MS Handbook 2022-23 Final

2022 Middle School 2023 Handbook

Table of Contents Middle School Common Agreements..................................................................

Principal’s Welcome ..............................................................................................

School Life and Teams ..........................................................................................

Middle School Faculty and Staff ..........................................................................

House Structure and PCG.....................................................................................

Middle School Standards Based Assessment and Reporting.........................

Middle School After School Clubs and Activities...............................................

Middle School Athletics ........................................................................................

Contact Information...............................................................................................

Behavioral Expectations ....................................................................................... a. General Expectations ...................................................................................... b. Discipline Philosophy (Behavior and Consequences)....................................... c. Harassment .................................................................................................... d. Dress Code ..................................................................................................... e. Make-Up Work Guidelines............................................................................... f. Vandalism, Theft and Weapons ...................................................................... g. Educational Technology Responsible Use Agreement..................................... h. Grade 5-8 ICT Student Use Expectations........................................................ i. Middle School Tech Device Usage Agreements............................................... j. Integrity Code ................................................................................................. k. Works Cited..................................................................................................... l. Substance Abuse and Drug Testing................................................................. m. HKIS Separated/Divorced Parents...................................................................

HKIS Community Partnership and Communication Guidelines......................

Middle School Student Leadership .....................................................................

Emergency Weather Warnings Procedures .......................................................

SML, P.E.A.K. and Office Hours........................................................................... a. Self-Motivated Learning Project (SML) ............................................................ b. P.E.A.K............................................................................................................. c. Office Hours ....................................................................................................

Assessment and Reporting .................................................................................. a. Homework Guidelines ..................................................................................... b. Assessment .................................................................................................... c. Academic Recognition ....................................................................................

Student Services ................................................................................................... a. Student Services Center.................................................................................. b. Student Attendance ........................................................................................ c. Parents’ Temporary Absence from Hong Kong ............................................... d. Late to School and Leaving Early .................................................................... e. Student Visitors ............................................................................................... f. Health Office ...................................................................................................

Middle School Resources ..................................................................................... a. Library Media Center ...................................................................................... b. ICT Help Center .............................................................................................. c. Dragon Shop .................................................................................................. d. Parent Faculty Organization (PFO) .................................................................. e. Yearbook ........................................................................................................ f. Lockers ........................................................................................................... g. Lost and Found, Cafeteria and Café ................................................................

Social Emotional Learning (SEL) .........................................................................

Planner Cover design by Jayden Mok, Grade 7 Tai Tam

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Middle School Common Agreements We are grateful for the opportunities HKIS continues to give us. These agreements were created by all Middle School students in September 2019 to support our SEL Vision Statement.

Collaboration

Responsibility

We agree to be collaborative and to listen to other perspectives and opinions while believing In ourselves.

We will build off the Ideas of others with an open mind.

We agree to show empathy and think about how our actions affect others and the environment. We will be responsible by taking care of the environments we are in.

Diversity

Respect

We agree to be kind and respectful to the diversity of our community, Including Individuals, cultures, and the environment. We will think before we act.

We agree that It’s okay to not be okay all the time, but we will always try to be encouraging and respectful.

Growth Mindset We agree to use a growth mindset to strive for resilience, Integrity and positivity. We will be a role model for the rest of the community.

SEL Vision Statement HKIS Middle School is a relationship-centered community focused on character development, while promoting a culture of respect and kindness, nurturing the individual, and fostering awareness of self, others, and the environment.

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Principal’s Welcome Dear Middle School Students and Families, I am delighted to welcome you to the new and exciting school year of 2022-2023!

Here in the Middle School, we value the overall experience that affords us a balance between striving for academic excellence and self-discovery through meaningful experiences that hone in on what it means to be an HKIS student who puts their minds to inquiry, hearts to compassion, and lives to service and global understanding. Even more, each of you will continue to foster personal growth in the areas of collaboration, creativity, and resilience, fulfilling the vision of HKIS. Again this year, our Middle School will fly the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) banners that call us to action in the following ways: Belong: Every student should feel a sense of belonging as a member of the Middle School.

Collaborate: All students will use a variety of methods within diverse environments to communicate and respectfully work together to support individual learning and contribute to the learning of others.

Create: All students will be imaginative thinkers, exploring passions and challenges using novel and innovative strategies.

Be Resilient: All students will demonstrate courage and confidence in response to challenges and show the ability to adapt and thrive.

It is a privilege to serve you in my first year as Middle School Principal at HKIS. Along with your teachers and staff, we hope you will enjoy a rich and fulfilling year full of learning, growth and achievement. We know that you will take courage when faced with unforeseen challenges. In doing so, you will know that you have learned to be an HKIS Dragon!

Have a great school year!

Ms. Casey Faulknall Middle School Principal

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School Life and Teams Middle School Faculty and Staff Sixth Grade Dyads

Performing Arts

(Math/Science)

(LA/SS)

Mr. Greg Edwards Mr. Matt Goodchild Ms. Jessika Purvis Ms. Paulina Kociolek Mr. Kyle Keener

Mr. Sean Telles Mr. Alex Cleary Ms. Praise Ma Mr. Tristan Benson Ms. Kirsten Rendell

Drama Choir Band

Mr. John Mulhall Ms. Laura Pihowich Mr. Christopher Ward Dr. Mark Pihowich Strings Mr. Meidad Yehudayan Mr. Phil Lai Performing Arts Teacher Assistant Ms. Monica Linden Ms. Eunice Lau

Seventh/Eighwth Grade Academic Teams (Social Studies, Math, Language Arts, and Science) Academic Team #1 Ms. Marie O’Dwyer Ms. Sheena Naggea Mr. Tom Banaszewski Mr. Scott Simon

Academic Team #2 Mr. Tim Lyall Ms. Pauline Tang Mr. Michael Currinder Ms. Caroline Pringle

Academic Team #3 Mr. Sean Knoflick Mr. Brian Elshoff Ms. Danielle Richert Ms. Sheri Gates

Academic Team #4 Ms. Clare Dickie Mr. Ralph Giordano Ms. Nicole Whitley Ms. Karen Chan

Physical Education and Health Physical Education

Mr. Mathew Brown Mr. Joe Nolasco Mr. Michael Coleman Ms. Katie Elliot Ms. Rita McDermott Physical Education Assistant Mr. Ben Rowe Adventure Learning Coordinator Mr. Calvin Leiu

Academic Team #5 Mr. Gabriel Price Ms. Leigh Simon Ms. Madi Elshoff Mr. Geoff Moulton

Religion

Mr. Marcus Kroese Mr. Dax Garrett Mr. Iantha Scheiwe

Science Technician

Mr. Robert Dei

Student Service Center Learning Specialists

Visual Arts Design Technology (VADT) Visual Arts

Ms. Brianna Bedessem Ms. Jules White Visual Arts Teacher Assistant Mr. Victor Fung Design Technology Ms. Megan Godek Design Tech Teacher Assistant Ms. Meera Monteiro Culinary Arts Mr. Barry Johnson Culinary Arts Teacher Assistant Ms. Klara Lau

Counselors Nurse SSC Secretary

Library Teacher Librarian Senior Library Assistant Library Assistant Audio Visual Technician Client Support Specialist

World Languages Spanish Mandarin

Ms. Marcela Amaral (G6) Ms. Courtney Pierce (G7) Ms. Megan Rowe (G8) Mr. Kenny Clark (G6) Ms. Laura Cowan (G7&8) Ms. Clara Pang Ms. Carol Lai

Mr. Aaron Arizmendi Mr. Will Li Ms. Michelle Sun Mr. Edward Dong Ms. Daisy Shen Ms. Mei Xu Ms. Frances Zhang

Ms. Maureen McCann Ms. Punam De Manny Ms. Gloria Tang Mr. Ricky Lai Mr. Jonathan Sham

Administration Principal Associate Principal Executive Secretaries

Teacher Leaders are underscored

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Ms. Casey Faulknall Mr. Alastair Jackson Mr. Stephen Conroy Ms. Noelle Au Yeung Ms. Patra Lam

House Structure and Pastoral Care Groups (PCG) The Middle School is composed of five Houses. Each House consists of approximately forty-five 6th graders, forty-five 7th graders and forty-five 8th graders for a total of 135 students. In addition, each House has 12 supporting adults. These supportive adults each lead a small grade-based Pastoral Care Group of approximately 12 students.

The goal of the House and Pastoral Care Group system is to create smaller learning environments with greater potential of personalizing the learning for your children. Students will meet with their PCG twice per week and extended periods throughout the year to focus on developmental needs and issues.

Central House Grade 6 Grade 7 Grade 8

Kirsten Rendell Kyle Keener Sean Knoflick Ralph Giordano Caroline Pringle Michelle Sun

Marcela Amaral Mei Xu Rita McDermott Michael Coleman Dax Garrett Nicole Whitley

Matt Goodchild Alex Cleary Scott Simon Tom Banaszewski Barry Johnson Danielle Richert

John Mulhall Eunice Lau Courtney Pierce William Li Mathew Brown / Ben Rowe Meidad Yehudayan / Phil Lai

Praise Ma Jessika Purvis Geoff Moulton Edward Dong Marie O’Dwyer Karen Chan

Megan Godek / Meera Monteiro Mark Pihowich Monica Linden Madi Elshoff Tim Lyall Punam De Manny

Paulina Kociolek Tristan Benson Brian Elshoff / Calvin Lieu Gabriel Price Sheri Gates Pauline Tang

Brianna Bedessem Frances Zhang Michael Currinder Jules White Megan Rowe Laura Pihowich

Sean Telles Greg Edwards Sheena Naggea Joe Nolasco Leigh Simon Maureen McCann

Daisy Shen Katie Elliott Christopher Ward Iantha Scheiwe Aaron Arizmendi Clare Dickie

Lantau House Grade 6 Grade 7 Grade 8

Peak House Grade 6 Grade 7 Grade 8

Tai Tam House Grade 6 Grade 7 Grade 8

Shek O House Grade 6 Grade 7 Grade 8

Grade Level Leaders are underscored

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Middle School Standards-Based Assessment and Reporting At HKIS we adopt a principle driven approach to Assessment, Grading and Reporting. Details of these principles and their corresponding practices are available on DragonNet. At the Middle School division we believe that: • Students benefit from feedback that describes their level of learning against standards.

• Feedback on approaches to learning should be given separately.

Middle School reporting is based on the following two rubrics. These outline the academic expectations and learning habits, which students are assessed with.

General Academic Scale Emerging

Developing

Exhibiting

Exhibiting Depth

The student demonstrates emerging proficiency in the standard.

The student demonstrates developing proficiency in the standard.

The student exhibits proficiency in the standard.

