FASPS Middle School Student Handbook - English

OUR MISSION | NOTRE MISSION:

What We Do: We challenge students to excel academically and thrive in French, American, and international cultures.

Nous formons nos élèves à exceller académiquement et à s’épanouir dans un environnement multiculturel français, américain et international.

OUR VISION | NOTRE OBJECTIF A LONG TERME:

Why We Do It: To inspire the next generation of global citizens to learn, understand, and act wisely in a multicultural world.

Inciter une prochaine génération de citoyens universels à apprendre, comprendre et agir intelligemment dans un monde multiculturel.

OUR CORE VALUES | NOS VALEURS FONDAMENTALES:

What Guides Our Work and Shapes Our Students’ Educational Experience:

Excellence Integrity

Cultural Agility

Community

Excellence Intégrité Agilité Culturelle Communauté

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At the French American School of Puget Sound (FASPS), we prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion. We commit to creating and nurturing a culture that seeks diverse representation, respects and celebrates individual and group differences, and strives to address inequities in our community and beyond.

DIVERSITY results from the unique blend of what makes us singular as student, parent and employee. It means respect for the values shaped in part by each individual’s background, race, color, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, religion, nation of origin, language, socio-economic status, and any other differentiating factors.

EQUITY is the process to provide the broadest possible set of opportunities for each individual’s needs and ensure that students, parents, and employees thrive. Equity is the process; equality is the sought-after outcome.

INCLUSION is the intentional creation and nurturing of a school environment in which the engagement of each student, parent and employee is valued and sought.

“Who to ask about…”

Athletics PE Coordinator

Behavior App Student advisor or Dean of Students

Broken School Property Facilities Team

Bullying Parent/guardian, advisor, teacher, Dean of Students, counselor, MS Head

How to contact a parent Obtain permission from the Dean of Students or MS Head

Curriculum Dean of Learning & Teaching, Educational Leader

Educational Questions the teacher concerned, Dean of Learning & Teaching, Educational Leader

Forgotten Lunch Reception or Facilities Team

Grades/Progress Teacher and/or advisor

Laptops Issues

IT Team via email or chat

Learning beyond Classroom A classmate, teacher, TEAMS assignments

Learning Labs Interdisciplinary Facilitator

Library Librarian/documentalist via email or chat

Missing Items Reception, MS Head

Notes

The person from whom it came

Rules and Procedures Parent & Student Handbooks, advisor, Dean of Students,or MS Head

Schedule Advisor, MS Head

Social/Emotional Concern Advisor, Counselor, Dean of Students, MS Head

Special Events Advisor

Student Council Student Council Facilitators

TEAMs

IT Team via email or chat, Technology Coordinator

Yearbook Yearbook Coordinator

4x4

Auxiliary Program Director

Who’s who?

Auxiliary Program Team

Dean of Learning & Teaching

Dean of Students

Educational Leader

Facilities Team

Interdisciplinary Facilitator

IT (Information Technology) Team

Librarian/documentalist

Middle School Head

PE Coordinator

Reception

Student Council Facilitators

School Counselor

Yearbook Coordinator

Chinese, US Math

Drama

French Language Arts & Literature

French Math, Geometry

History-Geography

Humanities

Music

Science, Science Coordinator

Spanish, ELL Coordinator

Technology, Technology Coordinator

US Math, Math Coordinator

Visual Arts, Arts Coordinator

Marion Garcini, Rei Silverberg, Ren Keller

Franck Gendre

Cécile Chapel

Clémentine Riem

Tyler King, Victoria Paolacci-Mellor

Mason Donald

Brian Hoyt, Ryan Moe

Marion Bouscarle

Stacy Chandler

Sébastien Boccaccio

Alice Nguyen

Amar Boumediene, Cécile Chapel

Jean-Michel Boronat

Julie Archer

Ming Feng

Hannah Duff, Dominique Grandmougin, Clémentine Riem

Dominique Grandmougin, Clémentine Riem

Anne Sophie Cuna

Amar Boumediene

Mason Donald, Hannah Duff, Christina Wong

Hélène Kaufman

Nicolas Untz

Charles Sisson

Makrham Sammari

Sarah Vandivort

Julie Archer

About the School Day

Monday through Wednesday

7:30-8:00 Morning care All students on campus must attend. Students may not loiter outside.

8:00-8:10 Arrival Car and bus drop off. Students proceed directly upstairs and access lockers.

8:10-8:15 Settling in to first class Students are in their seats and ready to learn at 8:15.

8:15-8:40/45 Learning Time Teachers and students meet about assignments, short class offerings and information on Tuesdays

8:15-11:00 Classes 2 65-minute classes

11:00 – 11:55 First break Time for lunch and recess. No passing time before or after.

11:55-1:40 Classes 50-minute classes

1:40-2:00 Second break Time for snack and recess. No passing time before or after.

2:00-3:45 Classes 50-minute classes

3:43 – 3:45

Bus dismissal Students who take the bus are dismissed 2 minutes earlier. Students arrive to busses quickly.

3:45 – 4:00

Dismissal Students make their way to lockers, cars, and self-dismissal. All students must go outside before 4x4.

4:00 – 4:55

Four-by-Four Program

Students enrolled in Four-by-Four (4x4) programs such as athletics, clubs, workshop, or activities return upstairs. Snack will be provided for 4 x4 only (not clubs). A class assistant will support students with assignments during workshop, a quiet space. Social time is supervised by Educational Assistants. Dismissal only at 4:55pm or later.

4:55 – 5:00

5:00 – 5:15

Bus Dismissal Students will move quickly downstairs.

Dismissal Students gather belongings and depart from yard or join after care.

5:15-6:00 After care Remaining students join after care. Students must be picked up by 6pm.

Thursdays and Fridays

7:30-8:00 Morning care

8:00-8:10 Arrival

All students on campus must attend. Students may not loiter outside.

Car and bus drop off. Students proceed directly upstairs and access lockers.

8:10-8:15 Settling in to first class Students are in their seats and ready to learn at 8:15.

8:15-10:55 Classes

50-minute classes

Thursday Classes Friday

10:55 – 11:50

First break: time for lunch and recess. Yard open at 11am. No passing time before or after break.

10:55-11:55

First break: time for lunch and recess. Yard open at 11am. 5 extra minutes. It’s Friday! 11:50-12:40 50-minute class

12:45-1:50 65-minute class

1:50-2:10 Second break: Time for snack and recess. No passing time before or after.

2:10-3:20 70-minute class: Gr 6 PE, Gr 7-8 Learning Labs.

No passing time.

1:40-2:00

Second break: Time for snack and recess. No passing time before or after. At same time as on Monday-Wednesday.

classes

3:20 – 3:45

Learning Time

Bus dismissal Students who take the bus are dismissed 2 minutes earlier. Students arrive to busses quickly.

3:45 – 4:00 Dismissal Students make their way to lockers, cars, and selfdismissal. All students must go outside before 4x4.

4:00 – 4:55 Four-by-Four Program Students enrolled in Four-by-Four (4x4) programs such as athletics, clubs, workshops, or activities return upstairs. Snack will be provided for 4 x4 only (not clubs). A class assistant will support students with learning beyond the classroom when attending workshop, a quiet space. Social time can be spent with other students under the supervision of Educational Assistants. Clubs and Athletics are organized. Dismissal is not permitted during this time.

