acs elementary handbook 2010-11

8/8/2019 ACS Elementary Handbook 2010-11

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The Premier International School in Greece

since 1945

Stefanos Gialam as, Ph.D.President of Schools

Dina PappasElementary School Principal

[email protected]

Anny KalfaElementary School Administrative Secretary

[email protected]

129 Aghias Paraskevis Ave. & Kazantzaki St.152 34 Halandri Athens, Greece

Tel.: +30 (210) 639 3200Fax: +30 (210) 639 0051

[email protected]

Mission Statement ACS Athens is a student-centered international school, embracing Americaneducational philosophy, principles and values. Through excellence in teaching anddiverse educational experiences, ACS Athens challenges all students to realizetheir unique potential: academically, intellectually, socially and ethically -- to thriveas responsible global citizens.


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Table of ContentsMission Statement................................................................................................... - 3 -

Table of Contents ............................. .............................. .............................. .............. - 4 - Who We Are .............................................................................................................. - 6 -

Important Numbers ................................................................................................ - 6 -

Facilities .................................................................................................................... - 7 - Elementary Campus ................................................................................................ - 7 - Library ................................................................................................................... - 7 - Computer Lab .......................... .............................. .............................. ................... - 7 -

The School Day ........................... .............................. ............................. .................... - 8 - What We Teach ...................................................................................................... - 8 - How We Teach ....................................................................................................... - 8 - How We Assess Learning .......................... .............................. .............................. ... - 8 - Text/Workbooks We Use ......................................................................................... - 8 -

First Grade .......................................................................................................... - 9 - Second Grade ...................................................................................................... - 9 - Third Grade ......................................................................................................... - 9 -

Fourth Grade ............................. .............................. .............................. .............. - 9 -

Fifth Grade ........................... .............................. ............................. .................... - 9 - Greek Language B - Non-native Speakers ............................................................. - 10 - Greek Language A - Near-native Speakers ............................................................ - 10 - Greek Language A - Native Speakers .............................. .............................. ........ - 10 -

General Notes ................................................................................................. - 10 - Arabic ................................................................................................................ - 10 -

Student Expectations .......................... ............................. .............................. ............ - 11 - Attendance ............................................................................................................ - 11 - Tardiness .............................................................................................................. - 11 - Daily Absences ...................................................................................................... - 11 - Extended Absences ................................................................................................ - 11 - Early Dismissal from School .................................................................................... - 11 - Personal Music Players, Roller Blades, Heelys & Skateboards ..................................... - 11 - Policy on Possession of Cell Phones and Other Personal Electronic Signaling Devices ... - 12 - Emergency Drills .................................................................................................... - 12 -

Homework Expectations ............................................................................................ - 13 - Discipline and Time-Out Procedures ........................... .............................. ................... - 13 -

Time-Out .............................................................................................................. - 14 - Procedures When Handling Discipline Problems ........................................................ - 14 - Dress Code ............................. ............................ ............................. ...................... - 14 -

Support Services ....................................................................................................... - 15 - ESL ....................................................................................................................... - 15 - Optimal Match ....................................................................................................... - 15 -

OM Consultation ................................................................................................. - 16 -

Counseling Services ............................................................................................... - 16 - ESAS and ICCT ARTS ACADEMY .............................................................................. - 17 - Staying After-School ........................... ............................ ............................. ........... - 17 - The House System ................................................................................................. - 17 - Student Council ..................................................................................................... - 18 - Health Services ...................................................................................................... - 18 -

Lunch Program ......................................................................................................... - 18 - Transportation .......................................................................................................... - 19 -

Bus Procedures ............................ ............................. ............................ ................. - 19 -


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Bus Code of Conduct: ......................... ............................. ............................ ........... - 20 - Special Traditions ...................................................................................................... - 20 -

September ...................................................................................................... - 20 - October .......................................................................................................... - 20 - November ............................. ............................. ............................ ................. - 20 - December ....................................................................................................... - 20 - February ......................................................................................................... - 20 - March ............................................................................................................. - 20 -

April ............................................................................................................... - 20 - May ............................................................................................................... - 21 - June ............................................................................................................... - 21 -

Role of Parents ......................................................................................................... - 21 - PTO ...................................................................................................................... - 21 - Room Parents ........................................................................................................ - 22 - Parents Supporting Athletics (PSA) .......................................................................... - 22 - Personal Property .................................................................................................. - 22 - Lost & Found ......................................................................................................... - 22 -

Vehicles of Communication ........................................................................................ - 22 -

Report Cards ......................................................................................................... - 22 - Conferences .......................................................................................................... - 22 - Student-Led Conferences ......................... ............................. ............................. ..... - 23 - Passports .............................................................................................................. - 23 - Elementary Newsletter ........................................................................................... - 23 - Monthly Principals Coffee ....................................................................................... - 23 - Website ................................................................................................................ - 23 - Telephone ............................................................................................................. - 24 -

School Activities ........................................................................................................ - 24 - School Photos ......................... ............................. ............................ ...................... - 24 - Field Trips ............................................................................................................. - 24 - Birthday and Holiday Celebrations ........................................................................... - 24 -

Enrollment ................................................................................................................ - 25 -

Admission/Registration ........................................................................................... - 25 - Transfers From Our School ..................................................................................... - 25 -

Visitor/Guest Policy ................................................................................................ - 25 -


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Who We AreWe are a group of dedicated professionals who bring unique experiences and expertise to thefield of education. Most of us hold Masters Degrees in one or more fields of Education andcontinue our professional development every year.

