Parent / Student Handbook

International Christian School of Budapest Middle School Parent / Student Handbook 2016-2017 Academic Development...Spiritual Formation

School Office Hours Monday Friday 8:00 AM 4:00 PM School Communication Information Address: International Christian School of Budapest Ifjúság u. 11. H 2049 Diósd HUNGARY Phone number: 06-23-381-986 06-23-381-208 06-23-381-549 06-23-381-181 (dial +36 instead of 06 if calling from outside Hungary) Fax numbers: 06-23-381-549 (if faxing from within Hungary) +1-630-614-4547 (if faxing from outside Hungary) Website: www.icsbudapest.org School Mascot Bulldog School Colors Hunter Green / White ICSB Parent/Student Handbook For Middle School Students 2016-2017 School Year

Table of Contents MIDDLE SCHOOL BELL SCHEDULE... 2 INTRODUCTION... 3 EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY AND OBJECTIVES... 5 ICSB EXPECTED STUDENT OUTCOMES... 8 ACADEMIC PROGRAM... 8 ENROLLMENT PROCEDURES AND REQUIREMENTS... 11 ACADEMIC EXPECTATIONS AND EVALUATION... 12 ATTENDANCE POLICIES... 15 STUDENT LIFE... 17 STUDENT SERVICES... 19 HEALTH AND SAFETY AT SCHOOL... 20 STUDENT CONDUCT... 22 DISCIPLINE... 26 PARENT COMMUNICATION AND INVOLVEMENT... 27 1

MIDDLE SCHOOL BELL SCHEDULE 2016-2017 Period 1 8:15-9:10 Homeroom 8:15-8:25 Period 2 9:15-10:00 Snack Break 10:00-10:10 Period 3 10:10-10:55 Period 4 (MS Chapel Wednesdays) 11:00-11:45 MS Lunch 11:45-12:15 Period 5 12:20-1:05 Period 6 1:10-1:55 Period 7 (Dismissal 2:45 - Wednesdays) 2:00-2:45 Period 8 2:50-3:35 2

INTRODUCTION This Handbook contains the rules and guidelines that govern student conduct and life at ICSB. By completing the student application and enrolling at ICSB, students agree that they will abide by these policies, and parents agree that they will support the school in their enforcement. Purpose Statement The International Christian School of Budapest (ICSB) exists to serve families by providing their children with an excellent, biblically-based, college-preparatory education, in an environment that encourages them to become wholehearted followers of Christ. Vision Statement As we are successful in living out our Purpose, we will see Core Values We value Missionary families who are able to continue serving in Central Europe, and specifically the Budapest area, according to God s call, who are not forced to leave this mission field due to unmet educational needs of their children. Students who have a place where they are safe, nurtured, loved, and discipled, and where they feel that they belong. Students who possess a Biblical worldview and who are equipped to be lifelong learners. Students who are prepared to enter into and succeed in colleges and universities. Students whose lives reflect a genuine and dynamic personal relationship with God, who trust in Jesus as their Savior and the Lord of their lives, and who have committed to serving Him wholeheartedly in whatever way He calls them Students who appreciate different cultures and peoples, and who have a heart for people of all nations. Parental responsibility for training children The personal salvation and discipleship of each student, toward the development of a Christian worldview Our primary responsibility to missionary families A preparation for higher education in North America Possessing North American school accreditation God s creativity as demonstrated through the cultures of an international student body Our staff and their development as mentors and models of godly character The pursuit of excellence to the glory of God. 3

Statement of Faith The Bible We believe the 66 books of the Bible to be the infallible, written Word of God, verbally inspired by the Holy Spirit, inerrant in the original manuscripts, and the final authority in all matters of faith and conduct (2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:3-4, 20-21; Hebrews 4:12; Revelation 22:18-19). The Godhead We believe in the unity of the Godhead, eternally existing in three Persons Father, Son, and Holy Spirit each of whom possess equally all the attributes of deity and the characteristics of personality (Deuteronomy 6:4 Isaiah 45:18; 46:9-11; Matthew 3:16-17; John 1:1-3; Romans 1:1-6; 1 Corinthians 8:6; Ephesians 1:3-14; 4:3-6). The Person of Christ We believe that Jesus Christ is the eternal Son of God, that He was conceived by the Holy Spirit and became incarnate through the virgin birth, and that He unites forever in His Person perfect deity and true humanity (Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:18-25; John 1:1-3; 1 John 1:1-3; 4:14-15). The Work of Christ We believe that Jesus Christ lived a sinless life, that He was crucified as the substitutionary sacrifice for the sins of all people, that He rose bodily from the dead, that He ascended into heaven where He is now exalted at the right hand of the Father where He intercedes for the believer (Matthew 28:6; John 14:1-7; 1 Corinthians 15:1-4; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18; 1 Peter 2:21-24; 3:18). Man We believe that man was originally and directly created in the image of God and that through disobedience fell. Consequently all were brought under divine condemnation and are born sinners, unable to please God in their natural state (Genesis 1:27; 3:1-18; Isaiah 53:6; Romans 3:23; 5:12-19). The Holy Spirit We believe in the work of the Holy Spirit in the conviction and regeneration of the sinner. We believe in His indwelling presence and ministry in the believer to glorify Christ (John 14:16-17, 26; 16:7-14; 1 Corinthians 12:8-13; Ephesians 1:13-14; Hebrews 9:13-14). Salvation We believe that eternal salvation is wholly a work of God s grace and that, upon repentance and personal faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, sinners are forgiven and divine righteousness is imputed to them (John 3:3-6, 16-18; Acts 4:8-12; 2 Corinthians 7:10; Ephesians 2:8-10; 1 Timothy 2:3-6; 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14; Hebrews 4:1-2; 1 Peter 1:18-23). The Church We believe that the Church, the Body of Christ, consists only of those who are born again, having been baptized into Christ by the Holy Spirit at the time of regeneration (Matthew 16:16-19; 28:19-20; Acts 1:4-8; 2:1-4, 41-42; 1 Corinthians 12:12-14; Ephesians 1:22-23; 1 Timothy 3; Hebrews 12:22-24). The Second Coming We believe that Jesus Christ will return personally, visibly, and bodily to receive His own and to establish His kingdom, and to rule in righteousness and peace (John 14:1-6; Acts 1:11; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; Revelation 19:11-16). The Resurrection We believe in the bodily resurrection of the believer to eternal life and conscious fellowship with God. We believe in the bodily resurrection of the unbeliever to conscious separation from God in eternal punishment (1 Corinthians 15:20-28, 50-58; Revelation 20:11-15). The Great Commission We believe that Christ commissioned the Church to proclaim the Gospel throughout the world and to make disciples in every nation (Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:14-20; John 20:19-23; Acts 1:4-8). 4

EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY AND OBJECTIVES Educational Philosophy ICSB is committed to the historic Christian worldview as set forth in the Bible. We, therefore, affirm God as the Creator of all things according to the biblical creation account, Jesus Christ as the Son of God and the Savior of all who acknowledge Him as Lord, and the Holy Spirit as the One who empowers us to live the Christian life (Genesis 1-2; Exodus 20:11; Colossians 1:15-17; 2:2-4, 6-8; 2 Peter 3:3-7). ICSB is committed to the view that all truth finds its source in Jesus Christ and that the basis for absolute truth is the written Word of God. In particular, the Bible teaches that Knowledge of God is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 1:7; 2:1-11, 20; 3:19-20; 8:1-36; 15:33); Fellowship with God is the basis of true fellowship (1 John 1:1-7; 1 Corinthians 1:9; 2 Corinthians 6:14; Philemon 4-6); Every individual is uniquely created by God as a physical, intellectual, social, and spiritual being, endowed with particular talents (Psalm 139; Proverbs 20:11; 22:6; Luke 2:52; Romans 12:3-8); Though created in God s image, every human being has a sinful nature (Proverbs 22:15; Romans 3:23); Understanding the Bible, God s Word, is necessary to grow in the knowledge of God, come into and develop a personal relationship to Him, and make decisions that result in a lifestyle consistent with a personal faith in Christ (Titus 1:1-3; 1 Peter 2:2-3; 2 Timothy 3:15-16). ICSB is committed to the biblical truth that the family is a sacred institution, established by God as the basic unit of all society. Parents are given the responsibility by God to rear their children for the glory of God. Therefore, in this partnership responsibility with the parents, the aim of ICSB is to aid students as they grow in their understanding of God and man, and develop their capabilities to the highest degree, in order that they may become mature adults, living life to its fullest. The ICSB faculty is, therefore, expected to recognize and reinforce the values of the Christian family and the God-given authority of parents both inside and outside the classroom (Exodus 20:12; Deuteronomy 21:18-21; Ephesians 5:22-6:4; Galatians 4:1-3; Titus 2:4-8; 3:1-2). ICSB is committed to the goal of building excellence and balance into every area of each student s life, including spiritual, educational, social, cultural, and physical development. Such a commitment to the developmental progress of each student can only be done effectively as students are taught at an age-appropriate level. ICSB teachers are expected to assist students in forming the foundations of their beliefs and values as opposed to merely presenting all ideas as having equal merit. As a Christian learning institution limited to elementary and secondary education, students should be taught critical thinking skills within the boundaries of clearly defined, biblical truth as set forth in the ICSB doctrinal statement and educational philosophy. The purpose of education at ICSB is to share and mold a biblical worldview, not to question it. (Luke 2:52; Ephesians 4:13; Colossians 3:23; 1 Timothy 4:6-8, 12; 2 Timothy 2:15-16, 22-23). 5

