2020-2021 School Handbook
GIFS Handbook 2020-2021
Contents
Vision and Mission ········································································································································ 1
School History ··············································································································································· 2
2020-2021 School Calendar ·························································································································· 3
SKAC Dates 2020-2021 ·································································································································· 7
School Facilities ············································································································································· 9
GIFS in Sacheon ··········································································································································· 10
Staff Directory ············································································································································· 11
Admissions Policy ········································································································································ 12
School Fees ················································································································································· 15
Refund Policy ·············································································································································· 17
Attendance Policies ····································································································································· 18
School Policies ············································································································································· 20
Bell Schedules ············································································································································· 21
GIFS Dress Code ·········································································································································· 23
Health ·························································································································································· 28
Parent/Guardian Teacher Communication ································································································· 30
Parent Involvement ···································································································································· 32
Support Structure for Students ··················································································································· 32
Student Technology Use Guidelines & Policies··························································································· 34
Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs) ············································································································ 38
Academics ··················································································································································· 39
2020-2021 Secondary Subject Offerings ····································································································· 44
After-School Activities ································································································································· 53
GIFS Code of Conduct ································································································································· 58
Student Discipline Policies ·························································································································· 59
Suspension Policy ········································································································································ 60
Code of Conduct on the School Bus ············································································································ 61
School Rules ················································································································································ 62
GIFS Handbook 2020-2021
VISION “Inspiring Excellence in an International Community of Learners”
MISSION Academic Standards We encourage rigorous academic standards across the school. Individualized Learning We provide resources to meet the unique learning needs of each student. Inclusivity We celebrate and welcome the perspectives, values, and traditions of a diverse community of learners. Citizenship We promote global awareness and responsible engagement with the world at large. Partnerships We develop connections with our local Korean community to create opportunities for learning. Staff We attract and develop an exceptional administrative and teaching staff.
GIFS PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS
● Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) from K to 12 ● East Asia Regional Council of Schools (EARCOS) ● Ministry of Education, Republic of Korea (Certification) ● Korean Council of Overseas Schools (KORCOS) ● World-class Instructional Design and Assessment (WIDA) ● Southern Korean Activities Conference (SKAC) ● International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) ● Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA)
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GIFS Handbook 2020-2021
SCHOOL HISTORY
GIFS is an international day school located in the city of Sacheon in a coastal area on the south- central tip of South Korea. The school opened its doors on January 5, 2004 and operates as a sole proprietorship under the ownership of Ron Haddon.
GIFS serves students from countries around the world from Kindergarten through the 12th grade. We provide a challenging and innovative educational program in a modern purpose-built facility. In the fall of 2015, GIFS became an IB (International Baccalaureate) World School offering the Diploma Programme to its 11th and 12th grade students. In addition, we are currently in the candidacy phase for implementation of both the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme and the Middle Years Programme. This development holds great promise for ensuring that we will deliver a valuable and relevant international education to all of our students.
*Gyeongnam International Foreign School is a candidate school for the PYP (Primary Years Programme) and MYP (Middle Years Programme). This school is pursuing authorization as an IB World School. IB World Schools share a common philosophy- a commitment to high-quality, challenging, international education- that we believe is important for our students.
* Only schools authorized by the IB Organization can offer any of its four academic programmes: the Primary Years Programme (PYP), the Middle Years Programme (MYP), the Diploma Programme (DP), or the Career-related Programme (CP). Candidate status gives no guarantee that authorization will be granted.
For further information about the IB and its programmes visit http://www.ibo.org.
At GIFS, we measure success in many ways. Our goal is to inspire and care for each learner by providing an educational environment that nurtures students’ social, intellectual, emotional, and physical well-being. We aspire to develop internationally minded young people who care for each other and learn skills to work together as critical thinkers and problem solvers.
Colors and Mascot Students adopted the tiger for the school mascot. It followed naturally that the orange tiger’s stripes, along with a dark navy blue, would be chosen as our school colors. In Korea, the tiger is prominently portrayed in Korean folklore, legends, art and has even slipped into the early religious beliefs of this country. Koreans have given this animal a personality that includes humor, wit and sophistication. Therefore, we are known as the GIFS Tigers.
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GIFS Handbook 2020-2021
2020-2021 School Calendar
First Quarter: August 18th – October 23rd, 2020 43 School days for Students
August 2020 September 2020 July 2020 (10 School days) (19 School days) S M T W Th F S S M T W Th F S S M T W Th F S 1 2 3 4 1 1 2 3 4 5 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 23 24 26 27 28 29 30 31 / / 25 26 27 28 29 27 28 29 30 30 31 5-7 New Teacher Orientation 5 SKAC Coordinator Meeting @DIS 10-14 Teacher Preparation Week 7 House Games 1 15 National Liberation Day (Tiger Day Ⅱ Bell Schedule) 17 Back to School Orientation 7-11 Spirit Week (3-7 PM) 12 Fall Festival 18 School Year Begins 14-25 MAP Testing Whole School Assembly 15 Early-release Day (Tiger Day Ⅰ Bell Schedule) 19 SKAC ES Futsal @ISB 1st Qtr. Begins 22 SKAC MS Futsal @HIS 19 (Tiger Day Ⅰ Bell Schedule) 23 SKAC HS Volleyball @DIS 25 Casual Dress Day 20 (Tiger Day Ⅰ Bell Schedule) 28-30 Chuseok Holiday 21 (Tiger Day Ⅰ Bell Schedule) – NO School Student Fire Drill 28 Casual Dress Day 29 SAT *SKAC: Southern Korean Activities Conference
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GIFS Handbook 2020-2021
2020-2021 School Calendar
Second Quarter: October 26th, 2020 – January 15th, 2021 42 School days for Students
October 2020 November 2020 December 2020 (19 School Days) (19 School days) (9 School days) S M T W Th F S S M T W Th F S S M T W Th F S 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 29 30 29 28 29 30 31 1-2 Chuseok Holiday – NO School 2 Teacher Workday – NO School 1-11 Mid Terms 3 SAT 6 SKAC HS Volleyball Finals 2 SKAC Spelling Bee @KFS 5 Whole School Assembly @ISB/BFS 5 SAT (Tiger Day Ⅰ Bell Schedule) 7 SAT 8 SKAC ES Volleyball @ISK 9 Hangul Proclamation Day 9 Whole School Assembly 10 SKAC AD Meeting @HIS - NO School (Tiger Day Ⅰ Bell Schedule) 11 Casual Dress Day 14-31 Winter Break 14 PSAT/NMSQT G10&11 11 SKAC Cross Country Meet 2
15 PSAT G8&9 @BIA 16 SKAC Cross Country Meet 1 12 PTC (4-7PM)
@DIS 14 PTC (9AM-Noon)
20 SKAC ES Futsal Finals @HIS SKAC MS Futsal Finals @ISB
23 1st Qtr. Ends 17 Early-release Day @ 2:35 PM
26 2nd Qtr. Begins 20 Casual Dress Day
30 PTO Halloween Party SKAC STEM Fair
Casual Dress Day @GIFS(ES)/@GPA(MS/HS) 24 SKAC MUN @KFS 26 House Games 2
(Tiger Day Ⅱ Bell Schedule)
27 Thanksgiving Holiday
– NO School
30 Mid Terms
SKAC HS Basketball @GIFS *PTO: Parent-Teacher Organization *PTC: Parent-Teacher Conference
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GIFS Handbook 2020-2021
2020-2021 School Calendar
Third Quarter: January 18th – March 26th, 2021 47 School days for Students
January 2021 February 2021 March 2021 (19 School Days) (18 School days) (19 School days) S M T W Th F S S M T W Th F S S M T W Th F S 1 2 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 24 / 25 26 27 28 29 30 28 28 29 30 31 31 1 NEW Year’s Day 4 SKAC HS Basketball Finals 1 Independence Movement Day 4 PD Day – NO School @BFS/ISB 5 SKAC MS Volleyball Finals 5 School Resumes 11-13 Seollal @BFS/ISB 11 Whole School Assembly (Korean New Year’s Day) 6 SKAC Leadership @ISB (Tiger Day Ⅰ Bell Schedule) 15 Whole School Assembly 8 Whole School Assembly 14 Student Emergency Drill (Tiger Day Ⅰ Bell Schedule) (Tiger Day Ⅰ Bell Schedule) Practice 23 Early-release Day @ 2:35 PM 8-19 IB Mock Exam 15 2nd Qtr. Ends 26 Casual Dress Day 13 SAT 18 3rd Qtr. Begins 16 SKAC HS Futsal @HIS 29 Casual Dress Day 19 SKAC ES Basketball @ISB SKAC ES Volleyball Finals @ISK 22-24 IB DP Evaluation Visit 30 SKAC MS Volleyball @ISK 25 House Games 3 (Tiger Day Ⅱ Bell Schedule)
26 Casual Dress Day 3rd Qtr. Ends
29-31 Spring Break
*PD Day: Professional Development Day
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GIFS Handbook 2020-2021
2020-2021 School Calendar
Fourth Quarter: April 5th – June 10th, 2021 45 School days for Students
April 2021 May 2021 June 2021 (19 School Days) (19 School days) (7 School days) S M T W Th F S S M T W Th F S S M T W Th F S 1 2 3 1 1 2 3 4 5 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 / / 25 26 27 28 29 27 28 29 30 30 31 1-2 Spring Break 1 SKAC ES Basketball @DIS 1-3 Final Exams 5 4th Qtr. Begins 3-21 IB Exams 4 Teachers’ Preparation Day 12 Teacher Workday – NO School 3 Whole School Assembly - NO School 13-23 MAP Testing (Tiger Day Ⅰ Bell Schedule) 5 SAT 14 SKAC MS Basketball @GIFS 6 Memorial Day 5 Children’s Day – NO School 17 SKAC Debate & Speech @BFS 9 House Games 4 8 SAT 20 SKAC Fine Arts Festival @ISB 15 SKAC MS Basketball Finals (Tiger Day Ⅱ Bell Schedule) 22 PTC (4-7PM) @BFS/ISB Early Dismissal @ 1 PM 24 PTC (9AM-Noon) SKAC HS Futsal Finals @ISB 10 Last Day of School 27 Early-release Day 17 SKAC Track & Field Graduation & Recognition 29 SKAC AD Meeting @DIS @Changwon or TBD 4th Qtr. Ends 29-30 IB Exams 19 Buddha’s Birthday – NO School 11 Staff Clean Out Day
24 SKAC Track & Field - NO School
@Changwon or TBD
24-31 Final Exams
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GIFS Handbook 2020-2021
SKAC DATES 2020-2021
Year 2020 Event Date Location
SKAC Coordinator Meeting Sep. 5th Saturday DIS
ES Futsal Divisional Sep. 19th Saturday ISB
HS Volleyball Divisional Sep. 23rd Wednesday DIS
MS Futsal Divisional Sep. 22nd Tuesday HIS
ES Futsal Finals Oct. 20th Tuesday HIS
Cross Country Meet 1 Oct. 16th Friday DIS
HS Volleyball Finals Nov. 6th Friday ISB/BFS
Cross Country Meet 2 Nov. 11th Wednesday BIA
MS Futsal Finals Nov. 14th Saturday ISB
STEM Nov. 20th Friday (ES) GIFS (MS/HS) GPA
HS Basketball Divisional Nov. 30th Monday GIFS
ES Volleyball Divisional Dec. 8th Tuesday ISK
MUN Nov. 24th Tuesday KFS
SKAC AD Meeting Dec. 10th Thursday HIS
Spelling Bee Dec 2nd Wednesday KFS
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GIFS Handbook 2020-2021
SKAC DATES 2020-2021
Year 2021 Event Date Location
ES Volleyball Finals Jan. 29th Friday ISK
MS Volleyball Divisional Jan. 30th Saturday ISK
HS Basketball Final Feb. 4th Thursday BFS/ISB
MS Volleyball Finals March 5th Friday BFS/ISB
Leadership March 6th Saturday ISB
HS Futsal Divisional March 16th Tuesday HIS
MS Basketball Divisional April 14th Wednesday GIFS
ES Basketball Divisional March 19th Friday ISB
Fine Arts Festival April 20th Tuesday ISB
AD meeting April 29th Monday DIS
Debate and Speech April 17th Saturday BFS
HS Futsal Finals May 15th Saturday ISB
ES Basketball Finals May 1st Saturday DIS
MS Basketball Finals May 15th Saturday BFS/ISB
Track and Field May 24th/17th Monday Changwon?
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GIFS Handbook 2020-2021
SCHOOL FACILITIES
MAIN BUILDING GIFS is located in Sacheon, Gyeongsangnam-Do. The main school building was opened in January 2004.
HADDON HALL - GYMNASIUM The gymnasium is a state-of-the-art facility with excellent natural lighting. It was completed in February 2011. The gymnasium consists of: ● a full-sized court which is used to play basketball, volleyball, and other indoor sports. ● a multi-purpose room in the lower level which can be used for indoor recess, programs, and other special events. ● an 8-meter-high climbing wall.
