Chapel School Faculty Handbook
Statement of Philosophy
The School of Mary Immaculate, fondly known as Chapel School, is a Catholic, value-centered international school We bring together students and staff from many countries and of many religions Our diverse student body thrives in the three-fold curriculum we offer: American, Brazilian, and International Baccalaureate Our curricular structure and pedagogical approach are especially geared to prepare learners for universities and life in the United States, Brazil, and the world beyond
To achieve this, we have developed rigorous, multidimensional curricula and provide various activities that support our students' intellectual, social, emotional, and physical growth. Additionally, we invest heavily in professional development and support teachers and staff so they can confidently promote learner success We work collaboratively and foster an environment that is positive, always assuming good intentions
Chapel believes that beyond striving for academic excellence, parents, administrators, teachers, students, and staff should come together to reach out and enable others to grow to their full potential as well We believe in a shared humanity and see each and every person as unique and valuable Stakeholders are called upon to contribute to building a more just and peaceful world. We are committed to education that instills social responsibility, ethical behavior, and respect for all beliefs.
At Chapel School, we take on the challenge of preparing young men and women so they are willing and able to make difficult choices Concerned with moral leadership, we hold a vital role in developing knowledgeable, critical minds that value humanity Revised in July 2025
1. Our Guiding Statements
Our Mission
In a caring and academically challenging environment, Chapel provides an American-style education to an international student body Through Christian values, students learn to make informed decisions, to own responsibility for personal actions and community needs, and to respect life and cultural diversity.
Our Shared Vision
Engage Challenge Support Care Prepare students for life
Our Motto Faith in Education
Our Definition of Internationalism
Chapel School is an accepting and inclusive environment that respects and embraces cultural uniqueness and diversity. We seek to create an open-minded community while making connections between different perspectives, beliefs, and nationalities to promote a sustainable future in all its dimensions.
Revised in July 2025
Our Shared Understanding of High-Quality Learning
At Chapel School, learning is a collaborative and personal journey, crafted to suit the needs and strengths of each student. Rooted in research-based best practices and grounded in international and national curricula, our approach to learning encompasses a holistic view of student growth.
Learning extends beyond academic knowledge It embraces the spiritual, socioemotional, cognitive, and physical dimensions of student development. Our learning process nurtures life skills while fostering critical and creative thinking, communication, and collaboration
By cultivating a sense of responsibility and belonging, we empower our students to become active contributors to their communities Learning has a higher purpose to positively impact society
Our Learning Principles
Engage: Learning is active and interactive
● Collaborative and hands-on tasks spark curiosity and creativity, placing students at the center of the learning process.
● Personalized student goal-setting helps learners develop autonomy and ownership of their achievements.
● An inquiry-based curriculum, guided by essential questions, encourages students to identify and pursue their interests and passions.
Challenge: Learning is unique and challenging
● Teachers differentiate instruction to help all students acquire knowledge, skills, and dispositions that they can apply to different contexts and content areas
● High expectations for learning foster student engagement, leading learners to achieve their full potential
Revised in July 2025
Support: Learning is inclusive and accepting
● Our sense of community establishes a safe, judgement-free, and caring environment that leads students to take risks and advance at their own pace
● Developmentally appropriate practices allow us to meet students where they are and foster growth for all
● Diverse cultures and perspectives are valued by our curriculum, teaching, learning, and community events
Care: Learning cultivates a sense of self and others
● The intentional teaching of social-emotional skills nurtures a positive learning environment where strong relationships are built
● The learning community practices empathy, allowing students to express their ideas while understanding and respecting the ideas and perspectives of others
Prepare Students for Life: Learning shapes the future
● Chapel education prepares students to make informed decisions in order to make a positive impact on society.
● Meaningful connections made in the classroom develop lifelong learners.
● Students acquire life skills that equip them to thrive in an ever-changing world
Our Ideological and Party-Political Position Statement
Diversity and Inclusion are fundamental pillars and are part of our institution’s guiding principles The plurality of opinions, beliefs, and cultures is welcome at our school However, this does not invite ideological and party-political campaigning in the school environment or events promoted by Chapel, whether explicit or implicit
To preserve a neutral and more conducive learning environment, we respectfully request everyone’s collaboration to avoid ideological and political-party campaigning of any nature within the school
It is up to us to preserve a neutral school environment for everyone We count on the support of our community so that together, we can provide a welcoming space for parents, teachers, students, and employees
2. Child Protection and Well-being at Chapel School
Policy Statement
Chapel School believes that because children can be vulnerable to different forms of abuse, great care must be taken in ensuring that all our students are protected and advocated for To guide us in this most important mission we refer to international recommendations from the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, the International Centre for Missing and Exploited Children as well as Brazilian laws stated in the Estatuto da Criança e do Adolescente. At Chapel School, all adults are responsible for not only protecting all children enrolled, but also working towards their ultimate well-being. To do this, we will take all measures necessary.
