Elementary School Student-Parent Handbook 2013 - 2014

BOARD OF TRUSTEES Executive Committee Mr. Constantine Stergides, Chairman Mr. Suheil Sabbagh, Vice Chairman Mr. Pascal Apostolides, Treasurer Mr. Dan Lawton, Secretary Mr. Tim Ananiadis, Member Dr. George Dimitriadis-Deme, Member Ms. Maria Maragoudaki-Gregoriou Board of Trustees Members Mr. Yiannis Alafouzos Mr. Simos Dimas Dr. Saleh S. Jallad Mr. Nicholas Karambelas Mr. John Metaxas Mrs. Mary Teirlynck Mr. Mike Sneeder Mr. Panos Simonetos Stefanos Gialamas, Ph.D. President of Schools Cathy Makropoulos Elementary School Principal – makropoulosc@acs.gr Ginger Carlson Elementary School Assistant Principal – carlsong@acs.gr 129 Aghias Paraskevis Ave. & Kazantzaki St. 152 34 Halandri Athens, Greece Tel.: +30 (210) 6393 200 Fax: +30 (210) 6390 051 www.acs.gr acs@acs.gr

MISSION STATEMENT ACS Athens is a student-centered international school, embracing American educational philosophy, principles and values. Through excellence in teaching and diverse educational experiences, ACS Athens challenges all students to realize their unique- 2potential: academically, intellectually, socially and ethically -- to thrive as responsible global citizens.

CONTENTS Who We Are ................................................................................................................................................ - 6 Important Numbers

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Facilities....................................................................................................................................................... - 8 Elementary Campus..................................................................................................................................... - 8 Library .......................................................................................................................................................... - 8 Computer Lab .............................................................................................................................................. - 8 The School Day ............................................................................................................................................ - 9 What We Teach ........................................................................................................................................... - 9 How We Teach............................................................................................................................................. - 9 How We Assess Learning ............................................................................................................................. - 9 Text/Workbooks We Use............................................................................................................................. - 9 First Grade ................................................................................................................................................. - 10 Second Grade ............................................................................................................................................ - 10 Third Grade ................................................................................................................................................ - 10 Fourth Grade ............................................................................................................................................. - 11 Fifth Grade ................................................................................................................................................. - 11 Foreign Language Classes 1-5 ................................................................................................................... - 12 Greek Language A - Native Speakers ......................................................................................................... - 12 Greek Language A - Near-native Speakers ................................................................................................ - 12 Greek Language B - Non-native Speakers.................................................................................................. - 12 Arabic......................................................................................................................................................... - 12 Student Expectations ................................................................................................................................ - 13 Attendance ................................................................................................................................................ - 13 Tardiness ................................................................................................................................................... - 13 Daily Absences ........................................................................................................................................... - 13 Extended Absences.................................................................................................................................... - 13 Early Dismissal from School ....................................................................................................................... - 13 -3-

Personal Music Player, Roller Blades, Heelys, Skateboards and Cell Phones ............................................- 14 Emergency Drills ........................................................................................................................................- 14 Homework Expectations ...........................................................................................................................- 15 Discipline and Time-Out Procedures ........................................................................................................- 15 Time-Out ....................................................................................................................................................- 16 Positive Decision Making ...........................................................................................................................- 17 Procedures When Handling Discipline Problems ......................................................................................- 17 Dress Code .................................................................................................................................................- 18 Support Services .......................................................................................................................................- 19 ESL..............................................................................................................................................................- 19 Optimal Learning Program ........................................................................................................................- 19 OL Consultation .........................................................................................................................................- 19 Counseling Services ...................................................................................................................................- 20 Learning Enhancement Program ...............................................................................................................- 20 ESAS and Institute for Innovation and Creativity ......................................................................................- 20 Staying After-School ..................................................................................................................................- 21 The House System .....................................................................................................................................- 21 Student Council .........................................................................................................................................- 22 Health Services ..........................................................................................................................................- 22 Lunch Program ..........................................................................................................................................- 22 Transportation ..........................................................................................................................................- 23 Bus Procedures ..........................................................................................................................................- 23 Bus Code of Conduct .................................................................................................................................- 24 Special Traditions ......................................................................................................................................- 24 Role of Parents ..........................................................................................................................................- 26 PTO ............................................................................................................................................................- 26 Room Parents ............................................................................................................................................- 26 Parents supporting athletics “boosters� ...................................................................................................- 26 -

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Personal Property ...................................................................................................................................... - 27 Lost & Found ............................................................................................................................................. - 27 Vehicles of Communication ...................................................................................................................... - 27 Report Cards .............................................................................................................................................. - 27 Conferences ............................................................................................................................................... - 27 Student-Led Conferences .......................................................................................................................... - 28 Passports ................................................................................................................................................... - 28 Elementary Newsletter .............................................................................................................................. - 28 Principal’s Coffee ....................................................................................................................................... - 28 Website ..................................................................................................................................................... - 28 Telephone .................................................................................................................................................. - 29 School Activities ........................................................................................................................................ - 29 School Photos ............................................................................................................................................ - 29 Field Trips .................................................................................................................................................. - 29 Birthday and Holiday Celebrations ............................................................................................................ - 29 Enrollment................................................................................................................................................. - 30 Admissions/Registration ............................................................................................................................ - 30 Transfers From Our School ........................................................................................................................ - 30 Visitor/Guest Policy ................................................................................................................................... - 30 -

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WHO WE ARE We are a team of dedicated professionals who bring unique experiences and expertise to the field of education. Most of us hold Masters Degrees in one or more fields of Education and continue our professional development every year.

The ACS Athens Elementary program relies heavily on the synergy that comes from good teamwork.

Classroom teachers work in tandem with their grade level colleagues and specials teachers. Your child receives the benefit of teachers using their individual and collective strengths to help the students learn quickly and feel successful. Teacher assistants help educators to prepare and organize needed materials.

