Al-Forsan International School Saudi ... -...
Transcript of Al-Forsan International School Saudi ... -...
Al-Forsan International School
Saudi Arabia
Parent and Student Handbook
2015/2016
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WELCOME LETTER
Dear Parents and Students,
This handbook has been written to welcome you to Al-Forsan International School.
Many of your questions have been anticipated and have been discussed in some
detail. The school policies, regulations, and services described in these pages are to
help you make the most of your years here. Please read and keep this handbook
readily available throughout the year. We are always available to clarify any
school matter.
Close co-operation between home and school is essential to promote the best
interests of the child. Parents are encouraged to support school events and attend
scheduled meetings of parents and teachers. Parents, teachers, and students
benefit when there is a meaningful exchange of information between home and
school.
It is our hope that this handbook will be helpful to you and that it will promote that
understanding.
Sincerely,
Al-Forsan International School
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OUR VISION
Al-Forsan International Schools are unique in the international Education and
creative in qualifying the future generations to meet their era demands and being
committed to their culture and identity
OUR MISSION
INSPIRES, CHALLENGES, EMPOWERS
Al-Forsan International Schools inspire, challenge and empower students to realize
their unique potential: academically, intellectually, socially, ethically, and
internationally.
OUR EDUCATION PHILOSOPHY
Inspire to create opportunities for each student to explore and develop his or her
potential.
Support local values and culture while nurturing a sense of international
mindedness.
Ensure a challenging curriculum that meets students’ social and developmental
students’ needs.
Empower students and staff for success at school and beyond.
OUR BELIEFS
We believe
Honesty, integrity and respect are essential.
Education is the shared responsibility of students, family and school staff.
Each person is unique.
Everyone is accountable for his or her actions.
High expectations lead to greater levels of performance.
Commitment, enthusiasm and perseverance lead to success.
We are responsible for social and environmental sustainability.
Nurturing curiosity and creativity encourages exploration and discovery throughout
life.
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FIS CODE OF CONDUCT
The goal of AL Forsan International Schools’ code of conduct is to provide a
respectful environment, which is stimulating to learning, and ensure the safety of
students and staff.
Parental/guardian involvement and cooperation is vital in the discipline process.
The school discipline procedures will apply and be consistently enforced at FIS
schools. .
All school staff and parents/guardians will work together to correct the misbehavior
of the student and to maintain a written record of incidents of serious misbehavior.
When unacceptable behavior cannot be readily corrected by the classroom
teacher, the child’s parents/guardians will be informed of the problem by the
teacher or the principal and requested to participate in solving the problem. The
following rules are the most important ones in our school. All other rules are based
on these three statements. They should be followed at all times.
All students at FIS are expected to come to school on time and be prepared to
learn. It is their responsibility not to interrupt or disturb the learning environment at
any time. Therefore FIS expect their own students not to cheat, lie or steal
All students at FIS are expected to obey the rules and not to bully, tease or annoy
others. They must use appropriate language all the time
All students at FIS are expected not to kick, hit or physically hurt another person.
Students should not bring objects that banned by the school.
Al-Forsan International School has a responsibility for the education of each student
as long as he/she can contribute to his/her own growth and development without
interfering with the growth and development of other students. When a student
demonstrates that he/she is persistently unable or unwilling to conform to school
regulations, it becomes necessary to remove him/her from the group. If the facts
reveal that a student is a distracting or corrupting influence, suspension or expulsion
is in order.
Corrective Measures: Discipline should not be confused with punishment. The goal
of discipline is a self-regulated individual with mature attitudes and acceptable
standards of conduct.
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Corrective measures used will depend upon the nature of the behavior, the
frequency, and the degree to which the student is willing to try to correct
undesirable behavior.
Unacceptable Behavior: Disciplinary action may be taken as a result of any
behavior which is disruptive or which violates the rights of others.
With the exception of serious violations of the Student Conduct Code, corrective
measures will normally start at a minimal level then proceed to more serious levels.
These procedures may include but are not limited to: conferences with teacher,
counselor, or principal; loss of school privileges; parent/guardian conference with
school staff; modified school program; school transfer; dismissal for one day; and
suspension
Student Cell Phone Use in School: Cell phones must be turned off in classrooms and
stored. Cell phones must be turned off in lockers and bathrooms and stored in
backpack.
Failure to follow these directives may result in the loss of all cell phone privileges at
school and may result in other disciplinary actions. Principals can enforce rules that
are more strict.
Student Camera Use in School: The use of cameras in school by students is generally
prohibited because of the disruption that can occur. Principals can enforce rules
that are more strict.
Behavior report school may request a behavior report from specialized centers
based on specific cases. Parents must submit the needed reports as requested
Uniform: All Students are required to be in the school in full uniform during school
hours and on all school activities unless an exemption were granted for particular
activity.
Wearing school uniform is part of the rules via the School’s Code of Conduct. In
case of fraction, consequences as per the Code of Conduct may be implemented.
School Buses and Consequences for Misbehavior: Students who are using school
bus service are expected to follow the same behavioral standards while riding
school buses as are expected based on school policy.
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Rights and responsibilities
Statements for rights and responsibilities for students and teachers
1. I have the right to learn and teach at Al-Forsan International School
As a student: It is my responsibility to come to school on time and be prepared to
learn. It is my responsibility not to interrupt or disturb the learning environment at
anytime
As a teacher: It is my responsibility to be on time any well prepared for my students.
