MS Student Planner 2012-2013

Cover design by Isabela Gatmaytan 2012 Karen Ty Art Awardee

ISM STUDENT PLANNER 2012-2013

PERSONAL INFORMATION:
NAME: ADDRESS: _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________

CITY/TOWN: _________________________________________________________ COUNTRY: PHONE NO: _________________________________________________________ ___________________ FAX : ____________________________ EMAIL:____________________________

MOBILE NO: ___________________

NOTIFY IN CASE OF EMERGENCY:

NAME: ADDRESS: _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ PHONE NO: ___________________ MOBILE NO:___________________________

RELATIONSHIP:________________________________________________________

SIMON GILLESPIE Principal

CLARISSA SAYSON Assistant Principal

Welcome Middle School Students!

You are about to start the 2012-2013 school year. For some, this is your first year in Middle School; for others, this will be your final year as you transition to High School. Wherever you are on your journey, we hope that you have a great time learning with us this school year at International School Manila. The Middle School years are exciting times when you begin to discover more about yourself, create friendships and develop into a young adult. We are here to support you on this adventure, together with your guidance counselors, teachers and the ISM staff. Do not hesitate to seek out help when you need it, or to share how you are feeling along the way. We want to make these Middle School years an exciting, memorable and challenging experience for you. Our doors are always open for you and your parents. As we interact with each other, our ultimate goal is that we all respect one another. We are a diverse community of learners from all over the world. As an ISM student, you have the opportunity to learn new perspectives and gain valuable insights. Welcome new students openly and challenge yourself to make new friends this school year. The Middle School Student Planner is a resource for you to use throughout the year and a place for you to organize yourself to maximize your efficiency and your learning. Our blog sites are another valuable resource (http://ms.ism-online.org) to find out more about what is happening in our Middle School and in your classes. We look forward to a great year of learning together in Middle School!

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Welcome
Welcome from the Middle School Leadership Team ISM Core Values and Mission ISM School-Wide Student Goals Middle School Student Characteristics Middle School Faculty & Staff

3 3 7 7 8 9 11 11 11 12 12 13 13 13 14 14 14 14 14 15 15 15 16 17 17 18 19 19

Communication
Beliefs about Communication Methods of Communication Change of Contact Information Guardianship Agreements

A Day in the Life

Overview Attendance Guidelines When You Are Late to School or Class Leaving School Early During the Day School IDs Student Visitors Homebase Program Student Assemblies House System Tutorials Homework Middle School Activities Athletics and Activities (ATAC) Middle School Events Classroom Without Walls (CWW) Service Learning Program

How the School Works

Guidance Counselors Academic Program Assessment of Students Middle School Media Center (MSMC) Use of Technology Health and Safety Transportation Cafeteria School Supplies, Resources and Textbooks Lockers Personal Property, Lost and Found Withdrawal Procedures

20 20 21 23 25 26 28 30 32 33 33 33 34 34 34 35 42 44 44 45 46 49 50 52 52 54 173 177

Student Rights, Responsibilities and Expectations

Essential Expectations Guidelines for Major Discipline Issues School Uniforms After-School Expectations Field Trip Expectations Other School Rules and Regulations Green Guidelines for Events Planning at ISM

Planner
Hints for Using Your Planner Ten Study Habits of Successful Students Strategies for Studying Hints for Completing Homework Monthly Calendar and Place for Daily Organizing School Map Student Schedule

INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL MANILA CORE VALUES

Integrity, Service, Merit

MISSION
International School Manila is an independent, international school whose structure, traditions and style emanate from the United States and whose curriculum and methodology reflect the best in worldwide educational research and practice. Our school is diverse and dynamic, and our students have the highest aspirations for their education and future lives. Our mission is to build a vibrant learning community in which all strive to: Advance the value of learning, growth and self-awareness as life-long endeavors. Nurture creativity and originality as precursors for critical and reflective thought and action. Succeed collectively as well as individually, achieving our personal best in all aspects of school life. Maintain a healthy balance in the time devoted to work, rest and recreation. Involve our community in sustaining and safeguarding our environment. Interact through honest, respectful and open communication. Acknowledge and celebrate our differences and encourage empathy, compassion, understanding and respect for human dignity. ISMLive our lives positively, joyfully and ethically. School-Wide Student Goals At International School Manila, we expect students to work to the best of their ability to be: 1. Effective Communicators: who can interact through a range of modes of communication and for a variety of purposes. 2. Knowledgeable and Skilled Learners: who continually acquire useful knowledge and skills while developing understanding(s) across a broad and balanced range of contexts. 3. Self-directed and Balanced Individuals: who strive to achieve their personal best and understand the importance of intellectual, physical and emotional balance. 4. Inquiring and Reflective Problem Solvers: who can think critically and creatively to make informed decisions and then take appropriate action. 5. Responsible, Caring and Ethical Contributors: who can empathize and be tolerant of differences and are committed to make a positive impact on their communities and environment.

Middle School Student Characteristics

The International School Manila Middle School is dedicated to meeting the educational and developmental needs of children in adolescence. In order to do so, we recognize that it is extremely important to acknowledge and understand the following descriptors of the adolescent: 1. Experimentation and Richness of Activity Adolescents like to experiment in many ways; during this period of development, their activity is greater and richer than it ever has been. Social Perspective and Judgment Adolescents display a marked increase in their ability to criticize the social environment realistically and to judge moral conflicts. Physical Self-Awareness Adolescents are occupied with their physical selves. They continually wonder whether their physical features and experiences are "normal. Independence Adolescents seek some intellectual and emotional distance from their families in developing a sense of self, which they relate to the culture in which they are living. Adjustment to Maturation and Maintaining Self Confidence Adolescent adjustment to the maturation process depends on the kinds of relationships they achieve with their adult and peer associates, keeping in mind that the pressure to conform to peer group norms is very strong. Reasoning and Broadening the Conceptual World Adolescents are moving from a concrete view of the world to forming conceptual understandings which can accommodate differing viewpoints.

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CENTRAL ADMINISTRATION
David Toze Superintendent

ADMINISTRATION
Simon Gillespie Principal Clarissa Sayson Assistant Principal

COORDINATOR FOR STUDENT AND FACULTY LEARNING

Samuel Cook

MIDDLE SCHOOL GUIDANCE COUNSELORS

Diana Van der Merwe A-H Surnames Erin Hardison I-O Surnames Marc St. Laurent P-Z Surnames

STUDENT SUPPORT
Marsha Hillman - Performing Arts Director Karen Stewart - Media Center Librarian Mark Pekin - Director of Athletics & Activities

HOMEBASE ADVISORS
GRADE 5 GOLD Eric Bird Sean Bizley Teresa Cook Stephanie Lin Gene Maclachlan Karoli Melwani Sarah Purdue Dennis Respecki GRADE 6 GOLD Kristen Feren Elaine Feliciano Neil Freeman Sabrina Howard Helen Jost Meg Parry Wendy Powell Darren Sturgeon GRADE 7 Jack Cargile Matthew Chadwick Karianne Cook Kim Guiry Melodee Hausman Kristin Hawkinson Jason Juteau Jaime Martinez Maya McCoy Cory Patterson Karen Stewart Sabina Vogt Craig Wislang GRADE 8 Dave Allen Dave Burke Jenna Child Monika DAquale Alan Drayton Eric Hamlin Morgan Jacobs John Lacson Bill Laulo Fiona Matthews Michelle Monroe Giorde Pasamba Melodee Peters Carly Relf Jill Shull Corey Willey

GRADE 5 GREEN Rachel Abraham Tara Cooling Holly Elwell Peta Henshelwood Brian Howrey Sandra Navar Kate Shaw Cheryl Thompson

GRADE 6 GREEN Timothy Benford Hadassah Castro Jennifer Diaz Carrie Grev Wayne Hamaguchi Myra Lepp Rena ORegan Vida Vergel

MIDDLE SCHOOL FACULTY & STAFF LIST

ENGLISH David Burke** Holly Elwell Kristin Hawkinson* Peta Henshelwood Michelle Monroe Rena O'Regan Meg Parry Jill Shull MATH Jack Cargile** Alan Drayton Wayne Hamaguchi** Jaime Martinez Karoli Melwani Sandra Navar Wendy Powell** Monica San Jose SCIENCE Karianne Cook Tara Cooling Neil Freeman John Lacson Gene Maclachlan Giorde Pasamba Cory Patterson** Vida Vergel SOCIAL STUDIES Timothy Benford Eric Bird Teresa Cook** Kristen Feren** Eric Hamlin Sabina Vogt Cory Willey* Craig Wislang* MODERN LANGUAGE Monika DAquale Jennifer Diaz Mei Frebortova Helen Jost Stephanie Lin Alex Pethan** ESL Sean Bizley Kimberly Guiry** Myra Lepp Fiona Matthew Melodee Peters LEARNING SUPPORT Rachel Abraham Elaine Feliciano Bill Laulo Maya McCoy Courtney Pierce** WELLNESS Valerie Birchenall** Robin Hardeman Carly Relf Angela Respecki Cheryl Thompson ART Morgan Jacobs Mark Kucharski** Carmel Lim Dennis Respecki DANCE/DRAMA Carrie Grev Marshal Hillman** Sarah Purdue Cath Rankin MUSIC Melodie Hausman Brian Howrey Guillame Odendaal** PHYSICAL EDUCATION Dave Allen Hadassah Castro Jenna Child Steven Dodd** Jason Juteau Kate Shaw TECHNOLOGY Matthew Chadwick** Darren Sturgeon LIBRARY Karen Stewart David Birchenall** GR. 5 CORE TEACHERS Eric Bird (English/SS) Teresa Cook** (English/SS) Tara Cooling** (Math/Science) Holly Elwell (English/SS) Peta Henshelwood (English/SS) Gene Maclachlan (Math/Science) Karoli Melwani (Math/Science) Sandra Navar (Math/Science) GR. 6 CORE TEACHERS Timothy Benford (English/SS) Kristen Feren (English/SS) Neil Freeman (Science) Wayne Hamaguchi** (Math) Rena O'Regan (English/SS) Meg Parry (English/SS) Wendy Powell** (Math) Vida Vergel (Science) INTERN Sabrina Howard EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANTS Danielle Castaneda Ma. Teresa Rosedo Francis Saez TEACHER ASSISTANTS Ma. Kathrina Adriano (ESL) Kathleen Desamparado (LS) Alvin Fernandez (Band) Jerome Lingo (LS) Aida Magsombol (Strings) Pie Palomar (LS) Eugene Perez (Art) Benjie Saez (ESL)

