ISP Elementary School Student-Parent Handbook

Transcription

1 ISP Elementary School Student-Parent Handbook

2 Table of Contents Title Page SECTION ONE INTRODUCTION 1.1. The ISP Vision Statement The ISP Mission 4 SECTION TWO GENERAL INFORMATION 2.1. Schedules 4 Regular Schedule 4 Wednesday Schedule 4 PK 3 Half Day Program 4 Elementary School Bell Schedule Parent-Teacher Conferences The Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) Closing of School length of School Day 5 SECTION THREE ACADEMIC AND BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS 3.1 IB Learner Profile Electronic Equipment Attendance Policy Tardy Policy and Procedures Uniform Policy Behavioral Expectations at ISP Bullying Prevention at ISP Elementary School Disciplinary Procedures Social Media Policy Birthday Celebrations Guidelines After- School Activities (ASA) Early Dismissal Policy and Procedures Security Procedures Requests to Change Transportation ISP Visitor s Permission Procedures SECTION FOUR - SERVICES 4.1 Lost and Found Cafeteria School Bus Services 14 Bus Discipline Procedures 15 Change of Address for Bus Services 15 Pre-school Transportation 15 2 ISP Elementary School Student-Parent Handbook

3 SECTION FIVE HOME-SCHOOL COMMUNICATION 5.1 School Communication Friday Folders Dolphin Dispatch Grade/Classroom Newsletters Specialist Teacher s Newsletter RenWeb Website Open House Parent-Principal Coffee Talks Reporting Conferences 16 SECTION SIX CURRICULUM INFORMATION 6.1 Homework Policy School Counselor Field Trips English as an Additional Language (EAL) Mother Language Learning Resource Support Standardized Testing Program Tutoring/After School Remediation 18 SECTION SEVEN SCHOOL SPIRIT AND TRANDITIONS 7.1 School Song Flag Ceremonies and Assemblies Panamanian National Anthem Juramento a la Bandera/Oath of Allegiance to the Flag ISP Traditions and Celebrations Art Exhibition Dolphin Pods Pod Day Student Representative Council (SRC) Earth Action Week Bringing Literature to Life International Day Cancer Society Toys for Smiles- Toy Drive Spirit Week Gabriel Lewis Galindo School Supply Drive Sports Day PTA family Fun Fair Theatrical Performance Fifth Grade Moving Up Ceremony PTA Holiday Shop 22 3 ISP Elementary School Student-Parent Handbook

4 Mes de la Patria 22 Section One Introduction 1.1 ISP Vision ISP is a leading international school, inspiring our students to be conscientious inquirers and empowering them with the skills, courage, optimism and integrity to pursue their dreams and make a positive contribution as global citizens. 1.2 The International School of Panama Mission We will educate and inspire our students to reach their full potential and contribute to the world by providing an exemplary English-language education enriched by our multicultural community. 2.1 Schedules Regular Schedule Classes begin at 7:30 and end at 2:40. Wednesday Schedule Classes begin at 7:30 and end at 12:00. Section Two General Information PK 3 Half Day Program Classes begin at 7:30 and end at 11:30 on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. Classes end at 12:00 on Wednesday. Students will have a morning snack break each day. Parents are responsible for sending health snacks. Elementary School Bell Schedule 7:30 7:45 a.m. Morning Meeting (flag salute on Mondays) 11:25 12:00 p.m. PK4 lunch 11:20 12:00 p.m. PK3 lunch 11:45 12:15 p.m. Kindergarten and 1 st grade lunch 12:15 12:40 p.m. 2 nd and 3 rd grade lunch 12:40 1:05 p.m. 4 th and 5 th grade lunch 2:40 p. m. Dismissal 4 ISP Elementary School Student-Parent Handbook

5 2.2 Parent-Teacher Conferences Conferences are held in October and April. On conference days the regular daily schedule will be adjusted and students do not attend classes. 2.3 The Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) The ISP PTA is an active group of parents who wish to assist teachers and the administration in many ways in order to help the school. The PTA is governed by the Executive Committee in which teacher representatives and administration are invited to participate. The PTA Room Parents for each homeroom are the liaison between the school staff, the PTA, and the school community. We encourage all parents to become active members of the ISP PTA and help improve our school community! There is a Facebook page for Parents of the International School of Panama where you can connect online with the PTA. 2.4 Closing of School If the occasion arises that warrants the closing of school, official notice will be issued from the Director s Office. The decision to close school is made by the Director in consultation with the Chair of the Board of Directors. The website will be the main line of communication and for any school closures. Please check for information regarding school closure prior to calling the school for information. Procedure: The School Director will notify the teaching faculty and parents via the website and via . It should be assumed that school will resume the following day. 2.5 Length of School Day The school gates open at 7:00 a.m. and supervision of students will begin at 7:15. If you choose to drop your child/ren off prior to the 7:15 a.m. supervision starting time, you must stay with your child/ren until the supervising teacher arrives. School officially ends at 2:40 p.m. There will be a teacher supervising the parent pick up area until 3:00 p.m. Students who are not picked up by 3:00 will be sent to the Elementary School Office to wait until a parent or authorized adult arrives. Buses depart at 3:00 p.m. After-School Activities begin at 3:00 p.m. and end at 4:15 p.m. All After-School Activities teachers are responsible for the supervision of their students until 4:20 p.m. After school buses are provided for those students that are participating in ASA. Parents that are picking up their child/children are asked to respect this time and be sure to pick up students prior to 4:20 p.m. If a student is not picked up by 4:30 p.m., he/she will be sent to the Main Administrative Office to wait until a parent or authorized adult arrives. Section Three Academic and Behavior Expectations 3.1 The International Baccalaureate (IB) Learner Profile 5 ISP Elementary School Student-Parent Handbook

