GENERAL INFORMATION
- Appendix 2 - About head lice
- Appendix 4 - Trip Permission Form

GENERAL INFORMATION

Head of School: MORAN, Catriona, EdD

Elementary Principal: KELLER, Dan, PhD Assistant Principal: NORKELIUNAS, Donna, EdD

Grade	Room	Formal Name	Assistant
Early Childhood	B107	RATLIFF, Tina	LÊ, Thị Phương Thảo / NGUYỄN, Thị Thanh Hương
	B100	DORN, Tim	TRẦN, Thị Nga / LÊ, Thùy Linh
	B102	CANNELL, Charlotte	NGUYỄN, Thị Kim Thanh / HUỲNH, Minh Thư
	B109	VANDEVENTER, Megan	TRẦN, Thị Ngọc Đào / ĐẶNG, Thị Hoàng Vân
Kindergarten	B113	STEVENS-KING, Tammy	NGUYỄN, Thị Uyên Thi
	B111	DAVIS, Brennan	CAO, Chánh Thanh
	B104	TAM, Elisabeth	LƯU, Vũ Đình Nguyên Vi
	B106	KHALIFAH, Maryam	LÊ, Huỳnh Yến Nhi
Grade 1	B310	BOUDREAUX, Josephine	NGUYỄN, Thị Bích Đào
	B302	ABBAS, Sana	HUỲNH, Thanh Thảo
	B300	CURRAN, Catherine	MAI, Phong Phú
	B307	NONATO, Greg	LÊ, Thị Ngọc Huệ
	B301	WONG, Lee	ĐÀO, Thị Kim Ngân
Grade 2	B311	BURGER, Andy	PHẠM, Thị Hà
	B306	JACOBS, Lisa	NGUYỄN, Trần Như Quỳnh
	B304	dE LEON, Virginia	ĐẶNG, Thị Kim Anh
	B309	NELDON, Jeremy	VŨ, Hòa Thụy Uyên
Grade 3	B407	RATCLIFFE, Sarah	VÕ, Nguyễn Thùy Vy
	B402	O DONNELL, Patrick	NGUYỄN, Ngọc Nam Anh
	B401	COLQUHOUN, Chris	LẠI, Thị Thụy
	B404	WEISS, Kristin	BÙI, Đức Phương Khanh
Grade 4	B409	SYLVESTER, Melanie	TĂNG, Hưng Thịnh
	B411	ROSS, David	ĐINH, Văn Hóa
	B406	HEATWOLE, Laura	NGUYỄN, Thùy Minh Châu
	B408	EDWARDS, Mark	LÊ, Thy Thy
Grade 5	A409	JOHNSON, Jeremy	TRẦN, Thị Phương Thảo
	A413	BOUWER, Sarah	LÊ, Nguyễn Thanh Uyên
	A407	O'HARE, Kenneth	LÊ, Thị Ngọc Dung
	A415	CARNAHAN, Shawna	LÊ, Nguyễn Thùy My
	A417	HOWE, Rob	NGUYỄN, Thành Được
Drama	A103	HEATWOLE, Alan	HUỲNH, Thị Lễ
PE	A206	BOUHET, Fabrice	SIN, Hải Loan
PE	A206	OLLIFFE, Diane	VÕ, Thanh Huy
PE	A207	GALVEZ, Carlos
Music	B007	TOMPKINS, Michael	LÊ, Hoàng Minh Thi
Music	B011	AYACHE, Ranya	NGUYỄN, Du Quỳnh Như
Librarian	B201	KELLER, Lara	ĐÀO, Nhật Huy
Librarian	A200	HENDRICKSON, Elizabeth
Art	B208	MANIACI, Regina	NGUYỄN, Thị Hồng
Art	B209	BARTON, Marjon	VÕ, Thị Cẩm Tú
Vietnamese	B412		VÕ, Thị Thùy Mai
Vietnamese	B412		DƯƠNG, Thị Kim Hà
STEM	B207		PHAN, Cao Hoàng Quốc Việt
Explorers Program	B202		LÊ, Văn Bình
Instructional Coach: Literacy and Social Studies	B202	LUCERO, Evelyn
Instructional Coach: STEM	B205	FOX, Kattina
Instructional Coach: Technology	B204-1	CURRAN, David
Language Specialist - Kindergarten	B125	MILLEVOLTE, Ricki
Language Specialist - Grade 1	B413	GOMEZ-GALVEZ, Ceci
Language Specialist - Grade 2	B312	DAVIS, Jessica
Language Specialist - Grade 3	B413	SONTAG, Heidi
Language Specialist - Grade 4	B413	HOWE, Laurel
Language Specialist - Grade 5	B413	HUYNH, Tan
School Psychologist	B315	HUMES, Jacob
School Counselor	B204	CARPENTER, David
Learning Support Teacher	B410	HIRSCH, Brian
Learning Support Teacher	B410	ROUSE, Natalie

From the Elementary School Principal

Dear Students and Parents,

Welcome to Saigon South International School (SSIS). We are a college preparatory school committed to the intellectual and personal development of each student in preparation for a purposeful life as a global citizen. Our goal is to reach this mission through the development of the SSIS core values: academic excellence, sense of self, dedicated service, balance in life and respect for all.

Welcome to our Elementary School. We instill a love of learning by maintaining a balance that encourages the development of the whole child and promoting an appreciation for life-long learning, a balanced and healthy lifestyle, respect for others, global awareness and community service are all considered important aspects of a good elementary school education. We encourage students to question, discover and evaluate information and sources of information. Self-awareness of individual strengths and weaknesses is encouraged. Nurturing those areas in which students excel is important as is supporting students to develop in areas in which they may be less gifted. Language arts, mathematics, science, social sciences, fine arts, physical education, reading and computer technology form the basis of our core curriculum.

Welcome to our handbook. Please read these pages carefully and support us in our endeavors in making this a pleasant, successful, and memorable school year. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact us. Our school email addresses are provided for the purpose of close communication between home and school.

Sincerely,

Daniel J. KELLER, PhD

Elementary School Principal

esprincipal@ssis.edu.vn

Helpful Contacts
Name	Position	Email
Donna NORKELIUNAS, EdD	Elementary School Assistant Principal	esasstprincipal@ssis.edu.vn
Thủy NGUYỄN	Administrative Assistant	esoffice@ssis.edu.vn
Minh BÙI	Office Assistant	mbui@ssis.edu.vn
Vy TRẦN	School Bus Coordinator	busing@ssis.edu.vn
Thu NGUYỄN	Nurse	esmsnurse@ssis.edu.vn

School Address

78 Nguyen Duc Canh, Tan Phong Ward, District 7, Hochiminh City, Vietnam

Tel. (84 28) 5413 0901 Fax: (84 28) 5413 0902 Website: www.ssis.edu.vn

SSIS Philosophy of Education

We believe each child is unique. We recognize that children have distinctive learning styles and individual rates of development. We endeavor to provide a safe and nurturing environment that meets the social, emotional, intellectual, and physical needs of each child.

We believe learning builds on prior knowledge and is enhanced by the process of inquiry, exploration, discovery, and thoughtful reflection. We acknowledge the role of teachers as facilitators of learning who encourage each child’s search for knowledge and understanding. We strive to provide opportunities for children to construct meaning through developmentally appropriate, stimulating, and challenging experiences. We value assessment as a reflection of student progress and as a guide to the formulation and implementation of curriculum. We recognize that a child’s learning continues beyond the classroom and that a partnership between the school and home is essential for each student’s success.

As a community of learners, we believe teachers, students, and parents share responsibility for the educational process. This includes assisting students with the development of critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and decision-making skills and helping them to balance their lives and grow socially, emotionally, and physically as well as academically.

We aspire to foster in each child a love of learning and the desire to realize individual potential. We seek to instill in our students a sense of responsibility, an appreciation for cultural diversity, and a respect for universally held ethical precepts. We know that the best way to accomplish this is through a strong, supportive partnership with the parents of our students.

We believe our commitment to academic excellence, personal development, and cultural awareness will ensure that well-educated, caring, and resourceful young people can successfully meet the challenges of their world.

SSIS offers American-style curricula from pre-school through twelfth grade. The language of instruction is English.

