Taipei American School Lower School Handbook | SY22-23

L o w e r S c h o o l

STUDENT AND PARENT HANDBOOK

TAIPEI AMERICAN SCHOOL SCHOOL YEAR 2022-2023

At Taipei American School we offer countless opportunities for students to discover more about the world and about themselves. We proudly celebrate the diversity of perspectives, experiences, and talents represented throughout our community and strive to foster an inclusive and positive learning environment. Our commitment is to cultivate an enduring commitment to learning, personal well-being, and service. We aim to develop students of character who are committed to making the world a better place. It is our hope not only that our students thrive academically at Taipei American School, but also that they will make friends, discover passions, draw on strengths, rebound from failures, and enjoy the educational journey.

Taipei American School is a community that relies on its members to ensure a positive experience for everyone. We believe that our values of honesty, respect, responsibility, kindness and courage are fundamental and are the overarching expected standards for behavior. This handbook introduces campus rules and regulations as well as guidelines for student behavior. It is designed to provide helpful information that will enable students and parents to experience the fullest of what Taipei American School has to offer. We require lower school parents to read and acknowledge their understanding of the guidelines in the handbook as part of the reenrollment process.

Like any good school, Taipei American School is always evolving, so even longtime students and parents are encouraged to read the handbook again. This handbook is not exhaustive, nor is it intended to be, nor does it contractually bind Taipei American School. We reserve the right to modify, add or depart from, or replace this information without notice. Changes to the handbook will be made to this electronic version, so please bookmark this page. In addition, information specific to the school year can be found in the TAS Parent Zone and on the all-school calendar

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2 Mission, Essential Capacities, School Values, and Community Commitment Statement

Mission Statement

Taipei American School’s mission is to cultivate an enduring commitment to learning, personal well-being, and service. We provide a broad American-based education with a global perspective that develops students of character who are committed to making the world a better place.

Essential Capacities

In addition to a rigorous academic program, and a focus on academic and personal excellence, TAS students will develop:

Analytical and Creative Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills

• Identify, manage and address problems

• Formulate meaningful questions

• Use trial and error; devise and test solutions to problems

• Imagine alternatives

• Engage in sustained reasoning; persevere

• Use knowledge and creativity to solve “real world” problems

Leadership and Teamwork Skills

• Resolve conflicts

• Engage in and facilitate group discussions

• Enlist help and self-advocate

• Collaborate sensitively and productively with people of varied backgrounds

• Set and meet goals

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2022-2023

Lower School Student and Parent Handbook

Last revised: January 30, 2023

Complex Communication – Oral and Written

• Understand and express ideas in two or more languages

• Communicate clearly to diverse audiences

• Listen attentively

• Speak effectively

• Write clearly and concisely for a variety of audiences

• Explain information and persuade others of its implications

Digital and Quantitative Literacy Skills

• Understand, use and apply digital technologies

• Use multimedia resources to communicate ideas effectively in a variety of formats

• Understand traditional and emerging topics in math, science/environmental science, technology and robotics

Global Perspective

• Develop open-mindedness, particularly regarding the values and traditions of others

• Develop facility with one or more international languages

• Use technology to connect with people and events globally

Integrity and Ethical Decision-Making Skills

• Sustain an empathetic and compassionate outlook

• Foster integrity, honesty, fairness, and respect

• Exhibit moral courage in confronting unjust situations

• Act responsibly with the interests and well-being of the community in mind

Adaptability, Initiative and Risk-taking Knowledge

• Develop flexibility and adaptability

• Bring a sense of courage to unfamiliar situations

• Explore, experiment, and develop independence

• View failure as an opportunity to learn, and acknowledge that innovation involves small successes and frequent mistakes

• Use creativity and innovation to produce things that are unique and that have value and meaning

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Wellness

• Develop emotional regulation, adaptability and creativity through play opportunities

• Build a growth mindset by fostering optimism, flexibility and resilience

• Engage in homework that is purposeful and appropriate

• Participate in programs that promote mental, social, emotional and physical development (PE, field trips, etc.)

School Values

The values of the Taipei American School were developed by representatives from all of the School’s stakeholder groups: students, parents, faculty, administrators, and support staff. Our school’s mission statement states that we will “cultivate an enduring commitment to learning, personal well-being, and service” and “[develop] students of character who are committed to making the world a better place.” Toward this end, we have accepted the following school values, as noted below. In the enrollment contract, parents agree that their child’s opportunity to attend Taipei American School is contingent at all times upon all members of the family both being a good fit for the School’s community and honoring our standards for civility, courtesy, and respect toward other students, faculty, and staff as embodied in our values of honesty, respect, responsibility, kindness, and courage, in all cases as determined in the sole discretion of the head of school.