LIBRARY GIFS has an extensive school library divided into an elementary and secondary section which includes books, magazines and reference materials available for students or parents. In addition, we have career and university resources to assist high school students with further education. The library is accessible to all students and parents from 8:30am – 4:30pm. Students and parents/guardians can borrow up to 2 books at a time for one week and can renew as needed.
COMPUTER LAB Students use the computer lab for research, project work, and hands-on activities related to their subject area as well as receiving ICT instruction.
CAFETERIA A professional cafeteria staff operates on campus to meet the nutritional needs of GIFS students. Meals are freshly cooked each day and cater for a range of tastes. A salad bar including fresh fruit is available at all lunchtimes.
MAIN PLAYGROUND The main playground consists of a basketball court and 2 futsal fields. The futsal field can also be used for baseball or football.
ELEMENTARY PLAYGROUND We have a separate outdoor play area with equipment for Elementary students.
TRANSPORTATION As many of our students travel a long distance to GIFS, we provide several bus routes for students. It is school policy to pick up and drop off students as close to home as possible. 9 | Page
GIFS Handbook 2020-2021
GIFS IN SACHEON
Sacheon is a small city with a rapidly developing industrial sector. Only 90 minutes from Busan and within a short distance from the seaside, mountain areas, and other natural attractions, it offers both the convenience of modern living with rural diversions. For more information about Sacheon, please see the following web site:
http://www.sacheon.go.kr/eng/02/03.asp
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GIFS Handbook 2020-2021
STAFF DIRECTORY Title Name Email address Director John Ha [email protected] Principal, Head of School Peter Lynch [email protected] Head of Elementary and 4th Grade Teacher Julie Gragowski [email protected] Head of Secondary, IB MYP & DP Coordinator, University/College Counselor, and Resource Sam Kuntz [email protected] Manager Head of Office Administration Joy Kim [email protected] Front Office: Office Administration and Accounting Heather Kim [email protected] [email protected] Front Office: Uniforms and Transportation Eunice Kim [email protected] Kindergarten/1st Grade & Vocal Music Teacher Sandy Francis [email protected] 2nd/3rd Grade Teacher Caroline Pattinson [email protected] 5th Grade Teacher and IB PYP Coordinator Tim Balaz [email protected] Korean Language and Culture Instructor & Yuri Oh [email protected] Office Assistant Design & Technology Teacher and Technology & Data Coordinator Len Carnochan [email protected] Secondary English and Extended Essay Coordinator Marthinus Strydom [email protected] Secondary English Teacher Ronel de Jongh [email protected] ELL Coordinator, Secondary English B, and Theory of Knowledge Teacher Elizabeth McDuffie [email protected] Secondary Science Teacher Glen Monaghan [email protected] Secondary Mathematics Teacher Sandria Wilson [email protected] Secondary Mathematics and Design & Technology Teacher Philippe Turineck [email protected] Secondary Social Studies, History, and Theory of Knowledge Teacher Dennis Dow [email protected] Secondary Science Teacher Niko Lambert [email protected] Secondary Science, Mathematics, and Jaimee van der [email protected] Individuals & Societies Teacher Westhuizen Korean Language Teacher and Librarian Becky Kim [email protected] Spanish and Secondary Social Studies Teacher JoAnna Lieb [email protected] Music Teacher Catherine Lee [email protected] Art Teacher and CAS Coordinator Sunette Lombard [email protected] SEN Coordinator, Life Orientation, and School Counselor Anna Zygner [email protected]
Athletic Director and Physical Education Brandon Cates [email protected] Teacher
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GIFS Handbook 2020-2021
ADMISSIONS POLICY
It is the mission of the Admissions department to recruit, inform and admit new, qualified students to GIFS in a professional and forthright manner, while maintaining the integrity of the school, the students and their families. We aim to ensure that prospective families understand the GIFS mission, philosophy and community. We also strive to give them a good initial understanding of the IB programs. The Admissions Committee is composed of our Head of Elementary, Head of Secondary, and the GIFS Principal, who report to the Director, and are assisted by the GIFS front office staff.
Consistent with our internationally-minded school community, we believe all students have both the right and the responsibility of global citizenship. GIFS celebrates diversity and does not discriminate against individuals on the basis of race, color, creed, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or national and ethnic origin in the administration of its admission policies, educational policies, and other school-administered programs.
To enroll, applicants must have an appreciation of our vision and mission and demonstrate the potential to succeed within our English-based curriculum. Equally, parents/guardians of applicants must demonstrate a willingness to work in partnership with the school in support of their child.
Applicants must fully complete the application process to be considered for admissions, including submission of all required documents, and agree to the terms and conditions listed under the “GIFS Parent Commitment” found within the application forms which indicates their understanding of and their agreement with the expectations of families at GIFS. Applicants who are offered a place at GIFS will be invited to proceed to registration and enrollment provided that all financial obligations are met, including any additional fees for student services provision.
The final decision on all applications rests with the Director of GIFS.
ELIGIBLE STUDENTS 1. Expatriate children 2. Children from a marriage where one parent is Korean, and the other partner is an expatriate 3. Korean children who were educated overseas for more than three years or six semesters 4. Legally adopted Korean child by an expatriate family 5. All children entering kindergarten must be toilet trained before entrance
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GIFS Handbook 2020-2021
APPLICANTS WITH SPECIFIC NEEDS GIFS has a Learning Support program, although the number of students to whom it can be offered is limited by the resources it has available at any given time. Parents or guardians of any applicant having a specific need must submit complete reports with the application. These might include individualized education programs (IEPs), psychological reports or speech and language reports. Any student with significant specific academic or physical needs for which the school does not have adequate resources will not be admitted.
Students needing Learning Support may be admitted if it is believed that the school can offer appropriate support and that the children can be placed in the regular classroom. When reviewing the application of a student with specific needs, the Admissions Committee will take into consideration all students receiving learning support in that grade, with additional consultation from the Learning Support Specialists. As part of this process, the applicant will usually be interviewed, and the Admissions Committee reserves the right to request that a psycho-educational evaluation be conducted before a decision is made, if necessary. In the case where a specific need has not previously been identified, the school reserves the right to review the situation in order to assess the appropriateness of the student's presence in the school based on our capacity to address his/her needs.
PROGRESS REVIEW Continued enrollment at GIFS is dependent upon several factors, including academic progress, attitude, attendance and behavior. Satisfactory progress must be maintained in order to continue to be enrolled at GIFS. Admitted students are evaluated throughout the year, and, if satisfactory progress is not being maintained, the school may reconsider the initial placement and/or a student may be retained and not advance to the next grade the following school year.
FORMS THAT MUST BE COMPLETED TO ENROLL Please see https://gifs.or.kr/admissions/online-application/ to begin the enrollment process.
ENTRY LEVEL ACCORDING TO ACADEMIC YEAR Grade Age Grade Age Date Kindergarten 5 - 6 6th Grade 11 -12 1st Grade 6 - 7 7th Grade 12 - 13 The initial age 2nd Grade 7 - 8 8th Grade 13 - 14 must be achieved by 3rd Grade 8 – 9 9th Grade 14 - 15 September 1st 4th Grade 9 - 10 10th Grade 15 - 16 of the entry 5th Grade 10 -11 11th Grade 16 - 17 year. 12th Grade 17 - 18
Students will be placed in grade levels based on the chart above with the child's age confirmed by a site such as: http://www-users.med.cornell.edu/~spon/picu/calc/agecalc.htm
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GIFS Handbook 2020-2021
Given the small class sizes and the ability to offer enriched materials with such small class sizes, advancing students by a grade level beyond what is indicated in the chart above is not advised. All efforts are made to provide students with a challenging curriculum within a classroom of their peers. In the case that a student arrives from a school district that has a school calendar starting at different dates, the student will be placed as the chart above indicates, even if that means repeating part of a year. For example, if a student from South America completes Grade five in December and arrives in Korea in January, that student, based on his or her age, would still be placed in Grade five until the end of the concurrent school year at GIFS (which completes here in Korea in June).
MID-YEAR ENROLLMENT Students who enroll at GIFS midway through any quarter during the school year will receive a full report card if their start date allows them to be in attendance for at least 50% of the total days in that quarter.
If an elementary student is enrolled for less than 50% of the days in any quarter, their report card may reflect “N/A's” due to an insufficient amount of time for completion of adequate assessments. However, they will receive grades for classroom behavior and participation grades from all enrichment classes.
Secondary students who are enrolled for less than 50% of the days in a quarter may also not receive AOL (Achievement of Learning); however, they will receive grades for their ATL (Approaches to Learning).
Students who are enrolled for less than two weeks in any quarter will not receive a report card for that quarter.
Due to this, we strongly advise students to start school with us on quarter start dates. No student is accepted to GIFS after May 1 for that school year.
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GIFS Handbook 2020-2021
SCHOOL FEES
One-time Fees - New Student Enrollment Fees ● Registration Fee: KRW 500,000/$ 417.00 ● Capital Fee: KRW 3,000,000/$ 2,500.00 **ISB & ISK: Transfers from ISB or ISK (at any time of the year) will not be charged the new student enrollment fees.
Annual Fees ● Curriculum and Development Fee: KRW 2,400,000/$ 2,000.00 ● Tuition Fees (based on student’s grade of entry – see below)
School Tuition Frequen Tuition Grade Level cy U.S. Dollars ($) Korean Won (₩) Elementary School ₩ 17,000,000/ Annual $ 7,000.00 + (K-5) $ 14,167.00 ₩ 18,600,000/ Middle School (6-8) Annual $ 7,000.00 + $ 15,500.00 ₩ 19,600,000/ High School (9-12) Annual $ 7,000.00 + $ 16,334.00
Lunch & Transportation Fees Price Frequen Number of
cy Payments per Total Month ₩ 1,800,000/ Lunch Fee K – 12th Grade Annual ₩ 180,000 X 10 $ 1,500.00 ₩ 2,000,000/ Transportati Sacheon/Jinju Annual ₩ 200,000 X 10 $ 1,667.00 on Fee Geoje/Tongyeo ₩ 3,000,000/ (per family)* Annual ₩ 300,000 X 10 ng $ 2,500.00
* Transportation is only charged for the first attending student in each family. Siblings do not incur an additional transportation charge.
IB Examination Fee (12th Grade Only) IB Diploma Exam Fee KRW 1,800,000 / $ 1,500.00
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GIFS Handbook 2020-2021
Fee Descriptions Registration Fee: KRW 500,000/$ 417.00
- Non-refundable / One-time Fee: The Registration Fee is a fee for all students seeking enrollment.
Capital Fee: KRW 3,000,000/$ 2,500.00
- Non-refundable / One-time Fee: The Capital Fee is a fee for all new students who have been admitted to our school. This fee helps cover the operations and maintenance of our facilities.
Curriculum and Development Fee: KRW 2,400,000/$ 2,000.00
- Non-refundable / Annual Fee: The Curriculum and Development Fee is a fee for all students who have been admitted to our school. This fee ensures that all classroom technology, supplementary technological devices, and school wide resources are up to date with regular maintenance. - This fee is applicable for all students.
Late Fees and Non-Payment
LATE FEE - A late fee of 5% for the Korean won tuition fee will be assessed on any outstanding balance remaining after the close of business on the due date - this includes any outstanding tuition fees.
A family experiencing difficulty in making payments should contact the GIFS front office and schedule a conference to discuss the possibilities of a deferred payment plan.
Students in DP2 (Diploma Program Second Year) with outstanding payments will not be registered for their final exams. Additional costs due to late registration of candidates will be passed on to the parents/guardians/companies responsible for the payment.
NON-PAYMENT - If a late payment continues for more than 60 days, the Director of GIFS at his/her discretion may terminate the schooling contract and disenroll the student by way of a notice in writing to the parent/guardian. The school reserves the right to refuse admittance and/or transportation to a student until invoiced fees are paid in full.
Service is held on all school records if tuition payments remain outstanding.
Parents/guardians of students are ultimately responsible for timely payment of all school fees, even in the case where an employer may be paying the fees on their behalf.
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REFUND POLICY
Please fill out the “Statement of Understanding on Withdrawal/Refund Policy” when applying.
Any other payment arrangements must be coordinated with the school. A 10% surcharge will be added for quarterly payments and 5% for semi-annual payments. A late fee of 5% for the Korean won tuition fee will be assessed on any outstanding balance remaining after the close of business on the due date—this includes any outstanding tuition fees.
ITEM FREQUENCY REFUND REMARKS
Registration Fee One Time Non-Refundable
Capital Fee One Time Non-Refundable
Technology Fee Yearly Non-Refundable
Curriculum & Development Fee Yearly Non-Refundable
IB Diploma Programme Fee Yearly Non-Refundable
School Tuition (US$) Yearly Non-Refundable
Withdraw before Jan 1, School Tuition Yearly Half the Tuition 2021
School Tuition Semi-Annually Non-Refundable
School Tuition Quarterly Non-Refundable
School Transportation Yearly Monthly Refund of the next month
School Lunches Yearly Monthly Refund of the next month
For returning families, once re-enrollment has been confirmed, payment is due by June 30th. Once payment has been received, the Refund Policy for tuition applies.