Foundational Beliefs
For all effects and purposes, the term child refers to any human being under 18 years of age
Our core child protection beliefs are based on the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) These beliefs are rooted in the natural rights of the child and include:
● all adults are responsible for preventing abuse,
● children cannot consent to abuse, and
● children have a right to agency and to voice their opinion
The Guiding Principles of Child Protection and Well-being at Chapel School
The duty to protect and advocate for children takes precedence over all other duties We will spare no effort in order to keep children safe both at school and elsewhere This includes working with all children that may be at risk or have been affected, ensuring the continuity of education delivery and providing support services, always taking actions that are truly in the best
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interest of the child We will take into account the child’s wishes, whenever possible in making decisions We also recognize that the ultimate decision lies with parents and/or guardians and will work with them closely, unless to do so might jeopardize the welfare of a child When needed we will work across agencies and go beyond institutional boundaries to protect and advocate for the well-being of children
The Child Protection Handbook can be accessed at the link below Child Protection Handbook 2025
3. Safety on Campus
Chapel School is privileged to be on a gated and fenced campus Security guards are stationed at the entrance gate, at the exit gate, and inside the campus. All divisional offices maintain radio contact with the school's security throughout the day. In addition, our campus is monitored by surveillance cameras 24 hours a day. All the external perimeter, walls, and entrance and exit gates have surveillance cameras. The fact that we are on land resembling a valley also provides an additional safety measure, as the entrance and exit access to the gates and school buildings is challenging. In addition, the military police visit the school daily and park their car inside our campus for a period of the day.
We are in contact with our Regional Security Officer at the American Consulate, and they provide Chapel with continuous security recommendations when necessary
Inside the main building, we have student monitors who supervise all hallways, walk everywhere, redirect students' behavior, and refer them to the offices if they notice any behavior that calls their attention. All staff members are vigilant and attentive to any signs that require immediate intervention and notification to families.
Closed Gates
To control the presence of outsiders on campus, security personnel maintain the gates closed after student arrival and dismissal times We ask that all parents and their staff members roll down their windows when driving through the school gates, as this assists our security in identifying the vehicle and people inside the car
Car Stickers
All staff and family vehicles are issued stickers to identify the cars driving into our campus. Car stickers must be of the current school year and displayed on the driver's side of the front window.
in July 2025
All vehicles without these stickers are verified and redirected to the divisional offices to obtain the sticker
Families and Visitors on Campus
All family vehicles or visitors arriving at Chapel throughout the day are announced, ensuring access to school premises is granted only upon authorization. In addition, all visitors on campus are registered at the entrance gate and issued an identifying ID and entrance authorization. These visitors are signed out at the end of their visit.
in July 2025
4. Our Pedagogical Approach
At Chapel, our pedagogical approach places the student at the forefront of learning Students engage in collaborative activities in every classroom, delving into research, sharing insights, and analyzing information to enhance their academic and social competencies.
Our curriculum aligns with the Common Core standards for the American Elementary and High School curriculum, the GOLD Standards in the ECEC, and the BNCC (Base Nacional Comum Curricular) for the Brazilian curriculum in ECEC, Elementary School, and High School Additionally, in Elementary School and High School, we follow the AERO Standards for Social Studies and the NGSS Standards for Science In 11th and 12th Grades, we offer the IB Diploma program
Furthermore, we integrate the Responsive Classroom program (RC), which prioritizes students' emotional development alongside their academic progress All Chapel students participate in daily Morning Meetings/Advisory From Pre II to 6th Grade, we offer a weekly interactive lesson to develop social-emotional competencies The Caring and Sharing Meetings in ECEC and CARES in Elementary School focus on fostering cooperation, assertion, responsibility, empathy, and self-regulation skills.
4.1 Our Curriculum
4.1.1 Overview
Chapel School has a robust and well-documented curriculum encompassing four curricula: American, Brazilian, IB-International Baccalaureate, and socioemotional Chapel ensures that the curriculum remains vertically and horizontally aligned across academic sections This is done by a series of leadership meetings and scheduling that allows for common planning periods for academic areas
The Curriculum Review Cycle evaluates the impact of the current curriculum, promoting continuous reflection and constant improvement of teaching and learning This framework Revised in July 2025
encourages an ongoing opportunity for the Chapel learning community to think deeply about the written, taught, and assessed curriculum based on research, data, and daily school life
4.1.2 Purpose
This intentional and strategic review framework seeks to provide a robust, responsive, current curriculum per Chapel’s Shared Understanding of Learning. The purpose is to ensure that educational programs in our daily practices are regularly assessed, refined, and updated to align with research-based best practices and the needs of our learners. This systematic process should reflect the desire to dive deeper into the current reality of our learning community, envision the impactful changes we want in our future, and build a concrete plan to achieve such transformational aspirations.
The Curriculum Review Cycle can be accessed at the link below
CRC - Curriculum Review Cycle [24-25]
4.1.3
Student Support System Policy
The Student Support System can be accessed at the link below Chapel School | Student Support System Policy (Revised 2024)
5. General Expectations
Chapel has established specific rules and guidelines to ensure our community's smooth operation
5.1 Attendance
5.1.1 Teacher Work Day
Mondays: The teacher’s workday starts at 8:00 a m and ends at 4:30 p m
Tuesdays-Fridays: The teacher’s workday begins at 8:00 a m and ends at 3:10 p m
Time Clock: Attendance is monitored by a time clock located in the staff lounge, which records the arrival and departure times. Each staff member must personally log their time of arrival and departure. Therefore, we request that you use your clock card to clock in and out daily at the beginning and end of the workday, not exceeding the tolerance of 5 minutes in the clocking (5 minutes tolerance on entry and exit). This tolerance is limited to 10 minutes daily.