Honesty

We will be honest with ourselves and others in all our endeavors, including academic pursuits. We tell the truth even if it is difficult and may not benefit us. Being truthful builds trust and unites us.

Respect

We embrace differences in opinions, identities, and backgrounds. Our actions and words always represent consideration and appreciation of each other and ourselves.

Responsibility

We are part of a broader community and we strive to be trustworthy, reliable, and accountable to ourselves, others, and our environment. We take ownership and accept the consequences of our words and actions. We uphold all TAS values.

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Kindness

We are considerate, compassionate, and caring of each other and ourselves. We practice empathy and help others in need even if they don’t ask or it’s inconvenient, without the expectation of any return.

Courage

We stand up for what we believe is right. We encourage each other to express different viewpoints and to take risks, especially when it is neither easy nor popular. We are not afraid of challenges or failure because we are resilient.

Community Commitment Statement

As a community of students, parents, families, faculty, administration, staff, board members, and alumni, we will foster a culture of justice, equity, diversity and inclusion that embodies anti-bias action and accountability. We commit ourselves and our peers to live the TAS values and to do the work necessary to maintain an inclusive, diverse, and welcoming environment for all. We will continue to question and challenge our own biases and privileges and use our experiences to empower our community. The JEDI Committee’s work and related information is available on the TAS website here.

As students, we will...

• Do our part to foster a more inclusive, caring, and supportive community.

• Empower ourselves and peers to speak out against acts of injustice and exclusionary behaviors and speech.

• Challenge ourselves and our peers to live the TAS values.

• Commit to supporting our peers in the full diversity of their identities and experiences.

http://www.tas.edu.tw/divisional-handbooks/home/lower-school-handbook

2022-2023 Lower School Student and Parent Handbook

Last revised: January 30, 2023

Useful Contact Information and Links

Phone

• TAS Main Number 02-7750-9900

• Lower School Office (Attendance Secretary) Ext. 105

• Lower School Counseling Office Ext. 106

• Guardhouse Ext. 317

For more contact information, please use the School’s faculty and staff directory. Please note sign-in is required to view the contact information in the TAS Parent Zone.

Web links

• TAS Website: https://www.tas.edu.tw

• TAS Parent Zone: https://www.tas.edu.tw/parent-zone

• PowerSchool Parent Sign-in: https://taspsapps02.tas.edu.tw/public/

• TAS Faculty and Staff Directory: https://www.tas.edu.tw/parent-zone/parentschool-communication/staff-directory

• TAS Academic Calendar: https://www.tas.edu.tw/school-life/school-calendar

• TAS Safeguarding Page: https://www.tas.edu.tw/safeguarding/home

• TAS Wellness Page: https://www.tas.edu.tw/safeguarding/wellness

• TAS Board of Directors Corner: https://www.tas.edu.tw/parent-zone/board

Parent School Communication

Parents are asked to refer to the parent-school communication page on the school website when they need to communicate matters regarding their students. The web page lays out the communication channels used at TAS to help parents identify the right person to contact when questions arise.

http://www.tas.edu.tw/divisional-handbooks/home/lower-school-handbook

2022-2023 Lower School Student and Parent Handbook

Last revised: January 30, 2023

4 School Hours and Daily Schedule

School Hours

7:45 AM - 2:40 PM (Grade 3-5)

8:00 AM - 2:40 PM (Kindergarten – Grade 2)

8:30 AM - 1:30 PM (KA)

Ten-Day Cycle

The Lower School operates with a schedule featuring a ten-day cycle. The schedule ensures large blocks of uninterrupted instructional time. Students attend specials every day: physical education, music activity, art, STEAM, and Mandarin. In addition, all students attend library lessons and participate in classes presented by our counselors.

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5 Learning at Taipei American School

The learning environment in our classrooms reflects the best of independent schools in the world. Classroom activities provide students the opportunity to work both individually and in small and large groups. Projects and small group work encourage the students to become more independent in their own learning. Providing developmentally appropriate instruction, emphasizing thinking, communication skills, and active learning characterizes the learning environment of the Taipei American School Lower School.

Lower School at a Glance

• The curriculum and instruction at the TAS Lower School feature many materials and approaches found in the best independent elementary schools in the United States and worldwide.

• The learning environment in classrooms reflects learning activities that foster the attainment of the TAS standards and benchmarks as well as the Essential Capacities

• Homerooms are comprised of heterogeneous groups. Individual and group work in all core subjects enhances the students’ problem-solving, critical-thinking, and logic skills.

• A variety of instructional materials and pedagogical approaches promote student engagement and meaningful learning.

• Technology is integrated into studies in all subject areas. It is a major focus for our signature STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics) and robotics programs. Classroom teachers work with design and technology coaches to support technology instruction.