I must do my best in preparing my classes and ensure that I am trying the best of my
ability to meet the needs of students. It is my responsibility to enforce school rules to
provide stable learning environment
2. It is my right to be respected at Al-Forsan International School
As a student: it is my responsibility to obey the rules and not to bully, tease or annoy
others. I must use appropriate language all the time
As a teacher: It is my responsibility to treat everyone with respect. I should not
embarrass any student in from of his peers. It is my responsibility to ensure that
students respect each other in the school
3. It is my right to be safe at Al-Forsan International School
As a student: It is my responsibility not to kick, hit or physically hurt another person. I
should not bring objects that banned by the school. It is my responsibility to inform
the administration if a class is unsupervised
As a teacher: I should provide my students with safe environment and I must not
leave the students alone or unsupervised
ADMISSIONS INFORMATION
Applicants are required to submit the following documents for consideration by the
School admissions office:
Completed admission form online
Official copy of last school report
Copy of students Medical Card and vaccination card
Copy of student’s birth certificate
Copy of student’s and parent’s identification card and passport
Four passport sized photographs
Any other reports related to the student
After the complete application package is received, the enrolment agreement for
signing and invoices for the application and deposit fees are issued. Student
applicants shall be accepted for admission providing that there are places
available and unless there is reason to believe that admission is not in the best
interest of the applicant or the school.
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ENTRANCE AGES
In order to ensure that students are given the best opportunities for both academic
and social success, the School has a placement policy to guide both parents and
the school regarding grade level placement. Generally, a student must reach the
age of the class, by the 1st September of the current school year.
Age requirements form Ministry of Education for each Grade:
PreK1 - age 3 by September 1st of the academic year and toilet-trained
KG1 - age 3 and 9months by September 1st of the academic year and
toilet-trained.
KG2 - age 4 and 9 months;
Grade1- age 5 and 9months;
Grade 2 –age 6 and 9months;
Grade 3 -age 7 and 9months
Grade 4 - age 8 and 9months
Grade 5 age 9 and 9months
Grade 6 age 10 and 9months
Grade 7 age 11 and 9 months
Grade 8 age 12 and 9 months
PROCEDURE FOR WITHDRAWAL
Families leaving the school must notify the school administration in the written form
about the date of withdrawal three months in advance and provide a letter stating
the reason for the withdrawal and certifying enrolment at another school. In cases
when students leave during the school year, the tuition fees paid for the current
term are not reimbursed. Fees will be due based on notice.
SPECIAL NEEDS
FIS is not designed nor accredited to educate students with special needs.
Al-Forsan does accept students who are able to work towards the successful
completion of Al-Forsan’s academic requirements. The School recognizes that
some of its students will have special learning needs or differences that require
learning support. Appropriate services and programs for these students will be
provided within the limits and capacity of the school’s resources and personnel. The
school is, however, unable to provide an educational program to a student who
has severe physical, mental, or emotional needs. The Superintendent, with the
assistance of the School Counselor, reserves the right to refuse admission to a
student if:
it is determined that the student would not benefit educationally from the
school’s academic program.
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the special educational needs required by the student cannot be met by the
school.
any parent failed during the registration process to provide information about
a student’s medical condition/special needs or an accurate behavioral
history.
Study Support Program
FIS provides a limited resource program for students requiring additional support in
ELL, Reading, English, Mathematics and Study Skills; with extra practice and
individual attention in a small group setting. This program is available for Elementary
and Middle School students.
Upon initiating admissions process, it is important to provide clear information about
your child’s specific needs. FIS does not support students who have, or had, any of
the following:
Problems with learning
Behavior, mobility, vision or hearing problems
Specialized medical care, physical or speech therapy requirements
Struggles in adapting to the regular school routine
PAYMENT OF FEES AND CONDITIONS OF ENROLMENT
All contributions, including registration fees, are payable in advance. The school
reserves the right not to accept the student if contributions have not been paid by
the starting date.Contributions apply to published dates and are as invoiced. The
full contribution is payable for students accepted into the school after the start of
the school year. If students withdraw, fees for the remainder of the year will not be
refunded. N.B. The school requires three months’ notice in writing if a parent wishes
to withdraw his/her child from the school
The school reserves the right to withhold acceptance of an enrolment at its
discretion if such action is deemed to be in the best interests of the School or the
student.
The school reserves the right to introduce Student Support Fees where a
psychologist’s assessment has indicated that they are appropriate.
If payment is made by cheque to the School and this cheque has been returned
unpaid by the drawer’s bank, then the School has the right to cancel the
registration.
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Any student absent from the School for more than 30 school days (6 weeks) will be
taken off the register and will be treated as a new applicant upon return.
RE-ENROLLMENT
Unless a parent hears otherwise, and they have submitted the re-enrolment fee,
they may assume that their child will be enrolled the following school year. The
school reserves the right, however, to deny re-enrolment to a student whose
behavior disturbs the learning environment and/or threatens the safety and well-
being of other students, or a student who’s physical or educational needs can no
longer be well served by the school.