PAYMENT INSTRUCTION – KOREAN WON Account Name: Gyeongnam International Foreign School (GIFS)
Account Number: 1005-901-370860
Bank Name: WOORI BANK (Sacheon Branch) Address: #31, Oksan-ro, Sacheon-eup, Sacheon-si, Gyeongsangnam-do, Korea, 52519 Telephone: (82-55) 852-6338
SWIFT Code: HVBKKRSE
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PAYMENT INSTRUCTION – US DOLLAR* Account Name: Gyeongnam International Foreign School (GIFS)
Account Number: 1081-400-431103
Bank Name: WOORI BANK (Sacheon Branch) Address: #31, Oksan-ro, Sacheon-eup, Sacheon-si, Gyeongsangnam-do, Korea, 52519 Telephone: (82-55) 852-6338
SWIFT Code: HVBKKRSE
* For US Dollar payment, either personal check or cash is acceptable in place of bank transfer.
ATTENDANCE POLICIES
Absence
In order for students to get the most benefit from their education, daily attendance is expected and required.
Excessive Absences
Students must attend their classes to be eligible to receive a grade or credit. Students in elementary, middle or high school missing more than 15 days per year may not be promoted to the next grade level, unless there are extenuating circumstances as determined and approved by the Principal. In addition, high school students are required to meet International Baccalaureate (IB) course hours. GIFS will keep track of IB course hours and if a student does not meet these hours, he/she will not be promoted to the next grade level. In Grade 12, a student who does not meet the IB Diploma Programme (DP) hours will not be entered for the final examinations in May of the second year. It is imperative that all students do not miss school days unless it is an absolute emergency.
In order to get credits in Grades 9-12, the following rules apply: a student will only get credit for any quarter if they have attended the entire quarter. Students will only be granted up to five days of excused absences in any quarter in order to receive full credit for the quarter, unless there are extenuating circumstances as determined and approved by the Principal.
A report card will be issued to all students, even for those who miss more than five days in a quarter. However, the report card may be incomplete or unsatisfactory due to inadequate grades and credits from missed assessments due to excessive absences.
All absences, except for school-related activities (such as SKAC, field trips), count as absent without regard to 'excused' or 'unexcused.' Excessive absences will require a conference between the principal and a parent or guardian (15 days of school missed at this point: the issue of promotion will come into question). 18 | Page
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Extenuating circumstances include but are not limited to severe illness or injury, unforeseen emergency travel, and unforeseen travel delay.
Please see the Attendance Policy on the school website for complete details.
Excused and Unexcused Absences
Illness, emergencies, unavoidable legal or governmental appointments, and family trips are excused absences. For an absence to be considered excused due to illness, unavoidable legal or governmental appointments, and family trips, a note, phone call, or email message from a parent/guardian must be sent to our office in advance. In the case of an emergency, a note, phone call, or email message from a parent/guardian must be sent to our office within two days of a student’s return to school.
Any class work due during an excused absence because of illness or emergencies may be made up for 100% credit, but the work must be completed and returned to the teacher in the same number of days as the total number of days absent. A 'day' is defined as from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM and not based upon whether a class was held that day, not including weekends.
Approval for absences not due to illness or an emergency must be requested one week in advance from the Principal. Students must make arrangements to do all the work missed during their absence. The due date for all make-up work coincides with their return to school.
An unexcused absence is any absence without a note, email, or phone call from a parent/guardian explaining the absence. An unexcused absence will result in a grade of zero for any test or assignment due during that period.
Absence Due to Illness
Absence due to illness is excused with appropriate notification. (See the Excused and Unexcused Absence policies above.)
Early Release from School
Students who need to leave school prior to the end of the school day must bring a note from their parents/guardians or an email must be sent from their parents/guardians to the office and homeroom teacher. In the note/email, parents must identify the person who will be picking up the student. When appropriate, parents will be contacted to confirm the identity of the person picking up the student. Parents/guardians must inform the office at what time their child is to leave. Parents are required to sign out their students in the front office. In case of illness or injury, see the policy above.
Cutting/Skipping Classes
Students are expected to be present for each class during each and every school day. Skipping a class will result in a demerit action, including detention and will include a phone call to parents/guardians.
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Tardiness
Students are expected to be on time at the beginning of the school day. The school day begins at 8:30am and students are expected to be present in the homerooms by then. Unexcused tardiness without either a phone call or email from a parent to the office and homeroom teacher will result in a demerit on the behavior record.
Absence Due to Family Travel
It is recognized that in an international school environment, family trips and other excursions may cause students to be absent. Should these circumstances arise, parents/guardians must inform the principal one week in advance of the departure date and receive approval from teachers. On the day of return, it is the student’s responsibility to turn in their assignments and schedule make-up tests with all of their teachers. Failure to meet with teachers on the return day will result in a zero being issued for all missed assignments, tests, or exams. All attendance policies apply as indicated above. SCHOOL POLICIES
The following policies may be found on the website as well as printed versions in the GIFS office.
● Academic Honesty Policy ● Admissions Policy ● Assessment Policy ● Bully Prevention Policy ● Child Protection Policy ● Child Welfare Policy ● Duty of Care Policy ● English Language Learner Policy ● Language Policy ● Special Education Needs Policy
GIFS Homework Guide K – Grade 2 15 minutes to 45 minutes per day Grades 3-5 30 minutes to 1 hour per day Grades 6-8 1-2 hours a day (All subjects inclusive) Grades 9-12 2-3 hours a day (All subjects inclusive)
Emergency Response Plan
GIFS runs practice fire and civil emergency drills multiple times a year to prepare for emergencies. Please see the detailed response plan which is available in the GIFS School Office.
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BELL SCHEDULES
Our alternate bell schedule or Tiger Day allows us to have a block during school hours for school related activities, without losing any academic blocks. We have two Tiger Day Bell Schedules:
Normal Bell Schedule
Academic Day for Students (8:30am-3:25pm)
Times Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
8:30-8:40 Homeroom Homeroom Homeroom Homeroom Homeroom
8:40-9:30 1st Block
9:30-10:20 2nd Block
10:20-10:25 5 min Transition
10:25-11:15 3rd Block
4th Block 11:15-12:05 ES Lunch 11:35-12:05
Lunch 12:05-12:45 Early Childhood Recess End Bell at 12:35
12:45-12:50 5 min Transition
12:50-1:40 5th Block
1:40-2:30 6th Block
2:30-2:35 5 min Transition
2:35-3:25 7th Block
3:25-3:30 5 min Transition
3:30-4:20 After School Activities
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Tiger Day I Bell Schedule: Elementary will be using it as an opportunity to work together across We have an alternate bell schedule (Tiger grade levels for activities like buddy Day I) on the days that we have school reading, peer tutoring, special projects assemblies or other school related and presentations. It may also be used as activities which require an open block an enrichment time for STEM activities during the morning. with individual classes. Times For secondary, it will be a designated 8:30-8:38 Homeroom 8:38-8:40 2 min Transition guided tutorial block and study hall for 8:40-9:10 Assembly Time students and teachers allowing for focus 9:10-9:15 5 min Transition on specific academic areas and 9:15-10:00 1st Block enrichment. 10:00- 2nd Block 10:45 The Tiger Day II Bell Schedule will also be 10:45- 5 min Transition used when we have an early release 10:50 school day for staff professional 10:50- 3rd Block development and on the days, we run our 11:35 11:35- 4th Block House Games. 12:20 ES Lunch 11:50-12:20 Times 12:20-1:00 Lunch 8:30-8:40 Homeroom Early Childhood Recess st End Bell at 12:50 8:40-9:25 1 Block nd 1:00-1:05 5 min Transition 9:25-10:10 2 Block 1:05-1:50 5th Block 10:10- 3 min Transition 10:13 1:50-2:35 6th Block 10:13- 3rd Block 2:35-2:40 5 min Transition 10:58 2:40-3:25 7th Block 10:58- 4th Block 3:25-3:30 5 min Transition 11:33 ES Lunch 11:00-11:33 3:30-4:20 After School Activities 11:33- Lunch
12:11 Early Childhood Recess End Bell at 12:00 Tiger Day II Bell Schedule: 12:11- 3 min Transition This school year we will continue to follow 12:14 12:14- 5th Block a second alternate bell schedule (Tiger 12:59 Day II) every Thursday. This will be in the 12:59-1:44 6th Block afternoon following the last academic 1:44-1:47 3 min Transition block until school dismissal at 3:25 pm. 1:47-2:32 7th Block This open block will be used as an 2:32-2:35 3 min Transition enrichment block for our students in both 2:35-3:25 OPEN BLOCK 3:25-3:30 5 min Transition elementary and secondary. 3:30-4:20 After School Activities
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GIFS DRESS CODE
Uniforms can be ordered from our School Store on Lands’ End. You can access the website: https://www.landsend.com/ Our school code is 900171927
FORMAL DAYS (Monday & Special Occasions)
Blue Blazer White Long/Short* Sleeve Button-up Shirt Tops Blue Tie Secondary (Option) Vest* Khaki Pants/Shorts* + Brown/Black Belt Bottoms Formal (non-athletic) dark shoes Formal dark socks Boys (Option) Blue Blazer* White Long/Short* Sleeve Button-up Shirt Tops Blue Vest Elementary Blue Tie Khaki Pants/Shorts* + Brown/Black Belt Bottoms Dark shoes Dark socks Blue Blazer White Long/Short* Sleeve Button-up Shirt Tops Blue Tie Secondary (Option) Vest* Khaki Skort Bottoms Formal (non-athletic) dark shoes Formal dark socks or solid color tights Girls (Option) Blue Blazer* White Long/Short* Sleeve Button-up Shirt Tops Blue Cardigan* Elementary Blue Tie Khaki Jumper Bottoms Dark shoes Dark socks or solid color tights
*Weather dependent.
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CASUAL DAY OPTIONS (Tuesday - Friday)
Options Blue Blazer White Long/Short* Sleeve Button-up Shirt White/Navy Long/Short* Polo Shirt Tops GIFS Hoodie Fleece Secondary Vest / Cardigan Plaid or Blue Tie Khaki Pants/Shorts* + Brown/Black Belt Bottoms Dark shoes and dark socks Boys Blue Blazer White Long/Short* Sleeve Button-up Shirt White/Navy Long/Short* Polo Shirt Tops GIFS Hoodie Fleece Elementary Vest / Cardigan Plaid or Blue Tie Khaki Pants/Shorts* + Brown/Black Belt Bottoms Dark shoes and dark socks
Blue Blazer White Long/Short* Sleeve Button-up Shirt White/Navy Long/Short* Polo Shirt Tops GIFS Hoodie Fleece Secondary Vest / Cardigan Plaid or Blue Tie
Plaid Skirt or Khaki Skort Bottoms Khaki Pants/Shorts* + Brown/Black Belt Dark shoes and dark socks/ or solid color tights Girls Blue Blazer White Long/Short* Sleeve Button-up Shirt White/Navy Long/Short* Polo Shirt Tops GIFS Hoodie Fleece Vest / Cardigan Elementary Plaid or Blue Tie
Plaid or Khaki or Navy Jumper Plaid Skirt or Khaki Skort Bottoms Khaki Pants/Shorts* + Brown/Black Belt Dark shoes and dark socks/ or solid color tights
* Weather dependent.
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ATHLETIC CLOTHES (For PE Class & Sport Events)
Short Sleeve Active Tee (Gray + Mandatory Navy) and/or Tiger Tee House Tee Tops GIFS Hoodie Secondary Optional Fleece Track Jacket Crew Sweatshirt Mandatory Mesh Shorts (Gray + Navy) Bottoms Optional Track Pants Boys Short Sleeve Active Tee (Gray + Mandatory Navy) and/or Tiger Tee Crew Sweatshirt Tops House Tee Elementary GIFS Hoodie Optional Track Jacket Fleece
Mesh Shorts (Gray + Navy) Bottoms Mandatory Track Pants
Short Sleeve Active Tee (Gray + Mandatory Navy) and/or Tiger Tee
Tops House Tee GIFS Hoodie Secondary Optional Fleece Track Jacket Crew Sweatshirt Mandatory Mesh Shorts (Gray + Navy) Bottoms Optional Track Pants Girls Short Sleeve Active Tee (Gray + Mandatory Navy) and/or Tiger Tee Crew Sweatshirt Tops House Tee Elementary GIFS Hoodie Optional Track Jacket Fleece
Mesh Shorts (Gray + Navy) Bottoms Mandatory Track Pants
We strongly recommend that students have at least 2 sanctioned athletic tees and 2 pairs of mesh shorts in different colors to ensure a clean gym uniform at least twice a week. Mixing &
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matching colors of tops/bottoms is acceptable. Running/exercise tights are allowed under shorts but must be a solid dark color with limited logos.
AWAY FROM SCHOOL (SKAC Sports and Events)
Sports Other (ex. MUN, Spelling Bee, etc.) Sport-specific Uniform Formal uniform Athletic Clothes (see above) Tiger T-shirt
HOUSE GAMES
Students are required to wear their House T-shirt on House Games days. They may wear any GIFS uniform on the bottom.
