GRADES 1 – 12 SCHOOL HANDBOOK WELCOME TO YICA Welcome to Yokohama International Christian Academy. We open our doors to what we hope will be a rewarding, enriching and enjoyable journey of learning and growth for your child. Our educational policy and founding principle is that education should be a fun challenging adventure for students, not a race fraught with undue pressure, unfair comparisons, or unrealistic and unmanageable goals. Each student is unique in his or her needs and abilities. Our staff, curriculum, and facilities are all meant to positively nourish, support and foster students’ natural social, physical and academic development. Towards this end, we welcome you to our school.
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YICA MISSION STATEMENT Philosophy Yokohama International Christian Academy (YICA) endeavors to assist parents in their responsibility to train their children, while providing a comprehensive international education which develops creativity, citizenship and academic excellence in each child. In order to reach these goals, YICA will: Provide a safe, nurturing and friendly environment for all students. Recognize the worth and uniqueness of each child. Help and encourage students to develop personal values which enable them to be responsible members of society. Encourage students to learn from and appreciate the cultural diversity within the school and the community. Recognize the importance of cooperation and encourage proactive positive communication between home and school. Facilitate to students the methods, disciplines and study habits necessary to succeed throughout their lives. Prepare students for higher education studies. Encourage global citizenship through the medium of English. Objectives Yokohama International Christian Academy is committed to developing: Communication Skills YICA emphasizes the importance of developing in students the skills for effective and positive communication. Study Habits YICA provides students with the skills, techniques, and information to form excellent study habits. Human Values YICA emphasizes mutual respect, understanding and tolerance as an essential way for solving conflicts and developing empathy and respect for other people. Physical Skills YICA provides the environment and opportunities for students to develop physical skills and coordination. Spiritual Values YICA teaches students to apply the universal values of honesty, charity, respect and morality in their daily lives.
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ADMISSIONS Eligibility YICA does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, or national and ethnic origin in the administration of its educational and admission policies, athletics and other school-administered programs. Generally: Elementary School (grades 1 to 5) – students should have some English language ability. Students applying for admission into the 1st grade must turn 6 years old by October 30th on the year of enrollment. When applicable, English proficiency and academic level will be evaluated. A test fee may be required. Middle school (grades 6 to 8) and high school (grade 9 to 12) students must have an adequate level of competency in English to ensure that they are able to benefit from YICA’s programs. All students are responsible for having their transcripts sent directly from their previous schools to YICA’s Principal. At least one parent should be English-speaking. Reminders Attendance at YICA is a privilege and not a right. YICA reserves the right to refuse admission to a student whose behavior or beliefs are regarded as potentially detrimental to the goals, objectives and principles of the school. YICA reserves the right to exclude, at any time, a student whose behavior or academic standing renders his/her presence undesirable in the school. YICA is not equipped with special facilities for students with learning, physical or emotional disabilities/disorders. Therefore; we may be unable to accept such students.
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ADMISSION PROCEDURES 1. Parent and student visit and tour the school. 2. Collection of application forms and payment of application fee. 3. Submission of Application forms 2 passport-size photographs Copy of birth certificate or passport Final report cards for previous two years (grade students) Term cards for current year (grade students) Confidential report written by a former instructor or school principal Official transcripts for middle and high school students 4. Diagnostic testing. 5. Interview with both parents or legal guardians and student. 6. Sign of Parent-School Agreement. 7. Payment of Fees.
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ACADEMIC PROGRAM Elementary and Middle School 1st Grade Eligibility Students applying for admission into the 1 st grade must turn 6 years old by October 30th on the year of enrollment and have a basic level of English proficiency. Applicants who are not yet 6 years of age by September 1 st on the year of enrollment and do not have sufficient English proficiency to follow 1st grade classes will be placed in Kindergarten. Elementary School Courses Students take the following subjects: Bible, Language Arts, History & Geography, Mathematics, Science, International Primary Curriculum (IPC), Japanese Language, Music, Art, Physical Education & Swimming, and basic Computer Instruction.