The ACS Athens Elementary program relies heavily on the synergy that comes from goodteamwork. Classroom teachers work in tandem with their grade level colleagues and specialsteachers. Your student receives the benefit of teachers using their individual and collectivestrengths to help the student learn quickly and feel successful. Teacher assistants work withthe teachers to help prepare and organize needed materials.

Important Numbers

Main Campus: 210 639-3200Elementary School: 210 639-3200, ext. 229/231Middle School: 210 639-3200, ext. 226/228

Academy: 210 639-3200, ext. 241/222 Admissions: 210 639-3200, ext. 263/251 Cafeteria: 210 639-3200, ext. 236 Cashiers Office: 210 639-3200, ext. 206Health Office: 210 639-3200, ext. 217 Transportation: 210 639-3200, ext. 239Security (after hours): 210 639-3555


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Facilities

Elementary Campus The Elementary School is located on the west side of the main ACS Athens campus. Shaded

by Mulberry trees, the Elementary Schools main building holds the office, library, computerlab, KG-5th grade classrooms, art room, cafeteria, P.E. room, mini theater and special roomsfor ESL and Counseling. The Junior Kindergarten, part of the Kindergarten and OMclassrooms enjoy their own wing and large grassy playground. The Health Office is located inclose proximity to our classrooms. There is a commitment to ongoing upgrading of facilitiesto provide for a better learning environment.

The Elementary School sits across the courtyard from the Middle School and Academysspecial facilities, which are sometimes shared. They include the Main Academy Library,Gymnasium, Swimming Pool, Soccer Field, Tennis Courts and Theater.

Library The Elementary Library houses approximately 15,000 print and audio-visual materials. Allnew and donated library materials are evaluated on the basis of their literary merit,usefulness in balancing the collection, and value in supporting the curriculum. Our library isfully automated and students use the OPAC check-out system. Students visit the libraryweekly for formal lessons and to check out materials. Replacement costs will be charged forlost or damaged library materials.

Computer Lab The Elementary Computer Lab is adjacent to the Library and consists of brand new Lenovocomputers. Each computer is networked, internet capable, and supported by the use of anLCD projector and a CD/DVD recorder. Classes attend one session per week during regularly

scheduled times. Additional computer class time is available throughout the week. Studentslearn to use the computer as a tool to enhance their learning with different softwareapplications and with the use of the internet. The elementary lab is part of the ACS Athensnetwork that runs off our own server. Each classroom has its own computer and manyclassrooms now have interactive boards for further word processing and research.


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The School DayEvery student at ACS Athens has Mathematics, Language Arts (Reading and Writing),Science, Social Studies and Spelling classes daily. Units of study alternate betweenScience and Social Studies. In addition, each grade level meets with specialist teachers

throughout the week for Art, Music, P.E., Arabic, Greek or English. (Students are supervisedon the playground from 8:15 to 9:00 a.m. The school day begins at 9:00 a.m. and ends at3:30 p.m. We ask that all students arrive early to school so that they can be ready to learnat 9:00 a.m. sharp!

What We Teach Students get involved in units of inquiry that are subject-integrated. In addition to masteringthe basic tools for learning (language arts and mathematics), students learn to think conceptually, gather facts and acquire knowledge, apply and practice skills, develop attitudesand take action.

How We Teach The Elementary School views students as thinkers with important, emerging theories of theworld. Building on students prior knowledge, teachers integrate their curriculum using arange of teaching strategies, and resources. Rather than focusing on isolated and non-contextualized facts, students develop critical thinking skills to become life-long learners andproblem solvers.

How We Assess Learning As with our teaching strategies, ACS Athens Elementary uses a variety of assessment tools toascertain a students level of understanding. Students are also involved in the learningprocess by giving critical feedback to their peers and themselves. Assessment can occur fromwritten tests, lab reports, performances, observations, research papers etc. Report cards areused to assess students level of mastery and to provide important anecdotal observationsabout a students progress and social development. Students take a standardized, norm-referenced test (CTB/Terra Nova) every other year in grades 25. Once a year students leadtheir own conferences using a portfolio of their work during the Student-Led Conferences.

Text/Workbooks We Use Textbooks supplement rather than direct the curriculumat ACS Athens. Students learn beyond typicalrequirements. They strengthen higher level thinkingskills. In addition to the texts listed, teachers frequentlydraw upon primary sources (including guest speakers orperformers), library/media, online resources, computersoftware, trade books and literature to supplement thecurriculum.

Textbooks are provided to all students through their classrooms teachers. All books loaned tostudents will be returned to the teacher at the conclusion of each course. Students whowithdraw from school should return all textbooks before they can clear their records. If astudent fails to return books or damages them, the student will be charged for the cost of thetext.


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First Grade

EnVision Math (Scott Foresman-Addison Wesley)Language Arts Readers (Silver, Burdett and Ginn) (Modern Curriculum Press)(Scott Foresman) (School Readers)

Phonics (Modern Curriculum Press)Science (Foss Kit)

Second Grade

EnVision Math (Scott Foresman-Addison Wesley)Investigations in Number, Data and SpaceMath-A-PediaQuest 2000: Exploring MathematicsPhonics (Modern Curriculum Press)New Dimensions in the World of Reading (Silver, Burdett and Ginn), (Garden Gates),(Gathering Sunbeams), (Tail of a Kite)Plus many primary/secondary resource materials

Science (Foss Kit)Everyday Spelling (Scott Foresman)

