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WESTLANDS LYCEUM PARENT / STUDENT HANDBOOK Table of Contents Message from the Proprietress. ........................................................................................................ 6 Introduction ......................................................................................................................................... 7 Statement of Purpose ......................................................................................................................... 7 Mission ............................................................................................................................................................. 7 Vision ................................................................................................................................................................ 7 Core Values and Learning Goals ....................................................................................................... 8 Christian Principles ............................................................................................................................ 9 Overview........................................................................................................................................................... 9 Statement of Faith .......................................................................................................................................... 9 Responsibilities of School Stakeholders........................................................................................ 10 Parents............................................................................................................................................................ 10 Students ......................................................................................................................................................... 10 The Westlands Lyceum Honour Code ............................................................................................ 11 Policies Concerning Christian Services and Worship ................................................................. 11 Admissions and Attendance Policies ............................................................................................. 13 Admissions Policy ......................................................................................................................................... 13 Application and Enrolment ........................................................................................................................ 13 Withdrawal .................................................................................................................................................... 13 Re-admission After a Previous Withdrawal ............................................................................................. 13 Readmission After Dismissal ...................................................................................................................... 14 Attendance..................................................................................................................................................... 14 Assembly ........................................................................................................................................................ 14 Late Arrival .................................................................................................................................................... 14 Early Dismissal .............................................................................................................................................. 15 Parent Item Drop-Off ................................................................................................................................... 15 Planned Absences ......................................................................................................................................... 15 Unexcused Absences .................................................................................................................................... 16 Make-up Work .............................................................................................................................................. 16 Pick-up ........................................................................................................................................................... 16 Academic Policies .............................................................................................................................. 17 School Day ..................................................................................................................................................... 17 Our Curriculum ............................................................................................................................................. 17 Classroom Rules ............................................................................................................................................ 18 Inter-Class Breaks......................................................................................................................................... 19 Grading ........................................................................................................................................................... 19 2 Open Day ........................................................................................................................................................ 21 Report Cards .................................................................................................................................................. 21 Homework ...................................................................................................................................................... 21 Examination Procedures ............................................................................................................................. 22 Student Records ............................................................................................................................................ 23 Promotion, Acceleration and Retention of Students ............................................................................. 23 Graduation ..................................................................................................................................................... 24 Technology Rules .............................................................................................................................. 25 Safety and Security ............................................................................................................................ 28 Medication in School ................................................................................................................................... 28 Special Consent to Carry and Self-Administer Medication:.................................................................. 28 Illness outside of school hours ................................................................................................................... 29 Injuries and Illness during school hours .................................................................................................. 29 Infectious Diseases ....................................................................................................................................... 29 Visitors and Volunteers ............................................................................................................................... 29 Safety Drills ................................................................................................................................................... 30 Library Rules ...................................................................................................................................... 31 Policies concerning borrowing books ....................................................................................................... 31 Using the Library .......................................................................................................................................... 32 Encouraging Reading in Students ............................................................................................................. 32 Dress and Appearance Policy .......................................................................................................... 34 Uniforms......................................................................................................................................................... 34 Hair ................................................................................................................................................................. 34 Footwear......................................................................................................................................................... 35 Accessories ..................................................................................................................................................... 35 Special Dress Days ........................................................................................................................................ 36 Food and Mealtime Policies............................................................................................................. 37 Mealtimes....................................................................................................................................................... 37 Mealtime and Cafeteria Rules .................................................................................................................... 