*Grade Level Coordinator **Program Leader

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COMMUNICATION
Beliefs About Communication
We believe that communication between the school and home enhances the education of our students. Effective relationships built on trust are vital in making our students feel safe and secure in their learning environment. Partnerships between teachers and parents support learning and allow for connections, which deepen understanding of our students. Good communication means that the teacher and parents are appropriately informed about what is happening in the school and at home, allowing both sides to take responsibility for the development of each individual student. As a school we believe that we should be communicating about the following:

Our curriculum and school program, including teaching methods, understandings, concepts, skills learned and resources used. What is happening in the classroom, including day-to-day schedules, routines and expectations for students. The learning progress of each student, including strengths, areas needing improving and successes. Strategies for parents to support their student with their learning at home. Ways that parents can get involved in the classroom and school. Special events and projects that students are involved in and how parents can get involved in these. Safety procedures and routines.
As parents we ask you to communicate with the school about the following:

What is happening in your child's life that may impact on their learning or contribute to the learning that is happening in the classroom? What growth and development have you observed in your child? What questions do you have and how can we assist with problem solving any areas of concern?

Methods of Communication
Teachers and Administrators make themselves available to meet. Appointments may need to be made to discuss important concerns as it is difficult right at the start of the day or at the end while students are entering or leaving the classroom. Both emails and phone calls are used for sharing of information and setting up meetings informally or as needed by both teachers and parents.

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Note:

Middle School Office (02) 840 8550 Email Address msoffice@ismanila.org The email address for any faculty or staff member is his/her last name, first initial @ismanila.org (for example: gillespies@ismanila.org)

Parent and Student Bulletins are prepared by the Middle School Administration each week, including school-wide information and updates about curriculum and developments within the school. These can be found on the main Middle School Blog page: http://ms.ism-online.org (An email link to the bulletins is sent by the Middle School Office each week.) The ISM webpage (www.ismanila.org) is a starting point for learning more about our school and curriculum. You will also find important information on our blogs (http://ms.ism-online.org).Please visit these each week to find out more about what is happening in each of our subject areas and classrooms. You can also view the Middle School Program Guide and Student Handbook from the main Middle School Blog. Parent Teacher Conferences, held in October, are formal scheduled meetings used to discuss student learning. Students have two half-days off school during this time. Student Led Conferences scheduled in March allow students to share their learning with parents. An update of grades and report cards are available for viewing in Power School. You will receive a username and password to access this information. Report cards are made available at the end of each semester. Parent Coffees held four times per year are organized by the Middle School Principal and Assistant Principal with a workshop on different areas of the curriculum. Guidance Counselors organize workshops on parenting and book groups. The school calendar provided in this handbook along with updates in the Parent and Student Bulletin will keep you informed of what is happening throughout the year and ways that you can get involved.

Change of Contact Information

Contact information can be updated directly in your PowerSchool account online, or through contacting the Middle School Office. It is important that we have your most up-to-date phone number, email address and emergency contact information.

Guardianship Agreements
It is important for students enrolled in ISM to have one parent or an officially appointed guardian in full-time residence with the student in the Philippines at all

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times. Domestic helpers do not qualify as guardians. It is required that at least one parent be permanently residing with his/her child. Assignment of guardians must be formally requested and approved by the school. When both parents are going to be away temporarily, it is important for them to notify the school office in advance, stating who will be responsible for the student and who the school should contact in case of emergency.

A DAY IN THE LIFE Overview

Welcome to a day in the life of a Middle School student at ISM. At the back of the Student Planner you will find a detailed map of all the classrooms and facilities used by Middle School along with a schedule. The schedule of times is the same for all students in Middle School. There is a blank schedule for you to fill out with your individual classes, teachers and room numbers to help you stay organized. School begins at 7:30 a.m. except on Wednesdays when we have a late start at 8:30 a.m. Everyday school finishes at 3:00 p.m. except on Wednesdays when it ends at 2:45 p.m.

Attendance Guidelines
Regular daily attendance is necessary for all students to fully benefit from the educational opportunities provided in our Middle School. We ask that you attend school regularly and avoid any unnecessary absences. On those days when a student needs to be absent from school, we ask that a parent inform the Middle School Office via phone at (02) 840 8550.It is the responsibility of the student to communicate with their teacher when they return to school to make up for work missed as a result of any absences. In order for a student to receive maximum benefit from their education, daily school attendance is required. Realizing that because of illness or other extenuating reasons, such is not always possible, please be reminded that the most important guideline is that you communicate with the teachers and understand the following expectations: To receive full credit from a class, students may miss that class no more than eight class periods each semester. Absences beyond this number are subject to academic consequences. In practical terms this means that absences in excess of eight class periods for any given class in any semester shall be considered excessive absences, for which students shall receive a zero for any test, quiz or written or oral work missed. In the extraordinary
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case requiring an extended absence, the student may apply to the Principal for special consideration. Such an exception must be applied for in advance, when possible, or immediately upon the student's return to school.

When You Are Late to School or Class

It is an expectation that students arrive on time for their classes. A student who arrives in class after the designated start time is considered late. Students who arrive late need to report directly to the Middle School Office. If the ISM bus is delayed, the late will be excused. A late is unexcused if the student does not have a note from home or a phone call has not been made to the Middle School Office. Students with five or more unexcused lates in a specific class may be referred to the Middle School Principal/Assistant Principal. All subsequent unexcused lates will result in consequences.

Leaving School Early During the Day

If a student needs to leave early during the school day, it must be communicated to the Middle School Office by the parent or guardian. The Office will issue a Gate Pass, which is presented to and required by the security guard at the gate before a student is allowed to exit campus.

School IDs
Due to security reasons, Middle School students must have their ISM IDs at all times. Parents must also obtain an ISM ID from the Security Office and display them while on campus. Visitors to ISM can obtain a temporary ID from the security at the gate if they are permitted to be on campus.

Student Visitors
At times throughout the school year, a student may have a friend or family member visiting them in the Philippines. Permission can be obtained from the Middle School Principal/Assistant Principal to allow the visiting student to attend class for a maximum of one school day. Requests need to be made to the Middle School Office at least one day in advance.

Homebase Program
Homebase, as its name indicates, is a time set aside to allow our students to establish and maintain a sense of community and to strengthen student-adult
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deeper understanding of life and their role within it. It is a time of friendship, support and learning. Through discussion and activities, each grade level concentrates on helping students gain self-awareness and developing interpersonal communication and conflict-resolution skills. Each grade level also emphasizes specific areas such as relationship skills, stress-reduction skills, goalsetting, decision-making and healthy risk-taking. In addition, activities are planned to involve and engage students in getting to know themselves and each other better, building good character, connecting with others in their team, serving their community and managing their own behavior. Each Homebase is made up of a maximum of 23 students in the same grade level, who meet with an assigned teacher advisor throughout the year. Homebase takes place from 2:35 3:00 p.m. on Monday and Friday and other special times throughout the school year for special activities or as needed.

Student Assemblies
Each Wednesday from 11:40 a.m. 12:15 p.m. we have time designated for our Student Assemblies. This time is scheduled on the calendar and is either a wholeschool Middle School Assembly in the Fine Arts Theater or designated for Grade Level Assembly time. This is an opportunity for sharing of learning, student performances, announcements and group activities.

House System
Each student who enters Middle School in Grade 5 or as a new student any time throughout the school year is assigned to one of four houses whose names are based on places in the Philippines: Aklan (purple), Baguio (red), Cebu (blue), Davao (orange). A house shirt is provided by the Middle School Office to students to be worn on our first semester Sports Day and our second semester Activity Day. Each house is comprised of students and teachers from all grade levels and is an opportunity to build a greater sense of community in our Middle School. Students can receive points for their house at different times throughout the school year for participating in lunch time sports activities, service learning, after-school activities and through a variety of other ways which will be communicated by our Activities Coordinator during assemblies and at Homebase.

