Cowichan StudentProgramInternationalValleyStudent2022-2023Handbook
Table of Contents ! Introduction & Welcome ! ISP Contacts ! 2022/23 School Year Calendar ! International Student Code of Conduct ! Activities for the School Year ! Medical Services ! Communication ! Study Permit Renewals ! Student Visas ! Emergency Procedures ! Behaviour of Students ! Consequences for Not Following the Rules ! Important Laws in BC ! Attendance ! Report Cards ! Validation Fees ! Graduation Requirements ! Graduation Planning ! Course Exams ! Grad Planning Worksheet ! Cheating ! Consequences of Cheating ! Studying in Canada ! Your Host Parents ! Role of the Custodian ! Preparing for your Homestay Experience ! What You Can Expect regarding Meals ! Social Experience of Dining ! Life Outside the Home & Nightlife ! Curfews ! How To Solve Homestay Problems ! Some Questions to Ask Your Homestay ! Local Travel ! International Student Safety ! Away Overnight ! Storage of Luggage and Personal Items ! Homestay Handbook Excerpt
Alison CowichanDistrictKeplePrincipalValley
International Student Program
Our program has a rich history and has developed into a program that caters to over 20 different nationalities. We are a beautiful destination for students from all corners of the world and depending on the student, your visit can either be short term or until graduation. As a program, our goal is to provide you with a range of academic, cultural, and social activities or opportunities. Throughout the year you will receive notification of these offerings through email. These activities will provide memories and build friendships that will last a lifetime. Often we encourage students to bring their Canadian friends and/or host siblings. Please take part and participate in these activities! We hope you will have a successful and enjoyable experience as an international student. We wish to support you in your efforts and celebrate your success!
Introduction & Welcome
On behalf of all the staff at the Cowichan Valley International Student Program office, I would like to extend a warm welcome to both new and returning students!
International Student Program Contacts The following are your contacts for the International Student Program. Program Office: Tracy Bazinet isp@sd79.bc.ca Front Desk Secretary: 1.250.746.0744 ispfrontdesk@sd79.bc.ca Hours of Business 7:30 3:30 pm Homestay Manager: Homestay Coordinator: Brenda Langlois blanglois@sd79.bc.ca Cheryl Fotos cfotos@sd79.bc.ca 1.250.510.1436 1.250.510.0379 District Principal: District Vice Principal: Alison Keple akeple@sd79.bc.ca Kevin O’Donnell kodonnell@sd79.bc.ca 1.250.715.5713 1.250.701.7522 School HeatherContacts:Boudreau, ELL Teacher CSS: hboudreau@sd79.bc.ca Karen Rainey, ELL Teacher FKSS: krainey@sd79.bc.ca Emergency Dispatch Line: This is our after hours & weekend phone contact. For all emergencies (medical, RCMP, etc.) you must contact this number. They will then help you to solve your issue, or direct you to the appropriate person. Please be prepared to give them specifics and your contact information. Emergency Dispatch Line: 1.250.701.1845 If there is an issue regarding study permits, medical insurance, travel plans, transferring schools, or anything else you are worried about, please contact Ms. Keple or Mr. O’Donnell for assistance.
2023/23 School Year Calendar
1.ATTENDANCEsystem.Studentsmust attend all classes on days that school is in session.
2. Students will take a full program. If students wish to change their program (e.g drop a course) they must receive approval form the ELL teacher, administrator, and the school counselor.
3. Students will follow the rules & code of conduct of the school as outlined in the school handbook
1.CONTACTSprogram.Students must provide the ISP office with a current email address and phone number. They are expected to check this daily and notify the office of any changes.
4. Students have the responsibility to share their report cards and school letters with their parents.
3. Students will be treated as a respected member of the family and will be expected to be an active member of the household.
1. Students are not permitted to purchase or consume alcohol or narcotics.
CANADIAN LAW
International Student Code of Conduct
2. Students are not permitted to learn to drive, drive, rent or own cars while registered in the program.
1. Students will obtain satisfactory results in their courses to continue in the program.
2. Students will obey the terms and conditions described in their study permits as issued by Citizenship and Immigration Canada.
3. The student is responsible to make up any missing work or assignments.
1. Students will obey Canadian laws and regulations at all times.
2. Students who are absent from school for a valid reason (e.g. illness) must notify the school.
2. Students will negotiate the use of telephone, computer and Internet facilities with the host family. They will abide by the decision in relation to this usage.
ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE
DISTRICT POLICY
5. The Cowichan Valley International Program will provide written reports to the parents of students who are experiencing difficulties in our school
1.HOMESTAYStudentswill follow and respect the homestay family rules and property. This includes showing consideration and courtesy, respecting the rules for bedtime, visiting friends or socializing, and advising host parents of locations and contacts outside of school time.