• The EAL (English as an Academic Language) model employed at TAS is the “sheltered immersion” model. EAL students are immersed in the mainstream and EAL teachers work in classrooms with the EAL students throughout the day, focusing on the language content of lessons. EAL teachers monitor EAL students’ progress carefully to foster language development through small group work.

• Social emotional learning is fostered through the TAS school values of honesty, respect, responsibility, kindness, and courage in the day-to-day interactions of our students. Our Responsive Classroom approach is designed to support social-emotional development and promote positive community in our classrooms and beyond.

• Four counselors, a psychologist, four learning support teachers, and two speech language therapists work to support lower school students.

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Class Placement

The process of class placement for the following school year begins in the second semester. The goal is to create a balanced group of students who will work and learn well together. Class placement is announced just before school begins in August.

Service Learning

All lower school students from KA through Grade 5 participate in service learning. Past opportunities have included singing at a home for the elderly, assembling hygiene kits, preparing care packages for local families in need, and hosting a flea market to support a local orphanage. Wherever possible, service-learning opportunities are directly connected to our curriculum.

Visiting Authors and Artists

Each year, a number of authors and artists visit our school, either as school- or PTAsponsored guest educators. Authors spend their time giving readings of their work, presentations, and writing workshops to lower school students, and artists work with our students in classes and special projects, and give talks, presentations, or performances to students and often our community.

Swimming Policy

Participation in swimming activities is required for all students since it is part of the formal physical education (PE) program in the Lower School

There are very few exceptions as to why a student cannot participate in swimming. In general, if students are well enough to attend school, they are usually well enough to participate in swimming.

Students who begin to feel unwell while at school should visit the nurse. The nurse will determine if the child will attend swimming, not attend swimming, or be monitored in the health office.

If a medical doctor determines that a child cannot participate due to health reasons, a note must be presented to the nurse from the doctor. Other exceptions such as

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debilitating asthma, a large wound, or an eye or ear infection would exclude a child from swimming, as determined by the school nurse

Standardized Tests

In addition to the ongoing internal assessments which are conducted in all classrooms at each grade level, students in Grade 5 participate in standardized external assessments. The main purpose of administering standardized tests is to measure student growth and to inform instructional practices.

Students in Grade 5 participate in testing in the second semester. While external tests are important, they are only one part of a larger assessment picture.

Homework

TAS students are actively engaged in rigorous, structured academic experiences throughout the school day. After 2:40 PM, students may participate in a variety of activities that foster intrinsic motivation and self-directed learning.

What does homework look like?

• Students read for pleasure everyday (appropriate English & Chinese texts).

• Students listen to stories read aloud by parents and caregivers in their native language every day.

• Upper elementary students consolidate mathematical ideas and explore new ones through games and other activities.

• Students practice Chinese skills in the community, watch brief videos, and play games to support language development.

• Students occasionally write short pieces in Chinese and practice character formation

• Students engage in active and/or creative, unstructured play.

Research

• Reading has the single greatest impact on student achievement. It expands vocabulary and broadens knowledge across all curricular disciplines

• Unstructured, imaginative, child-centered play and physical activity enhance student performance and lead to better behavioral choices.

• The brain develops in childhood through active play, exercise, and sleep.

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How much time should my child spend on homework?

We expect students to dedicate time at home to the following:

Grade 5 – 60 minutes (reading, math, Mandarin) plus music activity practice

Grade 4 – 55 minutes (reading, math, Mandarin) plus music activity practice

Grade 3 – 40 minutes (reading, Mandarin) plus applied math practice and music activity practice

Grade 2 – 40 minutes (reading, Mandarin) plus applied math practice

Grade 1 – 30 minutes (reading, Mandarin) plus applied math practice

Kindergarten – 10-15 minutes (reading) plus optional math games

Tutors

In cases where the Lower School deems necessary, the student support team may assist in arranging a school-sanctioned tutor for a student, and the School may permit the tutoring to take place on campus. The approved tutor must have relevant credentials, have passed the required background check, and display a school-issued visitor’s ID at all times while on campus. (In such case, all fees are negotiated directly between the parent and the tutor and are independent of the School.) Tutoring may only take place in an assigned space, and campus access for the tutor is limited to when approved tutoring is taking place. No other private tutoring is permitted on campus.

Student Transfer and Withdrawal Procedure

If a student must transfer out of TAS for any reason, parents should first officially submit the withdrawal notice found in PowerSchool. Please make sure that library books and any other materials that belong to the School are returned. Parents who have any questions may contact the lower school secretary at extension 105.

Transcript Requests

Families may download student reports from PowerSchool. After receiving the withdrawal notices, the lower school office will begin preparing the official transcript. Two copies will be emailed, one directly to the receiving school specified, and one to the family.

