Dear PSI Parents: Welcome to our Parent and Student Handbook! This publication is designed to help you understand how PSI operates. The parent section lays out the ‘nuts and bolts’ of the school day - from attendance to the cafeteria, from paying your fees to picking up your children. The Primary and Secondary sections should give you a clear understanding of our expectations for student behaviour and addresses some procedures and guidelines that are unique to each division. Please note that this is one of several publications available from PSI to help you understand our school. We hope you’ll visit our website (www.psi.kiev.ua) to read our Primary and Secondary Programme Guides, which give you complete overviews of our curriculum and assessment. Our website also contains back issues of our quarterly PSI Life Magazine and our weekly newsletters, both of which keep you in touch with the exciting ways that our students learn every day. Finally, for an online copy of this document with all the links, please visit the homeroom sites on MyPSI. In the meantime, we hope that you find this handbook useful and that you are able to use it often to answer your questions about how PSI works. Of course, we encourage you to contact the School any time you have a question that’s not addressed here. We’re always happy to speak with you further. Regards,
John Burns Director
Sue Williams Primary Principal
Patricia Puia Secondary Principal
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TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION
CONTENTS
PAGE
General Guidelines I. What can you tell me about PSI?
II. Who, how and when do I need to pay?
A - What are the School’s guiding statements? - -Mission -Vision -Motto - Child Protection - IB Mission - Learner Profile B - Who is our community and how are we organised? - Our Community - Governance - School Leadership - PTA
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C - How does the school ensure that it’s always growing and improving? - Accreditation and Authorisation - Strategic Planning - Facilities
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A - How do I pay my tuition fees? - Tuition Fee Policy - Late Entry and Early Withdrawal
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B - How do I pay for other services? No Fees -Books and School Supplies -PHE/Sports Uniform
III. How are the school day and school year organised?
IV. What other services does the school provide?
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- Payment Schedule - Bursary 13 Fees -Cafeteria -Transportation - Student Travel - Transferring to Another School
A - How is the school day organised? - Daily Schedule - Extra-curricular Activities (ECAs)
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B How do I find out what’s happening during the year? - One Page School Calendar - Events Calendar
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C - How important is daily attendance? - Policy and Protocols - Responsibilities - Tardy Protocols - Late Work (Secondary) - Responsbilities for Late Work
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A - How does my child get fed every day? - Lunch - Separate Dishes - A-la-carte Options
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B - What other services does the School provide? - Learning Resource Support -Library - Lost and Found - School Bus Transport - Technology -Phone and Mobile Use
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V. How does the school manage communications with parents?
A - What strategies does the school use to communicate with me? -Overview - Publications and Announcements - MyPSI - Meetings with Teachers - SLCs
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B - What are the best ways for me to communicate with the School? - Who’s Who chart - Written Communication at School - Procedure for parental concerns - Parent Conduct Policy
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C - How does PSI work with tutors and outside support?
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D - How does PSI help me communicate with my child’s next school or university?
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VI. Who are the teachers and administrators who work with my child every day?
Who is our staff? - Admin - Secondary Teachers
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VII. How does PSI make sure that students are safe and secure on campus?
A - How do drop off and pick up procedures work? -Street Speed -Traffic Movement / Flow -Front Gates / Road Crossing - General Parking -Longer Term / All-Day Parking
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B - How does the School handle arrival arrival and departure of students in a safe way? -PSI Security System / Security Cards -Mornings - School Day -Late Departures - General Departure (Primary)
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C - How does PSI ensure safety on campus during the school day? -Student Visitors -Safety Protocols -Medical Care
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D - How does PSI work to ensure safety on campus beyond the school day and week? -After Hours, Weekend and Holiday Campus Use -Saturday Super Sports Classes - New Facilities
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E - How does PSI ensure safety for students in school-related off campus activities? -Field Trips - Overnight Trips
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F - What steps has PSI taken to ensure that issues of child protection are appropriately handled? -Chid Protective Behaviour Handbook -Reporting Procedures -Confidentiality -Training -Educating Students - Guardianship -Health and Safety Documents
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Guidelines for Primary Students and Parents
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A - How does the school handle recess? - Recess / Lunch Breaks - Recess and Weather
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I. How does the day work?
- Primary Teachers - Learning Support
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B - How much time will my child get with specialist teachers?
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A - What do I need to know about parties and celebrations? - Birthday Celebrations - Changes to Regular Routines -Assemblies
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B - What awards can students win in Primary -Abby Hulka Award -Sportsmanship Award -Sharon Ingerson Award
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A - What is the School’s philosophy about student discipline? - Overview - Promoting Positive Behaviour - Clear and Consistent Expectations
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B - How are students encouraged to make good choices? -Student Problem Solving
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C - How do teachers and administrators support students in making good choices?
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D - What are the consequences for students who make poor choices? - Level 1: Inappropriate choices - Level 2: Seriously or consistently inappropriate choices - Level 3: Special circumstances -Level 4: Expulsion
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Guidelines for Secondary Students and Parents
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A - What are the rules and procedures for daily attendance?
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B - What happens if I arrive late to school?
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A - How does the School help students balance their rights and their responsibilities?
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B - How does the homeroom programme help students make good choices?
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C - What are the standards for student behaviour?
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D - What is the code of conduct?
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E - What steps does the School take when a student misbehaves?
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Section III: How does the School celebrate and reward success?
A - How does the School celebrate student work and success? B - What awards does the School give?? -Semester Awards -Year End Awards
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Appendix
2017 - 2018 Calendar
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II How does the school celebrate and reward students?
III What are the behavioural expectations for my child?
Section I: How important is daily attendance?
Section II: How are students encouraged to make good decisions?
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GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR PARENTS AND STUDENTS
The PTA Valentine’s Day bake sale is one of many fundraisers that supports PSI
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SECTION I: WHAT CAN YOU TELL ME ABOUT PSI? A. WHAT ARE THE SCHOOL’S GUIDING STATEMENTS? Mission Pechersk School International is a diverse learning community which provides an academically challenging programme in a student-centred environment. As an IB world school, PSI is committed to developing well-rounded, global citizens by promoting personal excellence in the classroom and beyond. OUR MISSION
DEFINITION
Learning Community
A spirit of collaboration pervades the school, with all members of the school community committed to student success and wellbeing as well as to their own lifelong learning.
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PSI is an IB World School offering all three programmes for students EC Grade 12. Students are prepared to attend universities that match their needs and abilities.
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Academically challenging programme
LOOKS LIKE….
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Student-centered environment
Students engage in a wide variety of activities and experiences that promote powerful learning along with increased self-confidence, personal empowerment, and the freedom to explore personal passions.
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● Global citizens
PSI students and community members are global citizens, empowered to recognise and act on issues of importance in their local and international communities.
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Students, teachers, staff, and families working together to ensure student success Respectful and positive interactions among all stakeholders A focus on learning for all members of the community Written, taught and assessed curriculum standards based on current best practices An IB curriculum framework Frequent internal and external, formative and summative assessment Mother tongue programme An IB inquiry approach with the students at the centre of the learning Extensive libraries and IT resources that support a range of topics and interests A Secondary School Bring Your Own Device programme to connect students to a wider world Support for student-initiated action Appreciation of local and international cultures Positive engagement among students within and beyond their own nationality / background Acceptance and understanding of their own and other cultures Listening to others and respecting opinions / perspectives Expressing opinions respectfully Taking positive action on issues of local, national and global importance
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Personal excellence
At PSI, students work with teachers to define their own standards for excellence both in academics and in areas of passion, and work to achieve those
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Student goal-setting Student led conferences, portfolios and showcases Student-Parent-Teacher Conferences Standards / Criteria-based reporting A variety of external and internal assessments, as well as self-assessment and reflection Recognising high achievement as well as personal effort An authorised Ukrainian Externum Programme Academic Honesty Policy PYP Exhibition, MYP Personal Projects, DP Extended Essay Sports competitions, theatrical and musical performances, Model United Nations, Maths Counts, Destination Imagination, and other opportunities that showcase student talent Placements at top rate universities around the world
Vision We grow. We lead. We succeed. Motto A place where we belong
PSI Kyiv is committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people in our care. We support the rights of the child and will act without hesitation to ensure a child-safe environment. We also support the rights and wellbeing of our staff and volunteers and encourage their active participation in building and maintaining a secure environment for all participants.
IB Mission Statement The International Baccalaureate aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect. To this end, the organisation works with schools, governments and international organisations to develop challenging programmes of international education and rigorous assessment. These programmes encourage students across the world to become active, compassionate and lifelong learners who understand that other people, with their differences, can also be right.
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The IB Learner Profile As a fully authorised IB World School, Pechersk School International Kyiv follows the philosophy and guidelines laid out by the International Baccalaureate, including its commitment to international education. The IB Learner Profile runs across all three IB programmes and, ‘is central to the definition of what it means to be internationally-minded’. (IB Learner Profile Booklet. March 2006). As we work with students on these concepts, it’s also important to look at the ways in which all of us are good models of the Learner Profile. Below are some ideas for parents.
Learner Profile
How Parents Can Help
As Inquirers, we nurture our curiosity, developing skills for inquiry and research. We know how to learn independently and with others. We learn with enthusiasm and sustain our love of learning throughout life.
Parents who are inquirers ask for information when they don’t understand something. They call or email the teacher and say, ‘Can you help me understand the homework assignment?’ or ‘Can you tell me a little bit more about the unit of inquiry and how it’s set up?’ or ‘Can you explain the school’s attendance policy?’ NOTE: It’s important to ask questions as they arise, rather than making a list and asking them all at once.
When we are knowledgeable, we develop and use conceptual understanding, exploring knowledge across a range of disciplines. We engage with issues and ideas that have local and global significance.
Knowledgeable parents spend time trying to understand the School and its programmes. They attend Open Houses, Back-to-School Nights, Parent Conferences, Parent Education Tuesdays and other school-sponsored events in order to get all the information they need. They read the Parent and Student Handbooks, the Programme Guides and the website and ask questions when they don’t understand something.
Thinkers use critical and creative thinking skills to analyse and take responsible action on complex problems. We exercise initiative in making reasoned, ethical decisions.
Parents who are thinkers try hard not to jump to conclusions. They listen to what their children have to say and what the teacher has to say about a situation and then try to make the most objective decision possible. (This is a tough one when we’re talking about our own children, isn’t it?) They don’t automatically assume that the child is always right or that the teacher is always right. They take each situation as it comes.
Communicators express ourselves confidently and creatively in more than one language and in many ways. We collaborate effectively, listening carefully to the perspectives of other individuals and groups.
Parents who communicate well always go right to the source. If it’s a classroom question, they go to the teacher. If it’s a bus question, they ask the bus monitor or the bus coordinator. They make appointments and let the people involved know what the subject of the meeting will be so that no one is caught off guard or unprepared. They make sure that all involved people (parents and school staff) are invited to meetings. They speak and listen respectfully.
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Principled people act with integrity and honesty, with a strong sense of fairness and justice, and with respect for the dignity and rights of people everywhere. We take responsibility for our actions their consequences.
Principled parents work directly with the School when problems arise. They don’t engage in gossip or speculation but always seek the truth directly from the School. They treat everyone – students, parents, teachers and administrators – with respect.
As open-minded learners, we critically appreciate our own cultures and personal histories, as well as the values and traditions of others. We seek and evaluate a range of points of view, and we are willing to grow from the experience.
Open minded parents recognise that PSI may offer curriculum and instruction that is very different from what they had at home. They are respectful of cultural differences between themselves and other families and between themselves and the school.
We demonstrate caring when we show empathy, compassion and respect. We have a commitment to service, and we act to make a positive difference in the lives of others and the world around us.
First and foremost, caring parents care about their children. This means that they are present in their children’s lives and treat them with love and respect. They create homes where children feel safe. Secondly, we hope that they will be caring in their relationships with our staff. This means finding things to praise as well as things to criticise. It means being empathetic and recognising that teachers are people, too – people who have strong feelings about the children in their care. Approaching a teacher as a potential friend and ally makes a world of difference!
Risk takers approach uncertainty with forethought and determination; we work independently and cooperatively to explore new ideas and innovative strategies. We are resourceful and resilient in the face of challenges and change.
Risk-taking parents contact the school directly when they have a question or concern. They participate in school events like International Night, gala evenings and PTA meetings. They present to classes about their home country or their jobs. They willingly consider strategies for educating children that may be different from their own experience or home country.
Balanced individuals understand the importance of balancing different aspects of our lives - intellectual, physical and emotional - to achieve well-being for ourselves and others. We recognise our interdependence with other people and with the world in which we live.
Well-balanced parents are interested in all aspects of their child’s education. They understand that the whole child – physical, intellectual and social – all interact together. They encourage their children to participate in sports and the arts, in work and play, in intellectual pursuits and in building friendships. They are also well-balanced in their own lives, with interests outside the school and the lives of their children.
We are reflective when we thoughtfully consider the world and our own ideas and experience. We work to understand our strengths and weaknesses in order to support our learning and personal development.
Reflective parents look at what they can contribute to the school environment and to their child’s education. Rather than expecting the school to solve all problems and address all concerns, they say, ‘What can I do to help? How can I contribute to my child’s education?’ They listen at parent conferences and meetings and try to figure out the best ways that they can support what is happening in the classroom.
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B. WHO IS OUR COMMUNITY AND HOW ARE WE ORGANISED? Our School and School Community In 1995, a group of parents from the diplomatic and business community opened Pechersk School International Kyiv (PSI) with just 47 students. The name ‘Pechersk’ is taken from the area of Kyiv known historically as the city’s centre of learning, reflecting the discipline and integrity of the scholarship practiced at the famous Pecherska Lavra, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. The School’s motto is ‘A Place Where We Belong.’ Today, PSI is a modern, comprehensive, co-educational day school serving approximately 400 students from nearly 40 countries between the ages of 3 and 18 years of age from Early Childhood through Grade 12. Our staff is made up of 68 teachers from ten different countries with the four largest national groupings represented by the USA (40%), Ukraine (22%), Canada (15%). and the UK (10%). All hold degrees in their teaching area and many hold postgraduate degrees, including two doctorates. Admission is determined by the age of the student, previous school reports, an admissions screening procedure and the School’s ability to provide a suitable programme within class size limitations. The average class size is 15 students for Secondary homerooms and 18 students for Primary homerooms, allowing for significant personal attention. Classes are capped at 20 students. An English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme is available for non-native English speaking students to support their language development. The School has no special provision for children with significant learning disabilities, but does have two full-time Learning Resource teachers who offer support for students with mild special learning needs. Governance Pechersk School International is a not-for-profit entity incorporated outside and registered inside Ukraine. It is governed by a school board consisting of twelve voting members plus three non-voting ex-officio members who are appointed automatically each year: the director of the school, a teacher representative elected by the professional staff of the school, and a representative of the PTA. All voting Board members must be PSI parents. The PSI Board of Governors is responsible for the determination of the school’s policies, the approval of the school’s budget, setting the strategic priorities for the school and the appointment of the school’s director. School Leadership The leadership and administration of the school are the responsibility of the director, principals, coordinators and administrative managers. The director reports to the board for the execution of board policy; the efficient observance of regulations by all employees; the administration, supervision and coordination of the work of the school sections and programmes; and for all other educational and community activities connected to the School. The administration and curricular teams handle the day-to-day operations and decision-making in order to achieve the programme objectives and strategic goals in the School. The PSI Board Policy Manual is available to all students and parents on the PSI website (www.psi.kiev.ua). Parent Teacher Association (PTA) All parents in the PSI community are members of the PSI Parent Teacher Association (PTA). Parents can also choose to become a member of the PTA committee, which consists of a president, first vice-president, second vice president, secretary and treasurer. There is also at least one staff member designated as staff liaison. The PTA meets once a month to provide general support/liaison and fundraising. The PTA also organises room parents for each homeroom who assist in liaising with parents and help with social and special events.