Tutorials
Teachers are available for tutorials from 2:35 p.m. 3:00 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays each week. Tutorial time is available for students to work with their teachers, either individually or in small groups to reinforce classwork or to work on assignments. It is required that all Middle School students attend a tutorial with at least one of their teachers during this time.

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Homework
As articulated in the ISM Mission Statement, the Middle School strives to maintain a healthy balance in the time devoted to work, rest and recreation. After a long day at school, students are involved in a variety of activities which may include language instruction, tutorials, instrument lessons, sports and much more. Along with classroom instruction, the participation in after-school activities is vital in the development of the whole child. Equally important is the opportunity for students to rest, play and spend quality time with friends and family. All of these factors assist students in developing independence, creativity and confidence. Current educational research focuses on ensuring homework tasks are meaningful and connected to learning in the classroom. As such, it is the belief of the Middle School that homework should be purposeful and relevant to student learning while at the same time recognizing the importance of balance in the lives of students. Therefore, it is encouraged that homework be assigned only when absolutely necessary, with the underlying purpose that it extend student learning beyond the classroom. In order to translate these beliefs into action, the Middle School has set in place the following guidelines in regard to homework: 1. Homework is given to support work, projects and research undertaken during the school day. It is connected to what is happening in the classroom and has a distinct purpose; it extends student learning beyond the classroom. 2. Some homework projects may be open-ended (e.g. a research assignment, an art project or a survey) and may be completed over several nights. 3. Parental communication with students about their learning is strongly encouraged. However, completion and submission of homework is the responsibility of the student.

Grade 5 and 6 Guidelines

Approximately 40 minutes per week for each Core subject and approximately 20 minutes per week for each Encore subject.

Grade 7 and 8 Guidelines

Approximately one hour of homework per subject (Core and Encore) per week.

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Furthermore, it is recommended that students take the opportunity to read for pleasure each day in their first or second language, either independently or with an adult. A teacher may also choose to assign specific reading and/or writing tasks as part of homework.

Middle School Activities

ISM offers a variety of after-school activities for interested Middle School students. The full selection of activities and clubs available each semester can be found on the Middle School AFAC Blog (http://ms-activities.ism-online.org) along with the procedures for registration.

Athletics and Activities (ATAC)

In addition to various after-school activities provided for students in Middle School, there is also a variety of competitive sports and activities available. The full selection of athletics and activities available each semester can be found on the Middle School ATAC Blog (http://atac.ism-online.org). If students are a part of an ATAC team where an athletic uniform is required, ISM will pay 40 percent to a maximum of Php 600. This does not include jackets, sweatshirts, footwear, bags, etc. The rest of the cost of the team uniform is to be charged to the school account of the student. Any practice uniforms or special equipment that may be issued from time to time must be returned or the replacement cost will be charged directly to the school account of the student concerned. Once an official uniform has been issued, then it may only be used for official games and functions and not for practices, physical education class, etc. during the season. During games, athletes are required to wear the complete official uniform. If an activity involves an overseas trip, parents will be charged 100 percent for all sports/activity trips and exchanges including flights, taxes, coaches' flights and hotel expenses. Each school year, ISM hosts various exchanges and IASAS tournaments involving sports, fine arts and other activities such as the AMIS Festival. During these weekends, we ask our parents and families to host visiting students in their homes for two to four nights, depending on the event. Our visitors come mainly from the other IASAS schools located in Bangkok, Jakarta, Singapore, Taipei and Kuala Lumpur.

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Our students directly benefit from the same hospitality when we travel to other schools and participate in similar events held throughout the region. This provides our students with the opportunity to meet families from other schools, cultivate new friendships and it significantly reduces the cost of travel for everyone involved. Therefore, it is imperative that all ISM families who participate in ISM programs either in Manila or abroad understand that we will need and expect their help throughout the year. If students are chosen to represent the school on a team or in a group, the expectation is that their family will host visitors for events held in Manila. If a family is not able to house for a particular event, then it is understood that the participant will find a replacement host to assist with their housing responsibility. Not fulfilling this requirement could limit students' participation.

Middle School Events

Socializing and interacting with others is a big part of Middle School life as we learn more about each other and ourselves in a fun and safe environment. A variety of different opportunities take place throughout the school year, which can be found on the school calendar. These include: Middle School Courtyard Events Middle School Parties Spirit Week Filipiiana Classroom Without Walls (CWW) Saturday Service Learning Trips Middle School Global Issues Network (GIN) The Association for Music in International School (AMIS) Music Exchange International Schools Theater Association (ISTA) Middle School Play Grade 8 End-of-Year Activities: Dinner Dance, Activity Day and Moving On Ceremony

In addition to after-school activities, Middle School parties take place each semester. In order for the parties to remain the positive experience they have always been, we require your cooperation with regard to the following expectations: 1. Please follow the drop-off and pick-up times as outlined in the permission slip. 2. Signed permission slips are required in order for students to attend Middle School parties. 3. Students need to remain in the designated area during the entire party. They may not leave early unless they are picked up by parents and have an
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administrator or faculty advisor approval. 4. Our parties are for ISM Middle School students only. Guests and relatives are not allowed to participate in these events. 5. Students need to respect and cooperate with the teacher chaperones who have volunteered their time. 6. Students must be in attendance during the school day in order to participate in the party.

Classroom Without Walls

The Classroom Without Walls (CWW) program at ISM spans Grades 5-8 in the Middle School. This program engages students in activities outside the school and is closely linked to the academic program and Service Learning. Students in the Middle School attend two experiential programs during the school year. These programs offer experiences at a level appropriate to the respective grades. Some common elements run throughout the CWW program for all grade levels. The fall CWW activities focus on class team building, while the February trip focuses on fieldwork, outdoor challenges, health and social education, community and service. During these trips as in all school events all school rules apply. A combination of on-campus and off-campus experiences make up the CWW experience and will be communicated to students and parents by the Grade Level Coordinator and Homebase teachers each semester.

Service Learning Program

All Middle School students are encouraged to engage in Service Learning activities at ISM, and it is also a requirement during the Middle School CWW program. In particular, Grade 8 students complete a mandatory exploratory course titled Changing Our World in which students reflect on the world around them and learn how the world functions. This course gives students the opportunity to critically reflect on issues around them and get actively involved in Service Learning at ISM during the Saturday Service program.

Desired Outcomes of the Service Learning Program:

To uphold the school's Mission and Core Values. To meet expectations of ISM and Middle School which value student reflections on Service Learning. To help students fulfill the expectations of the CWW program. To provide continuity of Service Learning at ISM from ES through MS and HS. To empower students to act on classroom lessons and to strengthen their awareness of injustices in the world.

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 To develop leadership skills, knowledge and genuine compassion, leading to lifelong involvement in community service. To develop responsible global citizens; individuals whose actions add harmony to the world; students who can adapt to the challenges of an increasingly complex, interdependent and changing world. To develop inquiring and reflective problem solvers who seek to understand the complex nature of issues such as poverty and injustice. There are two layers to the Middle School Service Learning program; the first layer is embedded in our curriculum: the Classroom Without Walls (CWW) and classroom or grade-level excursions. The second layer includes Saturday Service and AfterSchool Service, which integrate the Middle School and High School service programs. Both the Saturday and After-School Service allow our students to interact with students from impoverished neighborhoods either here at the ISM campus and at various locations around Metro Manila. The program provides opportunities for Middle School students to form relationships with less advantaged children and helps our students develop a better sense of the situation for the majority of people living in Manila while gaining a better understanding of themselves as individuals. Middle School students can get involved in Service Learning in service clubs/trips to organizations such as Chosen Children Village (CCV), Gawad Kalinga (GK777) and Child Hope. It is our goal that every Middle School student participate in at least one Service Learning opportunity throughout the school year.

HOW THE SCHOOL WORKS

Guidance Counselors
Welcome to Middle School on behalf of our Guidance Counseling team. We are here to support you with your individual development socially, emotionally and academically to ensure you have the most successful Middle School learning experience possible. There are three Guidance Counselors in Middle School. They provide consultation and support through individual and group counseling, assessment of students' social and academic strengths and challenges, transition of new students to ISM, crisis intervention and facilitation of communication between students, parents, teachers and administrators. The Guidance Counselors work together as a team and also divide the responsibilities for individual students alphabetically by surname. They are each assigned to a grade level to facilitate activities with the Grade Level Coordinators and teachers based on support that is needed or issues that arise, along with being involved in the social development of students through Homebase, events, activities, assemblies and CWW.

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 Ms. Van der Merwe supports students throughout MS with surnames A H and is aligned with Grades 5 and 6. Ms. Hardison supports students throughout MS with surnames I O and is aligned with Grade 7. Mr. St. Laurent supports students throughout MS with surnames P Z and is aligned with Grade 8. Individual Counseling: The Guidance Counselors are trained to help Middle School students with school-related problems arising from academic, personal, social or family conflicts. Some common problems include adjustment to school, changing peer relationships, parent expectations and study habits. Confidentiality is always observed. Students are free to make an appointment with any of the Counselors when a need arises. Group Guidance: At different times throughout the year, the Guidance Counselors will conduct group guidance sessions. These sessions are designed to help students gain insight into their behaviors, understand their attitudes, interests and capabilities, and learn how to make healthy decisions. Special interest group guidance sessions can also be suggested and requested by students.