Third Grade

EnVision Math (Scott Foresman-Addison Wesley)Investigations in Number, Data and SpaceCastles of Sand (Ginn Reader) English Language Skills and Use (Scott Foresman)Handwriting Workbook From Sea to Shining Sea (Houghton Mifflin Social Studies)Earth Beneath Your Feet (McGraw/Hill Science)System of the Sky (MacMillan/McGraw Science) Science (Foss Kit) Everyday Spelling (Scott Foresman)

Fourth Grade

EnVision Math (Scott Foresman-Addison Wesley)Silver Secrets (Ginn Reader)Selected Novels and PoetryLanguage Skills (Harcourt)Success with Maps, Level D (Scholastic)Map Skills Gr. 4 (Scholastic)Discover the Wonder (Scott Foresman Science)Science (Foss Kit)Cursive Handwriting (DNealian)Everyday Spelling (Scott Foresman)

Fifth Grade

EnVision Math (Scott Foresman-Addison Wesley)English Language Skills and Use (Scott Foresman)Building a Nation (Scott Foresman)DAulaires Book of Greek Myths (and many more trade books)


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The History of US (Social Studies supplement)Science Series (Scott Foresman and Foss)Selected Novels and PoetrySpelling (Scott Foresman)

Greek Language B Non native Speakers

Accommodates students whose oral skills are inadequate to hold a conversation in Greek withease. Instruction is given in English, but Greek is used as much as possible.

Greek Language A Near native Speakers

Accommodates students who have an adequate level of spoken Greek but need to developtheir oral/reading/writing skills. Instruction is given in Greek. Students are required tocommunicate in Greek.

Greek Language A Native Speakers

Accommodates students for whom Greek is the native language and are fluent speakers and

readers. Instruction is given in Greek. Students are required to communicate fluently inGreek.

Please note: Students who wish to be moved to a higher level are assessed by a placementtest after teachers recommendation.In case a student does not meet the set standards in their current placement, the teacherreserves the right to place the student in a lower level.

General NotesStudents of all levels participate in celebrations of ethnic holidays of Greece, the host country.Fourth grade students organize and perform for the OXI Day celebration in October, whereasal l students of the Greek classes participate in the Greek Independence Day celebration in

March. Throughout the school year, students of all levels become familiar with Greek holidays and customs in different ways through the curriculum.

Arabic

A course description for each grade level is on file in the Elementary School Office written in Arabic for your review.


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Student Expectations

Attendance Regular attendance at school is a key element of academic success. Parents are asked toplan outside activities (dental appointments, family trips, etc.) around the school scheduleand calendar. Students are expected to arrive at school punctually as classes start from 9:00a.m. to 3:30 p.m. daily.

Tardiness We expect students to arrive on time to all of their classes, especially themorning homeroom. Chronic tardiness sends the wrong message tochildren. Show the importance of punctuality by making sure your childarrives on time. If your child is late, please make sure he/shecomes to the Main Office first to receive their late pass in order to goto their homeroom. If students miss more than two hours of school,

they will be marked as a half day absence. Students coming to schoollate will be marked for unexcused tardiness.

Daily Absences If a student is absent for the day or part of the day, call Ms. Anny Kalfa in the ElementaryOffice and state the reason for the absence. We will coordinate homework on an individualbasis. Students may not be taken out of school without parent notification to the Office. Forabsences of more than three days, a doctors note is also required. Absences due to healthproblems or family loss are considered excused absences. Mini trips or extended vacation areconsidered unexcused absences. Parents are responsible to communicate with the classroomteacher in order to pick up missed homework from the Office.

Extended Absences An extended absence severely disrupts a students learning program. However weacknowledge that extended absences are sometimes unavoidable. Please let us know well inadvance of any anticipated extended absences (five days or more) by writing a letter to theclassroom teacher and a copy given to the Principal. If a family decides to take additionalvacation time, homework is not the responsibility of the teacher to prepare in advance.Please be aware that extended absences could prevent us from making a proper assessmentor any assessment on your childs report card. Many of the homework assignments requirethe students presence for completion and, thus, will have to be modified due to missed classtime. If a child has accumulated a large number of absences, the Principal reserves the rightnot to promote him/her to the next grade level.

Early Dismissal from School A student who must leave school early for a legitimate reason must have a parent note givento the classroom teacher and be picked up from the office by a parent or guardian.

Personal Music Players, Roller Blades, Heelys & Skateboards Personal music players must never be used on campus (except after school). Failure torespect this policy will result in the confiscation of the item for an indefinite period of time.


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For safety reasons and to ensure the protection of school property, roller blades, heelys,skateboards etc. are not allowed on campus.

Policy on Possession of Cell Phones and Other Personal Electronic Signaling Devices Students are not permitted to use any type of electronic signaling devicesduring class time, passing periods or breaks within the classroom. Cellphones can be used if the break is outside .

If a school staff member finds it necessary to confiscate a device, parentswill be notified promptly and the device will be returned in accordance withschool rules after the Principal has consulted with the students parent/guardian.The school is not responsible for lost or stolen electronic signaling devices. Students are to

make arrangements with their parent(s) or guardian(s) to contact the schooloffice when attempting to reach them during the school day.

The following are inappropriate uses of electronic signaling devices:

harassment, threats, intimidation, electronic forgery,cyberbullying/cyberthreats, videotaping in or out of the classroom,invasion of personal rights, cheating on tests/exams, or other forms of

illegal behavior during the instructional and non- instructional day. Studentsare not to use material or text message to invade personal privacy or harass another person,or disrupt the instructional day, or engage in dishonest acts.

Videotaping within the ACS Athens Campus is not only inappropriate but ILLEGAL.

