New Family Guide Book
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As a Swiss /NZ family moving from Montreal to France, we spent many hours trying to find the right fit for a continued bilingual education for our two children. Eighteen months into our time at the American Section at the Lycée, we are ever more certain that we have made an excellent choice.” Sharon Fischli
Welcome! If you haven’t already realized it, our school is exceptional. One of France’s most prestigious public high schools, the Lycée International is a vibrant international community comprised of fourteen international sections. All students study the national curriculum in French; all are enrolled in a national section as well, following an academically demanding bilingual and bicultural program. And while French is the common language, every section’s language and culture is equally valued, so in a way the Lycée International is the best blend of many international schools. The Lycée International is also a logistically complicated institution. The Lower School externé structure and the system of partner schools at the Lower and Middle School level, combined with the French and national sections makes the workings intricate and demanding. Standards and expectations are high, implying considerable personal implication on the part of students, parents, and teachers. But the rewards are multiple, namely the breadth of the education and the richness of the environment. Within the Lycée International community, the American Section plays an important role. Although the French part of your child’s week will account for about three quarters of their classes, most find that the Section plays a far greater role role in terms of support services, extra-curricular activities, trips, and projects. Our goal is to provide students with a genuine American educational experience, despite the fact that we are a section within a school. To do this, we count on the full support of our parents. In addition to helping their children with their schoolwork, American Section parents donate their “time, talent, and treasure” regularly.
We are thrilled that you are now part of our community and look forward to getting to know you.
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With all the challenges our students confront every day in their bilingual and bicultural education, it is imperative that we stay in touch with parents so that their child is actively encouraged as much as possible. Over the years, the Section’s culture has come to embrace a spirit of open communication that links the teacher with the parents--in order to build as supportive an environment as possible for Section students in all grades. This sense of openness is one of the true strengths of the Section, creating an even greater sense of community and shared responsibility in the education of these wonderful young people.” Adrienne Covington - Middle School Principal
Getting answers - who to contact? When you are new to a school community, questions are frequent and wide-ranging! Our website (www.americansection.org) was designed to answer the questions most frequently asked. In addition, the American Section faculty and staff are always willing to help steer you in the right direction.
American Section Administration Office: questions about organization, calendar, trips, activities, communications, volunteering, fundraising, tuition payments, admissions Classroom Teacher: academic, developmental or psychological matters concerning a student, homework, absences Division Principals: general academic issues, matters pertaining to an entire class, grade, or division, campus assignments Student Support Coordinator: academic, developmental or psychological matters concerning a student College Counsellor: post-OIB studies, transcripts, recommendations Director: general pedagogical and administrative questions
French Adminstration Proviseur: the ultimate authority in all matters pertaining to the Lycée International Directrice (primaire)/Principal (collège)/Proviseur Adjoint (lycée): academic, developmental or psychological matters concerning a student Intendence: cafeteria bills, French school trips Vie Scolaire: report cards, certificats de scolarité (enrollment certificates) APELI: (Parents’ Association) school insurance, transportation network, Portes Ouvertes, Carrefour des Métiers, OIB Graduation (Families at Collège Marcel Roby and Ecole Schnapper may also benefit from similar associations des parents d’élèves.) Club International: Holiday Sale, Lycée en Fête, Tournoi des Etoiles soccer, Lycée International logowear Mairie (for Lower School students): enrollment/ dérogations (permission to attend a school outside that designated by your area of residence)
Parent Representatives Board of Trustees: Section governance Homeroom Parents (American Section): questions about Section classes and events Parents PEC/parents délégues (French classes): issues concerning French classes and French teachers
We are available to field your questions; we also endeavor to provide you with the information you need before questions arise! There are a several important elements in our toolbox:
© MARJOLEIN MARTINOT
Communications A M E R I C
A N A !