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6 Attendance

In the Lower School, our educational program is not simply a matter of delivering content. We believe it is a much greater and more holistic experience. The social side of learning, the sharing of ideas between peers, the classroom dialogue, and the community aspects of a day cannot be replicated outside of school. We know that there are family events outside of school that conflict with the school schedule. Except in the case of sickness or a family emergency, however, we expect students to be in school when school is in session. The school calendar balances work time and vacation time for everyone. Vacation dates are published well in advance so families can plan non-school experiences in those times. We ask that parents not take students out of school at other times during the school year.

Attendance and Absences

Students who are absent or late to school must have an electronic absence form completed in PowerSchool. In case that is not possible, parents should call the attendance secretary between 7:30 AM and 8:00 AM. If a student is absent for any part of the school day, then the student must report to the attendance secretary in the lower school office when arriving at school. Parents will be called to confirm a student’s absence if the School is not notified.

Tardiness

The school day begins promptly at 7:45 AM for Grades 3-5, 8:00 AM for Grades K-2, and 8:30 AM for KA students. Parents of students who are frequently tardy will be contacted either by the counselor, principal, or an associate principal.

Permission to Leave Campus During the School Day

Students are expected to remain on the school campus for the duration of the school day. Students who must leave campus early may be excused with a notice from the parents to the homeroom teacher and the lower school office. For security reasons, we ask parents not to make these requests by telephone. The reasons should be presented to the attendance secretary, and an exit pass must be obtained from the office in order for a student to leave school

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7 Campus Life and Expectations

Courtesy Guidelines

One of our school values is respect, and students are expected to always treat others with respect. When getting help, for example, from people serving food in the cafeteria or the snack bar, students are expected to say “please” and “thank you.”

Campus Access

School IDs are required for students to enter and exit TAS campus. More information is available on the TAS website.

Before and After-School Expectations

In order to provide adequate supervision and security, our campus opens at 7:00 AM Monday–Friday. Lower school students require adult supervision at all times when on campus. Each morning before school, students are to wait in the lower school lobby until 7:15 AM when they are dismissed to morning recess.

Lower school students are not permitted to remain on the school campus after school unless they have a plan which includes the following:

• Waiting in the cafeteria or library for a later bus or TYPA activities (students are required to sign up with the supervising Teacher Assistant)

• Attending private lessons (music, swimming)

• Attending TYPA activities

Each child must have an after-school plan if remaining on campus beyond 2:40 PM. After-school plans must be submitted electronically through the TAS Parent Zone

Using English, Our Common Language

One goal of Taipei American School is to encourage all students to use English effectively. The language of instruction is English. While the school recognizes the importance of speaking many languages, students should take every opportunity to use English when they are at our school. The following statements should provide clear guidelines for the use of English at Taipei American School:

• During classroom instruction, English should be used by all students except at times and conditions approved by classroom teachers.

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• Outside of classes, all students are encouraged to use English.

• The language of interaction during recess and lunch time may be the language with which the student is most comfortable. However, in groups of students where the only common language is English, then English should be used. No student should be excluded from a game or a conversation because of language.

Animals and Pets

Animals and pets may not be brought on campus.

Cell Phones, Other Electronic Devices, and Toys

The School provides all technology devices (iPads, laptops, notebooks, etc.) required for supervised student learning every day. Therefore, lower school students never need to bring their own electronic devices to school. Ensuring safe, responsible, and respectful use of technology is a priority in the Lower School at TAS. Gaming, video-watching, and Internet use by lower school students is not permitted on campus before or after school.

Upon arriving on campus, all cell phones (if for any reason a student must have a personal phone) and electronic devices (including phone watches) must be kept in book bags until after school. The School will not accept responsibility for lost, damaged, or misplaced personal items.

Toys should not be brought to school.

Phone Calls

Students who need to contact their parents in case of an emergency may do so from the lower school office any time during the school day. Students do not need a personal phone while they are at school, and cell phone usage by students on campus is not permitted during school hours. If a parent must contact a student during school time, they may call the lower school office.

Food and Drink

Taipei American School is a nut-free environment. Students may not bring items that may contain nuts of any kind to school.

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2022-2023 Lower School Student and Parent Handbook

Last revised: January 30, 2023

Dress Code

Students are expected to be appropriately dressed for active learning and play. Shoes must be worn at all times. Sandals and flip-flops interfere with recess and PE activities and are therefore discouraged. Shoulders and backs must be covered. Hats and hoods are not to be worn inside school.

Expectations on School Buses

When on school transportation, quiet conversation is permitted. Other than that, ordinary classroom conduct and behavior upholding TAS values are expected. Students who behave inappropriately on the school bus will be referred to an associate principal or the principal and will be subject to disciplinary action. If a student repeatedly violates the expectations for bus conduct, they may be temporarily or permanently suspended from using the school transportation service. Additional information is available in the transportation services section on the TAS website.