Students who act in violation of this policy shall be subject to ACSs progressive discipline asfollows:

1. Initial violation electronic signaling device will be confiscated by school staff andsecured in a safe location. The electronic device will be returned to student in sevendays;

2. Second violation electronic signaling device will be confiscated and secured in asafe location. The electronic device will be returned to the student in a month andthe student's parent or guardian meets with the school Principal for the purpose of clarifying this policy;

3. Third violation the electronic signaling device will be confiscated and secured in asafe location. The electronic device will be withheld for a semester and the student'sparent or guardian provides written assurance that the student will no longer beallowed to possess the electronic device during the instructional day;

4. Fourth violation the electronic signaling device will be confiscated and secured ina safe location. The student will be suspended;

5. Fifth violation the electronic signaling device will be confiscated and secured in asafe location. The student will be removed from school.

Emergency Drills Evacuation drills are conducted regularly and have undergone a review by the RegionalSecurity Office of the U.S. Embassy. Students are taught to leave the buildings quickly andsafely for any type of campus emergency. Students are expected to:

Be familiar with exit route Respond quickly, cooperate and give attention to their teacher or supervisor


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Walk quickly and silently Stay in formation to the left and right sides of the corridor and staircase as they

proceed to the exit Remain clear of the building as directed by teacher or supervisor Remain quiet once outdoors and cooperate fully with attendance taking procedures

It is imperative that we have your current address and phone number/s (including cellphones) plus the number of someone else to reach, on file, in case of an emergency. If anyof your numbers (home, work, emergency) change, please alert us immediately throughyour childs Passport or call the Main Office. Thank you.

Homework ExpectationsIt was on my fifth birthday that my father put his hand on my shoulderand said, Remember son, if you ever need a helping hand, youll findone at the end of your arm. - Sam Levenson.

Most students at ACS Athens will have homework on a daily basis.

Homework is given to strengthen skills taught at school, enrich andextend a concept and help develop solid work habits.Some of the homework assigned may require adult help or guidance.Parents should not do homework for their children. Parents shouldtake a coaching role or follow the Socratic method of questioning:

What is your assignment for tomorrow? Parents should encouragetheir children, ask deeper questions and assist them when need arises.

If absent from school for any reason, the student is responsible for making up all of the classwork and homework he/she missed. If a student is absent for only one day, it is best forhim/her to telephone a friend to find out what material was covered in classes and whathomework assignments were given. If it is not possible to get this information, studentsshould ask their teachers about missed work immediately upon their return to school.

If absent from school for an extended period of time (two days or more), the student orhis/her parent or guardian should telephone the school. Assignments should be collectedfrom teachers. They can be delivered by a friend/neighbor, or be picked up by parents fromthe school.

Students are expected to set goals and work to achieve them. It is important to get the mostout of ones time in every learning situation. Students are asked to maintain a seriousattitude towards their work, think positively, and stick to a plan.

Discipline and Time-Out Procedures At ACS Athens Elementary School, we work with students so that they may becomemanagers of their attitudes and actions. We discuss with them how then can become betterstudents and cooperative members of our community. We actively encourage students to beInquisitive, Good Thinkers, Quality Communicators, Knowledgeable, Risk-Takers, Principled,Caring, Open Minded, Well Balanced and Reflective. These characteristics are discussedduring Morning Assemblies and within the classroom along with our virtues of the month.


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Time-Out Time-Out is a school-wide discipline plan that deliberately seeks to extinguish inappropriatebehaviors and allows students to make appropriate choices. The Time-Out philosophy andprocedures are posted on the school website under Elementary School.

Positive Decision Making We know that by rewarding positive behaviors we encourage children torepeat these behaviors. We are proud of our students when they makeappropriate decisions in their approach to academics, safety, and inter-personal relations. To help them grow, we use positive praise, notes inthe Passport, assemblies, class meetings, and reinforcement from adultswith whom they come in contact. We know that these actions speak volumes to children. In some cases we even reinforce behavior with smallprizes or awards. Our goal is to find success in each and every child.

Procedures When Handling Discipline Problems We all have the ability to make either appropriate or inappropriate choices. Part of thelearning process involves knowing how to maturely accept the consequences of our actions,whether positive or negative. If a student does not follow the rules, the teacher willadminister our Time-Out discipline during which students reflect about what they have done.This is not a punishment. If the student chooses not to show progress and has three Time-Outs in one day, the child is sent to the Principals office. The number of Time-Outs for upper elementary (grades 3-5) is subject to change at the end of the school year, but parents will be notified by the classroom teachers. Once sent to the Principal, the followingconsequences will be imposed:

First Referral : Student meets with the Principal; warning or other consequencecommensurate with the action given at the discretion of the Principal. (Record kept of allincidents.)Second Referral : Loss of recess/es and parent notificationThird Referral : Meeting with parents and student at schoolFourth Referral : In-school suspensionFifth Referral : Out-of-school suspensionSixth Referral: Staff meeting called to discuss recommendation for expulsion. A conferencewill be scheduled with parents.Serious Offenses (fighting, possession of weapons, destruction of school or personalproperty, leaving campus without permission, stealing) could result in immediate suspensionor expulsion from our school.

Parents are asked to take an ACTIVE ROLE in the development of their childs behavior atschool by conferring regularly with their child, their childs teacher, the Counselor or thePrincipal.

Dress Code Cleanliness, appropriate grooming, and proper dress are important in promoting a positiveatmosphere for school and social conduct. The standards of dress for school should reflectcleanliness and appropriateness.


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Students who come to school without proper attention toward personal cleanliness orappropriateness of dress may be sent home to be properly prepared for school or required toprepare themselves for the classroom before entering.