6 The IB learner profile is the IB mission statement translated into a set of learning outcomes for the 21 st century. The attributes of the profile express the values inherent to the IB s international education. The learner profile provides a long-term vision of education. IB promotes the education of the whole person, emphasizing intellectual, personal, emotional and social growth through all domains of knowledge. By focusing on the dynamic combination of knowledge, skills, independent critical and creative thought and international-mindedness, the IB espouses the principle of educating the whole person for a life of active, responsible citizenship. The learner profile is a profile of the whole person as a lifelong learner. The aim of IB is to develop internationally minded people who, recognizing their common humanity and shared guardianship of the planet, help to create a better and more peaceful world. The ISP IB learners strive to be: Inquirers Knowledgeable Thinkers Communicators Principled Open-minded Caring Risk-takers Balanced Reflective They develop their natural curiosity. They acquire the skills necessary to conduct inquiry and research and show independence in learning. They actively enjoy learning and this love of learning will be sustained throughout their lives. They explore concepts, ideas and issues that have local and global significance. In so doing, they acquire in-depth knowledge and develop understanding across a broad and balanced range of disciplines. They exercise initiative in applying thinking skills critically and creatively to recognize and approach complex problems, and make reasoned, ethical decisions. They understand and express ideas and information confidently and creatively in more than one language and in a variety of modes of communication. They work effectively and willingly in collaboration with others. They act with integrity and honesty, with a strong sense of fairness, justice and respect for the dignity of the individual, groups and communities. They take responsibility for their own actions and the consequences that accompany them. They understand and appreciate their own cultures and personal histories, and are open to the perspectives, values and traditions of other individuals and communities. They are accustomed to seeking and evaluating a range of points of view, and are willing to grow from the experience. They show empathy, compassion and respect towards the needs and feelings of others. They have a personal commitment to service, and act to make a positive difference to the lives of others and to the environment. They approach unfamiliar situations and uncertainty with courage and forethought, and have the independence of spirit to explore new roles, ideas and strategies. They are brave and articulate in defending their beliefs. They understand the importance of intellectual, physical and emotional balance to achieve personal well-being for themselves and others. They give thoughtful consideration to their own learning and experience. They are able to assess and understand their strengths and limitations in order to support their learning and personal development. 3.2 Electronic Equipment I-Pods, video games, etc., may not be used during classes unless teachers give special permission. If students choose to bring electronic devices to school they must leave these items in their backpacks. We suggest that the backpack have a combination lock that you can help your child memorize. The school does everything within reason to safeguard private property, but it cannot be responsible for lost items. 6 ISP Elementary School Student-Parent Handbook

7 Students may not use cell phones for calls or sending text messages during the school day. Cell phones must be turned off and kept in the student s backpack during the school day. If parents need to contact a student, the parent should call the ISP elementary school receptionist. Important and emergency messages will be delivered at once. If a student needs to return a call to a parent, the student must use a phone at the secretary s desk, or if confidential, should ask to use the phone in the Principal s or Counselor s office. Any cell phones or electronic devices visible during classes will be confiscated and turned into the homeroom teacher or given to the Principal. Parents may be asked to come in to school in order to reclaim the device. 3.4 Attendance Policy Attendance in school and participation in class are an integral part of academic achievement and the teachinglearning process. Regular attendance develops patterns of behavior essential to professional and personal success in life. Attendance Records. School officials will keep an accurate record of attendance, including accurate attendance records in each class. The teachers and principals will maintain these records. Absences must be reported to the respective school offices. Attendance Standards. A student must attend school 50 percent of the school day in order to be counted present for the entire day. Also, a student must attend a specific class a minimum of 50 percent of the period in order to be counted present for the class. Authorized Absences. When a student must miss school, a written excuse signed by a parent or guardian must be submitted on the day of the absence or upon returning to school after an absence. If written authorization is not provided within two days, the absence will be recorded as unauthorized. The school will record absences in accordance with the following guidelines, which provide that an absence may be recorded as authorized for the following reasons: 1. Personal illness or injury which makes the student physically unable to attend school* 2. Death in the immediate family 3. Legal, medical or dental appointment* 4. Quarantine related to infectious disease * 5. Observance of an event required or suggested by the religion of the student or the student's parent(s) with prior approval by the principal. 6. Participation in certain amateur or professional sport or entertainment events (with prior approval) Notes: *Extended illnesses or health related absences may require a statement from a physician. School-Related Activities. All classroom activities missed due to absence are important and challenging, if not impossible, to make up for. It is the intention of the Board of Directors that classes missed be kept to an absolute minimum through close scrutiny and a monitoring system on the part of the school administration. The principal must approve school-related activities in advance. The following schoolrelated activities will not be counted as absences from either class or school: 1. Field trips sponsored by the school 2. School-initiated and scheduled activities 3. School athletic events requiring dismissal from school 7 ISP Elementary School Student-Parent Handbook