UNIFORM GUIDELINES
The Basics
● Monday and Special Occasions: Formal uniform ● Tuesday-Friday: Casual uniform ● Last Friday of school of the month: Free dress o Free dress ▪ While free dress days allow students the opportunity to express themselves as individuals, it must be done so in an appropriate way. It is particularly important that any student dress on these occasions recognizes that the school is still a working environment, and further that student dress does not cause embarrassment to staff, students and other members of the school community. ● Ground rules: o No pajamas o No see-through or transparent clothing o No bare midriffs o Shorts/Skirts/Dress, etc. must adhere to the length rule – max. of 10cm above the top of the kneecap o Teachers and staff will use their professional judgement to determine if a student is following the spirit of the free dress day o Students who are not following the spirit of the day will be asked to change into either their GIFS Athletic clothes or uniform ● PE/Gym Class o Elementary: Students should wear their PE uniforms to school in order to minimize the hassle of changing. o Secondary: Students are expected to wear their GIFS athletic clothes during PE class (only).
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The Details
● Belts must always be worn with pants or shorts (boys and girls, secondary and elementary) ● No longer for sale (but allowed on casual days): o Plaid skirts o Plaid jumpers o Plaid ties ● Shirt must be tucked into pants, shorts, skorts, and skirts ● Students are expected to wear a clean, properly fitting uniform without obvious rips/tears or stains ● Hoodies cannot be worn on formal days ● Footwear: o Shoes: ▪ Students may not wear open-toed shoes or sandals, including Fridays, for safety reasons. ▪ Backless shoes, like flip flops, or high heeled shoes are not allowed for safety reasons. ▪ Shoes that have built-in wheels, lights, or sounds are not allowed. ▪ Elementary ● All days: Any dark shoes (black, brown, gray, navy with limited logos) ▪ Secondary: ● Formal Days: Formal (non-athletic) dark shoes (black, brown, gray, navy with limited logos) ● Casual Days: Any dark shoes (black, brown, gray, navy with limited logos) ▪ Dark solid colored socks, tights, leggings: No patterns or obvious logos ● Headwear: o The use of hats inside the school is not allowed o Students must wear a GIFS hat at recess/PE if needed ● Athletic Clothes o Proper sports shoes that have laces and good ankle and arch support are also required for P.E. and other after school sports o Students who do not have the correct uniform will not be allowed to participate and may receive a demerit. ● Shorts, Skorts, Skirt and Jumper Length (boys and girls): max. 10cm above the top of the kneecap o No rolling or sagging ● All students must wear a uniform shirt under the hoodie – the Tiger tee is not acceptable ● No logos should ever be visible, especially under white shirts – plain white undershirts are recommended ● During winter, students should wear layers – non-GIFS coats or accessories are not allowed. However, they can be worn on the way to and on the way home from school.
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HEALTH
IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTS
While it is important to keep all of your child’s immunizations up to date, the following immunizations are strongly recommended before your child attend school:
DPT/DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus and Pertussis) Polio (IPV or OPV) MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) Japanese Encephalitis Chicken Pox or Varicella
TUBERCULOSIS SCREENING (Required)
TB (PPD) Skin test or chest X-ray Students who are admitted to GIFS must include the evidence of a negative PPD tuberculosis skin test (Mantoux test) or normal chest X-ray - not both. If the TB skin test result is positive, a chest X-ray is required regardless of previous BCG vaccination.
If your child has had Tuberculosis in the past, please provide a copy of the report for a chest X- ray as well as written consent of a doctor.
Evidence of all immunizations is due within 1 month of the child's start date.
The above immunizations/tests may be obtained at Gyeongsang University Hospital in Jinju or at an authorized Korean medical facility. Initial enrollees have 30 days to obtain the above immunizations/tests.
ILLNESS If your child is ill and unable to attend school, please call or email the school by 8:20 am. The school email is [email protected].
MEDICATIONS Students shall not keep or take medicine at school without the knowledge of staff. If a student must come to school with medicine, then at the start of the school day, the required medication shall be placed in the office with instructions as to how it is to be taken. Students will not be offered any medication without permission from a parent or guardian.
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SCHOOL ILLNESS The school does not have a nurse on staff, although there are multiple employees trained in First Aid. When a student is feeling ill or is injured, they should check with their teacher. The student will be sent to the office with a note and their parents/guardians called, if necessary. It is advisable that a parent/guardian come immediately to take a very injured or sick child home. If this is impossible, the student may use the health room. No student will be allowed to leave school sick without permission of the school in consultation with the parent/guardian. In the event of emergencies, the student will be taken to a hospital and parents/guardians contacted as soon as possible.
As a general rule, students should not be sent to school if they are feverish (above 39℃) or feeling ill. The Principal reserves the right to request that a student go home if that student appears to have a contagious illness or is seriously ill.
In the event of an accident serious enough for a student to be sent to the office for aid, the following procedures will be followed:
http://www.healthiersf.org/resources/pubs/SFUSDFirstAid_Flipchart.pdf
The office staff will always inform the parents of an accident or injury to their child upon:
1. the request of the child. 2. the need to seek outside medical attention. 3. the presence of excessive bleeding, significant broken skin or significant bruising. 4. any possible injury to the head, neck or spine. 5. any other incident where it is in the opinion of the office staff that the injury is serious enough to have the parents or guardian informed.
AIR QUALITY POLICY Due to weather patterns and pollution, the air quality in South Korea has been suffering. In order to protect our students and staff, and to provide a service to the community, GIFS has invested in an air quality monitor: https://www.airvisual.com/air-quality-monitor
Parents, students, and staff can all access the data from this monitor by downloading the Air Visual app, which works on any type of phone or computer: https://www.airvisual.com/air- quality-app
Then use this share code on your phone app to follow GIFS: YS9DR767. The name of our monitor is "gifs tigers outdoor."
With health and safety in the forefront of everyone's minds, we are instituting a policy of indoor recess anytime the air quality rises to 130 US AQI or above.
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We will use the data from the GIFS monitor to make that decision. For air quality between 100- 130 US AQI, which can aggravate individuals with sensitive respiratory issues, we recommend that parents provide their students with masks that can be worn while students are outdoors:
https://10mag.com/yellow-dust-mask-korea/
http://item2.gmarket.co.kr/English/detailview/item.aspx?goodscode=738085327
https://www.airvisual.com/pollution-mask
PARENT/GUARDIAN TEACHER COMMUNICATION
PARENT/GUARDIAN TEACHER CONFERENCES Both formal and informal parent/guardian teacher conferences and interviews are a very important part of a student’s education at GIFS as they are an opportunity to discuss a student’s progress. There are a number of ways to contact and meet with staff.
Formal parent/guardian conferences occur twice a year, after the First and Third Quarters. These provide an opportunity to examine student performance over the previous term and discuss areas of strength and improvement. Students in middle and high school are encouraged to attend the conferences with their parents/guardians so that all parties have the same understanding of progress and suggestions.
Parents/guardians are invited to have a teacher conference by appointment at other times throughout the school year if necessary.
ALMA ALMA, our school management system (SMS), is GIFS’ communication interface that provides insight into student- report cards, attendance, incidents, and activities (after-school activities). ALMA’s integrated communication tools encourage interactions between faculty and students, and built-in parent and student portals help keep families informed and involved. We are able to create holistic student profiles so that teachers, administrators and parents can see student information side-by-side with insights about the student's performance, attendance, enrollment, teacher notes and more. School administrators can broadcast emergency notifications to staff, parents, and students and publish non-emergency announcements via email and the virtual school bulletin board.
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MANAGEBAC ManageBac is our online learning platform and curriculum-planning tool. Teachers post unit plans at least a week before the start of any new unit and all homework (including assignments and projects) is always posted on the class calendar with a detailed explanation of expectations. Finally, ManageBac serves as a file storage system for all worksheets and review materials, is used as a class blog, and all feedback (including comments and grades) on large assessed tasks is available there.
All secondary students will be given their own GIFS username and email account so they can access the system, see assignment details and due dates, download teacher-provided files, upload completed work, and view their feedback and grades. Elementary students will also be given their own GIFS username and email account; however, parents will have oversight of ManageBac accounts for students in grades K to 5. In addition, all parents have access via their parent account (set-up link is sent by Mr. Carnochan) and/or their child’s username and password. Parents are encouraged to regularly check ManageBac for upcoming deadlines as well as important messages.
REPORT CARDS Report cards are issued four times a year (approximately every nine weeks). Families will be informed mid-quarter as needed to communicate academic progress.
WEBSITE Our school website, http://www.gifs.or.kr, posts information pertaining to the daily activities of school including the school’s newsletter, Parent Teacher Organization news, photos of school events, as well as registration procedures, school policies, and contact information for teachers.
FACEBOOK The GIFS Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/GyeongnamInternationalForeignSchool, posts information about the daily activities of students and staff, as well as notices about upcoming school events.
EMAIL Staff can also be contacted via the e-mail addresses listed on the school website and in the front of this handbook. Parents may also email the front office at [email protected]. This is the preferred avenue of communication for routine questions and concerns.
TELEPHONE Staff can also be contacted after teaching hours (3:30pm-4:30pm) via telephone. The school office number is 055-853-5125 (outside of Korea +82-55-853-5125). If parents need to contact their child during school hours, they can do so via the school office 055-853-5125 (outside of Korea +82-55-853-5125). Parents are asked to honor the student cellular phone policy by not calling their child on their cell phone during the school day.
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PARENT INVOLVEMENT
Our Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) and the school jointly host a number of events throughout the year to encourage parent participation in the school. These activities include Back To School Night, Field Trips, Science Fairs, Music Festivals, Field Days, and Drama Productions. We also encourage our parents to attend regular season games, home tournaments, and special events hosted at the school.
The PTO is composed of representatives from many different grade levels and structured to ensure that parents are active partners in decisions regarding school initiatives. The aims and objectives of the committee are as follows:
● to connect parents, teachers, and students ● to communicate what is happening in the school to the community ● to assist teachers and staff as needed in order to enhance the learning environment ● to create a welcoming environment that fosters student learning and families from all around the world ● to plan and organize programs and activities to help meet the needs of the GIFS community, including parents and staff ● to provide volunteer and financial support for school programs that result in the nurturing and educating of all school students ● to seek out and express the voice and spirit of our school community ● to encourage and increase involvement with all GIFS families and the public ● to show appreciation for teachers and staff for all their work for our students ● to provide a forum for families, administration and educators of our school to collaborate and create a vibrant learning community for all students
SUPPORT STRUCTURES FOR STUDENTS
Part of GIFS’ mission is to provide an environment for students that is welcoming and inclusive; therefore, the school has multiple support structures in place to assist our students during their time with us.
School Counselor At GIFS, teaching, learning, and the wellbeing of our students’ matter. GIFS employ a School Counselor whose role is to support students who are struggling with any aspect of their daily lives, whether it be academic, social, emotional, or otherwise. The counselor supports a safe learning environment and is available to help students with their transition in and out of the school. They also teach time management skills, good study habits, appropriate interpersonal
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skills, and other behaviors that will allow the student to grow as a happy and healthy individual during their time with us. The counselor supports students at any stage of their academic, social, and emotional development. They also provide services to school staff, parents, and the community as necessary. Note that GIFS is a member of the International School Counselor Association and adheres to the ethical standards outlined here: https://iscainfo.com/resources/Documents/EthicalStandards2010.pdf
English as a Second Language (ESL) GIFS believes that learning English is vital for student development, not only academically but also socially and emotionally, as English is the language of inclusion in our school environment. With that in mind, GIFS offers a comprehensive English as a Second Language program which includes “Push In” and “Pull Out” services in elementary school, as well as, Beginner, Intermediate, and High Intermediate leveled courses in secondary. For LEP students in grades 11 and 12, we offer IB English B. Classroom and content area teachers also use differentiated instruction to assist their students in gaining English Language proficiency in the general education setting. The goal of our program is for students to gain English proficiency in the subject areas of English Language Arts, Math, Social Studies and Science in the four Language modalities of reading, writing, listening, and speaking. GIFS is a member of the WIDA International Schools Consortium.
All secondary ELL students are required to supply their own bilingual word-to-word paper or electronic dictionaries. There are two clear reasons for this. First, adolescent and adult learners learn language by translation, especially in the initial stages of acquisition. (It is therefore also advisable that students keep a personal vocabulary journal with them to record new words as they are looked up.) Secondly, only bilingual word-to-word paper or electronic dictionaries are allowed in exams. This is the case not only with internal GIFS exams, but also with externally assessed exams such as the IBDP. Paper dictionaries require practice to use quickly, and electronic translators are instant, making timed tests much more manageable. Use of cell phone apps are discouraged in class for translation as they interfere with the GIFS technology policy, create a distraction for many adolescent learners, and are prohibited during formal exams.
For further information regarding our entrance and exit criteria for English Language Learner (ELL) services, please see our Language policy.