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C. HOW DOES THE SCHOOL ENSURE THAT IT CONTINUES TO GROW AND IMPROVE? Accreditation and Authorisation Pechersk School International is authorised as an IB World School by the International Baccalaureate (IB), and offers all three IB programmes. It is also accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) in the US and the Council of International Schools (CIS) in Europe. In addition, PSI is a member of the European Council of International Schools (ECIS) and the Central and Eastern European Schools Association (CEESA). In 2016-2017, PSI engaged in a self-study to ensure that it is meeting the standards of both accrediting organisations and the IB. That report will be submitted in the fall of 2017. A visiting team with representatives of each of the organisations will come to PSI in late February 2018 to confirm the work of the self study and make any further recommendations about ways we can improve our work. Strategic Planning The final step of the accreditation self study is the development of a new strategic plan for 2017 - 2022. A draft will be completed in fall of 2017 and finalised in the spring, after the accreditation visit. Parents and students will join staff and administration in creating that plan. The plan will bring together all the important elements for our continuing improvement: the pillars of our mission statement, the standards of our accrediting agencies and the IB, and our on-going work of looking at the future our students will face. Facilities Current PSI has 42 regular classrooms, wireless laptops networked with Internet connections, two modern automated libraries, specialist EAL rooms, an art studio and classroom, additional language rooms, a learning resource room, two modern science laboratories, a design technology workshop, two music rooms, a drama room, and a cafeteria. The two libraries combined contain more than 24,000 books and periodicals as well as computers designed for all age groups. The science laboratories have been equipped to serve as centres for IB Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Sciences and Physics. PSI has a full-time medical assistant located in our first aid room on the ground floor of the Primary building. There are over two acres of outdoor area. The site is completely enclosed with a gated entrance under 24-hour surveillance by security guards. Because the new gym is currently under construction, PSI also leases a large swimming pool, soccer fields and other physical education facilities to extend our physical education programme. Our Building Project PSI began Phase 2 construction in May 2016. The new facilities will include a double-sized gym, a swimming pool, new science labs, art and music rooms, additional classroom space for both Primary and Secondary, a flexible performing arts space, a new playground area, and a new cafeteria with a working kitchen. Construction will be complete in autumn 2017.
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SECTION II: WHO, HOW AND WHEN DO I NEED TO PAY FOR TUITION AND SERVICES? A. HOW DO I PAY FOR TUITION? Tuition Fee Policy The annual tuition fees are established by the board of governors each March for the following year and are communicated to parents in April. Payment Schedule All school fees are due each year at the time each student enters or returns to the School. Fees not paid by 30th August or one month after a new student begins classes are subject to a late fee. Bank transfer fees should be included in payments. Unpaid fees will result in withheld records and report cards; consistent non-payment may result in student suspension, expulsion or non-renewal. Late Entry and Early Withdrawal Students who enter PSI after the year begins or who withdraw early are charged in accordance with the School’s enrolment contract with the parents. Bursary The PSI boards offers a bursary fund that provides financial support for the payment of school tuition fees. This may be in the form of a discount of up to ⅓ on tuition fees payable, depending on the financial or other relevant circumstances of applicants. Bursary awards are subject to a review of parental means each year and may be varied upwards or downwards, depending on the circumstances. Parents must provide financial information, including an account of income, expenditures, assets and liabilities. Awards may vary upwards or downwards depending on individual parents’ / guardians’ circumstances (e.g., their savings, investments and realisable assets, as well as their income, the size of their family, any other persons dependent upon them and like factors), compassionate or other considerations. Requests for financial support usually fall into two categories: • New applicants to the School, where a place has been offered but parents / guardians are unable to fund the tuition fees • Existing pupils where a change in parents’ / guardians’ circumstances has resulted in difficulty in meeting tuition fees and may result in the child being withdrawn part way through a stage of education Bursaries are awarded at the discretion of the PSI board, are reviewed annually and are provided for a maximum length of three school years. Bursary applications should be lodged with the PSI business manager by 31st May each year. Additional information, the full Bursary Policy and Bursary Application Forms are available from the PSI business manager and the director.
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B. HOW DO I PAY FOR OTHER SERVICES AT THE SCHOOL? No Fees Books and School Supplies Students receive all textbooks, workbooks and notebooks free of charge. Textbooks and library books must be returned to the School at the end of the school year or when the student leaves the School. The student pays the replacement cost for lost or damaged books. Students may also bring other school supplies such as paper, pens and pencils, rulers, calculators, etc. PHE / Sports Uniform There is no official school uniform at PSI; however, a dress code of suitable clothing does exist for the school day. Students are expected to wear a PSI specific sports uniform for Physical and Health Education (PHE) lessons. We believe it is healthy and hygienic to change clothes for these lessons as students do quite often get hot after physical exertion. Therefore, we have developed a set of PHE Uniform Expectations for all students. Grade 1 - Grade 10 students are required to wear the PSI sports uniform for all PHE lessons. Students in Early Childhood (EC) and Kindergarten are not required to wear the kit, but they are encouraged to do so. Please note that the minimum requirement for all students is the tee shirt, shorts, sweatshirt, sweatpants and the House Team tee shirt.These items are provided to all students annually and are free of charge. Other PHE uniform items are available for purchase, as are additional sets of the items above. Students in PHE are also welcome to wear any official PSI sports team uniforms or their PSI House Team tee shirt. Students should also have appropriate shoes.
Regular Fees Cafeteria Fee All students (Primary and Secondary) use their smart-card for all purchases in the cafeteria, both at lunch time and for a la carte purchases during the day, as the cafeteria does not accept cash during these times. Students simply swipe their cards at the card reader near the cash register, and the amount of the purchase is deducted from the card. Parents can add money to students’ cards at the cafeteria terminal without having the card in hand. For Primary students, cafeteria cards are colour-coded to indicate what children may or may not purchase in the cafeteria. School Day Time Services (Primary) ● White - ‘Restricted’: My child is only allowed to buy the set school lunch. ● Red: My child may buy the set school lunch and from the Healthy Snacks menu. ● Yellow (Grade 4 & 5 ONLY): My child may buy the set school lunch, the Healthy Snacks menu and also from the Healthy Dessert menu (at lunch time ONLY). After School Time Services (Primary) ● Green: My child may also buy from the Healthy Dessert menu, after school (3:00 pm). ● Blue: My child may also buy from the Healthy Dessert menu and the After School Treats menu, after school (3:00 pm). Survey forms are available in the reception area for those who need it. Please return completed forms to the Primary School principal’s office.
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Student Card Charging Times - Monday to Friday (Primary and Secondary) ● 8:00 am to 9:00 am. ● 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Parent Card Charging Times - Monday to Friday (Primary and Secondary) ● At any time apart from morning recess break and lunch break as this would slow down the serving line. ● 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Transportation Fee Students who opt to use the school’s bus service will be billed at the beginning of the school year or when they begin using the bus service. Additional Fees Student Travel For CEESA travel or other competitions, the athletic director or the assistant athletic director sends information to parents about costs, and the cashier then bills parents for all travel expenses. Transferring to Another School All parents withdrawing their Primary or Secondary children from PSI should inform the Admissions Office (registrar@psi.kiev.ua), giving as much notice as possible. The School normally requires 7-10 days to process this information. PSI requires that parents submit the name of the person in the receiving school and the receiving school’s address, phone and fax details. Courier charges are at the expense of the parents and must be paid in advance of sending transfer documents. Students who need to take entrance tests are charged a small fee for supervision of those tests. Please note that all application forms and letters of reference are confidential and will be sent only to the receiving school.
A Grade 12 student becomes a risk taker on her Week Without Walls trip to Slovenia
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SECTION III: HOW ARE THE SCHOOL DAY AND THE SCHOOL YEAR ORGANISED? A. HOW IS THE THE SCHOOL DAY ORGANISED? The Daily Schedule The Primary and Secondary School schedules are very similar, with 40-minute periods as the norm. You will note that the Primary School contains a morning recess, while the Secondary School provides brief breaks between double blocks of time. Both programmes begin at 8:25 a.m. and end at approximately 3:00 p.m. Primary Period
Times
Homeroom
8:25 - 8:35
Period 1
8:35 - 9:15
Period 2
9:15 - 9:55
Period 3
9:55 - 10:35
Recess
10:10 - 10:25 Recess Grade 2-5 10:30 - 10:45 Recess EC / Grade 1
Period 4
10:45 - 11:25
Period 5
11:25 - 12:05
Period 6 Lunch and Recesss
12:05 - 12:45
Period 7
12:50 - 1:30
Period 8
1:30 - 2:10
Period 9
2:10 - 2:50
Homeroom
2:50 - 3:00
Primary students show off their finished products.
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Secondary Period
Times
Homeroom
8:25 - 8:35
Period 1
8:35 – 9:15
Period 2
9:15 – 9:55
Break
9:55 – 10:05
Period 3
10:05 – 10:45
Period 4
10:45 – 11:25
Lunch
11:25 – 12:05
Period 5
12:05 – 12:45
Period 6
12:45 – 1:25
Break
1:25 – 1:35
Period 7
1:35 – 2:15
Period 8
2:15 – 2:55
Extra-Curricular Activities (ECAs) Our Extra Curricular Activities (ECA) programme includes a scheduled period after school for children in kindergarten and older, beginning at 3:00 pm each day. Activities may run for one or two hours, depending on the activity and the age of the student. The School also offers a Saturday programme as part of our ECA offerings. In addition, some ECAs are offered during the school day. For example, both Primary and Secondary Student Council meet during their lunch times. Parents are welcomed and encouraged to join in activities that support the educational and extracurricular goals of PSI and to share ideas that have been successful in previous schools that their children have attended. Any parent who has special skills to offer and would be willing to organise an after school activity is encouraged to contact the ECA Coordinator (eca@psi.kiev.ua). All instruction must be in English. All activities are included in school fees, including those that are run by outside providers. Students who are absent from school for any reason may not attend their ECAs on that day. Students who consistently skip an activity for which they have signed up may be dropped to make a place for another child who has been waitlisted. All up-to-date information on ECAs can be found on the PSI website and t he ECA website. ECA Cancellations If any activities are cancelled on a daily basis due to poor weather conditions, a city-wide emergency or other school events, parents are informed by email and our emergency SMS system.
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There are specific times when we do not run our ECA programmes due to public holidays, etc. These are planned ahead and are part of the published dates for each season. ECAs are cancelled at the following times: ● When there is a major event in the gym or auditorium requiring additional setup or cleaning ● When Primary or Secondary is cancelled and both divisions cancel to accommodate buses and pickup arrangements ● When there is an official public holiday on any weekday, as shown on the PSI calendar ● On a Friday when we break for official school holidays in October, December, February and April Please note: ● ECAs are not cancelled on the Friday before a long holiday weekend (i.e., a Monday public holiday). ● When ECAs are cancelled, special arrangements (including use of the school bus) are made for city-wide sports events to continue. These are communicated separately to the families involved. Super Saturday Sports Cancellations Saturday activities are cancelled: ● When there is a major event in the gym or auditorium on Friday or Saturday requiring additional setup or cleaning ● When there is a an official public holiday on a Saturday (as indicated on the PSI calendar) ● When there is a long weekend (i.e., a public holiday on Friday or Monday) ● On a Saturday when we break for official school holidays in October, December, February and April, and during those holiday periods NOTE: Super Saturday Sports are not cancelled when we have a pupil free day on a Friday. B. HOW DO I FIND OUT WHAT’S HAPPENING THROUGHOUT THE YEAR? One Page School Calendar The School publishes a one-page calendar each spring that includes all holiday breaks. It’s available on the PSI website and the last page of this document. School Events Calendar A PSI Events Calendar provides information about school-wide events. It is updated regularly on the P SI website. Dates and details of events for approval must be presented to the appropriate principal as early as possible ahead of the event to be added to the calendar. No additions or alterations may be made to the calendar without prior consultation and administrative approval. C. HOW IMPORTANT IS DAILY ATTENDANCE? Daily attendance and punctuality are critically important to academic and personal success at PSI.
Board Attendance Policy (as of May 2016) PSI offers an IB programme that supports students in their cognitive, social, emotional, aesthetic and physical development. Attendance at school is central to progress in all developmental areas. The school closely monitors student attendance and provides both support and sanctions for students who have consistently poor attendance, including a contract to support improvement. Students who do not meet the provisions of the contract for two consecutive years may be retained at a grade level or exited from the School.
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The School makes provisions for students who are absent due to exceptional circumstances.
Attendance Protocols Please note that protocols apply to both Primary and Secondary unless otherwise noted.
ISSUES
PROTOCOLS
Marking attendance
Both Primary and Secondary ● Homeroom teachers take attendance at 8:25 each day. Students who are not present at that time are marked as absent. ● Students who arrive between 8:25 and 8:35 should go directly to homeroom. They will be marked as late by the teacher. ● Students who arrive after 8:35 should check in at the Reception desk in the Primary building before going to their class. They will be marked late by the attendance secretary, with the time of arrival noted. NOTES: Students who leave before or arrive after 11:30 am will be marked as absent for the whole day Students who are absent from school during the day (excused or unexcused) are not permitted to attend after school activities or events. Secondary Teachers in Secondary also mark attendance at the beginning of each class period. See section on ‘skipping’ for more details.
Excused or unexcused
The School does not use ‘excused’ or ‘unexcused’ for routine absences. However, students who are gone for three or more consecutive days are asked to produce a doctor’s note or certification of a family emergency.
Skipping (missing school without school or parental knowledge or permission)
Skipping is a discipline issue. Students who are present in school but not attending certain classes are asked to spend additional time with the teacher, either during breaks or after school. Students who skip one day will spend a ½ day in-house suspension in the principal’s office and may also be asked to speak with the counsellor. Additional incidents will lead to a parent meeting and a specific contract for behaviour.
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ISSUES
PROTOCOLS
Exceptional circumstances
Both Students involved in professional or amatuer pursuits that allow them to work or compete at national or international levels receive special consideration from the school, provided that they ● Apply in writing at least one week in advance ● Maintain passing grades in all classes, with a balance of at home and in school work ● Work proactively with teachers during their absences ● Do not exceed 20 absences Students who have long-term absences because of serious medical issues (hospitalisation, surgery, etc.) also receive special consideration from the school, as do students who have serious family emergencies. However, the school continues to track the days missed, and works with parents and students when the student exceeds 20 days.
Parent Communication and Follow Up
● ●
Pattern of Absences
The attendance secretary contacts all parents who have not already contacted the School to confirm the absence. Emails are sent home to remind parents of the number of absences, as outlined below.