The student exhibits depth in the standard.

The student is beginning to demonstrate foundational knowledge and skills.

The student demonstrates the foundational knowledge and skills required to exhibit the standards but is not yet exhibiting proficiency in the standard.

The student demonstrates the targeted understanding of knowledge and skills.

The student is able to transfer learning to authentic or atypical situations. The student can draw upon their conceptual understanding to solve real world problems that show a level of creativity and sophistication.

Approaches to Learning Behaviors Self-Motivated Learning

Willingly applies a variety of learning and motivation strategies throughout their learning process.

Collaboration

Uses a variety of methods within diverse environments to communicate and respectfully work together to support individual learning to contribute to the learning of others.

Respect & Responsibility

Organized and prepared to learn. Respects others and the learning environment.

Seldom

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Inconsistent

Consistent

Middle School Clubs and After School Activities Middle School clubs will take place before lunch on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Students will have a wide range of clubs to choose from: creative, physical, social, mindful, leadership, and service-oriented clubs. Many of the clubs will be facilitated by student leaders, including students from High School, supported by faculty advisors. There are three club rotations through the year, with the goal being for students to engage in a wide variety of activities to help identify and cultivate their interests and passions.

In addition, the Middle School offers a wide variety of paid After School Activities. We encourage you to take advantage of all the opportunities offered. Middle School is a great time to explore your interests, try new activities, and meet new friends. Please visit the Middle School DragonNet page for complete details and description of each activity.

Middle School Athletics Middle School Athletics provides opportunities for boys and girls to represent HKIS throughout the year.

The program is split into four seasons and is provided free of charge for both D Grade (U12) and C Grade (U14) athletes. The teams compete in local school sports leagues and tournaments offered through the International School Sports Federation Hong Kong (ISSFHK) and the Hong Kong School Sports Federation (HKSSF).

To learn more about specific sports teams, schedules, age eligibility and policies please visit the Middle School Athletics pages on the HKIS website.

The tryouts for the following sports are advertised on the individual team pages. Newsletters and daily announcements ensure students are well aware of the dates and requirements.

The Middle School Athletics is one component of the MS co-curricular program. To further meet the needs of our Long Term Athlete Development model (LTAD), Middle School students can register for the paid “select team” programs through the Activities Office page on the HKIS website. These programs compete in club based sports leagues locally and regionally.

Contact Information Andrea Clark, MS/HS Athletic Director Aclark@hkis.edu.hk 7

Contact Information Middle School 700 Tai Tam Reservoir Road, Tai Tam Tel: 3149-7000 Fax: 2899-0809 To direct dial, dial 3149 followed by the four-digit extension.

School hours: 8:00AM - 3:25PM Administration

Ext.

Name

Email

Principal

7201

Casey Faulknall

cfaulknall@hkis.edu.hk

Associate Principal

7205

Alastair Jackson

ajackson@hkis.edu.hk

Associate Principal

7204

Stephen Conroy

sconroy@hkis.edu.hk

Executive Secretary (MS Office)

7207

Noelle Au Yeung

nauyeung@hkis.edu.hk

Executive Secretary (MS Office)

7234

Patra Lam

plam@hkis.edu.hk

Secretary (Student Services)

7236

Carol Lai

clai@hkis.edu.hk

Other Offices

Ext.

Head of School Office

7812

Doris Lau

Admissions Office

7001

Katherine Au-Yeung

Advancement Office

7819

Noel Leung

Middle School Athletics

7156

Andrea Clark, MS/HS Athletic Director

Middle School Athletics

7138

Shirley Fok, Athletics Manager

School Bus Information

7151

Sally Yau, HKIS Bus Company Liaison

Kwoon Chung Bus Company

2578-1178

MS Nurse

7222

Clara Pang

MS Library

7256/7259

Gloria Tang / Punam De Manny

MS Attendance

7236

msattendance@hkis.edu.hk

MS Counselors

7230

Kenny Clark

7240

Laura Cowan

Dragon Shop

7186

Community Office

7835

Henri Yim

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Behavioral Expectations General Expectations The HKIS Middle School encourages and expects positive, responsible and respectful behavior.

Infractions of the Middle School behavioral expectations provide an opportunity to learn through our progressive discipline philosophy.

Break and Lunch Times • Students should use these times to eat, socialize and play.

• Students may go to designated locations that could include cafeteria, ampitheater, second floor annex, the field, library, the Multipurpose Room (MPR), and the Peace Garden.

• Students must begin to make their way back to class when advised by the supervising teacher/staff member.

Food and Drink • Students should consume food and drink at assigned locations. Pass from a teacher or the nurse.

Student Safety on Buses The following safety rules for all bus riders have been established to ensure a safe and pleasurable bus ride for all. Students must: • stay seated and remain seated until the bus comes to a complete stop • demonstrate courtesy and respect to the bus driver, bus monitor and other bus riders • use a quiet voice • not throw objects of any kind on the bus or out of the windows • upon arrival, wait for the bus to leave before crossing the street to allow a full view of traffic • use mobile devices in a manner that follows HKIS Responsible Use Agreement

Consequences for Disregarding Bus Rules • Students will first receive a warning from the bus supervisor, who will inform a middle school principal.

• Upon second warning, parents will be contacted.

• Repeated or severe offenses may result in a suspension or loss of bus privileges.

Changing Bus Depending on availability, students are allowed to ride buses other than their assigned bus with a valid bus card. This is to ensure tracking of students and preventing overloading.

NOTE: Students without a bus card are allowed to ride the bus subject to availability and have to pay $50.

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Social Media Policy Please refer to HKIS’s Social Media Policy (Policy 3180, available on DragonNet) for rules and guidelines on using social media responsibly.

Guidelines for Students (from HKIS’s Social Media Policy 3180) Students should remember that the Internet is permanent and public. They should take care with their activities and identities on social media, including by following the guidelines below: • All school-related digital communication, including public and private group chats, must not include conversations that would be unacceptable in the classroom.

• Avoid posting offensive or inappropriate language, pictures, videos or comments about classmates, teachers, or other members of the school community.

• Ensure that content posted on social media websites does not depict or involve inappropriate or illegal activities.

• Don’t post anything you would not say in a public forum when representing HKIS. • Be selective of individuals befriended on social media. There are many false identities out the • Check your privacy settings. We recommend the strongest security settings be used on all platforms where only approved followers can view your content.

• Never post your home address, phone numbers, birth date, or other personal • Information on social media. Do not include your location on social media posts.

• Understand that anything you post online is available to anyone in the world and out of your control thereafter. The information you post is no longer your property but that of the social media website.

• Students are encouraged to comment or post appropriately about the school. Criticism or suggestions for improvement should be done with positive intent. Any offensive or inappropriate comments will be resolved by the use of the school’s behavior policy.

• Anonymous posts are discouraged in relation to school activity.

• If a conversation turns and becomes offensive or unacceptable, students should block, report and/ or delete other users or their comments/posts. If possible, it is useful to take a screenshot of the conversation for your records before taking these actions.

• If you feel that you or someone else is subject to abuse by any community member through use of a social networking site, then this abuse should be reported to the most appropriate school faculty or administrator.

Social Media During School Travel • If photos are taken during a field trip or overseas trip, they must not be shared until after students have returned to school or home. This is to avoid sharing information about a student’s location.

• Anyone taking photos must seek permission to use any photos or video recordings on social media.

If anyone asks not to be filmed or photographed, his/her wishes must be respected. This applies to individuals and partner organizations (e.g.: during Interim, service trips, PEAK).

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Discipline Philosophy (Behavior and Consequences) HKIS Middle School is a community that encourages self-discipline, respect for oneself and the rights of others, and taking responsibility for one’s actions and behaviors. It is the goal of the Middle School to nurture and educate students so that they make thoughtful decisions and reflect on the possible consequences of their actions.

The aim of the discipline policy is to facilitate a positive school climate where each student feels safe and secure and effective learning can take place. The discipline policy provides a framework of progressive discipline. Our aim is to work with students and parents to support personal and social development.

MS Disciplinary Procedures: Behavior & Consequences Category 1: This category represents the vast majority of disciplinary incidents. These are the day-to-day reminders or warnings to students to be safe or to act respectfully. Teachers and/ or administrators will address these incidents as appropriate.

Examples of incidents

Possible Consequences

• Inappropriate use of an electronic device • Dress code violation • Tardiness • Eating in a no-eating zone/ Chewing gum • Classroom misbehavior • Inappropriate language • Disrespect towards an individual • Use of an inappropriate website during school hours • Participation in an unsafe act (ex:. throwing an object)

• Verbal reprimand • Parent contact (email/phone) • Student asked to leave the classroom • Confiscation of electronic device

Category 2: This category represents repeated Category 1 incidents or those affecting student learning.

Examples of incidents

Possible Consequences

• Repeated or extreme incidents of Category 1 • Inappropriate rough housing • Skipping class or hiding during class time • Bullying and cyberbullying

• Referral to administrator • Inclusion of counselors • Discipline Learning Plan completion • Parent contact • PowerSchool discipline log entry Other possible consequences: • Detention (break, lunch, after school until 5 p.m.)

• In-school suspension • Out-of-school suspension • Suspension from school sport teams or after school clubs

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Category 3: This category represents the most serious discipline cases. These cases are those that threaten the safety of self or others, violations of Honor and Integrity Codes and repeated Category 2 Incidents.

Examples of incidents

Possible Consequences

• Repeated or extreme incidents of Category 2 • Physical violence • Vandalism • Weapons • Technology infractions such as hacking, identity theft, and using illegal websites • Plagiarism or cheating • Theft • Smoking, vaping, using nicotine-delivering devices, using drugs or alcohol • Accessing another student’s locker without permission • Sexting: sending, receiving, or forwarding sexually explicit messages, photographs or images on a digital device

• Referral to administrator • Inclusion of counselors • Discipline Learning Plan completion • Parent contact • Faculty communication (as appropriate) • PowerSchool discipline log entry Other possible consequences: • Detention (break, lunch, after school until 5 p.m.)

• In-school suspension • Out-of-school suspension • Outside counseling may be recommended.

• Behavior probation • Removal from school sport teams or after school clubs Note: Given repeated offenses or in an extreme case that threatens the physical safety of self or others, a student may be asked to leave HKIS.

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Harassment (Adapted from Policy 3170, available on DragonNet.) Hong Kong International School is committed to building and sustaining a culture of respect, care and safety that is free from any form of harassment, bullying or intimidation. All members of our community – students, parents, faculty, staff and visitors – have a right to feel safe and protected and share the responsibility to build and maintain an environment in which everyone feels respected. Offensive, harassing, bullying or intimidating behaviors will not be tolerated or ignored and will be dealt with appropriately and expeditiously.