Class Start Time: Classes and instruction are expected to begin promptly at 8:00 a m
5 1 2 Special Events
Attendance: Teachers are encouraged to attend various school functions throughout the year. Attendance at Back-to-School/Open House and Parent/Teacher Conferences is mandatory
Event Planning: Any activity involving parents and/or guest speakers must be approved in advance, properly scheduled, and documented through the appropriate requisition forms and the Google All School Calendar (GASC). Always consult your building administrator for approval Revised in July 2025
before planning the event
The Senior Secretary manages the GASC.
Space Booking: Activities requiring common spaces such as the Auditorium, Meeting Room, or Covered Gym must be booked directly with the Senior Secretary at cida@chapelschool.com. The Elementary Library can be reserved through the school librarian but must receive final approval from the Elementary School Office.
Chaperone Requirement: Activities requiring a chaperone or teacher presence must be listed on the Google All School Calendar, and teachers must submit requisitions to ensure appropriate security and communication
5.1.3 Requesting Absences
Absence Request Form: Teachers may request absences for certain circumstances through the Absence Request Form (see Appendix), which must be submitted in advance to the divisional office.
Restrictions: Absences may not be requested to extend weekends, holidays, or vacation periods.
5.1.4 Leaving Campus During School Hours
Teachers are permitted to run errands off campus during their lunch break; however, they must inform their Divisional Office beforehand. If planning time is scheduled after lunch, they must return to campus on time for the planning block rather than extending their lunch hour. Should they teach immediately after lunch and anticipate being late, they must notify the Divisional Office promptly to make the necessary arrangements.
The school relies on teachers' efficiency in managing their time and ensuring they return to campus as scheduled, which is essential for smooth school operations.
In the ECEC/ES divisions, assistants should never be left alone with students while a teacher is off campus This responsibility cannot be delegated to the assistants If teachers need to leave,
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the Divisional Office will ensure another teacher is available to take responsibility for the class
If a teacher must leave campus due to a scheduled appointment with the Business Office, they must still inform the Divisional Office Communication with one office does not replace the need to communicate with the other Active communication with the Divisional Office prevents misunderstandings and ensures student safety.
When we refer to the Divisional Office, we mean the secretaries
5.1.5 Student Dismissal Procedures
Safety Priority: Safety is our priority, and vigilance is crucial, especially during student dismissal.
Procedures: Follow the student dismissal procedures for your section precisely, consistently, and diligently throughout the year to ensure students are released only to authorized persons on the student information system (PlusPortals)
Missing Student Protocol: If a student is missing, immediately alert your building administrator, secretary, and nearest security personnel This will trigger a Gate Lock Down and Search Procedure
School Attendance and Dismissal Procedures
Attendance Procedures:
The attendance procedures for students can be accessed at the link below
ECEC/ ES Plus PortalsAttendance Procedures forTeachers andAssistants (Updat…
ECEC/ES Student Absences: All emails or communication with families about sickness is forwarded to the nurse's office for assessment If a student is absent for two consecutive days, the classroom teacher must contact the family by phone or email to check on the student's well-being
in July 2025
HS Student Absences: Teacher must contact the office to check on the student's well-being. If the student absent for two consecutive classes.
If the absence is due to illness, the nurse should be informed to follow up as needed.
It's important to monitor absences closely Prompt communication with families can help prevent the spread of illnesses among students.
Dismissal Time
ECEC/ES teachers are expected to:
Request Orderly Line-Up: Ask parents/authorized adults to stand in line for an orderly dismissal procedure
Stand by Classroom Door: Position themselves by the classroom door.
Sign-Out Process: The teacher standing at the door is the gatekeeper, who hands the sign-out book to the authorized adult, who will sign out the child they are picking up. This includes van monitors.
Call Child by Name: Call the child by name while the authorized adult signs out the child
Individual Dismissal: Dismiss children one by one instead of calling groups of children (e g , “van kids, after-school kids”)
Always Call by Name: Always call each individual child by name
Van Dismissal: Children who go by van will be dismissed only after all parents/authorized adults standing in line are attended to.
Confirm Identity: Ensure the child leaving the room is the child signed out by the authorized adult
Document Unusual Pick-Ups: If a child has been picked up by an authorized person who does not usually pick them up, write a note on the back of the sign-out sheet to identify the signature if
High School Dismissal Procedures
High School students are dismissed by their G-period teachers at 3:10 p m At the beginning of the school year, every student’s family completes a “Leaving Campus Authorization” form that specifies different levels of authorization:
Specific Adults: The child is authorized to be picked up by specific adults (the family provides a list of names and ID numbers)
Independent Walk: The child is authorized to walk home independently after school
Taxi Pickup: The child is authorized to take a taxi (as called by the reception) independently after school
Self-Arranged Transportation: After school, the child is authorized to take a taxi or Uber or use a cell phone application to order their own transportation.
The High School Office works closely with gate security to ensure that all students leave campus per the authorization form completed by the student’s family.
