and grade-level promotion are earned based on performance in the four quarters within a course. Graded follows the guidelines of the AdvancED in the granting of all credits. Upon failure of one or two courses, students will be required to complete recuperação in the Middle School. Students who fail more than two courses will be required to repeat the grade level or leave Graded. Students can only repeat a 24

Health and Safety Strong Body – Strong Mind The Graded cafeteria is administered by a certified dietitian. The school strives to present balanced and nutritious meals every day. Hot lunches are served, and soup-and-sandwich alternatives are available. All drinking water comes from a well on the site that is regularly analyzed for purity. Students are strongly encouraged to make healthy choices from our wonderful cafeteria and choose to eat healthy snacks. The adage an apple a day keeps the doctor away serves adolescent minds and bodies well. You are what you eat is not just a cliché. Students and adults alike are not recommended to eat junk food and consume carbonated soft drinks during the school day. The above, combined with enjoying the outdoors and engaging in mild exercise at breaks (in appropriate locations) is important to promote good health.

Emergency Lockdown A notice of a “Lockdown” will be made either by public address system or personally, under which circumstances, students are to remain in or enter the nearest classroom and be inconspicuous. Blinds in the classrooms will be drawn, lights turned off, and students will sit on the floor until further notice. Students should remain quiet and calm. An “End of Lockdown” announcement will be made, either by public address system or personally.

Drugs and Alcohol Abuse of chemicals and illegal drugs is an extremely serious matter in Brazil and can result in disastrous legal consequences. The school is not in a position to protect a student involved in drug abuse. The school may facilitate the treatment of a student who wants help with an addictive problem and wishes to remain in school. Students bringing these substances onto the campus or appearing on campus under their influence will face lengthy suspensions and probable expulsion. The school is under obligation, in certain circumstances, to report these incidents to the authorities. The supplying or sale of drugs will result in expulsion and the notification of the authorities. School Health Service Two registered nurses are on duty, Monday through Friday, at the infirmary, to treat accidents or illness. If you are hurt or not feeling well, tell your teacher and you will be sent to the infirmary. The nurse will contact parents if there is a need for the child to go home. Students who are required to take medicine (including aspirin) during the day should leave the medicine with the nurse along with a doctor’s note authorizing the medicine and explaining the dosage and time schedule. Teachers are not authorized to give any form of medication, allopathic or homeopathic. The school doctor is available, on a part-time schedule for consultation and periodic check-ups. Illness or Injury The nurse’s office is equipped to provide immediate first aid and to treat minor injuries. In the event of an illness or accident requiring further medical treatment, parents will be notified. The nurse will call the home, office, and/ or emergency telephone numbers listed in the student’s file. Parents, or other appointed guardians will be asked to pick up their child at school and arrange for medical treatment. In the event of a serious accident requiring immediate, life-saving measures, appropriate ambulance services will be summoned. Medication If a student needs to receive medication while at school please contact the nurse’s office for details. Immunization Students are expected to have followed a routine and customary schedule of immunizations throughout their early childhood and later years. It is the parent’s responsibility to ensure that their child’s immunization record is up-todate and the school requires a copy of each student’s vaccination record. Emergency Evacuation In the event everyone needs to evacuate the school a siren will sound. Walk quickly and quietly (in an orderly and calm manner) directly to the bus parking lot. Each student is to line up in his/her assigned FLEX assembly row and quietly wait for the FLEX assembly row teacher advisor to take attendance and for further instructions.

On Campus

Graded is a warm and welcoming community. It is also a large community with many people coming and going. It is important to treat your belongings with care. Lockers Middle School students are assigned lockers for use in storing books, computers, coats, supplies, shoes etc., during the school day. Students are responsible for their own locker and are to treat it with respect and a keen eye for organization. Lockers are the property of the school, and assignment to individuals does not indicate a transfer of ownership. As property of the school, lockers are subject to inspection at any time deemed appropriate by the school administration. Problems with lockers should be brought to the attention of the Middle School Secretary. Students should never open another student’s locker. All student possessions should be kept inside a locked locker. Please do not leave bags and personal items lying in the hall. Students in the Middle School supply their own locker locks. Students are allowed to decorate (but, not permanently) the inside of their lockers but should not post anything on the outside of the locker. However, birthday greetings and approved school spirit decorations are an exception to the above.

School Store School items such as pens, pencils, paper, notebooks, folders, etc., may be purchased with a student card or cash at the school store which is open during school hours. Visitors All adult visitors must check in at the front gate. Permission to bring a student guest to the school must be sought in advance from the Middle School office. Depending on the circumstances, visiting students may be granted permission to attend school for a day. The host student should bring the guest to the Middle School office at the very start of the day. Any visiting student is expected to follow all the school rules and the host is responsible for the behavior of the guest.

