886-2-7750-9900
Fax: 886-2-2873-1641
www.tas.edu.tw
Welcome to Taipei American School
This handbook includes general information about the school, as well as specific procedural information and details about the three divisions (Walter and Shirley Fan’86 Wang Lower School, The Lawrence S. Ting Middle School, and The Sharon DiBartolomeo Hennessy Upper School). The mission, vision, and values of the school, as well as the philosophies of each division, are included to help you understand the spirit and practice of the TAS community.
In general, “teacher” refers to the regular classroom teacher, and “substitute” refers to the substitute teacher.
We encourage you to contact the human resources department with any questions or concerns you may have regarding life at TAS. Any information not covered here will be provided by the human resources department or by office personnel in any of the three divisions.
This handbook is arranged for convenient access to information and allows for updated materials to be added as required. Please keep your handbook up to date.
We look forward to working with you and hope you have a very positive experience at TAS!
Purpose and Use of Handbook
The Taipei American School Substitute Teacher Handbook is to provide substitute teachers with helpful information about TAS.
Substitute Teachers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the contents of this handbook, as well as the approved policies of TAS. The guidelines in this handbook do not deal with every possible circumstance and are to be implemented in light of common sense and sound judgment. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask the Human Resources Department. All substitutes should be aware that violation of school policies and procedures may subject the employee to corrective action, up to and including termination of employment.
While TAS strives to keep all faculty and staff fully apprised regarding policy and procedure changes, the School reserves the right to modify the policies and practices outlined in this handbook at any time, based on the needs of the School and at the sole discretion of the Board of Directors. Accordingly, there may be occasions in which School policy changes prior to the distribution of written notice to employees.
School Map
Lower School Office (1A14)
Harmony Theater (2A36)
Middle School Office(1B39)
Upper School-World Language (4B19)
LS, MS & Chinese Libraries
Upper School Library (USLB)
MS Counseling Office (2B34)
Administration (2B44-2B50)
Transportation( 1B68)
Faculty Lounge & Nursery Room (1B57)
IT Faculty Helpdesk (where you can get the school loaner) (2B83)
Middle/Upper School(Art/ Music/Performing Arts) Cafeteria
Fine Arts Wing
25 Meter Indoor Swimming Pool MPR(1C45)
Upper School Office(2H03)
US Math (2H13)
US Science (1H22)
US Social Studies (2H26)
US Counseling (2H27)
US English (2H12)
Human Resources (2C79)
Accounting/Cashier(1C82/1C79)
Auditorium
Mail Room( BC30A)
Block W - Tech Cube
Computer Science/Robotics
Taipei American School Mission and DEIJ Commitment
School Mission
Taipei American School’s mission is to cultivate an enduring commitment to learning, personal wellbeing, 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.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice (DEIJ) Community Commitment
As a community of students, parents, families, faculty, administration, staff, board members, and alumni, we will foster a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice 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.
As educators, we will...
• Build our capacity to be effective anti-bias educators.
• Work with the community to construct a positive sense of self, develop character strengths, embrace diversity, and recognize and question injustice.
• Feel empowered to act against racism, prejudice, and discrimination.
• Embrace a broad range of perspectives in our teaching.
As administrators, we will…
• Lead by example to create a more diverse, inclusive, open, and supportive community.
• Acknowledge that a truly inclusive community is one in which there is diversity and representation in all positions of leadership.
• Model ethical and equitable actions in our interactions with others and our decision making.
• Educate and empower our community to speak out against acts of injustice or exclusionary behaviors and speech.
As parents, we will...
• Commit to celebrating the unique identities of our children.
• Recognize that our children are part of a world of diverse perspectives and experiences.
• Model an attitude of openness, respect, and inclusion toward all members of the school community.
• Support TAS employees and fellow families to help prepare and develop our children's capacity to participate in an increasingly diverse world.
TAS Values and Schoolwide Learning Outcomes
Schoolwide Values
Across the School’s divisions and throughout the TAS community, the following values are emphasized:
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.
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.
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.
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.
Schoolwide Learning Outcomes
In addition to the strong academic program and a focus on personal well-being, we strive to support learners in being:
Critical and Creative Thinkers Who:
• Demonstrate curiosity about the world, ask questions, and seek out new information and perspectives.
• Identify and understand problems, breaking them down into smaller components to develop possible solutions.
• Analyze and synthesize information from multiple reliable sources, evaluate evidence, and make informed decisions.
• Generate ideas, products, and experiences that demonstrate innovation.
Self-Directed Learners Who:
• Take initiative and proactively seek opportunities for self-growth and development.
• Design a plan to accomplish goals based on priorities.
• Utilize time, manage workload, and complete tasks efficiently with greater independence.
• Demonstrate persistence and resilience using a variety of strategies.
Collaborative Communicators Who:
• Listen actively, considering different perspectives, ideas, and values.
• Articulate ideas clearly and effectively to diverse audiences through oral, written, digital, and creative expression.
• Recognize, understand, regulate, and skillfully express individual emotions, as well as respond with empathy to the emotions of others.
• Take responsibility for achieving common goals through teamwork and shared contributions.
Well-Balanced Individuals Who:
• Prioritize self-care, implement strategies to manage stress, and develop resilience to achieve overall well-being.
• Adapt to changing circumstances, embrace new ideas and opportunities, and learn from experience.
• Maintain a healthy balance between academic demands, physical activity, personal relationships, digital experiences, and interests.
• Cultivate a sense of belonging for oneself and others.
Globally Minded Contributors Who:
• Recognize, understand, and reflect on how one’s own identities shape perspectives, biases, and interactions with others.
• Understand and respect diverse cultures, customs, and beliefs.
• Critically research information on local and global issues and take action to positively impact individuals, communities, and the environment.
• Advocate for inclusive practices that advance diversity, equity, and justice.