Academic Program
Middle School at International School Manila is a time when students are transitioning from childhood to their adolescent years. This is an exciting and challenging time for both the students themselves and the adults in their lives supporting them through this journey. We believe in the following characteristics that are supported throughout our Middle School program. We are: developmentally responsive, taking into consideration the nature of young adolescents as the foundation on which all decisions are made; challenging, recognizing that every student can learn and everyone is held to high expectations; empowering, by providing all students with the knowledge and skills they need to take control of their lives; equitable, advocating for every student's right to learn and providing challenging and relevant learning opportunities; internationally minded, by being aware of the importance of acknowledging and benefitting from the cultural diversity that exists in our community and how we use this to broaden perspectives and tolerance throughout our community. The Middle School comprises four grade levels, Grade 5 through Grade 8. The age range is from ten to fourteen. In general, all Middle School students are required to take English, Social Studies, Mathematics, Science, Modern Language, Physical Education, a compulsory Exploratory and an Elective. Depending on the grade level, the semester-long exploratory courses are Art, Drama, Wellness, IDEAS and Changing Our World. These courses allow students to explore specific areas. Individual choices are provided through the elective courses.
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REQUIRED COURSES

English Language Arts

Math Modern Language

Science Physical Education

GRADE 7 IDEAS Wellness EXPLORATORY COURSES

Social Studies

GRADE 5 Art Drama Wellness

GRADE 6 Art Drama Wellness

GRADE 8 Changing Our World Wellness

ELECTIVE COURSES GRADE 5 Year-long Band Strings GRADE 6 Year-long Band Strings Year-long Band-Beginning Band-Intermediate Band-Advanced Semester-long Chorus General Music Cooperative Games iLearn Semester-long Chorus General Music Team Sports iDesign Strings-Beginning Strings-Intermediate Strings-Advanced GRADE 7 and GRADE 8 Semester-long ARTistic (Drawing & Painting) ARTmud (Ceramics) ARTrageous (General Art) ARTsculpt (Sculpture) Chorus Dance Drama Introduction to Journalism Music Madness

The four core areas of the Middle School curriculumEnglish Language Arts, Mathematics, Science and Social Studiescollaborate to align the programs and ensure ongoing opportunities for student transfer of understandings and skills between the different content areas from Grades 5 to 8. Each set of content standards and indicators has been aligned vertically between the divisions of the school and guides the instruction at each grade level in the core area courses. Additionally, the collaboration between each content area ensures that students move towards achieving the ISM School-wide student goals of becoming inquiring and reflective problem solvers, knowledgeable and skilled learners, effective communicators, self-directed and balanced individuals and responsible, caring and ethical contributors. At the heart of each course are rich concepts that anchor student learning and guide the assessment of standards and indicators. These concepts are the focus of each unit of study within the core areas. They also reinforce the interconnectedness of content and skills by encouraging students to transfer what they are learning in one class to what they are learning in another. The following are the concepts at each grade level: GRADE 5 GRADE 6 GRADE 7 GRADE 8
Organization Patterns Form & Function Change Structures Relationships Cause and Effect Discovery Identity Innovation Interaction Truth Systems Transformation Power Interconnectedness

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In addition to the concepts there is a set of school-wide transdisciplinary skills, which are a set of broad, essential skills that transcend subject areas. These include communication, connection and collaboration, critical thinking and problem solving, research, personal management and reflection. These skills are incorporated into the learning experiences in each course and are a part of the assessment process. A final component is the dispositions, which are the lifelong behaviors we want to cultivate in students. They are rooted in common values that will help a student learn how to contribute positively to the school community and society at large. These include being responsible, ethical, caring, creative, balanced and selfdirected. Both within departments and across grade levels, teachers collaborate with one another to support instruction for students within these frameworks. The opportunities for Middle School students to transfer their learning experiences makes for a richer, more rigorous academic program and solidifies the long-term development and reinforcement of their understandings. Support is provided for students learning English through our English-as-a-SecondLanguage (ESL) program. ESL and classroom teachers work together to create a language-rich environment where students feel comfortable taking risks and where individual needs are accommodated. The ESL teacher supports the ESL students within his or her mainstream classroom for lessons delivered to the whole class. The Inclusion Model is a team approach involving joint planning with gradelevel teachers. Additional support is available for students with different learning needs. The Learning Support model is based on the philosophy that students vary in their level of ability, achievement, motivation and interest, and that individuals respond best to educational programs that provide appropriate challenges and meet their individual needs.

Assessment of Students Report Cards/Progress Reports

Our purpose for grading is to provide parents with needed information about the child's efforts and academic achievements. Grades are most important for the student so they know how they are progressing academically. As parents and teachers, we certainly need to help our children set goals for improvement through evaluation of their academic strengths and weaknesses. Every quarter a grade-to-date is issued to the students in each subject area. Each semester, a report card with narrative comments is sent home with your child. Parent-teacher conferences are scheduled during the first semester and a student-led conference during the second semester. Additional conferences may be scheduled at any time.
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Students can expect to be evaluated on almost every assignment required in their core subjects. Middle School Grades (5-8) are reported as follows: C = 73 - 76 A = 94 - 100% C = 70 - 72 A- = 90 - 93 D+ = 67 - 69 B+ = 87 - 89 D = 63 - 66 B = 83 - 86 D- = 60 - 62 B- = 80 - 82 F = Below 60 C+ = 77 - 79

Progress reports are used at regular intervals to help communicate with parents either special progress or special needs in a given course. Sometimes they are sent to parents of students who are experiencing difficulty in a given subject (i.e. they may be in danger of failing that subject). Parents are encouraged to confer with the teacher concerned or with the child's Counselor whenever necessary, to help improve student performance. Teachers are also encouraged to issue progress reports of a more positive nature, indicating the student has improved or is excelling. Parents and students are strongly encouraged to check PowerSchool regularly and monitor progress (grades are updated every two weeks in PowerSchool). Passwords are available through the Middle School Office.

GPA Computation
We currently use a student's quarter Grade Point Average (GPA) as the basis for determining scholastic honors. Honor Roll recognition in Grade 7 and Grade 8 is based on the following: 1. Highest Honors students with a GPA of at least 3.7 4.0 2. High Honors students with a GPA of at least 3.5 3.69 3. Honors students with a GPA of at least 3.0 3.49 Any grade below a C (on the A through F scale) disqualifies a student from Honor Roll consideration. For students to compute their GPA, they can assign the values printed below to the grades they have earned. The total points divided by the number of courses taken (in most A = 4.0 cases, this would be eight courses) provides a student with his/her GPA. B = 3.0 C = 2.0 D = 1.0 A - = 3.7 B- = 2.7 C- = 1.7 D- = 0.7 B+ = 3.3 C+ = 2.3 D+ = 1.3 F = 0.0

Please note that some Exploratory courses are graded on an A through F scale, while Electives are graded as Exemplary, Proficient, Developing, Emerging and Insufficient Evidence. Elective courses graded on this scale are not included
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in the Honor Roll computation.

Academic Probation
If a student fails the first semester in any two subjects, he/she may be placed on academic probation. In circumstances wherein the situation does not improve, the student may not be invited to return to International School Manila. The final decision will rest with the Learning Support Resource Team. Parents will be informed in writing during the second semester as to their child's status for the following year.

Testing
Throughout the year, teachers test and determine what materials have been mastered or need to be re-taught. A new student will be tested to determine his/her learning strengths and weaknesses in both Math and English. Classes are assigned to meet specific needs of a student. A teacher may refer a student to the Guidance Counselor for further evaluations, which will help in planning an appropriate program. Students in Grades 5-8 are tested annually to measure their potential and achievement, as well as the effectiveness of the school program. The results are shared with parents and students.

Late Assignment Policy

Students need to show initiative by speaking with their teacher before the due date in the event that their assignment will be late. Assignments and projects that are submitted beyond the due date may lose up to 10% for being late.

Middle School Media Center (MSMC)

The Middle School Media Center houses a growing collection of over 15,000 books and audio-visual materials, 15 periodical titles and 4 local and foreign newspapers. The collection supplements all areas of the curriculum and is regularly updated with input from teachers and students. The MSMC is open throughout the regular school day from 7:00 a.m. 4:00 p.m. Students may visit with their class teacher or obtain a pass to visit on their own during class time. They may also visit the MSMC before school, during lunch and after school.

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At the MSMC, students may search the online catalogues, borrow books and materials, use reference sources, search online databases, surf the internet and work on projects requiring the use of the library.