8 Students will complete assignments missed for these reasons. The teacher will determine when work is to be made up. The student is responsible for finding out what assignments are due and completing them within the specified time period. Attendance Expectations for Grades K through 5 Recognizing that regular school attendance is the foundation for learning, students are required to be in attendance at least 90% of the school year in order to receive academic credit. A student absent more than 18 days could be considered for retention. In cases of excessive absenteeism, the principal will meet with the parents to make a plan for improving attendance. If the principal determines that academic credit will not be granted based on attendance, the parent or guardian will be notified in writing. The parent or guardian will have five days to appeal the principal's decision. Written documentation must be provided to the principal and must be based on appropriate reasons for the absences and completion of make-up work. A final decision will be made following the completion of the make-up work. Attendance Expectations for Grades K through 5, continued Parents or guardians who feel that extenuating circumstances require their child to miss more than 18 days per year or more than five successive days, may request an attendance waiver through the principal. The school administration will review the waiver requests and determine the student s eligibility. In some cases, work completed outside of school will be accepted, providing the requirements outlined in the waiver are fulfilled. Make-Up Work Opportunities Grades K through 12 All students are required to make up missed work regardless of whether the absence is authorized or unauthorized. The school will determine when work is to be made up. The student or parent is responsible for finding out what assignments are due and the student must complete them within the specified time period. 3.4 Tardy Policy and Procedures All elementary students arriving to school after 7:35 a.m. will be marked as tardy by the teacher taking attendance. Please note that this is to ensure that we always have an accurate record of who is in the school. Students who are consistently late are disruptive to the entire group and so we ask that everyone make an effort to arrive on time. If a bus arrives late, teachers are notified. 3.5 Uniform Policy Uniforms are required for all students at ISP. They are in keeping with public and private Panamanian school culture, and should reflect pride in our school community. Additionally, they are an expression of preparedness and a kind of professionalism desired in ISP students. Although the ISP uniform has a relaxed appearance, it is a uniform and must be worn according to the regulations. Wearing the uniform neatly and appropriately is important and is expected. Students not in compliance with the uniform policy are subject to disciplinary action and may be sent home to change clothes. ISP Uniform Regulations: 1. All students are required to wear a complete school uniform in accordance with the uniform items list. All uniforms must be labeled with the student s name. 8 ISP Elementary School Student-Parent Handbook

9 2. Uniform items to be purchased and worn to school daily: Shoes: Shoes must be black. Athletic shoes are acceptable and we recommend rubber/slipproof soles for safety reasons. No open backs or sandals are allowed. Slacks: Navy blue uniform slacks (available at the uniform shops) or navy chinos (lightweight cotton trousers that are dressier than khakis and do not fade as easily) are required. Slacks with rips or holes, hems that reach the floor or over and/or undersized slacks are not allowed. Skirt: ISP plaid uniform skirts are available at the uniform shop. The skirt must reach the knee. The length of the skirt may vary from mid-knee to no shorter than 2 inches (5.0 cm) above the knee. Shirts: ISP polo shirts are available at the uniform shop. All shirts must be tucked into pants unless they are hemmed to fall 4-6 below the navel. PE Uniform: ISP T-shirts and ISP or navy blue athletic shorts are required. For the aquatics program girls are required to wear a full one piece swimsuit. Boys must use swimming trunks/shorts. Both boys and girls must wear a swim cap. An optional rash guard or UV shirt is permitted for boys and girls. Sweatshirts and Sweaters: ISP sweatshirts along with blue sweatshirts or sweaters are allowed. Caps and Visors: ISP caps and visors are allowed during outdoor activities. Caps and visors may only be worn outside of school buildings. Pants for girls: The uniform shops do not make pants for girls. However, navy blue pants are allowed. They cannot be jeans or leggings. Shorts: Boys in grades PK3 to 5 are permitted to wear navy blue shorts. 3. General Notes about special dress and grooming: Students may be requested to T-shirts or sport shirts for certain activity days. On some field trips, students will be allowed to wear jeans. Torn and over or under-sized jeans are not permitted. Students may wear properly sized, white and/or ISP PE T-shirts under their uniform shirts, provided they do not extend outside of the uniform shirt. Hair must be clean, brushed and well kept. Unnaturally colored hair, (i.e. blue, green, red, purple, etc.) is not allowed. At times, for safety, long hair must be pulled back. Hair styles deemed to be distracting within the school environment will not be allowed. For safety, students should wear a minimum amount of jewelry. Some jewelry, including dangling earrings, must be removed for PE. Female students may wear one or two pierced earrings. Male students may not wear any earrings. Other facial piercings are not permitted. 3.6 Behavioral Expectations at ISP The ISP Behavioral Expectation Program is an integral part of all student experiences, providing proactive and responsive services to meet personal, social, and emotional needs of the ISP Community. Through collaboration with all relevant education professionals and coordination of programs we ensure that comprehensive services are available to all students. We value a student-centered approach that empowers students to reach their full potential in an ever-changing society. Positive behavior reinforcement at ISP is an on-going process. Our staff has identified a need for a common language and proactive system of teaching appropriate and safe behaviors to all students. The staff is driven by the desire to help students become more independent in managing their own behaviors (particularly during unsupervised or unstructured times of the day. The ISP 5-BEE-haviors are a fun and dynamic way of establishing elementary-wide guidelines based on the Positive Behavior Support research and literature that provide the foundation for teaching positive, proactive behaviors throughout the school environment; Be Kind, Be Responsible, Be Safe, Be Respectful, and Be Green. The BEE-haviors are posted in prominent places in the school, and Dash the Dolphin, and all the staff 9 ISP Elementary School Student-Parent Handbook