SCHOOL HOURS
6:30- DOORS OPEN
07:00-1:30-Grades 1-8-Assembly Begins 07:10 sharp
(Quran Recitation, Saudi National Anthem, Topic of the Week-Morning Stretch)
07:10-1:30-KG2-Assembly begins 7:20 sharp
(Quran Recitation, Saudi National Anthem, Topic of the Week-Morning Stretch)
07:10-12:00-KG1 and PreK-Assembly begins 07:30 sharp
(Quran Recitation, Saudi National Anthem, Topic of the Week-Morning Stretch)
*Any student arriving after 07:30 must obtain a PINK Tardy slip from the Receptionist
before proceeding to class. Parent will not be permitted to escort child to class. An
assistant or nanny will assist your child to class.
ATTENDANCE POLICY
We believe that regular, on time school attendance helps students develop
valuable life skills that support students’ academic success. Furthermore, we
believe that students benefit from each other’s contributions to classroom activities
and discussions, and as such a high rate of student absence detracts from the
quality of our classes.
In order to keep student absence to a minimum and insure that all students are
receiving the maximum possible benefit from our educational program, the
following attendance policies have been put into place:
All students are asked to arrive to school by than7:10 am for morning
assembly.
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Any student arriving after 7:30 am will be considered late and will receive a
tardy slip to be signed and returned by parents the next morning.
More than 3 tardy slips in a two week period will be considered as 1
unexcused absence.
Parents will be required to meet with administration to discuss possible
solutions if a student is tardy for more than 6 days in a 2 week period.
Any students arriving after 8:00 am will be considered absent (unexcused) for
the day, unless the school has been previously notified by telephone or email.
Parents are responsible to notify the school in case a student is absent by 8:00
am each morning.
Any pre planned / extended absences (more than 2 days) must be
approved in writing at least 3 working days before the date the absence
begins. If a pre-planned absence is not pre-approved by administration the
absence will be considered unexcused, regardless of the reason.
Students who are absent for medical reasons must provide a valid doctor’s
note upon returning to school. Students who have chronic illnesses that
require frequent absences must provide a detailed report of the illness to be
kept in the student’s personal file.
We encourage parents to schedule any doctor visits or other appointments
that are not emergencies after school hours.
It is the parent’s responsibility to request any missed work for their child as
soon as they are aware that the student will be absent.
Missed assignments are expected to be made up within 2 days of student
absence. Students who have an extended absence may have up to 1
additional week to complete any missed work with approval from
administration.
Students who miss a regular weekly quiz due to absence will be allowed to
retake the quiz under the following conditions:
• Excused absence – the student must retake the quiz at the time
specified by the teacher without penalty.
• Unexcused absence – the student must retake the quiz at the time
specified by the teacher with a 20% deduction in the overall mark.
If your child is found to miss more than 2 quizzes in within a 3 week period-
regardless of the reason, you will be required to meet with administration
before make-up quizzes can be given.
Any student whose absences total more than 25% of the scheduled
attendance days may be required to repeat the current grade level at the
discretion of the administration and based on MOE laws of absence.
Generally only absences for the following reasons will be considered
excused:
Absence due to illness or other health related issues- with a valid
medical note.
Absences due to verifiable family emergencies – such as a death
in the family or other serious issues.
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STUDENT ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL
Parents to use designated parking areas and follow the procedures for drop
off/pick up provided in the admissions information packet.
Parents are required to fill in an identification form for every caregiver who will
be authorized to pick up a student.
The caregiver must provide identification which matches that in the student
file every time he/she picks up the student- until such time as staff members
are familiar with the caregiver.
It is the parent’s responsibility to notify the school immediately if permission for
a caregiver to pick up a student changes for any reason.
Authorized caregivers will be required to provide proof of identification in
cases where a staff member does not know a parent or driver on a personal
basis.
All parents and caregivers will be required to follow the same procedures as
outside visitors when entering the school premises for any reason.
Students will only be allowed to leave school with someone other than their
parent if the school has been notified in writing, and the proper identification
papers have been approved and placed in the student file. In emergency
cases the parent must notify the school immediately with any changes.
Students should be picked up promptly at the end of the school day at the
designated area. Should a parent be unavoidably delayed in the case of an
emergency, the Main Office should be notified immediately
Students left after 1:50 pm will be taken to the main office to wait until
parents arrive.
Safety and Security
Our school is committed in providing a safe environment in which students can
learn, grow and develop. In order to maintain a safe and orderly environment for
staff and students, it is the staff member’s/parent’s/student’s responsibility to abide
by our school policies. We ask for everyone’s full cooperation in the following
matters.
Identification Badges will be issued to all parents/nannies/drivers/guardians during
the first month of school. Our PreK-KG1-KG2-Grade 1 students will be issued an ID
Badge within the first week of attendance. Any badge that is lost or stolen a
replacement fee will be in effect. Please report the loss to the Registration Office to
obtain a replacement.
There is only one main entrance open for visitors during school hours and this is
controlled by security guards. Our security guards routinely patrol the outer areas
of our campus. All gates are kept locked during the day.
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Please be aware that any parent/guardian/nanny/driver responsible for the student
must show the FIS Identification Badge in order to gain access to our school. It is
very important that the parents be consistent in sending the same person to drop
off and pick up the child each day. For the child’s safety, no child will be released
to anyone without an FIS Identification Badge. It is the responsibility of the parent to
let the school know that someone other than the designated person with badge
will be picking up their child on any given day.
Father’s will not permitted to enter the school campus unless by appointment only
and then will only be permitted to meet with the staff member in the designated
Male Meeting Office located in the rear of the campus near the Early Childhood
Entrance.