Across the school, both prevention and intervention strategies are in place for our student and adult community, and will be published and reviewed annually to encourage empathy and respect and to respond appropriately to any acts of bullying and harassment.

Any repeated behavior that offends, upsets, embarrasses, frightens, excludes or hurts another person is bullying and/or harassment. HKIS recognizes that these behaviors can take many forms including: Verbal Bullying and/or Harassment • Language:

Name-calling, spreading rumors, and/or directing insulting, teasing, threatening comments to another person

• Virtual:

Harassment, or spreading rumors by email, instant messaging, blog or any other media form

• Religious:

Putting down or ridiculing another’s religion, stopping another from expressing their beliefs

• Racial:

Making hurtful comments or discriminating against someone based on their nationality, race or culture, color of their skin or language spoken

• Intellectual:

Making hurtful comments based on someone’s intellectual or academic ability

• Sexual:

Making hurtful comments or discriminating against someone based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression

Non-Verbal Bullying and/or Harassment • Physical:

Hitting, kicking, pushing, spitting or any other form of physical behavior which is deemed to be aggressive in nature.

• Personal Property (real or virtual):

Taking, damaging or trespassing on another’s property, including entering another student’s email account, personal belongings, or school locker without permission

• Indirect:

Intentionally excluding someone from a group, discussion or team

• Graphic/Vandalism:

Defacing another’s property, projects or photographs

• Sexual:

Making offensive gestures about another’s body, touching or maintaining unwelcome closeness to another person or discriminating against someone based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression

Dealing with Bullying/Harassment In the Middle School we take the following steps to reduce bullying/harassment: • Counselors go into PCGs and discuss bullying/harassment behaviors and steps to take to resolve conflicts before they escalate.

• PCG teachers introduce activities early in the year to create classroom environments built on respect, in which students from all cultures can thrive and feel safe.

• Counselors and faculty implement a comprehensive guidance counseling program that includes preventative strategies.

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• Information is shared and evening information sessions are held as required, for example, to raise awareness of bullying/harassment over the Internet.

We have found that these prevention strategies work very well, resulting in minimum harassment/bullying on campus and an ethos of caring and support.

What can we all do to stop bullying and discrimination at the Middle School?

If we are to maintain an ethos of care and respect for all members of our community, we must each take responsibility for maintaining an attitude of respect rather than tolerance for bullying and discrimination.

If you are guilty of bullying or discrimination • Stop now.

• Seek counseling from someone who can help you.

If you are being bullied or discriminated against • Check the person’s intention – perhaps harm is not intended.

• Don’t suffer in silence.

• Tell the person to stop if the behavior offends and continues. Be clear; no mixed messages.

• Seek help from someone you trust: teacher, counselor, parent.

• File a harassment complaint at Student Services.

If you witness bullying or discrimination (Bystanders) • Don’t stand by.

• Don’t be silent.

• Don’t encourage by laughter or words.

• Do offer support/challenge, e.g. ask, “Why are you doing this?” or suggest going to another location.

• Report bullying incidents to a Counselor, at Student Services or to another adult.

Response to Bullying A. Counselors interview each individual student and then conduct a mediation session with both parties, so both sides can be understood.

• Students develop a behavior agreement stating how they will/will not treat each other.

• Sometimes parents are called (depending on severity).

B. Administration • If one student does not follow their agreement, then the Principal or Associate Principal sees the students for discipline.

• Parents will be immediately informed.

• The incident will be recorded in the student’s discipline record.

• Students may have to serve an in-or-out-of-school suspension.

• Students may be removed from the school.

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• If the initial behavior is extreme and intentionally meant to hurt, then our administrators handle it directly.

This mediation process is character building because it emphasizes the importance of solving your own problems and honoring your own agreements. It is a learning process, with an emphasis on encouraging empathy training, values development, and appropriate assertive behavior.

Dress Code The Middle School official dress code includes a HKIS uniform top in navy blue or white. It is the responsibility of students to ensure they are dressed according to the policy below.

The dress code reflects the mission and vision of the school and unifies our student community as representatives of HKIS. All uniform tops are available for purchase from the Dragon Shop located at the High School Campus in Tai Tam. DRAGON SHOP: HKIS High School, Level 2 (near cafeteria) / Monday – Friday (9 a.m. – 2 p.m.)

Tel: 3149 7186 / dragonshop@hkis.edu.hk TOPS COLOR

HKIS solid navy blue or white

STYLE

Uniform HKIS short sleeve polo shirt

NOT ALLOWED: Tears, holes, ragged edges or alterations PLEASE NOTE: MS encourages wearing House t-shirts on Fridays and at Special House Events. These House t-shirts are student designed and provided to students in mid-October. House shirts should not be written on or signed using permanent marker.

BOTTOMS STYLE

Shorts, skirts, skorts, sweatpants, trousers, denim or leggings (opaque, no mesh)

Shorts length: 5” inseam or longer Skirt length: Must extend beyond the fingertips

NOT ALLOWED: Tears, holes, ragged edges, cut off shorts or pants (PE shorts are for PE only.)

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COLD WEATHER UNIFORM LAYERS STYLE

Uniform HKIS sweatshirt or fleece jacket (Official HKIS sports/club sweaters or jackets and Special Edition PFO Chinese New Year top – any year)

NOT ALLOWED: Tears, holes or ragged edges PLEASE NOTE: During extreme weather – any type of personal warm weather outer jacket is permitted over HKIS sweatshirt. In all instances the polo uniform top must be worn underneath.

SHOES STYLE

Closed toe with non-slip sole

NOT ALLOWED: Clogs, shoes with wheels, or flip flops

PHYSICAL EDUCATION (PE) PE short sleeved shirt, PE shorts PE KIT PE sweatshirt, PE sweatpants, PE leggings PLEASE NOTE: Must be purchased in Dragon Shop REQUIRED: Athletic sports shoes SWIM

One-piece swimsuit, towel, goggles, flip flops/crocs/beach shoes

FREE DRESS DAYS STYLE • • • •

Closed toe with non-slip sole

Shoulders and backs must be covered; no spaghetti straps allowed.

Shirt and pants/skirt/shorts must overlap; no bare midriffs are allowed.

Unless otherwise stated, closed toe shoes with non-slip sole must be worn.

Shorts, skirts and dresses must extend beyond the fingertips.

Make-Up Work Guidelines If a student is absent for reasons other than illness, family emergencies or significant personal reasons, parents should note that the HKIS board approved policy does not require teachers to provide makeup work. However, in order to keep learning consistent for students, teachers typically provide make-up work.

All absences, tardies or early dismissals must be accounted for. Parents should notify the school (ext.

7375/7236) early in the school day for illnesses or as early as possible in advance for other absences if their child will be absent.

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Vandalism, Theft and Weapons Vandalism HKIS Middle School is a place where it is expected that individuals will respect themselves, classmates, teachers, the property of others and school property. Students not demonstrating this respect will be held accountable for their actions, including, but not limited to the following: • Payment for total restoration or replacement of all damaged property/materials.

• Discipline, which may include detentions, or school suspension.

• Loss of identified school privileges for a specified period of time.

Weapons Everyone at HKIS has the right to feel safe while attending school and/or school events. It is the practice and policy of HKIS that no one shall possess or use a weapon, or a look-a-like, in any school facility/ grounds or during any school sponsored event. Possession means having a weapon on one’s person, or in the area subject to one’s control, on school grounds or at a school trip or activity.

Weapons include, but are not limited to, all types of knives, firearms, pellet guns, bows, clubs, tear/pepper gas, or any other device or instrument that, in the manner it is used or intended to be used, is calculated to or likely to produce death or bodily harm. In addition to the parents and guardians, the Hong Kong authorities will be called when students or visitors possess and/or use weapons in violation of this policy.

Consequences for violation of this policy may include: • Immediate suspension from school for a minimum of three days.

• Students being placed on disciplinary probation for one year.

• Initiation of expulsion proceedings from enrolment at HKIS.

Educational Technology Responsible Use Agreement Technology is ever evolving, and we want you to do amazing things with it. The Education Technology (EdTech) team at HKIS wants to help students, staff, and our community to keep up as well as to stay safe as it expands its use of technology to extend learning. Although not every learning opportunity involves technology, when it is needed, you need to be a flexible problem solver open to new technologies. It is okay not to know the answers to questions; questions are encouraged in our learning community. We all struggle with information overload, focus, and distraction.

Responsible use of technology involves a mixture of common sense, honesty, and respect for others.

As a global digital citizen and a member of the HKIS Community you are expected to follow these guidelines: Privacy & Security • I manage my personal data to maintain digital privacy and security and am aware of data collection technology used to track my navigation online.

• I know software is not free and that my personal data is valuable and a form of payment.

• I am careful with my personal data as online companies monitor and track it. (Students need to seek/ discuss with parents before registering for software or providing personal data.)

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• I understand, and my parents are aware that my G Suite Education account is an integrated communication and collaboration solution issued and managed by HKIS and that no personal information gets shared with third parties.

• I understand that by changing my password(s), I safeguard my personal information.

• I take care of my MacBook & digital devices. I know resources are limited and will let the EdTech Team know of any issues.

• I secure my MacBook & digital devices when doing other tasks.

Digital Footprints • I cultivate and manage my digital identity and reputation and am aware of the permanence of my actions in the digital world.

• I know when I access the Internet, I am leaving permanent digital footprints of my actions.

• I know these digital footprints may always be available and accessible to anyone online.

• I use only first names online when referring to myself, classmates, or staff. I do not provide the personal data of other HKIS community members (i.e., full names, student numbers, addresses, telephone numbers).

Digital Behavior • Students engage in positive, safe, legal and ethical behavior when using technology, including • Social interactions online or when using networked devices.

• I know that my digital behavior serves as a model for others.

• I am kind and only post positively about others. While I may not agree with individuals online, I do not use this as an excuse to be unkind to them.

• I post images and media of others only with their permission.

• I am responsible for the HKIS community’s online safety. I am aware HKIS may monitor its technologies and network activities.

• I keep a healthy and balanced relationship with technology.

Copyright & Intellectual Property • I demonstrate an understanding of and respect for the rights and obligations of using and sharing intellectual property.

• I know that I should only use and download legally purchased or licensed software and media.

• I know that if I use the work of others, I must give due credit by citing sources for information and images.

ICT Student Use Expectations Rationale Information Communication Technology (ICT) resources at HKIS are maintained primarily for educational purposes, as outlined in our Responsible Use Agreement. However, as technology is also used in our lives personally and recreationally, it is imperative that you are aware of the expectations for the use of technology HKIS. In some cases, these expectations are clearly articulated, but in other cases you must make wise decisions about your own behavior, dictated by a sense of good digital citizenship and as a responsible member of the HKIS community. “Good digital citizenship” implies maintaining good ethical behavior, even when you are alone, and to not make choices that disrupt the learning process or environment for yourself or others.