Maintaining Instruction During Low Attendance Days (school-wide)
Lessons should continue as planned when approaching or returning from a holiday, or in any situation of low classroom attendance Alternatively, differentiated instruction can be provided for students who are present These remain regular school days for the teachers, students, and families who follow the school calendar
5.2 School-Wide Shared Practices
To ensure a consistent and effective learning environment across Chapel, the following shared
in July 2025
practices are implemented school-wide:
1. Meaningful Instruction
a. Instruction will take place from the moment class begins until the bell rings for dismissal.
b. Effective lessons should include a warm-up, review of the previous lesson, introduction of new content, practical application, and summary.
2. Assessments
a. Various assessments will be administered to accurately gauge students' mastery of content and provide timely feedback.
3 Homework
a Chapel’s Elementary School has innovated the traditional homework model by replacing it with best practices in literacy and student-driven interested-based learning Students practice literacy skills and build their knowledge and vocabulary by reading on a nightly basis Each month, students design and deliver a Curiosity Project, which gives students the flexibility to select a topic they are curious about, learning more about content that may not be found in the written curriculum Students learn to research, analyze, and synthesize information to present this information to their peers Beginning in 6th Grade, students are assigned homework in preparation for High School
b In High School, meaningful and manageable homework will be assigned as a means of review, practice, and reinforcement
4 Learning Activities
a Various learning activities will allow for differentiation, cooperative grouping, creativity, and relevance to real-life applications.
5. Objectives and Outcomes
a. Objectives and outcomes must be clearly displayed for each lesson.
6. Technology Integration
a. Technology must be fully integrated into lessons using school-adopted programs for teaching and collaboration.
7. Routines and Procedures
a All classes will establish and practice clear, consistent, orderly routines and procedures for class time, hallways, lunch, and breaks.
b All staff recognizes the importance of reinforcing school rules and procedures, including punctuality, uniform, and behavior inside and outside the classroom walls
8 Maximizing Class Time
a Class time is precious and will be maximized for instruction Students will also
Revised in July 2025
have time to socialize with each other or with teachers outside of the classroom
9 Student Work Groups
a Teachers will select student work groups to ensure a diverse mix of abilities, nationalities, genders, etc Integration and inclusion are paramount
10 Language Use
a. Teachers will consistently speak English and enforce that students speak English within the classroom. Portuguese, Brazilian Social Studies and Brazilian Program elective classes are exempt from this expectation.
11. Classroom Environment
a. Maintain a safe environment and keep classrooms neat, clean, and hazard-free. Report any hazards or incidents immediately to the divisional office.
12 Modeling Respect and Appropriate Behavior
a All staff are responsible for modeling and insisting on respect for others and appropriate behavior.
These shared practices aim to create a unified, supportive educational environment for Chapel students and staff
5.3 School-Wide Teacher Expectations
All teachers at Chapel School will:
Curriculum and Instruction: Refer to Chapel’s Professional Teaching Standards in the SEPD Portfolio and curriculum on ATLAS
Student Supervision and Classroom Management: Refer to Chapel’s Professional Teaching Standards in the SEPD Portfolio.
SEPD (Supervision, Evaluation, Professional Development)
Chapel's Educational Leadership Team has created this portfolio to support teachers in tracking their professional growth The SEPD (Supervision, Evaluation, Professional Development) Portfolio is inspired by educators and institutions that believe in teachers' transformative power to shape the future Teachers, Heads of Department, and grade-level leaders are issued a professional portfolio.
Revised in July 2025
Our references include:
● ASCD (Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development)
● Carl Glickman, "Leadership for Learning: How to Help Teachers Succeed"
● KIPP (Knowledge is Power Program)
● PTC (Principal Training Center)
Chapel School’s SEPD aims to:
● Ensure that teachers take responsibility for their professional growth and its impact on student learning.
● Foster reflective practice as a route to improved teaching and learning.
● Use a partnership approach as the best way to promote reflective practice.
● Focus on measurable growth through shared structures and standards collaborating over multiple data sources
● Differentiate the supervision, evaluation, and professional development process
● Ensure a focus on student learning results
Professionalism
Chapel is committed to maintaining a professional and respectful work environment The following guidelines outline the expectations for professional conduct:
1 Attendance
a Attend work consistently unless sick or in the event of an emergency
b Respect the starting and ending dates of school terms as stipulated in the Board-approved school calendar
2. Punctuality
a. Demonstrate and promote punctuality in all school-related activities.
3. International Mindedness
a. Demonstrate and promote international mindedness.
b. Recognize our common humanity and shared guardianship of the planet.
4. Record Keeping
a Maintain current records of student attendance and learning progress using school-adopted systems.
b Update gradebooks weekly.
Revised in July 2025
5 Adherence to School Policies
a Uphold the school’s Guiding Statements and adhere to the adopted curriculum, educational practices, policies, and procedures
6 Participation
a Participate actively in school meetings and professional development
b. Engage in school accreditation and improvement efforts.
7. Supervision
a. Supervise the proper use of equipment and facilities with students’ safety in mind.
b. Supervise and care for students inside and outside the classroom walls.
8. Parent/Teacher Conferences
a. Prepare for and attend parent/teacher conferences.