Special Education Needs and Learning Support GIFS, an inclusive school, prides itself on its ability to support and guide unique learners. We ensure opportunities for all learners. The school employs a Special Education Needs/Learning Support Coordinator to manage communication with the parents, staff, and students, to set up extra support lessons, and assist in other ways as needed. This coordinator also provides services to individual students with mild to moderate educational needs. Intervention Plans and/or Individual Education Plans (IEPs) are designed, implemented, and reviewed every quarter, and 33 | Page
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student progress is monitored. Depending on the needs, students receive individual or small group support. At each stage, the coordinator works closely with the parents and teachers to develop student profiles and highlight strengths and weaknesses. Standardized assessments (Dyslexia Portfolio, DASH Handwriting Assessment) are also conducted to better address student needs. In order to provide the highest quality support, we are willing to work closely with outside agencies as well. Please consult the SEN/Learning Support Coordinator for any further questions. For more detail, please review the SEN/Learning Support Policy. For students who join GIFS and have been identified as Gifted and Talented (G&T) with supporting certified documentation, we at GIFS will accommodate and differentiate within the classroom as permitted by the resources available to us.
STUDENT TECHNOLOGY USE GUIDELINES & POLICIES
Mandatory Laptop Policy – Grades 5th to 12th – Gyeongnam International Foreign School is a Bring Your Own Device (ByoD) School for all students in Grades 5-12. All students must bring a contemporary laptop computer to school each day to participate completely with the Gyeongnam International Foreign School curriculum. A cellular phone or tablet does not count as a device. However, the new generation Apple iPad with an attachable keyboard may be considered a suitable device.
We believe that the use of laptops by students results in: ● Building on our specific K-12 curriculum standards as described by the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE). ● Increased 21st century technology expertise with specific hardware and software competencies – including typing – that goes beyond casual gaming and the casual use of Web 2.0 application. ● Improved research skills and the ability to attend to prolonged and mobile periods of research / archiving and note taking resources with browser software applications. ● An increase in student collaboration. ● More effective student engagement and use of school purchased platforms like ManageBac and the newest digital curriculum resources.
The minimal laptop hardware and software requirements for ByoD are as follows:
Windows/PC ● Intel Core 2 Duo /Intel Core i3 CPU/ Intel Core i5 CPU ● 8GB RAM ● Wi-Fi capable ● USB 2.0-3.0 34 | Page
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● Windows 10 - English Language Pack ● Office Suite (Microsoft Office, OpenOffice, Mac, etc.) from 2012 or newer that includes a Document, a Spreadsheet, and a Presentation editor in English ● Adobe Flash & Adobe Reader ● Most current Google Chrome & Internet Explorer browsers ● 128 GB Hard Drive ● Power cord (and adapters if needed for Korean power) and a protective case
Apple/Mac/iPad ● If you currently use Apple hardware and software, we only ask that you acquire an English language pack/version of the software listed above ● Install current Google Chrome browser
Additional Expectations and Student Responsibilities ● GIFS requires that all devices are running in the English language. Teachers are not able to help students who use non-English as their system language. This requirement also allows teachers to monitor appropriate use of computers. ● Please only use authentic (purchased) versions of operating systems and programs. Errors caused by illegal copies delay class and GIFS cannot guarantee support for machines with illegal versions of software installed. ● Students are responsible for managing their battery power and hard drive space. ● Students must bring their own power cords to school every day. No borrowing allowed. Please label power cords with student names. Students will face disciplinary consequences for not bringing the necessary devices and chargers to school. ● Students are expected to back up their computers/devices one time per month. Weekly backups are suggested. Parents should help remind students to back up their computers/devices. ● Smartphones are not an acceptable replacement for laptops. ● Students are expected to download suggested official upgrades regularly. ● Earphones/Mouse - Earphones need to be brought every day. If students use a mouse, bring it every day. ● See GIFS Student Handbook for guidance on appropriate use of software and computers. ● The GIFS Acceptable Use Procedures for Technology says that students are responsible for their own actions with hardware and software at GIFS. Serious penalties will ensue for any cyber-bullying or inappropriate computer/device use. ● Inappropriate computer use (on any device, including cellular phones) includes engaging in non-school related work, unauthorized use of copyrighted material and intentional obtaining or modifying of files, passwords, and data belonging to other users. Being on the internet or the playing of music, games, sounds or videos without prior permission from the teacher is considered non-school related work and is prohibited.
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● Teachers will determine specific use of all electronic/digital devices during instruction based on professional discretion. ● GIFS is not responsible for software or hardware repairs.
Cellular Phones Student cellular phones may be brought to school, but they are only to be used with permission for educational purposes. All other cell phone use is not permitted. “Use” includes making calls, using apps, searching the internet, texting or voice chatting, playing games, checking updates, listening to music, or any other activity on the device. During class time they are to be turned off unless given express permission by the classroom teacher. Phones are not to be used during transition times, class breaks, in the bathroom, or elsewhere in the school. If a phone makes any noise during class, in the hallways or is being used by a student, staff members may give the student a demerit before escalating the penalty. Phones may be confiscated if a student is in violation of this rule and will be returned to the student at the end of the school day. Repeat violations will result in a call to the parents/guardians and the phone will only be returned to the student after a meeting with the parents/guardians.
Phones may be used before the first school bell at 8:30am, during lunch/recess time, and after the last school bell at 3:25pm. However, no gaming is allowed. Please note rules regarding inappropriate computer use (on any device) under Additional Expectations and Student Responsibilities. Phones are not to be used during after school activities unless given express permission, for example, to contact parents/guardians.
Electronics & PMD’s (Personal Music Devices) Cellphones, PMD’s, portable game devices, or other electronics, must be put away and turned off during school hours. Calculators, laptop computers, or any device that aids the student in schoolwork is acceptable under supervision of the teacher. Any personal electronic item that is brought to school is the responsibility of the owner only. GIFS is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
Exceptions to the above policy may occur on field trips or other times at the discretion and approval of the adult supervisor.
GIFS Computer Use We value our GIFS computers (used hereafter to include desktop and laptop computers as well as iPads, tablet computers, and any other internet-capable device such as a smartphone or web- enabled personal music device [PMD]), technological tools, and access to the internet as a way to support and advance teaching and learning. We have made a considerable investment to ensure that we have access to these resources. In return, we expect everyone to be responsible and respectful users and to adhere to the following:
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School computers will be used for educational purposes only. This includes during study hall, lunch break, or any “free time.” Students are not allowed to game, browse, chat, shop, or visit any non-academic sites. Students will not damage the hardware or software in any fashion. Students are not permitted to change settings, desktop appearance, or download or install programs without a teacher’s permission.
Responsible Use of Personal Laptops Students in Middle School and High School are expected to bring their own personal laptops to school provided these are used in ways that are consistent with the above guidelines; that is, we expect personal electronics to be used only for school-related activities. With their advisors, the Technology Use Agreement will be reviewed with students at the beginning of the school year.
Responsible Use of the Internet The internet provides many educational opportunities, but also necessitates personal responsibility for its use. A responsible user will use the school’s electronic resources:
● In a considerate, ethical, efficient and legal manner. ● To support learning and enhance instruction. ● To complete instructional and administrative tasks requiring research, inquiry, problem solving and/or communication. ● In a manner that complies with GIFS school policies.
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STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES (SLOs)
Gyeongnam International Foreign School prepares students to be:
● Inquirers: students develop their natural curiosity. ● Knowledgeable: students explore concepts, ideas and issues that have both a local and global significance. ● Thinkers: students think critically to engage themselves in figuring out complex problems. ● Communicators: students express themselves and information through a variety of modes of communication. ● Principled: students act honestly and with a strong sense of fairness, justice and respect for the dignity of the individual, groups and communities. ● Open-minded: students appreciate their own cultures and personal histories and are open to the perspectives, values and traditions of other individuals and communities. ● Caring: students show respect and compassion towards the needs of others. ● Risk-takers: students approach unfamiliar situations with courage, as well as defend their beliefs. ● Balanced: students understand the importance of intellectual, physical and emotional balance to achieve personal well-being. ● Reflective: students give consideration to their own learning and experience
GIFS SLO’s are based on the IB Learner Profile:
The aim of all IB programmes is to develop internationally minded people who, recognizing their common humanity and shared guardianship of the planet, help create a better and more peaceful world.
The IB learner profile represents 10 attributes valued by IB World Schools. We believe these attributes, and others like them, can help individuals and groups become responsible members of local, national and global communities. https://www.ibo.org/benefits/learner-profile/
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ACADEMICS
Elementary (Grades K-5)
Elementary instruction is aligned to the framework of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) and based on the US Common Core State Standards for Mathematics, Science, and Language Arts, and AERO standards for Art and Social Studies.
Elementary teachers have developed a rigorous program of inquiry (POI) based on the principles of active, student centered learning and real-world problem solving. Individual units are planned within the six transdisciplinary themes identified by the IB with international mindedness and development of the whole child at the forefront. We believe that the best learning happens with personal discovery and experimentation, with the child leading in their own learning. Our goal is to nurture the whole child and thus we do not stop at teaching to standards. We also integrate teaching and learning focused on developing student attributes and attitudes that lead to success in daily life. Our Student Learner Outcomes (SLOs) based on the IB Learner Profile are embedded in the day-to-day experiences of students. In addition, students are taught to understand and implement the IB Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills that will support them as lifelong learners.
Curriculum Resources include:
Language Arts: Literacy by Design by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, as well as a variety of texts, materials, learning experiences, and web-based resources. These resources are utilized to provide students with opportunities to engage in language learning within meaningful contexts, rather than as isolated skills.
Mathematics: Everyday Math by McGraw Hill, as well as a variety of texts, materials, learning experiences, and web-based resources. These resources are used to teach relevant, realistic content within the units of inquiry, whenever possible, that align with grade level standards. Science: Teachers use a variety of texts, materials, learning experiences, and web-based resources that align with grade level content standards to guide students as they explore the biological, chemical and physical aspects of the world, and the relationships between them.
Social Studies: Teachers use a variety of texts, materials, learning experiences, and web-based resources that align with grade level content standards and promote intercultural understandings and respect for the values and traditions of others.
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Elementary Grading
Elementary grading can vary depending on the content that is being assessed and the type of assessment that is given. Students may receive written or verbal feedback, a rubric score or a percentage grade based on a 100 percent scale that is converted to match our quarterly report card rubric grading scale of 1 to 4. See below for the conversion chart used when percentage grades are given.
Score Descriptor Percentage Grade out of 100%
0 Missing 0% (Not turned in)
1 Struggling 0% to 55%
2 Starting to progress 55% to 70%
3 Meeting the standard 70% to 85%
4 Mastered the standard 85% or higher
Secondary (Grades 6-12) Middle School (Grades 6-8)
Middle school instruction is aligned to the framework of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP) and based on the US Common Core State Standards for Mathematics and Language Arts, Cambridge Checkpoint Standards for Science, and AERO standards for Art, Language Acquisition and Social Studies.
Our Middle School students at GIFS, Grades 6-8, are given more independence to demonstrate a comprehensive array of academic skills. The academic transition from elementary to high school is supported by a professional staff that individualizes the curriculum based on students’ interests, academic skills, and standardized assessments.
Students are encouraged to develop knowledge and research skills based on their personal interests tied to the Common Core, AERO and Cambridge Checkpoint standards. Assessment is ongoing and based on end-of-year exams (Grades 7-8), as well as assessment tasks carried out throughout the year.
Core subject areas: Mathematics, English Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies are designed to engage and challenge all students and promote personal academic confidence as they continue their schooling here or elsewhere.
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Enrichment subject areas: Students in the Middle School experience the Arts, Physical Education, World Languages and other subjects. The students sample many disciplines, which may prove to be a passion or interest in the future. In the enrichment program, we believe that by offering courses based on faculty talents and student interest, we can best prepare students for future academic challenges.
Students also follow a course of study for Life Orientation. Life Orientation encompasses a holistic development of students enabling them to make informed, morally responsible and accountable decisions. Learning areas focus on community and environmental health; sex and relationship education; positive social relationships; conflict resolution; rights and responsibilities; sensitivity to diverse cultures and belief systems. Students are encouraged to acquire and practice the necessary skills to respond to the challenges of today's modern world, e.g. social media awareness and online safety. In addition, Life Orientation focuses on development of transferable skills, with a positive approach towards study, work and the ability to make informed decisions regarding further study and future careers.
In addition, students will undertake a course of study in the IB’s Approaches to Learning (ATL) Skills. This is a course designed for students to discover and develop the IB’s ATL Skills. These skills are THINKING, COMMUNICATION, SOCIAL, SELF-MANAGEMENT, and RESEARCH. The latter skill, RESEARCH, will then be looked at in more detail as students will develop their researching, citing, referencing, formatting, and writing skills whilst completing an independent research topic.
High School (Grades 9-10)
Grades 9-10 instruction is aligned to the framework of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP). Students in Grades 9 and 10 use resources which are endorsed by Cambridge International Examinations as directly supporting their syllabuses and curriculum frameworks. These underpin the curriculum in the secondary school. Each course takes two full years to complete and is adapted to the academic strengths, interests, and needs of our students.
Grades range from A* at the top to G at the bottom, with grades A* to C being recognized as good passes. A minimum of 5 good passes is required for enrollment in the IB Diploma Programme. Students in Grades 11-12 who qualify are placed in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) which is the world’s premier pre-university course of study which takes place over two full years of study. Please see the section on The IB Diploma Programme for further details.