CHAPTER 1: Human Resources
1.1 Human Resources Department
The Human Resources Department (HR), located on the second floor in the administrative area, provides various support services to all divisions and departments of TAS. One of HR’s primary responsibilities is to assist the educational and administrative leaders of the School in the steps needed to attract, recruit, hire, develop and motivate employees to carry out the programs of the School, through
• Recruitment support
• Compensation administration
• Benefits administration
• Orientation of new faculty, support staff and substitutes
• Employee relations for Employees seeking guidance or clarification
HR is responsible for interpreting school personnel policies and procedures in conjunction with School Administrators and under the direction of the Head of School. HR also administers and maintains personnel records for school Employees.
In providing these services, HR seeks to coordinate the needs of the School with the needs of its Employees. As a service-oriented department, HR is available to support other departments in their administration of personnel policies and procedures, and in direct support of Employees.
Each Employee of TAS has direct access to services from the Human Resources Department. There are several members of HR to serve the needs of TAS Employees. Each member has specific functions to better serve the needs of school Employees.
1.2 Human Resources Philosophy
The Taipei American School Board and Administration should promote maximum educational benefit for the students through effective and efficient use of school resources. In a school composed of a transient community, a formal organization should be based upon established policies, regulations, relationships, and channels of communication that will best serve the needs of the School.
Under direction of the Head of School, the organization should utilize management techniques that promote maximum efficiency and effectiveness. A line and staff structure should be developed that clearly assigns authority and responsibility within the organization. Administrative regulations and directives should be formulated to provide for continuity in administration of the organization, in compliance with board policy.
The School will set high standards for recruiting and retaining faculty, Administrators, and support staff, for developing them and for evaluating their performance.
1.3 Expectations for All Employees
All School Employees, as well as members of the Board, shall adhere to the policies established by the Board.
Employment is based on qualifications regardless of race, creed, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or other legally-protected characteristic. All supervisors are expected to instruct, counsel, advise and direct their subordinates. When circumstances require, they will make every effort to recommend timely, fair and equitable correction, solution of problems, discipline or termination of personnel under their supervision when warranted by substandard work performance or conduct
Each Employee is expected to respect the personal rights and property of other Employees and to maintain the high standards of personal behavior that are consistent with being a good citizen and with the TAS values. Article 6.2 of the employment contract emphasizes the special responsibility of each Employee to develop and maintain satisfactory interpersonal and professional relationships with colleagues, supervisors, students and others in the School community.
The relationship of the Professional Staff, Administrators, and Classified Staff should be that of partners working together to provide the best possible learning environment for the students of the School within clearly defined lines of organizational structure and reporting requirements. Dealings between Employees should be based on integrity and mutual respect. Personal prejudices should in no way interfere with the proper operation of the School.
In general, student behavior is the responsibility of the Professional Staff and Administrators, and all Professional Staff members have a responsibility to the whole School and for all students, regardless of their grade level. Professional Staff members and Administrators cannot ignore misbehavior by any student and when a Professional Staff member observes misbehavior, he or she should take immediate appropriate action.
Classified Staff Employees shall not assume authority to discipline students. Their primary function shall be to monitor a designated situation and to report irregularities to the appropriate Administrator; however, should any Employee witness a violation of regulations, such as destruction of property, physical abuse of other students, etc., the Employee has a duty to take the steps necessary to prevent the destruction of property or the physical abuse of other students and to immediately report such incidents to the appropriate School Administrator. In all cases, the guiding principle should be placing student safety first.
All open faculty and staff positions are to be advertised in the system to our present staff. All new faculty and staff positions created at the School will be announced to all faculty and staff members as soon as practicable upon their authorization. In the case of open positions already authorized, the Administration will make internal transfers where appropriate or necessary to preserve employment for existing Employees without announcing the opening, or when the Head of School determines that an internal candidate meets all criteria and an extended search is unnecessary.
All contracts will be written for clarity and to assure Employee compliance with the expectations of the School and with the School’s values.
No Employee of the School or members of any Employee’s immediate family will accept gifts from any person, group, or entity doing or designed to do business with the School, and all business–related gratuities are specifically prohibited except items of nominal value that are widely distributed for the purpose of advertising.
1.4 Harassment
The Taipei American School expects that adults in its employ will recognize that students’ safety, welfare, and health are our highest priority. It is the responsibility of adults charged with any aspect of the care and teaching of students to ensure that interactions among all members of the community are appropriate. Adults associated with the School must ensure that they model attitudes and behaviors that reflect their awareness of this obligation, and create an environment in which the best interests of students are the highest priority.
TAS condemns and expressly forbids any sexual contact or inappropriate relationships between adults and students and harassment of any kind. At the beginning of each new school year at the opening address to Faculty, the Head of School will remind all teaching faculty that it is NEVER acceptable to put hands on a student in anger or with romantic intentions. This does not mean that we may never provide an appropriate pat on the back or accept an offered hug from a student. It does mean that touching a student in a way that results in the adult fulfilling his or her needs rather than to encourage a student is forbidden. Disciplinary action up to and including termination will result. It is expected that all Principals will make these expectations clear to all staff working with students as soon in the new year as possible, with clarity and firmness. TAS also forbids any personally offensive or threatening conduct or behavior directed against an individual or group for any reason, including but not limited to on the basis of a person’s ethnic origin, religion, gender or a person’s sexual orientation.
All Employees of TAS are expected to demonstrate appropriate social media use and communication with students as stated in the Acceptable Use Policy for technology resources.
All Employees are expected promptly to report to the Administration any acts of hazing, harassment or bullying of students, or any inappropriate relationships between other Employees and students.
It is the policy of the Taipei American School to provide and maintain a workplace that is free of sexual and other forms of harassment. This policy applies to all Employees of TAS, regardless of their position.