Any female wearing a Niqab must remove it once they have entered the
Reception Waiting Area for security purposes
Any act of violence or abuse towards a staff member/student will be dealt with
swiftly and reported to the main office. Appropriate action will be taken by the
Assistant Superintendent/Administrative Coordinator.
Fire Safety
All emergency exits are marked and kept free of obstructions. There are fire
extinguishers located throughout the campus on each level. Fire safety equipment
is checked regularly by the civil defense and records of their visit are kept. The
Assistant Superintendent and IT Dept. is responsible in checking the alarm on a
regular basis. Fire drill practices are held quarterly and recorded. Fire Safety
Awareness Week is scheduled to be held during Quarter 1 of the academic
year. In the event of a fire, all staff and children congregate near the front main
entrance and rear entrance. Designated staff members are responsible for
checking toilets. It is the responsibility of the Administrative Coordinator to call the
fire department. All students and staff members will be accounted for by the
individual classroom attendance roster and communicated to the Assistant
Superintendent that all have been accounted for. Once the area has been
deemed safe, students will be escorted back to their class by their class teacher. In
an event of a real emergency parents will receive a text indicating that an
emergency has occurred and it is required that you pick your child up immediately.
Please ensure that all emergency contact information is always kept up to date. If
your information should change, please contact our Registration Office and your
child’s class teacher immediately to notify them of changes to be made.
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Student Health Services Guideline and Policy
Upon the recommendation of the Board of Directors our school has appointed a
School Doctor to function in the school health program and to provide school
health services. Responsibilities of the school doctor include, but are not limited to:
providing direct health care to students and staff; providing leadership for the
provision of health services; promoting a healthy school environment; promoting
health; serving in a leadership role for health policies and programs; and serving as
a liaison between school personnel, family, health ministry, and health care
providers. Additionally, the school doctor is responsible for developing procedures
to address and meet special physical health needs of individual students. Such
procedures may be developed and implemented on a case-by-case basis. All
injuries or illnesses occurring during the school day are to be reported to the school
doctor or the building principal. Students involved in an after school program or any
other time when the school doctor is not in the building, are to report to the
supervising adult. The, principal or designee will notify parents/guardians before a
student who is injured or ill is permitted to go home. Students will not be allowed to
leave school without first notifying either the school doctor or principal of his/her
injury or illness. Additionally, parent/guardian notification and authorization is
necessary before any student will be released from school due to injury or illness.
Emergency medical care will be provided pursuant to the guidelines of Board
Policy. In addition to the provisions of this policy, the school doctor is responsible for
the oversight of other health-related school services, including but not limited to:
assessing and responding to student health needs, maintaining accurate health
records, screening for vision, hearing and BMI (Body Mass Index) according to
national recommendations,), health promotion, disease and injury prevention
initiatives, student wellness, and other responsibilities and services as dictated by
law and or Board policy.
*Please direct all questions or concerns regarding medical related issues to the
School Doctor.
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ILLNESS AND FIRST AID
In case of Illness and First Aid treatment, children are sent to the doctor’s office
where they will be assessed and cared for. If the child is able to return to class an
assistant will accompany the child back to class and a doctor’s note stating the
reason of visit will be given to the child to be put in the backpack.
In order to limit the spread of illness/virus/disease, the following will apply if any
student exhibits any of the symptoms listed below and will be kept in the Clinic until
the child is picked up by their parent/nanny:
a. fever above 37.8c
b. a rash which cannot be explained
c. diarrhea
d. vomiting
e. any signs of redness, tears or infection in the eyes
f. fainting
g. head lice
h. head injury/eye injury
i. any other symptoms that the doctor feels the necessity for the child to
be sent home
2) The doctor is responsible for calling the child’s parent to notify them that their
child is sick and needs to be collected from school immediately.
3) An assistant will escort the child to reception. Parent/guardian/nanny will sign
out the child in reception.
4) All faculty members are required to fill out an Accident/Incident Report if one
should occur. The original form is given to the parents or sent home with the
child. In addition a copy is filed in the student's file.
*Please contact our Registration Office/Doctor’s Office any time telephone number /
emergency contact information has changed. This information must be kept up to
date at all times.
WHEN YOUR CHILD IS ILL
Please keep sick children at home, even if they want to come! It is better for them
and only fair for the rest of the children at school.
The school must be advised of an infectious illness by telephone. In case of such an
infection a note will be sent home informing other parents of possible symptoms.
Children must be kept at home if they have any of the following symptoms:
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Fever: greater than 37.8c. The child can return to school after he/she has
been fever free for 24 hours (without fever-reducing medicine such as
fevadol or Ibuprofen)
Diarrhea/Vomiting: must stay at home and return to school only after being
symptom free for 24 hours.
Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): Following a diagnosis of conjunctivitis, the child may
return to school 24 hours after the first dose of prescribed medication.
Rashes: Common infectious diseases with rashes are most contagious in the
early stages. A child with a suspicious rash should return to school only after a
health care provider has made a diagnosis and authorized the child's return
to school.
Colds: A child with thick yellow-greenish mucous accompanied by fever,
vomiting, diarrhea or constant nasal discharge should remain home. Very few
younger children can effectively blow their noses and wash their hands
afterward. A child with the above symptoms will quickly spread the illness to
other children.
Sore throat/ Earache with Fever: must have been on antibiotics for a full 24
hours.
