Lower Primary Family Handbook 2023-24

Lower Primary Family Handbook

2023-24 SCHOOL YEAR

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17 - SCHOOL PICK-UP

• 17 - Pick-up Procedures

• 17 - Sibling Pick Up

• 17 - Changes in Pick-up Arrangements

17 - AFTER-SCHOOL AND HOLIDAY CARE

18 - ASSEMBLIES

18 - VISITING THE SCHOOL

18 - STUDENT LEADERSHIP

18 - RECESS AND LUNCH

• 18 - Lunchboxes

• 19 - Personal Belongings

• 19 - Birthdays

19 - SCHOOL SUPPLIES

20 - PRIMARY DEPARTMENT CODE OF CONDUCT

• 20 - Our Philosophy

• 20 - Responsibility of Students

• 20 - Responsibility of Saltus Staff

• 20 - Responsibility of Parents

• 21 - The Parent/Teacher Communication Process

• 21 - Steps for Parents to Effectively

• Address Concerns

• 22 - Communication with Faculty, Staff,

• and Administration

• 22 - Other Means of Communication

• 23 - Standards, Expectations, and Consequences

• 23 - Progressive Discipline

• 23 - Acknowledgement

24 - ESSENTIAL EXPECTATIONS

• 25 - Discipline Guidance

26 - LOWER PRIMARY DRESS CODE & UNIFORM

• 26 - Dress Code

• 26 - Lower Primary Uniform

• 29 - PE Days

• 29 - Grub Days

29 - CLASS ATTENDANCE & ABSENCES

• 29 - Attendance Policy

• 30 - Planned Absences

• 30 - Absence Due to Illness

• 31 - Unexcused Absences

• 31 - Lateness

31 - SCHOOL POLICIES AND RULES

• 31 - Academic Integrity

• 31 - Off-Campus Conduct

• 32 - Harassment

• 32 - Identity-Based Slurs

• 32 - Sexual Harassment

• 33 - Bullying and Cyber-Bullying

• 33 - Reporting Bullying

• 34 - Drug and Alcohol Use

• 34 - Unsafe Practices and Possessions

35 - DISCIPLINARY RESPONSES TO MAJOR VIOLATIONS OF THE CODE OF CONDUCT

36 - APPEAL PROCESS

• 36 - Appeals

37 - RESPONSIBLE USE OF TECHNOLOGY

• 37 - Proper and Ethical Use

• 39 - Additional Policies

39 - CELL PHONES AND OTHER MOBILE DEVICES 40 - CURRICULUM AND ASSESSMENT 41

• 43 - Academic Support and Enrichment

• 43 - School Counsellor

• 44 - Communication

• 44 - Emails/Telephone calls

• 44 - SaltusLive

• 44 - Profile Updates 45 - PARENT

Letter from the Head of School

Dear Saltus Families,

We are delighted to extend a warm welcome to you as a part of our vibrant school community. We are thrilled to embark on this exciting learning journey with you and your children.

At Saltus we are committed to empowering our students to think critically, to problem find and problem-solve, to collaborate, and to know how to access information thereby equipping them with the future-ready skills required to thrive and lead as global citizens of the world.

Our Parent Handbook serves as an invaluable guide to our school’s policies, procedures, and expectations. I strongly encourage you to review its contents thoroughly with your child(ren. This handbook is designed to ensure a smooth and successful school year for your child, with clear guidelines that promote a safe and nurturing environment for learning and growth.

We believe that a strong partnership between the school and parents is the cornerstone of a child’s educational journey. By working together, we can inspire a love for learning, foster character development, and cultivate a sense of belonging for every student. Your involvement and support are instrumental in creating an enriching experience for your child.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We believe that open and clear communication between school and home is vital to your child’s success and to the success of our educational programme.

Thank you for entrusting us with your child’s education. Let’s collaborate to create wonderful memories and shape a brighter future for our students, united by the shared goal of nurturing curious minds and compassionate hearts.

Warmly,

Julie Rousseau Head of School

Lower Primary Director’s Message

Dear Parents and Guardians,

I would like to take this opportunity to welcome you to the Saltus Primary Department. We provide a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment that is built on positive relationships. Our goal is to develop the whole child – emotionally, socially, and academically. We believe that our students are capable, unique individuals. We strive to co-facilitate their development into independent learners who are critical thinkers, and problem solvers of the 21st century. We believe that children should be risktakers who are able to reason, explain and discuss their thinking.

At Saltus, we believe that together, with our parents, we form a team of support for each of our students. Therefore, we look forward to continuing the partnership with you so that we can provide your child with the best education possible.

Our dedicated teachers are lifelong learners, engaged in research of best practices to ensure the success of our students. We are committed to the well-being and happiness of all children, and I feel privileged to work with such a great team.

The Family Handbook is designed to provide you with information about the learning environment at Saltus. If there is anything else you need to know, please do not hesitate to contact your child’s teacher or the office for assistance or clarification.

The Assistant Director, Ms. Liz Dowdell and I are also available should you have any further queries.

I look forward to welcoming your child, as well as working in a successful partnership with you over

School Community

OUR VISION

Inspiring students to lead us to a more just, fair and sustainable world.

OUR MISSION

To inspire a passion for learning and independent thinking through a commitment to academic excellence, personal integrity and service to others.

OUR VALUES

A school’s unique culture is expressed through values that guide the actions, interactions, and communication of our community including students, staff, and parents. Our values provide shared and consistent expectations for all while also uniting our school. At Saltus, we seek to teach and model our shared values throughout the school community creating a caring learning environment, building character, and promoting positive relationships.

BELONGING

We create a welcoming community where everyone feels included, valued, and connected.

COURAGE

We do not let fear prevent us from exploring new opportunities or facing difficult situations.

EMPATHY

We seek to understand how someone else feels and see things from their point of view.

INTEGRITY

We are honest, responsible, and do what we know is right.

RESPECT

We treat ourselves, others, and the environment with dignity and kindness.

THE KEY – STRATEGIC PLAN

Prepare to meet the World

Saltus believes that students are the key to a better future. Our Strategic Plan – The Key – which was released in 2018 comprises four pillars that support the Saltus strategy:

Community – to be the first choice for top faculty and all deserving students. Programme – to assert our place among the world’s leaders in education. Image – to establish an international reputation for innovation and excellence. Stability – to build a solid and stable resource platform.

Our community and our curriculum are engaged with the world beyond, which will ensure that our students are prepared for global challenges. Saltus is prepared to meet the future with a clear vision, a thoughtful approach to tackling challenges, and the determination to take our place among the world’s top schools.

Portrait of a Graduate

The Saltus Difference is orchestrated to bring students through a highly coordinated progression of learning from Foundation Year right through to the end of high school; resulting in a student with skills, intellectual curiosity, academic and social confidence, and a maturity to tackle the challenges put before them. We strive to create students who personify the following:

A GLOBAL CITIZEN who embraces the diversity of culture, language, and values within their local and wider community and whose curiosity empowers them to make a positive impact.

A SKILLFUL COMMUNICATOR who is empathetic listens actively, speaks purposefully, and creates meaningful connections.

PERSISTENT in the face of adversity, showing strength and perseverance in order to achieve their goals.

An ADAPTABLE AND FLEXIBLE LEARNER who thinks creatively, seeks and considers multiple viewpoints, and is equipped to approach complex problems confidently.

A CRITICAL THINKER whose intellectual curiosity prepares them to navigate a fast-paced, everchanging world.

Board of Trustees

R. Gil Tucker

Alexander Green

Christopher Coleman

Cortney Bernstein

Douglas Mello ‘90

Jonathan Reiss ‘87

Kevin Dallas ‘96

Robert Cooney

Sacha Simmons

Tammy Richardson-Augustus ‘89

Vanessa Hardy Pickering ‘94

Board Chair; Chair - Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Committee; Chair - Risk Assessment Committee

Member at Large

Chair - Finance Committee; Risk Assessment Committee

Saltus Association President, Ex-Officio

Vice Chair; Nominations & Governance Committee; HR Committee

Chair - Building Committee; Finance Committee; Risk Assessment Committee

Advancement Committee Chair

Advancement Committee

Building Committee

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Committee

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Committee

The Leadership Team supports the academic and business operations of the School. This team is led by the Head of School – Julie Rousseau, who in turn reports to the Board of Trustees.