10 encourage and reward students following the ISP 5- BEE-haviors by giving students positive feedback throughout the day and with POD points. Lessons are actively taught through the Steps to Respect program. Be Kind be thoughtful of others help those in need and think about how you would like to be treated Be Responsible be on time have supplies ready complete your work Be Safe walk in the hallways make good choices use supplies appropriately Be Respectful use active listening use self-control use just right voice keep hands and feet to yourself Be Green be thoughtful of how you use resources think about how to reduce, reuse, and recycle Bullying Prevention at the ISP Elementary School Most children face bullying at some point in their lives whether it is as a bystander, the person who bullies, or the person who is being bullied. Many children don t know what to do if they see someone being bullied or are being bullied themselves. We now know that bullying can be significantly reduced if the whole school community, including students, teachers, parents and even the maintenance staff, are trained to create a safe, caring, respectful learning environment in which bullying is not tolerated. To achieve this goal, the ISP Elementary School has implemented the Steps to Respect Bullying Prevention Program. Students are now learning new skills in their classroom like how to make friends, how to join in, how to manage conflicts, and how to recognize, refuse, and report bullying whether it happens to them or someone else. By recognizing, students learn the definition of bullying. By refusing, students are taught to stand up to bullying if the situation is safe enough. By reporting, students are taught that reporting bullying to a trusted adult is not tattling and is done to keep someone safe. The whole ISP community must work together to combat bullying as we are all responsible for insuring a safe and respectful environment! ISP Elementary School s Bullying Prevention Policy Everyone at the International School of Panama Elementary School is committed to making our school a safe and caring place for all students. We will treat one another with respect, and we refuse to tolerate bullying in any form at our school. Our school defines bullying as follows: Bullying is unfair and one-sided. It happens when someone consistently and continually keeps hurting, frightening, threatening, or leaving someone out on purpose. Examples of bullying include: Hurting someone physically by hitting, kicking, tripping, pushing, pinching, poking, etc. Stealing or damaging another person s things Ganging up on someone Teasing someone in a hurtful way Using put-downs, such as insulting someone s race, religion, or gender Touching or showing private body parts Spreading rumors about someone or spreading private information about someone Leaving someone out on purpose or trying to get other students not to play with someone Staff at ISP will do the following to prevent bullying and help children feel safe at school: 10 ISP Elementary School Student-Parent Handbook

11 Closely supervise students in all areas of the school and playground Encourage and enforce the 4 Bee-havioral guidelines Watch for signs of bullying and stop it when it happens Teach the Second Steps Program in grades K-2 and the Steps to Respect Program in grades 3-5 Respond quickly and sensitively to bullying reports using the Steps to Respect Four-A Response Process and coaching models. (affirm, ask, assess, act) Take seriously families concerns about bullying Look into any and all bullying incidents Assign consequences for bullying based on the school discipline code Provide immediate consequences for retaliation against students who report bullying Students at ISP will do the following to prevent bullying: Treat each other respectfully Follow the 4 Bee-haviour guidelines Refuse to bully others Refuse to let others be bullied or to watch, laugh, or join in when someone is being bullied Try to include everyone in play, especially those who are often left out Report bullying to an adult 3.7 Disciplinary Procedures The basic premise of discipline at The International School of Panama is that each person demonstrates respect for self and others. All of us are bound to behave in a manner which assures that we are respectful, cooperative, and caring of school property and individuals. This discipline policy is in place to ensure a positive school climate. Positive Discipline is a proactive and positive approach used by ISP staff to promote successful behavior and learning at school for all students. Positive Discipline supports the acquisition of appropriate behaviors, the appreciation of individual differences, and the strategies for self-control. All ISP Elementary faculty and staff use the positive discipline approach. Within this philosophy, consequences can be given by any member of staff and the general guidelines for dealing with students who require behavioral intervention is a follows: 1. Verbal Warning: The student is told to stop misbehaving and their name is taken note of for the teacher s reference. This may happen both in the classroom and outside of the classroom (ex. Recess, cafeteria etc.) 2. Written Warning(s): If the student continues to misbehave a note is written in the student agenda or an is sent home so their parents can see that there have been behavioral issues (ex. Unfinished homework, behavioral problems, inadequate uniform etc.) A student can receive up to three written warnings and then he/she will be referred to the Dean of Students by the teacher who has been experiencing the problem. 3. Visit to the Dean s Office: A child who has received three written warnings may be sent to the Dean s Office by the teacher. The Dean will conference with the student and discuss an appropriate plan for improvement. An appropriate consequence may be given to the child at that time. 4. In-School or Out-of-School Suspension: In some cases, an in-school or out-of-school suspension may be an appropriate consequence for the student. If a suspension is given, parents will be notified. 11 ISP Elementary School Student-Parent Handbook