Use of Technology
International School Manila's goal is to educate users by providing them with the understanding and skills needed to use sources of technology in ways appropriate to their education and information needs. Information and Communication Technology significantly alters the information landscape for ISM by opening classrooms to a broader array of resources, including those from file servers throughout the world. International School Manila's goal is to provide students with the understanding, tools and skill sets needed to use the technology in ways appropriate to their education and learning as deemed by the school. Making this technology available to students carries with it the risk that some information may be identified as controversial or potentially harmful. Therefore, access will be provided only to individuals who pledge to act in a considerate, ethical and responsible manner. With the use of Information and Communication Technology, accessible information changes daily. It is not always possible to predict what students and other individuals may encounter. It is impossible to prohibit access to all controversial or potentially harmful sites and/or services. ISM does not condone the access and/or use of inappropriate material. An honor system is in effect. Individuals are expected to report any security abuses by others or potential problems to computer teachers, librarians or the Information Technology Director. No individual shall intentionally cause damage to any equipment or software belonging to International School Manila (ISM), or any member of the ISM community. There will be consequences for any individual who fails to follow International School Manila policies. Concerns about information technology will be handled in the same manner as concerns about other educational materials. This policy applies to all technology including, but not limited to, computers, phones, audio/video equipment, copy machines and information storage devices. Unauthorized Copying, Installation, Use or Theft of Software, Media, Electronic Files, Data or Other Intellectual Property: It is unethical and forbidden to copy, install, take or use software, media, electronic files, data or other intellectual property unless permission has been obtained from its creator, owner or publisher, either in writing or as a license agreement.

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Unauthorized Materials and Electronic Files: Any attempt to distribute and/or gain access to inappropriate materials including, but not limited to, pornographic materials, malicious codes and applications, unlicensed video and audio files and unauthorized games, is likewise prohibited. Account and Passwords: Students are provided individual usernames and passwords. They will be responsible in safeguarding the data and services being offered by the school. They will likewise be responsible in safeguarding their account password and accesses. Any attempt to borrow, lend or share individual usernames and passwords is forbidden. Use of Any Technology for Activities Unrelated to Specific School Use: Any use of technology by students must be directly related to their education as directed by teachers or staff. Students will not use school technology for accessing information or technology not within the school's control without expressed and specific permission from the IT Office and the Principal. This will include, but will not be limited to, remote control of home computers, remote access to other networks, unauthorized proxy services and others. Technology will not be used by students for entertainment, game-playing or for activities unrelated to their current education and learning. Prohibited Behaviors: Students are responsible for their behavior on school computer systems, just as they are at all times throughout the school. Below are samples of conduct that will not be tolerated including, without limitation: Tampering and/or attempt to tamper, theft, removal or change of any hardware or software from any ISM-owned or leased system or equipment; Deleting, renaming, moving, copying or changing any electronic files or their properties, other than their own, without explicit permission from the owner or school authorities; Changing or attempt to change passwords other than their own; Intentionally impersonating someone else and/or misrepresenting another through the use of another's school email account whether within or outside International School Manila; Intentionally and/or maliciously bypassing the user-security mechanisms of the network and mail system; Playing unauthorized computer arcade games; Installing unauthorized personal software on school technology equipment; Violating copyright laws by unauthorized copying and distribution of software; Installing, copying or knowingly infecting a computer system with virus and/or malicious programs; Wasting resources including bandwidth, file storage space, printers or paper; Using technology for unauthorized commercial purposes; Mass Mailing.
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Harassment/Cyber-Bullying Using Technology: Use of the phone system, copy machines, computer systems, email or any technology to send or display inappropriate, obscene or harassing messages or material anywhere or to anyone is prohibited. Invasion of the Privacy or Property of Individuals or the School Using Technology, Reporting of Violations: All students must respect any individual's work, electronic files and right to privacy. The IT Office reserves the right to inspect any student's data, school email, media, electronic files and property brought into school and used to access school technology. This will include, but will not be limited to, printed documents, diskettes, flash disks, CD ROMs. Students not willing to allow such inspection will not bring technology items not owned or controlled by the school into school facilities, nor use them to access school technology. Accessing, Creating, Saving, Displaying or Publishing Inappropriate or Demeaning Materials or Information: Some materials or information available as electronic information on the network and the Internet is considered objectionable by some. Students will not access, create, save, display or publish any inappropriate or demeaning materials or information. Students are prohibited from accessing or participating in online chat rooms or other forms of direct electronic communication like Internet SMS (other than email) without prior approval from the Principal and the IT Office. Privacy in Communication over the Internet and the Network Is Not Guaranteed: You must know that the IT Office will monitor, log, review, and inspect all directories, files, and/or messages residing on or sent using the school's computer network. Messages relating to or in support of illegal activities will be reported to the appropriate authorities. Failure to Comply: Failure to comply with the Information Technology Use Policy may result in restriction or even complete loss of access to part or all forms of any technology or other disciplinary measures deemed appropriate by the school administration. There will be consequences for any individual who fails to follow International School Manila (ISM) policies. The consequences may include paying for damages, denial of access to technology, detention, suspension or expulsion.

Health and Safety

All students, except in case of emergency, are required to have written permission from the teacher before being seen in the Health Clinic during regular school hours. No Clinic Pass is required after school hours.

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A student may be allowed to rest in the Health Clinic for an appropriate period of time. If the student has not improved, the parents/guardian will be asked to pick up the student from school. A student being sent home by the physician is required to be picked up at the Health Clinic by the parent/guardian who will sign a release form. Students with fever or any other contagious diseases are not allowed to ride the school bus. As a school policy, the Health Clinic physicians do not issue prescriptions for any kind of medication. Students are advised to see their family physician. If a student has to take prescribed medication at school, the Health Clinic staff will administer the medication with compliance to the following policies: The medication should be properly labeled as to the name of the student, name of medication, dosage and time the medication has to be taken. A note from the parent authorizing the Health Clinic staff to administer the medication. INSULIN and EPIPEN are the ONLY prescription medication that will be administered by injection.

Security
Security Officers are on duty on the school campus at all times. It is important that all visitors to the school obtain a pass upon entering the campus.

Crisis Management
A Crisis Response Team exists to assist the school to function in the event of a crisis or tragedy that indirectly or directly impacts the people of the ISM community. If you are one of the first to become aware of such a crisis, please inform the Superintendent or a Principal promptly. Steps taken in response to a given incident will be determined by the Crisis Response Team, which is composed of Counselors, Administrators and various specialists as needed. First and foremost, the Team is concerned with the safety of students. The Team provides emotional support to students, staff and parents by responding to the event in a calm, compassionate and timely manner.

Fire Alarms/Drills
The buildings on campus are fitted with a fire alarm system. Throughout the year, fire drills take place in order to familiarize pupils with procedures and escape exits. Instructions for exiting the building are posted in each classroom. In addition, drills for internal evacuations and lock downs will also take place during the year. It is imperative that students move to the designated points in an orderly, expedient and quiet fashion.
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Typhoon Storm Signal

Contingencies Regarding Closing During Typhoons 1. Storm Signal 1 Conditions 1. When Storm Signal 1 is declared, school will remain open. 2. Storm Signal 2 Conditions 2.1 When Storm Signal 2 is declared, ISM will close. 2.2 An announcement to parents regarding closing of the school will be made by 5:30 am. 2.3 When ISM is to be closed, information will be transmitted to parents by the Telephone Tree, Mass Text Messaging System, Bus System and Administrative Telephone Tree. 3. Storm Signal 3 Conditions 3.1 ISM will automatically close when Storm Signal 3 or higher is declared.

GUIDELINES FOR TYPHOONS

BEFORE SCHOOL OPENS Decision to close ISM is made by 5:30 am.

SIGNAL 1 SIGNAL 2 SIGNAL 3 or 4

ISM OPEN ISM CLOSED ISM CLOSED

INFORMATION ON CLOSING FROM:

Radio FM 88.3 or 99.5 Telephone Tree Call ISM 840-8400 or

Transportation
Detailed information regarding busing and the school's transportation services are provided in a separate publication provided by the school.

Daily Guidelines
1. Students must only ride the bus to which they are assigned and may only ride a different one with written permission from the Transportation Coordinator. If there is a change of schedule or address, please turn in your information to the Transportation Coordinator's Office for updating and correction. 2. Buses leave on schedule and will not wait for late students. a. If a bus arrived late at school, students must get a pass from the Transportation Coordinator's Office for admission to class and the late will be excused. b. If a bus does not show up or is more than 10 minutes late, contact the Transportation Office immediately (840-8540 or 840-8541). 3. The buses will unload students at ISM in the Elementary School Field parking area and will leave from the same place. 4. All exits on the large and medium buses are controlled and operated from the driver's position. Students are to enter and leave the bus from the front exit. The rear exits may not be used except in an emergency.

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a. Buses are air-conditioned and equipped with first-aid kits and fire extinguishers. Music devices may not be played on the buses. b. Bus attendants are provided with a bus folder which includes all related bus information: bus routes, students' logbook, rules and regulations and so on. 5. The school is not liable for any item left on the bus. Students must see to it that nothing is left on the bus. However, items found on the bus may be turned in to the Transportation Office. 6. Activity buses are scheduled to leave the campus at 3:30 pm, 4:15 pm and 5:15 pm. These buses are for students participating in scheduled cocurricular activities such as athletics, drama and so on. 7. Routes for late buses are scheduled by the school on a drop-off point basis, and any change or deviation from the established routes will be authorized only by the school. School bus rules also apply to the late bus.