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IMPORTANT NUMBERS

Main Campus:

210-6393-200

Elementary School:

210-6070-229/231

Middle School:

210- 6070-226/228

Academy:

210- 6070-241/222

Admissions:

210- 6070-263/251

Arts Academy

210- 6070-200

Athletics Office:

210- 6070-327

Cafeteria:

210- 6070-236

Cashier’s Office:

210- 6070-208

E.S. Counselor:

210- 6070-266

Health Office:

210- 6070-217

Stavros Niarchos Learning Center 210- 6070-237 Security (after hours):

210- 6393-555

Transportation:

210- 6070-239

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FACILITIES ELEMENTARY CAMPUS The Elementary School is located on the west side of the ACS Athens campus. Shaded by Mulberry trees, th the Elementary School’s main building holds the Office, Library, Computer Lab, 1 – 4 grade classrooms, Art Room, Music Room, Cafeteria, P.E. Room, Multi-purpose Room and classrooms for Foreign Language, ESL and Counseling. The Junior Kindergarten, Kindergarten and OL classrooms enjoy their own wing and th large grassy playground. Near this area you will also find the Music Room. The 5 grade classrooms also enjoy their own wing close to the Middle School building. The Health Office is located in close proximity to our classrooms. There is a commitment to ongoing upgrading of facilities to provide for a better learning environment.

The Elementary School sits across the courtyard from the Middle School and Academy’s special facilities, which are sometimes shared. They include the Hasib J. Sabbagh Library, Gymnasium, Swimming Pool, Soccer Field, Tennis Courts and Theater.

LIBRARY The Elementary School Library houses approximately 15,000 print and audio-visual materials. All new and donated library materials are evaluated on the basis of their literary merit, usefulness in balancing the collection, and value in supporting the curriculum. Our library is fully automated and students use the OPAC check-out system. Students visit the library weekly for formal lessons and to check out materials.

Replacement costs will be charged for lost or damaged library materials.

COMPUTER LAB The Elementary Computer Lab is adjacent to the Library and consists of twenty-five IBM computers. Each computer is networked, internet capable, and supported by the use of an LCD projector and a CD/DVD recorder. Classes attend one session per week during regularly scheduled times. Additional computer class time is available throughout the week.

Students learn to use the computer as a tool to enhance their learning with different software applications and with the use of the internet. The elementary lab is part of the ACS Athens network that runs off our own server. Each classroom has its own computer with an interactive board that teachers use to enhance their curriculum.

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THE SCHOOL DAY Every student at ACS Athens studies Mathematics, Language Arts (Reading and Writing) and Spelling daily.

Units of study alternate between Science and Social Studies. In addition, each grade level meets with specialist teachers throughout the week for Art, Music, P.E., Computers, Library, Arabic, Greek or English as a Second Language. Students are supervised on the playground from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. The school day begins at 9:00 a.m. and ends at 3:45 p.m. We ask that all students arrive early to school so that they can be ready to learn at 9:00 a.m. sharp!

WHAT WE TEACH Units of study in Science and Social Studies provide a context for students to apply their basic skills. In addition to mastering the basic tools for learning (language arts and mathematics), students learn to think conceptually, gather facts and acquire knowledge, apply and practice skills, develop attitudes and take action.

HOW WE TEACH The Elementary School views students as thinkers with important, emerging theories of the world.

Building on students’ prior knowledge, teachers integrate their curriculum using a range of teaching strategies, and resources. Rather than focusing on isolated and non-contextualized facts, students develop critical thinking skills to become life-long learners and problem solvers.

HOW WE ASSESS LEARNING As with our teaching strategies, ACS Athens Elementary uses a variety of assessment tools to ascertain a student’s level of understanding. Students are also involved in the learning process by giving critical feedback to their peers and themselves. Assessment can occur from written tests, lab reports, presentations, performances, observations, research papers, projects, etc. Report cards are used to assess students’ level of mastery and to provide important anecdotal observations about a student’s progress and social development. Students take a standardized, norm-referenced test (MAP) twice every year in grades 3–5. Once a year students lead their own conferences using a portfolio of their work during the Student-Led Conferences.

TEXT/WORKBOOKS WE USE Textbooks supplement rather than direct the curriculum at ACS Athens. Students learn beyond typical requirements. They strengthen higher level thinking skills. In addition to the texts listed, teachers frequently draw upon primary sources (including guest speakers or performers), library/media, online resources, computer software, trade books and literature to supplement the curriculum.

Textbooks are provided to all students through their classroom teachers. All books loaned to students will be returned to the teacher at the conclusion of each course. Students who withdraw from school should return all textbooks before their records can be cleared. If a student fails to return books or damages them, the student will be charged for the cost of the textbook.

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FIRST GRADE EnVision Math (Scott Foresman-Addison Wesley) Language Arts Readers (Silver, Burdett and Ginn) (Modern Curriculum Press) (Scott Foresman) (School Readers) Phonics (Modern Curriculum Press) Scholastic Sight Word Readers Scholastic Celebrations Series Science (Foss Kit) Many Primary resource materials

SECOND GRADE EnVision Math (Scott Foresman-Addison Wesley) Phonics (Modern Curriculum Press) Many primary/secondary resource materials (including online resources) Science (Foss Kit) Everyday Spelling (Scott Foresman) Leveled Classroom Library

THIRD GRADE EnVision Math (Scott Foresman-Addison Wesley) Lucy Calkins Reading and Writing Programs Handwriting without tears Social Studies Alive Human Body Earth Materials Physics of Sound Science (Foss Kit) Everyday Spelling (Scott Foresman)

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FOURTH GRADE EnVision Math (Scott Foresman-Addison Wesley) Silver Secrets (Ginn Reader) Selected Novels and Poetry Language Handbook (Harcourt) Map Skills: States and Regions (Scholastic) Regions of Our Country (TCIS) Science (Foss Kits) Water Structures of Life Electricity and Magnetism Cursive Handwriting (D’Nealian) Everyday Spelling (Scott Foresman)

FIFTH GRADE EnVision Math (Scott Foresman-Addison Wesley) Language Handbook (Harcourt) Building a Nation (Scott Foresman) D’Aulaire’s Book of Greek Myths (and many more trade books) The History of US (Social Studies supplement) Science Series (Foss) Mixtures and Solutions Levels and Pulleys Selected Novels and Poetry Spelling (Scott Foresman)

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FOREIGN LANGUAGE CLASSES 1-5

GREEK LANGUAGE A - NATIVE SPEAKERS (LANGUAGE ARTS) Accommodates students for whom Greek is the native language and are fluent speakers and readers.

Instruction is given in Greek. Students are required to communicate fluently in Greek.

