GIFS SCHOOL HANDBOOK

Transcription

Table of Contents
 GIFS Vision /Affiliations /Governance ------------------------------------------------------------ 1
 School Calendar 2015-2016 School Year ---------------------------------------------------------- 2
 School Facilities & Location ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 4
 Faculty and Staff Directory--------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6
 Admissions Policy ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7
 GIFS School Policies ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 9
 School Fees 2015-2016 School Year/Refund Policy ---------------------------------------------- 10
 Registration Checklist and Forms ------------------------------------------------------------------- 14
 Health -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 15
 Parent Teacher Communication ------------------------------------------------------------------- 16
 Code of Conduct/Discipline Policy/Suspension Policy ------------------------------------------ 18
 Code of Conduct on the School Bus ----------------------------------------------------------------
20
 School Rules -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
21
 Expected School Wide Learner Outcomes -------------------------------------------------------
24
 Academics -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
25
 Subject Offering 2015-2016 School Year ---------------------------------------------------------
28
 Graduation Requirements ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 29
 IB Diploma Program ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 30
 Extra Curricular Activities ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 32
VISION
GIFS has a welcoming environment where students gather to receive a quality education
that prepares them for academic success.
Our inclusive school provides students from many nations and cultures an opportunity to learn and
practice relationship skills that will foster harmony and positively impact the world.
“Celebrating Diversity - Encouraging Citizenship - Fostering Growth”
GIFS PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS









Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) from K to 12
East Asia Regional Council of Schools (EARCOS)
Minister of Education, Republic of Korea (Certification)
Korean Council of Overseas Schools (KORCOS)
American Chamber of Commerce in Korea (AMCHAM)
European Union Chamber of Commerce in Korea (EUCCK)
Council of International School Administration in Korea (CISAK)
Southern Korean Activities Conference (SKAC)
International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO)
MEMBERS OF THE SCHOOL
ADVISORY COMMITTEE
To achieve a successful educational goal for the children, an extensive and sincere cooperation by and
between the school and the parents is required. This is accomplished by the existence of a school
advisory committee consisting of the following five members.
CHAIRMAN
MEMBER
MEMBER
MEMBER
MEMBER
- DIRECTOR OF GYEONGNAM INTERNATIONAL FOREIGN SCHOOL
- DISTINGUISHED ATTORNEY
- DISTINGUISHED ACCOUNTANT
- DISTINGUISHED DOCTOR
- GYEONGNAM INTERNATIONAL FOREIGN SCHOOL PARENT
FUNCTION
The committee advises and suggests to the school all necessary matters for the betterment of the
educational program. The Director will be responsible for scheduling the meetings and keeping records of
the meetings. The Board normally meets in May and again in October in the school library.
Page 1
GIFS 2015-2016 SCHOOL CALENDAR
First Quarter
: August 17th , 2015 ~ October 15th, 2015 ( 40 days)
Second Quarter : October 19th, 2015 ~ January 22nd, 2016 ( 53 days)
August 2015
( 11 school days)
July 2015
S
M
T
93 school days for Students
W
Th
F
S
1
2
3
4
S
M
T
W
Th
September 2015
( 19 school days)
F
S
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June 30 Last day to pay tuition Fee
6-7 New teacher orientation
10-14 Teachers preparation week
13 Open House
15 Independence Day
17 School year begins
1st Qtr starts
October 2015
( 20 school days)
S
M
T
W
28-30 Chuseok Holidays – No School
November 2015
( 20 school days)
December 2015
( 9 school days)
Th
F
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3 Foundation Day
3 SAT
8 2nd Qtr payment due
9 Hangul Proclamation Day
- No school
15 1st Qtr ends
16 Conference Preparation Day
-No School
19 2nd Qtr begins
7 SAT
27 Thanksgiving Day – No School
Page 2
5 SAT
14 Winter Break Begins-No school
25 Christmas Day
GISF 2015-2016 SCHOOL CALENDAR
Third Quarter : January 25th, 2016 ~ April 7th , 2016 ( 43 days)
Fourth Quarter : April 11th , 2016 ~ June 10th , 2016 ( 41 days)
January 2016
( 19 school days)
S
M
T
W
Th
84 school days for Students
February 2016
( 17 school days)
F
S
1
2
S
March 2016
( 17 school days)
M
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Th
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4 Professional Development Day
-No School
5 School Resumes
15 3rd Qtr payment due
22 2nd Qtr ends
25 3rd Qtr begins
8-10 Lunar New Year – No School
29 Holiday – No School
April 2016
( 19 school days)
S
M
T
W
Th
1 Samil Day - No School
11 Professional Development Day
-No School
3/28-4/1 Spring Break-No school
May 2016
( 20 school days)
June 2016
( 6 school days)
F
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Th
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4 4th Qtr payment due
7 3rd Qtr ends
8 Professional Development Day No School
11 4th Qtr begins
7 SAT
5-6 Children’s Day – No School
14 Buddha’s B-Day
Page 3
4 SAT
6 Memorial Day – No School
9 Teacher grading Day
– No School for students
10 Last Day of School
Recognition Graduation Ceremony
SCHOOL FACILITIES
MAIN BUILDING
GIFS occupies a state-of-the-art facility located in Sacheon, Gyeongsangnam-Do. The new building was
opened January 2004.
CAFETERIA
A professional cafeteria staff operates on campus to meet the nutritional needs of GIFS students. Meals
are freshly cooked each day and cater for a range of tastes. A salad bar including fresh fruit is available at
all lunchtimes.
COMPUTER ROOMS
There are two computer labs, one in the library and one on the third floor. Students in all grades use the
computer labs for research, project work and hands on activities related to their subject area.
LIBRARY
GIFS has an extensive school library of books, DVDs, magazines and reference materials available for
students or parents to borrow. We have career and university resources to assist high school students with
further education and we also provide library time for PreK, Kindergarten and Elementary.
The library is accessible to all students and parents from 8:30am - 4:00pm. Students and
parents/guardians can borrow 2 books at a time for one week and can renew when necessary. Students
will need to return their books before checking out additional books.
MAIN PLAYGROUND
The main playground consists of a basketball court and a soccer field. The soccer field can also be used
for baseball or football.
EARLY CHILDHOOD PLAYGROUND
We have a separate play area with equipment for PreK, Kindergarten, and Elementary students.
TRANSPORTATION
As many of our students travel a long distance to GIFS, we provide several bus routes for students. It is
school policy to pick up and drop off students as close to their home as possible.
HADDON HALL- GYMNASIUM
The gymnasium is a state of the art facility with excellent natural lighting. It was completed in February
2011. The gymnasium consists of:
 a full sized court is used to play basketball, volleyball, and other indoor sports
 a multi-purpose room in the lower level which can be used for indoor recess, programs, and
other special events.
 a fully equipped weight room including weightlifting machines, treadmills and exercise bikes
 an 8 meter high climbing wall
Page 4
GIFS in Sacheon city
Sacheon is a small city with a rapidly developing industrial sector. Only 90 minutes
from Busan and within a short distance from the seaside, mountain areas and other
natural attractions, it offers both the convenience of modern living with rural diversions.
For more information about Sacheon please see the following web sites:
http://eng.sacheon.go.kr/; http://www.sacheon.go.kr/eng/02/03.asp
Page 5
STAFF DIRECTORY
Title
Name
Email address
Director
John Ha
mrha@gifs.or.kr
Principal
Marjie Carroll
principal@gifs.or.kr
Vice Principal/IB Coord.
Charles Campbell
mrccampbell@gifs.or.kr
Office Manager
Joy Kim
msjkim@gifs.or.kr
Office Assistant
Heidi Ha
mshha@gifs.or.kr
Office Assistant
Jenny Kim
msjeun@gifs.or.kr
Elementary Teacher
Nicholas Rodriguez
mrnrodriguez@gifs.or.kr
Elementary Teacher
Ana Radeboldti
msaradaboldti@gifs.or.kr
Elementary Teacher
Andrew Dean
mradean@gifs.or.kr
Elementary Teacher
Kathryn Odell
mskodell@gifs.or.kr
Tech Teacher and Advisor
Sunil Kumar
mrskumar@gifs.or.kr
Secondary English & ELL Teacher
Sam Kuntz
mrskuntz@gifs.or.kr
Secondary English & ELL Teacher
Shane Cordell
mrscordell@gifs.or.kr
Secondary English & Drama Teacher
Chelsea Wright
mscwright@gifs.or.kr
Secondary Math Teacher
Sandria Wilson
msswilson@gifs.or.kr
Secondary Math & Science Teacher
Theresa Lee
mstlee@gifs.or.kr
Secondary Social Studies Teacher
Pat Anderson
mrpanderson@gifs.or.kr
Secondary Social Studies Teacher
Kenneth Huber
mrkhuber@gifs.or.kr
Secondary Science Teacher
Marlon Lindsay
mrmlindsay@gifs.or.kr
Secondary Science Teacher
Peter Woodhouse
mrpwoodhouse@gifs.or.kr
Spanish & ELL Teacher
Rachel Underwood
msrunderwood@gifs.or.kr
Korean Teacher
Kyungok Cho
mskcho@gifs.or.kr
Music Teacher
Catherine Lee
music@gifs.or.kr
Art Teacher
Ji Hye Joo
msjhjoo@gifs.or.kr
Athletic Director/PE
Peter Lynch
mrplynch@gifs.or.kr
Page 6
ADMISSIONS POLICY
ELIGIBLE STUDENTS
a. Expatriate children
b. Children from marriage where one parent is Korean and the other partner is an expatriate.
c. Korean children who were educated overseas for more than three years.
d. Legally adopted Korean child by an expatriate family.
e. All children entering preschool must be toilet trained before entrance.
FORMS THAT MUST BE COMPLETED TO ENROLL
All forms can be downloaded from the website or can be picked up at the school.
ENTRY LEVEL ACCORDING TO ACADEMIC YEAR
Grade
Pre Kindergarten
Kindergarten
1st Grade
2nd Grade
3rd Grade
4th Grade
5th Grade
Age
4-5
5-6
6-7
7-8
8–9
9 - 10
10 -11
Grade
6 Grade
7th Grade
8th Grade
9th Grade
10th Grade
11th Grade
12th Grade
th
Age
11 -12
12 - 13
13 - 14
14 - 15
15 - 16
16 - 17
17 - 18
Date
The general rule is
the initial age must
be achieved by
September 1st of the
entry year, however
case-by-case
exceptions may be
made.
Students will be placed in grade levels based on the chart above with the child's age confirmed by a site
such as: http://www-users.med.cornell.edu/~spon/picu/calc/agecalc.htm . Given the small class sizes and
the ability to offer enriched materials with such small class sizes, advancing students by a grade level
beyond what is indicated in the chart above is not advised. All efforts are made to provide students with a
challenging curriculum within a classroom of their peers. In the case that a student arrives from a school
district that has a school calendar starting at different dates, the student will be placed as the chart above
indicates, even if that means repeating part of a year. For example, if a student from South America
completes grade five in December and arrives in Korea in January, that student, based on his or her age,
would still be placed in grade five which completes here in Korea in June.
SCHOOL ATTENDANCE POLICIES
Absence
