student handbook 2015-2016 academic calendar summer 2015 Signature Program (3 weeks + Cultural Tour) Saturday, June 27 - Tuesday, July 21 Standard Program (3 weeks) Saturday, June 27 - Wednesday, July 15 Signature Program (3 weeks + Cultural Tour) Saturday, July 18 - Tuesday, August 11 Standard Program (3 weeks) Saturday, July 18 - Wednesday, August 5 first semester 2015 New Students Arrival** Tuesday, August 25 Returning Students Arrival** Wednesday, August 26 Faculty Family Weekend mid-September Fall Cultural Trips mid-October Students Depart for Winter Vacation** Thursday, December 17- Friday, December 18 second semester 2016 Students Return from Winter Vacation** Saturday, January 9 - Sunday, January 10 Family Winter Week mid-February Students Depart for Spring Break** Saturday, March 19 Students Return from Spring Break** Saturday, April 2 - Sunday, April 3 IB Exams Monday, May 2 - Friday, May 20 (tentative) LAS Final Exams Late May Spring Cultural Trips Late May to Early June Underclass Students Depart** Tuesday, May 31 - Wednesday, June 1 Underclass Dormitories Close Thursday, June 2 at 12:00 Senior Dormitories Close Friday, June 3 at 13:00 Graduation Ceremony Friday, June 3 at 15:00

** airport (GVA) transfer service by LAS will be available on these dates.

A NOTE TO PARENTS:

1. We ask parents please to observe these scheduled dates and not take their son or daughter out of class for extended holidays or weekends. Such absences are viewed as unexcused and may affect your child’s final grades. 2. For those that will be using the school shuttle service for both arrival dates, August 25 and 26, the bus shuttle times are: 09:00, 12:00, 14:00, 16:00 and 18:30. New students must arrive on August 25 and we ask that you book flights that arrive in Geneva no later than 17:00. This also applies to returning students who plan on using the LAS bus shuttle. Returning students not taking the airport shuttle must check-in at their dormitory by 21:00. 3. Late arrival may seriously jeopardize your child’s selection of classes, some of which could be necessary for graduation. 4. Any students arriving before or after the above dates will be responsible for their own travel and accommodation arrangements. However, if there is an extenuating reason or emergency, please contact the Admissions Office as soon as possible.

MAIL & PACKAGES All mail is delivered to the Belle Époque Mail Center. Packages and mail for Belle Époque and Savoy campus students will be delivered to their respective campus distribution points. When packages and mail arrive, students are notified by email or a notice posted at each campus. We ask students to collect their packages in a timely manner.

LAS School Address: American School (LAS) Student’s Name and grade Chemin De la Source 3 CP 108 1854 Leysin, School telephone: +41 24 493 4888 table of contents

SECTION 1 - INTRODUCTION 1.1 Welcome 1.2 School Governance Today 1.3 Our Mission Statement 1.4 Partnership with Parents SECTION 2 - RESIDENTIAL LIFE 2.1 Arrivals & Departures 2.11 Before Leaving LAS 2.12 End-of-Year Shipping & Storage 2.2 What to Bring 2.21 Clothing 2.22 Activities Clothing 2.23 Ski/Snowboard Clothing & Equipment 2.24 Miscellaneous Items to Bring 2.3 Dress Code 2.31 Philosophy 2.32 Our School Uniform 2.33 Casual Dress 2.34 Formal Dress for Banquets & Special Occasions 2.4 Living at LAS 2.41 Dormitory Philosophy 2.42 About LAS Dormitories 2.43 Dormitory Descriptions 2.5 Living in a Dormitory 2.51 Supervision 2.52 Language Considerations 2.53 Rooming Assignments 2.54 Roommates 2.55 Mediation 2.56 Sleepover Policy 2.57 Cleaning Rooms 2.58 Room Decorations 2.59 Computer Usage 2.590 Audio/Video/Desktop Printing Equipment 2.591 Laundry Facilities 2.592 Inappropriate Dormitory Visits 2.593 Sexual Relations 2.594 Search Policy 2.595 Cooking in the Dormitory 2.596 Refrigerator Rental Program 2.597 Day Student & Five Day Boarder 2.598 Ski Equipment 2.599 Guidelines for Study Hall 2.5990 Electronic Devices 2.5991 Pets 2.5992 Religion 2.5993 Community Activities & Entertainment 2.6 Dorm Schedule 2.61 Leaving Dorms for Class 2.62 Study Hall 2.63 Curfew & Lights Out Times 2.64 Weekend Check-in 2.65 Check-in Schedule 2.7 Dining Hall & Meals 2.71 Meal Options 2.72 Etiquette 2.73 Off-Campus Dining SECTION 3 - STUDENT LIFE 3.1 Faculty Family 3.11 Faculty Family Advising 3.12 Faculty Family Socializing 3.13 Missing Faculty Family 3.14 Changing Faculty Family 3.15 Assemblies or Class Meetings 3.16 Special Events 3.2 Leadership Opportunities at LAS 3.21 Prefects and Ambassadors 3.22 Student Council 3.23 The Honor Council 3.231 The Honor Council Process 3.24 The Honor Code 3.3 Activities & Athletics 3.31 Recreational Activities 3.32 Non-recreational Activities 3.33 Weekly Activities for Grades 8 & 9 3.34 Exemptions to the Activity Requirement 3.35 Spring IB Exams 3.36 Athletics 3.361 Sportsmanship 3.362 Fall Sports Teams 3.363 Winter Sports Teams 3.364 Spring Sports Teams 3.365 LAS Team Uniforms 3.366 Player Contracts 3.367 Private Lessons 3.37 Activity Grades 3.371 Attendance Policy & Attendance Codes 3.372 Makeup Run 3.4 Ski Term 3.41 Modified Daily Schedule 3.42 Ski & Snowboard Lessons & Trips 3.43 Ski & Snowboard Teams 3.44 Mountain Safety 3.45 Non-Skiing Students 3.46 Skiing or Snowboarding Off-piste 3.47 Avalanche Awareness and Foundation Courses 3.5 Travel 3.51 Cultural Trips 3.511 Previous Cultural Trips Offered 3.52 School-Sponsored Weekend Travel Program 3.53 Grade 8 & 9 Travel Program 3.54 Types of Travel 3.541 Personal Weekend Travel, Grade 10 & Above 3.5411 Personal Travel Dates 3.5412 Return 3.5413 Travel Authorization 3.5414 Travel List 3.542 Day Travel Requirements 3.5321 Day Travel Times 3.543 Overnight Travel Requirements 3.544 Changes to Travel Plans 3.545 Infractions for Late Returns on Travel Weekends 3.55 Long Weekends 3.551 Infractions for Late Returns on Long Weekends 3.56 Early Leaves & Late Returns 3.57 Health Promotion 3.58 School Breaks & Travel Arrangements 3.581 Early Departure 3.582 Departure Transportation Schedule 3.583 Winter Travel - Inclement Weather Plan 3.584 Arrival 3.585 Return Transportation Schedule 3.586 Airport Booth 3.587 Late Arrivals 3.588 School Closure 3.6 Student Health 3.61 On-Campus Health Center 3.62 School Health Plan 3.63 Clinic Hours & Doctor Clinic 3.64 Contacting the LAS Health Center 3.65 Off-Campus Medical Care 3.66 Illness on a school day 3.67 Excused from Classes 3.68 Illness at night or on the weekend 3.69 Medications 3.690 Medical Conditions Requiring Advanced Care 3.691 Confidentiality 3.692 Personal, Social & Emotional Counseling 3.693 Medical Records 3.7 Safety & Security 3.71 Security 3.72 Personal Safety 3.73 Fire Safety 3.74 Theft, Security, Protection & Insurance 3.8 Personal Conduct 3.81 Daily Behavior 3.811 Disciplinary Consequences 3.82 LAS Infractions 3.83 Check-in Times 3.84 Contracts 3.85 Faculty & Staff Instructions 3.86 Public Display of Affection 3.87 Bullying 3.88 Sexual Harassment 3.89 Responding to Bullying/Sexual Harassment 3.890 Fighting & Violence 3.891 Firearms or Weapons 3.892 Alcohol Policy 3.8921 Alcohol Privilege 3.893 Smoking 3.8931 Suspicion of Smoking 3.8932 With a Group of Smokers 3.8933 Smoking on School Grounds 3.8934 Smoking in the Dorm 3.8935 Electronic Cigarettes 3.8936 Dokha 3.894 Drugs, Drug Paraphernalia & Testing Policy 3.895 Conduct on Cultural Trips 3.8951 Off-campus Suspensions and Cultural Trips 3.9 Personal Accounts & Financial Services 3.91 Pocket Money 3.92 Major Purchases/Equipment Rental 3.93 Campus Store/Text Books 3.94 Withdrawals 3.95 Credit Card Policy

SECTION 4 - Academics 4.1 Academic Information 4.11 General Information 4.12 Programs of Study 4.121 LAS Diploma for ESL 4.1211 ESL Placement Policy 4.122 LAS Diploma 4.123 International Baccalaureate (IB) 4.13 Learning Support 4.14 Library 4.15 Deans' and Honors Lists 4.16 Course Registration 4.17 Departmental Placement Testing 4.18 Schedule Changes 4.19 Disclaimer 4.190 Attendance Policy 4.191 Attendance Penalty 4.192 Unexcused Absences 4.193 Tardy Penalty 4.194 Parental Travel 4.195 Visa Travel 4.196 Medical Appointments 4.197 Vacation & Weekend Travel 4.198 Excused Absences 4.1981 Makeup Work Policy 4.199 Health Absences 4.1990 Disciplinary Sanctions to Unexcused Absences 4.1991 Assessment at LAS 4.1992 Marking Periods 4.1993 Grade Scale 4.1994 Rolling Admission & Semester Credit 4.1995 Credit for IB Courses 4.1996 Examinations 4.1997 Dismissal & Exams 4.1998 Homework & Testing Policy 4.1999 Academic Honor Code 4.19991 Consequences of Honor Code Violations 4.2 Graduation Information 4.21 Graduation Requirements 4.3 Academic Support 4.31 Academic Contracts 4.32 The Department of Learning Support 4.321 Services Offered 3.322 Guidelines for Learning Support 4.4 College Counseling Department 4.5 Technology 4.51 Student Laptops 4.52 Communications (Cell Phones/Mobile Phones/Smart Phones) 4.53 Applicability 4.54 Ownership 4.55 IT Resources Administration 4.56 Support 4.57 Backup 4.58 Rules 4.59 Care of IT Resources 4.6 Digital Responsibility

Appendix: Useful Local Numbers Faculty Contact Information Disclaimer INTRODUCTION - SECTION 1 1.1 welcome!

As new members of our school’s family, you must have a lot of questions. But first, let us welcome you to Leysin American School! Located in the breathtaking beauty of the Swiss Alps, LAS brings together students from over fifty countries to live and study together in a community that promotes a global perspective and a family atmosphere.

For more than 50 years, we have nurtured the talent of our students, motivating them to achieve their best in education, sports and arts. Our success stems from the vision of founders Fred and Sigrid Ott—to create an international high school in a secure, inspiring location, where young people could reach their academic and personal potential in becoming true “citizens of the world.” Under the guidance of a new generation of the Ott family, this vision continues to inform our mission in promoting international understanding among young people and excellence in education.

It is in this spirit that we educate and cultivate our students at Leysin American School. We believe as they do that they have a great contribution to make in the 21st century, both as future leaders in their countries and in the world at large. 1.2 school governance today In 2005, the Ott Family decided to cede majority ownership of the school to the LAS Foundation for the Advancement of International Education, a non-profit philanthropic organization overseen by the Swiss government.

The Foundation has two operational goals—first, to maintain the LAS current mission of offering a high-quality education to its students; and, second, to pursue fundraising support for student scholarships, special projects, annual funds, and capital campaigns.

The current governance of the School is organized in the following manner:

• The LAS Foundation for the Advancement of International Education provides any necessary developmental support to the School. • The LAS Board is responsible for the overall operations, development, and financial affairs of the school. This board reports directly to the Foundation Board. • The School also maintains a separate 501(c)(3) charitable foundation in the United States. This foundation receives vital donations from LAS alumni, alumni parents, current parents, and friends who are US taxpayers. 1.3 our mission statement “Developing innovative, compassionate and responsible citizens of the world.” To better understand the depth and scope of our school’s mission statement, let’s take a closer look at its meaning: • By Innovative, we mean being creative and open-minded in developing a passion for learning. • By Compassionate, we mean demonstrating a strength of character through a true sense of kindness and caring. • By Responsible, we mean making thoughtful decisions that take into account the community and the environment. • By Citizens of the world, we mean encouraging a state of mind that promotes international understanding through a shared respect for everyone, regardless of their culture.

Leysin American School | 7 1.4 partnership with parents PowerSchool For all of us at LAS, PowerSchool is an essential software tool--a vital resource that keeps track of all student grades, attendance, and schedules. PowerSchool combines this academic information for each student into a single, accessible online record of performance. While students can log on to their personal PowerSchool account, parents also receive their own independent and secure account. As a parent, you can check daily attendance, constantly updated grades, and teacher comments regarding your child simply by visiting PowerSchool. PowerSchool also can send you regular emailed updates, and connect you directly with your child’s teachers. In addition, PowerSchool serves as a daily source of “always-on” information for parents and students alike, including the LAS Daily Bulletin.

Magic Mountain A powerful online resource, Magic Mountain allows parents to monitor their son or daughter’s disciplinary log, frequency and reason for Health Center visits, financial transactions (including personal and tuition accounts), and travel information.

Parental Visits LAS parents always are welcome to visit their children during the school year to check on their academic and physical well­being. As a parent, you also may schedule conferences in advance with teachers—simply email registrar@las. ch at least one week before the date of your visit. Parent conferences usually are scheduled on Monday or Friday during the school day, and may include appointments with all of your child’s teachers. If you’d like to meet with other members of the faculty or administration, please email your request in advance. To avoid any conflicts with your child’s academic schedule, please consult our travel policies and procedures before your visit and when leaving the LAS campus with your child.

8 | Leysin American School RESIDENTIAL LIFE - SECTION 2

2.1 arrivals & departures For new students starting school in August or January: Our school semesters begin with a mandatory Orientation Week in August and an Orientation Weekend in January. Both Orientations provide an important introduction to boarding school life. During these sessions, LAS students will: • Receive all school materials and supplies (uniform, laptops, phone, office supplies) • Be introduced to the Health Center • Participate in short trial classes to get to know the campus better (August Orientation Week only) • Meet their Dorm Heads and peers, who will join new students in activities designed to ‘break the ice’ and make them feel welcome at LAS

Parents will receive a detailed Orientation Schedule after their child has been accepted to LAS. We strongly request that students arrive on time and take part in all planned Orientation activities, as this participation is critical to their successful transition to life at LAS. Note: For more information regarding specific times arrival and departure times, please see Section 3.58 School Breaks & Travel Arrangements on page 27

2.11 Before Leaving LAS Before each break in the LAS calendar (Winter Break, Spring Break and Summer holidays), we require students to leave their rooms clean and orderly. In addition, students departing at the end of the school year (and those students leaving LAS after the first semester), must return the following items: • Laptop • Phone (if not purchased) • School books • Library materials • Dorm fob

Using boxes provided by the school, all students must pack their belongings before departure, as they will receive new room assignments the following year.

2.12 End-Of-­ ­Year Shipping & Storage LAS uses an external contractor to ship or store student belongings over the summer months. Students can request this service through the individual dormitories at the end of the year. For additional information on costs and scheduling, please contact Rhenus Logistics (previously Schneider SA) directly at http://www.ch.rhenus.com/ueber­uns.html 2.2 what to bring Our alpine campus is located at 1,350 meters (4,400 feet) above sea level, with many hiking paths and ski slopes reaching even higher altitudes. Consequently, appropriate clothing for fall, winter, spring and summer seasons is essential. While most items can be purchased in Leysin and nearby towns, we recommended that your shopping for listed items be completed prior to arrival. 2.21 Clothing • Winter coat and/or jacket • Raincoat and/or wind breaker • 2 sweaters • 2 sweat or running suits, 2 shorts, 2 shirts, 5 pairs of black or white socks • Hiking shoes • Athletic outdoor shoes • Athletic indoor shoes (non-marking are mandatory for use in the squash court and weight room areas)

Leysin American School | 9 2.22 Activities Clothing All students take part in the afternoon activities program. Students should have at least two days' worth of athletic clothing, along with any specialized sport equipment needed such as shin guards, volleyball kneepads, or mouth guards. LAS provides team uniforms.

2.23 Ski/Snowboard Clothing and Equipment Students must wear the LAS ski/outdoor jacket at all times while skiing or snowboarding. These are available for purchase in the fall from Hefti Sports in Leysin. Students may bring their personal ski trousers, gloves, cap, goggles/glasses, ski boots, skis and poles or snowboard equipment; however, most ski and snowboard equipment, including boots, may be rented in Leysin. Skiers and snowboarders always must wear helmets; in addition, first-time snowboarders must wear wrist guards. Both helmets and wrist guards may be purchased locally.

2.24 Miscellaneous Items to Bring • Towels and washcloths (bed linens are provided) • Hair dryer (220v) • Umbrella • Book bag • Musical instruments (These may be brought from home, rented or purchased locally; musical instruments are not included in the price of private instruction and are not provided by LAS.) 2.3 dress code 2.31 Philosophy Our school dress code was introduced for two important reasons: • Wearing a “learning uniform” helps our students focus more successfully on their studies and other responsibilities without the distraction of fashion. • School uniforms are easily identifiable and thus aid in the safety of our students, as LAS is an open campus.

