Handbook 2025-26
QSI Montenegro Handbook 2025-26
Welcome Message
This handbook is designed for both new and returning families of QSI International School of Montenegro. It provides essential information to help everyone prepare for the upcoming school year. Returning families may be familiar with much of the content, but all are encouraged to review the handbook annually.
Community & Collaboration
QSI Montenegro places a strong emphasis on building positive partnerships between families and the school. Educational success is most achievable when there is active communication and collaboration between the school and the family. Families are encouraged to actively engage in the learning process and share feedback on how the school can best support them.
Administrative Note
Please note that this handbook serves as a genera guide and not as a definitive or binding document. QSI Montenegro’s administration retains the right to update or revise its contents as needed.
QSI Montenegro Child Safeguarding and Protection Statement
▪ Safeguarding and Child Protection is a priority for every QSI School.
▪ QSI commits to supporting school environments that safeguard children through both prevention and intervention.
▪ QSI works in cooperation with international agencies to ensure standards associated with best practices are regularly reviewed, revised, and applied in all operations, activities, and events.
▪ QSI leaders honor and uphold child protection guidelines and procedures, in partnership with all stakeholders in their respective school communities.
All QSI Schools will:
✓ Actively uphold the QSI Safeguarding and Child Protection Statement.
✓ Implement school-based safeguarding and child protection policies and procedures that include regular onsite training.
✓ Employ safe recruitment practices consistent with safeguarding and child protection policies.
✓ Educate students and adults on safeguarding and child protection.
(Adopted from Central and Eastern European School Association)
QSI MISSION STATEMENT
Virtually every five-year-old comes to school eager to learn. The mission of Quality Schools International (QSI) is to keep this urge to learn alive in every child in QSI schools. Our schools are established to provide a quality education in the English language for students in the cities we serve. These students are the children of parents of many nationalities who have come to a foreign country, usually for a limited stay of a year or more. Some students are permanent residents, citizens of the host country.
Our schools follow a logical model of education, which measures success by the accomplishments and attitudes of our students. We believe that all our students can succeed, that their successes encourage them to continue in a pattern of success, and that it is the school’s responsibility to provide the conditions for success. These conditions include
i) developing clear statements in measurable terms of what each student will do to demonstrate mastery of learning,
ii) providing the time and resources needed for each student to attain mastery, and
iii) ensuring that students engage in learning at a level which is challenging and yet a level for which each student has the prerequisite skills necessary for success.
Statement of Inclusion
QSI is open to all students. We respect their diversity regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, cultural background, disability, religion, personal beliefs, and socioeconomic status. Teachers will be considerate of diverse cultural and family beliefs when teaching in the classroom. QSI employees will not impose their personal beliefs in the areas mentioned above out of respect to the family’s right to their beliefs. In QSI schools, we provide a safe and supportive environment for all students.
History
Founded in 2006, QSI International School of Montenegro began as a private, non-profit institution delivering English-language education to students aged 5 through secondary. In 2014, the school moved to a purpose-built campus designed to support a robust academic curriculum. Today, its student body includes families from over 30 nationalities, including diplomatic, international business, and local communities. The school prepares students for success in English-speaking universities worldwide.
Accreditations & Affiliations
• Accredited by the Middle States Association since 2014.
• Active member of CEESA, engaging in academic and extracurricular events, as well as professional development.
• Member of the College Board, offering advanced coursework and serving as Montenegro’s official SAT testing site.
• Registered with the Montenegrin Ministry of Education as an international nursery, elementary, and secondary school.
Admissions Policy Overview
Admissions decisions are guided by general criteria and administrative discretion for special cases. Key considerations include:
English Language
• Students up to age 11 are accepted without prior English experience.
• Middle and secondary students must meet English proficiency standards via school-administered assessments.
Age & Placement
• Students are placed based on birthdate (e.g., must turn 8 before Oct 31 to enter the eight-year-old class)
• Exceptions require director approval and documented evaluations.
• Class placement from ages 5 to 11 is based on formal and informal assessments in core subjects.