2. Students must provide the ISP office with current parent addresses, emails and phone numbers.
4. Students who cannot maintain regular attendance at school will be withdrawn from the
All international students in the Cowichan Valley must adhere to the following Code of Conduct:
Activities for the School Year The Cowichan Valley International Student Program will be offering activities throughout the school year. Students and host families will receive updates and forms via email. Proposed activities for the 2022/23 school year include: ! Vancouver Day Trip ! Galey Farms Halloween ! Christmas in Victoria (Butchart Gardens & shopping) ! Shopping & a movie at Woodgrove Centre ! Tofino Day Trip ! Mt. Washington & Whistler ski program ! Horne Lake caving ! June Year End Celebration Fees for the activities will depend on the number of students registered, and will be determined closer to the date of the activity or event. Some activities may require a “high risk waiver” form signed by your natural parents. We will provide this to natural parents to sign and return to our office. We are always looking for good ideas! If you have any ideas or suggestions for activities, events, or field trips, please send Ms. Keple or Mr. O’Donnell an email with details!
• Beverly Medical Clinic, 2763 Beverly St, #201, Duncan: 250 597 3390
Students can also mobileDOCTOR (by guard.me) use to speak with a Canadian licensed general practitioner online in minutes 24/7 from their phone, tablet, or computer. This is fully covered. To set up a mobileDOCTOR account: Go to www.guard.me/mobiledoctor and enter your date of birth and guard.me policy number.
Students are encouraged to use Shoppers Drug Mart to fill prescriptions as they bill guard.me directly.
Students are covered through guard.me Medical Insurance. They will receive a card to show the clinic should they require the services of a doctor. See www.guard.me for details of this plan. The ISP office staff will help with any questions. We have made arrangements with the following clinics to accept ISP students and direct bill to the plan:
• Valleyview Treatment Centre, Cobble Hill: 250 743 9395
Medical Services Plan After 90 days, students here for more than 5 months will be transferred onto the BC Medical Services Plan. Dental work, prescriptions, cosmetic work, eyewear and ambulance services are not covered under this plan, but students have the guard.me “top up” (extended medical) Students will be issued a BC Care Card for their wallet. They should carry their BC Care Card and their guard.me card in their wallet at all times and be prepared to present if at a doctor’s clinic for services.
Serious medical emergencies must be reported to the ISP administration. As custodian, the decision to proceed with treatment will require custodial consent. It is our job to inform agents and parents of serious conditions.
Medical Services
Communication We will send all messages, information, field trip forms and other forms, and newsletters via email. It is important that you give the ISP office an email address that you check daily. This will ensure that you have received updates and required forms for events. Study Permit Renewals From the day you arrive in Canada, check and REMEMBER when your study permit expires! Each year in March the ISP office will invite students to return to the program or ask what your plans are for next year. If you are returning to our school district, or a Canadian University, our office will work with you to renew your study permit. We will need you to: 1. Sign official IRCC renewal papers 2. Bring $300.00 (cash) to the ISP secretary to pay renewal fees. 3. Get a letter of financial support from your parents and have it couriered to the ISP office. *Any student that is late with their renewal will be fined an additional $350.00 by IRCC* Study Permits can take over 90 business days (over 3 months) to process. If you do this early you will have your permit before summer holidays.
Student Visas Some countries require that students have a Temporary Resident Visa or Visitor Visa to re enter Canada after they have returned home for a visit. Please check http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/extend stay.asp This Visa is the student’s responsibility to renew although you may require documentation from the ISP office. Emergency Procedures Emergencies can happen anywhere in the world. Even though Canada is recognized as one of the safest countries in the world, any one of these things could happen during your stay here:• Earthquake • Large storm (snowstorm, windstorm, thunderstorm) • Fire • Flood • Power outage
If you ever need the help of police, an ambulance, or a fire truck, you should phone the emergency number: 911. You should always know how to contact your host parents, and have their phone numbers in your phone at all times
You should talk to your host family and your teachers at school to learn the local emergency procedures. It is very important to know how to escape and what to do if a fire or earthquake happens in your home or at school. Show this page to your host parents and talk to them about emergency procedures.
Consequences for Students Not Following The Rules
Each school also has its own Code of Conduct published in their school handbook. It is the student’s responsibility to read this and be familiar with their school rules.
There are no refunds for students expelled from the program.
A student will be given a warning if they are misbehaving (at school or at home), frequently absent from school, or if they are failing a course. Your natural parents and/or agent will receive notification informing them of the
3. A person can buy alcohol and cannabis if they are 19 years or older. However, international students in our program are not allowed to purchase or consume drugs or alcohol regardless of age.