School Bus Rules and Regulations

Students are expected to conduct themselves in a mature and responsible manner while riding the bus to and from the school. Misbehavior on a school bus or at the bus stop will be reported by the bus driver or bus attendant to the Transportation Coordinator and will result in disciplinary action. All instructions of the Transportation Coordinator and staff must be obeyed; behavior on the bus should be identical to manners and courtesy practiced within the classroom. Most students want to ride a safe, clean and well regulated bus. In order to meet these conditions, certain rules and regulations must be observed. The bus driver or bus attendant is responsible for each student and therefore must devote his/her attention to safety. Here is how you can help: 1. Be present at bus pick-up points to board the bus on time. 2. It is the responsibility of parents to see that someone will be accompanying their child to and from the bus. Drivers are not supposed to get off the bus to walk or cross the street with a child. 3. Ride your assigned bus unless special permission is given by the Transportation Coordinator to ride another bus. 4. Always get off the bus at your designated bus stop, unless your parents have arranged for an alternative and the Transportation Coordinator has authorized departure on another bus. 5. Do not ask anyone to ride your bus without permission from the Transportation Coordinator. 6. Do not ask the driver to deviate from his/her scheduled bus routes and/or stops. Only the Transportation Coordinator can authorize changes. 7. For your safety and the safety of others, wait until the bus comes to a
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complete stop before embarking or disembarking. 8. To make sure there is enough room for everyone, keep personal possessions, such as books and bags, on your lap and out of aisles and seats. 9. Never stick head, hands, arms or any other part of your body out of the window or doors. 10.Avoid unnecessary noise and distractions that might divert the driver's attention. This includes standing up and/or changing seats. 11.Bus routes are determined so as to provide adequate seating for everyone. Therefore, no one is to sit in the aisles, on the doorsteps or on the motor cover/gearbox. 12.Practice courtesy to fellow students, your bus driver, bus attendant and to citizens of your host country. This includes refraining from inappropriate language, spitting, shouting or making obscene gestures either inside or outside of the bus. 13.Never throw anything in the bus or out of the window. 14.Help maintain a clean and sanitary bus. 15.Respect the personal property of others. A student responsible for any damage, destruction or defacing of personal or bus property, will be required to pay for damages and will be subject to disciplinary action. 16.Refrain from fighting or creating disturbances, injuring another person or acting in such a manner as to expose others to risk, danger or harm. No pushing or swearing is permitted. 17.Never tamper, dismantle or deface any part of the bus or its equipment. Obey the bus driver and bus attendant at all times. In case of an emergency, remain quietly seated in the bus unless otherwise instructed by the driver or bus attendant. First Offense: A warning will be given to the student both verbally and in writing. This will be kept on file in the Transportation Office. Parents will be notified that there is a behavior problem and that the student will be given one more chance to obey the rules. A student is suspended from riding the bus.

Second Offense:

Third Offense:

Cafeteria
The Middle School Cafeteria operates daily, on a cash basis, from 7:00 a.m. 5:00 p.m. The Cafeteria menu includes a variety of breakfast items, hot lunches, snack items and a number of healthy options.

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Please be advised that the Cafeteria utilizes a pre-paid system. This means that all students must order and pay for their items at the cashier first. Students will then be provided with the receipt from the cashier that they will give to the food counter attendant in order to collect their food items. Students may also choose to bring their own lunch and snacks from home. When students are in the Cafeteria, they need to be considerate, clean and environmentally friendly. It is expected that students will clean up after themselves in the Cafeteria.

School Supplies, Resources and Textbooks

A complete list of school supplies required by students is available in the Middle School Office or on the Middle School Blog (http://ms.ism-online.org) School-owned textbooks and resource materials are issued to students from the Textbook Center or by the teacher. In cases of loss or damage, the student will provide reimbursement.

Lockers
Each student in Grades 6, 7 and 8 is issued a locker to store their personal belongings and school materials. Valuables or money should not be left in your locker or in an unattended bag. It is a student's responsibility to report anyone tampering with their lock or locker to the Middle School Office. Lockers will be assigned to students by the Middle School Office. Physical Education (PE) lockers are available for use only during PE class. It is important that students provide locks for their PE lockers and keep their personal belongings locked away at all times. Lockers will be assigned by the PE teacher. Exchange of lockers and sharing of lockers among students is not permitted. Students are reminded that one of the most common problems Middle School students face is having their friends open their locker without approval. Do no give your locker combination out to anyone! Cover your lock with one hand so that others cannot see your combination when you open it.

Personal Property, Lost and Found

It is important to keep track of all items students bring to school each day. Labeling all clothing, belongings and band instruments with the student's name helps ensure the return of the item, should it be misplaced. Band instruments may be kept in a locked storage area in the band room. All lost items and materials may be claimed from the Lost and Found desk in the Security Office. As members of our Middle School community, students are
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expected to respect the property of others and turn in found items to the Middle School office or directly to the Security Office. A security report is filled out by the student for lost items.

Withdrawal Procedures
Students withdrawing from ISM must complete the following procedures: 1. The Admissions Office in the Central Administration building will provide a Withdrawal Notification Form to be signed by parents notifying the Middle School Administration at least one week in advance of the intention to withdraw. Upon receipt of the signed form, the student will be given a Clearance Form to be signed by each teacher or school department indicating all materials have been returned. 2. Complete all checkout procedures, including: a. Returning all textbooks to the Textbook Center; b. Returning all materials borrowed from the Media Center, departments, and/or Guidance Office; c. Checking with the Cashier's Office one week prior to the withdrawal date for final accounts to be settled. No student may be officially withdrawn until all accounts have been settled, meaning that no Transcript of Record and Certificate of Attendance will be released until all accounts are paid.

STUDENT RIGHTS, RESPONSIBILITIES AND EXPECTATIONS Essential Expectations

Our main goal for students is that they are respectful, take responsibility for their actions and make safe choices. Self-control and self-discipline are important personal responsibilities. Everyone at ISM should feel good about being in school and be able to be confident in themselves. It is everyone's responsibility to treat others with respect, including all teachers and adults working on our campus. All students have the right to learn and to be safe at ISM. Students of ISM are expected to be positive and respectful of others at school and when representing ISM in the wider community. The following are guidelines to be followed: Be prepared to learn with your mind ready and focused, with all materials and resources available at the start of class. Be on time for all classes. Complete all assignments to a high standard and in a timely manner. Follow the guidelines for wearing of the school uniform.

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 Stay on task in class, avoid bringing items to class that will be a distraction to your learning and the learning of others. The following are unacceptable behaviors: Bullying, either in person or in written form such as cyber-bullying. (Use of the phone system, copy machines, computer systems, email or any technology to send or display inappropriate, obscene or harassing messages or material anywhere or to anyone is prohibited.) Cheating/plagiarism Defiance of authority/insubordination Disruption of instruction Endangering the safety of others Extortion Fighting or assault Hazing or initiations Inappropriate language/behavior Dishonesty Threatening or intimidating behaviors (e.g. harassment, verbal abuse, humiliation, ridicule, etc.) Participating in group behaviors that intimidate, threaten physical or psychological harm against others Promoting or encouraging membership and interests of groups, clubs, fraternities or organizations not officially sanctioned by the school Recruiting or encouraging others to participate in inappropriate, harmful or intimidating behavior Stealing It is a basic entitlement of all students to receive their education free from humiliation, oppression and abuse. As relationships are the foundation of our community, students are encouraged not only to treat others as they would wish to be treated, but also to protect and uphold the freedom and rights of others. Harassment and bullying will not be tolerated, and students who participate in such behavior will be held responsible for such action. Consequences for such behavior may result in the suspension or dismissal of the student.

GUIDELINES FOR MAJOR DISCIPLINE ISSUES Academic Honesty

At ISM, integrity is a key component of our vision. Academic honesty requires that all students and teachers respect the integrity of one another's work and recognize the importance of acknowledging and safeguarding intellectual property. Academic dishonesty is a serious violation of the trust upon which our academic community depends. We are committed to the basic academic right that students

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receive due credit for work submitted for assessment. It is clearly a breach of integrity for students to submit work that represents the work of others as their own. The types of academic dishonesty and consequences for such breaches of integrity are outlined below.

Malpractice
Malpractice is behavior that results in, or may result in, a student (or students) gaining an unfair advantage in an assessment. Malpractice includes: 1. Plagiarism- This is when a student represents the ideas or work of another person as their own. This can be intentional or unintentional; the consequence is the same. 2. Collusion- This is when a student allows their work to be copied or submitted for assessment by another student. The consequence for both students is the same. 3. Duplication- This is when a student presents the same work for different assessments (i.e. double dipping). 4. Any other behavior that gains an unfair advantage- This Includes cheating in an exam or test, taking unauthorized material into an exam or test, misconduct during an exam or test, etc. 5. Falsification of signatures or records- When a parent signature is required, it is imperative that the signature is indeed authentic.

Consequences of Malpractice at ISM

If a student is found guilty of Malpractice, the following occurs: The school considers cheating to be a serious matter. Apart from the basic issue of honesty, it both unfairly disadvantages other students and reinforces the cheater's own feelings of inadequacy. First offense will generally involve the student in a conference with the teacher and when necessary, Middle School Administration. Contact will be made with the parents (academic/disciplinary consequences may result). Second offense disciplinary (e.g. suspension in or out of school) and/or academic consequences will result and parents will be contacted. Further offenses will be viewed more seriously and could result in the student being removed from school.

