issp admissions handbook 2014
DESCRIPTION
ÂTRANSCRIPT
SCHOOLHANDBOOK
INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLFOR CHILDREN AGED 2-11
CONTENTSMISSION, VALUES, BELIEFS, VISION 3GENERAL INFORMATION 4FACULTY AND ADMINISTRATION 5SCHOOL PROCEDURES AND INFORMATION 6Accreditation 6Admissions 6After-School Activities Program (ASAP) 7Attendance Policy 7Birthday Parties, Celebrations and Invitations 10Change of Contact Information 10Dress Code 10Elevators 11Emergency Drills 11English Language Learners (ELL) 12English Language Policy 12Expected School-Wide Learning Results (ESLRs) 12Field Trips 13Food Services 13Health Services 15Helping your Child to Succeed 17Homework Policy 18Information Technology 18ISSP Website 18Library Media Center 18Lost and Found 19Newsletter 19Open House 19Parent-Teacher Conferences 19Performances 19Report Cards 19Special Dress Days 20Standardized Testing and Assessment 20Student Code of Conduct 20Student Council 24Student Supplies and Kits 24Textbooks 24Traveling Parents 24Tutoring 24Appendix 1: Recommendations For Students With Diagnosed Infectious Diseases 25Appendix 2: School Handbook Signature Form 27Appendix 3: Trip Permission Form 28
2
Dear ISSP Families,
It is with great pleasure that I warmly welcome you to International School Saigon Pearl, and I encourage you to peruse this School Handbook carefully. Our purpose at ISSP is to work with our families to pursue your hopes and dreams for your children within a caring and engaging learning environment that attends to the needs of each and every student.
I hope that this handbook will enhance our partnership by sharing clear information concerning our expectations, practices, and procedures. Parents are a vital part of our school community. We encourage all members of our school community, students, parents, and staff, to communicate honestly and respectfully with a common goal to achieve personal excellence for every student.
The signature of our school is a culture of caring within an engaging learning environment. I believe all students can achieve and be leaders in their special areas of interest. ISSP is fun and engaging while simultaneously providing students with a depth and breadth of learning opportunities that prepare them for the 21st century. To ensure access to our world class American international curriculum, we have specialized services for students including:
• TheEnglishLanguageLearner(ELL)ProgramforstudentswithlimitedEnglishproficiency
• The Talent Development Program aligned to Johns Hopkins University Center for Talented Youth
• ISHCMC - American Academy counseling support for families and students transitioning from ISSP to the American Academy’s college preparatory program.
ISSP facilities are purpose-built, with technology integrated across the curriculum and blended into school life. Students have online learning opportunities to enhance classroom instruction. State of the art facilities will connect ISSP students to the wider world of education with activities designed to enhance the learning experience.
ISSP is also unique in its curriculum design. We have developed a program of best practice in American international education enhanced by advantages traditional to the Vietnamese education system with a program of Mandarin Language studies starting as early as Kindergarten.
Ourhighlyqualifiedfacultyiscommittedtoseeingeachchildprogressinstrongliteracyandnumeracyskills while nurturing the development of your child’s character. Art, music, physical education, aquatics, Vietnamese (for Vietnamese passport holders), Host Country Studies and Mandarin are taught by specialists.
I am delighted to welcome you to the ISSP community and I very much look forward to creating fabulous memories with you over this school year and beyond.
Yours in education,
Lisa Johnson Campus Principal
3
MISSION, VALUES, BELIEFS, VISION
MissionAcaringandengaginglearningenvironment,nurturingconfidentandcreativelearnersforfuturesuccess.
ValuesAt ISSP, we work with students to encourage the following values:
•Developing Cooperation
•Demonstrating Ethics
•Preserving Cultural Heritage
• Living a Healthy Lifestyle
•Accepting Responsibility
•Appreciating Aesthetics
BeliefsAt ISSP, we are committed to providing a dynamic learning community focusing on student success for all. We Believe In:
•Creating joy in learning
•Contributing to the artistic, athletic, intellectual, creative and social growth of children
•Valuing traditions and cultural diversity
•Protecting the environment
•Providing a quality American standards-based curriculum
•Embracing best teaching practices
• Identifying and developing the potential in each child
•Enabling students to transfer successfully to other schools in the US and abroad
VisionTo inspire personal excellence in caring environment.
4
GENERAL INFORMATION
Parents are encouraged to communicate directly via e-mail, the student communication book or planner or by requesting a scheduled appointment with their child’s teacher as the need arises. If you wish to speak to the teacher in the morning, kindly do so between 7:45 - 8:00 am. At 8:00 am the teachers begin student instruction. Questions about the school’s programs and services should firstbedirectedtothechild’steacherandthen,ifthequestionrequiresfurtherclarification,totheCampus Principal.
In the early childhood section, kindergarten and second grade, teachers use a communication book that goes back and forth between school and home. Please check this book daily for information relatedtoyourchild.Youareencouragedtowritecommentstotheteacherifthereissignificantinformationthatneedstobeshared.StudentsfromthirdthroughfifthgradewilluseEdmodotorecord information and homework. Parents are asked to check their child’s communication book and Edmodo nightly to make sure that he/she is keeping it up-to-date and completing the required work. You may be requested to sign to acknowledge that your child has completed the homework and reading assigned.
We believe that a strong partnership between home and school is essential to the development of ISSP students and to the success of our school community as a whole.