12 5. Behavioral Contract: If a teacher and/or the principal determine it is necessary a student may be placed on a behavioral contract. A student who is unable to follow the expectations outlined in the contract may face suspension for a specified period. 6. Expulsion: If a student is unable to change his/her behavior with the support and guidance that is provided by the school then he/she may be expelled. 3.8 Social Media Policy Social media is a category of online broadcasting that supports people talking, participating, sharing, networking, and bookmarking online. Common social media platforms include, but are not limited to, online networks such as CANVAS, RenWeb, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, AskFM, blogs, podcasts, discussion forums, RSS feeds, and content sharing sites such as Instagram and YouTube. Because technology is constantly evolving, any list of social media sites or programs will never be definitive. The purpose of this policy is to provide clear expectations to students and agreements for ethical and legal use of online social media, while maximizing the benefits of utilizing emerging social media technologies when communicating with fellow students, staff and the public. The scope of this policy extends to all ISP students who engage in online conversations or share content using social media sites. It is the responsibility of each student to adhere to this policy. ISP reserves the right to act on any information obtained from online sources if it indicates that a student is in breach of school policies and/or Panamanian law. Where inappropriate use of social media may constitute an offence under criminal law, referral will be made to the appropriate authorities. In addition, students are personally accountable and, if found in breach of the policy, will be liable to disciplinary action under school procedures. Social media content can easily become available to the public, including the school, its staff, prospective colleges and universities, and the media, and that inappropriate use will result in disciplinary proceedings that could damage their reputation and future academic/career prospects. In particular, students must not use social media for any of the following (but not limited to): To post inappropriate, discriminatory or defamatory comments including comments about other students, staff, or other members of the ISP community To bully, harass or intimidate other students, staff or members of the school To post threatening, obscene or profane comments To discriminate by any means, including but not limited to sexist, racist, sectarian, xenophobic, or homophobic views or banter To express support for illegal activities or organizations To purposefully disseminate misleading information To share confidential or sensitive information To view or distribute sexually explicit or offensive content To infringe or violate someone else s rights as stated by Panamanian law, and/or fail to adhere to generally/commonly accepted digital citizenship norms To post locational information about others under any means without prior specific consent To post content that could create a security risk for the physical school, its staff, or students School identity and property is to be represented properly and in good faith. The ISP logo, which is produced in various forms, is a key part of the School s identity. Its use is tightly restricted and it is unlikely that any use on social media (unless for an official school site, whether run by student or staff) will be authorized. For any requests about the logo, contact your school principal or administration. 12 ISP Elementary School Student-Parent Handbook

13 As stated above, disciplinary actions will be taken if improper use of social media is found. Inappropriate actions merits follow up by the school or affected organization. 3.9 Birthday Celebration Policy All birthday celebrations must take place during the lunch recess or at the end of the day. Parents should plan the date of the celebration with the classroom teacher. Cupcakes or cake, ice cream and natural juice are suggested. Sodas, goodie bags, Piñatas, and party professionals are not allowed. Birthday invitations for parties outside school will only be distributed in school if the entire class is invited to the party. Invitations not extended to every member of the classroom should be distributed outside the school environment. We ask that all parents and students kindly respect this policy 3.10 After- School Activities (ASA) The After-School Activities program at ASA is designed to provide students with opportunities to engage in organized group activities that allow them to develop talents, learn new skills, socialize, strengthen friendships and make new friends. A skilled and experienced staff of instructors, some from our own faculty and others from the greater community, have created quality programs that we are happy to provide on our campus exclusively for ISP students. Buses are provided for all students participating in the After School Activity program. Students playing in activities where they can get wet and dirty must have dry clothes to change into or they will not be permitted to ride on the buses Early Dismissal Policy and Procedures For safety and administrative purposes please follow these guidelines when your child leaves school early due to illness or other reasons: Children who leave school with their parent or authorized adult prior to the regular dismissal time, must come to the elementary main office for a dismissal slip. The Elementary School Secretary will inform the Homeroom Teacher if a child is leaving early due to illness. Parents or authorized adult must submit the Permission to Leave the Building form to the guard as they are leaving ISP. Children should not call home because of illness, through the office, unless authorized by their teachers, Elementary Administration or Elementary School Secretary. No sick children will ride home on the regular bus schedule; a parent or authorized adult must pick up the child Security Procedures UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES ARE STUDENTS ALLOWED TO LEAVE SCHOOL PREMISES WITHOUT AUTHORIZATION FROM THE ADMINISTRATION Only persons authorized in writing by parents/guardians have permission to pick up students. Students waiting to be picked up must be supervised by school personnel or wait in the ES office. Parents or authorized adult must submit the Permission to Leave the Building form to the guard as they are leaving ISP. 13 ISP Elementary School Student-Parent Handbook

14 3.13 Requests to Change Transportation If your child is changing how he/she is leaving school, parents are required to complete a Transportation Permission Slip that can be found on the Elementary School website for you to download at any time. The Transportation Permission Slip must be filled and given to your child s teacher who will then send the slip to the elementary office. Please DO NOT send hand written notes for request to change transportation as we would like all parents to use this form. PLEASE NOTE THAT STUDENTS CANNOT CHANGE BUSES ON WEDNESDAYS AND NO ADDITIONAL STUDENTS WILL BE ALLOWED TO RIDE BUSES ON WEDNESDAYS PLEASE NOTE THAT REQUESTS TO CHANGE TRANSPORTATION CANNOT BE MADE AFTER 12:00 NOON 3.14 ISP Visitor s Permission Procedures Many of our students have family and friends visit and they often like to bring them to school. The following procedures and guidelines have been put into place to ensure there is little or no disruption to the daily program. Friends or relatives are welcome to come visit during lunch. Parents must check with the classroom teacher to arrange a visit to the classroom during instructional time. Visitors may NOT attend ISP After School Activities or Sports practices. Section Four Services 4.1 Lost and Found The lost and found shelf is located outside of the ES office. If you ve lost something important (glasses, watch, textbook, etc.) report it at once to your teacher or the ES office. Items in the Lost and Found will be placed on display once per month, during the Pod Assemblies and during each set of Parent/Teacher Conferences. Items not claimed will be donated at the end of each quarter. 4.2 Cafeteria The Elementary School offers a lunch program for students from Kindergarten to fifth grade. The cafeteria offers a daily hot lunch service. A monthly menu is available on the ISP website. Children can pay in cash, with the Eschool card, or they can prepay for the entire semester. The ESchool Card is a pre-paid card from Banco General that allows students to purchase snacks/meals in a faster and safe way. It does not require a minimum purchase or balance. Since this a pre-paid card system, the card holder can only use the money that has been previously deposited. Parents and/or students they will be able to track balance trends, categorize and analyze personal spending, and create and monitor monthly budgets. All transactions can be verified On-line: Elementary students may also choose a pre-paid meal option which offers parents the convenience of paying lunch fees when they pay tuition. This is a set price option which is paid once per semester. Information regarding costs and food options is sent out at the beginning of the year. 4.3 School Bus Services 14 ISP Elementary School Student-Parent Handbook