37 Food and Drinks ............................................................................................................................................ 38 Gum ................................................................................................................................................................. 38 Special Occasions .......................................................................................................................................... 38 Disciplinary Policies and Procedures ............................................................................................. 40 Code of Conduct ............................................................................................................................................ 40 School-Wide Rules ....................................................................................................................................... 42 Bullying and Harassing ................................................................................................................................ 42 Immediate Office Referral........................................................................................................................... 43 3 Decision-Making Process for Discipline ................................................................................................... 43 Consequences of Unacceptable Student Behaviour ................................................................................ 43 Disobeying Policies Concerning Christian Services and Worship ................................................................................. 43 Fighting and arranging fights. ............................................................................................................................................ 44 Bringing cell phones or other unsanctioned technology devices to school ................................................................. 44 Cheating or Examination Malpractice ............................................................................................................................... 44 Abuse and/or Misuse of Computers and Laboratory Equipment ................................................................................... 44 Intentionally Disrupting Learning ..................................................................................................................................... 46 Uniform Violations............................................................................................................................................................... 46 Forgery ................................................................................................................................................................................... 46 Possession of Inappropriate Materials. ............................................................................................................................. 47 Harassment of Another Student and/or a Teacher, or Staff Member ........................................................................... 47 Disrespect to teachers or other staff members or using inappropriate language and behaviour ............................. 47 Smoking or use of other tobacco products and/or bringing such products to school ................................................ 47 Habitual late coming to school........................................................................................................................................... 47 Displaying threatening behaviour ..................................................................................................................................... 48 Stealing, possession of property without permission ..................................................................................................... 48 Arson ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 48 Public Displays of Affection ................................................................................................................................................ 48 Provoking / Intimidating behaviour encouraging or urging other students to violate school rules ........................ 48 Bullying Policies ................................................................................................................................................................... 49 Lying to, or refusing to provide information to school personnel ................................................................................ 49 Leaving campus without permission ................................................................................................................................. 49 Conspiracy ............................................................................................................................................................................. 49 Trespassing, disobeying instructions about restricted areas ......................................................................................... 50 Inappropriate postings ........................................................................................................................................................ 50 Selling items.......................................................................................................................................................................... 50 Rules Governing Out of School / External Suspension .......................................................................... 50 Expulsion ....................................................................................................................................................... 51 Due Process .................................................................................................................................................... 51 Student Conduct Contract ............................................................................................................... 52 Student Contract........................................................................................................................................... 52 General School Policies .................................................................................................................... 54 Care of School Property ............................................................................................................................... 54 Vandalism and Property Damage .............................................................................................................. 54 Books .............................................................................................................................................................. 54 Student Identification Badges .................................................................................................................... 54 Lost or Damaged Identification Badge ..................................................................................................... 55 Telephone and Cell Phone Policy .............................................................................................................. 55 Lost and Found / Stolen Property .............................................................................................................. 55 Lost or Stolen Property ........................................................................................................................................................ 55 Found Property ..................................................................................................................................................................... 55 Public Areas: Corridors, Stairways and Restrooms................................................................................. 56 Restricted Areas ............................................................................................................................................ 56 Notice Boards ................................................................................................................................................ 57 School Advertisements ................................................................................................................................ 57 Concerns and Complaints ................................................................................................................ 57 4 Summary ............................................................................................................................................. 58 Appendices ......................................................................................................................................... 59 Document 1: Handbook Awareness Statement ....................................................................................... 59 Document 2: Computer Usage Agreement ............................................................................................... 59 Document 3: Request for School to Administer a Prescription Drug .................................................. 60 Document 4: Self-Administer-Medication Consent Form ..................................................................... 61 Document 5: Planned Absence Form ........................................................................................................ 62 Document 6: Student Conduct Contract ................................................................................................... 63 Document 7: Request for Permission to Bring a Cell Phone to School ............................................... 64 Document 8: Early Dismissal Form............................................................................................................ 65 Document 9: Permission to Use Your Ward’s Pictures for Advertisement ........................................ 