5
FACULTY AND ADMINISTRATIONTeacher Responsibilities School Emails Teaching Assistant
Ms. Lisa R. Johnson Campus Principal [email protected]
Ms. Lanie Hebreo Nacario ButterfliesNursery [email protected] Ms. Trinh Thi Xuan
Ms. Helen P. Orobia Bumble Bees Nursery [email protected] Ms. Nguyen Le Ngoc Anh - Ms.Truong To Khanh
Ms. Lindsey Morten Pre-School [email protected] Ms. Gian Ha Thuong
Ms.CatherineM.Turek Pre-School [email protected] Ms. Nguyen Thuy Trang - Ms. Le Thi Ngoc Bich
Mr. Bruce Delaney Pre-Kindergarten [email protected] Ms. Ngo Hoai Anh Thao
Ms. Elizabeth Hinson Pre-Kindergarten [email protected] Ms. Bui Thi Kim Ngan
Ms. Rebecca Hardy Kindergarten [email protected] Ms. Nguyen Thuy Tram
Ms. Lusk Vicky Nicole Kindergarten [email protected] Ms. Au Thuy Lam
Mr. James Hardy 1st Grade [email protected] Ms. Tran Thi Truc Mai
Mr. Ethan B.M King 1st Grade [email protected] Ms. Nguyen Thi Phuong Dung
Mr. Zachariah Groshell 2nd Grade [email protected] Ms. Diep Huynh Minh Thy
Ms. Alisha Holdbrook 2nd Grade [email protected] Ms. Nguyen Thi Hue
Ms. Amanda Lynn Romano 3rd Grade [email protected] Ms. Tran Thi Thanh Van
Mr. Mark Pate 4th Grade [email protected] Ms. Ha Dang Ky Tran
Mr. Thomas Schneider 5th Grade [email protected] Ms. Pham Thi Nam Chung
Mr. Peter Nguyen ELL Teacher [email protected]
Ms. Stephanie Groshell ELL Teacher [email protected]
Ms. Jessica Rainy Worden Art Teacher [email protected] Ms. Tran Nhat Vy
Mr. Jerett Alexandre Knoblock P.E. Teacher [email protected]
Ms. Claire Connor Librarian [email protected] Ms. Dang Dieu Thuy ( Tracy)
Mr. Lincoln Jackson IT Teacher [email protected]
Ms. Elizabeth Raduly Music Teacher [email protected]
Ms. Yilin Li Mandarin Teacher [email protected]
Ms. Le Minh Ha Vietnamese Teacher [email protected]
Mr. Luu Le Minh Trung Vietnamese Teacher [email protected]
Ms. Le Thi Thanh Thuy Host Country Studies [email protected]
Ms. Hoang Hue Van Campus Principal Assistant [email protected]
Ms. Huynh Thi Khanh Phung Campus Principal Assistant [email protected]
Ms. Nguyen Thi Quoc Hung Nurse [email protected]
Ms. Tran Thi Ngoc Thao School Bus Coordinator/Store [email protected]
6
SCHOOL PROCEDURES AND INFORMATION
AccreditationISSP is currently being reviewed by New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), and the Council for International Schools (CIS). Accreditation ensures that we deliver a safe, quality educational program that is recognized internationally. Students may successfully transfer to other international schools and to schools in USA and other countries. In addition, ISSP has partnered with the Cognita Group Network of Schools and has a through school relationship with the International School Ho Chi Minh City (ISHCMC) - American Academy Grade 6-12 college preparatory program. ISHCMC - American Academy is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), and the Council for International Schools (CIS).
AdmissionsInternational School Saigon Pearl welcomes students of all nationalities and passports to apply for enrollment. ISSP does not admit students if a program appropriate to their needs cannot be accommodated. ISSP accepts students who can be successful in the regular academic program.
Students will be formally admitted to ISSP when the following steps have been completed:
•Admission interview with Campus Principal
•Grade 1-5 non-native speakers of English complete the entrance test
•Application form and fee completed and paid
• Copyofstudentpassportorbirthcertificatesubmitted
•Annual health check-up completed and stamped by doctor or hospital
•Medical report and immunization record supplied; along with 2 passport photos
• CampusPrincipalreviewsapplicationandmakesafinaldecisiononadmission
• Parentsarenotifiedofthestudent’splacementandgivenastartdate
• Tuition fee is paid before student attends class
7
Entrance Age Requirement
AGE AS OF AUGUST 31 OR PREREQUISITE GRADE
2 years Nursery
3 years Pre-School
4 years Pre-Kindergarten
5 years Kindergarten
6 years Grade 1
Completion of Grade 1* Grade 2
Completion of Grade 2* Grade 3
Completion of Grade 3* Grade 4
Completion of Grade 4* Grade 5
Completion of Grade 5* Entry to ISHCMC - American Academy Grade 6
Note: * Successful completion at an accredited school and aligned to American curriculum Standards.
After-School Activities Program (ASAP)Activities are offered to students after school by community members, parents, and staff. The activities offered depend on the interests and abilities of our community. An after-school snack is offered for students remaining for the ASAP. Activities begin at 3:15 pm. Parents must make arrangements to pick up students at 4:00 pm.
Attendance PolicyConsistent school attendance is of primary concern to our school. We believe that every minute a child spendsinschoolisimportant.Inmanycases,difficultiesinschoolcanbedirectlylinkedtoabsenteeism.
Students are expected to be at school on time every day unless they are ill. Students should remain in school until the end of all classes. Additionally, we expect families to plan travel only during scheduled school vacations. Please refer to the school calendar when making travel arrangements.
8
School HoursClasses begin promptly at 8:00 am. The campus opens to students at 7:30 am for breakfast; students may enter the classroom after 7:45 am. Dismissal time is 3:00 pm. Students may remain after school if they are registered in an after-school program.
Students who are picked up by parents or drivers should be met promptly at the end of the school day. Students are to be picked up at the designated dismissal area, not at their classroom doors - with the exception of Pre-Nursery through Kindergarten students, who must be picked up at theirclassroomsbyanadultshowinganidentificationcard.Studentsafetyisourfirstconcerninestablishing these guidelines.
AbsenceParentsarerequestedtoinformtheschoolofficebyphone,emailorcommunicationbookonorbefore the day of absence if possible. If the absence is prolonged, parents of Grade 1-5 students shouldcontacttheteacher(s)bye-mailorleavearequestattheofficeforclassworkandhomework assignments.