9. Communication
a Use appropriate channels of communication.
b Treat others respectfully by not discussing or evaluating colleagues except in the said colleagues' presence and the section principal
10 Positive Attitude
a Maintain a positive attitude towards all aspects of the school
b Accept the majority's decisions and respect the leadership team's authority
11 Professional Representation
a Represent the school appropriately by dressing and behaving professionally
12 Adherence to Further Policies
a Adhere to the policies and procedures in the handbooks specific to each school section and the Faculty Handbook
By following these guidelines, we ensure a professional, respectful, and effective educational environment for all members of the Chapel community.
Respect, Belonging, and Dignity
At Chapel School, respect, belonging, and dignity are core values that guide our actions and relationships We are committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where everyone is valued and treated with compassion and fairness These principles are expected of all community members, students, staff, and families as we work together to uphold a culture of mutual respect and shared responsibility
As members of the Chapel School community, we are expected to represent and uphold our school’s values at all times Whether in person, online, on campus, or beyond Through our actions, both seen and unseen, we contribute to our community's strength, trust, and reputation
in July 2025
Recruitment Status and Employment at Chapel School
When a staff member informs their Divisional Principal or the Superintendent that they are actively seeking other job opportunities or have listed their profile on a recruitment platform, their current position at Chapel School will be considered vacant. In such cases, the school reserves the right to initiate the hiring process for that position immediately. Based on the school's needs, a replacement will be hired at any point during the school year.
Divisional Handbooks
Faculty are expected to be fully aware of and familiarize themselves with the divisional policies, procedures, and routines outlined in their respective divisional handbooks
The Divisional Handbooks can be accessed at the link below
ECEC Parent Handbook 2025-2026 Final.pdf
Elementary School Handbook for Parents and Students 2025-2026 (V3).pdf
HS Parent Student Handbook 2025-2026.pdf
Faculty Cell Phone Usage Policy
The Bigger Picture: Protecting Our Well-Being
Research consistently shows that excessive screen time and social media use can negatively impact our mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem
Time spent on devices reduces meaningful, real-world interactions Building connections through face-to-face interactions fosters empathy, social skills, and a sense of belonging
By supporting this policy, we aim to create a focused, distraction-free environment that prioritizes learning and personal growth while protecting our mental health. The following directives were developed based on feedback gathered from faculty As we implement this new policy, we kindly request that faculty avoid using their cell phones in shared spaces with students. Faculty continue to have access to their phones. It is essential to remain mindful of our technology use and to exercise discretion, particularly when in the presence of children.
The Faculty Cell Phone Usage Policy can be accessed at the link below Revised in July 2025
Faculty Cell Phone Usage Policy
Grievance Policy
Chapel School is committed to allowing employees to express themselves without fear of jeopardizing their positions Establishing a clear procedure for resolving workplace concerns is in everyone's interest. The importance of personal grievances is fully recognized, and disputes will be addressed promptly and without delay.
The grievance policy is designed to provide a transparent and fair process for all school staff It applies to teachers, administrative staff, and support personnel alike.
The Grievance Policy can be accessed at the link below
School - Grievance Policy
Chapel
6. Substitutes
If a teacher must be absent, Chapel will provide a substitute to ensure continuity of instruction and maintain the quality of education
6.1 Short-Term Absences
● If the absence is for a short period, the school will recruit a substitute from the current faculty
● Teachers should be prepared to substitute for colleagues when requested.
6.2 Long-Term Absences
● If the absence is longer in High School, the school will try to find a substitute outside the teaching staff. In ECEC/ES, the school will recruit a substitute from the current faculty.
6.3 Reporting Absences
● To inform the school of a last-minute absence due to illness or emergency, the staff member must email the divisional principal and section secretary before 7:30 a.m.
● Informal messages such as WhatsApp and similar are not acceptable for reporting absences.
6.4 Advance Notice and Lesson Plans
● Teachers are required to provide adequate advance notice of their absence If advance notice is not possible, the school should be formally notified as soon as possible via email
● Each teacher is responsible for providing two days of contingent lesson plans at the beginning of each semester Teachers must store these lesson plans in the classroom, share them with the class assistant, and periodically update them
By following these guidelines, we ensure that the educational process continues smoothly and
that students receive consistent instruction in the absence of their regular teacher
7. Teacher Attire
Our students look up to us as role models, including how to dress appropriately for school and work. We expect all staff and faculty to dress professionally and conservatively at school. Physical Education staff should wear the designated PE teacher uniform. On the following pages, see a table with specific guidelines for better clarity regarding the expectations.
Class assistants are required to wear the designated Chapel uniform, which differs from the professional attire expected of teachers
7.1 Dress Code Specifics for Teacher Attire
7.1.1 Attire Never Permitted at School
Leggings or Tight Pants/Skirts: Unless worn with long tops that fall to one palm above the knee or longer
Footwear: Flip-flops, Crocs, and any shoes without a back strap
Tank Tops: Tops with thin “spaghetti” straps. Shoulders should not be visible.
Worn Out Clothing: Includes jeans and t-shirts that are worn out, ripped, and faded.