Skateboards, Scooters, and In-line Skates

The use of skateboards, scooters, and in-line skates is not allowed at school. Students are further encouraged not to skate or ride skateboards or scooters to school because of the traffic conditions.

Music Instrument Storage

Lower school students who play band or string instruments will store their instruments in an assigned cubby or other designated areas on music activity days. Instruments are to be taken home daily and not left in hallways, classrooms, or on the floor in front of storage cubbies. Every student is required to have a nametag attached to the instrument case. The School does not accept responsibility for instruments left overnight or over the weekend at school.

http://www.tas.edu.tw/divisional-handbooks/home/lower-school-handbook

2022-2023 Lower School Student and Parent Handbook

Last revised: January 30, 2023

Birthday Parties

Birthday parties will usually be limited to the last 20 minutes of the day. Students are not permitted to exchange or open gifts at school. “Gift bags” from the birthday student to the class should also not be exchanged at school. Invitations to parties held outside of school may not be passed out in class. Always check with the homeroom teacher about birthdays and celebrations.

http://www.tas.edu.tw/divisional-handbooks/home/lower-school-handbook

2022-2023 Lower School Student and Parent Handbook

Last revised: January 30, 2023

8 Safeguarding Policies and Related Information

Student safety is our number one priority. Here are some important links about student safety and well-being:

• Child protection policy

• Harassment policy (Board Policy #405)

• Policy on transgender and gender nonconforming students

• Suicide prevention policy

• Lower school acceptable use policy (AUP)

• Privacy policy

• Non-discriminatory policy

• Photography, video, and social media guidelines

http://www.tas.edu.tw/divisional-handbooks/home/lower-school-handbook

9 Activities

After–School Opportunities

Lower school students are fortunate to be able to have access to after-school classes, clubs, and activities organized by the Taipei Youth Program Association (TYPA). Lower school clubs, such as the Green Club, the Chinese Culture Club, and the Grade Five Drama Club, take place at different times of the year. Information is sent home directly about such opportunities.

TYPA

TYPA is a non-profit organization which fosters the development of healthy, wellrounded, confident youth, enthusiastic about learning through their participation in safe, dynamic, fun-filled recreational experiences. TYPA is a separate organization from TAS, but there is a close working relationship between the two organizations. TYPA offers over 75 different classes to 2,400 participants each week. The year is divided into two semesters of activities as well as a day camp during the summer. Offerings include dance, music, martial arts, gymnastics, and sports programs (baseball, soccer, basketball, and handball) as well as arts and crafts, scouting, concerts, and ballet and jazz performances. In addition, TYPA sponsors a variety of community events such as music recitals, flea markets, and Family Fun Days.

Camp Experience

We believe that alternative education experiences change students’ lives by promoting emotional, social, and physical development through meaningful, relevant, and engaging activities in nature. The goal of the camp experience for Grades 2, 3, 4, and 5 is for students to foster a better understanding and appreciation of themselves, others, and the natural environment. This is best achieved through living and working together in the outdoors. Participation in camp is mandatory.

Duration

• Students in Grade 2 will visit camp for one day.

• Students in Grade 3 will attend camp for two days and one night.

• Students in Grade 4 will attend camp for three days and two nights

• Students in Grade 5 will attend camp for three days and two nights

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2022-2023 Lower School Student and Parent Handbook

Last revised: January 30, 2023

Location

The location for all four camps is Camp Taiwan in Daping, Wan-li, New Taipei City (Daping is a small community on the "backside" of Yangmingshan National Park, in the foothills between Jinshan and Wan-li on the northern coast.)

Field Trips

Learning extends beyond the walls of the Taipei American School when field trips bring additional meaning to the units of study. Transportation for field trips is provided by the School. Permission for students to attend field trips is provided at the time of student registration.

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Responding to Misbehavior

In order to act responsibly with the well-being of the community in mind, children often need support. It is the intent of the School to nurture and educate our students so they make thoughtful decisions and comprehend the logical consequences of their actions.

Continual or deliberate patterns of inappropriate behavior or actions that endanger an individual or the greater student population are handled appropriately, at the discretion of the principal or an associate principal, taking into account the student’s age and with an approach meant to educate and provide all students with a safe, uninterrupted learning environment.

Each case is fact-specific, and the review of each case is systematic. There are always nuances to every situation, as we want to focus on education and communication, not zero tolerance. Consequently, educators who work directly with the students are involved in the process alongside administration to ensure equitable and consistent application of these principles.

We strive to help each child to develop strong moral character. In order to be successful academically and socially, students need to learn cooperation, assertion, responsibility, empathy and self-control. We believe the best process for influencing student behavior is based on common values and respect for the dignity of each student. Our goal is to develop intrinsic motivation in students to become self-disciplined and to take personal responsibility for their actions.