The goal of ICSB is to help form an age-appropriate Christian worldview that will adequately prepare students for the challenges of the world in which they now live, as well as future adulthood in a post-modern philosophical world (Colossians 1:15-23, 28-29; 2:2-4, 6-10; 3:1-2, 16). In particular, ICSB seeks to equip our students to participate meaningfully in the postmodernist cultures of Europe and North America and other non-christian world cultures from a Christian worldview. To do this, the school aims: To help each student establish a personal set of biblically based personal values and ethics (as opposed to culture- or community-based); To train students to identify and challenge the non-biblical nature of culture- or community-based morals and values (including political correctness, so-called tolerance-based values, alternative lifestyles, abortion, etc.); To motivate students to have the courage to speak out on community issues in areas of deep, personal conviction in order to contribute to and challenge the community through participation rather than isolation. Educational Objectives Spiritual Development ICSB seeks to provide an environment that will encourage students to put their faith in God and to walk with Him. To do this, the school aims: To teach the Bible as the inspired Word of God, the only source of truth for daily living; To encourage each student to seek a personal relationship with Jesus Christ by accepting Him as Savior, acknowledging Him as Lord, and seeking to know and do His will; To assist each student in forming a personal biblical worldview that will permeate every area of life; To encourage each student to discover and develop his or her unique God-given talents and to use these abilities fully in all areas of academic, social, and artistic endeavor, and to see the use of these talents as an act of service to Christ and His body, the church; To provide, through the school staff, consistent examples of Christian living; and To train each student to effectively communicate his or her faith. Intellectual Development ICSB seeks to provide a quality educational program that will prepare its students for continuing their education and/or entering work fields of their choice. To do this, the school aims: To lead students to recognize God s revelation in every area of study; To instill in students an awareness of God s handiwork in the world around them; To provide a varied and progressive curriculum that will equip students for competence in their future field of study or work; To teach skills in effective communication, critical thinking, problem solving, and reasoning; To stimulate creativity and individual expression; To teach and promote good study habits as a part of self-discipline; and To encourage and recognize academic excellence. 6

Social Development ICSB seeks to provide a Christian atmosphere in which the students will develop a spirit of cooperation with and interdependence on one another. To do this, the school aims: To encourage a sense of individual personal worth; To provide opportunities for wholesome personal relationships with one another; To help students accept one another and learn to understand and respect the views and feelings of others regardless of race or gender; To teach students the principles and practices of good citizenship, recognizing and assuming their responsibility in their homes, their community, their home country, and the host country; To encourage good sportsmanship; To promote activities that will emphasize the development of leadership, initiative, and teamwork; To maintain a focus on character development; and To develop a desire to serve humanity in a spirit of Christian love. Cultural Development ICSB seeks to promote a foundation for life-long appreciation of aesthetics and cultural refinement in all its students. To do this, the school aims: To create an appreciation for and interest in the arts, history, geography, customs, and beauty found in all cultures; To promote an appreciation and understanding of different world cultures, especially the host culture of Hungary and home cultures of fellow students; and To view the presence of a wide variety of cultures as an opportunity to share Christ. Physical Development ICSB seeks to encourage and promote students physical development. To do this, the school aims: To provide physical education programs for all; To provide a fitness program that promotes physical development in areas of coordination, strength, and endurance; To promote health fitness in areas of nutrition and hygiene; To provide regular health check-ups by a school doctor; To promote friendly competition, encouraging teamwork and responsibility; To encourage students to understand the lifetime benefits of fitness and the dangers of unhealthy practices; To promote activities that can be enjoyed for a lifetime of physical well-being; and To implement an athletic program of after-school sports that provides opportunities for 1. Enjoyment of a variety of physical exercise activities; 2. Personal achievement through rigorous self-discipline and commitment to teamwork; 3. Development of skills for lifelong health and citizenship; and 4. Communicating our faith with the surrounding community. 7

ICSB EXPECTED STUDENT OUTCOMES Our desire is to see... Christ-followers who trust in Jesus Christ as their only means of salvation, and who are living in genuine relationship with Him. Students who hold and can articulate a Biblical worldview. Lifelong learners who are well-prepared in all academic disciplines, are creative, and who have the critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills to succeed at the college/university level. Healthy and balanced people who value, maintain, and develop all aspects of who God has created them to be (physical, spiritual, intellectual, cultural, and social). Global citizens who are responsible, productive, compassionate members of society and who understand and appreciate cultures and people groups other than their own. Students who demonstrate Christlike character in their behavior, values, and relationships. Sequence of Courses for Grades 6-8 ACADEMIC PROGRAM In grades 6-8, students may be enrolled either part-time or full-time according to the guidelines outlined on pp. 7-8. All full-time students are required to take the standard program. ELL students are exempt from the Hungarian/Latin requirement. The usual sequence of courses taken at the middle school level is as follows: Grade 6 English Ancient World History Mathematics General Science Old Testament I Hungarian I or II or Latin Physical Education Band Choir Computer Health Grade 7 English Medieval World History Mathematics or Pre-Algebra General Science Old Testament II Hungarian I or II or Latin Physical Education Band or Choir Art Computer Health Grade 8 English Modern World History Pre-Algebra or Algebra I General Science New Testament Hungarian Culture Physical Education Band or Choir Computer Health Art or Communication Skills 8