Grading Scale Following are the grade marks awarded for completed work. Numerical values indicate percentage of performance. A+ = 98 – 100 A = 93 – 97 A– = 90 – 92 B+ = 87 – 89 B = 83 – 86 B– = 80 – 82 C+ = 77 – 79 C = 73 – 76 C– = 70 – 72 D+ = 67 – 69 D = 63 – 66 D– = 60 – 62 F = 0 – 59 (Failure) International Primary Curriculum (IPC) The International Primary Curriculum is a curriculum developed by a group of leading experts in children’s education from around the world. The IPC consists of a wide number of classroom-tested, modern-day, memorable thematic units specially developed around academic, personal and international learning themes. Focused on skill development, each unit is designed to stimulate the child's visual, auditory and kinesthetic learning styles. Thematic units, all age-appropriate, interesting and relevant, include topics like We Are What We Eat, Sustainability and Explorers and Adventurers among many others. The IPC is used in more than 800 schools in 58 countries around the world YICA School Handbook – July 2010
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and provides an invaluable source of ideas, learning aids and resources for international school teachers and students Kindergarten to Grade 6. The IPC is a fantastic complement to YICA's our regular curriculum.
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EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES There are a number of extracurricular activities planned throughout the year to further enrich the student’s learning experience.
Student School Supplies
Bible Blue or Black Ballpoint Pen Colored Pencil Set Eraser Holder or Case for Supplies Ruler (centimeters & inches) Notebook & Paper At least 3 Writing Pencils Scissors (rounded point) Stereo Earphones (mini-plug) Index Cards & Index Card Holder Set of Highlighter Pens Crayons Glue Recorder Compass (High School) Protractor (High School) Calculator (High School)
High School Eligibility A student is considered a high school student whenever he/she begins 9 th grade work on all subjects. Graduation is determined by achievement, not chronology and, therefore, time is not a factor but learning is. Students remain in the curriculum until they have successfully completed the prescribed course of study. Credit Units One (1) unit of credit is earned for a course that meets 4 or 5 50-minute sessions per week for one school year. A unit of credit is awarded for the completion of a year’s work in a given subject with a grade of “D” or better. Credit for a subject may be withheld regardless of grade if a student has a poor attendance record. Tardiness is considered part of the attendance record.
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GRADE POINT AVERAGE (G.P.A.) YICA calculates current term and cumulative G.P.A. based on the following scale: A+ = 4.00 A = 4.00 A– = 3.67 B+ = 3.33 B = 3.00 B– = 2.67 C+ = 2.33 C = 2.00 C- = 1.67 D+ = 1.33 D = 1.00 D- = 0.67 F = 0.00 P = Passing I =
Incomplete W = Withdrew
SUMMER SCHOOL YICA offers a Summer School program for those students needing to catch up or complete assigned work. Summer School is compulsory for students who have been absent more than eighteen (18) days during the school year and for those who have not finished their assigned courses of study.
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ATTENDANCE POLICY School Day Schedule Grade school starts at 8:00AM and ends at 3:00PM. Students are allowed to stay after dismissal time for class projects, and other club and extracurricular activities approved by YICA’s administration. Tardiness Grade students are considered tardy if they are not in the classroom by 8:00 AM. Any student who is late to class must obtain a Tardy Slip at the school office before being admitted into the classroom. Continued tardiness will lead to detention and may necessitate a conference with parents, teacher(s) and Principal, possibly leading to revocation of student privileges and/or suspension. Tardiness is considered part of the attendance record and credit for a subject may be withheld regardless of grade if a student has a poor attendance record. Middle and high school students: Privileges will be revoked for tardiness. Absenteeism A written explanation signed by a parent or guardian must be presented to the school office when a student returns to school after an absence. If the absence is foreseeable, a note should be sent in advance. Doctor, dental, music, sports and other appointments must be scheduled after school hours. Absence for reasons other than for sickness and emergency will be excused only if arrangements are made in advance. Excessive absences will inhibit the student’s progress. If, in the opinion of the Principal, the absences are unnecessary, the student will be considered truant. When a student is absent for three or more consecutive days due to illness, a doctor’s certificate must accompany the written explanation from his/her parents or guardians. The number of times a student is tardy or absent will be recorded on the student’s report card. Students who miss an excessive number of days (more than 10% of regular school days) in a school year or are behind in their studies must make up for the days missed and/or lost ground by attending Summer School.