Locker Room Baskets During PHE classes baskets are provided in a locked area for students to store valuable items such as jewelry, books, etc. The school is not responsible for missing articles outside the locked area. Valuables All personal belongings and articles of clothing brought to school are the students’ responsibility. It is unwise for students to bring considerable amounts of money or valuable equipment such as cameras, music devices, electronics or other personally valuable items to school. The School is unable to accept liability for lost articles. Lost & Found The Lost & Found area is located in the office. Parents and students may check this area for missing items. Sports and physical & health education items are often turned in to Lost & Found near the gym. Sometimes lost items are turned in at the security offices. Any missing items not claimed after a reasonable period of time will be donated to a local orphanage or organizations in need of clothing and school supplies. Regulations for Use of Campus Facilities • Students on campus outside school hours must be under direct adult supervision. • Use of campus facilities must be approved in advance by the Activities Director. • Outside school hours, participants and spectators must remain in/near the event area. • Climbing on trees, gates, walls, towers and roofs is prohibited. • Smoking and alcoholic beverages are not permitted on campus. • Pets are not allowed on campus. • All wheels (bicycles, roller blades, skateboards, etc.) are permitted on campus only on weekends, and only in the José Galante parking lot. • Safe and proper use of facilities and equipment is expected. Athletic Facilities Graded has an extensive sports complex, including a gymnasium, a covered court, a lighted track and field, a mat and weight room and four tennis courts. These facilities are used for physical education classes, interscholastic sports, and certain Graded community events on weekends. Student Center All students who use the Student Center are responsible for keeping it clean. 28

Transportation The transportation system at Graded is offered as an optional service. Twenty-six routes deliver students to school at 8:00 and return students to their homes in the afternoon, leaving school at 15:15. Eight buses leave school at 16:15 and four buses leave school at 18:00 to transport those who participate in after-school activities. The activity buses follow pre-determined routes and do not drop students at their doors, but usually within a 10-block radius of their home. When a student is not paying the regular bus fee and he/she is involved in after-school activities, the single return trip will cost 30% of a single trip on a daily basis with 60 days per quarter. Special bus passes must be issued. When a student is paying the normal bus fee, the after-school activities bus is free. A signed note must be sent to the transportation supervisor’s office BEFORE 9:00 by the parent of a student wanting to: 1) take a bus other than his/her own, 2) get off the bus at a stop other than his/her regular stop, or 3) leave the school by private car. Any such requests received after 12:00 pm cannot be attended. A permanent authorization can be signed by parents of Middle School students to authorize the use of the 16:15 bus on a regular basis, but this does not cover taking a different bus or going to a friend’s house. If you are not sure about bus arrangements and permissions needed please contact our transportation department. The bus drivers are screened and licensed and the bus monitors are responsible for the conduct of the students and rule enforcement in addition to the safe navigation of the bus in the traffic. Students who do not behave properly are a safety hazard to all who ride the bus and can lose the privilege of school bus transportation for varying lengths of time, depending on the seriousness of the infraction. School rules apply to buses. Students not receiving after-school help or not in an after-school activity should take the 15:15 bus.

Information and Communincation Technology Rights and Responsibilities The following guidelines are intended to help high school students understand appropriate use of all Information and Communication Technology at Graded, both school and student owned. The primary use of ICT resources is to further the educational goals of the school. • Students are required to own and maintain a laptop, as defined by the laptop requirements. • Laptops are only to be used for educational purposes in classroom settings. • Any malicious attempt to harm or destroy school technology equipment or materials, the data of another user, or any of the institutions, or other networks that are connected to the internet is prohibited. • All data created within the school domain and on associated online spaces is governed by the core values and educational expectations of Graded School. There are occasions when a member of the technology staff may need to access data for security or maintenance reasons. LARK Guidelines: The following LARK guidelines are designed to provide users with an ethical framework to use digital tools in a way that supports their learning. Legal (Respect and protect intellectual properties) • Abide by copyright laws and “fair use” when using text, images, audio or video and credit is given to all sources. • Use parenthetical citation and cite sources to create authentic work and avoid plagiarism. • Use Creative Commons licensed media instead of copyrighted media where possible. • Use only legally acquired software, music and other media. • Get permission to record and publish images or video of others. • Use only accounts that have been created by you or for your use and follow the guidelines in the user agreement. Appropriate (Digital footprint) • Access media that is focused on learning and is fitting for the academic environment. • Create content that demonstrates learning, and contributes positively to your digital footprint. • Communicate in collaborative online spaces in a way that represents yourself and the school in a positive manner and respects others. Responsible (Protect yourself and others) • Use cell phones for educational purposes when requested by teachers. • Keep personal accounts and passwords private and secure. • Share only personal information, images and materials that do not put you at risk. • Find an appropriate way to identify yourself, depending on the situation, when creating content, communicating and collaborating. Kind (Respect yourself and others) • Respect others when sharing and collaborating in online spaces using electronic devices so as not to engage in bullying behavior. Online publication and student authorship We are committed to protecting the privacy of students and families while still providing opportunities for global sharing and collaboration. Students and teachers will be sharing work in a variety of online spaces. They are expected to treat these spaces as they would a classroom environment, and to act safely by keeping personal information private. Images or videos of students, or their work, may be used on the school website and on other online platforms, as well as in print media, including teaching and school promotional materials. If parents have concerns about their children’s images or work appearing in online spaces, please contact the appropriate division principal.

Check out Procedures Any student leaving Graded must be properly checked out prior to departure from school. The check-out process is initiated by written parent notification to the Admissions Office. No student will be officially checked out until all school obligations have been cleared, including return of school resources (such as texts and library materials). Request for official transcripts and school records will not be honored until a student has been officially cleared by the Business Office. Copies of unofficial transcripts may be available earlier.

Av. Pres. Giovanni Gronchi, 4710 05724-002 Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil 55-11-3747-4800 www.graded.br