Fine Arts Classes and Electives Seventh and eighth grade students will sign up for minor classes at the beginning of the school year. Requirements for fine arts and other minor classes vary from year to year, depending on student s grade level and course offerings available. Adding and Dropping Classes: MS students may add or drop elective classes during the first week of the semester. English Language Learning (ELL) ICSB offers ELL (English Language Learning) to support students whose mother tongue is not English. The aim of ELL classes is to equip students with the linguistic, academic, and social skills necessary to succeed in their regular classes and to build relationships with other students. When a student whose mother tongue is not English is applying to ICSB, he or she will take a brief English placement test to determine his or her language ability and what level of ELL support he or she will need. Students in grades 6-8 who are accepted into ICSB as Beginning Level English Language Learners (ELL 1) will attend regular classes and receive individual help from the ELL teacher. They will be graded Pass/Fail in their regular classes. The following year, ELL 1 students will repeat the grade and will receive standard A-F grades in each of their classes for credit. Intermediate ELL students (ELL 2) receive standard grades (A-F) in their classes and attend an ELL Support Hour 2-5 times a week to help them with their regular class assignments. All 6 th grade students who were formerly in the ELL program in Elementary will be retested to determine their English ability and ability to do Middle School work. Students who test at Beginner level will be placed in the 2-year ELL I program described above. Decisions about ELL placement will be made by the MS ELL teacher in consultation with the MS Principal. Supplemental Services The Supplemental Services department exists to support the classroom teachers and to provide help to students who have various learning challenges. The programs offered in the Supplemental Services Department vary from year to year, depending on the need of our students and the availability of staff. Below is a sample of Supplemental Services programs that have been offered to ICSB students during the past years. Each year we will clarify which programs are currently being offered. Resource Assistance: Staffed by special education professionals, our resource assistance program provides support both within and outside of the classroom, working cooperatively with the classroom teacher, and using individualized intervention/instruction in one-on-one or group settings. Individualized and small-group sessions are personalized to meet the needs of the specific student. NILD Educational Therapy: NILD is a key component of ICSB s Supplemental Services program. The National Institute for Learning Development (NILD) is a US-based organization which trains therapists to work with students with learning differences. The NILD web-site states that, NILD trains educators in a model of intervention utilizing a variety of techniques designed to stimulate cognitive and perceptual functioning. The goal of NILD 9

Educational Therapy is to equip individuals with learning disabilities to succeed as independent learners. Mediated Learning: Feuerstein s Instrumental Enrichment (FIE) mediated learning is program based out of Israel with a similar philosophy to NILD. FIE, like NILD, views intelligence as dynamic and aims to help students learn how to learn. The program s various instruments help improve student cognitive functions including attention, decreased impulsivity, and critical thinking skills. FIE was implemented in September 2015. Sensory Integration Program: Students with Sensory Integration (SI) Dysfunction are more likely than others to struggle with learning due to an interruption in the brain s ability to interpret sensory information. The Sensory Integration (SI) program is designed to increase sensory awareness in the participating students through strategic gross motor body movements. We are convinced that this sensory integration program is essential to the academic progress in particular students. Enrichment Program: Sometimes students need to be challenged academically, and the enrichment program offers that opportunity. The curriculum for the enrichment program is based on the needs of our students, and is developed by Supplemental Services staff. Speech Therapy: Speech Therapy provides diagnosis and specific individual treatment for speech and language delays. Each therapy session is personalized to meet the need of the specific student. Regular assessment is made to determine the continued course of action, and completion of therapy. Counseling Services: Counseling services are provided for students and parents dealing with academic, behavioral, and family problems. Issues regarding transition, interpersonal relationships, mood disorders, and cultural adjustment are addressed as needed. Tutoring: Supplemental Services offers a variety of help for students who require extra assistance in the form of tutoring. Tutoring is not to be confused with specialized intervention, but rather is a reinforcement of classroom content. Content and length of tutoring is based on both the needs of the student and the requests of the classroom teacher. Mentoring: The Supplemental Services staff offers mentoring to students who have completed intervention. Accountability is the focus of mentoring relationships, and this service provides appropriate guidelines for long-term success for students. Instructional Aide: Instructional aides are paraprofessionals who are assigned to Supplemental Services (SS) and are accountable to the (SS) Director. They take directions from the teachers and therapists to whom the students are assigned. They are assigned to various students to enable them to participate in the general education program. These paraprofessionals are full members of ICSB s staff, and work during school hours: 8 a.m.-3:45 p.m. Occupational Therapy: Occupational therapy (OT) helps student develop fine and/or gross motor muscles for the purpose of being better able to participate in the daily, routine activities of the school day. 10

ENROLLMENT PROCEDURES AND REQUIREMENTS Full-time Students The curriculum at ICSB is designed primarily for students enrolled on a full-time basis. A fulltime student is a student who is enrolled for 4 full-time classes or more. All students who are not considered part-time as defined below are automatically classified as full-time and will pay full tuition. Part-Time Students It is our desire at ICSB to accommodate these students and families as much as possible. The following guidelines apply to part-time students (that is, students enrolled for less than 4 full-time classes: Tuition Payment for Part-Time Students Part-time students will pay tuition on a credit-by-credit basis. This cost per credit will be a straight 1/7 of the full tuition per credit. In addition, each part-time student will be assessed an extra $250 administrative fee per semester. Part-time Student Participation and Priority in School Programs Part-time students are eligible to try out for participation in extra-curricular activities such as plays, musicals, and sports teams, as room allows. However, full-time students will receive preference in selection for participation. Part-time students are required to pay the sports fee for each sport and the extra-curricular activity fee for each extra-curricular activity in which they participate. Expectations for Part-Time Students & Families Part-time students enrolled in various classes will be expected to comply fully with all ICSB rules, regulations, and classroom expectations while they are in a particular class and while on campus. Parents of students who are going to make use of the ICSB program or facilities under these guidelines are expected to attend the MS Parent Night at the beginning of the year, to be appropriately involved in school activities, and to provide consistent communication with the school. Those students and their parents who sign up for these special classes should understand that, on certain days, the daily schedule may change without notice. While we will try to give prior notification to the parents should these situations arise, ICSB teachers are not responsible to notify parents of these last-minute schedule changes. No tuition refunds will be given for missed classes due to changes in the daily schedule. Financial Aid/Tuition Assistance Program Each year, ICSB has a small amount of money that can be used for financial assistance for families in need. Families who are interested should contact Ibolya Sagi in the Registrar s Office and request a Financial Aid application. This application must be filled out each year that financial aid is requested. 11