Students are expected to dress in an appropriate manner at all times. In particular, thefollowing items are not allowed at school: shorts and skirts that are higher than mid-thighand clothing with obscene or suggestive words or patterns. Torn clothing, halters and shirtsthat are deemed too revealing and showing ones stomach are also not allowed. A studentviolating the dress code will be asked to change clothing.

A dress code is also required for P.E. classes. The P.E. attire includes sports shoes and a P.E.outfit (a winter and a summer set) worn on the days of P.E. Keep in mind that students willbe graded on their readiness for P.E. classes.

There will be times when students will be asked to dress up for an occasion such as a fieldtrip or a special day at school. Students should plan to wear special clothing (dresses forgirls, ties or button-down shirts for boys) to the Winter Concert, Spring Concert andGraduation (Fifth Grade).

Parents should be sure all clothing and items worn or brought to school are labeled with thechilds name. Please check our Lost & Found periodically located in the cafeteria. We donthave enough space for Jacket Mountains!

Support Services

ESLStudents who are at beginning and intermediate levels of English are required to enroll in theESL program. The ESL teacher works with students during their language learning time onEnglish reading, writing, speaking and listening skills. The ESL teacher collaborates with each

students homeroom teacher to ensure continuity of learning and skill building. There is anadditional fee for this program due to its small size and individualized attention.

Optimal Match The Optimal Match (OM) learning support program providesstudents an equal opportunity at excelling in the classroom byproviding individualized and small group instruction thatsupplements various learning styles. The process begins withthe student being referred by the classroom teacher or parent.The Child Study Team which consists of the Elementary SchoolPrincipal, the JK-12 Counseling-Psychologist, the ElementarySchool Counselor, and the OM Specialists work together to

determine a program that would be most beneficial to meetingthe students needs. Admission to OM is based on programcapacity and upon the receipt of current psycho-educationaltesting.

A full battery of psycho-educational assessments, which areadministered by non-school-based psychologists, must becompleted prior to enrollment in the OM program. Based ontheir findings and subsequent report, standards are set


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according to the individual needs of the referred student. Effective strategies are developedby the Optimal Match Specialist and are then shared with all teachers working with eachparticular student. Small group instruction and cooperative learning activities are incorporatedwithin the students curriculum in order to complement various learning abilities.

The Optimal Match Specialist provides support and guidance to the classroom teachers inorder to properly support student abilities. Collaboration is established amongst the entireteam and valuable tactics are adopted in order to enable students to maintain success withinthe classroom. Monitor Sheets are student assessments that are distributed to parentsmonthly to validate student strengths and to determine areas that need improving. TheMonitor Sheets are kept in the students confidential file. This information provides theprogram with evidence of student strengths and areas where additional assistance is neededin order for the student to excel in the classroom.

OM Consultation

OM consultation is performed on a case by case basis. Students that are placed in OMConsultation are monitored by the OM specialist and their classroom teachers. Anobservation of the student is performed through the above mentioned monthly monitor sheet.There are fees for enrollment in either the Optimal Match Program or the OM Consultation.

Counseling Services The Elementary School Counselor works with all students individually and in group settings tohelp them succeed in the Elementary School emotionally, socially and cognitively. If astudent has a challenge or feels uncertain about some aspect of the Elementary School, theCounselor may be consulted. The Counselor works closely with teachers and parents toresolve any issues students may be faced with. The Counselor provides yearly school-widepsycho-educational programs for grades JK-5 on various topics. Some of these topics include

the Wellness (Anti-Drug) and the Anti-Bullying Programs. The Counselor also providesclassroom interventions on a needs basis (i.e. communication skills, respect of ones privacy,stress, conflict resolution, etc.)

In addition the Counselor invites parents to discuss a variety of child development issues oncea month (every 3 rd Wednesday of the month from 9:15-10:00 a.m.). Parents may contactthe Counselor Ms. Alessandra Sax-Lane at 210.639.3200 ex t. 266.


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ESAS and ICCT ARTS ACADEMY (The Elementary Sports After-School and Institute for Critical and Creative Thinking Arts

Academy)

ACS Athens Elementary believes that participation in a co-curricularactivity is important to a students development.

The ESAS and Arts Academy programs are primarily run byteachers or other professionals. Participating students are asked tomake a donation. Parents provide their own transportation.Classes typically run once a week from 3:45 to 5:00 p.m. Westrongly encourage all ACS Athens students to get involved. Manyof the programs culminate with an exciting exhibition of some kind.If there is an activity you would like to suggest or lead, please let us know!

All ESAS information will be made available on our website at the beginning of eachsemester. Registration will be made available online.

A Sample of Past ESAS Activities Offered at ACS Athens: Basketball Karate (Beginning and Advanced) Soccer Swimming (Various Levels) Tennis

A Sample of Past Arts Academy Activities Offered at ACS Athens: Ballet Modern Dance Chinese Language and Culture Classical Guitar Art History

Staying After-School Buses depart campus at 3:40 p.m. All students must leave campus at that time unless theyare staying for an activity that starts immediately after school. Students are not allowed towander around school grounds or play outside without parental supervision. Parents mustpick up their child(ren) on time as students are too young to be left unaccompanied.

The House System The House System was started at ACS in 1950 and established in the Elementary School in

2007. All students, faculty, and staff are assigned to one of four houses as a life-timemember; Athenian (green), Corinthian (red), Spartan (blue), or Trojan (yellow). It is aconcept meant to bond teachers and students, encourage school spirit and build a strongsense of belonging to our school. It is also meant to create a sense of continuity andpermanence for our graduates.