2.32 Our School Uniform Our school dress code is in force throughout the school day on campus, and at all school functions. During classes, students are expected to wear the following: • Boys: White school polo shirt and black school pants. Only a plain white T-shirt can be worn underneath the polo shirt. • Girls: White school polo shirt and black school pants or black school skirt. Note: Skirt must be hemmed to touch the floor when kneeling and worn at that length. • Sweaters: All students are allowed to wear only the LAS sweater, LAS hoody and LAS sweater vest over the uniform top; students must wear the LAS polo shirt underneath their sweater. Since students on the Savoy campus must walk between different buildings, they may wear a jacket between classes, but should remove them once they have entered a classroom or cafeteria. Hoodies or non-­LAS sweaters cannot be worn as jackets during the class day. We also ask that no hats be worn within campus buildings during the school day.

All LAS clothing is available through the school’s Campus Store and can be charged directly to a student’s Personal Account. Only LAS-supplied clothing qualifies for the school uniform. We ask that each student purchase at least 3 pairs of pants (or skirts), 3 shirts, and sweater or sweater vest in order to meet the daily expectation of being in uniform during classes.

2.33 Casual Dress When not obliged to be in a school uniform, students may dress casually though appropriately. We ask that students not wear clothing depicting drug or alcohol references or any type of offensive writing or graphics.

2.34 Formal Dress for Banquets and Special Occasions • Boys: Suit or dress slacks and blazer, dress shirt • Girls: A tasteful dress with accessories

10 | Leysin American School 2.4 living at LAS 2.41 Dormitory Philosophy The dormitory experience at LAS is central to the wellbeing­ and character of our entire school community. We believe in a stable, caring and supportive family ­like environment, where students receive adult guidance through frequent daily interactions. “Family” serves as a key word at LAS. Given the distance many of our students are from their parents and home, we are committed to providing a positive in loco parentis presence for our students. From our 50 years of experience, we know if students feel at home in their living situation, they will be more able to perform to their potential.

In this regard, LAS dormitories provide a unique opportunity for students to gain a greater depth of understanding of other cultures. At LAS, students from throughout the world learn to live together in a shared community, gaining a greater appreciation of the ideas, values, and histories of their respective cultures. This experience ultimately reveals that as people, we share more in common than our differences might suggest. This realization is the first step in becoming a true “citizen of the world.”

2.42 About LAS Dormitories • Each dormitory is equipped with a fully functioning kitchen, common area, ski rooms and laundry facilities with scheduled hours for use. • All dormitory rooms are furnished with the necessities for comfortable living. • Students will be held accountable for any and all damages to furnishings and rooms. For safety and security reasons, all damages (whether intentional or as a result of normal wear and tear) must be reported to the Dormitory Head so that timely repairs can be made. • Additional furnishings and appliances are prohibited without the expressed consent of the Director of Residential Life. • Storage spaces are limited in each dormitory.

2.43 LAS students live in the following six dormitories:

• The Eden Dormitory (Grade 8, 9, & 10 Boys) has six faculty apartments, 22 student rooms, a ski room and three student lounges—one with an equipped kitchen for student use and another with a big screen TV and Ping-Pong table. An exit on the dorm’s south side leads to a BBQ area overlooking the mountains. • Vermont Dormitory (Grade 8 & 9 Girls) contains four faculty apartments and 17 student rooms. It also has the nicest student lounge at LAS with equipped kitchen, desks for supervised study hall, Ping-Pong table and sofas to relax. As in every dorm, there is also a ski room. Vermont is situated in close proximity of Fishbowl, the grade 8 & 9 lounge. • Savoy Dormitory (Grade 10 & 11 Boys) is the largest LAS Dorm, located in the Savoy building, which also contains classrooms, main school kitchen & cafeteria, main Health Center, Black Box (Theatre), Library, fitness room, campus store and school administration offices. The dorm itself contains ten faculty apartments, 32 student rooms, four student lounges with two equipped kitchens, two big screen TV receivers, Ping-Pong table and two ski rooms. Savoy residents use the cafeteria for supervised study hall in the evenings. • Beau Site Dormitory (Grade 10 & 11 Girls) comprises the top three floors of the Beau Site building, which also contains the modern language and science classrooms. Beau Site is also home to the Red Frog student recreation area and Valley View, a large general-purpose room that is used for dorm meetings, events, and the supervised nightly study hall. Beau Site has eight faculty apartments, approximately 25 student rooms, and a large student lounge with a kitchen and dining area, couches, and a large screen TV for relaxing and socializing. • Belle Époque Boys Dormitory (BEC B) (Grade 11 &12 Boys) is located within the Belle Époque building (the former Grand Hotel of Leysin), which also contains classrooms, cafeteria, school administration, the Grande Salle concert and events hall, Library, the Cave students’ club, new fitness room and main Art Center. The Boys Dorm itself contains seven faculty apartments, 27 student rooms, a lounge with equipped kitchen, and common ski room. • Belle Époque Girls Dormitory (BEC G) (Grade 11 & 12 Girls) also is located within the Belle Époque building, and contains five faculty apartments in this dorm, 26 student rooms, a lounge with equipped kitchen, and common ski room.

Note: Printers as well as laundry & ironing facilities are available in each dorm.

Leysin American School | 11 2.5 living in a dormitory 2.51 Supervision Each LAS dormitory is home to several live-in faculty members known as Dormitory Parents. Dorm Parents share on-call duties in their dorms on nights and weekends throughout the school year. In the case of an emergency, the Dorm Parent on duty will be the primary contact in addition to the Dormitory Head. Assigned student prefects and ambassadors also are on hand to assist Dorm Parents throughout the night. Students should familiarize themselves with apartment locations and contact numbers of the Dorm Head and Dorm Parents in case of an emergency.

2.52 Language Considerations To encourage cultural curiosity, understanding and appreciation, dormitory room assignments seek to bring together students from diverse cultures and languages. This pairing requires the use of a common language (usually English), which helps our ESL students develop their English language proficiency. To support this approach, non-English speaking students will not room with speakers of their native language. However, a Grade 12 student may be allowed to room with another of the same language background, if that student has been enrolled at LAS more than one year, has achieved an IELTS graduation requirement score of 5.5, and the room reassignment is logistically possible.

2.53 Rooming Assignments Rooming assignments for returning students are based upon requests made the previous school year. Students may submit three choices of roommate(s), and in some cases dorm(s). While the School will attempt to fulfill these requests, the overall LAS policy of boarding students from diverse backgrounds will prevail. Dorm Heads in cooperation with the Director of Residential Life will place in available room assignments those returning students not making a request or requesting the same native language roommate. New students will be placed once returning students have been assigned a room.

Occasionally, rare exceptions to these rules are made. While dormitory and room placements are usually fixed, a student’s relocation from one dorm to another occurs only in very special cases where safety or behavior issues are concerned. In other cases, students may find themselves housed in a different dormitory than requested due to spacing issues, leadership positions, or age considerations The Director of Residential Life must approve all dorm reassignment changes, while respective Dorm Heads must approve all room reassignment changes. No room or dorm reassignments are permitted during the first month of each semester, regardless of arrival date. 2.54 Roommates Living with a roommate offers a unique opportunity to learn about each other’s backgrounds and cultures—and potentially, to form a bond of friendship that lasts a lifetime. At the same time, learning to share a common space, especially for teenagers, can be a challenging experience. Differences between roommates are not uncommon as they seek to reach that perspective of mutual respect and honest communication. Recognizing this fact, our experienced dorm staff works extensively with our students to mediate and foster positive roommate relationships. An initial period of adjustment is natural for any new roommate arrangements; therefore, the School will not consider or make any requested room changes for students until one month after their arrival to school has passed, regardless of their arrival date. After this period, a student may request a room change in writing to the Dormitory Head.

Since LAS maintains an open admission where new students can be accepted throughout the semester, students should realize that they might acquire a new roommate at any point in the school year. In this case, students must have their room ready 48 hours before a new roommate arrives.

2.55 Mediation People who live together occasionally encounter differences. The challenge then is how to resolve these differences positively through open communication. At LAS, we employ a formal mediation process to resolve any dorm-related conflicts that arise between two students. This process involves adults (dorm staff or Faculty Parents) to set up a forum for mediation and then supervise the meeting between the students in question. When a resolution is reached, it is reflected in a written statement that is shared both with the students and their parents. With any student conflict, we complete this mediation process before any other actions are taken.

2.56 Sleepover Policy Student sleepovers within dormitories are occasionally permitted on weekend nights only. Students must make their requests by 19:00 of the night of the sleepover. Requests must be approved both by the Dormitory Parents on duty that evening and the requesting student’s roommate. Dorm Heads have the discretion to allow sleepovers in certain dorms.

12 | Leysin American School 2.57 Cleaning Rooms Each dormitory maintains a professional cleaning staff to clean dorm room bathrooms and floors, wipe desktops, dispose of garbage, and provide clean bedding. However, we ask that students take responsibility for the following actions in keeping their dorm rooms tidy:

• Floors need to be free of garbage, clothing and other personal items. • Study areas should be clear and shelves used for books only. • Shower and toilet areas must be clean and clear of debris. • Beds should be made daily. • Laundry must be in closed baskets. • No open food or empty food containers should be present. • All lights and electrical items should be turned off, and secure areas and room doors locked when the room is vacant.

Students who fail to meet these expectations may face disciplinary measures and will be held financially accountable for any damages to rooms.

2.58 Room Decorations Room decorations depicting tobacco, alcohol, drug use and/or the paraphernalia associated with these activities are prohibited. Images of nudity as well as sexually explicit, violent, discriminatory and/or racist images or messages are forbidden as well. To prevent damage to room surfaces, we ask that students follow these guidelines:

• The dorm room door must be free from obstruction. • Nails, tacks, and staples cannot be used on wooden surfaces, • Sticky­tack cannot be used on white walls. • Stickers are not allowed on any surface in a room. • Students are responsible for any and all damages to the surfaces in their rooms.

2.59 Computer Usage All LAS students receive a fully equipped personal laptop computer to use throughout the school year. For this reason, we ask that students not bring a second personal computer to school, as it may prove to be a distraction. We do encourage computer usage for academic pursuits and to communicate with friends and family; however, it is not permitted after lights-out curfews or for non-academic work (videos, video gaming, chatting) during study hall times or class time.

2.590 Audio/Video/Desktop Printing Equipment We do not permit televisions and extensive stereo equipment in dormitory rooms. Televisions are available for use in each dormitory lounge. Students may use external computer screens (max 25”) for their laptops in their dorm rooms. School printers are available in each dormitory.

2.591 Laundry Facilities LAS students are responsible for their own personal clothes laundering. Each dormitory is equipped with adequate laundry facilities for personal laundry. Dorm staff will review laundry room etiquette with students at the beginning of each school year and through periodic reminders.

LAS also offers a weekly laundry service for bedding only. Once a week, students should strip their bedding and leave it in the hallway for the housekeeping staff to collect. That same day, students will receive a clean set of bedding.

Laundry facilities with laundry powder are available in all dormitory halls free of charge. To minimize loss, all clothing and equipment should be clearly marked.

2.592 Inappropriate Dormitory Visits LAS dormitories are separated by gender; therefore, unaccompanied students should never be found in a dormitory other than their own without the consent of the responsible Dormitory Head or dorm staff of that dormitory. Guests or visitors to LAS are not allowed in our dormitories at any time without permission of the Dormitory Head or dorm staff.

2.593 Sexual Relations We believe that a boarding school is not an appropriate place for physical relationships. If students are found engaged in sexual activity on campus, their parents will be notified. The Health Center does offer confidential counseling if a student seeks information.

Leysin American School | 13 2.594 Search Policy We reserve the right to inspect or search personal belongings (including any electronic devices such as phones or computers) or dorm rooms at any time. We exercise this right in the event of suspected theft; tobacco, alcohol, or drug use; or other serious concerns. In these cases, students may be asked to turn out their pockets or have their jacket pockets searched.

2.595 Cooking In The Dormitory Each LAS dorm offers suitable kitchen facilities. As this communal space is shared by the entire dorm, students are asked to clean up after using the kitchen. Misuse of these facilities could lead to closure. With the exception of water boilers, students are not allowed to have any cooking appliances in their rooms.

2.596 Refrigerator Rental Program Please contact the Director of Residential Life for information on such rentals.

2.597 Day Student & Five-­Day Boarder Section Day students who attend the school but live at home should leave the campus following their last school obligation of the day. They should not return to campus until 07:00 the next day. If they have incurred any infractions, they must serve them on the weekend in the Savoy building.

Five-day boarders who travel home on the weekends should leave following their final school obligation on Friday. Those intending to stay on campus over the weekend must have their parents email their permission to the proper travel coordinator (grade 8 and 9 Coordinator, the Assistant Dean of Students BEC or the Associate Dean of the Savoy Campus) by 13:00 Wednesday. Without receipt of this emailed permission, LAS cannot be accountable for these students, who will be considered in the guardianship of their parents. If a five-day boarder has incurred any infractions, they must serve them first before leaving the campus for the weekend.

2.598 Ski Equipment Spring Break marks the end of the LAS ski season. Students should prepare to take home their skis or snowboard at spring break or store them using Rhenus Logistics (previously Schneider SA). All ski rooms will be cleaned at the end of the year, so skis, snowboards and boots must be removed.

2.599 Guidelines for Study Hall Selected students, depending on their GPA, will be asked to attend a supervised Study Hall in their dorm. During this period, students must be working on or reviewing school assignments, reading, or following other directions given by the teacher on duty.

Students not in a supervised Study Hall should be studying at their desks in their dorm rooms. Dorm room doors must remain open. Students may not be in their beds during this period.

Students who have completed their schoolwork during Study Hall should take time to read (in English if they are ESL students.) The following activities are not permitted during Study Hall: doing laundry, texting, using Skype, or checking social media.

2.5990 Grade 8 & 9 Electronic Device Policy We define an electronic device as any equipment that can access the Internet, including but not limited to computers, phones and iPads. Dorm Heads take an inventory of every student’s devices at the beginning of the school year. Students who acquire new devices during the school year must inform their Dorm Head immediately.

LAS students are asked to place all electronic devices, including phones, on their dorm room desks at lights out (22:30). Students may not have an electronic device in or next to their beds. Students found using a device after lights-out will have to turn in all of their devices to the teacher on duty before 22:00 according to the following schedule:

• First offense: ­ loss of all devices for one week • Second offense: ­ loss of all devices for one month • Third offense: ­ loss of all devices for the remainder of the semester

Through our Electronic Device Policy, we want students to establish healthy sleeping patterns during their early high school years, given that their workload will increase over time.

14 | Leysin American School 2.5991 Pets Pets of any kind (including fish) are not permitted.

2.5992 Religion In the spirit of true international diversity, LAS recognizes and values the different cultures, religions, and traditions represented by all of students. Being a secular school, we do not promote one religion over another, but rather encourage our students to respect and learn from all of the world’s religions in the world. We understand that many of our students have a strong desire to continue their religious practice while at LAS, and we make every effort to support their needs by making reasonable concessions, while attempting to minimize the impact on the educational procedures of the school. Special academic or social scheduling for religious observances will not be offered during the daily schedule, but other allowances will be made available.

Certain religious holidays such as Passover, Ramadan and Lent require certain dietary observations. Students who choose to observe these diets must have the consent of their parents, since limitations in nutrition may affect their academic success during this time. Once we receive consent prior to the start of the school year, we will be happy to provide some accommodation for these observances during religious holidays.

The village of Leysin has both a Roman Catholic Church and a Protestant church within the community. There are Russian Orthodox churches, synagogues, and mosques all within a reasonable commute from Leysin. Students who would like to request a private space for prayer or contemplation should speak with the dorm staff, and a room will be made available for these purposes.

2.5993 Community Activities & Entertainment The village of Leysin hosts a number of outdoor activities throughout the year. There is also an English movie theatre, small independent art galleries, athletic events, and occasional concerts representing many styles of music. To begin exploring Leysin, visit one of the links below: www.leysin.ch www.tele­leysin­lesmosses.ch www.myswitzerland.com 2.6 dorm schedule As with every school, LAS students follow a daily schedule. Depending on the day and grade level, students should prepare to be in their dorm rooms for designated periods of time. Once a student is checked in to a dorm for the night, they may not leave unless given permission by a member of the dorm staff. All students are expected to remain in their dorms until 06:00 the next morning. Any absence from the dormitory during this time could result in an off-campus suspension.

2.61 Leaving Dorms for Class As LAS dorms are not staffed during the day, we consider it unsafe for students to remain in the dorms during the academic day. On the Savoy campus, students must leave their dorm by 07:45, and at the Belle Époque Campus by 08:00.

2.62 Study Hall Study hall begins with a dormitory check-in by 19:45 every Sunday through Thursday. Each dormitory will outline the specific study hall expectations during the fall orientation. We ask that students respect designated quiet times in all dorms throughout the week—during scheduled study halls, before school begins on weekdays, before 10:00 on weekends, and after 22:00 throughout the week.

2.63 Curfew & Lights Out Times Curfews and lights-out time ensure that students gain the proper sleep to function productively. Both are set according to each dormitory and grade level.