7. You must wear a helmet when you ride a bicycle.
Finally,behaviour.astudent may be asked to leave the program if they do not show signs of improvement.
1. Everyone riding in a car must wear a seatbelt. It doesn’t matter if you are riding in the front or the back.
All international students must abide by the rules provided in our program’s Code of Conduct.
4. It is against the law for anyone to buy alcohol or cannabis for someone who is younger than 19 years old.
6. It is against the law to use illegal drugs. It is against the law to take things from a store without paying (this is called shoplifting).
Important Laws in British Columbia
5. You can only buy lottery tickets or join in any other gambling if you are 19 years old.
Behaviour of Students
2. You can only buy cigarettes if you are 19 years old. However, international students in our program may not smoke, vape, or use chewing tobacco.
If you break the law in Canada, you can get into serious trouble. You can even be forced to leave the country. Attendance Expectations for Students All students in the International Program are obligated to attend school every day, on time, and prepared to work. You are required to bring a note from your host family anytime you are absent from school. If you are absent without host family or ISP approval there can be serious consequences. You may: • Lose academic credits • Be suspended from school • After repeated warnings, be expelled from the district Report Cards Most of our high schools will produce two report cards a semester. Students will receive this halfway through the semester and at the end of the semester. Validation Fees Students will be invoiced for validation fees This process is done though our office and is usually finished by late July. In case of an emergency and dealing with the authorities, please contact Ms. Keple or Mr. O’Donnell IMMEDIATELY. DO NOT ANSWER QUESTIONS WITHOUT US THERE TO REPRESENT YOU!
Graduation Requirements
The following page contains a worksheet with the required courses and electives to meet graduation requirements. Use this form as a guideline and discuss your program with your ELL teacher, administration, or the school counselor. Course Exams All international students are required to complete the entire course regardless of the length of their stay in our program. This includes writing the assessments that are attached to specific courses. The exception to this ruling is a student registered in a short term program. Only the District Principal can make exceptions to these rules.
For
A student may be able to receive credits for some courses done in their home country but this must be officially approved by ISP administration. Please discuss this with your ELL teacher and they will bring this information to administration on your behalf. For example:
Graduation Planning
A student from Turkey that has completed grade 10 Physical Education will receive credit and not have to repeat the course. The student must provide official documentation from their home country school. more information on graduation requirements in British Columbia, see
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/education
training/k 12/support/graduation
Any student wishing to graduate from the high school program in British Columbia must complete 80 credits of course work. These include both required and elective (student choice) courses.
Grad Planning Worksheet
• If cheating involves a personal electronic device, its use during school time may be restricted or result in confiscation.
• A teacher may adjust the grade on the assignment/test or ask the student to redo the assignment or a similar assignment/test.
• Depending on the severity and context of the cheating, students may be removed from a course. This may result in changing graduation plans, validation requirements, or funding from outside sources.
Cheating is considered a serious academic offence.
First time offences may be dealt with less severely than repeated offences. The following is a list of progressive disciplinary measures for cheating:
Cheating
Cheating is a form of academic dishonesty. This includes presenting, as your own work, material produced by or with the help of others, or permitting or helping others to present your work as their own.
• Close monitoring of the student in all classes may begin to ensure compliance with ethical behavior.
Cheating may also mean knowingly falsifying or changed information on tests without the teacher’s permission. Consequences of Cheating
• Group work is an important part of school learning: it stresses cooperation, collaboration, and compromise. It is also evaluated as part of your mark.
Studying in Canada In Canada:
• Plagiarism (submitting the work of another person as your own, or copying the work or words of another person and presenting it as your own) is a serious offence. A student can receive a “0” or fail a course or assignment for plagiarizing someone else’s work. You will likely find some differences between the educational and values system in your own country and Canada. It is essential for you to understand the appropriate and accepted rules for students in the Canadian educational system.
• Students are encouraged to ask questions for clarification, to challenge information, or to extend thinking. The philosophy of education in Canada includes the idea that students should be involved in an interactive learning process, that is, they should not sit passively and accept or memorize what the teacher says.
• Students learn not only information, but how to arrive at conclusions, to solve problems, and to analyze. As part of this process, students are often asked how they got an answer rather than just what the answer is.
• Discussion is often used as a means of teaching. Students are expected to be able to discuss, in order to develop their ideas and opinions and to present them in class.
• Teacher student relationships tend to be relatively informal compared to those in many countries. For example, teachers may begin the class with a joke or with friendly conversation.