At 10 absences in a semester (20 in a year), parents receive letters reminding them of the attendance policy. These are tailored to individual circumstances where possible. At 15 absences in a semester (30 in a year), the appropriate building principal meets with parents to discuss strategies to improve attendance. At twenty absences in a semester or in a year, the following occurs: ● May of Year 1: Parent meeting and contract ● The following year: Attendance is monitored. ● May of Year 2: The contract is reviewed and additional strategies may be added. ● May of Year 3: Students who do not meet those targets for two consecutive years may end up on one of three paths: - Students with fair and reasonable absences may be placed on an extended contract and will continue to the next grade. -OR the educational leadership team (ELT) may decide to retain a child at his / her current grade level because s/he has not met the exit criteria for that grade. -OR the ELT may recommend a review by the Expulsion Committee
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NOTES: ● The annual review of contracts includes an analysis by the leadership team to look at the reasons for the absences. Students who have fair and reasonable absences (as outlined above) are not further penalised. This may mean that even after two years, a student would not be referred to the Expulsion Committee on the recommendation of the school leaders. However, students may be retained at grade level if they have not meet the objectives for that year. ● A review by the Expulsion Committee does not automatically lead to expulsion. The Committee reviews a range of data, including the reasons for absences, the student’s academic record, discipline records, teacher input, parent interactions, etc. Students are only expelled when the Committee unanimously agrees. (Board Policy 5.140) Patterns of Absences in EC and K
Absences are monitored in EC3 and for EC4, K or G1 students in their first year at PSI. No contracts are given to these students. However, parents whose children have more than 20 days out of school will meet with the principal in the spring, where the attendance procedures will be explained. If poor attendance continues in the second year, it will be viewed as part of a pattern, and students will be moved to contract.
Supports
Primary Teachers can provide homework or study suggestions for absences. Parents who have planned absences should notify teachers and request homework or study suggestions prior to the absence. Parents should understand it will take teachers at least 24 hours to prepare assignments. Secondary Teachers at Secondary post all major assessments on MyPSI. Students and parents can access that information at any time and contact individual teachers with questions. For long term absences, the school sets up a Google doc with directions specifically tailored to each student.
Consequences
Primary Students who miss large portions of a unit of study will not be assessed on progress or report cards and will receive ‘U’ (Unable to Grade Due to Absences). Secondary- MYP At 10 absences in a semester, students are assigned a 2-hour after school Study Time Bank. At 20 absences, students are assigned to an all day mandatory Saturday Study Time Bank.
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Secondary - DP Students who miss 5 days attend a Saturday Study Time Bank, regardless of the reasons for the absence. This is to ensure that they are meeting all requirements of the IB DP. Secondary - Both Programmes On-going problems with attendance can also affect student participation in CEESA or other overnight programmes. This may include carryover from the previous school year. This will be a case-by-case basis that will also look at academic and behavioural performance.
Parent and School Responsibilities Student’s Status
Parents Will
School Will
Student misses four or more periods in a day (leaves before or arrives after noon)
-Call to explain late arrival or early departure -Ensure that the adult taking the child home collects the checkout form from Reception.
-Provide check out form for students leaving early -Mark students as absent for the whole day
Routine absences
Call in with an explanation; no doctor’s note required
-Mark students as absent -Track all attendance on transcripts and report cards -Call parents to confirm if parent has not contacted school - Support students in understanding work that they missed
Three or more consecutive days of absence
Call in with an explanation; a doctor’s note is required for medical absences upon return
-Call parents to confirm if parent has not contacted the school -Support students in understanding work they have missed
Absent on exam/test, presentation, group project (Secondary)
-Call in with an explanation; provide a doctor’s note
-Allow students to make up work on their first day of their return. Students are responsible for contacting the teacher and arranging the appropriate time.
Absent during Week Without Walls (Secondary)
-Inform the School as soon as possible and provide a reason for the absence -Provide a doctor’s note (as this will be more than three days of absence)
-Students will not be able to make up assessments given during the Week Without Walls; these assessments are unique and cannot be duplicated. This may affect their overall grade in some courses
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-Students are marked as absent regardless of their reason -School is closed to Secondary students during that week 10 DAYS of absence in a semester for any reason
-Send a letter indicating the number of days absent and remind parents of future consequences -Arrange a 2-hour after school Study Session (Secondary)
15 DAYS of absence in a semester for any reason
-Meet with administration -If absences continue, attend a workshop on attendance and the IB
-Contact parents to set up a meeting
20 DAYS of absence in a semester or a year for any reason
-Meet with administration; sign a contract for improved attendance
-Draft a formal attendance contract In second year of a contract -Reserve the right to retain a student at his/her grade level in the following school year -Reserve the right to offer or deny enrollment in the following school year
SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCE ABSENCES -Professional or other obligations as outlined above
-Provide the school with one week of advance notice -Work with teachers to understand what work will be missed and what timelines there are -Ensure that students are passing all classes
-Work with parents and students to provide a timeline for work missed -Work with the student to create opportunities for the student to share his/her experience with other students (in classes, at assemblies, magazine articles, etc.)
-Long term illnesses
-Provide the school with medical certificates and an estimate of number of days that will be missed -Work with teachers to understand what work will be missed and what timelines there are
-Work with parents and students to provide a timeline for work missed
-Family emergencies (medical emergency in immediate family, death of a family member)
-Notify the school of the circumstances
-Work with parents and students to provide a timeline for work missed
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Tardy Protocols ISSUES
PRIMARY
5 times late in one semester
SECONDARY Extra time with homeroom teacher (lunch or break time)
6 - 9 times late
Letter sent to parents, reminding them of the school’s start time.
7:45 am meeting with principal; scheduled within 48 hours
10 times late in a semester
Parents meet with Principal.
Students are assigned a 2-hour after school Study Time Bank.
11-14 times late
7:45 am meeting with principal
15 times late
Principal meets with parents Student serves a 2-hour after school Study Time Bank
16-19 times late
7:45 am meeting with principal
20 times late
Students are assigned to a half day mandatory Saturday Study Time Bank.
Late Work - Secondary Only Guidelines
Students are still responsible for submitting work that has already been assigned, even if they are absent on the date that it is due. Students who submit work late receive a zero on those assignments. However, they are still expected to submit all summative assessments for review and feedback from the teacher. Students who have not submitted all summative assessments receive NG (no grade) in that subject area on report cards until all work is turned in. Please note that the submitted work does not replace the zero. -For work assigned during the student’s absence and / or for exceptional circumstances, teachers will work with students to set appropriate deadlines for missed work. -Grade 6 students are allowed one late assignment, which is noted by the school and can be turned in for full credit. On the second incident - even if it is another class - the zero policy is in effect for them as well.
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RESPONSIBILITIES FOR LATE WORK The Circumstances
Students Will
Teachers Will
Work was assigned when student was present in school
-Turn in the work digitally by the assigned due date and time -Send an email to the teacher to let him/her know that the work has been submitted
-Check that work has been turned in on time -Inform parents if a summative assessment is missing
Work was assigned when the student was absent from school
-Check MyPSI to find out what was missed -Talk to the teacher upon return to understand missed assignment(s) -Note the due date of upcoming work and meet that deadline
-Meet with the student upon request to explain the assignment
A test or presentation is scheduled on the day that a student is absent
-Contact teacher directly, explain the absence, estimate the time of the absence (in days), and discuss an opportunity to reschedule
-Reschedule within a reasonable timeframe provided that the reason for absence is appropriate (i.e., the student has not ‘skipped’ the class)
A group presentation is scheduled on the day that a student is absent
-Contact the teacher directly with a cc to all group members, estimate the time of the absence (in days), and ask to reschedule
-Reschedule within a reasonable timeframe provided that the reason for absence is appropriate (i.e., the student has not ‘skipped’ the class)
Due date passes with no assignment turned in or extension requested
-Submit work for assessment even though the work will not be counted towards a grade
-Assess all work and provide feedback -Register a grade of ‘zero’ for the assignment -Contact parents to let them know that the work was missed -Give no grade on report cards until all work has been submitted
Grade 6 - first missed assignment NOTE: This is for one assignment only. A second missed assignment, even in another class, follows the guidelines listed in the line above.
-Submit the work the following day
-Assess and grade the work -Note the missed due date for other teachers
Long Term Absences/Exceptional Circumstances
-Inform the school of any exceptional circumstances for absences -Work with the teacher on setting appropriate due dates
-Set appropriate new deadlines for students -Work with students to make sure that they understand work that has been missed -Assess and grade all work that comes in by the new deadline
Planning Ahead
Work Not Submitted
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Primary students participate in a weekly assembly SECTION IV: WHAT OTHER SERVICES DOES THE SCHOOL PROVIDE? A. HOW DOES MY CHILD GET FED EVERY DAY? PSI offers a lunch programme provided by a private catering company. Alternatively, students may bring their lunch from home. Both Primary and Secondary students eat in the cafeteria during their assigned daily lunch periods. The School recognises that some students may have special nutritional needs or individual preferences, and encourages parents to prepare their child’s lunch when this is the case. Lunch The cafeteria offers both hot meals and cold sandwiches for lunch each day. In either case, a vegetarian option is available. Hot Meal includes: a) Fresh vegetables, salad or soup, bread b) Main course c) Compote (home made fruit drink) d) Dessert *Note - Portion size depends on the age. Price for Hot Meal Tickets: The School will be sending out a tender for cafeteria services in the fall of 2017. Prices will be established when the catering company has been confirmed. This information will be shared with parents at that time.
Sandwich Menu includes: a) Sandwich b) Fresh lemonade
Price for Sandwich Menu:
Separate Dishes at Lunch Secondary students may opt to have separate lunch items as opposed to the full meal. In that case, their smart card is charged only for the purchases they make. 25
A La Carte Options
The cafeteria is open from the 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. each day. Parents may purchase items whenever they are in the building. Secondary students may purchase food or drink items during their break times, during DP students’ study periods and/or after the school day. However, food should be consumed in the cafeteria or the cafe only. Students may not take food into the classrooms. Secondary students should not bring food into the buildings or classrooms. Primary students are expected to bring their own snacks to school. In the event they have forgotten their snack, they may purchase items from the approved snacks list. Please note that food service options will change with the opening of the new cafeteria in October 2017. Parents will receive updated information as it becomes available.
B. WHAT OTHER SERVICES DOES THE SCHOOL PROVIDE? Learning Resource Support PSI offers limited support for children with identified special needs or learning difficulties. Typically, classroom teachers identify students who are struggling and work with the School’s learning support teachers, the administration and the student’s other teachers to identify the child's needs, develop strategies to support the child, and determine if further assessment is needed. Parents are always brought into these discussions so that the School can take a team approach with each child. Parents are also encouraged to contact the child’s homeroom or subject area teacher to discuss any on-going issues or concerns. Library Both the Primary and Secondary Schools have dedicated libraries with a combination of print materials and online resources. Students in EC - Grade 8 have scheduled library time, but all students can use the library. Parent are welcome to check out books for their children and themselves. Library Hours for Students Monday to Thursday Friday Library Hours for Parents Monday to Thursday
8.00 am – 4.00 pm 8.00 am – 3.00 pm
8.00 am – 8.45am 3.00 pm – 4.00 pm
Loaning Books Students in Early Childhood may check out one book at a time. Students in Kindergarten through Grade 5 may check out five books or four books and a DVD at one time. Secondary students (Grades 6 – 12) may borrow up to 4 books (2 fiction, 2 nonfiction). If a student is involved in a particular unit, this can be increased at the librarian’s discretion. Students may check out new books whenever they have returned books they currently have on loan. The normal loan period is two weeks; this can be extended twice, giving a total of 6 weeks maximum loan before the book(s) must be returned to the library. The library reserves the right to recall any book or item if it is needed within the School for a particular unit of study. Parents may visit the library during the times listed above and check out books in the names of their children. If a book is not returned for renewal after the initial two-week period, the librarian sends a reminder. After that time, the School considers the book as lost and requires payment to cover replacement costs. The minimum charge is $15 up to a maximum of $50. If the book is later found and returned, the fee is fully refunded. 26
Lost and Found The receptionist maintains the Lost and Found. Any item that is found should be turned in to her. Parents should clearly label lunch boxes, books, bags and clothes to make lost items easier to return to the appropriate owner. Students should not bring items of value to school. This includes large sums of money. We strongly encourage Secondary students to lock up any valuables in their lockers. The School cannot be held responsible for lost or stolen items. School Bus Transport Transport by bus between the School and home is available to students from EC3 to Grade 12 at an additional charge. Parents who decide to use the school’s transport service after they have paid for tuition should contact our bus programme coordinator, Lilya (bus@psi.kiev.ua). Each bus seats a maximum of 18 children. All buses are equipped with seat belts and all passengers must wear them at all times. The School has an adult monitor on each bus who speaks English and Ukrainian. Although the monitor may be different on afternoon bus runs, all monitors have a list of parent names and phone numbers. At the start of the school year and with each new ECA season, the bus programme coordinator informs parents of the name and mobile phone number of their child’s bus monitor and the time that the child will be collected from home each morning. In the evenings, Primary school children must be met at the bus stop by a known adult. As bus passengers, children at all grade levels must: ● Only get on or off the bus when it is fully stopped and they have been told to do so by the bus monitor ● Wear seat belts at all times ● Follow the directions of the bus monitor and ask for help if needed ● Report any concerns immediately to a bus monitor ● Stay seated and quiet during travel time ● Accept responsibility for being on time The bus schedule is organised so that the maximum journey time is 45 minutes, but traffic, road conditions, and weather can impact on this time. If either the morning or the evening bus is likely to be late, the bus monitor calls parents in advance with a revised time. If the bus programme is changed significantly in any way, the receptionist calls or sends an SMS to parents. However, if there are any concerns about the bus programme, please contact the bus programme coordinator bus@psi.kiev.ua. Students who wish to change their evening bus schedule for any reason must let the coordinator know by 10:00am the same day, or earlier if possible. Children riding the bus must have a written note from their parents if they are going home by any means other than their normal bus route. Technology Computer and Internet Use Modern, up-to-date computers are located in the IT office and the libraries, which are supervised by adult staff members. All Primary classrooms have Chromebook computers for student use, as well as other devices. The Secondary School has a Bring-Your-Own-Device programme that asks students to bring their own laptops to school. All computers are networked and have access to a dedicated Internet line. These computers and the Internet access are meant to support the curriculum and provide students and staff with the modern technology necessary for research and communication in today’s world. In addition, we also encourage Secondary students to bring headphones to School, as these are often used for language activities and multimedia use. Students bringing these devices to School are expected to use them respectfully, following the PSI Responsible 27
Use Policy (RUP)​ which is distributed and discussed on the first day of school. This includes following guidelines established by each teacher and may involve turning the devices off upon request. The students may not be on gaming sites during instructional time or ECA. They are not monitored for lunch time, breaks or on the bus. The School does encourage students to engage in games that are age appropriate and nonviolent. Please note that the school is not responsible for lost or stolen items, so we encourage students to keep electronic devices with them or lock them up. Phone and Mobile Use Primary Parents should consider carefully if a phone is needed at school for students in the Primary School. PSI recommends that it is not needed but does understand that phones can be considered a 'safety item' while travelling in the city before and after school. It is school policy that Primary School students may not use their cell phones during the day for any reason. This is from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm. The Reception phone is always available should a child need to call home for an important issue. If a family wishes to send a phone with their child, it must stay in their school bag during the school day. Any phones used during the school hours listed above will be confiscated until the end of the school day. Any repeat offences will result in parents either needing to come to school to collect the phone or phones not being allowed at all. Secondary Mobile phones may be used as educational tools (e.g., for access to the Internet, as calculators, etc.) at the teacher’s discretion. They may not be used in class for non-educational purposes and must be turned off and put away upon teacher request. Teachers may take the phones of any students using them inappropriately. Repeated offences may result in the phone being turned over to administration, who may ask parents to come and pick up the phone personally.
