elementary parent handbook 2011-12
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A world class international school leading innovation in Education
Stefanos Gialamas, Ph.D.
President of Schools
_________
Dina Pappas
Elementary School Principal
Catherine Makropoulos
Acting Elementary School Principal [email protected]
__________
129 Aghias Paraskevis Ave. & Kazantzaki St. 152 34 Halandri
Athens, Greece
Tel.: +30 (210) 639 3200
Fax: +30 (210) 639 0051
www.acs.gr
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]://www.acs.gr/mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]://www.acs.gr/mailto:[email protected] -
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MISSION STATEMENT
ACS Athens is a student-centered international school,
embracing American educational philosophy, principles and
values. Through excellence in teaching and diverse educational
experiences, ACS Athens challenges all students to realize their
unique potential: academically, intellectually, socially and
ethically -- to thrive as responsible global citizens.
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CONTENTS
Mission Statement................................................................................................................................... - 4 -
Who We Are ................................................................................. ............................................................... - 8 -
Important Numbers Facilities .................................................................................................................. - 9 -
Facilities ........................................................ ................................................................. ............................ - 10 -
Elementary Campus............................................................................................................................... - 10 -
Library ....................................................... ................................................................. ............................ - 10 -
Computer Lab ......................................................................................................... ............................... - 10 -
The School Day ............................................................................. ............................................................. - 11 -
What We Teach ........................................................................ ............................................................. - 11 -
How We Teach....................................................................................................................................... - 11 -
How We Assess Learning ........................................................................................... ............................ - 11 -
Text/Workbooks We Use .......................................................... ............................................................. - 11 -
First Grade ....................................................................................... .................................................. - 12 -
Second Grade .................................................................................................................................... - 12 -
Third Grade ...................................................... .............................................................. .................... - 12 -
Fourth Grade ..................................................................................................................................... - 13 -
Fifth Grade ....................................................... .............................................................. .................... - 13 -
Greek Language Classes 1-5 ................................ ................................................................ .................. - 14 -
Greek Language A - Native Speakers ................................................................................................. - 14 -
Greek Language A - Near-native Speakers ................ ............................................................... ......... - 14 -
Greek Language B - Non-native Speakers .............................................................. ............................ - 14 -
Arabic ............................................................... ................................................................. ................. - 14 -
Student Expectations .......................................................... .............................................................. ......... - 15 -
Attendance ............................................................................................................. ............................... - 15 -
Tardiness ............................................................................................................................................... - 15 -
Daily Absences ..................................................... .............................................................. .................... - 15 -
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Extended Absences ..................................................... .............................................................. ............. - 15 -
Early Dismissal from School ............................................................. ...................................................... - 15 -
Personal Music Player, Roller Blades, Heelys, Skateboards and Cell Phones ........................................ - 16 -
Emergency Drills .............................................................................. ...................................................... - 16 -
Homework Expectations ............................................................ .............................................................. .. - 17 -
Discipline and Time-Out Procedures ...................................................................... ................................... - 18 -
Time-Out .......................................................... ................................................................. ..................... - 18 -
Positive Decision Making ....................................................................................... ................................ - 20 -
Procedures When Handling Discipline Problems ............................................................. ..................... - 20 -
Dress Code ............................................................................................................. ................................ - 21 -
Support Services .................................................................................. ...................................................... - 21 -
ESL ......................................................... ................................................................. ................................ - 21 -
Optimal Match ............................................................................................................... ........................ - 21 -
OM Consultation..................................................... .............................................................. ............. - 22 -
Counseling Services ............................................................... .............................................................. .. - 22 -
ESAS and Institute for Innovation and Creativity.................. ............................................................... .. - 23 -
Staying After-School ................................................... .............................................................. ............. - 24 -
The House System ...................................................... .............................................................. ............. - 24 -
Student Council................................................ .............................................................. ........................ - 24 -
Health Services ................................................ .............................................................. ........................ - 24 -
Lunch Program ..................................................... ................................................................. ..................... - 25 -
Transportation ..................................................... ................................................................. ..................... - 25 -
Bus Procedures: .......................................................................................... ........................................... - 26 -
Bus Code of Conduct: ................ ................................................................. ........................................... - 26 -
Special Traditions ............................................................ .............................................................. ............. - 27 -
Role of Parents .......................................................................................................................................... - 29 -
PTO ....................................................... ................................................................. ................................ - 29 -
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Room Parents ...................................................................................... .................................................. - 29 -
parents supporting athletics boosters ........................................................ ....................................... - 29 -
Personal Property ................................................................................................... ............................... - 30 -
Lost & Found.......................................................................................................................................... - 30 -
Vehicles of Communication ................................................................................................... .................... - 30 -
Report Cards ........................................................................................................... ............................... - 30 -
Conferences ......................................................... .............................................................. .................... - 30 -
Student-Led Conferences ............................................................................... ....................................... - 31 -
Passports ............................................................................................................................................... - 31 -
Elementary Newsletter ............................................................. ............................................................. - 31 -
Principals Coffee ................................................................................................................................... - 31 -
Website.................................................................................................................................................. - 31 -
Telephone ............................................................ .............................................................. .................... - 32 -
School Activities......................................................................................................................................... - 32 -
School Photos ......................................................................................................... ............................... - 32 -
Field Trips .............................................................................................................................................. - 32 -
Birthday and Holiday Celebrations ................................................................ ........................................ - 32 -
Enrollment ............................................................... ................................................................. ................. - 33 -
Admission/Registration ............................................................................................. ............................ - 33 -
Transfers From Our School .................................................................. .................................................. - 33 -
Visitor/Guest Policy ............................................................................. .................................................. - 33 -
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WHO WE ARE
We are a group of dedicated professionals who bring unique experiences and expertise to the field of
education. Most of us hold Masters Degrees in one or more fields of Education and continue our
professional development every year.