Preschool Eligibility (Ages 3–4)
• Must be age 3 before Oct 31.
• Must be toilet-trained and capable of self-feeding.
• Must show readiness to engage socially and follow teacher guidance.
Special Needs
• No dedicated special education staff.
• Mild learning needs may be supported through individualized teacher attention.
• All learning needs must be discussed during the admission process.
Secondary Credit Transfers
• Transfer credits from other institutions may count toward graduation if clearly documented.
• Only grades A, B, and C (or equivalents) are accepted at mastery level.
• An official transcript is required for any credit transfer.
Intensive English (IE) Program
• Designed for younger students needing foundational English instruction.
• Focuses on building academic fluency to transition into mainstream classes.
• Available only to students under age 12.
• Curriculum supports individual progression rates and aligns with core literacy instruction.
Educational Philosophy
Mastery-Based Learning
At QSI Montenegro, we believe:
• Every student is capable of mastering essential learning outcomes.
• Students learn at different rates; the school provides time and support as needed.
• Grades reflect mastery: only “A” or “B” are awarded. Students not yet finished will receive continued support until mastery is achieved.
• Curriculum outcomes are clearly defined and communicated to all learners.
Essential Competencies
To thrive in a fast-changing world, students must develop key skills:
1. Numeracy & Mathematical Reasoning
2. Verbal & Written Communication
3. Thinking & Problem-Solving
4. Decision-Making & Judgment
5. Commercial Awareness
6. Physical Coordination (Psychomotor Skills)
7. Appreciation & Skills in the Fine Arts
These competencies form the foundation for lifelong learning and social contribution.
Core Knowledge Areas
Rather than covering vast material quickly, QSI focuses on deep understanding of fundamental knowledge across seven disciplines:
1. Mathematics
2. English & Literature
3. Cultural Studies (History & Geography)
4. Science
5. Creative & Applied Arts
6. Languages Other Than English
7. Personal Health & Environmental Awareness
Students build mastery through dialogue, practice, and engagement.
Course Offerings and Graduation Requirements
A complete explanation of what students will study is available: https://montenegro.qsi.org/academics
Graduation Requirements: https://www.qsi.org/academic-program/secondary
Success Orientations
To support character development, QSI evaluates and encourages seven positive behaviors separate from academic grades:
1. Responsibility – punctuality, completing work, keeping commitments
2. Trustworthiness – honesty, respectful behavior, integrity
3. Group Interaction – collaboration, listening, inclusive leadership
4. Aesthetic Appreciation – care for surroundings, appreciation for beauty
5. Kindness/Politeness – courtesy, respectful language, positivity
6. Independent Endeavor – initiative, independent learning, self-motivation
7. Concern for Others – helpfulness, empathy, respectful communication
Evaluations occur five times per year:
• E = Exemplary behavior
• S = Satisfactory behavior
• N = Not yet demonstrated
These are determined by faculty consensus based on observed behavior during school hours.
Student Evaluation
STATUS REPORTS
• Issued five times per year (end of each Quintile).
• Can be issued anytime if needed or requested.
• Updated after mastery is demonstrated for each unit outcome.
ACADEMIC EXPECTATIONS
• Students must achieve mastery: only grades A or B are used.
• Multiple chances allowed, but mastery is expected on the first attempt.
STUDENT EVALUATION GRADES
• A – Mastery with high achievement and higher-order skills.
• B – Mastery at an appropriate level.
• P – In progress.
• H – On hold for a valid reason.
• D – Deficient effort; mastery not achieved.
• E – Exposure (elementary only; not used in math, reading, or language arts).
• W – Withdrawn from the outcome.
COMPLETION OF OUTCOMES
• Units must be completed on time.
• Late completion may result in H, D, or W on the report.
• Unfinished courses may need to be repeated the following year.
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY
• Students must avoid plagiarism, cheating, and misuse of AI.
• Dishonesty includes giving/receiving work for copying.