​Primary students participate in an assembly.
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SECTION V: HOW DOES THE SCHOOL MANAGE COMMUNICATIONS WITH PARENTS? A. WHAT STRATEGIES DOES THE SCHOOL USE TO COMMUNICATE WITH ME? Overview PSI promotes a positive partnership between teachers and parents as an important tool in ensuring student academic and behavioural success.Therefore, the School has put into place a number of procedures and events to foster this communication. Parents are encouraged to contact the staff and administration on a regular basis in order to be well-informed regarding their child’s progress. The language of instruction is English and all documentation is sent out in this language. Parents should make sure that they understand all our correspondence. Most often, we use email as a medium to contact parents, which is why it is extremely important that parents provide us with their current email addresses. Parents who need help understanding the content of any School communication should contact the sender as soon as possible for assistance. PSI has developed a comprehensive system for communicating student progress, news, and upcoming events. In order to keep parents from feeling overloaded, the School sends information home to groups of parents on Mondays and Fridays only. This includes class and school newsletters, announcements about field trips and other events, and requests for parent help. There are two exceptions to this rule. Emergency information (e.g., a school closure) will go out as needed. Teachers communicating with one parent regarding a student’s academic or behavioural issues may also send out letters on an as-needed basis. Publications and Announcements Below is an overview of strategies for helping parents stay well informed throughout the year.
What You’re Looking For
Where You Should Look
How You’ll Find It
An overview of the School’s ‘nuts and bolts’ for operation as well as major policies and procedures (for both Primary and Secondary School)
Parent and Student Handbook
Sent home in the first week of school Available on the website and MyPSI Available at reception
A weekly update from the homeroom teacher
Monday Homeroom Email
Sent by email on Mondays Homeroom teachers will share the weekly, news, events, homework, etc.
Announcements of upcoming meetings and events; summaries of the week just past
PSI Weekly Newsletter
Sent by email on Fridays Posted to Facebook and the website Hard copies in Reception area
General announcements and reminders (including community news)
Reception Bulletin Boards
Reception area
Announcements and meeting / event reminders
Facebook and Twitter
Online
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Descriptions of student learning and activities
PSI Life Magazine
Sent three times a year by e-mail Posted to Facebook and website Hard copies in Reception area
Primary curriculum and assessment (PYP)
Primary Programme Guide
On our website Admissions Office
Secondary curriculum and assessment (MYP and DP)
Secondary Programme Guide
On our website Admissions Office
Programme informationcross-school
Back-to-School Night Primary and Secondary Assemblies Special Events
Website, Facebook, MyPSI and newsletter advertise dates and locations
Daily and weekly classroom learning, homework, grades
MyPSI*
On-line system with a password-protected parent portal Available 24/7
Student progress
-Primary Reports: January and June, with updates after each Unit of Inquiry -Secondary: November, January, April and June reports Parent Conferences** Student Led Conferences**
MyPSI parent portal
Emergency information - school closing, cancelled ECAs, etc.
SMS, Facebook, website
Text messages sent directly to parents’ phones, email follow up. Posted on Facebook and website
Important information contagious diseases, etc.
Email and hard copy
Sent to parent emails. Primary students also take them home in hard copy
*MyPSI All teachers now maintain a web presence on MyPSI, the School’s database and communication system. All parents have access to the appropriate grade level websites and are encouraged to check these regularly for information about student learning, upcoming events, and student progress. Parents experiencing difficulty with access should contact the IT Department (it@psi.kiev.ua). **Meetings with Teachers Each fall, PSI offers a Back-to-School or Curriculum Afternoon to help all parents understand more about the daily functioning of the School. In addition, parent-teacher meetings are scheduled for two afternoons a year, usually following report cards. Parents make appointments with teachers through an Internet sign up system. Appointments for Parent Conferences are usually 15 minutes for Primary parents and 10 minutes per subject teacher in Secondary. While we promote and use a homework diary (Primary) or on-line calendar (Secondary) to help in communication, direct contact is always best when a student is having difficulties. We ask that parents meet with teachers upon request. In addition, we encourage any parent who wishes a meeting to make an appointment with the teacher.
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**Student-Led Conferences Students in EC - Grade 8 hold annual Student-Led Conferences in which they showcase their work for the year and discuss their learning challenges and accomplishments. Parents are requested to attend these conferences. They are not opportunities to discuss student progress with the teacher. They are designed as a way for students to communicate directly with their parents about their own annual progress.
B. WHAT ARE THE BEST WAYS FOR ME TO COMMUNICATE WITH THE SCHOOL? We encourage parents to always start as close to the source of the issue as possible. For example, classroom issues should be addressed first with the classroom teacher before moving it to the administrative level. To assist in that process, we have identified some of the key people running various programmes throughout the School. Who’s Who At PSI? If you have a question related to:
Person responsible:
Method of contact:
Classroom issues: ● progress of your child ● class routines ● schedule ● homework
Class teacher / Homeroom teacher
●
NOTE: Individual teacher address are listed in this handbook in the section on Staff.
● ●
Email or call the teacher for an appointment OR Email Primary school office at: primary@psi.kiev.ua Email Secondary school office at: secondary@psi.kiev.ua
Whole school issues, policy and John Burns, Director development, safety and security
johnb@psi.kiev.ua
Booking an appointment with the Tanya Nagaychenko, Director’s PA: director
directorspa@psi.kiev.ua
Primary school educational Sue Williams, Primary School Principal policies, organisation and routines Glen Nicholson, Assistant Principal
suew@psi.kiev.ua glenn@psi.kiev.ua
Secondary school educational policies, organisation and procedures
Patricia Puia, Secondary School Principal Paul Horkan, Assistant Principal
patriciap@psi.kiev.ua paulh@psi.kiev.ua
PYP curriculum questions MYP curriculum questions DP curriculum / exam questions
Glen Nicholson, PYP Coordinator Paul Horkan, MYP Coordinator David Freeman, Diploma Coordinator
glenn@psi.kiev.ua paulh@psi.kiev.ua davidf@psi.kiev.ua
Extra-Curricular Activities (ECAs) Peter Hausz & Natasha Griboyedova
eca@psi.kiev.ua
Athletic events, CEESA events and teams
Ric Floyd, Athletic Director
richardf@psi.kiev.ua
Guidance and College Counseling
Felina Heart (K- Grade 5) Michele Basu (Grades 6 - 12)
felinah@pai.kiev.ua micheleb@psi.kiev.ua
Mother Tongue Languages
Natasha Griboyedova
natashag@psi.kiev.ua
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Health Issues
School Clinic
doctor@psi.kiev.ua leraz@psi.kiev.ua
Accounting and Billing
Anna Solopova, Cashier
cashier@psi.kiev.ua
Victor Kurbatov, Registrar
registrar@psi.kiev.ua
Booking of school facilities
Victoria Ischenko Receptionist /Communications Officer
secretary@psi.kiev.ua
Bus service/routes
Lilia Gotvyanska, Bus Coordinator
bus@psi.kiev.ua
Security Cards
Andriy Sorokin, Head of Security
security@psi.kiev.ua
Absences
Alina Berezhna, Attendance Secretary
Changes in parent contact information (emails, phone numbers, etc) withdrawal from school
absence@psi.kiev.ua
Written Communication with School PSI recognises the need for clear communication channels between parents and the school. We particularly support the opportunity for parents and teachers to communicate directly via email. Teachers’ email addresses are emailed to families separately at the beginning of the school year and are available in the Staff section of this handbook. Please note the following parental guidelines in the use of any email communication with the school: ● Emails can be used to inform the teachers of something that happened at home or to ask questions that require only a brief answer. ● If there are issues that require a discussion or a longer explanation, it is better to arrange an appointment with the teacher. ● The nature of some teacher schedules may result in some emails only being answered the next day, but we try to answer all correspondence within 24 hours. ● Any urgent issues that need to be dealt with the same day need to be communicated via the secretaries. ● Any communication between home and school should always be cordial and respectful. Procedure for Parental Concerns PSI recognises the need for the home and the school to address concerns effectively and provides them with a procedure for constructive discussion. The steps below are to be followed strictly. Step One: The parents should communicate with the subject or homeroom teacher. Step Two: The parents have the right to confer with the relevant subject or programme coordinator if, after seeing the teacher, they require further discussion. Step Three: If, after seeing the relevant coordinator, the matter is not resolved and the parents require further discussion, an appointment may be set with the principal or assistant principal. The parents may reasonably expect a response within five (5) working days. Step Four: If the parents feel the issue is not addressed, they may bring the matter to the director whose decision is final. Once again, an appointment must be made through the director’s personal assistant (PA). The director will respond within five (5) working days.
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Parent Conduct Policy PSI is an orderly and safe school, where relationships between staff and visitors, especially parents, must demonstrate mutual respect and a recognition of shared responsibility for students’ welfare and educational progress. Parental involvement is an important factor in the educational success and in dealing with emerging problems at an early stage. The PSI governing body is responsible for protecting the health and safety of school staff and students. Violence, threatening behaviour, and abuse against school staff or other members of the school community are not tolerated. All members of the school community have a right to expect that their school is a safe place in which to work and learn. Such acts include but are not limited to threatening or actual physical violence, intimidation, unwarranted verbal or written threats of legal or police action, shouting, swearing, inappropriate emails and acts of cyberbullying. Where such behaviour does occur, school staff must know that their employer will play a proactive role in taking all possible action to deal with it. These include the following stepped sanctions that will be applied according to the severity of the incident: ● A written warning to parents from the director ● Referral to the board, which may result in a parent being temporarily suspended from campus ● Referral to the board which may result in expulsion of the student from the School. The School may seek the involvement of police and/or an employer if required. PSI staff receive advice on procedures to follow in dealing with such incidents.
C. HOW DOES THE SCHOOL WORK WITH OUTSIDE TUTORS? PSI teachers and administrators are happy to work with students, parents and tutors on supporting students as they work at home. These guidelines are meant to provide some information about the best ways for all of us to do that. Parents should: ● Help the tutor understand the student must turn in his / her own work. Tutors and parents may not do work for students! At Primary, the student may be asked to re-do the work if it appears the tutor or parent has done the work. At Secondary, s/he will receive a zero. ● Provide the names, contact information, and subjects of any tutors to the classroom or subject area teacher. ● Send the school written permission to release information about the student to the tutor; PSI cannot release any student information without a signed release from parents. Tutors should: ● Keep in contact with the classroom teacher for clarifications, access issues, student needs and progress ● Access materials via the student’s MyPSI and / or through the classroom teacher ● Work with the students on that material by supporting them in their efforts, but not doing the work for them ● Support and assist students with formative assignments, including some extra practice if needed ● Ensure that summative assessments are the student's own independent work with no outside influence or assistance
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●
Recognise that assignments, rubrics, worksheets and resources are the intellectual property of PSI and may not be used for other purposes
Students should: ● Help tutors with access to MyPSI ● Keep track of their assignments and due dates ● Ask the teacher questions to make sure that all assignments are understood ● Ensure that all work completed is their own and not the work of a tutor, parent, other student, or outside source PSI will: ● Work with tutors to help them understand the IB programmes, requirements of assignments, and needs of the student ● Communicate with parents about student progress ● Communicate with tutors about students only with the written permission of parents
D. HOW DOES PSI HELP ME COMMUNICATE WITH MY CHILD’S NEXT SCHOOL OR UNIVERSITY? PSI will assist students and their families who are applying to other schools or universities. Typically, this involves requests for report cards, transcripts, predicted grades in DP, application forms and letters of reference. Please be aware that we work under the following guidelines: ● Parents should provide the admissions office with pertinent data prior to withdrawing their child. We encourage parents to begin the process as early as possible to ensure that we are able to help them meet any deadlines set by the receiving school. PSI needs 7 - 10 working days to process requests. ● The School provides time, space and a supervisor for exams from the receiving school. Parents are invoiced for this service. ● Parents must be in good standing with the school’s Finance Office. This means that all tuition fees, CEESA costs and other bills must be paid in full. Upon departure, all final fees - including lost books or resources, must be paid before a final release of records. ● Students receive a checkout form that must be signed by teachers, the librarian, the Finance Office and the principal to indicate that all materials have been turned in and all work is up-to-date. ● PSI sends transcripts, predicted grades, application forms and letters of reference only to the receiving school, university or organisation (e.g., UCAS). We will not release them directly to students, parents or agents of parents. This helps the receiving school ensure that the information is accurate and ensures that letters of reference are confidential. PSI releases prior report cards and letters confirming attendance dates to parents upon request. ● Parents who hire outside agents to assist with school or university searches must contact the principal and/or counsellor to provide the name and contact information of the agent. Again, PSI will not release paperwork directly to the agent, but we are happy to work with those individuals on preparing appropriate documentation for the receiving schools.