Parents should also know that the School may be required to provide any information requested by a subpoena, a court order, Taiwan law, or the law of the United States.

Behavior Off–Campus and Reach of the School

Our support, guidance, and concern for students developing into responsible citizens does not stop at the school gates. Students engaged in inappropriate or unlawful activity off-campus, including via social media and especially when other TAS students are involved, may be held responsible under school disciplinary guidelines.

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Exclusionary Language

Exclusionary language is used to single someone out for parts of their identity: their race, ethnicity, nationality, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, religion, or body shape to name a few examples. Use of any language designed to belittle someone including derogatory remarks, insults, slurs, and intimidation, violates several TAS values and will result in appropriate disciplinary action.

Abusive Language

Profanity is not acceptable at any time. Appropriate disciplinary action will result for use of profanity.

Dangerous Items

Students may not bring dangerous items to school. Examples of these include pellet and BB guns, fireworks, knives, matches, lighters, and any other item that can be used to harm our community members. These items will be confiscated, and parents will be contacted. Appropriate disciplinary action will result.

Theft

Any student found stealing violates trust and appropriate disciplinary action will be taken.

Damage to School Property

Any student who marks, defaces, breaks or destroys school property will be responsible for the cost of cleaning, repairing, or replacing the damage.

Logical Consequences

If a student commits any of the previously mentioned offenses, is involved in a serious breach of the lower school values or deliberately, significantly, or consistently disrupts and impedes the learning of others, consequences may include:

• Values Learning Plan (VLP)

Students involved in a discipline incident may be asked to complete a Values Learning Plan (VLP) with the help of the administration. The VLP is a tool for

http://www.tas.edu.tw/divisional-handbooks/home/lower-school-handbook

Last revised: January 30, 2023

students to describe what happened, reflect on the results of their actions, and design a strategy to avoid repeating such behavior. A copy of the VLP is shared with the student’s parents, teacher and counselor.

• Supervised time outs

• Loss of school privileges

This may include recess or participation in school sponsored activities.

• Meetings with the student's counselor/administrators

• Counseling outside the school

• Restorative work

• In-school suspension

• At-home suspension

• Removal from the TAS community

Being a member of TAS is dependent on learning and living by our values. In support of this expectation, students may be suspended should they exhibit behavior that:

• poses an immediate or continuing threat to the safety of others;

• clearly demonstrates a conscious failure to live within and abide by TAS values; and/or

• deliberately, significantly, and consistently disrupts and impedes the learning of others.

Parent Note: Physical Punishment

In keeping with the school policy and the law in the United States and Taiwan, physical punishment is not tolerated at school or at home. Cases of physical abuse towards children are always reported to social services the Ministry of Education. Relevant information is available in the School’s child protection policy.

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11 Counseling and Student Support Services

Counseling

TAS counselors promote all students’ social, emotional, academic, and multicultural competencies in a safe, respectful, and motivating school environment. This is achieved through a collaborative partnership of school personnel, parents, and community with the purpose of preparing all students for wellness, academic success, lifelong learning, and global citizenship.

We believe:

• Student well-being is at the heart of our educational approach;

• All students are deserving of a sense of belonging and connection;

• All students are capable of change and growth;

• Student success is individually defined and enhanced by one's own unique strengths;

• It is essential to celebrate diversity in all its forms and to support our students’ development towards an awareness of their personal identities; and

• Communication between home and school should be collaborative and ongoing.

In the Lower School, our counseling team works with students to support their overall well-being. The counselors help students develop a feeling of belonging in our school community and make meaningful connection with their peers and teachers; they also help students learn to recognize, understand, label, express and regulate their emotions. In addition, counselors provide support around friendships, family relationships, and personal identity. Lower school counselors work closely in partnership with parents to support their child. Students and families may be referred to outside counselors or agencies when appropriate. In compliance with Taiwan law and the child protection policy, the School is required to report cases of child abuse or neglect.

Our counselors are a part of the daily life of the Lower School, advocating for students as they collaborate with classroom teachers and administrators. Counselors host parent education events in response to community needs, coordinate the new student orientation program, and support social emotional learning in the classroom. Our counselors are visible, trained professionals with an open door. Any member of the school community who is concerned about someone, including one’s self, should reach out to a counselor.

http://www.tas.edu.tw/divisional-handbooks/home/lower-school-handbook

2022-2023 Lower School Student and Parent Handbook

Last revised: January 30, 2023

Student Support Services

There are counselors, nurses, speech/language teachers, academic support teachers, and a psychologist in the student support services department who specifically serve lower school students. The members of the department, along with the lower school administrators, form a student resource team (SRT). This group meets to discuss and evaluate lower school students. Student support classes are available to students who manifest learning differences and have been reviewed by the SRT. TAS accepts and supports students with no more than mild learning differences. There is a clear system of referral and intervention.