In order for students to get the most benefit from their education, daily attendance is expected and
required.
Excessive Absences
Students must attend their classes to be eligible to receive a grade or credit. Students in Elementary and
Middle school missing more than 15 days per year will not be promoted to the next grade level. For
High school, students are required to meet course hours. All absences, except for school related
absences, count as absent without regard to 'excused' or 'unexcused.' Excessive absences will require a
conference between the principal and a parent.
Page 7
Excused and Unexcused Absences
Illness, emergencies, unavoidable legal or governmental appointments, and school/family trips are
excused absences. For an absence to be considered excused, a note, a phone call, or email message
must be sent to our office within two days of a student’s return to school.
Any class work due during an excused absence may be made up for 100% credit, but the work must be
completed and returned to the teacher no later than as many days as the student was absent. A 'day' is
defined as from 8:20 AM to 3:15 PM and not based upon whether a class was held that day.
An unexcused absence is any absence without a note, email, or phone call from the parents explaining
the absence. An unexcused absence will result in a grade of zero for any test or assignment.
Approval for absences not due to illness or an emergency must be requested in advance to the principal.
Students must make arrangements to do all the work missed during their absence. The due date for all
make-up work coincides with their return to school.
Early Release from School
Students who need to leave school prior to end of the school day must bring a note, or send an email,
from their parents/guardians. In the note, parents must identify the person who will be picking up the
student. When appropriate, parents will be contacted to confirm the identity of the person picking up the
student. Parents/guardians must inform the office at what time their child is to leave. In case of illness or
injury, see the policy above.
Cutting/Skipping Classes
Students are expected to be present during each and every school day. Skipping a class will result in an
after-school detention and a phone call to parents/guardians.
Tardiness
Students are expected to be on time. Unexcused tardiness without either a phone call or email from a
parent will result in a strike on the behavior record.
Absence Due to Family Travel
It is recognized that in an international school environment, family trips and other excursions may cause
students to be absent. Should these circumstances arise, parents/guardians must inform the principal one
week in advance of the departure date and receive approval from teachers. On the day of return, it is the
student’s responsibility to turn in their assignments and schedule make-up tests with all of their teachers.
Failure to meet with teachers on the return day will result in a zero being issued for all missed
assignments, tests, or exams.
Absence due to Illness
Absence due to illness is excused with appropriate notification. (See Illness policy and Excused and
Unexcused Absence policies above.)
Page 8
GIFS SCHOOL POLICIES
The following policies may be found on the website as well as a printed version in the GIFS office.
• Academic Honesty Policy
• Admissions Policy
• Assessment Policy
• Bully Prevention Policy
• Child Protection Policy
• Child Welfare Policy
• Duty of Care Policy
• English Language Learner Policy
• Language Policy
• Special Education Needs Policy
GIFS Homework Guide
PreK
K – Grade 2
Grades 3-5
Grades 6-8
Grades 7-12
Optional homework
15 minutes to 45 minutes
30 minutes to 1 hour per day
1-2 hours a day (All subjects inclusive)
2-3 hours a day (All subjects inclusive)
Emergency Response Plan
Available in GIFS School Office
Page 9
SCHOOL FEES
One time Fees
 New Student Enrollment Fees
 Registration Fee: KRW 500,000
 Capital Fee: KRW 3,000,000
Annual Fees
 Technology Development Fee: KRW 1,000,000
 Curriculum Fee: KRW 1,000,000
 Athletic Fee: KRW 300,000
 Tuition Fees (based on student’s grade of entry)
School Tuition
Grade Level
Pre-Kindergarten
Elementary School (K-5)
Middle School (6-8)
High School (9-12)
Tuition
Frequency
U.S. Dollars($)
Annual
$
2,000.00
PLUS
Korean Won(\)
16,000,000
\
Semester
$
1,000.00
PLUS
\
8,400,000
Annual
$
2,000.00
PLUS
\
18,000,000
Semester
$
1,000.00
PLUS
\
9,450,000
Annual
$
2,000.00
PLUS
\
19,600,000
Semester
$
1,000.00
PLUS
\
10,290,000
Annual
$
2,000.00
PLUS
\
20,600,000
Semester
$
1,000.00
PLUS
\
10,815,000
Lunch & Transportation Fees
Frequency
Lunch Fee
PreK – 12
Grades
th
Sacheon/ Jinju
Transportation Fee
Geoje/Tongyeong
Annual
Monthly
Price
Times
\ 150,000 X 10 = \ 1,500,000
\
Semester
Annual
\ 1,000,000
\ 300,000 X 10 = \ 3,000,000
\ 1,500,000
Semester
IB Examination Fee (12th Grade Only)
IB Diploma Exam Fee
KRW 1,500,000
Page 10
750,000
\ 200,000 X 10 = \ 2,000,000
Semester
Annual
Total
Registration Fee: KRW 500,000
-
Non-refundable / One-time Fee: The Registration Fee is a fee for all students seeking enrollment.
Capital Fee: KRW 3,000,000
-
Non-refundable / One-time Fee: The Capital Fee (KRW 3,000,000) is a fee for all new students
who have been admitted to our school. This fee helps cover the operations and maintenance of
our facilities.
Technology Development Fee: KRW 1,000,000
-
-
Non-refundable / Annual Fee: The Technology Development Fee is fee for all students who hav
e been admitted to our school. This fee ensures that all classroom technology and supplementary
technological devices are up-to-date with regular maintenance.
This fee is applicable for all students.
Curriculum Fee: KRW 1,000,000
-
Non-refundable / Annual Fee: The Curriculum Fee covers cost of textbooks, web-based resourc
es, manipulatives, and classroom supplies.
Athletic Fee: KRW 300,000
-
Non-refundable / Annual Fee: The Athletic Fee covers expenses such as bus, food, and uniforms
due to student’s participation in SKAC (South Korean Athletic Conference).
Yearbook Fee: KRW 50,000
- One yearbook per enrolled student.
Note: LATE FEE - A late fee of 5% for the Korean won tuition fee will be assessed on any
outstanding balance remaining after the close of business on the due date - this includes any
outstanding tuition fees.
Page 11
POLICY ON REFUNDS OF PAYMENTS
Please fill out GIFS form 101, Statement of Understanding on Withdrawal/Refund Policy and return with
your completed application.
Any other payment arrangements must be coordinated with the school. Normally a 10%
surcharge will be added for quarterly payments and 5% for semi-annual payments. A
late fee of 5% for the Korean won tuition fee will be assessed on any outstanding balance
remaining after the close of business on the due date—this includes any outstanding tuition
fees.
ITEM
FREQUEN
CY
REFUND
REMARKS
Registration Fee
One Time
Non-Refundable
Capital Fee
One Time
Non-Refundable
Technology Fee
Curriculum Fee
Athletic Fee
IB Diploma Programme Fee
Yearly
Yearly
Yearly
Yearly
Non-Refundable
Non-Refundable
Non-Refundable
Non-Refundable
School Tuition (US$)
Yearly
Non-Refundable
School Tuition
Half the Tuition
School Tuition
Yearly
SemiAnnually
Quarterly
Non-Refundable
School Transportation
Yearly
Monthly
Refund of the next month
School Lunches
Yearly
Monthly
Refund of the next month
School Tuition
Withdraw before Feb 1, 2016
Non-Refundable
Page 12
PAYMENT INSTRUCTION – KOREAN WON
Account Name
: Gyeongnam International Foreign School (GIFS)
Account Number : 1005-901-370860
Bank Name
: WOORI BANK ( Sacheon Branch)
Bank Address
: #56, Pyung Hwa-Ri, Sacheon Eup, Sacheon City, Gyeongnam, Korea 664-800
Telephone
: (82-55) 852-6338
SWIFT Code
: HVBKKRSE
PAYMENT INSTRUCTION – US DOLLAR
Account Name
: Gyeongnam International Foreign School (GIFS)
Account Number : 1081-400-431103
Bank Name
: WOORI BANK ( Sacheon Branch)
Bank Address
: #56, Pyung Hwa-Ri, Sacheon Eup, Sacheon City, Gyeongnam, Korea 664-800
Telephone
: (82-55) 852-6338
SWIFT Code
: HVBKKRSE
* For US Dollar payment, either Personal check or cash is also available besides bank transfer.
Page 13
GIFS REGISTRATION CHECKLIST
This is a list of the documents needs and the procedures that should be followed to insure the
necessary paperwork has been completed and your child can begin school as quickly as possible.
Forms 1-10 are required for enrollment
Document Name
Document Received
1
Register Online
2
Student Information Form**
3
6
Copy of Foreign Passport for Non-Koreans/or copy of
Residency Card*
Certificate of Overseas travel record for Korean
children*
Official Transcript from previous school (Grades 9-12
students) / Report Card (Middle and Elementary
students)
Previous School Attendance Form**
7
Immunization / Shot Record*
8
Medical Information Form**
9
Power of Attorney / Waiver Form**
10
Statement of Understanding on Withdrawal and
Refund Policy**
4
5
Forms 11-16 will be sent from the school
11
Code of Conduct Agreement Form***
12
Bus Conduct Agreement Form***
13
Acceptable Use of Technology Agreement***
14
Home Language Questionnaire***
15
Photo Use Permission Form***
16
Field Trip Year Long Permission Form*** (Type 1
Trip only)
Athletics Consent Form (only for students
participating in afterschool athletics)***
17
Page 14
HEALTH
IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTS

DPT (Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus)
Administered at 2, 4 and 6 months, and at any time between the 4th and 6th year.

MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Only one injection required at any time from 15 months.

Polio
Administered at 2, 4 and 15 months, and any time between 4-6 years.

Tuberculosis Screening
A physician's certificate of absence of TB is required upon entry to the school and at the
beginning of each subsequent school year. This is done through a chest X-ray or skin test.
The above immunizations/tests may be obtained at Gyeongsang University Hospital in Gyeongnam or at
an authorized Korean medical facility. Initial enrollees have 30 days to obtain the above
immunizations/tests.
ILLNESS
If your child is ill and unable to attend school, please call or email the school by 8:30 am. The school
email is gifs@gifs.or.kr
MEDICATIONS
Students shall not keep or take medicine at school without the knowledge of staff. If a student must come
to school with medicine, then at the start of the school day, such medicine shall be placed in the office
with instructions as to how it is to be taken.
SCHOOL ILLNESS
The school does not have a nurse on staff. When a student is feeling ill or is injured, he or she should
check with their teacher. The student is then sent to the office with a note and their parents/guardians are
called. It is advisable that a parent/guardian come immediately to take an injured or sick child home. If
this is impossible, the student will use the sick room. No student will be allowed to leave school sick
without permission of the school in consultation with the parent/guardian. In the event of emergencies,
the student will be taken to a hospital and parents/guardians contacted as soon as possible.
As a general rule, students should not be sent to school if they are feverish (above 39C) or feeling ill. The
principal reserves the right to request that a student goes home if that student appears to have a contagious
illness or is seriously ill.
In the event of an accident serious enough for a student to be sent to the office or school nurse, the
following procedures will be followed.
I. The office staff will always inform the parents of an accident or injury to their child upon...
1. the request of the child.
2. the need to seek outside medical attention.
3. the presence of excessive bleeding, significant broken skin or significant bruising.
4. any possible injury to the head, neck or spine.
5. any other incident where it is in the opinion of the office staff that the injury is serious
enough to have the parents or guardian informed.
Page 15
PARENT/GUARDIAN TEACHER COMMUNICATION
PARENT/GUARDIAN TEACHER CONFERENCES
Both formal and informal parent/guardian teacher conferences and interviews are a very important part of
a student’s education at GIFS as they are an opportunity to discuss a student’s progress. There are a
number of ways to contact and meet with staff.
Formal parent/guardian conferences occur twice a year, after the First and Third Quarters. These provide
an opportunity to examine student performance over the previous term and discuss areas of improvement.
Students in middle and high school are encouraged to attend the conferences with their parents/guardians
so that all parties have the same understanding of progress and suggestions.
Parents/guardians are invited to have a teacher conference by appointment at other times throughout the
year.
RENWEB
RENWEB is a School-Home communication system that provides parents/guardians and students access
to;
- Attendance
- Daily Grades
- Progress Reports
- Report Cards
- Transcripts
- Lesson Plans
- Homework
- Missing Assignments
- Discipline
- Staff & School Directory
- Teacher Email Addresses
- Teacher Websites
BRANDED PARENT WEB
Branded Parent Web is provided and customized by Renweb school management software. This portal
provides various tools to parents and teachers to monitor the academic progress of students. Students can
also keep track of assignments and grades by logging into the portal. Parents and students need to have
their email ids registered with the school t access the portal. The school district code of GIFS is gi-kor.
Please download the PDF file on our school website(www.gifs.or.kr) that contains step by step
instructions to log into the Branded Parent Web. This can be found in two places: under
‘Academics/Course Plans’ and under ‘About Us/Curriculum’.
SCHOOL NEWSLETTER
A school newsletter provides information in regard to what is happening in the classrooms, dates to
remember, special announcements, and information from our committees. This newsletter is also posted
on our website, http://www.gifs.or.kr.
REPORT CARDS
Report cards are issued four times a year (approx. every nine weeks). Families will be informed midquarter as needed to communicate academic progress.
Page 16
WEBSITE
Our school website, http://www.gifs.or.kr, posts information pertaining to the daily activities of school
including the school’s newsletter, Parent Teacher Organization news, photos of school events, as well as
registration procedures, school policies, and contact information for teachers.
EMAIL
Staff can also be contacted via the e-mail addresses listed on the school website or at gifs@gifs.or.kr. This
is the preferred avenue of communication for routine questions and concerns.
TELEPHONE
Staff can also be contacted after teaching hours (3:00pm-4:00pm) via telephone. The school office
number is 055-853-5125 (outside of Korea +82-55-853-5125).
If parents need to contact their child during school hours, they can do so via the school office 055-8535125 (outside of Korea +82-55-853-5125). Parents are asked to honor the student cellular phone policy
by not calling their child on their cell phone during the school day (see below.)
Page 17
GIFS CODE OF CONDUCT
Rights and Responsibilities
At GIFS, we expect that everyone will be treated kindly and fairly. At GIFS, a student’s responsibilities
relate both to the school and the people who attend it. By acting responsibly you protect your own as well
as the rights of others. Consider your rights and responsibilities and the rules that make them possible.
As A Student You Will:
• Be conscientious and serious about learning
• Act in a polite and respectful manner
• Make no negative or discriminatory comments to others
• Cooperate with the staff and your fellow students
Your Teacher Will:
• Provide a positive learning environment
• Communicate in a polite and reasonable manner
• Respect each student and carry out school policies and regulations
In The Classroom You Should:
• Feel safe and comfortable to express your own ideas and views
• Know what your teacher expects and how to meet those expectations
• Complete all of your assigned work to the best of your ability
• Plan to get help if and when you need it
In The Schoolyard You Should:
• Listen to and stay in sight of supervising staff
• Treat others the way you want to be treated
• Observe that preschool and kindergarten are allowed on the jungle gym
• Cooperate with each other and share equipment
• Keep your hands to yourself
• Stay inside the school grounds at all times
• Let a teacher know if a ball or any other object goes out of the school grounds. Don’t go after it
yourself
• Return ALL equipment to its home
• Make sure that no trash is left in the yard
• Observe all of these rules in the school multipurpose room on rainy days
STUDENT DISCIPLINE POLICIES
Students who engage in activities that are disrespectful to themselves, others, or school property will be
subject to disciplinary action. The following policies apply to all school buildings, school grounds and
parking lots, school property; and all adjacent property, school vehicles, school-contracted vehicles and
any other vehicles approved for school purposes, the area of entrance or departure from school premises
or events and the vicinity of the school property. It also applies to any school sponsored activity, all
school-sponsored trips including all overnight trips, school-related functions as well as activities that start