2.64 Weekend Check-in To ensure the continued safety of out students, we ask that all students formally check-in between 10:30 ­ 11:00 on Saturdays and Sundays at either the Savoy or BEC cafeterias. During weekend days, faculty assigned to roving duty will make their rounds on the LAS campus.

Leysin American School | 15 2.65 CURFEW AND LIGHTS OUT

Fall and Spring Schedule

Grade Check-in Check-in Check-in Brunch Check-in In room Lights out Lights out Sunday Mon­-Thurs Friday Check-in Saturday Sun-­Thurs Sun­-Thurs Fri-­Sat Sat­-Sun

8&9 19:00 19:45 19:00 & 22:30 10:30 ­ 11:00 19:00 & 22:30 22:15 22:30 23:00

10&11 19:00 19:45 19:00 & 23:00 10:30 ­ 11:00 19:00 & 23:00 22:15 22:45 23:30

12/13/PG 19:00 19:45 19:00 & 23:15 10:30 ­ 11:00 19:00 & 23:15 22:15 22:45 23:30

Winter Schedule

Grade Check- Check-in Check-in Leave Dorms Ski Check-in Brunch Ski Check- In ­room Lights out Lights out in Mon­- Friday Tues & Thurs Tues ­& Thurs Check-in Check-in in Sun-­ Sun­- Fri-­Sat Sunday Thurs Sat­-Sun Sat­-Sun Saturday Thurs Thurs

8&9 19:00 19:45 19:00 & 22:30 13:00 16:00 - 17:00 10:30 - 11:00 16:00 - 17:00 22:30 22:15 22:30 23:00 10&11 19:00 19:45 19:00 & 23:00 13:00 16:00 - 17:00 10:30 - 11:00 16:00 - 17:00 23:00 22:15 22:45 23:30 12/13/PG 19:00 19:45 19:00 & 23:15 13:00 16:00 - 17:00 10:30 - 11:00 16:00 - 17:00 23:15 22:15 22:45 23:30

2.7 dining halls & meals 2.71 Meal Options The LAS Dining Halls offer a wide range of menus, including several cultural options each month. At breakfast, students can select a hot food option, as well as cold cereal, juices and milk. Soup, a comprehensive salad bar, charcuterie and sandwiches are available at lunch, as well as a hot food option. A well-balanced hot dish is offered at the evening meal with a “dessert du jour.” Every mealtime includes a hot vegetarian option and non-pork meat option.

2.72 Etiquette While in the Dining Halls, we ask that students maintain a standard of behavior that is respectful of other diners and the kitchen staff. Students should refrain from shouting and loud talk, and return their dishes and tray to the dish service before leaving.

2.73 Off-­Campus Dining During the academic school day, students may eat off campus. However, dining locally does not serve as an excuse for tardiness or absence from classes. Students should plan ahead and allow for additional transportation time back to campus.

16 | Leysin American School STUDENT LIFE - SECTION 3

3.1 faculty family The Faculty Family concept has been a central part of the LAS tradition for many years. All students are assigned to a ‘family’ consisting of a Faculty Parent or parents as well as fellow students of all ages, both boys and girls. LAS families offer a variety of parenting configurations – there are some smaller single-parent families, while others are extended families with two or more parents.

3.11 Faculty Family Advising The first objective of the Faculty Family is to help students navigate the world of LAS. This guidance includes informal counseling in choosing classes and activities, signing up for events, reading teacher comments, and understanding weekend options. Faculty Parents also help their ‘kids’ adjust to the School’s expectations for student conduct and responsibilities, including: • How to behave in assembly • How to request travel permission • Setting and reexamining goals for the year • Examining one’s discipline record • Tracking one’s GPA • Scheduling extra help sessions • Communication with parents • Fulfilling the mission statement Faculty Parent advising occurs during the school day on Wednesdays before assembly.

3.12 Faculty Family Socializing The second role of the Faculty Family is social, by involving students in activities they ordinarily might not do. These Wednesday evening events are also a wonderful opportunity for students to associate with others outside of their usual circle of friends. Faculty Families also meet together for required school events, including special dinners, banquets, Earth Day cleanup, tobogganing, concerts, and the school musical. In addition, each Faculty Family receives a budget that they collectively decide how to use.

3.13 Missing Faculty Family If students are absent without excuse from a family event (meeting, assembly or events), faculty parents will issue a consequence: • First offense:­ A warning is issued • Second offense: ­A one-hour check-in is issued • The third and more offense: ­A two- hour check-in is issued • Repeated absences:­ A clipboard is issued

3.14 Changing Faculty Family All students are asked to stay with their assigned faculty family for their first year at LAS. To change families for the following school year, students must make that request with the Director of Student Life during the spring semester. All reassignments are made at the Director’s discretion.

3.15 Assemblies or Class Meetings Weekly school Assemblies or Class Meetings serve to promote school events, clubs, and projects—and to provide entertainment and learning opportunities for students. Students normally attend these mandatory events with their Faculty Families and are encouraged to participate in the programs as speakers and performers.

3.16 Special Events LAS sponsors an active calendar of special student events throughout the school year to foster a sense of community, school spirit, and leadership development. These events begin with school orientation events in August, and then continue with school banquets, breakfasts, international week, Prom, and the Cowbell Games (an all-school grade competition). We also provide support for many fund­raising events planned by students clubs, dormitories and groups.

Leysin American School | 17 3.2 leadership opportunities at LAS 3.21 Prefects and Ambassadors Student leadership is an essential component in the life of a residential community like ours. Our student leaders play an important role in establishing and maintaining a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for all. The LAS Fred Ott Leadership Program was launched to give students the means to hone their leadership skills and give back to the communities in which they live– their dorms, school, and the world beyond.

Student leaders in LAS fall into two groups—Prefects and Ambassadors: • Dorm Heads select Prefects at the beginning of each school year. Their main role is to assist Dorm Head and Dorm Team with dorm-related duties and events. • Following a formal recruitment process in March of every year, Student Ambassadors engage in a year-long­ curriculum that entails world-class leadership training and other responsibilities beyond dorm duties: • Pursuing three projects benefiting the dorm and school community • Acting as a voice for the student body through participation in the Student Council • Taking an active role in Community Service clubs • Welcoming new students during orientation weeks Both Prefects and Ambassadors are expected to act as role models for the entire student body by maintaining high ethical, academic and behavior standards spelled out in the Ambassador Code of Conduct.

3.22 Student Council Student Council (StuCo) is a student-run organization that serves as a voice for the LAS student community. StuCo maintains an effective channel of communication between the student body and the school’s administration, soliciting student feedback on various school related topics and lobbying the administration on students’ behalf. StuCo strives to keep student morale as high as possible, organizing community events such as dances and athletic tournaments throughout the year. StuCo holds annual elections to select its president, vice presidents, secretary, and treasurer.

3.23 The Honor Council When a disputed case of an academic or personal infraction occurs, the Dean of Students, Dean of Savoy Campus, or Dean of the Belle Époque Campus may convene the school’s Honor Council for an open hearing. The Honor Council, composed of representative students and faculty recommendations, will review the infraction committed and then recommend what consequence should result. In cases where a hearing is not justified, the Deans will determine the student’s consequence. 3.231 The Honor Council Process:

1. The Campus Deans (academic issues) or Dean of Students (behavior/ residential life) will refer certain cases to the Honor Council. The decision to refer a case can be based on the presence of a certain level of doubt, or where a clear recommendation by the Academic Council will be in the best interest of the LAS community. While the Honor Council serves as an independent body of the administration, it supports the goals of the LAS Honor Code. 2. The Honor Council sponsor selects a minimum of three participating student members and one faculty member to assemble the Honor Council. Participants are selected for their impartiality. An Honor Council member has the right to ask to be withdrawn from the panel if he or she feels too partial to the case. The Honor Council is convened and deliberates each case at a convenient time set by the sponsor. The Honor Council can choose to recommend any sanction options. 3. The Dean of Students (or representative from the Dean of Students Office) will present a case to the Honor Council for behavior/discipline issues. The Dean of Savoy Campus or Dean of the Belle Époque Campus will present a case for academic issues. 4. A defendant will have the chance to present to the Honor Council and bring along one person as an advocate for their case. Their advocate must not be directly involved in the case. 5. Once presentations have been completed, the Deans, defendant, and advocate will be asked to leave. 6. The Honor Council needs a majority decision for a recommendation to be made to the relevant Deans and the Head of School. 7. The school’s administrators are encouraged to support the decision, but have the right to amend it if required. 8. All Honor Council hearings are confidential.

18 | Leysin American School 3.24 The Honor Code All LAS students formally sign the school’s honor code as part of their induction into the community. This statement of intent sets a high standard to which all students can strive:

“As a member of the LAS community, I swear to uphold the LAS honor code: To be moral and never steal, to be truthful and never lie, to be honest and never cheat, to be honorable in speech, action and life, and in being so to do honor to my school, my community, my family, and myself.”

The Dean of Students reviews student discipline matters such as lying and stealing. A first offense will result in counseling where the student follows certain steps to correct their actions and to uphold this code. A second offense will result in an on-campus consequence.

If a student cheats on an assignment, the Dean of Savoy Campus or the Dean of the Belle Époque Campus will be responsible for determining the consequence of this action.

Leysin American School | 19 3.3 activities Our activities program engages students in entertaining, collaborative, and physically challenging endeavors. Our robust recreational program helps students to master physical challenges across a range of team-based and individual sports. At the same time, we offer a broad choice of other extra-curricular activities, including theater, music, clubs, and service organizations. These activities provide students with opportunities for leadership, skill development, and community service.

All students are required to take a minimum of two activities each semester. Students on sports teams fulfill their activity requirements by attending 2 weekly practices, and can take other activities if desired. In grades 8 and 9, students must take four activities.

All after­school activities take place Monday through Thursday, typically between the times of 4:00 and 6:30 p.m. Most are between 75 and 90 minutes in duration. The following is a general list of activities offered, which may change due to interest, enrollment and staffing. 3.31 RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES: • Aerobics • American Flag Football • Baseball (or whiffle ball) • Basketball • Bouldering • Climbing Wall/Outdoor Climbing • Cross Country Skiing (winter term) • Kickboxing/Martial Arts • Outdoor Fitness Course (running & exercise) • Rowing (crew) • Rugby • Soccer (indoor and outdoor recreational) • Squash • Stretching & Conditioning (weightlifting & running) • Dance Choreography • Field Games (kickball, ultimate Frisbee, capture the flag) • Floor Hockey • Hiking • Horseback Riding • Swimming (recreational) • Tennis • Weightlifting • Yoga

3.32 NON-RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES: Students may choose from several extra-curricular activities in addition to recreational activities (an * indicates a designated activity.) • Community Service • Choir* • Event Planners • Environmental Club • Habitat for Humanity • Jazz Band* • Model United Nations (MUN) • National Honor Society (NHS) • Student Council (StuCo) • Theater Production* • Village Tutoring* • Hack School (Computer Coding)*

20 | Leysin American School 3.33 WEEKLY ACTIVITIES FOR GRADES 8 AND 9 Students are required to participate in four after­school activities each week, for which they will receive a grade. 3.34 Exemptions to the Activity Requirement • Students who participate in a theater production are exempt from two activities. • Students participating in Jazz Band and Choir are exempt from one activity, though their second activity must be recreational. • In the spring, full IB Diploma seniors and students enrolled in the SAT exam preparation program are exempt from one activity. 3.35 SPRING IB EXAMS IB students are expected to attend all activities, except if they are writing an exam at the time of the activity. 3.36 ATHLETICS LAS sports teams primarily compete during the fall semester, with meets during the week and tournaments on the weekends. Try­outs for the fall teams are held during the first week of school. Participating on an athletic team meets the two-day activity requirement. The educational aim of the Athletic Program is to encourage students to:

• Acquire the ability to function in a team • Muster the strength to continue even when facing failure • Be a gracious winner • Practice “fair play” and to display good sportsmanship • Develop interpersonal relationship skills including conflict management • Build social skills and create new friendships • Learn how to plan one’s free time creatively and efficiently • Discover how to balance recreation and work

3.361 Sportsmanship In our athletic program, we strive to teach how to win with grace and lose with dignity. Our student athletes are encouraged to be respectful of our referees, teammates, opposing players, fans and coaches. Our players also know to avoid violent behavior and to be helpful and courteous at all times. At the end of every year, along with other recognized accomplishments, a deserving student athlete is given the LAS Sportsmanship Award along with a 500 CHF gift voucher provided by the local shop, Hefti Sports. 3.362 Fall Sports Teams • Boys & Girls Basketball • Boys & Girls Volleyball • Boys & Girls Soccer • Swimming • Tennis • Cross Country and Track • Rugby

3.363 Winter Sports Teams • Alpine Ski Team • Freestyle Ski and Snowboard team • Swimming • Tennis

3.364 Spring Sports Teams • Tennis • Cross Country and Track

3.365 LAS Team Uniforms LAS team uniforms that are distributed to student athletes cost approximately 110 CHF. The student keeps the uniform at the end of the sports season and may use it again in future seasons.

Leysin American School | 21 3.366 Player Contracts As a member of an LAS team, student athletes represent the school in competitive events. Therefore, all LAS team members are required to sign and abide by a player contract.

3.367 Private Lessons In conjunction with the Leysin community, LAS offers a number of special extracurricular activities such as horseback riding, rowing, kickboxing, and more. The additional fee for these activities will be billed to the student’s account.

3.37 ACTIVITY GRADES All activities are graded and carry a credit for the student’s year of participation. During the fall semester, the activity leader will enter a daily grade for each participating student. The Winter Ski term is based solely on attendance. Students who meet the attendance requirement will receive an A, while those who do not will receive a failing grade. The activity leader again grades the spring term, which is averaged with the winter term score to provide a student’s second semester grade for activities. Our attendance policy details the school’s expectations for activity participation.

3.371 Attendance Policy & Attendance Codes If a student misses an activity or sports practice, they are expected to make up the missed session by doing a makeup­ run (see 3.372 below). Just one absence qualifies as a failing mark for an activity and will be displayed as an «F» on PowerSchool. If a student was absent due to a health related reason, the Health Center will decide whether they are excused or need to excuse the absence with a make­up run.

• The attendance code «A» (Absent) means that a student was not present for an activity and will receive a failing activity grade until a make up run is completed. • The attendance code «H» (Health center) or «D» (Doctor’s visit) means that the Health Center is excusing the student because of illness, injury, or a doctor’s appointment. • Students who miss an activity to receive extra academic help or to make up a missed exam must make up the missed activity with a make­up run. • The final grade for Activities is recorded on a student’s school transcript, which can affect their grade point average (GPA).

3.372 Make­Up Run Meeting at 16:00 on Friday afternoons in front of Savoy 3rd floor

• «A» attendance code absences can be made up by participating in a make­up run. • One run will erase one missed activity (showing as the attendance code «U» after completion.) • Once the student is back down to zero unexcused absences, the grade will change to passing again.

22 | Leysin American School 3.4 ski term Because we are located in the lovely ski resort of Leysin in the Swiss Alps, LAS students have a rare opportunity to enjoy its alpine environment. The Leysin locale is ideal for LAS students, with ski runs for all abilities and a toboggan park featuring a world-class half pipe.

3.41 Modified Daily Schedule LAS offers a unique schedule in that our 8-week­ winter term (January to March) features a special schedule. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, students are dismissed from school after lunch to participate in skiing and snowboarding activities.

3.42 Ski & Snowboard Lessons & Trips Twice a week (Tuesdays and Thursdays), all beginners are enrolled in 2­-hour lessons. Intermediate and advanced level students have one lesson and one day of free skiing each week. On weekends, students have the option to ski locally or participate in school-sponsored ski trips to nearby resorts such as Verbier, Zermatt, Gstaad and Les Diablerets.

3.43 Ski & Snowboard Teams Skiers and snowboarders can join LAS ski and snowboard teams, which includes an alpine ski team (racing gates), as well as freestyle teams for skiers and snowboarders. LAS teams take part in competitions with several schools during the winter season.

3.44 Mountain Safety In various school assemblies, LAS students are taught mountain etiquette and safety guidelines, such as skiing in groups of three, keeping their cell phones with them at all times, and obeying slope closures and avalanche warning barricades. All skiers and snowboarders ­ from the intermediate level and higher ­ attend mandatory avalanche educational seminars and field courses on the mountain. In addition, a weekend-long avalanche training program (with certification) is offered to interested students and staff members.

3.45 Non­-Skiing Students In keeping with our longstanding tradition and the LAS alpine spirit, we do require all students to participate in our winter program as a part of our athletic activities requirement. However, we do recognize and understand that some students may not be comfortable with downhill skiing or snowboarding, or may suffer from physical conditions that prevent them from skiing. As a result, the Student Life Department offers a fitness + library study option for those who are excused for medical reasons.

3.46 Skiing or Snowboarding Off-piste Technically, the skiing term “off-piste” means “anything off of a groomed run.” At LAS, skiing or snowboarding off-piste is NOT allowed. Students caught skiing off-piste risk punishment and loss of skiing privileges, but more importantly, could face injury or even death by hitting a tree or rock, falling precariously in deep snow, or being caught in an avalanche. While certain areas of off-piste terrain are much more dangerous than others, it is imprudent for us to determine ‘safer’ off-piste areas. The ONLY exception to this rule is if a student has received parental permission to be in the company of a certified off-piste guide. Skiing in areas that are OUT OF BOUNDS (including closed areas, areas marked off with signs and/or rope, or trails/runs that leave the resort such as the YELLOW TRAIL) is also strictly forbidden. Such areas are dangerous and contain a risk of natural and triggered avalanches AND potentially hazardous obstacles such as fallen trees or branches, rocks, and hidden fence posts. Mountain safety personnel do NOT control such areas.