Deputy

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

Assistant

Director

Assistant

Assistant

Deputy

Director

History

Saltus Grammar School was founded in 1888 thanks to a generous gift from Samuel Saltus who bequeathed the funds for the building of a boys’ school in Bermuda. The school thrived for decades and evolved to include Cavendish Hall in 1972, a second campus devoted to young learners. Many facility enhancements were added over the years, including science labs, libraries, music and art facilities, and a 25-metre swimming pool.

In 1966, post-desegregation in Bermuda, Saltus widened its mandate for diversity and became one of the first multi-racial private schools in Bermuda. In the 1990s Saltus became fully co-educational. The result has been that students enjoy a diverse, real-world learning environment that elevates all.

The history of Saltus is as fascinating as the history of Bermuda itself. To learn more, click here for the full story.

House System

In 1931, when Henry C. Cox was Head of School he instituted the ‘House System’ using the names of Trustees who had a long association with the School. To this day, Saltus students are still divided into these four Houses: Butterfield (green), Darrell (blue), Watlington (yellow), and Saltus (red). Siblings are placed in the same House and if a parent is an Alumni of Saltus their children will be placed according to the parent’s House. The students will earn points for their House and represent them in Sports Days.

Our Campus

Our Lower Primary (Foundation, Year 1 and Year 2) is located at our Devonshire campus. There are three main buildings that are all connected to the Hall. Foundation Year has its own separate wing with two outdoor playgrounds overlooking the farmlands of Devonshire. Year 1 and 2 classrooms overlook the main field which is a beautiful open space for the students’ PE, recess, and lunch times.

On our St. John’s Road campus, the Upper Primary (Year 3 - 6) is located on the Western side while the Middle School (Year 7 - 9) and Senior School (Year 10 - SGY2) is located on the Eastern side. At the heart of the campus is the beautiful Woodlands Administration Building, which dates back to the 1800s.

The Upper Primary campus has classrooms surrounding an open courtyard with a large Gymnasium/Hall, Library, well-equipped Music Room, and Art Studio. The Middle and Senior campus boasts a state-of-the-art Design Technology Department, a Music Audio Visual Suite with cutting-edge technologies and software, a Black-box Theatre, a large Gymnasium with Fitness Centre, and six fully equipped Science labs. Both departments share the use of the 25-meter pool along with the large two-acre field.

School Calendar Academic Year 2023-24

Please note that the dates provided below are subject to change. Please consult the events calendar at www.saltus.bm for updated information as needed.

FALL TERM 2023

Friday, 1st September

Monday, 4th September

Tuesday, 5th September

Monday, 23rd – Friday, 27th October

Monday, 30th October

Tuesday, 31st October

Monday, 13th November

Friday, 15th December

Monday, 18th December – Friday, 5th January

WINTER TERM 2024

Monday, 1st January

Friday, 5th January

Monday, 8th January

Monday, 12th – Friday, 16th February

Monday, 19th February

Friday, 22nd March

Monday, 25th March – Monday, 8th April

Friday, 29th March

SPRING TERM 2024

Monday, 8th April

Tuesday, 9th April

Friday, 21st April

Friday, 24th May

Thursday, 6th June

Monday, 17th June

Wednesday, 26th June

New Student Induction

Labour Day (Public Holiday)

Classes Begin

Half-Term Break

Professional Learning Day

Classes Resume

Remembrance Day (Public Holiday)

End of Term (Early dismissal - ½ day)

Winter Break

New Year’s Day (Public Holiday)

Professional Learning Day

Classes Begin

Half-Term Break

Classes Resume

End of Term (Early dismissal - ½ day)

Spring Break

Good Friday (Public holiday)

Professional Learning Day

Classes Resume

Bermuda Annual Exhibition (Provisional)

Bermuda Day (Public Holiday)

Graduation

National Heroes Day (Public Holiday)

End of Term (Early dismissal - ½ day)

Administrative Information

Tuition and Fees, Additional Fees, Finance Policy & Financial Assistance Policies and Procedures

Please refer to our website www.saltus.bm/admissions/tuition-and-financial-assistance for the most current fee structure and financial assistance information. If you require assistance, please submit an email request to financestaff@saltus.bm.

Yearbook

Our student yearbook committee produces an annual yearbook – The Martlet. This publication is available for purchase and is added to student school accounts. All Saltus students that are enrolled by Friday, 1st December will be included.

Supporting our School

The Saltus Fund is one of the most powerful ways to contribute to our students’ experience. Tuition covers the essentials – the Saltus Fund takes care of the rest. From financial aid to the staggering variety of academic, performing arts, and athletics options; or the STEM tools that spur learning and innovation – the role of the Saltus Fund is central to each and every student. Saltus asks that every family stretch to make an annual gift to the School so we can continue to offer the breadth and quality of programmes that make a Saltus education so impactful in the present and continues to add value long after our students have moved on. Please contact the Advancement Office if you have any questions about supporting Saltus at (441) 292-6177 or advancement@saltus.bm.

Heatlth and Safety

Emergency Procedures

In line with the Bermuda Government requirements, we carry out Evacuations, Secure Drills, and Hold (shelter in place) Drills at Saltus. During an Evacuation, our students leave the buildings and follow the organised process of lining up at a safe distance on the field. If the situation requires students to leave the campus, they will be well supervised. Conversely, during a Secure Drill, the campus is locked down and our students stay inside classrooms. During a Hold Drill (shelter in place), students are kept in classrooms with business as usual. Staff and faculty training is conducted for these scenarios and our teachers are well-equipped to inform and reassure students as needed.

Weather-Related School Closing Information

In the event of severe weather, closure notices will be posted on www.saltus.bm and there will be an announcement made through the local media outlets and on our social media to inform families of any need to close the School. If School is in session, parents will be contacted via email and students will need to be collected as quickly as possible.

Local Field Trips

We have formal School Guidelines for all local trips. These outline all procedures that the Faculty is required to adhere to when taking our students off campus. We ensure that all reasonable safety precautions have been taken to provide the highest standards of safety for our students.

Permission Slips

All permission slips for field trips during the school year will be issued and completed through SaltusLive. Upon logging into your SaltusLive profile, there will be a yellow banner notice alerting you that there are forms to complete.

Medication

All students requiring medication at school must submit a Medication Waiver completed by their parent/ legal guardian (form available on SaltusLive). Any medication requiring refrigeration will be kept in a school refrigerator and administered by the teacher or first aid attendant. Children should never keep medicine of any kind in their lunch boxes. Please note that it is School policy to administer medicine to students only if the exact dosage and time to be taken are clearly written by parents/ guardians. This includes rescue inhalers for children with asthma. Some medicines are forgotten at pickup time so please pour the necessary dosage into a separate bottle or container. Please also be aware that the School does not provide sunscreen. If you wish your child to wear sunscreen, please apply it before he/she comes to school.

Saltus Community Ethics

Religion

Saltus is non-Denominational. Saltus offers students the opportunity for reflection on spiritual and ethical matters. While assemblies and holiday celebrations may sometimes reflect the Christian tradition of the School, we respect the religious diversity of our student body.

Inclusion Statement

Saltus is committed to establishing a safe and inclusive, equitable, and welcoming environment in which all members of the community are respected and valued and can contribute to and participate in the life of the school. We value intellectual curiosity and difference and believe that growth and learning can only come from interaction among people with different experiences and worldviews. We respect and value individuals whose differences include but are not limited to, race, ethnicity, national origin, gender expression, gender identity, religion, sexual orientation, or any other aspect of their identity.

Safeguarding: Saltus’ employees’ legal obligation for Mandatory Reporting

Our Staff and Faculty are mandated by law to report any suspected child abuse to the Department of Child and Family Services. If there is any suspicion of abuse, Family Services will be contacted immediately, and they will proceed with the case according to their procedures.

Disclosure of Student Records

The School regards the privacy of all individuals as an important requirement. Our full privacy policy is outlined on our website at www.saltus.bm. If you have any complaint relating to the school’s use of personal information please contact our designated Privacy Officer, Darcy Hausselman at privacy@saltus.bm so that we may be given the opportunity to resolve the issue.