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EARLY DISMISSAL Students are not allowed to leave the school grounds at any time during the school day without permission from YICA’s Principal. Early dismissal from school will be granted only for important reasons. Doctor, dental, music, sports and other appointments must be scheduled after school hours. To obtain an early dismissal slip, a student must bring a written note signed by either of his/her parents or legal guardian requesting permission for the student to leave and stating the reason for early dismissal. Permission will be granted at the discretion of the Principal an authorized school administration official. Early dismissal for foreseeable or unacceptable reasons will be denied. Exception to Attendance Policies A student will not be marked absent or tardy in the following cases: a. funeral for an immediate family member; b. train or bus strike or delay of train lines due to reasons beyond the student’s control. Proof from the transportation company may be required.
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DISCIPLINE Care of School Property Students are held responsible for the proper care of library books, furniture and other materials supplied by YICA. Any student, who intentionally destroys, defaces or damages school property shall immediately compensate for such damage. Upon refusal to compensate, the student may be suspended from school until compensation has been made. Further disciplinary action may be taken as required. Mobile Phones, Music Players, Headsets, Electronic Games/ Devices The use or possession of such electronics devices will not be permitted during the school day and on school grounds. YICA believes that they are distractions and disruptive to the educational process. These items are also prime targets for theft and/or vandalism. Therefore, students will be discouraged and prohibited to carry mobile phones, music players, headsets, electronic games and other electronic devices during the school day. Students using these devices will have the device(s) sequestered and may face disciplinary action. Disciplinary Action YICA teachers and staff enforce rules with impartiality and strive to instill good values and habits into all students. When a student acts in a manner deemed unacceptable, every effort will be made to encourage the student to demonstrate positive change and improvement in his/her behavior. If the offense is a serious one, or if the issue is ongoing, parents will be called in for a conference and the student may be placed on probation. Further disciplinary measures may lead to loss of privileges, suspension, or expulsion. School rules apply both on campus and during schoolsponsored events such as field trips. If your child comes home complaining about school life, do as follows: • Ask for details to assess the seriousness of the complaint. • Give those involved the benefit of the doubt. • Consider that the reporting may be one-sided and lacking in facts. • Realize that YICA enforces school rules with impartiality. • Refer to the School Handbook if unsure about policy details. • Call or arrange a meeting with the school authorities for all the acts if needed.
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CAUSES FOR DISCIPLINARY ACTION The speaking of languages other than English Disrespectful behavior towards faculty or staff Disruption or continuous talking during class or chapel Refusal to do an assigned task/homework, etc. Chewing gum on campus during school hours Cheating, lying, using profanity, sexually explicit or harassing language (spoken or written) Physical violence toward other students, faculty or staff Theft of property belonging to student, teacher o other school employee, and possession of stolen property Intimidation, sexual harassment, extortion or threats to any student or school staff Yelling, horseplay, running, jumping and/or shoving in the hallways, classroom, cafeteria, and other areas of the school Eating or drinking of any kind in the classroom or outside the designated areas, unless approved by a teacher Destroying, damaging or defacing school property Cutting class or leaving school grounds without permission Unexcused tardiness and absence Violation of the school’s Dress Code Violation of Internet usage guidelines The use of mobile phones, music players, electronic games, or any other electronic devices on campus during school hours
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DRESS CODE POLICY General Guidelines It is our philosophy at YICA for our students to strive for success in all areas: academics, behavior, and how they present themselves. YICA, instead of a uniform, has a dress code for students enrolled in grades 1 to 12. YICA believes a school dress code gives the students a sense of unity, belonging and pride in their school, which assists in building school and team spirit, while encouraging equity among students. The dress code ensures that students are safely dressed for school activities and the environment. It also clearly identifies YICA students from other students in the building and fosters and enhances the public image of the school. Pride is taken in the appearance of the students, so all clothing should be clean, in good repair, and well pressed. If a student’s general attire or appearance represents a danger to his/her health or welfare, or attracts undue attention to the extent that it becomes a disruptive factor on the school, the student will be asked to make necessary changes. Repeated infractions will be subject to discipline.