4:55 – 5:00 Bus Dismissal Students will move quickly downstairs.

5:00 – 5:15 Dismissal Students gather belongings and go to the yard or join the after care.

5:15-6:00 After care

Remaining students join after care. Students must be picked up by 6pm.

Academic Honesty and Integrity

In the FASPS Mission and Vision statement we define the school’s goal as preparing students to “learn, understand, and act wisely.” FASPS students know what is right and wrong, and act accordingly, even if someone is not watching.

FASPS appreciates individual work as well as creative and collaborative projects. No matter what students are working on, the highest standards of academic honesty and integrity apply, so do not cheat, plagiarize, or use someone else’s work unless you cite your source or give credit.

ACADEMIC HONESTY IS

Completing your own work and then discussing your answers with another student who has also completed their work.

Staying focused on your own work and not competing or comparing themself with others.

Asking a teacher or parent for help when you are stuck or confused.

Using a study guide to prepare for a test or quiz.

Putting information into your own words and citing sources or using the proper quotation marks and citing your source.

Asking teachers for clarification when guidelines for group work (or individual work) aren’t clear.

Knowing (or asking if you’re not sure) when work needs to be completed independently.

ACADEMIC HONESTY ISN’T

Looking at someone else’s paper during a test, quiz, or individual assignment.

Sharing your paper or screen during a test, quiz, or individual assignment.

Telling or asking what was on a test or quiz before everyone has taken it.

Asking someone for their work (via phone, email, notes, or in person) without doing it yourself.

Letting someone copy your work (via phone, email, notes, or in person)

Using answers from a source other than your own mind during a test unless given teacher permission to do otherwise.

Plagiarizing: using words/ideas that are not yours, without saying whose they are.

We recognize how challenging it can be for students to understand the complexity of academic integrity as they develop. If academic dishonesty such as plagiarism or cheating occurs, using technology or not, we will seek to understand the circumstances around the incident, which will be reported on the behavior app. Students could lose the opportunity to submit that assignment for a grade. FASPS communicates and involves parents when incidents of academic dishonesty occur. Integrity is one of our values.

Advisory

A 50-minute Advisory class is part of each grade’s program. The Middle School Advisory Program provides each student with an advisor who plans small group activities. During Advisory, the advisor and students acknowledge successes, listen to and discuss challenges, and problem-solve together. Active participation is highly beneficial to students and to the community at large.

An advisor is a supportive adult and the first point of contact at school. Advisory lessons engage students in learning socio-emotional and wellbeing topics, building organizational habits, and discussions around Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). Advisors also monitor student development academically and they are the facilitator at conferences with families. In addition to building community, advisory covers important topics such as peer pressure, bullying, self-confidence, and the safe use and context of technology. Topics in advisory are treated confidentially unless the advisor is concerned about the well-being of a student.

Assemblies

3-4 Assemblies are held per year. The point people for assemblies are the Dean of Students and the Interdisciplinary Facilitator. Students are strongly encouraged to take leadership roles within assemblies: organizing, displaying, performing, presenting, and facilitating. Topics range from guest speakers and productions to brief presentations and performances by students and faculty.

Students attend as active, respectful listeners, participants, and leaders. All these student roles are part of building a strong and inclusive FASPS community and culture where students have a voice and take initiative.

Athletics

Parents receive an email informing them of FASPS athletics sign-ups that are done online. The PE teacher also informs students about upcoming athletics opportunities.

Students participating in athletics abide to an agreement that reminds them of our School Mission, Core Values, and the importance of sportsmanship, inclusion, and fair play. Spectators are reminded that they are FASPS ambassadors, and they must respect the Athletics Agreement as well.

Student athletes

The following standards are required of all student athletes. As a FASPS student athlete, you agree to the following:

Take responsibility to be dressed, ready, and in the designated meeting area for practice, to respect my teammates, and be able to leave promptly.

Exert efforts to maintain a high level of academic achievement as a FASPS student-athlete.

Attend all team practices/games unless ill or unless made known to the Coach via email and or Athletic Coordinator at least one day prior to the practice/game.

Exhibit behavior that will reflect positively on the team, the school, and the community.

Exhibit responsible, respectful, and trustworthy behavior towards my teammates, Coaches, and opponents.

Comply with all team, school, and school system rules, regulations, and policies.

Exhibit appropriate behavior at all team and school related activities.

Respect and comply with decisions made by the Coach and Athletic department.

Respect calls and decisions made by officials.

Always display good sportsmanship.

Attendance, Absences, Tardiness

We request parents schedule medical and dental appointments outside of school hours, especially on trip and retreat days, and more importantly, to not schedule family engagements when school is in session. Although students may be able to make up some or all the assignments missed, the learning activities that take place in the classroom cannot be duplicated.

Students are expected to be seated and ready to learn at 8:15 every day. Attendance is taken daily. Days absent and/or tardies for each class are recorded.

Five-minute passing times are provided between classes (with the exception of breaks and Learning Labs). Arriving on time to class is essential to creating an inclusive learning environment. The start of class involves giving directions that, if repeated later, take learning time away from everyone. Being late can affect teacher plans and student engagement. The Dean of Students monitors tardiness and communicates through notes when concerns arise. Upon a fourth tardy in any class, a student will be held after school (service activity). Persistent tardiness will result in a meeting to resolve the concern with students and their parents/ guardians.

When students are absent, parents must inform reception by the main FASPS telephone number or email Reception@fasps.org on the morning of the same day. Contagious diseases diagnosed by a physician must also be reported. For planned absences, the parent is required to submit a written explanation to the advisor ahead of time. For absences of more than two days, permission from the Middle School Head must be requested. Students assignments are recorded on Teams. Repeated absences require partnership with the school to avoid impact on academic success, and consequently, student placement or promotion for the following year.

Backpacks and Lockers

Students have access to a locker. If another student is in the process of accessing their locker, stand back and wait your turn. The Facilities Team provides students with a lock if needed. Personal locks are prohibited.

Lockers are assigned by advisors. Students are urged to carry only what they need for that day to and from school. Routinely used personal belongings may be left at school. Please wash your PE and swim clothes regularly! Students may not take a second locker. Instead, reach out to advisors or the MS Head to find solutions for storing additional gear. Questions about locker assignments should begin within advisories. Once concerns are identified, they can be brought to the Student Council or Dean of Students.

Students will respect other’s privacy opening and using only their own locker. It is a serious matter to place or remove anything in another student’s locker, even if you think it’s playful.

Breaks will be used to organize students’ items at lockers. Items left on the floor or in doorways will be removed for everyone’s safety.

Behavior Expectations and Guidelines (Based on FASPS Code of Conduct)

At FASPS we establish an atmosphere of inclusion, safety, and wellbeing, where students encounter a maximum of opportunities to learn. Learning about student behavior and emotions is an integral part of the educational process.

We encourage students to make appropriate choices for themselves and the group through Positive Guidance. By actively listening to students, we plan to meet student needs. Families are a key part of this approach. The Faculty use strategies and techniques drawn from positive discipline philosophy, mediation techniques, and restorative practices. Faculty reinforce individual positive behavior by encouraging the expression of feelings and coming up with alternative actions.