Inappropriate Messages: Clothing with messages related to drugs, alcohol, political statements, propaganda, or jokes/humor in poor taste
Revealing Clothing: Sheer/see-through clothing or anything too revealing
Visible Undergarments: Clothing that shows undergarments
Casual Bottoms: Sweatpants, bermudas, and other shorts.
7.1.2 Business Attire Includes
Slacks/Dress Pants: Professional trousers suitable for the workplace.
Dresses and Skirts: That fall to one palm above the knee or longer
Capri Pants: Modest and professional
Tops: Dress shirts, polo shirts, and blouses
Accessories: Ties, scarves, and others suitable for the workplace
Layering: Blazers, suits, sweaters, vests, and cardigans
Footwear: Dress or tennis shoes can be worn Monday through Friday Tennis shoes must be clean and in excellent condition Please reserve bright-colored tennis shoes for casual Fridays only Please note that tennis shoes should not be worn at open houses, parent-teacher conferences, graduation ceremonies, and all formal events
Coordinators may wear tennis shoes when they have no scheduled face-to-face interactions with parents Due to frequent parent interactions, the dress code for footwear is dress shoes for professionals in the divisional offices, secretaries, and counselors
7.1.3 Casual Attire for Fridays [Only]
T-Shirts: In excellent condition and good taste.
Casual Dresses and Skirts: That fall to one palm above the knee or longer.
Dark Blue Jeans: In excellent condition, without rips or fading
Footwear: Adhering to the standards set in section 7 1 2
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Teachers & Professionals in Office Attire
Days of the Week
Permitted Attire
Monday Chapel Polo Shirt Spirit Day, and dark blue jeans in excellent repair
Or
Business Attire as described in section 7.1.2
Not Permitted
● Jeans of any other color
● Items listed in section 7 1 1
Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday
Business Attire as described in section 7 1 2
Friday
Other Special Days/Day Time School Events
All-Day Professional Development Days
Casual Day
Casual Attire, as described in section 7 1 3
Or
Business Attire as described in section 7 1 2
Casual Attire, as described in section 7 1 3
Evening or Graduations:
Business Attire as described in section 7 1 2
Field Trips: Chapel Polo Shirt and Casual Pants/Blue Jeans
● Jeans of any other color
● Any other Chapel t-shirt/sweatshirt
● Items listed in section 7 1 1
● Items listed in section 7 1 1
● Items listed in section 7 1 1
Adhering to these guidelines helps maintain a professional, respectful environment and sets a positive example for our students The final determination of what qualifies as "business attire" is at the discretion of the administration. Feedback will be provided as needed.
8. Privacy Policy
8.1 Protection of Personal Information
Confidentiality: No school employee shall release students' or staff's names, addresses, or telephone numbers to anyone other than school officials without proper authorization
Access Control: Personal information about students and staff should only be shared with authorized personnel for legitimate educational purposes
8.2 Use of Student Images and Social Media
Social Media Restrictions: Pictures taken at school that include students must not be posted to personal social media accounts
The school strongly advises faculty and staff to keep their social media and communication apps private and to avoid connecting with students and parents online.
Adhering to these privacy guidelines ensures our students and staff's safety and confidentiality.
Image Modification: Adding emojis or blurring students’ faces to post a photo online is not recommended by the school Avoid posting any identifiable images of students to personal accounts
As members of the Chapel School community, we are expected to represent and uphold our school’s values at all times Whether in person, online, on campus, or beyond Through our actions, both seen and unseen, we contribute to our community's strength, trust, and reputation
The Electronic Communication Policy can be accessed at the link below. Personal Use of Social Media 3 2
9. Communication
9.1 Chapel School Gmail
Professional Use: Faculty must only use the email address and signature (@chapelschool com) provided by the school for all professional communication with parents, students, teachers, and other departments
Timely Response: Teachers are expected to check their emails regularly throughout the day and reply promptly Responses to student and parent emails should be made within 24 hours.
9.2 Mailboxes
Location: Teachers’ mailboxes are located in the Teachers’ Lounge.
Distribution: Any school communication that requires a hard copy might be placed in mailboxes.
9.3 Bulletin Boards in Teacher's Lounge
Information Posted: The Financial and Administrative Offices publish important notices regarding teacher pay, cesta-básica (food basket), vaccines, vacation schedules, and health insurance and post them on the bulletin board in the teachers’ lounge
9.4 Telephone Usage
Office Phones: Office telephones are for official use only. Local calls are allowed but should ideally be made during non-teaching hours Dial 0 for local calls
Long Distance Calls: Long-distance calls require permission from the Principal. Dial 9 for operator assistance.
Student Use: Students are only permitted to use office phones (ECEC, ES, HS) when authorized by the secretary.
Adhering to these communication guidelines ensures efficient and professional communication across Chapel School
The Electronic Communication Policy can be accessed at the link below.
Electronic Communication Policy - v1 Chapel EN.pdf
10. Resources
Chapel School prioritizes providing teachers with the necessary resources to facilitate effective teaching and learning Below are the guidelines for requesting and utilizing school resources:
10.1 Requisition Form
Submission: Teachers must submit a Requisition Form (see Appendix C) to the appropriate secretary when requesting items The form should include a detailed description, estimated cost, and image of the requested materials
Approval Requirement: Materials purchased without prior requisition approval will not be reimbursed.