Head Lice: Children with head lice can return to school after their first
treatment of medicated cream, lotion and or shampoo.
*Please be reminded that students with these symptoms cannot comfortably
participate in program activities and unnecessarily expose others to their illnesses
so therefore they must remain at home.
COMMUNICABLE DISEASES
The control of communicable diseases in the school shall be supervised by the
School Physician, such control measures shall conform to the rules and regulations
of the Health Ministry.
1. All students returning to school after having contracted a communicable disease
shall be readmitted by the school doctor only after serving the specified number of
days' exclusion.
2. Students returning to school following a contagious illness, who show evidence of
continued infection, shall be excluded from classes until examined by the School
Doctor.
3. Restrictions of non-immune contacts exposed to diphtheria, whooping cough,
polio and meningitis shall conform to the rules and regulations of the Health Ministry.
4. Any student complaining of illness shall be referred to the School Doctor upon
whose recommendation the student shall be excluded from school.
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MEDICATION
Should a student require medicine during the school day, parents must follow these
procedures for bringing medicine to school and for the doctor to administer:
Parent must personally bring medication to school and deliver it to the school
doctor or adult office personnel for safekeeping.
If it is not possible for a parent to bring the medication to school personally, a
child may bring the medication under emergency conditions if the following
guidelines are followed: A note should be written by the parent of the type
(name) of medication being sent and the number of tablets or amount of
liquid dosage that the child has in his/her possession so that the count and type
of medication can be verified. It should include the specific time it is to be
administered. The parent must notify the school doctor and/or office
personnel that the child will be bringing the medication to school. This notice
must occur 24 hours in advance, unless the medication has just been ordered.
Parent must telephone the doctor personally to discuss the reason why the
medicine is being administered, dosage requirement, and time for child to
receive dose. The school doctor may be reached at extension #105.
PARENTS OUT OF THE COUNTRY
If both mother and father plan to be out of the country, the parents must inform the
school and homeroom teacher in writing. The following information must be
included:
Child’s name
Class/teachers name
Dates of travel
Name of Guardian/contact address/2 mobile numbers
TRANSPORTATION
Bus transportation is provided to our students for a fee. Students must be registered
through our Registration Office. Details of the bus service can be found in the
admission information.
Please remind your child every day to follow these important BUS rules:
Obey the bus driver and bus monitor instructions
Remain in your seat on the bus (No jumping or standing)
Keep your hands, feet, and objects to yourself
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No bullying
Talk quietly (No screaming)
A bus driver’s/bus monitor’s job is an EXTREMELY difficult task. Our school makes
every effort to support them in their efforts to be effective, responsible, and safe.
Bus discipline is handled using progressive discipline. Should a driver/bus monitor
bring a child into the office and file a formal complaint, the student is given a
warning. Additional trips to the office will result in a gradual loss of bus privileges, in
some cases; students may lose the privilege of bus transportation for the remainder
of the school year.
Please ensure that you are home when the bus arrives.
CAR Rules: For those fathers or drivers bringing their children to school you are asked
to follow the rules of the traffic flow and parking. Remind your children before
leaving the house to BUCKLE UP!
LUNCH/ RECESS / CAFETERIA
Students will have a lunch period and recess per the schedule. Students are
expected to keep their eating area neat and clean up after themselves. They are
expected to show respect to each other, to the environment and follow school
rules
Soft drinks of any kind and chocolate or candy are not allowed at school in the
child’s lunch box. Adult will take them away to be sent back home. You are
expected to pack a healthy food for your child to provide him/her with the
necessary energy that is needed to work better in the classroom.
FOOD AND DRINKS
Please send your child with healthy snack (fruits, vegetables, cheeses, sandwiches,
yogurt, milk NO chips, chocolate, candy, or soda) in a sealed container marked
with your child’s name. The school will provide refrigerated storage for food. Water
is recommended as being the best drink for children in school. Please send a
labelled water bottle that can be refilled at home or school as necessary.
ITEMS TO BRING TO SCHOOL
No money should be brought to school unless requested. Should this be the case,
money should be in a clearly labelled, sealed envelope. Parents are also
requested to make sure that children do not bring toys to school for the flowing
reasons:
They could get lost or damaged
All children at school should have equal opportunities to play with whatever is
available (by sharing they learn valuable social skills)
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They should be using the equipment and materials that have been carefully chosen
by the school.
UNIFORMS
Students must wear uniform that will be requested from the school. Please check
with the admission office for the uniform information.
Girls from Grade 4 and above are expected to wear Abaya when they enter and
leave the school. Afterward they are expected to take it off and stay with school
uniform
Please note that our school uniform is enforced.
PLAYGROUND
PLAYGROUND INSPECTION: On a daily basis, teachers/teachers assistants will ensure
that playground equipment is usable and safe. If problems are found, the area will
be closed and students will not be permitted to play in that area. The teacher will
report the concern immediately and submit the necessary form to the
Administration Coordinator.
Playground equipment is inspected and maintained regularly and meets all
standards for safety. All areas are kept clean and free of any potential hazard.
STUDENT SUPERVISION: Students will be supervised by their class teacher/teacher
assistant during all recess timings. Students are not allowed to play on the play
structures without supervision. Appropriate action will be taken if a teacher/teacher
assistants witness any of the following:
children pushing or pulling other children (bullying)
children using bad language
children climbing equipment not designed for that purpose
children lifting other children in order to access that equipment
children causing damage to the equipment
If an accident or incident take place during play time and requires first aid, the
child will be taken immediately to the doctor’s office. If the child cannot be moved
the doctor will be called immediately to attend to the student. The doctor will then
follow our school policy to treat the injured. Parent will be notified.