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SECTION VI: WHO ARE THE TEACHERS AND ADMINISTRATORS WHO WORK WITH MY CHILD EVERY DAY? Who is our staff? PSI recruits teachers from around the world. All of our teachers have college degrees in the areas of their teaching assignment and nearly two-thirds have advanced degrees. Candidates go through a rigorous selection process that includes multiple interviews, reference checks and policy security clearances. Administration Name
Nationality
Position
Credentials
John Burns
Australia
Director
-BEd - Primary School PE & Sports Science -South Australian College of Advanced Education
johnb@psi.kiev.ua
Patricia Puia
USA
Secondary Principal -MA Ed Leadership (Western Michigan Univ – USA) -BS Secondary Education – (Eastern Michigan Univ – USA)
patriciap@psi.kiev.ua
Sue Wiliams
USA
Primary Principal
-Certificate of Advanced Study in Educational Leadership (Cortland University - USA) -M.Ed Reading (Binghamton University - USA) -B.Ed Elementary Education/Middle School Social Studies (Cortland University - USA)
suew@psi.kiev.ua
Paul Horkan
Ireland
Secondary Assistant Principal MYP Coordinator
-BA (Univ. College Galway, Ireland) -Higher Diploma in Education (Galway, Ireland)
paulh@psi.kiev.ua
Name
Nationality
Position
Credentials
Glen Nicholson
New Zealand
Primary Assistant Principal PYP Coordinator
-Teaching Diploma in Primary School Teaching (University of Waikato, New Zealand)
glenn@psi.kiev.ua
David Freeman
USA
IB Diploma Coordinator DP English
-D.Ed Educational Leadership (University of Sth. Mississippi, USA) -MA English, BA Spanish (Florida Atlantic University, USA)
davidf@psi.kiev.ua
Rex Santos
USA
IT Integration
-Bachelor of Science in Management, (University of Phoenix, AZ, USA)
rexs@psi.kiev.ua
Bryan Reardon
New Zealand
Assistant PYP Coordinator
-BEd (Auckland University. New Zealand)
bryanr@psi.kiev.ua
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Primary Teaching Staff Name
Nationality
Position
Credentials
Andrea Armistead
Canada
EC
-BEd (University of Winnipeg, Canada) -BA (University of Winnipeg, Canada)
andreaa@psi.kiev.ua
Rodger Armistead
Canada
Grade 4 Maths Coordinator
-MEd (Acadia University, Canada) -Baccalaureat en Education (University of Manitoba, Canada)
rodgera@psi.kiev.ua
Anna Belokon
Ukraine
Art
-MEd (Framingham State College, USA) -MA (Kyiv Linguistic University)
annab@psi.kiev.ua
Sarah Browne
UK
Grade 5
-Bachelor of Arts (Bedford College of Higher Education, UK)
sarahb@psi.kiev.ua
Clare Cannon
USA
EC
-MA of Arts in Teaching (Belmont University, USA) -BFA (Belmont University, USA)
clarec@psi.kiev.ua
Annie Desjardins
Canada
PE
-BA Physical Education; University Laval; Quebec, Canada
annied@psi.kiev.ua
Gretchen Foster
USA
Music
-Master Degree, Music Education, (University of South Florida, USA)
gretchenf@psi.kiev.ua
Kailyn Fullerton
Canada
Kindergarten
-Graduate Diploma in Education (Primary) -Bachelor of Arts (The University of Guelph, Canada)
kailynf@psi.kiev.ua
Jane Harrison
UK
Grade 4
-PGCE (University of Warwick, UK ) -BA Hons Geography (University of Reading, UK)
janeh@psi.kiev.ua
Melissa Hutton
UK/Turkey
Grade 1
-BA in Early Childhood (Boston College, USA)
melissah@psi.kiev.ua
Olga Ivanova
Ukraine
Ukrainian
-MA in Teaching Foreign Languages and Literature (Taras Shevchenko National University, Ukraine)
olgai@psi.kiev.ua
Kendall Jackson
USA
Kindergarten
-Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, USA
kendallj@psi.kiev.ua
Valerie Laitinen
USA
Grade 3
-MA of Arts (The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University, USA) -BA of Arts (Harvard College, USA)
valeriel@psi.kiev.ua
Laura Lamb
USA
Grade 1
-Masters of Elementary Education (The University of Southern Mississippi,USA)
laural@psi.kiev.ua
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Name
Nationality
Position
Credentials
Javier Larrauri
Spain
Spanish
-MA Cultural Management (University of Alcalá, Spain) -BA (University of Alcalá, Spain)
javierl@psi.kiev.ua
Jane Leuders
US
Grade 2
-M.A. in Critical and Creative Thinking, (University of Massachusetts, Boston, MA, USA)
janel@psi.kiev.ua
Julie Ann Mirse
USA
Gr 3-5 EAL
-BA of Science (Tennesse Technological University, USA)
juliem@psi.kiev.ua
Lisa Monkus
USA
Gr 2
-BA University of Colorado Denver
lisam@psi.kiev.ua
Pinar Nicholson
New Zealand/Tur key
EC
-Teaching Diploma in Early Childhood Education (Tertiary College, New Zealand)
pinarn@psi.kiev.ua
Bryan Reardon
New Zealand
Grade 5 Maths Coordinator
-BEd (Auckland University. New Zealand)
bryanr@ps.kiev.ua
Kimberly Shannon
USA
GK-2 EAL Language Coordinator
-MA of Arts in Education (University of Colorado, USA) -BA of Arts (Metropolitan State College of Denver, USA)
kimberlys@psi.kiev.ua
Jonathan Simon
USA
Grade 2
-Elementary Teaching Certificate, Elementary Education, (Harris-Stowe University, USA)
jonathans@psi.kiev.ua
Natalya Sosunova
Ukraine
Russian
-Masters Degree (Pedagogical University, Kyiv) -Master of education (Framingham State College, USA)
natalyas@psi.kiev.ua
Jessie Stoll
USA
Grade 3 Primary Production Coordinator
-BA of Arts Social Studies Education (St Olaf College of Education, USA)
jessies@psi.kiev.ua
Alla Polianska
Ukraine
Russian
BA, 2011, Kiev National Pedagogical University of Dragomanova, World Literature and English Language
allap@psi.kiev.ua
MA, 2012, Kiev National Pedagogical University of Dragomanova, German and English Language, World Literature Valeria Yermolenko
Ukraine
Physical and Health Education (PHE)
-Masters Degree (European University, Kyiv) -Bachelor Degree (Pedagogical University, Kyiv)
valg@psi.kiev.ua
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Secondary Staff Name
Nationality
Position
Credentials
Fiona Aris
UK
G10 Homeroom MYP Individuals and Societies DP Economics
-Institute of Education, Business & Economics, PGCE
fionaa@psi.kiev.ua
Tito Basu
USA
MYP Individuals and Societies DP History and TOK
AB English and Philosophy (Dartmouth College, USA) PhD Philosophy (Duke University, USA) JD Law (West Virginia University, USA)
titob@psi.kiev.ua
Olga Berezhna*
Ukraine
MYP/DP French Languages HOD*
-MA (Gorlovka State Linguistic University, Ukraine)
olgab@psi.kiev.ua
Julie Burke
USA
G6 Homeroom MYP and PSI Maths
-MA in Curriculum and Instruction In Maths (University of Phoenix, USA)
julieb@psi.kiev.ua
Olga Busenko
Ukraine
MYP/DP Russian
-MA (Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv)
olgab@psi.kiev.ua
Paul Christopher
USA
MYP English MYP Drama
-MA of Art (University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, USA) -Bachelor of Science Education (University Wisconsin-Madison USA)
paulc@psi.kiev.ua
Amy Davis
USA
G9 Homeroom MYP/DP Maths
-BA, Secondary Mathematics (University of South Florida, USA)
amyd@psi.kiev.ua
Annie Desjardins
Canada
PYP/MYP Physical and Health Education
-BA, Physical Education (Laval University, Canada)
annied@psi.kiev.ua
Jane Ellys*
USA
MYP EAL EAL HOD
-MA Science in Education and Reading (University of New York) -Bachelor of Arts in French / Secondary Education (State University of New York, USA)
janee@psi.kiev.ua
Chip Faircloth
USA
MYP Individuals and Societies DP Geography
-BA, History; MA Learning Disabilities (College of Charleston, South Carolina, USA)
chipf@psi.kiev.ua
Ric Floyd*
Australia
MYP PE PE HOD Athletic Director
-Bachelor of Teaching, PE Major (University of Central Queensland, Australia)
richardf@psi.kiev.ua
David Freeman
USA
G12 Homeroom MYP/DP English English HOD
-D.Ed Educational Leadership (University of Sth. Mississippi, USA) -MA English, BA Spanish (Florida Atlantic University, USA)
davidf@psi.kiev.ua
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Name
Nationality
Position
Credentials
Mica Gaard*
USA
G7 Homeroom MYP Music MYP Service Learning
-BA of Arts in Music Education (University of California, USA)
micag@psi.kiev.ua
Cory Haugen
USA
G7 Homeroom MYP English
-BA, Education (University of Wisconsin, USA)
coryh@psi.kiev.ua
Peter Hausz
Hungary
Physical and Health Education (PHE) ECA Coordinator Assistant Athletic Director
-Master of Physical education (Semmelweis University, Hungary)
peterh@psi.kiev.ua
Michael Holland
USA
G6 Homeroom MYP Science DP Environmental Systems
-BA of Arts (University of California, USA)
michaelh@psi.kiev.ua
Paul Horkan
Ireland
MYP English MYP Coordinator Assistant Principal
-BA (Univ. College Galway, Ireland) -Higher Diploma in Education (Galway, Ireland)
paulh@psi.kiev.ua
Katy Hourston*
Scotland
Grade 10 Homeroom MYP Individuals and Societies Personal Project
-MA International Relations (St Andrews Univ, UK) -PGCE (Sunderland Univ, UK) -CELTA (International House, UK)
katyh@psi.kiev.ua
Rachael Huddleston
USA
MYP/DP Art
-Master of Art, Art Education, (Virginia Commonwealth University, USA)
rachaelh@psi.kiev.ua
Tatiana Isakova*
Ukraine
DP Mathematics Maths HOD DP CAS
-PhD Mathematics (Academy of Science, Ukraine) -MA English , MA Mathematics (Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv)
tatianai@psi.kiev.ua
Kelli Karg*
USA
MYP/DP English
-Ms.Ed (University of Illinois Urbana Champaign Global Studies , USA) -Ba.Ed (University of Northern Colorado, USA)
kellik@psi.kiev.ua
Brian Lamb*
USA
G8 Homeroom MYP Science DP Chemistry
-Masters of Science (The University of Southern Mississippi,USA)
brianl@psi.kiev.ua
John Landucci
USA
MYP Design
-Masters of Education (National University, USA) -Bachelors of Science, Business (California State University, USA)
johnl@psi.kiev.ua
Callum Marshall
UK
MYP/DP Maths
-B.Sc. Math. (The University of Glasgow, UK)
callumm@psi.kiev.ua
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Name
Nationality
Position
Credentials
Patrick Notue
Cameroon
MYP French
-BA, International Relations
patrickn@psi.kiev.ua
Rory Parkinson*
UK
MYP/DP Design Tech Integration
-BA, Information Technology and Society (University of Portsmouth, UK)
roryp@psi.kiev.ua
Audra Santos
USA
G11 Homeroom MYP Science DP Biology
-Bachelor of Science, (Texas A&M University, USA)
audras@psi.kiev.ua
Annahita Sarty
USA
G9 Homeroom MYP/DP Spanish Extended Essay Coordinator
-Master of Science, Multidisciplinary Studies, (Buffalo State University, USA)
annahitas@psi.kiev.ua
James Spencer
UK
G9 Homeroom MYP EAL
-Teaching Diploma, English Language & German, (Paedagogische Akademie der Erzdioezese Wien, Austria)
jamess@psikiev.ua
Shawna Sturk
Canada
G6-12 Learning Resource
Zina Volkova
Ukraine
G11 Homeroom MYP/DP Russian
-MA (Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv)
zinav@psi.kiev.ua
Dan Whalley
Canada
MYP Sciences DP Physics
-BSc Physics (Queen’s University, Canada) -B.Ed Education (Trent University, Canada)
danw@psi.kiev.ua
Erik Zambrano
USA / Mexico
MYP Drama DP Theatre Arts
shawnas@psi.kiev.ua
erikz@psi.kiev.ua
*HOD - Head of Department
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The PSI staff celebrates the 80th birthday of our groundsman, Valentin Learning Support Name
Nationality
Position
Credentials
Michele Basu
USA
Grades 6 - 12 Counsellor
MA Counsellor Education (University of South Florida, USA) BA Psychology and Art, University of South Florida, USA)
micheleb@psi.kiev.ua
Felina Heart
USA
EC - G8 Counsellor
-MEd. in Counseling (Sam Houston State University, USA) -BA Speech Communications (Sam Houston State University, USA)
felinah@psi.kiev.ua
Kimberly Holland
USA
K - Grade 5 Learning Resource Teacher
-Master of Education, Special Education, (University of California, Santa Barbara, USA)
kimberlyh@psi.kiev.ua
Polina Spencer
Russia
G6-12 Librarian
-Master Degree in Foreign Philology -German Language and Literature (Moscow National University)
polinas@psi.kiev.ua
Shawna Sturk
Canada
Grades 6 - 12 Learning Resource Teacher
BA Human Ecology/Special Education (University of Alberta Canada)
shawnas@psi.kiev.ua
Pam York
UK
EC - G8 Librarian
-Bachelor of Education and Humanity (University of Wales, UK)
pamy@psi.kiev.ua
41
Secondary teachers help support a CAS project in support of a local animal shelter
SECTION VII: HOW DOES PSI MAKE SURE THAT STUDENTS ARE SAFE AND SECURE? A. HOW DOES THE PICK UP AND DROP OFF SYSTEM WORK? The road that runs in front of the school is a busy one. It is used by many residents who live (and park) in the area as well as by school parents. The guidelines below are aimed at helping us work together to the advantage of all PSI community members. The safety of the students on the street is paramount. Street Speed Please be mindful of many cars on the street and students who might walk out from between them. Always drive at a speed that allows you to stop easily. Small children entering or exiting the campus may not always use the pedestrian crossing. Drive in a manner to keep them safe at all times. Your increased vigilance is very important every day. Traffic Movement and Flow Shkil’na and Victor Zabily Streets are narrow, with residential parking on both sides. To avoid traffic blockages, drivers are kindly asked to use the following route of movement at all times. ● Go up from Holosiivska Street to Shkil'na Street to drop off / pick up students just after the main gate / zebra crossing and then go from the main gate (Shkil'na Street) onto Viktora Zabily Street and away from the school. This ‘one way’ circulation will help all vehicles move as quickly as possible and without blocking the area outside the main gate. ● NOTE - Please do not enter Shkil’na Street and approach the school from this direction as we consider it it ‘one way’ for traffic flow purposes.