or end at GIFS whether sanctioned or not sanctioned by the school. This policy also applies to any
student whose conduct at any time or in any place interferes with or obstructs the mission or operations
of the school, adjoining businesses, residence areas, neighbors and community or the safety/welfare of
the student, other students, faculty, visitors or community members.
Page 18
The administration reserves the right to amend any or all of policies where a particular behavior is
deemed to merit a more appropriate disciplinary action from that listed.
In general, disciplinary action taken by a teacher or principal will take the following course:
1. Verbal warning (at the teacher’s discretion this might include time-out in a chair or adjacent
supervised classroom, or a strike on the behavior record.)
2. After three behavior strikes within a one month period, the student will sit a supervised
afterschool detention.
3. An internal suspension will occur instead of a third detention. Internal suspension is defined as
the student being removed from all classes and working independently in a supervised area in
school.
4. An external suspension will occur after an internal suspension as deemed appropriate by
administration. An external suspension is defined as the student may not attend the school or
participate in any extracurricular activities. He/she must complete work assigned by teachers.
5. A suspension may occur immediately bypassing a detention for serious breaches of school rules.
6. In extreme cases of misbehavior, a student may be recommended to the Board for expulsion.
This recommendation is made by the administration after consultation and approval by the Board.
7. For internal and external suspensions records will be kept on students personal record. However,
the record may be removed after a period of good behavior.
SUSPENSION POLICY
Suspension or Expulsion Appeal Process
A recommendation from the principal for suspension or expulsion may be appealed to the board of
directors. The guideline for an appeal of an expulsion recommendation is as follows:
•
•
•
•
•
•
A parent, within five school days of the principal’s action, should place in writing a notice of
appeal to the chairperson of the board of directors.
The chairperson will schedule a hearing with the school board no later than 5 school days
after the appeal.
The board will hold an official hearing to hear the parental/student appeal of the
administrative recommendation for expulsion and to hear the administrative documentation
supporting the appeal.
The board will meet in an executive session and render a decision to either uphold the
administrative recommendation or overturn the administrative recommendation.
The board will notify the parent in writing no more than 5 days after the hearing.
The student will remain on an extended out of school suspension status until the appeal
process has been completed.
Search and Seizure
Our school reserves the right to conduct reasonable searches of a student, their physical property, or their
school locker. We will protect students’ rights by searching only when there is probable cause. When
possible, searches will take place in the presence of the student, the principal, and a staff member. Only
an adult staff member of the same gender is authorized to search a student.
Page 19
CODE OF CONDUCT FOR BUS PASSENGERS
Bus Policies
Our goals for bus service include the following:
• All students will arrive to their final destinations safely.
• All buses arrive 5-10 minutes prior to the start of the school day.
• All buses depart GIFS 10 minutes after the end of school day or after school program.
In order to help assure that bus pick up and arrival are done in a safe, timely, and efficient manner, the
following procedures and protocols are in place:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Wear a seatbelt at all times when the bus is in motion.
Be punctual for pick up.
In the morning, students should be at the designated bus stop five minutes earlier than the
posted arrival time so that they can be prepared to board when it arrives.
Each pick up/drop off bus site has a designated location. Please make sure that students use
that specific location. Every effort is made to have pick up locations safe and proximate to
students homes.
All people on the bus must be respectful of one another.
Students must follow the seating plan as laid out by the school.
Manage personal listening devices so they do not intrude on fellow passengers.
Limit snacks to water or juice and small snacks.
Use only appropriate language.
Consequences:
Students and parents must sign a bus ridership contract before being allowed to ride the GIFS school Bus.
Page 20
SCHOOL RULES
English Language Use
At GIFS, English is the language of instruction and inclusion. The language of instruction in all subjects
during the school day is English except for courses in Spanish and Korean acquisition. Our classroom
teachers are proficient in English. English is the common language used for most collaborations, planning
meetings, and communications within the school.
Vulgar Language
Swearing or using “bad words” in any language will not be tolerated on campus.
Disruptive Behavior
Any action taken by a student that causes an interruption of normal classroom instruction or distracts
other students from learning is considered disruptive. Examples include running in the halls, yelling,
throwing things, or actions specified in more detail by classroom rules.
Food in the Classroom
Lunch meals will be eaten in the cafeteria or supervised outdoors. Exceptions to this rule include birthday
parties or special occasions organized by teachers.
Chewing Gum
Students should not bring gum to school and it is not allowed on school property.
GIFS Dress Policy
Please see the website for information about school uniform.
Technology and Computer Use
Cellular Phones
Student cellular phones may be brought to school and used with permission for educational purpose only
during class or study time. During class time they are to be TURNED OFF. Phones may be confiscated if
a student is in violation of this rule and will be returned to the student at the end of the school day. Repeat
violations will result in a call to the parents/guardians and the phone will only be returned to the student
after a meeting with the parents/guardians.
Electronics & PMD’s (Personal Music Devices)
Cellphones, PMD’s, portable game devices, or other electronics, must be put away and turned off during
school hours. Calculators, laptop computers or any device that aids the student in school work is
acceptable under supervision of the teacher. Any personal electronic item that is brought to school is the
responsibility of the owner only. GIFS is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
Exceptions to the above policy may occur on field trips or other times at the discretion and
approval of the adult supervisor.
Computer Use
We value computers (used hereafter to include desktop and laptop computers as well as iPads, tablet
computers, and any other internet-capable device such as a smartphone or web-enabled personal music
device [PMD] such as an iPod Touch), technological tools, and access to the internet as a way to support
and advance teaching and learning. We have made a considerable investment to ensure that we have
access to these resources. In return, we expect everyone to be responsible and respectful users and to
adhere to the following:
Page 21
School computers will be used for educational purposes only. This includes during study hall, lunch break,
or any “free time.” Students are not allowed to browse, chat, shop, or visit any non-academic sites.
Students will not damage the hardware or software in any fashion. Students are not permitted to change
settings, desktop appearance, or download or install programs without a teacher’s permission.
Responsible Use
The Internet provides many educational opportunities, but also necessitates personal responsibility for its
use. A responsible user will use the school’s electronic resources:




In a considerate, ethical, efficient and legal manner
To support learning and enhance instruction.
To complete instructional and administrative tasks requiring research, inquiry,
problem solving and/or communication.
In a manner that complies with GIFS school policies.
Personal Laptops/Ipads
Students are welcome to bring their own personal laptops and iPads/tablets to school, provided these are
used in ways that are consistent with the above guidelines; that is, we expect personal electronics to be
used only for school-related activities. See Technology Use Agreement.
Missing Classes
Students must attend all scheduled classes on time, every day, unless they get permission from the
principal. Skipping classes or leaving the school grounds without permission is not allowed.
Physical or Verbal Attacks
Fighting with other students with the intent to do bodily harm, or using words to intimidate, injure, or
bully is not allowed.
Academic Honesty
All work assigned to a student must be completed by the student. Copying from books, the Internet, or
friends, is not allowed for any type of schoolwork. Students will receive a zero for any assignments where
plagiarism is involved and parents/guardians will be notified. See Academic Honesty Policy.
Cheating
Students will do their own work. Students will not copy answers or homework from other students.
Failing to report a student cheating is also against the rules and is subject to disciplinary action.
*Students caught cheating in AP classes will receive stricter punishment, including possible loss of credit
for the class for the school year. See Academic Honesty Policy.
Theft
Stealing from the school or other students is not allowed.
Refusal to Obey
Students are expected to follow reasonable and fair commands or instructions given by the school faculty.
Leaving School Grounds
Students wishing to leave school early must notify the office and the principal. Leaving the school
grounds is not allowed unless students have parental permission via note or phone call to the school office.
Weapons
Guns, knives, swords, or any item that could be used to cause bodily harm are not allowed on the school
campus. This also includes toys that simulate weapons.
Page 22
Toys
Games, cards, toys, dolls etc. will not be allowed at school unless the student has prior teacher permission.
Harmful Substances
Tobacco, drugs, alcohol, pornography and any other items or substances that cause physical or mental
harm will not be allowed on campus nor will items advertising these products be permitted on campus.
Harassment
Physical, verbal, or sexual harassment of students is not allowed. This rule applies in one-on-one settings,
in groups, by proxy, or online through the Internet.
Cyber Bullying
Verbal and written abuse of students or staff via the use of cell phones, texting, social media sites, and
email is unacceptable either in school or outside of school hours.
Bus Behavior
The rules of the school extend onto the school bus. Any behavior that endangers the safe operation of the
bus will be dealt with in the strongest manner. Seat belts must also be worn on the bus at all times.
See Code of Conduct for Bus Passengers.
Public Displays of Affection
Students will not engage in physical displays of affection towards other students at school. Inappropriate
touching will also not be tolerated at school, on the school bus, or at school-related functions.
Unsafe Behavior
Any action that could cause physical injury to oneself or others is not allowed.
Vandalism
Altering school property, or property the school uses for school-related activities in any way is not
allowed. This includes private property encountered on field trips.
Animals
Animals are not allowed on campus without prior permission from the principal.
Arson
Setting fires or attempting to set fires on school property is not allowed.
Smoking
There will be no smoking or use of other tobacco products on campus or at any school sponsored events.
Gambling
Students will not play games or make bets at school or school events involving real money or valuables.
Cafeteria Behavior
Students will behave respectfully in the cafeteria, including making sure to clean-up after themselves,
appropriately placing the trays, cutlery, and cups in the designated location, and using appropriate
language at a reasonable volume. A maximum number of six (6) students will sit at each table.
Page 23
EXPECTED SCHOOLWIDE LEARNING OUTCOMES
Gyeongnam International Foreign School prepares students to be:
•
Inquirers—students develop their natural curiosity.
•
Knowledgeable—students explore concepts, ideas and issues that have both a
local and global significance.
•
Thinkers—students think critically to engage themselves in figuring out
complex problems.
•
Communicators—students express themselves and information through a
variety of modes of communication.
•
Principled—students act honestly and with a strong sense of fairness, justice
and respect for the dignity of the individual, groups and communities.
•
Open-minded—students appreciate their own cultures and personal histories and
are open to the perspectives, values and traditions of other individuals and
communities.
•
Caring—students show respect and compassion towards the needs of others.
•
Risk-takers—students approach unfamiliar situations with courage, as well as
defend their beliefs.
•
Balanced—students understand the importance of intellectual, physical and
emotional balance to achieve personal well-being.
•
Reflective—students give consideration to their own learning and experience
Page 24
ACADEMICS
Kindergarten
Kindergarten is a student’s introduction to the world of full-day academic training. Our program is
founded on American education standards and designed to help students develop the skills and habits
which will lead them to success throughout their academic careers. The homeroom is the place to learn
the fundamentals of reading, writing, mathematics, science and social studies. Lessons are designed to
meet the needs of a diverse group of learners, and students have the opportunity to access and share
knowledge in a variety of ways to ensure that they fully understand the material. Students also learn the
social skills and expectations which are necessary to live, play and work in harmony with those around
them.
With specialist Music, Art and PE teachers, weekly visits to the library and computer lab and regular field
trips to explore the community around them GIFS Kindergarten students are valued and productive
members of the school community.
Elementary (Grades 1-5)
Elementary instruction is based on the US Common Core State Standards for Mathematics and Language
Arts, and AERO standards for Art, Social Studies, and Science.
Elementary teachers vary learning experiences based on the principles of active learning, student centered
learning, and real world problem solving. Our lessons are planned with the child’s development and
understanding in mind. We believe that the best learning happens with personal discovery and
experimentation, with the child leading in his/her own learning.
Our goal is to nurture the whole child and thus we do not stop at teaching to standards. We also integrate
teaching and learning focused on developing behaviors and attitudes that lead to success in daily work.
Our Expected Student Learner Outcomes (ESLRs) based on the IB Learner Profile are embedded in the
day-to-day experiences of students. Our teaching approach is aligned with IB PYP principles.
Curriculum Resources include Language Arts: Literacy by Design, Spelling Connections, online RAZ Kids, and teacher chosen
supplementary resources
Mathematics: Everyday Math, Common Core based supplementary resources, and online web-based math
practice
Science: Harcourt HSP, and supplementary texts and learning resources that includes experiments, videos,
cooking, nature walks, field trips, and animals and their care in the classroom.
Social Studies: Teachers use a variety of text and web-based resources that match with grade level
content standards focusing on family life, community, host country, and the world.
“Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.” – William Butler Yeats
Page 25
Middle School (Grades 6-8)
Our Middle School students at GIFS, Grades 6-8, are given more independence to demonstrate a
comprehensive array of academic skills. The academic transition from elementary to high school is
supported by a professional staff that individualizes the curriculum based on students’ interests, academic
skills, and standardized assessments.
Students are encouraged to develop knowledge and research skills based on their personal interests tied to
the Common Core and AERO standards. Assessment is ongoing and based on end of year exams (Grades
7-8) as well as assessment tasks carried out throughout the year.
Core subject areas: Mathematics, English Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies – are designed to
engage and challenge all students and promote personal academic confidence as they continue their
schooling here or elsewhere.
Elective subject areas: Students in the Middle School will choose classes of interest in the Arts, Physical
Education, World Languages and other subjects. Here, students sample many disciplines, which may
prove to be a passion or interest in the future. In the elective program, we believe that by offering courses
based on faculty talents and student interest, we can best prepare students for future academic challenges.
Students also follow a course of study for Personal, Social and Health Education.
High School (Grades 9-12)
At the high school level at GIFS, Grades 9-12, all students are placed in a rigorous college preparatory
program. Students in Grades 9 and 10 study a balanced range of International General Certificate of
Secondary Education (IGCSE) courses over a two-year period. Each course takes two full years to
complete and is adapted to the academic strengths, interests, and needs of our students. IGCSE grades
range from A* at the top to G at the bottom, with grades A* to C being recognised as good passes. A
minimum of 5 good passes is required for enrollment in the IB Diploma Programme which GIFS will
offer in 2015-16.
Core subject areas: Mathematics, English Language & Literature, The Sciences and Social Studies – are
designed to engage and challenge all students and promote personal academic confidence as they
continue their schooling here or elsewhere.
Elective subject areas: Students in the High School will choose classes of interest in the Arts, Physical
Education, World Languages and other subjects. Here, students sample many disciplines, which may
prove to be a passion or interest in the future. In the elective program, we believe that by offering courses
based on faculty talents and student interest, we can best prepare students for future academic challenges.
Students also follow a course of study for Personal, Social and Health Education.
Students are granted one graduation credit per year for either one year of a core required course or an
elective course. Students must successfully complete an array of required and elective courses for a total
of 24 credits through 2016, in order to graduate with a GIFS high school diploma. Families and students
should refer to the specific graduation requirements in this handbook.
Page 26
High School Grading Scales
The High School grade threshold boundaries are updated each year after the IGCSE and IB examination
sessions in May/June. These are used for various assessments during each quarter. In addition, subjectspecific ‘Diploma Programme Grade Descriptors’ are applied to all Grade 11 and 12 students. The
descriptors are printed and accompany all quarterly report cards and can also be downloaded from the
GIFS website.
GPAs are calculated on the table below for Grade 11-12 students.
IBDP
1-7
Scale
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
Grade Points
4.0
3.75
3.5
2.75
2.0
1.25
0
IBDP 1-7 Grade Boundary
Percentage
Grade 11
Grade 12
Grade Descriptor
Exceptional
Very Good
Good
Satisfactory
Mediocre
Poor
Very Poor
These boundaries vary according to each subject
and level (HL or SL).
See the individual subject grade threshold tables in
the IBDP handbook (also available on the school
website).
Grade 9-10:
IGCSE
Grade
A*
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
Grade Points
4.0
4.0
3.7
3
2.3
2
1.3
1
IGCSE A* - G Grade Boundary
Percentage
Grade 9
Grade 10
Grade Descriptor
Exceptional
Very Good
Good
Satisfactory
Mediocre
Poor
Very Poor
These boundaries vary according to each subject.
See the individual subject grading threshold tables
On the school website. Copies will also be sent
home with report cards each quarter.
Middle School Grading Scales
Middle School (Grades 6-8)
Letter Grade
% Grade
A+
97-100
A
94-96
A90-93
B+
87-89
B
84-86
B80-83
C+
77-79
C
74-76
C70-73
D+
67-69
D
64-66
D60-63
F
0-59
Page 27
2015-2016
SUBJECT OFFERINGS
High School
Grades 9-12
Middle School
Core Academic Courses
English
English 1st Language: 9-10
English World Literature: 9-10
English A: Language and Literature: 11-12
English
Lit. & Language Arts 6
Includes Literature, Poetry, Creative
Writing, Non-Fiction research and
Writing, and Speaking
Math
International Mathematics: 9-10
Mathematics (AP): 12
Math Studies and Math SL: 11
Math
Grade 6
Grade 7 (Pre-Algebra)
Grade 8 (Algebra 1)
Math workshop (6-8)
Science
Environmental Management (ENM): 9-10
Chemistry: 9-12
Physics: 9-12
Science
Integrated Science 6
Includes Earth, Life, and Physical Sciences
Humanities
World History: 9-12
Information and Communication Technology (ICT): 9-10
Information Technology in a Global Society (ITGS): 11-12
Psychology: 11
Language Acquisition
Spanish: 9-12 or
Korean: 9-12
English Language Learning (ELL): 9-12
The Arts
Art and Design: 9-10 or Physical Education 9-10
Visual Arts: 11-12
Humanities
Ancient History 5
World Geography 6
Asia: Lands and People 7
20th Century World History 8
Electives
Music
Art
PE & Conditioning
Health
Spanish or Korean Language
Technology
Advanced Placement (AP)
Gyeongnam International Foreign School offers Advanced Placement courses. The College Entrance
Examination Board and the Educational Testing Service in Princeton, New Jersey develop the AP
examinations. With satisfactory examination results, a student can earn credit or advanced placement
upon entering college. Registering for AP exams is done in late February and early March and the cost
must be paid in advanced by the student. The fee for an AP is $147 although this may be subject to
change. The student will be required to purchase the textbook and materials for all AP courses.
Page 28
The GIFS High School Diploma Graduation Requirements
Accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), the GIFS Diploma is
recognized as completion of a high school level programme of study. The GIFS Diploma is based on a
credit system and credits can be earned from Grade 9. All International Baccalaureate subjects are graded
on a 1-7 scale. A GIFS passing grade of at least three (3) on a scale of seven (7) in any IB subject earns 1
credit, whilst a ‘C’ grade in grades 9 and 10 constitutes 1 credit. Fulltime students must take at least 6
subjects per year (6 credits). The following table outlines the subjects and programme requirements where
students can accumulate credits or partial credits.
Subject
Minimum
GIFS
Graduation
Requirements
Grade
Grade
Grade
Grade
9
10
11
12
Group 1: Studies
in Language and
Literature
4 credits
1 credit
1 credit
1 credit
1 credit
Recommended
for highlyselective
universities/coll
eges
4 credits
Group 2:
Language
Acquisition
Group 3:
Individuals and
Societies
Group 4: Sciences
3 credits
1 credit
1 credit
1 credit
1 credit
4 credits
3 credits
1 credit
1 credit
1 credit
1 credit
4 credits
3 credits
1 credit
1 credit
1 credit
1 credit
4 credits
Group 5:
Mathematics
Group 6: The
Arts OR an
additional Group
3 or 4 subject
4 credits
1 credit
1 credit
1 credit
1 credit
4 credits
3 credits
(In 11-12
students can take
History or
Chemistry
instead of Art.
1 credit
1 credit
1 credit
1 credit
1 credit
4 credits
Theory of
Knowledge -TOK
Creativity, Action
and service
Grades 9 and 10
Community
Service (NEW)
DP Extended
Essay
Personal
Research Project
Personal Design
Project
(NEW)
TOTAL