*Please note that at all times students are under the direct supervision of staff
members while playing; only children attending our school are allowed to play on
the play structures. Our school is not responsible for any other injuries that may
occur while children other than our students use the play structures.
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PARENT/VISITORS
Due to security reasons, all parents/nannies/visitors must provide their ID for the
security guard at the gate; they will then be allowed to proceed to the Reception.
All parents/nannies/visitors must show their ID and or sign-in with our School
Receptionist. For the safety of all students, parents/nannies/visitors are not allowed
to enter the school halls or classrooms without gaining prior permission from the
Reception. All visitors entering the building must wear a "Parent/Nanny ID/Visitor's
Pass" at all times. All staff members are instructed to stop any person not wearing a
Parent/Nanny ID/Visitor Pass and will be escorted down to the waiting area.
Appropriate action will be taken if necessary. Parents that need to speak to
teachers are instructed to send a note, speak to the front receptionist, email the
teacher or call the school to schedule a meeting.
SECURITY
All gates are kept locked during the day. There is only one main entrance open for
visitors during school hours and this is controlled by security guards.
FIRE DRILLS
A plan has been developed which will insure the maximum efficiency and safety for
evacuating the building during drills or any real emergency. Each term training and
evaluation on Fire Drill activities are conducted. Exit plans are posted on all
classroom doors. All teachers are responsible for practicing this exit route. A trial
drill will be done at the beginning of each term.
EMERGENCY CLOSURES
An emergency is an event which threatens to disrupt the ‘normal’ running of the
school. This includes but is not limited to events such as fire, political insecurity,
infectious diseases and adverse weather. Emergencies such as these may happen
inside or outside the school, during the school day or after hours. In such cases the
priorities are the:
The safety of the children
The safety of staff and other adults
Minimizing damage to school buildings
When a decision is made to close the school the Head of School will direct the
designated staff to ensure that all parents receive an SMS informing them of the
situation. If the closure occurs during the school day the parents will be telephoned
and asked to collect their children. Every effort will be made to operate the school
bus transport system for those who normally use the service, once parents have
been notified.
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CHILD PROTECTION
Al-Forsan fully recognizes its responsibilities for child protection.
Our policy applies to all staff, visitors and volunteers working in the school. The
full policy can be found on the website. There are five main elements to our
policy:
Ensuring we practise safe recruitment in checking the suitability of staff and
volunteers to work with children.
Raising awareness of child protection issues and equipping children with the
skills needed to keep them safe.
Developing and then implementing procedures for identifying and reporting
cases, or suspected cases, of abuse.
Supporting students who have been abused in accordance with his/her
agreed child protection plan.
Establishing a safe environment in which children can learn and develop.
We recognize that because of the day to day contact with children, school staff
are well-placed to observe the outward signs of abuse. The school will therefore:
Establish and maintain an environment where children feel secure, are
encouraged to talk, and are listened to.
Ensure children know that there are adults in the school whom they can
approach if they are worried.
Include opportunities in the personal, social and health education curriculum
for children to develop the skills they need to recognise and stay safe from
abuse.
FIELD TRIPS
Our school Field Trips are designed to integrate classroom curriculum with an
exciting learning adventure. Field Trips will be child friendly, age appropriate as well
as an educational experience for all students.
Please be reminded that during the Registration Process you have given the
permission for your child to either attend or not to attend.
The following procedures will be in effect when a Field Trip takes place:
Parents will be notified in letter form, SMS, and or on our website at
http://www.fis.sch.sa/ regarding the date, and location of the upcoming field
trip.
A nominal fee will be determined to cover transport/venue/food costs-once
a fee has been set, students will then be asked to submit to their class
teacher 1 week in advance.
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Students must wear FIS school uniform.
PreK and KG1 students: Buses will depart at approximately 8:30 a.m. and will
return to our campus at approximately 11:30 a.m. Students will continue with
their regular schedule until their scheduled dismissal time. Please note that
students may not be dropped off separately, they must depart with their class
on the designated school bus and return with the school bus.
KG2 and Grades 1-8 students: Buses will depart at approximately 8:30 a.m.
and will return to our campus at approximately at 12:30. Students will
continue with their regular schedule until their scheduled dismissal time.
Please note that students may not be dropped off separately, they must
depart with their class on the designated school bus and return with the
school bus.
Students must follow the School Bus Rules
Students will be accompanied by teachers and teacher assistants. Nannies
will also be on hand to assist our students.
Students may or may not be asked to bring their own lunch bag. Due to
some of our students having specific food allergies, students may not share
their lunch with each other.
Photographs will be taken and shared with parents via
email/blog/website/Yammer.
Teachers will ensure that school Field Trip Policy is implemented
Parent will not be permitted to attend unless asked to do so as a parent
volunteer.
*If you do not wish your child to take part in any of these trips or they have any
allergies that may be affected by this trip they are to remain at home for the day.
Please notify the homeroom class teacher via email/handwritten note or telephone
our Admin Office receptionist at 920004202 to let us know that your child will not be
attending.