Advance Notice: Requisition forms for student activities requiring purchased items and deliveries must be submitted at least 7 school days in advance.
10.2 Copy Center
Teachers and assistants can submit copy requests:
● Via email to copias@chapelschool com for digital files
● Use the Copy Request Form (see Appendix D), available in the copy center
Copy Requests: The copy request form must be filled out correctly, including formatting, time, date of delivery, and number of copies
Authorization: Requests exceeding 150 black and white pages per request or 10 color pages per day require written authorization signed by the Principal Revised in July 2025
Delivery: Copies will be delivered to teachers’ boxes outside the copy room. Regular requests should be submitted at least 3 hours in advance; special requests (e g , bound workbooks, pamphlets) require at least 48 hours notice Please note that files sent after 4:30 p m will be delivered the next morning
Copyright Awareness: Teachers must respect copyright laws when requesting and sharing materials with students.
Students: Students are not permitted to retrieve materials or copies for teachers under any circumstances.
10.3 Classroom Supplies
Location: The Supply Room, across from the Copy Room, operates from 8:00 a m to 4:30 p m
Requests: Small requests can be made in person or via email at almoxarifado@chapelschool com Large requests require a signed requisition (see Appendix C) form from the Principal
Students: Students are not permitted to retrieve materials for teachers under any circumstances.
10.4 Book Order Season [October/November]
Submission Process: Teachers submit book orders through their Department Heads (High School) or directly to the Principal (Elementary School and Early Childhood).
Approval and Processing: Budget meetings are held annually to review and approve material purchases. Teachers are informed of their grade-level/department budget and must include items according to the guidelines in the appropriate online platform. Before Book Order Season, an email with the current school year's guidelines, updated annually, will be shared.
10.5 Technology
Revised in July 2025
The systems below can be accessed through the Chapel School intranet The following systems are in place and will be reviewed in professional development and/or by new teacher mentors All staff sign an Appropriate Use of Technology agreement
Atlas: Used schoolwide for curriculum documentation, mapping, alignment, lesson planning, and collaboration.
GOLD: Utilized by ECEC teachers for student assessment.
Plus Portals: Online course management and communication tool for parents and students
Mimio: Some classrooms feature a Mimio whiteboard system and stylus The library offers MimioPads and MimioView document cameras upon request
Usage and Updates: School computers requiring software updates should contact the IT department with a requisition submitted to the Principal.
Electronic Devices: iPads, laptops, and cameras are available through the Sign-Up Genius system (http://www.signupgenius.com/). You will receive a form to list the students using the numbered equipment and the requested material. Teachers are responsible for promptly reporting damage or misuse.
The Acceptable Use Policy can be accessed at the link below Acceptable Use Policy - v2 Chapel EN pdf
10.6 Help Desk
Technical Support: All technical support requests should be directed to helpdesk@chapelschool.com.
Monitoring: Requests are recorded and monitored via http://chapelschool.freshservice.com/google/login. Users can track request statuses by logging in with their Chapel School email and clicking "Your Tickets."
Adhering to these resource guidelines ensures efficient management and utilization of school
Revised in July 2025
resources, which will benefit our teaching community and students
11. Professional Development/Career Plan
Chapel School is committed to fostering the ongoing professional development of our faculty. The following policies outline opportunities and expectations related to professional growth:
11.1 Professional Development Opportunities
Weekly In-House PD Sessions: Faculty members are expected to attend weekly professional development meetings every Monday from 3:30 p m to 4:30 p m No after-school teacher-led clubs should be scheduled during this time
Each principal will schedule PD sessions in advance. Teachers who teach in multiple divisions should confirm with their principals which session they must attend. A PD Calendar is shared with staff every semester, and sessions are included in advance.
External PD Sessions: The instructional staff may request to participate in conferences, educational workshops, instructional visitations, professional meetings, and study courses relevant to their field at Chapel, according to their area of interest and in alignment with the school's needs However, the final decision on sponsorship rests with the school
11.2 External PD Sessions
Approval: Attendance at conferences and similar activities requires prior approval from one’s Principal Teachers must complete the Professional Development Request Form (see Appendix B) and submit it with their request
Reimbursement for Faculty Tuition Expenses: Chapel encourages teaching staff to enroll in
in July 2025
continuing education programs and courses Teachers pursuing university coursework related to their assignment may seek sponsorship under the following conditions:
● Full-time employment at Chapel for a minimum of 2 years.
● The Educational Leadership Team must approve the course so that the teacher can receive the percentage of reimbursement offered by the school. The coursework must be completed satisfactorily.
● The teacher must request approval renewal each semester.
Staff members seeking sponsorship for external PD Sessions must also agree to and sign the Additional Clause to Employment Contract Retention Clause. This document is available for reading in the divisional offices
Reimbursement for regular expenses such as hotel, transportation, and food (excluding alcoholic beverages, entertainment, and luxury meals) requires submission of receipts to the Business Office within five working days after returning from the conference
Professional Development Request Form
2025 Professional Development Request Form (Revised July 2025).pdf
11.3 Professional Evaluation
The SEPD Portfolio provides a comprehensive understanding of Chapel's Supervision, Evaluation, and Professional Development model Staff members are encouraged to partner in this process openly, professionally, and with a growth mindset
Feedback and Support: Chapel School provides timely feedback, counseling, and mentoring to support teachers’ professional growth
Evaluation Process: Teachers will undergo evaluation based on their overall performance and effectiveness Evaluation results will guide professional development and growth opportunities
Personnel Records: Personnel records are accessible only for official use by the Board, Educational Leadership Team, employee’s supervisor, or accrediting agencies, with prior authorization from the Educational Leadership Team or legal authorization.