Useful Telephone Extentions

School Drop-Off

We welcome students in Y1 and Y2 from 8:00 am when full supervision is in place to ensure a safe and secure start to the day. As soon as our students arrive, they are engaged in numerous activities. School drop-off for Y1 and Y2 is between 8:00 am and 8:20 am. FY students may be dropped off between 8:15 am – 8:35 am

For their safety, your child will exit the vehicle on the same side as their drop-off. For FY and Siblings, this is the driver’s side of the vehicle. For Y1 and Y2, this is the passenger’s side of the vehicle.

Should you arrive after 8:35 am and the Field Gate is closed, please continue along Christ Church Lane to the Delivery Gate. Use the intercom to contact the office and once the gate opens, drive up the hill, park and come to the office to sign in your child.

Foundation: Parents should enter Christ Church Lane from the eastern entrance. Please keep to your left and remember that Christ Church Lane is a two-way road. Drive in through the Field Gate from Christ Church Lane and stay on the right. Students are dropped off at the Porch. Do not park, continue driving and exit onto Watlington Road.

Year 1: Parents should enter Christ Church Lane from the eastern entrance. Please keep to your left (as it is a two-way road) until the lay-by and then continue straight ahead to Christ Church Lane. After dropping your child off, continue along Christ Church Lane Steps to Middle Road.

Year 2: Parents should enter Christ Church Lane from the eastern entrance. Please keep to your left as Christ Church Lane is a two-way road. Students are dropped off on the Field so you will drive in through the Field Gate from Christ Church Lane and stay left. Do not park, continue driving and exit onto Watlington Road. In inclement weather, you will drive in through the field gate and stay right to drop your child off on the Porch with the FY children. Students will be directed to the hall, where Y2 duty teachers will monitor them.

Sibling Drop-Off

All Siblings will be dropped off at the Porch.

School Pick-Up

Lower Primary pick-up is conducted in stages to aid traffic flow. Please adhere to the assigned times for pick-up as noted below. All students will be called by duty teachers and then placed in your car as you drive through. Your child’s named car sign is provided on the first day of school and we request that the car sign be clearly displayed on the windshield for the entire school year, as this helps to speed up the pick-up process. If you need an additional sign for two-family households or for another person who regularly collects your child, please email your child’s teacher and an additional sign will be provided.

Pick-up Procedures

Foundation: Pick-up is between 2:45 pm and 3:00 pm from the Porch. Parents should enter Christ Church Lane from the eastern entrance and keep to your left, please do not block any driveways along the lane. You will drive through the Field Gate from Christ Church Lane and stay on the right-hand side.

Year 1: Pick-up is between 2:45 pm and 3:00 pm from the Christ Church Lane Steps. Parents should enter Christ Church Lane from the eastern entrance and keep to your left, please do not block any driveways along the lane. After the lay-by, continue straight to collect your child from the Steps.

Year 2: Pick-up between 2:55 pm and 3:10 pm from the Field. Parents should enter Christ Church Lane from the eastern entrance and keep to your left, please do not block any driveways along the lane. You will drive through the Field Gate from Christ Church Lane and stay on the left-hand side.

Sibling Pick Up

All Siblings will be collected starting at 3:00 pm from the Porch.

Changes in Pick-up Arrangements

If there are any changes to the arrangements for your child’s journey home, please inform the teacher and Mrs. Queary at 236-3215 before 2:30 pm. If you are late, please contact the office as soon as possible. Late pick-up will be from the office.

After School and Holiday Care

Our After-School & Camps Programme Manager, Kallie Marcus, is responsible for our After-school Programme. After-school hours: 2:45 pm – 5:30 pm. For full details and registration please go to our website for After-School & Camps Programmes.

Saltus also offers Holiday Camps for our Lower Primary Students during the school breaks and summer holidays, providing a safe and fun camp option for them. During these camps, there are many different and exciting activities and outings. For more information, please contact Kallie Marcus: email kallie.marcus@saltus.bm, cell 535-8956.

Assemblies

Assemblies are held once every eight (8) days in Lower Primary as a chance to celebrate our community and share learning and investigations across year groups. We also enjoy welcoming older students and members from our community onto campus to inspire our students and share their knowledge and expertise.

Visiting the School

When visiting the Lower Primary Department between 8:30 am and 4:00 pm, you will enter and exit through the gate at the top of the stairs located on Christ Church Lane. Please park on Christ Church Lane and press the intercom button on your right at the top of the stairs. The office will acknowledge you and release the gate. Once you have entered the property, please stay to the right and make your way to the office. Once at the office, you will be asked to sign in. Please return to the office to sign out when leaving the campus. If you are taking your child with you, please remember to sign them out when you leave.

Student Leadership

Saltus offers opportunities for students at all levels to reach beyond their comfort zone and try their hand at taking charge. They learn how to be a true leader – one who inspires through collaboration and creative problem solving from day 1, whether it is ‘line leader’ in Foundation Year, Music Prefect in Year 6, or Student Government in Senior School every student gets a chance to shine. Building confidence, resilience and decision-making skills are just some of the key takeaways that bolster their readiness for university and beyond. Students are expected to act as role models and to fulfil their duties in line with the expectations of their given position.

Recess and Lunch

Students are encouraged to bring healthy choices for lunch and recess to school each day. At Lower Primary precautions are in place for students with food allergies and will be communicated with parents directly.

Lunchboxes

Each student brings his/her own packed lunchbox (no backpack, lunchboxes only). A cloth napkin is needed for the children to set out their food on the table. We request that healthy choices such as fresh fruit or raw vegetables be eaten at recess time. It is suggested that recess be packed in a separate container. There will be no junk food or sodas allowed. Please limit cakes, cookies, etc. and send in ‘trash-free’ lunchboxes.

Personal Belongings

Please ensure that all belongings (including plastic containers, napkins, water bottles, lunch boxes, etc.) are clearly labelled. If your child has lost any items, there are ‘lost and found’ locations in each Department.

Birthdays

Birthdays will be recognised during assemblies where the students will receive a card. We have a Birthday Book Programme where you can donate a book to our library in your child’s name. Information explaining the Birthday Book Programme will be shared at the start of the school year.

In keeping with the Healthy School Initiative, we kindly ask that you do not send in any food, cupcakes, party bags, etc. on your child’s birthday. In an effort to minimise disappointment, we also ask that you please distribute birthday invitations to parents outside of school.

School Supplies

Lower Primary students are provided with the general school supplies they will need in the classroom. These include pencils, pens, erasers, exercise books, sharpeners, crayons, rulers, etc. iPads for classroom use will also be provided. Please do not send school bags/backpacks as storage is limited. Personal toys are not allowed at school.

Each student is required to have the additional supplies (by year group):

Foundation

• Red pouch*

• Drawstring bag with a change of uniform (to stay at school)

• Hat (to stay at school)

• Towel or small blanket (if a child has rest time), clearly named

• Bicycle helmet (to stay at school)

• Raincoat (to stay at school)

Year 1 and 2

• Red pouch*

• Hat (to stay at school)

• Indoor/slip-on shoes to be worn in the classroom (no laces) (to stay at school)

• Raincoat (to stay at school)

* Please note that those items marked above may be purchased at the Saltus Shop.

Primary Department Code of Conduct

Our Philosophy

Saltus Grammar School relies on the mutual respect of all community members, including a genuine concern for the emotions, possessions, and personal rights of all persons. Implicit in this statement is the importance of honouring differences in individuals and allowing the development of everyone’s potential within the context of community responsibility. Saltus can achieve its collective goals only if all its members respect one another. This philosophy is underpinned by the need to ensure the safety and continuation of the community and to maintain an environment where learning and trust are of the utmost importance.

One of the most successful ways to encourage good behaviour and strong academic achievement is through positive reinforcement. In the Primary Department, we will actively encourage students to develop self-discipline and self-regulation to maintain our School’s positive learning atmosphere. Our goal is to help young people understand what it means to be responsible citizens. Part of that education is recognising that actions can negatively impact others. We will work with students to support their understanding of and adherence to the expectations. At the same time, we understand that children, like adults, may make mistakes, and therefore we will establish a system of progressive discipline.

Please be advised that this is a whole school code of conduct and covers how our progressive discipline policy moves from Foundation Year to SGY2. As a school, we are very cognizant of age and stage-appropriate measures. However, for transparency and clarity, we feel it is important to share our holistic approach. All factors that may affect the student’s behaviour will be considered throughout the progressive discipline process.