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Responsibilities for Being Prepared to Learn • I will ensure my laptop is fully operational and ready for use at school every day.

• I will bring my laptop fully charged to school every day.

• I will ensure that I have available hard disk space on my laptop to meet educational needs.

• I understand and agree to use the HKIS file naming and folder structure protocols when saving.

• I will be responsible for the back-up of my school related digital content.

Responsibilities of Ownership • I will customize the external appearance of my laptop and charger so that another person would not easily mistake it for their own.

• I will transport my laptop in a safe and secure manner with the lid closed.

• I will not use my laptop in high risk environments (e.g. cafeteria, swimming pool, amphitheater).

• I will keep my laptop safe and secure at all times when not in use (e.g. stored in locked locker).

• I will accept responsibility for timely repairs and/or replacement in the case of damage.

• I will change, update or remove school-provided software from the computer only when I am notified to do by HKIS. • I accept all responsibility for personal software that I install on my laptop.

Responsibilities for Ethical and Respectful Use • When at school, I will only use installed or online programs that are directly connected to school related activities.

• I will monitor and regulate my use of ICT in order to minimize any detrimental effect on my health.

• I understand that all ICT rules and guidelines apply to any device used at HKIS. • I will use the Internet, email, mobile phones and any other ICT equipment in a manner that is respectful to all users (refrain from vulgar or inappropriate language and being mean, rude, or unkind about other people) and adhere to HKIS protocols.

• I will respect the digital identity/security of myself and others with honesty, confidentiality, and respect.

• I will use appropriate digital media in a respectful manner.

• I will not have any illegal or offensive content on my laptop.

• I will respect and abide by copyright, intellectual property and fair use guidelines.

Violations of the HKIS ICT Responsible Use Agreement or the HKIS Grade 5-8 ICT Student Use Expectations will be addressed through the HKIS disciplinary procedures.

Middle School Tech Device Usage Agreements HKIS Middle School values the socialemotional well-being of our community. We believe that making the time for personal interactions in a device-free environment is important for building community and relationships, strengthening interpersonal skills, and making friends.

It is a requirement for students at HKIS to use and maintain their own digital device.

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We believe digital devices can be transformative educational tools, and we promote responsible use (as outlined in our planner according to our ICT Student Use Expectations and Responsible Use Agreement).

The purpose of these guidelines is to cultivate a relationship-centered community based on face-to-face interactions.

Guidelines As a Middle School, we agree to the following guidelines: 1. When you arrive at school, please place all digital devices in lockers (or bags prior to going to a locker).

2. Mobile phones are to remain in your locker or stored in a bag throughout the school day unless a teacher provides permission for its use.

3. Devices such as laptops and tablets may only be used for educational purposes in classrooms or designated areas of the library.

4. All common areas of the school are expected to be device-free unless you have specific teacher permission.

5. You may only use your laptop or tablet in a designated zone in the library for educational purposes.

There will be limited seating in the designated zone. If the space is full and you have an urgent need, you can go to the MS office or speak with a teacher.

6. After dismissal, you may use your devices in accordance with our HKIS ICT Responsible Use Agreement and 5-8 ICT Student Use Expectations.

If you do not meet these guidelines the following steps will be taken.

First Incident: The device will be sent to the MS office, and your name will be recorded. Phones can be collected after school. Laptops or tablets can be collected when required for the next class, otherwise after school.

Second Incident: Same procedure as the first incident; in addition, parents will be contacted, and this incident will be treated as a category 2 offense according to the student handbook.

Integrity Code At HKIS, we believe that both personal and academic integrity is of paramount importance. Students at HKIS Middle School are given a high degree of trust and are expected to demonstrate integrity in all of their behaviors and interactions. A student with integrity does not lie, cheat, or steal. Each student is responsible for his/her own behavior and conduct.

All students in the HKIS Middle School are expected to understand the meaning of the Integrity Code which has two parts: academic and personal.

Academic Integrity Infractions Cheating • Cheating is loosely defined as obtaining or attempting to obtain, or aiding another to obtain credit for work, or any improvement of a score or grade of performance, by any dishonest or deceptive means.

• Cheating includes, but is not limited to: lying, copying from another’s test or piece of work and any unauthorized assistance given to another’s piece of work.

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Forgery • The act of imitating or counterfeiting documents, signatures, and the like.

Plagiarism • “The act of appropriating the literary composition of another, or parts, or passages of his [or her] writing of ideas, or the language of the same, and passing them off as the product of one’s own mind.” (Black’s Law Dictionary, 5th Edition) • Because plagiarism is considered a disciplinary action, students receive instructional, proactive support in avoiding it.

• Students learn to cite their work and view referencing as a routine, positive aspect of research • Students learn that quoted material should not outweigh exposition.

• Students independently develop the habit to use an online plagiarism checker before submitting written work.

• Students have access to the online editing platform Grammarly which includes a plagiarism checker.

Personal Integrity Infractions Stealing • To take or acquire another’s property or ideas without explicit permission.

Lying • A false statement made with the conscious intent to mislead others.

Works Cited The Modern Language Association (MLA), 9th edition builds on the MLA’s approach to documenting sources according to core elements that allow writers to cite any type of work.

Work cited in the MS adheres to the MLA 9th edition style rules. To support students in the development of their citation skills, all MS students are provided an account with NoodleTools which is an online citation and research management tool. Research skills are taught with the support of NoodleTools throughout the MS.

Substance Abuse and Drug Testing (Policy 3060, available on DragonNet.) Our work with students and families emphasizes care and respect of individuals. This means working both proactively and reactively to foster and encourage healthy, wholesome lifestyles. Our natural extension of this philosophy is taking an institutional stand against any drug abuse and substance abuse generally.

The pressure and temptation on teenagers in Hong Kong to participate in the drug scene is well documented. HKIS has determined that, in providing our students with a safe and nurturing environment, zero tolerance of illegal drug use is critical, and that random testing can be a useful tool in deterring drug involvement.

The school’s contributions toward achieving that goal, in reference to illegal substance abuse as defined

by HongKong law, include:

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• Preventative education programs on substance abuse at all age levels • School support of a student who requests help to overcome substance use, abuse, or dependency • Education on the consequences under Hong Kong law and HKIS policy relating to possession, use, and facilitating use by others of illegal drugs • A drug-use screening and detection procedure utilizing student hair samples conducted on a random basis • Intervention when the school has reasonable cause to believe drug abuse has occurred Students who possess or use illegal drugs, bring drugs to school or school activities, or facilitate drug use by others violate Hong Kong law and HKIS policy.

HKIS reserves the right to terminate the continuing enrollment of any student who violates HKIS policy on illegal drugs and substance abuse.

Implementation 1. As an annual requirement for enrollment, each student in Grades 6 -12 and his/her parent will read and sign a statement acknowledging their understanding and acceptance of the conditions of this policy.

2. The school reserves the right to inspect personal effects of students who are believed to be in possession of illegal or dangerous substances or paraphernalia. This will normally be done in the presence of the student affected.

3. Any students found to be in possession of any illegal substances (e.g., illegal drugs) or paraphernalia while on campus or at any school activity will be expelled, including the loss of credit for the semester in which the offense occurs. In those cases where drugs are found on campus, the school reserves the right to contact the Hong Kong police.

4. Any student determined to be facilitating the drug use of others will be expelled from school.

Facilitation includes, but is not limited to: selling drugs; making drug purchases for someone else; transporting drugs for someone else; or providing information so others may buy drugs.

5. For the random testing component the school will: • Cover the cost of the individual tests and program implementation • Ensure through quality controls that any procedure involving a student is done in the least intrusive way possible with care, respect, and sensitivity.

• Train a designated administrative staff person to collect, process, and provide results of hair sampling.

• Randomly test on average four students per day in High School. Randomly test on average 20 students per month in Middle School.

• Retest for accuracy any positive test whose results are disputed; consult a licensed medical review officer for resolution if necessary.

• Require a student who tests positive to enter the intervention program.

6. With reasonable cause, school personnel may call for a test (hair, urine and/or saliva) to assess drug use. This process is independent of the routine random sampling. When drug use is established, the student enters the intervention program.

Intervention Program 1. The intervention program will include the following: • Parents will be notified of the student’s test results, if positive (or when a student admits drug use to school personnel), and meet with a member of the Middle School administrative team and the student’s counselor.

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• A student who accepts responsibility for his/her use and is open to counseling assistance, will be placed in the intervention program that will commence immediately and last for up to 12 months.

(Note: regular drug testing will continue throughout the HKIS enrollment of any student who has a positive drug test and enters the intervention program).

• Should a student not initially choose to accept responsibility for his/her documented use, he/she will be suspended from school for up to 3 days to reconsider his/her decision. If after 3 days the student is still unwilling to take responsibility for his/her use, the student will be asked to leave HKIS. • In certain cases, the school may determine that it is in the best interest of the student to leave HKIS after the first positive drug test, in order to receive immediate professional care. Upon completion of an in-depth counseling program, the student may apply for readmission to HKIS. The school’s decision on readmission will take into account the recommendation of those who have provided rehabilitation care, as well as the recommendation of the HKIS administrative and counseling personnel.

The intervention program will include the following elements: • Regular sessions with the student’s HKIS school counselor.

• When appropriate, a recommendation by the school that the student receive additional outside counseling/drug intervention support. School counselors will assist families in locating suitable intervention services and maintain contact with outside therapists. In order to remain in school, students in the intervention program and their parents must provide a signed release of information relating to such counseling, intervention or therapy.

• Periodic unannounced testing by the school to assist the student in avoiding continued drug use.

• Loss of all free periods, and “come and go” privileges for a minimum of 6 weeks, at which time further assessment will take place to determine the return of privileges.

• Loss of participation in school sponsored overseas travel for 2-4 academic quarters.

If at any point after the initial positive drug test result, the student tests positive for drugs again and the result indicates continued use (or admits to drug use), he/she may be asked to leave HKIS. This decision is at the school’s discretion and will allow the student to receive drug/alcohol abuse services beyond the expertise of HKIS personnel. If the school allows a student to remain in school following a second positive test, any subsequent positive test will result in the student’s expulsion from school.

Alcohol and Nicotine Use on Campus or at School-Sponsored Activities Since the effects of alcohol and tobacco abuse are also harmful, HKIS is proactive in its care for students and prohibits the possession and/or use of alcohol, tobacco, or nicotine-delivering devices (e.g., vaping) on campus or at any school-sponsored event.