Accreditation

SSIS is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Accrediting Commission for Schools, Suite 200, 533 Airport Boulevard, Burlingame, CA 94010 in the United States. Phone: (650) 696-1060. Accreditation ensures that we deliver a safe, quality educational program that is recognized internationally. We have just received accreditation through June 30, 2023.

SSIS Website

Please take time to visit our website at www.ssis.edu.vn. The website is updated regularly.

School Hours

Students should arrive on campus between 7:30 AM and 7:45 AM Students enter the building at 7:45 AM. Lessons begin promptly at 8:00 AM Dismissal time is 3:00 PM. Students may remain on campus after school only if they are involved in an ASA activity, are on a sports team, or are under the direct supervision of a responsible adult.

Students who are picked up by parents or drivers should be met promptly at the end of the school day. Students are to be picked up at the designated dismissal area in the atrium between the elementary school and middle school buildings.

If a parent wishes to make a change in the regular arrangement for his child’s transportation home, it is essential that the parent send a note to the child’s teacher requesting the change and explaining the details of the change and the reasons for it. An additional email to the elementary administrative assistant, is also recommended. Once again, the safety of children is our first concern in establishing this guideline.

Early Dismissal Days

Early Dismissal Days provide time for professional development, curriculum work, and other school-wide requirements related to our WASC Accreditation or Parent/Teacher Conferences.

Dismissal before End of School Day

If it is necessary for a student to leave school before the end of the day, parents must send a note to the teacher stating the reason for early dismissal and identifying the individual who will pick up the student. The student should be met in the office so she/he can be signed out and the adult issued with a gate pass.

Dismissal Procedures

Dismissal occurs at 3:00 pm every day. Procedures vary depending on whether a child is riding the bus, being picked up by parents, walking home, or participating in an after school activity. Below are directions for parents and staff members.

Bus riders
1. Students who ride the school bus will be taken to the bus by a staff member.
Parent pick up
1. Parents who are meeting students should wait in the atrium in the location designated for their class. Parents need to make contact with the teacher before they take the child. Please do this only after the students have reached their designated atrium location.
2. A staff member will wait with your child in the atrium until a parent meets them.
  1. Early childhood and Kindergarten: Must be met in the atrium by a responsible adult (not MS/HS sibling).
  2. Grades 1, 2, and 3: Must be met in the atrium by a responsible adult or MS/HS sibling.
  3. Grades 4 and 5: May be dismissed from the atrium and are permitted to walk to the car pick-up area to meet their parents or drivers.
Walking home
1. Early childhood, Kindergarten, grades 1, 2 and 3: May not walk to the car pick up area or walk home on their own.
2. Grades 4 and 5: May walk home on their own when parents complete a permission form and submit it to the school.
After school activities (ASAs)
1. Students who participate in ASAs will be taken to meet their ASA instructor by a staff member.

SCHOOL PROCEDURE

Access to Campus

Cars may enter the campus by the security guard house. Students must be dropped off in a safe manner. The driver should pull over to the curb to discharge passengers. In the interests of safety, all students and parents should exit on the curb side only.

Vehicle Regulations on the SSIS Campus

All vehicles entering the SSIS campus and their drivers must be registered with the school and display a numbered sticker windshield of the vehicle. The sticker should be placed behind the rear-view mirror in the top-center of the windshield. Registration forms will be distributed to drivers and will be available at the guard house.
Drivers of vehicles entering the SSIS campus, whether they are parents or employees of the family, must obey all posted signs and must follow the directions of SSIS staff and uniformed guards.
Speed limit on campus is 10km per hour.
Drivers must remain in their vehicles at all times. They may not leave the vehicle unattended.
Passengers of vehicles must exit and enter the vehicle at the curbside of the covered walkway only.
If there is a need to unload items from the vehicle, it should be done in the parking lot, not at the curbside drop off.
Drivers will give right-of-way to pedestrians and must stop at ‘zebra crossings’ to allow pedestrians to cross.
Drivers waiting for parents to return to a vehicle after drop-off must go to the parking lot.
Horns should be sounded only in cases where it is necessary to warn others of some unsafe situation.

Drivers who fail to follow these regulations will be warned of the violation and a record will be kept of all violations. Parents will be notified of violations. If a driver repeatedly disregards the regulations, the driver and vehicle will be barred from driving on campus for a period of time or permanently.

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Admissions

Saigon South International School welcomes students of all nationalities to apply for enrollment. SSIS also accepts limited numbers of qualified Vietnamese students. SSIS accepts students who can be successful in the regular academic program.

SSIS offers limited learning support, and therefore is unable to accommodate students with serious physical or learning disabilities or special emotional needs requiring attention beyond what is available from the regular classroom teacher.

Admission is contingent upon receipt of all required documents and application fees. Placement tests guide admissions and placement decisions.

Students may be formally admitted to SSIS with the completion of the following documentation:

Completed student application form
Completed language survey form
Two completed teacher recommendation forms
Early Childhood Parent Questionnaire (EC3 – Kindergarten candidates only)
Copies of school reports from the two previous school years (in English)
Student Health Form (Including copy of insurance card)
Copy of Individual Education Program (IEP), if applicable
Copies of any Psycho-Educational Evaluations, if applicable
Copy of student’s passport
Copy of both parents’ passports
2 passport-sized photographs of the student

Admissions Policy for EAL Students

The language of instruction at SSIS is English. Admission of EAL students is made on a limited basis and with the intention of maintaining a diversity of cultures within the student body.

EAL Applicants for Kindergarten will be tested for reading and spoken English while grades 1-5 will be tested for proficiency in reading, writing and spoken English.

Assemblies

Assemblies occur at various times during the school year to commemorate special events such as the beginning and end of the school year, Tet, Reading Week, and International Week. While these assemblies are specifically planned for our students, parents are welcome to attend as well. We want to help our students learn proper audience behavior, and we ask that parents assist us in this goal. Please be on time for the start of the performances and stay until the performance is over. Cell phones should be turned off or put in silent mode. If a call is received during the assembly, please quietly move out of the auditorium. When siblings accompany parents to assemblies, they need to be seated with parents and supervised before, during, and after the assembly. This is particularly important for younger siblings. Prior to the start of the assembly, they should not be running around the auditorium.

Attendance Policy

Introduction

Consistent school attendance is of primary concern to our school. We believe that every minute a child spends in school is important. In many cases, difficulties in school can be directly linked to absenteeism.

Students are expected to be at school. On time every day unless they are ill. Students should remain in school until the end of all classes. Additionally, we expect families to plan travel only during scheduled school vacations. Please refer to the school calendar when making travel arrangements.

Philosophy of Attendance Policy

Regular and punctual attendance is an essential prerequisite to effective learning. Our attendance policy is designed to maximize good attendance and punctuality. Students are required to attend school on time every day.

Recording of attendance

1. Attendance is recorded in the homeroom classroom at 8:00 AM daily. Homeroom teachers are responsible for ensuring that attendance is recorded at 08:00 daily using PowerSchool. Students are marked as either “Present” or “Absent.” No other codes should be used.

2. Students arriving to the classroom after 08:00 should only be admitted with a “Late Pass” from the school office.

3. For all students who are late or absent, codes will be marked to indicate whether the tardiness or absence is excused or unexcused.

Response to absence

What parents should do if their child will be absent from school:

Parents should notify the school office by phone or email as soon as they know that a child will be absent from, or tardy to, school.

What the school does if a child is absent:

As a vigilant and caring school we apply same-day response to student absence. This means making a determined and sustained effort to respond to unexplained absence on the first morning of absence, usually through a telephone call.

Types of Absence

When a student is absent from school, our records must indicate whether the absence is excused or unexcused and the appropriate register code will be used.

Excused Absences

In order for an absence to be recorded as “excused,” parents must submit a written request to the elementary school office. All absences must be approved by the Elementary Principal, or designee, in order for them to be recorded as “excused”. Absence may generally be excused for the following reasons:

Illness, medical or dental appointments
Governmental appointments, such as visa, passport, etc.
Approved educational activity (field trip, co-educational experience, etc.)
Days of religious observance
Family bereavement
Involvement in a public performance
Attendance of ceremonies for family, such as weddings, graduations, funerals, etc.
'Exceptional' occasions (the nature of such occasions will be determined by the Elementary Principal, or designee, on an individual basis)

Unexcused Absences

Absences are generally recorded as “unexcused” for the following reasons:

No request for approval is provided by the parent/carer
The request is not approved (eg. shopping, minding the house, etc.)
Family holidays (unless granted under ‘exceptional’ circumstances)
Family business trips
Family is unable to provide supervision or transportation for a child
Child not permitted to come to school due to non-payment of tuition, non-completion of required health forms, etc.