3.47 Avalanche Awareness and Foundation Courses These courses are designed to provide LAS students with information to better understand avalanche terrain, the dangers of avalanches and the factors that cause avalanches. Armed with this knowledge, students will be more informed, more responsible, and make smarter decisions. However, these courses are NOT intended to teach students how to ski off-piste or provide special privileges to ski off-piste at your leisure. Our school policy forbidding off-piste skiing and snowboarding remains in force.

Leysin American School | 23 3.5 travel 3.51 CULTURAL TRIPS LAS offers cultural trips to destinations in Switzerland and Western in October, and to all points in Europe in May and June, under the supervision of Faculty. All students are asked to participate in these grade level trips and will receive an academic grade based on their contribution and performance during the trip. Cultural trips provide an opportunity for students to explore and experience the history, cultural customs and physical traditions of the countries visited, and to develop a sense of connection with their classmates. Students who do not participate in cultural trips without a valid excuse receive an automatic failing grade; cancellation fees also may be assessed. Students who do not intend to go on a cultural trip must contact the Director of Student Life in advance with an appropriate explanation. The Director will determine if that explanation is legitimate.

3.511 Previous Cultural Trips offered This list is tentative and can change for trips in 2015 - 2016.

Fall Cultural Trips • 8th - Crans Montana, Valais Canton • 9th - Lugano, Canton • 10th - Outward Bound in Bavaria, • 11th - French Homestay Trip to Nice, France, Spanish Homestay Trip to Madrid, Spain, Art Trip, Interlaken and the Jungfrau Region Trip, Lugano Photography Trip, Zürich Music Trip, Zürich and Lucerne Science Trip • 12th - Theory of Knowledge Florence Trip Theory of Knowledge Rome Trip Theory of Knowledge Venice Trip

Spring Cultural Trips

• 8th - Alsace, France • 9th - Cinque Terre, • 10th - Florence, Italy, Sorrento, Italy, Venice, Italy • 11th - Amsterdam, The Netherlands, Berlin, Germany, Lisbon, Portugal, Malta, Prague, • 12th - Barcelona, Spain, Cyprus, Dubrovnik, , Istanbul, Turkey, Granada, Spain • Open - Habitat for Humanity Service Trip

3.52 SCHOOL-SPONSORED WEEKEND TRAVEL PROGRAM The LAS Student Life /Activities Department offers chaperoned travel options on virtually every weekend of the school year to a variety of destinations for recreation and cultural enrichment. All trips are publicized, and students may sign up at the Student Life Office. The cost of a trip will be billed to a student’s account and may also include a no-show charge if the student signs up but does not attend a trip.

Weekend city destinations regularly include , Geneva, Vevey, Lausanne, and Bern. Special trips to musicals in Zürich, art exhibitions, thermal baths in Lavey les Bains, the Geneva Car Show, the Red Cross Museum, CERN and Swiss Festivals are often organized as a result of faculty & student requests. Recreational outings—Aquaparc, canyoning, whitewater rafting, hiking to mountain huts, paintballing, rock climbing, via ferrata climbing and biking by Lake Geneva—are offered in the fall and spring. Popular winter ski trips include day and weekend excursions to world famous Swiss resorts such as Verbier, Zermatt, Gstaad, Diablerets, and Portes du Soleil.

However, weekend skiing on our own mountain in Leysin is the most popular destination of all! The Weekend Travel Program provides a valuable alternative for parents who are concerned with permitting their children to travel. For a list of travel options, please contact the Director of Student Life at [email protected]. 3.53 GRADE 8 AND 9 TRAVEL PROCEDURE Travel for our grade 8 and 9 students is designed to accommodate more frequent visits with parents. Travel permissions are available on most weekends unless a mandatory school event is already scheduled. If a grade 8 or 9 student intends to travel, they must apply in advance through the LAS travel portal http://weekends.las.ch. In addition, grade 8 and 9 students must be picked up and dropped off at LAS by their parents. In cases where the parent is not available, a student’s transfer will be arranged by our travel office([email protected]).

24 | Leysin American School 3.54 TYPES OF TRAVEL AT LAS, we provide our students with a variety of travel options:

1. Personal Weekend Travel: On certain weekends (see school calendar), students at grade 10 and above may earn the conditional privilege of traveling for the day or the weekend. Apply via the LAS travel request portal at https://weekends.las.ch 2. Vacation Travel can occur during the school year during scheduled school breaks and the summer months. To learn more, email the LAS Travel Office [email protected] 3. Medical Travel: Any travel as a result of medical leave. Email: [email protected] 4. Special Travel can result in missed classes. In these cases, students must apply for travel through the travel portal https://weekends.las.ch by the Wednesday, 13:00 CET deadline. The Associate Dean of the Savoy Campus for Savoy students ([email protected]) and the Assistant Dean of Students BEC for Belle Époque students ([email protected]) review all requests. 5. School Travel: See STUDENT LIFE SECTION 6. Emergency Travel: If an emergency situation arises, students should contact their admissions representative to confirm the event. The Dean of Students then will consult with the admissions agent to determine if travel can be authorized. 7. Family Visit: If parents or relatives (an adult must be 25 years or older) of a student visit the campus, they may check out the student for the weekend. The student still should apply for this visit through the LAS travel request process. In last minute cases, a family member can check out a student in person with the Dean of Students Office during the school day or in person with the Administrator on Call after school hours or on the weekends. +41 (0)79 386 9305.

3.541 Personal Weekend Travel, Grade 10 and Above Portal: https://weekends.las.ch Personal travel provides a great opportunity for students to leave the Magic Mountain and to take advantage of greater shopping and dining options in nearby cities. When granting permission for student travel, parents should consider the safety of their children, as well as its potential impact on their child’s academic progress. As personal travel for students is purely for pleasure, it only occurs on given dates on the school calendar. We ask that personal weekend travel not be used for doctor’s appointments, college visits, placement exams, or family visits.

3.5411 Personal Travel Dates The LAS school calendar features three types of travel dates: 1. Travel Weekend: ­ A student may travel and be away from the campus overnight. 2. Day Travel:­ A student may only leave the school during the day, checking out during brunch with the duty team and returning by 19:00 to their dorm. 3. Non-travel Weekend: ­Students are not allowed to leave the school during this weekend.

3.5412 Return Students must return to school by their dorm curfew on Saturday or by 19:00 on Sunday.

3.5413 Travel authorization is determined by: 1. Savoy Students in Grades 10: ­The Associate Dean of Savoy 2. Grade 8 and 9 students: ­ The Grade 8 and 9 Coordinators 3. Belle Époque Students: ­ The Assistant Dean of Students BEC

Each one of these people has access to http://weekends.las.ch where a parent can approve a student’s request.

3.5414 Travel List Students meeting all requirements will be authorized to travel and placed on the travel list. The travel list will be posted as soon as possible (usually Thursday morning). No changes will be made to the travel list after 17:00 Thursday.

Note: Even if students are unsure that they are going to travel, they need to follow the application process. If they are placed on the travel list but elect not to travel, then they should contact the AOC to be removed from the travel list. (Otherwise, duty staff won’t know where to locate them in case of an emergency).

Leysin American School | 25 Procedures To Make The Travel List Weekend travel is considered a privilege. In order to gain this privilege, students must be on the Commendation List. Commendation List Every week by Tuesday lunchtime, the Dean of Students Office will print out a list of students who have earned commendations. In order to receive a commendation a student needs to meet the following four criteria, based on the prior week’s performance.

1. A student’s GPA must be 2.00 or above on the Savoy campus, and above 2.50 on the BEC campus. The GPA is calculated from a Savoy Academic Office report each Monday. 2. A student must have fewer than two absences (with a tardy equal to 0.5 absences) for his or her classes the prior week. 3. A student must have served all of his or her restrictions for the previous week. 4. A student must have attended all of his or her activities. A missed activity must be made up through the Friday activity make­up run the previous week.

Note: If during the week you receive more than 5 points in consequence, a student’s standing on the Commendation List is revoked and travel privileges are suspended.

3.542 Day Travel Requirements: • Student must be on the Commendation List. • Students must fill out anonline travel request form (https://weekend.las.ch) before Wednesday, 13:00 CET. • The travel form MUST BE ACCURATE AND COMPLETE . • Parents must approve the request* (https://weekends.las.ch) before Wednesday, 13:00 CET, or else a student must have standing day travel permission.

3.5421 Day Travel Times Students must check-in at brunch and leave after that time (or, if they need to leave early, check out with the AOC or a weekend Faculty Rover.) Students are expected to return and check into their dorms by 19:00 from day travel. During the winter season, students should check out with the Administrator-on-Call or with a Faculty Rover, and check back into the dorms by 19:00.

3.543 Overnight Travel Requirements: • Students must fill out an online travel request form (https://weekends.las.ch) before Wednesday, 13:00 CET. • The travel form MUST BE ACCURATE AND COMPLETE . • Students must have parental permission submitted through https://weekends.las.ch before Wednesday, 13:00 CET. • Students must be with a recognized, named adult (25 years or older) who will be a responsible guardian. The school reserves the right to contact this guardian to ensure the student’s safety. If we are not able to confirm the guardian, then travel permission will be revoked.

Note: Under no circumstances will students be granted a weekend permission to stay overnight in Leysin.

3.544 Changes to a Student’s Travel Plans and Staying in Leysin As LAS is an open campus that is integrated into the small village of Leysin, we ask that students follow all school rules while visiting Leysin. Students may not remain in the town when checked out for travel or for an overnight, unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. In addition, students will need to provide a contact phone number and the location of their accommodations in Leysin. If plans change and an early return to school is necessary, the student’s parent or guardian must call the school and provide the student’s expected arrival time back on campus. This procedure is necessary in order to ensure our students’ safety and security by knowing their whereabouts at all times, and to shield them if a larger emergency arises.

26 | Leysin American School To sum up: • If students are traveling for the weekend, they are expected to leave school and the town of Leysin by 19:00. Any exceptions must be stated within the student’s travel plan when they apply for travel. Students still on campus at 19:00 are expected to check-in at their dorms. • Students are expected to return on the day designated in their travel form. If a student returns to the school or Leysin early, their parent or guardian should call the Administrator on Call during the day from 08:00 to 19:00. The AOC will then inform the dorm and modify the student’s travel permission with this new information. • Students are not allowed to remain in town (or on the mountain) if they have checked out for the weekend. • Under no circumstances are students allowed to stay in a Leysin hotel while on travel permission without a guardian. • Students discovered in town will receive a clipboard. Those found staying in a Leysin hotel while on weekend travel will receive an on-campus suspension.

3.545 Infractions for late returns to dorm following travel weekends Time returned: • 19:00 - 19:30 : One-hour early check-in • 19:30 - 20:30: Friday night in the dorm • Later 20:30: Clipboard 3.55 LONG WEEKENDS Student travel over long school weekends is considered personal travel. While students need not be on the Commendation List to travel at this time, they still must submit their online­ form and parental permission in by Wednesday, 13:00 CET. Students also may check into their dorm at 21:00 over long weekends. Students living in Eden and Vermont may return at 21:00 if they are traveling; however, those without travel permission must be in the dorm by the usual 19:00 check-in time.

3.551 Infractions for late returns to dorm following long weekend travel Time returned: • 21:00 - ­21:30: One-hour early check-in • 21:30­ - 22:30: Friday night in the dorm • Later 22:30: Clipboard 3.56 EARLY LEAVES AND LATE RETURNS Since our dorm staff members are also working teachers, they cannot be expected to stay up late to check-in returning students. Therefore, students cannot leave their dorms before 6 a.m. or return to school after 23:00. Students unable to return to their dorms before 23:00 must spend the night away from school. However, they cannot seek accommodations for the night in Leysin. 3.57 HEALTH PROMOTION If a student is ill on Thursday or Friday, the Health Center will revoke their travel privilege. As well, if a student returns from travel and is in the Health Center Monday morning, or has slept in Monday morning, their right to travel will be revoked over the following two weekends. 3.58 SCHOOL BREAKS & TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS For mandatory school breaks (winter vacation, spring break, and the school year’s start and close), we ask that parents submit student travel plans to the LAS Travel Office ([email protected]) at least two weeks prior to travel. LAS provides courtesy transportation on official travel days to and from Geneva Airport for students whose parents have submitted travel plans. To learn more, please contact the Travel Office directly.

• Students who are 16 or older may take any school transportation or arrange their own transportation. • Students UNDER 16 years old must take an LAS-designated shuttle unless their parents have requested a car and chaperone through the travel office ([email protected]). • Unaccompanied minors (Geneva Airport only): In order for a student to travel as an ‘‘Unaccompanied Minor’’ (UM), their parents or guardian must contact the airline and complete the necessary steps for this service. Confirmation with the airline should be sent to the LAS Travel Office. LAS will then arrange for a staff member to accompany the student to or from Geneva airport. Our fee for this UM service is CHF 150 for up to 5 hours. Additional UM time will be charged at CHF 30 / hour.

Leysin American School | 27 3.581 Early Departure At Winter Break, students are permitted to leave school as soon as they have finished their last exam, provided that they have met all of their obligations at school and in the dorms. Parents or guardians who wish students to leave before the official departure date must email the travel office in advance ([email protected]), providing both permission and travel details. Students under 16 who seek early departure must have a school-reviewed adult (over 25 years old) pick them up at LAS.

3.582 Departure Transportation Schedule

Day 1: First departing day 16:30 bus Day 2: 03:00 bus, 05:00 bus (bad weather conditions 05:28 train), 09:00 bus, 12:00 bus, 16:30 van (if needed) Day 3: 03:00 bus, 05:00 bus (bad weather conditions 05:28 train), 09:00 bus, 12:00 bus

3.583 Winter Travel — Inclement Weather Plan During the winter holiday vacation, a forecast of inclement weather may delay the departure of early buses down the mountain. In this case, students will leave on the 16:30 bus the day before and stay overnight in hotels near Geneva Airport. Food and accommodation costs will be covered by the student’s personal account.

3.584 Arrival Parents or guardians must notify the school at least 3 days in advance of a student’s intended arrival, so we can prepare for their transportation needs. We cannot guarantee pickup service if arrival information is received less than three days prior to the arrival date.

3.585 Return Transportation Schedule (Pick up time at Geneva Airport) Upon arrival, transportation is scheduled to leave Geneva Airport at the following times: 09:00, 12:00, 14:00, 16:00, 18:30

3.586 Airport Booth For the school’s August orientation, a staffed LAS booth will be located in the information area immediately outside of the baggage claim at Geneva Airport.

All other returning students at Geneva Airport should meet the LAS transportation chaperone, who will arrive at the airport 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time. The chaperone will stand at the arrivals area with an LAS placard and direct students where to board the school bus.

3.587 Late Arrivals Parents and students who cannot arrive at LAS before 21:00 should prepare to spend the night in a hotel in Geneva and arrange for travel to Leysin the following morning. The LAS travel office ([email protected]) can assist with these arrangments.

3.588 School Closure When the dorms are closed, no students are allowed to remain unsupervised on campus. 3.6 student health 3.61 On­-Campus Health Center Our main school Health Center is located on the Savoy Campus. A satellite health clinic also is available at the Belle Époque Campus. The Health Center staff consists of 3 full-time nursing positions, 1 1/2 counselor positions, a HC director and several support staff.

3.62 School Health Plan Legally required LAS Accident and Health Insurances are included in our tuition fees and cover students during the school year (excluding summer holidays). Accident and Health Insurances provide 100% of hospitalization and ambulatory treatment expenses. Dental care and eye care is excluded. For all students, there is an annual calendar year CHF 200 deductible charged to the Personal Account.

28 | Leysin American School 3.63 Clinic Hours and Doctor Clinic Our Health Center operates clinics everyday before school and during lunch, with a nurse and counselor on call 24 hours, 7 days a week. Once a week, the town doctor visits the Savoy Campus Health Center to see students by appointment. If a student needs to see a doctor outside of this period, Health Center staff can schedule that appointment. The school’s health insurance plan only covers the cost of medical care approved by the town doctor. If students or their families choose to seek care independent of the LAS plan, they will responsible for the cost of this treatment.

3.64 Contacting the LAS Health Center Students are encouraged to visit the Health Center during regular clinic hours. If a student becomes ill outside of clinic hours, they must first talk to their teacher, dorm staff or other adult who will assist them in accessing medical care which may include calling the school nurse on call. (+41 79 315 1316)

Parents wishing to contact the Health Center staff should call +41 24 493 4830 during school hours, or email nursing staff at [email protected]. In the case of an emergency, parents should call the Administrator-on-Call at +41 79 386 9305.

The Health Center staff make every effort to provide the necessary medical care for students with as little disruption to their academic schedules as possible. Nurses often see students who are mildly ill but still healthy enough to attend class. We request that parents support the Health Center’s decisions.