First Offense:

Parent conference will be arranged; assessment on the extent of the problem and recommendations; student may be placed on disciplinary warning with consequences of loss of unsupervised periods and HKIS overseas travel for 2-4 academic quarters.

Second Offense:

Parent conference; may include suspension; student is placed on probation along with its consequences as appropriate.

Third Offense:

If a student uses or possesses a prohibited substance school suspension results; conference to determine if the student can remain at HKIS. 23

Special Provision for Please note that alcohol violations which occur on overseas trips will Overseas Travel: result in a student’s suspension from school until the student’s enrollment status is reviewed and a determination of extended suspension or expulsion is made.

HKIS Separated/Divorced Parents Child Care Arrangements in the Event of Marital Separation/Divorce This administrative policy applies to all separated or divorced parents of HKIS students.

HKIS understands that special custody, access and permission arrangements may be required for the children of divorced or legally separated parents. HKIS attempts to accommodate the desires of both parents and court orders, within reason. HKIS does follow legal guardianship directions from Hong Kong courts in accordance with the school’s policies. Note that court orders relating to child care and custody obtained from foreign jurisdictions are generally not recognized in Hong Kong unless the parties specifically seek a “mirror” order in Hong Kong.

HKIS always defaults to what the school believes is best for the student. Nevertheless, in some cases when parents cannot reach agreement and/or the school cannot accommodate the parents’ requirements (within reason), HKIS’s final response may be to withdraw the student’s enrollment.

In order to document the terms by which the parents jointly request HKIS to provide special custody, access and permission arrangements, a “Child Care Arrangements in the Event of Marital Separation/Divorce” form (the “Form”) must be completed for each student and signed by both parents. The form is accessible through PowerSchool, and completion of this Form is a requirement to ensure retention of the child’s enrollment at HKIS. To the extent permitted by law, HKIS will abide solely by the arrangements set out in the Form, notwithstanding any court orders. In the event of any conflicts or disputes, parents are advised to seek clarification from the court. If the parents wish to vary the arrangements set out in the Form, they must inform HKIS in writing, and both parents must sign such notice.

The information provided in the Form will be used for HKIS’s administration purposes and for determining relevant arrangements for the student. As such, the information provided will be made available to those HKIS staff responsible for the care of the student, which may include (but is not limited to) the student’s teachers, the relevant teaching assistants, school counselors and/or the school nurse. If and when appropriate, HKIS may release certain relevant information to external providers operating services and activities in which the student participates as an HKIS student (e.g., providing information to extracurricular service providers regarding who may or may not collect the student following such activities).

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HKIS Community Partnership and Communication Guidelines Introduction HKIS as a community is committed to building and sustaining a welcoming and secure learning environment in which individuals can fully realize their potential in a climate of mutual respect. HKIS believes that parents and educators share the responsibility for creating a partnership that fosters children’s learning. Together we play a formative role in the development of a child’s sense of justice, equity and the worth of all members of our school community.

It is our hope that these guidelines will provide a useful framework to promote effective and appropriate communication within the HKIS community adhering to the HKIS policy on Harassment (Policy 3170, available on DragonNet).

Working in Partnership We recognize that effective partnerships are characterized by clearly defined responsibilities, a shared commitment to collaboration, open lines of communication, mutual respect, and a common vision of the goals to be achieved.

The responsibility of the school (teacher, administrators and support staff) is to: • Provide a safe environment that supports the development of positive learning attitudes, habits and values that are consistent with the mission of the school • Provide high quality curriculum and instruction in a supportive environment • Encourage students’ growth as responsible, independent and respectful individuals • Model integrity, academic curiosity, responsibility and creativity.

• Communicate and work with parents as partners in ensuring student achievement reflective of the HKIS Mission and Student Learning Results • Provide timely and clear information about school programs and events The teacher’s responsibility is to: • Explain the curriculum and approach to learning in the classroom, expectations, methods of assessment and reporting of learning to students and their families • Report student progress regularly to parents (the frequency of communication is determined by each division) • When appropriate, work with parents, counselors or learning specialists to provide a team approach to support students • Communicate how parents can support what is going on in the classroom • Share observations, interests and concerns during emails, meetings and parent-teacher and student conferences • Invite parent involvement in the learning process. For example: participating in class activities, attending school events, inviting parents as guest speakers or connecting with the wider HK community 25

• Respect family needs and values e.g. family time • Invite input and feedback from parents • Respond in a timely fashion to emails or phone calls from parents The parent’s responsibility is to: • Provide a home environment that supports the development of positive learning attitudes, habits and values that are consistent with those of the school • Play an active part in their child’s learning e.g. monitoring attendance, homework completion.

• Help their child capitalize upon successes and learn from setbacks and failures as part of his or her growth process • Review, with the child, information provided by the school that provides insight into student learning and growth. For example: assignment feedback, report cards, conference information, emails • Communicate with the teacher, as developmentally appropriate, if the child is having problems with learning • Inform the school of any family or home situation that may affect a child’s learning or behavior • Participate in the decisions about their child’s education • Be responsive to requests for input, feedback or opinion.

• Stay informed by reading the school newsletter, class updates or accessing the website.

• Attend, as family responsibilities allow, parent events or education evenings. These include: parent coffees, division parent forums, parent-to-parent meetings, curriculum nights and parent feedback events • Participate, as family responsibilities allow, in school organizations such as P.F.O., P.A.G. and Booster Club and school events • Respect a teacher’s academic efforts by minimizing a child’s absence from school for non-critical reasons

Expectations for Communication at HKIS It is expected that all members of the HKIS adult community will abide by the following principles for verbal and nonverbal, written and oral communication at HKIS: • All communications demonstrate the assumption of good intent and the goal to be constructive • The tone of all communications demonstrates care, respect for others and sensitivity for diversity • Email is the preferred form of contact, unless an issue is urgent or would be better addressed through face to face or phone contact.

• Reasonable time is allowed for responses to communications.

• Confidentiality is respected.

Sequence of Communication Channels for Parents • Contact the teacher directly if you have questions or concerns about your child or the instructional program in your child’s class.

• Contact the Principal or Associate Principal if the teacher’s response to your first contact does not sufficiently address your concern or if your concern is at the school level.

• Contact the Head of School or Associate Head of School if the Administrator’s response does not address your concern.

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Addressing Disagreements Dealing with disagreements requires respect and discretion by both the school and parents. Both parties should respectfully seek to gather accurate information and resolve problems through appropriate channels of communication. Each adult shares the responsibility to provide a collaborative decision making model in the best interest of the child – be prepared to listen, contribute, negotiate and support decisions, and operate from the assumption of good intent.

Confidentiality contributes to maintaining trust between parents, teachers and administrators. All adults should use discretion about when, where and with whom issues are discussed. It is important that all adults do not discuss individual children, teachers or families in inappropriate public or social situations.

(See the section “Harassment” for more.)

Discussing HKIS on Social Media Social media is a great way to share positive news and events about HKIS, as well as to communicate factual information about policies and school life with others in our community. In line with the HKIS Community Partnership and Communication Guidelines, all communications on such channels must assume good intent, be constructive, and communicate care, respect for others, and sensitivity for diversity.

The school would also like to emphasize that specific student issues are best discussed privately with school representatives, not on group chats (WhatsApp, We Chat, Facebook Messenger, mass emails) or public platforms (e.g.: closed or public groups or pages on Facebook, Twitter). Members of our community should not lobby for changes in policy or procedure on these platforms. Please refer to the Sequence of Communication Channels for the appropriate procedures on how to address concerns at the school.

Posting photos and stories on social media accounts are a wonderful way to share life at HKIS with friends and family. For the safety and privacy of our students, please be reminded that photos taken on campus should not be shared on any public profiles or media outlets without the consent of the school.

Social Distancing at School and Home Learning HKIS follows the requirements set by the Education Bureau (EDB) to maintain a safe school environment for students. At any time, the EDB may require schools to implement certain measures, such as: completing household travel declarations, wearing mandatory face masks, recording temperature daily, bringing a bagged lunch, maintaining social distancing measures, and adhering to shortened school days. HKIS will inform parents and students when these measures are needed.

In the event of school closure relating to health or other disruptions, home learning will resume where possible. Severe weather protocols remain unchanged. Parents and students should refer to DragonNet for links to these resources.

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Visitors Accessing Campus Guests invited by HKIS may access campus with an appointment registered through our Visitor Management System (VMS). They will be issued a VMS barcode letter which they should bring to expedite registration at the gate. HKIS will issue a pass to visitors, which they are required to wear while on campus.

In addition, HKIS will require guests to comply with current rules to protect the health of those on campus such as: Scanning the campus’s Leave Home Safe QR code, meeting any “vaccine pass” government requirements, producing a photo of a same-day negative Rapid Antigen Test result, and a temperature check on site. Please email our Security Team at security@hkis.edu.hk with any questions.

NOTE: If you forget your HKIS ID card, you will be required to sign in as a visitor.

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Middle School Student Leadership In the Middle School, we believe that in order to effectively live up to our community agreements, students must play active roles in leadership. Our leadership structures are designed to bring student voice, spirit and advocacy into decision making for the Middle School. Leadership structures include Pastoral Care Group(PCG) Leaders, House Leaders, Ambassadors, and the Student Leadership Team (SLT).

STUDENT LEADERSHIP TEAM A team that advocates on behalf of the MS student body serving as advisors and providing feedback to the Middle School Leadership Team.

PCG Leaders

House Leaders

Ambassadors - Grade 8

One leader per PCG will be elected to encourage and support their PCG for the entirety of the year.

These leaders build culture in their PCG and will be responsible for leading ‘choice’ PCG lessons.

House leaders are selected at the beginning of the year to plan and lead large group gatherings. These students are organized, dynamic communicators, and embody house spirit.

Ambassadors are selected in the previous year to represent HKIS to our greater community. These students live out the mission and vision of HKIS.

PCG Leaders will: • Work with the PCG teacher to facilitate PCG times.

• Participate in leadership training.

• Help to build and support school culture.

• Meet with other PCG representatives and grade level faculty.

• Assist House Leaders in school activities such as Spirit Weeks and other special events.

House Leaders will: • Participate in leadership training.

• Plan, lead and help coordinate schoolwide activities such as Spirit Week, house gatherings, and other spirit building events.

• Build and support the house culture.

• Communicate house information with their grade level house.

Ambassadors will: • Provide support and leadership during new student orientation.

• Give tours to prospective students and families.

• Embody the mission and vision of HKIS through their actions and choices.

• Support new students in their transition to HKIS. • Provide leadership or support to service programs and initiatives.

• Partner with High School Ambassadors.

• Participate in leadership training.

• Students interested in becoming a Student Ambassador are invited to apply in the spring semester of their 7th Grade year.