Types of Tardiness (Punctuality)

Parents are expected to bring their children to school at 7:45 in order to allow sufficient time for them to be present and punctual when attendance is taken. Attendance is recorded in the homeroom classroom at 8:00 AM daily. If children arrive after 8:00 AM, they are recorded as tardy. When a student is tardy, our records must indicate whether the absence is excused or unexcused and the appropriate register code will be used.

Excused Tardiness

In order for a tardy to be recorded as “excused,” the Elementary Principal, or designee, must approve the tardiness to be recorded as “excused”. Tardiness may generally be excused for the following reasons:

1. similar reasons for excused absences

2. School transportation challenges

3. Weather, or other problems, that slow school transportation

4. Other school-related causes for tardiness

5. 'exceptional' occasions (the nature of such occasions will be determined by the Elementary Principal, or designee, on an individual basis);

Unexcused Tardiness

Tardiness is generally recorded as “unexcused” for the following reasons:

1. no request for approval is provided by the parent/carer;

2. the request offered is unsatisfactory and is not approved

Attendance Concerns

If a student is absent 10% or more of the total number of school days for which the child has been registered during one school year, a meeting may be scheduled with the parents, classroom teacher, and administration. The focus of the meeting will be to determine the reasons for the attendance concerns and to develop strategies for improving the student’s attendance at school.

Class Placement

In the spring of each school year our teachers, psychologist, learning support specialists, EAL teachers, and administrators begin the process of forming new homeroom class groups for the following school year. Homeroom class groups are balanced in terms of several factors including but not limited to overall numbers, academic levels, behavioral/social needs, and gender. We welcome input from parents and provide a form that parents can submit to provide information they would like to be considered during the placement process. We do not accept requests for specific teachers or for a specific gender of teacher. Homeroom teachers for the students’ current school year are directly involved in the formation of class groups, but they are not involved in determining which teacher the student will have for the next school year. Once class groups are formed, the psychologist and principals assign these class groups to teachers.

Emergency Drills

Emergency drills are held periodically during the school year. When the emergency bell rings, students exit the classrooms in an orderly manner and line up in the field close to the school entrance. Attendance is taken and procedures are followed to ensure student safety

Emergency Situations

In case of a general emergency that threatens the safety of the students and staff, parents will be notified as soon as possible. Students will be temporarily housed at the school or at the Phu My Hung office complex (the Lawrence S. Ting Building) on Saigon South Parkway, Tan Phu Ward, District 7, until arrangements can be made with parents to transport students home.

English as an Additional Language Program (EAL)

The EAL teachers provide content-oriented instruction in English language to students who are not native speakers of English and whose level of English is insufficient for them to be successful in regular classes without assistance. The EAL teacher teams with the classroom teacher to determine the needs of the students. Kindergarten through grade 5 non-native speakers of English are evaluated upon application to determine their proficiency in English and appropriate grade level for entrance to our school. EAL support is provided beginning in Kindergarten. By nature of the Early Childhood program, children are immersed in literacy and learn English best in the language rich classroom. Pupil-teacher ratios are low and provide opportunities for individual assistance as needed.

ASA (After School Activity Program)

The After School Activities (ASA) are provided to students in grades one to five by community members, parents, and staff for a period of nine weeks. The activities offered depend on the interests and ability of our community. Online registration will take place two weeks prior to the start of activities. Activities begin at 3:15 P.M. Parents must make arrangements to pick up students at 4:00 P.M. Younger siblings in Early Childhood & Kindergarten must be picked up by parents at 3:00 P.M. or return home on the school bus if they are bus students. They are not permitted to wait for their older siblings unless supervised by a parent. You can find more information about ASAs by visiting the school wiki through a link on the school’s website (www.link.ssis.edu.vn).

ASA Bus Registration:

ASA busing provides transportation service for students in grade one through five leaving SSIS at 4:10pm every Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays during ASA sessions. Following is the drop-off points:

· PMH area

· An Phu Supermarket in District 2

· Opera House in District 1

Please register for ASA busing once you have received final confirmation for activities by contacting the school bus coordinator.

Field Trips

Ho Chi Minh City and the surrounding area provide wonderful opportunities for students to enrich their learning beyond the school boundaries. Students participate in field trips that are closely linked to classroom units. Parents with suggestions for field trips are encouraged to contact the teacher. Some trips will be taken in the Phu My Hung community area. You will be notified of scheduled trips in advance. For trips outside the Phu My Hung area, parents will be asked to sign a field trip permission form that indicates full details about the field trip. Overnight field trips are planned as part of the grade five curriculum.

Field Trip Chaperones

Elementary students go on field trips to enhance the curriculum and/or experience something outside of the normal school environment. Often parents are asked to chaperone these trips. If you agree to be a chaperone, please be aware of your responsibilities:

You are expected to be with your assigned group at all times.
Younger siblings may not accompany you on field trips; chaperones’ attention needs to be on your assigned group.
Be sure you know what the teacher wants to highlight for your group.
Other family members (grandparents or visitors) may be welcome to join the class, ONLY if the classroom teacher agrees to have additional people join the group. It may be necessary for such guests to pay a fee to cover the additional costs.

Fundraising/Campus Sales

Administrative approval is necessary for all school sales and fundraising activities held on the school grounds.

Guidance & Counseling

The Elementary Psychologist supports the social-emotional and learning needs of elementary students. The Psychologist offers support services for students and families as they manage issues of studying and living in an international environment. The goal is to help students, parents and faculty create the environmental conditions that best promote student well-being, healthy relationships, and the successful balance of academics and family life for SSIS students.

The Psychologist is often one of the first staff members whom new students and parents meet. As such, the Psychologist assists with initial placement through review of academic records and assists the administration in creating balanced classes.

A major component of the Guidance & Counseling program includes presentation of classroom Guidance lessons, which focus on the Core Values: Academic Excellence, Sense of Self, Respect for All, Dedicated Service, Balance in Life.

In addition, classroom Guidance lessons focus on Friendship, Decision-Making, Personal Safety, Conflict Resolution and other skills that assist the development of independent thinking & personal resilience.

The Psychologist also supports the SSIS Elementary community through consultation with teachers and parents, short-term individual/small group student counseling and parent education/support.

Health Services

Clinics, staffed by two registered nurses, are located on the ground floor of the MS and HS buildings and provide services to all students.

Clinic working hours from Mondays to Fridays:

The ES & MS Nurse Office – Room A105: 7:30AM – 4:00PM
The HS Nurse Office – Room C106 : 11:00AM – 7:00PM

A log is kept of all treatment, and parents are notified in the event of any serious illness or injury. For elementary students, the school nurse also carries out regular health screening including vision, hearing, and body mass index (B.M.I). Parents are notified of the results of these tests.

Nurse’s Office Functions

Provides care to students and staff who have been injured or who present with acute illness. Evaluates and refers the cases to the other medical facilities as appropriate.
Contributes to the control of communicable disease through immunization record keeping; the surveillance and isolation of students with contagious diseases.
Administers medication and treatments as ordered by health care providers.
Serves as a liaison between students, school personnel and health care providers regarding health issues.
Provides first-aid kits on campus, school buses, field trips and sport events.

Nurse’s Office Regulations

The following regulations have been instituted regarding visits to the nurse’s office while classes are in session:

Except in an emergency, students will have a pass from their classroom teacher to visit the school nurse. Otherwise, they should see the nurse during a recess or lunch period.
Early dismissal due to illness will occur only after the student is evaluated by the nurse and upon her recommendation that the student should go home.

Illness

Parents are asked to notify the School Nurse of any infectious diseases or of any change in the health status of a student, (e.g. a vaccination, illness or operation).

Many of the most common illnesses (colds, influenza, hepatitis A & B, chicken pox, and conjunctivitis) result from viral infections, and antibiotics are therefore ineffective in treating or preventing the spread of the illness. Viral illnesses require time for the body to overcome the infection. Therefore, to ensure the sick student does not transfer the contagion to others, it is important for parents to keep students at home if they are sick.