.5 credit
.5 credit
1 credit
1 credit


.5 credit
.5 credit
1 credit
1 credit
.5 credit
.5 credit


1 credit
1 credit



.5 credit

.5 credit


.5 credit
.5 credit
.5 credit



.5 credit
25 credits
1 credit
1 credit
29 credits
Page 29
The IB Diploma Programme (DP)
An Education for Life
The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) is the world's premier pre-university course of
study. At GIFS, the IBDP begins in Grade 11 after the completion of our modified IGCSE course in Grade 9 and
10, and finishes almost two years later in the 4th Quarter of Grade 12. For those students wishing to have either a
head start in their chosen career or their choice of university worldwide, the IB Diploma is the best educational
option available.
For over 40 years, IB programmes have gained a reputation for their high academic standards, for preparing
students for life in a globalised 21st century, and for helping to develop the citizens who will create a better,
more peaceful world. Founded in 1968, currently there are close to 1 million IB students at 3,440 schools in 141
countries across the world.
The Diploma Programme curriculum
IB Diploma Programme students must choose a total of six subjects from each of the five groups (1 to 5),
ensuring breadth of knowledge and understanding in their best language, additional language(s), the social
sciences, the experimental sciences and mathematics. Students must choose either an arts subject from group 6,
or a second subject from groups 1 to 5.
At least three and not more than four subjects are to be taken at higher level (240 teaching hours), while the other
subjects are taken at standard level (150 teaching hours). In addition to disciplinary and interdisciplinary study,
the Diploma Programme features three core elements that broaden students’ educational experience and
challenge them to apply their knowledge and skills.
Page 30
The Diploma Programme Core
• The Extended Essay (EE) asks students to engage in independent research through an in-depth study of a
question relating to one of the DP subjects they are studying. The world studies extended essay option allows
students to focus on a topic of global significance which they examine through the lens of at least two DP
subjects.
• Theory of Knowledge (ToK) develops a coherent approach to learning that unifies the academic disciplines.
In this course on critical thinking, students reflect on the nature of knowledge and on how we know what we
claim to know by examining the different ways of knowing and areas of knowledge. It also encourages them to
consider the role which knowledge plays in their own culture, in the cultures of others and in the wider world.
• Creativity, Action, Service (CAS) involves students in a range of activities alongside their academic studies
throughout the Diploma Programme. Creativity encourages students to engage in the arts and creative thinking.
Action seeks to develop a healthy lifestyle through physical activity. Service with the community offers a
vehicle for a new learning with academic value. The three strands of CAS enhance students’ personal and
interpersonal development through experiential learning and enable journeys of self-discovery.
Diploma Programme Subject Groups at GIFS
Students study a total of six subjects - five chosen from the first five groups above, and Visual Arts subject from
group 6 OR another choice from groups 3 or 4.
* Mandatory at GIFS
Further information on IB subjects and choices offered at GIFS can be found at www.gifs@gifs.or.kr
For more information on the IB Diploma Programme at GIFS, contact Mr Charles Campbell:
ib@gifs.or.kr
For more information about the IB please visit: http://www.ibo.org/en/programmes/diplomaprogramme/curriculum/
Page 31
EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Students from Kindergarten to Grade 12 will be offered after school clubs to attend throughout the year,
however, some grades may not have an after school option available every session.
Students from K to Grade 4 are not required to take part in after school clubs but may join if they choose.
Students from Grade 5-8 are encouraged to take part in at least two after school clubs over the course of a
school year.
Students from Grade 9-12 must take part in at least three after school clubs over the course of a school
year.
In order to join an after school club, GIFS requires parent consent 24 hours before the starting date of the
club.
Some clubs will incur an additional charge for materials, which must be paid in full before the start date
of the club.
Once clubs begin, student will have one week from the first day of the club start date to change clubs. By
the second week, students must fulfill their commitment and remain with the club until the end of the
session.
If students are at school on the day of their club they must attend their club. The only valid reason for not
attending their club is if they are sick from school that day or have a parent email or note explaining the
reason for their dismissal.
If students are not able to make it to a club meeting they must provide the school office, their club
supervisor and Mr. Signoroni with at least 24 hours of notice. This notice must come directly from
parents and their dismissal from the meeting cannot be guaranteed if students take the bus, as bus spaces
are limited and difficult to rearrange at the last minute.
GIFS SKAC Teams
Students in Grades 1-4 will have opportunities to participate in sporting jamborees such as Elementary
Futsal, Elementary Cross Country and Elementary Basketball throughout the year. However, elementary
teams are not required to have practices after school. They will practice during PE class time. There are
no official SKAC tournaments scheduled for these grades.
Students from grade 6-12 will be offered a variety of Southern Korean Activities Conference (SKAC)
teams to participate in throughout the school year. These are subject to change on a yearly basis
depending on student numbers and coaching logistics.
Middle School Co-Ed Futsal
Middle School Boys Basketball
Middle School Girls Basketball
Middle School Cross Country
High School Boys Futsal
High School Girls Futsal
High School Boys Volleyball
High School Girls Volleyball
High School Boys Basketball
High School Girls Basketball
Page 32
High School Cross Country
All students who choose to sign up for a school SKAC team will be expected to attend all scheduled
practices, games, and tournaments.
Once SKAC teams begin practicing, students will have one week from the first day of the practice start
date to decide if they would like to commit to the team. By the second week, students must complete their
commitment and remain with the team until the end of the sport season.
If students are at school on the day of practice they must attend the practice unless they become sick
during the day in consultation with the coach. The only valid reason for not attending practice is if they
are sick from school that day or have a parent email or note explaining the reason for their dismissal 24
hours prior to the practice.
If students are not able to make it to a practice they must provide the school office, their coach and the
Athletic Director with at least 24 hours of notice. This notice must come directly from parents and their
dismissal from the practice cannot be guaranteed if students take the bus, as bus spaces are limited and
difficult to rearrange at the last minute.
It is the sole responsibility of the student to inform their coach if they are unable to a attend practice by
meeting in a face-to-face discussion 24 hours prior to the practice. The student must present a parent
consent for the absence 24 hours in advance.
Students who are absent on a practice day due to sickness, a field trip, or have parent consent for their
absence will not be considered absent.
Students who do not have a conversation with their coach explaining the reason for their upcoming
absence and presenting their parent consent for their dismissal 24 hours prior to the scheduled practice
time will be marked as an unexcused absence.
One unexcused absence in the season will result in the student being benched in the following SKAC
game.
SKAC team members who attend a SKAC tournament from Monday-Thursday are expected to be at
school the following school day. We appreciate that team players will be tired and sore the following day,
however, unless they are severely injured, absence the day after a SKAC event will not be excused
without a doctor’s note and valid explanation.
SKAC team members who attend a SKAC tournament are expected to be at their pick up location 5
minutes prior to their scheduled pick up time. Students will then be dropped off in the evening at the same
location, however due to the logistics of these events a specific drop off time cannot be determined.
Students need to be available from early in the morning to late at night on tournament days.
SKAC team members are required to purchase all the required equipment they require to participate
safely in their sport. This may include items such as sport specific shoes, shin guards, sport goggles,
contact lenses or kneepads. GIFS will do its best to provide some of these items but it is first and foremost
a student’s responsibility.
SKAC team members will be given clean athletic uniforms at the beginning of every season. Students
will remain responsible for their athletic uniforms throughout the season and will return them washed and
folded at the end of the season. Students who lose their uniforms will be subject to a 50,000 won fee.
SKAC team members are to remember that they are representing GIFS at all tournaments. This means
that they must be considerate of language, clothing they wear, attitude on and off the playing field, and
overall demeanor. Students who are unable to abide by the rules and expectations set out by the Athletic
Page 33
Director and Coaches may be removed from the team as deemed necessary. Consequences/Removal from
a team may appear on a student’s Personal Record
SKAC team members are to remember that they are STUDENT-athletes and that their student conduct is
to be prioritized over their athletic endeavors. Students who are struggling with behavior and who are not
meeting the expectations of their teachers will be subject to removal from the team as deemed necessary
by the Athletic Director.
Page 34

GIFS SCHOOL HANDBOOK

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