Prohibited sexual harassment includes sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an Employee’s or student’s performance by creating an intimidating, hostile, humiliating or sexually offensive working environment. In addition, no manager, supervisor, teacher or other staff member, male or female, may sexually harass any Employee or student by making submission to or rejection of sexual advances, requests for sexual favors or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of employment or education or a basis for employment or educational decisions. An Employee who engages in sexual harassment shall be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.
TAS also recognizes that harassment on the basis of race, religion, age, sex, color, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability or other legally-protected status is inappropriate in the workplace. Conduct prohibited includes, but is not limited to, racial or ethnic slurs and epithets. An Employee who believes that he or she has been subject to any such harassment is encouraged to report the matter promptly, using the complaint procedure outlined below. Any Employee who violates this policy shall be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.
It is also a violation of TAS policy to retaliate against an Employee for making or filing a complaint of harassment or for cooperating in an investigation of a complaint of harassment. Any such retaliation will also result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.
If an Employee believes that she or he has been subjected to sexual or other harassment prohibited by this policy, whether by a supervisor, a co-worker or any other person with whom the Employee comes into contact in connection with his/her work for TAS, the Employee should report the incident immediately to the Human Resources Department. An Employee may choose instead to contact the head of his or her school unit or another TAS manager or supervisor with whom the Employee feels comfortable. Any claim may be made orally or in writing.
The following is an outline of the procedure that is generally pursued once a complaint has been brought to the attention of TAS:
• A prompt and impartial investigation of the complaint is conducted by the Human Resources Director or another specifically designated manager or supervisor. That investigation may include (but will not necessarily be limited to) interviews with the Employee who made the complaint, with the person or persons against whom the complaint was made, and with other employees who may have witnessed the reported incident or incidents.
• Upon completion of the investigation, the manager who conducted that investigation will meet individually with the Employee who made the complaint and the Employee or Employees against whom the complaint was made, to report the results of the investigation and, where an action is determined to be appropriate, to inform the parties of the steps that will be taken to correct the situation.
TAS strives to release information arising out of a complaint or investigation of harassment only on a need to know basis. Employees should be aware, however, that information must be shared in order for an effective investigation to be conducted and, also, that any manager or supervisor who receives a complaint of harassment from an Employee or who otherwise knows or has reason to believe that an Employee is or has been subjected to harassment is expected to report the incident promptly to the Human Resources Director for investigation.
CHAPTER 2: Information for Substitutes
2.1 Essential Understandings for TAS Substitute Teachers
• Student safety and well-being are the top priorities in all we do.
• The TAS values of honesty, respect, responsibility, kindness and courage will be adhered to at all times. The values are woven into the fabric of the community, into teaching, and problemsolving; they support our discipline system but are not primarily about discipline.
• All matters and information relating to students will be kept confidential.
• Lesson plans provided by the absent teacher will be followed with modifications if necessary, or unless otherwise noted.
• Grade level or departmental colleagues or the divisional office will be consulted immediately when questions or concerns arise.
• Low-profile, responsibility-based methods of discipline will be employed at all times.
• English will be spoken with and in the presence of students, with the exception of modern language instruction.
• All instructional supplies and teaching materials are the property of the school or individual teacher and cannot be copied or used without the consent of the cooperating teacher.
• A brief written synopsis of the day will be provided for the regular classroom teacher by the substitute teacher.
2.2 Compensation Policy
Substitute teachers are paid at a daily rate approved by the TAS Board of Directors. The current substitute daily rate for substitute teacher is indicated in Appendix A Guidelines for Paying Substitute Teachers.
For the first four consecutive days of service, a substitute will be paid at the approved daily substitute rate.
From the fifth to the twentieth consecutive day of service for the same teacher, a substitute will be paid 110% of the daily substitute rate. For each consecutive day of service for the same teacher beyond the twentieth day, a substitute will be paid a daily rate based on their placement on the Professional Salary Scale.
Substitute teachers are not eligible for any other benefits under the policies of the school.
Appendix A outlines the details of payment for substitute work at Taipei American School, as well as a schedule of pay dates for the current school year. All your salary income at TAS is subject to ROC income tax.
2.3 Hiring Guidelines for Substitute Teachers
In assessing substitute teacher qualifications for potential employment at our school, the following criteria are considered:
• Candidates must have a bachelor degree, and a teaching certificate would be preferred
• Relevant teaching experience in an American or an international school system.
• All candidates are required to complete a TAS application form
• Three letters of recommendation
• Three references. At least two from direct supervisors or head of department/school, including one from current employer/or most recent if currently not employed, plus one who is not related to the applicant and have knowledge of applicant’s experience, conduct and or qualifications
• Personal interviews are conducted by the Human Resources Director or his/her designee
• Interviews with principal(s) may be required
• Please note that if the applicant is of non-ROC nationality, a valid ARC (Alien Resident Card) is an essential requirement
2.3.1 Pre-Employment Background Check
As part of our hiring and contract requirement, TAS employees are required to provide information about their background and criminal record upon employment. This process is conducted upon employment by our HR Office and the authorized agency to collect the written proof of criminal record check issued by the government authorities where you’ve stayed in the past years. This background check process will also include past employment verifications that have been stated in your application form and resume. We will conduct the criminal check and collect the written proof issued by the government authority. If you already have valid criminal check records on hand, you may submit them to HR for our verification. The Employees
acknowledge that the personal criminal check record will be placed in the Employee’s personnel file.
• Social Media and Online Presence
In signing of the Contract, the Employee understands that communications made on social mediaand in otherpublicforms mayreflect onTaipei AmericanSchool, andonhis/herability to act as a role model and ethical leader for students. The Employee certifies that he/she has not to date made social media or other public communications which could be harmful to Taipei American School’s educational mission or to the reputation of the Taipei American School as an educational institution, or which could impair his/her ability to perform his/her educational duties. The Employees acknowledge that any misrepresentation or omission of facts on his/her part or violation may constitute the "misconduct" and may result in the termination for cause under the employment agreement.