Core subject areas: Mathematics, English Language & Literature, the Sciences and Social Studies are designed to engage and challenge all students and promote personal academic confidence as they continue their schooling here or elsewhere. 41 | Page
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Enrichment subject areas: Students in the High School may choose classes of interest in the Arts, Physical Education, World Languages and other subjects. Students sample many disciplines which may prove to be a passion or interest in the future. In the enrichment program, we believe that by offering courses based on faculty talents and student interest, we can best prepare students for future academic challenges. Students also follow a course of study for Life Orientation and Approaches to Learning (see middle school summary above for description).
Grades 6-10 Grading Scales
In Grades 6-10, GIFS follows the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (MYP) criteria-based assessment system. Each MYP class contains four objectives, each of which are assessed by a set number of strands (see individual MYP subject guides for more specific information). Teachers assess student performance in the four objectives. Each objective is 8 points, leading to a total of 32 for each reporting cycle. These scores out of 32 then are used to determine a student’s grade from 1 (low) to 7 (high). Please see the GIFS Assessment Policy for a more detailed breakdown of assessment in these grades.
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Below is a breakdown of how each score out of 32 aligns on the IB 7-point grading scale, and the descriptor of what each score means. This information comes from the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme From Principles into Practice document.
Grade Score Descriptor
Produces work of very limited quality. Conveys many significant misunderstandings or lacks understanding of most concepts and contexts. Very 1 1-5 rarely demonstrates critical or creative thinking. Very inflexible, rarely using knowledge or skills.
Produces work of limited quality. Expresses misunderstandings or significant gaps in understanding for many concepts and contexts. Infrequently demonstrates 2 6-9 critical or creative thinking. Generally inflexible in the use of knowledge and skills, infrequently applying knowledge and skills.
Produces work of an acceptable quality. Communicates basic understanding of many concepts and contexts, with occasionally significant misunderstandings or 3 10-14 gaps. Begins to demonstrate some basic critical and creative thinking. Is often inflexible in the use of knowledge and skills, requiring support even in familiar classroom situations.
Produces good-quality work. Communicates basic understanding of most concepts and contexts with few misunderstandings and minor gaps. Often demonstrates 4 15-18 basic critical and creative thinking. Uses knowledge and skills with some flexibility in familiar classroom situations, but requires support in unfamiliar situations.
Produces generally high-quality work. Communicates secure understanding of concepts and contexts. Demonstrates critical and creative thinking, sometimes 5 19-23 with sophistication. Uses knowledge and skills in familiar classroom and real- world situations and, with support, some unfamiliar real-world situations.
Produces high-quality, occasionally innovative work. Communicates extensive understanding of concepts and contexts. Demonstrates critical and creative 6 24-27 thinking, frequently with sophistication. Uses knowledge and skills in familiar and unfamiliar classroom and real-world situations, often with independence.
Produces high-quality, frequently innovative work. Communicates comprehensive, nuanced understanding of concepts and contexts. Consistently demonstrates 7 28-32 sophisticated critical and creative thinking. Frequently transfers knowledge and skills with independence and expertise.
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2020-2021 SECONDARY SUBJECT OFFERINGS
High School (Grades 9-12)
Studies in Language and Literature Diploma Programme Core English Language and Literature: 9-10 IB Creativity, Activity, & Service (CAS): 11-12 Korean Language and Literature: 9-10* IB Extended Essay (EE): 11-12 DP English A: Language and Literature: 11-12 IB Theory of Knowledge (TOK): 11-12 DP Korean A: Language and Literature: 11-12* Middle School (Grades 6-8) Language Acquisition Spanish: 9-10 Studies in Language and Literature English as a Second Language (ESL): 9-12 English Language and Literature: 6-8 DP Spanish B: 11-12* Korean Language and Literature: 6-8* DP English B: 11-12* Language Acquisition Individuals and Societies Spanish: 6-8 Modern World History: 9-10 English as a Second Language (ESL): 6-8* DP World History: 11-12 DP Business Management: 11-12 Individuals and Societies Social Studies: 6-8 Sciences Integrated Sciences (Phys/Chem/Bio): 9-10 Sciences DP Physics 11-12 Integrated Sciences: 6-8 DP Chemistry 11-12 DP Biology 11-12 Math Middle School Math: 6-8 Mathematics International Mathematics: 9-10 The Arts DP Math: Analysis & Approaches: 11-12 Visual Arts: 6-8 DP Math: Applications & Interpretation: 11-12 Music: 6-8
The Arts Enrichment Visual Arts: 9-10 Physical and Health Education: 6-8 DP Visual Arts: 11-12 Design: 6-8 Life Orientation: 6-8 Enrichment Approaches to Learning: 6-8 Physical and Health Education: 9-10 Design: 9-10 Life Orientation: 9-10 Approaches to Learning: 9-10 Personal Research Project (PRP): 10
*Language proficiency requirements apply. New students may be tested to determine appropriate level. Additional subject offerings for High School students may be available online or through self-study, please speak to the IBDP Coordinator Mr. Sam Kuntz: [email protected] 44 | Page
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The GIFS High School Diploma Graduation Requirements Accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), the GIFS Diploma is recognized as completion of a high school level programme of study. The GIFS Diploma is based on a credit system and credits can be earned from Grade 9. All International Baccalaureate subjects are graded on a 1-7 scale. In the DP or MYP classes, a passing grade of at least three (3) on a scale of seven (7) in any IB subject earns 1 credit. However, for the DP Extended Essay and DP Theory of Knowledge, a passing grade of at least a ‘D’ earns 1 credit.
Classes that meet IB hour requirements (at least 140 hours combined in grades 9-10 and 150 hours (DP SL) in grades 11-12) are worth 1 credit per course per year. DP HL courses (240 hours combined in grades 11-12) are worth 1.5 credits per course per year. Courses that do not have hour requirements as outlined above are worth .5 credits per course per year.
In the event students are on track to graduate but do not need extra classes, they will still need to take 30 blocks of class per week. However, this case needs prior administrator approval. An exception to this policy is if GIFS ever runs an anticipated exam course in grade 11 (see GIFS Secondary Assessment Policy and GIFS DP Handbook for information). An anticipated exam course is when a DP SL course is taught entirely in 11th grade, with the student taking the final IB exam at the end of that year.
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The following table outlines the subjects and programme requirements where students can accumulate credits or partial credits.
Minimum Recommended Total Graduation Subject 9 10 11 12 Graduation Possible Requirement Requirements Credits s Group 1: Studies in 1 1 1 1 4 4 4 Language in Literature Group 2: Language 1 1 1 1 3 4 4 Acquisition* Group 3: Individuals 1 1 1 1 3 4 4 and Societies Group 4: Sciences 1 1 1 1 3 4 4
Group 5: Mathematics 1 1 1 1 4 4 4 Group 6: Arts or DP • • 1 1 2 2 2 Option** Grade 9-10 Option*** 1 1 • • 1 2 2 Physical and Health 1 1 • • 1 2 2 Education Grade 11 and 12 DP • • 1.5 1.5 • 3 3.5 Higher Level^ Theory of Knowledge • • .5 .5 • 1 1 Creativity, Action, • • .5 .5 1 1 1 Service DP Extended Essay • • • 1 1 1 1 Personal Research • 1 • • 1 1 1 Project^^ Approaches to .5 .5 • • .5 1 1 Learning Life Orientation .5 .5 • • 5 1 1 35.5 8 9 8.5 9.5 23 credits 35 credits credits
*Students who take both English and Korean Language and Literature classes do not need to take a Language Acquisition course. In this case, they would earn two credits in Group 1.
**Students in 11th and 12th grade can take an Arts class or a second class from Groups 1 - 4. Students doing two Group 1 classes may pick a second class from Group 2 - 4.
***Students in 9th and 10th grade need to choose between Visual Arts or Design class.
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^Each HL subject is worth .5 credits. Full Diploma Programme candidates are required to do at least three HL subjects, though they can do four with approval. IB Courses students can choose to do HL courses, in which case they would earn .5 credit for each HL course.
^^The Personal Research Project is only mandatory for those enrolled in Grade 10 by the start of third quarter.
NOTE - Students approved to take ESL or substitute subjects online may miss other required courses. In those situations, GIFS administration will ensure the student can still meet the graduation requirements before allowing the student to begin the new course. All substitute courses must be approved prior to their commencement.
Grade 11 and 12 students, independent of already earned credits, must have a minimum of 30 hours/classes per week. Prior Administrator approval is required.
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GRADUATION PATHWAYS AT GIFS
Gyeongnam International Foreign School provides three pathways to graduation in a student’s 11 and 12 grade years:
1. International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Candidate - graduate with an IB Diploma and a GIFS Diploma 2. International Baccalaureate (IB) Courses Candidate - graduate with an IB Courses certificate and a GIFS Diploma 3. GIFS Diploma Candidate - graduate with a GIFS Diploma Pathway 1: IB Diploma and GIFS Diploma
Students who complete Pathway 1 are full participants in the IB Diploma Programme (DP) at GIFS. They will take six approved DP courses (three at Standard Level – SL – and three at Higher Level – HL; however, students do have the option of taking four HL courses) during their 11th and 12th grade years. They will also take the DP Core Components of the Extended Essay (EE), Theory of Knowledge (TOK), and Creativity Activity and Service (CAS).
Students must pass all courses according to DP requirements to be able to earn the IB Diploma. These requirements include:
● Scoring at least 24 points among their six courses, and EE and TOK components ● Scoring at least 12 in their three HL courses (if students take four HL courses, the highest three scores count) ● Scoring at least 9 in their three SL courses (if students take only two SL courses, they must score at least a 5 in total) ● Scoring no more than two 2s among their six courses (SL or HL) ● Scoring no more than three 3s among their six courses (SL or HL) ● Scoring a D or higher on both their EE ● TOK components ● Scoring no 1s in any subject (SL or HL) ● Completing all CAS component requirements
Pathway 1 students who fail to meet the above requirements, or who commit academic dishonesty, will not be awarded an IB Diploma.
Pathway 2: IB Courses and GIFS Diploma
Students who complete Pathway 2 have the option of taking one or more DP courses at GIFS, but they do not complete the full DP program. These students can decide which course(s) to take at either Higher or Standard Level. They will then complete all requirements and
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assessments for that course, including the final IB exams. Students will receive an IB certificate listing the scores of their courses. Depending on university or area of study, universities may provide college credit for students who score at a certain level in IB Courses. Please check with individual universities to verify.
For classes in which they are not intending to register as an IB Courses candidate, students may still take the same classes as Pathway 1 students, or they may take other courses such as ESL or online classes with administrator approval. Even if students choose not to attempt the final IB exam (and therefore not receive an IB score), they will still be required to complete all assessments in their classes at SL level, except for the final IB exam. In those classes, they would be expected to take an internal final exam, which would take place at the same time as the 9th- 11th grade exams, at the end of their 12th grade year.
Students may also take some courses at Foundations Level if approved by their teacher and administration.
Pathway 2 students are not required to complete the Extended Essay or Theory of Knowledge components of the IB-DP, but they may choose to if they wish or if they need extra credits for graduation.
Pathway 2 students will be required to complete all CAS components.
Pathway 3: GIFS Diploma
Students who complete Pathway 3 will take some of the same classes as Pathway 1 and 2 students, but their classes will all be at SL or Foundations Level (with teacher and administrator approval).
Pathway 3 students taking the classes at SL level will be required to complete all assessments as the other students, except for the final IB exam. They would be expected to take internal final exams for their classes, which would take place at the same time as the 9th-11th grade exams, at the end of their 12th grade year. Students may also take other courses such as ESL or online classes with administrator approval.
These students are not required to complete the Extended Essay or Theory of Knowledge components of the IB-DP, but they may choose to if they wish or if they need extra credits for graduation.
Pathway 3 students will be required to complete all CAS components. **Regardless of pathway, all students must earn at least a 3, a D, or a Pass in each course or component in order to earn credit for that term or year.**
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The IB Diploma Programme (DP)
An Education for Life The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) is the world's premier pre-university course of study. At GIFS, the IBDP begins in Grade 11 after the completion of Grades 9 and 10 and finishes almost two years later in the 4th Quarter of Grade 12. For those students wishing to have either a head start in their chosen career or their choice of university worldwide, the IB Diploma is the best educational option available.
The Diploma Programme curriculum IB Diploma Programme students must choose a total of six subjects from each of the five groups (1 to 5), ensuring breadth of knowledge and understanding in their best language, additional language(s), the social sciences, the experimental sciences and mathematics. Students must choose either an arts subject from group 6, or a second subject from groups 1 to 5. At least three and not more than four subjects are to be taken at higher level (240 teaching hours), while the other subjects are taken at standard level (150 teaching hours). In addition to disciplinary and interdisciplinary study, the Diploma Programme features three core elements that broaden students’ educational experience and challenge them to apply their knowledge and skills.
The Diploma Programme Core ● The Extended Essay (EE) asks students to engage in independent research through an in-depth study of a question relating to one of the DP subjects they are studying. The World Studies extended essay option allows students to focus on a topic of global significance which they examine through the lens of at least two DP subjects.