Responsibility of Students

It is the responsibility of students to understand and follow the expectations outlined in our Code of Conduct regarding school rules, regulations and guidelines. Students will contribute to a supportive, respectful and inclusive learning environment and will maintain positive relationships with their peers, faculty, and staff.

Our Code of Conduct emphasises positive behaviours, and this extends to all possessions, personal rights and areas within our school. The buildings and property of the school should be respected and valued.

Responsibility of Saltus Staff

Saltus Staff will provide a safe, respectful and inclusive learning environment which supports the whole child. At the core of a caring learning environment lies a studentcentred programme that supports the needs of students and enriches their full development as learners. Faculty and staff will communicate expectations in a productive manner with students and parents. Staff will seek to promote reflection, responsibility and behaviour for learning. Central to our approach to discipline is the belief in maintaining student dignity. Staff will endeavour to support the whole child, providing them with opportunities for reflection, ongoing growth and a sense of responsibility. When it becomes necessary to apply progressive discipline, staff will demonstrate consistency and fairness.

Responsibility of Parents

A strong partnership between the school and parents/guardians serves as an essential foundation in supporting our students. Parents are expected to review the Code of Conduct with their child(ren) to ensure that they understand the expectations. Parents are

important role models for their children and as such are expected to address concerns and issues in a respectful and productive manner with Saltus Faculty and Staff as well as with other parents, students and stakeholders.

Open dialogue and communication between the home and the school are actively encouraged as it serves to strengthen partnerships. If concerns arise, we ask that parents address issues following clear lines of communication.

LINES OF COMMUNICATION

The Parent/Teacher Communication Process

a. Identification of a concern by a teacher/ staff member

When there is identification of a concern by a teacher, contact will be made with a parent as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours.

Some examples include:

• Irregular attendance – chronic lateness and/ or unexcused absences

• Noticeable drop in academic standing

• Academic difficulty

• Behavioural difficulty

• Violation of the Code of Conduct

In general, faculty and staff may communicate using an email, a phone call, or may request a face-to-face meeting.

b. Identification of a concern by parents

When a parent communicates a concern to a teacher, a response to an email or a voicemail will be made as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours during a school week, or upon return from a weekend or holiday. If you would like to arrange a face-to-face meeting with a teacher, please remember to request one in advance.

Steps for Parents to Effectively Address Concerns

At Saltus, we strive to work collaboratively to resolve issues in a productive manner. As such, it is crucial for concerns to be addressed in a proactive, respectful and timely manner.

We ask that parents follow the lines of communication below to address concerns.

• Step 1: Parent communicates with the teacher/ staff member

For classroom-related concerns, parents are asked to communicate with their child’s teacher first to discuss the issue(s) that remain(s) unresolved. Most issues can be resolved at this stage without the involvement of the Assistant Director or Director of their respective School (Primary Department). Our teachers care for the success of all students and as such seek to find solutions and strategies to address concerns raised by parents.

• Step 2: Parents communicate with the Assistant Director or Director of their respective school (Primary Department)

Following Step 1 should the issue remain unresolved, parents may choose to inform the Director or Assistant Director of the relevant Primary Department who will ask if the preceding steps have been taken before addressing the matter. The Director or Assistant Director will seek to collaborate with all parties involved to resolve issues as we are all partners in your child’s education.

• Step 3: Parent communicates with the Deputy Head of School

Should the issue remain unresolved following the two previous steps, parents may choose to inform the Head of School. Parents are asked to make an appointment through Patra Phillips, the Senior Executive Assistant to the Head of School, at patra.phillips@saltus.bm

Communication with Faculty, Staff, and Administration

Effective communication is key to establishing and maintaining positive partnerships to ensure your child’s success. At Saltus, we expect our parents to be supportive of the mission, vision, and values of the school. Following the lines of communication outlined above, we encourage parents to share their concerns with faculty, staff, and/or administration when the need arises.

We respectfully advise that the use of email, while timely, can be easily misinterpreted. When contacting faculty, staff or administration, please note that some matters are best communicated in person. We would be pleased to schedule a personal meeting with you to discuss your concern at your convenience and remind you that any issues related to your child’s academic performance should first be addressed with their teacher.

Please be aware that any harassing or disrespectful comments directed at any member of the Saltus School community via email or in person will not be tolerated.

Other Means of Communication

• Parent-Teacher meetings

• Parent-Teacher conferences

• Meetings by request

• The Week Ahead weekly newsletter

• Parent Coffee Mornings

Standards, Expectations, and Consequences

Students and staff have a right to work and study in an atmosphere that is free of any form of harassment or intimidation and we all share a responsibility for ensuring that such an environment always exists. Central to our philosophy is the expectation that students will respect the school environment and each other.

Progressive Discipline

Students are at various stages of learning acceptable behaviour and, in some circumstances, positive practices may not be effective to address inappropriate student behaviours. At Saltus, each individual is responsible for their own actions and behaviour and is expected to be a good citizen. Discipline is a formative process of development, not just a tool to be used in times of misbehaviour. Discipline is achieved when the members of the school community are clear about the rules and guidelines within which they learn and when they feel comfortable about the structures within which they operate.

Monitoring and upholding school rules and the Code of Conduct, as well as the imposition of disciplinary action are the responsibility of:

• Director of Primary and Assistant Director of Lower Primary

• Deputy Head and Head of School

The above and their designates will consult with students, staff, parents, and others as deemed appropriate.

A progressive discipline approach will be used to deal with inappropriate behaviour. Progressive discipline is an approach that makes use of a continuum of interventions, supports, and consequences that builds upon strategies to promote positive behaviours. Saltus supports the use of suspension and expulsion for serious incidents. Before considering whether to impose a suspension or expulsion, the Deputy Head and Head of School will consider all relevant and mitigating factors.

While, in general, the severity of the consequence and the positive steps taken by the school will be consistent with the nature and degree of the misbehaviour, each case will be dealt with individually. No two incidents are exactly alike, nor are the needs of those who caused harm necessarily similar. Fairness and equity do not automatically equate to identical consequences or interventions. We recognise that each student is a unique individual and that every situation that requires disciplinary action has its own set of extenuating circumstances. All factors that may have affected the student’s behaviour will be considered throughout the progressive discipline process. Students who cause harm will receive an age and developmentally-appropriate consequence.

Progressive discipline may include interventions and consequences such as:

• Review of expectations

• Warnings

• Notification of parents/guardian

• Restricted privileges

• Behaviour contract

• Restorative practices which include reflective exercises and the opportunity to grow

• Referral to counselling and/or consultation

• Withdrawal from class (in-school suspension, short-term out-of-school suspension, long-term out-of-school suspension)

• Expulsion/dismissal

In all circumstances, the school will endeavour to gather facts and information regarding the student’s behaviour and/or issue. Students will be treated with fairness and as individuals and the unique aspects and circumstances of each situation will be considered carefully within the overall framework of consequences and consistency of expectations, as outlined in the Code of Conduct.

Acknowledgement

Students and parents are expected to review this Code of Conduct policy and acknowledge in writing that they are aware of, and accept, its content, through the School form on SaltusLive

Essential Expectations

At Saltus our students:

• Understand and follow expectations set out in the Code of Conduct.

• Have the right to feel safe in all learning environments and experiences both on and off campus.

• Set respectful boundaries for themselves while being considerate of others.

• Strive to interact with others respectfully and seek to resolve differences or issues in a productive manner.

• Respect the diversity of their peers, and of members of the local and global community, by practicing active listening, empathy and kindness.

• Demonstrate respect and care towards themselves, peers and the school environment.

• Demonstrate a willingness to engage in their learning.

• Demonstrate academic integrity.

• Demonstrate digital citizenship and follow the guidelines outlined in the responsible use of technology.

• Are punctual and come to school prepared for their learning.

• Understand and follow the school uniform guidelines and present themselves with pride.

• Report dangerous or uncomfortable situations to faculty or staff immediately.

• Seek help and/or assistance from staff

As outlined above, Saltus has clear expectations related to student behaviour. Central to these expectations is the assumption that students will respect the school environment and each other.

The following constitutes unacceptable behaviour:

• Poor behaviour on the field

• Failure to follow a classroom rule

• Repeated incomplete assignments

• Inappropriate language

• Misuse of technology including cell phones, iPads, Chromebooks etc.