GREEK LANGUAGE A - NEAR-NATIVE SPEAKERS

(ADVANCED)

Accommodates students who have an adequate level of spoken Greek but need to develop their oral/reading/writing skills. Instruction is given in Greek. Students are required to communicate in Greek.

GREEK LANGUAGE B - NON-NATIVE SPEAKERS (BEGINNING/INTERMEDIATE) Accommodates students whose oral skills are inadequate to hold a conversation in Greek with ease.

Instruction is given in English, but Greek is used as much as possible.

GENERAL NOTES Students who wish to be moved from one level to another are assessed by a placement test after teachers’ recommendation.

Students participate in celebrations of Greek national holidays such as OXI Day celebration in October and the Greek Independence Day in March.

Homework: Greek Language A classes are assigned homework regularly.

ARABIC A course description for each grade level is on file with the Foreign Language Coordinator written in Arabic for your review.

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STUDENT EXPECTATIONS ATTENDANCE Regular attendance at school is a key element of academic success. Parents are asked to plan outside activities (dental appointments, family trips, etc.) around the school schedule and calendar. Students are expected to arrive at school punctually as classes start from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. daily.

TARDINESS We expect students to arrive on time to all of their classes, especially morning homeroom.

Chronic tardiness sends the wrong message to children. Show the importance of punctuality by making sure your child arrives on time. If students miss more than two hours of school, they will be marked as a half day absence. Students coming to school late will be marked for unexcused tardiness.

DAILY ABSENCES If a student is absent for the day or part of the day, call or notify be email the Administrative Assistant in the Elementary Office ext. 229 and state the reason for the absence. We will coordinate homework on an individual basis. Students may not be taken out of school without parent notification to the Office. For absences of more than three days, a doctor’s note is also required. Absences due to health problems or family loss are considered excused absences. Mini trips or extended vacation are considered unexcused absences. Parents are responsible to communicate with the classroom teacher in order to pick up missed homework from the Office. Students are responsible for completing missed homework.

EXTENDED ABSENCES An extended absence severely disrupts a student’s learning program. However we acknowledge that extended absences are sometimes unavoidable. Please let the teacher and the Principal know well in advance of any anticipated extended absences (five days or more) in writing or by email. If a family decides to take additional vacation time, homework is not the responsibility of the teacher to prepare in advance. Please be aware that extended absences could prevent us from making a proper assessment or any assessment on your child’s report card. Many of the homework assignments require the student’s presence for completion and, thus, will have to be modified due to missed class time. If a child has accumulated a large number of absences, the Principal reserves the right not to promote him/her to the next grade level.

EARLY DISMISSAL FROM SCHOOL A student who must leave school early for a legitimate reason must have a parent note given to the classroom teacher and be picked up from the office by a parent or guardian. In the event that a child is picked up by a parent or other primary caregiver, out of the routine schedule (as in case of separation, divorce or travel), the office must be notified verbally and/or via email.

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PERSONAL MUSIC PLAYER, ROLLER BLADES, HEELYS, SKATEBOARDS AND CELL PHONES Personal music players and cell phones must never be used on campus (except after school). Failure to respect this policy will result in the confiscation of the item for an indefinite period of time. For safety reasons and to ensure the protection of school property, roller blades, heelys, skateboards etc. are not allowed on campus.

Students are not permitted to use any type of electronic signaling devices during class time, passing periods or breaks within the classroom.

If a school staff member finds it necessary to confiscate a device, parents will be notified promptly and the device will be returned in accordance with school rules after the Principal has consulted with the student’s parent/guardian. The school is not responsible for lost or stolen electronic signaling devices. Students are to make arrangements with their parent(s) or guardian(s) to contact the school office when attempting to reach them during the school day.

The following are inappropriate uses of electronic signaling devices: harassment, threats, intimidation, electronic forgery, cyberbullying/cyberthreats, videotaping in or out of the classroom, invasion of personal rights, cheating on tests/exams, or other forms of illegal behavior during the instructional and noninstructional day. Students are not to use material or text message to invade personal privacy or harass another person, or disrupt the instructional day, or engage in dishonest acts.

Videotaping within the ACS Athens Campus is not only inappropriate but ILLEGAL. Students who act in violation of this policy shall be subject to ACS’s progressive discipline outlined below: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Initial violation – electronic signaling device will be confiscated by school staff and secured in a safe location. The electronic device will be returned to student in seven days; Second violation – electronic signaling device will be confiscated and secured in a safe location.

The electronic device will be returned to the student in a month and the student's parent or guardian meets with the school Principal for the purpose of clarifying this policy; Third violation – the electronic signaling device will be confiscated and secured in a safe location.

The electronic device will be withheld for a semester and the student's parent or guardian provides written assurance that the student will no longer be allowed to possess the electronic device during the instructional day; Fourth violation – the electronic signaling device will be confiscated and secured in a safe location. The student will be suspended; Fifth violation – the electronic signaling device will be confiscated and secured in a safe location.

The student will be removed from school.

EMERGENCY DRILLS Evacuation drills are conducted regularly and have undergone a review by the Regional Security Office of the U.S. Embassy. Students are taught to leave the buildings quickly and safely for any type of campus emergency. Students are expected to:   

Be familiar with exit route Respond quickly, cooperate and give attention to their teacher or supervisor Walk quickly and silently - 14 -

  

Stay in formation to the left and right sides of the corridor and staircase as they proceed to the exit Remain clear of the building as directed by teacher or supervisor Remain quiet once outdoors and cooperate fully with attendance taking procedures

It is imperative that we have your current address and phone number/s (including cell phones) plus the number of someone else to reach, on file, in case of an emergency. If any of your numbers (home, work, emergency) change, please alert us immediately through your child’s Passport or call the Main Office.

HOMEWORK EXPECTATIONS It was on my fifth birthday that my father put his hand on my shoulder and said, “Remember son, if you ever need a helping hand, you’ll find one at the end of your arm.” - Sam Levenson.

All students at ACS Athens will have homework on a daily basis. Homework is given to strengthen skills taught at school, enrich and extend a concept and help develop solid work habits.

Some of the homework assigned may require adult help or guidance. Parents should not do homework for their children. Parents should take a coaching role or follow the Socratic method of questioning: “What is your assignment for tomorrow?” Parents should encourage their children, ask deeper questions and assist them when need arises.