66 5 Message from the Proprietress We welcome you and are glad that you are a member of the Westlands Lyceum community. Our teachers and I value you and we intend to provide a meaningful, productive and safe learning environment for our students. Our goal is to develop children into responsible people and life-long learners by giving them an exciting holistic education based on the Christian faith. We invite you, as parents, students and families, to be our partners as we work toward excellence, as is our motto. This handbook has been compiled for your convenience and contains important information about our school. Cooperation in regard to the policies will help you and your child experience a successful stay in our school. Although the teacher will review this handbook with the students, we recommend that you also read it and discuss it with your child. General information, as well as a discussion of discipline, policies and student responsibilities and opportunities, is included in this handbook. Our professional staff is fully committed to providing your child with the best possible learning experience. As part of the parent-child-teacher team, we will work with you to ensure your child’s success during the school year. We welcome frequent communication with you, and ask that you encourage your child to accept the responsibilities of a Westlands Lyceum student that help him or her make the most of another productive school year. Together, parent-child-teacher, we’re an unbeatable team. We wish to extend an invitation to you to visit us often concerning school matters. Please join us in making the school environment a pleasant and productive place for everyone in our community, especially our students. Thank you, Cecilia R. Bentil (Mrs.) Proprietress 6 Introduction This Handbook provides in detail and for recognition, the rights of the student including the right to learn. It provides the responsibilities of students and other members of the Westlands Lyceum community. The procedures outlined in the Handbook apply to all students at Westlands Lyceum. The Handbook is in force while every student is travelling to and from school, including but not limited to school-sponsored events, field trips and excursions, athletic functions and other activities where the school administrators have jurisdiction over students. Additionally, the Head of the school or their representative has the authority to take administrative action when a student’s behaviour in or away from school is having or could have a negative effect on other students or the education process. Statement of Purpose Our mission is to train our students to exhibit a high sense of discipline and ethics, strong morals, a great sense of responsibility, a respect for all and a quest for excellence in everything they do. Being a Christian school, Westlands Lyceum operates upon the principles stated in the Christian Bible and is committed to the task of not only developing students mentally and educationally but also to fostering Christian growth and Christ-like behaviour in each student to the end that all students who pass through the school grow to become honourable members of society. Westlands Lyceum operates under a code of honour, discipline and trust, promoting these core values in each of our students and staff. Mission To educate and develop students into outstanding members of society by instilling in them strong Christian morals and values alongside giving them a great holistic education. Vision To provide world-class education centred on Christian upbringing for our students. 7 Core Values and Learning Goals Westlands Lyceum was founded with the aim of inculcating eight core values in each student and staff member that passes through the system. These core values are the skills and values that every Westlands Lyceum graduate must achieve after completing their education at Westlands Lyceum: 1. Excellence 5. Technological competence 2. Discipline 6. Critical thinking and problem solving 3. Integrity 7. Creativity 4. Respect 8. Teamwork Through our holistic education, we strive to develop students who are: • Constantly striving for excellence in every single thing they do; • Well-disciplined and ethical members of society, applying Christian teachings and morals in everything they do; • Excellent verbal and written communicators; able to well articulate their thoughts and opinions; • Critical, analytical thinkers and problem-solvers who do not hesitate to apply their minds to problems; • Well-equipped with the technological skills they need to survive in an increasingly technology-based world; • Great team members, always ready to dive into work to make themselves, their teams and their societies better; • Willing and able to be creative to their fullest capacities and to innovate; • Curious and motivated learners, able to interact with their environments and to interpret information around them; • Patriotic, respectful and responsible citizens of their communities, families, homes and country; • Strong, unwavering Christians with high Christian standards and clear Biblical values; • Responsible decision-makers who take into account the consequences of their actions; • Aware and sensitive to world events and the perspectives of others without compromising their faith 8 Christian Principles Overview Westlands Lyceum was founded on strong Christian values and beliefs; however, we do respect other religions and beliefs. We are aware that there are many Christian doctrines but there are a set of beliefs on which the school was founded, and other doctrines outside our core Christian beliefs will not be incorporated into the school. Westlands Lyceum is not affiliated to, nor does it receive funding from any Christian denomination. It is our goal to uphold what we believe to be the core beliefs of the Bible despite the many varying denominations there may be. These core beliefs on which the school is run can be found below in our Statement of Faith. Statement of Faith These are the core Christian principles in which we believe and run Westlands Lyceum: 1. We believe that God is the creator of the entire world and humankind 2. We believe that the Bible is true, is the inspired and authoritative word of God and is the final authority for all Christian faith and life 3. We believe that there is only one God and we believe in the Holy Trinity: Father, Son and Holy Spirit 4. We believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. We believe that Jesus Christ came to earth and died on the cross as a sacrifice for our sins and resurrected on the third day. 5. We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ is the only mediator between God and man 6. We believe that all men are lost and sinful and that salvation is only received through personal faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, his life, death and resurrection. 7. We believe that the Holy Spirit is real and dwells in individual Christians, helping them to live godly lives, and that every believer should practice the holiness that God requires. 8. We believe in the imminent second coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Despite being a Christian school, we do not expect that every applying student professes Christianity before being accepted. We do however expect the following: 9 1. That all members of the school community respect the school’s Christian beliefs and do not teach our students otherwise on the school’s campus; 2. That all members of the student and staff body attend all school events and gatherings and be respectful of Christian activities held in the school regardless of their religious beliefs; 3. That all members of the school community actively participate in all school activities and contribute their quotas to establishing an atmosphere of peace and unity in the school. It is our hope that all who pass through the school will come to know the love of God through His son Jesus Christ and commit to loving Him and living by his principles as stated in the Holy Bible. Responsibilities of School Stakeholders Discipline within the school is the joint responsibility of school personnel, students and parents. The Student Handbook recognizes the need for a cooperative relationship between student, parent and educator. The following behaviours exhibit such a relationship. This list is in no way exclusive but serves a guideline. Parents - Maintain regular communication with the school concerning their child’s conduct and academic progress - Notify the school office immediately regarding any changes in contact information. - Ensure that students in daily attendance and / or report any absences to school personnel - Provide their children with the resources needed to complete schoolwork - Ensure their children are well-groomed, clean and neat when coming to school - Bring to the school’s attention, any problem or condition which negatively impacts their children or other school children. - Foster a positive attitude towards the school and schoolwork. Students - Attend all classes and are prompt - Are prepared in class with the appropriate learning materials - Are respectful of others’ property and rights 10 - Conduct themselves in a safe and responsible manner - Are well groomed, clean and neat when coming to school - Accept responsibility for their actions - Abide by the rules and regulations of their classrooms and the school at large The Westlands Lyceum Honour Code At the heart of the core values that Westlands Lyceum seeks to instil in all the members of the school community - especially students and staff - is integrity. Integrity is defined as the state of being honest and having strong moral principles. At Westlands Lyceum, we hope, by our interactions with our students, school culture and by example, to train our students to be honest and morally upright members of society. Due to this, we have established an honour code by which all members of our school community are to abide, if we are to achieve integrity in the society. This Honour Code applies not only to academics, but also to our students’ social lives. We are committed to building integrity in all who pass through our school to enable them to maximize and yield their fullest potential in academic excellence as well as personal character development. The tenets of The Westlands Lyceum Honour Code are as follows: 1. Respect all human beings regardless of their race, gender, colour, gender or faith. 