The ACS Athens Elementary program relies heavily on the synergy that comes from good teamwork.
Classroom teachers work in tandem with their grade level colleagues and specials teachers. Your student
receives the benefit of teachers using their individual and collective strengths to help the student learn
quickly and feel successful. Teacher assistants work with the teachers to help prepare and organize
needed materials.
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IMPORTANT NUMBERS
Main Campus: 210 639-3200
Elementary School: 210 6070-229/231
Middle School: 210 6070-226/228
Academy: 210 6070-241/222
Admissions: 210 6070-263/251
Arts Academy 210 6070-200
Athletics Office: 210 6070-327
Cafeteria: 210 6070-236
Cashiers Office: 210 6070-206
E.S. Counselor: 210 6070-266
Health Office: 210 6070-217
Stavros Niarchos Learning Center 210 6070-237
Security (after hours): 210 639-3555
Transportation: 210 6070-239
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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, computer lab, 1-5th grade
classrooms, art room, cafeteria, P.E. room, mini theater and special rooms for foreign language, ESL and
Counseling. The Junior Kindergarten, Kindergarten and OM classrooms enjoy their own wing and large
grassy playground. The Health Office is located in close proximity to our classrooms. There is a
commitment to ongoing upgrading of facilities to provide for a better learning environment.
The Elementary School sits across the courtyard from the Middle School and Academys special 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. All new 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 is fully automated and students use the
OPAC check-out system. Students visit the library weekly for formal lessons and to check out materials.
Replacement costs will be charged for lost or damaged library materials.
COMPUTER LAB
The Elementary Computer Lab is adjacent to the Library and
consists of twenty IBM computers. Each computer isnetworked, internet capable, and supported by the use of an
LCD 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.
Students learn to use the computer as a tool to enhance their
learning with different software applications and with the use
of the internet. The elementary lab is part of the ACS Athens
network that runs off our own server. Each classroom has its
own computer with an interactive board that teachers use to
enhance their curriculum.
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THE SCHOOL DAY
Every student at ACS Athens has Mathematics, Language Arts (Reading and Writing), Science, Social
Studies and Spelling classes daily. Units of study alternate between Science and Social Studies. In
addition, each grade level meets with specialist teachers throughout the week for Art, Music, P.E., Arabic,
Computers, Library, Greek or English as a Second Language. Students are supervised on the playground
from 8:15 to 9:00 a.m. The school day begins at 9:00 a.m. and ends at 3:30 p.m. We ask that all students
arrive early to school so that they can be ready to learn at 9:00 a.m. sharp!
WHAT WE TEACH
Students get involved in units of inquiry that are subject-integrated. In addition to mastering the basic
tools for learning (language arts and mathematics), students learn to think conceptually, gather facts and
acquire knowledge, apply and practice skills, develop attitudes and take action.
HOW WE TEACH
The Elementary School views students as thinkers with important, emerging theories of the world.
Building on students prior knowledge, teachers integrate their curriculum using a range of teaching
strategies, and resources. Rather than focusing on isolated and non-contextualized facts, students
develop critical thinking skills to become life-long learners and problem solvers.
HOW WE ASSESS LEARNING
As with our teaching strategies, ACS Athens Elementary uses a variety of assessment tools to ascertain a
students level of understanding. Students are also involved in the learning process by giving critical
feedback to their peers and themselves. Assessment can occur from written tests, lab reports,performances, observations, research papers etc. Report cards are used to assess students level of
mastery and to provide important anecdotal observations about a students progress and social
development. Students take a standardized, norm-referenced test (CTB/Terra Nova or MAP) every other
year in grades 25. Once a year students lead their own conferences using a portfolio of their work
during the Student-Led Conferences.
TEXT/WORKBOOKS WE USE
Textbooks supplement rather than direct the curriculum at ACS
Athens. Students learn beyond typical requirements. They
strengthen higher level thinking skills. In addition to the texts
listed, teachers frequently draw upon primary sources (including
guest speakers or performers), library/media, online resources,
computer software, trade books and literature to supplement the
curriculum.