15 The safety of students and the efficient running of buses are of paramount importance to ISP. Therefore it is vital that ALL students understand and follow the rules and that parents support the school in enforcing the rules. Our goal is to ensure that students and bus drivers alike act properly and safely while traveling to and from school and, to ensure that in the event of a traffic emergency, bus personnel and students are adequately prepared to react appropriately. Most students who ride the bus spend at least 60 minutes each day en route. It is an extremely busy route with occasional hazards. We stress the importance of respect and courtesy towards others. Because there are younger children on the bus, the older students must set good examples in their language and behavior Bus Discipline Procedures All students are required to follow the rules which have been established to ensure safe transport to and from school and/or school sponsored activities. A student s failure to obey these rules puts the driver, students, and the public at risk and will not be tolerated. If repeated verbal and written warning, suspensions, and other remedies by the drivers and school officials have no effect on the student s behavior drivers may request the assistance of the school administration. If a pattern of misbehavior appears on the bus, involving one or more students, they will be warned that should this pattern continue, their parents will be informed by an official note (pink slip) by the bus driver. The parent must sign and return the pink slip to the main office. If the unacceptable behavior continues, a second notice will be sent to the parents, and the Principal will be notified. If cases involve a risk to the safety of students, such as fighting, the Principal may enact an immediate suspension. If after suspension, serious or continuing offenses persist a conference with parents will be requested and the student may be suspended from the bus for the rest of the school year Change of Address for Bus Services All address changes should be reported to the Elementary School Office at least three (3) days before the scheduled change. Transportation arrangements cannot be scheduled until the Elementary School office receives updated information with the new home/ transportation address Pre-School Transportation A responsible party must accompany all preschoolers to the bus in the morning. On the journey home, a responsible party must be waiting in front of the apartment/house to meet the student when the bus arrives. Section Five Home-School Communication 5.1 School Communication Effective communication is essential to a school s functioning. It is the responsibility of parents to remain abreast of what is going on in the school by reading the Dolphin Dispatch (our weekly newsletter), classroom newsletters and attending PTA meetings. 5.2 Friday Folders We recognize that in the youngest grade levels, where parents collect their children directly from the classroom, there are more frequent opportunities for parents to both see learning in context and discuss progress informally with teachers. In the older grades, parents have less direct contact with teachers in the learning context; therefore use of Friday Folders enables students to share their work with parents. Teachers use this method of 15 ISP Elementary School Student-Parent Handbook

16 communication as a way of keeping parents informed of student progress and delivering any information that needs to be communicated from the school administration. Some examples of the type of work that may be included in Friday Folders are samples of student work, tests and quizzes, and notes on behavior or academic issues that are pertinent. PreK3 and PreK4 do not send home Friday Folders. 5.3 Dolphin Dispatch (DD) The Dolphin Dispatch is an important ISP School bulletin for all families. It highlights events taking place in the ES and the wider school community and often includes information not found in grade level newsletters. The Dolphin Dispatch is ed weekly to all ISP School families and can be found on the school website You may contact anyone at ISP via . Please check the ISP website for faculty and staff addresses. 5.5 Grade/Classroom Newsletters Pre-K 3 to Grade 5 teachers will post a regular newsletter online, have a blog, or send information to parents via . These may be a grade level newsletter or may be posted as an individual class newsletter. Please be sure to read these updates each week as they are full of relevant information. 5.7 Specialist Teachers Newsletters Specialist teachers will create a regular newsletter with information from their department in a specialist newsletter. Additionally, weekly assignments for specialist subjects will be posted by class. 5.8 RenWeb RenWeb is our school information system. This is where we house the information regarding parent contact, health information, and student schedules. It is imperative that RenWeb information is always up to date, so please notify the ES office if you need to update your information. 5.9 ISP Website The ISP Website ( is a wonderful source of information about our school, and about events and activities. Be sure to bookmark this site and refer to it frequently Open House Open House takes place the first Wednesday of the new school year. The purpose of Open House is for parents to meet their children s teachers, obtain information regarding grade level and subject specific curriculum, learn about classroom routines and behavioral expectations, and to learn more about ISP as a learning community. We also ask parents to sign-up to be PTA Room Parents at the Open House event. 16 ISP Elementary School Student-Parent Handbook