Expectations are ways of acting and attitudes that guide students toward choices that create a positive school culture.

Procedures are routines and structures that bring students together to learn as a community and foster productive relationships and experiences.

Rules are non-negotiable and must be followed by all students.

4 EXPECTATIONS

FASPS strives to explore and instill the following expectations. Different to rules, school-wide expectations guide behavior, developing student autonomy and empowering everyone to make right choices.

Respect, responsibility, safety, kindness

Respect oneself, respect for others, respect for environments

Everyone is deserving of equal respect, in alignment with our commitment to diversity, equality and inclusion.

Students respect the authority of all adults equally, following directions the first time.

Relying on our values of cultural agility and integrity, communicating with others directly using mediation and by bringing a problem-solving mindset to conflict resolution.

Be kind to oneself and others when mistakes happen.

Assume everyone has the best of intentions

All spaces are shared, cared for, and used safely, according to purpose.

All school materials are common, cared for, and left in the way that they were found

Everyone respects their own and others’ personal property

Everyone respects each other’s personal space by being mindful of each other’s consent.

Everyone respects each other’s time is important.

Take daily actions to reduce waste.

Bring a growth mindset to students learning.

Books and Supplies

Students are given all books and supplies at the beginning of the academic year. Advisors will give students materials such as scissors, pens, pencils, etc. Teachers will provide students with the necessary materials for classes such as notebooks, binders, folders, and relevant texts and/or workbooks.

Students are responsible for bringing all necessary materials to each class. If students lose an item, they are responsible for notifying their teacher and replacing it as soon as possible. A cost may be involved. Please refer to the chart on page 22 for a list of fees that may be charged for lost or damaged items.

Supplies (including binders, books, backpacks, lunch boxes, jackets, etc.) found on the floor or left untidily will be taken to the Dean’s Office. Laptops will be placed in a locked office (usually the Middle School Head’s)

Breaks

Breaks are time off for students to enjoy recess, games, lunch, snacks, and less structured activities. There are two breaks per day: first break and second break. Students have more autonomy during breaks to respond to their biorhythms and needs. They can spend their time according to their interests and social activities. Students will continue to follow the directions of supervisors when asked.

Students choose how and where they want to spend their time:

At recess on the yard

Playing games or socializing in a classroom

At lunch in a classroom

At lunch on the circle outside

In the library

At Student Council

In hallway for locker organization or to access the restrooms

Enter and exit the Middle School area by the front stairs only.

During first break, students commit to sitting down for a minimum of 15 minutes to eat lunch.

Students will use quiet voices in the hallways, especially when leaving the Middle School area to access the library or yard. Students will walk in the hallways and respect all adult instructions. Students will remain within the designated areas.

Break Monitors

Each grade has a calendar that includes when each student will be a break monitor.

Lunch break monitors check to make sure lunch areas are clean before classes resume. If trash is left behind or desks are dirty, they kindly ask students to return to take care of it. If they cannot find or identify the student, they will take care of cleaning up the mess.

Recess break monitors check to make sure equipment is put away and trash is collected and placed in the bins. They kindly ask students to return to help. If they cannot find or identify the student, they will take care of cleaning it up.

Second break monitors check to make sure equipment is put away and trash is collected and placed in the bins. They also check classrooms for disorder. They kindly ask students to return to help. If they cannot find or identify the student, they will take care of cleaning it up.

Building Hours

Middle School area access hours are from 8:00AM to 5:15PM. Students are eligible for self-dismissal through a form completed at the start of the year. Students may only leave campus with an authorized adult included on the Student Release Form. If students are not staying for the Four-by-Four (4x4) program, they leave the building and school premises by 4:00PM. If a student’s parent is late, please inform an adult. The Four-by-Four program concludes by 5:15 PM. Remaining students join after-care until 6PM. The school building closes at 6:00PM.

Bullying and Harassment Policy (From FASPS Code of Conduct)

At FASPS students are part of a community where students “pull people up” rather than “put people down.” Students accept and support each other because they can expect to count on being accepted and supported as well. This is how students create an inclusive community for everyone.

Harassment, intimidation, and bullying are closely related, but they are not identical. Not every mean, unfriendly, inappropriate, or otherwise unwanted action is harassment, intimidation, or bullying.

Sometimes, though, there are times when someone might not remember this important value. “Bullying” is unwanted, aggressive behavior that involves a real or perceived power imbalance, such as when a student repeatedly says and does negative things to gain power over another student.

Examples:

Threatening physical or socio-emotional harm

Physically harming a student

Hiding, taking, or damaging their property

Name-calling, put downs, cruel teasing, harassment, causing unwelcome attention

Saying or writing nasty or threatening things

Spreading rumors or malicious gossip

Intentionally excluding others

Making others do things they do not want to do

Intimidating others

Bullying can substantially undermine a student’s school experience at FASPS. It lowers confidence and can disrupt academic progress and results. It can be very challenging to recover from and impact a person’s wellbeing in lasting ways. It can create feelings of isolation that can lead to depression, serious mental conditions, or suicide. The results of bullying and harassment impact the School, our community, and educational operations as whole.

Understand that bullying others or the use of physical violence against others will not be tolerated. Any harassment of others concerning the race, religion, appearance, gender, disability, or sexual orientation of others (including using insulting or foul language) is not allowed.

Consequences for bullying or being disrespectful can include learning about students own and other’s experiences to build empathy, writing a letter of apology, meetings with parents, teachers, the Dean of Students, Middle School Head and/or the Head of School, a contract for improvement, suspension, or expulsion depending on the gravity and/or repetition of the situation. An instance of bullying is considered a School issue and the School Administration will be informed.

Inappropriate use of technology, whether at home or at school, to tease, harass, or threaten any individual known to students through FASPS is harmful behavior that violates school policy and potentially Washington law. Our school has adopted this policy to protect our students, faculty, staff and administrators, and to be prepared to respond to incidents of cyberbullying, cyber-harassment, or cyberstalking. Several forms of prohibited conduct are listed below as examples, but this list does not identify all online conduct that is potentially harmful and violates our policies:

Using electronic devices to initiate repeated negative behavior toward a less-powerful person.

Electronic name-calling, shunning, and shaming.

Using technology to spread rumors, gossip, or make threats online.

Retaliating against anyone who reports alleged inappropriate technology use.

Whenever inappropriate technology use is reported, we take steps to promptly investigate the situation in an age-appropriate manner. Where appropriate, we take disciplinary steps which may include loss of technology privileges, suspension and/or expulsion from the school. In situations involving especially harmful online conduct, we may refer the matter to local and/or state authorities for further investigation and potential prosecution.

For more information, please see http://www.k12.wa.us/SafetyCenter/InternetSafety/default.aspx

If you have reason to believe a student is being harassed, intimidated, or bullied or stalked, please contact any teacher or administrator with whom you feel comfortable talking.

Bullying Incident Report

If a student feels that another student’s action towards students or another student fits the definition of bullying given above, they are encouraged to talk to any adult they feel comfortable talking to (parent, teacher, advisor, counselor, Dean of Students, Middle School Head…). A brief report (that can be anonymous) may be completed to communicate the issue to the Dean of Students and the Middle School Head. After receiving the form, we will do the following in a timely manner (depending on the severity of the situation):

01. Investigate, which may include interviewing all parties and/or witnesses. Students will be provided individual time to share their perceptions and the facts around what has occurred.