Dismissal Before End of School DayIf it is necessary for a student to leave school before the end of the day, parents must send a note to the teacher stating the reason for early dismissal and identifying the individual who will pick up the student.Thestudentshouldbemetintheofficesoshe/hecanbesignedoutandtheadultissuedwith a gate pass.
Leaving the CampusStudents are expected to remain on the school campus for the duration of the school day. If a student is to depart before the regular dismissal time, parents are requested to send a note to the teacher with thestudent.Thestudentmustobtainagatepassfromtheofficetoleaveschool.Forsecurityreasons,please do not make these requests by telephone.
TardinessIt is important for all students to arrive at school on time. If your child is late, he/she must pick up a tardyslipfromtheCampusPrincipal’soffice.Teachersbeginthedaywithamorningmeetingthatoutlines procedures for the day. Students who miss this often are unaware of the day’s expectations. Tardiness of even one student hinders the learning of all students in the class.
9
10
TransportationStudents have the following options for travel to and from school:
•Bus service is provided by ISSP for an extra fee, subject to availability of space. Please contact the AdmissionsOfficetoarrangetransportation.
•Private cars, car pools, privately contracted services, and taxis
•Students who live in Saigon Pearl: please walk carefully from the residences to the school. Guards are available to assist with crossings. Younger children should be accompanied by an adult. Grade 3-5 students may walk home if parents sign a permission form for this purpose.
• If a parent wishes to make a change in the regular arrangement for his child’s transportation home, it isessentialthattheparentsendanoteoremailtotheAdmissionsOfficerequestingthechangeandexplaining the details of the change and the reason for it. Once again, the safety of children is our firstconcerninestablishingthisguideline.Ifyourchildtravelsbyschoolbus,pleaseemailorcall.
Birthday Parties, Celebrations and InvitationsStudent birthday celebrations may be held in conjunction with the snack period, lunch period, or near theendoftheschoolday.Parentsareaskedtokeepcelebrationssimpleandtofirstcheckallplanswith the classroom teacher in advance. The teacher will cooperate with the parent in assisting with the celebration. We ask that if a birthday cake or other food treats are brought to school, that there is asufficientamountforallstudentsintheclassandthatplates,napkins,andcutleryareprovidedaswell. Please do not send gifts (bags) for each child in the class. This often creates disruption and leads to competitive aspects that we wish to avoid. Invitations to private parties may be distributed at school ONLY if all children in the class are invited.
Change of Contact InformationInformtheofficeinwritingifyouchangeyourmailingaddress,telephonenumber,e-mailaddress,work contact number, and/or emergency contact information.
Dress CodeAllISSPstudentsarerequiredtoweartheofficialISSPuniformtopromoteanimageofISSPstudentslooking neat, smart, and respectful. All uniform items must be purchased at the school.
ISSP uniform:
•Shirts
•Shorts
•Cargo Pants
11
•Skirts (girls)
•Hats
In addition:
•Shoes must be neat, safe, and appropriate for the activities of the school day.
•Hats are required for all outdoor activities.
•Hats and headscarves must be removed inside the school building unless worn for cultural or religious reasons.
•P.E. clothes may be worn to school on P.E. days.
Dress for Physical Education (P.E.) and Aquatics Physical education is a valued part of the program offered by ISSP.
The following items are required for P.E. classes:
• OfficialISSPphysicaleducationT-shirtandshorts
•Socks and appropriate sport shoes
•Cap/hat for outdoor activity
•Sunscreen
•Water bottle
On days of swimming instruction students need:
•A bathing suit
• Towel
•Sunscreen
•Goggles
ElevatorsIn the interests of safety, students may use elevators only under adult supervision.
Emergency DrillsEmergency drills are held periodically during the school year. When the emergency bell rings, students exittheclassroomsinanorderlymannerandlineupinthefieldadjacenttotheschoolpropertycloseto the school entrance. Attendance is taken and procedures are followed to ensure student safety.
12
English Language Learners (ELL)The ELL program provides support in English language to students who are not native speakers ofEnglishandwhoselevelofEnglishisinsufficientforthemtobesuccessfulinregularclasseswithout assistance. The ELL teacher teams with the classroom teacher to determine the needs of the students. Non-native speakers of English are evaluated upon application to determine their proficiencyinEnglishandappropriategradelevelforentrancetoourschool.ELLsupportisprovidedbeginning in kindergarten. Our small class sizes provide many opportunities for children to develop English language skills. Children are immersed in literacy and learn English best in the language rich classroom. Differentiated instruction in the mainstream classroom provides opportunities for individual assistance or small groups as needed.
English Language PolicyThe ISSP English Language Policy is a shared vision and mission to develop English language proficiencysuccessfullyacrossahighqualityacademiccurriculum.EnglishistheprimarylanguageofinstructionatISSP.Strongfirst(home)languageabilitycontributestosecondorotherlanguageproficiency.ISSPrecognizesandembracesthemulticulturalandmultilingualcompositionoftheschool’s community. The many students who have a home language other than English are expected to achieve twin goals of mastering a high quality academic curriculum and acquiring English language proficiency.Parentsmustunderstandtheimportanceofhomelanguageproficiencyandmustassumeresponsibility for maintaining home language development.