3.65 Off­-Campus Medical Care All off-­campus medical care is coordinated through the Health Center team. The Health Center must receive a student’s request for such care two weeks in advance in order to confirm the need and make any arrangements. Requests for off-campus care can include dental, medical and counseling appointments. If a student’s need is non- urgent, the Health Center staff will make arrangements with student’s parents that do not interfere with the student’s academic commitments. These arrangements may include having the student see a specialist in their home country while on break, or having a parent present in Switzerland in cases involving complex care. We ask that parents who have arranged a private medical appointment for their student to inform the Health Center staff. This information will give us a full picture of the student’s health and avoid duplication of services.

Health Center staff will arrange student transportation to nonurgent­ medical appointments. Students may be accompanied by a nurse, another responsible adult at the school or by a driver, depending on the medical issue and needs of the student. Payment for staff escort and driver fees for off-mountain appointments will be charged to a student’s personal account.

Health Center staff will schedule initial appointments for students with outside providers such as dentists, physiotherapists, orthodontists, and opticians. However, the student is responsible for attending these appointments and, at times, scheduling follow-up visits. If a student routinely misses scheduled appointments, the Health Center will contact the student’s parents and may decline to schedule further appointments. In these cases, students should arrange for follow-up themselves.

3.66 Illness on a school day Students who are ill should attend the morning clinic for assessment in school dress between 07:00 and 07:30 at the Savoy or Belle Époque Health Centers. If students become sick during the school day, they must ask for a pass from their class teachers to visit the Health Center. Class teachers will phone the Health Center in advance to alert them of a student patient.

3.67 Excused from Classes Beds are available during the school day for students who are too ill to attend classes. Health Center staff will determine whether a student is too ill to attend classes on any given day. If students are too ill to attend classes, it is assumed that they also cannot participate in afterschool­ activities, socializing, and weekend travel opportunities. Unwell students must not stay in their dorm rooms during the day, but in the Health Center where they can be monitored. In special circumstances, a student may be permitted to stay in the dorm with the approval of the nurse and residential staff.

3.68 Illness at night or on the weekend Students who become ill after hours should contact the dormitory duty person or the weekend Faculty Rover by calling the duty phone. Each dormitory has a first aid kit that contains a supply of simple medicines to treat minor problems like headache, fever, or minor cuts.

Leysin American School | 29 3.69 Medications The nursing staff checks any medicines students bring to LAS. All over the counter, homeopathic, and prescription medication must be registered with the Health Center. Students may not keep any medications in their dorm rooms (including bodybuilding products or protein drinks) unless they are approved by the Nursing staff. • Nursing staff will manage dispensing of regular medications. • Students must hand in to the Nursing staff any controlled medications, which will be kept at the Health Center. • Students should never share medications. • All prescription medicines MUST be clearly labeled with the prescribing physician’s name and full name of recipient. • All medications administered by the school must be accompanied by valid prescriptions from licensed physicians.

3.690 Medical Conditions Requiring Advanced Care If in suffering a more serious injury or illness, a student cannot walk to or attend class, the Health Center staff will formulate a plan with the student’s parents. While the Health Center is able to provide some added assistance, the school cannot provide 1:1 care, regular transportation between buildings, or care in the dorms outside normal duty hours.

Care plan options may include having the student return home until they are well enough to attend class, having their parents come to Leysin and temporarily care for the student, or having the parents pay for additional assistance.

If parents do come to Leysin to care for their child, or if a parent is visiting their child in the hospital, the school asks that the parent take responsibility for the child’s medical care. While the Health Center is happy to assist with information on navigating the Swiss healthcare system, the student’s parents will be considered legally responsible until the student returns to school.

3.691 Confidentiality All information shared with the Health Center staff is confidential. This confidentiality includes sexual health details. Information may be shared between the nursing staff or counselor on a professional level, so they may perform their responsibilities. Information will be shared with a third party, if there is a clear risk to the student or to others within the LAS community. Further disclosure of information to other parties is covered by local Swiss medical practice. Health Center staff make every effort to keep parents informed about routine medical care. While we respect the student’s right to confidentiality, parents will be contacted in case of an emergency, or if there is an imminent threat to a student’s physical or mental health.

3.692 Personal, Social and Emotional Counseling The school’s Counselor(s) can provide from one to four evaluative/supportive counseling sessions. Students with ongoing issues who require regular counseling will be referred to an outside therapist. Parents will be contacted in these cases to provide consent for treatment and to authorize the fees to be charged to the student account. Students may make an appointment with a counselor themselves or may be referred by a parent, teacher, or staff member. The Counselor is responsible for referring students to the services of outside health professionals. If a student needs more intensive treatment, the Counselor, in conjunction with the school physician, will refer students to a psychiatrist or inpatient facility. Any student who harms or threatens to harm themselves or others may be asked to withdraw from school.

3.693 Medical Records All medical records are confidential and are housed in a locked storage area in the Health Center. It is our expectation that students provide ALL health forms, including a COMPLETE vaccination record, at the time of student registration.

30 | Leysin American School 3.7 safety and security At LAS, the safety and security of our students, staff, and visitors are our highest priority. With this goal in mind, we focus on the practice of prevention every day. Each department of the school regularly assesses potential risks in which students and others may find themselves. Appropriate steps are then taken to avoid those possibilities.

3.71 Security The entire LAS campus now operates on a single entry system, which strictly controls who lawfully can gain entrance to the school. Fire exits and rules are clearly posted; when school is in session, regular fire drills teach students how to exit a building safely and where to gather in an emergency situation. We also stage regular lockdown drills in case we need to secure the school in an emergency.

3.72 Personal Safety At LAS as in the outside world, individuals must assume the ultimate responsibility for their personal safety. For all that we do to create, maintain and improve a safe environment for our students, students themselves must play an active role in ensuring their own safety by being sensible, exercising caution, maintaining an awareness of their surroundings, and most of all, following our school’s safety rules in this handbook. Students who engage in any unsafe behavior or activities will face serious disciplinary action.

3.73 Fire Safety At LAS, fire safety is everyone’s concern. It is imperative that students and faculty adhere to fire evacuation procedures at all times. All residents will be made aware of the school’s evacuation routes and procedures during dormitory orientation; every resident must vacate a building in an orderly fashion when the alarm sounds and wait for the “all clear” signal before re-entering.

Items such as incense burners, candles, lighters, and other open heat sources (including electrical appliances) are strictly prohibited, as are flammable liquids such as kerosene, butane, and other common petroleum-based products. Smoking also is not permitted in any LAS dormitories.

Failure to comply with LAS fire safety rules and regulations places everyone in a dormitory at risk; therefore, students who violate these rules and jeopardize others will face serious consequences. In addition, students found intentionally tampering with fire safety systems may face serious monetary fines in addition to severe disciplinary action or expulsion.

3.74 Theft, Security, Protection, & Insurance Theft is unfortunately a reality, and LAS is not immune to its presence. However, more than any other offense, theft destroys that sense of trust necessary to maintain a productive and thriving school community like our own. For this reason, we do not tolerate acts of theft, which is punishable by off-campus suspension or withdrawal from LAS. To minimize their likelihood of becoming a victim of theft, we ask students to lock all valuables in their school provided personal safe or in the lockable storage areas in their rooms. Students also must keep exterior dorm room doors locked when they are away. When doing laundry, students should time their loads to keep track of their clothing in public areas.

Prevention usually is the best protection against theft. Small but valuable electronics, cell phones, wallets, and money should never be left out in the open or in unlocked areas. Students should lock bags or place them in school lockers in order to protect valuable items, such as school cellphones or computers. Large sums of money should be held in the school’s accounting office for safekeeping. In addition, students should never borrow items not belonging to them without the owner’s consent, regardless of the intention to return that item.

Leysin American School | 31 3.8 personal conduct 3.81 DAILY BEHAVIOR The LAS code of conduct represents the sum of our experience in guiding students to realize their full individual potential in preparation for university, careers, and life. This path of course has its challenges. While we make every effort to understand each student’s needs, we also must respect and preserve the quality of our diverse international community, so that we may live and work together in mutual respect. Our code of conduct provides the necessary structure for our community to benefit all over time.

In representing our school, we ask our students to behave in a mature and appropriate manner at all times, both on campus and during any travels. We recognize that not all rules apply perfectly to every individual; however, to maintain a standard of fairness and consistency for our community, we ask all students to observe our system of rules, which is overseen by the Dean of Students Office. Students who violate a rule will receive a consequence.

3.811 Disciplinary Consequences

1. Warning: A student will receive a warning verbally or via email about the rule they have violated. 2. School Night 19:00 Check-in 3. 1hour­ early check-in: A student must check into the dorm one hour earlier on a weekend night. 4. 2­ hour early check-in: A student must check into the dorm two hours earlier on the weekend. 5. Full night in the dorm: A student must check into the dorm for the entire weekend night. 6. Clipboard: A student must sign in with the AOC or Rover starting at 09:00 on the weekend and must check-in hourly with them until 17:00. After that they must check into the dorm at 19:00 and remain there for the night. 7. Partial Clipboard: A student will must sign in for an assigned number of hours. 8. On-campus Suspension: Two weekends of clipboard and school night check-in every day of the week. 9. Off-campus Suspension: A student will must leave campus and return home for a week.

Early Check-in: If a student has an early check-in to their dorm, they are expected to follow these rules: • The student must remain in their own room. • No friends are allowed to visit; the student’s roommate(s) is the only other person allowed to be in the room. • The student may not order food deliveries, or have other students order food for them.

Note: Dormitories in which students live may have additional rules for resident behavior. LAS reserves the right to add consequences as needed for specific circumstances.

32 | Leysin American School 3.82 LAS INFRACTIONS The following list of infractions represent our response to common rule violations. Consequences can be higher for repeated offenses. This list is not an exhaustive list, and consequences can be modified or created as needed.

School Night 19:00 Check-in (0.75 hour) • Messy room • Dress code violation • Late in leaving dorm

One­-Hour Early Check-in (1 hour) • Leaving dishes in dining hall • Late to dorm check in, study hall, lights out • Computer on after lights out • Not answering phone for Saturday or Sunday Red Frog/ Cave Check in/ Ski Check in

Two-­Hour Early Check-in (2 hours) • Disrespect • Missing Assembly or other mandatory school meeting • 2 unexcused absences from activities

Full Weekend Night (4 hours) • Smoking 3rd offense • Insubordination • Disruptive behavior • 3 unexcused absences from activities

One-Day Clipboard (15 hours) • Positive alcohol test (senior with drinking permission) • Leaving Leysin for a day without travel permission • Smoking 4th offense or more • Gross disrespect On-Campus (25 hours) • Positive alcohol test without drinking permission • Consuming alcohol or alcohol found in room • Bullying • In dorm of another gender • Theft

Off Campus (30 hours) • Fighting • Leaving the dorm at night • Traveling without authorization • Unsafe behavior • Blatantly disregarding a restriction

Serving Consequences

• 1 hour = 1 hour early check-in Friday night • 2 hours = 2 hour early check-in Friday night • 3 hours = 3 hour early check-in Friday night • 4 hours = Full Friday night in dorm, check-in at 19:00 • 5 hours = Full Friday night and 1 hour early check-in on Saturday night • 6 hours = Full Friday night and 2 hour early check-in on Saturday night • 7 hours = Full Friday night and 3 hour early check-in on Saturday night • 8 hours = Full Friday night and full Saturday night in dorm check-in both nights at 19:00 • >8 hours = Clipboard Saturday • >15 hours = Clipboard Saturday and Sunday

Any unserved 0.75 hour consequences (19:00 School Night Check In) will be rounded up to 1 hour and served on weekends.

Leysin American School | 33 3.83 CHECK-IN TIMES

Hours Grade 8 & 9 Grade 10 & 11 Grade 12 &­13­PG Check-in Check-in Check-in

1 hour 21:30 Friday 22:00 Friday 22:15 Friday 2 hours 20:30 Friday 21:00 Friday 21:15 Friday 3 hours 19:30 Friday 20:00 Friday 20:15 Friday 4 hours 19:00 Friday 19:00 Friday 19:00 Friday 5 hours 19:00 Friday 19:00 Friday 19:00 Friday 21:30 Saturday 22:00 Saturday 22:15 Saturday 6 hours 19:00 Friday 19:00 Friday 19:00 Friday 20:30 Saturday 21:00 Saturday 21:15 Saturday 7 hours 19:00 Friday 19:00 Friday 19:00 Friday 19:30 Saturday 20:00 Saturday 20:15 Saturday 8 hours 19:00 Friday 19:00 Friday 19:00 Friday 19:00 Saturday 19:00 Saturday 19:00 Saturday

If a student does not serve their restriction, then it will be doubled. Blatant disregard for serving restrictions will result in an off-campus suspension. 3.84 CONTRACTS A student with repeated infractions will meet with the Dean of Students to draw up a contract that reflects expectations for future behavior and consequences if they are not met. The student will sign this contract, which will be sent to their parents. 3.85 FACULTY AND STAFF INSTRUCTIONS Students are asked to follow any directions of staff immediately. If students feel they have been treated unfairly, they should politely email their complaint to that staff member (and copying their Faculty Family parents), requesting a time to meet to resolve these differences. 3.86 PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTION Given that the LAS faculty, staff and students represent an extremely diverse cultural group, we ask that students exercise conservative behavior in public. Kissing or other displays of affection in public are not allowed at any time or in any school space. 3.87 BULLYING Bullying is defined as verbal or physical contact, which has the purpose of harming an individual’s ability to learn, performance or personal well­being. Bullying can include remarks made that demonstrate bigotry, intolerance and discrimination on the basis of gender, race, ethnicity, religious beliefs, or sexual orientation. LAS is committed to maintaining a school environment where bullying has no place. Furthermore, any form of coercion or harassment that insults the dignity of others or interferes with their capacity to learn or work is unacceptable. This commitment requires a greater consideration and tolerance for diversity in our international community. At LAS, our students and faculty represent a broad range of cultures and religious beliefs, which are tied to their standards for personal behavior. However, these differences do not excuse inappropriate or offensive behavior. Instead, they call for a deeper awareness and sensitivity to other people’s rights and dignities. 3.88 SEXUAL HARASSMENT Sexual harassment is conduct represented by unwelcome physical contact or unwelcome verbal taunts, often in the guise of jokes, based on a person’s gender or sexual orientation. Examples of possible sexual harassment include, but are not limited to: • Unwanted physical contact such as touching, pinching, brushing up against, patting or rubbing of a person’s body • Touching a person anywhere or in any way after that person has indicated objection to such physical contact • Intimidation, taunts, slurs, jokes or condescension based on a person’s gender or sexual orientation • Gesturing obscenely or suggestively with hands, face or other body part • Unwanted attention in the form of badgering, especially after a person has indicated an objection to such behavior • Pulling, ripping or removing clothing or exposing someone’s body in any way • Behavior such as laying down suggestively in hallways, classrooms, common areas or school vehicles in a way that intimidates or prevents others from comfortably using the area

34 | Leysin American School 3.89 RESPONDING TO SEXUAL HARASSMENT AND BULLYING 1. Students immediately should report bullying or sexual harassment incidents to an LAS staff member. 2. In cases of serious acts of bullying sexual harassment, an LAS faculty member will document the incident and email that report to the Dean of Students Office. 3. The Dean of Students Office will conduct a full investigation of the incident where necessary. 4. Parents of the offending student(s) and victim(s) will be contacted. 5. Counseling and mediation is the first course of action, but all formal disciplinary sanctions also may be implemented, including dismissal from LAS. 6. All parties will be monitored after the incident has been investigated and resolved. 7. Repeated incidents will result in dismissal from school. 3.890 FIGHTING & VIOLENCE Fighting is an immature and unnecessary method of dealing with conflict. At LAS, we instead promote honest dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution. Physical violence of any sort between students will not be tolerated at any time. Fighting that results in medical care may result in an off-campus suspension or dismissal for those involved. 3.891 FIREARMS OR WEAPONS Use or possession of firearms, including blank firing guns and starter pistols, will result in immediate dismissal from LAS. While students may possess Swiss army style knives, blades bigger than 6cm are not allowed and will be confiscated. If a student threatens or attacks another student with a weapon, they will face a consequence of off- campus suspension or even dismissal. 3.892 ALCOHOL POLICY LAS students in 8th, 9th, 10th and 11th grades are not allowed drinking privileges at any time or allowed to possess alcohol. Students are often breathalyzed at dorm check-in; LAS reserves the right to breathalyze at random where it is deemed necessary. If a student tests positive on the breathalyzer, then a second reading will be taken ten minutes after the first. If that reading is still positive, then the student will be considered to have consumed alcohol. Policy for underclassmen and 1st semester seniors: • 1st offense: On-campus suspension and parent notified • 2nd offense: Off-campus suspension • 3rd offense: Recommended dismissal

Any alcohol consumption (as indicated by a positive test) or possession that results in an unsafe situation will result in the consequence of an off-campus suspension.

3.8921 Alcohol Privilege At LAS, 12th grade, 13th grade, and PG students with parental permission may earn the privilege of drinking alcohol in moderation during the second semester. We grant this privilege, which may be withdrawn at any time, only after students complete an alcohol awareness course.

The following guidelines apply: Students with drinking privileges may only consume alcohol at The Cave on designated evenings, usually Friday & Saturday nights from 19:30 to 22:30. Only beer and wine may be consumed in moderation. Hard alcohol (spirits) is forbidden. Alcohol must never be consumed or bought off campus and must never be consumed or present in dormitories. All students will be breathalyzed at weekends and at other times without warning. BAC (blood alcohol concentration) must not exceed 0.05 at any time.