ACADEMIC EXPECTATIONS AND EVALUATION Homework Homework is a valuable part of schooling. It allows students to prepare for, practice, extend and consolidate work done in class; and establishes habits of study, concentration and selfdiscipline which will serve students for the rest of their lives. Parents and caregivers can help by: taking an active interest in homework; setting time aside for homework; encouraging and supporting students to complete homework without distraction; and providing, where possible, a dedicated place for homework and study; checking the Canvas website frequently to monitor their student s progress, and encouraging their student to do this as well. Students can help by: being aware of the importance of homework; recording daily assignments in their homework agenda organizing their time to complete their homework at a high standard and on time; seeking assistance from teachers and parents when difficulties arise checking their grades and missing assignments on Canvas on a daily basis. Assessment criteria Performance in each course may be measured by various criteria including attendance, attentiveness, behavior, participation, individual homework, written papers, projects, quizzes, and test results. This information is included in each teacher s class syllabus. Late Assignments Late assignments in Middle School will have a 10% penalty per school (not class) day late and must be turned in by the end of the quarter. Late assignments should be turned in to the teacher s box even if the class does not meet that day. Students must note on the assignment the date they turned it in. Late assignments will not be accepted after the end of a quarter. Extra credit Extra credit opportunities are only available to students who are caught up on all regular assignments. Teachers may also have their own additional guidelines regarding extra credit; students will be informed of these by the teacher. 12

Grading System and Scale A+ 98-100 A 93-97 A- 90-92 B+ 88-89 B 83-87 B- 80-82 C+ 78-79 C 73-77 C- 70-72 D+ 68-69 D 63-67 D- 60-62 F 59 or below I Incomplete Note: The Incomplete grade is solely reserved for special circumstances in which the student missed the last week of the quarter due to illness. If a student has missing work from any other week during the quarter, these assignments will not be accepted after the grading period ends and will receive a zero. Progress Reports When a student has missing assignments or is receiving a grade of C or lower half-way through the quarter, teachers will notify the parents through Canvas. However, parents are encouraged to check their student s progress frequently on the Canvas online system. Parents who have questions about the information listed on Canvas may also contact teachers at any time during the school year. Report Cards The academic year at ICSB is divided into 4 quarters, which generally are 9 weeks in length. At the end of each quarter, a student s academic achievement is reported to parents on report cards that are sent home to parents. Semester and Final Examinations In middle school, exams will be given at the end of each semester in each of the core courses (Bible, Social Studies, English, Math, and Science). Other courses may also give exams but are not required to do so. The semester and final examination will comprise up to 20% of the total semester grade for all students. The last three days at the end of each semester are designated as exam days. Leaving early deprives the student of the benefit of the designated review days, and will most likely result in a lower grade. Parents should schedule their family s travel plans so as not to interfere with the final examination schedule. See the School Calendar to verify the dates. Honor Roll Honor roll will be determined at the MS level as follows: Students who receive A s in all their subjects will be placed on the Honor Roll. Note: Consideration for Honor Roll will be based on academic grades in all subjects, including minor and elective subjects. 13

Academic Probation The academic probation policy is designed to help those students who are having difficulty prioritizing their academic responsibilities to focus on their coursework. In middle school (grades 6-8), a student will be placed on academic probation if he/she receives a quarter grade of D or F in any course, including minor or elective subjects. In MS, administrative decisions regarding academic probation will be made at the beginning of each quarter. A middle school student who has a D or F on their report card in any subject (including electives) will be ineligible for sports the following quarter. A MS student who has been removed from a sports team because of a poor grade the previous quarter may be allowed to rejoin the team after Progress Reports have shown significant improvement, but only in certain cases and only with the permission of the MS Principal. Students on academic probation are ineligible for sports and may also be declared ineligible for some other extra-curricular activities, such as student government. If a student remains on academic probation for 2 consecutive quarters, the parents will be asked to meet with the MS principal, and he or she may be asked to withdraw. Standardized Testing The Terra Nova Test Series is administered annually during the month of April in order to help measure achievement and to provide help in assessing student academic progress and potential. This test series generally involves students in grades 6 8. The test results are available to parents at the end of the school year. 14