http://www.tas.edu.tw/divisional-handbooks/home/lower-school-handbook

Food Services

TAS provides meals and snacks in the cafeteria, the snack bar (available to lower school students only after 3:00 PM), and the fourth-floor café (only available to upper school students) near the upper school information commons. For additional information, please visit the TAS Food Services section on the TAS website; click here to see our weekly menu and nutritional information

Health Services

The TAS upper school health office is across from the Chinese library in 1B70. The health office is staffed from 7:15 AM to 5:45 PM by registered nurses. Nurses are involved in health teaching, screenings, medication administration, and treating illnesses and injuries that occur during the school day. If a student is injured or becomes ill during the school day, they should report directly to the health office or ask a teacher for assistance. Please visit the TAS Health Services section on the TAS website for more details.

Medical Examination Forms

A medical examination form, available in PowerSchool, is required for each new student upon initial registration and students entering Grade 3 and Grades 6 through 12. Students will not be allowed to attend class if they fail to provide the medical examination form to the health office by the specified deadline.

Treatment in School

With minor injuries, the nurses administer first aid as necessary. In the case of illness, the nurse will assess the student and may send the student home if necessary. If a student is well enough to attend school, they are expected to participate in all class activities including PE and swimming.

In the event of a life-threatening emergency, parents are notified, and the student is taken to the emergency room of a nearby hospital. A school employee will accompany the student and stay with them until their parents arrive. In the event of an injury that requires medical treatment but is not life-threatening, the school nurse will contact the parents and work with them to discuss transportation and medical care.

http://www.tas.edu.tw/divisional-handbooks/home/lower-school-handbook

Medication at School

Medication should not be brought to school unless it is essential to the health of the student. Student medications should only be taken in the health office as dispensed by the school nurse, not in the classroom or cafeteria. Over-the-counter medication may be dispensed by the nurse per the doctor’s standing order with written permission from the parents. Prescription medication should be delivered to the health office before school starts with a prescription from the doctor and the parent’s or guardian’s signature.

Return to School after Illness

Please do not send a student with a fever to school. Students with a fever need to be fever-free and not taking any fever-reducing medication for 24 hours before returning to school. These guidelines are to ensure that the spread of illness is kept to a minimum.

Please keep your child at home and contact the health office if your child has been diagnosed with a communicable illness such as chickenpox, shingles, hand-foot-andmouth disease, an enteroviruses, influenza, pink Eye or conjunctivitis. The nurse will provide instructions regarding their return to school.

Concussion Management Plan

When a student suffers a head injury on or off campus, the concussion case manager (CCM) is notified, and works closely with the divisional concussion management team (CMT) to support the student and to provide a safe plan for returning to school activities. Parents who would like further information regarding the Return to Learn protocols and procedures may contact their child’s school counselor.

Libraries

The Joanna Nichols Memorial Libraries at Taipei American School consist of three divisional libraries (upper school information commons [USIC], middle school library, and lower school library), and a KA-12 Chinese library. The libraries are designed to foster a love of learning and reading in our students and are staffed with professional librarians who teach information literacy skills to help students meet learning goals.

In addition to a rich collection of print materials, the libraries provide access to a wide range of digital resources, including ebooks, audiobooks, and online databases.

http://www.tas.edu.tw/divisional-handbooks/home/lower-school-handbook

Last revised: January 30, 2023

For further information specific to each of the Libraries, such as hours, checkout privileges, contact information, catalog, and more, please refer to the following links:

• The Joanna Nichols Memorial Libraries

• Upper school information commons (USIC) homepage

• Middle school library homepage

• Lower school library homepage

• Chinese library homepage

Personal Property and Lost and Found

There are multiple lost and found locations on campus. For example, the lost and found shelves in the lower school lobby area, and the lost and found bins near the TYPA lobby. Students must manage and care for their personal property at all times. TAS strongly recommends that any items of value not be brought or worn to school, as the students must assume all risk for damage or loss of their personal property, and the School will not make any reimbursement for missing items. Recovered articles of great value must be clearly identified by the owner in order for the item to be released. The School recommends that students put their first and last names on all personal items.

Transportation Services

The School maintains school bus routes to most areas of residency in Taipei and its suburbs. All arrangements are made through the transportation office, located in Room 1B68. Morning buses are scheduled to deliver students to TAS at least five minutes before the first class. Afternoon buses depart TAS approximately 10 minutes after class dismissal. A late bus is provided at 5:30 PM for middle and upper school students participating in a scheduled after-school activity, although these buses may not drop students at the same stops as their regular routes. Monitors are there to help students identify the correct bus to take. Additional information regarding bus passes, registration, and safety guidelines is provided in the student bus service handbook available at the transportation office.