SSIS maintains a “Fever Free” environment and requires all students not to attend school if they have a temperature of or over 38 degrees Celsius. This policy supports our efforts to maintain a healthy environment for all and minimize the spread of viral infections. When a student has had a fever, the student should be fever-free (without medication to reduce the fever) for a period of 24 hours before returning to school.

Parents are requested to inform the ES office of the reason for the absence, including illness, prior to 8:00 a.m.

In the event of extended illness where the student will be absent for a number of days, parents are requested to contact the clinic.

Injuries

The school nurse will call parents if a student must go home due to illness or injury.
In the event of a serious injury or illness, the nurse or an office staff member will contact the parent or guardian before transporting the student to the nearest medical facility for further emergency care. The nurse or a designated person will accompany the student to the hospital and meet the parent there. Costs associated with emergency treatment or transportation are the parents’ responsibility. The school does not provide accident insurance for incidents that occur on campus.

Medication at school

Students requiring prescribed medication during school hours must have on file the prescription from their physicians as well as the written authorization from the parent or legal guardian. The parent‘s written authorization must include:

The name of student receiving the medication.
The name and description of the medication.
Scheduled times for the administration of the medication.
The dosage to be given.
Instructions for administration of the medication.
Description of any possible side-effects.
Any other contra-indications, instructions or warning.

All medications must be in the original pharmacy container. The container must be clearly marked with the patient‘s name, type of medicine and dosage.

A few over the counter medicines (Tylenol, Ibuprofen, Benadryl, Clarityl (Loratadine)) are available and can be given if parent‘s permission is on file.

Medical records

At the start of the school year, parents are requested to complete and submit a Health Information update and keep the school updated of any new medical information, immunization, emergency contact details which will be recorded In Power School.
The school nurse has to complete, update and file medical records for all students.

Head Lice

SSIS Head Lice control procedures

Head lice can be a nuisance but they have not been shown to spread disease. Personal hygiene or cleanliness in the home or school has nothing to do with getting head lice.

If head lice are found or suspected on student(s) at school, the School Nurse must be notified.
The School Nurse will check the student and notify their parents if lice infestation is confirmed. Student(s) found with head lice can go home at the end of the day but be discouraged from close direct head contact with others.
Siblings, classmates and close contacts of the infested student also will be checked. A notification will be sent home if a few cases of infestation found in the same class / group of the infested student.
The infested student ‘s identity must be completely confidential.
The School Nurse will provide the parents health information those include safe and appropriate procedures for removing the lice and nits.
The infested student can return to school when the parent reports having treated the student and no live lice found after the initial treatment. The School Nurse will:

Check the student for live lice before he / she returns to class.
Re-check the student 10 days after returning to school to assure that there are no more live lice.
Other extra assistance to student(s) with repeated infestation or give them a referral to a primary care provider for additional support to manage the problem with their parent’s agreement.

Information Technology

Students are introduced to computers, audio-visual equipment, tape recorders, and other forms of technology.

Language Philosophy

SSIS has a shared vision and desire on the part of the faculty to successfully develop English language proficiency across a high quality academic curriculum, while at the same time promoting the development of each student’s home language and the acquisition of additional languages.

Saigon South International School (SSIS) is mindful of the power of language and words. As part of our core value of Respect for All, the variety of language backgrounds among our students enriches us as a community. SSIS community is a resource to foster language learning, and the acceptance of an additional language enriches personal growth, enhances first language development, and promotes diversity.

Library Media Center

At the heart of our educational community, the Library Media Center provides access to information and ideas for students and staff. In addition to regularly scheduled class visits to check out books and to develop reading and research skills, students have access to the Library from 7:45 A.M. until 4:00 P.M. (except Wednesdays when the library closes at dismissal time). Students in pre-school through fifth grade may borrow three items for a period of two weeks. Periodicals circulate for a period of three days.

Although no fines are charged for overdue items, students who have an overdue book, periodical, or other items may not borrow additional items until the overdue has been cleared. Students are financially liable for the replacement cost of lost, damaged or unreturned library materials at the end of the school year. If materials are not returned or paid for by the last day of school, replacement costs may be recouped by withholding a student’s school records or by deduction from the property deposit that is paid by the student’s parents when a student enters SSIS.

Lockers

Students will be provided personal lockers or storage cubes. The locker is for storing books and other school-related items. Drink and food should not be kept in the locker overnight. The school will take no responsibility for things missing from lockers. If there is reason for school staff to suspect that inappropriate items are in a locker, the school reserves the right to inspect the contents of the locker without permission of the student or parents. Any inspection will be carried out by two SSIS staff members.

LOST AND FOUND

Any found items in the school will be turned into the elementary school office.

Items labelled with names and classes will be given to homeroom teachers to return to the correct student. Therefore, please label with your child’s name and class all items brought to school, including lunch boxes, book bags, sweaters, uniforms, hats, etc.
If items are not labeled, they will be placed in the “Lost and Found” area located in the ES office. Students should check at the office for lost items as soon as the loss is noticed. The school does not take responsibility for Lost and Found items. On a monthly basis, “Lost and Found” items will be donated to a local organization.
Any unlabeled items estimated to be of value in excess of $100 USD will be kept in a locked location in the office.

Parties, Celebrations, and Invitations

Distribution of invitations to non-school events, such as birthday parties, will be permitted only if all class members are included. If you wish to celebrate your child’s birthday at school, please contact the teacher to arrange for an appropriate time to do so during the school day. Birthday celebrations in class should be limited to a small snack (see SSIS Food Guidelines in the handbook for suggestions) and may not include clowns, magicians, of other types of entertainment.

Performances

Music and drama are a part of life and activities in the school. Assemblies, special presentations, and school-wide music concerts provide an opportunity for the students to sing, play a musical instrument, act, and dance. Performances will begin promptly at the designated time. Parents are required to turn off mobile phones and are encouraged to remain for the entire performance.

To ensure a positive experience for both performers and the audience as a whole, SSIS families are asked to follow these guidelines:

Performances will begin at the scheduled time. If you arrive late, please sit in the back. Mobile phones should be turned off during performances.
The audience should remain seated during the performance and avoid talking.
Be respectful to others in the audience if you are taking photos.
When bringing younger children to performances, please monitor their behavior and do not permit them to bring toys and games that make noise.

Pets

Pets are not allowed on school grounds. Advance permission from the classroom teacher is required if there is an educational purpose for such a visit.

Special Dress Days

Special Dress Days/Spirit Days are sometimes requested by the Student Council and approved by the principal. On non-uniform days, students are expected to wear clothing that is appropriate in a school setting and conforms to the standard set by the school uniform. Students may not wear short shorts or short skirts, bare mid-riffs, tight, see-through, low cut, spaghetti-string or tank tops, or pants/trousers below the waist line. Students choosing not to participate in special dress days must wear the regular school uniform.

Student Council

The SSIS Student Council provides elementary students the opportunity to develop leadership skills while serving their school. The Student Council representatives take an active role in planning and coordinating events to improve the general welfare of our community. Each grade three to five classroom elects its own representative who attends Student Council meetings and reports on activities to the class. Faculty members are advisors for the Student Council.

Textbooks

Textbooks are sometimes provided to students on a loan basis. Students are expected to take care of these books and return them in good condition at the end of the school year. Reasonable wear and tear is expected. However, if a textbook is damaged, defaced, or lost, the student must pay for its replacement. Costs are set at 90% of the replacement value plus shipping charges.

Traveling Parents

The classroom teacher and the school office must be notified in writing when a child is being left under the supervision of someone else while parents are traveling. Parents must provide specific details about who has permission to make decisions related to transportation issues and health emergencies.

Telephones

Elementary students are not permitted to use mobile phones during school hours. If parents choose to have their child bring a mobile phone to school, they assume full responsibility for the mobile phone. The phone must be kept in the student’s backpack and must be turned off during school hours. When parents are on campus they are asked to use mobile phones courteously so as not to disturb students and others. During performances, mobile phones should be turned off. Emergency messages can be sent to the elementary administrative assistant, Ms. Bich Thuy, who will inform your child.