Alcohol and Tobacco

Cigarette Lighters/Matches - Middle School students are not to be in possession of or use lighters/matches on campus, on the buses, or at any ISM-sponsored event.

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 International School Manila is a tobacco-free campus. Students may not possess oruse tobacco. This includes the streets in front and to the sides of the school and on the school buses. The tobacco-free policy also applies to school-sponsored student activities off campus. For students who violate the school's policy on tobacco or chewing tobacco, it is considered a major infraction that may incur a level 4 6 disciplinary action(suspension and expulsion; see below). Alcohol Use - Students may not possess, consume, or be under the influence of alcohol at anytime, either on campus, on a school bus, or at any schoolsponsored student activities. For students who violate the no-alcohol policy, it is considered a major infraction that may incur a level 4 6 disciplinary action (suspension and expulsion; see below).

Drug Policy
From Grade 8 to Grade 12, students, according to Board policy, take part in screening and detection procedures. The Board of Trustees of International School Manila, acting on behalf of the school community, establishes the rule and policy that ISM students should not make use of prohibited or dangerous drugs in any circumstances, regardless of time or place. To this end: 1. The School's objective is to maintain a drug-free community. It shall spare no effort to bar the use of prohibited, regulated, or dangerous drugs, or the presence of any person under such influence on the ISM campus, its surrounding environments, and during school-sponsored or school-related activities, functions and events. 2. At any time, whether or not during the school year, that a student: a. is on IS Manila's campus or its surrounding environments b. is present at a school-sponsored or school-related activity, function or event, the student is subject to the School's policies and rules concerning drugs, regardless of where the drug use occurred. 3. The School likewise prohibits the actual, frustrated, or attempted possession, sale, or transfer of prohibited or dangerous drugs or drug related paraphernalia by any person at any time of the year on ISM's campus, or its surrounding environments, or during a school-sponsored or school-related activity, function, or event. Dangerous drugs include, but are not limited to, narcotics, stimulants, barbiturates, suppressants, hallucinogens, marijuana or amphetamines. The School likewise considers the following as prohibited or dangerous drugs: Any pharmaceutical without a valid prescription and knowledge and permission of parents; Any abusive glue, aerosol, or any other chemical substance used by a student for inhalation; and
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Any intoxicating, or mood-changing, mind-altering or behavior-altering substance or drugs.

It is understood that the term school-sponsored or school-related activities, functions or events includes time spent riding a school bus or any other means of transport to a school-sponsored or school-related activity, function or event. Use, whether active or passive, pertains to a student voluntarily introducing or tolerating, or allowing to be introduced, by any means, into his or her body, a prohibited or dangerous substance such that it is detectable by the student's physical appearance, actions, breath, speech or chemical analysis. Possession is any conduct or combination of acts of a student evincing custody or control of or over a prohibited or dangerous substance. Sale and transfer refer to any conveyance from a student to any other person, natural or juridical, of a prohibited or dangerous substance for any consideration, whether valuable, pecuniary, gratuitous, or even out of mere liberality. As part of the policy, a screening and detection procedure utilizing urinalysis, hair follicle, saliva or other such drug detection tests as determined by the administration, will be conducted on a random basis, or, where suspicion of use exists, selectively. Random selection may result in a student being selected for testing or screening more than once during the semester. Infractions of the ISM policy on drug abuse are cumulative throughout the student's tenure at ISM, and will result in the following consequences: 1. Any student who possesses, uses, buys, sells, gives, or traffics drugs on or off the school campus, its surrounding environments, or at any schoolsponsored or school-related activity, function, or event will be permanently withdrawn from school and permanently dropped from the rolls of IS Manila on the first offense. 2. Positive detection of use through urinalysis, hair follicle, saliva, or other such drug detection tests as determined by the administration, will result in the following consequences:

First Offense
A pre- and post-suspension conference at which will be present parent /student / Counselor / Administrator; Suspension from school and all school-related activities for two weeks (10 full class days); During those two weeks, at the initiative of the parents, a comprehensive evaluation of the student by an IS Manila recognized and approved professional shall be conducted. At least five, or as many as recommended by the school and/or the outside counselor, professional counseling sessions will be required with all relevant documentation to be forwarded to the School before readmission. The costs of this counseling sessions will be

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borne by the parents. The School recommends strongly that the parents, too, avail themselves of specialist help. Prior to readmission, the student must present a written research paper of a standard acceptable to the school and commensurate with the student's age and academic ability on drug use and abuse. The School has the prerogative to insist upon student participation in a drug rehabilitation course during and after the period of suspension. At the least, a scheduled visit to such an institution may be required of the student by the School. As part of the reintegration process, the Building Principal has the prerogative to insist that the offending student must participate in an organized school activity, to be determined in discussion with parents, student and Principal. Upon returning to school, the student will be placed on periodic, mandatory urinalysis, hair follicle, saliva or other such drug detection tests as determined by the Administration, the cost of which must be borne by the parents. Refusal to comply with the counseling or the periodic mandatory urinalysis, hair follicle, saliva or other such drug detection tests as determined by the Administration, will result in the student being permanently dropped from the rolls of IS Manila.

Second Offense
The student will be permanently dropped from the rolls of IS Manila. The offense may be noted on the student's official transcript if the School determines such is necessary for the protection of IS Manila's interests. As a demonstration of its faith in human redemption, the Board of Trustees will consider the reintegration of the student to IS Manila according to stringent criteria explained in the administrative guidelines to this policy. 3. Any student who refuses to submit, upon request, to a urinalysis, hair follicle, saliva or other such drug detection tests as determined by the administration, will be deemed to have failed said test and will be sanctioned accordingly. A second refusal will result in the student being permanently dropped from the rolls of IS Manila. 4. Circumventing one's own urinalysis, hair follicle, saliva or other such drug detection tests as determined by the administration, or assisting another student in circumventing the process will result in the same consequences as outlined in the previous section. 5. Urinalysis, hair follicle, saliva or other such drug detection tests as determined by the Administration, random or otherwise, will be conducted according to the administrative guidelines to this policy.

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Possession of Weapons on Campus

Students of International School Manila are expected to respect the persona identity, privacy, and safety of others. Hence, possession of any firearm dangerous weapon, or facsimile (exact copy) on campus or at any school activity is prohibited.

Consequences of possession of these items are as follows:

1. Any student who brings a firearm to school will be immediately suspended and recommended for permanent withdrawal or expulsion from school. Additionally, any student who possesses, on school premises, any dangerous weapon and who brandishes, threatens or uses such weapon in any confrontational situation will also be immediately suspended and recommended for permanent withdrawal or expulsion from school. 2. Any student who is in possession of any BB, pellet, or facsimile (exact copy) firearm, knife designed as a weapon, martial art weapons, or any other weapons (or items that can be perceived and/or used as a weapon), will be suspended from school on the first offense. If a second offense occurs, the student will be immediately suspended and recommended for permanent withdrawal from school or expulsion from school. 3. Students should not bring to school pocket knives, pen knives, key chain knives, etc. These will be confiscated and returned only to parents. Students will be subject to suspension on their first offense.

Theft
Students of International School Manila are expected to respect the property of others. Theft or the appropriation of property other than one's own is considered a serious offense and is prohibited. Acts of theft consists of being in possession of stolen property, the actual taking, assisting in taking, or in any way participating in the acquisition of materials belonging to someone else without the person's consent. Theft is taken very seriously and may result in a student being asked to leave the school.

Consequences for Disciplinary Infractions

At the International School Manila, like in any other school, students are expected to observe the kind of behavior which allows them to secure a sound education and also to respect the rights and feelings of others. There are times, however, that a student might choose to act without responsibility or regard for others. Our belief is that students are mature individuals who can make appropriate choices in their behaviors. The goal in dealing with all behavioral problems is to change unacceptable behavior to socially acceptable levels. In a school of such a diverse, multicultural composition as ISM, this means a greater respect and broader tolerance for other points of view and religious and cultural heritage.
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The following summarizes the levels of disciplinary action, which shall be enforced by school personnel with students who are in violation of school rules: Level 1 - VERBAL WARNING/REPRIMAND The teacher/staff member will discuss and remind the student not to engage in the inappropriate behavior by reviewing the rules. Level 2 - CONFERENCE Staff members may conduct a conference with the student, parent/guardian, or both. Level 3 - INTERVENTION Staff members may use one or more of the following interventions: Referral to school Counselor, Administrator, Support Services/ Learning Support Resource Team, or other; Time-Out, the temporary removal of a student from class; Staffing, a meeting of school personnel and others to consider the behavior of the student and make recommendations for improvement; Behavioral Contract, a written agreement between the student, parent, guardian and school listing requirements for improvement; Restriction, the temporary denial of the student's right to participate in designated activities or be in certain areas; Written Communication, a conduct report letter, progress report, etc. sent to the parent/guardian; After-School Detention, at least one hour served after school with notification to the parent/guardian; Break or Lunch Detention, a time-out period during break or lunch for at least 15 minutes to 30 minutes; Reflective Writings, a written document that a student will complete on the situation or inappropriate behavior, and a plan of action for the improvement and/or a letter of apology to the appropriate individual(s); Work Detail, a specific work detail assignment given to a student relevant to the infraction. Level 4 - SUSPENSION (IN-SCHOOL) A student may be given by the Administration, an in-school suspension (ISS) for up to 5 days for breaking a school or classroom rule. This means they would spend their entire school day completing individual assignments given by their regular teachers, while being removed from the regular classroom and social setting. The parent/ guardian will be notified of an inschool suspension decision. As part of this process, students meet with MS Administration to reflect upon and discuss what they have learned from the situation. Level 5 - SUSPENSION (OUT-OF-SCHOOL) The Principal and/or Assistant Principal may suspend a student from school for serious behavioral problems or habitual infractions for up to 10 school days. The parent/guardian will be notified of an out-of school suspension decision. All suspensions will involve a re-admittance conference with at least one parent, student, an Administrator or his/her designee. It is the policy of ISM that the suspended student shall be responsible for all school work/tests missed during his/her suspension.

