2016-2017 Middle School Handbook

Middle School Student and Parent

Handbook 2016-2017

Table of

Contents Principal’s Welcome ·································································································· 06 ABOUT APIS ·················································································································· APIS Mission Statement ························································································· The Hibiscus Model of APIS Education ·························································· Christianity and APIS ·······························································································

08 08 08 10

SCHOOL LIFE ················································································································ School Day ····················································································································· School Calendar ········································································································· PowerSchool ················································································································ School Uniform and Personal Appearance ················································· A Typical Classroom ·································································································· School Lunch ················································································································ School Library ·············································································································· School Nurse ················································································································ Student Representative Council ········································································ Closed Campus ···········································································································

10 10 11 12 12 15 15 15 16 16 16

ACADEMICS ·················································································································· Academic Integrity ···································································································· Middle School Graduation ···················································································· Credit for Advanced Courses in Middle School ········································· Attendance ···················································································································· Tardies (Late Arrivals) / Early Departures ······················································ Homework ····················································································································· Making up Missed Work ························································································· Grading System ·········································································································· Report Cards ················································································································· Tests ·································································································································· Standardized Testing ······························································································· Student Progress Reporting ················································································ Learning Center ·········································································································· Honor Roll / High Honor Roll ··············································································· Academic Probation ································································································ Academic Retention ·································································································

17 17 17 18 18 19 20 21 21 21 22 22 22 22 22 23 24

STUDENT GUIDELINES ···························································································· Student Identification Card ·················································································· Email ································································································································· Textbooks, Library, and School-Owned Materials/Property ·············· Lockers ····························································································································· Lost and Found ··········································································································· APIS English Language Policy ············································································· Cellular Phone Policy ······························································································· APIS Responsible Use Policy ················································································

24 24 24 24 25 25 25 27 27

HEALTH/EMERGENCY ······························································································ Physical Examination and Medical History Requirements ·················· Required Immunizations ······················································································· Tuberculosis Testing Requirements ································································· Student Illness ············································································································· Student Need for Medication ············································································· Medical Exemption from Physical Education ············································· Emergency Information ························································································· Emergency Procedures ·························································································· Fire Drills ························································································································· Inclement Weather ····································································································

35 35 35 36 36 36 37 37 37 37 38

APIS PARENTS ·············································································································· Communication with Parents ············································································· Parent Teacher Conferences ··············································································· Parent Involvement ·································································································· Field Trip Chaperone Guidelines ······································································· Procedure for Parent Concerns ·········································································· Procedure for Early Departure ············································································ Guardianship and Student Living Requirements ····································· Change of Address ···································································································· Visitor Policy ················································································································· Photography and Videotaping ···········································································

38 38 38 39 39 39 40 40 40 40 40

OTHER ······························································································································ Letters of Recommendation: Boarding Schools ······································· Withdrawal from APIS Policy ··············································································· Student/Parent Handbook Acknowledgment Form ·······························

41 41 41 42

Asia Pacific International School

30 31 31 31 33 33 33 33 33 34

2016-2017

Extracurricular Activities ························································································ Field Trips ······················································································································· Behavioral Expectations ························································································ Bullying ··························································································································· Public Displays of Affection ················································································· Drug, Alcohol, and Tobacco Policies ································································ Smoking ························································································································· Sports Equipment ····································································································· Gymnasium and Auditorium Etiquette ························································· Disciplinary Actions ·································································································

Middle School Student and Parent Handbook

Message from the School Principal Dear Students and Parents: It is my honor and pleasure to welcome you to the 2016-2017 school year at the Middle School of Asia Pacific International School. As your principal, I look forward to working and learning with you this year.

Students are the reason we are here and we strive to show that in the way we teach and interact with one another.

This is APIS’s first year with a Middle School Principal. This is to ensure a more personalized experience for students and their families. APIS believes that students are most successful when they are known by their teachers. APIS also believes in passion-driven teaching and learning. One way to ensure these things happen is to make certain that all students and their families have strong and supportive educators by their sides. As your Principal, I will strive to provide that support.

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The teachers, administrators, and staff will work hard to be sure students and their families have a successful school year. If you have any questions or problems, please be sure to ask for help. Thank you for your confidence in us to provide the best education possible for middle school students. We all appreciate your continued love and support. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact me. My door is always open.

Regards,

Meg Hayne Middle School Principal

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2016 - 2017

This handbook addresses almost any question you may have about Middle School. Please read it carefully. This is the document we use to help guide us through any issues that may come up this year.

Middle School Student and Parent Handbook

About APIS APIS Mission Statement APIS strives to educate its students, in a loving and caring Christian environment, to become globally enlightened citizens, who are able to bridge the gap between the East and the West and are ready to welcome the exciting challenges of the New Pacific Century.

The Hibiscus Model of APIS Education The flower hibiscus symbolizes the APIS way of international education. Biologists describe hibiscus as a complete flower. In order for a flower to be considered complete it must have 4 components: sepals, petals, stamens, and pistils. With each of these parts serving a uniquely important function, a complete flower has all of the necessary components to sustain and reproduce itself. Similarly, the four components that we believe make our educational philosophy complete are: APIS Mission, Core Curricular Emphases, Skills and Dispositions, and Key Character Values.

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CORE CURRICULAR EMPHASES

Our focus on four curricular emphases (East Asia Emphasis, Emphasis on Performing and Visual Arts, STEM Emphasis, and Spiritual Emphasis) is deliberate in design to address the unique challenges facing the New Pacific Century. We believe certain core knowledge or expertise simply cannot be fully outsourced to machines or to others. They can only be useful and serve a basis for further innovation if we possess the appropriate literacy and fluency in these content areas.

SKILLS & DISPOSITIONS

We use the term ESLRs (Expected Schoolwide Learning Results) to describe skills and dispositions we believe are necessary for the New Pacific Century.

Defined into four main categories (Problem Solving, Communication, Collaboration, and Global Citizenship as Christians), our ESLRs reach beyond the simple 3-Rs of the conventional education: Read, wRite, and aRithmetic.

KEY CHARACTER VALUES

Nurturing character values at APIS, we believe, is the most important supporting component because it is the foundation or backbone for the other two supporting components described above. That is, the content area expertise and ESLRs can only take one so far unless they know how to Aspire to the highest standards/goals and to Persevere in the face of obstacles. With Integrity, they will know how to make choices that stand up to one’s faith and the higher moral standards. Spiritually grounded, they will know the meaning and joy of leading a life of calling.

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2016 - 2017

APIS MISSION

APIS mission sets the direction for our educational philosophy by asking “what will the New Pacific Century demand from our leaders?” The New Pacific Century refers to the growing importance of the linkage between the East and the West. Moreover, we recognize the growing importance of the East in terms of economics, politics, and culture. In a loving and caring Christian environment, we strive to educate our students to be the bridge builders between the East and the West.

Middle School Student and Parent Handbook

Christianity and APIS Firmly founded on the Christian faith, APIS seeks to foster the spiritual growth of its members in a loving and caring Christian environment where both Christians and non-Christians can work and learn together.

We believe that an environment where both Christians and non-Christians are working and learning together is highly advantageous for all. Such an environment can, we believe, lead to spiritual growth that is more robust and enduring than would otherwise be possible in more traditional settings. For the non-Christian student, it amounts to being afforded a unique opportunity to understand the Christian faith, a movement which has been incalculably important in the shaping of world history and culture. We believe that this alone is of tremendous educational value. Lastly, for all students, this model helps equip them to successfully live and work in a very diverse and increasingly close global community.

Christian education at APIS is departmentalized, as opposed to being infused into every part of our curriculum. The chaplain and the Christian Life and Education Department at APIS administers spiritual guidance and Christian education of our students. Any course offerings not led by the Christian Life and Education Department are, by design, identical to those offered in a standard, non-religious context. In other words, the availability and opportunity to access Christian education specialists and programs set APIS apart from other secular schools.

While a plurality of worldviews is acknowledged at the school, APIS does not espouse other religious traditions. Neither have we designed the Christian Life and Education Department to incorporate them in our spiritual life and practice. We do encourage all students and staff to pursue spiritual life and knowledge, but to this end, the school does not endorse or offer as part of our program practices rooted in religious traditions other than Christianity. We see this as essential to maintaining clarity in the theological position of the school.