17 5.11 Parent-Principal Coffee Talks Throughout the year there are regularly scheduled Parent Coffee s. The purpose of the Coffee Talk is to provide ISP parents and administration with an opportunity to come together to learn and discuss things that are happening in the school Reporting Reporting is a means of giving feedback from assessment. It describes the progress of children s learning, identifies areas for growth, and allows parents and students to track progress throughout the year. Assessment without feedback merely serves as judgment; feedback is the component of assessment that lets us make sense of judgment and improve our work. A school culture should encourage both assessment and feedback. Reporting Formats and Periods Student Updates are sent home at 8 week intervals from the start of each quarter. Progress Reports are sent home at the end of quarters one and three in conjunction with Parent Teacher Conferences Report Cards are sent home at the end of each semester 5.13 Conferences The purpose of conferences is to provide feedback to both children and parents. Scheduled Parent-Teacher Conferences are held two times per year for all ES students. Dates can be found on the ES Calendar posted on our website. Parents should feel free to contact the school whenever there are questions concerning a student s progress or adjustment in school. Conferences may be requested by parents, teachers, counselor, or principal. Conferences requested by parents may be arranged by contacting the individual homeroom or specialist teacher directly. Section Six Curriculum Information 6.1 Homework Policy Children should be engaged in activities with family and friends after school. They should have time to develop their own creativity and problem solving skills through play and meaningful challenges. Students and parents should initiate activities at home that encourage individual thinking, allow for creative expression, and deepen understanding of our world. Reading is the most important academic skill and one that children need to practice outside of school that must be done every day. We believe: Children should read for pleasure and/or be read to every day. Children should develop and answer their own questions 17 ISP Elementary School Student-Parent Handbook

18 Children need active play every day. Family time is important What homework looks like: Teachers will send home unit information sheets about what your child is working on in class. With that information, you can have targeted conversations with your child about what he/she is doing in school and extend learning into your home. Ideas of how you can do this with your child include: Collect objects or artifacts to support learning in the classroom Discuss inquiry questions at the dinner table Ask your child to reflect on what he/she has learned at school Have your child interview family members about topics being covered at school Play games and cards that involve logic, strategy, word play and math Explore mathematical thinking through real-life situations (cooking, counting money, planning how to share items, etc.) Have your child regularly write in a journal Help your child learn about and respond to current events Discuss and respond to photos, artifacts, or short videos with a family member Encourage your child to explore and research their own interests that extend beyond what is happening at school. On occasion students will have projects or elements of schoolwork that must be completed at home. These will be communicated to parents by homeroom, Spanish, or Specialist teachers. In addition, reading is something that should be done every night. There is no limit to this but every child needs to spend a minimum of 15 minutes per night being read to, reading aloud, or (when able) reading independently. As your child reads you can check for understanding and ask questions about predictions, connections, and reactions to the text. Some teachers will include a reading log as a part of their home to school connection; look for more information from your child s individual teacher. 6.2 School Counselor The Elementary School Counselors are available to help you in making a successful adjustment throughout your years at ISP. If you are experiencing any problems, or if you have any concerns, feel free to seek the aid of a Counselor. Counselors help students with academic and personal counseling. Parents may also meet with the Elementary Counselor to discuss any issue, gain insight or share information on their children. The Elementary School employs two full-time counselors to work with our students, parents, and staff; one counselor is assigned to grades PreK3 to grade two and the other is assigned to grades Field Trips ISP recognizes the value of out-of-classroom educational experiences and supports them within the confines of the society and the limitations of adequate transportation options. As such, teachers and the curriculum coordinator will organize appropriate field trips that can expand the students learning. Some field trips may involve additional costs to families. 6.4 English as an Additional Language Program (EAL) 18 ISP Elementary School Student-Parent Handbook

19 The ISP EAL team aims to ensure that all students who are not native-english speakers are able to access the curriculum as fully as possible and are given every opportunity to take their learning forward and achieve their potential English as an Additional Language (EAL) Inclusion Model Rather than pulling students out of their grade level classroom, this program model brings the EAL specialist into classrooms. The specialist may work with students individually at their seats or with a group. The specialist will support students with English Language acquisition through literacy time. The EAL specialists will support student by displaying pictures, keywords, or providing other real objects to support comprehension. F New to English Program - EAL Newcomer Program At ISP we offer an EAL Newcomers Program. This program is only offered to students who are new to learning English. Students must qualify for this program based on receiving the score NL or 1 on the Listening and/or Speaking portion of the Language Assessment System (LAS). This is a 20 hour course that consists of 4 components: Phonemic Awareness, Phonics, Vocabulary and Survival English. Upon completion of the program, students will be serviced within the mainstream classroom. The purpose of the newcomer program is to help build a student s confidence to communicate in the English language. The activities are specifically designed to aid development of vocabulary, basic sentence structure and functional English; for example, how to buy lunch, tell name, address, phone number, native country and birthday, and form simple subject/ verb/ object sentences. 6.5 Mother Language While the language of instruction of the school is English, Spanish is offered as an additional language. It is important for parents to recognize the necessity of maintaining their children s native language. This is crucial not only for preserving the child s cultural background, but also to ensure easier repatriation to the home country and educational system 6.6 Learning Support While the staff and specialists can provide appropriate instruction for students with learning difficulties, ISP does not currently have the resources or programs to support students with major learning disabilities or major physical challenges. Failure to disclose information about individual student needs may result in revocation of an offer of admission. 6.7 Standardized Testing Program The Elementary School administers the Measurement of Academic Progress (MAP) test two times per year for grades 1-5 and one time per year for Kindergarten. The MAP assessment provides detailed data about where each child is on their unique learning path. Student engagement is essential to any testing experience, NWEA creates test items that interest children and help capture details about what they know and what they re ready to learn; it is information teachers can use in the classroom to help every child, every day. MAP dynamically adapts to a student s responses as they take the test. You can find more information about the MAP at Tutoring/After-School Remediation Teachers may recommend to parents that a student may benefit from tutorial assistance outside school hours. Permitting, arranging, and paying for such tutorial assistance will be the responsibility of the parents. It is against school policy for a teacher to tutor one of his/her own students for pay or a student in the same grade level. If a parent would like to request a tutor, the parent should complete the tutoring request form and submit it to the office. Upon request, a list of tutors is available through the ES Counseling department. 19 ISP Elementary School Student-Parent Handbook