Expected School-Wide Learning Results (ESLRs)We expect our students to develop successfully as:
Critical Thinkers and Problem Solvers Who:
•Solve problems creatively
•Analyze, evaluate, synthesize and apply information
•Demonstrate competence in research and study skills
•Collaborate and work effectively with others
Effective Communicators Who:
•Comprehend and interpret oral and written information
•Express their ideas and knowledge clearly, logically and creatively in oral and visual forms
•Use technology to access, create, integrate, and produce digital information
•Use and respond to creative and artistic expression
13
Life-longReflectiveLearnersWho:
•Demonstrate academic and personal integrity
• Take an active role in their own learning
•Work independently and are self-directed
•Recognize and develop their strengths and talents
Socially Responsible Global Citizens Who:
•Value and preserve the environment
•Understand that physical and mental well-being is a lifelong commitment
•Accept and respect the diversity inherent in a multi-cultural world
• Expressconfidentlyasenseofthemselves,theircultureandtheircountry
•Exhibit self-discipline and accept individual and group responsibility
AssembliesMonthly assemblies are held for Grades 1-5. Assemblies focus on our values and our ESLRs.
Field TripsHo Chi Minh City and the surrounding area provide wonderful opportunities for students to enrich theirlearningbeyondtheschoolboundaries.Studentsparticipateinfieldtripsthatarecloselylinkedtoclassroomunits.Parentswithsuggestionsforfieldtripsareencouragedtocontacttheteacher.Often walking trips will be taken within the Saigon Pearl Community. Please give permission for these trips on the form that requires your signature indicating that you have read this handbook. You will be notifiedofotherscheduledtripsinadvance.Parentswillbeaskedtosignafieldtrippermissionformthatindicatesfulldetailsaboutthefieldtrip.OvernightfieldtripsareplannedaspartoftheGrade5 curriculum and there is a necessary extra charge. Male and female staff and sometimes parents chaperonetheovernightfieldtrips.
Food Services
LunchAll students must eat lunch at school. Students may bring a lunch, pre-order, buy lunch at the school canteen or have lunch delivered to them. For Grade 1-5 classes, if a lunch must be delivered from home, it needs to be labeled in English with the student’s name and grade and placed on the table designated for the class. Home delivered lunches should arrive by 11:30 am.
14
15
Early childhood children eat lunch in their classrooms. During the lunch period, good manners and good eating habits are reinforced. If your child is being fed by you or your household help, you might be pleasantly surprised at how well s/he demonstrates independence at school.
Our food service is provided by Viva Foods. Asian and Western meal choices are available. Menus are sent home either with newsletters or separately. Payment for food service may be made at room 101.
Snack
Students are provided with a snack in the morning. Carbonated beverages are not sold nor permitted at ISSP. Please do not send breakable containers for beverages; re-sealable bottles are suggested for liquids. All students should have their own labeled water bottles.
Health ServicesAclinic,staffedbyaregisterednurse,islocatedonthefirstflooroftheschoolandprovidesservicestoallstudents.Arecordiskeptofalltreatment,andparentsarenotifiedintheeventofanyseriousillness or injury.
IllnessParents are to notify the School Nurse of any infectious diseases or of any change in the health status of a student, (e.g. a vaccination, illness or operation). Many of the most common illnesses (colds, influenza,hepatitisA&B,chickenpox,andconjunctivitis)resultfromviralinfections;antibioticsareineffective in treating or preventing the spread of the illness. Viral illnesses require time for the body to overcome infection. To ensure the sick student does not transfer contagion to others, it is important for parents to keep students at home if they are sick.
ISSP maintains a “Fever Free” environment and requires all students not to attend school if they have a temperature over 37.5 degrees Celsius. Children should stay at home until the fever has been reduced for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medicines. This policy supports our efforts to maintain a healthy environment for all and to minimize the spread of viral infections.
Parentsarerequestedtoinformtheofficeofthereasonfortheabsence,includingillness,priorto 8:00 am.
Ms. Huynh Thi Khanh Phung / Email: [email protected] / Telephone: 08 2222 7788 (Ext. 109)
In the event of extended illness where the student will be absent for a number of days, parents are requested to contact the clinic and the classroom teacher.
Ms. Nguyen Thi Quoc Hung / Email: [email protected] / Telephone: 08 2222 7788 (Ext. 118)
16
InjuriesThe school nurse will call parents if a student must go home due to illness or injury. In the event of a seriousinjuryorillness,thenurseoranofficestaffmemberwillcontacttheparentorguardianbeforetransporting the student to the nearest medical facility for further emergency care. The nurse or a designated person will accompany the student to the hospital and meet the parent there.
Lice (Head Lice)If head lice are found on a student at school, a parent or guardian will be called to pick up the child. After treatment with the correct medicated shampoo, the student may return to school if the hair is free of eggs or lice. Care should be taken to check other family members and vigilance will be needed to continue checking the child’s head and to take appropriate steps to rid the bedding and fabric furniture in the house of lice. This is always a sensitive issue which requires diligence on the part of the parent.Asaservicetoyourchild’sclass,shouldyoufindheadliceonyourchild,pleasecontacttheschool nurse.
Medical RecordsAt the start of the school year, parents are requested to complete and submit the ISSP Medical Questionnaire and keep the school updated of any new medical information, immunization, emergency contact details which will be recorded within the school database. The school nurse has to complete, updateandfilemedicalrecordsforallstudents.
Medication at SchoolStudentsrequiringprescribedmedicationduringschoolhoursmusthaveonfiletheprescriptionfromtheir physicians as well as the written authorization from the parent or legal guardian. The parent‘s written authorization must include:
• The name of student receiving the medication.
• The name and description of the medication
•Scheduled times for the administration of the medication
• The dosage to be given
• Instructions for administration of the medication
•Description of any possible side-effects
•Any other contra-indications, instructions or warning
All medications must be in the original pharmacy container. The container must be clearly marked with the patient‘s name, type of medicine and dosage.
17
A few over the counter medicines (Tylenol, Ibuprofen) are available and can be given if a parent‘s permissionisonfile.