• Consequences:
o First Offense: Redo assignment, admin meeting, parent notified.
o Second Offense: Redo assignment, parent-teacher-Director meeting, possible 3-day suspension.
o Third Offense: Possible expulsion.
• All offenses are recorded and may appear on transcripts.
COMPUTER USE AT SCHOOL
• Allowed only under direct teacher supervision.
• Must follow the Acceptable Use Policy (AUP).
• Bell to Bell No Cell policy at QSIM – phones need to be stored in lockers for the duration of the day.
UPGRADING GRADES
Re-teaching and reassessment required if a unit test is failed.
• Students may upgrade a B to an A before the next unit ends.
• Must be up-to-date with all units to be eligible.
• Upgrading H or D requires a meeting with teacher and parents.
• Upgrades must occur within the same school year.
• No upgrades allowed:
o In the last week of school.
o During summer school
HOMEWORK POLICY
PHILOSOPHY
• Homework is for practicing skills taught in class or preparing for future work.
• Acceptable types: practice (reinforcement), preparation, and extension activities.
• Homework may be required before taking a test or outcome assessment.
HOMEWORK SHOULD NOT:
• Introduce new material (skills or knowledge).
• Require extensive help from teachers or parents.
• Be excessive to the point of interfering with family or social activities.
• Be used as busy work or punishment.
HOMEWORK SHOULD:
• Be well-planned and aligned with classroom learning.
• Include timely and immediate feedback.
• Provide proper resources if research is involved.
• Be meaningful and appropriately challenging.
• Have clear instructions and enforced due dates.
• Be communicated both verbally and in writing (e.g., whiteboard or handout).
SPECIFIC CONSIDERATIONS:
• Homework is required to qualify for mastery/summative exams.
• No mastery/summative exam may be given unless homework is completed.
• Parents must be notified in writing if a student is not completing assignments.
GENERAL INFORMATION
LANGUAGE USE
• English is the main language used at QSIM
• Everyone students and staff should speak English at school and on school trips.
• Other languages can be used in language classes.
LIBRARY
• Borrowing Books:
o Ages 3–5: 2 books for 1 week
o Ages 6+: 3 books for 2 weeks
o More books can be borrowed for projects if approved by the librarian.
• Books may be returned or exchanged anytime.
• Reference materials can be used in the library; teachers may borrow them daily for classroom use.
• To keep a book longer, ask the librarian to renew it.
• If a book is overdue:
o A first notice will be sent.
o A second notice with payment details will be sent after one week.
• Lost or damaged books: Families must pay twice the replacement cost.
LOST AND FOUND
• Located in the main office.
• Found items should be turned in to a teacher or the office.
• Parents should label personal items with name and age.
• Items are displayed three times a year.
• Unclaimed items are donated at the end of the school year.
LUNCH
• Follow lunchroom supervisors’ directions.
• Use quiet voices.
• Keep hands, feet, and food to yourself.
• Always walk.
• Be polite.
• Eat only in the lunchroom or other approved spaces.
• Clean up trash and return trays.
PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES
• Held three times a year:
o After the 1st and 3rd quintiles (all parents)
o After the 4th quintile (optional or by invitation)
o Additional meetings can be requested by teachers or parents
• Teachers will prepare student work and plans and may invite an administrator.
• During meetings, teachers will listen, explain clearly, and present action plans.
• After meetings, teachers will follow through and keep information private.
PERSONAL PROPERTY
• Students should not bring valuables or money to school.
• The school is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
PLAYGROUND RULES
• Listen to supervisors and speak politely.
• No fighting, rough play, or wrestling.
• Play only in designated areas.
• Use equipment safely:
o One person per swing, seated properly
o No standing or dangerous movements on monkey bars
o Don’t throw objects at others unless it’s a catching game
• Students may not retrieve balls that go over the fence.
• When the bell rings:
o Stop playing and walk back to class quietly
o Collect personal items and return equipment
RECESS RULES
• Students must always be supervised.
• Play only in areas that are easy to see.
• No violent games or running in restricted areas.