The following consequences for BAC Level 0.05 - 0.07 will be implemented in each case without discussion:

• 1st offense: Clipboard and parent notified • 2nd offense: On-campus suspension and loss of drinking permission for 1 month • 3rd offense: Off-campus suspension and loss of drinking permission • 4th offense: Recommendation for dismissal

Consequences for BAC level above 0.07 will repeat as above, starting at the 2nd offense level.

Leysin American School | 35 3.893 SMOKING LAS has a strict no-smoking policy that is enforced with all students, regardless of their age. In addition, smoking under the age of 18 is against the law in the Canton of , where LAS is located.

As smoking has a proven harmful impact on one’s health, we urge our students to quit at their earliest opportunity— and to counsel their fellow students to do the same. We can provide smoking cessation classes free of charge to help support students in this effort.

If students are found smoking, they will face the following consequences:

• 1st offense: Students will receive a warning, and a letter will be sent to their parents. • 2nd offense: 2-hour early check-in, plus a 100 CHF fine charged to the student’s account. The student also will be required to attend a smoking education class. • 3rd offense: Friday Night • 4th offense and after: Clipboard

3.8931 Suspicion of Smoking If there is reasonable suspicion that a student is smoking or around smokers , they must attend a free smoking cessation class.

3.8932 With a Group of Smokers Students found among a group of smokers will receive a smoking infraction, even if it cannot be determined if they were also smoking.

3.8933 Smoking on School Grounds As LAS is an open campus within the town of Leysin, smoking between classes or while in the vicinity of the school will result in a consequence.

3.8934 Smoking in the Dorm Smoking in the dorm is incredibly dangerous and strictly prohibited. If a student is discovered smoking in a dorm, or if there is overwhelming evidence that smoking has occurred, the student immediately will receive an off-campus suspension. A second offense of this kind may well result in dismissal from LAS.

If more than one faculty member smells cigarette smoke while in a dorm room, then the students in that room will be confronted. If the room continues to smell of smoke afterwards, all students living in that room will receive an off- campus suspension for one week, unless those responsible step forward to receive their consequence.

Cigarette butts inside the room, on the balcony, outside of the window, or cigarette marks in the bathroom all of these are considered reasonable evidence that smoking is occurring in the room.

3.8935 Electronic Cigarettes Electronic cigarettes allow the user to inhale a vapor that is often flavored and can contain nicotine. It is often used as an aid to smoking cessation. If a student is using an electronic cigarette to quit smoking, they first must visit the Health Center first and consult with a nurse. If the Health Center approves this use, they will work with the student to develop a plan and timeline to use it. The student is responsible for using it in a manner that will not be confused with smoking or unauthorized use.

Use of electronic cigarettes without prior approval from the Health Center is considered a smoking violation and will result in the same set of consequences. Unauthorized electronic cigarettes will be confiscated and held in the Dean of Students office. Students may reclaim them before winter vacation or before they return home at end of year.

While electronic cigarettes do not cause a fire hazard, the effects of secondhand vapor (which are unknown) and the school’s position on drug use makes unsanctioned electronic cigarette use unacceptable. Therefore, electronic cigarette use indoors is not allowed.

Students found using an electronic cigarette indoors will face the following consequences: • First offense: A full weekend clipboard • Second offense: On-­campus suspension • Third offense: Off­-campus suspension

36 | Leysin American School 3.8936 Dokha Dokha is a extremely powerful tobacco product. It is smoked through a wooden pipe called a medwakh. It can have as much as 5 times the nicotine as a cigarette.

The effects and dangers of this product are not well known. While LAS, will not at this moment, classify it in the same regard as a drug, the concern about the use of this product will have a more serious set of consequences than a cigarette.

If a student is seen using a medwakh or in possession of Dokha or medwakh the follwing consquences will apply: • First offense: A clipboard • Second offense: On-­campus suspension • Third offense: Off­-campus suspension

3.894 DRUGS, DRUG PARAPHERNALIA & TESTING POLICY LAS maintains a zero tolerance drug policy. If students are found using or in possession of drugs, they will be dismissed immediately. LAS provides drug awareness education through our residential life curriculum to support this policy.

LAS reserves the right to request a confidential medical examination (such as urine analysis) of any student at any time, and without warning. Testing will take place through the Health Center with the results communicated to the Dean of Students. A positive result will be tested a second time to confirm it is not a false positive. If the second test also is positive, the student will be considered to have used drugs. The sample will then be sent to an outside laboratory for a third round of testing. If this third test proves positive, the student must immediately withdraw from school.

Students are expected to not use drugs while away from school on break or over the summer. If a student tests positive while at school for drug use that occurred outside of school, they are still considered in violation of the school’s drug policy.

If a student refuses to submit to a drug or alcohol test, they will be considered in violation of school policy and will face immediate withdrawal. LAS reserves the right to classify new products and activities as drugs or drug use; students who are found involved may be subject to immediate withdrawal. LAS also reserves the right to consider the abuse of prescription drugs or any chemical agents being used in a drug-like manner in violation of our drug policy. 3.895 CONDUCT ON CULTURAL TRIPS Students are expected to behave sensibly during LAS cultural trips to ensure their safety during travel. Careless or difficult behavior by students not only creates added difficulties for the teachers in charge, it also has negative impact on the other students in the group. The school therefore views discipline incidents during cultural trips very seriously.

While on cultural trips, students must remain in their lodgings during the night and never consume alcohol. If either violation occurs, students involved will have their activities curtailed for the remainder of the trip. When they return to campus, they will receive an off-campus suspension and lose the right to attend the next cultural trip. In addition, they will receive a failing grade for the Cultural Trip on their transcript.

3.8951 Off-Campus Suspensions and Cultural Trips An off campus suspension may well result in the cancellation of a student’s cultural trip. Students who receive off- campus suspensions prior to the Fall Cultural trip will miss that trip. Additionally, students who receive off-campus suspensions following the Fall Cultural trip will miss the Spring trip. The student’s parents are financially responsible for changing all travel plans, and LAS will not give a refund for exclusion from the trip.

Leysin American School | 37 3.9 personal accounts & financial services 3.91 POCKET MONEY Parents determine the amount of pocket money they want their child to receive per week. Pocket money is distributed to students on Thursday and Friday.

All additional pocket money requests received before Wednesday 13:00 (Swiss Time) will be distributed, provided there are sufficient funds in the student’s personal account. All requests received after that deadline will be forwarded automatically to the following week. The school will respond to requests received for extra pocket money only if the email address provided matches the one we have on file. Note: Pocket money withdrawals are doubled for the Faculty Family weekend and tripled for the Fall & Spring Cultural trips. No pocket money will be distributed unless sufficient funds are available in the student’s account.

LAS recommends the following weekly pocket money allowances for students: • 12th/ 13th/ PG grades: CHF 100 • 10th and 11th grades: CHF 75 • 8th & 9th grade: CHF 60 • Maximum pocket money amount per week: CHF 150 Parents are responsible for checking the status of a student’s account via the Parent Portal and replenishing that account if and when funds run low. In addition, regular monthly statements are sent from Student Accounting. 3.92 MAJOR PURCHASES / EQUIPMENT RENTAL With prior parental permission, students charge major purchases such as sports equipment, musical instruments or clothing to their Personal Account. Students who wish to take music lessons may need to rent instruments, which also will be charged to the student’s Personal Account. Be advised that the students will require ski or snowboard equipment to participate in winter term activities. Equipment rental charges for the duration of the ski season range between CHF 700 - ­1500. 3.93 CAMPUS STORE / TEXT BOOKS Official LAS textbooks are loaned to students for the school year. Reimbursement for books not returned at end of year is 100 CHF per book.

The LAS Campus Store provides students with the following materials and services, which are charged to the student’s Personal Account:

• Study materials for the school year • LAS mandatory school dress and other LAS clothing, including LAS souvenirs • IT supplies • LAS recommends a minimum budget of CHF 500 per year for Campus Store supplies, CHF 850 for school dress and clothing, and CHF 200 for IT supplies. 3.94 WITHDRAWALS If a student leaves LAS before the end of the school year, a refund of CHF 600, partially covering room and board, will be made for each full month of school missed. Exceptions are granted only under extenuating circumstances. LAS reserves the right, without assigning a public reason, to require the withdrawal of students whose presence on campus is deemed harmful to themselves, to their fellow students, or to the school. In such cases, the refund policy described above is applicable. No refunds will be made for late arrivals, unscheduled early departures, or non­ participation in school trips. Please note that for students who do not complete the entire academic year, finalizing a statement of personal account expenditures will require three months after the date of the student’s departure. With early termination of the Swisscom contract, charges for non–returned items are as follows: SIM card CHF 150 and iPhone CHF 600. 3.95 CREDIT CARD POLICY LAS students may not have private bank accounts, except under special circumstances and only with school permission. If a student needs a private bank account, LAS must have a co­signatory right to avoid indiscriminate use. Bank accounts will be permitted only at approved banks. Parents may grant their child permission to have a credit card for travel purposes only. Such credit cards must be deposited in the school safe while school is in session and will be issued to students for their travels. School-sponsored travel and excursions are excluded.

38 | Leysin American School ACADEMICS - SECTION 4

4.1 academic information 4.11 GENERAL INFORMATION In this handbook, we have provided a clear outline of the academic program at LAS, including course descriptions, course sequences, grade level recommendations, and prerequisites. We hope that this overview will serve as a useful guide for parents in making decisions that will help their child achieve academic success. 4.12 PROGRAMS OF STUDY Students can choose to pursue their studies in one of the following three LAS academic programs:

4.121 LAS Diploma for ESL (For students who are non-native English speakers): A program of study requiring a concentration in ESL coursework and a 5.5 on the IELTS examination. The goal of the ESL program is to support students whose first language is not English to acquire social and academic proficiency in English, while continuing to attend their other classes. LAS offers three distinct levels of ESL courses, in addition to individualized support for English language learners.

4.1211 ESL Placement Policy Students who apply for admission to LAS and are non-native English speakers are expected to take the Oxford Online Placement Test (OOPT), and/or submit language results from a TOEFL or IELTS (International English Language Testing System) test. The Admissions Office will specify testing requirements. Scores on these assessments will help us with a student’s initial placement into either our ESL program or mainstream classes. All non-native English- speaking students may be reassessed immediately prior to their enrollment at LAS, such as during our Orientation Week in August. This reassessment is to help ensure correct course placement. Students arriving in January will also take the OOPT and a writing placement test, assessed by the ESL Department Head and one other teacher, so that the student can be placed accordingly.

At the end of each semester, the progress of all students in the ESL program is examined by the ESL Department to determine whether a student may progress to a higher ESL level or into mainstream classes. Reasons for a student’s promotion may include advancement in skills well beyond that of the current performance level in their classes, as well as other assessments. Parents and students will be informed of midterm­ assessment results, so that any questions or concerns can be answered at that time. Once the semester begins, a student’s ESL level may not be changed except in extraordinary circumstances.

4.122 LAS Diploma This program of study requires a minimum of 24 course credits, as specified in our graduation requirements. Students completing this program receive a US High School Diploma, with the endorsements of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges and of the European Council for International Schools.

4.123 International Baccalaureate (IB) LAS is an International Baccalaureate World School and offers students the opportunity to earn the rigorous IB Diploma along with the LAS High School Diploma. Some LAS students may also choose to pursue individual IB courses in order to earn IB Certificates. The school can advise students and their parents to decide if an IB­ based course of study fits the student’s current and future needs. IB coursework usually begins in the eleventh grade and requires two years to complete.

Leysin American School | 39 4.13 LEARNING SUPPORT LAS can provide support for students requiring assistance with organization, tutoring in certain subject areas, or other needs including mild learning disabilities. Parents are encouraged to contact our Director of Learning Support to discuss how and if a student’s needs can be accommodated. 4.14 LIBRARY The LAS Library is a sophisticated learning center that is dedicated to supporting the school’s International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, research projects, and professional development. In addition, the Library promotes the enjoyment of reading for all members of the school community. Located at both the Savoy and Belle Époque Campuses, its facilities are available for group academic work and professional skill development within the guidelines and criteria established by the Librarian. 4.15 DEANS’ AND HONORS LISTS Each grading period, the Campus Academic Offices publish lists of students whose performance is to be commended. Students with GPAs of 3.7 or higher are named to the Deans’ List, while students with GPAs between 3.4 and 3.699 are placed on the Honors List. 4.16 COURSE REGISTRATION Fall registration for current students is finalized during the previous spring, at which time they are tested and placed in the next appropriate group of classes . 4.17 DEPARTMENTAL PLACEMENT TESTING LAS currently employs placement tests to ensure that students are enrolled into appropriate classes, based on language and math abilities. Placement testing for English and ESL courses is conducted by our Admissions Department prior to registration. Placement testing for Mathematics is conducted by the Math Department during the course registration process. 4.18 SCHEDULE CHANGES Student-requested schedule changes must be submitted within the first two weeks of a new semester.After two weeks, no requested schedule changes will be accepted. We accept requested schedule changes based on the following criteria: • The need for a specific course to fulfill graduation requirements • Department head recommendations • Other changes authorized by the administration If a student drops a class after the first two weeks of class, they will receive a failing grade on their transcript for that class. 4.19 DISCLAIMER LAS will offer only those courses in the upcoming school year for which there is adequate enrollment and/or faculty availability. Courses, numbers of sections, and staff assignments are determined on the basis of need. Occasionally, circumstances may merit changes in the number and types of courses available. LAS reserves the right to change or cancel, without prior notice, any course listed in this guide and to rearrange any prescribed course sequence and make schedule changes for the purpose of leveling class sizes. 4.190 ATTENDANCE POLICY We expect our students to attend every class every day unless they are too ill to do so. Class attendance is critical to maintaining consistency in the educational process; in this regard, missing classes is problematic. While a student sometimes is able to make up missing work, in most cases, it is nearly impossible, especially where collaborative learning—as in lab or group work —is concerned.

Each LAS course represents at least 60 teaching hours over the course of the semester. In conjunction with our accreditation standards and most US state laws, students are guaranteed to receive credit for a course if they have both earned a passing grade in the course for a semester, and attended at least 90% of course meetings. LAS students who have acquired more than 10 total absences (both excused and unexcused) in one course over one semester may forfeit credit for that course, regardless of the grade that they have earned.

40 | Leysin American School 4.191 ATTENDANCE PENALTY If a student has acquired more than two unexcused absences in a class during a semester, that student will receive a 10% deduction in his or her final semester grade in that class. If a student has more than five unexcused absences in a semester, they will lose 20% of their grade. Therefore, a student can have two unexcused absences in a course in a semester, without suffering any reduction in their final semester grade in that course. These two absences allow a student to miss two class meetings without penalty, and provide some leeway for students who need or otherwise choose to miss class for reasons that the school does not consider excused.

Beyond this school-wide policy, teachers are permitted to include a tardiness and absence policy for their classes that can factor into a student’s final grade. 4.192 UNEXCUSED ABSENCES If a student fails to attend a class without first obtaining permission to do so from either the Health Center, the office of the Associate Dean of the Savoy Campus, or the office of the Associate Dean of the Belle Époque Campus, then the student’s absence will be regarded as unexcused. A student who misses a class without excuse is not entitled to receive credit for work due in that class (unless that work is submitted early with the teacher’s permission), or for any tests or quizzes that occurred in class on that day. In the case of classwork missed due to unexcused Parental Travel absences, the relevant Campus Dean may ­at their discretion and in consultation with the teacher of the course ­ permit the student to complete missed assessments for full or partial credit upon their return to school, within the timeframe designated for “Excused Absences” (see below). Permission to receive credit for late homework or for missed in-class assessments following a Parental Travel absence should be considered an unusual exception to general school policy. In cases of particularly blatant truancy by students, disciplinary consequences may also apply to unexcused absences. 4.193 TARDY PENALTY 1. The definition of a tardy is 5 minutes. 2. Teachers should emphasize the correlation between a deduction in professional points and tardies to the students: deductions should be made on a weekly/monthly basis. 3. Tardy Threshold Contracts: • 25 Tardies: Meeting with Academic Office, letter in file, 1 day clipboard. • 50 Tardies: Meeting with Academic Office, letter sent home, revocation of all travel for the remainder of the semester. • 75 Tardies: Meeting with Academic Office, On-Campus/Off-Campus Suspension 4. The Academic Offices on both campuses will conduct weekly reviews of tardies in order to ascertain if any students are either reaching or are close to reaching the numbers as mentioned above. 4.194 PARENTAL TRAVEL The school publishes its school dates in the master calendar. Parents are asked to review and honor mandatory school dates published in the LAS annual calendar. If a parent must remove a student from school for any period in which classes are in session, the parent must inform the school at least one week in advance (or two weeks, for medical appointments) for the status of the absence to be reviewed. Only in rare cases will the Associate Dean of the Savoy Campus or the Associate Dean of the Belle Époque Campus excuse absences incurred while traveling (see “Excused Absences”). In most cases, these will be regarded as unexcused “Parental Travel Absences” and will count towards the student’s attendance penalty.