• Criminal Record or Current Indictment for a Crime
In the signing of the Contract, the Employee attests that he/she has no criminal record, is under no current indictment for a crime, has at no time been warned by either an employer or a governmental authority in relation to a sexual offense or child abuse, and there are no such proceedings pending against him/her. The Employee must also declare if he or she is currently under investigation for or has otherwise been charged with a crime. In addition, the Employee consents and agrees that the Human Resources Office of the School may conduct the criminal record check and collect the written proof of criminal record check issued by the government authority where the Employee has ever resided for more than three (3) months before the commencement of the initial Contract. The Employees acknowledge that this personal criminal check record will be placed in the Employee’s personnel file and any violation or omission of facts ofthis paragraphmay result intheterminationfor cause underthe employment agreement.
2.4 Resignation
The substitute is required to notify the Human Resources office in writing of his/her resignation. Twoweek notice is preferred. The substitute is also required to complete the following check-out process.
• Written resignation letter
• TAS Checkout Form
• Forwarding Address Form
• NHI Termination Form (if applicable)
• Cancel work permit agreement (for non-ROC nationality)
• Last Pay Check Request for Sub teacher
• Return your school ID card to Security
2.5 A Substitute’s Responsibility
(see also 2.1 - Essential Understandings for TAS Substitute Teachers)
• Sign in/out at the divisional office where you are substituting.
• Be at school 15-30 minutes before class starts to read through the lesson plan (unless you were given late notice of the substitute assignment).
• Loan a school laptop at “Faculty HelpDesk (RM: 2B83, Ext. 147) if required by the teacher.
• Review and adhere to the teaching tasks outlined in the lesson plans.
• Attend team meetings (if applicable) as stipulated in the division specific information.
• Complete the Class Report at the end of the day. Leave it in the class room, together with the lesson plans. The Class Report template is included in Appendix B.
2.6 A Teacher’s Responsibility to a Substitute
Lesson Plans must be placed in the classroom unless the substitute is informed otherwise. Lesson plans left for a substitute should include:
o pertinent routine information
o classroom schedule
o class list and seating plan
o a list of students who will be leaving the class for any reason (i.e. MLL, Resource, nurse’s office for medication etc.)
o clear and concise directions regarding each lesson
o specific directions on assignments/homework (due dates and grading)
o answer sheets for any homework or test to be discussed in class
o location of all supplies needed to teach the lesson
o Short-term substitutes are not expected to correct writing assignments
o Lower School: name of persons responsible for walking the children to/from specials
o Middle School: A red substitute folder will be in the classroom with class lists for attendance. Seating charts, lesson plans and other pertinent information will be filed with the respective department head, department secretary, or team colleague.
o Upper School: A substitute folder, containing lesson plans, class lists, seating chart and other pertinent information should be filed with the respective office or department head or department secretary in the upper school division.
2.7.1 Absences
If a substitute is ill and cannot make it to a scheduled class, please contact human resources at 7750-9900 ext. 720 to leave a message The information will be retrieved by human resources staff at 6:30 am. Substitutes who are unavoidably late for a class should contact BOTH the human resources office (7750-9900 ext. 720) and the appropriate principal’s office (LS ext. 108, MS ext. 201, and US ext. 213) as soon as possible so the rearrangement can be made in the timely matter.
2.7.2
Arrival and Departure Times
Substitute teachers are expected to arrive at school 15-30 minutes before the beginning of classes. In the lower school, classes begin at 8:30 am for KA, at 8:00 am for K-2 and at 7:45 am in Grades 3-5. In the middle school and upper school, classes begin at 7:45 am.
2.7.3 Attendance Policies
Attendance policy and procedures are different in each school. In those few instances when tardiness is unavoidable, the principal’s secretary should be informed as soon as possible at 7750-9900. LS ext. 105; MS ext. 202; US ext. 211
Lower School:
At Lower School, the attendance is taken by the grade level teaching assistant. A Lower School teaching assistant will check with you at the beginning of the class. If a parent informs you that a child will be absent or tardy, please notify the grade level teaching assistant or call ext. 105.
Please notify the teaching assistant if students are absent for the day. If students come late, please remind them that they have to go to the LS office to get a tardy slip.
Middle School:
At Middle School, attendance is taken in each class. Please take the attendance in the first 10 minutes of the class followed by the list from the teacher. If any student is absent, please call ext. 202. If any students come after your attendance report, please ask them to go to Middle School Office.
Upper School:
Individual class attendance for periods 1 through 5 will be noted on the Class Attendance Roster provided on the teacher’s desk in the department office or from the department secretary (along with the lesson plans). Teachers will take attendance during the first ten minutes for each class; absence and tardiness is recorded where appropriate. The substitute should then call the attendance secretary in the US office (ext. 211) and report the class attendance. This call should be made even if all students are present. Students who are late to class should not be admitted without a white “Admit to Class” slip from the US office.
On the morning following an absence or tardy, students will be sent a Call Slip during the first or second class period of the day. This Call Slip, which is delivered by the department
secretary, must be given to the student at the beginning of the period. Students are requested to see the associate principal at their earliest convenience that same day.
Excuses from a physician or licensed medical advisor will be accepted for non-participation in P.E. Notes from parents requesting non-participation in P.E. will also be honored by the P.E. teacher for 1 to 3 days. Please turn all notes into the US office attendance secretary by the end of the day.
2.7.4 Appearance
Since we are part of a dignified profession and want to set an example for students to emulate, teachers should dress professionally for all classes.