02. Determine whether the student’s action can be defined as one of the following:

a. Bullying

b. Not bullying, but against the school’s code of conduct

c. Not bullying or a violation, but an indication that students need mediation and guidance

d. No evidence that the situation took place as reported

e. Other

03. Communicate the findings to the student who submitted the form (unless anonymously submitted).

04. Take appropriate disciplinary action. (See Code of Conduct)

This form and procedure are designed for students use only, not for parental use. FASPS is not required to inform other students or parents of the disciplinary actions taken against another student.

Bus

Please, be on time! Don’t hold up the bus!

If students take the bus, we want students to be safe, so remember the following important rules:

Bus Conduct Rules:

01. Students are under the authority of the bus driver while on the bus.

02. Students must sit with seat belts fastened while the bus is moving.

03. Students must stay seated and will not change seats during the trip.

04. Students should keep their conversations at classroom level. Obscene language or any form of harassment is not allowed. Students should not gesture to pedestrians or motorists.

05. Students must keep the bus clean and throw away all trash in the bin on the bus. Food and drink are not allowed on the bus except for lunch boxes. Lunch boxes may not be opened while on the bus.

06. Students must keep all body parts and belongings inside the bus and keep their hands, feet, and belongings to themselves.

07. Students must not throw objects inside the bus or out the window.

08. All belongings must be kept out of the aisles and away from emergency exits.

09. Live animals and glass containers are not allowed on the bus.

10. Students must respect other students and their property, as well as bus property - not vandalizing or damaging seats, windows, etc...

Cellular-enabled Devices

From 8:00-8:14am and 3:45-4pm cellular use on personal devices is allowed, except in the restrooms. This includes using it for texting, music, videos, etc. In very special circumstances, permission for use may be granted by a school administrator or a teacher for a student to use a personal device. The school is not responsible for lost or damaged devices.

From FASPS Code of Conduct

Students who have a cellular-enabled device (phone, smart watch, etc.) may bring it to school; however, it needs to stay on airplane mode with Wi-Fi and cellular turned off at all times during the school day of 8:15-3:45 and from 4-5pm, or when in 4x4, unless permission from a teacher or an administrator is given for use in a learning project. During class hours, students are not allowed to email, message, or video conferencing with their parents or guardians without permission from the Middle School Head.

Cellular-enabled device use on overnight trips can be modified or restricted at the discretion of the School.

Not respecting the above could result in a loss of privilege around the device.

Communication and Partnership

(Based on FASPS Code of Conduct)

FASPS students are guided by our School mission and values. We communicate with students and parents about positive initiatives and behavior, often but not limited to, through Bravo Notes. We also communicate areas for more development.

The school partners with parents and guardians to build positive behaviors and expectations; communication is an essential part of this partnership. The school has a school-wide, harmonized approach that monitors behavior progressively. FASPS responds to behavior in a manner which respects diversity, equity, and inclusion, and upholds everyone’s dignity. FASPS employees reinforce positive behaviors by sharing resolutions for correcting negative behaviors. The following flow charts elucidate our processes for understanding and responding to student behavior.

We can all make mistakes and we’re at School to learn. When mistakes happen, we need to repair the harm that occurred. In the interest of fairness, the FASPS faculty use a behavior app to internally document student behavior. The result of this internal monitoring and tracking facilitates communication between families and the School. The information collected by the app is kept internally and is not destined for external use. It is used to support communication about student behavior. Further information about the types of behavior that FASPS tracks and to what purpose is shared below.

Communication Procedures

Being an effective communicator is an essential skill to acquire. Communicating well means choosing the right method, tone, and timing, because these impact how others understand our intentions.

At FASPS, we guide students to develop these skills, because we want all communication with anyone to be polite and respectful, representing integrity, community, cultural agility, and excellence.

To this end, make sure any avatars, nicknames, status updates or photos are aligned with the FASPS Mission, our Core Values and the FASPS Code of Conduct.

Communicating with teachers:

When in school, this might be done in person when the teacher is in the room. Otherwise, please use email. Students will avoid text, chat, or email when in another class unless given permission by the teacher. Don’t expect a response immediately or in the evening.

When outside of school, this should be done using the school email, TEAMS or the FASPS website. Students may use email to schedule an in-person meeting with a teacher or to ask questions about class assignments.

Follow the email guidelines below.

Communicating with administration:

Advisors can reply to most student questions. Advisors will help to direct questions or issues to the appropriate channel. Students may always request a meeting with the Administration (Dean of Students, Middle School Head, Head of School) via email or in person.

Communicating with parents:

Students will not have access to cell phones during the school day. Any necessary phone calls should be made with permission from the Dean of Students or Middle School Head.

Students are not allowed to send personal emails or messages to parents or anyone else during class time. Students will ask parents not to send them emails or texts that require a response during class times.

Students are invited to contact Ms. Chandler for additional help.

Communicating with other students:

Students will keep in mind how community can create a school environment in which all students are free and safe from bullying, intimidation, harassment, and discrimination. It is important students think about and remember these things:

A joke is not a joke if it is hurtful or offensive to anyone.

Put-downs will not be tolerated at school or through electronic means. Compliments are amazing!

Listening is a component of communication. Listening to peers gives others a chance to share their ideas and input.

Close laptop lid when others, including peers, are speaking and when directed to do so.

Refrain from sending images, gif, emoji during classes, and to not engage in chat or email unless the teacher has given students permission (each time).

When using email, even after school, email etiquette will be followed.

Refrain from sending inappropriate videos, pictures, jokes through the school email accounts (especially through “reply all”).

Communication remains with the people originally in the chat. Students will not copy chat (email or other forms of communication) from one group and share it with others unless the first group is aware of it and agrees.

Use learning time wisely. Communicate as needed with classmates (for example, on a shared project), but refrain from interrupting the work and sleep of others.

That all forms of written communication can be easily saved and/or shared with others. A digital footprint cannot be erased.

Email Etiquette:

Is short, professional, and objective.

When writing teachers, include a greeting and last name.

Do not use ALL CAPS or a series of !!!!!!

Use the subject line wisely. For teachers, mention the class students are writing about.

Do not include abbreviations or slang. Email is not the same as texting.

Are read by students before sending. Spelling and grammar do matter.

Are signed with a full name.

Means students will carefully decide who will see the email. They do not click REPLY ALL.

Is not used to solve serious problems.

Chat

Is used in very limited ways when we are on campus. Students will only use chat as directed by a teacher.

Students should keep their status on “do not disturb” unless a teacher asks them to remove it. Students will not override “do not disturb” with urgent flagging.

Is not used to solve serious problems.

Consequences (From FASPS Code of Conduct)

The following consequences are applicable, depending on the severity and circumstances of the incident, including repetition. Repetition is both within a single day, and over a period of time.