Nurse’sOfficeFunctions•Provides care to students who have been injured or who are present with an acute illness
•Evaluates and refers cases to other medical facilities as appropriate
•Contributes to the control of communicable disease through immunization record keeping
• Isolates students with contagious diseases
•Administers medication and treatments as ordered by health care providers
• Providesfirst-aidkitsoncampus,schoolbuses,fieldtripsandsportsevents
Nurse’sOfficeVisitsduringtheDayThefollowingprocedureshavebeeninstitutedregardingvisitstothenurse’sofficewhileclassesarein session:
•Except in an emergency, students will have a pass from the classroom teacher to see the nurse.
•Otherwise, they should see the nurse during a recess or lunch period.
•Early dismissal due to illness will occur only after the student is evaluated by the nurse and upon her recommendation that the student should go home. A parent will be contacted.
Helping Your Child to SucceedISSP students will be more successful if parents:
• Helpinstillstudentpride,confidence,andapositiveattitudeabouttheirschoolandteachers
•Support school policies on behavior and attendance at all times, including after-school events
•Provide the time and environment for students to complete homework
•Encourage students to take responsibility for completion of all homework assignments
• Bringconcernsdirectlytotheappropriateteacherfirst,beforeapproachingothersintheschool
•Read the newsletters and keep them at home for reference
•Check the communication books or planners daily and respond or comment as appropriate
•Dedicate time and thought to the continual improvement of ISSP
•Share information honestly with teachers about problems the child has had or experienced regarding learning, behavior, or the emotional area, and regarding changes in the family situation (divorce, separations, illness, death)
18
Homework PolicyHomework is a valuable part of the learning process at ISSP. Consistency and parental support are key factors in the success of our homework program. The following guidelines should help you and yourchildplansufficienttimeforhis/herdailyhomework.
Pre-Kindergarten - Grade 1 10 - 20 minutes dailyGrade 2 20 - 30 minutes dailyGrade 3 - 5 30 - 60 minutes daily
Parents of children at all grade levels are responsible for supporting their child’s educational environment by establishing a home atmosphere that is conducive to learning and monitoring/supervisingtheirchild’shomestudy.Thisatmosphereshouldincludespecificstudytimesandaspecificstudylocationfordoingthehomework.Althoughsomehomeworkisenhancedbyparentalinvolvement, some is not. Teachers will inform parents of the suitable involvement level as needed.
As the school is strongly committed to promoting literacy in our students, all children, with the support of their families, are expected to read or be read to on a nightly basis. Do not worry if you cannot read in English. Reading and discussing stories in your home language will assist your child to develop the reading habit.
Information TechnologyStudents are introduced to computers, interactive whiteboards, iPad program, multi-media projectors, and other forms of technology. Students will be instructed on appropriate use of computers and are expected to comply with school guidelines.
ISSP WebsitePlease take time to visit our website at www.issp.edu.vn. The website is updated periodically.
Library Media CenterAt the heart of our educational community, the Library Media Center provides access to information and ideas for students and staff. In addition to regularly scheduled class visits to check out books and to develop reading and research skills, students have access to the Library from 7:30 am until 3:15 pm. Students may borrow two items for a period of two weeks. The Library is open until 4:00 pm on Wednesdays. Parents and students can browse and enjoy the library collection.
Althoughnofinesarechargedforoverdueitems,studentswhohaveoverduebooksmaynotborrowadditionalitemsuntiltheoverduehasbeencleared.Studentsarefinanciallyliableforthereplacementcost of lost, damaged or unreturned library materials at the end of the school year.
19
The Library is a place of research, study, and learning. Respectful behavior is expected of all students at all times.
Lost and FoundPlease label with your child’s name all items brought to school: lunch boxes, book bags, sweaters, uniforms,hats,etc.LostandfoundboxesarelocatedintheAdmissionsOffice.Anyfounditemswillbeplacedthere.Itemswithnamesareeasilyreturned.Studentsshouldcheckattheofficeforlostitems as soon as the loss is noticed.
NewsletterThe newsletter is an important communication tool. Newsletters provide essential information regardingsignificantschoolevents.Readingthenewsletterregularlyisagoodwaytokeepcurrentonwhat is happening at school. The newsletter is also available on the website.
Open HouseOpen House is held early in the school year so that parents may become familiar with classroom expectations and curriculum. It is a very important day that helps parents to understand what children are learning at ISSP.
Parent-Teacher ConferencesOfficialparent-teacherconferencesareheldtwiceyearlyinthefirstandthirdquarters.Theirpurposeis to discuss the student’s current level of progress and set goals for the remainder of the school year. These conferences are scheduled; it is very important that parents attend at the appointment times. Our teaching assistants are able to translate if the language is Vietnamese. Should you require a translator in a language other than Vietnamese, please bring one to the appointment. Parents or teachers may request additional conferences throughout the year.
PerformancesMusic and drama are a part of life and activities in the school. Assemblies, special presentations, and school-wide music concerts provide an opportunity for the students to sing, play a musical instrument, act, and dance.
Report CardsStudents and parents need regular feedback on academic and social progress. Report cards and parent conferences provide excellent opportunities for parents and teachers to help students set goals for themselves and to join together to celebrate a student’s effort and success.
20
The ISSP academic year is divided into two semesters. Report cards are issued at the end of quarter.
Withdrawal and Request of Transcripts (Report Cards)
In early childhood and elementary, if a child withdraws at the end of the academic year, the report card serves as a transcript. If records are required before the actual withdrawal date, parents should use their copy of the most recent report card. Report cards will be withheld from students who have missingbooksandoutstandingfinancialobligationstotheschool.
Special Dress DaysSpecial Dress Days/Spirit Days are sometimes organized at the school. On non-uniform days, students are expected to wear clothing that is appropriate in a school setting and conforms to the standard set by the school uniform. Students choosing not to participate in special dress days must wear the regular school uniform.
Standardized Testing and AssessmentIn addition to testing that is part of the regular class program, elementary students take part in standardized assessments. We use these assessments to determine children’s instructional levels and to measure academic growth throughout the school year, and from year to year.