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CLASS ATTIRE - BOYS Belt: Plain dress belt with simple buckle Blazer/Coat: Solid, neutral-colored coat or blazer, unadorned except for YICA emblem Shirt: Simple, solid-colored dress shirt Undershirt: Plain white t-shirt to be worn under shirt Slacks: Solid gray, black, or navy dress slacks Shoes: Black dress shoes Socks: Plain, solid-colored (black or dark blue) Sweater: Solid, neutral-colored sweater, unadorned except for YICA emblem Tie: Available at school office Class attire – Girls Belt: Plain dress belt with simple buckle Blazer / Coat: Solid, neutral-colored coat or blazer, unadorned except for YICA emblem. Blouse: Simple, solid-colored dress blouse Skirt: Plain, solid or plaid knee-length skirt in a neutral color. Tight-fitting skirts and miniskirts prohibited Shoes: Black dress shoes with low heels Socks: Plain, solid-colored (black or dark blue) Sweater: Solid, neutral-colored sweater, unadorned except for YICA emblem Tie: Available at school office Accessories and Hair Boys: Accessories should not impede the ability to engage in school activities. Fingernails should be short and clean. Students may be asked to remove any accessories or jewelry deemed excessive or inappropriate. Earrings or facial piercings are prohibited. Hair should be collar-length, clean, neat, and well-groomed. Bleached hair, dyed hair, and unusual hair styles, are not allowed. Girls: Make-up and jewelry should be conservative and minimal and should not impede student’s ability to engage in school activities. Only 1 pair of small earrings is allowed. Facial piercings are prohibited. Fingernails should be short and clean. Students may be asked to remove any accessories or jewelry deemed excessive or inappropriate. Hair should be clean, neat, and well-groomed. Bleached hair, dyed hair, and unusual hair styles, are not allowed.
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PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND SWIMMING P. E. P.E. attire is athletic pants or shorts and a loose-fitting T-shirt with sleeves. Clothing should be comfortable and should not impede movement. Students are required to bring athletic shoes for indoor use. Swimming Simple, solid-colored swimsuit, swim cap, and towel. No bikinis. Goggles are compulsory. Students without a swimsuit or a towel will not be allowed to swim. Casual Days: There will be a number of days (casual Friday, school trips or events outside regular class days) in which students will be allowed to wear casual attire. Nevertheless, the following guidelines must be observed. The following items of clothing will not be allowed: - Items which feature offensive and/or vulgar words, pictures, or drawing or phrases of a sexual nature or that have derogatory language regarding a person’s ethnic background, national origin, religious belief, sexual orientation, or disability - Items which represent any group, gang, organization or philosophy, which advocates violence or disruption - Items which feature alcohol, tobacco, or illegal drugs - The wearing of clothing which is unduly revealing, which includes exposing of chest, midriff, back or undergarments. Boy’s pants must not sag to show underwear. - Items with holes, torn, ripped or cut-off The ultimate decision regarding appropriate school attire will be at the discretion of the administration.
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EMERGENCY MEASURES Emergency Telephone Chain YICA employs an Emergency Telephone Chain as a way to promptly communicate with parents in an emergency. The Emergency Telephone Chain is used to inform families of sudden schedule changes such as late school start or cancellation of classes or events due to inclement weather, or closure or early dismissal due to fire, earthquake or other emergencies. All students enrolled in YICA are included in an Emergency Telephone Chain group. Generally, each group is headed by one of the student’s teachers and the last person in the chain is a school staff member. Whenever possible, the Emergency Telephone Chain will list the family’s home phone number and the cellular phone number of a parent or guardian. The Emergency Telephone Chain is activated by the school’s administration. When you receive a call related to the Emergency Telephone Chain, please pass on the message by calling the family listed under your name. If there is no answer, go on with the next family in the telephone chain to make sure that the message is passed on to every contact listed in your Emergency Telephone Chain group. To maintain the Emergency Telephone Chain updated, please report any change of address and/or telephone number to the school office immediately. Be sure to keep your Telephone Chain in a safe handy place in your home. Please, do not hesitate to contact the school office for an extra copy of the telephone chain if needed. In the Event of a Major Earthquake during School Hours Readiness All students and staff participate in an earthquake drill at least once a year. The school maintains earthquake emergency kits for every 10-12 students. Included in these emergency kits are first aid equipment, water, snacks, emergency tools and identification tags for each child.