A student who will be missing class because of travel, excused or not, must complete a Notification of Missing Class Form (an “Orange” or “Red” form available at the Savoy Dean’s Office or at the Belle Époque Dean’s Office), and then have it signed by the teachers whose classes the student will miss. The Notification of Missing Class Form must be completed 48 hours in advance of a student’s travel departure. Failure to complete this form is punishable by a two-hour clipboard. A student’s teacher may choose to work with the student in arranging for missed assignments to be completed, but is under no obligation to do so. Unless otherwise arranged, students are expected to submit their assignments electronically during their absence, or in advance of their absence, if possible. 4.195 VISA TRAVEL The school does not necessarily excuse absences due to a student’s visa issues that are unrelated to their enrollment at LAS. If a student needs to leave school to address visa issues, then they will need to follow the process detailed in the Parental Travel Section.

Leysin American School | 41 4.196 MEDICAL APPOINTMENTS All medical appointments must be approved through the school’s Health Center. In order for students to have absences excused as a result of an off-campus medical appointment, they must submit their request to the Health Center at least two weeks in advance. The Health Center will only approve an absence if they determine that the appointment must take place while classes are in session. If the Health Center cannot determine the necessity of the time with certainty, even if the appointment is valid, it still will be considered an unexcused absence. No medical appointment will be excused unless this procedure is followed, or if the Health Center is only notified only after the appointment occurs. 4.197 VACATION AND WEEKEND TRAVEL We ask that students leave and return on time from major vacation breaks. Any student missing class due to vacation travel will receive an unexcused absence for all classes missed. The only exception to this policy is if the student has had these absences excused in advance by the school.

If a student arrives back to campus late because of a transportation delay, then they must present evidence of this transportation delay to the Campus Academic Office upon their return. The Campus Academic Office will then determine whether any absences incurred will be excused. Students also must honor ‘long weekend’ departure and return dates. Students should not expect that any excuses other than those outlined in “Excused Absences” will be accepted for early departures or late arrivals. Weekend travel is the responsibility of the student, and no excused absences will be given for any reason — even a delay in transportation — if the student is unable to return to school on time. 4.198 EXCUSED ABSENCES Only in rare instances and under the most extraordinary circumstances (i.e. the wedding or death of an immediate family member, or participation in an Olympic qualifying event) will LAS excuse absences for non­health related reasons. Events such as family weddings, family vacation, or other engagements are considered ‘parental travel’ and are not excused. LAS reserves the right to determine which absences may be excused.

4.1981 Make­Up Work Policy When absences from a class are excused due to illness, the student is given one additional class day for each class meeting missed to complete and submit missed assignments. The maximum period for completing make­up work following an extended absence is one week. If a student requests additional time beyond one week to make up missed assignments, they must request an extension from the Associate Dean of the Savoy Campus or the Associate Dean of the Belle Époque Campus at least 24 hours prior to an assignment’s ‘adjusted deadline’. The relevant dean will then consult with the teacher in determining whether an extension may be granted.

In the case of certain non-health­ related excused absences, the Associate Dean of the Savoy Campus or the Associate Dean of the Belle Époque Campus may require a student to submit work either in advance of the absence (if the absence is planned), or to submit work electronically on the appropriate due dates during the absence, if possible.

In the case of health-related excused absences where the student’s illness did not prevent them from completing a homework assignment on time, they not entitled to an extra day extension. They must submit the assignment on its due date no later than their dormitory curfew.

In the event of an excused absence greater than one week, the Associate Dean of the Savoy Campus or the Associate Dean of the Belle Époque Campus may de c i d e t o waive some of the student’s missed homework assignments.

Note: School­-sponsored off-campus events (Model UN, athletic competition, and field trips) are considered excused absences. 4.199 HEALTH ABSENCES If a student is too ill to attend class, they must report to the Health Center no later than 15 minutes before their first class begins. The Health Center will determine whether a student will receive an excused absence due to health. Even though Health Center absences are excused, an excessive number (more than 10 in a semester) can still result in the student receiving no credit for their courses, or being issued a medical leave from school.

42 | Leysin American School 4.1990 DISCIPLINARY SANCTIONS TO UNEXCUSED ABSENCES The Campus Academic Offices run a weekly attendance report each Monday for the previous week. If a student has two or more unexcused absences (not including parental travel) or at least four tardies (two tardies equals one absence), then they will lose their travel permission for the following travel weekend, in addition to further sanctions as deemed appropriate by the Dean of Students Office. If a student believes that they have received an unexcused absence by mistake, they have one week following the absence to ask that the absence be changed. After one week, the Campus Academic Offices will not make further changes to a student’s attendance record.

Note: Tardies count only toward the disciplinary response, and are not calculated as part of the attendance penalty. 4.1991 ASSESSMENT AT LAS At LAS, we believe that assessment is an essential component of learning. We do not assess our students’ work just to determine what they know, but also to guide them in acquiring the knowledge and skills we value as a school. For example, teachers will offer constructive comments while assessing student work in order to encourage and reward good practice and direct further learning. Student work in all classes will be assessed regularly; while students should not expect that every aspect of their work will be assessed, they can expect teachers to offer ongoing feedback and guidance.

At the end of each semester, students sit for formal examinations in nearly every academic class. (In the case of IB classes, formal IB assessments are completed in class at the end of the semester.) Any assessment grades gathered by teachers are entered into the PowerSchool system, where parents can see a live record of these assignments and their child’s class averages. Together, these class averages form a grade­point average (GPA), which provides a holistic rating of a student’s academic progress. IB classes on the Belle Époque campus, because of their advanced status, are weighted more heavily in the calculation of GPA. We expect students to maintain a GPA of at least 2.0 (a “C” average). If a student’s GPA falls below this mark, the Campus Academic Offices may require that the student engage with the various academic supports we have available, and certain privileges may be revoked.

Students enrolled in IB courses are assessed against a subject’s externally set assessment criteria for many of their class assignments. These criteria are set by the IB and will give the teacher and student an idea of the student’s progress towards a final IB mark. In addition, these criteria can inform a teacher’s IB score predictions for the student, although they cannot give an exact indication. Students enrolled in IB courses are expected to complete formal Internal Assessments (IAs) in each of their IB classes, which are marked by the teacher and sent to the IB for external moderation. The IB Coordinator will publish a list of IA deadlines for all subjects in order to help manage the students’ workload. These formal IB Internal Assessment assignments will form part of the student’s LAS course grade, and will also count towards the external IB grade for the subject.

At the end of the IB students’ Year 1, their subject teachers will submit IB Predicted Grades (on the IB scale of 1­7). These predictions are meant to be a generous but realistic prediction of what the student will likely receive as a final IB mark the next year, based on the teacher’s experience of the student’s past motivation, current knowledge and future prospects, in addition to any IB­-style assessment the teacher has carried out in class. The results of these Predicted Grades can affect the standing of a student in the IB Programme. 4.1992 MARKING PERIODS There are three marking periods per semester, each approximately five to six weeks in length. Each marking period ends on a Friday; by the following Monday, all graded assignments for the preceding marking period will be entered into PowerSchool, with a brief comment on a student’s progress in each course. Grades issued at the conclusion of the third and sixth marking periods of the year will represent the final semester grades for the fall and spring semesters, respectively. Only these grades will appear on a student’s final LAS transcripts. Parents and students must understand that ‘current’ numerical averages have the potential to fluctuate throughout a semester, and that a student’s final grade in a course may be substantially higher or lower, depending on how they perform on their semester exams.

Leysin American School | 43 4.1993 GRADE SCALE Students receive a final grade each semester for year­long courses. Credit for courses is granted on a per-­semester basis. A student will gain credit for a semester-long course only if they earn a passing grade for the semester in that course. A student’s GPA is calculated by averaging the total quality points earned for all courses, excluding courses completed at previous schools for which credit was granted. Quality points are awarded as indicated below.

Letter Grade Percentage Grade Quality Points Weighted Points A+ 97 – 100% 4.000 4.500 A 93 – 96% 4.000 4.500 A­ 90 – 92% 3.667 4.167 B+ 87 – 89% 3.333 3.833 B 83 – 86% 3.000 3.500 B­ 80 – 82% 2.667 3.167 C+ 77 – 79% 2.333 2.833 C 73 – 76% 2.000 2.500 C­ 70 – 72% 1.667 2.167 D+ 67 – 69% 1.333 1.333 D 65 – 66% 1.000 1.000 F below 65%

4.1994 ROLLING ADMISSION AND SEMESTER CREDIT LAS offers one-half credit for each passed, credit-bearing class per semester (9th through 12th grade). The Campus Academic Offices will determine if students entering LAS after the first marking period of a semester may receive credit for that semester, or if their absence precludes a semester credit in certain classes. As a rule, it is not possible for a student to earn course credit if they begin classes after a semester’s first marking period, as they already have missed more than the maximum number of classes allowed to receive course credit. However, students who have begun in an accredited school elsewhere, and then transfer to LAS that same semester, are eligible for credit in any LAS class that has clear content links with their previous classes. 4.1995 CREDIT FOR IB COURSES In order to earn the distinction of earning academic credit in an IB course, a student must fulfill all of its requirements and complete each of its assessments, including externally set IB exams. To recognize the advanced level of work completed throughout the year, an extra 0.5 point will still be awarded towards the course’s grade point weighting (see Grade Scale chart above). 4.1996 EXAMINATIONS Students can expect to take comprehensive semester exams at the conclusion of each semester for every academic class in which a written exam is an appropriate summative assessment. Twelfth-grade students who plan to graduate upon conclusion of their second semester are required to complete all of their second-semester exams if they are to be eligible to receive an LAS diploma, except in cases where specific departmental policies exempt these students from having to take an exam.

44 | Leysin American School 4.1997 DISMISSAL AND EXAMS 1. If a student is dismissed from LAS or otherwise leaves before the second marking period of a semester is complete, they will not receive credit for the course that they had taken during that semester.

2. If a student is dismissed from LAS or otherwise leaves after the second marking period of the first semester is complete, but before the Semester 1 exams occur, they must make up their exams A.) when they return in January, if they are returning in January, or B.) if they are not returning in January, either as soon as possible following, or even during the December exam period in an approved testing facility and under supervision approved by the appropriate Campus Dean. In the case of an exam taken off campus, a student’s account will be charged 85 CHF for an exam that is created for them. If an approved testing facility cannot be found, then a student will not be allowed take their exams, and will receive a failing grade them.

The corresponding process for Semester 2 departures and exams is identical to B.), above. If for any reason a faculty member is not able to create an exam for a departed student, then the student will be potentially ineligible to receive credit for the course in question.

The Dean of the Savoy Campus or the Dean of the Belle Époque Campus may choose to award credit for a course without requiring that the semester exam be taken.

3. In situations identified in above, exams may be taken only in classes in which the student had a passing grade as of the student’s departure date from LAS. In such cases, if a student fails a semester exam, the student will only receive credit for the course if the teacher (in consultation with the appropriate Dean) regards the student’s overall semester performance as meriting the receipt of credit. A student should not expect to receive credit for a course unless he or she passes the semester exam for that course.

4.1998 HOMEWORK AND TESTING POLICY Homework is an essential ingredient of the LAS academic program. Effective homework assignments reinforce skills, promote good study habits, and instill responsibility. Students should be engaged in homework or academic study every night of the school week (Sunday through Thursday nights), and also are expected to spend some time in meaningful study during weekends and school holidays. Students will have a reasonable amount of time to complete homework assignments, but should plan their study time effectively. On occasions when students have finished all outstanding assignments prior to the end of study hall, they should spend the remainder of study hall engaged in reading or other academic pursuits.

Where possible, dormitories will create a Supervised Study Hall (SSH), a distraction-free and supervised study period during the first half of the evening’s study hall (20:00 – 21:00). SSH will be open to all students, but will be compulsory for students whose GPA is lower than an agreed-upon number, which varies by dormitory. Where a Supervised Study Hall is not possible, dormitory heads will develop alternative arrangements to ensure that students who are struggling academically are able to work in a distraction-free environment.

In-class testing is generally conducted according to a weekly schedule developed by the Campus Academic Offices and department heads, organized by academic discipline. However, teachers may administer tests on days other than the days prescribed by this schedule, provided that they set forth this expectation to their students at least one week in advance of the assessment.

Leysin American School | 45 4.1999 ACADEMIC HONOR CODE At LAS, we ask our students to observe and uphold the LAS Honor Code: “As a member of the LAS community, I swear to uphold the LAS Honor Code: To be moral and never steal, to be truthful and never lie, to be honest and never cheat, to be honorable in speech, action, and life, and in being so to do honor to my school, my community, my family, and myself.”

We take the idea of academic and social integrity very seriously, and make our expectations clear to students through the school’s social and academic regulations. We believe that good study and social habits developed at LAS will serve as a foundation on which our graduates can build confident, courteous, and successful lives. 4.19991 Consequences of Honor Code Violations In the event that a student violates the LAS Honor Code in their academic work, the following sanctions will be applied: • 1st Offense: A grade of zero on the assignment, and a meeting with the Associate Dean of the Savoy Campus or the Associate Dean of the Belle Époque Campus. • 2nd Offense: A grade of zero on the assignment, a meeting with the Associate Dean of the Savoy Campus or the Associate Dean of the Belle Époque Campus, a letter home to the student’s parents or guardians, and a Saturday clipboard. IB students will be considered for dismissal from the IB Programme. • 3rd Offense: A grade of zero on the assignment, a meeting with the Dean of the Savoy Campus or the Dean of the Belle Époque Campus, a letter home to the student’s parents or guardians, and a one-week suspension. IB students will be considered for dismissal from the IB Programme. The Head of School can weigh further sanctions, including possible dismissal from LAS. Note: If an IB student is found to be plagiarizing in any aspect of their IB­-assessed work, the student may be dismissed from the IB Programme on the first offense.

4.2 graduation information 4.21 GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

Students must meet a number of requirements to be eligible for the LAS High School Diploma. These requirements include satisfactory completion of required coursework, and, in the case of ESL students, earning a minimum score of 5.5 on the IELTS examination at any time prior to graduation. Specific courses required for graduation are detailed below.

The school year, comprised of two semesters, begins in late August and ends in early June. All students take at least seven classes each semester. In order to graduate, a student must earn a minimum of 24 credits. One half-credit is awarded for the successful completion of a course each semester. Credits are distributed across the following disciplines as shown: Mainstream ESL 1. English/ESL 4 7 2. Modern Language 3 0 3. Social Studies 3 3 4. Science 3 3 5. Math 3 3 6. Arts 1 1 7a. TOK 1 1 7b. Electives, Core, Activities 6 6 Total units (minimum) 24 24

Our Admissions Office determines a student’s acceptance to LAS. Since our students come from a variety of international backgrounds, their graduation requirements will be adjusted as needed to take into account their past courses of study.

46 | Leysin American School 4.3 academic support LAS provides several resources to help students discover their full academic potential. While LAS provides an in loco parentis environment, our students ultimately must take responsibility for their own academic success.

Services available to all students include:

• Study Hall: Designated time five nights a week, dedicated to academic engagement. • Supervised Study Hall: A distraction -free environment available to all students, and mandatory for others, during the first half of Study Hall. • Extra Help from Teachers: Each teacher will be available for at least one hour per week outside of class, in order to assist students desiring or requiring additional support in the teacher’s subject area. 4.31 ACADEMIC CONTRACTS The Associate Dean of the Savoy Campus and the Associate Dean of the Belle Époque Campus are authorized to take action on behalf of students who repeatedly fail to meet our minimum academic standards. Therefore, any LAS student with an average grade of “F” in two or more classes at the close of a marking period will automatically be placed on an Academic Contract, as will any student with a GPA of 1.5 or lower.

An Academic Contract serves to motivate students to seek the additional assistance they need and help them gain a better focus on their academic studies. Students placed on Academic Contract are reviewed at the end of each marking period, and remain on Academic Contract for the subsequent marking period if their academic standing has not improved. If a student’s academic performance worsens, the Dean of the Savoy Campus or the Dean of the Belle Époque Campus will confer with the Head of School and the Director of Learning Support to determine whether LAS is an appropriate school for the student in question. This decision will not be based on the student’s academic performance alone, but will include a discussion of the student’s behavior, attendance, punctuality, engagement with available academic supports, and involvement in the school community. Students earning two or more “F” grades during the fall semester, or whose end-of-­ ­semester GPA is 1.5 or lower, may begin the spring semester on Academic Contract. Students earning two or more “F” grades during the spring semester, or whose end-­of-­semester GPA is 1.5 or lower, may be placed on Academic Contract at the beginning of the following school year.

4.32 LEARNING SUPPORT DEPARTMENT LAS employs a full-time Director of Learning Support, who coordinates activities designed to address learning challenges and other issues related to the full learning potential of our students. The aim of Learning Support at LAS is to enable students to work as independently as possible, while building their academic capabilities.

4.321 Services offered through the Department of Learning Support include:

Study Skills The Director of Learning Support meets with students to provide basic academic guidance and learn study skills. Concepts reviewed may include learning styles, daily preparation for the classroom, note-taking strategies, and test- taking skills.

Action Plans for Students with Special Needs LAS assists those students who have documented learning differences, starting with an educational/psychological assessment so we can more fully support their learning process. The Director of Learning Support will work with faculty members to develop and support individualized plans for students as needed, to help them reach their full potential.

Tutoring Tutoring sessions are class or discipline specific, and offered as an option when teachers’ extra ­help sessions are not sufficiently meeting a student’s needs. Tutoring sessions are only available at additional cost, and if an appropriate tutor is available.