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● Theory of Knowledge (TOK) develops a coherent approach to learning that unifies the academic disciplines. In this course on critical thinking, students reflect on the nature of knowledge and on how we know what we claim to know by examining the different ways of knowing and areas of knowledge. It also encourages them to consider the role which knowledge plays in their own culture, in the cultures of others, and in the wider world. ● Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) involves students in a range of activities alongside their academic studies throughout the Diploma Programme. Creativity encourages students to engage in the arts and creative thinking. Activity seeks to develop a healthy lifestyle through physical activity. Service with the community offers a vehicle for a new learning with academic value. The three strands of CAS enhance students’ personal and interpersonal development through experiential learning and enable journeys of self-discovery.
Diploma Programme Subject Groups at GIFS Students study a total of six subjects - five chosen from the first five groups above, and Visual Arts subject from group 6 OR another choice from groups 3 or 4. Group 1: IB Subject Studies in Group 2: Group 3: Group 4: Group 5: Group 6: Choice Grid: Language Language Individuals Sciences Mathematics The Arts 2020-21 and Acquisition and Societies Literature English A: Mathematics: Language Analysis and and World History Biology Approaches Literature English B Higher Level Visual Arts Business Chemistry (HL) Mathematics: Korean A: Spanish B Management Applications Language Physics and and Interpretation Literature English A: Language and Literature Mathematics: Analysis and World History Biology Korean A: Approaches English B Standard Language Business Chemistry Visual Arts Level (SL) and Mathematics: Spanish B Management Literature Applications Physics and School Interpretation Supported Self-Taught Language A
Further information on DP subjects and choices offered at GIFS can be found at www.gifs.or.kr Additional subject offerings for DP students may be available online or through self-study. Please speak to the Head of Secondary Mr. Sam Kuntz ([email protected]) for online offerings or for further information on the IB Diploma Programme at GIFS.
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Grade 11-12 Grade Scales GIFS uses the IB 1-7 scale to report quarterly grades. Below is a breakdown of the grades and the descriptor of the typical work seen with that score. Please see the GIFS Secondary Policy for further clarification on grade calculation. Grade boundaries and percentages are different for each subject and they change each year. Grade Descriptor
The student demonstrates excellent content knowledge and understanding, conceptual and contextual awareness and critical, reflective thinking. Highly effective research, investigation and technical skills are evident, as is the ability to analyze, evaluate and synthesize qualitative and quantitative evidence, knowledge and concepts to reach valid conclusions or solve problems. In collaborative exercises, the student works very well with others, ethically 7 and responsibly, and with perseverance. Responses are highly insightful, accurate, clear, concise, convincing, logically structured, with sufficient detail, precise use of appropriate terminology and with appropriate attention to purpose and audience. Responses are creative, make very effective use of well-selected examples, demonstrate awareness of alternative points of view and provide clear evidence of intercultural understanding.
The student demonstrates very good content knowledge and understanding, conceptual and contextual awareness and critical, reflective thinking. Competent research, investigation and technical skills are evident, as is the ability to analyze, evaluate and synthesize evidence, knowledge and concepts. In collaborative exercises, the student works well with others, 6 ethically and responsibly, and with perseverance. Responses are mainly accurate, clear, concise, convincing, logically structured, with sufficient detail, using consistent terminology and with appropriate attention to purpose and audience. Responses show creativity, make effective use of examples, demonstrate awareness of alternative points of view and provide evidence of intercultural understanding.
The student demonstrates sound content knowledge and understanding, good conceptual and contextual awareness and evidence of critical, reflective thinking. Research, investigation and technical skills are evident and sometimes well developed. Analytical ability is evident, although responses may at times be more descriptive than evaluative. In 5 collaborative investigations, the student generally works well with others, ethically and responsibly, and with perseverance. Responses are generally accurate, clear, logically structured and coherent, with mainly relevant material, using suitable terminology, and are sometimes well developed. Responses show reasonable creativity, use of examples, and awareness of the audience and evidence of intercultural understanding. The student demonstrates, with some gaps, secure content knowledge and understanding, some conceptual and contextual awareness and some evidence of critical thinking. Research, investigation and technical skills are evident, but not thoroughly developed. Analysis is generally valid, but more descriptive than evaluative. The student solves basic or routine problems, but with limited ability to deal with new or difficult situations. In collaborative 4 exercises, the student works within a team and generally approaches investigations ethically and responsibly, but requires supervision. Responses are mostly accurate and clear with little irrelevant material. There is some ability to logically structure responses with adequate coherence and use of appropriate terminology. Responses sometimes show creativity, and include some awareness of the audience and evidence of intercultural understanding.
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The student demonstrates basic knowledge and understanding of the content, with limited evidence of conceptual and contextual awareness. Research and/ or investigation is evident, but remains undeveloped. There is some ability to comprehend and solve problems. Collaborative investigations are approached ethically and responsibly, but require close 3 supervision. Responses are only sometimes valid and appropriately detailed. There is some expression of ideas and organization of work and basic use of appropriate terminology, but arguments are rarely convincing. Responses lack clarity and some material is repeated or irrelevant. There is limited creativity, awareness of context or audience and limited evidence of intercultural understanding. The student demonstrates little knowledge or understanding of the content, with weak comprehension of concepts and context and little evidence of application. Evidence of research and/or investigation is only superficial. There is little ability to comprehend and 2 solve problems. Responses are rarely accurate or valid. There is some attempt to express ideas, use terminology appropriate to the subject and organize work, but the response is rarely convincing. There is very little creativity, awareness of context or audience and little evidence of intercultural understanding. The student demonstrates very rudimentary knowledge or understanding of the content, with very weak comprehension of concepts and context. Ability to comprehend and solve problems or to express ideas is not evident. Responses are rarely accurate or valid. 1 Organization is lacking to the point that responses are confusing. Responses demonstrate very little to no appreciation of context or audience, inappropriate or inadequate use of terminology, and little to no intercultural understanding.
For more information about the IB please visit: http://www.ibo.org/en/programmes/diploma- programme/curriculum/
AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES
After-School Activities After-school Activity – is defined as any activity outside the regular school curriculum and includes, but is not limited to, the following activities: sports, drama, Student Council, speech and debate, any clubs, music contests, dances, etc. Any after-school activity is subject to the guidelines set forth in this policy.
After-School Activities Conduct and Consent Policy Gyeongnam International Foreign School (GIFS) strives to provide exceptional and diverse opportunities that promote healthy, active lifestyles in a safe, inclusive environment. GIFS recognizes that balance in life is essential and GIFS aims to promote this sense of balance by offering a variety of different academic, athletic, and artistic opportunities for students. Our mission with the after-school program is the same as the GIFS school mission: “Inspiring excellence in an international community of learners.”
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Participation in an after-school activity is a privilege extended by Gyeongnam International Foreign School to its students. GIFS holds the participants of after-school activities to a higher standard of behavior than is the case for a nonparticipant.
Student participants, parents and coaches/advisors are required to promote the GIFS mission and vision at all times while participating in after-school activities.
Purpose: It is the purpose of the after-school programs offered by GIFS to provide enriching experiences and opportunities for students outside of the regular classroom. Whether the activities are within the school community or part of the larger outside community, students will have an opportunity to grow and develop socially, intellectually, emotionally and physically. Students may participate in a variety of after-school activities that extend beyond their well- rounded classroom programs.
Scope: This policy applies to all students and parents enrolled at GIFS.
Students from Kindergarten to Grade 12 will be offered after-school activities to attend throughout the year, however, some grades may not have an after-school option available every session.
Students from K to Grade 5 are not required to take part in after school activities but may join if they choose and if there is availability. Students from Grade 6-12 are encouraged to take part in at least two or three after school activities over the course of a school year.
In order to join an after-school activity, GIFS requires parent or guardian consent 24 hours before the starting date of the club.
At the start of each season the Athletic Director will send out an online sign-up form for the after- school activities on offer at GIFS. Consent and participation in an after-school activity means the acceptance and adherence to the After-School Conduct and Consent Policy
Rules for Participation Attendance: Participants are expected to attend all practices/meetings (can be twice per week in elementary, middle and high school and/or tournaments (twice per season). Participants with schedule conflicts due to multiple sports, after school activities, or other commitments may receive permission from their coach to participate in one practice/meeting per week. If 2 practices/meetings are missed without sufficient notice (24hrs for practice/meeting and beginning of the season for tournaments and in extenuating circumstances one week before a tournament), the student will be removed from the team/club and must have a discussion with the athletic director to get reinstated for future clubs and sports. If a student is injured, they are expected to attend all practices/meetings and games to make sure they stay up to date with plays, strategies, or other relevant information. Students may obtain permission from coaches/advisors to only attend one practice/meeting per week if they have a conflicting schedule.
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Once clubs begin, students will have one week from the first day of the club start date to change clubs. By the second week, students must fulfil their commitment and remain with the club until the end of the session.
If students are at school on the day of their club, they must attend their club. The only valid reason for not attending their club is if they are sick from school that day or have a parent email or note explaining the reason for their dismissal. Students who are absent on a practice day due to sickness, a field trip, or have parent consent for their absence will not be considered absent.
If students are not able to make it to a team/club meeting they must provide the school office, their activity supervisor, and/or Athletic Director with at least 24 hours of notice. This notice must come directly from parents and their dismissal from the meeting cannot be guaranteed if students take the bus, as bus spaces are limited and difficult to rearrange at the last minute.
It is the sole responsibility of the student to inform their coach if they are unable to attend practice by meeting in a face-to-face discussion 24 hours prior to the practice. The student must have parent consent for the absence 24 hours in advance.
Students who do not have a conversation with their coach explaining the reason for their upcoming absence and presenting their parent consent for their dismissal 24 hours prior to the scheduled practice time will be marked as an unexcused absence.
Two unexcused absences in the season will result in the student being benched in the following SKAC (Southern Korean Activities Conference) game or club event.
Demerit Policy: Conduct of participants both in school and outside of school is very important at GIFS. Participants receiving three demerits in a season or quarter will be removed from any clubs or teams they are involved in. Participants attending one practice/meeting per week without the Athletic Directors approval will be removed from the team/club after only two demerits. Participants that have been removed from a team/club must have a meeting with the athletic and activities director before being permitted to join another team/club in that calendar year.
GIFS participants are expected to show respect towards all competitors, coaches, referees, and spectators during events and outside of events.
Uniform Policy: If a uniform is owned by GIFS, the participant must pay a deposit of KRW 30,000 at the beginning of the season to rent the uniform from the school. The condition of the uniform will be noted when it is rented out. This uniform must be returned cleaned and in equal condition to when it was rented within 1 week after the end of the season to receive back the full deposit. Otherwise, the deposit will be forfeited. In addition, GIFS may require participants to pay a small fee for pieces of uniform that cannot be shared communally, like socks or headbands. These will become the participants’ property. Shoes must be provided by the participant.
Members may also be required to purchase the required equipment to participate safely in their sport. This may include items such as sport specific shoes, shin guards, sport goggles, contact
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lenses or knee pads. GIFS will do its best to provide some of these items, but it is first and foremost a student’s responsibility.
Academic Conduct: Participants are expected to earn at least 60% in all classes. Homeroom and/or subject teachers are requested to check ALMA or ManageBac one week prior to a tournament and alert the Athletic Director if a student does not meet these requirements. A student’s participation in an after-school activity is at the discretion of the Athletic Director. It is the responsibility of the student to catch up on or hand in all missed assignments due to athletics or other after-school activities.
Electronic Permission Forms: Permission forms are sent out electronically through email and must be filled out one week prior to an event. If parents/guardians fail to complete the permission form, the student will not be allowed to take part in the event.
Fees: Reasonable fees needed to cover the cost of extra-curricular activities may be requested by GIFS for items such as instruction, materials, building use, and more. Donations or contributions may be solicited and accepted, but all such requests must clearly state that donations and contributions are voluntary. No student may be excluded from an activity or program because they did not make a donation.
Playing Time: GIFS is a Fair Play school. We believe that all players deserve to be treated fairly and have the right to play fairly in every game. Fair Play means that when all players behave properly, show up to all practices on time, are healthy, exhibit good attitude, and try their best, then they all deserve to play in every tournament. Fair Play is not necessarily the same as Equal Play. Equal Play means that no matter what, all players receive the same amount of play time every game. Players should always be allowed to play their fair share, which may be different from an equal amount of play.
GIFS coaches are encouraged to play each student in tournaments regardless of ability and skill level but playing time will not be equal between participants. Students are encouraged to talk to their coaches and come up with a plan to improve their skill level on their own time if they would like to have more playing time. Alternatively, the GIFS house leagues offer opportunities for students with lower skill levels to receive equal playing time. If you are disappointed with how a coach is playing their players during game time in regard to Fair Play, please contact the Athletic Director. All coaches are encouraged to share their playing and substitution philosophy with players and parents at the beginning of the season.
GIFS House Leagues: GIFS realize that not all students are comfortable participating in a competitive athletic event. The GIFS House League system (games played at lunch time) aims to provide opportunities for students who want a less stressful and demanding sporting experience. Games are co-ed and playing time is equally distributed between all participants.
GIFS SKAC Teams: Students in Grades 3-5 will have opportunities to participate in sporting jamborees throughout the year. Students from Grades 6-12 will be offered a variety of Southern Korean Activities Conference (SKAC) teams to participate in throughout the school year. These are subject to change on a yearly basis depending on student numbers and coaching logistics.