If absent from school for any reason, the student is responsible for making up all of the class work and homework he/she missed. If a student is absent for only one day, it is best for him/her to telephone a friend to find out what material was covered in classes and what homework assignments were given. If it is not possible to get this information, students should ask their teachers about missed work immediately upon their return to school.

If absent from school for an extended period of time (two days or more), the student or his/her parent or guardian should telephone the school. Assignments should be collected from teachers. They can be delivered by a friend/neighbor, or be picked up by parents from the school.

Students are expected to set goals and work to achieve them. It is important to get the most out of one’s time in every learning situation. Students are asked to maintain a serious attitude towards their work, think positively, and stick to a plan.

DISCIPLINE AND TIME-OUT PROCEDURES At ACS Athens Elementary School, we work with students so that they may become managers of their attitudes and actions. We discuss with them how they can become better students and cooperative members of our community. We actively encourage students to be Inquisitive, Good Thinkers, Quality Communicators, Knowledgeable, Risk-Takers, Principled, Caring, Open Minded, Well Balanced and Reflective. These characteristics are discussed within the classroom along with our virtues of the month.

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TIME-OUT Time-Out is a school-wide discipline plan that deliberately seeks to extinguish inappropriate behaviors and allows students to make appropriate choices.

Q. What is Time-Out? A. When a child refuses to behave appropriately (making a good choice) the teacher may send him/her to a place (usually a chair) in the classroom for a short period of time (3-5 minutes) for a “time-out.”

Q. Why do we use Time-Out? A. Time-out is intended to extinguish inappropriate or unsafe behaviors immediately. It is a consequence part of our school-wide discipline plan that allows the student the opportunity to reflect on their behavior and make a good choice to change the inappropriate/disruptive behavior. The intention is to discourage inappropriate behaviors and empower the child to make good choices. Time-out is used after appropriate behaviors are taught, practiced and we are confident that students have the skills to make good choices.

Q. Is a child in trouble when he/she goes to Time-Out? A. No. If a child does a good time-out they return to class in a few minutes. When they choose appropriate behavior they are being successful and further consequences are unnecessary. Time-out is a clear way to help students understand the importance of making a good choice.

Q What does a good Time-Out look like?

A. A child in time-out is expected to sit still and quietly. The student is expected to tell the teacher and/or write what good choice they are ready to make.

Q. Where do students go for Time-Out? A. Generally time-out is done in a chair in the classroom. At recess, the time-out is on a chair or on a bench.

Q. What happens if the child doesn’t do a “Good Time-Out?” A. If the child does not do their time-out appropriately, they go to a second time-out in another classroom. If the child does a good time-out there, they must return to the first classroom to do a good time-out. After completing a good time-out the student may return to class activities. If the child does not do a good time-out in the second classroom, they are sent to the bench in the office to do a third time-out. If a third time-out is completed, the student returns to the second classroom to do a good timeout and then the first classroom to do a good time-out before returning to class.

Q. What happens if the child doesn’t do a “Good Time-Out” on the chair in the office?

A. At this time, the child is seen by the principal and parents are contacted. At this point, parents can be very helpful in encouraging their child to make a good choice, quickly complete their three time-outs and return to class activities as soon as possible. Children who continue to make inappropriate choices at this point are sent home for the rest of the day.

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Q. How effective is “Time-Out?” A. Time-out is considered to be one of the most effective discipline techniques for elementary aged children. Most students in a typical school have never needed to use time-out. Only a few students in a typical school have required time-out in a second classroom or in the office. The few students who use the office time-out are usually able to make the necessary changes to complete all time-outs and return to class activities. Individuals who continue to struggle when time-out is appropriately used generally require other interventions.

Q. Can a child be suspended from school if they are not first sent to Time-Out? A. Absolutely! School Board policy directs principles to suspend children who choose to fight, bring weapons, drugs or alcohol to school (or who are willfully disobedient). In this way, our schools are safe for all attending. The parent/student handbook on our website addresses specific policies and consequences.

Q. What can I do as a parent to help my child?

A. Parents can do a great deal to help their child be successful at school, the most important being a good home – school bond to help best address your child’s needs as a team.

Students who choose to not do a “good time-out” go through the steps of time-out and can end up in the principal’s office according to the process described above where parents will likely be contacted.

Time-out is effective for about 95% of the student body. They are some students who will require additional interventions in order to ensure they do not disrupt the learning environment. Interventions can include parent conferences, behavior plans, loss of privileges like recess, referral for behavior evaluations, etc. It will be good to exhaust the time-out procedure prior to moving to other significant interventions.

Serious offenses can result in automatic office referral.

Fifth grade teachers are given the right to change the number of “time-outs” needed for a student to be sent to the Principal’s office for a referral as long as they notify classroom parents ahead of time. This typically occurs in the third trimester of school in order to prepare students for Middle School.

POSITIVE DECISION MAKING By rewarding positive behaviors we encourage children to repeat these behaviors. We are proud of our students when they make appropriate decisions in their approach to academics, safety, and inter-personal relationships. To help them grow, we use positive praise, notes in the Passport, morning assemblies, class meetings, and reinforcement from adults with whom they come in contact.

We know that these actions speak volumes to children. In some cases we even reinforce behavior with small prizes or awards. Our goal is to find success in each and every child.

PROCEDURES WHEN HANDLING DISCIPLINE PROBLEMS We all have the ability to make either appropriate or inappropriate choices. Part of the learning process involves knowing how to maturely accept the consequences of our actions, whether positive or negative.

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If a student does not follow the rules, the teacher will administer our Time-Out discipline plan during which students reflect about what they have done. This is not a punishment. If the student chooses not to show progress and has three Time-Outs in one day, the child is sent to the Principal’s office. The number of Time-Outs for upper elementary (grades 3-5) is subject to change at the end of the school year, but parents will be notified by the classroom teachers. Once sent to the Principal, the following consequences will be imposed: Serious Offenses (fighting, possession of weapons, destruction of school or personal property ,vulgar/inappropriate language or behavior leaving campus without permission, stealing) could result in immediate suspension or withdrawal from our school.

All other offenses: First Referral: Student meets with the Principal; warning or other consequence commensurate with the action given at the discretion of the Principal. (Record kept of all incidents.)