Natural Consequences

The direct result of student choices, for example, not studying for a test might result in a disappointment, a mean comment results in the loss of a friend, or detention coincides with an extracurricular activity

Repair

y This is when a student involved in an incident acknowledges that their behavior caused harm (emotional, property, physical) and pursues repair to make amends. There is no onesize-fits-all repair, and repairs need to be personalized for each student (age-appropriate, history of a student, diagnostic, etc).

y Ideally, the repair should come from the student, and a student might need an adult’s guidance to define who was involved, who they need to make amends with, and to help discern what type of repair will creatively and responsibly restore balance to relationships.

y Additional examples of repair could include Peer Mediation, Restorative Practices (circles), replacing a broken item.

Traditional Consequences

y Responses such as a written apology, researching or learning a specific topic, or guided reflection.

y Loss of privilege: students lose a privilege that, at best, is connected to the incident. A privilege lost could also be attendance at a school event or activity.

y Detention: After careful review of the full situation with the Dean of Students and Division Head, families are informed that a student will serve detention. The detention usually takes place on the next school day.

y At-school suspension: While excluded from the group, the student engages in learning, reflection, restorative, and/or service activities that increase their understanding of the infraction. The Head of School is consulted prior to this consequence being taken. A return interview is held prior to the student’s return to the group.

y At-home suspension: While at home, the student engages in learning, reflection, and/or service activities that increase their understanding of the infraction. The Head of School is consulted prior to this consequence being taken. A formal meeting is held prior to the student’s return to school.

y Expulsion: this consequence must always be decided by the Head of School or his designee. When possible, a restorative practice or outside mediation may be considered or implemented.

Displays of Affection at School (From FASPS Code of Conduct)

At FASPS, we understand that genuine feelings of affection may exist between students. We expect, however, that students will refrain from public and private displays of affection when students are on campus or attending and/or participating in school-related activities, such as retreats or trips. Expressions of feelings of affection toward one another are personal between individuals and therefore the school context is not the right setting. Displays of affection can distract both those involved and those observing such behaviors from learning. Displays of affection include any physical exchanges that could make others uncomfortable because they may seem exclusive and/or don’t align with FASPS values for inclusivity.

Learning Labs

Learning Labs provide students in Grades 7 & 8 with the opportunity to engage in projects and interdisciplinary learning aligned with their evolving interests. Students expand their understanding of the world through Learning Labs. These are classes, not clubs, and will be listed on student transcripts for credit and comments. Labs are designed with clear, dynamic learning expectations and requirements just as other classes.

Learning labs change every year and each semester. This allows teachers to introduce new topics of interest to students and/or themselves. While we try to respect students’ first choice, please understand that sometimes students will be allocated their second or third choice. Every lab is a journey of discovery, so bring students should bring best selves to the experience.

Emergency Procedures (student perspective)

Pretend it is real! It might be real! Be quiet! Listen to directions!

During the year, the school will conduct emergency drills for fire, lock down, earthquakes and other possible scenarios. Students are made aware of the school emergency policy, which explains how the school will operate if an emergency situation arises, how students will be released, how communication between home and school will take place, and what preparations and supplies the school has.

During a drill or an actual emergency, students need to:

Stay calm, (both for student safety and to provide reassurance for younger students for whom middle schoolers are mentors).

Remain quiet and attentive to the situation and all adults, following all directions.

Not use any personal communication device or laptop (the school will communicate to parents).

Fees for Lost or Damaged Items

FASPS distributes several items to students, which include a Surface, case, power cord, books, math tool kit, and more. The school expects students to care for these items properly. When these things are lost or damaged the cost of replacement and/or repair may be charged to student (or their parents). The decision to charge students will be made by the school administration and communicated to parents.

This is a chart of the possible fees:

Textbooks, library books, paperbacks

Locker door damage

Cost to replace ($5.00-$100.00)

Cost to repair

Locker locks $6.00

Math Supply Kit

School cameras

Headset

$10.00

Cost to repair or replace ($50-$350)

Family will have to purchase own replacement

Food and Snacks

We believe that eating healthy, well-balanced lunches and snacks are important to physical and academic wellbeing. Students must eat lunch and we expect them to choose healthy and nutritious food and beverages. A snack for Second Break is also encouraged. 4x4

Students are pre-registered for after-school programming, called Four-by-Four at the Middle School, by their parent /guardian on a yearly or trimesterly basis.

If students are registered for a club, students may stay after school on the day it is offered.

If students are registered for the whole week, students may stay as many days as they like from 3:45-6:00PM, chosing what best fits their needs: to attend workshop for study and/or support, or to engage in activities with peers. Workshop/Atelier (study time) ends at 5:00pm. Students not registered for 4x4 may not stay after school. Please make other arrangements.

Fundraising and Sales

Students are not allowed to engage in outside fundraising or private sales at school. Fundraising for a school project or event needs approval by the administration.

Hallways

Students will respect the right for everyone to learn, work, and socialize in a shared environment and they will remain aware of their surroundings and the level of noise. When moving through hallways, students will be quiet and aware. They will extend this behavior to the SJCC, including the travel there and back.

Headsets and Earbuds

Headsets are the only auditory listening devices that students need for learning during the school day. Earbuds will only be used with permission each time from a teacher and they are not to be used during the school day for any other purpose than learning activities specified by a teacher. For sanitary reasons, headgear is not shared with other students.

No head or ear gear is authorized during lunch or recess.

Hot Lunch

Hot lunch is ordered the month ahead by families. Students enrolled in this program pick up their boxed lunch in the hallway between 11-11:45am. Please help us remind parents to not register for hot lunches on trip and event days.

Leadership Opportunities

There are many ways for students to take on leadership at the Middle School. Consider one of these roles that might suit your interests and skills.

Break Monitor (Every gets an opportunity to try this one!)

Clubs, such as GSA or Green/Eco Council

Peer Mediator

Student Ambassador

Student Council

Yearbook Senior Editing Team

Learning Beyond the Classroom and Homework Guidelines

What is Learning Beyond the Classroom?

Learning beyond the classroom tasks are always given to students by their teachers with deliberate purpose. These activities range from a requirement to recommended skills practice, from a project that will demonstrate

students understanding to studying for an assessment. For this reason, at FASPS our expectation is that students will engage fully in this learning.

Teachers recognize the need for students to balance their learning tasks in a manner that still gives ample time for other activities, sleep, and social time. They also know that students often need to learn how to manage these needs during their Middle School years.

The FASPS Assessment Policy and Learning Beyond the Classroom Guidelines have been written to help students and their families family understand expectations. The times below are a guideline, recognizing that occasionally a longer (or shorter) amount of time may be needed. These times are also based on actual working time (not getting students materials, sending emails, getting a snack, etc.).

How much time will I spend?

Students can expect to spend the following time on learning beyond the classroom activities:

Grade 6 60 minutes

Grade 7 70 minutes

Grade 8 80 minutes

Where will find what I need to do?

Students will use the section called Assignments on Teams to locate what they need to do. Assignments will also be added to their Teams calendar.

Students can reach out to the teacher about instances of assignments exceeding these time guidelines. If more support is necessary, students can speak with their advisor or the Dean of Students. Teachers will provide students with a “what if” plan to follow if a task is taking more time than intended.

It is important that doing one subject’s learning does not result in other classes are ignored. If necessary, it would be better to complete part of one assignment and move to another class’s learning than to spend the evening only on one class’s assignment.