2.7.5 Classroom Care
Classroom teachers take primary responsibility for making sure their classrooms are well cared for. Cleaners take care of basic classroom needs – washing tables and desks, emptying trash, vacuuming. Other cleaning or maintenance needs must be requested using a special form (getting something moved, cleaned, built).
2.7.6 Daily Schedules
Each division has its own schedule for the school day and for rotation of classes.
Lower School
The curriculum and instruction at the lower school feature many materials and approaches found in the highest quality elementary schools in the United States and worldwide. All subjects are based on standards from the USA. As 80% of our students in the lower school have a first language other than English, literacy development is a top priority in all subject areas. All grade levels use the workshop approach for teaching reading and writing and there is a special emphasis to build student confidence in communicating, particularly in oral language skills. In addition, character education is emphasized in every classroom. The lower school incorporates the Responsive Classroom approach throughout the school day. This approach reinforces and validates great teaching by bridging Character Education and Wellness while strengthening our rigorous academic program. We promote respectful, kind, and positive school communities while addressing students’ social-emotional and academic needs.
The class size per room varies depending on the developmental level of the students. The following are approximate class sizes for lower school grade levels: The class size for kindergarten A and kindergarten is 16, for grade one is 18, and for grade two is 20. The class size for grades three through five is 22.
The lower school operates with a schedule featuring a ten-day cycle. The schedule ensures large blocks of uninterrupted instructional time at all grade levels. Classroom teachers are with students approximately 4.5 hours per day. Students attend the following specials during the ten day cycle: physical education, music, art, and guidance. Third, fourth, and fifth graders have additional music activity classes. In addition, students in kindergarten through grade five attend Mandarin class nine days out of ten. Instructional technology is integrated into content area class work and is planned and taught cooperatively by the Technology and Design Coaches and classroom teacher.
Support for students needing English academic language support is provided by the MLL teachers. MLL students are immersed in the mainstream and MLL teachers work in the classroom with the MLL students at scheduled times, focusing on reading or writing. In addition, MLL teachers see MLL students in pullout groups to reinforce language skills. The lower school also has counselors, a psychologist, speech therapists, and reading and resource specialists who work to support students.
Lower school teachers work in teams. Adherence to the articulated curriculum, time-lines, and assessment expectations ensures a quality program for all of our students. Lower school teachers enjoy a rich professional development program, dialogue with highly skilled and experienced colleagues, supportive parents, and enthusiastic and inquisitive students. We look for teachers who are positive character models, who have a passion for teaching, who believe in continuous improvement, and who love young children.
Middle School
The middle school consists of Grades 6, 7, and 8. Middle school teachers are content area specialists. Students start each day with a 10-minute homeroom. Substitutes will not be asked to cover homeroom time. The daily schedule is an eight-period day of 45-minute classes. The middle school has a 6-day cycle, from A-F days. Once a cycle, students will have an X-period in each of their English, history, science, math, world language and performing arts classes. An X period is a time for students to get extra help, complete homework, or meet with a counselor, support teacher, or AP. Depending on the grade level and time of year, students may also have the option to spend x period outside of the classroom. The teacher will make this clear in their instructions. As is our policy, students are only allowed to use laptops for schoolwork, not gaming or other recreational activities.
Upper School
The upper school operates with a block schedule of 80-minute classes, followed by a 30-minute flex period. Days alternate between A days and B days. Each day has five periods: Period 1, Period 2, Period 3 / 3rd lunch, Period 4 / 4th lunch, and Period 5. Students can have up to 4 classes a day, depending on their schedule. During free periods, they are encouraged to take advantage of the time to socialize and relax, work on assignments, or see counselors or teachers.
Period 1
7:45 – 9:05 9:15 – 10:35 10-:35-11:25 11:25 – 12:45 12:50 – 2:10 2:15 – 3:35
*Flex Period is a fifty-minute period after second period. Counselors, teachers and administrators may request students to meet with them during this time. Students are required to honor such requests above other commitment. Flex is part of the school day and is a time for students to meet with teachers for extra help, to do make-up work, attend club meetings, use the library, meet with counselors , and attend advisor group meetings, class meetings, and school assemblies. While a special assembly could be called for any day, most assemblies will take place Tuesdays at Flex and attendance is mandatory.
2.7.7 Email
TAS Gmail account is used as the primary email account for all staff and faculty. New substitutes should contact the Human Resources office at Ext. 309 or hr@tas.edu.tw if they do not receive an assigned TAS email account with ID and password by their first day of substitute teaching.
School email accounts and initial password will be notified by HR office. All school communication will be sent to your TAS email account only. Please do check your school email regularly. If you have any further questions, check with the IT department at room 2B87.
The TAS email is assigned for the purpose of communicating substitute teaching or school business. Users should refrain from posting advertisements.
2.7.8 Language Policy
A goal of Taipei American School is to encourage all students to use English effectively. During classroom instruction, only English should be used by all students except in Mandarin or other world languages classes.
Please see Appendix C in the School-Wide Policies for Language Policy.
2.7.9 Faculty Meetings
Professional, Classified and Administrative Employees are expected to participate in and contribute to curriculum development and other committee work as directed by the Head of School and/or his/her designee.
All divisional faculty meetings are scheduled and communicated by the Principal’s office. All faculty are required to attend their divisional meetings as well as any all-school faculty meetings. Substitute teachers are not required to attend faculty meetings.
Times and locations of divisional faculty meetings:
Lower School – 2:45 in the Lower School Library
Middle School – 3:45 in the Middle School Library
Upper School – 3:45 in the Upper School Library (USLB), Winston Wang Lecture Hall, or MPR
Sometimes a substitute teacher is asked to attend a team meeting on behalf of the teacher. If this happens, please keep track of the time spent in the meeting and report that time to human resources as hours worked.
2.7.10 Food Services
Nut products are no longer sold in food offered in the cafeteria and the snack bar. Previously, TAS was only a peanut-free campus, but has moved to become a nut-free campus.