School Life School Day The school day begins at 8:10 a.m. for all grades. The middle school students are released at 3:35 p.m. with the optional 9th period ending at 4:25 p.m. Buses depart from APIS at 4:35 p.m. after the optional 9th period. On Tuesdays, the school day ends at 3:35 p.m. for all students and buses depart APIS at 3:45 p.m.

For parents who drive their students to school: Please arrive on time. We recommend arriving 10-20 minutes before the first bell at 8:10am. On-time arrival sets a positive learning tone for the rest of the school day. Equally important, please arrive on time to pick up your student at the end of the school day. Immediately following your child’s dismissal from school, teachers have daily responsibilities to grade assignments, record grades, participate in faculty meetings, meet with parents, and prepare for classes. Students are not permitted to drive themselves or other students to or from school.

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The school calendar is distributed to all parents at the beginning of the school year and can be found on the school website. Please note holidays, early dismissal days, and other special events. The school year consists of two semesters, totaling 180 school days. Each semester is divided into two grading periods, or quarters, of approximately nine weeks.

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2016 - 2017

School Calendar

Middle School Student and Parent Handbook

PowerSchool PowerSchool (http://portal.apis.seoul.kr/public) is a web-based student information system that facilitates communication among school administrators, teachers, parents, and students. All teachers will use PowerSchool to post newsletters and all class related updates. PowerSchool gives parents and students access to real-time information including attendance, grades, assignments, and other important information.

On PowerSchool, students and parents can: • Check assignments and scores by clicking on "Grades and Attendance" • Monitor student attendance • Read school news on the "School Bulletin" tab • Read teacher comments • Check monthly lunch menu

School Uniform and Personal Appearance School Uniform APIS students are required to wear the APIS school uniform. The daily uniform is expected to be worn in its entirety.

All footwear, except for flip-flop sandals, is acceptable for wear as long as it meets the school’s expectations of cleanliness and neatness.

Skirts and shorts must be tailored to within four inches of the top of the student’s knee. Summer and winter uniforms are to be worn as follows:

1. Summer Uniform

Mandatory

Shirt

Pants (Boys) Skirt (Girls)

Elementary School (K5~G5)

Middle School (G6~G8)

High School (G9~G12)

Short-sleeved White Shirt or Polo Shirt

Short-sleeved White Shirt or Polo Shirt

Short-sleeved White Shirt or Polo Shirt

Optional: Brown Necktie with Stripes for Boys.

Optional: Brown Necktie with Stripes for Boys.

Optional: Green Necktie with Stripes for Boys.

Light Brown/Brown Ribbon with Stripes or Brown Tie with Stripes for Girls.

Light Brown/Brown Ribbon with Stripes or Brown Tie with Stripes for Girls.

Light Brown/Brown Ribbon with Stripes or Green Tie with Stripes for Girls.

Dark Brown Pants or Khaki Shorts (same for all divisions) Light Brown Plaid Skirt or Khaki Shorts (same for all divisions)

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Long Pants

Middle School (Girls)

Shorts

2. Winter Uniform

Shirt Mandatory

Jacket

Elementary School (K5~G5) Long-sleeved Striped Shirt

Middle School (G6~G8) Long-sleeved Striped Shirt

High School (G9~G12) Long- sleeved Green Shirt

Boys: Brown Necktie with Stripes

Boys: Brown Necktie with Stripes

Boys: Green Necktie with Stripes

Girls: Brown Necktie with Stripes or Light Brown / Brown Ribbon with Stripes

Girls: Brown Necktie with Stripes or Light Brown / Brown Ribbon with Stripes

Girls: Green Necktie with Stripes or Light Brown / Brown Ribbon with Stripes

Green Jacket with APIS pin badge

Green Jacket with APIS pin badge

Green Jacket with APIS pin badge

Pants (Boys) Skirt (Girls)

Khaki Pants Dark Green Plaid Skirt

Mandatory

When an outer coat is worn

APIS Formal Coat or Goose Down Jumper Same for all divisions If outer coat is to be worn, it must be either APIS formal outer coat or APIS goose down jumper or varsity jacket (high school only).

Non-school outer coats are not to be worn.

Mandatory

P.E. Uniform

Winter P.E. Uniform with APIS Logo Same for all divisions

Optional

Must be worn in addition to the School Jacket

Same for Middle and High School Khaki V-neck Sweater (APIS pin badge) / Khaki Cardigan (APIS pin badge) / Brown Cardigan (APIS pin badge) or APIS hoodie

Green V-neck Sweater / Green Cardigan or APIS hoodie

During the winter season the school jacket, shirt, tie and pants/skirt must be worn to the school. To add warmth, students may add the cardigan/sweater or APIS hoodie as an option.

Students may not wear other sweaters, hoodies, jackets, sweatshirts, etc. over their uniforms.

This includes during transit to school (bus or walking).

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2016 - 2017

Middle School (Boys)

Middle School Student and Parent Handbook Middle School (Boys)

Middle School (Girls)

 The winter uniform can be worn all year round.  The summer uniform can be worn only from April 1st to October 31st.  Students should not mix and match uniform items from different seasons. However, they may wear the APIS sweater/cardigan, the APIS jacket, or the APIS hoodie in addition to the summer uniform.

Students must wear the school uniform unless a special “dress-down” day is announced. In the event of a dress-down day, students may not wear:

• • • • • • • • •

clothing with holes see-through clothes spaghetti-strap dresses cut-away or revealing shirts or blouses exaggerated hair styles or coloring exaggerated body piercing or ornamentation short skirts or dresses, short shorts shirts or blouses with writing and/or graphics deemed in poor taste items that present a safety hazard to self and others (e.g. roller shoes)

The physical education uniform is to be worn only on days students have physical education. The only options for student dress on P.E. days are:

• • • •

the school P.E. uniform consisting of uniform shorts or sweatpants and shirt the P.E. uniform shorts or sweatpants and this year’s retreat T-shirt the winter P.E. uniform the APIS hoodie & varsity jackets (high school only) are allowed on top of the full P.E. uniforms.

Athletic team uniforms may not be worn for P.E. Athletic shoes with socks must be worn with the P.E. uniform. Students are not allowed to wear flip-flop sandals.

Students who violate the uniform policy will be given one warning per semester. If students violate this policy additional times, students will be issued detentions for uniform violations. For repeated uniform violations, parents may be called to bring the proper uniform to school or the student will be sent home.

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APIS students are expected to dress modestly and decently. Students are expected to keep themselves neat and well-groomed. Students are expected to show respect toward themselves and the school by setting high their dress and grooming standards.

A student’s uniform should fit his or her body. All shorts, skirts and pants must be hemmed at appropriate lengths. Underwear/boxers are not allowed to show. Undergarments, midriff and back should remain covered at all times.

Unusual hairstyles are considered inappropriate. All boys’ hair is to be cut above the eyebrows, above the bottom of the ears and no longer than the bottom of the collar. Hair should appear neat and well- groomed and the rest of the face should be clean-shaven.

Any visible body piercing is not allowed with the exception of one pair of earrings. Earrings must be modest and not draw unusual attention. Visible tattoos are not allowed during the school days or school-related activities. Makeup should not draw attention and should be applied modestly.

A Typical Classroom Teaching styles and delivery of instruction will, of course, vary from teacher to teacher; however, there are similarities that will be seen in each and every class. At APIS we believe that the typical classroom will be:

• • • • • •

a safe and caring environment a place where everyone respects individual differences and the diversity of our cultures a place where learning experiences are designed to reach students who learn in different ways a place where students become responsible for themselves a place where families become more actively involved in the education of their children a place where we awaken the love of learning in every child

School Lunch Hot lunch is served daily. Each month’s lunch menu is posted on PowerSchool prior to the start of each month and is posted daily in the cafeteria. Lunch fees are due at the beginning of each semester.

All students are required to purchase lunch.

Out of courtesy to others, you are expected to:

• • • •

Return your trays and dishes to the service window Put trash into trash cans placed around the cafeteria Not take dishes or trays outside of the cafeteria Not sit on top of the tables

School Library The APIS Library & Media Center has various collections of books, including electronic books available on the e-book reader. For students in middle/high school, teachers are able to sign up for library time so that students can utilize the variety of available resources in completing classroom projects. The library is also open for students before school, during lunch, and after school. Library

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2016 - 2017

Personal Appearance

Middle School Student and Parent Handbook

hours are 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Students using the library during class time must come with a written pass from their teacher. Students may check out up to five books for 2 weeks. APIS books and resources can be searched anytime and anywhere by using the library website (www.apislibrary.seoul.kr). For more information on the library, please refer to the Library & Media Center section of our school website.