The Student Leadership Team (SLT) will: • Advocate on behalf of the student body to the Middle School Leadership Team (MSLT) • Serve as advisors for MS programs, policies and initiatives.

• Participate in leadership training.

• Meet routinely with the MSLT. • Embody the mission and vision of HKIS through their actions and choices.

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Emergency Weather Warnings Procedures Hong Kong weather can be extreme and this sometimes requires that we modify our school schedules.

As always, parents are advised to use their best judgment in determining whether to send their children to school whenever the weather is inclement or road conditions make travel to school unwise. The Education Bureau makes a decision before 6 a.m. on such mornings and distributes this information to the media. Under normal circumstances HKIS follows the Government’s recommendation and will not contact parents directly. Parents are responsible for checking DragonNet for any announcements.

What we do when the signal is raised before school starts: Typhoon 1

All R1-12 classes are in session.

Typhoon 2

R1 classes are cancelled. R2-12 classes are in session.

Typhoon 8 and above

The campus is closed - all classes will take place in Home Learning.

Amber Rainstorm

All R1-12 classes are in session.

Red Rainstorm

The campus is closed - all classes will take place in Home Learning.

Black Rainstorm

The campus is closed - all classes will take place in Home Learning.

Please note there are times when localized weather conditions on the south side of the island are very different from territory-wide predictions. In circumstances where HKIS needs to take action that is different from the Government’s recommendation, we will contact parents as early as possible and place an announcement on DragonNet. If the signal is raised on the way to school parents should decide whether it is safer to return home or continue to school. Generally speaking, HKIS will wait for an official announcement from Hong Kong’s Education Bureau before notifying the community about school closures (due to bad weather or health considerations such as flu outbreaks). On occasion, these announcements take time to come out, and, in that time, some news outlets and community members try to anticipate whether the Education Bureau will close schools or not. Please rest assured that HKIS will contact parents and employees with news of any closure once official word has been received.

When a typhoon or rainstorm signal is raised during school hours: At times a typhoon increases in intensity or a rainstorm signal is raised while the children are at school. If this happens, we will use the following procedures: Typhoon 1

All R1-12 classes will remain in session with regular dismissal times.

Typhoon 3

All R1-12 classes will remain in session with regular dismissal times

Typhoon 8 and above

All R1-12 classes will be dismissed. (The notice of typhoon 8 signal being raised is given to schools several hours before it is actually hoisted, thus allowing schools enough time to make arrangements to get students home safely.)

Amber Rainstorm

All R1-12 classes will remain in session with regular dismissal times.

Red Rainstorm

All R1-12 classes will remain in session AND* students will remain in school until conditions are safe for them to return home.

Black Rainstorm

All R1-12 classes will remain in session AND* students will remain in school until conditions are safe for them to return home.

* This means students will not be released until the warning has been removed and buses are authorized for safe travel, which could be after 3 p.m. Please note that the HK government strongly advises everyone to stay indoors during a Black Rainstorm warning. Driving yourself or sending someone to pick up your child during a Black Rainstorm signal is extremely dangerous and not advisable. If Red/Black rain signal is after 3:05 p.m. then students report to MS Cafeteria.

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Note: In the case of a Typhoon 8 signal when we must dismiss the children prior to the end of the regular school day, parents will be contacted with the approximate new dismissal time. It is critical that you discuss with your family and your helper the new arrival time and determine who will be waiting at the bus stop for your child. If your child regularly walks home or is picked up by car, please be prepared to come immediately to school and pick up your child at the normal meeting place.

Buses will run and complete their routes if school is in session or when students are on board. Any variation to the regular schedule will be the decision of the bus company in consultation with the school administration.

For information regarding weather conditions, we recommend the following sources: www.weather.gov.hk & www.edb.gov.hk Hong Kong Observatory: 187-8200 (Press 1 for Cantonese, 2 for Mandarin, 3 for English) RTHK - Radio 3: FM 97.9 (Central and environs) OR FM 106.8 (Southern Hong Kong Island)

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SML, P.E.A.K. and Office Hours Self-Motivated Learning Project (SML) What is SML? The Self-Motivated Learning Project gives students a chance to explore a curiosity or further develop a passion. Students are expected to choose a topic that can be sustained over an extended period of time.

All teachers act as a teacher-facilitator, and students are grouped across the Middle School based on their topic. Students are expected to share their learning publicly during our SML Exhibition Day. During this time students have an opportunity to showcase their learning experience through presentations and gallery walks.

Why SML? Part of our SLRs: • Self Motivated Learning – persistence, engagement, risk-taking, exploring, and metacognition Part of our Strategic Plan: • Creativity: Each student will be an imaginative thinker, exploring passions and challenges using novel and innovative strategies • Resilience: Each student will show courage and confidence in response to challenges using novel and innovative strategies Part of the HKIS Core Values State: • Lifelong learning is vital for individuals to thrive in and contribute to a changing society.

• Society progresses when individuals strive for excellence and seek challenges.

P.E.A.K. – Programs of Experiential Activities for Kids We believe that experiential learning opportunities fundamentally impact our students’ understanding of themselves and the world around them. Each academic year, all Middle School students participate in a week of experiential learning activities beyond the school setting that are designed to enrich the social, emotional, learning with respect to self and social awareness, self-management, responsible decision making, and relationship skills. Each of our PEAK trips has been planned to support students’ growth in line with specified Student Learning Results (SLRs).

Middle School Office Hours Office Hours provide an opportunity for students to receive individual help from teachers.

• Office Hours occurs during Academic Team time (G7&8) and Dyad time (G6) in the regular school day.

• Students may be required to attend Office Hours by appointment or teacher.

During Office Hours students may choose to • Read quietly • Work on a project • Have a mindful moment • Get organized • Study for an assessment • Collaborate quietly with another student within your office hours class

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Assessment and Reporting Homework Guidelines Homework Philosophy Homework is any activity or assignment directed by the teacher to be performed outside the classroom that may include practicing skills learned in class, reading, studying for assessments, or completion of assignments. We believe that family and leisure activities are important, and the amount and type of homework assigned should reflect this belief. We acknowledge individual student differences in ability, achievement levels, and needs, and that some students may take more or less than the recommended time to complete assignments. The purpose of this homework policy is to guide teachers, parents, and students in ensuring that homework is meaningful and supports the learning experience for all students.

Timely, successful completion of homework is a part of each student’s work habits evaluation. It is important that students complete the homework independently so that teachers can obtain an accurate assessment of understanding.

Questions regarding homework should be addressed to individual teachers. It is the student’s responsibility to complete and turn in homework as assigned.

Purpose The primary purposes associated with homework are as follows: • To give students a chance to review and practice what they have learned • To provide an opportunity to demonstrate understanding • To preview new information that will be studied soon • To reinforce and extend concepts introduced in class • To activate prior knowledge and check student understanding Guidelines for Time Time dedicated to homework refers to focused, on-task, work time. The maximum amount of homework per grade level on a daily basis are as follows: Grade 6 – 60 minutes daily Grade 7 – 70 minutes daily Grade 8 – 80 minutes daily Actual time required to complete assignments will vary with each student’s study habits, academic skills and selected course load. If a child is spending an excessive amount of time on homework, the parent should contact his/her child’s teachers. A student’s total daily homework should not exceed the guidelines. We believe that weekends and vacations are for family time and/or non-academic pursuits.

With this belief in mind, teachers will not assign homework that require(s) a weekend and/or vacation time to complete the task.

Daily Reading As educators, we believe that developing a life-long habit of reading for pleasure is essential. In addition to regular homework assignments, Middle School students are expected to read each night.

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Assessment Schoolwide Assessment Philosophy The purpose of assessment is to promote learning. Assessment is a process of gathering a variety of evidence to identify a student’s level of attainment of learning goals. The evidence helps students understand their strengths and how they can improve their learning and helps teachers understand how they can improve instruction. In addition, assessment forms the basis of reporting to students and parents the current level of students’ attainment of learning goals. A robust system of assessment is relevant and accurate, ongoing, informative and timely, and understandable to all.

Relevant and Accurate Assessment is tied directly to the learning goals of a given course or program. The goals are made explicit in the course’s standards and benchmarks as well as the schoolwide SLRs. Expectations around these goals are clear for all students as developmentally appropriate. Students need to know the level of attainment they are expected to reach as they work toward these clear learning goals. Likewise, measurement of attainment in these goals needs to be accurate, using a variety of methods appropriate to measure the targets set and appropriate to the age of the students.

Ongoing Assessment is an ongoing process built into the cycles of teaching and learning. Though there are times (such as final exams in upper grades) when assessment is a culmination of learning; in general, assessment is incorporated into teaching and learning, and the results of assessments are used by teachers and students to guide future learning.

Informative and Timely Results and feedback are most useful when they are provided as close to the assessment as practical, so students and teachers can employ strategies for growth. Given the opportunity to reflect on results, students are able to set goals for future learning and performance of learning tasks that enhance progress.

Understandable As developmentally appropriate, students are fully involved in the assessment process and are able to understand and explain the ways in which assessment evaluates and enhances their learning. (For more, see HKIS’s “Shared Philosophy of Education,” available on the HKIS website.)

Academic Recognition The Middle School offers academic and service recognition programs to encourage achievement in these two areas. The Honor Roll recognition is available to every Grade 7 and 8 student. The Presidential Academic Excellence Award and Outstanding Citizenship Award are offered to Grade 8 students. Please contact the principal, Dr. Kim, with any questions about Middle School academic recognition.

Honor Roll Award Qualification for Honor Roll is recognized each semester for eligible Grade 7 and 8 students. The criteria include percentage requirements for students’ levels of performance and Approaches to Learning in all classes. Each standard is weighted equally. In terms of academic achievement, students must be Meeting or Exceeding Expectations in each class. In addition, students must consistently meet Approaches to Learning expectations to earn an Honor Roll designation. Percentage points are rounded to the nearest tenth. Students receive a certificate each semester that they earn the Honor Roll Award.

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Honor Roll: 90-94% “Meeting” and/or “Exceeding” standard; 90-100% “Consistently Meeting Expectations” marks on Approaches to Learning Rubric.

Honor Roll with Distinction: 95-100% “Meeting” and/or “Exceeding” standard; 90-100% “Consistently Meeting Expectations” marks on Approaches to Learning Rubric.

Presidential Academic Excellence Award This is a US Department of Education sponsored national award that recognizes academic excellence throughout the tenure of a student’s enrollment at the Middle School. All Grade 8 students in the Middle School are eligible for this award.