The Snack Bar is open Monday to Friday, 7:00 am – 4:30 pm. The snack bar may not be used by lower school students during lunch.
The Cafeteria is open Monday to Friday, 10:25 am – 1:35 pm and serves rotating daily hot lunch specials (an American and a Chinese entrée). Self-serve salad and baked-potato bars, both priced by
weight, also are available during the same hours. The salad and potato bars are available to students starting in grade 3.
The Pizza Bar is open Monday to Friday, 10:30 am – 4:30 pm and serves pizza by the slice. It is available to students beginning in grade 2.
Fitness Café is open Monday to Friday, 7:15 am – 4:30 pm. Fitness Café provides healthy choices. It is located on the fourth floor right behind the upper school library and has tables outside under a canopy and in the covered passageway to the library.
Food Services cashiers and Fitness Café accept cash. There are many locations where you can eat - in the cafeteria, outside the snack bar, in the courtyard and Employee Lounge at (1B57).
2.7.11 Health Services
The Lower School Health Office is located in room 1B76. The Middle and Upper School Health Office is located in room 1B70. The office is staffed from 7:15am to 16:30pm by registered professional nurses. Nurses are involved in health teaching, screenings, and treating illnesses and injuries that occur during the school day. Student visits are recorded daily and kept for reference for the current school year.
If a student is injured or becomes ill during the school day, he/she should report directly to the Health Office or ask a teacher for assistance. If assistance is needed, please call the nurse at ext. 220 and report the nature of the illness/injury and your location. The nurse can transport the student to the Health Office.
In case of Emergency or need of an ambulance when the Health Office is closed, please contact TAS security and call 119.
2.7.12 Keys
Department secretaries can arrange to open classrooms when necessary. All rooms should be locked when not in use. Long-term substitutes will be issued necessary keys. Students should not be given keys to any rooms or offices.
2.7.13 Lesson Plans
Lesson plans are located in the classroom, departmental office, or division office. MS sub plans will be in a red substitute folder on the teacher's desk with class lists and student photos as well as evacuationemergency procedures.
Lesson plans left for a substitute include:
• pertinent routine information
• classroom schedule
• class list and seating plan
• list of students who will be leaving the class for any reason (i.e. MLL, Resource, etc.)
• clear and concise directions regarding each lesson
• answer sheets for any homework or test to be discussed in class
• location of all supplies needed to teach the lesson
• homework with due date
2.7.14 Libraries
Substitutes are welcome to use the facilities in all four TAS libraries: LS, MS, US, and Chinese. You can use your school badge to check out materials. You are responsible for returning library materials on time.
Lower School Library and Chinese Library (1st floor)
Monday – Friday 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Scheduled Saturdays 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Check the TAS Calendar)
Middle School Library (3rd floor)
Monday – Friday: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
MOST Saturdays: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Check the TAS Calendar)
Upper School Library (4th floor)
Monday – Friday: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
2.7.15 Lost and Found
Due to the size of TAS and its various uses by the community, found articles may be turned in to or retrieved from one of several locations. Items found in the cafeteria are turned over to the cafeteria monitor, who stores them in a locked cabinet at the back of the cafeteria. Items found in each of the lower, middle, and upper schools are collected in the appropriate offices. Some of the items left on buses are taken to the transportation office at (1B68) or stored on a table outside of the entrance door toward 1B80. Each division will collect lost and found items and collectively send it to main lost and found boxes located in Lower School area and outside of Finance department (1C82).
2.7.16
Interschool mail and incoming school business mail are distributed daily and will be delivered to divisional mailboxes or departmental mailboxes.
Incoming non-school business mail service is limited to letters/documents only, and shall not include parcels.
Outgoing mail is limited to letters/documents only. As a courtesy, outgoing mail will be processed at the School’s mailing desk. The mailroom is open weekdays from 12:30 - 17:00, with the last outgoing mail service at 14:30.
2.7.17
Occupational Nurse
The Occupational Nurse office is located in room 1B80B. The office is staffed from 07:30am to 16:30 pm. The Occupational Nurse is responsible for providing health services for school employees and authorized personnel. Health services includes evaluating patient complaints and using professional judgment in providing care, health counseling, making referrals to doctors, and keeping school authorized personnel informed on an as needed basis.
The Occupational Nurse may assist and arrange for an on-site 3-hour visit from a contracted physician at minimum once every two months. A notification of the visit will be provided in advance to enable faculty and staff to arrange an appointment.
2.7.18
Parent Concerns, Complaints, and Grievances
Any general complaint, comment, or grievance not directly related to his/her child, which any parent desires to make may be referred in writing to the Head of School, who may bring the matter to the attention of the Board. In cases of discipline, a grievance, or other matters relating to their children, parents will first discuss the matter with the child’s teacher. If for some reason, the matter cannot be resolved with the teacher, the parent may discuss the matter with the Principal of their child’s division. If the Principal cannot resolve the matter, the parent may refer the matter to the Head of School in writing.
2.7.19 Parking
Based on the Taipei City Parking Management Office’s regulation, they will no longer allow scooter parking on the sidewalk in front of the school along Zhongshan N. Rd (this was NOT requested by TAS). Substitute teacher can park their scooter at the scooter parking lot. Please check with the Operations office at ext. 308 for setting up the parking pass. Car parking is not provided for substitute teachers.
2.7.20 Security
• Personal effects should be kept in a locked classroom or office.
• All school employees are required to display their TAS ID on their person when on campus. The blue background, and lanyard of the ID indicates that the person has been fully processed with reference checks at the point of hire, a background check at the point of hire, (periodically reaffirmed) and has completed the child protection training program. Yellow background IDs and Guest IDs indicate that the person requires escort when on campus in student areas. Please be aware of unescorted guests or yellow card wearers and as if you can be of assistance, supporting them back to the green zone or to their escort.