School Nurse APIS maintains a full-time health services office. Students who are injured or become ill will be accompanied or directed to Health Services. The school nurse is also available to respond to healthrelated questions. Should the need arise for health-related care external to APIS, the school is located near several medical clinics.

Students should only go to the nurse’s office during class time when they are too ill to remain in class.

For minor medical attention, students should see the nurse between classes or during lunch break.

Other than in the case of an emergency (vomiting, bleeding, major injury, etc.) students must check in with their teacher and receive a pass to the nurse before going to the nurse’s office. Other than those in need of emergency care, as indicated above, students arriving at the nurse’s office without a pass from their teacher will be sent back to class.

Students entering the health office will be allowed to remain there for 20 minutes. If he/she stay in the nurse's office more than 20 minutes, he/she will be counted absent from class. Students who abuse the privilege and services offered by the nurse or use the nurse’s office as a way of avoiding class may receive disciplinary action. If a student is too ill to be in class on a regular basis, parents should seek outside medical diagnosis.

Student Representative Council The Student Representative Council (SRC), which meets weekly, exists to provide an important link among the students, faculty and administration to provide a method of developing democratic leadership and citizenship. Officers are elected each spring by their peers. Homeroom reps are elected to serve the entire school year. Students are encouraged to contact their SRC representative or officers to express their views or to give suggestions concerning school programs.

Student Representative Council Officers and homeroom representatives must meet academic and behavioral eligibility rules.

Closed Campus “Closed campus” means students must remain on campus during the entire school day, including extracurricular activities. Leaving campus during the school day without properly checking- out at the school office will result in administrative action. In order to be checked out of APIS during the school day, students must present a written note to APIS School Office staff explaining the reason for leaving and signed by a parent/guardian.

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Academic Integrity In general, questions concerning the Guidelines for Academic Integrity at APIS should be addressed in light of an action which “makes a student look more academically able than he/she actually is, by using another student’s or person’s work and presenting it as his/her own.” The following statements address the questions regarding various academic situations and possible questions which students, faculty, parents, and administrators might raise for clarification. These comments are not intended to be exhaustive or cover all situations. They are intended as guidelines for working positively with each individual incident.

Acceptable behaviors

• Students working together to complete a common task (e.g. group project) • Receiving help from a parent, friend, or tutor provided that the core work is a representation of the students' own work • Properly citing resources used on assignments

Unacceptable behaviors

• Copying someone’s work and presenting it as one’s own • Copying published materials without citation and proper acknowledgment of the original author

• Permitting others to copy one’s own work • Use of unauthorized notes (cheat sheets), guides, electronic devices, or anything that gives a student an unfair advantage during a test or quiz

Administrative response to unacceptable behavior will be determined based on the individual case.

Consequences for serious instances of academic dishonesty will be stern, including the possibility of being immediately dropped from the class with a grade of “F” recorded on the transcript and in GPA.

Middle School Graduation At the end of the 8th grade year the school sponsors a graduation celebration, awards ceremonies, and other related year-end activities. It is our hope and intention that every eighth grader will participate in the exciting and meaningful events which reward their hard work and consistent effort.

Participation in these activities, however, is a privilege; every student is not automatically entitled to these activities. Final decisions on participation will be made at the end of May and take into consideration the following: Students must earn an overall average of at least a “C” (2.0 GPA) in order to be promoted.  Students with less than a "C" average may not be promoted to ninth grade.

Students are expected to maintain a consistent level of effort and production. Students 

whose grades plunge significantly, or who are identified by their teachers as having “stopped

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Academics

Middle School Student and Parent Handbook

studying,” or who develop attendance and tardiness problems may be excluded from graduation exercises.

Students are expected to treat each other with respect, to interact respectfully with all adults,  to respect the school building and grounds, and to interact respectfully as citizens of our community. Certain behaviors, such as vandalism, fighting, or the use of drugs, alcohol, or tobacco may eliminate a student from the ceremonies and activities. Persistent or flagrant disrespect to other students, adults, or to the building itself may also result in exclusion.

Credit for Advanced Courses in Middle School High school credit for high school level courses taken in Middle School prior to graduating 8th grade will not be posted to the high school transcript. Students who successfully complete such courses will, however, be eligible to proceed to the next level course in that subject. The earliest a student can participate in this is the summer after seventh grade.

Attendance APIS’s expectation is that all students will attend school each day of the school calendar year.

Furthermore, we expect students to participate fully in each day’s activities.

APIS recognizes the need for absence in case of illness or family emergency. However, excessive absences disrupt the learning environment and undermine your student’s academic progress.

Parents should call the office to report a student’s absence on the morning of the absence, or as soon as is reasonably possible, to assist the school in keeping accurate records and supporting the overall learning environment. Additionally, advance notification of student absences for unavoidable appointments needs to be communicated to the School Office whenever possible. Advance notification; however, does not excuse student absences and they will still be counted towards the total allowable absences.

Accumulating in excess of 9 period-absences in a class per semester, whether excused or unexcused, will result in a loss of credit for the course or courses involved. This policy applies to all absences except school-sponsored trips and events (i.e. class field trips and athletic events).

Extenuating circumstances surrounding excessive absences may be reviewed by school administration.

In the unlikely event that a student has exceeded the maximum 9 period absences, students will be notified that they will receive a mark of “NC” (No Credit) for that course and will be dropped from the course. If the student believes there are extenuating circumstances surrounding the excessive absences they may appeal the loss of credit as follows: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Request an attendance appeal form from the school office Set an appointment with the Principal Bring in proper documentation to support the appeal All appeals must be filed within 2 school days after notification of loss of credit All decisions regarding attendance appeals are final

APIS believes 9 period absences are more than sufficient to cover occasional illness, medical appointments, and other necessary absences. Appeals will only be reviewed in cases of significant,

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Students who receive a mark of “NC” for a course will immediately be dropped from that course and placed into a study hall on their schedule during that period. It is the expectation that all students will make up a grade of “NC” on their report card either during summer school or through APIS’s online learning community (based on an agreement between APIS administration and the family). Students that receive more than 2 grades of “NC” on their report card during high school will be mandated to meet with the Principal to discuss the student’s academic/behavior record and possible withdrawal from APIS. In order to notify students and families of excessive absences, the school is committed to supporting and contacting families in the following ways: After 3 period absences in a single course, the student and family will receive written  communication outlining attendance policies.

After 5 period absences in a single course, the student and family will receive written  communication outlining attendance policies and will be asked to meet with administration to discuss and create a plan for attendance with clear steps and goals.

After 7 period absences in a single course, the student and family will receive written  communication outlining attendance policies and will be asked to meet with administration to re-evaluate the goals and clearly explain the consequences.

After 9 period absences in a single course, the student and family will receive written  communication outlining attendance policies and will be asked to meet with administration to re-evaluate the goals and clearly explain the consequences.

At 10 period absences, the student will be immediately dropped from the course or courses involved and will receive a grade of “NC” (No Credit) on their report card and transcript.

Students diagnosed with communicable diseases must remain out of school until they have fully recovered and must present a physician’s certificate for re-admission to school. Should student’s illness last five or more consecutive days, a physician’s certificate will be required for re-admission to school.

In case of accident or sudden illness during the school day, the school health service office will make every reasonable effort to contact parents. Parents are responsible for ensuring the office is kept up-to-date with current contact information (e.g. home, office, and emergency telephone numbers). Upon the student’s return to school following an absence, the student must bring a note of explanation written and signed by the parent. The note should be presented to the school office.

Tardies (Late Arrivals) / Early Departures Learning time is precious at Asia Pacific International School. We expect every student to attend school on a regular basis, arrive on time ready to learn, and remain in class until dismissal time.

School begins at 8:10 a.m.

Accumulating in excess of 3 tardies per course, whether excused or unexcused, may result in 

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unavoidable circumstances (please note that family trips, absences due to AP/SAT tests, portfolio preparations, or other outside pursuits will be counted towards the total allowable absences).