Second Referral: Loss of recess/es and parent notification Third Referral: Meeting with parents and student at school Fourth Referral: In-school suspension Fifth Referral: Out-of-school suspension Sixth Referral: Staff meeting called to discuss recommendation for withdrawal. A conference will be scheduled with parents.

Parents are asked to take an ACTIVE ROLE in the development of their child’s behavior at school by conferring regularly with their child, their child’s teacher, the Counselor or the Principal.

DRESS CODE Cleanliness, appropriate grooming, and proper dress are important in promoting a positive atmosphere for school and social conduct. The standards of dress for school should reflect proper hygiene.

Students who come to school without proper attention toward personal cleanliness or appropriateness of dress may be sent home to be properly prepared for school.

Students are expected to dress in an appropriate manner at all times. In particular, the following items are not allowed at school: shorts and skirts that are higher than mid-thigh and clothing with obscene or suggestive words or patterns. Torn clothing, halters and shirts that are deemed too revealing and showing one’s stomach are also not allowed. A student violating the dress code will be asked to change clothing.

A dress code is also required for P.E. classes. The P.E. attire includes sports shoes and a P.E. outfit (a winter and a summer set) worn on the days of P.E. Students should always bring a bottle of water in P.E. class. Keep in mind that students will be graded on their readiness for P.E. classes.

There will be times when students will be asked to dress for an occasion such as a field trip or a special day at school. Students should plan to wear special clothing (dresses/skirts for girls, ties or button-down shirts for boys) to the Winter Concert, Spring Concert and Graduation (Fifth Grade).

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Parents should be sure all clothing and items worn or brought to school are labeled with the child’s name.

Please check our Lost & Found periodically located in the cafeteria. We don’t have enough space for ‘Jacket Mountain’! Unclaimed clothing is given to charity throughout the school year.

SUPPORT SERVICES ESL Students who are at beginning and intermediate levels of English are required to enroll in the ESL program. The ESL teacher works with students during their language learning time on English reading, writing, speaking and listening skills. The ESL teacher collaborates with each student’s homeroom teacher to ensure continuity of learning and skill building. There is an additional fee for this program due to its small size and individualized attention.

OPTIMAL LEARNING The Optimal Learning (OLP) program provides students an equal opportunity at excelling in the classroom by providing individualized and small group instruction that supplements various learning styles. The process begins with the student being referred by the classroom teacher or parent. The Child Study Team consists of the Elementary School Principal, the JK-12 Counseling Psychologist, the Elementary School Counselor, the OLP Specialist and the OLP Coordinator. The team works together to determine a program that would be most beneficial to meeting the student’s needs. Admission to OLP is based on program capacity and upon the receipt of current psycho-educational testing.

A full battery of psycho-educational assessments, which are administered by non-school-based psychologists, must be completed prior to enrollment in the OLP. Based on their findings and subsequent report, standards are set according to the individual needs of the referred student. Effective strategies are developed by the Optimal Learning Specialist and are then shared with all teachers working with each particular student. Small group instruction and cooperative learning activities are incorporated within the student’s curriculum to complement various learning abilities. Specific learning goals are delineated in each student’s Individual Learning Plan (ILP) and are shared with teachers and parents.

The Optimal Learning Specialist provides support and guidance to the classroom teachers to properly support student abilities. Collaboration is established amongst the entire team and valuable tactics are adopted to enable students to maintain success within the classroom. Progress Reports are student assessments that are distributed to parents via email to validate student strengths and to determine areas that need improving. Progress Reports are sent out each Mid – Trimester. This information provides the program with evidence of student strengths and areas where additional assistance is needed for the student to excel in the classroom. It also provides an open channel of communication between home and school.

OL CONSULTATION OL Consultation is determined on a case by case basis. Students that are placed in OL Consultation are monitored by the OL Specialist and their classroom teachers. Students in the Consultation Program are - 19 -

observed in their classroom setting for twenty minutes each week, and they receive Progress Reports.

There are fees for enrollment in either the Optimal Learning Program or the OL Consultation.

COUNSELING SERVICES The Elementary School Counselor works with all students individually and in group settings to help them succeed in the Elementary School emotionally, socially and cognitively. The Counselor works closely with teachers and parents to resolve any issues students may be faced with. The Counselor provides yearly school-wide psycho-educational programs for grades JK-5 on various topics. Some of these topics include the Wellness (Anti-Drug) and the Anti-Bullying Programs. The Counselor also provides classroom interventions on a needs basis (i.e. communication skills, respect of one’s privacy, stress, conflict resolution, etc.)

In addition the Counselor invites parents to discuss a variety of child development issues once a month (schedule to be announced). Parents may contact the Counselor Dr. Alessandra Sax – Lane at 210-6070266.

LEARNING ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM The After School Learning Enhancement Program is a program which extends beyond the school day and provides a supportive environment to our students at ACS Athens. The program is designed to help students develop a strong sense of their own learning processes and to provide them with a strong academic, social and emotional foundation for their school work. All of the programs have been designed to improve and maximize each student’s learning potential. All of the courses are led by instructors with a background in special education and who have the knowledge and expertise to enhance learning.

Students will learn to apply basic skills and learning strategies to their work in their academic classes, so that they may be successful. After school classes target discrete student needs and give emphasis to specific learning outcomes in mathematics, reading, writing and completion of homework.

What really makes the difference is the way in which these classes are delivered. To enhance what we have identified key elements of high performance, LEP after school classes utilize curricula and teaching methods that make learning fun and exciting.

Each After School class is staffed with qualified personnel, maintaining a ratio of one adult for every 3 – 4 students.

Description of the full range of offerings will be emailed to all in the beginning of the school year and will also be available on our website.

ESAS AND INSTITUTE FOR INNOVATION AND CREATIVITY (The Elementary Sports - After School Program and Elementary School Arts Academy) ACS Athens Elementary believes that participation in a co-curricular activity is important to a student’s development.

The ESAS and Arts Academy programs are primarily run by teachers or other professionals. Parents provide their own transportation. Classes typically run once a week from 3:45 to 5:00 p.m. We strongly encourage all ACS Athens students to get involved. Many of the programs culminate with an exciting exhibition of some kind. If there is an activity you would like to suggest or lead, please let us know!