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Front Gate and School Crossing Please do not park or wait in front of the school’s main gates. Drivers must keep moving as much as possible and ‘loop around’ a second time if the pickup cannot be made automatically. We ask everyone to keep moving, as this area is a no parking zone. Observe the pedestrian / zebra crossing in front of the School. The crossing allows people to walk across the street safely. Cars should not park or stop (for drop off or pickup) on the crossing itself at any time. Please stop just before or just after the marked crossing for maximum safety. Drivers are reminded to please be patient and allow pedestrians to cross first, as they have the right of way on the crosswalk. General Parking The slowing of traffic often comes from people parking on corners, ‘double ranked’, parking across driveways and generally in a manner that limits the road space. Please park with traffic movement in mind and not in these places. Parents or drivers bringing students to and from school or visiting the school for other reasons are asked to park on Victor Zabily. Longer Term / All Day Parking If you have a driver waiting for your child during the school day, please ask your driver to park a little further away and have students call them to the gate when required. In particular, this refers to drivers who park at School for many hours or all day. In these cases, do not park in front of the length of the school building (on Shkil’na Street). Please keep the nearby parking area clear for visitors and parents with younger children. B. HOW DOES THE SCHOOL HANDLE ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE OF STUDENTS IN A SAFE WAY? PSI Security System / Security Cards Staff, students, parents and parent representative (relatives, drivers, nannies, personal security staff, etc.) must all apply for and have PSI Security Cards to enter the school campus. All pedestrians enter the school campus at the front / main gate only. Staff, students, parents, parent representatives and bus students must have their Security Card with them each day, when arriving to and leaving from the school campus. The School’s expectation is that representatives (nannies, drivers, etc.) will spend a minimal amount of time on campus. They may be here only for drop offs in the morning, to deliver lunches to the reception area and again at pickup time at 2:30. 43
PSI Security and Security Card policy information is provided on enrolment and can be accessed at any time from the PSI Security Manager: security@psi.kiev.ua Mornings Morning Arrival Time - Prior To 8:45 am Parents / parent representatives are required to accompany Primary School students into the school campus front / main gate. Morning Arrival / Afternoon Departure Primary School students must have designated adults who are registered and responsible for dropping them off and picking them up from inside the school campus. These adults must apply for and obtain a PSI Security Card for this purpose. Early Childhood and Primary School students are not permitted to leave the campus alone or to walk out to drivers and cars unaccompanied. Secondary students may arrive to and leave from campus unattended unless otherwise instructed by parents. Late Arrival to School We ask parents to ensure that all children are on campus by 8:15 a.m. in order arrive in their homerooms no later than 8:25. In Primary, students who arrive late should report immediately to the Reception Desk and then go to their homerooms. In Secondary, students who arrive between 8:25 and 8:35 should go first to their homerooms, where they will be marked late. After 8:35, Secondary students should sign in at the Reception Desk and then proceed to their scheduled classes. School Day Limited Campus Access Times - Parent Representative Only Parent representatives (relatives, drivers, nannies, personal security staff, etc.) have limited access to the school campus between 8:45 am and 2:45 pm, daily. ● Parent representatives will be stopped at the front / main gate and their ‘school business’ checked. ● Parent representatives entering the school campus will then report to PSI Reception regarding their business in all cases. ● Parent representatives are not permitted in the general buildings and corridors during the school day, including to drop off lunches. ● During the school day, parent representatives are not permitted to be waiting in the general school grounds, playground or in PSI Reception. Lunch Drop Off Parent representatives (relatives, drivers, nannies, personal security staff, etc.) are permitted to enter the school campus to drop off student lunches. For both the Primary and Secondary School, this is done only at PSI Reception, where a table is established and labelled for this lunch drop off purpose. Parent representatives are to leave lunches here and then leave the school campus without waiting. Students are responsible for taking their own containers, etc. home at the end of each school day. Early Departure from Campus We ask parents not to take their children out of School earlier than the usual dismissal time. However, if students are sick or have an appointment that cannot reasonably be scheduled at another time, students must follow the checkout procedure. In Primary, students need to be signed out at Reception. In Secondary, students must have a form signed by their classroom teacher(s) and an administrator in order to leave the campus. Parents should confirm their permission by email and indicate who will pick the child up (Primary) or give permission for students 44
to leave unattended (Secondary). Students at all grade levels will not be released until we have confirmed parent permission Late Departure Afternoon Leaving Time - After 2:45 pm Parents / parent representatives are required to retrieve Primary School children from inside the School grounds and leave with them. Parents / parent representatives in Early Childhood through Kindergarten are asked to pick up students directly from the child’s classroom. Staying On Campus Beyond the School Day Students who do not have Extra Curricular Activities (ECAs) after school should leave campus at the end of the school day. The campus is officially closed at 5:00 pm, Monday to Friday. Students cannot be on campus after this time without supervision. When official school programmes, special events and sporting events, etc,. take place beyond 5:00 pm, a teacher or ECA leader supervises the students involved and areas of the campus being used for that event. After 5:00 pm, unattended students must remain with the PSI security staff or under their supervision in the reception area until their parents arrive to collect them.
General Departure (Primary) Leaving Campus with Adults (Primary) Each Primary student should have designated adults who are responsible for picking students up from School. Those adults must submit photo identification when they have their security cards issued. They should carry their security cards at all times. On occasion, parents may want their child to go home with another adult. In that case, parents must email PSI Reception with the name of those parents and give their express permission for their child to go home with that person. If this does not happen, the School will keep the child on campus until we are able to contact parents and confirm.
C. HOW DOES PSI ENSURE SAFETY ON CAMPUS DURING THE SCHOOL DAY? Student Visitors Students not enrolled in the School must have special permission to be on campus during school hours. Permission to bring a guest must be obtained from the Secondary or Primary principal at least one day in advance. The student’s homeroom teacher should also be notified in advance. All visiting students are expected to abide by school rules and protocols. Safety Protocols The School has emergency evacuation procedures that are reviewed annually. Every classroom contains a diagram demonstrating the proper exit should an emergency occur. Teachers practice these procedures with
45
their students and all-school emergency evacuation and lockdown drills are held each semester. It is essential that parents maintain updated home and emergency addresses and contact phone numbers in the school office for use in an emergency situation. Medical Care The School employs a doctor and a medic who are in our first aid room, which is located on the ground floor of the Primary building. The medic is on call during school hours and during our after school activity programme. Parents are notified immediately if their child requires medical attention. PSI also employs the Borys emergency ambulance service should this be necessary. Students taking prescription medication should have a signed form on file that indicates either that they have parental permission to self-medicate or that the doctor or medic has permission to give them their medication as directed by the prescribing physician.
D. HOW DOES PSI WORK TO ENSURE SAFETY ON CAMPUS BEYOND THE SCHOOL WEEK? After Hours, Weekend and Holiday Campus Use PSI families are welcome to use the outdoor and sporting facilities after hours and on weekends. Students can only be on campus if they are fully supervised by a school parent (unless they are part of an official and supervised school activity). Facilities must be booked with the school reception office, who logs these bookings with school security. Families must not enter buildings and classrooms. Booking ahead with the school staff is important, as there are often many bookings made for weekends. Families with official bookings have the priority to use the gym, football pitch and other outdoor facilities. Please note that some parts of the campus may be unavailable during holiday weeks when capital building projects are underway.
Saturday Super Sports Classes Students should arrive 15 minutes before their class begins and leave within 15 minutes of the activity’s completion. Because these are official PSI activities, a teacher / tutor will be on campus to supervise the students during this period of time. Outside of this period of time, students are the responsibility (and must be supervised) by a school parent to be on campus. If this does not occur, students will remain with the PSI security staff or under their supervision in the reception area until their parents arrive to collect them. New Facilities As we launch our new facilities, we are also increasing our safety and security measures. Additional security staff, two lifeguards for the pool, and revised supervision duties for teachers will all be in place to ensure that the facilities are used safely both during the school day and beyond.
E. HOW DOES PSI ENSURE SAFETY FOR STUDENTS IN SCHOOL-RELATED OFF CAMPUS ACTIVITIES? Field Trips Teachers must apply to take field trips and complete a risk assessment for each trip. This includes a review of the proposed site of the trip to determine that it is safe and healthy for children, an identification of the nearest hospital and plan for handling emergencies. All trip leaders travel with a first aid kit and a phone. All field trips must observe a 10:1 student : teacher ratio. In addition, a PSI security guard accompanies all day trips. Other adults - including nannies, drivers and bodyguards - are not allowed on PSI field trips. 46
Overnight Trips Teachers and coaches complete a risk assessment for all trips, as indicated above. At least two teachers accompany each trip, regardless of the size of the group. On the Week without Walls, the 10: 1 ratio is observed as a minimum requirement. At least one teacher on the trip is trained in basic first aide. All trip leaders travel with a school phone that parents may contact in an emergency. For CEESA and local league athletics, a trained medical person (doctor, nurse or emergency medical technician) is present at all games. Other adults - including nannies, drivers and bodyguards - are not allowed on PSI overnight trips.
F. WHAT STEPS HAS PSI TAKEN TO ENSURE THAT ISSUES OF CHILD PROTECTION ARE APPROPRIATELY HANDLED? Child Protective Behaviours Handbook A team of teachers, counsellors and administrators has completed a Child Protective Behaviours Handbook . This manual provides detailed protocols for the School, parents and students to handle a range of issues related to child safety and security. We encourage you to read this manual carefully to understand your role and the School’s role in protecting children at risk. Reporting Procedures The School provides a range of options based on a variety of factors, including Ukrainian / non-Ukrainian cases, degree of risk / injury, local support services available, who the perpetrator is (school / non-school). This flowchart outlines the steps we take when a report is made.
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Any member of the school community should immediately report suspicions of abuse, self-injury, suicidal ideation or other behaviours or statements that raise concerns for an individual’s safety / well-being. Reports should be made in person to the appropriate building principal and/or counsellor on the same day and in a timely manner (before student dismissal). At that point, the reporting person will be asked to complete the report form. Please note that all staff members are required to report suspicions. Parents and students can complete a safety net form through MyPSI. Once a report has been made the administration works through a number of steps, outlined in the Child Protection Handbook. The School works with the family as well as with a range of outside services and support systems, including embassies, employers, social workers, psychologists and police officers. We encourage parents to attend Parent Education Tuesdays (PETs) that will be offered throughout the year to further explain the system and everyone’s responsibilities. Confidentiality 48
Employees MUST report suspected incidents and behaviours to an administrator or counsellor. This includes all formats of communication (conversations, email, letters, written survey results, etc.). The employee is not allowed to discuss the situation with anyone beyond an administrator or school counsellor. Training PSI trains all employees in child protective behaviours protocols and asks all employees - including substitute teachers and ECA providers - to sign a code of conduct pledging to ensure child safety. Counsellors and administrators receive additional training through regional workshops provided by CEESA, the Council for International Schools and other international organisations. Counsellors provide parent workshops through the School’s Parent Education Tuesday (PET) programme. Those presentations are advertised in advance through the Friday newsletter. Educating Students The K-10 homeroom curriculum includes specific and age-appropriate instruction for all children about how they can keep themselves safe. This includes but is not limited to internet safety, ‘stranger danger,’ identifying and coping with abuse, and reporting procedures. Guardianship If both parents are out of Kyiv for more than one day, the School must be informed of a nominated guardian for their child via the appropriate building secretary. The parents must provide the name of the guardian, the address (if different than the student’s usual address) and a phone number and email of the guardian. The intent of this policy is to insure that students have adequate supervision, medical and health care, and that the school has appropriate adults to consult in case of injury, accident and/or behavioural or learning problems. Students admitted to PSI are expected to have usual and customary parent/and or guardianship supervision during their tenure at PSI. They should be domiciled with a parent or guardian over the age of 25 years who is known to the School. Guardians must be officially declared to the satisfaction of the School. If PSI administration determines that a student is not domiciled as described above, s/he may be withdrawn from attendance at PSI. A permanent change in guardianship should be reported to the School, or the student may be subject to withdrawal. Health & Safety Documents You can find all of these documents in MyPSI! Area
Description
Health & Safety Responsibilities
Health & Safety - (Role & Responsibilities).
Crisis Management Plan
The school and community plan for a major incident or crisis.
Emergency Communication Plan
How we communicate emergency situations (including school closures) to the community during a school day or after hours.
Annual Emergency Drills Timeline
The plan for a range of emergency drills for each quarter of the school year.
Campus Evacuation / Fire Policy
Policy to evacuate the buildings in any emergency (to the football field).
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Campus Lock Down Policy
Policy to ‘lock down’ the school in an emergency regarding a security threat to the campus.
Child Protective Behaviours Handbook
Guidelines and protocols for dealing with issues related to child safety
Kindergarten students perform at their concert.
GUIDELINES FOR PRIMARY STUDENTS AND PARENTS
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Primary students enjoy watching a professional puppet show
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SECTION I: HOW DOES THE DAY WORK? A. HOW DOES THE SCHOOL HANDLE RECESS? Recess and Lunch Breaks In Primary, there is a fifteen-minute morning recess and a forty-minute lunch with recess. Currently, when weather permits, students will play in the courtyard between the two buildings. Once the construction is complete, children will play on the dedicated playgrounds located between the Primary and new building. Students are watched by monitors and there is always a teaching staff member present with them. Students must stay in the play area during recess and lunch break. Recess rules prohibit pushing, shoving, or fighting of any sort. The throwing of snowballs is not permitted. When weather conditions prohibit the use of the outside play areas, Primary students remain in their homerooms under the supervision of the homeroom teacher, monitor or teacher assistant (TA). Recess and Weather The School feels it is of utmost importance for children to play outside on a daily basis. The health and academic benefits of fresh air and active play are well researched. However, here are times when children cannot play outside. PSI practice is as follows: ● Children are inside on rainy days. Playground monitors make the decision and inform teachers. ● Children play outside when it snows. ● When temperatures are between -10C and -15C, the decision whether to be outside is based on the wind chill factor. ● Children are inside when the temperature falls below -15C ● If there is snow on the ground, only children with snow pants and shoes (as well as mittens and hats) may play in the snow. Other children are limited to cleared areas. B. HOW MUCH TIME DOES MY CHILD GET WITH SPECIALIST TEACHERS? Early Childhood Physical Education for EC3 and EC4: 2 x 40 minute periods a week Music: 1 x 30 minute period a week Art: 1 x 30 minute period a week Kindergarten Physical Education 3 x 40 minute periods a week Music 2 x 20 minute periods a week Art 3 x 20 minute periods a week Additional Language (Ukrainian, Spanish, Russian, EAL) 3 x 30 minute periods a week Grade 1 Physical Education 1 x 40 minute and 1 x 80 minute periods a week Music 2 x 40 minute periods a week Art 1 x 80 minute periods a week Additional Language (Ukrainian, Spanish, Russian, EAL) 3 x 30 minute periods a week Grade 2 through 5 Physical Education 1 x 40 minute and 1 x 80 minute periods a week Music 2 x 40 minute periods a week Art 1 x 80 minute periods a week Additional Language (Ukrainian, Spanish, Russian, EAL) 5 x 40 minute periods a week
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Library and IT skills are provided to students through integrated projects and lessons. The school librarian and the IT Integration Specialist work in collaboration with grade level teams throughout the year. Children are allowed to check out books when needed or during scheduled classes.
SECTION II: HOW DOES THE SCHOOL CELEBRATE AND REWARD STUDENTS? A. WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW ABOUT STUDENT PARTIES AND CELEBRATIONS? Birthday Celebrations In consideration of children’s feelings, we ask that printed invitations be sent to school ONLY if all the children in the class / grade (or all the boys / girls) are invited. If you are unable to accommodate large numbers for parties, please contact families privately via email or phone. If you would like the class to share in a simple, easy-to-serve birthday cake (or cupcakes) for your child, please speak to the class teacher at least three days prior to make an arrangement for the most suitable time on the lesson timetable. We aim to keep this process as simple and unobtrusive to the learning programme as possible. Please do not supply fizzy soft drink, lollies, gift / lollie bags, presents and additional food as part of these birthday celebrations at the school. Invitations are not required and will not be distributed by the teachers. Changes to the Regular Leaving Routine: Birthday Parties, Play Dates and other Special Arrangements This information is being shared with you to support clear communication between the school, teachers, parents and students. Birthday parties are managed by parents. It is the responsibility of parents to inform the school about any changes in pick up or bus routines at the end of the day. Responsibilities: The Parent/s organising the party: Inviting Only Select Students Please be sensitive to the emotions of children who might not be invited to the party. If the entire class or grade has not been invited, please make arrangements not connected to the school. Inviting the Whole Class ● The homeroom teacher will be happy to forward the invitation for you only if you are inviting the whole class. ● Remind invited families to inform the school about who will be collecting their students on the day of the party. ● Supply the school with the list of who is attending the party so it can be double checked with security. If this list is provided in advance, Reception can make sure all parents on the list have given permission for children to leave with you. This will make the departure from school smooth and efficient.