Middle School Student and Parent Handbook

action from administration. Such action may include, but is not limited to, student detention, a meeting with parents, or in-school suspension. Tardies due to late APIS buses are not counted. Any student arriving to school after 8:10 a.m. is considered tardy and must check in at the school office. Arriving more than 20 minutes late to a class will be treated as an absence for that class.

Dismissal for any reason other than participation in an official school activity is considered an  absence and students must check-out with the school office.

Failure to properly check-out with the school office will be considered a "cut" and students  may face disciplinary actions from administration.

Students are provided adequate passing time between classes. Arriving late to class during the  day results in immediate detention.

Multiple tardies are a significant issue which can negatively impact student learning, and will result in administrative involvement.

Homework Homework is an integral part of the academic program at Asia Pacific International School, having both intrinsic and extrinsic value, and therefore can be expected for each student in all divisions of the school. Research confirms that meaningful and relevant work or activities which students are asked to complete outside of lesson/class time (homework) raise student achievement at all age levels.

The purpose of homework is to provide students with opportunities to deepen their understanding and skills relevant to the content that has been initially presented to them at school within the school day. Unless specifically directed otherwise, parents should encourage children, but not do the work for them, as an important aim of homework is to help children learn how to work independently. If a child is unable to do his/her homework independently, it means the student doesn't understand the concept yet. In this case, please notify the teacher who assigned it so that the concept can be reviewed with the student.

Amount of Homework: Homework at APIS is regularly assigned in all academic subjects and is directly related to the course curriculum. Generally, students should expect to receive on an average approximately 2-3 hours of homework per day. At exam times, however, or when large projects come due, more time will be necessary. Therefore it is important not to procrastinate with long-term projects or cram for a test you should have studied for over a period of a few days. “Due Date” does not mean “do date”.

Students who choose to take AP level courses in the future years should expect more homework daily, as these subjects are more demanding and require more time on the part of the student.

Requesting Homework When You are Sick: Students or parents may request homework from the teachers in the event a student is sick. The procedure for doing so is to contact the teacher via email to request assignments.

Additionally, teachers post daily work on their course page on PowerSchool. Students may check there for assignments when they are out sick.

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Making up Missed Work Students should check their course pages on PowerSchool and with their teacher for assignments.

Work missed and not made up will negatively impact student learning and grading so students are encouraged to make every effort to work with their teachers to make up missing assignments and lessons.

Grading System Only semester percentages are used to calculate GPA. Throughout the year, parents and students are expected to regularly check PowerSchool for up-to-date information on the student's academic progress. The letter grade equivalents for those percentages are listed below. Grade points are assigned to semester grades only according to the scales below.

Grade Point Average (GPA) The numerical equivalent of the letter grade system at APIS is as follows: Letter Grade

Percentage

GPA Weight

A+

97-100

4.33

A

93-96

4.00

A-

90-92

3.67

B+

87-89

3.33

B

83-86

3.00

B-

80-82

2.67

C+

77-79

2.33

C

73-76

2.00

C-

70-72

1.67

D+

67-69

1.33

D

63-66

1.00

D-

60-62

0.67

F

<60

0.00

Class Ranking Asia Pacific International School does not rank students.

Report Cards “Holds” on Report Cards If a student does not receive a report card, it is because he or she has a “hold” placed on distributing the report. Typical reasons for a report card being on hold might be overdue books or fines, not

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Homework Responsibilities: Students must accept the responsibility for getting work completed by the due date.

Assignments not completed by the due date normally result in a penalty and may result in a failing grade without the ability to be made up. If there are additional questions about homework, students and parents are encouraged to contact the teachers.

Middle School Student and Parent Handbook

returning textbooks to a teacher, not returning a uniform to the athletic director, etc. Once the student takes care of the reason for the hold, he/she will be issued the report card.

Grade Changes on Report Cards If it is necessary to make a change in a student’s grade, the student should talk with the teacher first.

If the teacher agrees, then it is the responsibility of the teacher to request a grade change approval from the Principal. Once this has been done, the student will receive a new copy of his/her report card.

Tests APIS teachers are expected to provide students sufficient advanced notice of significant test dates in order to help students/teachers plan effectively and to minimize the possibility of students taking too many tests in a single day. Students are encouraged to discuss any concerns or questions regarding scheduled tests with their teacher.

Standardized Testing All middle school students will take a test called Measures of Academic Progress (MAP). MAP tests will be administered each year to measure annual academic growth, as well as growth from year to year. The areas of Reading, Language Arts, and Mathematics are covered in the MAP tests.

All students will take the tests on a computer. Following each testing, parents will receive a report showing the student’s growth.

Student Progress Reporting APIS utilizes PowerSchool to communicate class assignments, homework, major projects, and other important information that will assist parents in supporting students from home. Throughout the year, parents and students are expected to regularly check PowerSchool for up-to-date information on the student's academic progress.

Learning Center The Learning Center offers the following services to middle and high school students: • afterschool help with homework and organizational skills for any student on a drop-in basis (emphasis on English, writing, math, science, and social studies) • academic help/tutoring during the school day in the Learning Center Location: APIS Library or Room 404 Student drop-in times: 3:35 to 5:30 p.m. for after-school services in the library.

Honor Roll / High Honor Roll High Honor Roll and Honor Roll are distinctions awarded to recognize students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance and commitment to their studies through positive attendance.

To earn a place on the High Honor Roll, a student must have a weighted G.P.A. of 3.65 or higher. To earn a place on the Honor Roll, a student must have a weighted G.P.A. of 3.25 up to 3.64.

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Academic Probation In the event that a student performs poorly for a semester, a student’s parents will be asked to attend a conference with administration. The administration will present the parents with their student’s progress report or report card and inform them of the concerns and conditions of Academic Probation.

In cases of student academic performance that is consistently unsatisfactory, students may be placed on Academic Probation. This takes the form of a written contract between the school, parents, and student of conditions that must be met by the student within a given time frame. If these conditions are not met, parents may be asked to withdraw the student from the school.

APIS’s Academic Probation policy makes distinctions between students who have the ability to succeed and choose not to and those who truly put forth effort in their studies, yet still do not obtain the academic results they want.

The purposes of placing a student on Academic Probation are twofold:

• To communicate the concern of the teacher(s) and administration to the students and parents.

• To formally notify the student to take greater responsibility for his or her education. Students

and their parents should regard Academic Probation as an opportunity to address some of the behaviors that interfere with the student working at or near their potential.

Academic Probation is automatically triggered by poor student performance evidenced by a combination of unsatisfactory grades and less than satisfactory “effort.”

Guidelines for a letter of Academic Probation are as follows: An initial letter of Academic Probation is issued at the end of a semester period, depending  upon the severity of the student performance.

The grades and/or probationary status of students whose parents have received a letter of 

Academic Probation will be reviewed at mid-quarter of the next grading period in order to determine progress. However, communication between the parent and school is welcome before and after the mid-quarter review.

Parents of students placed on Academic Probation for one or more semesters within a period  of one year of enrollment at APIS may be asked, after a conference with the administration, to withdraw their child from Asia Pacific International School.

All letters of Academic Probation are mailed directly or hand-delivered to the parents, with  a request for a signed copy to be returned to school for inclusion in the student’s permanent records.

Students placed on Academic Probation may not participate in non-academic extracurricular classes or activities until they reach non-probationary status as determined by the probationary contract.

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A student cannot have any grade of 72% or lower (even if the G.P.A. requirement above is still met).

Additionally, a student with less than 90% attendance in all classes is not eligible for high honor roll or honor roll. A student earning an “Incomplete” in a course will not be eligible for Honor Roll recognition until the “Incomplete” has been completed and thus turned into a numeric grade.

Middle School Student and Parent Handbook

Academic Retention Most importantly, the decision to retain should be based on the best information available that supports the premise that the student will benefit from retention by becoming more proficient in the minimum skills and competencies expected. When data does not support this, retention may be counterproductive. The final decision to retain a student will be made by the Principal with relevant supporting data and input from the parents, and faculty.

Student Guidelines Student Identification Card At the beginning of the semester, the school office will issue all new students a picture identification card. The card may be used to check out library materials. Students shall immediately report loss or theft of the card to the school office. The card can be replaced at a cost of 8,000 KRW. The plastic case and card costs 2,000 KRW and the lanyard costs 6,000 KRW.