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EVACUATION Students take cover during the first few seconds of a tremor and count to 60. If the earthquake has a high magnitude and structural damage occurs, students will evacuate the building to take shelter in the Yokohama Park. Dismissal of Students Parents, guardians or adults designated on the identification tag may pick their children up at the Yokohama Park. Students will only be released to the persons named in the identification tag. Students who cannot be picked up will be taken care of by YICA’s staff and taken to the nearest Emergency Center set up by Yokohama City authorities. Communications from School After a major earthquake the Emergency Telephone Chain will be activated as soon as conditions warrant. Parents are requested not to call the school office to avoid clogging the phone lines. Please wait for school staff to contact you. In the Event of a Major Earthquake or Fire during School Hours 1. The Principal has overall control and authority. 2. Faculty will be responsible for order and control. 3. Faculty members and senior students will form rescue squads as needed. 4. First aid will be administered as needed. 5. No student will be allowed to leave the school without authorization. 6. No student will be allowed to leave the school during or immediately after an emergency situation.
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FINANCIAL REGULATIONS The Yokohama International Christian Academy Administration sets all school fees and reserves the right to modify published school fees and the regulations governing payments and refunds without prior notice. TUITION AND FEES POLICY 1. In principle no refund of school fees, in part or in whole, will be granted, except in case of complete absence during a school semester. 2. Parents/guardians guarantee the payment of the school fees and other education related expenses. 3. Attendance for a portion of an academic semester will necessitate payment for the full semester (See Note). 4. A late fee of 2.5% per month will be added to unpaid tuition not received within thirty (30) days of the scheduled payment date. Past due tuition of more than thirty (30) days will be cause for withdrawal. 5. All tuition and fees must be paid in full by the end of the academic year before returning students are eligible to re-enroll for subsequent terms. 6. In cases of financial delinquency, YICA policy prohibits class attendance and/or release of transcripts, report cards, diplomas, grades, test scores and any other academic records until all overdue fees are paid in full. 7. Withdrawal due to non-payment of fees does not release the parents/guardians from their financial responsibilities with YICA. Note: The school’s fiscal year is divided into 2 semesters, and each semester is composed of 2 reporting quarters. REFUND POLICY 1. No refund of school fees shall apply for newly-enrolled (first year) students. 2. For returning students, refunds are calculated on semester terms. No refund of Tuition shall apply for students who withdraw in the course of a semester. 3. Application, Registration, Re-Enrollment and Maintenance Fees are non-refundable.
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GRADUATION POLICY YICA Graduation Tracks Overview YICA offers three tracks that lead to a high school diploma. These are General, College Preparatory and Honors Courses of Study. Each is described in detail below. Students not meeting the requirements for graduation will be issued a Certificate of Attendance and will be allowed to attend the graduation ceremony. General Course of Study This track is recommended for students intending to pursue 2-year college study, vocational school study, or for those who are preparing to enter the workforce upon completion of high school. Students choosing this track must complete a minimum of 20 credits with passing grades and demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively through spoken and written English. The credit distribution is as follows: English Mathematics Social Studies Science Fine Arts Japanese Language Physical Education Electives
3 credits 3 credits 3 credits 3 credits 1 credit 1 credit 2 credits 4 credits*
*Note: Substitutions may be made only by permission of the Principal.
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COLLEGE PREPARATORY COURSE STUDY This track is recommended for students intending to pursue 4-year college or university study. Students choosing this track must complete a minimum of 24 credits with a Grade Point Average of at least 2.67. They must demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively in spoken and written English. As a capstone to their studies, they must submit a 1,500word academic essay on any topic acceptable to a faculty adviser. The credit distribution is as follows: English 4 credits Mathematics 3 credits Social Studies 4 credits Science 3 credits Fine Arts 1 credit Foreign Language 2 credits Physical Education 2 credits Electives 5 credits* Note: Substitutions may be made only by permission of the Principal. Honors Course of Study This track is recommended for highly motivated students who wish to obtain the highest quality preparation for post secondary study. Students choosing this track must complete a minimum of 27 credits with a Grade Point Average of at least 3.8. They must demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively in spoken and written English. As a capstone to their studies, they must submit a 1,500-word academic essay on any topic acceptable to a faculty adviser. The credit distribution is as follows: English 4 credits Mathematics 4 credits Social Studies 4 credits Science 4 credits Fine Arts 1 credit Foreign Language 2 credits Physical Education 2 credits Electives 6 credits* Note: Substitutions may be made only by permission of the Head of School and Principal. *May include computer literacy