Textbooks are provided to all students through their classroom teachers. All books loaned to students will
be returned to the teacher at the conclusion of each course. Students who withdraw from school should
return all textbooks before they can clear their records. If a student fails to return books or damages
them, the student will be charged for the cost of the text.
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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)
Scholastic Sight Word Readers
Scholastic Celebrations Series
Science (Foss Kit)
SECOND GRADE
EnVision Math (Scott Foresman-Addison Wesley)
Investigations in Number, Data and Space
Math-A-Pedia
Phonics (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)
Leveled Classroom Library
THIRD GRADE
EnVision Math (Scott Foresman-Addison Wesley)
Investigations in Number, Data and Space
Castles of Sand (Ginn Reader)
English Language Skills and Use (Scott Foresman)
Handwriting Workbook
From Sea to Shining Sea (Houghton Mifflin Social Studies)
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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 Poetry
Language Handbook (Harcourt)
Map Skills/ States and Regions 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)
The History of US (Social Studies supplement)
Science Series (Scott Foresman and Foss)
Selected Novels and Poetry
Spelling (Scott Foresman)
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GREEK LANGUAGE CLASSES 1-5
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 in Greek.
GREEK LANGUAGE A - NEAR-NATIVE SPEAKERS
Accommodates students who have an adequate level of spoken Greek but need to develop their
oral/reading/writing skills. Instruction is given in Greek. Students are required to communicate in Greek.
GREEK LANGUAGE B - NON-NATIVE SPEAKERS
Accommodates students whose oral skills are inadequate to hold a conversation in Greek with ease.
Instruction is given in English, but Greek is used as much as possible.
GENERAL NOTES
Students who wish to be moved from one level to another are assessed by a placement test after
teachers recommendation.
Students participate in celebrations of Greek national holidays such as OXI Day celebration in October andthe Greek Independence Day in March.
Homework:
Greek Language A classes are assigned homework regularly.
ARABIC
A course description for each grade level is on file with the Foreign Language Coordinator 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 to plan outside
activities (dental appointments, family trips, etc.) around the school schedule and calendar. Students are
expected to arrive at school punctually as classes start from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. daily.
TARDINESS
We expect students to arrive on time to all of their classes, especially the morning
homeroom. Chronic tardiness sends the wrong message to children. Show the
importance of punctuality by making sure your child arrives on time. If your child is
late, please make sure he/she comes to the Main Office first to receive their late
pass in order to go to their homeroom. If students miss more than two hours of
school, they will be marked as a half day absence. Students coming to school latewill be marked for unexcused tardiness.
DAILY ABSENCES
If a student is absent for the day or part of the day, call the Administrative Assistant in the Elementary
Office ext. 229 and state the reason for the absence. We will coordinate homework on an individual basis.
Students may not be taken out of school without parent notification to the Office. For absences of more
than three days, a doctors note is also required. Absences due to health problems or family loss are
considered excused absences. Mini trips or extended vacation are considered unexcused absences.
Parents are responsible to communicate with the classroom teacher in order to pick up missed homework
from the Office.
EXTENDED ABSENCES
An extended absence severely disrupts a students learning program. However we acknowledge that
extended absences are sometimes unavoidable. Please let us know well in advance of any anticipated
extended absences (five days or more) by writing a letter to the classroom teacher and a copy given to the
Principal. If a family decides to take additional vacation 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 assessment or anyassessment on your childs report card. Many of the homework assignments
require the students presence for completion and, thus, will have to be modified due to missed class
time. If a child has accumulated a large number of absences, the Principal reserves the right not 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 given to the
classroom teacher and be picked up from the office by a parent or guardian.
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PERSONAL MUSIC PLAYER, ROLLER BLADES, HEELYS, SKATEBOARDS AND CELL
PHONES
Personal music players and cell phones must never be used on campus (except after
school). Failure to respect this policy will result in the confiscation of the item for
an indefinite period of time. For safety reasons and to ensure the protection of
school property, roller blades, heelys, skateboards etc. are not allowed on campus.
Students are not permitted to use any type of electronic signaling devices during
class time, passing periods or breaks within the classroom.
If a school staff member finds it necessary to confiscate a device, parents will be notified promptly and the
device will be returned in accordance with school 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 school office 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. Students are 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 as follows:
1. Initial violation electronic signaling device will be confiscated by school staffand secured in a safe location. The electronic device will be returned to student in seven days;
2. Second violation electronic signaling device will be confiscated and secured in a safe location.The electronic device will be returned to the student in a month and the 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 a safe location.The electronic device will be withheld for a semester and the student's parent or guardian
provides written assurance that the student will no longer be allowed to possess the electronic
device during the instructional day;
4. Fourth violation the electronic signaling device will be confiscated and secured in a safelocation. The student will be suspended;
5. Fifth violation the electronic signaling device will be confiscated and secured in a safe location.The student will be removed from school.