Tips for Studying In Canada:
• Hand in all assignments on the day they are due. If you are not able to finish your assignment on time, talk to your teacher before it is due. If you miss any assignment/quiz/test/exam, see the teacher and ask if there is any way to make it up.
• Be on time for class. If you are late you will be marked as late on the attendance record. If you cannot attend a class or be on time, notify the school in advance and explain the reason. If you miss a class, see the teacher the next day to find out what you missed.
• Almost everything you do that is assigned by the teacher counts in your final mark. That means that class tests, presentations, discussions, assignments, and working in groups are worth certain marks. A student who works hard all semester will likely pass the course, but a student who doesn’t work hard and misses many classes will likely fail.
• You will probably find the classes less structured in Canada. You will also have to organize your own time after school for study. Plan your time carefully, balancing school work, English practice, and relaxation.
• Don’t be afraid to ask question if you don’t understand. Teachers expect to be questioned. Make sure you understand what the teacher wants you to do in an assignment. If you are quiet, the teacher will think that you understand. Teachers are usually available before and after school for questions and extra help.
Our Homestay Program is the most important part of the international student experience. Our students and our homestay families have developed relationships that last a lifetime.
If you’re not happy with your match, tell us. You can call or email us. You can also speak with our Homestay Manager, Ms. Langlois We are always happy to hear from you.
Your Host Parents
Host parents provide the same care you would get from your family, and are daily caregivers who provide social, emotional, and support for your well being. Role of the Custodian
All international students in the Cowichan Valley are assigned to the Custodianship of the District Principal, Ms. Keple. This meets the requirements of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and the policies of our school district.
Every host is different just like every student. What our hosts have in common is that they want to provide a safe, caring environment for you. We choose hosts who will provide the same comfortable, healthy and supportive home life they would ask a host family to provide for their own children. Why do we trust our hosts?
Because we’ve met them in person and toured their homes; we’ve talked with them about their experiences in the world and in Canada, and we’ve helped them adjust to being hosts.
The custodian is the person who makes decisions concerning your welfare, and you must follow directions given by the custodian. Your custodian is also responsible to report changes or issues to parents in their home country, to agents abroad, and to district senior staff. Ultimately all medical, academic, and legal decisions fall to the responsibility of the District Principal as your custodian. Preparing for Your Homestay Experience
We have also asked students like you to evaluate them. If they fail to meet our and your expectations, we won’t work with them again.
Make sure you meet all members of your host family. Repeat their names so you can remember them.
What makes a great homestay?
A tour of the neighborhood: Ask your host for a tour of your new neighborhood, including directions to and from your school and any local attractions or meeting places.
Please make sure you understand how to use: • the bathroom, including the bath/shower, toilet and sink; • appliances and entertainment items, like the TV, and microwave; • the fire extinguisher, as well as what to do in the event of a fire (for example, suitable exits and emergency phone numbers).
A tour of your new home:
See below for a discussion of the laundry facilities, telephone and internet. You can treat this house as your own but do respect everyone’s right to privacy and quiet. Always knock and announce yourself before entering someone else’s room, and be considerate when using common areas.
Getting settled: The first few weeks living in a new country with a new family can be difficult. You may feel homesick and frustrated with your new environment and the language. This is natural. Give yourself time to adjust to your new surroundings. Please remember: you’re not alone; we’re always here to help.
Your homestay experience will largely depend on your own attitude and friendliness. How can you make the most of living in Canada? Come with an open mind and be ready to embrace the ways in which Canada and the people you will meet here are different and unique. Your host family will be eager to help you adapt to their family and Canada. The more you get involved in your new life the happier you will be.
Please ask for a tour of your house when you first arrive. Your host should show you where everything is, with special care to point out your bedroom and bathroom; the kitchen and dining area; the laundry room; the linen closet (or wherever clean linen and towels are kept); and so on.
&
It is your responsibility to understand and observe all household rules. If you are having any difficulty doing so, please contact our Homestay Manager.
There may be areas of the house your host will ask you not to use. Please respect their Allwishes.therules or guidelines that apply to your family members also apply to you. We ask our hosts to arrange a family meeting to go over the house rules at the beginning of your stay.
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Most of our students will take the school bus to school. Please ask your host family to get these details for you.
For ALL international students the following rules will be upheld regardless of household customs and rules: No smoking (and no purchasing cigarettes) No drinking alcohol or cannabis or other drugs
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Life inside the Canadian home: Your host family will have certain rules concerning daily life in the house. These include: when to have baths and showers where food can or cannot be eaten how to do on the use of the television/stereo/internet and other family property schedules bedtime when it is OK to have friends over, and so on.
hours •
Ask your host for help using buses: how and where to buy passes/tickets and getting to know the local routes.