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The parents of invited students: ● If your child rides the bus, email Liliya (bus@psi.kiev.ua) to inform her that on the day of the party, your child will go home with the family organising the party. Send a copy of this email to Reception. ● If your child is picked up from school, email the homeroom teacher and inform him / her that on the day of the party, your child will go home with the family organising the party. Send a copy of this email to Reception. The school will: ● Forward any emails regarding the party to reception and / or the organising family when whole classes or grades are invited. ● Provide Security with the list of students who have confirmed parent permission to leave with the family for the party. Assemblies Primary school assemblies are scheduled bi-weekly. These rotate between K – Grade 2 and Grade 3 - Grade 5. Assemblies are held to give students opportunities to present their work, share what they have learnt, practice presentation skills and learn proper audience behaviour. Due to space limitations, we requested that only parents of the grade presenting the assembly attend. Assemblies are held on Fridays, starting at 8.30am. Occasionally, both groups will have an assembly on one Friday. In those instances, the Grades 3 - 5 assembly is at 8.30am and K - Grade 2 is at 9.15am. B. WHAT AWARDS CAN STUDENTS EARN IN PRIMARY? Abby Hulka Award Presented to a Grade 5 student who demonstrates the positive qualities exhibited by Abby Hulka, a fifth grade student at PSI who tragically died in a car accident in October 2001. Abby was known for her friendliness, compassion, fairness, willingness to share, excellent academic work, and a positive attitude towards others. Sportsmanship Award Presented for ability and a sense of fairness in athletics to a student in Grades 2 - 5. Ingerson Award Awarded to the EC - Grade 4 student who best exhibits action related to learning and the world. Sharon Ingerson was a long-serving Primary principal at PSI. The winner is chosen on the following criteria: 1. There is a direct connection between what is studied and the action taken by the student. 2. The action is self-generated and possibly not related to any class or summative work. Students are nominated by teachers. A committee of volunteers reviews the nominations and makes a decision by 1st June. The awards are presented at a whole school assembly on the last day of the school year. The recipients receive a certificate. The Ingerson Award recipient additionally has his/her name placed on a plaque located in the main entrance.
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SECTION III: WHAT ARE THE BEHAVIOURAL EXPECTATIONS FOR MY CHILD? A. WHAT IS THE SCHOOL’S PHILOSOPHY ABOUT STUDENT DISCIPLINE? Overview PSI is a place where we all belong. In order to create this atmosphere, we must have a school culture that promotes caring and acceptance. Our aim is to have a school culture in which all students are treated with respect and are given the opportunity to learn in an environment that is engaging, nurturing and safe. This includes students, parents and staff. The core of our beliefs comes from the IB PYP learner profile and attitudes. The development of these characteristics is embedded in all we do. They are at the heart of the PSI Behaviour Code of Conduct, because we want to develop students who are balanced, caring, communicators, inquirers, knowledgeable, open-minded, principled, reflective, risk-takers, and thinkers. The attitudes we want students to exhibit are appreciation, commitment, confidence, cooperation, creativity, curiosity, empathy, enthusiasm, independence, integrity, respect and tolerance. Action is another essential element of the PYP. Students in PSI learn to take action to extend their learning and to make the world a better place. An additional definition of action is for students to understand that behaviour is an action, a choice they make, and an outcome of learning and understanding. With the diversity of culture and language, it’s important to have a common way of communicating with students about behavioral expectations.The learner profile gives us a common language and foundation on which to build our school culture and values. The learner profile and attitudes of the PYP cover the most important core values we want our students to learn and live out. Parents can also be involved by using these words at home with their children. By recognising when their children are showing great behavior or guiding them to make responsible choices, we can work together to promote self-awareness, self-efficacy and responsibility. We understand there are cultural differences in how children are taught to respond to physical aggression. We stress that at PSI, ‘giving change’ (‘zdacha’) or returning a punch or hit, is not an acceptable response. Promoting Positive Behavior The best way to seek positive student behaviour is to actively encourage it. We do this by: 1. Modelling appropriate behaviour 2. Using praise and verbal recognition 3. Involving students in decisions that affect them 4. Having clear and consistent expectations Clear and Consistent Expectations If students know what is expected of them, they are better able to work and play together. The rules and guidelines have been developed by students, teachers and teaching support staff.
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B. HOW ARE STUDENTS ENCOURAGED TO MAKE GOOD CHOICES? Student Problem Solving At the beginning of the school year and through assemblies, teachers and the counsellor teach and review the following problem-solving strategies. Using these concepts, the students develop the learner profile attributes and put them into action. Our goal is always to help children work out problems for themselves. Through example and experience, the children are taught to differentiate between a small problem and a big problem. Any time a big problem (like physical aggression) happens, students will be taught to go directly to an adult they trust. For disagreements and smaller problems, the following steps should be followed by the students before going to an adult. Adults also guide students to use these steps before the adult intervenes to solve the problem for the student. Panther’s Choices (for KG to Grade 2) ● Talk it out - Use an ‘I message’ ● Walk away ● Ignore it ● Tell the person to stop ● Apologise ● Make a deal ● Wait and cool off ● Go to another game ● Share and take turns OR The Panther’s Win/Win Guidelines (for Grades 3-5) 1. If you are angry or upset, take a minute to cool off. 2. Tell the person how you feel and what you want using an ‘I message’ 3. Listen to the other person carefully 4. Take responsibility for your part of the problem 5. Think of solutions 6. Choose the best solution for both of you. This is a Win/Win solution Remember: If it’s a big problem, students should tell an adult they trust right away. (This can be the yard teacher, class teacher, counsellor, or principal.) Breaking rules or engaging in totally unacceptable behaviour (physical aggression or hurtful and abusive language) may result in disciplinary action. C. HOW DO TEACHERS AND ADMINISTRATORS SUPPORT STUDENTS IN MAKING GOOD CHOICES? When helping students solve problems, teachers and the principal might … ● Help students talk and listen to each other when solving a problem ● Listen to the reporting student and write a report of the incident ● Talk to the person who initiated the problem
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● ● ●
Remove the person(s) from the class or yard Send the person(s) to the principal if it is repeated or totally unacceptable behaviour Speak to the parents about the behaviour
When dealing with problems, teachers and the primary principal will always … ● Listen to both sides of the story and all the students involved (including any observers) ● Let students know that reporting is sensible ● Work out the best way to handle the situation together with the student ● Let students know the result ● Report incidents and results thoroughly to families for their information. D. WHAT ARE THE CONSEQUENCES FOR STUDENTS WHO MAKE POOR CHOICES? Level One - Inappropriate Behaviour (Classroom / Teacher Level) It is understood that children at this age are learning how to behave and interact with others outside the family. At times, children test limits or simply do not know an expectation. They may get frustrated or angry and may not react in a socially acceptable way. These are called ‘inappropriate behaviours’. All classroom teachers and specialist teachers will establish their own classroom expectations, grievance procedures and consequences at Level One. Teachers issue appropriate re-directions, warnings and counselling throughout Level One. Teacher discretion is used to determine whether specific behavioural situations require further action at the administrative level (if the behaviour is significant or is repeated). Level Two - Unacceptable Behaviour (Primary Principal / Assistant Principal Level) This may include refusal / not following a staff member’s directions, physical aggression, and / or inappropriate language. When a teacher sends a student to an administrator for a behaviour issue, the meeting is divided into two parts: Learning from our mistakes and accepting consequences for our actions. Wherever possible, consequences are meant to reinforce the behaviour that needs correcting. Consequences can vary depending on the maturity level of the child. In general, students in Grades 4 and 5 are considered old enough to refrain from physical aggression on campus at all times and consequences will be more serious. Level Three – Totally Unacceptable Behaviour (Primary Principal / Assistant Principal Level) This may include fighting, excessive physical behaviour, violence, biting, repeated harassment and repeated refusals to an adult's instruction. In these instances, students are immediately and officially suspended from school. An official letter of suspension is issued to the family involved. The student is sent home for the day and is suspended from attending school for the following one or two days. Both victim and bully receive support from the guidance counsellor based on their needs. In order to return to school, there must be a meeting with the Primary Principal, the parents and the child. The student must exhibit a willingness to return to class. A behavioral or probationary contract is developed for a period of one month / or to the rest of the school year. This is reviewed before the student moves to the next grade level. PSI reserves the right to deny any student an enrolment for the next school year if the student and / or parent does not demonstrate a commitment and support to the child’s behavioural development. 57
Suspension Suspensions of students occur for serious offenses. Suspensions can vary in length. If a student is suspended out of school, s/he cannot attend any school events during the time of that suspension, but s/he may work with teachers to keep current in course work. Whenever students are sent home from school, the parents and student need to meet with the principal the following day for a discussion and for the students to show they can earn returning to class. Please note that the School reserves the right to increase the consequences listed above based on the severity of in the incident and the pattern of behaviour for individual students. It is important to note that two suspensions within one calendar year results in an automatic referral to the school’s Expulsion Committee. Level Four – Expulsion (Primary Principal / Assistant Principal / School Director / Board Level) Expulsion of students occurs for any acts that seriously threaten the safety of students and staff and / or for repeated acts of misconduct despite other disciplinary actions. The School convenes an Expulsion Committee made up of the homeroom teacher or PYP coordinator, the director, and at least one board member. The student or parent may also request a specific teacher to serve as an advocate; this teacher is a non-voting member of the committee. Based on evidence presented and input from the parents and other teachers, the committee decides whether or not to expel. The decision to expel must be unanimous. Students who are expelled are not allowed to return to PSI at any time, either to re-enrol or to visit the campus. Examples of behaviour that may result in expulsion: 1. Violence or repeated incidents of fighting 2. Repeated refusal / defiance to follow the instructions of teachers and / or adults 3. Gross violation of the Code of Conduct above 4. Use, sale or distribution of drugs, tobacco or alcohol on campus 5. Possession of a weapon on campus 6. Other illegal acts 7. Suspension/s from the school in one calendar year NOTE: The school also reserves the right to move immediately past the first three steps for serious incidents. Under serious circumstances, the school administration may choose to suspend or expel without going through all the steps involved.
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GUIDELINES FOR SECONDARY STUDENTS AND PARENTS
Secondary students perform with gusto in their annual school play
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SECTION I: HOW IMPORTANT IS DAILY ATTENDANCE? A. WHAT ARE THE RULES AND PROCEDURES REGARDING ATTENDANCE? The School takes student attendance very seriously. The guidelines below are a brief summary. We encourage you to read the full version on pages 17 - 24. The important things to remember are as follows: ● Parents should always contact the school (attendance@psi.kiev.ua) any time a student is absent. We cannot accept communication from the student. ● Students absent three or more consecutive days should return with a doctor’s note or verification of the reason for their absence. ● DP students who miss five or more days of school must make up that time in a Saturday Time Bank. This is to ensure that all DP standards are being met. ● Students are responsible for knowing what they missed. They should connect regularly to MyPSI, email their teachers, and ask questions as needed. ● Students are expected to turn in summative assessments on their due date, even if they are absent from school. Failure to do so results in a zero on that assessment. ● In the case of prolonged absences or exceptional circumstances, teachers can adjust deadlines. This is dependent on the circumstances and the commitment of the student to proactively seek those solutions. ● For more information about late work, please see page 23. B. WHAT HAPPENS IF I ARRIVE LATE TO SCHOOL? Procedures Students should plan to arrive at school no later than 8:15 in order to be on time for homeroom at 8:25. Students arriving between 8:25 and 8:35 must go directly to homeroom, where they will be marked late by their homeroom teacher. Students arriving after 8:35 are checked in at the guard house, where their arrival time is noted by the turnstile system. The guards send updated arrival information to the Attendance Secretary and those times are recorded in the student’s on-line attendance record. Students then check in with the Reception desk before going to their class. A system is in place for helping students make up missed time through a series of early morning detentions or other consequences. For a full explanation, see page 23.
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SECTION II: HOW ARE STUDENTS ENCOURAGED TO MAKE GOOD DECISIONS? A. HOW DOES THE SCHOOL HELP STUDENTS BALANCE THEIR RIGHTS WITH THEIR RESPONSIBILITIES? PSI expects students to work towards their full academic potential and behave in a manner that will bring respect and honour to the School, their families, their own communities and their personal development as responsible learners. It is our aim to nurture well-balanced, mature individuals who are able to take responsibility for their own actions and who will grow to be valued members of the international community. Students at PSI are encouraged to recognise that rights bring with them equivalent responsibilities. Student rights are balanced against responsibilities in the following ways:
Students have the right to
Students have the responsibility to
Learning
Learn to the best of their ability in well-taught, productive classes.
Do their best work and help others do their best. This includes listening and following directions, asking for explanations when needed, disturbing no one in class, arriving to class on time, and turning in neat, carefully planned and completed work.
Respect
Be happy and to be treated with understanding and respect as individuals.
Respect others, treat them with understanding and not hurt their feelings.
Expression
Hear and be heard and be free to express their opinions, feelings and ideas.
Respect others’ opinions, feelings and ideas and to listen to others.
Safety
Be safe and secure in school with rules developed to support these rights.
Respect others’ right to safety, treat others with the same kindness they would expect themselves, and obey school rules.
Property
Bring their belongings and materials to school and utilise school materials.
Look after their own possessions, respect other people’s property, and use and share school materials in an appropriate manner.
Dress Code
Wear clothes of their choice to school.
Wear clothes that are decent, inoffensive, and appropriate and take care of their clothing.
B. HOW DOES THE HOMEROOM PROGRAMME HELP STUDENTS MAKE GOOD CHOICES? All students in Grades 6 - 10 have 80-minutes per week of homeroom time, usually divided into two forty-minute blocks. One of those periods is set aside for special projects like the Week without Walls, service projects, and student portfolios. The other forty-minute block is PSI’s Personal Excellence (or PEx) programme. Students learn about and discuss important issues that are age appropriate like bullying, social relationships, dating, stress management and drug / 61
alcohol abuse. Some of these sessions are led by homeroom teachers, others by the counsellors. In sensitive issues like reproduction and sexuality, classes are split by gender to allow for more open discussions, and Science teachers may be included. These units are all designed to help students make safe, healthy and ethical choices. C. WHAT ARE THE STANDARDS FOR STUDENT BEHAVIOUR? PSI encourages all students to demonstrate self-discipline and respect so that the School can function as a caring and supportive institution. An essential element of this goal is to ensure that this policy is known throughout the School and is implemented by all. Behaviour is judged by the extent to which the attitudes and actions of the students contribute to or restrict the effective learning in the classroom, as well as the quality of life and functioning of the School as a caring and involved community. The intent is to provide a cooperative, supportive and safe environment where each individual feels respected, valued, and secure. To achieve this, the following standards have been established to encourage good relationships between pupils, teachers, and parents ● Good classroom practice ● A framework that enhances good behaviour ● A positive manner encouraging good behaviour rather than simply punishing the unacceptable To this end, there is in place a clear system of rewards and sanctions that focuses on: ● An ordered and calm atmosphere within the School where pupils and teachers feel respected ● A consistent pattern when dealing with unacceptable behaviour ● Explicit equal opportunity ● Respect for other cultures and values ● Positive social skills ● Clear standards of behaviour during times outside the classroom, making explicit what is and what is not acceptable ● A whole school approach to discipline, encouraging all teachers to adopt the same approach when dealing with matters of discipline It should be noted that in case of a disagreement between staff and students regarding suitability, the teacher makes the final decision. Classroom Expectations ● Respect others ● Engage in positive behaviours ● Be polite and helpful to your teachers, fellow students and others ● Use appropriate language at all times ● Speak English as the language of inclusion, except in classes designed to teach or support other languages ● Ask a teacher or other staff member for help if you do not understand what you have been asked to do ● Tell your teacher or another staff member if you or another student is upset or being bullied ● Have your laptop with you and use it every day D. WHAT IS THE CODE OF CONDUCT? The administration, board and staff at PSI expect that all members of the school community will demonstrate respect for self, others and the environment at all times. This includes any time that they are on campus and any time that they are away on school-sponsored trips. When students fail to do so, the administration and board reserve the right to take appropriate disciplinary action for activities that are considered detrimental to the welfare of the school, student body or individual.