Students will have no more than two exams per day. No more than two extensive projects due the same week. Quizzes are not considered exams or projects. Quizzes do not impact semester grades. A project, such as a book talk that has multiple “assignment” dates built in, is exempt from these limitations.

Learning tasks are due on the due date. If not completed, it is the student’s responsibility to communicate with their teacher with a plan to complete it at the earliest possible time.

Students need to monitor the “distractions” that keep them from completing learning in a timely manner. These may include socializing and using chat during study and class work times, internet/computer use that is not related to the assignment, spending too much time researching an insignificant aspect of the assignment (like looking for the “perfect” graphic), not bringing home the right materials and books, etc.

To give students an opportunity to enjoy a school break without focusing on learning tasks or exams, the following learning breaks are given. When returning to school, new tasks may be assigned beginning on the day of return. However, no major tests, projects, or tasks given prior to the break will take place, according to this chart:

This chart applies to regularly scheduled holiday and/or school breaks, not breaks such as snow days or conference days.

No learning beyond the classroom tasks will be due or tests scheduled…

The first and second day after returning from …Any break longer than one day, but shorter than a full school week. This applies to Thanksgiving break.

The first, second, and third day after returning from…

Learning Time

…Any break a full school week or longer, such as Fall Break, Winter Break, February Break, and Spring Break.

Monday through Wednesday, and on Thursday afternoons, 25-30 minutes are provided for Learning Time. The purpose of Learning Time is to provide teachers and students time to further reinforce positive learning behaviors and habits. Teachers may set up lessons and activities to provide additional learning, and students will participate when asked. Learning Time can include student groups or pair work assigned by teachers or decided by students, supervised revision, one-on-one support, test or assignment retakes, and/or independent study. Learning Time is an excellent opportunity for students to request to see a teacher or advisor, or to go to the library. Teachers, advisors and other support staff may request to meet students during Learning Time, too.

Learning Time’s first purpose is not homework completion. If activities are not organized, students are welcome to select learning activities autonomously. Students benefit from thinking through which activities they prioritize for this time, and teachers are available to ideas. Students must not count on this time being available for homework completion, especially for assignments due the same day.

This is a good time to ask for IT support or to visit the School Counselor, the Dean of Students or Middle School Head. Help with English, French, or other learning areas can be obtained.

Use of personal devices is not permitted, and personal devices must be stowed out of sight. Learning using school technology must be approved by the teacher or supervisor.

Teachers may request a student open an assignment given by another teacher to check or help. Bring a book to Learning Time if you sometimes finish early. Students will choose a book from the library during this time if not.

Keep personal listening to outside the school day. Gaming (unless assigned by a teacher) is not acceptable, and it is prohibited by our Technology Acceptable Use Agreement. This time is a privilege. Consistent mismanagement of this time will result in a plan put together by the student, advisor, Dean of Students, and the parents.

Lost and Found

All other lost items (including clothing, water bottles, lunch containers, etc.) will be temporarily kept at the reception. They will be thrown away after a week to minimize the spread of disease. FASPS is not responsible for returning items to their owners.

Medication and Illness

FASPS does not administer any medications, unless an exception has been obtained by prior arrangement through the Health Office. Students need to receive all medications from their parents at home. Students should not take fever-reducing medicines before coming to campus or while on campus.

Students who have medical conditions or needs such as asthma, diabetes, or menstrual pain will be handled on an individual basis. Parents can contact Health@fasps.org

Never leave medicine in a lunchbox or backpack. Sharing medicine, whether prescription or over the counter, is illegal and may be reported to the local authorities.

Students who show symptoms of lice, pinkeye, or serious illness (such as covid-19 or flu-like symptoms) during the school day will be sent home.

When a student is absent from school due to illness or quarantine, the student is responsible for contacting all teachers about making up work.

All students are expected to participate in regular school activities. A note from parents is required to obtain an exception. Exceptions are not immediately granted, and a doctor’s note

may be required.

Mid-Semester Progress Reports/ Semester Reports/ Grading

To support a growth mindset, build autonomy and set effective learning habits, Grade 6 students will focus on learning routines and how to successfully complete their assignments during the first semester. Letter grades will not be awarded for the first semester in an effort to help students understand the directions for completing assignments and to foster their organizational skills for the Middle School years. Grade 6 will receive a midsemester report and a full report with letter grades for semester 2.

Progress reports with a current grade in every class will be sent home mid-semester before the StudentParent-Advisor Conferences. Semester reports with final grades and comments written by teachers will be sent home twice a year for Grades 7 and 8. These reports indicate both student achievement in each subject area and the development of study habits, cooperation, collaboration, respect, and engagement.

Students will receive both a French number grade and an American letter grade. These grades will be listed on transcripts for future reference.

Notes (Notifications) through MyFASPS

MyFASPS Notes are used to share information with families. In Middle School, Notes are received by the student and parents. A variety of subject lines are possible, including a range of areas and levels of concern and commendation. Notes will include the facts and action taken or to be taken, and they will not include the names of other students involved. Notes are internal and will not be shared with outside parties, nor are they part of the high school placement process.

Types of Notes

01. Bravo Notice

Recognizes positive student behavior

Recognizes student leadership

Recognizes service

Recognizes academic excellence

Recognizes display of empathy

Recognizes outstanding display of 4 expectations (Respect, Responsibility, Kindness, Safety)

Recognizes exemplary commitment to FASPS’ mission, vision, & values

02. Missing Assignment

Alerts student and parent to missing assignment

Missing assignments can result in:

y Guided office hour

y Parent notification with information about how grade could be affected

y Consultation with teacher, advisor and/or Dean of Students

y Conference with parents

y Individual development plan suited to student needs

03. Academic Information

Targets recipient generally the student

Comes from student’s advisor and teacher

Shares action student may take to remedy the situation

Communicates role of student accountability

04.

Sharing Information

Shares when students are involved in an incident

Shares concerns about student well-being

Shares any additional helpful information for student’s success

05. Behavior Issue – notification given by level of incident

All Notes share facts of incident, communication thus far with student(s) involved, how families can support at home, the repair or consequences, and any applicable follow-up needed. Level of incident will be determined taking into consideration intention, repetition of behavior, and extent of behavior incident.

Moderate

Significant

High

Notes are not sent for low level incidents that are recorded only on the internally-used Behavior App.

Peer Mediation and Restorative Practices

Students might want to become peer mediators to learn how to help peers solve an issue.

A student (or students) who wants help with a problem between friends may ask for a peer mediator. This is always optional; however, the peer mediators are trained to help students problem solve. This can be a better solution than asking an adult to solve it.

To learn more about being a peer mediator, ask your advisor.

Restorative practices are used to resolve conflicts and repair harm (hurt feelings, physical harm) that has occurred. Circles allow everyone time to share their perspective according to safe routines. These practices increase empathy and repair harm. Circle participants may be asked to consider their own ways to repair harm.

Personal Hygiene

http://kidshealth.org/teen/students_body/take_care/hygiene_basics.html#

Good personal hygiene promotes good health, combats germs, and contributes to a school environment that is pleasant for all. Puberty causes all kinds of changes in the pre-adolescent and adolescent body. Students skin and scalp may suddenly get oily very easily. At times, students might sweat for no reason — and students might notice new odors on their own or others’ bodies.