As a courtesy, the homestay family may drive you to an appointment but be respectful and organize your schedule ahead of time.
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laundry • curfew • no smoking policies • limits
• family
Your homestay family will discuss with you what you can put on bedroom walls and how to attach items. As a courtesy, and to conserve energy, please turn off the light before leaving your room. Your host may also ask you to turn down the heat in the room when you are gone for the day, if it is operated on a thermostat.
PleaseLaundry:them.check with your host at the beginning of your stay to work out a laundry schedule. They may ask you to do your own laundry. Please ensure that you have a full load and are not washing a few items every few days.
Your Bedroom: Your bedroom will include a window and smoke detector nearby, bed & bedding, a dresser, a place to study, a closet, and adequate heat, light & ventilation. Please ask your host to show you how to use the bed and blankets, and where to find extra blankets if needed.
Household chores: Your host parents will welcome you into their home as a member of the family. As part of the household, you will be expected to do some assigned chores. For example, you will be responsible to keep your room clean, and other areas of the house if you use them. You should also be prepared to help with meal preparation, cleaning of dishes, and doing your own laundry. In many cases, you may also be an older brother or sister to your homestay family’s children. We hope you set a good example for them. However, you will not be expected to babysit
Your host parents will have access to your room when it is reasonably appropriate. It is not unreasonable to them to ask you to keep your door open when you are studying or when you are at school. There should be no food brought into your bedroom. You must keep your bedroom clean. What that looks like will be determined by your host family. Remember you are not renting a hotel room but joining a Canadian family.
PleaseBathrooms:tryto leave the bathroom clean and dry after you use it. Your host will explain when to use the bathroom and for how long. Most students will share their bathroom with one or more family members or other students. If there are several members of your
Your host family will always provide your meals but this doesn’t mean that your meals will be served to you. Sometimes your hosts will not be at home for every meal and sometimes they will have different customs from you for certain meals.
ManyPhone:students
household, please be considerate with the use of hot water, which might run out before everyone has showered! Cell
EveryInternet:family will have their own rules regarding the use of the Internet. You must ask them for their guidelines regarding connecting, hours of use and browsing.
Use of Computers: We encourage you to use computers for schoolwork. However, our ISP guideline is that computer use must end at 10:00 p.m. We understand that the computer is the easiest way to contact family and friends; however, the use of the computer should not affect your interaction with your host family and completion of school work
find it easier to purchase a “pay as you go” cell phone. Ask your host parent to help you purchase a ‘pay as you go’ cell phone plan. All students must have a phone plan that allows host families to know where their students are at all times. (Wi fi is not available everywhere and at all times.) PhoneBox offers competitive rates.
EverybodyMeals:
Use of social media and chatting with friends back home should be restricted to 2 hours on the weekend. The family that you are living with must approve any variation to this policy. Students who do not adhere to this policy risk having their computers disconnected.
likes different food. Part of the fun of homestay is learning what Canadian families like to eat, and teaching your host family what you like to eat. Now is your chance to prepare a traditional meal from your home country for your host family. This will be a treat for you and them!
is eaten midday and usually consists of a light main course (soup, a salad, or a sandwich), a drink (water, milk, or juice), and a dessert of fruit or cookies. Your family will provide you with a bagged lunch to take to school. Sometimes you may be able to take some dinner from the night before that you can heat up at school if there is a microwave. Do not be offended if it is your responsibility to pack your own lunch this is common in many families in Canada.
What You Can Expect in a Typical Homestay Regarding Meals
EachBreakfast:host
LunchLunch:
YourDinner:host family will try to have a sit down dinner, which is usually the largest meal of the day It may consist of a main course, with or without a salad, as often as their weekly schedule allows. It is the most important meal of the day, and very important that you communicate with your family when you will be home for dinner (dinners are usually eaten between 5:00 and 7:00 pm).
To be considerate, if you will not be home for dinner, you MUST phone your family and tell them before dinnertime. This way, they will not expect you, they will not worry, and they will leave some supper for you in the fridge. Please try to be at home for this family dinner hour as often as possible as this is the best time for families to talk about their day and for you to bond with your host family. Let your host family know if you have special dietary needs if you have extreme likes or dislikes, or any allergies.
family has its own unique morning schedule, so it is important to decide on a routine that will work best for everyone. Weekdays, breakfast is a quick, light meal. On weekends, families may prepare breakfast together. Some families eat a hot breakfast; others prefer to have something cold, such as cereal or toast, and juice. Your family might leave it up to you to decide what to eat in the morning; please ask them to show you where the food is kept and how to prepare your own breakfast if this is the case.
2. Cutlery: When cutlery has been picked up for use it should not be put down on the table again. It may be rested inwards on the plate when pausing or “pacing”. Waving of cutlery with or without food attached to it is a “no no”.