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All ESAS information will be made available on our website at the beginning of each semester.

Registration information on fees and the exact schedule of the activities will be made available online. For more information call the Athletic Office at 210-6070-327. Updated yearly physical is needed for children to participate in P.E. and ESAS.

A sample of ESAS activities offered at ACS Athens:    

Basketball Soccer Swimming (Various Levels) Tennis

A sample of past Arts Academy Activities offered at ACS Athens:     

Ballet Modern Dance Chinese Language and Culture Classical Guitar Art History

For more information contact the Institute for Innovation & Creativity Office at 210-6070- 200.

STAYING AFTER-SCHOOL Buses depart campus at 3:45 p.m. All students must leave campus at 3:45 p.m. unless they are staying for an activity that starts immediately after school. Students are not allowed to wander around school grounds or play outside without parental supervision. Parents must pick up their child(ren) on time as students are too young to be left unaccompanied.

Parents who are staying on school grounds after 3:45 p.m. MUST sign in at the After School Activities Office, located at the Transportation Office. At the After School Activities Office parents will sign in for the child/children they are supervising. Parents must be in close proximity to their children at all times in order to supervise them appropriately. It is important to note that parents can only take their own child/children off school grounds. Additionally, no Elementary School students are allowed to leave school grounds by themselves. Lastly, Elementary School students are NOT allowed to ride the 6:00 p.m. bus.

THE HOUSE SYSTEM The House System was started at ACS in 1950 and established in the Elementary School in 2007.

All students, faculty, and staff are assigned to one of four houses as a life-time member; Athenian (green), Corinthian (red), Spartan (blue), or Trojan (yellow). It is a concept meant to bond teachers and students, encourage school spirit and build a strong sense of belonging to our school.

It is also meant to create a sense of continuity and permanence for our alumni.

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STUDENT COUNCIL The Student Council plays a significant role in the life of the Elementary School. Student Council representatives are elected in class three times a year while meetings are held twice a month. Student council representatives work with faculty and are encouraged to assume the position of spokespeople for their classmates. Students are encouraged to make suggestions to their representatives concerning the school.

HEALTH SERVICES The health and safety of your child at school is of utmost concern. A registered full time nurse and an aide for after school activities on campus administer emergency first aid treatments and care for sudden illnesses. In addition, several elementary staff members including the PE Teacher are trained and certified in CPR/First Aid. The nurse also conducts regular vision, hearing and lice checks and maintains a health record for every student. If the child needs to be taken home, the nurse will call you directly. If the student is severely injured and we cannot reach anyone at home, the student will be taken directly to the nearest hospital for proper treatment. The School Nurse, can be reached at: 210-6070-217.

All students are required to have a physical examination by their family physician within thirty (30) days of their enrollment which must be updated yearly. Any students who do not have their physical examination completed will not be allowed to participate in physical education classes or attend school field trips.

Please note the following: Prescription medication will not be administered by the Health Office to students of any age unless the medication is provided by the parent and accompanied by a note which clearly states the dosage and time the medicine should be given as well as the reason it was ordered.

Non-prescription medication may be administered to JK-5th grade students only when parent consent has been obtained by phone on each occasion.

A child recovering from an illness should not return to school until she/he is well enough to participate in the full, regular school day, including recess, lunch and PE classes. Students must be fever free for at least 24 hours before returning to school.

Students cannot attend any ESAS activities or P.E. including swimming without an updated physical examination form.

LUNCH PROGRAM Students are offered a complete, balanced hot meal. A detailed menu will be posted monthly on the school website. Each lunch menu (a complete meal) will have a set price and students will be able to buy the meals in advance using a card system. Parents are responsible to provide their child with a lunch or money to purchase lunch either monthly or daily. In the extreme case a child comes to school without lunch or money parents will be notified.

The cafeteria is equipped to provide daily lunches and to serve food for various events and activities during the year. Proper behavior in the cafeteria means exhibiting good restaurant dining manners. Students are to proceed in single file through the serving line, and once they have received their food, they are - 22 -

to remain seated until they are done eating. All students are expected to dispose of their own trash and to return the trays before leaving the cafeteria.

Many students choose to bring lunches from home. Please be aware that students are not allowed to purchase items from the Academy/Middle School Cafeteria or off-campus taverna while at school. If your child is staying for after-school activities, please have them bring a healthy snack or drink from home.

TRANSPORTATION Bus services are contracted by ACS Athens parents and cover virtually the entire Athens area. Students are transported by professional drivers and are supervised on the bus by a monitor. Bus monitors regularly communicate and collaborate with the building principals regarding discipline issues.

Ms. Leta Meleki, Head of Transportation, can be reached at 210-6070-239.

BUS PROCEDURES Students must be at the assigned stop at the scheduled boarding time.

Students must disembark only at the scheduled stop.

If a student wishes to take a bus other than the one normally assigned, or get off at a stop other than the one normally assigned, a written parent request must be submitted to the transportation office for approval 24 hours in advance and presented to the monitor before boarding. Permission to ride on a different bus will be granted only if space is available.

Change of address resulting in a change of route or bus stop should be presented to the transportation office in writing two days prior to the change.

Failure or considerable delay of the bus in arriving at the scheduled pick-up point entitles students to secure alternate transportations to the school. The Transportation Officer will make reimbursement of any costs incurred.

Concerns regarding the bus monitor or driver must be registered with the Transportation Officer.

Bus monitors reserve the right to assign students to a specific seat and all passengers must comply with these directions.

Students are expected to follow the Bus Code of Conduct to ensure a safe ride for everyone.

Consequences are clearly spelled out for students. Please review the transportation code of conduct, talk with your child about these rules, and let transportation know if there is a concern or problem. Making sure your child/children are feeling safe and happy during their commute is important to us. Should students not follow the Bus Code of Conduct, they will first be given a warning from the Principal. If the behavior is repeated a second time, they will be asked not to ride the bus for a week. If the behavior is repeated for a third time, they will not be allowed to ride the bus for the month. Finally, if the behavior is

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repeated for a fourth time, they will not be allowed to ride the bus for the remainder of the school year.

Students’ safety is a serious issue.

There are no after-school activity buses (Learning Enhancement Program, ESAS and Institute for Innovation and Creativity) for elementary students. Parents must provide transportation after school on these days. Students need to be picked up at the end of the activity.