AFTER- SCHOOL ACTIVITIES
Students are encouraged to participate in after-school activities as these provide
opportunities to explore new interests develop skills and discover their talents. A list
of after-school activities offered at school, and the fee, will be sent out to families at
the beginning of each term. The money for the after-school activities should be
handed to the Main Office in a sealed envelope and clearly marked with the
child’s name, class and the activity. Please respect the deadline for bringing the
money. If the money for an after-school activity is not submitted in time, the child
can be denied from attending the after-school activity.
COMMUNICATIONS
We value our parents highly and appreciate that their input and support help make
our school a special place. We encourage you to communicate with us and to
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become involved in our school as children benefit most when there is a positive
and collaborative relationship between home and school. Anytime you have
questions or concerns you are encouraged to make an appointment or
communicate with us through the school approved communication channels:
school website http://fis.sch.sa.salal.arvixe.com/Portal/index.asp, telephone (only
with administration), email, teacher’s blog, Lyncs, Daily Communication
folder/book, Parent-Teacher conference.
Appointments
To make an appointment, please use the following protocol:
Step 1: You make an appointment to meet with the teacher at a mutually
convenient time via a note or telephone message to the Main Office. If you
believe, the issue or concern has not been sufficiently addressed in the meeting
with the teacher you can proceed to the next step.
Step 2: You make an appointment to meet with the Academic Coordinator and
teacher in question. The issue or concern will be discussed in a proactive manner.
If after that you believe the issue or concern still has not been resolved to your
satisfaction, you may proceed to the next step.
Step 3: You can contact the school to make an appointment to meet with the
Head of School.
Parent-Teacher Conferences
Curriculum Night will be hosted at the beginning of the school year for parents to
become familiar with the procedural and instructional policies of the teacher and
school.
Parent-Teacher Conferences will be offered twice a year and information
regarding dates will be published well in advance. Teachers will notify parents if a
student is consistently struggling to master grade level standards. Written
information, including progress reports, will be forwarded to parents of children who
are not performing up to required standards. Report cards will be emailed at the
end of each eight weeks.
TEACHERS
Passion for knowledge… Passion for teaching… Passion for kids...That’s just what our
teachers are all about at Al-Forsan International School!
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Not only is our team of qualified teachers committed to your children’s education,
but our whole staff is dedicated in:
providing a safe and educational learning environment.
respecting diversity and whole child development – cognitive, emotional,
social and physical.
understanding and respecting Islamic values.
developing students who are self-motivated, and socially responsible lifelong
learners.
collaborating with fellow colleagues, students, parents and community to
create a unique, challenging learning environment with high academic
standards and expectations.
applying academic learning to meaningful real-life activities and situations.
providing opportunities in science, technology, environmental education and
arts programs that foster independent, critical, collaborative and creative
thinking.
engaging in a continuum of professional growth to improve their practice.
CURRICULUM
Al –Forsan follows the American Common Core Curriculum taught mainly by
qualified candidates that teaches to the highest academic standards and attends
to the cognitive, social, physical and emotional developmental needs of children.
The Common Core State Standards are internationally benchmarked and backed
by evidence showing that students' mastery of them leads to preparedness for
higher education and the workforce. The language of instruction is English but
ample time is provided in the school day for Arabic and Islamic Studies.
The Early Childhood Department provides a quality early childhood program that
includes comprehensive learning experiences in a planned environment. We work
closely with parents to ensure that the children’s school experiences can be
reinforced at home.. Children are introduced to a variety of pre-reading and
learning activities in fun and developmentally appropriately ways.
In KG level Children at this age are encouraged, to be self-reliant and independent
in the classroom. It is expected that they will have achieved a reasonable level of
English language proficiency and are able to communicate comfortably.
ELEMENTARY:
FIS inspires children to wonder, discover create and excel. All teachers are
qualified, dedicated and eager to work with their children to thrive.
In Elementary school, we are following the American Curriculum based on
Common core standards.
Our curriculum is focusing on strong academic skills, confidence and self-esteem.
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Each subject covers standards-based content with emphasis on cultivating
student’s skills such as creativity, collaboration, thinking skills and innovation.
During class time, Students listen critically and respond appropriately to oral
communication. They speak in a manner that guides the listener to understand
important ideas by using proper phrasing, pitch, and modulation.
Science, social studies, art, PE, IT and Library are also included in the curriculum.
MIDDLE SCHOOL:
There are two essential characteristics of high performing middle schools: a strong
academic program that encourages students to exceed their own expectations;
and strong family-like community that ensures every student makes new friends and
knows a sense of support.
Middle school provides students with an opportunity to explore before entering high
school. Through our middle school program, your child will have courses of study in
the following areas:
Language arts: reading, writing, spelling, speaking and listening
Mathematics
Media and technology
Physical Education
Science
Social Studies (English and Arabic)
World Languages (Arabic, French)
Islamic Studies
In addition to academic programs, our middle school offers a wide range of after
school activities. Some activities include:
Writing Club
Reading Club
Art Club
Yearbook
Student Counselor club
ARABIC/ISLAMIC STUDIES
Arabic/Islamic Studies are scheduled in all grade levels with different
concentration, in grade 1-8 students will be following MOE Arabic and Islamic
curriculum for International schools incorporated with daily prayer in the school
Mosque.
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HOMEWORK GUIDELINES
Students will have a regular homework schedule. Please check your child’s
classroom blog everyday as this will tell you about your child’s homework and
school work.