SALink
Weekly newsletter of the American Section Lycée International Saint Germain-en-Laye
2015/16 ANNUAL REVIEW of the AMERICAN SECTION - LYCÉE INTERNATIONAL de ST-GERMAIN-EN-LAYE
Website: The American Section website contains a wealth of information about the Section, including a private community portal for both parents and students. www.americansection.org ASALInk: Our electronic newsletter is published and sent to you via email every Friday morning. In it you will find a wealth of information, including an events calendar, announcements, permission slips, extracurriculars, follow-up reports, insight as to what is going on in classrooms. We strongly recommend each and every family read ASALInk weekly to keep abreast of the goings-on of our dynamic Section, so do make sure the office has your preferred e-mail address. Parent-Teacher Communications: Section parents should never hesitate to make an appointment with their child’s
classroom teacher; and should rest assured that an American Section teacher will be in touch with them if they feel it necessary. There are also several regularly scheduled opportunities to meet the faculty and discuss student progress. Teachers present programs and classroom philosophy at our Parent Forums in September, and meet with parents in December/January to discuss individual students. Similar opportunities are also provided on the French side. Parents may contact French teachers through the cahier de correspondance or through the school-wide administrative system (Educ’Horus on the Lycée campus, Pronote on the Roby campus…). Compass magazine: Published annually, Compass magazine provides, as well as the annual development report, an in-depth focus on a particular theme, such
as school history, the way we teach reading and writing, or the way we use technology. This is mailed to parents and distributed electronically to alumni. Surveys: In a constant endeavor to evolve and improve, the American Section conducts biennial community surveys of all stakeholders - students, parents, Board members and faculty and staff. HRP Network: Each American Section class has a set of Homeroom Parents who are in regular contact with families about class/grade-specific events and the organization of volunteer opportunities. HRPs from each division are managed by a team of Head Homeroom Parents (HHRPs), who are also key members of the Volunteer Leadership Committee (VLC).
While we try to keep you informed of announcements and events emanating from the French side whenever possible, parents should be aware that the American Section is not the only official channel of information. Information concerning the Lycée International and partner schools comes directly from the French Administration at each school. It is also essential to keep abreast of information from the French teachers and parent representatives/APELI either directly or via Educ’Horus (Lycée campus) or Pronote (Roby campus).
Settling in To ease the transition and help you feel at home as rapidly as possible, the American Section has designed a series of events for new families – students and parents alike. Here is what to expect: Welcome Family Program: Towards the beginning of the summer, you should receive the name and contact information of a current American Section family that has volunteered to take part in our Welcome Family program. We will also share your contact information with them. Please feel free to contact them with any questions you might have - be it about the school or settling into life in the St. Germain-en-Laye area. “Welcome to School” Afternoon: In late August, right before the commencement of the new school year, we organize an informal afternoon for new families so that
both students and parents may begin to get to know each other. American Section administrators will be on hand to answer questions, and current families are invited as well to share their “insider” experiences. The main goal of the afternoon, however, is to put students in contact with one another, so that on the first day of class everyone sees a familiar face. Open House: Open House events are organized at all three American Section campuses at the start of school. Open House is the perfect opportunity for families to get questions answered and for students to take possession
of the campus. The Lycée International event is traditionally held just before the rentrée, and gives families the opportunity to meet Section teachers, collect information about transportation, school insurance, and activities. At Marcel Roby, the Open House usually takes place in the afternoon, the day before school opens. Ecole Schnapper’s Welcome Coffee is traditionally held one morning during the first week of school. Drop-In Coffee Mornings: Do you have a bit of free time in the morning, questions about the school or settling
in, and/or a desire to get involved and meet new people? Join experienced and new Section parents for dropin coffee mornings at Le Patio on the Lycée International campus. The schedule is communicated via ASALink. New Family “Parents Only” Event: In past years this has taken different forms: either a large cocktail party or smaller gatherings in individual homes. The purpose is constant - to bring new families together so that they can get to know one another and the Section. Class coffees / Cocktail evenings: Homeroom Parents usually organize a get-together for the parents of the class they represent, often a coffee morning or a wine and cheese cocktail party. Be sure to attend if at all possible, these events are perfect opportunities to meet the community and get involved.