2. No lying, cheating or stealing. 3. Right every wrong you see or come across, and do not turn a blind eye to wrongdoing. 4. Be kind with your words and actions and make everyone feel accepted. 5. Do the right thing always, especially when no one is watching. 6. Be law-abiding citizens of your classroom, school and country 7. Respect the privacy of others 8. Be a good ambassador of your school, family and country wherever you go. Policies Concerning Christian Services and Worship Westlands Lyceum is a Christian school and everything we do is based on Christian standards and our Christian beliefs which are in line with the Word of God. We are aware that there are many Christian doctrines but there are a set of beliefs on which the school was founded, and other 11 doctrines outside our core Christian beliefs will not be incorporated into the school. The following are the rules regarding Christian services in Westlands Lyceum: • All students, regardless of faith, must attend all Christian activities and functions in the school. • No student or member of the school community is to share Christian beliefs that are not in accordance with the school’s spelled-out beliefs with other students. • Worship is held every Wednesday and Friday, and prayers are said every morning at assembly. All students and staff must be present and participate. We take our Christian beliefs very seriously, and anyone found going contrary to these rules will face appropriate sanctions as determined by the school administration. 12 Admissions and Attendance Policies Admissions Policy Admission at Westlands Lyceum is open to all students who meet the academic, moral and financial standards of the school. Westlands Lyceum does not discriminate on the basis of race, colour, ethnic status, origin, gender, or any other basis. All students of sound mind have an equal opportunity of being accepted into Westlands Lyceum. As of now, Westlands Lyceum has no facilities for the education of special-needs students, and as such does not admit students with special needs. Application and Enrolment Any student of sound mind is eligible to apply to Westlands Lyceum. To enrol at Westlands Lyceum, a student must complete all relevant application and admission forms and submit all required supporting documents to aid in their application. Application documents include, but may not be limited to application form, birth certificate, proof of immunization and report cards from a previous school. At the time of enrolment, all admission and school fees are due to be paid in full before a student’s admission is confirmed. Withdrawal We understand that it is a parent’s responsibility and prerogative to choose the school their children attend, and we appreciate that. We encourage parents who want to withdraw their children to inform us at least a week before, about the impending withdrawal of their child(ren) from our school. We will then schedule a short meeting with parents to discuss the situations surrounding the withdrawal. Any school fees owed at the point of withdrawal are to be paid at the time of withdrawal. In rare occasions, parents may be given a fee waiver, and this is solely based on the decision of the school. Re-admission After a Previous Withdrawal Students who have been previously withdrawn from the school may re-apply to the school if the need arises for them to re-enrol. The admission of a previously withdrawn student lies solely on the decision of the Proprietress and may be informed by the student’s progress in their time away, the circumstances regarding their re-admission and their record while previously enrolled in 13 Westlands Lyceum. At the point of re-enrolment, a student is to submit all admission documents again, just as a new entrant, and re-take admission examinations if applicable. Re-enrolling students are mandated to pay all school fees on admission, including admission fees. Special admission fee waivers may be handed out on a case-by-case basis. Readmission After Dismissal A student who has been dismissed from Westlands Lyceum is not eligible to re-apply to the school. If an application is completed and submitted by such a student, it will be denied. Attendance We believe good attendance is closely related to academic achievement and students at Westlands Lyceum have a responsibility to attend classes regularly and on time. Regular attendance means attending school every day and being on time. Students will be marked absent if they are not in school on a school day, unless they are engaged in a school-sponsored activity. Assembly Every morning, a school assembly is held at 7:45 am GMT and all students are expected to be present at assembly. Teachers shall be present at all assemblies, and they shall escort their students to and from the assembly grounds. It is the teacher’s responsibility to help in directing students to enter the assembly area in silence and assemble in class order. After assembly, students must leave the assembly grounds promptly and quietly, following instructions from their teachers. If needed, there might be additional school gatherings which will be determined by the school’s administration. In such situations subject teachers who have lessons with the students at that particular time shall be responsible for accompanying the students to the assembly area. Every morning at assembly, students will sing Christian songs and pray, as well as sing the Ghana National Anthem and recite the Ghana National Pledge. All students are expected to participate fully in these activities. There will be no exceptions. Late Arrival Students are expected to be in school by 7:30 am GMT, however, it is reasonably accepted that students report before Morning Assembly which starts at 7:45 am GMT. Any student who reports to school after 8:00 am GMT will be deemed extremely late and will be given a warning. 14 Late arrivals may however be pardoned by the Head of the School on the prior request of the student’s parents or guardians for good cause. Good cause includes but is not limited to medical and dental appointments that cannot be scheduled outside the school day, a medical disability or a motor accident. Early Dismissal Students are not to leave the school grounds during school hours except with the permission of the head of the school, and a signed early dismissal form. Permission to leave school early will only be considered upon a formal request from a parent or guardian and verification by the school. All early dismissals are made from the office. Upon arriving at the school to pick up your child, please report directly to the office. If someone other than a known parent or guardian is picking up a child, verification will be required from the parent whose contact the school has received. A sample early dismissal form can be found in the Appendices section of this handbook. The form may be photocopied and filled where necessary. Parent Item Drop-Off In order to minimize distractions and disruptions to the class environment and promote responsibility in our students especially the older ones, it is respectfully requested that parents avoid dropping-off food or any other forgotten items during the school time. Instructional time will not be interrupted for routine issues such as to ask a student to come pick up forgotten items. If in a very rare occasion, something urgent such as medication has to be dropped off, please make sure the items are packed in a bag and neatly labelled with the student’s name and grade. All such items must be sent directly to the Reception for later collection by the student’s class teacher. Planned Absences We ask that parents give us advance notice of a pre-planned absence so students can complete their assignments. We ask that families schedule vacations and appointments (medical or otherwise) for days outside the school calendar so students can have uninterrupted study time. Planned absences may be registered by a letter to the Head of the School stating the reason for the absence, or by face-to-face explanation to the Head of the School. A planned-absence form will be filled and filed so students will have the opportunity to make up for the assignments and tests they may have 15 missed in their absence. A sample of the Planned Absence form is included in the Appendices at the end of this handbook. The form may be photocopied and completed fully when necessary. Unexcused Absences An unexcused absence is defined as any absence of a student for one or more days from school during which the school administration, Head of School or class teacher of the pupil in question has not been notified. Any student who is absent without notifying the appropriate authorities is not entitled to and will not under any circumstances be considered for make-up assignments, tests and exams. Make-up Work Parents may request schoolwork for children who are absent due to planned absence. Teachers will provide make-up assignments as necessary. In general, students will be allowed one day to make- up missed work. Teachers will make reasonable adjustments to extend submission time if the circumstances warrant additional time. A student who missed an assessment or test because of an excused absence will be offered the opportunity to take an alternative assessment. This goes to say that missed