Student Accident Insurance

Parents are provided an opportunity to purchase insurance at the time of registration. According to TAS board policy: “Taipei American School will offer accident and injury insurance for all students and will make this insurance mandatory for all those students

http://www.tas.edu.tw/divisional-handbooks/home/lower-school-handbook

2022-2023 Lower School Student and Parent Handbook

Last revised: January 30, 2023

who participate in organized athletic competition sponsored by Taipei American School, unless they are otherwise insured.”

TAS ID Cards

The TAS ID is issued to every student and is used for campus access, checking out books, copier/printers, and as a meal card in the cafeteria. Lost or stolen or damaged IDs may be replaced at the main security guardhouse for a fee of NT$100. To enable the meal card function, credit is added to the card through payments made directly at the cashier’s office (in increments of NT $100) or using an automated kiosk located outside the Multi-Purpose Room (MPR), or by bank transfer. Information about how to add value to the meal card account through ATM/bank transfers is available at the cashier’s office.

http://www.tas.edu.tw/divisional-handbooks/home/lower-school-handbook

Parent–Specific Information

Campus Access for Parents

Please refer to the most current campus access information on the TAS website here.

Parent Absence from Taipei

While school is in session, it is against TAS policy for parents to be absent from the home without notification to the School. When both parents are going to be absent from home, one parent must notify the office in advance and state who is responsible for the student(s) and whom the School should contact in case of an emergency Please use the “parent out of town notice” electronic form available in PowerSchool.

School-Parent Communication

Taipei American School strives to keep open communication between families and the School. We welcome inquiries. Parents are asked to refer to the parent-school communication page on the school website when they need to communicate matters regarding their children.

In matters relating to students’ performance in a class, parents should first discuss the matter with the teacher. Open, direct, and cordial communication is a crucial element of our school. We always value student and parent feedback. Parents have many opportunities to communicate with teachers at conferences, back-to-school evenings, and parent coffees. Parents are encouraged to meet their lower school children’s teachers any time there is a concern. An appointment can be made by contacting the teacher by e-mail.

Parents should also inform the health office of any significant change in the health status of a student.

Grade level blogs and the lower school principal’s letters serve as important communication tools and provide up-to-date information on school topics and activities on a regular basis. Additionally, TAS offers many parent events and publications, and the latest school information may also be found on the TAS Parent Zone, TAS website, calendar, and social media feed.

All community members using social media to communicate about school-related events should adhere to TAS values. Since the school utilizes a variety of electronic

http://www.tas.edu.tw/divisional-handbooks/home/lower

2022-2023 Lower School Student and Parent Handbook

Last revised: January 30, 2023

communication, parents should ensure that their PowerSchool information is up-to-date at all times.

PTA and Volunteering

Once registration is completed, a parent automatically become a member of the Parent Teacher Association (PTA). The purpose of the PTA is to promote friendly relations and mutual understanding between parents, teachers, and administrators, and to advance the interests and physical well-being of students. The PTA offers parents a wide variety of services, such as educational seminars, social activities, a PTA store, and fundraising activities. Parents are invited to stop by the PTA office on campus for more information. Parents are also encouraged to volunteer in our classrooms and at special events. Each classroom has room parents to help with communication and the coordination of special events. Room parents are determined at the start of the school year.

Reporting Student Progress

Sharing student learning progress with families is important to us. KA to Grade five classes have conferences twice per year, one in each semester. Additional reports are given for students enrolled in the EAL program and for those receiving student support services. A digital report is available in PowerSchool after the second and fourth quarters.

Translation

Translation in Chinese, Korean, and Japanese can be provided to parents upon request for in-person meetings.

http://www.tas.edu.tw/divisional-handbooks/home/lower-school-handbook

Last revised: January 30, 2023

14 Emergencies

Accidents and Illnesses

If a student is injured or becomes ill during the school day, they should report directly to the health office or ask a teacher for assistance. Anyone who observes an accident, injury, or sees someone who appears ill should ask a teacher for assistance and call the health office at Ext. 220 immediately. Students should refrain from carrying any injured person and should instead call for help and wait for instructions from the nurse.

Emergency Procedures

Students will receive annual training and direct instructions from teachers through periodic drills.

Weather and Air Quality Index (AQI)

In the event of dangerous weather conditions (for example, lightning) or poor air quality all outdoor classes, sports and activities will cease immediately. Signs will be posted on the fields and teachers will inform students. Further information on air quality monitoring is available on the TAS website here

Typhoons and Tropical Storms

School closure will be aligned with Taipei City and New Taipei City announcements. Please check the school website for closure announcements and updates.

http://www.tas.edu.tw/divisional-handbooks/home/lower-school-handbook