EMERGENCY DRILLS
Evacuation drills are conducted regularly and have undergone a review by the Regional Security Office of
the U.S. Embassy. Students are taught to leave the buildings quickly and safely for any type of campus
emergency. Students are expected to:
Be familiar with exit route
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Respond quickly, cooperate and give attention to their teacher or supervisor 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 cell phones) plus the
number of someone else to reach, on file, in case of an emergency. If any of your numbers (home, work,
emergency) change, please alert us immediatelythrough your childs Passport or call the Main Office.
HOMEWORK EXPECTATIONS It was on my fifth birthday that my father put his hand on my shoulder and said,
Remember son, if you ever need a helping hand, youll find one 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 and extend a concept and help
develop solid work habits.
Some of the homework assigned may require adult help or guidance. Parents
should not do homeworkfortheir children. Parents should take a coaching role
or follow the Socratic method of questioning: What is your assignment for tomorrow? Parents should
encourage their 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 class work and
homework he/she missed. If a student is absent for only one day, it is best for him/her to telephone a
friend to find out what material was covered in classes and what
homework assignments were given. If it is not possible to get
this information, students should 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 or his/her parent or guardian should
telephone the school. Assignments should be collected from
teachers. They can be delivered by a friend/neighbor, or be
picked up by parents from the school.
Students are expected to set goals and work to achieve them. It is important to get the most out of ones
time in every learning situation. Students are asked to maintain a serious attitude towards their work,
think positively, and stick to a plan.
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DISCIPLINE AND TIME-OUT PROCEDURES
At ACS Athens Elementary School, we work with students so that they may become managers of their
attitudes and actions. We discuss with them how they can become better students and cooperative
members of our community. We actively encourage students to be Inquisitive, Good Thinkers, Quality
Communicators, Knowledgeable, Risk-Takers, Principled, Caring, Open Minded, Well Balanced and
Reflective. These characteristics are discussed during Morning Assemblies and within the classroom along
with our virtues of the month.
TIME-OUT
Time-Out is a school-wide discipline plan that deliberately seeks to extinguish inappropriate behaviors and
allows students to make appropriate choices.
Q. What is Time-Out?
A. When a child refuses to behave appropriately (making a good choice) the teacher may send him/her toa place (usually a chair) in the classroom for a short period of time (3-5 minutes) for a time-out.
Q. Why do we use Time-Out?
A. Time-out is intended to extinguish inappropriate or unsafe behaviors immediately. It is a consequence
part of our school-wide discipline plan that allows the student the opportunity to reflect on their behavior
and make a good choice to change the inappropriate/disruptive behavior. The intention is to discourage
inappropriate behaviors and empower the child to make good choices. Time-out is used after appropriate
behaviors are taught, practiced and we are confident that students have the skills to make good choices.
Q. Is a child in trouble when he/she goes to Time-Out?
A. No. If a child does a good time-out they return to class in a few minutes. When they choose
appropriate behavior they are being successful and further consequences are unnecessary. Time-out is a
clear way to help students understand the importance of making a good choice.
Q What does a good Time-Out look like?
A. A child in time-out is expected to sit still and quietly. The student is expected to tell the teacher and/or
write what good choice they are ready to make.
Q. Where do students go for Time-Out?
A. Generally time-out is done in a chair in the classroom. At recess, the time-out is on a chair or on a
bench.
Q. What happens if the child doesnt do a Good Time-Out?
A. If the child does not do their time-out appropriately, they go to a second time-out in another
classroom. If the child does a good time-out there, they must return to the first classroom to do a good
time-out. After completing a good time-out the student may return to class activities. If the child does
not to a good time-out in the second classroom, they are sent to the bench in the office to do a third time-
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out. If a third time-out is completed, the student returns to the second classroom to do a good time-out
and then the first classroom to do a good time-out before returning to class.
Q. What happens if the child doesnt do a Good Time-Out on the chair in the office?
A. At this time that the child is seen by the principal and parents are contacted. At this point, parents can
be very helpful in encouraging their child to make a good choice, quickly complete their three time-outs
and return to class activities as soon as possible. Children who continue to make bad choices at this point
are sent home for the rest of the day.
Q. How effective is Time-Out?
A. Time-out is considered to be one of the most effective discipline techniques for elementary aged
children. Most students in a typical school have never needed to use time-out. Only a few students in a
typical school have required time-out in a second classroom or in the office. The few students who use
the office time-out are usually able to make the necessary changes to complete all time-outs and return to
class activities. Individuals who continue to struggle when time-out is appropriately used generally
require other interventions.
Q. Can a child be suspended from school if they are not first sent to Time-Out?
A. Absolutely! School Board policy directs principles to suspend children who choose to fight, bring
weapons, drugs or alcohol to school (or who are willfully disobedient). In this way, our schools are safe for
all attending. The parent/student handbook on our website addresses specific policies and consequences.