assessments on the basis of unexcused absences will warrant a zero (0) from the teacher and no opportunity for make-up work. Pick-up The school will maintain a record of the parents or legal guardians of each pupil. If a parent wishes to send someone else to pick up their child, they must call the Head of the School before 2:00 pm GMT and give a signed note to the person they wish to pick up their child. This note, as well as a valid ID card will be inspected and copies taken, before the child will be released into that person’s care. The office cannot guarantee that the students and their teachers will receive the message if the call is not placed before 2 p.m. If one parent has been assigned custody of a student by court order and wishes to limit the other parent’s access to the pupil, the parent in custody must inform the Head of the School of any such limitation. In the absence of such notice, the Head of the School will presume that the student may be released into the care of either parent. Students will not be able to stay on the school’s premises after 5:00 pm GMT. 16 Academic Policies School Day The school day runs from 7:30 am GMT till 4:00 pm GMT Monday to Friday. Classes begin at 8:15 am. Students are expected to make the most of the school day by participating in all school activities, engaging themselves in their lessons and other extra-curriculars that interest them. We at Westlands Lyceum seek to provide a holistic education to the students in our care and will provide the necessary materials to make this happen. We hope that our students take advantage of the opportunities they have and enjoy their education. Our Curriculum We run two teaching styles in the school: Montessori and the Ghana Education Curriculum. We train our pre-schoolers to be sharp, bright, intelligent and responsive using the Montessori teaching method and then employ the Ghana Education Curriculum to teach our students from the primary level all through till Junior High School, where they graduate successfully into Senior High School. Both programs are designed to prepare the students academically, socially and spiritually. Our subjects and lessons are specially developed and taught in a way to get the students interested in what they are learning and have fun with their lessons. We do not encourage rote memorization but rather a deep understanding and love for the subjects and topics. Being a Christian School, we have a strong emphasis on teaching our students about the Christian Bible and encouraging them to look at everything they do from a Biblical worldview. To encourage this and make it easier for our students to develop this habit, we have introduced a compulsory subject from Pre-School till Junior High School called “The Bible”, which equips our students with the relevant knowledge they need to face this ever-changing world. The Bible class is primarily a discussion class based on Bible characters and practical life topics taken from the point of view of God’s Word. The Bible is graded as an academic subject. The grade is based upon assessment of memorization of scripture, concepts of lessons, and participation in the class. 17 The required courses or subjects that each student has to take to successfully graduate are as follows: PRE-SCHOOL Bible stories Practical Life Writing & Composition Number work / Mathematics Manners and Courtesies Rhymes and Singing Phonics Physical Education Library Oral Comprehension I.C.T. Natural Science Picture Reading Art Health and Safety English Grammar PRIMARY SCHOOL The Bible French Manners and Courtesies English I.C.T. (Technology) Creative Arts Mathematics R.M.E. Ghanaian Language Science Physical Education History Our World, Our People JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL The Bible Social Studies B.D.T. English French Ghanaian Language Mathematics I.C.T. (Technology) Physical Education Science R.M.E. Classroom Rules The following are rules and regulations that all students are expected to abide by in their classrooms. 1. Be in your assigned seat, ready to work before the bell rings. 2. Bring pencils, pens, books and all assigned materials to class. 3. Keep your hands, feet, books and objects to yourself. 4. Do not engage in behaviour that keeps the classroom from functioning. 5. Follow directions the first time they are given. 6. No food, or drink allowed in the buildings except in designated food service areas. 18 7. Raise your hand before talking. If you are given permission, you may talk. (excluding normal class discussions) 8. Do not wander in the classroom. 9. No students may leave the class without permission. 10. Show respect to your class prefects and obey their instructions. 11. All classes must be kept clean at all times. Part-time teachers have the same authority and rights as the regular full-time teachers. One or a combination of following consequences for violating daily classroom rules may be implemented: 1. Verbal warning 2. Meeting with the class teacher 3. Sent to the office 4. Written warning 5. Parent administrative meeting for additional disciplinary actions Inter-Class Breaks The academic timetable has been scheduled such that students have a five-minute passing period between classes. This is the time to use the restroom, finish up with work, call teachers, and prepare for the next class. Students may only leave the classroom during instruction for emergencies. This policy has been instituted to help our students develop personal discipline and self-control. Grading Our grading rubric at Westlands Lyceum is specialised per academic level to help parents and students understand how they are doing with regards to their academics. At the preschool level – Goshen and Reuel – the grading rubric follows this trend: Key Interpretation E Excellent G Good S Satisfactory 19 H Help Needed At the Primary Division, we use the following grade key: Grade Score Range (Out of 100) Remark A+ 90 - 100 Distinction A 80 – 89 Excellent B+ 70 – 79 Very Good B 60 – 69 Good C+ 50 – 55 Credit C 50 – 54 Satisfactory D 40 – 49 Weak E 35 – 39 Very Weak F 0 - 34 Fail At the Junior High Division, the grading rubric follows the typical B.E.C.E. grading rubric. Score Range Grade Interpretation (Out of 100) 1 80 – 100 Excellent 2 79 – 75 Very Good 3 74 – 70 Good 4 69 – 65 Satisfactory 5 64 – 60 Credit 6 59 – 55 Pass 7 54 – 50 Weak Pass 8 49 – 45 More Effort Required 9 44 – 40 Fail U 39 – 0 Ungraded 20 Students receive a ‘U’ grade when they have scored 39% and below. This grade indicates poor mastery of the subject and the student may be required to repeat if they get more than two ‘U’ grades. Open Day Once a year, we organize an Open day, where parents are encouraged to come around, check their children’s progress in school and discuss their children’s performance with their teachers. We encourage parents to make the time to come discuss their children with their teachers and the head of the school if necessary. Report Cards Report cards are sent home at the end of every term. These report cards must be reviewed by parents with their children. Parents may come to the school to discuss their children’s report and academics with their children’s teachers. Homework Westlands Lyceum recognizes the need for practice at home to improve academic skills. As such, all students will be required to do homework. The homework assignments will vary in length and the content may vary from student to student based on academic ability and teacher discretion. At Westlands Lyceum, we employ the system of blended learning, where our students do research and online work alongside regular assessments and work. We entreat parents to help our students by making the means available by which they can successfully complete all homework given them: online or otherwise. Teachers may share a homework timetable with parents to ensure that they can keep track of the homework their children bring home. In the case of blended-learning assignments, teachers will post homework assignments with due dates on Edmodo before students leave school each day. Credit is only given for homework submitted on time. If there are any questions about homework, you may immediately contact the teacher. Continuous failure in submitting assignments shall result in disciplinary action. 21 Examination Procedures Examinations include all class tests or assessments, mid-term and end-of-term assessments. The following procedures apply to all examinations, but must especially be observed during end-of- term examinations: 1. All students must know the dates and times for all their examinations 2. Students must subject themselves to thorough search by their invigilators 3. All students must be seated in their examination rooms fifteen minutes before the start of all papers. Students who are late may be sanctioned. 4. Students must leave their school bags outside, or at the front of the examination room. 5. Students must not bring any books, papers, “rough paper”, worksheets or other learning content with them into the examination room. Any student found with such things on them during exams will be sanctioned for examination malpractice. 6. Students must remain silent during examinations unless told otherwise by their invigilator. 7. Students must not speak or signal to any other person in the examination room. If help is needed, students must raise their free hand, and their invigilator will come help them. If a student is caught speaking to, passing something to, or signalling anyone inside or outside their examination room during an exam, they will be held responsible for engaging in examination malpractice. 8. Students are not allowed to take any paper outside the examination room unless told otherwise by their invigilator 9. Students are expected to be in the appropriate school uniform for all examinations. 