SCHOOL SUPPLIES
• Textbooks are free but should be kept in good condition.
• Lost/damaged/vandalized books will be fined based on replacement and shipping cost.
• Students must bring their own writing materials: paper, pens, pencils, erasers.
Behavioral Expectations and Response Policy
Purpose
The goal is to help students learn appropriate behavior at school and during school events.
Parents play a key role, and the school collaborates with them to support this.
Breaking the rules can lead to consequences like warnings, meetings, detention, suspension, or expulsion.
A safe school environment helps students succeed.
General Behavior Expectations
• Be polite to all staff and students.
• Let others learn without interruption.
• Respect personal and cultural differences.
• No bullying, hate speech, or bad language.
• Solve problems calmly through talking.
• Walk quietly in school buildings.
• Be prepared and on time for class.
• Respect others' belongings.
• Follow staff instructions.
• After-school activities require parent permission and adult supervision.
How Discipline Is Handled
Teachers manage behavior in their classrooms.
More serious or repeated problems go to school administration.
Steps the school may take:
1. Talk with the student and possibly notify parents.
2. Meet with student and parents to change behavior.
3. Apply further consequences.
Suspension: Student is temporarily removed from school. Parents are notified and must meet with the Director before the student returns
Expulsion: Student is permanently removed from school. Final decision made by the School Advisory Board.
Types of Misbehavior & Consequences
Level 1 – Minor Issues
Examples: dress code violations, being late, inappropriate language, using personal electronics, disrupting class
Consequences may include warning, meeting, detention, parent contact, removal from activities
Level 2 – More Serious
Examples: harassment, cheating, bullying, vandalism, lying, threatening
Consequences may include parent conference, detention, suspension, counseling, removal from activities
Level 3 – Very Serious
Examples: repeated lower-level offenses, fighting, sexual harassment, alcohol/drug use, weapons, threats, arson
Consequences may include suspension, expulsion, police notification
Use of Electronic Devices
• Phones should be stored during the school day in students’ lockers
• Laptops may be used for classroom task only
• Staff will take away any device they see or hear during school hours.
Consequences for Device Violations
1st Time: Student picks up device at the end of the day.
2nd Time: Same as first, but parents are notified.
3rd Time: Parent must pick up device, or student gets it back after one week.
4th Time: Student must leave device in the office every morning for a set time.
Note: The school isn’t responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged electronics.
DRESS CODE
• Students should wear clothing that is respectful and suitable for school and school events.
• The rules are based on respect, common sense, and sensitivity to different cultures.
Acceptable Clothing Guidelines
• No sunglasses, hats with brims, or hoods indoors.
• Shorts, skirts, and dresses must be mid-thigh or longer.
• Shirts must cover the midriff and lower back.
• Shoulder straps must be at least two fingers wide.
• Male students may not wear tank tops.
• Undergarments must not be visible.
• Clothing with images or messages about drugs, alcohol, tobacco, violence, nudity, or offensive content is not allowed.
• Shoes must be worn at all times.
Consequences
• Students who break the dress code will be reminded of the rules.
• Repeated violations will lead to required clothing changes and parent contact.
• Continued violations will be treated as defiance and dealt with accordingly.
PE/Sports Attire (12YO and Older)
• Must wear athletic shoes and shorts or sports pants.
• Jeans, dresses, and skirts are not allowed in PE.
• PE clothes should only be worn during PE class.
SMOKING, DRUGS & ALCOHOL
• The school is a tobacco-free zone.
• Students may not smoke, vape, or use drugs or alcohol at school or on school trips.
• Breaking this rule can lead to expulsion.
• Students may not carry medications (like aspirin). These must be given to the office with a parent’s note.
FIREARMS & WEAPONS
• Weapons are strictly forbidden on or near school property, including in cars, lockers, or bags.
• Violations will result in consequences up to expulsion.
• The school has a zero-tolerance policy for weapons.