Tips for New Parents from “Old” Parents While many tips can be found in our website, here is a quick list to start. DRIVING TIME Even if your real estate agent gave you an optimistic driving time between your new home and the school, be sure to take rush hour traffic into consideration. Leaving your house ten minutes earlier can make a huge difference. PA R K I N G Parking can be a major headache near all three campuses. Current parents suggest parking a short distance from the school and walking the rest of the way, as there are often parking spaces on the surrounding streets. They also recommend arriving early, at least fifteen minutes before school lets out. At the Lycée campus it is strongly recommended NOT to enter the Lower School’s dépose minute area, but rather to park across from the sports fields, as there is ample parking on the avenue de la Ferme des Hézards. And if you live nearby, walking or cycling is always an excellent option. CARPOOLING APELI facilitates carpool organization by publishing an externé list by town, enabling parents to conveniently locate families from other sections. Schnapper families will have the opportunity to meet other families and arrange car pools during the school Coffee Morning. We recommend that you get involved in a carpool if you can. BUS ROUTES APELI organizes an extensive network of buses which are available mornings and late afternoons. These are not recommended for very young children however, as there is no adult supervision. There is a network of public buses connecting Marcel Roby to adjacent towns as well.
- It’s best not to plan extra-curricular activities for first graders on Monday or Tuesday night to make homework manageable. - If your externé child is in class and you have some time to kill, think about volunteering at the library, running errands in Chambourcy, or setting up in a café or sports club to get paperwork done. - Lower School externé and Schnapper families should find out from their town hall when Temps d’Activité Périscolaire (TAP) activities are taking place before making other scheduling commitments. TAP days may change from year to year and involve early dismissals, which might not align with Section class days. - Look into the extra-curricular activities organized in your town. Registration for local activities happens fairly early in September. They offer a wide range of dance, music, art, sports, and language activities at reasonable prices. Do not delay to enroll, activities for young children tend to fill up quickly.
A Volunteer Culture “
Volunteering makes my children’s school an even better place to grow up. For one, it gives my daughters an experience closer to the one they’d have if they were living in the US: the Halloween party, the dances, the Gala all happen thanks to volunteer parents. Volunteering makes me feel useful. It also makes their school more than a place we just send them everyday to learn. Thanks to volunteering, I feel involved in my children’s school education. What’s more, I’ve met people from all walks of life, and I feel fortunate to belong to such an open minded, enriching community.” Lise Coronas
-Lise Coronas
The American Section wouldn’t be the same without the time and talent of our volunteers! Parents assist in the library and with art lessons. They chaperone class outings, and organize dances and parties for students, as well as social and fundraising events. Every class has a Homeroom Parent to facilitate communication between the administration, teacher, and other families. Parents also share their expertise by helping with special projects, serving on various committees or as a member of the Board of Trustees. At the beginning of the school year, all parents are asked to commit to a few volunteer activities over the course of the year, ranging from baking goodies for a class party or chaperoning a dance, to organizing the class basket for our Fundraising Gala. Parental implication is an essential feature of the American Section, permitting us to offer a high-quality experience. Our Volunteer Leadership Committee (VLC) is comprised of the Volunteer Coordinator, Lower, Middle and Upper School Head Homeroom Parents, a Club International representative, a representative from the Gala committee, and other key Section volunteers. The committee meets regularly to assess volunteer needs and to coordinate event organization. There are also many opportunities to volunteer on the French side of the school.
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The immense benefits we have all gained by becoming active participants in Section events and volunteers for the many activities and traditions shared within the Section cannot be overstated. The sense of community, joy, and discovery the children experience by being part of the American Section is undeniable. Before the kids can even verbalize it; their hands-on participation and experience of living two different cultures, traditions, and approaches to education gives them a wealth of understanding and empathy for the world around them. I hugely admire the efforts of all the team andvolunteersintheAmericanSection to make our children’s experience of school in France truly unique. As a parent, certainly the more you put into the Section the more you get out of it!” Sharon Fischli
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Contributing to the American Section at the LycÊe International is an opportunity to further develop the scope of learning for the students. It is an investment in their future, and what better cause to invest in, than that of our own children! The benefits will last for generations and will provide advantages that are priceless in comparison to our contributions.� Denise VanVeen
Fundraising The American Section believes in promoting a spirit of philanthropy in our community. We encourage student-run charitable drives to support victims of natural disasters, refugees and orphanages, as well as our own humanitarian project in Ahmedabad, India. We have led a multi-section read-a-thon to raise funds for Room to Read. In addition, American Section families contribute generously to our fundraising efforts. The money raised through the Annual Fund and our Fundraising Gala provides services and support above and beyond operating expenses, which are funded by tuition. Programs such as Financial Assistance and Writer-inResidence are supported entirely through donations. Donations also allow us to fund: - Technological infrastructure - Wellness and advisory programs - Community service ventures - College counseling program - Library collections and the arts. Gifts make a tangible difference to the educational experience of students of all ages. We sincerely hope that you will join the collective effort. It doesn’t take a large donation to make a significant impact. Last year, gifts ranged from ten euros to several thousand euros.