Email APIS students use Google mail. A Google email account will be created for new APIS students at the beginning of the semester. We encourage you to explore and utilize the following useful features of Google: Google Drive is a file storage system linked to your Google account and accessible via the Internet, so files can be accessed from almost any device. On Google Drive, (Google Documents) files can be shared with people easily. Google Documents is a free web-based program which includes word processing, as well as spreadsheet and presentation software capabilities. One of the biggest advantages of Google Documents is that users can collaborate online, creating and editing documents in real time. These documents can be emailed among users as well as edited using the web interface.

More detailed information can be found on https://support.google.com/drive.

By using Google Sites, websites can be easily created and updated, allowing a variety of information to be displayed, including videos, slideshows, calendars, presentations, attachments, and text. More detailed information can be found on https://support.google.com/sites.

Students are advised to keep all passwords confidential and use email communication appropriately.

Inappropriate use of an APIS email account is grounds for disciplinary action in accordance with the APIS discipline policy.

Textbooks, Library, and School-Owned Materials/Property Students are charged a book deposit of 200,000 KRW upon enrollment.

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Lockers All secondary students are issued individual lockers and will be held accountable for responsible use and keeping their lockers clean and organized at all times. Students are required to purchase a schoolprovided combination lock from the school office. For new students, the cost is already included in their invoice. Students who lose their locks can purchase a new lock at the school office for 12,000 KRW. Before the end of the academic year, the Principal or designee will inform students when to empty their lockers.

When using lockers the following rules must be observed: Students should keep all their belongings in their lockers and keep them locked at all times.  Any items left on the top of student lockers will be removed and placed in Lost & Found.

Students should not share their lockers with other student nor share their locker combinations  with other students.

Once lockers have been assigned, students are not allowed to change lockers with other  students. If the need arises for a student to change his/her locker, the student should seek the teacher’s approval.

All damages to the locker will be the student’s responsibility and the student will be expected  to pay for any and all repair costs due to student’s negligence.

An inspection of lockers in the school may be conducted if the principal reasonably believes  that such an inspection is necessary to prevent or substantially reduce the risk of a physical injury to any person, damage to personal or school property, or a violation of law or school rules.

Lost and Found APIS is not responsible for lost or stolen items. Lost items will be placed in the Lost and Found box located in the office. Expensive items that are found will be turned into the office and not placed in the box. When expensive items such as wallets, pocketbooks or special identification cards are lost or stolen, the student should notify the teacher immediately, who in turn, notifies the office. All unclaimed items are donated to charity at the end of each quarter.

APIS English Language Policy English as the Language of Instruction and Inclusion at APIS English is the language of instruction as well as an essential part of the inclusive and collaborative learning culture at APIS. English is the language of the global community. 

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Throughout the year, students will be assigned and have access to materials and property belonging to the school. The student remains personally responsible for the careful and respectful handling and timely returning of the materials. Normal wear and tear is expected, but student will be held fully accountable for misuse and abuse. Students responsible for damage to school facilities and/ or equipment, either accidentally or wilfully, will be responsible for the repair/replacement costs associated with the damage.

Middle School Student and Parent Handbook

All language is important and should be respected. Our choice of English as the language of instruction reflects its significance and its efficacy as a linguistic medium to bridge the gap between the East and the West. While English is not the only possible language to serve this purpose, we chose English because our school was founded espousing its importance as a global language. This choice is also what motivated many of our parents to enroll their children at APIS. At the same time, we fully recognize the importance of providing continued support to improve the fluency of the students’ native languages as it is critical in developing linguistic proficiency.

For Korean (which is the host country language and is one of the three foreign language areas of instruction that we offer at APIS), we have made a concerted effort to meet the linguistic development needs of the native speakers.

In communicating with our faculty and parents about the importance of native language development, we are cautious and mindful about sending a clear message to our students and parents that our choice of English as the instructional language at APIS is not meant to discourage the use and learning of native languages at home or outside of school. With this shared understanding of language acquisition and partnership with parents about fostering native language development at home, the English focus at APIS is intended to support the multilingualism in our students.

English is a deliberate choice at APIS to develop an inclusive and collaborative social and  learning environment

Since English is a common language spoken by all members of APIS, we promote the use of English to create an inclusive social environment.

Languages carry with them powerful and pervasive cultural legacies. Languages, for example, dictate attitudes about hierarchies and power distances in relationships as well as the transmitter/ receiver orientation in communication (i.e., who bears the burden of clear communication).

For our community, we believe English is the most suitable language in promoting collaboration, a free flow of ideas, creativity, and learning.

By making a deliberate choice to adopt English as a language of instruction and inclusion, APIS is choosing to shape our tradition and organizational culture.

Expectations Students are required to speak English during all times at school, including classroom and hallways, and during recess periods.

Exceptions • During foreign language courses and Korean Enrichment programs, and when communicating with faculty members teaching foreign languages.

• Communicating at the Nurse’s office.

• Communicating with non-English speaking staff members.

• Exceptions are made for students whose English ability is developing (EAL) and for students in grades K and 1.

• When directed by faculty as a part of a learning event.

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Should a student consistently choose not to follow the APIS English Language Policy and they are able to do so, the principal will schedule a meeting with the student and the student’s parent to address the matter.

Cellular Phone Policy No cellular phones may be used during class unless a teacher gives special permission. Students may bring the cellular phone to school for security reasons, but the phone must be turned off and stored the entire time a student is in class. The student may use their cellular phones once school is dismissed either at 3:35 p.m. or after 9th period.

Consequences First offense: The cell phone is taken away by the teacher. The student may pick up the phone  at the end of the period.

Second offense: The cell phone is taken away and turned into the office. The phone may be  picked up by the student at the end of the day.

Third offense: The cell phone is taken away and turned into the office. The parents are called  to pick up the cell phone and conference with school administration.

APIS Responsible Use Policy The guidelines below apply to any and all digital devices students may be using in school. Including: smartphones, mp3 players, laptops, tablets, etc.

Technology Use Guidelines APIS uses Information Technology as one way of enhancing its mission to teach the skills, knowledge and behaviors students will need as responsible citizens in the global community. The school's technology infrastructure and network provides extraordinary opportunities to enhance student learning with a variety of technology tools and services. To ensure these resources are always available, it is imperative that all members of the learning community use technology in a manner consistent with our educational mission.

Access to the school network and the Internet is a privilege that is tied to responsibilities. The following guidelines are intended to help individual technology users understand responsible use.

The school may restrict, suspend, or terminate any user's access to the school's technology systems and network for not respecting these guidelines.

I. Technology Maintenance Each user is responsible for his/her own use of technology and should treat and use technology responsibly and appropriately. Computers and computer accessories are sophisticated devices that require care and gentle treatment to function properly; if you mistreat your device it will likely run

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Consequences for repeated offences

Middle School Student and Parent Handbook

poorly or malfunction.

A. Externally • Users are responsible at all times for taking care of their own equipment including their laptop, charger, and any other school issued devices and are strongly cautioned about leaving them unsupervised.

• Users are responsible for taking care of audio/visual equipment when in their possession.

• Users are responsible for using laptops/tablets only on tables free of food and drink.

• Users are cautioned about how they utilize their equipment during daily activities like eating, drinking, walking and traveling.

B. Internally • All attempts should be made for keeping an organized desktop and file management system.

• Students should make regular backups of their school-work.

• Students should strive to maintain appropriate bandwidth for school-related work and communication.

C. Damage • Each technology user must be responsible for keeping their laptop in working order.

• When not provided by the school, users are strongly advised to purchase an appropriately designed protective bag and/or hard shell case for the laptop to protect it from damage.

II. Ethical use of Technology Students may use digital devices in supervised areas deemed appropriate by school administration.

A. Software In order to maintain the functioning of the school's network, and to minimize APIS staff time on unnecessary repairs, technology users may not install software on APIS devices without appropriate authorization.

B. Internet As a mission driven school, the Internet should be used to promote the instructional mission of APIS. The following activities show responsible use of the Internet: • Researching • Communicating • Web-based learning applications • Responsible social networking • Educational learning networks The following activities demonstrate responsible use if part of an assigned activity or during breaks and lunch or study hall: • Listening to music • Watching movies or videos • Instant messaging, chatting, or social networking • Educational use of online games • Downloading media from the Internet Unacceptable Use: • Online gaming and downloading music/videos/software from the Internet unless explicitly

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C. Communication Tools • Each teacher will have specific policies regarding the use of technology in their classrooms.