SEARCH & SEIZURE
• The Director or staff may inspect lockers, cars, bags, or other belongings if there’s a good reason to believe there’s something dangerous or against school rules.
PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTION
• Students must avoid obvious displays of affection at school or events.
• If unsure what’s appropriate, students should speak to a staff member.
• Staff will step in if behavior isn’t suitable.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT
• Any unwanted sexual behavior is not allowed.
• Includes touching, explicit language, or offensive images.
• Students should report harassment to staff.
• Consequences range from a meeting to expulsion, depending on the situation.
CLOSED CAMPUS
• Students must stay at school once they arrive unless picked up or attending a school activity.
• Visitors must check in at the office.
• The school must always know who is on campus and why.
STUDENT DRIVERS
• Students may drive to school only with written permission from parents and approval from the Director.
• A copy of their license and insurance must be on file.
• Drivers may only take approved passengers.
• Students must park in assigned areas and avoid loitering near cars during school hours.
• Responsible driving is required.
• Breaking rules may lead to losing the driving privilege.
• The school will report violations of local driving laws.
Absences
• Parents must call the school by 8:00 a.m. if their child will be absent: 020 641 734.
• Students should attend daily unless they are sick or facing special circumstances.
• Notify the school and teacher in advance for non-sickness absences.
• Teachers may not provide make-up work without advance notice.
• For long illnesses, parents must contact teachers to arrange missed work.
Tardiness
• Students must arrive on time and be ready for class.
• Late arrivals must check in at the school office.
• First and second tardy: warning.
• Third tardy: parents contacted.
• Continued tardiness: “N” on Responsibility section of report.
Illness
• Keep child home if they have fever, vomiting, or diarrhea.
• Must be symptom-free for 24 hours without medication before returning.
• Inform the teacher and office about illness.
• Medication must be clearly labeled and given to staff for administration.
Early Withdrawal
• Notify the office in writing if withdrawing early.
• If near the end of a quintile, inform the Director early.
• Credit is given only for completed and evaluated work.
Early Departure During School Day
• Allowed only with parent or school approval.
• Parents must contact the office to arrange.
• Students must check out at the office and leave with an authorized adult.
Absence for Family Business
• Daily attendance is encouraged.
• Avoid extending vacations.
• Notify the office in advance.
• Teachers will provide make-up work when possible.
• Missed tests should be taken before or after the absence.
• Extended absences may affect academic performance.
Visitors
• All visitors must have prior authorization from the office.
• Students from other schools may only visit with the Director’s approval.
Health Issues
• Health concerns are handled by the school nurse or office staff (First Aid Certified).
• Parents will be notified as soon as possible if a student is injured.
• If a doctor is needed, the school will contact parents first when possible.
• Parents must inform the school if a student has a chronic illness or physical condition.
• Students should not attend school with:
o Communicable illnesses
o Severe colds
o Fevers
• Parents will be asked to pick up sick children to prevent the spread of illness.
• If a communicable disease is diagnosed, parents of classmates will be notified.
Emergency Equipment
• The school has two AED (Automatic External Defibrillator) units.
• Staff are trained in first aid and AED use.
Medication
• All medications (chronic or temporary) must be left with the nurse or office.
• Staff will administer medication as prescribed.
• Inhalers, EpiPens, or similar devices will be stored in the school health room.
Addendum Peer on Peer Abuse
Purpose
• QSI is committed to addressing all forms of abuse or harmful behavior immediately and consistently.
• Focus is on protecting students’ emotional and mental well-being.
• Students are encouraged to report hurtful incidents to help stop repeated behavior.
Related Policies
• Child Protection Handbook
• Staff Code of Conduct
• Technology Acceptable Use Policy (Available on the QSI website)
Guiding Principles
• All children have the right to be safe and free from abuse.
• Everyone is responsible for protecting children.
• Schools have a duty of care to all students.
• All actions prioritize the best interests of the child.
Empower Program Curriculum
1. The right to be safe
2. Relationships
3. Recognizing and reporting abuse
4. Protective strategies
Types of Peer-on-Peer Abuse
• Physical Abuse: Hitting, kicking, biting, hair pulling, etc.