Transportation (Student)

Students have the following options for travel to and from school:

Bus service is provided by SSIS for an extra fee, subject to availability of space.
Private cars, car pools, privately contracted services, and taxis
Upper elementary students (grades 4&5) who live south of Saigon South Parkway may ride bicycles to and from school. Helmets are strongly encouraged. Parents must submit a permission slip to the student’s homeroom teacher.
Younger students may walk only if accompanied by an adult or a middle or high school sibling.
Students may not drive motorbikes or motorcycles to school.

Busing

EC-Grade 3 students, who ride the bus home after school, need to be met by an adult when the bus reaches the student's neighborhood.

In the event that an adult is not present, bus monitors will call parents or guardians. If we are unable to communicate with an adult and one is not present within an appropriate time, the child will remain in the care of the bus monitor and brought back to school for parents or guardians to pick-up.

For more information, parents can contact the school bus coordinator.

School Bus Conduct Expectations

Students who ride the buses are expected to do the following:

Be on time. The bus cannot wait for students who are late arriving at the designated pick-up. Parents are responsible for providing transportation for their child(ren) to/from school if they are late for the bus.
Treat the bus monitor, the bus driver and other students with courtesy and respect.
Respect the responsibility of the bus monitor to ensure students are safely seated and wearing seat belts.
Talk quietly and remain seated at all times. Do not use mobile phones on the bus.
Drink water only (eating is not permitted on the bus)
Keep all body parts inside the bus: do not reach or lean out the windows.
Be responsible for personal belongings.
Adhere to the SSIS Code of Conduct
Provide a note signed by a parent and present it at the Elementary Office at the start of the school day if asking for a change of bus routine. Email messages may also be sent to the teacher and Ms Vy (the bus coordinator).

The bus driver or monitor will record and file a written report of conduct infractions with the principal. Penalties for bus violations are:

First offense: verbal warning from the principal
Second offense: written warning from the principal and parent/guardian contact
Third offense: suspension from the bus for up to two weeks

Repeated or serious bus misbehavior could result in a student’s privilege of riding the bus being suspended indefinitely.

School Bus Conduct Expectations

Tutoring

Parents who desire tutoring for their child may request the assistance of the psychologist who can provide contact information for possible tutors. Scheduling and payment issues surrounding tutoring services is a private matter to be arranged between the parents and the tutor. No SSIS teacher may tutor his/her own students for remuneration. If parents have made arrangements for outside tutors for their child, we highly recommend that the tutor communicates directly with the classroom teacher.

Withdrawal and Request of School Reports

Parents of students leaving SSIS must complete a Departure Notice as early as possible. Please inform our admissions office that your son or daughter will be leaving, and you will be provided with the necessary Departure Notice. The tuition and fees schedule outlines the notification process and deadlines for refunds.

If a child withdraws at the end of the academic year, school reports will be available on the last day of class. If reports are required before the actual withdrawal date, parents should use their copy of the most recent school reports. School Reports will be withheld from students who have missing books and outstanding financial obligations to the school.

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT

The Code of Conduct is simple and based primarily on the concept of respect. Students who are respectful use acceptable language and show appropriate behaviors. Hurting others through words or physical actions is not accepted and students who commit such acts will be subject to consequences appropriate to the misconduct. The Code of Conduct states the following expectations:

We show respect to all people and all things.
We listen when a teacher or other presenter speaks.
We follow instructions when given instructions by school staff.
We maintain our environment safely and without waste.

Whether riding to and from home on the school bus or on field trips, students are to follow the same standards of behavior expected at school.

Major Violations

Behavior that is not in a student’s best interest or that poses a threat to others will lead to serious disciplinary action. The following offenses are considered major violations:

Bullying
Insubordination demonstrated toward a teacher or staff member
Disruption of classes and interference of the teaching/ learning process
Endangering or threatening the safety of oneself or others (this includes fighting)
Theft
Damaging school or personal property
The possession of any object that can be considered a weapon

Disciplinary Action

Disciplinary steps are taken to deal with inappropriate behavior while preserving the dignity and self-esteem of the child.

One or more of the following steps may be implemented:

Counseling by the teacher, yard or cafeteria supervisor, principal or psychologist
Core Values Behavior Plan – Students complete a form indicating what the problem was and how s/he can improve.

*In-School Suspension – The student will be removed from regular classes and will work in a supervised area for a part or a full day.
*Out-of-School Suspension –A student may be suspended from school for repeated violations of the discipline policy or for behavior that is viewed by the principal as inappropriate during the school day, during a school-sponsored activity, on or off school grounds. An out-of-school suspension from school means that a student is prohibited from being on or near the school campus or attending any school-sponsored activities during the period of the suspension. The parent or guardian of the student will be notified as soon as possible when a student is to be suspended from the school.

*Parents/guardians are contacted.

SSIS will not tolerate any student misconduct which intentionally causes hurt or harms another student. In such cases, parents will be notified and the individual will be sent home for the duration of the day, or kept in school on an in-school suspension, depending upon the severity and frequency of such behavior.

Student Suspension Procedure

1. All suspensions will be documented in a letter to parents.

2. The principal will make reasonable efforts to arrange a conference with the parents and the student to explain the reasons for the suspension and its potential consequences.

DRESS CODE

All SSIS students are required to wear the official SSIS uniform to promote an image of SSIS students looking neat, smart, and respectful. All uniform items must be purchased at the school.

For School Days WITHOUT Physical Education class
Tops	Light blue polo shirt with SSIS logo White formal shirts (for concerts and formal presentations only) All tops including jackets, sweaters, and sweatshirts must be purchased at the school store.
Bottoms	Navy blue shorts Navy blue pants/slacks Navy blue skort
Shoes	Shoes must be neat, safe, and appropriate for the activities of the school day.
Hats	Hats are required for all outdoor activities. Hats and headscarves must be removed inside the school building unless worn for cultural or religious reasons.
Accessories	Non-uniform items such as jewelry need to be safe for the various activities engaged in throughout the school day.

For School Day WITH Physical Education class
Tops	SSIS physical education T-shirt
Bottoms	SSIS physical education shorts
Shoes	Sport shoes and socks
Hats	Cap/hat for outdoor activity
Accessories	Sunscreen Water bottle Towel (optional)
Aquatics	On days of aquatics’ instruction students need: One-piece bathing suit Towel Sunscreen Goggles

PE Swimming Class Participation Policy

Expectations:

At SSIS our children are very fortunate to have the opportunity to develop their swimming skills as part of their full educational experience. Starting in EC through 5th grade, we offer a unit of swimming each semester giving our children a total of 24 swimming days each year. During these classes we work to develop each child’s skills to ensure that they are moving from “Water Smart” towards “Experienced or Competitive Swimmer” levels. To make this progression, it is imperative that students be in the water during their swim class times.

Exceptions:

Swimming is just as important to our students’ day as math & language development. When a child misses class, they will lag behind their peers. Below we’ve listed just a few of the exceptions that may happen throughout the swim unit:

Excused reasons for missing swim class:

Infections: Some infections like athlete’s foot or plantar’s warts can be spread to others and we would advise students with this condition to not swim or walk barefoot around the pool or locker rooms. Also ear & yeast infections may keep a child out of the pool. For any of these conditions, we require a medical note from a doctor indicating the condition and length of time required for recovery.
Injury: When a child is injured there will be times when going into the pool is not wise (open wounds, sprains, fractures, etc.). If the child is injured outside of the campus we require a note from the doctor indicating the type of injury and how long the child will be expected to be out of the pool. The injury may happen during the school day and we will expect the nurse to issue a note in these circumstances.
Absence from school due to illness: If a parent feels the child is too ill to participate in swim class, then the child should not attend any classes at school: they should remain at home until they are well enough to participate in the full academic day. Please see the parent/student handbook for details about illness and return to school.

If a student misses a swim class due to an EXCUSED absence, they will not be required to make up the lesson. However, if parents or students request to make up a missed lesson due to an excused absence, this service will be provided upon availability of swim instructors.

Unexcused reasons for missing swim class:

Forgot suit: If a student forgets their suit and is unable to enter the water for instruction, they must listen to the instructions of the swim class from the deck.
Parent or student request: If, for any other reason, a parent or student requests to not enter the water for instruction, they must listen to the instructions of the swim class from the deck.