• Personal effects should be kept locked. Since TAS is virtually ‘unlocked’ during the day, the opportunity for theft is apparent. Staff and students should leave valuables at home.
• If a substitute faculty/staff/coach who is also a current TAS parent, he/she will be issued with a Parent ID and a Substitute ID and please use your substitute ID when you come on campus for substitution assignment.
2.7.21 Smoking, Vaping, or Any Other Form of e-Cigarette
Taipei American School is a no smoking facility. All Employees of TAS are expected to demonstrate appropriate conduct and adhere to the School’s non-smoking zone requirement.
2.7.22 Student Emergencies
Any staff member on campus who witnesses an accident or notices an ill student should do the following:
• If the student is ambulatory, escort the student to the nurse’s office.
• If the student is not ambulatory, stay with the student and send another student or teacher to the nurse’s office for help.
• If the student is not treated by the school nurse, an accident report must be sent to the nurse by the applicable supervisor or department head.
2.7.23 Solicitations and Gifts
No personal gifts or gratuities may be accepted that might influence the proper judgment of an Employee of the School in the performance of his or her duty, or convey the appearance of such influence.
The aim of this regulation is to protect Employees from possible conflict of interest, incurring any perceived obligation to the giver, and to ensure that services are offered to all without bias. Under no circumstances should a TAS Employee ever initiate discussion about the giving of a gift.
It is understood that all Administrators and purchasing personnel shall not accept gifts from students, faculty, staff, outside vendors or others doing business with the School (except consumables such as fruit, flowers, etc.) under any circumstances.
All other Employees are expected to adhere to the guidelines stated above.
In cases where the return of a gift is called for and circumstances make this difficult, the Employee will inform and enlist the aid of his or her supervisor.
2.7.24 Technology
Loaner laptops – the faculty helpdesk (2B83) opens at 7:15am Mon-Fri. Should a loaner laptop be requested by the teacher please ensure that the loaner is returned at the end of each day (bring your school ID card).
Wireless access –
You can register your laptop | smartphone | smart device to the TAS-Tigernet wireless network using your network username and password.
To join your device to the network please select the following SSID – TAS- Personal from the wireless networks available.
You will be prompted to enter your network username and password.
2.7.25 Tutoring
If you wish to be on the tutoring list, please contact Human Resources at ext. 309 or recruitment@tas.edu.tw
Once we get your consent and confirmation, your personal contact information will be shared with our counselors. If you’re assigned to a long term substitute assignment, you’re expected not to tutor the same subject to TAS student(s) within the assigned time period. It’s all subject to the divisional principal’s approval and consideration. Please see 3.2 Conflict of Interest for the detail.
2.7.25.1
Tutoring on Campus
There can be no private tutoring of students by non-school personnel on campus unless it is recommended as a special needs case by the student resource team (SRT) of the individual division. We realize that many parents arrange for private tutors for their children and this is outside the purview of the School; however, the actual tutoring must also be done off campus and completely exclusive of the School’s materials, facilities, and supplies.
2.7.26
TYPA
Taipei Youth Program Association (TYPA) is an independent, non-profit organization with offices and facilities located in the C Block of the Taipei American School.
TYPA offers after-school activities to expatriate students in the community. Access is not limited to TAS students, although a large proportion of TYPA members are from TAS.
Many lower school children go directly from their classroom to a TYPA activity at 2:40 pm or go to the cafeteria to await a later class.
After school, TAS classrooms are used for art, Mandarin classes, and other TYPA activities. The gyms are used for basketball and gymnastics, and the fields for baseball and soccer. TYPA has its own dance studios and music rooms. During school hours, the TYPA facilities house a preschool.
2.7.27
Use of School Facilities
The Facilities Office maintains a schedule for the use of all school facilities. Requests must be made to the Facilities Office at least two weeks prior to any planned event, using the appropriate request system for school business only.
2.7.27.1
Use of Recreational Facilities
Employees are encouraged to make use of the School's recreational facilities when they are not being used by students and under the conditions set forth for such use. Please bring your school ID card while using the recreational facilities. Sign in upon arrival.
2.7.28
Code of Professional Conduct
Employees of the Taipei American School are at all times and in all places representatives of the School and role models and ethical leaders for the School’s students. The School expects all employees to perform their work and conduct themselves consistent with the highest standards of professionalism. School employees must not engage in any behavior, whether on-duty or off-duty, and whether on or away from the School’s premises, that might reflect poorly on the School or undermine the employee’s ability to act as a role model and ethical leader.
It is not possible to describe every behavior, conduct or performance issue that is unacceptable; therefore, the following is intended to be illustrative only and not intended to be a complete list of
behaviors, conduct or performance that may be unacceptable at the Taipei American School, and may result in the termination for cause under the Professional Staff Contract Article 6.2.
• Violation of School policies.
• Sexual harassment or any other form of harassment.
• Falsification of any document or record.
• Any type of dishonesty.
• Insubordination or refusal to perform assigned tasks.
• Any use of or being under the influence of alcohol and/or controlled substances while on School premises or during working hours or while on School business, other than moderate consumption of alcohol at sanctioned school celebrations; drunkenness or excessive consumption is never acceptable.
• Theft, misuse, willful damage or destruction of School property or the personal property of others.
• Any conduct, including failure to abide by safety rules and policies, which could result in personal injury to another individual, or damages to property.
• Intimidating, threatening, or violent behavior of any type, or, while on School premises or during working hours or while on School business, possession of a weapon of any kind.
• Conduct toward others that is detrimental or improper.
• Conduct that could bring disrepute to the School or otherwise negatively impact the School’s reputation or the reputation of its administration, faculty, staff, curriculum, or students.