Tardy Policy ATTENDANCE POLICIES School begins at 8:15. A student who is not in his or her first period class when the bell rings is considered late for school. If you are late for school, go directly to homeroom. Excused Lateness If a student is late because of weather, accident, transportation breakdown, or other unavoidable reasons, the parent should send an email to the principal verifying the circumstances so the lateness can be excused. Unexcused Lateness If you are late for other reasons such as over-sleeping, missing the bus, etc., you will be considered tardy. After the third tardy in the quarter, the student will serve an after-school detention and subsequent detention for every tardy after until the beginning of the new quarter. Absences Illness or injury If your student is home sick, please send an email to Julie Lauderdale at jlauderdale@icsbudapest.org A doctor s note is required for any absence over 3 days. Please check Canvas for the daily assignments that your student misses. Parent-Requested Absences Parents who wish to remove their son or daughter from school for reasons such as doctor appointments or residence permits should email the principal and their student s teachers ahead of time. Families who are expecting to travel should email both the principal and the student s teachers at least one week ahead of time so that, when possible, teachers will have time to prepare work for the student. Early notification enables the teachers to gather assignments for the student to take with him. It is advisable that a student get as much work done as possible before or during the trip. A student who has missed school for illness or parent-request will be allowed one day for every day they missed to make up the work. Parents, please note that it is the student s responsibility to get all missing assignments from the teacher and to turn them in within the allotted time. Absence Limitations Consistent class attendance and participation in class activities is an important part of the learning process, and is necessary if a student is to be successful in ICSB s academic program. Therefore, a student will be allowed to be absent no more than 10 days during the semester or 20 days during the school year for each class. All absences (including planned absences like family trips and unplanned absences like sick days, etc.) will be counted in this total. If a student exceeds the allowed limit, the student and his/her parents will be asked to meet with the MS principal to explain their circumstances. The Principal will determine at that point whether the student has done sufficient and satisfactory work to move onto the next grade level. If a student is absent from school, he/she may not participate in extra-curricular or after-school activities for that day. A student must be at school by the start of 3 rd period (10:10) in order to participate in after-school activities. 15

Early Departure The last 2 weeks of each quarter and semester are critical to the student s successful completion of his or her academic program. Large projects, presentations, reviews, final examinations, good-byes, and other special programs all take place during that time. Parents are strongly urged not to plan any travel during these weeks and to reserve flights early so that their student will not have to miss any days of this critical period in the academic year. If early departure cannot be avoided, then the school should be informed as early as possible. Families should plan to keep in communication with the school by email so that assignments can be turned in before the last day of the 4 th quarter. In the case of excessive absences due to early departure, the student must take assignments with him or her, complete and turn them in electronically. Because the student will still be missing important classwork such presentations, performances, and discussions, the student s semester grade will be lowered 5% for every week that the student will miss at the end of the year. All exams must be returned to the school by the last day of the exam period so that the student s grades can be calculated before teachers leave for the summer. Any course work or tests not received by the last day of finals will be given a zero grade when the student s quarter and semester grades are calculated. Early Withdrawal from School Students who wish to withdraw from the school and do not intend to return should have their parents obtain and complete a Withdrawal Form from the front office. All financial arrangements must be settled before any report cards and transcripts can be given to the parent. If a student withdraws before completing a semester s coursework, the school cannot give credit for that semester. 16

STUDENT LIFE ICSB offers a variety of programs and activities to develop students gifts, talents, and leadership. Here are some of them. Athletics The overall goal of the athletic program is to promote and encourage participation in sports, physical fitness, and recreation activities that will carry over into adult life. To help meet this goal, ICSB currently offers the following after-school sports program for grades 6 8: Fall Winter Spring Building & Facility Use Soccer (Boys & Girls) Basketball (Boys & Girls) Track & Field (Boys & girls) Volleyball (Girls) Gym The Gym & Locker Rooms are open for MS students to use before and after school (no earlier than 7:15 am) and during lunch. MS students may also be in the gym unsupervised on Saturdays and during school holidays from the time the building opens (normally 8:00 AM) until 9:30 PM, unless it is needed by a staff member for an organized event. When the gym is needed by a teacher/staff member, students must vacate the gym quickly and cooperatively whenever they are asked to do so. Gym Rules: 1. Students use the gym in the off hours (before & after school unsupervised) at their own risk; the school is not responsible for their safety. 2. Don t do anything unsafe or destructive. If you damage something, you are responsible to pay for it. Report any damages to your Principal or the portas on duty immediately. 3. You may need to bring your own ball; ICSB is not responsible to provide you with balls in the off hours, and the ball room will be locked. 4. Don t go on to the stage; sit only on the edge of the stage, or touch the stage curtain. 5. Don t play on the mats; only move them if necessary. 6. Be considerate of others wanting to use the gym switch to half-court games when others arrive; observe a 1-hour time limit when others are waiting. Playground MS students can be on the playground & court unsupervised before school, during recess, and after school until 6 PM. Playground & Court Rules: 1. No hanging on the rim. 2. Don t do anything unsafe or destructive. Report any damages to your Principal or the portas on duty immediately. If you damage something, you are responsible to pay for it. 3. You may need to bring your own ball; ICSB is not responsible to provide you with balls in the off hours, and the ball bin will be locked. If you are using a school ball, put it back in the bin when you re finished. Sport Court There is normally no supervision on the sport court; it is similar to a court in a public park. The sport court is only to be used by members of the ICSB community (students & their families, and staff & their families) and designated guests. MS students may use the 17