• Inappropriate or incomplete uniform

• Frequent tardiness

• Teasing

• Lying or cheating

• Bullying, cyber-bullying, discrimination, and intimidation

• Being rude or disrespectful to peers, staff and visitors

• Exhibiting any behaviour that detracts from the learning of others

• Inappropriate representation on social media platforms

• Vandalism

At Saltus, we strive to provide a safe and caring learning environment. Caring environments are free from:

• Bullying, cyber-bullying, harassment, and/or marginalization

• Threat and intimidation

• Violence in any form

• Discrimination in any form including race, colour, gender, religious beliefs, disability, sexual orientation, ancestry, or national origin

• Retribution against a person who has reported incidents

• Abuse in any form

Discipline Guidance

Depending on the severity of the incident, the following steps serve to provide guidance for progressive discipline. A reminder that all incidents are not the same.

• Step 1: Polite Warning

The teacher will speak to the student about their behaviour and will offer suggestions for improvement. This will be considered a polite warning.

• Step 2: Contact with home (email/phone call)

The class teacher will speak to the student again and the class teacher will make contact with home, documenting the conversation.

• Step 3: Meeting with Assistant Director/ Director

If the behaviour continues unabated, the student will be required to meet with the Assistant Director/Director and attend (one or more) reflection sessions. This is at the discretion of the Assistant Director/Director based on circumstances (including frequency and mitigating factors).

• Step 4: Parent Meeting

Parents will be asked to participate in a meeting with the Assistant Director/Director, the student, and other appropriate parties to discuss a plan of improvement.

This may include regular conversational checkins which may be with the Assistant Director/ Director and/or the School Counsellor.

• Step 5: Escalation of Consequences

Repeated violations after the meeting referenced above will result in an escalation of disciplinary responses which may include a behaviour contract, probation, suspension, and expulsion.

Lower Primary Dress Code & Uniform

The following outlines expectations regarding dress code and uniform. Exceptions can be made at the discretion of the Head of School with respect to the needs of the individual. Such accommodations may be related to cultural or religious needs, body type needs, medical requirements and/or disability.

The Saltus School Shop is located on Woodlands Road and supplies all uniform pieces as well as other specialty items. The shop will be open Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays by appointment only. Our Saltus Shop is also available online for your convenience.

The School supports many charities and events which usually result in one to two ‘Grub Days’ a term where students may dress in their casual clothes.

Dress Code:

• Students should wear their uniforms in a respectful manner

• Shirts should be tucked in, including to and from school

• Pants/trousers should be worn correctly and should be school appropriate (combat or cargo style are not acceptable)

• Skorts/skirts should be A-line and not have pleats/pockets or buttons

• The Saltus ¼ zip sweatshirt may be worn

• Students are permitted to wear a wristwatch

• Students are permitted to wear 2 small plain studs max per earlobe or small hoops

• Necklaces or bracelets are not permitted, with the exception of Medic-Alert necklaces or bracelets

• Hair should be neatly groomed. Longer hair will be required to be tied back for practical subjects for safety reasons

• Natural hair colouring is acceptable

• Hats are to be worn on the field

• Aprons will be provided for Art

• School shoes should be black or brown (not sneakers)

Lower Primary Uniform Foundation Year Uniform Shirt

Saltus class colour t-shirt, long sleeve white shirt may be worn underneath on cooler days

Trousers/Skort Khaki shorts, long khaki trousers, khaki ‘A’ line flat front skort

Knee-high length khaki or white socks with shorts or skorts

Socks

Short white or khaki socks with with long trousers

Shoes Black / brown polishable or sneakers

Belt (if needed) Black / brown

Hair ties/ bands Solid red / white / navy blue / black / brown

FOUNDATION YEAR UNIFORM

Year 1 and 2 Uniform

Shirt

Saltus white or navy polo shirt

Trousers/Skort Khaki shorts, long khaki trousers, khaki ‘A’ line flat front skort

Socks

Knee length khaki or white socks with shorts or skorts Short white or khaki socks with with long trousers

Shoes Black / brown polishable (no sneakers)

Belt (if needed) Black / brown

Hair ties/ bands Solid red / white / navy blue / black / brown

Sweater Navy blue Saltus sweater / vest / cardigan

LOWER PRIMARY REGULAR UNIFORM

Year 1 and 2: PE Uniform

Navy Saltus P.E. shorts or skort

Saltus T-Shirt in House colour

Proper athletic shoes (non-marking soles and no high tops)

Red Saltus #4 shirt (required for external events)

Saltus Track Suit (used on cold days, inter-school and community events)

Students are expected to dress neatly and in the correct uniform. Students/Parents will be reminded if they are not in the correct attire.

PE Days

Students have PE every other day, on Day 1, 3, 5, and 7. More information is available on SaltusLive in your child’s schedule, as well as in The Week Ahead. Students in Y1 and Y2 come to school dressed in their PE uniforms.

Grub Days

Saltus supports many charities and events which usually result in one to two ‘Grub Days’ a term where students may dress in their

casual clothes. On days when the uniform is not required (i.e., grub days), students may not wear clothing that undermines the School’s commitment to maintaining a safe and inclusive learning environment.

Clothing must adhere to health or safety requirements, including requirements arising from participation in specialised programmes and events such as PE or playing on the field.

Class Attendance & Absences

Attendance Policy

Consistent school attendance contributes greatly to student engagement and student learning success. Students are expected to be present and prepared for each class period. Attendance is taken at the beginning of each day.

Students are expected to arrive at all required commitments on time, prepared and ready to participate as needed. Required commitments include class meetings, athletics and similar co-curricular obligations, and All-School events. If a student is unable to attend school due to

illness, the parent or guardian should contact the relevant Department Administrative Assistant.

Student attendance information is available to parents and guardians through the Parent Portal on SaltusLive.

If a student needs to leave campus for an appointment, parents should email the Class Teacher and Administrative Assistant.

Planned Absences

Parents are required to let the School know in advance of any planned absences. Please avoid making appointments, travel arrangements and extended holiday plans during school time.

We urge families to consider special requests very carefully as a student’s absence may jeopardize their learning as well as that of their peers due to shared presentations, assignments, co-curricular commitments, and leadership responsibilities. We appreciate your

support in ensuring that your child is at school and progressing well.

Excused absences are identified as student illness (a medical note is required for longer than three days), bereavement, religious holidays, family emergencies, exceptional circumstances and representing their nation in a sporting competition.

If a student needs to leave campus for multiple days for a non-School sponsored activity, their parent/guardian must consult with the Director directly. The Director will communicate with the family regarding the absence and work may be provided dependent on the individual circumstance. Teachers will not provide work for absence due to family vacations outside of school holidays.

Absence Due to Illness

Please do not send students to school unwell. Any student who is unwell at school may

be isolated and sent home. Currently, any student who has tested positive for Covid-19 will follow the procedures as outlined in the government regulations (or other best practices guidelines by applicable health authorities) before returning to school. We will follow the Department of Health guidelines required, for fever (presently 24hrs), vomiting, and diarrhea (presently 48 hours, symptom-free without medication).

It is the parent’s responsibility to share the symptoms and nature of the illness with the relevant Administrative Assistant. Our priority is always the health and safety of the Saltus Community.

Unexcused Absences

It is the parent’s responsibility to report any absence to the school via the relevant Administrative Assistant. Any unreported absence will be considered unexcused.

Extended (more than 3 days) absences due to illness will require a doctor’s note, or

other appropriate medical documentation is provided. These absences will not count towards the total number of absences, but excessive absences of this nature may lead to a required medical leave.

Absences due to a school-sponsored event will be sanctioned and will not count towards the total number of absences.

Lateness

Students are expected to be on campus and in class on time in the morning. Class starts at 8:25 am, with the exception of Foundation which starts at 8:40 am. If you know that your child(ren) will be late, please call or email the relevant Administrative Assistant and classroom teacher, so that they can be excused.

Continued, or a pattern of habitual tardiness, will lead to a parent meeting.

School Policies and Rules

It is very rare for a Primary Student to be engaged in any of the below, however, should a student contravene any of these school policies and rules, a parent meeting will be called immediately. These Policies and Rules apply to the entire school community.

