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.