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Student Council The Student Council plays a significant role in the life of the Elementary School. StudentCouncil representatives are elected in class three times a year while meetings are held twicea month. Student councils representatives work with faculty and are encouraged to assumethe position of spokespeople for their classmates. Students are encouraged to make

suggestions to their representatives concerning the school.

Health Services The health and safety of your child at school is of utmost concern. A registered fulltime nurse and a consulting part time physician on campus administer emergencyfirst aid treatments and care for sudden illnesses. In addition, several elementarystaff members including the PE Teacher are trained and certified in CPR/First Aid.

The nurse also conducts regular vision and lice checks and maintains a healthrecord for every student. If the child needs to be taken home, the nurse will call

you directly. If the student is severely injured and we cannot reach anyone at home, thestudent will be taken directly to the nearest hospital for proper treatment. Ms. Mary

Papalan is, the School N urse, can be reached at: 210 639 -3200, ext. 217 .

All students are required to have a physical examination by their family physician within thirty(30) days of their enrollment which must be updated yearly . Please note the following:Prescription medication will not be administered by the Health Office to students of any ageunless the medication is provided by the parent and accompanied by a note which clearlystates the dosage and time the drug should be given as well as the reason it was ordered.Non-prescription medication may be administered to JK-5th grade students only when parentconsent has been obtained by phone on each occasion.

A child recovering from an illness should not return to school until she/he is well enough toparticipate in the full, regular school day, including recess, lunch and PE classes. Students

must be fever free for at least 24 hours before returning to school.

Students cannot attend any ESAS activities including swimming without an updatedphysical examination form.

Lunch ProgramStudents are offered a complete, balanced hot meal . A detailedmenu will be posted monthly on the school website. Each lunch menu(a complete meal) will have a set price and students will be able to buythe meals in advance using a card system.

The cafeteria is equipped to provide daily lunches and to serve food forvarious events and activities during the year. Proper behavior in thecafeteria means exhibiting good restaurant dining manners. Students

are to proceed in single file through the serving line, and once they have received their food,they are to remain seated until they are done eating. All students are expected to dispose of their own trash and to return the trays before leaving the cafeteria.

Many students choose to bring lunches from home. Please be aware that students are not allowed to purchase items from the on-campus kiosk or off-campus taverna while at school.


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If your child is staying for after-school activities, please have them bring a healthy snack ordrink from home.

Important Note: Parents are responsible to provide their children with a lunch, a lunch cardor money to buy lunch daily. The Elementary School Office does not provide lunch passes.

TransportationBus services are contracted by ACS Athens parents and cover virtually the entire Athens area.Students are transported by professional drivers and are supervised on the bus by amonitor. Bus monitors regularly communicate and collaborate with thebuilding principals regarding discipline issues. Ms. Leta Meleki,the Transportation Head, can be reached at: 210.639.3555 or210.639.3200, ext. 239.

Bus Procedures Students must be at the assigned stop at the scheduled boardingtime. Students must disembark only at the scheduled stop.If a student wishes to take a bus other than the one normallyassigned, or get off at a stop other than the one normally assigned, awritten parent request must be submitted to th e transportationoffice for approval 24 hours in advance and presented to themonitor before boarding. Permission to ride on a different bus will be granted only if space is available.

Change of address resulting in a change of route or bus stop should be presented to thetransportation office in writing two days prior to the change. Failure or considerable delay of the bus in arriving at the scheduled pick-up point entitles students to secure alternatetransportations to the school. The Transportation Officer will make reimbursement of anycosts incurred.

Concerns regarding the bus monitor or driver must be registered with the TransportationOfficer. Bus monitors reserve the right to assign students to a specific seat and all passengersmust comply with these directions.

Students are expected to follow the Bus Code of Conduct to ensure a safe ride foreveryone. Consequences are clearly spelled out for students. Please review thetransportation code of conduct, talk with your child about these rules, and let transportationknow if there is a concern or problem. Making sure your students are feeling safe and happyduring their commute is important to us. Should students not follow the Bus Code of Conduct, they will first be given a warning from the Principal. If the behavior is repeated asecond time, they will be asked not to ride the bus for a week. If the behavior is repeated for

a third time, they will not be allowed to ride the bus for the month. Finally, if the behavior isrepeated for a fourth time, they will not be allowed to ride the bus for the remainder of theschool year. Students safety is a serious issue.

There are no after-school activity buses (ESAS or ICCT Arts Academy) for elementarystudents. Parents must provide transportation after school on these days. Students need tobe picked up at 5:00 p.m.


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Bus Code of Conduct: Students must follow the directions of the bus monitors, adults and drivers at all times.No eating, drinking or smoking is allowed.Students must be quiet and seated in their assigned seat at all times.Respectful language must be used at all times.

No weapons/toy weapons or incendiary devices are allowed at any time.

Special TraditionsIn addition to our curriculum activities, the Elementary School enjoys its own specialtraditions. Parent volunteers are essential to the success of these events. If you would liketo assist with any one of these traditional events, or others, contact the classroom teacher.Please understand that some of these events are subject to change.