10. Students are expected to have their identification badges on them at all times during an examination 11. Latecomers will not be granted extra time to complete their exams without a reasonable excuse. 12. Students may not leave the examination hall within fifteen minutes from the start of, or to the end of the paper. 13. Students who miss examinations without good reason will not be allowed to write that paper and will receive a zero score on that exam. 14. Students must obey every instruction given them by their invigilators and exam supervisors. 15. Students are to do all rough work in their answer booklets. 16. Students are not to write on tables during examination. 22 17. Students cannot leave the examination room unless they have been given permission by their invigilator to do so. All students who leave the examination room must leave everything behind. 18. Students must not sleep during examinations. 19. Students will not be allowed to submit their papers and leave the examination room until the time for the exam is up. Students who finish before time must not disturb other students who may still be taking the exam. 20. Students are to make sure to fill in all details required on the question paper and answer booklet before exams begin. Students who fail to do so, and especially fail to write their names, will be sanctioned. 21. Students may not bring smart watches or calculators to the exam room. 22. Students are expected to bring in their own materials for the exam. Students will not be allowed to exchange or borrow any materials in the exam room. 23. Students are prohibited from bringing mobile phones, tablets and other technology devices into the exam room. WARNING Violation of any of these examination rules and regulations will result in serious sanctions. Student Records It is extremely important that all student records be kept current and up to date. Any changes to student or parent information, including home address, contact phone numbers, emergency contact information, and special instructions, should be reported to the school administration as soon as possible. In the unlikely event of an emergency, it is imperative that we have correct contact information. Promotion, Acceleration and Retention of Students Promotion to the next grade is not automatic at any level of the school. Students will be considered on a case by case basis with regards to promotion, retention / repetition or acceleration. All students need to achieve better than average scores in all subjects in order to be cleared for promotion. Parents will be consulted in cases where students’ academics are worrying, and a decision will be made by the school. 23 Acceleration will only be done in rare cases where the school notices that there are exceptionally gifted students. These students may be moved up a grade in such cases. In all cases of promotion, retention and acceleration, the school authorities will make the final decision. Graduation Every year, a graduation ceremony will be held to usher the graduating class into the next phase of their studies. Typically, there are two graduating classes at each graduation: Phil graduands and Eden graduands. Before a student is cleared for graduation, they must be completely cleared by all relevant departments of the school to graduate. To do this, they will be given a clearance form that will be taken round for all relevant parties to sign, indicating that the following responsibilities have been fulfilled: 1. All books issued to them have been returned in good condition 2. All fees have been fully paid; 3. All school equipment in their care have been returned in good condition. The clearance form, after completion, must be sent to the Vice Principal for final clearing. Students graduating from Phil are not required to complete a clearance form. 24 Technology Rules Students are encouraged to use the school’s computers/network and the Internet connection for teacher-assigned, educational work. This policy applies to Westlands Lyceum’s system units, displays, mice, keyboards, speakers, microphones, scanners, video projectors, video cameras, printers, hubs, switches, routers, patch panels, wiring, connectors, programs and any other piece of equipment or software which is part of the school’s computer system. The following rules are to be observed whenever technology is to be used on the school’s premises: 1. Technology devices must not be used without the supervision or in the absence of a teacher. 2. Each student is responsible for good behaviour when using the school’s computers or the internet. The following are some of the behaviours exhibited by responsible users of technology: Responsible users: a. Use common sense b. Use appropriate language when communicating electronically with others c. Use the internet and school technology devices for educational purposes only d. Respect the privacy of others by not accessing the private files of others e. Follow the instructions and directions on technology usage by the adult in charge f. Treat school technology equipment with respect g. Do not share any personal information over the internet. This includes names, address, phone numbers, pictures and passwords. 3. The school may permit the use of technology devices under certain circumstances and only under the supervision of a classroom or technology teacher. In order to ensure that students are being responsible users, the school may monitor what students view / use their technology devices for. If it is determined that a student is using a technology device or the internet inappropriately, they may lose their technology rights, and any technological devices they may have will be seized from them and only returned after the school day has ended. 4. Students must not share their passwords with their classmates. 5. Students should not play or unplug with any wires, plugs or edit computer settings. The school computers are used by all members of the school community and should not be tampered with. 25 6. Students should let their technology teacher know if there is something wrong with any of the computers so they can be fixed on time. 7. The school internet must not be used for any other purposes aside from educational purposes. 8. When sending emails to their teachers or school authorities, students must ensure that they are being polite and using appropriate language. 9. No food or drinks are allowed around the school’s technology devices. 10. Students are not permitted to send or display offensive messages and pictures 11. The computer usage form must be signed by parents and guardians. A sample of this form is included in the Appendices at the end of this handbook. 12. Students may use school provided software. Student created software must be used under teacher supervision and with teacher permission. 13. Students must not download programs to any device nor install nor delete programs to school computers. 14. Students may not use computers for any illegal purpose, including “hacking.” 15. Students may not create keyboard macros for Microsoft word except under teacher supervision. 16. Students may only use computer programs approved by ICT teachers. 17. The school may review student files or messages for any purpose 18. Students may not remove computer labels. 19. Students should not chat on social networking websites at school. 20. Students cannot attempt to access the school network operating system. 21. Students are not authorized to use school computers to copy programs or any media except with teacher supervision and approval. 22. Students are not to add or delete any program icons on the desktop or Start Menu. 23. Students may not use school computers to attempt to access another computer or computer system or disrupt computer use by others. 24. Students may not damage, modify, or remove computers or networking equipment. 25. Students are not to modify or remove any printer settings. 26. Students are to report to school staff when they observe any violation of the school’s policy for the use of the school’s computers. 26 Exceptions to the above rules are permitted only under direct teacher supervision. Violations of these rules may result in disciplinary action, including but not limited to termination of access to the school’s computers and/or suspension. Violations also may be referred to the appropriate legal authorities and/or other legal action may be pursued. 27 Safety and Security Medication in School Students who require medication while in school must submit their medication to their class teacher at the start of the day along with the instructions for dosage. Students may NOT keep their own medication or have them in their bags regardless of type (i.e.: inhalers, Paracetamol, cough drops, etc.). Parents should inform the class teachers of their children about any medication their wards have to take and fill a Medication Form in order to ensure proper medication and no overdosing or self-medication. Westlands Lyceum staff do not administer medication and will not allow any student to take any medication they have not been informed of. The school will not be responsible for any untoward effect after drugs have been taken by students themselves. A sample Medication Form is found in the Appendices of this handbook. The form may be photocopied and completed fully when necessary. Special Consent to Carry and Self-Administer Medication: Permission may be granted for a student to carry and self-administer life-saving medication only after the following process has been completed and is on file in the Health & Records Office. These medications may include, but are not limited to, inhalers, diabetic supplies/insulin and Epi-pens. 1. A physician’s written statement regarding the student’s medical condition, medications, and dosage have been received and understood by the health and records personnel. 2. A Self-Administer-Medication Consent Form has been completed, signed, and received by the Office. 