These will include both hand-held’s (smart-phones etc.) and your laptop/tablet. These policies must be respected at all times.

• The primary purpose of APIS (Google) Mail is for school related communication that serves the teaching and learning at APIS. • Students may not send an email to (or "spam") a class, an entire grade level, or any group within the school. Such communications should be processed through a faculty member and/or posted on school announcements.

• The primary purpose of APIS Google Docs is for school related sharing and collaboration that serves the teaching and learning at APIS. • Students may not share a document with a class, an entire grade level, or any group within the school without permission of a faculty member.

• Students may use age appropriate social networks to communicate responsibly with peers.

D. Monitored Use: Uses of email and other electronic communication systems by students shall not be considered confidential and may be monitored at any time by designated staff to ensure appropriate use of educational or administrative purposes.

III. Being a Good Digital Citizen The way we use technology tools to communicate information has a powerful effect on our learning community. Responsible use will lead to better, more effective learning while irresponsible use will diminish it. A strong respect for the principles of digital citizenship is essential for us to live our mission at APIS. A. Digital Rights and Responsibilities • All digital communication should include the sender’s name.

• Forgery or attempted forgery of email messages or other electronic documents is prohibited.

• Reading, deleting, copying, or modifying any electronic documents of other users is prohibited.

• All research used in an academic work must be properly cited, including information from the Internet.

• There should be no copyright law violations with regard to software or Internet-based information. Copyright information is available in the library.

B. Privacy & Security • In order to respect the privacy of community members, technology users may not use another person's ID or password.

• Accessing other people's accounts in any form, is not allowed.

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instructed to do so by the teacher.

• The Internet provides access to information (e.g. pornographic materials, vulgarity, gambling, militant/extremist material, hate speech, etc.) that is inconsistent with APIS's mission. Users may not access, store, share, or display such information.

• Any malicious attempt to harm or destroy school technology equipment or materials, the data of another user, or any of the institutions, or other networks that are connected to the Internet is prohibited.

Middle School Student and Parent Handbook

C. Digital Etiquette • Any online communication should be something you could say in person: this includes emails, instant messages, digital images/videos, or web postings.

• Use networks responsibly; only use those networks which you have legal access to.

• Be aware that anything posted on the Internet is permanent.

D. Communication • Derogatory, obscene, or otherwise inappropriate email exchanges, instant messages, digital images, or web postings are considered cyberbullying and are prohibited.

• Any form of cyber-bullying will be dealt with swiftly and may carry severe consequences.

IV: Consequences Deliberate attempts to violate APIS's Responsible Use Policy, compromise, degrade, or 

disrupt system performance may result in restricted use of digital devices at school or other appropriate consequences.

APIS may limit, suspend or revoke a student's access to the school's technology systems or  the network upon violation of the Responsible Use Policy.

Independent access to the Internet is provided to students who agree to act in a considerate  and responsible manner. Access is a privilege, not a right. Access entails responsibility.

Students will be responsible for their actions on the Internet and will be held accountable  according to the APIS Code of Conduct and the laws of Korea. APIS will assume no liability in the case of illegal activity on the part of a student.

V: Disciplinary Action First violation will result in loss of Internet access for an indefinite period of time and 

possible suspension from school.

Second violation will mean additional disciplinary action. Depending on the severity of the  violation, this may result in permanent loss of access to both the Internet and the Intranet, as well as suspension from school, in accordance with the APIS Discipline Policy.

Students and their families will be liable for any financial damages resulting from misuse  of the Internet at APIS. When applicable, the police may be involved.

APIS may limit, suspend or revoke a student's access to the school's technology systems or the network upon violation of the Responsible Use Policy.

Extracurricular Activities APIS firmly believes in the importance of extracurricular activities and the role they play in the development of a well-rounded student. We believe that activities help students to develop character, responsibility, dedication and they provide many life lessons.

As APIS continues to grow, it is our desire to provide our students many choices of activities to participate in.

All students are encouraged to participate in activities sponsored by APIS. Extracurricular participation is extended to all students as a privilege, not a right. Our goal at APIS is to seek successful student participation in the extracurricular programs. Inherent in this are specific

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In order to be part of an APIS activity, you and your parents agree to follow the conditions listed below: • Student-athletes and Forensics competitors must maintain a minimum 2.00 GPA from the previous quarter with no “F” to be eligible to participate interscholastically.

• Failure to maintain this average will remove you from the team/club until the next semester progress report reflect your GPA is 2.00 or above with no F.

Field Trips Field trips may be arranged by any teacher or team whose curriculum content suggests that students will benefit from an out-of-school learning experience.

Field trips are a privilege and are therefore earned by students through appropriate study and behavior. Teachers will explain these expectations to students so each student may earn the right to attend the field trip. If a teacher or administrator has determined that a student has not earned the privilege of attending a field trip or could be detrimental to the success of the field trip, the student is still expected to attend school on the day of the trip.

An appropriate alternate assignment will be provided and the student will be supervised by an adult while in school. Appropriate behavior is expected and all school rules remain in effect during the field trip. Inappropriate behavior will result in disciplinary measures, which may include the possible loss of future trip privileges.

Students are required to have a permission slip signed by a parent before participating in the field trip and parents are responsible for the entrance/admission fees and lunch for the student, when applicable.

Behavioral Expectations APIS fosters a positive school climate where all students have the right to learn. Students are expected to understand and respect:

• • • • •

school community agreements the rights of the teacher to teach the class and be free from distractions other students’ right to learn and be free from bullying and harassment individual differences and the diversity of our cultures every student’s desire to participate and be welcomed into the APIS family

All students are expected to maintain high behavioral standards where self-discipline is practiced as a norm. This behavior applies to both inside and outside the classroom regardless of whether or not an adult is present.

Bullying

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expectations, rules, and responsibilities the student must adhere to and follow for the duration of the activity.

Middle School Student and Parent Handbook

Bullying is defined as intentional, repeated, one-sided hurtful acts, words, or other behavior committed against another student. It is hurting or threatening to hurt another person, excluding others by leaving them out of a group of friends, or spreading gossip or rumors about another student. Teasing, saying mean things, and name-calling can also be a form of bullying. APIS is a respectful and tolerant school and is one in which students include others in play, build each other up with words and actions, and listen to each other to understand differences.

Here are some examples of physical, emotional or social bullying, in three escalating levels.

Level 1 examples • Making threatening gestures • Teasing publicly about clothes, looks, and so on • Insulting gestures • Ignoring someone and excluding them from a group with the intent to cause sadness Level 2 examples • Verbal abuse and swearing • Threatening physical harm • Defacing school work or other personal property • Harassing phone calls, emails, text messages, and/or any online social networking mediums • Insulting size, intelligence, athletic ability, race, color, religion, ethnicity, and so on • Posting slander in public places such as writing derogatory comments about someone • Playing mean tricks to embarrass someone Level 3 examples • Making graphic threats verbally or through email, text messaging, and/or any online social networking mediums • Physical harm, such as hitting, kicking, pinching, and/or other acts to inflict pain or intimidation • Practicing extortion • Destroying personal property • Harassing - or writing graffiti - with bias against race, color, ethnicity, and so on • Enforcing total group exclusion against someone by threatening others if they don’t comply

Consequences of Bullying Bullying is not tolerated in any form at APIS. If students are caught bullying, the following consequences apply: Level 1 Offense: Student reviews bullying policy with classroom teacher. Teacher completes  a Discipline Referral Form and adds to student file in the office. Parents of the victim will be notified.

Level 2 Offense: Student reviews bullying policy with the Principal. Student calls parents at  home to explain their poor choices/behavior. Principal completes a Discipline Referral Form and adds to student’s file. Parents of the victim and the agressor will be notified.

Level 3 Offense: Principal calls parents at home to explain student’s poor choices/behavior.  Principal completes a Discipline Referral Form and adds to student’s file. A meeting is scheduled with the student, parents, teacher, and Principal.