The overall purposes of homework are to help students develop responsibility and
good study habits, to independently apply their skills and knowledge and to
become enthusiastic readers. Unless otherwise indicated, students are expected to
complete their assignments independently.
STUDENTS NEED TO:
Understand the relevance of homework
Do the homework consistently
Ensure that it is completed and on time
Talk to the teacher if there are problems
Learn to manage their time effectively
Understand the importance and the expectation of the assignment
PARENTS ARE EXPECTED TO:
Support their child by providing a quiet space, materials and a regular time for
completing homework
Motivate their child in a positive way and show and interest in their work
Allow their child to complete their homework independently
Encourage their child to seek help from their teacher when necessary
Communicate with the teacher if there are problems their child is unable to resolve
without assistance
Encourage their child to read every night
When no homework is set, maintain the homework routine by having your child
review material or read quietly.
ASSESSMENT AND REPORTING
PRE-K & KG1
Pre-K assessments are essential for gaining insight into how much children are
growing and learning and allows teachers to tailor instruction to children’s specific
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needs. They also serve to evaluate progress. Teachers will note children’s cognitive
progress in all critical skill and developmental behavior areas and report back to
parents each term.
KINDERGARTEN- GRADE8
Students will be assessed based on the Common Core State Standards. A termly
Report Card is issued at the end of each term to keep parents informed of the
students’ performance and effort. Teachers may send a progress report home more
frequently to report positive news or to keep you informed of areas of concern.
GRADING POLICY AND SCALE:
Grade weights to be used by the elementary Homeroom teacher in Grades 4, 5
and 6 are as follows:
Daily Work 45%
Homework 10%
Tests/ Quizzes 45%
Grade 1-3: Daily work assignments, tests, quizzes, and homework will be added
together with equal value for each category
KG2 and Grade 1 students: will receive a letter grade for the academic subject
areas, which is equivalent to the following grading scale:
100% - 90% A
89% - 80% B
79% - 70% C
69% - %60 D
59% - below U Unsatisfactory
For Grade 2 through 6 the following grading scale for academic subjects will be
used:
96% - 100% A+
90%- 95% A
86% - 89% B+
80%- 85% B
77%- 79% C+
70% - 76% C
66% -69% D+
60% - 65% D
Students will have two weeks to make up missed evaluation for excused absences.
The principal may grant exceptions.
DISCIPLINE POLICY:
In the elementary school, we place an emphasis on children knowing and
understanding FIS School and classroom standards of behaviors. We believe that
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good discipline provides positive direction for everyone and maintain effective
learning environment. Review the code of Conduct in the front of this handbook.
Inappropriate behavior interferes with the safety of a student and learning process.
Parents will be informed of the homeroom teacher’s discipline at the orientation
day.
Children unable to follow those standards will first be counseled by the classroom
teachers
On the second offence, the student may lose a recess time or have a
consequence set by the teacher
On the third infraction for the rule, the teacher will communicate with parent by
note in the communication book, telephone or through behavior slip. For behavior
in a very serious action, parent will be contacted in the first infraction.
If inappropriate behavior continues, the teacher may refer student to the
counselor, assistant principal or principal.
If the child continues to have behavior difficulties at the school, the principal,
counselor and teacher will meet to establish a case study
Parent will be asked to attend a meeting with the counselor, principal and teacher
to discuss to discuss the most effective plan that will be used with the child.
In case of a student, causing injury to another person in the school, then immediate
referral will be made to the principal.
Some indicators to inappropriate behavior at the early childhood and Elementary
level may include but not limited to the following:
Inappropriate language / lying / stealing
Absence from a class without a valid excuse
Cheating on a daily classroom tests
Disruptive behavior in the classrooms, hallways, busses
Fighting or bullying
Late arrival to class without permission
Disrespect shown to a staff member
Forgery to a required signature
Failure or refuse to follow oral or written directions of a staff member
It is Important that parents and school work together as a team to ensure students
develop appropriate behaviors while in school.
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LIBRARY AND MEDIA SERVICES:
The library is a wonderful place to encourage reading for pleasure or school work.
Students are expected to work or read quietly while in the library. Books may be
checked out with exception for Reference materials. Students are responsible for
any materials checked out by them. Lost materials may be replaced, and a fine will
be charged for lost items. Overdue books or lost books will result in holding the
child’s report card until replaced or paid.
Computer Use: The students will be able to access the internet for research at
school in the library or computer lab. Any inappropriate use will result in elimination
for this right to any individual student and may result in disciplinary action as well.
General violation include:
International visitation of sites which are not curriculum related
Attempts to break into anyone’s computer, files or programs
Accessing a computer to retrieve other students’ work
Live chat on any chat line
LOST AND FOUND ITEMS
Lost and Found items are placed in a box located by the entrance to the admission
office. Please check the Lost and Found box when your child is missing an item.
Lost and Found items will be put on display several times a year at the entrance to
the school. At the end of the school year any unclaimed items will be given to a
local charity.
ASSEMBLIES
Students take part in regular assemblies in order to share and celebrate their
learning as well as develop public speaking and performance skills. Parents are
invited to come and support these and will be informed of the dates in advance.
PARENT SUPPORT
Parents are encouraged to be partners in learning with the school. We encourage
parents to volunteer their time in the classroom, during field trips or special
programs. Please contact your child’s classroom teacher or the Reception to
volunteer your services, and share your talent.