Revised in July 2025
11.4 Career Plan
Chapel School offers a Career Plan to all teachers based on years of experience and academic qualifications Teachers are encouraged to update their files and provide copies of diplomas or certificates to the Business Office for documentation
For further details or inquiries regarding professional development and career planning, please contact your Principal.
12. Emergency Procedures
Specific Procedures: Each division (ECEC, ES, or HS) has specific emergency procedures for handling situations where a student is unwell in class Teachers should consult with the secretary or principal of their division to understand the appropriate procedures
Nurse Attendance: Students who are injured or feeling unwell should be taken to the nurse immediately. In cases where a student cannot move, the nurse should be contacted promptly for necessary care and assistance.
First Aid Training: Staff receive annual first aid training Emergency information and Fire Drill evacuation maps are available in every classroom for quick reference
Lockdown Policy: This lockdown policy is designed to ensure the safety and well-being of students, staff, and the school community during emergencies such as natural disasters, health crises, or security threats It is based on current research and best practices to address a variety of potential situations
The Lockdown Policy can be accessed at the link below.
Chapel School - Lockdown Policy
Evacuation and Fire Drill Policy: This evacuation policy is designed to ensure the safety and well-being of its students, staff, and visitors. The school will conduct regular evacuation and fire drills based on current research and best practices to mitigate the risks associated with fire emergencies and other unforeseen events. This policy outlines the steps and responsibilities of all stakeholders involved in the event of an evacuation or fire drill.
The Evacuation and Fire Drill Policy can be accessed at the link below.
Revised in July 2025
Chapel School - Evacuation and Fire Drill Policy
13. Tutoring
Guidelines: Tutoring may only be recommended through a Child Study Team meeting (ECEC/ES) or Student Team meeting (HS). Teachers are prohibited from tutoring or preparing their own students for school tests
Payment: Tutoring fees are determined by agreement between the tutor and parents No tutoring is permitted during regular school hours (8:00 a m to 3:10 p m ) Private tutoring may take place only after school hours
On-Campus Tutoring: Chapel teachers may offer tutoring on campus after completing one year of employment at Chapel As the Tutoring Guidelines document outlines, specific guidelines and schedules must be followed
New teachers at Chapel may begin tutoring on campus after completing one full year of employment.
Revised in July 2025
14. Miscellaneous
14.1 Anthem
National Anthems: The Brazilian National Anthem is played every Friday at 8:00 a.m. Teachers are expected to model respect and request all students to stand at attention during the anthem The American National Anthem is played every last Friday of the month
14.2 Morning Snack
ECEC Team:
Snacks are available in the ECEC Assistants' Room from 8:40 to 10:25.
Elementary School Team:
Snacks are available in the Teachers' Lounge from 8:40 to 9:05
6th Grade Classroom Teachers and High School Team:
Snacks are available in the Teachers' Lounge from 10:00 to 10:25
Please take your snack at the designated time for your division. The items served are planned according to the number of staff in each school division There are enough snacks for everyone, so please be mindful of others when you serve yourself and have your snack at the time allotted for your division
Snacks are served in the Teachers’ Lounge from 8:40 to 10:25; please pay attention to your school division’s snack period
14.3 Keys
Key Issuance: All keys will be issued through the Principal’s secretary They are for personal use only and must not be loaned to others All keys issued must be returned to the office at the end of each semester
14.4 Faculty Parking on Campus
Teachers can park on campus at a specific lot. Spaces are not assigned, so teachers can choose where to park. Please be considerate of others and park within the designated space's limits.
14.5 Visitors on Campus
Request Protocol: Permission to host visitors on campus must be formally requested by emailing your section principal and secretary. The secretary will fill out a request form to submit to the Principal for approval.
Submission Timeline: Requests must be submitted at least 15 school days in advance to allow for appropriate vetting and communication processes. The request should include the visitor’s full name, the purpose of the visit, and specific areas on campus they will tour
14.6 Chapel Forms
Language Requirement: Certain forms must be filled out in Portuguese. The class assistants and divisional secretaries can assist the international teachers in completing these forms
Appendices Includes: ● Absence Request Form (Appendix A) Revised in July 2025
● Professional Development Form (Appendix B)
● Requisition Form (Appendix C)
● Copy Requisition Form (See Appendix D)
● Visitors on Campus Request Form (See Appendix E)
If you need further assistance or clarification, please contact your section principal or refer to the relevant appendices in the handbook. Revised in July 2025
15. Appendices
15.1 Absence Request Form (Appendix A)
15.2 Professional Development Form (Appendix B)
15.3 Requisition Form (Appendix C)
15.4 Copy Requisition Form (See Appendix D)
15.5 Visitors on Campus Request Form (See Appendix E)