Q. What can I do as a parent to help my child?
A. Parents can do a great deal to help their child be successful at school..
Students who choose to not do a good time-out go through the steps of time-out and can end up in the
principals office according to the process described above where parents will likely be contacted.
Time-out is effective for about 95% of the student body. They are some students who will require
additional interventions in order to ensure they do not disrupt the learning environment. Interventions
can include parent conferences, behavior plans, loss of privileges like recess, referral for behavior
evaluation, etc. It will be good to exhaust the time-out procedure prior to moving to other significant
interventions.
Some offenses that can result in an automatic office referral include assault, fighting, use of weapons andcontinued willful disobedience.
Fifth grade teachers are given the right to change the number of time -outs needed for a student to be
sent to the Principals office for a referral as longs as they notify classroom parents ahead of time. This
typically occurs in the third trimester of school in order to prepare students for Middle School.
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POSITIVE DECISION MAKING
By rewarding positive behaviors we encourage children to repeat these
behaviors. We are proud of our students when they make appropriate decisions
in their approach to academics, safety, and inter-personal relations. To help
them grow, we use positive praise, notes in the Passport, morning assemblies,
class meetings, and reinforcement from adults with whom they come in contact.
We know that these actions speak volumes to children. In some cases we even
reinforce behavior with small prizes 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 the learning 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 will administer our Time-Out discipline plan 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 following
consequences will be imposed:
First Referral: Student meets with the Principal; warning or other consequence commensurate with the
action given at the discretion of the Principal. (Record kept of all incidents.)
Second Referral: Loss of recess/es and parent notification
Third Referral: Meeting with parents and student at school
Fourth Referral: In-school suspension
Fifth Referral: Out-of-school suspension
Sixth Referral: Staff meeting called to discuss recommendation for withdrawal. A conference will be
scheduled with parents.
Serious Offenses(fighting, possession of weapons, destruction of school or personal property, leaving
campus without permission, stealing) could result in immediate suspension or withdrawal from our school.
Parents are asked to take an ACTIVE ROLE in the development of their childs behavior at school by
conferring regularly with their child, their childs teacher, the Counselor or the Principal.
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DRESS CODE
Cleanliness, appropriate grooming, and proper dress are important in promoting a positive atmosphere
for school and social conduct. The standards of dress for school should reflect proper hygiene.
Students who come to school without proper attention toward personal cleanliness or appropriateness ofdress may be sent home to be properly prepared for school.
Students are expected to dress in an appropriate manner at all times. In particular, the following items
are not allowed at school: shorts and skirts that are higher than mid-thigh and clothing with obscene or
suggestive words or patterns. Torn clothing, halters and shirts that are deemed too revealing and showing
ones stomach are also not allowed. A student violating 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 will be graded on their
readiness for P.E. classes.
There will be times when students will be asked to dress for an occasion such as a field trip or a special day
at school. Students should plan to wear special clothing (dresses/skirts for girls, ties or button-down shirts
for boys) to the Winter Concert, Spring Concert and Graduation (Fifth Grade).
Parents should be sure all clothing and items worn or brought to school are labeled with the childs name.
Please check our Lost & Found periodically located in the cafeteria. We dont have enough space for
Jacket Mountains! Unclaimed clothing is given to charity throughout the school year.
SUPPORT SERVICES
ES L
Students who are at beginning and intermediate levels of English are required to enroll in the ESL
program. The ESL teacher works with students during their language learning time on English 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 an additional fee for this program due to its
small size and individualized attention.
OPTIMAL MATCH
The Optimal Match (OM) program provides students an equal opportunity at
excelling in the classroom by providing individualized and small group
instruction that supplements various learning styles. The process begins with
the student being referred by the classroom teacher or parent. The Child Study
Team consists of the Elementary School Principal, the JK-12 Counseling-
Psychologist, the Elementary School Counselor, and the OM
specialist/supervisor. The team works together to determine a program that
would be most beneficial to meeting the students needs. Admission to OM is
based on program capacity and upon the receipt of current psycho-educational
testing.
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A full battery of psycho-educational assessments, which are administered by non-school-based
psychologists, must be completed prior to enrollment in the OM program. Based on their findings and
subsequent report, standards are set according to the individual needs of the referred student. Effective
strategies are developed by the Optimal Match Specialist and are then shared with all teachers working
with each particular student. Small group instruction and cooperative learning activities are incorporated
within the students curriculum in order to complement various learning abilities. Specific learning goalsare delineated in each students Individual Learning Plan and are shared with teachers and parents.
The Optimal Match Specialist provides support and guidance to the classroom teachers in order to
properly support student abilities. Collaboration is established amongst the entire team and valuable
tactics are adopted to enable students to maintain success within the classroom. Monitor Sheets are
student assessments that are distributed to parents monthly to validate student strengths and to
determine areas that need improving. Monitor sheets are not sent out for the months report cards are
issued. The Monitor Sheets are kept in the students confidential file. This information provides the
program with evidence of student strengths and areas where additional assistance is needed in order for
the student to excel in the classroom. It also provides an open venue of communication between home
and school.