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PSI students are subject to disciplinary action for incidents of misconduct occurring during school or while attending school-sponsored activities, whether on the school campus or off the campus. These rules include but are not limited to the following: Academic Dishonesty/Plagiarism - All students are expected to maintain academic integrity with respect to their academic work. It is unacceptable to submit someone else's work as their own work, give their work to someone else to use, copy homework, or to use notes, signal or talk during a test. It is also unacceptable to use cell phones or other devices to obtain or share information during a test. It is important to note that students who help someone else cheat are held to the same standard and the same set of consequences. The IB defines academic malpractice as behaviour that results in the candidate or any other candidate gaining an unfair advantage in one or more assessment components. Malpractice includes: (a) Plagiarism: Representing the ideas or work of another person as the student’s own; (b) Collusion: Supporting malpractice by another student, as in allowing one’s work to be copied or submitted for assessment by another; (c) Duplication of work: The presentation of the same work for different assessment components and/or Diploma requirements; and (d) Any other behaviour that gains an unfair advantage for a student or that affects the results of another candidate (for example, using a language translation device or website, taking unauthorised material into an exam room, misconduct during an exam, falsifying a CAS record, disclosure or receipt of confidential information about exams). A complete explanation of the definitions, the roles and responsibilities for all parties, the consequences and the support systems may be found in the Secondary Academic Policy and Protocols document. Alcohol, Drugs or Tobacco - Possession and/or use of alcohol, drugs, tobacco or related paraphernalia (including electronic cigarettes) on campus or at school-sponsored events is an infraction of PSI rules and will result in a suspension while the administration considers expulsion. Students caught distributing or selling any of these items are automatically referred to the Board Expulsion Committee. Bullying – Bullying is defined as continuous intimidation, excessive teasing or physical aggression against other students, especially when one student has greater power (social or physical, real or perceived) over another. It includes racial slurs, gestures and remarks. Students will formally apologise to injured parties and parents will be contacted. Students involved in bullying may be suspended; repeated incidents and/or acts of physical bullying may lead to expulsion. Closed Campus All students should carry their swipe cards with them and use them for entering and exiting the campus through the main gates only. Students who lose their cards must replace them at a small cost. Students are not allowed to leave campus and then come back in the same day. This includes the time between the end of classes and the start of ECAs. Students who leave for the day must complete the permission form and have it signed by all teachers whose classes will be missed as well as by the principal or an IB coordinator.
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Displays of Affection – PSI recognises that general feelings of affection may exist between students. Public displays of such affection, however, should not offend fellow students, faculty, staff or guests. Students should refrain from inappropriate behaviour such as intimate and prolonged embraces, kissing, and similar actions on campus, school buses and school events. Repeated incidents will lead to a parent conference. Dress Code – Students must dress appropriately for school. Clothing that is too revealing, too tight, or otherwise too suggestive is not acceptable. We do not allow bare midriffs or exposed chests. Clothing length should be no shorter than the length of the student’s arms when at rest. We also do not accept tee shirts or other apparel that have obscene or offensive language or pictures, or any clothing that advertises alcohol, drugs or tobacco in any language. Hats and sunglasses are not allowed in classes or hallways. Clothing must also be safe. For example, ‘wheelie’ shoes are not appropriate in the school environment. Students dressed inappropriately may be asked to wear a lab coat, to turn clothing inside out or to go home to change. The administration has final say in determining appropriate dress. Students must dress in full kit for all PHE classes. Electronic devices – PSI is a ‘bring your own device’ (BYOD) school. All Secondary students must have their own laptops. In addition, we allow Secondary students to bring cell-phones, MP3/4 players, tablets and other devices for educational purposes. We also encourage them to bring headphones to school, as these are often used for language activities and multimedia use. Students are expected to use these devices respectfully, following the PSI Responsible Use Policy (RUP) which is included on MyPSI homeroom sites. This will include following guidelines established by each teacher and includes turning the devices off upon request.The students may not be on gaming sites during instructional time or ECA. They are not monitored for lunch time, breaks or on the bus. The School does encourage students to engage in games that are age appropriate and nonviolent. Students who inappropriately use electronic devices in class may have those items confiscated. A typical sequence is as follows: ● First offence: Teacher confiscates item and returns it to the student at the end of the class ● Second offence: Teacher confiscates item and turns it over to administration; student picks it up at the end of the day ● Third offence: Student turns it over to the principal at the start of a school day for a specified number of days; the phone is returned at the end of the day. Parents are contacted Fighting - Any deliberate, aggressive physical contact with another person that might result in an injury is considered fighting. ‘Play fighting’ or ‘horsing around’ can also result in injury and is also prohibited. Fighting will result in a suspension for all students involved. A severe incident and/or repeated incidents may lead to expulsion. Food - Students may have water bottles in school and in classes, but they should not bring food into any of the School buildings. All food should be eaten outdoors or in the cafeteria. Students are not allowed to order food for delivery from outside suppliers. Drivers or other adults bringing students their lunches must take them directly to the designated table in the cafeteria, where students may pick them. Students are then responsible for taking food or food containers home with them. Inappropriate Behaviour – Teachers have the right to stop any behaviour that disrupts the learning opportunities or threatens the safety of others. Insubordination – Students are expected to follow a staff member's directions. Laboratory Safety - Creating an unsafe situation in the lab could harm not only the student involved but also 64
others, and will result in disciplinary action.
Late Work - It is important to consistently submit work on the assigned dates. Students should be aware of the following: ● Failure to turn in work on the assigned date will result in a mark of zero (0) for that assignment. However, the work will be reviewed and comments made so that students can still benefit from doing the work itself. ● Chronic late or missing work will result in parent contact and will certainly impact quarter and semester grades. ● We expect that all students who are absent will contact classmates and / or teachers immediately to determine what work they have missed; it is the student's responsibility, not the teacher's responsibility, to follow up after absences. For more information on attendance and turning in work, please review our attendance protocols on page 23. Grade 6 students are allowed one opportunity to turn in one late summative assessment, provided that the work is submitted at the date and time established by the teacher. As with the Academic Honesty Policy, parents will be contacted and the student’s name will be entered on a spreadsheet available to all Grade 6 teachers and to administration. They will not be given a second opportunity to turn in late work, even if it is for another class. In the case of excused absences (e.g., CEESA, doctor-excused medical absences), teachers will provide revised due dates that are reasonable, given the length of absence involved. Obscenities and Profanities - All students are expected to use appropriate, inoffensive language. This also refers to wording and slogans on clothing. Penalties range from parent contact to detention. Language aimed at an individual may be viewed as an act of bullying and could result in suspension. This rule applies to any languages spoken by students. Stealing – It is not acceptable for students to take what doesn’t belong to them, even as a practical joke. Students caught stealing will be given a suspension for the first offense and will need to return or replace the stolen items. Repeated incidents of stealing and/or the theft of expensive items can result in expulsion. Vandalism – Destruction or desecration of school or personal property is not allowed. Students who engage in such behaviours are subject to detention or suspension, and will be asked to either reimburse the school or individual and/or assist in the repair or cleaning of damaged items. Weapons – PSI has a ‘zero tolerance’ policy for weapons on campus. The School defines a weapon as any item that could be used to harm another person. It also includes ‘toy’ weapons. Students caught with a weapon on campus or at a school event are automatically suspended from school. The School reserves the right to move directly to an expulsion hearing if the situation warrants it. E. WHAT STEPS DOES THE SCHOOL TAKE WHEN A STUDENT MISBEHAVES? Teachers handle most discipline problems. If the offense is serious enough, or in the case of repeated defiance of a teacher's or staff member's authority, the counsellor and/or administration intervene. Teachers track and document all cases of student misconduct serious enough to disrupt other students or the educational program.
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There are clear, consistent and fairly administered consequences. A typical sequence includes the following: 1. warning 2. consequence (loss of certain privileges, note home, etc.) 3. detention 4. in-school suspension/parent conference 6. out-of-school suspension/parent conference 7. expulsion The administration reserves the right to move immediately past the warning stage as appropriate. Under certain circumstances, administration may choose to suspend or move to expel without going through other steps. Suspension Suspensions of students occur for serious offenses. Suspensions can vary in length. If a student is suspended out of school, s/he cannot attend any school events during the time of that suspension, but s/he may work with teachers to keep current in course work. Examples of behaviours that result in suspension Offense Repeated violations of the Code of Conduct
Middle School (Grades 6-8)
High School (Grades 9-12)
1 – 3 day suspension
3 – 5 day suspension
Possession or use of tobacco, alcohol or 1 – 3 days suspension; counseling drugs on campus or at a school upon return sponsored event Distribution or sale of alcohol, tobacco or Suspension and move to expulsion drugs on campus or at a school sponsored event
3 – 5 days suspension; counseling upon return
Suspension and move to expulsion
Repeated or flagrant defiance of teacher or staff authority
1 – 3 days in school suspension
3 – 5 days in school suspension
Serious and/or repeated acts of plagiarism or cheating
A zero on the assignment (starting with second offense) A zero on the test (starting with the first offense) Possible suspension for repeated offences
A zero on the assignment (starting with second offense) A zero on the test or exam (starting with first offense) Possible suspension for repeated offences
Theft or criminal activities
1 -3 days suspension; possible contact of local authorities
3 – 5 days suspension; possible contact of local authorities
Possession of a weapon
Suspension and move to expulsion
Suspension and move to expulsion
Please note that the School reserves the right to alter the consequences listed above based on the severity of the incident and the pattern of behaviour for individual students. It is important to note that two suspensions within one calendar year results in an automatic referral to the school’s Expulsion Committee.
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Expulsion Expulsion of students occurs for any acts that seriously threaten the safety of students and staff and/or for repeated acts of misconduct despite other disciplinary actions. The School convenes an Expulsion Committee made up of the homeroom teacher or appropriate IB coordinator, the director and at least one Board member. The student may also request a specific teacher to serve as an advocate; this teacher is a non-voting member of the committee. Based on evidence presented and input from the parents and other teachers, the Committee decides whether or not to expel. The decision to expel must be unanimous. Students who are expelled are not allowed to return to PSI at any time, either to re-enrol or to visit the campus. Students who are not expelled are placed on a behaviour contract that is reviewed quarterly for at least one year. Examples of behaviour that may result in expulsion: 1. Sale or distribution of drugs, tobacco or alcohol on campus 2. Violence or repeated incidents of fighting 3. Gross violation of the Code of Conduct or repeated defiance of school rules and authority 5. Possession of a weapon 6. Two or more suspensions from school in one calendar year
SECTION III: HOW DOES THE SCHOOL CELEBRATE AND REWARD SUCCESS? A. HOW DOES THE SCHOOL CELEBRATE STUDENT WORK AND SUCCESS? Students in the Middle Years Programme (MYP) organise and run monthly assemblies to celebrate student work and effort. Each month, students are recognised for their participation in athletics, competitions and ECAs. Student performances are often showcased, and student learning shared with the larger group. In January and June, the School holds Grade 6-12 Honours Assemblies to acknowledge students who have demonstrated excellence in application, attitude and/or academics.
B. WHAT AWARDS DOES THE SCHOOL GIVE? Semester Awards Honour Role Students receive Honour Roll recognition if they achieve the following: ● Grades of 5, 6 or 7 in every course ● An A or B in TOK for Grade 11 and 12 ● A satisfactory or above in ungraded courses (e.g., EAL) ● Satisfactory completion of CAS/Service Learning requirements ● Satisfactory for works in progress and A or B on Extended Essay; a 5, 6 or 7 on Personal Project upon completion of those projects ● No Attitude and Application grade below a B High Honour Roll Students receive High Honour Roll recognition if they achieve the following: ● Grades of 6 or 7 in every course ● A satisfactory or above in ungraded courses (e.g., EAL) 67
● ● ●
Satisfactory completion of CAS/C&S requirements Satisfactory for works in progress and A or B on Extended Essay; a 5, 6 or 7 on Personal Project upon completion of those projects No Attitude and Application grade below a B
NOTE: In the first quarter of a student’s move from Standard to Extended Maths or up a phase in MYP Language Acquisition, the School accepts a 4 in that subject for Honours and a 5 in that subject for High Honours. However, the attitude grade still counts towards the honours certificate. Application and Attitude Grade Awards At the end of each semester, students who achieve only A and B marks in this category receive a certificate that recognises sustained commitment and a positive attitude regardless of the student’s natural flair or ability. These grades are based on the following criteria: -Completing tasks punctually: The student completes homework, assessments and group projects on time. Students who are absent submit the work by e-mail or contact the teacher ahead of time to discuss any difficulties they have meeting the deadline. -Working independently and taking personal responsibility: The student is organised, comes prepared for class, completes homework, manages time effectively and shows initiative when appropriate. The student is reflective about his or her actions and tries to learn from mistakes. -Demonstrating commitment and a positive attitude: The student makes positive contributions in class, works diligently at all times, shows motivation, and enthusiasm towards his/her studies. The student also shows perseverance in the face of difficulty. -Demonstrating respect for self: The student has good attendance and punctuality to school and to each class. S/he takes responsibility for his/her actions, behaves in a responsible and mature manner, and demonstrates integrity in his/her work. -Working respectfully and productively in whole and small groups: T he student is courteous, works collaboratively, and shows respect for the learning environment and everyone’s right to learn.
NOTE: Students with 20 or more absences cannot earn above a C overall in Application and Attitude and are therefore ineligible for Honours, High Honours awards. Attendance Awards PSI recognises students who have two or fewer absences and five or fewer times late to school. Students must meet both criteria to receive an Attendance Award. School-related absences (e.g., CEESA tournaments, MUN, etc.) are not counted in determining attendance records. Year-End Awards In addition to the awards listed above, the second semester awards include: Learner Profile Awards Each department nominates students in Grades 6 -8 and Grades 9 - 12 for awards for each of the learner profile traits. The staff then meets to designate recipients.
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Roman Jacobi Award This award is presented to a Grade 6 – 10 male student who has demonstrated outstanding effort and achievement in the IB Middle Years Programme.
Lady Claire Asquith Award This award is presented to a Grade 6 – 10 female student who has demonstrated outstanding effort and achievement in the IB Middle Years Programme. Rowland Jepson Award This award is presented to a student of either gender in Grade 11 or 12 for outstanding effort and achievement in the IB Diploma Programme. Luis and Alexandra Baqueriza Award This award is given to a student of any grade level (6-12) or gender for outstanding commitment to community service. ECIS International Student Award The European Council of International Schools (ECIS) asks schools to nominate a student who is a good representative of his/her country, with a positive attitude toward the life and culture of others, able to converse in at least two languages, a contributing force in the life of the school, with the ability to bring differing people together into a sense of community, thus furthering the cause of international understanding. There are no limitations in respect to the age, nationality, class or level of academic performance of the student.
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PSI’s Model United Nations team at an international competiti
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