Academic Integrity

The principle of academic integrity is the cornerstone of a school environment. Unless assignments are specified as collaborative endeavours, assignments are to be completed by the individual students. Academic dishonesty is unacceptable at Saltus.

Expectations regarding academic integrity shall be communicated to students by staff throughout the Primary Department (including

how to acknowledge others’ work or ideas) and reinforced regularly with our students.

Off-Campus Conduct

School rules, regulations, and guidelines apply to all students at any time when they are on school property or at school-sponsored activities. We urge all members of our community to honour the Code of Conduct in their private lives as well. We view conduct outside of school and school-sponsored

activities as the responsibility of the parents and students. It is not policy to monitor or regulate private conduct that does not involve the school unless conduct is brought to our attention that constitutes unsafe behaviour of a student, or otherwise serves to disrupt the harmony of the School community. This includes and applies to students’ use of computers, the internet, and social media off campus.

Harassment

Harassment against any individual whether or not based on a protected ground (whether actual or perceived) such as sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, race, colour, religion, national origin, ethnicity, family status, political opinion or disability will not be tolerated. Harassment in this context is defined as any unwelcome conduct that has the purpose or effect of violating a person’s dignity and creating a hostile environment such that the conduct interferes with, limits, or denies an individual’s educational access or opportunities. A single incident can amount to harassment. Harassment can also include treating someone less favourably because they have submitted or refused to submit to such behaviour in the past. Harassment may be related based on actual or perceived membership in a protected class. Harassment and/or discriminatory behaviour can result from conduct that is verbal (e.g., innuendos, threats, ethnic slurs, derogatory jokes, pejorative epithets, propositions or gestures), non-verbal (e.g., obscene gestures), written (including online communications), visual (e.g., graphic posters and drawings) or physical (e.g., unwanted touching, assault) that is severe or pervasive and objectively offensive.

Identity-Based Slurs

The School will not tolerate the use of identitybased slurs nor identity-based terms used as a pejorative by anyone in our school community whether on school property, on school-related trips off school property, at any school-

sponsored activities or social functions. The use of identity-based slurs (including but not limited to insults historically and currently related to ability, ethnicity, religion, gender identity and expression, race, sexual orientation or any other protected ground) or identity-based terms used as a pejorative are offensive and harmful to specific individuals and erode the welfare of the Saltus community In these instances, the detrimental impact of the identity-based slur on the community member(s) will take precedence over the intent of the alleged harasser(s).

Reports of incidents involving identity-based slurs or terms used as a pejorative may be made to any student, faculty member, or school administrator, who must inform the appropriate Assistant Director. Any community member with knowledge that a student has been the target of an identity-based slur or term used as a pejorative is encouraged to immediately report the act to that student’s Assistant Director or Director. Reports (including online harassment) will be investigated by the Assistant Director and may consist of interviews with the reporting and responding students, as well as any witnesses to the incident(s), and include the evaluation of any information that may be relevant to the case. The school will endeavour to safeguard the identity of persons reporting incidents and will address any and all retaliatory behaviour targeting persons who have reported the behaviour.

In addition to appropriate disciplinary responses, the Assistant Director may require the responding student to participate in educational training, engage in a restorative process or meet with the School Counsellor, and/or any other appropriate measures aimed at repairing fractures created by the responding student’s words and/or actions.

Sexual Harassment

The School will not tolerate sexual harassment of students by anyone, whether on school property, on school-related trips, off school

property, at school-sponsored social functions, online or elsewhere. In a school setting, sexual harassment is conduct that 1) is sexual in nature; 2) is unwelcome; and 3) has the purpose or effect of creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment.

Examples of Sexual Harassment:

Verbal:

• sexual innuendoes

• suggestive comments

• jokes of a sexual nature

• sexual propositions

• threats or extortion

Non-verbal:

• sexually suggestive objects

• pictures, or messages sent via email, text, or social media

• graphic commentaries

• suggestive or insulting sounds such as whistling

• obscene gestures

• unwanted physical contact

Bullying and Cyber-Bullying

Bullying is classified as unwanted behaviour that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. The behaviour is repeated and may be offensive, intimidating, malicious or insulting behaviour which can make a person feel vulnerable, upset, humiliated, undermined or threatened. Below are various forms of bullying that can occur in person or online.

It is our intention through the teaching of the Second Steps programme that students have a clear understanding of what constitutes bullying and harassment.

Examples of bullying may include:

Verbal Bullying (in person or online):

• Teasing

• Name calling

• Inappropriate sexual comments

• Taunting

• Threatening to cause harm

Social Bullying (in person or online):

• Cancel, ostracising and/or intentionally shun someone

• Spreading rumours about someone

• Embarrassing someone in public for the purpose of humiliating them

• Sharing images/videos/comments online for the purpose of intimidation and/or embarrassment

Physical Bullying:

• Hitting/kicking/pinching

• Spitting on someone

• Tripping/pushing

• Taking or breaking someone’s possessions

• Making mean or rude hand gestures.

Reporting Bullying

The School recognises the importance of maintaining open lines of communication to prevent and address bullying. Students and parents are encouraged to report bullying as soon as possible and to utilise support systems offered by Saltus. Students who are victims of bullying and/or have witnessed bullying behaviour are encouraged to seek out the immediate assistance of a trusted adult. This can include a parent, a classroom teacher, Assistant Director, and Director. Staff is committed to preventing, recognising, investigating, and addressing bullying issues in as timely a manner as possible. Progressive and age-appropriate discipline will be used to address bullying behaviours.

The person reporting the bullying has the option to request anonymity.

Violence

Students are expected to resolve issues in a productive non-violent manner. If a student experiences any type of unwanted behaviour, they are encouraged to seek the assistance of trusted adults to address differences and

seek an acceptable resolution with peers. The use of physical force (such as shoving, pushing, slapping, punching, kicking, fighting) is unacceptable behaviour that may result in consequences including but not limited to:

• removal of privileges

• participation in restorative meetings

• in-school suspension

• out-of-school suspension

• expulsion/dismissal

Drug and Alcohol Use

The use or possession of illegal drugs and alcohol as well as the misuse of prescription drugs and other chemical substances are detrimental to the wellbeing of the individual and the community and are incompatible with the purposes and objectives of the School. Rules regarding the purchase, possession, distribution, or use of these substances are essential to maintaining a healthy academic and social environment. The School expects students to take immediate action to get help from adults when they have knowledge of another student who is impaired and in danger from the use of drugs or alcohol.

Saltus aspires to be a drug-free community. Any purchase, possession, distribution, or use of illegal drugs, prescription drugs (such as ADD medication or narcotics) not fully in accordance with a physician’s prescription, or the abuse of any other chemical substances (including over-the-counter medications, cigarettes, and e-cigarettes) will lead to immediate suspension. Any misuse or abuse (including excessive use or distribution) of one’s own prescription or another student’s prescription is also a suspension-level offense.

A student in possession of paraphernalia that can be used to consume illegal and/ or controlled drugs should expect to be drug tested (unless the paraphernalia has evidence of drug use) in which case the student faces immediate suspension. A student should also expect to be tested if there is reason to believe

that they violated this policy. For fairness and thoroughness, any student present during the suspected use of drugs, whether directly involved or not, should expect to be tested. Drug testing will be conducted by a third party.

Refusal by the parent/student to permit or refusal by the student to submit to drug testing will result in an escalation of disciplinary responses.

Purchase, attempt to purchase, possession, distribution, or use of drugs or alcohol in any form by students is grounds for suspension. Alcohol is prohibited on school grounds and at any school-sponsored events unless provided by the School to adults over the drinking age.

In the event of possession of an unlawful item, such as a weapon, cigarette, vape pen, alcohol, or illegal substances, the item will either be disposed of or handed to the police.

Unsafe Practices and Possessions

Unsafe practices and possession of items that might compromise the safety of others are not allowed and may be grounds for probation, suspension, and/or expulsion. Because the School values the health and well-being of everyone, we do not allow students to place themselves or others at risk by their actions or their possessions. The following are examples of guidelines concerning personal and community safety:

Fires: A student may not light a flame or create a fire on the campus without specific permission from a faculty member. Lighting a flame or intentionally setting fire in any building or tampering with smoke detectors or other fire safety equipment may result in consequences including probation, suspension, and/or expulsion.