OM CONSULTATION
OM Consultation is determined on a case by case basis. Students that are placed in OM Consultation are
monitored by the OM Specialist and their classroom teachers. Students in the Consultation Program are
observed in their classroom setting for twenty minutes each week, and they receive monitor sheets.
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 to help them
succeed in the Elementary School emotionally, socially and cognitively. The Counselor works closely with
teachers and parents to resolve any issues students may be faced with. The Counselor provides yearly
school-wide psycho-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 provides classroom
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 once a month
(every 3rd
Wednesday of the month from 9:15-10:00 a.m.). Parents may contact the Counselor Ms.
Alessandra Sax-Lane at 210.6070-266.
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ESAS AND INSTITUTE FOR INNOVATION AND CREATIVITY
(The Elementary Sports After School Program and Elementary School Arts Academy)
ACS Athens Elementary believes that participation in a co-curricular activity is
important to a students development.
The ESAS and Arts Academy programs are primarily run by teachers or other professionals.
Participating students are asked to make a donation. Parents provide their own transportation. Classes
typically run once a week from 3:45 to 5:00 p.m. We strongly encourage all ACS Athens students to get
involved. Many of 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 each semester.
Registration will be made available online. For more information call the Athletic Office at 210.607.0327.
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
For more information contact the Institute for Innovation & Creativity Office at 210.6070- 200.
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STAYING AFTER-SCHOOL
Buses depart campus at 3:40 p.m. All students must leave campus at 3:30 p.m. unless they are staying for
an activity that starts immediately after school. Students are not allowed to wander around school
grounds or play outside without parental supervision. Parents must pick up their child(ren) on time as
students are too young to be left unaccompanied.
Parents who are staying on school grounds after 3:30 p.m. MUST sign in at the After School Activities
Office, located at the Transportation Office. At the After School Activities Office parents will sign in for the
child/children they are supervising. Parents must be in close proximity to their children at all times in
order to supervise them appropriately. It is important to note that parents can only take their own
child/children off school grounds. Additionally, no Elementary School students are allowed to leave school
grounds by themselves. Lastly, Elementary School students are NOT allowed to ride the 6:00 p.m. bus.
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-time
member; Athenian (green), Corinthian (red), Spartan (blue), or Trojan (yellow). It is a concept meant to
bond teachers and students, encourage school spirit and build a strong sense of belonging to our school.
It is also meant to create a sense of continuity and permanence for our graduates.
STUDENT COUNCIL
The Student Council plays a significant role in the life of the Elementary School. Student Council
representatives are elected in class three times a year while meetings are held twice a month. Student
councils representatives work with faculty and are encouraged to assume the 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 full time nurseand an aide for after school activities on campus administer emergency first aid treatments
and care for sudden illnesses. In addition, several elementary staff 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 health record 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, the student will be taken directly to the nearest
hospital for proper treatment. Ms. Mary Papalanis, the School Nurse, can be reached at: 210 6070-217.
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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. Any students who do not have their physical examination
completed will not be allowed to participate in physical education classes or attend school field trips.
Please note the following: Prescription medication will notbe administered by the Health Office to
students of any age unless the medication is provided by the parent and accompanied by a note whichclearly states 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 onlywhen parent consent 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 to participate 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 updated physical examination
form.
LUNCH PROGRAM
Students are offered a complete, balanced hot meal. A detailed menu 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 buy
the meals in advance using a card system. Parents are responsible to provide their child with a lunch or
money to purchase lunch either monthly or daily. In the extreme case a child comes to school without
lunch or money parents will be notified.
The cafeteria is equipped to provide daily lunches and to serve food for various
events and activities during the year. Proper behavior in the cafeteria 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 allowedto
purchase items from the on-campus kiosk or off-campus taverna while at school. If your child is staying
for after-school activities, please have them bring a healthy snack or drink from home.
TRANSPORTATION
Bus services are contracted by ACS Athens parents and cover virtually the entireAthens area. Students are transported by professional drivers and are
supervised on the bus by a monitor. Bus monitors regularly communicate and
collaborate with the building principals regarding discipline issues.
Ms. Leta Meleki, Head of Transportation, can be reached at 210.607.0239.
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BUS PROCEDURES:
Students must be at the assigned stop at the scheduled boarding time.
Students must disembark only at the scheduled stop.
If a student wishes to take a bus other than the one normally assigned, or get off at a stop other than the
one normally assigned, a written parent request must be submitted to the transportation office for
approval 24 hours in advance and presented to the monitor 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 the transportation
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 alternate transportations to the school. The Transportation Officer will make reimbursement of any
costs incurred.
Concerns regarding the bus monitor or driver must be registered with the Transportation Officer.
Bus monitors reserve the right to assign students to a specific seat and all passengers must comply with
these directions.
Students are expected to follow the Bus Code of Conduct to ensure a safe ride for everyone.