6. Passing and Helping: You should always be aware of and respond to people’s needs for things to be passed to them: water, bread, salt, etc. Initiative is appreciated.
3. Chewing: Chewing with the mouth open and speaking with the mouth full are always unacceptable and unpleasant for fellow diners.
The Social Experience of Dining in Canada
4. Speed and Timing: Speed and timing should be considered. Eating too quickly is impolite as is eating too slowly. (Do not start eating until everyone has been served and aim to finish at roughly the same time.)
8. Finished Positions: Clearing up should not begin until everyone has finished eating. The accepted way of indicating that you are finished is to place the fork and knife side by side (tines up, blade in!) diagonally on the plate. (Think 10:20 o’clock).
9. Soup: Soup is consumed by pushing away with the spoon and sipping noiselessly from the spoon. The bowl should be tilted away as you progress. Crackers should not be crumbled into the soup.
Life Outside the Home & Nightlife Canadian families spend a few evenings each week engaged in leisure activities and relaxation. We encourage you to spend some time with them. However, it’s perfectly all right to spend an evening out with your own friends from school on Friday or Saturday. When you do go out, you must tell your homestay family where you will be going, and how you can be reached (include all relevant phone numbers); when you will be home (remember your curfew!) and who you will be with. This information is important for your safety and your host’s peace of mind. Please do not assume your homestay family knows where you are, or remembers plans you have discussed in advance. Always
1. Fiddling: Avoid fiddling with or playing with the cutlery, crockery etc., on the table before the meal starts.
10. Buns, Bread and Butter: Buttering should be done from the side plate (if there is one). i.e. a pat of butter taken and put on to the side of the side plate. Buns should be broken, not cut, and buttered piece by piece as required. Sliced bread should be cut then buttered. In the absence of a side plate (normal for us) butter can and should be put on the edge of the dinner plate.
Etiquette, manners and courtesy essentially derive from an awareness of other people and a consideration for them. The list that follows is a reminder of our expectations.
5. Posture: Good posture is an essential part of personal deportment at table. Slouching, slumping and over reaching should be avoided. Keep your elbows in and off the table.
7. Eating Styles: Both European and American are acceptable in terms of the holding and use of the knife and fork. In European the fork is always in the left hand and almost always “tines down” whereas in American it is in the left for cutting and transferred to the right for eating, “tines up”!
Curfews
If you do not follow these guidelines you may be asked to leave the program. Weekend curfew guidelines are as follows: Grade 8: 9:00 p.m. Grade 9: 10:00 p.m. Grade 10: 10:00 p.m. Grade 11: 11:00 p.m. Grade 12: 12:00 a.m.
Weeknights and Sunday evenings after supper are considered to be study and family time. Students should be home unless they have a scheduled school activity such as sports, music, tutoring etc. You should be home at 9pm. You must phone your host if you are delayed past your curfew, or require help, at any time.
review your plans with your homestay family on the evening you’re going out. Always let your host know when you will be coming home and always call if you’re going to be late. They will worry if you’re not home on time. When you do get home, please enter the home quietly!
Host families and international students need to discuss curfews. Students are expected to respect the routines and rules of the household.
Students and host families should accept each other’s differences and try to have a good homestay relationship.
PLEASE REMEMBER
Step #2: Talk to your Homestay Manager about the problem
If it’s too hard to talk to your host parents about the problem or if you have talked to your host parents and the problem is still there you can talk to our Homestay Manager about the problem. They can help by talking with you about different ways to solve the problem.
Our Homestay Manager, you, and your host parents can talk together about the problem.
• Your host parents can help you solve a problem if you tell them there is a problem.
Most homestay problems are about communicating and understanding each other.
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All host families and students have some problems. That is normal. Students and host families need to work together to solve problems.
New students are placed with the best host families we have.
How To Solve Homestay Problems
• Your Homestay Manager can help you solve problems
• Tell your host parents what the problem is.
There are no perfect students and no perfect host families.
Step #1: Talk to your Host Parents about the problem
• Host parents want their students to tell them if there are problems.
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• Most problems can be easily solved.
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The first few days are the most difficult. Please be patient, things will get better.
• Talk to your host parents about possible solutions to the problem. You and your host parents agree on a solution to the problem.
• What kinds of things will we do together while I’m here? Can you drive me to my friend’s houses or to other activities sometimes?
What time should I be home for supper?
• When should I take a shower or bath? Is there a time limit for me to shower or bathe? (Ask your host parent to show you how the bath and shower work and where to put wet towels and sanitary supplies)
• How can I help at meal times?