The qualifications for this award include earning 90-100% “Meeting” and/or “Exceeding” expectations for each of the semesters of Grade 7 and the first semester of Grade 8 at HKIS. In addition, the student must receive 90-100% “Consistently Meeting Expectations” marks on the Approaches to Learning Rubric for each class in Grade 7 and 8. This award is recognized in the Grade 8 Celebration Ceremony at the end of the year.

Jasmine Psaris Art Award Jasmine Psaris loved HKIS. As a student from 2009 to 2016, Jasmine was an active and lively part of the community, caring for her friends and immersing herself in school life. She particularly enjoyed painting, drawing and making handicrafts. During her three-year fight against bone cancer, these activities became her passion and a comfort. Jasmine passed away in November, 2017.

The Jasmine Psaris Art Award is established to honour Jasmine’s love for art, love for life, and most of all, her indomitable spirit. The award will be presented annually at the Grade 8 Celebration to a student who demonstrated the following: • An invested interest in creating art and the desire to pursue further studies connected to art • The ability to overcome challenges and persevere in the creative process • Proficiency in technique and craftsmanship • Initiative and flexibility in developing concepts and ideas • Respect towards others and their work • A collaborative mind-set in contributing to the work of others Principal’s Student Service Award The Principal’s Student Service Award is awarded to a Grade 8 student whose exemplary service to his school and beyond espouses the HKIS mission and vision, including Student Learning Results (SLR) of Character Development and Contributing to Society. Teachers may nominate an 8th Grade student who exemplifies the criteria below. Students who have been selected for this award will be recognized in the celebration ceremony at the end of the year.

• • • • •

Participates in school and/or community service Shows a positive attitude towards peers, the school and community Displays an understanding and appreciation of civic responsibility Possesses strength of character and the courage to do what is right Promotes citizenship within HKIS and the local Hong Kong community

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Student Services Student Services Center The Student Services Center (SSC) is the place to go for getting help when school has become too much! Mr. Clark and Ms. Cowan are the counselors in the Student Services Center who are here to support students. The counselors are available as you need them throughout the year, and they welcome you to stop by and introduce yourself anytime. In addition, the SSC has three Learning Specialists, Ms. Amaral, Ms. Pierce and Ms. Rowe who work primarily with students with identified learning needs.

However, if you are really struggling with school, you can stop by and ask for some advice. We all need a little help from time to time to learn how to manage school. The SSC has a nurse, who can help you with any ailment or injury that occurs during the school day.

Mr. Kenny Clark Ms. Laura Cowan Ms. Marcela Amaral Ms. Courtney Pierce Ms. Megan Rowe

Counselor (Grade 6) Counselor (Grade 7 and Grade 8) Learning Specialist (Grade 6) Learning Specialist (Grade 7) Learning Specialist (Grade 8)

Student Attendance (Adapted from Policy 3150, available on DragonNet.) HKIS believes that daily school attendance is critical if students are to receive the maximum benefits from the opportunities offered at the school for learning and growth. Absences, for any reason, are disruptive to the learning process and to the achievement of the student. Being on time for school and for class is also important for the individual student and the class as a whole. The absent or tardy student misses valuable interactive classroom experiences and immediate feedback from teachers and peers.

The school is committed to working with parents to ensure consistent attendance for all students.

Parents should not permit students to miss school for reasons other than illness, family emergencies, or significant personal reasons, such as religious observances or external exams. Parents are also asked to respect the school’s calendar especially at parent conference times and not to take their child out of school for travel or vacations during regularly scheduled school days. If a student is absent for reasons other than illness, family emergencies or significant personal reasons, parents should note that the school does not require teachers to provide make-up work. Absences or non-attendance at concerts or other performances may also affect a student’s grade.

Any absence, tardy or early dismissal must be accounted for. Parents should notify the school early in the school day if their child will be absent due to illness, or as early as possible in advance for other absences.

Parents may email msattendance@hkis.edu.hk to notify the school of absences. Each principal will annually publish the official start and end of the school day, and will also outline the specific procedures for late arrival at school, early dismissal and divisional policies related to making up any work missed.

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All students are expected to be on school grounds from the official start to the end of the school day.

Permission for students to leave their school campus during school hours can only be granted by the Principal of the school or his/her designee.

Students are expected to be on time for school and for class. This expectation is essential both for students’ individual learning and for the class as a whole. Students must be in attendance for 85% of the school days within each semester. If attendance falls below 85%, parents will be contacted, and teachers may give the following semester report card grade: NA – Student was not present in class long enough to be graded.

Parents’ Temporary Absence from Hong Kong An enrollment requirement of HKIS is for all students to have at least one parent in full-time residence in Hong Kong.

Temporary Absence from Hong Kong If during the school year both parents plan to leave Hong Kong for one or more days while their child remains in residence, one or more temporary guardians must be appointed to make any necessary decisions regarding the child’s welfare. A “Notification of Both Parents’ Absence from Hong Kong” form must be completed through PowerSchool each time both parents plan to be absent from Hong Kong, and submitted to the student’s divisional administration office as far in advance as possible. The “Appointment of Temporary Guardians” form must also be completed through PowerSchool as soon as possible prior to the FIRST planned departure of both parents from Hong Kong. The completion of one of these forms each school year is sufficient, as long as the appointed temporary guardian information has not changed. Parents who do not arrange for and inform the school of the child’s supervision and guardianship may jeopardize the child’s continued enrollment at HKIS.

Late Arrival at School/Leaving Early Students who need an early dismissal must bring a note from their parents to the Attendance Secretary in the MS Office before school. Students’ names will then appear in PowerSchool Attendance for an early dismissal. Students report to the office at their dismissal time to check out and to obtain a gate pass to give to the security guards.

Student Visitors Students who wish to bring a student visitor to school need to get permission from their teachers and the Principal at least one day before the visitor’s arrival at school. A form is available for this purpose from the Students Services Center or from our website. The school reserves the right to limit the number of student visitors.

Health Office The divisional Health Offices at Hong Kong International School offer professional health services, knowledge, care and support to students, faculty and staff. They play a vital role in the promotion of health and wellbeing. Each division has its own dedicated nurse.

The Middle School (MS) Health Office is located at our Tai Tam Campus on the ground floor (which is technically the fourth floor) and in the main MS office building room 403B. Our nurse is on duty from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The Health Office telephone number is 3149- 7222. The Health Office email is hkismsnurse@hkis.edu.hk.

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The purposes of the Health Office are the following: • Offer first aid and assistance to children who become ill at school • Authorize and arrange for children to be sent home in cases of illness or injury • Dispense medications needed during the school day • Maintain health records and assist in the overall health program • Monitor and communicate spread of communicable diseases • Monitor and communicate AQHI (pollution) levels • Supervise re-admission of children to school after major illnesses, communicable disease or injury • Random hair test to promote drug awareness Health Information and Forms: All students new to HKIS have to submit: • Health History Form – To be completed by the parent • Physical Examination Form – To be completed by a medical doctor (HKIS will accept a physical completed within the last 6 months).

• “Family” information under the Demographics Updates in PowerSchool. Please ensure this is kept current at the beginning of every school year or when any changes occur.

Forms can now be found and completed on PowerSchool. Exception: Physical Examination (P.E.) form.

Please download the P.E. form from PowerSchool, print it, have it completed by your physician, and then upload a scan or photo of the signed form to PowerSchool.

All returning students to HKIS have to submit: • Physical Examination Form – Updated forms will be required for returning students who are starting Grade 3, Grade 6 and Grade 9. The school nurse will email parents to remind them.

• “Family” information under the Demographics Updates in PowerSchool. Please ensure this is kept current at the beginning of every school year or when any changes occur.

Emergency Contact Information The Family information in the Demographics Updates in PowerSchool must be completed online for each child at the beginning of the school year. The information on this form is very important. It has emergency contact numbers, information about allergies/medical conditions, consent to medication and authorizations for hospital care.

Please remember to update information on this form during the school year. This form will consist of detailed information that the teachers and Health Office refer to during the school year and use for offcampus trips such as Camp/PEAK/Interim.

Medication During School Hours Our school nurses may not dispense any medication without parental consent. Students are not allowed to carry any medication with them during school hours except for EpiPens, diabetic kits and asthma inhalers. If your doctor prescribes a medication that must be taken during school hours, you must complete and submit a Medication Administration Consent Form in PowerSchool.

Please visit: www.hkis.edu.hk/dragonnet/health/.

Students who use EpiPens: Parents must supply two EpiPens to the school in case of emergencies.

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Medical Policies / Guidelines If your child should become ill during school hours, you will be contacted to make arrangements for him or her to be taken home as soon as possible. A doctor’s note is required following an absence of four or more consecutive school days. The doctor’s note should state that the child may return to class and if there are any physical restrictions. If your child has a contagious disease/illness, please contact the school nurses who will advise you on the procedures about returning to school.

The following are conditions under which a child should stay home or would be sent home from school: Fever: Students with a temperature of 37.5C or 99.5F or greater, should not return to school until they have been fever free for 24 hours without the benefit of fever reducing medications such as Panadol and Ibuprofen.

Vomiting and Diarrhea: Students with vomiting and/or diarrhea should not return to school until 24 hours after the last episode of vomiting or diarrhea. The student needs to be asymptomatic for 24 hours without the use of medication.

Acute Conjunctivitis: Students exhibiting the symptoms of commonly known “pink eye” are very contagious. Students should not return to school until he/she has been seen by a doctor and the treatment of prescribed eye drops has been used for 24 hours.

Hand, Foot and Mouth disease: Students should not return to school until all vesicles have dried up or as advised by the doctor.

Scarlet Fever: Students should not return to school until 24 hours after treatment with appropriate antibiotics has been started, and until 24 hours after the fever has come down as according to the fever policy.

Chickenpox: Students should not return to school for 5 days or until all vesicles have dried up, and until 24 hours after the fever has come down as according to the fever policy.

Head Lice: Lice are highly communicable and difficult to prevent, but if every parent takes the responsibility to check the entire family periodically, these parasites can be prevented, detected early and controlled. Infestations are most common among 3-11 year olds. Head lice are not known to cause disease, and transmission primarily occurs through direct head-to-head contact and infrequently through indirect contact of shared personal belongings. Students are allowed to stay in school when live lice or nits are found as long as they keep hair tied up. Notify school nurse whenever a child has head lice or nits so treatment options can be discussed.

Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) The Hong Kong Environmental Protection Department uses the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) to advise the public about day-to-day risks associated with air pollution. The nurse in each division checks the AQHI regularly throughout the day and advises when the levels reach 6, 8 or 10+ so appropriate measures can be taken.