3. The parent(s)/guardian(s), student(s), director, and Health and Records personnel are aware of the needs of a student and are comfortable with the cognitive ability and maturity of the student(s) to appropriately carry and self- administer life-saving medication only. 4. The student(s) and teacher(s) is/are made aware of the special needs of a student and that the student(s) may be in possession of life-saving medication. 5. The above policy shall not be interpreted to allow a student(s) to carry non-life-threatening medication. 6. This policy is for life-saving emergency medication only. 28 A sample of the Self-Administer-Medication form is included in the Appendices at the end of this handbook. Illness outside of school hours To preserve the health of all children and staff members, we ask that you not bring a sick child to school. If your child complains of not feeling well, please keep the child at home and avoid a sick call later in the day. Students who have previously been sick must be well healed before returning to school to prevent any possible relapse. Injuries and Illness during school hours In the rare case where a student falls sick while in school, the emergency contact provided on admission of the student will be notified to come pick up the student from school. In the case of an injury, the Head of the school division that child falls into will assess the injury, and based on the circumstances surrounding the injury, its severity and the information provided on the Student Admission Health Form one of the following actions will be taken: 1. The emergency contact for the student will be notified to come pick up the child 2. The student will be sent to the nearest hospital facility for immediate treatment In the case where the student will be sent to a hospital facility for treatment, the medical bill will be added to the student’s fees to be settled by their parent / guardian. Infectious Diseases Students with infections or infectious diseases must not report to school until the infection has cleared. This is to prevent the spread of such diseases. The school reserves the right to deny any child who is deemed to be afflicted with any such infectious diseases entry into the school. Parents may be called to come pick up their children if it is determined that a child has any potentially communicable disease. Visitors and Volunteers All visitors who come into the school will have to report to the security checkpoint to sign into the visitor logbook on arrival, wear a visitor badge, and sign out on departure. This will ensure that all people that enter the school are properly identified, and the school remains secure. 29 Safety Drills Safety drills happen all year round. We practice many different safety drills including fire drills, earthquake drills and lockdown drills to enable our students and staff to be prepared in the case of an emergency. Our teachers work hard to instil a safe and immediate response from students without alarming them. Fire drills are at unexpected times, but students are always notified when we practice any other drills. If you are in the building during a drill, please follow staff instructions. If you find the main entrance to a building locked, we may be in a lockdown. In this instance, please do not attempt to enter the building. 30 Library Rules The library is a resource center used by all students for class assignments and leisure-time reading of appropriate books or magazines. The resources of the library are available to support and enhance students’ learning and understanding and to encourage students to become independent, life-long learners. Students may use the library during the school period. Books, magazines, and reserve materials may be checked out for varying times. Because the library serves many students, everyone will have to cooperate to maintain a good atmosphere for learning. Desks are available for studying. You may do group work for a class if you work quietly. Please do not move any furniture or deface any of the furniture. If you do, punitive measures will be applied to you. Policies concerning borrowing books • A student may check out and have maximum 2 library books at a time. • A student may borrow the books for 2 weeks subject to renewal. • If a student wants to extend the borrowing period he/she needs to bring the books back and request for maximum 2 weeks extension period. • Only take resources out of the Library that you have borrowed. Remember to return or renew them on time to avoid fines. No stealing from the library. • For late delivery of a book you will be charged GH¢ 1.00 (One Ghana Cedi) for each late day. • Treat Library property with respect. You will be charged for lost, stolen or damaged items. • For any unreturned books you will be charged double the cost of the latest version of the books. • You will not be able to receive any kind of official documents such as transcript or graduation certificate etc unless the library provides a clearance document. • All school textbooks will be issued by the library and must be returned to the library at the appropriate time • When books are collected, no other numbered book apart from the one given to the student will be accepted to replace a lost book • Students must always have their identification badges with them when coming to the library. • Identification badges must be presented to the librarian before books may be checked out of the library. 31 • Students must make sure to fill the library cards in their borrowed books so they can be returned to them if found elsewhere. • Students must not tear any page from any book issued by the school or found in the library. Using the Library • Keep the noise down. The library is a shared learning space. • Don't move the library furniture. The layouts allow for easy access to the bookshelves. • Treat others with dignity, courtesy and respect • Keep your belongings with you at all times. You are responsible for keeping them safe. • Choose the appropriate zone for your studies. If you wish to work together, use one of the Group Study zones. You will be asked to move or leave if your behavior disturbs others. • Do not bring food or drink except water into the library. Please dispose of your litter responsibly. Encouraging Reading in Students • Teachers of Westlands Lyceum are to encourage students at all times to cultivate the habit of reading and to help students in selecting the appropriate literature depending on the level and interest of students where necessary; consequently, students are encouraged to take advantage of this by asking teachers for directions. • Class teachers are mandated to monitor and supervise the reading of their students, this monitoring shall include reading time and outside reading time. Students are therefore to abide by instructions of their teachers during this period • Class teachers may monitor and supervise students by setting reading targets for students and periodically checking to see progress made by the students and also testing their understanding orally and/or in writing, and students are encouraged to follow this instructions. • Students are to utilize their time appropriately during reading time. Students shall not be allowed to do other things which are not meant for reading time. • Students are to be oriented on the reading charts and must appropriately follow the charts. • Teachers may use gifts, praises and encouraging words to entice students to read more. • Selected students shall be given certificates for best reading at the end of each term. 32 • Students shall be encouraged through some methods and strategies to read among which are; o Reading competition among students o Making students narrate the story they have read to the whole class. In this case the students shall be informed in advance to prepare and they may be allowed to develop their story in power point if they desire. o Making students summarize their books or pages of the books to confirm they have read o Organizing word competition to make students showcase the new words they have acquired and students with more words are rewarded. o Rewarding students and or encouraging them may include posting their pictures on school notice board with excellent captions. o Debate competition on books read by students. • Parents shall be periodically informed about the books their wards are reading and the purpose of the reading in order to ensure that they are in line with the general objective of the reading. This is also meant to make parents engage in encouraging their wards to read and also to follow up on the reading. 33 Dress and Appearance Policy Westlands Lyceum provides uniforms for its students and expects that all students abide by the laid-down principles about school uniforms and dress code. The following are the principles of the school’s Dress and Appearance Policy. Uniforms 1. All students are to be in school-issued uniforms at all times. Students are not allowed to wear anything other than the official school uniform unless otherwise instructed by the Head of the School. 2. The uniform code is as follows: Monday to Wednesday Blue and Grey Uniform Thursday Check uniform Friday Lacoste with Blue or Black Jeans (Skirt, Trousers or Shorts) P.E. Uniform When required 3. Students are not to wear uniforms on any other day apart from the given days as stated in the table above. In the rare case where one uniform will have to be substituted for another, parents must explain to the Head of the Division of their children the reason for this. This will only be pardoned once in an entire term. 4. All uniforms must be neatly ironed, clean and presentable. Worn-out uniforms are not acceptable. The school reserves the right to contact the parents of a student to replace worn- out uniforms of their children. Hair Students are free to wear their hair in any hair style, but all hairstyles must abide by the following rules: - Hair must not be coloured or dyed in any way except for the student’s natural hair colour. - Girls may braid their hair, but wigs and other attachments must match their natural hair colour. - Boys must maintain a decent haircut and not perm, gel or spike their hair. 34 - Older boys must make sure to remove any and all facial hair. - Hairstyles for girls must always be neat and not be distractive to the wearer. - All girls must ensure that hair that naturally falls below the shoulders is neatly tied. No girl is to leave their hair falling on their shoulders. - All hair must be neatly combed or brushed and be presentable. Footwear Students are free to wear appropriate footwear that matches or complements their school uniforms. 