If a student misses a swim class due to an UNEXCUSED absence, they will required to make up the swimming portion of their class during their designated recess time. In addition, their participation grade for the missed class will be given a “0” and the grade book will mark the absence as unexcused.

Consequences for UNEXCUSED absences:

Decrease in the child’s growth and progress of swimming skills.
Student misses their recess to make up the swim class.
Negative impact on their Physical Education (PE) grade on their report card.
If continued unexcused absences from swim classes occur, the consequence will be escalated. Students may begin to miss multiple recesses, serve in-school suspensions, out of school suspensions, or a meeting with parents to discuss whether SSIS is an appropriate educational program for the family.

Lengthy Medical Situation : When a child is unable to participate for a substantial period of time the PE teacher will assign a “project” for the child throughout the unit to help continue their learning.

STUDENT SUPPLIES

SSIS supplies students with many supplementary materials in addition to textbooks.

Individual teachers will inform students of materials required for their classes. Most of these items can be purchased at the SSIS school store, which is open before and after school and during recess and lunch breaks.

All children need the following on a daily basis:

School Uniform -- All children need to wear the school uniform that conforms to the dress code. Uniforms may be purchased from the school store. Please ensure your child’s name and class are clearly written in English inside the uniform pieces.
Hat -- A hat is part of the school uniform. These hats with brims must be worn during outdoor P.E., recess breaks and any outdoor activity. Children may keep their hats and sunscreen at school. Please identify your child’s hat by writing his/her name and class inside the hat. A sun visor is not a hat and is insufficient protection for the top of the head.
Water Bottle -- Students are required to bring a labeled water bottle to school every day. There are water bottle refilling stations in each classroom and in the common areas.
Sunscreen -- Because of the increasing incidence of skin cancer, children are encouraged to wear sunscreen in addition to protective clothing. Sunscreen and hats may be kept at school. Please ensure that your child’s name is written on his/her bottle of sunscreen.

Snacks and Lunch

Students are encouraged to bring healthy snacks for the morning break. A morning snack is provided for students in EC3, EC4, and Kindergarten. Carbonated beverages are not sold nor permitted at SSIS. Please do not send breakable containers for beverages; re-sealable bottles are suggested for liquids. All students should have their own labeled water bottles.

All students must eat lunch at school. Students may bring a lunch, pre-order or buy lunch at the school cafeteria, or have lunch delivered to them. For Grade 1-5 classes, if a lunch must be delivered from home, it needs to be labeled in English with the student’s name and grade and placed on the table in the cafeteria. Helpers who deliver lunches should remain on campus only long enough to deliver the lunch. Students should be expected to take the lunch box/bag home at the end of the day.

Students are expected to:

Show respect to all – classmates, supervisors, teaching assistants, cleaners and cafeteria personnel

Keep noise level down by using quiet indoor voices
Stay seated during the lunch period
Raise their hands if they need assistance from the lunch supervisors
Dispose of cafeteria containers as instructed
Clean up their own trash when they have finished lunch.
Wait for the signal to be dismissed from lunch
Walk en route to and from the cafeteria.

SSIS Food Guidelines

Saigon South International School will encourage and support healthy eating in order to help promote optimal learning and lifelong health.

Research has shown that eating healthier foods can “help kids concentrate better in class, reduce behavioral problems, lower obesity rates, strengthen academic performance and build healthier habits for life” (USDA). The World Health Organization also states that “Good nutrition – an adequate, well balanced diet combined with regular physical activity – is a cornerstone of good health. Poor nutrition can lead to reduced immunity, increased susceptibility to disease, impaired physical and mental development, and reduced productivity.”

We will promote lean protein, fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, and sugar-free dairy products (such as plain yogurt, fresh milk and cheese). We discourage packaged, processed and high sugar foods (junk food).

Foods brought for individual consumption or sharing (eg. special occasions, celebrations) that are encouraged include:

Raw vegetable sticks/slices with yogurt dip or low fat dressing
Fresh fruit wedges
Pasta salad/noodle dish
Cheese and crackers/rice crackers
Kim Bap/Rice Balls
Fresh spring rolls
Edamame
100% juice, fresh milk or water

Foods that are not allowed at school for individual consumption or sharing:

Carbonated drinks, soda pop
Candy, lollipops, gum
Junk food

Celebration Guidelines

Birthdays, holidays and accomplishments may be celebrated at school, however the emphasis should be on the child, holiday or accomplishment, not on the food.

Suggested items for celebrations may include:

Cupcakes
Muffins
Fruit
Gift bags with food and candy are not allowed

School Functions

At any school function (parties, celebrations, meetings, movie nights, etc.) where treats are available, healthful food options should also be made available to promote student, staff, and community wellness. Please refer to the list above for possible healthy options.

Vendor Guidelines

Vendors will provide healthy food and beverage choices at all times and will adhere to the SSIS Guidelines.

Guidelines for Teachers if students/parents are not adhering to the SSIS Food Guidelines.

1. Tell them which food item is not allowed and explain the reasoning.

2. If the food item continues to come to school, send an email to parents with the SSIS Food Guidelines.

HOMEWORK POLICY

Homework is a valuable part of the learning process at SSIS. Consistency and parental support are key factors in the success of our homework program. The following guidelines should help you and your child plan sufficient time for his / her daily homework.

KG -Grade 1 10 – 20 minutes daily

Gr. 2 20 – 30 minutes daily

Gr. 3 - 5 30 - 60 minutes daily

Parents of children at all grade levels are responsible for supporting their child’s educational environment by establishing a home atmosphere that is conducive to learning and monitoring/supervising their child’s home study. This atmosphere should include specific study times and a specific study location for doing the homework. Although some homework is enhanced by parental involvement, some is not. Teachers will inform parents of the appropriate involvement level as needed. As the school is strongly committed to promoting literacy in our students, all children, with the support of their families, are expected to read or be read to on a nightly basis. Music students are required to practice their chosen instrument regularly in order to satisfy the requirements of their music courses.

PARENT SUPPORT

Curriculum Night

Early in the school year, a Back to School Night is held to introduce parents to their child’s teachers, classrooms, and the program of studies. The Back to School Night is an opportunity for parents to see their son/daughter’s learning environment, understand teacher expectations and gather strategies to ensure the success of their son/daughter. All parents are encouraged to attend this important event, but it is not an appropriate event for students to attend.

Change of Contact Information

Please update Powerschool with your current mailing address, telephone number, e-mail address, work contact number, and/or emergency contact information.

Conferences: Parent-Teacher

Parent-teacher conferences are held in October. Parents register their schedules online three weeks before the conferences. Their purpose is to discuss the student’s current level of progress and set goals for the remainder of the school year. (For parents that need help with childcare of (school-aged) younger children, we will have staff supervision of the elementary playground area during conference times.)

At upper elementary grades, students may be requested to attend the conference with their parents. These conferences are scheduled; it is very important that parents attend at the appointment times. Please note that, while nannies, tutors, or other family members may attend the conference, it is required that at least one parent be in attendance. Our teaching assistants are able to translate if the language is Vietnamese. Should you require a translator in a language other than Vietnamese, please bring one to the appointment. Parents or teachers may request additional conferences throughout the year.

Conferences: Parent-Teacher-Student – Learning Journey

During the third quarter students are involved in conferences with their teachers and parents. The student-involved conferences are opportunities for students to celebrate their academic achievement and their progress toward the SSIS Core Values. In Elementary school, these conferences are called Learning Journeys. Parents register their schedules online three weeks before the conferences.

Principal’s Coffees

Principals’ Coffees are informal meeting where the ES principals will meet with parents to share information about what is happening at the ES of SSIS. Sometimes these meetings will have themes while other times they will offer the opportunity for question and answer sessions. Principal coffee meetings will be held regularly throughout the school year; the dates and locations will be advertised in the ES eNews.