Community Calendar Events for Students Halloween Parties - fabulous costume parties are held at both the Lycée and Ecole Schnapper for Lower School students. Lower School students also have classroom parties to celebrate occasions such as Valentine’s Day. Thanksgiving - The Section celebrates Thanksgiving on all campuses with a special lunch and home baked pies. Fifth grade (CM2) students perform in a Thanksgiving pageant. Middle School Dances - Marcel Roby and Lycée middle schoolers have two dances per year. 6th - 8th (6ème - 4ème) student events are at Halloween and again in the spring, while 9th graders (3èmes) enjoy a special Snowball dance in the winter and a Junior Prom in the spring. Senior Prom - The American Section Student Council organizes a glamorous prom for the 12th grade (Terminale) students of the entire school.
Here is a listing of many of the social events that are organized within the Section:
Community Service - students regularly participate in events such as Opération Fôret Propre, a community trash pick-up morning, school wide read-a-thons, and food and clothing drives. Guest lectures and theatrical and musical performances are prominent features of life at the Lycée International. Once the year is underway, there is most often at least one such event every week.
Events for Families American Section Picnic (September) - Organized by the Student Council and other student groups, this fun-filled event features grilled hamburgers and hotdogs, games and activities, and much more. It is a great informal way to meet other community members. Other family events may be arranged, such as Quiz Night or a square dancing party.
Events for Adults Annual General Meeting (November) - While not a social event, the AGM is an important moment in the Section’s calendar. Budgets are presented for approval and Board of Trustee members are elected. Potluck Dinner (November or January) - Bring your favorite dish and a bottle of wine to an oldfashioned potluck dinner that brings together parents, faculty, and staff for a relaxed evening.
Fundraising Gala (April/May) - The annual gala is the Section’s primary fundraising event, with silent and live auctions, raffles, seated dinner, and live entertainment. Funds raised are used to finance targeted improvement initiatives.
Lycée -wide Events Holiday Sale (last weekend of November): Lycéewide sale featuring handcrafted holiday items and typical cuisines.
Cocktail Party (January) - An elegant evening in the Lycée château, reuniting members of the American Section community and actors from the entire school network. This event is held every other year.
Lycée en Fête (late May/early June): School-wide fair with ethnic foods, games and a yard sale.
Neighborhood Gatherings (yearlong) - These are the perfect occasion to get to know other families from your neighborhood at a neighborhood-based party, organized by members of our community in their homes.
Forum des Etudes et Métiers (mid-December): Job and university information fair for Upper School students.
Tournoi des Etoiles soccer tournament (May): Inter-section soccer competition.
OIB Ceremony (early July): Graduation celebration for Terminales and their families.
Contact
Scot Hicks, Director: 01 34 51 90 91, scot.hicks@americansection.org Mike Whitacre, Upper School Principal: 06 28 97 15 98, mike.whitacre@americansection.org Adrienne Covington, Middle School Principal: 07 78 31 04 70, adrienne.covington@americansection.org
Alain Ginsbach, Business Manager: 01 34 51 90 93, business@americansection.org
Lycée International American Section: 01 34 51 74 85 French switchboard: 01 39 10 94 11 College Marcel Roby American Section: 01 34 51 00 96 French switchboard: 01 39 10 25 90 Ecole Schnapper French switchboard: 01 39 73 58 68
Margaret Jenkins, Assistant Director for Development, Communications and External Relations: 06 28 20 83 85, margaret.jenkins@americansection.org Lisa Stephens Morvan, Director of Admissions: 01 34 51 90 92, admissions@americansection.org To e-mail American Section faculty and staff: firstname.lastname@americansection.org General email inquiries: lycee@americansection.org Admissions inquiries: admissions@americansection.org Website: www.americansection.org
© American Section Lycée International - Graphic design: Judy Loda
Beccy Haugen, Lower School Principal: 06 18 78 52 38, beccy.haugen@americansection.org