• 1. Reading - The Fountas and Pinnell Benchmark Assessment System. This assessment is administered during a one-on-one, student and teacher assessment conference. The student reads aloud and talks about the books. The levels range from A (the easiest) to Z (the most challenging).
• 2. Writing Assessment - Students write to a prompt and are evaluated according to a scoring scale (a rubric).
• 3. Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) - In the fall and again in the spring, Grade 3-5 students will participate in assessments from the NWEA. These assessments are called Measures of Academic Progress (MAP). Students will be tested in reading, mathematics and science. Computers are used for the testing.
• 4. IPT - All kindergarten to Grade 5 non-native speakers of English are assessed using the IPT - English Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening Tests. Pre-School and Pre-Kinder students are assessed in speaking and listening using the Pre-IPT.
Student Code of ConductThe Code of Conduct is simple and based primarily on the concept of respect. Students who are respectful use acceptable language and show appropriate behaviors. Hurting others through words or physical actions is not accepted and students who commit such acts will be subject to consequences appropriate to the misconduct. The Code of Conduct states the following:
21
22
•We show respect to all people and all things
•We listen when a teacher or other presenter speaks
•We follow instructions of school staff members
•We maintain our environment safely and without waste
Whetherridingtoandfromhomeoronfieldtrips,studentsaretofollowthesamestandardsofbehavior expected at school. Additionally, students who ride the buses are expected to do the following:
•Be on time. The bus cannot wait for students who are late arriving at the designated pick-up.
• Treat the bus monitor, the bus driver and other students with courtesy and respect.
•Respect the responsibility of the bus monitor to ensure students are safely seated and wearing seat belts.
• Talk quietly and remain seated at all times.
•Drink water only (eating is not permitted on the bus).
•Keep all body parts inside the bus: do not reach or lean out the windows.
•Be responsible for personal belongings.
•Adhere to the ISSP Code of Conduct.
• ProvideanotesignedbyaparentandpresentitattheHOSOfficeatthestartoftheschooldayifasking for a change of bus routine.
ThebusdriverormonitorwillrecordandfileawrittenreportofconductinfractionswiththeCampusPrincipal. Penalties for bus violations are:
• First offense: verbal warning
•Second offense: written warning and parent/guardian contact
• Third offense: suspension from the bus for up to two weeks
Repeated or serious bus misbehavior could result in a student’s privilege of riding the bus being suspendedindefinitely.
Inappropriate BehaviorBehavior that is not in a student’s best interest or that poses a threat to others will lead to serious disciplinary action. The following offenses are considered major violations:
•Verbal or physical bullying
• Insubordination demonstrated toward a teacher or staff member
23
•Disruption of classes and interference of the teaching/ learning process
• Endangeringorthreateningthesafetyofoneselforothers(thisincludesfighting)
• Theft
•Damaging school or personal property
• The possession of any object that can be considered a weapon
Inappropriate Behavior ConsequencesDisciplinary steps are taken to deal with inappropriate behavior while preserving the dignity and self-esteem of the child. One or more of the following steps may be implemented:
•Counseling by a teacher, yard or canteen supervisor, or Campus Principal
• SigningtheSchoolStandardsBook.Thebookismaintainedintheoffice.Students“signin”toindicate that they have not observed one or more of the school procedures.
•Problem Solving Sheet. Students complete a form indicating what the problem was and how s/he can improve.
• *In-School Suspension. The student will be removed from regular classes and will work in a supervised area for a part or a full day.
• *Out-of-School Suspension. A student may be suspended from school for repeated violations of the discipline policy or for behavior that is viewed by the Campus Principal as inappropriate during the school day, during a school-sponsored activity, on or off school grounds. An out-of-school suspension from school means that a student is prohibited from being on or near the school campus or attending any school- sponsored activities during the period of the suspension. The parent or guardianofthestudentwillbenotifiedassoonaspossiblewhenastudentistobesuspendedfromthe school.
*Parents/guardians are contacted.
Items not to be brought to School:
•Anything expensive or sentimental which may get lost or broken
• iPods, Game Boys, MP3 players and similar items
•Pokeman and Maple Story type cards
•Anything that could be dangerous (sharp items, matches, lighters, etc.)
• Money,valuablesandmobilephones(unlessrequestedbytheteacherforaspecificpurpose)
•Chewing gum is not allowed on campus at any time
24
Student CouncilStudents from grades two through six will learn responsibility and government by participating in an organized group facilitated by teacher leaders.
Student Supplies and KitsThere is a charge for consumables. These student kits consist of notebooks, writing books, communication books or planners, mathematics workbooks, etc. The cost varies according to grade level. Additionally, individual teachers will inform students of other materials required for their classes.
TextbooksTextbooks are provided to students on a loan basis. Students are expected to take care of these books and return them in good condition at the end of the school year. Reasonable wear and tear is expected. However, if a textbook is damaged, defaced, or lost, the student must pay for its replacement. Costs are set at 90% of the replacement value plus shipping charges.
Traveling ParentsTheclassroomteacherandtheschoolofficeshouldbenotifiedinwritingwhenachildisbeingleftunderthesupervisionofsomeoneelsewhileparentsaretraveling.Parentsmustprovidespecificdetailsaboutwho has permission to make decisions related to transportation issues and health emergencies.
TutoringParents who desire tutoring for their child should discuss the matter with the classroom teacher. Payment for tutoring services is a private matter to be arranged between the parents and the tutor. No teacher may tutor his/her own students for remuneration. If parents have made arrangements for outside tutors for their child, the tutor must meet with the classroom teacher in order to ensure that the student receives the correct help.