Consequences are clearly spelled out for students. Please review the transportation code of conduct, talk
with your child about these rules, and let transportation know if there is a concern or problem. Making
sure your students are feeling safe and happy during 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 isrepeated a second 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 is repeated for a
fourth time, they will not be allowed to ride the bus for the remainder of the school year. Students safety
is a serious issue.
There are no after-school activity buses (ESAS or Elementary School Arts Academy) for elementary
students. Parents must provide transportation after school on these days. Students need to be picked up
at 5:00 p.m.
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.
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SPECIAL TRADITIONS
In addition to our curriculum activities, the Elementary School enjoys its own special traditions. Parent
volunteers are essential to the success of these events. If you would like to 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 Second Grade Greek Museum Thanksgiving Holiday
DECEMBER
Winter Concert Second Grade Greek Folk Museum Exhibition Report Cards
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FEBRUARY
Second Grade Food Show Fifth Grade Play Third Grade Space Gallery 100th Day Celebration
MARCH
Fourth Grade Readers Theater Performance Report Cards/Parent-Teacher Conferences
Greek Independence Day Celebration
APRIL
Fourth Grade Readers Theater 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 GradeGraduation
Volunteer Reception Report Cards
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ROLE OF PARENTS
Due 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 a positive academic
attitude by engaging their children in dinner discussions about what transpired during the days classes.Having resource materials handy, such as a dictionary, thesaurus, internet connection etc., and limiting
T.V. viewing and non-academic computer use can also help. Encourage your children to read for pleasure.
Take time to share responses to books and articles you have read in common. The Home/School
Connection is a vital one as it sends a clear message to students that we are all working together for their
success. In short, we need to be on the same team. If you have concerns or questions, go to the teacher
and talk with him or her first. Should there be any further concerns after consulting with the teacher, the
chain of communication is as follows: Division Chair/ Coordinator, Principal and, finally, President of ACS
Athens.
There are many volunteer opportunities at the Elementary School. Some are assisting in the library or art
room, sewing costumes or building sets for grade level plays, taking photos for the Yearbook, being aguest speaker, helping with Bake Sales, ad infinitum! We welcome you to our school as a volunteer.
Please contact your childs 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 PTO serving all three
schools meet monthly after the Principals Coffee and work collaboratively to support the respective
schools. There are representatives who serve each school. The PTO organizes 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 the PTO 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!
ROOM PARENTS
Each grade level has one or two parents that act as room parents and work closely with the classroom
teacher to arrange various celebrations in the Elementary School throughout the year. In case of school
cancellation, the room parents will be contacted by the pertinent teacher and will be asked to assist in
notifying parents according to an existing phone tree.
PARENTS SUPPORTING ATHLETICS BOOSTERS
An active group of parents, the PSA, help raise money and encourage participation JK12 in athletic
events and programs. Please contact the Athletic Office for more information.
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PERSONAL PROPERTY
The school cannot assume responsibility for the loss of personal property, and the school does 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 the multi-
purpose room (adjacent to the cafeteria) for items that are missing. We will set up a
Lost & Found table during Winter Break, the Parent/Teacher Conferences and at the
end of the school year. Unclaimed items are given to a charity. Expensive toys,
electronics, and valuable 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 Access Report Card program.
ACS Athens will report on each students achievement and progress at the conclusion of each 60-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 (Not Meeting
Standards: Is not yet demonstrating expected skills and knowledge) parents should expect to be
informed. In this way parents are informed and invited to an intervention process for their child.
In the event a child leaves ACS Athens prior to the last day of school, the final report card may be mailed
to the family on the last day of school. Parents should provide the school an address 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 the spring. We consider the
Parent/Teacher Conference the most important means of reporting student progress and sharing
information about your childs successes and challenges in school. We also encourage you to arrange for
a conference at any time throughout the year to gather more information about your childs learning
experience and find out ways you may be able to help at home. Please make arrangements with the
teachers in advance via the student Passport.
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STUDENT-LED CONFERENCES
ACS Athens is excited to have student-led conferences during the spring. Student-led conferences have
been used at many state-of-the-art schools. Students and teachers jointly select finished work to be
shared, and the students direct the conference by sharing his/her Portfolio with his/her parents. Both the
student and the parent reflect upon the successes achieved and challenges ahead. Students take
ownership of their academic progress while parents 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 are encouraged to use
the Passport to communicate with the teacher. We also use Passports to motivate students and ask that
you do the same. Students must bring their Passports to and from school DAILY. Parents are expected to
sign the passport should a message be written from the teacher so that we know they have seen it.
Replacement Passports will be issued for 5 Euro (subject to change depending on current prices) available
at the Main Office.
ELEMENTARY NEWSLETTER
Three times a year the entire school community JK to 5 publishes The Muse, a newsletter for parents
which apart from the hard copy distributed to students, is posted on our website. The Principal and
teachers share highlights from the school and explain what is happening in each grade level.