Peer Tutoring Students who have achieved high levels of success in a certain subject may volunteer at our peer-tutoring program to help their peers who need more support. Students interested in being tutored, or in tutoring, are encouraged to contact the Director of Learning Support.

Leysin American School | 47 Faculty Mentor Program The mentoring program pairs students with faculty for one-to-one relationships. Mentors act as educational facilitators, general tutors, organizers, and motivators, providing support that is tailored to the student’s specific needs. This program is only available at additional cost.

ELSP (Extended Learning Support Program) ELSP is designed to assist students who require support through a holistic and highly supportive approach. This program works in close collaboration with ELSP students’ teachers, dormitory staff, and the Health Center staff. For detailed information about the ELSP, parents and students are encouraged to contact the Director of Learning Support. This program is only available for an additional cost.

4.322 LAS students needing learning support must observe the following guidelines:

• Please contact the Director of Learning Support if you would like a tutor, mentor, or information about our program. • Please let your tutor or mentor know 24 hours in advance if you need to cancel a session; otherwise, you may be charged for the session. • There is no guarantee that you will receive a tutor or a mentor when requested. These services depend on the availability of potential tutors and mentors. • You must have parental consent before you begin receiving mentoring or tutoring. Parents must communicate this consent to the Director of Learning Support using the appropriate form (if applicable). • If you are on an academic contract or if tutoring/mentoring is part of your enrolment conditions, tutoring or mentoring may be mandatory. 4.4 college counseling department For 10th grade students and above, the LAS College Counseling Department provides a career and interest assessment called Futurewise. Students are expected take this fee-based assessment, unless their parents decline this service. Through Futurewise, students will receive a one-on-one counseling session with a career specialist from the United Kingdom, leading to the generation of a comprehensive report for each student and their parents. This assessment also aids students in course selection and planning for college.

If students know that they will be applying to non-English­ speaking­ universities, they and their parents are responsible for contacting potential universities to make sure that they plan their 11th­ and 12th­ grade academic curriculum accordingly. This information needs to be relayed to the Academic Office no later than the end of a student’s 10th ­ grade year, so that students will be in a position to gain entrance into non-English­ ­ speaking universities.

The College Counseling Department will begin contacting students in 10th grade to discuss their course planning in meeting the expectations of college admissions. In the spring of 11th grade, LAS students planning to apply to college will meet with a college counselor in mandatory small group classes. Students and parents are introduced to our software program, Naviance, which provides search engines and important data for college decision- making. Parents are encouraged to open an account on Naviance as well. Students are expected to have individual consultations with their college counselor and develop a list of colleges they are considering by the end of the year. Additionally, LAS offers an optional intensive SAT preparation program (available at additional cost) in the spring of the sophomore and/or junior year through StudyWorks, a renowned SAT preparation organization. StudyWorks students meet for approximately 20 total hours in small classes.

As students move into 12th grade, they work closely with their college counselor in mandatory weekly small group classes as well as in individual appointments. Topics covered in these classes include personal assessments, a career­ interest inventory, career exploration, university research, essay writing, finding a good college fit, application procedures, selecting teachers for recommendations, visa issues, and tips for transitioning into college. Throughout the year, the college office hosts admissions representatives from more than fifty colleges from all over the world, and also coordinates student visits to a college fair in Geneva as well as other college events in the area. The College Counseling Department also administers SAT and PSAT tests throughout the school year. Students are expected to complete their college applications before winter break.

48 | Leysin American School 4.5 technology 4.51 STUDENT LAPTOPS LAS incorporates modern, reliable technology into almost every facet of our school’s environment. All LAS buildings offer wireless connectivity to ensure that every area of the school has Internet access. All students are provided with a preconfigured laptop that is used as a teaching tool in the classroom. As this program evolves, new educational technology initiatives will be added to our academic program. Every student will receive a leased MacBook Pro laptop, which will be preconfigured with software packages for the classroom and other educational purposes. Using a standardized pre­configured computer is a more effective way for students to approach and complete their studies. In addition, any maintenance and repair work can be completed more rapidly.

The LAS IT department does not provide service and repairs for non-LAS laptops. Those repairs are handled by a local computer center, which will charge the student’s Personal Account.

Students are responsible for their school laptops. The costs of any repairs not covered by warranty are charged to the student’s Personal Account.

The selected laptop configuration is as follows: • Apple MacBook Pro 13’ 2.3 GHz (or equivalent at time of order) • Extended 3-­year warranty • Neoprene sleeve • Software configuration • Word processing, spreadsheet and presentation tools • Virtualization software for MS Windows • Additional educational software packages • LAS network and printer configuration 4.52 COMMUNICATIONS (CELL PHONES/MOBILE PHONES/SMART PHONES) SIM cards and smart phones (Apple iPhones) are available for students during student orientation and at the Campus store. If an LAS iPhone is damaged during use, the cost for repair or replacement will be charged to the student’s Personal Account. Students who do not return SIM cards to the Campus Store before leaving school will be charged CHF 150 on their Personal Account. If a student wishes to keep their iPhone, a charge of CHF 600 will be applied to their Personal Account.

For our student iPhone rate plan, we have chosen NATEL go, Swiss M, at CHF 80 per month, as it provides the most cost-effective benefits for our students’ use, including: • ALL phone calls within Switzerland to any operator • ALL SMS sent from Switzerland to phones within and outside Switzerland • UNLIMITED Data/internet surfing within Switzerland For detailed Information on this subscription, please go to www.swisscom.ch/go

If we do not hear otherwise from parents on 31 August before the start of the school year, we will apply the NATEL go subscription accordingly. However, if parents wish to select one of the alternative monthly plans below, contact Salvatore Andaloro in the LAS Cellphone Office [email protected].

• Swiss S (2/0.5 Mbit/s) - CHF 60.­­ • Swiss M (15/3 Mbit/s) - CHF 80.­­ • Swiss L (30/5 Mbit/s) - CHF 100. • Swiss XL (High-speed Internet CHF 120.­­ • Neighbours M - CHF 140.­­ • Europe L - CHF 200.­­ • Global XL - CHF 325.­­

To select a data-roaming plan for Internet access outside of Switzerland, please visit www.cockpit.swisscom.ch To confirm roaming costs, visit www.swisscom­mobile.ch/scm/roa­page­02­en.aspx. Select the country, and business customer subscription.

Leysin American School | 49 4.53 APPLICABILITY These rules apply to all students who use the school’s IT teaching resources, including the school’s network, servers, computer workstations, peripherals, software, laptops on loan to students, iPads, and Internet access. 4.54 OWNERSHIP, CONDITIONS FOR ACCESS TO IT RESOURCES All equipment must be returned as requested within 24 hours or when enrollment in the school ends. Any commercial software installed on LAS equipment is the property of LAS. The use of these resources is primarily for teaching projects or specific learning processes. Recreational use of equipment on loan to students is allowed outside of school hours, as long as it do not interfere with that equipment’s configuration and does not overload the shared LAS network. 4.55 IT RESOURCES ADMINISTRATION Use of IT hardware and software as well as information exchanged via the school’s network may be controlled and analyzed within the context of LAS rules and regulations. The school may implement controls or monitoring of workstation usage and connections by all devices connected to the school network. 4.56 SUPPORT LAS IT will support hardware and school-owned software for LAS-­owned laptops. All equipment is covered under a standard warranty; expenses due to damage out of warranty will be charge to the student’s Personal Account. 4.57 BACKUP LAS IT may need to delete all hard drive data on laptops scheduled for repair. Therefore, students are responsible for backing up their own data, and should do so often. Students also are liable for damage, theft or loss of any external hard drive and will be required to replace it. 4.58 RULES Students must abide by all copyright regulations and laws. No attempt should be made to modify or eliminate data on the network (either hardware or software), or to interfere with system security. Accessing inappropriate websites (those with pornographic, xenophobic, violent or racist content) is strictly prohibited. If a student inadvertently encounters disturbing content, they should consult a teacher or a supervisor. Students should check their email regularly, at least once per day. Students are not permitted send emails to the LAS Employee or Faculty email group; disciplinary consequences may result for doing so. 4.59 CARE OF IT RESOURCES Students must take special care of equipment on loan from the school’s IT Department. Keep all devices at a safe distance from food, beverages, and extreme temperatures. Do not attempt to modify the configuration of laptops or iPads on loan. Any non-removable stickers or scratches may affect the laptop’s value for the leasing company; as a result, you may be obliged to purchase the device or pay for damages identified by the leasing company. Any damage to the laptop, whether voluntary or otherwise, and any loss or theft of the laptop will be the student’s responsibility. The student must immediately inform IT when a laptop has been lost or stolen. Repairs will be charged to the student’s Personal Account.

50 | Leysin American School 4.6 digital responsibility for students Members of the LAS community agree to use electronic resources responsibly, both online and offline. As members of the LAS community, they agree:

To respect policies set up by their teachers regarding use of laptops and other devices. Laptops and other devices should support the academic process and not to be used for watching videos other than permitted by the teacher, or going to social, shopping or game sites.

To obey copyright laws and respect the electronic and intellectual property of others:

• Not make copies of school software • Respect the privacy of individuals by not copying, modifying, destroying, or even reading documents without the owner’s permission • Not load software that enables the student to download music or video from other individuals without payment • Not cite any electronic source without proper citation • Not use pictures or video clips without permission and/or citation

To be courteous and respectful in all online communications and to use the Internet in safe, appropriate and responsible way:

• Avoid hurtful, discourteous, disrespectful, sexually explicit, or profane language in all online communications. • Not create or post tasteless or vulgar images, including those that contain inappropriate attire, real or simulated use of alcohol or drugs, or sexually explicit material or poses • Under no circumstances post images of or information about another individual without that person’s knowledge and consent • Not access or contribute to web sites containing pornography, inappropriate language, or material of a discriminatory nature • Not send chain letters (emails that “require” to be sent to others to avoid bad luck or gain good fortune), petitions, or warnings to other students • Not send mass e­mails to sell personal items, ask for donations for charities, or promote events that are not sponsored by LAS • Be honest if asked about computer use

All above guidelines relate but are not limited to:

• Posts on Facebook or any other social networking sites • Pictures and captions posted to WebShots, Flickr, Photobucket, or other photo or social media sites • Videos posted on YouTube or other video sharing sites • Creation of characters or locations in virtual environments or multi­player online games

To respect the security measures and laptop use rules of the school:

• Not modify the hardware or software settings, except for desktop and user settings, on any school-owned computer, including laptop. This includes installing hardware to “upgrade” laptop • Use only one’s own username and password on the laptop and on any online site, such as Facebook, Twitter, or e­mail • Connect only to the LAS wireless network on campus. Not use cellular networks to access the Internet in ways that break LAS rules • Respect the security of the network by not attempting to discover passwords or override measures the school uses to control access to any resource • Not to use web sites that claim to disguise what sites one visits • Report any violations of these rules to the technology department immediately

Leysin American School | 51 USEFUL LOCAL NUMBERS

Cafes / Restaurants

Han Lung des Alpes +41 24/494 1011 Kuklos +41 24/494 3141 La Calabre +41 24/494 1700 La Calèche +41 24/494 2426 La Farandole +41 24/494 2706 La Fromagerie +41 24/494 2205 Le Lynx +41 24/494 1532 La Lorraine +41 24/494 1572 Le Chasseur +41 24/494 3480 Le Grand Chalet +41 24/493 0101 Les Fers +41 79/439 5044 Mayen +41 24/494 1506 Prafandaz +41 24/494 2626 Le Vieux Leysin +41 24/494 2315 Davinda +41 24/494 2370 The Station +41 24/494 1965

Hotels/B&B/Apartments

Chamossaire +41 24/494 3776 Les Airelles B&B +41 24/494 1508 Central Residence +41 24/493 0707 Chalet Ermina B&B +41 24/494 1261 Mercure Classic Hotel / IBIS Budget +41 24/493 0606 Le Grand Chalet +41 24/493 0101 Villa Vermont +41 24/494 1421 The Hiking Sheep +41 24/494 3535 Bel Air +41 24/494 1339 Tour d’Aï +41 24/493 2280

Miscellaneous

Hefti Sports +41 24/494 1677 Vieceli Sports +41 24/494 1005 Endless Ride +41 24/494 1131 Téléphérique +41 24/494 1635 Ecole Suisse de Ski +41 24/494 1202 PamPam (Parapente) +41 24/494 2602 Tourist Office +41 24/493 3300 Le Pois de Senteur (Florist) +41 24/494 3303 Fascination Salon (Hair) +41 24/494 1471

Useful Numbers

Doctor on Call in Leysin +41 24/494 2010 Medical Emergencies in Switzerland 144 Medical Emergencies in Europe 112 Fire 118 Police 117 Police municipale +41 24/557 7841 Taxi Kojak +41 24/494 2555 Ski Patrol / Télé­Leysin +41 24/494 1635

52 | Leysin American School FACULTY CONTACT INFORMATION

Administrator Name Inquiry Types Phone/Fax Email Head of School Dr. Marc­ • Long-term planning Ph: +4124­ 493­ 4802­ [email protected] Frédéric Ott • School operations • External relations Head of Operations Dr. Christoph M. Ott • Non­academic services Ph: +4124­ 493­ 4855­ [email protected] and finance Director of Admissions Dr. Christoph M. Ott • Applications, Ph: +4124­ 493­ 4885­ [email protected] • Enrollment • School tours • Inquiries • Financial aid Dean of Students Mr. Paul Fomalont • Discipline Ph: +4124­ 493­ 4826­ [email protected] • Student/Residential life concerns • Overnight off-­campus Dean of the Savoy Cam- Mr. Phillip • All Savoy academic Ph: +4124­ 493­ 4806­ pvandenbrink@ pus VanDenBrink inquiries and concerns las.ch Dean of the Belle Epoque Mr. William Johnson • All BEC academic Ph: +4124­ 493­ 4821­ [email protected] Campus inquiries and concerns Director of Mr. Benjamin Smith • Fundraising, and Ph: +4124­ 493­ 4860­ development@ Development alumni relations las.ch Director of Research Dr. Paul Magnuson • Research & Learning Ph: +4124­ 493­ 4712­ pmagnuson@las. and Curriculum • Educational ch Technology • Accreditation Registrar Ms. Emma Dixon • Transcripts Ph: +4124­ 493­ 4803­ registrar@ • Teacher Conferences las.ch • School bulletin bulletin@ las.ch Associate Dean of the Mrs. Phoebe Bigelow • Travel Inquiries Ph: +4124.493­ 4829­ [email protected] Savoy Campus • Discipline Issues • Academic Support Associate Dean of the Mrs. Sabina Lynch • BEC Student Ph: +4124­ 493­ 4805­ [email protected] Belle Époque Campus / academic concerns IB Coordinator • Courses & Support • IB inquiries Assistant Mr. Clifford Weldon • Travel inquiries Ph: +4124­ 493­ 4822­ [email protected] Dean of Students BEC • Minor discipline issues

Director of College Mr. Win Lowman • SAT/PSAT testing Ph: +4124­ 493­ 4818­ [email protected] Counseling • College Applications • Counseling Services Director of Learning Ms. Jacqui Coward • Educational Testing Ph: +4124­ 493­ 4809­ [email protected] Support • Modified Programs, • Educational Support • Study Skills • Tutoring/Mentoring Director of Residential Ms. Marta Krause • Residential life Ph: +4124.493­ 4824­ [email protected] Life policies • Events and concerns Director of Student Life Ms. Mary Field • Weekend school Ph: +4124­ 493­ 4825­ [email protected] Keenan activities • Excursions, • After school activities • Clubs • Faculty families • Special events Director of Athletics Mr. Mike Brinkmeyer • Team sports Ph: +4124­ 493­ 4823­ [email protected] • Tournaments • Intramurals • Sports scheduling Director of Health Mrs. Kellie McGill • Student counseling Ph: +4124­ 493­ 4830­ [email protected] Counseling issues • Social/Emotional well­ being • Psychology Health Medical Nurse on Call • Physical health issues Ph: +4124­ 493­ 4830­ [email protected] • Doctor appointments Cell: +4179­ 315­ 1316­ • Hospitalizations Director of Safety & Mrs. Maryanne • All safety concerns & Ph: +4124­ 493­ 4811­ [email protected] Security Bertazzo school security issues

Parents' Accounts Mr. Maurice Felli • Parental concerns with Ph: +4124­ 493­ 4840­ [email protected] account balances • Extra billing • Tuitions Student Accounts Mrs. Carol Seymour • Pocket money Ph: +4124­ 493­ 4847­ [email protected] • Optional expenses account • Extra student spending Travel Office Ms. Violeta Arsic • Arrivals & departures Ph: +4124­ 493­ 4812­ [email protected] • Ticketing • Airport shuttle • Hotels • Passports • Visas General Reception • General school Ph: +4124­ 493­ 4888­ [email protected] inquires • Packages • Student mail

DISCLAIMER The LAS Student Handbook contains a detailed outline of the established policies and procedures for LAS students. How- ever, it is impossible to detail responses to every situation that might affect students over the course of the year. Therefore as administrators, we reserve the right to amend this Handbook as necessary, and to respond in good faith to situations using means not described in this Handbook.

54 | Leysin American School Leysin American School | 55 Chemin de La Source 3, CP 108, 1854 Leysin, Switzerland Reception: + 41 24 493 4888 [email protected] | www.las.ch

Follow us!

/leysinamericans

56 | Leysin American School