BUS CODE OF CONDUCT Students must follow the directions of the bus monitors, adults and drivers at all times.

No eating or drinking is allowed.

Students must be quiet and seated in their assigned seat at all times.

Respectful language must be used at all times.

No weapons/toy weapons or incendiary devices are allowed at any time.

SPECIAL TRADITIONS In addition to our curriculum activities, the Elementary School enjoys its own special traditions. Parent volunteers are essential to the success of these events. If you would like to assist with any one of these traditional events, or others, contact the classroom teacher. Please understand that some of these events are subject to change.

SEPTEMBER 

Opening Assembly



First Grade Parent Orientation



Back To School Night



United Nations Show

OCTOBER 

Picture Days



Parent Teacher Conferences



OXI Day Celebration (Fourth Grade performance)



Halloween Carnival / Pumpkin Patch / Halloween Parade

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NOVEMBER 

First Grade Dino-Daze Show



Thanksgiving Holiday

DECEMBER 

Winter Concert

FEBRUARY 

Wellness Month (JK – 5)



100 Day Celebration (JK – 2)

th

MARCH 

Greek Independence Day Celebration



Fourth Grade Interactive South America Museum

APRIL 

Third Grade Talent Show



Parent Teacher Conferences



JK/KG Field Day



Grades 1 – 5 Field Day



Spring Concert



Student-Led Conferences



Poetry Break



Student Art Show



Spring Fair

MAY

JUNE 

Fifth Grade Exhibition of Learning



Second Grade Nutrition Play - 25 -



Kindergarten Graduation



Fifth Grade Graduation

ROLE OF PARENTS Due to the rigor of our program, parents need to take an active role in guiding schoolwork and organizational skills. Besides creating a quiet study area, parents can help to foster a positive academic attitude by engaging their children in dinner discussions about what transpired during the day’s classes.

Having resource materials handy and limiting T.V. viewing and non-academic computer use can also help.

Encourage your children to read for pleasure. Take time to share responses to books and articles you have read in common. The Home/School Connection is a vital one as it sends a clear message to students that we are all working together for their success. In short, we need to be on the same team. If you have concerns or questions, go to the teacher and talk with him or her first. Should there be any further concerns after consulting with the teacher, the chain of communication is as follows: Division Chair and/or Coordinator, Principal and, finally, President of ACS Athens.

There are many volunteer opportunities at the Elementary School. Some are assisting in the library or art room, sewing costumes or building sets for grade level plays, taking photos for the Yearbook, being a guest speaker, ad infinitum! We welcome you to our school as a volunteer. Please contact your child’s teacher or call the Main Office if you would like to volunteer in any area.

PTO ACS Athens has an active and enthusiastic Parent/Teacher Organization. A combined PTO serving all three schools meet monthly after the Principals’ Coffee and work collaboratively to support the respective schools. There are representatives who serve each school. The PTO organizes social activities for the families at ACS Athens, parent and staff functions, fund-raising events and informational programs. All parents are asked to get involved with the PTO in some capacity and attend monthly meetings. Big PTO Events include: Welcome Back Barbeque, Halloween Carnival, Christmas Bazaar, Spring Fair and Campus Beautification. Please do participate!

ROOM PARENTS Each grade level has one or two parents that act as room parents and work closely with the classroom teacher to arrange various celebrations in the Elementary School throughout the year. In case of school cancellation, the room parents will be contacted by the pertinent teacher and will be asked to assist in notifying parents according to an existing phone tree.

PARENTS SUPPORTING ATHLETICS “BOOSTERS” An active group of parents, the “PSA”, help raise money and encourage participation JK–12 in athletic events and programs. Please contact the Athletic Office for more information.

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PERSONAL PROPERTY The school cannot assume responsibility for the loss of personal property, and the school does not carry insurance to cover the loss of student property. To avoid losing personal items, students should not bring expensive jewelry, large sums of money, radios, CD players, iPods or other valuable or personal objects to school.

LOST & FOUND Label, label, label!!! And when this fails, check the Lost & Found located in the multipurpose room (adjacent to the cafeteria) for items that are missing. We will set up a Lost & Found table during Winter Break, the Parent/Teacher Conferences and at the end of the school year. Unclaimed items are given to a charity. Expensive toys, electronics, and valuable items in general should not be brought to school.

VEHICLES OF COMMUNICATION REPORT CARDS Report cards are posted on Skyward Family Access three times a year at the end of each trimester.

Parents can view their child’s report card on line by entering the Skyward Family Access Report Card program.

ACS Athens will report on each student’s achievement and progress at the conclusion of each 60-day trimester.

A student must be enrolled at least five weeks in order to receive a complete report card.

If a child demonstrates achievement or behavior that would result in a “1” rating (“Not Meeting Standards: Is not yet demonstrating expected skills and knowledge”) parents should expect to be informed. In this way parents are informed and invited to an “intervention process” for their child.

In the event a child leaves ACS Athens prior to the last day of school, the final report card may be mailed to the family on the last day of school. Parents should provide the school an address of the new school.

CONFERENCES Conferences are scheduled three times per year; Parent/Teacher Conferences in the fall, Parent/Teacher Conferences in early spring, and Student-Led Conferences in late spring. We consider the Parent/Teacher Conference the most important means of reporting student progress and sharing information about your child’s successes and challenges in school. We also encourage you to arrange for a conference at any time throughout the year to gather more information about your child’s learning experience and find out ways you may be able to help at home. Please make arrangements with the teachers in advance via the student Passport.

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STUDENT-LED CONFERENCES ACS Athens is excited to have student-led conferences during the spring. Student-led conferences have been used at many state-of-the-art schools. Students and teachers jointly select finished work to be shared, and the student directs the conference by sharing his/her Portfolio and activities with his/her parents. Both the student and the parent reflect upon the successes achieved and challenges ahead.

Students take ownership of their academic progress while parents dialogue with their child about schoolwork and assessment.

PASSPORTS Each student in Grades JK to 5 is issued a Passport at the beginning of the school year. Students are expected to write down assignments and organize their homework in these notebooks DAILY. Teachers will often write special messages for parents in the Passports and parents are encouraged to use the Passport to communicate with the teacher. We also use Passports to motivate students and ask that you do the same. Students must bring their Passports to and from school DAILY. Parents are expected to sign the passport should a message be written from the teacher so that we know they have seen it.