• Emotional/Verbal Abuse: Threats, manipulation, name-calling, gaslighting.
• Sexual Abuse: Inappropriate language, touching, exposure to sexual content.
• Bullying: Threats, exclusion, repeated aggressive behavior.
• Prejudice-Related Bullying: Based on identity, background, or personal circumstances.
• Cyberbullying: Harassment via devices, apps, or social media.
• Sexting: Sending/receiving explicit images or messages.
o May be criminal if it involves minors.
• Hazing/Initiation: Rituals involving humiliation or abuse.
• Relationship Abuse: Coercive or violent behavior in student relationships.
Response and Action
• Gather information quickly and sensitively.
• Avoid labeling students (e.g., using terms like “perpetrator”).
• Consider the impact of language on students and families.
• Determine appropriate consequences based on facts and context.
Addendum 2: Excursions, Student Travel, School Trips
General Guidelines
• Clear communication among students, staff, parents, and volunteers is essential.
• Host schools and families must understand expectations, especially regarding curfews and supervision.
• Student-teacher ratios are based on age and activity type.
• Overnight trips require more chaperones for supervision, meals, medication, and behavior.
• A safety plan must be created for each event.
• Mixed-gender student groups must have mixed-gender chaperones.
• Chaperones must not use alcohol, tobacco, vapes, or drugs during trips.
• Students are also prohibited from using alcohol, tobacco, vapes, or drugs.
• Technology use must be purposeful and related to the trip.
• Extra devices (e.g., tablets, gaming consoles) are not allowed unless approved.
• Students must contact parents daily during trips.
• All school rules and acceptable use policies apply during travel.
Supervision & Safety
• Students may visit public places only with adult supervision.
• On arrival, chaperones must assess safety protocols and risks.
• Students must always be supervised by chaperones or host parents.
• Students aged 14+ may explore defined areas in approved small groups with chaperone presence.
• Social activities must be observable and interruptible (e.g., open hotel doors, common areas).
• Curfew is set by the lead chaperone, ideally before 22:00.
• Room checks or host family calls must happen nightly at curfew.
• If no call is received by 22:30, parents should contact the event organizer.
• Students violating behavior rules may be sent home at parent’s expense.
Chaperone Guidelines
• Chaperones must not share sleeping space with students (unless family).
• All chaperones must complete training provided by the school.
• Chaperones must follow the Child Protection Code of Conduct.
• Best practices include:
o Group seating during travel.
o Supervision during local transport.
o Host schools involving nurses for medical/dietary needs.
o Pre-travel meetings for chaperones, parents, and students.
o Emergency contact numbers shared among staff.
o Supervision plans covering all trip hours.
o Review of emergency protocols upon arrival.
o Nurse present at hosted tournaments.
Student Responsibilities
• Follow all instructions from chaperones, coaches, and host parents.
• Keep sleeping and living areas clean and organized.
• No cleaning services will be provided during the stay.
Behavior & Substance Use
• No tobacco, vapes, alcohol, or drugs allowed at any time.
• Students may not visit bars or nightclubs during school events.
• All scholl rules apply throughout the event, including travel to and from the site.
Housing & Supervision
• Room assignments may not be changed without approval from the event organizer.
• Curfew is 22:00 unless the chaperone sets an earlier time.
o Students must be in their rooms and not leave after curfew.
o Families may not extend curfew times.
• Students under 13 must always be with a chaperone.
• All students must be supervised by an adult at all times.
• Students aged 14+ may explore defined areas in small, approved groups with chaperone presence.
Social Time & Safety
• Activities must be observable and interruptible (e.g., open hotel doors, common areas).
• Students must contact parents daily during trips.
• QSI is not responsible for lost or damaged devices.
• Device use must follow the QSI Acceptable Use Policy.
Respect & Conduct
• Students must show respectful behavior to peers, staff, hosts, and officials.
• Success Orientations are used to guide responsible behavior.