• What time do you expect me to be home on weekdays? On weekends? What should I do if I want to stay at my friend’s house overnight, or if I want to have a friend stay at my house?
• Is there someone in the home who can help me with homework? When is a good time for getting help with homework?
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Some Questions to Ask your Host Family During the First Few Days
• What are the phone rules? How long can I stay on the phone? How late can I use the phone?
• What jobs would you like me to do around the house while I’m living here?
• If I want to invite a friend for supper what should I do?
• Can you help me with some plans to improve my English? What can we do together to work on my English? (e.g. conversation every day, watch T.V. together and talk about the programs, etc.)
• Will I make my own lunch for school or will you make it? (If your host parent expects you to make lunch ask for help at first to learn where things are and what you can use. If you have never made your own food don’t be shy...tell your host parent and ask for help)
• What time do people in this house usually go to bed? After what time should I be in bed or quiet in my room? What time do you usually get up? Discuss how you would like to get up: do you have an alarm clock or do you want your host parent to call you?
Students are not permitted to get their driver’s license while in our program. We do not allow our students to own or rent vehicles while in our program. Even good drivers become disoriented on international roads, and owning a car is often a Considerable distraction from school studies. The safety of our students is our first priority, and vehicle ownership introduces a level of risk and distraction we are not able to support.
We require the following process any time that a student leaves our district overnight:
Community Transit System are routes, schedules, fares, and a trip planner available online. Please help your student to access the website
valley/home Away Overnight Safety is always a concern for parents, agents, host families, and International Student Program staff. International students cannot be left alone overnight regardless of age It has always been our policy that if a student wishes to leave our district for overnight or longer we need to know where they are going and they must be under the care of a responsible adult. For that reason we do not allow our students to go with a group of friends and stay together in a hotel in Vancouver, for example, unless there is an adult there who will be there and responsible for them.
We strongly suggest that international students not accept rides from drivers who are under the age of 21. While it is legal for you to do so, we believe older adult drivers can provide a higher level of safety in your travels. **
https://www.bctransit.com/cowichanat:
1. The student and the host family must complete the Out of District Student Travel form, and submit it 10 business days prior to travel.
2. The completed form must be delivered to Ms. Keple or Mr. O’Donnell.
3. Failure to follow this process by a student who leaves the district overnight will result in disciplinary action.
There
Local Travel **
The Out of District Student Travel Form on the next page may be duplicated/photocopied. Additional forms are also available from all ISP staff.
For all good reasons it is important for program personnel to know well in advance if you are planning out of country trips. You must make contact with the district principal or vice principal to discuss these plans.
If your host family is going away overnight without you: There are issues of safety and liability that could be a real concern if anything were to happen to you while your host parents are away from your home overnight. If they plan to be away they must make alternate plans for you. Two options are:
PARENT, DISTRICT PRINCIPAL, AND ELLDATESTEACHER.FORTRAVEL 2022/23 Arrival: September 3-4, 2022 Winter Break: December 17, 2022 – January 2, 2023 Spring Break: March 11 26, 2023 Departure: June 24 30, 2023 Arrival 2023/24: September 2 3, 2023
BEFORE YOU TRAVEL HOME AT THE END OF THE SCHOOL YEAR, YOU MUST FILL OUT THE HOME FORM, HAVE YOUR HOMESTAY
If you have out of country vacation plans during school breaks: There are restrictions on minors traveling alone in many countries, and many of our students require special entry visas to be permitted entry into the U.S.
• Arrange for you to stay in someone else’s home (either a family friend or another host parent).
At the present time our school district will not grant permission to students to travel outside of our program field trips. All students should travel with letters of identification from the school district.
TRAVEL
IT SIGNED BY
• Arrange for another adult to stay in the home to supervise you.
If you want to take a trip without adult supervision: Sometimes a group of students will decide to go somewhere together for the weekend. This is against program rules. You cannot go away overnight without adult supervision. If a student wishes to leave our district for overnight or longer we need to know where they are going and they must be under the care of a responsible adult.
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Out of District Student Travel Form
Travel Home Form
for your reference. What
Each year we have students that are planning to return to their current homestay or move to a new homestay after the summer holidays. Often their amount of belongings prohibits the family from using their space during the summer. As a result, we are offering storage to students during the summer time. For a $200 fee, students will have up to 3 items (luggage or boxed) placed in a storage unit provided by our office. All items must be marked, and we will have a designated drop off time and date organized at the end of the Whileyear. are providing this service, we will not be responsible for the damage or loss of any of these articles. our Homestay Handbook a Host Provides As a host parent you are expected to provide essentially what you would normally provide for your own family: private bedroom Three wholesome meals a day and snacks as required Prepare the evening meal and have dinner as a family with the international student A comfortable, quiet, adequately lit and heated study space Hot water and facilities for bathing Use of family phone and internet (wi fi) Invite student to participate in all family activities and pay for the student to participate. The student may be asked to contribute financially in extraordinary circumstances such as expensive trips or activities such as skiing (you may expect a student to do their own laundry if you wish) (shampoo, toothpaste etc.) which you would normally provide for family members Emotional support if your student suffers from homesickness, difficulties at school, etc.