These bodily changes are a normal part of becoming an adult. Still, some of them can be a real source of anxiety. This is a good time to start following these hygiene basics:

• Wash hands often, especially before and after eating and using the toilets.

• Washing hair every day or every other day can help control oily hair.

• Bathe or shower every day using soap and warm water. This will help wash away any bacteria that contribute to the smells.

• Wear clean clothes and underwear each day.

• Wear gym shoes with clean cotton socks. Feet should be washed thoroughly at night on the days students have PE.

• Begin wearing deodorant daily.

Check in with the School Counselor if you have more questions about body changes and/or student health and development.

Physical aggression (From FASPS Code of Conduct)

Physical aggression is never tolerated. Physical aggression should not be returned by physical aggression. Any teacher can respond to incidents quickly. An employee, preferably the supervising teacher, must be notified of any concerns as soon as they are rumored to occur or have occurred. The level of incident and the consequence will be determined according to the Code of Conduct.  A Note will be sent to inform all parties involved.

Physical Education Class

Dress

Students will wear a clean PE outfit (t-shirt, shorts/leggings/sweatpants, athletic shoes, and socks) during class. Depending on the class time, students can arrive wearing their PE outfit. If a student is a good time-manager, an outfit change during breaks throughout the day, such as lunch/recess is encouraged. On swim days, students must have proper swim attire including a bathing suit (must be a one-piece), towel, goggles (optional), and a swim cap (optional). The dress policy applies to the required PE attire.

To be excused, an email from a parent is required and subject to teacher approval. A doctor’s note may be required for repeated absences. Students will be asked to complete a Fitness Form to make up missed Physical Education classes.

Plans

Personal Learning Plan (PNP)

PNP are plans for a year, or from year-to-year. They are regularly reviewed. PNP are put in place so accommodations for learning, physical and/or wellbeing differences are responded to consistently by all the actors intervening on behalf of the student. These plans are created with the student, parents, and other specialists outside and/or at FASPS. The plan supports the student with advocating for accommodations and other specifications that have been made.

Student Success Plans (SSP)

SSP are shorter-term plans (approximately 6 weeks to 3-months) that respond to a current need a student may have. An SSP could be used to respond to a concern around turning in assignments, forgetting to eat lunch, tardiness… or a combination of areas for support and development.

Behavior Intervention Plan

When behavior concerns persist, the Dean of Students, the student’s teacher/advisor and the family will come together to discuss a supportive path forward. The plan includes the student’s strengths, behavior observed, determined triggers, possible reasons for behavior, and strategies for replacement behaviors. With parent input, the plan is designed to include both proactive measures and clearly defined consequences. A specific behavior plan may be created for inappropriate technology use. When a student has a behavior intervention plan, all individuals interacting with them will be made aware of the plan and are expected to apply it accordingly. The plan is assessed every 8 weeks or earlier as needed. The Behavior Intervention Plan is an internal document which will not be shared with outside parties (except when requested by parents).

Printer and Copier Use

Students must ask teachers before printing. Think green and do not waste paper. Students may pick up printed items outside the Facilities and Auxiliary Programs Office. Color copies are expensive and use ink that cannot be recycled. Only teachers print color copies.

Privacy Policy

The school recognizes the need for students to feel they have privacy regarding what students tell others, their personal spaces (lockers and backpacks), and their communication. The goal of all teachers, administrators, and fellow students is to respect the privacy of all individuals when possible. However, safety is our top priority. Therefore, please be aware of the following:

FASPS reserves the right to search any item on the premises including lockers, backpacks, coats, etc.

Teachers and administrators who are informed that the safety or well-being of a student(s) is in jeopardy must report it to the appropriate individuals or agency.

FASPS has the ability and the right to review all electronic communication that goes through the school network and/or equipment.

Sharing private information about other students is harmful to the individuals involved and to the whole school community.

Prohibited Items (from the FASPS Code of Conduct)

Students may not bring the following items to school or on any field trip or school-related activity outside the campus:

Weapons, fighting toys, knives, and other harmful items.

Gum and candy are not to be consumed as a routine snack or during meals.

Toys (unless a teacher asks for items relating to a planned activity).

Gaming/trading cards.

Money, physical or electronic, unless authorized for a specific school function.

Rules (from FASPS Code of Conduct)

Students will respond to directions from any FASPS employee.

Students will only walk in hallways.

Students will avoid unnecessary physical interaction with each other and rough play.

Physical aggression is never tolerated.

Cellular- and Wi-Fi-enabled devices will be used only according to FASPS policy and are never allowed into restrooms (bringing a such a device into a restroom is a high-level incident).

Students will not damage school property.

Students will not seek to be unsupervised.

Students will not leave campus without explicit permission.

Students will not bring prohibited items to school

Communication with outside parties takes place with permission from a FASPS Director.

Ski Trips

Students are expected to know and follow the rules of conduct for FASPS and the ski area.

FASPS has contracted coach buses for these trips. The buses are comfortable, safe, and will remain at the venue during the event.

Students will comply with the guidance of the Athletic Coordinator, Chaperones, and bus driver during the trips.

Cell phones - Students may have cell phones with them during the ski trips (this is strongly encouraged) to be used in case they need to reach a chaperone. Cell phones and/or any other technology are discouraged from being used during the trip other than contacting a chaperone.

Stroum Jewish Community Center (SJCC) Relationship

The SJCC is an important partnership for our school. Their personnel and their facilities provide a gym, pool, and theater.

Students must demonstrate respectful and appreciative attitudes and behavior. This includes:

Following SJCC emergency procedures.

Staying within our FASPS-designated areas. If in doubt, ask an adult.

Being sensitive and courteous to all members of the SJCC community, which includes keeping voices low.

Treating the SJCC facilities properly and carefully.

Being on time for and attentive when crossing to and from school and the SJCC.

Student Appearance Policy

Our Student Appearance Policy is designed to support our school’s diversity, equity, and inclusion statement. The way students present themselves for school is a reflection of our cultural agility and shows respect for the cultures and individuals who come together within the community of FASPS. Students should dress casually and comfortably for school, while wearing clothing and shoes that are well-suited and safe for the school environment. We respect current fashions and understand that clothing styles are ever evolving, and the school is open to discussion about trends. Special circumstances will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Clothing will cover undergarments when students engage in normal movement and school activity.

Clothing and accessories that display or promote negative messages are not permitted. These could include drug, weapon, alcohol or tobacco-related information, obscenities, put-downs, stereotypes, sexual innuendos, offensive words or graphics.

Costumes and pajamas will not be worn except for spirit days and special occasions.

Face must be visible (except for mask wearing as necessary).

Students should have appropriate clothing for the weather, including a coat (preferably a raincoat) with a hood.

All students need to bring to school appropriate attire for swimming and PE class, including tennis shoes with non-marking soles.

All clothing should be labeled with the student’s full name.

Shoes should be comfortable and allow for outdoor play. For safety reasons, shoes must have a back strap (no flip flops, no heels/platforms, no wheeled shoes, no clogs) and allow for moving up and down the stairs quickly, and between FASPS and the SJCC.

Student Council

The Student Council is elected by Middle School students at the start of the year. It meets regularly with the Student Council Facilitator and Dean of Students, and the representatives participate in the social and civic life at school. The Student Council has a consultative and participative role that helps to promote a positive sense of community, the FASPS Mission and Core Values, and school pride.