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HOME-SCHOOL COMMUNICATIONS We welcome your partnership in helping your child succeed in school. By communicating often and working together, we can create a very positive learning environment. These are ways we keep in touch: Open House days Parent-Teacher Conferences Parent Newsletter Progress Reports and Report Cards Brown envelopes Notes, mail and telephone calls exchanged between parents and teachers Participation in school-sponsored events and fund-raising activities Active involvement in the Parent Support Group (PSG) Brown Envelopes In order to increase efficiency and develop responsibility in our students, YICA uses a system of communication through messages sent home in brown envelopes. Parents are advised to check with their children for school correspondence after every school day. Brown envelopes should be dated and signed to verify receipt of the communication inside. The student is required to return the signed envelope to school the following school day. Using email to communicate with school staff Please feel free to contact your child’s teachers or school staff with questions or concerns through email. Keep your messages short and to the point to facilitate a quick reply; and remember that email is not a substitute for a conference. Email address for school staff are set as follows: First name initial + last name in full + @yica.co.jp (all lowercase letters). For example, if you need to contact Mr. John Doe by email, you should use the following address: jdoe@yica.co.jp
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INJURY AND ILLNESS At Home A student with fever, nausea, vomiting, sore throat, etc. or an injury that has rendered him/her with a temporary physical disability must stay at home. In any case, the school office should be notified. At School Parents will be required to complete a medical emergency authorization form indicating whom to contact in an emergency involving their child. It shall be the responsibility of the parents to provide the school with accurate updated information on the Health Record Form. When a student becomes ill or is injured at school, the student’s legal guardian will be notified by school personnel as soon as possible. The school is not required to provide medical treatment to an ill or injured student; however, authorized school personnel may administer emergency or minor first aid. Injured and/or sick students will be released to their legal guardians’ custody from campus. In case of minor injuries, students will be treated as needed and may be sent back to their respective classes. Parents will be notified. If a student appears to be seriously ill or injured at school, YICA will take all necessary steps to secure medical attention. Attempts will be made to notify the parents and to advise them of the event and the steps proposed to be taken. If the parents cannot be located or if the emergency is such that there is not time to contact them before arranging for medical aid, a physician will be called or the child taken to hospital as quickly as possible. YICA responsibility ends as soon as the child enters the care of a qualified doctor or a hospital and the sole remaining duty is to continue efforts to contact the parents or legal guardians if such had not been done before. Inclement Weather When bad weather creates hazardous driving/mass transportation conditions, YICA will cancel classes. This situation will be communicated to YICA families through the school’s Telephone Chain.
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INTERNET USAGE YICA expects that students will use the Internet system in a responsible manner and be accountable for their actions. At school, Internet account use is limited to educational and academic research purposes. Students who do not comply with the standards of behavior outlined in this Handbook may loose their privilege to use the system and/or be subject to disciplinary action. Procedures 1. YICA will allow students to access the Internet provided that the parents or legal guardians of the students do not object in writing to the students having such access. If a parent/legal guardian objects, he/she must send a written notification of such objection to YICA administration. This written notification will be placed on the student’s file. 2. Each year, prior to use, each student shall receive and discuss information from his/her teacher or school network administrator regarding responsible use of the Internet, including copyright laws, to which the students must adhere. Students shall … 1. Adhere to the same standards of conduct expected and required in a classroom. 2. Follow the rules for time limits and printing instructions. 3. Use the Internet account for educational and academic research purposes within the framework established by the teacher or school administration. Students shall not… 1. Use the Internet account for any illegal activity, including violation of copyright laws. 2. Disrupt equipment, system performance, or data of another user. 3. Use the Internet account for sending and receiving personal messages or for accessing chat rooms. 4. Play online computer games or engage in any form of online shopping or gambling. 5. Attempt to gain unauthorized access to resources or entities. 6. Attempt to invade the privacy of individuals. 7. Attempt to change or modify any computer settings and/or properties. 8. Use an account owned by another user. 9. Send or receive messages that are offensive, obscene, racist, sexist, pornographic or that may contain obscenities or inflammatory or abusive language. 10 Visit sites that are inappropriate; including all hate sites. 11. Send or receive a message using the name other than the student’s own name. 12. Read other people’s mail or files without permission. 13. Download copyrighted materials or software programs that could compromise the safety of the YICA computer network. YICA School Handbook – July 2010
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LUNCHES AND DRINKS Students have lunch in the 2nd floor cafeteria between 11:30 am and 12:30 pm. School Hot Lunch Grade students may bring their lunch from home, or buy the daily hot lunch or by the month at the cafeteria. The monthly hot lunch menu is distributed in Brown Envelopes at the end of every month. Store-bought lunches should be purchased prior to arrival at school, except for students with lunch privileges. Drinks and Food Not Allowed On Campus Please, take note that caffeinated, carbonated, vitamin and other such drinks, as well as chocolate, candy and gum are not allowed on campus at any time. We also strongly discourage the consumption of fast food or instant type meals.