Expectations for Parents

SSIS students will be more successful if parents:

Help instill student pride, confidence, and a positive attitude about their school and teachers.
Support school policies on behavior and attendance at all times, including after school events.
Provide the time and environment for students to complete homework.
Encourage students to take responsibility for completion of all homework assignments.
Bring concerns directly to the appropriate teacher first, and then if necessary, to the principal for clarification or resolution.
In the event of a conflict between students, parents should inform the homeroom teacher. At no time should a parent approach another parent’s child directly in an attempt to resolve issues.
Take an active role in the PTA, volunteer activities, and school events
Read the eNews
Check the communication books daily and respond or comment as appropriate.
Dedicate time and thought to the continual improvement of SSIS.
Share information honestly with teachers about problems the child has had or experienced regarding learning, behavior, or the emotional area, and regarding changes in the family situation (divorce, separations, illness, death).

eNews

Regular news updates electronically on the school’s Website http://enews.ssis.edu.vn/es/. eNews provides essential information regarding significant school events. Reading eNews regularly is a good way to keep current on what is happening at school.

Progress Reports

Students and parents need regular feedback on academic and social progress. Progress reports and parent conferences provide excellent opportunities for parents and teachers to help students set goals for themselves and to join together to celebrate a student’s effort and success.

The SSIS academic year is divided into two semesters. Report cards are issued at the end of each semester.

Early Childhood

The following progress scale is used in these grades:

M – Meeting grade level expectations

D – Developing towards expected level

B – Beginning to demonstrate skill

E – Experiencing difficulties

NA – Not applicable at this time

Kindergarten through 5th Grades

The following progress scale is used in these grades:

4 – Exceeding grade level expectations

3 – Meeting grade level expectations

2 – Approaching toward grade level expectations

1 – Not yet meeting grade level expectations

NA: Not applicable/Not addressed this semester

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

The purpose of the SSIS PTA is to promote regular parent-school communication and support the school with community building events and resources. All parents and teachers are automatically members. To support PTA goals and yearly initiatives each family is requested to pay 400,000 VND per student. These funds provide for special events, student and teacher grants, and parent clubs. Grants are additionally allocated to the libraries and the Visual and Performing Arts Departments. All requests are individually evaluated by the administration and the PTA board to distinguish between necessary resources provided by the school and "nice-to-have" resources provided by the PTA that promote culture and develop a sense of community. There are many PTA activities and events that need parent assistance. We encourage you to attend coffee mornings and join this important school association that supports our students and their learning.

School-Home Communication

We believe that a strong partnership between home and school is essential to the development of SSIS students and to the success of our school community as a whole. We value and recognize the importance of ongoing communication with parents and strive to maintain open channels of communication. Parents are encouraged to communicate directly via e-mail, or by requesting a scheduled appointment with their child’s teacher as the need arises.

Questions about the school’s programs and services should first be directed to the child’s teacher and then, if the question requires further clarification, to our school psychologist or the principal. To contact the teachers, parents should send a note to the teacher or send a note by e-mail. Urgent messages may be taken by phone and delivered by the office staff.

Parents are always welcome in our classrooms. Please contact the classroom teacher in advance if you wish to visit to ensure that your visit will best support the learning process.

In the early elementary grades, teachers use a communication book that goes back and forth between school and home. Please check this book daily for information related to your child. You are encouraged to write comments to the teacher if there is significant information that needs to be shared. You may be requested to sign to acknowledge that your child has completed the homework and reading assigned.

Appendix 1 - Recommendations For Students With Diagnosed Infectious Diseases

Conditions	Early symptoms	Incubation period	Method of infection	Attend school	Duration of exclusion	Recommendations
Amebiasis (Amebic dysentery)	Mild form of amebiasis includes nausea, loose stools, weight loss, abdominal tenderness, occasional fever	02 - 04 weeks	Consumption of contaminated food / water containing the cyst of the parasite - Person-to-person fecal / oral transmission	No	Until diarrhea-free or stool culture is normal	Implement proper hand washing techniques, especially after toilet visits
Campylobacteriosis	Mild or severe diarrhea with / without blood , abdominal cramps, fever	02 - 05 days or longer	Consumption of contaminated food / water or unpasteurized milk, contact with infected people / animals	No	Until symptom-free	Implement proper hand washing techniques and food sanitization procedures
Chickenpox (Varicella)	Raised red spots that change into blisters after a few hours - Rash usually presents on trunk and face - Mild fever	10 - 21 days	Direct and indirect contact with discharge from nose, throat - Directly touch blisters	No	Until all lesions are crusted over - and no new lesions occurring	Vaccine is available for adults, adolescents and children at the age of 12 months and older
Cholera	Mild or severe diarrhea, vomiting, dehydration, fever	a few hours to five days	Consumption of contaminated food / water	No	Until symptom-free for 24 hours without medication	Oral vaccine is available for travelers to underdeveloped countries
Common cold	Itching and / or sore throat, sneezing, nasal congestion, watery eyes, mild coughing	01 - 04 days	Direct contact with droplets from nose, mouth and contaminated articles	No	Until symptom-free for 24 hours without medication	Implement proper hand washing techniques and avoidance of being in contact with infected people
Conjunctivitis (pink eye)	Burning, tearing, redness and itching in one or both eyes	24 - 72 hours	Direct contact with eye discharge	No	Until : appropriate treatment initiated; no more discharge from eyes; be confirmed by a physician
Coxsackie viral infection (Hand Foot & Mouth Disease)	Fever, poor appetite, runny nose, sore throat, blister-like rash on hands, feet and in the mouth	04 - 06 days	Direct contact with nose/ throat discharges, blisters and feces of infected people	No	Until symptom-free and lesions healed	Implement proper hand washing techniques and avoidance of being in contact with infected people

Diphtheria	Sore throat, mild fever, loss of appetite, lymph nodes in the neck enlarged , patchy grey membrane in throat, nose and airway	02 - 05 days	Contact with discharge from nose, throat, eye or skin lesions of an infected person	No	Until throat cultures are negative ; be evaluated by a physician	Standard vaccine scheduled for all children
Fifth disease	Mild or no fever, malaise, “slapped cheek” rash appears throughout boldy, lacy rash on arms & legs, rash may recur with sunlight, warm bath or exercise	4 - 21 days	Exposure to airborne droplets from the nose and throat of infected people	No	Until fever-free for 24 hours without the use of fever suppressing medications	Implement proper hand washing techniques
German Measles (Three-day measles / Rubella)	Mild illness, swollen neck glands, fine pink rash on face spreading down the body	12 - 23 days	From person-to-person via airborne transmission or droplets shed from the respiratory secretions of infected persons	No	Until 07 days after rash onset In case of an outbreak, unimmunized children should be excluded at last 03 weeks after the onset of the last rash	Vaccine available for children from 12 months of age Avoid contact with pregnant women
Haemophilus Influenzae type B (HiB)	Major cause of meningitis, otitis media, epiglottitis, pneumonia	02 - 04 days	From person-to-person via airborne transmission or droplets shed from the respiratory secretions of infected persons	No	Return to school with physician’s permission	Vaccine available for children
Hepatitis A	Upset stomach, malaise, dark colored urine, light colored stool, jaundice, abdominal pain, diarrhea, fever	25 - 30 days	Fecal-oral route, through contaminated food, water, utensils, hands	No	Until a week after the onset of the illness	Vaccine available for children from 12 months old
Hepatitis B	Upset stomach, malaise, dark colored urine, light colored stool, jaundice, abdominal pain, diarrhea, fever	04 - 20 weeks	Blood, serous fluids, semen, vaginal secretions	No	Until acute illness is over - be evaluated by a physician	Vaccine available for all children from birth

Impetigo	Itchy rash or red sores form blisters then ooze - broken blisters form flat, honey-colored crusts	04 - 10 days	Direct contact with discharge from blisters or infected things such as clothes, towels, bed linens	No	Until 24 hours after the initiate treating with anitbiotics	No participation in contact sports or food preparation
Influenza	Headache, fever, runny & stuffy nose, cough, feeling bad	Shortly before onset - up to a week	Airborne - discharge from mouth or nose - direct contact with contaminated articles	No	Until symptom-free and fever-free for 24 hours without taking medication	Yearly flu vaccine available for every one
Lice	Scalp irritation, or detection of lice eggs in hair	Hatch in 6 - 10 days	Direct contact with hair, combs, brushes, hats, pillows, towels ...	No	After appropriate treatment has been initiated
Measles (Rubeola)	Stage 1: runny nose, cough, slight fever, eyes are red and sensitive to light, Koplik ‘s spots in mouth - Stage 2: blotchy rash on 3rd 4th day over face and trunks	07 - 12 days	Airborne - discharge from mouth or nose - direct contact with contaminated surfaces	No	05 days after rash onset - Unimmunized students must be excluded 02 weeks after the onset of the last rash	Vaccine available for all children over 01 year of age
Meningococcal disease	High fever - headache - vomiting - stiff neck - rash	02 - 10 days	Direct contact with nose or throat discharge of an infected person	No	Be evaluated by a physician and fever-free for 24 hours without fever suppressing medication	Vaccine available for all children from 02 years old
Mumps	Low-grade fever, headache, muscle aches, stiff neck, tiredness, loss of appetite , swelling and tenderness of one or more of salivary glands and parotid glands	12 - 25 days	Direct contact with nose or throat discharge of an infected person	No	05 days after the onset of the swelling of salivary glands and / or parotid glands	Vaccine available for all children from 12 months of age