25
Cond
ition
Early
Sym
ptom
sIn
cuba
tion
perio
dM
etho
d of
infe
ctio
nAt
tend
Sc
hool
Dura
tion
of
excl
usio
nCo
mm
ents
Chic
ken
pox
(Var
icel
la)
Red
raise
d sp
ots
that
cha
nge
into
bl
ister
s af
ter a
few
hou
rs. U
sual
ly ra
sh p
rese
nts
on tr
unk
and
face
. M
ild fe
ver.
10 –
21
days
Dire
ct a
nd in
dire
ct c
onta
ct
with
disc
harg
e fro
m n
ose
and
thro
at.
No5
days
afte
r ap
pear
ance
of
blist
ers.
Vacc
ine
is av
aila
ble
for
child
ren
over
the
age
of
12 m
onth
s.
Conj
unct
ivitis
(P
ink
eye)
Burn
ing,
tear
ing,
redn
ess
and
itchi
ng o
f one
or b
oth
eyes
.24
– 7
2 ho
urs
Dire
ct c
onta
ct w
ith e
ye
dischargevia
fingers,to
wels,
was
hclo
ths,
doo
r- ha
ndle
s.No
Durin
g ac
ute
stag
e or
24
hour
s af
ter
ther
apy
has
been
co
mm
ence
d.
Diph
ther
iaSo
re th
roat
, pat
chy
grey
mem
bran
e on
thro
at. N
asal
disc
harg
e m
ay b
e bl
oody
.2
– 5
days
Dire
ct o
r ind
irect
con
tact
with
di
scha
rge
from
nos
e an
d no
se.
No2
wee
ks o
r unt
il th
roat
cul
ture
s ar
e ne
gativ
e
Part
of s
tand
ard
reco
mm
ende
d va
ccin
e sc
hedu
le fo
r all c
hild
ren.
Hepa
titis
A
Feve
r, lo
ss o
f app
etite
, nau
sea
with
or w
ithou
t vom
iting
. Fat
igue
, he
adac
he, a
bdom
inal
pai
n, m
ay
have
jaun
dice
.
15 –
50
days
. Us
ual 2
5O
ral –
feca
l spr
ead.
Eat
ing
uten
sils,
food
, drin
ks.
No
2 w
eeks
afte
r on
set,
or o
ne w
eek
afte
r ons
et o
f ja
undi
ce.
Vacc
ine
avai
labl
e fo
r all
child
ren
over
2 y
ears
of
age.
Pre
vent
by
atte
ntio
n to
hyg
iene
.
Hepa
titis
B
Feve
r, lo
ss o
f app
etite
, nau
sea
with
or w
ithou
t vom
iting
. Fat
igue
, he
adac
he, a
bdom
inal
pai
n, m
ay
have
jaun
dice
.
45 –
160
day
s.
Usua
l 60
– 90
da
ys
Bloo
d,serousfluids,sem
en,
vagi
nal s
ecre
tions
.No
Case
by
case
ev
alua
tion.
Vacc
ine
avai
labl
e fo
r al
l chi
ldre
n fro
m b
irth.
Pr
even
t by
educ
atio
n of
pr
even
tion.
Lice
Scal
p irr
itatio
n, o
r det
ectio
n of
lice
eggs
in h
air.
Hatc
h in
6 -1
0 da
ys
Dire
ct c
onta
ct w
ith h
air,
com
bs, b
rush
es, h
ats,
pillo
ws,
to
wel
s et
c.No
Until
trea
tmen
t has
be
en a
pplie
d an
d ha
ir is
nit f
ree.
Prev
ent b
y ed
ucat
ion,
sh
ort o
r tie
d ha
ir.
Mea
sles
(Rub
ella
)
Coug
h, fe
ver,
wat
ery
eyes
. Blo
tchy
ra
sh o
n 3-
4th
day
over
face
and
tru
nk. W
hite
spo
ts in
mou
th.
8 -1
2 da
ysDi
rect
or i
ndire
ct c
onta
ct w
ith
disc
harg
e fro
m n
ose
and
nose
No
Until
nas
al
disc
harg
e cl
eare
d,
or 4
day
s af
ter
onse
t or c
rash
.
Vacc
ine
avai
labl
e fo
r all
child
ren
over
1 y
ear o
f ag
e.
Men
ingi
tis
(Hae
mop
hilu
s B)
Acut
e illn
ess.
Fev
er, s
tiff n
eck,
na
usea
, hea
dach
e, ra
sh.
2 –
4 da
ysDi
rect
or i
ndire
ct c
onta
ct w
ith
disc
harg
e fro
m n
ose
and
nose
.No
24 h
ours
afte
r on
set.
Depe
ndin
g on
chi
ld’s
cond
ition
.
Vacc
ine
avai
labl
e fo
r all
child
ren
over
2 m
onth
s of
age
.
Men
ingi
tis
(Men
ingo
cocc
al)
Acut
e illn
ess.
Fev
er, s
tiff n
eck,
na
usea
, hea
dach
e, ra
sh.
1 –
10 d
ays
usua
lly 3
– 4
da
ys
Dire
ct o
r ind
irect
con
tact
with
di
scha
rge
from
nos
e an
d no
se.
No
24 h
ours
afte
r on
set.
Depe
ndin
g on
chi
ld’s
cond
ition
.
Vacc
ine
avai
labl
e fo
r all
child
ren
over
2 m
onth
s of
age
.
Mum
psSw
olle
n gl
ands
beh
ind
the
jaw,
and
be
low
the
ear.
12 –
25
days
–
usua
lly 1
6 -1
8 da
ys
Dire
ct o
r ind
irect
con
tact
with
di
scha
rge
from
nos
e an
d no
se.
No9
days
afte
r ons
et
of s
wel
ling.
Vacc
ine
avai
labl
e fo
r all
child
ren
over
12
mon
ths
of a
ge.