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MEDICATION Whenever possible, all medicines should be administered at home. In special cases when it is necessary for medicine to be taken at school, the following steps must be followed: 1. For any medicine it is essential that the first dose be administered at home to prevent an allergic reaction from occurring at school. 2. No medication brought from home will be administered at school unless it includes: the patient’s name clearly labeled the source of medication given (written) Written instructions from physician, pharmacy or parent stating the name of the medication, the dosage, and times to be administered. This includes all non-prescription and over-thecounter drugs as well. 3. Medicine will be administered by the Teacher only. 4. In cases where a child takes medicine regularly for chronic illness, it will be necessary to have an emergency supply in the school office. Please, notify the school office if your child is on medication.
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MISCELLANEOUS Awards Annual (long-range) awards provide added motivation for students to excel in specific areas such as academics, attendance, character development, etc. The annual year-end program provides a formal platform for rewarding such achievement. Field Trips Field trips are educational outings designed to be enjoyed by the students, but are primarily to enrich their learning and develop discipline and selfcontrol in a variety of social situations. Field trips may have special dress alternatives for students. You will be notified well in advance of those conditions and the costs involved. Parents are, in some cases, required to accompany their children on field trips. Insurance It is compulsory for every student to be insured by his/her parents or guardians. YICA automatically insures every member of the student body under a basic coverage plan. The cost of this coverage is included in the school fees. Lost And Found Mark Personal Items. Students are required to have their belongings clearly and indelibly marked with their names. YICA does not assume responsibility for personal articles which students may lose. Bring Found Items to the School Office. Students who find lost articles are asked to bring them to the school office, where they can be claimed by their owners within a month. Articles not claimed within a month will be disposed of.
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MONEY AND VALUABLES Students are cautioned not to bring large amounts of money or valuables to school. Should a student need to carry a large sum of money, he/she should have it deposited in the school office for safekeeping before the first morning period. When a student has money to pay at the office, he/she should hand it in on arrival at school. Senior Students’ Privileges Middle and high school students may be granted off campus privileges provided the parents/guardians agree. Privileges may be revoked at any time for disciplinary reasons or unsatisfactory academic performance. Students that leave campus for lunch are not authorized to purchase campus lunches for other YICA students. The Speaking of English Since YICA curriculum is taught in English, Japanese and/or other languages may not be spoken at any time on campus or at any school function off campus unless in such extraordinary circumstances as necessity and common sense dictate. The only exceptions to this rule are foreign language and literature classes and other classes or situations where discussion or subjects relevant to another language make use of that language’s terms advisable. In no other instance is a conversation in languages other than English among YICA students permitted. Visitors and Guests YICA welcomes visitors throughout the year. In order to nor disrupt classes, the following rules will apply: All visitors must report to the school office before going to any other area within the school. Classroom visitors should request permission at least one day before the intended visit. School-age visitors will not be permitted during instruction hours. Lunches, books, medication, homework, etc., are to be left at the school office. YICA staff will deliver them to the student. No lunch visitors are allowed without the permission of the YICA administration.
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PARENT SUPPORT GROUP (PSG) YICA’s PSG is an organization of interested parents who work voluntarily to sponsor extracurricular school activities, such as field trips, various school ceremonies, the Christmas Bazaar and fund-raising projects designed to enrich the quality of the school experience for students, parents and faculty. The goal is making a great school even better. All parents automatically become members of YICA’s PSG. YICA’s PSG is not a school board and, as such, has no authority, either individually or collectively, to control or obligate YICA for any school policy, decision, debt, etc. YICA’s PSG is organized for the purpose of supporting YICA’s administration and facilitating communication between the school and students’ families. YICA’s PSG is an essential part, for instance, of the ongoing efforts to obtain International Accreditation, the official recognition of YICA by the Japanese government, and advising short-term and mid-term goals for the advancement of the school. Monies raised by the PSG go toward purchasing equipment, software, books, etc. for the school.