sport court unsupervised before school (no earlier than 7:15) and during lunch, but not any other time during the school day (including study halls). They may also use it unsupervised after school, on Saturdays, and during school holidays from the time that the building is open until dark or 9:30 PM (whichever comes first). The building and thus the sport court closes much earlier during the summer. Sport Court rules: 1. Students use the sport court in the off hours (before & after school, Saturdays, holidays, etc.) at their own risk; the school is not responsible for their safety. 2. No climbing on the fence, and no hanging on the rim. 3. Don t do anything unsafe or destructive. If you damage something, you are responsible to pay for it. 4. You may need to bring your own ball; ICSB is not responsible to provide you with balls in the off hours. If you are using a school ball, put it back in the bin when you re finished. 5. Report any damages to your Principal or the portas on duty immediately. 6. Be considerate of others wanting to use the sport court switch to half-court games when others arrive; observe a 1-hour time limit when others are waiting. Weight Room The Weight Room & Locker Rooms are open to MS students after school and on weekends; however, MS students can only be in the weight room when accompanied by a parent or parent s adult designate; the parent must be present at all times. Chapel Weekly Chapel is a central part of our school program, setting the tone of the school and providing an opportunity for the school community to focus on the Lord and worship Him together. Middle School chapel worship is led by a worship team of MS students. Attendance at chapel is required of all students. Drama and Musical Productions Students have opportunities to develop their dramatic talents and abilities in MS dramatic production each fall. Students can also participate by helping with costumes, scenery, lighting, and publicity. Ministry, Service and Outreach ICSB students are encouraged to participate in service and outreach. During the annual October Outreach, each class has its own organized service project in which students and teachers to serve others in ministry situations as well as bond as a class. Attendance is required. MS Student Council and Social Events The Middle School Student Council is comprised of two representatives from each class elected in the fall, and is responsible for planning social events throughout the year. Currently the Middle School Student Council holds one fundraiser per year where MS Student Council chooses the specific cause approved by the Middle School Principal. 18

Computer Lab STUDENT SERVICES The ICSB computer lab has high-speed internet access and is connected to several databases for student and staff research. Each year the Technology Department distributes a copy of the Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) for the parents to review and students to sign and return (a copy is included at the back of this Handbook). No student will be allowed to use the school computers without signing this AUP form. Food Service Many students bring their own lunches. A refrigerator, drink machines, and microwaves are available in the lunch room. Students may also purchase snacks from the Senior Store. ICSB also offers daily hot lunch service to all students. Menus are posted each month on Canvas. Parents who wish to order hot lunches should do so the last week of the month prior. Payment is required when ordering. Library The ICSB Library is available between the hours of 8:30 and 4:00 for all ICSB students and families. Students and parents of ICSB students may check out books, videos, or other materials free of charge. Overdue fees will be assessed for materials turned in late. Selection and Review of Materials There is a written process for the selection and review of library materials. If you have any questions about how materials are selected, or if you would like to question a particular book/resource in our library, please contact the MS Principal for information on the process. Lockers Each student is given a locker and locker key at the beginning of the year. If a student forgets their locker key, he or she can get their locker opened for 100 HUF. The cost for replacing a lost locker key is 1500 HUF. Students may not write on lockers with any kind of marker. If a student has damaged his or her locker, or forgotten to clean it out, there will be a charge to the family s account at the end of the year. Photocopying A copy machine is available for student use in the library. Copies are 20 HUF each. Color copies are available on a limited basis; color copies are 100 HUF each. Student ID Cards Upon enrollment, students may apply for a student ID card from a local government office. This card not only identifies the student, but entitles him to significant discounts on buses, trains, in public places, movie theaters, in Hungary and throughout Europe. More information is available at the office of the registrar. 19

Student Health Care HEALTH AND SAFETY AT SCHOOL Students will be given the Medical Information and Health History form and the Field Trip Release/Emergency Form to complete at the beginning of the year. These forms must be completed before the student is allowed to leave campus for any school event. The Health Office - The ICSB Health Office keeps all medical records and provides care for students who are injured or ill. A nurse or nurse s assistant is normally on duty. Parents must make sure a student s health and immunization records are updated annually. Illness / Injury - Illnesses or injuries occurring during the school day will be handled by taking the student to the Health Office, administering first aid on-site as needed, and/or transporting the affected person to a local hospital. Parents are contacted whenever a student is ill or injured. Physical exams and immunizations - Hungarian law requires that students have an annual physical exam and immunization check. Students receive this service every year at school from an English-speaking Hungarian doctor. Drugs, Medications, and Controlled Substances Students who are taking medications (including prescription drugs, etc.) should always inform the Health Office and the principal regarding their schedule and dosage. No student should ever take any other medication apart from the knowledge and cooperation of the Health Office. In some cases, medications prescribed by a doctor may come under the classification of a controlled substance. A Controlled Substance (C2) is any chemical substance or medication (including Ritalin, Adderall, and other prescription medicines) whose possessions and use is regulated, either by the US or Hungarian government. The following guidelines will govern the use of controlled substances for ICSB students: 1. Parents must make sure that the green Health Form is completely filled out (front and back) and/or updated at the beginning of the school year. 2. Whenever a student is taking a controlled substance (such as Ritalin, Adderall, etc.), the parents must inform the MS principal and Health Office in writing. The written declaration should include the student s name, the name of the medication, the daily dosage amount, and the time of day when it should be taken. 3. Only 1 pill/tablet (or daily dose) should be brought to school each day. 4. Each day, the student should take the medication in the presence of a designated school staff member (Nurse, classroom teacher, etc.). This should be the same staff member each day. 5. A record log must be kept indicating that the staff member witnessed the student taking the medication each day. The above guidelines will help ensure the proper use of these medications, and will aid in protecting all of our students. Insurance Annual student accident insurance is available to all families, as required by law. Forms may be requested from the office. 20