1. No heels or wedges are allowed in school with the school uniform, unless on special dress days like Cultural Day. 2. No winding sandals or sandals with straps above the ankle. 3. No off-coloured footwear e.g. red, orange, pink, etc. All footwear must match or complement uniforms. 4. No sandals will be allowed with the P.E. uniform. Students must dress appropriately with their P.E., wearing full-coverage sneakers and socks. This is to reduce the risk of injury doing P.E. lessons. Accessories 1. Accessories may be put in girls’ hair to beautify it. However, it is advised that all accessories for hair should be thick elastic bands that are not prone to easy tearing. This is in consideration of our pre-schoolers who might pick up pieces of torn rubber bands and put them in their ears, noses or mouths. 2. Head and arm bands may only be worn with the P.E. uniform, and must match the colours of the P.E. uniform. 3. Students are not allowed to wear wrist bands. Only wristwatches and medical arm/wrist braces are allowed on students’ wrists and arms. 4. Students are not allowed to wear rings, necklaces or dangling earrings. Girls are allowed to wear any earrings of their choosing, but they must be stud earrings, and not dangle or fall below the ear lobe. Boys must not wear earrings. 5. Students are not allowed to wear makeup on a regular school day with their uniforms. Makeup is only permitted on special dress days such as Cultural day. 35 6. Students are not allowed to wear nail polish. Under no circumstance is a student to report to school with nail polish on. Failure to comply may mean the student will have to scrape the polish off their nails. 7. Students are not allowed to wear hats or headdresses. 8. Students may wear sweaters of their choosing, but they should not have any offensive or sexually related writings or drawings on them. Shirts will not be accepted as sweaters. Special Dress Days On special dress days where students are allowed to wear anything apart from the uniform to school, the following rules must be obeyed in choice of clothing: 1. Students must not wear any clothes with provocative (sexual), offensive, drug or alcohol- related writing or images. 2. Dressing should be modest: not too tight, not too baggy, not suggestive or sexually related 3. Dressing should not expose stomachs, be strapless or backless 4. All shorts and skirts must fall on or below the knee 5. Students must not wear net-like or transparent clothing. If a student’s dressing violates the school’s Dress and Appearance Policy, they will be asked to report to the office, where appropriate action will take place. Appropriate action includes, but is not limited to: 1. Asking the student to go back home to change their clothing; 2. Calling the parents or guardians of the student to bring a change of clothes or pick the student up; and 3. Getting something around the school for the student to use to cover-up throughout the day. 36 Food and Mealtime Policies Mealtimes Westlands Lyceum provides two meals per day for students who opt and pay for it. There are also options to eat and pay for only one meal per day. All meals are carefully prepared by the school kitchen staff and all nutritional requirements and allergies are covered by our meals. Pricing varies depending on the meal plan you choose. Please visit the office for the latest updates on the meal plan pricing. Mealtime and Cafeteria Rules All students will remain at school during the lunch period. Lunch can be taken at school, or you may bring a packed lunch. If you have a special situation such as diets or ailments, you will need to meet with the class teacher to report to the management. During the lunch period, you will be expected to display good manners and courtesy. You must eat your lunch only in the designated place. Teachers on duty during the lunch period will hold you responsible for your behavior. Students who do not maintain a certain level of respect for others and for their environment will be held accountable for their actions. • Students should wash their hands before and after eating. • Keep tables, seats, and floors clean. • Talk in a normal voice (classroom voice). Do not shout. • Keep cafeteria lines orderly: no pushing, running, horse playing or cutting in lines. • No loitering in the cafeteria and hall during lunch. Be seated unless otherwise instructed. • Keep hands, feet, personal belongings and food to yourself. • No backpacks or books are allowed in the dining hall during the lunch time. • Students who mutilate or deface school property will be fined an amount necessary to cover the cost of restoring the damaged property, as well as receive appropriate disciplinary action. • Cleanliness is a mutual responsibility - bring your dishes to the dish return and clean-up your table. If there is a spill, please let one of the dining hall staff know so that it can get cleaned-up immediately. • Appropriate language is to be used at all times. • Ordering food from outside is not allowed. 37 • No food or utensils may be taken from the dining hall without the permission of the teacher on duty. Such permission can only be given to a bed-resting or a very sick student. • Students are not to be found in the cafeteria when it’s not mealtime. Food and Drinks Students are not allowed to eat anywhere except for the designated eating spots or cafeteria. Students found disobeying this rule will be sanctioned. Gum Students are not allowed to chew gum at any time while on the campus, and as such, no student should be found with gum in their possession. Special Occasions Children celebrating birthdays or other special occasions may bring cake and other items to the school to celebrate with their friends and classmates. The school welcomes such activities; however, regular teaching and learning will not be interrupted for such celebrations. As such, celebrations may only be done at the end of the school day – during the last 30 minutes of the day. Parents planning on having such a celebration in the school must take note of the following: 1. Arrangements must be made with the head of the school prior to the celebration – at least a day before, to ensure that teachers are adequately prepared. 2. Items to be used for the celebration must ideally, be brought around the time the celebration is to take place so they can be shared immediately, but in the case where they can only be brought when the child is coming to school, they should be brought straight to the office for safekeeping and collection when the time is due. 3. When parents / external visitors arrive in the school for the celebrations before 3:00 pm, they are all to report to the office and remain there till 3:00 pm when the time for the celebrations is up, so as to avoid disrupting lessons. 4. Although we know that not everyone can be friends with everyone, we entreat parents and students to invite all their classmates to their out-of-school birthday parties or celebrations, if they are having any. This will foster goodwill and kindness among students. If not all students in a class are being invited to an out-of-school celebration, parents and students 38 must refrain from sharing invitations in the classroom to prevent mocking and teasing of the uninvited student. 39 Disciplinary Policies and Procedures Code of Conduct We expect everyone in our school community - especially our students - to be on their best behaviour at all times. As a guide, we have developed ‘The Five’; a code of five questions that our students are encouraged to think through regarding their conduct: 1. Are my actions and words safe for myself and others? 2. Do my actions and words show respect for myself and others? 3. Do my actions and words represent truth and honesty? 4. Do my actions and words meet the expectation to take care of myself and be a dependable member of my school community? 5. Do my actions help make Westlands Lyceum a nice place where people feel welcome and accepted; where they can learn and do their work with support and respect? These five questions are summarized in these 5 words: Safety, Respect, Honesty, Responsibility, Courtesy. It is our hope that as our students evaluate their behaviour and words by ‘The Five’, they grow to be responsible and amiable members of our school community and the world at large. Aside from The Five, these are a few of our code of conduct guidelines. This list is in no way exhaustive, but is to serve as a guideline for good behaviour: 1. No fighting or physical violence. Students must not fight. Westlands Lyceum frowns strictly upon fighting. Any students found fighting will face disciplinary measures. 2. No bullying. Students must not use their status - whether age-wise, seniority, financial, physical or otherwise - to intimidate others. All students must be nice, polite and kind to one another. Students who bully others will face strict disciplinary measures. If you see someone being bullied, intervene by telling them to stop or immediately report it to school personnel. 3. No stealing. No student must steal or take something that does not belong to them without permission. This is not allowed in any way. Any student caught stealing will face disciplinary measures. 40