September Opening Assembly First Grade Parent Orientation Back To School Night

October Picture Days Parent Teacher Conferences OXI Day Celebration (Fourth Grade performance) PTO Halloween Carnival / Pumpkin Patch

November First Grade Dino-Daze Show Thanksgiving Holiday

December Winter Concert Second Grade Greek Folk Museum Exhibition Report Cards

February Second Grade Food Show Fifth Grade Play Third Grade Space Gallery 100 th Day Celebration

March Fourth Grade Readers Theater Performance Report Cards/Parent-Teacher Conferences Greek Independence Day Celebration

April Fourth Grade Simple Machines Expo


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Poetry Break Taverna Day

May JK/KG Field Day

Spring Concert Third Grade Talent Show Student-Led Conferences Student Art Show Spring Fair

June Grades 1-5 Field Day Second Grade African Exhibition Kindergarten Graduation Fifth Grade Graduation Volunteer Reception Report Cards

Role of ParentsDue to the rigor of our program, parents need to take an active role in guiding schoolwork and organizational skills. Besides creating a quiet study area, parents can help to foster apositive academic attitude by engaging their children in dinner discussions about whattranspired during the days classes. Having resource materials handy, such as a dictionary,thesaurus, internet connection etc., and limiting T.V. viewing and non-academic computeruse can also help. Encourage your children to read for pleasure. Take time to shareresponses to books and articles you have read in common. The Home/School Connection is avital one as it sends a clear message to students that we are all working together for theirsuccess. In short, we need to be on the same team. If you have concerns, or questions, goto the teacher and talk with him or her first. Parents should seek to resolve problemsby conferring with the teacher first. Should there be any further concerns afterconsulting with the teacher, the chain of command is as follows: DepartmentChair, Principal and, finally, President of ACS Athens .

There are many volunteer opportunities at the Elementary School. Some are assisting in thelibrary or art room, sewing costumes or building sets for grade level plays, taking photos forthe Yearbook, being a guest speaker, assisting during DIBELS Testing, helping with BakeSales, ad infinitum! We welcome you to our school as a volunteer. Please contact yourchilds teacher or call the Main Office if you would like to volunteer in any area.

PTO ACS Athens has an active and enthusiastic Parent/Teacher Organization. A combined PTOserving all three schools meet monthly after the Principals Coffee and work collaboratively tosupport the respective schools. There are representatives who serve each school. The PTOorganizes social activities for the families at ACS Athens, parent and staff functions, fund-raising events and informational programs. All parents are asked to get involved with thePTO in some capacity and attend monthly meetings. Big PTO Events include : Welcome Back Barbeque, Halloween Carnival, Christmas Bazaar, Spring Fair and Campus Beautification.Please get involved!


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Room Parents Each grade level has one or two parents that act as room parents and work closely with theclassroom teacher to arrange various celebrations in the Elementary School throughout theyear. In case of school cancellation, the room parents will be contacted by the pertinentteacher and will be asked to assist in notifying parents according to an existing phone tree.

Parents Supporting Athletics (PSA) An active group of parents, the PSA, help raise money and encourage participation JK12 inathletic events and programs. Please contact the Athletic Office for more information.

Personal Property The school cannot assume responsibility for the loss of personal property, and the schooldoes not carry insurance to cover the loss of student property. To avoid the possibility of loss, students should not bring expensive jewelry, large sums of money, radios, CD players,iPods or other valuable or personal objects to school.

Lost & Found Label, label, label!!! And when this fails, check the Lost & Found (located in themulti-purpose room) for items that are missing. We will set up a Lost & Foundtable during Winter Break, the Parent/Teacher Conferences and at the end of theschool year. Unclaimed items are given to a charity. Expensive toys, electronics, andvaluable items in general should not be brought to school.

Vehicles of Communication

Report Cards Report cards are posted on Family Access three times a year at the end of each trimester.

Parents can view their childs report card on line by entering the Skyward Family AccessReport Card program.

ACS Athens will report on each students achievement and progress at the conclusion of each60-day trimester.

A student must be enrolled at least five weeks in order to receive a complete report card.If a child demonstrates achievement or behavior that would result in a 1 rating (NotMeeting Standards: Is not yet demonstrating expected skills and knowledge) parents shouldexpect to be informed. In this way parents are informed and invited to an interventionprocess for their child.

In the event a child leaves ACS Athens prior to the last day of school, the final report cardmay be mailed to the family on the last day of school. Parents should provide the school anaddress of the new school.

Conferences Conferences are scheduled three times per year; Parent/Teacher Conferences in the fall,Parent/Teacher Conferences As Needed in the spring, and Student-Led Conferences in thespring. We consider the Parent/Teacher Conference the most important means of reporting


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student progress and sharing information about your childs successes and challenges inschool. We also encourage you to arrange for a conference at any time throughout the yearto gather more information about your childs learning experience and find out ways you maybe able to help at home. Please make arrangements with the teachers in advance via thestudent Passport.

Student-Led Conferences ACS Athens is excited to have student-led conferences during the spring. Student-ledconferences have been used at many state-of-the-art schools. Students and teachers jointlyselect finished work to be shared, and the students direct the conference by sharing his/herPortfolio with his/her parents. Both the student and the parent reflect upon the successesachieved and challenges ahead. Students take ownership of their academic progress whileparents dialogue with their child about schoolwork and assessment.

Passports Each student Grades JK to 5 is issued a Passport at the beginning of the school year.Students are expected to write down assignments and organize their homework in these

notebooks DAILY.

Teachers will often write special messages for parents in the Passports and parents areencouraged to use the Passport to communicate with the teacher. We also use Passports tomotivate students and ask that you do the same. Students must bring their Passports to andfrom school DAILY. Parents are expected to sign the passport should a message be writtenfrom the teacher so that we know they have seen it. Replacement Passports will be issuedfor 5 Euro (subject to change depending on current prices) available at the Main Office.

Elementary Newsletter Every month the entire school community JK to 5 publishes The Muse , a newsletter forparents which apart from the hard copy distributed to students, is posted on our website. ThePrincipal and teachers share highlights from the school and explain what is happening in eachgrade level.