Emergency Situations There are some potential emergencies which would require a school-wide response. Each year, ICSB staff and students will participate in emergency drills to practice responses to three possible threats: Lockdown: This would be the response to a dangerous or threatening intruder on the campus. All doors will be locked, classroom lights will be turned off, and classroom windows will be covered. Students and teachers will stay out of sight of the classroom door. Hallway Shelter: This would be the response to an environmental threat such as fumes or smoke originating off campus, a violent storm outside, or an explosion nearby. All exterior doors and windows will be closed, and students will shelter in the hallways (as far away from windows as possible). Evacuation: This would be the response to a threat originating in the building. Fire evacuation procedures will be followed. Students will proceed to the off-campus rally points. Appropriate safety information will be posted in each room. The teacher and/or supervisor will go over emergency procedures with his or her class. There will be emergency drills conducted each year. At the sound of the signal, a designated person will lead the class out of the room single file to the designated area outside the building. If a real emergency were to occur that forced the cancellation of classes, the school will notify parents by phone, email, and Canvas so they can make arrangements for their students to be immediately picked up. Parents are urged to inform the office of any change in telephone numbers and also to provide parent cell phone numbers so that in an emergency, the school will be able to reach you. Field Trips Teachers are encouraged to enrich the classroom experience by taking advantage of the resources available in Budapest and nearby areas. At the beginning of the year, parents will be given a form to fill out and sign which provides emergency medical and contact information for all field trips. Then, prior to each field trip, parents will receive a different form to sign giving permission for their student to go on that particular trip. Parent Travel Occasionally, both parents need to leave town at the same time. If this is the case, the school asks that a student be left only under the direct care of a responsible caregiver (e.g., another family, or, in a few cases, a highly responsible older upper-high school-age sibling). Parents are required to notify the school in advance to provide emergency contact numbers, the name and phone number of the guardian, and where the parents can be reached. Please be aware that frequent or extended parent travel, even with the best arrangements, is an emotional hardship on children and often manifests itself in the classroom and in academic work. 21

Visitors: All visitors to the school, including parents, must enter through the Main entrance (Elementary/MS entrance) and sign in at the reception area. Parents are always welcome on campus. Parents are also welcome to visit and observe in individual classrooms, but should make arrangements with teachers in advance. Visiting friends, relatives, or former students may visit at times when it is convenient with the teachers. In order to minimize the interruption to the daily schedule and academic program, student visitors may come to our campus only with the approval of the MS principal. Arrangements should be made with the Principal at least two (2) days in advance, and should last no longer than a full day. Prospective students are encouraged to visit ICSB and attend classes. They should make arrangements with the registrar and Principal in advance STUDENT CONDUCT Certain guidelines and rules have been established at ICSB for the purpose of: Honoring biblical values and principles, Creating an environment conducive to growth and learning, Protecting the safety of students and staff members, and Providing students with an opportunity to learn and to practice good manners. At school and all school functions, students are expected to: Behave kindly and courteously towards other students, Be courteous and respectful towards all faculty, staff, and all adults, Follow all rules pertaining to student safety, Follow all directives of the classroom teacher, Exercise care and responsibility in the use of school facilities and equipment. Protecting a Safe Place to Learn ICSB is committed to maintaining a safe haven of learning, free from all forms of violence, intimidation, exploitation, bullying, and harassment. We expect all individuals to treat each other with dignity and respect, according to Christ's example and in line with God's word (Matt. 7:12, Eph. 4:32). As part of living in a sinful world, conflict and offense can occur in our community. Forgiveness and reconciliation are encouraged; staff should always pursue them with one another, and staff should always help students pursue forgiveness and reconciliation with each other. Regardless of the particular situation, bullying is a serious offense and will not be tolerated. Bullying is deliberate and willful repeated behavior with the intent to harm others, physically or emotionally through the use of power or influence. Bullying occurs whenever a person or a group is intimidated, frightened, excluded, or hurt by a pattern of behaviors directed at them. The following in on-going form are types of bullying (this list is not exhaustive): aggressive or violent behavior (hitting, kicking, pushing, etc.) getting others to hurt someone threatening or intimidating gestures, actions, or words (written or verbal) 22