Weapons: Use or possession of ammunition or any offensive weapon presents a danger and such items are prohibited. Any violation

of this policy would be a major violation of the school’s Code of Conduct and will likely lead to expulsion.

Reckless endangerment: Students may not engage in dangerous pranks or other activities that pose threats to the personal safety of themselves or others. This includes bringing to school replicas of weapons.

Disciplinary Responses to Major Violations of the Code of Conduct

If it has been determined that a major school rule violation has occurred, the Assistant Director, in consultation with the Director and the Head of School, will determine the appropriate consequence.

In all cases, prompt communication with the student’s parent/guardian will be established to discuss the major violation incident. A meeting with parents and the student will be established to discuss the incident, the impact of the incident and the consequence of the behaviour. Written documentation will be sent to the student’s parent(s) or guardian(s) notifying them of the offense and any action taken in response. Based on the severity of the violation the following disciplinary sanctions may be implemented:

1. No Action/Internal Action:

For minor offenses, a student may be assigned internal consequences such as a meeting with the Assistant Director and or Director, community service, a lunchtime reflection period, restrictions of privileges, etc. The Assistant Director and or Director will document the offense and the action taken.

2. Official Letter of Warning: A letter of warning will be written by the Assistant Director and or Director outlining the facts of the case and indicating censure of

behaviour in question and directive to avoid any other violations. The letter will be kept in the student file. If later, another school violation is noted, the letter and incident will be considered while determining the appropriate response. A letter of warning may be used in concert with Community Restoration.

3. Community Restoration:

Community Restoration can last two weeks or longer depending on the severity of the violation and the discretion of the Assistant Director and or Director. During this time the student is expected to reflect and fully commit to meeting the standards of the School.

The student’s behaviour and progress will be assessed by the Assistant Director and or Director at the midpoint of the restoration period. As part of this review, the Assistant Director and/or Director will collect statements from the student’s current teachers and classroom teacher.

The Assistant Director and/or Director will meet with the student to review progress in meeting the expectations of Community Restoration. The information collected for the midpoint review will be part of the overall assessment of the student at the final review. Prior to the final review, the advisor and Assistant Director will gather information from teachers relating to the student’s progress.

During the final review, the student will be expected to: reflect upon the behaviour that had resulted in being placed on Community Restoration, demonstrate their progress with reflection, learning, and rebuilding trust, and present reasons for the Assistant Director and or Director to permit the student to be relieved of disciplinary action.

After consideration of the reports and conversations with the student and advisor, the Assistant Director and or Director will decide either: that the student passes the review or that the review should be extended.

4. Probation:

Probation is the school’s strongest disciplinary response short of suspension or expulsion. Any additional violation of a major school rule while on general probation is likely to result in that student’s suspension or expulsion. When a student is placed on probation, it will usually be for the length of a school term and a behaviour contract will be in place. During this time the Assistant Director and or Director will work with the student, parents, and School Counsellor (where appropriate) to come up with a plan of support. This will take the form of a contract with clear expectations and goals for the student to achieve during their time on probation. At the end of the probationary period, the Assistant Director will work with the Director to determine whether the probation period will be removed or needs to remain in place.

5. Suspension:

In rare instances, a student may be removed from classes or from campus for either an in-school suspension or an out-ofschool suspension. A suspension may be recommended when the behaviour was deemed to be egregious or violent, other previous interventions have failed, or the student has violated warning or probation status.

6. Dismissal/Expulsion:

In rare instances, the Director and Assistant Director may recommend to the Head of School that a student be expelled. In such circumstances, the Head of School will review:

a. the facts related to the incident

b. the student’s conduct and conduct history

c. the school support and interventions offered to the student

d. the steps taken for fair procedural process

The Head of School will meet with the student and parents/guardians providing them with an opportunity to:

• hear the facts regarding the major Code of Conduct violation

• advocate for their child to voice any concerns

Following a parent meeting, the Head of School will take the necessary time to gather any additional information needed to make a decision regarding consequences issued. The Head of School will inform parents of the decision in written form. Consequences for major violations of the code of conduct may include out-of-school suspension or expulsion.

Appeal Process Appeals

In response to suspension or expulsion should a student or parents wish to launch an appeal, the appeal should be made in writing to the Head of School within five (5) days of the suspension. Please note that suspensions will be entered into a student’s record. In some cases, the record of suspension may be removed depending upon review and discussion with the Director of the relevant division and/or the Head of School or their designate.

Responsible Use of Technology

Technology is used regularly in all classrooms at Saltus Grammar School. While the Primary classrooms have Aquosboards, Chromebooks, and iPads, Secondary students have personal devices. The following points address awareness for every student in the school from Foundation Year through to the Saltus Graduate Years.

Proper and Ethical Use

Using technology resources responsibly and with respect for others are the key tenets of the Saltus Grammar School Responsible Use Policy. Students should use Saltus technology and their personal technology,

following the same guidelines used with other school resources. These guidelines include protecting your personal safety and that of others, respecting school and classroom rules, honouring the rights of others, and abiding by all rules regarding the use of technology.

Students in Years 7 through Year 11 participate in our One-To-One Device Programme and are required to purchase a tablet or laptop through the school. Students in SGY1/SGY2 have the option to join the One-To-One Device Programme, lease a laptop from the school or sign up for the BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) option. Each student is responsible for ensuring that this essential learning tool is always available and in good working order. The tablet or laptop’s purpose is for educational rather than recreational use.

A Saltus student is expected to exemplify the principles of the Code of Conduct at all times, including when using technology. Students are expected to abide by the Technology Use Guidelines, which govern the use of technology, and to commit to the Responsible Use Agreement on SaltusLive

The following agreement will be shared with all students and families at the start of each school year from Year 1-SGY2. Parents will be required to confirm their acknowledgement of this agreement via digital form. Student will be required to review and acknowledge digitally from Middle School through to SGY2.

As a digital citizen, I will use devices (computers, tablets, phones, etc.), the internet, and information technology tools responsibly to gather knowledge, learn collaboratively, and share my understanding online. I promise to be a good digital citizen by following these expectations:

• I will read, discuss, and sign this agreement together with my parents.

• I will use technology for school work, and with the permission of a supervising adult.

• I understand that the school may monitor the technology I use and what I do online, but that ultimately, I am the one responsible for my behaviour with technology.

• I will follow rules set by my teachers, and will not allow technology to distract me from my learning or the learning of my peers; for

example, by playing games, listening to loud music, or using social networks that are not related to my school work.

• I will ask an adult when I am unsure about how or when I may use technology.

• I will return all school-owned technology to its proper storage place after use each day and inform the teacher upon return.

• If I bring a mobile/smartphone to school, it will be turned off and kept in my locker during school hours. If I need to use my mobile/smartphone during school hours, I will ask the permission of my teacher.

• I will not use technology to be mean, rude, or unkind to other people, and will be respectful and thoughtful when sharing my own work, commenting on the work of others, and communicating with others online.

• I will respect copyright laws, and will not use technology to access inappropriate, offensive, or illegal material.

• I will keep my passwords private and will respect the privacy of others’ passwords.

• If I see or read anything on a computer/ device that makes me feel uncomfortable or that I know is not acceptable at school, I will close the device, not respond to comments or show others, and tell an adult in the Saltus community right away.

• I will not share personal identifying information (such as full name, address, email addresses, or phone numbers) online, and I will not take or share photos or videos of others without their permission.

• I will not attempt to harm, damage, or bypass the school’s technology systems.

• I will look after my device and any school device by keeping it in a case and keeping food and liquid away from it; always closing the lid before carrying it and being careful not to drop it, and telling an adult right away if there is any damage.

• I will not use another student’s device.

• If I am allowed to bring my own device, I will bring it fully charged and/or with a charger.

• I am responsible for taking care of my device and for any damage that occurs at school.

• I am responsible for taking care of any

borrowed school device and for any damage that occurs to the device at school or not (provided the device is allowed off school property)

• I understand that my behaviour using technology at school and out of school may have consequences as outlined in the Student Code of Conduct.

Additional Policies

It must also be noted that, in addition to the guidelines above, individual departments may create and implement additional (ageappropriate) policies for technology use. These may include time of day restrictions (i.e. no tech recess or lunch), location restrictions (e.g. no devices in bathrooms), and device restrictions e.g. (no cell phones throughout the teaching day).