26
Cond
ition
Early
Sym
ptom
sIn
cuba
tion
perio
dM
etho
d of
infe
ctio
nAt
tend
Sc
hool
Dura
tion
of
excl
usio
nCo
mm
ents
Pertu
ssis
(who
opin
g co
ugh)
Spas
mod
ic c
ough
, vom
iting
. Not
al
l cas
es “w
hoop
”.6
– 20
day
sDi
rect
or i
ndire
ct c
onta
ct w
ith
disc
harg
e fro
m n
ose
and
nose
.No
21 d
ays
afte
r co
ugh
begi
ns,
5 da
ys a
fter
antib
iotic
s co
mm
ence
men
t.
Vacc
ine
avai
labl
e fo
r all
child
ren
over
02
mon
ths
of a
ge.
Polio
mye
litis
Feve
r, he
adac
he, n
ause
a, v
omiti
ng.
Mus
cle
pain
, stif
fnes
s of
bac
k an
d ne
ck. P
aral
ysis.
4 –
21 d
ays
Dire
ct a
nd In
dire
ct c
onta
ct
with
disc
harg
e fro
m n
ose.
No1
– 6
wee
ks
from
ons
et o
f sy
mpt
oms.
Vacc
ine
avai
labl
e fo
r all
child
ren
from
birt
h.
Ring
wor
mRo
und,
sca
ly sp
ots
on th
e sk
in o
r sc
alp.
Not k
now
nSk
in a
nd h
air.
NoUn
til tr
eatm
ent
has
been
sta
rted,
le
sions
cov
ered
.
No p
artic
ipat
ion
in c
onta
ct s
ports
, sw
imm
ing.
Rube
lla (G
erm
an
feve
r)M
ild ill
ness
, sw
olle
n ne
ck g
land
s.
Fine
pin
k ra
sh o
n fa
ce s
prea
ding
to
face
and
limbs
.
14 –
21
days
, us
ual 1
6 –
18
days
Dire
ct c
onta
ct w
ith s
kin
of
infe
cted
per
son.
No7
days
afte
r ons
et
of ra
sh.
Vacc
ine
avai
labl
e fo
r all
child
ren
over
12
mon
ths
of a
ge. A
void
con
tact
w
ith p
regn
ant w
omen
.Sc
abie
sSm
all r
ed s
pots
typi
cally
bet
wee
n fingers,elbow
creases.Veryitchy.
Days
– W
eeks
Dire
ct o
r ind
irect
con
tact
with
di
scha
rge
from
nos
e an
d no
se.
NoUn
til tr
eatm
ent
has
been
sta
rted,
le
sions
cov
ered
.
No p
artic
ipat
ion
in
cont
act s
ports
.
Scar
let f
ever
Sudd
en o
nset
feve
r, vo
miti
ng, s
ore
thro
at.
2 –
5 da
ysDi
rect
con
tact
with
ski
n of
in
fect
ed p
erso
n, c
loth
ing
and
bedd
ing.
No24
hou
rs a
fter
antib
iotic
s co
mm
ence
men
t.
Nasa
l disc
harg
e m
ay
rem
ain
infe
ctive
for l
ong
perio
ds.
Stre
p th
roat
Sudd
en o
nset
feve
r, vo
miti
ng, s
ore
thro
at.
2 –
5 da
ysDi
rect
or i
ndire
ct c
onta
ct w
ith
disc
harg
e fro
m n
ose
and
nose
.No
24 h
ours
afte
r le
sion
has
been
tre
ated
, cov
ered
by
dre
ssin
g.
No p
artic
ipat
ion
in
cont
act s
ports
or f
ood
prep
arat
ion.
Tube
rcul
osis
Asym
ptom
atic
to c
hron
ic c
ough
, fe
ver,
wei
ght l
oss.
Va
riabl
eDr
ople
t spr
ead.
No14
day
s af
ter
com
men
cem
ent o
f an
tibio
tic th
erap
y.
Vacc
ine
avai
labl
e fo
r all
child
ren
from
birt
h.
Typh
oid
feve
rFe
ver,
head
ache
, ras
h. N
ause
a,
diar
rhea
or c
onst
ipat
ion.
8 –
14 d
ays
Ora
l fec
al s
prea
d.No
7 da
ys a
fter
com
men
cem
ent o
f an
tibio
tic th
erap
y.
Vacc
ine
avai
labl
e fo
r all
child
ren
over
2 y
ears
ol
d.
27
Appendix 2: School Handbook Signature Form
Dear ISSP Parents and Students,
This handbook has been carefully prepared to provide you with valuable information about how ISSP operates and the rules that we live by as a community. We ask that you sit down as a family and carefully review the various sections of this handbook. If you have any questions about the contents of the handbook, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Parents are to sign and date this form before it is returned to the school. Forms are to be returned to the classroom teacher within two weeks after receiving the handbook.
Lisa Johnson Campus Principal
I have received and read the ISSP School Handbook:
Please print your name
Relationship to student
Parent’s Signature Date
28
Appendix 3: Trip Permission Form
During the course of the school year many opportunities present themselves for students to take trips offcampus.Thesemayincludefieldtripsinsupportofvariouscurricularevents,sportsoutings,classparties, trips with special organizations and visits to other schools. Trips may include visiting a park, museum, zoo, restaurant, farm, place of business, factory, or the Saigon Pearl environments.
Although the school may seek your permission for a particular trip, your signature line below will authorize ISSP to include your child(ren) on such a trip even in the event we are unable to reach you orifwehavenotreceivedthespecificresponseformdetailingthetrip.TripsarealwayssupervisedbyISSP staff.
Mychild(ren)mayattendanyoff-campusofficialtrips.
Please print the name or names and grades of your children:
Grade
Grade
Grade
Specificrestrictionsorcomments(ifany):
Signature of Parent or Guardian Date
29
Part of Cognita School Group. Over 60 schools in 7 countries
92 Nguyen Huu Canh Street
Ho Chi Minh CityVietnam
T: (848) 2222 7788/99F: (088) 2220 1790