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and Personal Items
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Storage of Luggage
Homestay Handbook Excerpt The following sections are an excerpt from
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• Toiletries
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Academic support (help with homework if possible, communication with teachers, attendance at parent teacher student interviews, etc.) Include your student in family outings, trips to restaurants, special occasions, recreational activities Access to the common living areas of the house that a family member would normally have access to.
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Do not allow your student to attend parties where students will be unsupervised.
All international students, before beginning this program, signed a Student Participation Agreement that explicitly states that they are prohibited from using drugs and alcohol. Students are expected to follow this rule while they are in our program, or risk expulsion.
You may not charge additional fees to a student without prior consent from the administration.
Some international students in this program are 19 years of age or older. They too are not permitted to consume alcohol or drugs. This is a high school program and as such we have rules that are appropriate for high school students.
Early in the host experience, have conversations with your student about expectations: both yours and the student’s. Reach a mutual agreement about the amount of interaction between your student and your family, and the kinds of activities which you will participate in together. Bring it up regularly for further discussion as the situation changes.
The school district supports the right of host parents to determine appropriate rules and procedures for their international students. It is suggested that all rules be developed in consultation with the student, and that they be appropriate for their age. It is wise to establish an understanding of house rules and regulations with your student as soon as possible.
Discuss your rules early and often, making sure that the student understands them. Deal with a few rules at a time. Reach mutual agreement about as many rules as possible. Discuss with the student what kinds of rules they had at home and what kinds of rules other international students have. Explain the reasons for your rules. Enforce your rules, and do not let the student get away with breaking them. These are typical teenagers and as such they are likely to test your authority.
Suggested Homestay Guidelines for Students
Drugs & Alcohol International students in this program are prohibited from using drugs and alcohol, regardless of their age.
Be fair and firm.
Establishconsequencesreasonableforbreakingrules.
Host parents are expected to know where students are at all times. Sleepover arrangements must be made in advance and host parents are expected to check on all such arrangements with the responsible adult where the student will be staying. Host parents may request that students speak to each other in English in their presence.
• Students are not allowed to smoke, vape, or use chewing tobacco
When students go out on weekend nights they should have an appropriate curfew.
• Students may be expected to have chores such as cleaning their room and helping with the dishes. They are not expected to cook meals, vacuum the home, or perform other household tasks.
• Students should never babysit their host’s children. Weekend curfew guidelines are as follows: Grade 8: 9:00 p.m. Grade 9: 10:00 p.m. Grade 10: 10:00 p.m. Grade 11: 11:00 p.m. Grade 12: 12:00 a.m.
Students should be at home for dinner on weeknights and Sundays. Evenings after supper are considered to be study and family time. If you give students permission to be out on school nights (to participate in school activities, teams, etc.) they should be home at an appropriate time in order to get enough sleep to be able to function at school. The guidelines are that all students should be home by 9:00 p.m. during the week.
Host parents have the right to say no to inappropriate requests and to set reasonable limits around sleepovers and time spent away from the family home.
Check Ins, Curfews, and Sleepovers
Discussion Points with Your Student
• Students are not allowed to go on day trips to Vancouver without host families.
• Students should not have visitors of the opposite sex without the host parent being present in the home.
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• Students should never be left alone overnight. Adult supervision must be arranged if you are away.
Host parents should feel free to limit the number of overnights (i.e. one night only on weekends).
• You may wish to make additional rules re: showers/bathing, table manners, other manners, use of household appliances, laundry, bringing friends home, use of computers, etc.
Please feel free to contact the International Student Program at any time with questions. We are happy to have you here in Canada and in Cowichan, and want to help make things as smooth as possible. Do not hesitate to call or email us!
Host parents determine rules around no food in and clean up of the bedroom.
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• Students may not stay overnight at the homes of students of the opposite sex.
• Groups of unsupervised students should never be given permission to go away together for overnight trips.
Host parents should establish healthy routines and life balance around computer use. We recommend that on weekdays all electronic use ends at 10:00 pm. We want students well rested for each school day.
Host parents have access to their student’s bedroom when appropriate.
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Students should ask ahead of time if they need rides to special events, if they wish to have a friend overnight, etc.
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