Monthly Principals Coffee Parents are welcome to join the Elementary Principal and Counselor for amonthly coffee meeting. The agenda for that day is posted in ourwebpage for parents to view. Educational innovations are discussed,recent developments school-wide are introduced and upcoming calendarevents are explained. Principal Coffees are another form of communication at ACS Athens. Teachers sometimes conduct lessons,

as well, for parents. Its a wonderful way to meet other parents. Joinus!

Website The ACS Athens website www.acs.gr can be accessed by parents and students. It containsa variety of useful announcements, the school calendar, our Elementary School Newsletterand upcoming events to name a few. Should there be an announcement for school


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cancellation, for whatever reason, it will be posted on our website and/or emails will be sentto parents notifying them of the closing of school.

Telephone The phone is a quick and personal way of getting in touch with

a teacher or staff member. Call Ms. Anny Kalfa, ElementarySchool Administrative Assistant, ext. 229 to leave a message.The teacher or staff member will return your call as soon asthey are able to do so. Please remember that a teachers day isquite full and may extend into the evening. Therefore, it maytake a day to get back to you.

School Activities

School Photos A photographer comes to the school every fall to photograph students individually and with

their class. Parents may choose to purchase the photo package, but there is no obligation todo so. See Ms. Anny Kalfa in the Main Office for more information. We sometimes havevolunteers throughout the year taking publicity shots for school. You may see them in theannual Yearbook!

Field Trips During the school year, several trips are scheduled which relate to specific subject matterstudied at each grade level. We consider the field trips to be a crucial element of ourcurriculum. Field trips extend the classroom studies allowing students to collect data andapply and connect learning to the real world. We expect all students to attend. There areusually two field trips a year for each grade.

No child is permitted to take a trip without parental permission (given via a permission slipprior to the trip). Students are expected to exhibit good behavior as representatives of ACS Athens Elementary School. If the teachers and Principal feel that a students behavior and/ordecision-making is questionable, we reserve the right to have him/her remain at schoolduring the trip.

Birthday and Holiday Celebrations If your child wants to celebrate his/her birthday with the class, we ask thatyou provide enough treats for the entire class. They will be distributedduring snack break. These celebrations are short (usually celebrated atrecess or in the last fifteen minutes of the school day), as we need to keepall non-instructional class minutes to a minimum. Teachers must know wellin advance of any celebrations planned. Cupcakes, cookies or individuallywrapped treats are appropriate.

Only when there is an invitation for every child in class may invitations for any party bedistributed at school. All others must be mailed. The school cannot be responsible forhanding out party invitations. Please be willing to teach your child discretion for the feelingsof those not invited.


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Enrollment

Admission/Registration *See Student Admission Policy for detailed information or contact Mr. John Papadakis,Director of Enrollment Management at 210.639.3200, ext. 263.

Junior Kindergarten students must be three or four years old on or before December31st of the year they register at ACS Athens. No exceptions will be made. JuniorKindergarten is a two year program.

Kindergarten students must be five years old on or before December 31st of the yearthey enter school. No exceptions are made.

Parents registering their child for school must make an appointment to meet with Mr. JohnPapadakis, Director of Enrollment Management, ext. 263. The school carefully reviews thestudents academic history/portfolio (KG to Fifth Grade only) and conducts an informal

assessment and interview before acceptance into the program (JK to Fifth Grade). Parentsshould bring student report card/s and records, samples of student work, if available,passport/s and/or birth certificate, and a residence permit with them when registering theirchild(ren).

Transfers From Our School Given the transient nature of many of our families, it occasionally becomes necessary towithdraw a student from school during the year. If your child is moving to another schoolplease let us know at least one week in advance so that we can efficiently collect andprepare needed transfer materials. Records will be mailed if the request is immediate andurgent. A forwarding address will be requested in either case. The receiving school willreceive student report card/s and records.

If there is anything else we could provide to ensure proper placement and success for yourchild, please let us know.

Please note: Any student officially withdrawn from ACS Athens who wishes to return to the school, needs to re-apply for admission, submitting all application related documentation. For more information, please contact the Office of Enrollment Management, extension 251 or 263 or visit the Admission section at www.acs.gr.

Visitor/Guest Policy We make every effort to keep the classroom sacred so that maximum teaching and learningcan take place. Serious work is being done in the classroom and teachers appreciateprofessional space and respect. For that reason, visitors are not allowed in a classroomunless they have a Visitors Pass or have made prior arrangements w ith the teacherand Principal .

Prospective students are invited to visit the school for a day after speaking with the Principalor Counselor and allowing at least one day to make proper arrangements with the teachers.We limit visitations during the first two weeks and the last two weeks of school.


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Students may be permitted to bring a guest to school for one day only, providing it is notduring exams. Prior approval is required and can be secured from the Principal by bringing anote from parents a day before the visit.

First, the parents of the ACS Athens students must write a letter to the school Principal askingfor permission for their child to bring a student guest. This letter should be written at leastone day prior to the guests arrival on campus and should state the reason why the ACS

Athens student would like to have a guest on campus for that day. It is suggested that thereason for the visit be educationally appropriate and that the visiting guest respect theeducational environment and not distract the other students, teachers or the academicprogram.

Each request will be carefully reviewed by the Principal and a decision will be made based onwhat is best for the student body as a whole. Unfortunately, same day requests will not beapproved.


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129 Aghias Paraskevis St. & Kazantzaki, 152 34 Halandri, Athens, GreeceTel.: +30 (210) 639 3200, Fax: +30 (210) 639 0051

www.acs.gr [email protected]

acs elementary handbook 2010-11

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