20 Section Seven School Spirit and Traditions 7.1 School Song In this world we are the children And we are not all alike. We do all have different colors In the shades from black to white. In this world we are the children And we are not all alike. But no problem, here s the answer All for friendship and no fight. All the children in this world Have their homes in our town. So their world is also my world Come on, let s turn this world around. So enjoy it, stay together. Remember always with hurrah! Peace we practice with all nations, Here in school in Panama The International School is an example How the children practice peace. Look, my neighbor is Australian, And the other is Chinese. 7.2 Flag Ceremonies and Assemblies Every Monday morning at 7:30 a.m. the Elementary School holds its Panamanian Flag Ceremony. At this time, the entire Elementary School pledges allegiance to the Panamanian Flag and sings along to the National Anthem. Students and staff who are not Panamanian nationals are not required to say the pledge or to sing the National Anthem, but are required to stand respectfully during the ceremony. 7.3 Panamanian National Anthem Himno Istemeno Nacional (Isthmus National Anthem) Lyrics: Jeronimo de la Ossa ( ) Music: Santos Jorge ( ). Adopted: 1925 CHORUS Alcanzamos por fin la Victoria En el campo feliz de la unión; Con ardientes fulgores de gloria Se ilumina la nueva nación. 20 ISP Elementary School Student-Parent Handbook

21 Es preciso cubrir con un velo Del pasado el calvario y la cruz; Y que adorne el azul de tu cielo De concordia la espléndida luz. El progreso acaricia tus lares. Al compás de sublime canción, Ves rugir a tus pies ambos mares Quedan rumbo a tu noble misión. CHORUS En tu suelo cubierto de flores A los besos del tibio terral, Terminaron guerreros fragores; Sólo reina el amor fraternal. Adelante la pica y la pala, Al trabajo sin más dilación, Y seremos así prez y gala De este mundo feraz de Colón. CHORUS 7.4 Juramento a la Bandera Bandera panameña Juro a Dios y a la patria Amarte, respetarte y defenderte Como símbolo sagrado de nuestra nación Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag Panamanian flag I swear an oath to God and country To love, respect and defend you As a sacred symbol of our nation 7.5 ISP Traditions and Celebrations Art Exhibition The Art Exhibition is a celebration of the creative energy and artistic ability of our students; the exhibition also aims to demonstrate the range of media explored and variety of skills acquired in Art class during the course of the school year. Each child in the Elementary School is represented with at least one piece of artwork. We hold two art exhibits throughout the year Dolphin Pods Students at Elementary School are divided into four groups called Dolphin Pods. Each student belongs to one of these four Pods. The purpose of the ISP Dolphin Pods is to build community and a sense of belonging within the Elementary School. The following are the names of the Dolphin Pods: Red Dusky (students in.1 class sections), Green Risso (students in.2 class sections), Blue Spinner (students in.3 class sections) and Purple Tucuxi (students in.4 class sections) Pod Days Monthly Pod days are a fun and exciting event! It is a day when students, teachers and parents wear their Pod color and T-shirts and celebrate their membership in one of the Pods. Pod days usually fall on the same day as our Elementary School assemblies. It is a day to demonstrate and celebrate your ISP spirit! 21 ISP Elementary School Student-Parent Handbook

22 7.5.4 Student Representative Council (SRC) Each year students from 5 th grade are encouraged to get involved in the Student Representative Council (SRC). The SRC helps in planning activities for School Spirit Week, shares new ideas for school improvement with the Elementary Principal, help organize School Assemblies, share end-of-day announcements with the rest of the school; and they act as positive role models for the entire student body Earth Action Week During the international Earth Day week, the elementary school celebrates Earth Action Week. The objective of this initiative is to heighten our students awareness of current local and global environmental issues. By increasing our students awareness, we can encourage them to make more environmentally responsible choices, and to spread this awareness throughout our community Bringing Literature to Life In lieu of a traditional Halloween celebration, ISP Brings Literature to Life! We believe it is a great way for students to have fun exploring literature in a different forum. We aim to combine the excitement of a dress-up event with efforts and context that promote literacy and learning. This event is also an excellent opportunity to increase awareness and raise funds for financial assistance for our Sister School, Gabriel Lewis Galindo International Day Once a year, the International School of Panama celebrates United Nations Day. The children come to school dressed in traditional costumes or colors of the nations they come from. For the celebration, the school plans activities that reinforce the international population that belongs to ISP. Each class also has a potluck feast, featuring a wide array of delicious dishes from around the world. In addition, lessons and classroom activities on this day reflect internationalism, and encouragement to explore and learn about global diversity. These activities give our multinational and multicultural student, teacher, and parent community an opportunity to introduce and share their traditions and customs with each other Cancer Society Toys For Smiles Toy-Drive (Fundacion Amigos del Niño con Leucemia y Cancer) During the Christmas season, the Elementary School hosts a toy-drive for local children who suffer from cancer. We encourage all of our students to donate one NEW toy ($15-$20 value) to this cause. We ask that all parents and teachers refrain from organizing class gift exchanges and focus on giving to others in our community who are in need. All toys are donated to the Fundación Amigos del Niño con Leucemia y Cáncer ( an organization that pays for cancer treatment for over 600 children all over Panama. Each year the organization hosts a large Christmas Party for these children and their families Spirit Week 22 ISP Elementary School Student-Parent Handbook