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Public Displays of Affection APIS is dedicated to a Christ-centered learning environment where students feel safe to discover their potential. Wholesome and God-pleasing relationships among our students are encouraged.

A public display of affection (PDA) is defined as any action which implies an exclusive or romantic relationship between two individuals. While we recognize that special relationships may exist, we also believe that these special friendships deepen the need for restraint and discipline. Public display of affection (PDA), during school hours and at school sponsored events are not allowed.

If teachers or administrators observe a public display of affection, the students will initially receive a warning and counseling regarding the concerns. Persistent warnings will result in disciplinary actions and a conference with the administration and parents.

Drug, Alcohol, and Tobacco Policies The use or possession of non-prescribed drugs, tobacco products or alcohol by a student enrolled at Asia Pacific International School is strictly prohibited on campus or at school-related activities, whether at school or at a different location. The school reserves the right to require a student to submit to a drug test, at the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s expense, at any time.

Smoking APIS is a smoke-free zone by local code. Smoking is strictly prohibited anywhere on campus.

Smoking is a major misbehavior for students and consequences will follow any violation.

Sports Equipment Sports equipment (i.e. soccer balls, basketballs, tennis rackets, etc.) are not permitted in classrooms.

These items should be stored in student lockers.

Gymnasium and Auditorium Etiquette Part of any good education, learned at home or in school, is how to behave appropriately in various social or cultural situations. Gymnasium and Auditorium etiquette may differ from time to time depending on the nature of the event. For example, shouting at a concert is inappropriate, while totally appropriate at a basketball game. In all situations, however, all students and spectators should be respectful to performers, athletes, coaches, and other spectators. Students are to remember that they represent and are ambassadors of APIS. Any student or spectator that infringes on the rights of others may be reminded of appropriate behavior and/or asked to leave the venue.

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The administration reserves the right to amend any or all of these policies where a particular behavior is deemed to merit a more appropriate consequence from which is listed above.

Middle School Student and Parent Handbook

Disciplinary Actions Warning For minor discipline issues, teachers will give verbal warnings to students. If the teacher feels it necessary, he/she may fill out a discipline referral and report the student to the office. The Principal or designee will conference with the student to review the discipline policy and area of concern.

Detention Teachers may ask students to stay during lunch or after school in the case of repeated minor discipline issues or a major offense. If a student has consistent problems with completing homework or class work, teachers may require the student to stay in at recess and lunch.

Suspension In the case of major offenses, the Principal may suspend the student from school for a determined period of time.

In-School Suspension (ISS): Students are separated from their classmates and spend the day  working on an individual project. In some cases, if specifically requested by the teacher, students may work on classroom activities during the ISS. Out-of-School Suspension (OSS): Should the major offense be severe or repeated behavior, an  out of school suspension is issued. Students are required to stay with their parents at home or in their place of business. Students who receive an OSS will not be allowed to make up tests, quizzes, projects or homework given during their suspension.

Explusion Students not deemed fit for continued enrollment by reason of extraordinary misbehavior, including a single, major misbehavior episode, may at the sole discretion of the Principal, in consultation with the Director, become subject to immediate expulsion from school. Expelled students will not be considered for readmission.

The following list is an example of offenses. This list is not all-inclusive and should not be taken as such. Consequences for these offenses can range from a verbal warning to expulsion.

Examples of Minor Offenses: • Disturbing or disrupting class • Running in hallways • Gum chewing • Eating or drinking in class • Violating the school uniform policy • Arriving tardy to class Examples of Major Offenses: • Repeated minor offenses • Excessive tardies or absences • Cheating • Refusal to speak English • Disrespect/disobedience to teacher • Skipping or cutting class • Leaving school without signing out with the office

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Lying to school personnel Swearing or abusive language Damage to school property Bullying or fighting Harassment of any form, including cyber harassment and bullying Stealing or extortion Possessing contraband (including, but not limited to tobacco, alcohol, drugs, weapons, fireworks, inappropriate printed materials)

Detention policies and procedures: 2nd detention: parent is informed of detention process by the school office  3rd detention: parent is informed and a meeting is setup with administration 4th detention: 

in-school suspension; administration/parent/student conference 5th detention: in-school suspension; administration/parent/student conference

6th - 7th detentions: out-of-school suspension; administration/parent/student/counselor/  conference

8th or more detentions: out-of-school suspension; possible referral for expulsion/withdrawal  *Consequences for disciplinary actions may be increased or decreased at the discretion of administration. *The detention record will reset after each quarter.

Health/ Emergency Physical Examination and Medical History Requirements All newly enrolled students are required to submit the APIS medical history form prior to student’s first day of enrollment. Immunization records indicating up to date vaccinations must be on file in Health Services. Medical history will be provided directly by parent using APIS’s standard medical history form.

Required Immunizations Prior to the first day of enrollment at APIS, students must be fully immunized against the following: diphtheria / tetanus / pertussis (DTP), measles / mumps / rubella (MMR), polio, hepatitis B, and any immunizations required by law. All students must have current and up-to-date immunizations in order to participate in school.

Returning students should also contact Health Services to ensure their immunization record is upto-date, especially for the following: • Students 14 to 16 years of age : booster vaccine against diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis All students must have a proof of vaccination to attend school. Students who begin the school year in August have until the end of October to be compliant with their immunizations. Students who cannot

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• • • • • • •

Middle School Student and Parent Handbook

be vaccinated due to special medical conditions, or whose parents conscientiously object to vaccinate, may require legal exemption. The school nurse will contact parents soon after the beginning of the school year to address issues of compliance where immunizations may be missing.

Contact Health Services for assistance with accessing immunizations or information on exemptions.

Tuberculosis Testing Requirements In addition to the immunizations above, a TB test (Mantoux or PPD) is required of each student prior to the first day of enrollment. If the TB test is positive, certification by a physician of a negative chest x-ray is required.

Student Illness A doctor’s note is required for all absences.

A student who is diagnosed to have a communicable or contagious disease should be kept at home until fully recovered. A doctor’s certificate is needed in order to return to school. We also believe that if a student is sick, they should stay home.

A student should stay home if they show any of the following symptoms:

• Fever of over 100.4°F (38°C) - A students may return to school once they have been fever-free • • • • • • • • •

for a full 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medication.

Experienced vomiting or diarrhea in the previous 24 hours Severe coughing causing “croupy” sounds Severe wheezing or respiratory distress Yellowish tint to the skin or eyes (jaundice) Red, inflamed, swollen or discharging eyes (not related to allergies) Unusual spots or rashes of unknown origin Infected areas of skin with yellow crusty areas Severe headache, stomachache, and/or vomiting Unusual behavior (crankiness, listlessness, crying more than usual, obvious general discomfort)

Student Need for Medication Students may not self-medicate while on school property. Administration of any medication to any student, whether medication be over-the-counter or prescription, requires written permission from parent. Medications will be administered only under the following conditions: • Parents must furnish a written statement from the physician regarding any prescription medication to be administered. Physician’s written statement must include prescribed dosage and administration time.

• Parent must provide written inventory as to amount and type of medication (prescription or nonprescription). Note must include expressed permission in writing to administer said medication.

• Only the school nurse or another person designated by the Principal is permitted to administer

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Medical Exemption from Physical Education Students must provide a doctorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s note to be exempted and excused from physical education class. At the discretion of the administration, students who wish to be exempt from PE and related activities due to medical reasons will be required to obtain an excuse note from the doctor.

Emergency Information APIS requires current emergency medical and contact information for every student. APIS maintains an Emergency Medical Card on file for this purpose. Required up-to-date information includes name and contact telephone numbers (home and workplace) of both parents and telephone numbers (home and workplace) of two persons responsible for their student when neither parent can be reached.

Emergency Procedures What are those air raid sirens? National emergencies?

The nation of Korea is very security conscious and holds occasional air-raid drills, often on the 15th of the month. If you are not in school when the air raid siren sounds, you should go indoors and follow the directions of the Korean authorities.

In the unlikely event that school has to be closed due to a national emergency, students using the school buses would normally be sent home as usual. Those not using the bus would be dismissed to walk home or would be allowed to call home. APIS works closely with the U.S. embassy to keep evacuation plans up-to-date. We do not expect emergencies; however, we must plan for them as remote as their possibility might be.

In cases of emergency, APIS will utilize radio and television resources as well as posting all information on our website (www.apis.org). We will additionally attempt to utilize email and cellular phone contacts for parents.