PRINCIPALS COFFEE
Parents are welcome to join the Elementary Principal and Counselor for a monthly
coffee meeting. Our Principals Coffee serves the purpose of communicating
upcoming events and happenings in our Elementary School. The agenda for that
day is posted in our webpage for parents to view. Educational innovations are
discussed, recent developments school-wide are introduced and upcoming
calendar events are explained. Principal Coffees are another form of
communication at ACS Athens. Teachers sometimes conduct lessons, as well, forparents. Its a wonderful way to meet other parents. Join us!
WEBSITE
The ACS Athens websitewww.acs.grcan be accessed by parents and students. Under the elementary
section you will be able to find the following: Principal s Corner, Faculty and Staff, School Supply Lists,
Early Childhood Booklet (JK-K), Student Parent Handbook (1-5), Class Reading Lists, Report Card Legend,
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Lunch Menu/Costs, School Calendar, Muse Newsletter, Blue and Gold, Photo Gallery and After School
Program Links. Should there be an announcement for school cancellation, for whatever reason, it will be
posted on our website and/or emails will be sent to 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 the Elementary School Administrative Assistant at 210-6070-229 to
leave a message. The teacher or staff member will return your call as soon as they
are able to do so. Please remember that a teachers day is quite full and may
extend into the evening. Therefore, it may take 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 to do so. See the
Elementary School Administrative Secretary atthe Main Office for more information. We sometimes have
volunteers throughout the year taking publicity shots for school. You may see them in the annual
Yearbook!
FIELD TRIPS
During the school year, field trips are scheduled which relate to specific subject matter studied at each
grade level. We consider the field trips to be a crucial element of our curriculum. Field trips extend the
classroom studies allowing students to collect data and apply and connect learning to the real world. Weexpect all students to attend. There are usually two field trips a year for each grade.
No child is permitted to take a trip without parental permission (given via a permission slip prior 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/or decision-making is questionable, we
reserve the right to have him/her remain at school during the trip.
BIRTHDAY AND HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS
If your child wants to celebrate his/her birthday with the class, we ask that you provide enough treats
for the entire class. These celebrations are short (usually celebrated at recess or in the last fifteenminutes of the school day), as we need to keep all non-instructional class minutes to a minimum.
Teachers must know well in advance of any celebrations planned. Cupcakes, cookies or
individually wrapped treats are appropriate.
Only when there is an invitation for every child in class may invitations for any party be
distributed at school. All others must be mailed. The school cannot be responsible for
handing out party invitations. Please be willing to teach your child discretion for the feelings of
those not invited.
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ENROLLMENT
ADMISSION/REGISTRATION
Please see Student Admission Policy atwww.acs.gr for detailed information or contact Mr. John
Papadakis, Director of Enrollment Management at 210.6070-263 [email protected].
Junior Kindergarten students mustbe three or four years old on or before December 31st of the year they
register at ACS Athens. No exceptions will be made. Junior Kindergarten is a two year program.
Kindergarten students mustbe five years old on or before December 31st of the year they enter school.
No exceptions are made.
Parents applying for admission, must first make an appointment to meet with Mr. John Papadakis,
Director of Enrollment Management at 210-6070-263. The school carefully reviews the students
academic history/portfolio (K to Fifth Grade only) and conducts an assessment and interview before
acceptance into the program (JK to Fifth Grade). Parents should 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 their child(ren).
TRANSFERS FROM OUR SCHOOL
Given the transient nature of many of our families, it occasionally becomes necessary for a student to
withdraw from school during the year. If your child is moving to another school please let us know at least
one week in advance so that we can efficiently collect and prepare needed transfer materials. Records
will be mailed if the request is immediate and urgent. A forwarding address will be requested in either
case. The receiving school will receive student report card/s and records.
If there is anything else we could provide to ensure proper placement and success for your child, please
let us know.
VISITOR/GUEST POLICY
We make every effort to keep the classroom sacred so that maximum teaching and learning can take
place. Serious work is being done in the classroom and teachers appreciate professional space and
respect. For that reason, visitors are not allowed in a classroom unless they have previously
communicated with the Admissions Office
Prospective students are invited to visit the school for a day after speaking with the Principal or 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.
Students may be permitted to bring a guest to school for one day only, providing it is not during exams.
Prior approval is required and can be secured from the Principal by bringing a note from parents a day
before the visit.
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First, the parents of the ACS Athens students must write a letter to the school Principal asking for
permission for their child to bring a student guest. This letter should be written at least one 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 the reason for the visit be educationally appropriate
and that the visiting guest respect the educational environment and not distract the other students,
teachers or the academic program.
Each request will be carefully reviewed by the Principal and a decision will be made based on what is best
for the student body as a whole. Unfortunately, same day requests will not be approved.
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Accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, U.S.A.
129 Aghias Paraskevis St. & Kazantzaki, 152 34 Halandri, Athens, Greece
Tel.: +30 (210) 639 3200, Fax: +30 (210) 639 0051
www.acs.gr [email protected]