Pertussis (whooping cough)	First, flu-like symptoms with mild coughing and low-grade fever -- within 1 - 2 weeks severe explosive coughing develops with “whoop” and followed by vomiting	04 - 21 days	Direct contact with nose or throat discharge of an infected person	No	Until completion of 05 days of antibiotic therapy	Vaccine available for all children from 02 months of age
Pneumococcal disease	Abrupt onset of fever, chills, headache, cough, chest pain, disorientation, shortness of breath, weakness , occasionally a stiff neck	01 - 03 days	Spread by airborne or direct exposure to respiratory droplets of infected person or bacteria carrier	No	Be evaluated by a physician	Vaccine available for children from 02 months of age
Poliomyelitis	Minor flu-like symptoms, then severe muscle pain and stiffness in the neck and back may develop - Weakness or paralysis might happen in legs, arms or both	6 - 20 days	Oral fecal spread; direct contact with nose or throat discharge of an infected person	No	Be evaluated by a physician	Vaccine available for children from 02 months of age
Scabies	Intense itching,small red spots in webs and sites of fingers, elbow creases	01 - 04 days after subsequent re-exposures; 04 - 06 weeks after primary exposures	Direct skin-to-skin contact; direct contact with contaminated undergarments, bedclothes	No	24 hours after the treatment is initiated	No participation in contact sports and swimming

Scarlet fever	Sore throat, high fever, bright red rash covers most of the body, folds of skin become deeper red, flushed face with a pale ring around the mouth, the tongue looks red and bumpy, is covered with white coating at first - lymph nodes, nausea or vomiting, difficulty swallowing	02 - 04 days	Spread by airborne droplets, direct contact with contaminated surfaces, share foods or drinks	No	24 hours after antibiotic treatment is initiated - fever-free for 24 hours without taking fever-suppressing medicin
Strep throat	Sore throat, difficulty swallowing, red & swollen tonsils with white patches or streaks of pus, tiny red spots in mouth, fever, headache, skin rash, stomachache, vomiting, fatigue	02 - 05 days	Spread by airborne droplets, direct contact with contaminated surfaces, share foods or drinks	No	24 hours after antibiotic treatment is initiated - fever-free for 24 hours without taking fever-suppressing medicine
Tuberculosis (TB)	Asymptomatic or low-grade fever, night sweats, fatigue, weight loss, persistent cough	variable	Spread by airborne droplets from infected persons, prolonged exposure to infected persons	No	Until antibiotic treatment has begun and be evaluated by a physician	Vaccine available for all children from birth
Typhoid fever	Fever, headache, constipation or diarrhea, rose-colored spots on the trunk, enlarged spleen and liver	01 - 03 weeks	Oral fecal spread	No	Be evaluated by a physician	Vaccine available for children from 02 years old

References

https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/amebiasis/fact_sheet.htm

https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/campylobacteriosis/fact_sheet.htm

http://www.healthywa.wa.gov.au/Healthy-WA/Articles/A_E/Cholera

http://www.medicinenet.com/hand-foot-and-mouth_syndrome/page3.htm#what_is_the_incubation_period_for_hand_foot_and_mouth_disease

http://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/cold-guide/understanding-common-cold-basics?page=2#1

https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/diphtheria/fact_sheet.htm

Indiana Division of Family Resources, Bureau of Child Care 1 - 877 - 511 - 1144

Texas Administrative Code - Title 25, Part 1, Chapter 97, Subchapter A, Rule 97.7

https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/fifth/fact_sheet.htm

http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pubs/pinkbook/rubella.html

https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/impetigo/fact_sheet.htm

http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/idcu/disease/meningococcal_invasive/

http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd-vac/pneumo/fs-parents.html

https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/pneumococcal/fact_sheet.htm

http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/strep-throat/basics/definition/con-20022811

http://coldflu.about.com/od/othercommonillnesses/qt/strepincubation.htm

http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/scarlet-fever/basics/definition/con-20030976

https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/tuberculosis/fact_sheet.htm

https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/typhoid_fever/fact_sheet.htm

Revised on January 19, 2017

ES & MS Nurse ‘s office

Saigon South International Schoo

Appendix 2 - About head lice

Head lice are wingless insects. They are grey or brown, have six legs and are about 1 to 3 mm in length when fully grown (the size of the sesame seed). Female head lice lay eggs that are smaller than a pinhead and these attach to your hair close to the scalp. The eggs hatch about 7 to 10 days later. Young lice are call nymphs – it takes about 10 days for them to become adults and capable of laying new eggs.

When lice hatch, they leave empty shells called nits attached to the hair. Nits are white and you may mistake them for flakes of dry skin. Unlike dandruff, nits stick to the hair and can’t be removed with normal shampooing.

Children are most commonly affected by head lice, although anyone with hair can catch them.

Children are often affected by head lice because they tend to have more head-to-head contact while at school or during play. Head lice are most common in children between 4 – 11 years old.

Symptoms

Common signs and symptoms of head lice may include:

Intense itching. An allergic reaction to the saliva that lice inject during feeding my result in itchy red bumps on the scalp, neck and shoulders. Some people, particularly if this is their first infestation, don’t experience itching.
Adult lice on scalp: The most common spots to find adult lice are behind the ears and along the back of the neck. Lice are tiny, about the size of a strawberry seed, but they can be up to 1/8 inche (3mm) in size.
Lice eggs (nits) on hair shafts: Nits resemble tiny pussy willow buds. Nits can be mistaken for dandruff, but unlike dandruff, they can’t be easily brushed out of hair.

What is the best way of looking for head lice?

The best way to search for head lice and nits is using a fine-toothed plastic comb with spacing of less than 0.3 mm. Head lice can be checked on dry or wet hair.

Get the child to lean over a sheet of light colored paper of cloth to have his / her hair combed. Both live lice and eggshells may drop onto the paper.

Use a brush or an ordinary comb to first detangle hair
Once hair has been detangled, switch to the detection comb
Start at the middle of the front of the scalp
Comb the hair from the roots to the very end of the hair
After each stroke, examine the tooth of the comb for living lice
Rinse the comb if any lice are found
Continue combing section by section until the whole head of hair has be combed
Make sure every inch of the scalp is checked, including the area just behind the ears and at the nape of the neck

For wet combing, simply wash hair and apply conditioner before starting these steps. Afterwards, rinse out the conditioner and check hair again with the nit comb before drying.

Head lice treatment and prevention

Please visit the following sites for details:

http://www.cdc.gov/parasites/lice/head/treatment.html

http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Head-lice/Pages/Treatment.aspx

Appendix 3 - Responsible Use Policy

Appendix 4 - Trip Permission Form

During the course of the school year many opportunities present themselves for students to take trips off campus. These may include field trips in support of various curricular events, sports outings, class parties, trips with special organizations and visits to the two schools we support with donations. Trips may include visiting a park, museum, zoo, restaurant, farm, place of business, factory, etc. On occasion, the trip might be simply a visit to a local park. Although the school may seek your permission for particular trips, your signature line below will authorize SSIS to include your child on trips even in the event we are unable to reach you or if we have not received the specific response form detailing the trip. Trips are always supervised by SSIS staff.

My son/daughter may attend any off-campus official trips. Please print the name and grade of your child:

Student’s Name (Last, First): _

Grade / HR Teacher: _

Specific restrictions or comments (if any):

Date: _

Signature of Parent or Guardian:

Parents: Please submit this form to your child’s homeroom teacher.

Homeroom teachers: Please route to the elementary office.

ES

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