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RE-ENROLLMENT, REPORT CARDS, CONFERENCES Parent Teacher Conferences Parent-Teacher conferences to discuss a student’s progress, grades and schoolwork are scheduled at the end of the first and third quarters, respectively. A student’s parent and/or guardian must attend these conferences. Please note that YICA does not provide translation or interpretation services for parents/guardians during the conferences. Re-Enrollment Procedures Families wishing to re-enroll their children in the next academic year should submit the Re-enrollment Form to YICA’s office by the designated date. The re-enrollment request will become valid upon the payment of all current school fees and applicable Re-enrollment Deposit. Report Cards The grading system is designed to give parents a true indication of the student’s progress or lack thereof. Report Cards and Progress Reports are produced following each nine-week (quarter) period. The Cards/Reports corresponding to the second and fourth quarters are sent home to parents, while teachers hand the Cards/Reports for the first and third quarters to parents during the individual Parent-Teacher Conferences. Progress Reports may also be sent at any time to parents of students who need special attention. These reports may indicate a deficiency which needs to be corrected.
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SCHOOL LIBRARY The school library is an integral part of the school's resources, an essential component of the educational process. All members of the school community should be aware of its importance. It is YICA’s policy to establish initiatives that will encourage students to make use of our library and build up resources which will make the library relevant to everyday teaching requirements. Aims 1. To help students develop reading skills. 2. To help students develop their abilities, interests and aptitudes. 3. To help students develop active and inquisitive minds capable of independent thought. 4. To help develop students’ skills in self-supported learning. 5. To help students develop the ability to use the library so that these skills can be used in adult life. 6. To develop an interest in reading for leisure. 7. To develop library stock that will suit the full range of ability in the school. 8. To ensure that library materials will be updated and reviewed annually by YICA’s administration. 9. To ensure that the library will be accessible to all students on a regular basis. How Many Books Can I Take Out? Grades 1 to 3: 2 books per week Grades 4 & up: 3 books per week Fines and Replacement Policy Students must return all books before they will be allowed to take out another. After a month a book must be returned or replaced by the student. Minimum charge for lost or damaged books is ¥1,000.
YICA School Handbook – July 2010
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TELEPHONE School Telephone The use of cellular phones within YICA’s campus is strictly forbidden. The school phone is reserved for official school business and emergencies. Students desiring to place emergency calls should give the name and phone number of the person they desire to call to the office staff, who in turn will place the call. In any other situation, students should use the pay phone on the first floor. Messages from Home Messages from home should be left in the office. Students will be called out of class only in an emergency.
YICA School Handbook – July 2010
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USE OF SPORTS FACILITIES AT THE YMCA Locker Rooms 1. Present your YICA ID card to the locker room attendant to get a locker key. The Student ID Card will be held in lieu of the locker key while using the gymnasium or swimming pool. Students without an ID card will not be given locker keys. 2. Take off your shoes at the entrance and leave them on the shoe rack. 3. Watch your locker key while using the sports facilities. 4. Bring your own soap, shampoo, towel, hair dryer, etc. 5. Empty the locker when leaving. Lockers are checked and emptied daily and any items left behind will be placed in the Lost and Found box in the third floor. 6. Running and rough playing in the locker room is strictly forbidden. Warning Neither the YMCA nor YICA are responsible for lost or stolen property. The YMCA will charge a nominal fee for replacing a lost key. Gymnasium Students should wear the proper gym attire as described under “Dress Code – Boys/Girls – Athletic Attire”, and follow the directions given by the supervisor in charge. Swimming Pool Students should wear the proper attire (see Dress Code) Students should shower before entering the swimming area. Students must follow the instructions of the teachers at all times. Failure to do so may result in the loss of swimming and other privileges. Students should dry off in the shower area before returning to the locker room. Rules and attendance will be strictly enforced.
YICA School Handbook – July 2010
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WITHDRAWAL AND TRANSFER Withdrawal and Transfer Parents/guardians need to write a notice of withdrawal to inform the school office of a student’s last day of attendance. The school should be notified in writing at least two (2) weeks prior to the student’s last day of school. Transcripts All official transcripts are sent directly to the institution designated, and are never handed to students or parents. The first transcript is issued free of charge, and each additional transcript will be sent at a cost of 2,500 yen.
YICA School Handbook – July 2010
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