Cell Phones and Other Mobile Devices

Students are permitted to have cellular phones and personal entertainment devices on campus, but they must be powered off and stowed during the school day (8:00 am to 3:30 pm). Students may not use these devices during class unless directed by a teacher to use them for instructional purposes. Kindles or other eBook readers, including iPads with eBook apps are permitted; however, the School is not responsible for damage or loss. These devices must be operated in stand-alone mode and cannot be connected to the School’s WiFi network. All parent communication to the School during the academic day must come through the School Reception.

Academic Programme

Curriculum and Assessment

At Saltus, we believe our students are curious, capable, and full of wonder. We strive to hear the voices of our students as we explore their interests while ensuring that essential academic standards and skills are being met throughout our students’ learning journey.

Through inquiry-based experiences, investigative research, and explicit teaching, students are able to engage in rich learning opportunities that deepen their understanding of phenomena, concepts, and ideas of the world around them. Students are encouraged to explore content through an interdisciplinary approach and a variety of mediums, in the classroom, our studio spaces, and beyond our walls at Saltus, as they develop an

understanding of multiple perspectives, concepts, and ideas.

Our competency-based approach to learning allows students to develop skills that will allow for the transfer of knowledge to novel, complex problems rather than simply a recall of content. Our students are propelled to become articulate, collaborative, critical thinkers and problem solvers. We believe that through meaningful, contextualised experiences they will develop skills that will enable them to succeed throughout their time at Saltus and beyond.

Curriculum, assessment, and teaching are all connected. By looking closely at a student’s

performance on assessments—not just their grades—teachers can identify and make informed changes to their instructional approaches. At the same time, our purpose is to prepare students for the world they will inherit. Our curriculum, assessment and teaching practices are centered around realworld relevance to enable students to develop the curricular competencies and thinking strategies to take with them into the wider world.

How we assess reflects our belief about the abilities and potential of all students and is rooted in a shared understanding of the goals and criteria required for every assessment. Throughout a term, a school year, and a student’s journey through their years at Saltus, assessments provide a set of snapshots that when put together, portray a student’s progress towards their learning goals. A full picture of a student’s learning is not based upon a single assessment, but rather on multiple assessments, including documentation,

Homework

observation, one-on-one conferences, daily work, reflections, performance tasks, and traditional tests and quizzes.

A comprehensive report is provided to parents twice a year on SaltusLive in January and June. Parents are also invited to two Parent Teacher Conferences and are encouraged to reach out to their child’s teacher should they have any questions regarding their child’s progress at any point throughout the year.

Eight-Day Schedule

Our subject specialists work across all departments of Saltus. This contributes to our robust academic program and includes subjects such as PE, Music, Art and Spanish, providing more options for our students. Parents will be provided with their child’s schedule, to show the eight-day rotation. It will also be posted on SaltusLive, on their child’s Bulletin Board page so they will know their child’s daily schedule.

In Lower Primary we set homework that is intentional and may be differentiated by class and student. It may be sight word practice, reinforcing a concept taught, games and activities based on the curriculum objectives, a question to ponder, or research to conduct at home depending on your child’s learning needs at any given time.

For all year levels, reading homework is expected to be done every night. Guidelines for reading are 10 minutes each night for Y1 and Y2.

Please review the section called Home School Connection in the bi-weekly ‘Inquiring Minds’ which is posted on the class Topics page on SaltusLive for suggestions and things to discuss with your child at home to reinforce his or her learning.

If you have questions about your child’s progress, as always please contact your child’s teacher.

Extra-Curricular Programmes

In addition to the core programme, Saltus offers numerous clubs and activities to enhance their experience in many valuable ways throughout their Saltus journey. From origami to debating, chess to construction, students can choose an adventure that interests them from a diverse menu of options.

Extra-curricular activities are designed to help students find their passion. Whether based on athletics, service learning, or the range of clubs offered at Saltus; each student has the opportunity to explore options that encourage their creativity and dedication.

Service Learning

In keeping with our Mission Statement, we consider community service an important part of our Programme. We hold various events throughout the year to support local and international charities. Over the years we have supported many charities such as: Keep Bermuda Beautiful (KBB), The St. Baldrick’s Foundation, Meals on Wheels, Red Cross, St. John Ambulance, SPCA and many more.

Guidance

Academic Support and Enrichment

Our Learning Strategist ensures that all students are receiving the necessary tools to best cope with our rigorous curriculum. As we work closely with all of our students to ensure they have the highest possible chance at academic success, there are times when some students may need to receive more focused and individual attention. If you have a concern about your child’s academic progress and believe that he/she has a learning challenge, you are encouraged to contact your child’s teacher or our Learning Strategist, Nea Moore at Nea.Moore@saltus.bm

School Counsellor

Our School Counsellor, Nic Scanlon, is on-site full-time and is available to offer support to our students. He works with our Faculty to ensure that the policies and processes are followed regarding any students who are in need of additional emotional or social suppor t. He has office space at each campus and works closely with the other support services and with the parents. If you have concerns regarding your child, please do not hesitate to contact Nic Scanlon to arrange a meeting at nicholas.scanlon@saltus.bm, telephone 292-6177 ext.6256, cell phone: 535-2847.

Directory

Please refer to our school directory online at www.saltus.bm for a full list of teachers and staff currently employed by Saltus.

Parent Connection

Communication

We believe it is important that teachers and parents take shared ownership in the learning and well-being of every student. Communication is highly encouraged and should begin with the student’s classroom teacher. We believe that open communication between teachers and parents will have a positive impact on the student’s overall progress in school. Avenues of communication will include newsletters, report cards and the school website. Conversations will also occur via telephone calls, conferences, and various school-based activities.

As part of our commitment to clear communication with students, staff, and parents, we have developed guidelines to ensure that we can meet and manage the expectations of our community. These guidelines are meant to be used in adherence to our Code of Conduct.

Expectations for Parents and Students:

• Our first priority is teaching and learning with our students. Therefore, we have a 24-hour (or a weekend) turnaround time for Faculty and Staff to answer emails. Faculty and staff are not required to answer emails in the evening or over the weekend. However, they will be checking them on a regular basis. If parents have an emergency, please contact the appropriate school office.

• A respectful, balanced, and healthy approach to communication is integral to our beliefs and values as a school. All members of our community should ‘think before you send’. If your concern is of a sensitive nature, please ask for a face-toface meeting or a telephone call.

• Faculty and Staff will only use school email addresses to communicate with parents and students. They are not permitted to give

out personal contact information.

• The digital environment in which we learn means that the school will often publish photos and videos created by and/or containing images of members of our school community (including students).

Emails/Telephone calls

Teachers’ email addresses are provided in an effort to maintain healthy communication between the School and our parents. If a teacher has a concern, expect a call or email within 24 hours and all other matters, within 48 hours. A meeting after school hours may be requested. Teachers are always available for consultation, given reasonable notice, and welcome the opportunity to meet with parents to discuss students’ progress.

SaltusLive

SaltusLive is a single ‘sign-on’ education portal located at www.saltus.bm. Each member of the Saltus community (parents, students, alumni, etc.) has an existing record in SaltusLive. Information such as class schedules, school holidays, permission forms, student billing, emergency contact details, grading, and report cards can all be accessed through this portal. Once log-in/access is established users have control over updates to contact information and system settings for email and notifications. To log in click on SaltusLive in the top right corner of the screen at www.saltus.bm

Guidance is available via a link entitled ‘Forgot login or First time logging in?’ if needed. Should you experience any problems with accessing your account, or need to access historical data, please contact livehelp@saltus.bm or telephone 292-6177 ext. 6287.

Profile Updates

Personal profile data fields, including phone numbers, addresses, etc. in SaltusLive will be

locked in an effort to improve the reliability of information available in our school database.

If you would like to make changes to your

Parent Volunteers

personal profile at any time, please send an email request to live.profile.changes@saltus.bm and provide the information to be updated.

Saltus Association: The Saltus Association is a group of parent volunteers who organise informative and social events that benefit the whole school community. If you are interested to learn more, please contact pta@saltus.bm.

Class Parent Programme (Lower/Upper Primary): Class Parent Coordinators and Class Parents are volunteers who work together with the classroom teachers to help organise class parties, field trips, sports days, and holiday fairs. For information, please contact the Administrative Assistant or Assistant Director of Lower Primary.