Students are encouraged to communicate with their representatives about changes they would like to see at and for FASPS.

Student Events

All school policies, including or relating to the Code of Conduct, apply during school events on and off campus, during or outside of the school day.

Student Release

If it is necessary for students to leave school early or temporarily, students are encouraged to inform the appropriate teachers in advance. Students will not be released from a class until the parent or guardian arrives at reception.

To be permitted to leave the school premises during school hours, students must be accompanied by someone on the authorized Student Release Form and a Permission to Leave Early form will have been completed.

After school, students must either be accompanied by someone from the student’s authorized pick-up list or be on the list of students approved to sign themselves out. Do not leave campus without checking out with the person doing student pick up at Reception.

To be approved to sign themselves out after school, a Parental Authorization to Leave FASPS Campus Unaccompanied Form is required. This form must be signed by the student and parent or guardian. Students and their parents are expected to follow the guidelines on this form. Failure to do so may result in this permission being revoked.

Teams Assignments

Teachers use Teams Assignments to record the assignments and tests students complete. Teams Assignments provides an online agenda of assignments with a calendar view. Using Teams Assignments supports student academic success and reduces stress. It also helps students find key documents, understand what’s expected of them, where to find it, what they need, and how to submit assignments. Students must regularly consult Teams so they can stay on top of their learning engagements, turn in assignments on time, and be prepared for tests. Assignments are posted so that parents can partner with students and teachers, and students can be ready for learning and catch up when absences occur.

Purpose of Teams Assignments

a. Avoid confusion about paper or online submission options, and their successful submission.

b. Diminish student anxiety around accumulating missing assignments.

c. Support families beyond the classroom with accurate information.

d. Increase autonomy by providing clear systems that apply class to class, teacher to teacher, at 4x4 and beyond the classroom.

Submitting and checking off assignments

a. Students will follow the teacher instructions for submitting assignments through Teams.

b. Teachers will support students by checking off assignments on Teams Assignments at the time they are due. Assignments will be checked off within the school day if they are due outside of the lesson, or students will wait to check them off during the class with the teacher. Checking an assignment off as completed when it has not been done lowers student confidence and makes a situation worse. It is also dishonest. It is better to seek solutions with the teacher.

c. Students are encouraged to consult the weekly calendar during advisory and learning time.

d. Teams communicates with OneNote. Students need to direct parents to OneNote using their student login.

Teams and Vacations

School vacations are for students to take a break from school routines and assignments. As long as students stay caught up, homework is not assigned over the vacation, with the exception of summer learning assignments.

Assignments are not set on the day a vacation starts (usually a Friday) for the Monday or Tuesday students return. Assignments can be set the days of the week before a vacation if a student has an afternoon before the vacation, such as the Thursday or the Monday after the vacation to complete the assignment.

Some students feel unwelcome pressure to do practice work or test prep over the break when it is assigned, while other students feel frustrated that they weren’t informed earlier of upcoming assignments or tests because they would have preferred to manage their own time (including studying), over vacations. If students are informed of practice or study opportunities before a vacation, instructions will be included about it being optional.

Teams and student absences

Any assignment that an absent student is required to make up is

a. Created on Teams Assignments for everyone,

b. Can be created as a separate assignment on Teams Assignments for the absent student with the new due date

c. Learning Time is a great time to check in with teachers about missed assignments.

Technology Equipment Use

Technology is present in at school, home, and social lives all the time. Therefore, the safe, ethical, and effective use of it is a responsibility we all share. At FASPS, we believe that the use of technology in our program enhances learning, improves communication and collaboration, and provides tools that strengthen study skills.

Every Middle School student and teacher is issued a powerful school-owned laptop equipped with software that will be needed to fulfill the requirements of each class and includes the communication tools that will be used. Additionally, the school equips the Middle School classrooms with interactive whiteboards, sound equipment, cameras, and other needed hardware. The following guidelines are meant to be followed regarding the use of all school-owned equipment (at home or at school) and the use of non-school owned technology if the use involves the school, peers, and/or teachers:

It is safe? (Safe for persons and/or equipment?)

Is it ethical? (Am I being respectful, using integrity, being honest?)

Is it effective? (Or is my use of technology making me less efficient?)

Technology Acceptable Use Agreement

The Technology Acceptable Use Agreement is signed by Parents and Students every year.

01. All use of technology (even if a teacher has allowed it for recreational use) will be school appropriate.

02. Use computers in the correct locations: Classrooms, Library, and Étude

03. Responsibly maintain computer safety and security.

04. Keep computer in case as appropriate.

05. Store computers properly.

06. Computers should be fully charged each day before students come to school.

07. Students do not have the right to “borrow” or “loan” school technological equipment, including power cords.

08. Use the school network appropriately (includes not saving large files to the server).

09. Use appropriate E-mail and digital communication etiquette (see Communication section).

10. Follow teacher instructions for technology use within each class (teachers may have differing expectations).

11. Avoid actions that interfere with academic use of technology such as:

y Uncharged or absent laptops, inappropriate software, or sites such as games.

y Recreational use of computers, except under specific conditions or as allowed by teachers/staff

Use of Social Media

Once again, a student’s priority is to be the safe, ethical, and efficient use of students time and resources. Social Media sites such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, require students to be 13 years of age to register. This is for safety reasons. Lying about students age does not reflect integrity and/or honesty. Remember, the Internet is forever! If students are using social media, students must be mindful of the following:

All that students do (post, blog, photos, comments, friends, “like”, “follow”, etc.) becomes part of students “digital footprint,” which can be accessed by others (even those not on students’ “friend” lists) both now and in the future.

Cyberbullying, doing emotional/social harm to others, or showing a lack of respect for each person’s individuality can never be excused. “Just Joking” is not acceptable and does not negate the harm that can be caused. This is addressed in the Bullying and Code of Conduct policies.

Social Media can easily interfere with other priorities including students study time, sleep, stress levels, and healthy habits such as exercise.

The creation of misleading accounts or user names, or enrolling in accounts that have age restrictions higher than students age, is not permitted.

Creating social media groups or any type of account that simulates FASPS official communication is not allowed.

Social Media use cannot be used at school, unless a teacher has authorized its use for a specific purpose (for example, a class blog).

Complete the Responsible Technology and Internet Use Agreement form before students Surface is issued each year.

The Surface and all operating systems and use of servers is FASPS property. We monitor student use of the Surface, and we urge students to make healthy choices.

Yearbook Program

The FASPS yearbook is created by students for students during a yearlong learning process. The Yearbook Program consists of a Learning Lab, an after-school Club, and individual and collaborative work done independently by the Middle School students who comprise the staff.

The program is open to any Middle School student who is willing to make the full-year commitment and work as part of a cooperative team. The work fosters leadership, autonomy, responsibility, and tremendous dedication. The program not only provides the students with photojournalism and design skills, it is also an opportunity for the students to build community within the school especially as a key focus is equitable photographic coverage of all students, from TYPK to Grade 8. Students who participate can often be seen taking photos throughout the school, throughout the year. If interested, please contact the Yearbook Coordinator.

Final Word

Congratulations on reading this entire handbook. It’s going to be a great year!