For the latest AQHI information, please visit: www.aqhi.gov.hk/en.html HKIS uses the following benchmarks: AQHI levels 1-5 at Eastern Station: No restriction on student activities AQHI levels 6-7 at Eastern Station: Students with asthma and other respiratory or cardiac conditions will be advised to limit their outdoor physical activities. Students on the AQHI list will be kept indoors (LP and UP). Outdoor PE classes will be modified for students with respiratory or cardiac conditions (MS and HS) 39

AQHI levels 8-10 at Eastern Station: There will be indoor recess and PE for Lower and Upper Primary students. Outdoor activities will be reduced in duration and intensity. Cross-country running activities will be cancelled AQHI levels 10+ at Eastern Station: All outside activities are canceled. Indoor PE activities will be modified for all students. All outside after school activities will be canceled The school will check AQHI levels at 6 a.m and 11 a.m. each day and monitor AQHI continually whenever it exceeds a 5 at Eastern Station. Middle and High School athletic practices will be guided by the 2 p.m. reading at Eastern Station.

Travel for off-campus activities will be determined by identifying the closest monitoring station to the activity and applying the standards above. When registering for co-curricular physical activities, such as MS and HS athletics, parents can indicate their preferences for their child’s level of participation at AQHI 8 and above.

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Middle School Resources Library Media Center (2nd floor) The MS librarians are always happy to help students access information.

• Ms. McCann – Teacher Librarian • Ms. De Manny – Senior Library Assistant • Ms. Tang – Library Assistant Hours: 7 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Loans: All MS students may borrow six library books, not including required textbooks, for two weeks.

After two weeks, students may renew any book.

Library Media Center Code of Conduct The MS Library shares its resources and facilities with the entire MS community. To ensure each student’s right to equal access to materials in an environment conducive to research and reading, all students are expected to follow these behavioral guidelines: • Respect other learners and materials.

• Keep voices to a conversational and polite level.

• Tidy up materials and chairs before leaving.

• Maintain a safe and academic atmosphere.

• Follow RUA and Grade 5-8 Student Use Expectations.

• No food or beverages in the Library Media Center.

IT Help Center (2nd floor next to the Library) Our IT team is here to help you. Just ask!

• Mr. Eric Law – Client Services Manager • Mr. Jonathan Sham – Client Support Specialist • Mr. Ricky Lai – AV Specialist

Dragon Shop (High School Commons Area) The HKIS Booster Club operates the Dragon Shop with the help of many parent volunteers. All profits generated from the Dragon Shop are donated back to the school community in the form of allocations, team travel kits, sport banquets, and divisional spirit events.

The Booster Club’s Dragon Shop is the official school store that sells HKIS approved MS uniforms, PE uniforms, a wide variety of HKIS logo apparel and many other HKIS themed gift items. In addition, the shop stocks a generous selection of school supplies.

Browse the Dragon Shop online catalog to get a sample of what’s in store. Visit the webpage on HKIS DragonNet by clicking on COMMUNITY and then DRAGON SHOP. The online catalog is at the top of the page. You can phone in your order or come into the shop and while you’re there, you may see what else we have going on!

GO DRAGONS! SPREADING DRAGON SPIRIT FOR OVER 40 YEARS!

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Parent Faculty Organization (PFO) All HKIS parents, students and faculty are members of the PFO. The PFO’s main purpose is to build a positive community by involving and engaging all parents, students and faculty. In addition, the PFO helps foster communication and an exchange between school and home. All funds raised through its various activities and events go entirely back to the school, as the PFO is a 100% volunteer run organization.

The PFO organizes many events throughout the school year. New families joining HKIS are integrated into the community with a New Parent Mix & Mingle, a New Parent Breakfast in August and Lunch in January.

All 4 divisional Back to School nights are supported through food for both faculty and parents. The PFO also sponsors and organizes the LP & UP Book Fairs, Teacher Appreciation activities, Chinese New Year celebrations, the Pumpkin Festival in the Fall, Chinese New Year celebrations in the Winter, and a World’s Fair in the Spring. Parents are invited to volunteer for PFO activities and are welcome to do so by emailing the PFO at pfo@hkis.edu.hk.

Yearbook Every year, High School students produce a schoolwide yearbook, Orientale, for the community.

Yearbooks cost $200/copy and must be ordered through PowerSchool between October and January.

Please look for a notice in the divisional newsletters and other places (e.g., class blogs, Schoology, DragonNet) for the exact dates to order. Visit DragonNet for more on the yearbook policy.

Lockers All students are assigned a locker at the beginning of the school year. The locker use policy is in line with our Culture of Kindness and Respect and, therefore, our lockers remain lock free. Separate music and PE lockers are available for use during the day.

Lost and Found Students are responsible for any loss or damage to your clothing, equipment, books and/or instruments.

The school encourages you to check the lost and found box outside the MS Office and MS Gym if items are missing.

Reminders: • Leave all valuables at home, including expensive electronics, large sums of money, etc.

• Keep school bags in your locker.

• Mark all belongings with your name.

• A Lost and Found box is located outside the MS Office.

• Clothes are also put in the drawers to the left of the gym entrance. Items that are not collected by the end of the semester will be donated to charity.

Bus If you forget an article on the bus, please call the bus company directly and let them know the day and bus number (2578-1178). You can also come to the MS Office for immediate assistance.

Valuables Found valuables should be brought to the MS Office (fourth floor). Lost and found messages may be posted in the MS Daily Announcements. If you have lost a valuable item, report it to the MS Office.

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Cafeteria and Cafe The Middle School cafeteria and the Cafe are operated by Sodexo and offer a wide range of meals and beverages.

Students will have a choice of four daily lunch specials, pasta bar, salad bar, paninis, sandwiches and also available are a range of hot/cold snacks, fruits, health bars, dim sum, bakery items etc. All items may be paid for using an Octopus card.

Food Allergy Practice The school prohibits the use of nuts and shellfish in the Middle School cafeteria and 5/F snack stand.

Nut-based foods are not banned in student lunches and special events. The Culinary Arts program provides alternatives for allergenic students and preventing cross-contamination is a high priority. Despite these precautions, no management of food allergens is effective 100% of the time. Please alert the nurse to any allergenic needs.

Social Emotional Learning (SEL) SEL Vision HKIS Middle School is a relationship-centered community focused on character development, while promoting a culture of respect and kindness, nurturing the individual, and fostering awareness of self, others, and the environment.

Benefits of Social & Emotional Learning Social Emotional Learning is everywhere at HKIS MS! Whether you’re in a class, eating lunch, in PCG, playing sports, or on a break, you’re constantly having a chance to refine your social and emotional skills. We believe kids who develop strong social and emotional skills are happier because they can more fully appreciate the enjoyable parts of life while also developing resiliency to get through any of life’s challenges.

SEL Competencies There are five main domains of SEL, called “competencies.”

• Self-Awareness – the ability to accurately recognize your own emotions and to accurately assess your strengths and limitations • Self-Management – the ability to successfully regulate one’s emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in different situations; the ability to set and work toward goals • Social Awareness – the ability to take the perspective of and empathize with others; the ability to understand social norms and recognize community supports • Relationship Skills – the ability to establish and maintain healthy and rewarding relationships with diverse individuals and group; the ability to communicate clearly, listen well, and cooperate with others • Responsible Decision Making – the ability to make constructive choices about personal behavior and social interactions

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Mission Dedicating our minds to inquiry, our hearts to compassion, and our lives to service and global understanding An American-style education grounded in the Christian faith and respecting the spiritual lives of all

Vision HKIS will be a leading place of learning that inspires a socially engaged community of collaborative, creative, and resilient learners dedicated to realizing their full potential.

Student Learning Results Academic Excellence Students will achieve their intellectual potential by striving for and attaining the highest standards of academic excellence.

Spirituality Students will understand and respect Christianity and other religions and will identify and develop their own spiritual identity.

Character Development Students will demonstrate respectful and caring attitudes at school and in the community, as well as the courage to stand up for what is right.

Self-Motivated Learning Students willingly apply a variety of learning and motivation strategies throughout their learning process.

Contributing to Society Students will develop the skills they need to form genuine relationships in our diverse society and to make contributions to our community.

Chinese Culture Students will gain an understanding of China and an appreciation of the Chinese Culture.

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Grade 6 Bell Schedule Day 1

Day 2

7:30-7:55 PERIOD 1 8:00-9:25

Day 3

Day 5

Day 6

8:00-8:40

Music/PE/WL Core A

8:45-9:25

Core B SPICES/WL

SPICES/PE/ Music/PE/WL Music Dyad

Core A

SPICES/WL

SPICES/PE/ Music

Core B

Break (20 minutes)

9:45-10:25 Core B 10:30-11:10

SPICES/PE/ Music/PE/WL Music Dyad

Core A

SPICES/WL

SPICES/PE/ Music

Music/PE/WL Core B

SPICES/WL

11:45-12:25

Lunch (40 minutes)

12:25-1:05

Music/PE/WL

1:10-1:50

SPICES/WL

Core A

SPICES/PE/ Music

Music/PE/WL Core B

Core A

Dyad

1:50-2:00

Core A

Dyad

Clubs: Monday, Wednesday, & Friday Pastoral Care Groups: Tuesday & Thursday

PERIOD 4 2:00-3:25

Day 8

Dyad

11:10-11:45

PERIOD 3 12:25-1:50

Day 7

Teacher Collaboration, Optional Office Hours

9:25-9:45 PERIOD 2 9:45-11:10

Day 4

Core B SPICES/WL

SPICES/PE/ Music Dyad

Break (10 minutes)

2:00-2:40

SPICES/PE/ Music

2:45-3:25

Dyad

Music/PE/WL Core B

Core A

Core B SPICES/WL

3:25-4:00

SPICES/PE/ Music/PE/WL Music

Core A

Dyad

SPICES/WL

Day 6

Day 7

Day 8

Elective 4

Core B

Elective 3

Elective 1

AT

Core C

Core C

Elective 2

Core D

Core D

Core A

Elective 4

Teacher Collaboration Time

Grade 7 & 8 Bell Schedule Day 1

Day 2

7:30-7:55 PERIOD 1 8:00-9:25

Day 3

Day 5

Teacher Collaboration, Optional Office Hours AT

Core C

Elective 4

9:25-9:45 PERIOD 2 9:45-11:10

Day 4

Core D

Core A

Break (20 minutes) Elective 1

Core D

Core A

Elective 1

Core B

11:10-11:45

Clubs: Monday, Wednesday, & Friday Pastoral Care Groups: Tuesday & Thursday

11:45-12:25

Lunch (40 minutes)

PERIOD 3 12:25-1:50

Core A

Elective 2

Core B

1:50-2:00 PERIOD 4 2:00-3:25 3:25-4:00

Elective 2

AT

Break (10 minutes) Core B

Elective 3

AT

Core C

Elective 3

Teacher Collaboration Time