2.7.29 Confidentiality Policy
Information about our current or former students, parents, donors and employees should be treated in a confidential manner, and not shared with anyone outside of the School except to the extent as necessary for the performance of your duties for the School. This means that all requests from those outside the School for information about a current or former student, parent, donor or employee should be referred to the Head of School or designee, for response. It also means that information about our current or former students, parents, donors and employees should only be shared with others within the School on a legitimate need-to-know basis.
The School’s business plans and practices should also be maintained on a strictly confidential basis, and shared only in the performance of your duties for the School.
Chapter 3: Substitute Supervision and Evaluation
All substitute teachers are expected to follow Taipei American School’ teaching standards when working with the students. We expect our substitute teachers to follow the lesson plan at all times, unless otherwise instructed by the division, when conducting classes. Substitute teaching may be observed and evaluated by divisional principals, associate principals and or department chairs to ensure teaching standards are met at Taipei American School. In an attempt to assist substitute teachers and department chairs as well as administrators to monitor the performance provided in a substitute setting, Human Resources office will conduct substitute teachers survey regularly to collect the feedback from the current faculty/administrators following the substitute’s teaching assignment.
The standards are here presented in categories for easier reading and comprehension, but they are not listed in order of priority or significance.
3.1 TAS Teaching Standards
Please see Chapter 5 faculty Supervision and Evaluation in the Faculty Policy Manual for TAS teaching standards
3.2 Conflict of Interest
This policy refers to any case where a substitute teacher’s personal interest contradicts the school policy or when a substitute teacher’s primary responsibility to students is compromised by competing personal priorities. We understand substitute teachers may have other non-TAS jobs in a similar educational setting or private institutions. Substitute teachers may not contact or solicit students for any unauthorized private tutoring or off-campus classes. If you’re assigned to a long term substitute assignment, you’re expected not to tutor the same subject to TAS student(s) within the assigned time period. When a conflict of interest is revealed, disciplinary action may be taken up to and including termination.
Chapter 4: Use of Technology Resources
Please see Chapter 7 Use of Technology Resources in the Faculty Policy Manual.
Chapter 5: Information Security Policy
Please see Chapter 8 Information Security Policy in the Faculty Policy Manual.
Chapter 6: Student Expectations
Please see Chapter 9 Student Expectations in the Faculty Policy Manual.
Chapter 7: Student Academic Life
Please see Chapter 10 Student Expectations in the Faculty Policy Manual.
Chapter 8: Health, Safety and Security
Please see Chapter 11 Health, Safety and Security in the Faculty Policy Manual.
Appendix A Guidelines for Paying Substitute Teachers
Pay rate when subbing consecutively for the same teacher / internal coverage and combined class
• 1st day to the 4th day = regular sub rate at NT$650 per unit
• 5th day to the 20th day consecutively = NT$720 per unit
• Long-term assignment (more than 20 days) = daily rate based on the Professional Salary Scale
Team and Liaison Meetings, Study Hall Duty:
• Payment for these responsibilities is NT$1,300 (2 units) per duty, or more if it exceeds 1 period in length. Class Meeting (20 minutes, one day per week) – 1 unit
Proctors:
• US IB/AP and SAT proctors will receive the following pay rate:
45-50 minutes 1 unit
55-60 minutes 1.5 units
65-70 minutes 1.75 units
75-85 minutes 2 units
More than 85 minutes 45 minutes = 1 unit
• Others: one hour per unit rate will be paid
Non-Teaching Responsibilities: payment for these responsibilities will be paid at one hour per unit regular sub rate
• Health Office – nurse and activity nurse
• Office work: advancement/communication/development/admission & alumni office
• Librarian coverage
• Additional help for student co-curriculum school activities for MUN, IASAS, Robotics, Wellness Center, Cultural Convention
• Additional help as interpreter for meetings and conference
PE/Activities Field Day
• Payment for these responsibilities will be paid at one hour per unit rate
Middle School Camp
• Payment for these responsibilities will be made at a rate of one hour per unit, with a maximum of up to 16 units if attending a full-day overnight
Lower School Camp
• Payment for these responsibilities will be paid at full day regular sub rate (5 units)
Additional help as a chaperone for student activity trips
• Payment for these responsibilities will be paid at full day regular sub rate (5 units)
Cross-Division Responsibilities:
• If a teacher has cross-division responsibilities such as music or mandarin teachers, the substitute will be paid as following:
1. US classes: NT$1,300 per period (2 units)
2. MS classes: be paid according to the length of class.
45 – 50 minutes 1 unit
55 – 60 minutes 1.5 units
65 – 70 minutes 1.75 units
75 – 85 minutes 2 units
3. LS classes: Full Day 5 units
Half Day 2.5 units
One class 1 unit
If substitute sessions are canceled after the substitute arrives at school, the substitute will be paid at NT$1,300 (2 units).
Additional Responsibilities:
Home Room Duty (less than 20 minutes) – 0.5 unit
It is permissible for a teaching assistant staff member to substitute for an absent homeroom teacher if such arrangement is approved by the appropriate Principal. An additional pay at NT$250 per unit rate may be payable in addition to the teaching assistant staff member’s daily rate.
ROC IMCONE TAX: . All your salary income at TAS is subject to ROC income tax.
Appendix C_ Language Policy
Please see Appendix C in the School-Wide Policies for Language Policy.
Appendix D_ Policy on Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Students
Please see Appendix E in the School-Wide Policies for Policy on Transgender and Gender Nonconforming students.
Appendix E_ Child Protection Policy
Please see Appendix F in the School-Wide Policies for Child Protection Policy.
Appendix F_ Suicide Prevention Policy
Please see Appendix G in the School-Wide Policies for Suicide Prevention Policy.
Appendix G_ Divisional Student Handbooks
Please see the link in the School-Wide Policies for Divisional student Handbooks