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2020-2021 Sports Offerings: *
Cross Country (Grades 3-12) Elementary Boys/Girls Futsal Elementary Boys/Girls Volleyball Elementary Boys/Girls Basketball Middle School Boys/Girls Futsal Middle School Boys/Girls Volleyball Middle School Boys/Girls Basketball High School Boys/Girls Futsal High School Boys/Girls Volleyball High School Boys/Girls Basketball
*may be modified yearly
SKAC team members who attend a SKAC tournament from Monday-Thursday are expected to be at school the following school day. We appreciate that team players will be tired and sore the following day; however, unless they are severely injured, absence the day after a SKAC event will not be excused without a doctor’s note and valid explanation.
SKAC team members who attend a SKAC tournament are expected to be at their pick-up location 5 minutes prior to their scheduled pick up time. Students will then be dropped off in the evening at the same location, however due to the logistics of these events a specific drop off time cannot be determined. Students need to be available from early in the morning to late at night on tournament days.
SKAC team members are to remember that they are representing GIFS at all tournaments. This means that they must be considerate of language, clothing they wear, attitude on and off the playing field, and overall demeanor. Students who are unable to abide by the rules and expectations set out by the Athletic Director and Coaches may be removed from the team as deemed necessary. Consequences/Removal from a team may appear on a student’s record.
SKAC team members are to remember that they are student-athletes and that their student conduct is to be prioritized over their athletic endeavors. Students who are struggling with behavior and who are not meeting the expectations of their teachers will be subject to removal from the team as deemed necessary by the Athletic Director
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GIFS CODE OF CONDUCT
Rights and Responsibilities At GIFS, we expect that everyone will be treated kindly and fairly.
At GIFS, a student’s responsibilities relate both to the school and the people who attend it. By acting responsibly, you protect your own rights, as well as the rights of others. Consider your rights and responsibilities and the rules that make them possible.
As a student you will: ● Be conscientious and serious about learning ● Act in a polite and respectful manner ● Make no negative or discriminatory comments to others ● Cooperate with the staff and your fellow students
Your teacher will: ● Provide a positive learning environment ● Communicate in a polite and reasonable manner ● Respect each student and carry out school policies and regulations
In the classroom you should: ● Feel safe and comfortable to express your own ideas and views ● Know what your teacher expects and how to meet those expectations ● Complete all of your assigned work to the best of your ability ● Plan to get help if and when you need it
In the schoolyard you should: ● Listen to and stay in sight of supervising staff ● Treat others the way you want to be treated ● Observe that only early childhood and young elementary students are allowed on the playground equipment. ● Cooperate with each other and share equipment ● Keep your hands to yourself ● Stay inside the school grounds at all times ● Let a teacher know if a ball or any other object goes out of the school grounds. Don’t go after it yourself ● Return ALL equipment to its home ● Make sure that no trash is left in the yard ● Observe all of these rules in the school multipurpose room or gym on rainy days
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STUDENT DISCIPLINE POLICIES
Students who engage in activities that are disrespectful to themselves, others, or school property will be subject to disciplinary action. The following policies apply to all school buildings, school grounds and parking lots; school property and all adjacent property; school vehicles, school- contracted vehicles and any other vehicles approved for school purposes; the area of entrance or departure from school premises or events and the vicinity of the school property. It also applies to any school sponsored activity, all school-sponsored trips, including all overnight trips, school-related functions, as well as activities that start or end at GIFS, whether sanctioned or not sanctioned by the school. This policy also applies to any student whose conduct at any time or in any place interferes with or obstructs the mission or operations of the school, adjoining businesses, residence areas, neighbors and community or the safety/welfare of the student, other students, faculty, visitors or community members. The administration reserves the right to amend any or all policies where a particular behavior is deemed to merit a more appropriate disciplinary action from that listed.
In general, disciplinary action taken by a teacher or principal will take the following course:
1. Verbal warning (at the teacher’s discretion this might include time-out in a chair or adjacent supervised classroom). 2. If the behavior persists after a verbal warning, secondary students are given a demerit. Elementary students may lose Class Dojo points or privileges such as recess time. 3. The teacher needs to inform the student of the demerit and log the incident into ALMA. The parents will be notified at this point by the teacher giving the demerit. 4. After three behavior demerits, the student will sit a supervised after-school detention. 5. A detention may occur immediately, bypassing three demerits, for serious breaches of school rules. 6. An internal suspension will occur instead of a fourth detention. Internal suspension is defined as the student being removed from all classes in a supervised area in school. 7. An external suspension will occur after an internal suspension as deemed appropriate by administration. An external suspension is defined as the student may not attend the school or participate in any extracurricular activities. He/she must complete work assigned by teachers. 8. A suspension may occur immediately, bypassing a detention, for serious breaches of school rules. 9. In extreme cases of misbehavior, a student may be recommended to the Board for expulsion. This recommendation is made by the administration after consultation and approval by the Board.
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10. For internal and external suspensions, records will be kept on students’ personal records. However, the record may be amended after a period of demonstrated good behavior.
*Teachers of elementary students follow a slightly different behavior policy that is more age appropriate for their students. Elementary students do not receive demerits; however, they may lose privileges such as recess time or be sent to another classroom if their behavior is disruptive. If a student exhibits extreme behavior, they may also be sent to school administration for counseling and intervention. Individual classroom behavior plans will be shared with parents during the first few weeks of each new school year. Parents may be contacted when deemed necessary by the classroom teacher, Head of Elementary, or the Principal.
SUSPENSION POLICY
Suspension or Expulsion Appeal Process A recommendation from the Principal for suspension or expulsion may be appealed to the board of directors. The guideline for an appeal of an expulsion recommendation is as follows:
● A parent, within five school days of the principal’s action, should place in writing a notice of appeal to the chairperson of the board of directors. ● The chairperson will schedule a hearing with the school board no later than 5 school days after the appeal. ● The board will hold an official hearing to hear the parental/student appeal of the administrative recommendation for expulsion and to hear the administrative documentation supporting the appeal. ● The board will meet in an executive session and render a decision to either uphold the administrative recommendation or overturn the administrative recommendation. ● The board will notify the parent in writing no more than 5 days after the hearing. ● The student will remain on an extended out of school suspension status until the appeal process has been completed.
Search and Seizure Our school reserves the right to conduct reasonable searches of a student, their physical property, or their school locker. We will protect students’ rights by searching only when there is probable cause. When possible, searches will take place in the presence of the student, the Principal, and a staff member. Only an adult staff member of the same gender is authorized to search a student.
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CODE OF CONDUCT ON THE SCHOOL BUS
Bus Policies Our goals for bus service include the following: ● All students will arrive at their final destinations safely. ● All buses arrive at GIFS 5-10 minutes prior to the start of the school day, subject to traffic. ● All buses depart from GIFS 10-15 minutes after the end of the school day or after- school activities.
In order to help assure that bus pick up and arrival are done in a safe, timely, and efficient manner, the following procedures and protocols are in place:
● Wear a seatbelt at all times when the bus is in motion. ● Be punctual for pick up. ● In the morning, students should be at the designated bus stop five minutes earlier than the posted arrival time so that they can be prepared to board when it arrives. ● Each pick up/drop off bus site has a designated location. Please make sure that students use that specific location. Every effort is made to have pick up locations safe and proximate to students’ homes. ● All people on the bus must be respectful of one another. ● Students must follow the seating plan as laid out by the school if required. ● Manage personal listening devices so they do not intrude on fellow passengers. ● Limit snacks to water or juice and small snacks. ● Use only appropriate language.
Consequences: Students and parents must sign a bus ridership contract before being allowed to ride the GIFS School Bus.
Road Safety GIFS takes safety on the bus extremely seriously. Buses are monitored by an adult, as well as the certified and licensed driver. All drivers are rigorously interviewed and must pass a background check before working at GIFS. Buses also are equipped with CCTV, which is examined if there is an incident, as well as periodically spot checked. All transports have speed limiters installed, which does not allow the bus to travel faster than 100 km/hr. In addition, buses do not stop at all during their commute between school and home. Any stops would introduce unnecessary risks to our students, so we do not allow them. Any questions or concerns about busing should be directed to the Transportation Manager in the Front Office.
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SCHOOL RULES
Language Use Other than English To maintain an inclusive school environment, we ask all students to use English to communicate with teachers and peers while on campus.
*Flexibility to this rule can be applied when it is beneficial to student learning, operational needs of the school, health and welfare of students, and does not exclude others in social settings. Vulgar Language Swearing or using “bad words” in any language will not be tolerated on campus.
Disruptive Behavior Any action taken by a student that causes an interruption of normal classroom instruction or distracts other students from learning is considered disruptive and is not allowed. Examples include running in the halls, yelling, throwing things, or actions specified in more detail by classroom rules.
Food in the Classroom Lunch meals will be eaten in the cafeteria or supervised outdoors. Exceptions to this rule include birthday parties or special occasions organized by teachers.
Chewing Gum Students should not bring gum to school and it is not allowed on school property.
GIFS Dress Policy Being out of uniform in any way is not allowed. Please see the GIFS Dress Code and the GIFS website for information about school uniforms.
Missing Classes Students must attend all scheduled classes on time, every day, unless they get permission from the principal. Skipping classes or leaving the school grounds without permission is not allowed.
Physical or Verbal Attacks Fighting with other students with the intent to do bodily harm, or using words to intimidate, injure, or bully is not allowed.
Academic Honesty All work assigned to a student must be completed by the student. Copying from books, the Internet, or friends or parents, is not allowed for any type of schoolwork. Students will receive a
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zero for any assignments where plagiarism is involved, and parents/guardians will be notified. See the Academic Honesty Policy for more details.
Cheating Students will do their own work. Students will not copy answers or homework from other students. Failing to report a student cheating is also against the rules and is subject to disciplinary action. See Academic Honesty Policy.
Theft Stealing from the school or other students is not allowed.
Refusal to Obey Students are expected to follow reasonable and fair commands or instructions given by the school faculty.
Leaving School Grounds Students wishing to leave school early must notify the office and the Principal. Leaving the school grounds is not allowed unless students have parental/guardian permission via note or phone call to the school office or are accompanied by a staff member.
Weapons Guns, knives, swords, or any item that could be used to cause bodily harm are not allowed on the school campus. This also includes toys that simulate weapons.
Toys Games, cards, toys, dolls, etc. will not be allowed at school unless the student has prior teacher permission.
Harmful Substances Tobacco, drugs, alcohol, pornography and any other items or substances that cause physical or mental harm will not be allowed on campus nor will items advertising these products be permitted on campus.
Harassment Physical, verbal, or sexual harassment of students is not allowed. This rule applies in one-on-one settings, in groups, by proxy, or online through the Internet.
Cyber Bullying Verbal and written abuse of students or staff via the use of cell phones, texting, social media sites, and email is unacceptable either in school or outside of school hours.
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Bus Behavior The rules of the school extend onto the school bus. Any behavior that endangers the safe operation of the bus will be dealt with in the strongest manner. Seat belts must also be worn on the bus at all times. See Code of Conduct on the School Bus.
Public Displays of Affection Students will not engage in physical displays of affection towards other students at school. Inappropriate touching will also not be tolerated at school, on the school bus, or at school-related functions.
Unsafe Behavior Any action that could cause physical injury to oneself or others is not allowed.
Vandalism Altering school property, or property the school uses for school-related activities, in any way is not allowed. This includes private property encountered on field trips.
Animals Animals, including pets, are not allowed on campus during school hours (8:15 am – 4:20 pm) without prior permission from the Principal.
Arson Setting fires or attempting to set fires on school property is not allowed.
Smoking There will be no smoking or use of other tobacco products on campus or at any school sponsored events.
Gambling Students will not play games or make bets at school or school events involving real money or valuables.
Cafeteria Behavior Students will behave respectfully in the cafeteria, including making sure to clean-up after themselves, appropriately placing the trays, cutlery, and cups in the designated location, and using appropriate language at a reasonable volume.
Cubbies and Lockers Elementary students (Grades K-5) use cubbies in or near their classrooms for storage of personal belongings during the day. Secondary students (Grades 6-12) use lockers which are provided by the school. Students in Grades 6-8 must supply their own combination lock. It is the student’s
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responsibility to keep track of all their belongings while they are at school. GIFS strongly recommends labeling uniform items, water bottles, backpacks, notebooks, etc., so they are not lost or confused with another student’s. GIFS is not responsible for any items that are lost, misplaced, or stolen while at school.
Lost and Found Any items that are found by the staff that cannot be identified will be placed in the Lost and Found by the GIFS Front Office. These items are cleared out quarterly, so please check here regularly if an item has been misplaced.
Inappropriate Technology Use Please see the Student Technology Use Guidelines and Policies listed in the handbook. Appropriate use is expected at all school events (including SKAC), both on and off campus.
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49-22 Jodong-gil, Sanam-myeon, Sacheon-si, Gyeongsangnam-do, 52533, Rep. of Korea Phone: +82-55-853-5125┃Fax: +82-55-853-5129 Email: [email protected] ┃Website: www.gifs.or.kr