Replacement Passports will be issued for 5 Euro (subject to change depending on current prices) available at the Main Office.

ELEMENTARY NEWSLETTER Three times a year the entire school community JK to 5 publishes The Muse, a newsletter for parents which apart from the hard copy distributed to students, is also posted on our website. The principal and teachers share highlights from the school and explain what is happening in each grade level.

PRINCIPAL’S COFFEE Parents are welcome to join the Elementary School Principal and Counselor for a monthly coffee meeting. Our Principal’s Coffee serves the purpose of communicating upcoming events and happenings in our Elementary School. The agenda for that day is posted in our webpage for parents to view. Educational innovations are discussed, recent developments school-wide are introduced and upcoming calendar events are explained. Principal Coffees are another form of communication at ACS Athens. It’s a wonderful way to meet other parents. Join us!

WEBSITE The ACS Athens website www.acs.gr can be accessed by parents and students. Under the elementary section you will be able to find the following: Principal’s Corner, Faculty and Staff, School Supply Lists, Early Childhood Booklet (JK-K), Student Parent Handbook (1-5), Class Reading Lists, Report Card Legend, Lunch Menu/Costs, School Calendar, Muse Newsletter, Blue and Gold, Photo Gallery and After School Program Links. Should there be an announcement for school cancellation, for whatever reason, it will be posted on our website and/or emails will be sent to parents notifying them of the closing of school.

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TELEPHONE The phone is a quick and personal way of getting in touch with a teacher or staff member. Call the Elementary School Administrative Assistant at 210-6070-229 to leave a message. The teacher or staff member will return your call as soon as they are able to do so. Please remember that a teacher’s day is quite full and may extend into the evening. Therefore, it may take a day to get back to you.

SCHOOL ACTIVITIES SCHOOL PHOTOS A photographer comes to the school every fall to photograph students individually and with their class.

Parents may choose to purchase the photo package, but there is no obligation to do so. See the Elementary School Administrative Assistant at the Principal’s Office for more information. We sometimes have volunteers throughout the year taking publicity shots for school. You may see them in the annual Yearbook!

FIELD TRIPS During the school year, field trips are scheduled which relate to specific subject matter studied at each grade level. We consider the field trips to be a crucial element of our curriculum. Field trips extend the classroom studies allowing students to collect data as they apply and connect learning to the real world.

We expect all students to attend. There are usually two field trips a year for each grade.

No child is permitted to take a trip without parental permission (given via a permission slip prior to the trip). Students are expected to exhibit good behavior as representatives of ACS Athens Elementary School. Students are requested to wear their PE attire for the field trips. If the teachers and Principal feel that a student’s behavior and/or decision-making is questionable, we reserve the right to have him/her remain at school during the trip.

BIRTHDAY AND HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS If your child wants to celebrate his/her birthday with the class, we ask that you provide enough treats for the entire class. These celebrations are short (usually celebrated at recess or in the last fifteen minutes of the school day), as we need to keep all non-instructional class minutes to a minimum. Teachers must know well in advance of any celebrations planned. “Nut free” cupcakes, cookies or individually wrapped treats are appropriate. Please be aware of any allergies in your child’s grade level.

Only when there is an invitation for every child in class may invitations for any party be distributed at school. All others must be handled off ACS campus. The school cannot be responsible for handing out party invitations. Please be willing to teach your child discretion for the feelings of those not invited.

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ENROLLMENT ADMISSIONS/REGISTRATION Please see Student Admission Policy at www.acs.gr for detailed information or contact Mr. John Papadakis, Director of Enrollment Management at 210-6070-263 or papadakisj@acs.gr.

Junior Kindergarten students must be three or four years old on or before December 31st of the year they register at ACS Athens. No exceptions will be made. Junior Kindergarten is a two year program.

Kindergarten students must be five years old on or before December 31st of the year they enter school.

No exceptions are made.

Parents applying for admission, must first make an appointment to meet with Mr. John Papadakis, Director of Enrollment Management at 210-6070-263. The school carefully reviews the student’s academic history/portfolio (K to Fifth Grade only) and conducts an assessment and interview before acceptance into the program (JK to Fifth Grade). Parents should bring student report card/s and records, samples of student work, if available, passport/s and/or birth certificate, and a residence permit with them when registering their child(ren).

TRANSFERS FROM OUR SCHOOL Given the transient nature of many of our families, it occasionally becomes necessary for a student to withdraw from school during the year. If your child is moving to another school please let us know at least one week in advance so that we can efficiently collect and prepare needed transfer materials. Records will be mailed if the request is immediate and urgent. A forwarding address will be requested in either case. The receiving school will receive student report card/s and records.

If there is anything else we could provide to ensure proper placement and success for your child, please let us know.

VISITOR/GUEST POLICY We make every effort to keep the classroom sacred so that maximum teaching and learning can take place. Serious work is being done in the classroom and teachers appreciate professional space and respect. For that reason, visitors are not allowed in a classroom unless they have previously communicated with the Admissions Office Prospective students are invited to visit the school for a day after speaking with the Principal or Counselor and allowing at least one day to make proper arrangements with the teachers. We limit visitations during the first two weeks and the last two weeks of school.

Students may be permitted to bring a guest to school for one day only, providing it is not during exams.

Prior approval is required and can be secured from the Principal by bringing a note from parents a day before the visit.

First, the parents of the ACS Athens students must write a letter to the school Principal asking for permission for their child to bring a student guest. This letter should be written at least one day prior to the guest’s arrival on campus and should state the reason why the ACS Athens student would like to have

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a guest on campus for that day. It is suggested that the reason for the visit be educationally appropriate and that the visiting guest respect the educational environment and not distract the other students, teachers or the academic program.

Each request will be carefully reviewed by the Principal and a decision will be made based on what is best for the student body as a whole. Unfortunately, same day requests will not be approved.

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Accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, U.S.A. 129 Aghias Paraskevis St. & Kazantzaki, 152 34 Halandri, Athens, Greece Tel.: +30 (210) 639 3200, Fax: +30 (210) 639 0051 www.acs.gr ď ś acs@acs.gr

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