If students are in school when an emergency happens, APIS will NOT attempt to transport students home. For a period of time the students will be kept at school awaiting the arrival of parents to pick their students up. (Please note: we will only release your students to whom you have designated on your emergency information sheet).

Fire Drills Directions for fire evacuation are posted in each classroom. Students must move quickly and silently to their assigned exit. Teachers accompany their students. The signal for a drill to begin is a long, continuous ring of the fire alarm. If the fire bell sounds between periods or during lunch, students are to go immediately to their homeroom gathering point. Several unannounced drills will be conducted during the school year.

Inclement Weather 37

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medication.

Middle School Student and Parent Handbook

A school day may be cancelled in the event of extraordinary weather conditions, such as rain, snow, and yellow dust. Such events rarely occur, but should they occur, the school will make every reasonable effort to contact parents by 6:30 a.m. that morning. An announcement will also appear on PowerSchool.

APIS Parents Communication with Parents Communication between the home and school is one of the many keys to success for the students. At APIS we encourage an open line of communication. In the elementary division we use a variety of online communication tools as well as our student management program PowerSchool. All parents will be given information on how to access PowerSchool.

Teacher – Parent The elementary school uses a number of methods to communicate with parents. Report cards and progress reports are sent home quarterly. Each homeroom class uses a number of online communication tools where teachers provide weekly updates on class and school activities.

Classroom teachers will share specific communication tool details to class parents upon admission.

Emails and phone calls will be used for communication with individual students and families. If a teacher needs to communicate with a parent in regards to a specific issue, the teacher may write a note in the student agenda, call the parent on the phone, or arrange a personal meeting with the parent on campus. Translation will be provided for the parents that do not speak English or do not feel comfortable speaking in English.

School – Parent A monthly newsletter, the APIS Update, containing news relevant to all families is posted on the website.

Parent – Teacher There are several ways to communicate with your teachers, such as writing notes, phone calls, email and personal meetings. If a parent needs to speak with a teacher, the best way is to email the teacher or make an appointment through the school office. Parents are not allowed to enter the classrooms when class is in session and it is very difficult for teachers to give parents their full attention should a parent just “drop-in.”

Parent Teacher Conferences Conferences are held in October and March. The students are to attend these conferences with their parents. Students, their parent(s) and the teachers will examine the student’s successes, goals and areas in need of improvement. All conferences are conducted in English. An interpreter will be provided for parents upon request.

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All outstanding schools count on positive parent participation. Parent involvement is held in high esteem at Asia Pacific International School. The following is a general illustration of possible parent volunteer opportunities at APIS. Throughout the school year, there may also be additional events and activities that are not included on the list. If you are interested in partnering with us, we encourage you to contact our school office. Additionally, we have Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) which will be looking for volunteers.

Volunteer opportunities requiring yearly commitment: • Regular classroom helper • Library parent • Room parent or "Room Mother" Volunteer opportunities requiring task commitment: • Fund-raising events, book fair, cultural events • School-sponsored events Volunteer opportunities requiring a one-time commitment: • Seasonal classroom celebrations • Field trip chaperone • Guest speakers • Assisting one of the fundraisers or school events

Field Trip Chaperone Guidelines Teachers frequently request that parents attend classroom field trips to assist as chaperones. Following are guidelines for parents when they chaperone a school-sponsored field trip.

Since field trips involve a large group of children, always try to think in terms of “What if  every child did this?” Insist on respectful, responsible, and safe behavior at all times.

It is easy for grown-ups to socialize and forget that they are the most helpful when they help 

supervise the students and reinforce expectations. The trip is far more enjoyable if the adults share the job of setting limits as needed.

If a particular child does not respond to parent requests, the parent should inform the teacher.  There is often a tendency for a parent to hover around his/her own child. Parent chaperones  are the most helpful when they assist with all the students and not just their own child.

Procedure for Parent Concerns APIS is committed to open communication and problem solving. When conflicts and/or concerns arise. parents are asked to go directly to the faculty member and attempt to resolve the concern. Both parties should be open to hearing the other’s point of view. For those parents with limited Englishspeaking abilities, a translator will be provided. Most of the time, resolution can be reached at this step.

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Parent Involvement

Middle School Student and Parent Handbook

If the faculty member and parent cannot successfully resolve the concern, then either party may request that the Principal help in facilitating the efforts to resolve the concern with the best interest of the student in mind. Our goal is to maintain open and positive communication between home and school so that our students can be successful learners.

Procedure for Early Departure To maintain a safe and secure environment, students at APIS may not leave school grounds during the school day without a parent or guardian contacting the office to check them out. Parents or guardians who need students to leave campus during the school day must send a written permission note with the child to the teacher. The teacher will then dismiss the student at the appropriate time and send him/her to the office where they must sign out. Failure to appropriately sign out will be treated as a cut.

Guardianship and Student Living Requirements All students attending APIS must live with at least one parent while enrolled. The Principal may make exceptions upon receipt of a written request from the parents, designating a guardian satisfactory to the school.

Change of Address Please notify the office of any change of address or phone number as soon as it occurs so that parents/ guardians can be contacted in an emergency. Failure to do so may place your child and the school at risk of not being able to contact someone when needed.

Visitor Policy Parents and adult community members are permitted to visit the school. APIS studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; school-age friends who are not APIS students may not visit school at any time during the school day. Parents and adult community members who wish to visit for any reason must contact the school office prior to arrival. Visitors, upon arrival at school, must check in and obtain a Visitor Pass. The pass must be displayed at all times and returned to the office upon departure.

Photography and Videotaping From time to time, APIS uses photographs and video footage of our students in school publications for school related purpose. Should you have concerns with the use of your student's picture, please contact the Principal in writing.

Other

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All letters of recommendation requests must be submitted directly to the school office. They are not to be submitted directly to teachers. The Principal will disseminate all recommendation requests to teachers. Recommendation forms, particularly of the boarding school variety, typically are openended and labor intensive. In order to respect the time of the teachers, please allow two weeks for completion of these forms. APIS reserves the right to limit the number of recommendations provided for any one student.

Withdrawal from APIS Policy Parents are expected to make a good faith effort to contact APIS within two weeks of intention to withdraw their student. This lead time allows reasonable time to prepare the student’s transcript and other records. Official student transcripts will be mailed directly by APIS to the student’s receiving school. Official transcripts cannot be transmitted by a parent or any other third party.

Students are required to submit a completed check-out form as a condition of withdrawal. All obligations including full payment of outstanding fees and tuition must be met before school records will be released. Refunds will only be made in accordance with the school’s tuition and fees refund policy.

Non-refundable fees include: • Application Procedure Fees • Registration Fees • The USD Portion of the Tuition • Any payment made with the installment plan When tuition and fees are paid in full, refunds will be made in accordance with the following schedule Withdrawal Refund Schedule Date of Withdrawal Until 7/31/2016 8/1/2016 ~ 8/14/2016 8/15/2016 ~ 9/16/2016 9/17/2016 ~ 10/14/2016 10/15/2016 ~ 12/16/2016 12/17/2016 ~ 3/24/2017 3/25/2017 ~ 6/10/2017

Refund of Tuition (KRW Portion Only) & Bus Fees 80% of the annual tuition and 90% of bus fees 75% of the annual tuition and 80% of bus fees 70% of the annual tuition and 70% of bus fees 60% of the annual tuition and 60% of bus fees 40% of the annual tuition and 40% of bus fees 20% of the annual tuition and 20% of bus fees 0% of the annual tuition and bus fees

* The above schedule applies only to the tuition & fees paid in full. * The USD portion of the tuition is NOT subject to refund or discount. * No refunds will be given in the event of a large-scale withdrawal due to a major disaster such as war, civil strife, labor unrest, or a natural disaster.

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Letters of Recommendation: Boarding Schools

Asia Pacific International School Elementary School Academic Year 2015-2016

Parent/Student Handbook Acknowledgment Form

Please complete and return the following form to your classroom teacher.

Studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Name (please print)

Grade Parentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Name (please print) Our signatures indicate that we understand and agree to abide by all policies and school agreements set forth in the Asia Pacific International School Elementary School Parent/Student Handbook.

Student's Signature Date Parent's Signature Date

2016 - 2017

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