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A student who is suspended out of school may be ineligible for the making up of graded assessment (e.g. tests or quizzes) during the suspension period. Level 6 - WITHDRAWAL/EXPULSION In extreme cases or when a pattern of unacceptable behavior persists after repeated intervention, it may be necessary for a Principal to recommend withdrawal or expulsion. This recommendation will be reviewed by the Superintendent for action in the case of a withdrawal, and for presentation to the Board of Trustees and action, if an expulsion.

School Uniforms
Appropriate student dress helps create an attitude and atmosphere conducive to learning and demonstrates the students' pride in themselves and in their school. Student dress must reflect the important and serious purpose of International School Manila. Uniforms must have a proper fit (not baggy or tight). Please note, only black or white undershirts may be worn with the uniform. Alterations in style or design of the school uniform are not acceptable. Facsimiles (exact copies) of the school uniform are prohibited. The school uniform does have an official label and name brand. The Uniform Shop located on campus carries all clothing that students will need for school. The Uniform Shop is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7:00 am 4:00 pm during the school year. All students are expected to be in school uniform within two days of the first day of school.

Girls
Knit ISM shirts of four colors (black, white, green and yellow) will be available for purchase at the Uniform Shop. Girls may choose any of these colors to wear. Please note, only black or white undershirts may be worn with the uniform. Khaki/black pants, walking shorts, or skirts from the Uniform Shop are to be worn. Skirts and shorts must be at least fingertip length (with hands by your side) and should remain unrolled.

Boys
Knit ISM shirts of four colors (black, white, green, and yellow) will be available for purchase at the Uniform Shop. Boys may choose any of those colors to wear. Please note, only black or white undershirts may be worn with the uniform. Khaki/black
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pants or walking shorts from the Uniform Shop are to be worn. Shirts may be worn tucked in or worn out, as long the hem does not fall below the pants' pocket opening.

Physical Education (PE) Clothing

All students from Kindergarten onwards require the following clothing for PE: T-shirts and shorts Tennis shoes and athletic socks Two pairs of shoes are recommended: one for indoor use and an older pair for outdoor use. It is permissible for students to wear their PE uniform to school only if they have PE first period. Otherwise, they need to change into their PE uniform just before class. Please note that students' PE uniforms are to be used during PE class only! Students are not permitted to wear PE clothes and shoes to other classes during the day. In order to maintain good personal hygiene, especially in our hot climate, a student is required to wear a PE uniform during times of strenuous physical activity. PE clothing must be kept reasonably clean. All students should label their clothes and shoes with washable tags to avoid loss.

Cover-Ups
There are ISM jackets that are sold at the Uniform Shop. However, a cover-up cannot substitute for standard uniform apparel. Team shirts of any kind cannot be substituted for the required school shirt. Prior approval must be given by the administration to wear team shirts on travel days or game days.

Footwear
Footwear should be appropriate, safe and match the uniform. Leather shoes, sandals, tennis shoes and sneakers are permissible. For Science experiments, closed-toed shoes are recommended. Platform soles or more than one-inch heels pose a risk to personal safety and are not acceptable. Flip flops, slippers and sports sandals will be tolerated but are not recommended.

Accessories
No caps or hats will be worn on campus, except as protection from the sun on the athletic field. In addition, the following items are not acceptable: Clothing that is faded, torn or significantly worn Pants or shorts worn below the hips

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The above guidelines do not pertain to the wearing of PE uniforms or costumes that are used on special occasions such as Spirit Week, plays and other presentations. We appreciate the support of the parent and school community to ensure the dress and appearance of our students is appropriate and does not distract from the instructional setting. These regulations apply to every student every day of the school year, except when otherwise approved by the building Principal. If it is not listed here as permissible, then it is not permissible. Any questions as to the interpretation and/or enforcement of the School Uniform policy will be left to the Administration. If there are any questions, please call the Middle School Office.

After-School Expectations
Students are expected to leave campus at the end of the school day unless involved in a legitimate after school activity. "Legitimate" activities are those sponsored by the Middle School After-School Program, tutorial sessions, studying in the Media Center, Student Council sponsored activities or approved club activities. Students remaining on campus after tutorials who are not involved in an organized activity are unsupervised. Therefore, students who are not involved in any of the above activities are expected to be off campus by 3:15 pm for their own safety. Students involved in afternoon activities should leave campus on the 3:30 pm activity bus. Students must be in the Cafeteria, Middle School Courtyard or Middle School Media Center while waiting for their transportation home.

Field Trip Expectations

Field trips are an integral part of our curricular program at ISM. Experiential learning broadens a student's understanding of the world we live in and connects the classroom to the community. Going on a school trip is a privilege for the students and a major responsibility for the supervising adults. It is imperative that our students represent the school well and model positive behavior. Students are expected to dress in neat, clean and presentable clothing while on our field trips. Respect for other patrons in all venues is essential. All school rules apply during these trips. Overnight trips carry additional responsibilities for the student, including honoring curfews, keeping noise in hotels to a minimum and respecting hotel property. The adults supervising our field trips are responsible for the students in their care. They are in charge of the safety and well-being of the group. However, in return, they expect cooperation, positive behavior and adherence to staff instructions from our students.
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OTHER SCHOOL RULES AND REGULATIONS Damage to School Property

Any student found causing damage to school property through in appropriate behavior will be sent immediately to the Middle School Administration. If the damage is not easily corrected by the student, he/she will be expected to meet the cost of replacement or repair, and further disciplinary action would be taken.

Electronic Devices, Recreational Equipment and Games

To protect personal property and ensure students focus on their educational responsibilities, laser pointers or lighters, etc., are not permitted on campus. Cellular phones, pagers, or other electronic communication devices such as iPods, MP3 players, PSP devices are not allowed to be heard, seen or touched on the Middle School campus during the school day. If a student needs to contact his/her parents through their cellular phone, the student may do so only in the Middle School Office with approval of the Administration. The school is not responsible for any loss of cellular phones or electronic devices. Because of the potential danger to students and property, the use of skateboards, rollerskates, rollershoes, rollerblades, scooters and bicycles are not permitted within the school grounds.

Food
Food and drink should be consumed in the Cafeteria or courtyard area only. Food is not allowed in the hallways or classrooms, except by staff permission.

Gum
Gum is not permitted in the Middle School. We want to keep our school clean.

Public Display of Affection

Inappropriate displays of affection, including kissing or intimate contact, are not acceptable behavior at school.

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Green Guidelines for Events Planning at ISM

Areas to Consider 1. Setting Your Environmental Priorities What YOU can do! Event planning should include: Reduce/manage waste (a trash-less party) Save paper (email invites/ double sided newsletters) Save water (restrict hosepipe usage) Save electricity (outdoor venues save on artificial light and air con) Consider using outdoor venues with no need for air con During rehearsals, limit full lighting effects Provide recycling bins at the venue Select food providers that offer re-usable plates and cutlery or who sell products in recyclable containers, with little or no packaging Expressly ask food providers not to bring Styrofoam onto campus Borrow cutlery/plates/cups from the canteen or purchase your own class set Consider large bottles of drinks instead of individual juice packs, soda cans, etc. Look for products/prizes which: Are re-usable (e.g. name tags, binders, clip-boards) Have recycled content Use little or no packaging Are recyclable or can be composted Are not packaged in Styrofoam Announce to attendees to recycle as they go along by placing used items in the appropriate bins provided Make sure there are plenty of bins available, all around the event Promote responsible segregation of trash Make everyone involved with the event aware of the 'Green' planning connected to the event Measure the amount of recyclable items collected check if the bins have been contaminated then improve on clearer signage Survey the attendees to see if they have further suggestions of how to make it an even greener event Prepare an e-newsletter or internal email about what went well from a Green perspective

2. Selecting Your Venue

3. Arranging Food Service

4. Buying Products

5. Collecting Recyclables

6. Promoting Your Event's Environmental Features 7. Evaluating the Event

8. Informing the Community About Your Achievements

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Hyun Bin Lim

Isabela Maria Regina Santos Gatmaytan

Seo Yoon (Jenny) Kim

Seo Yoon (Jenny) Kim

INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL MANILA

University Parkway, Fort Bonifacio 1634 Taguig City, Philippines P.O. Box 1526 MCPO 1255 Makati City, Philippines Telephone: (632) 840.8550; FAX: (632) 840.8575 E-mail:msoffice@ismanila.org Web Site: www.ismanila.org Middle School Blog: http://ms.ism-online.org/