Parent - Student Handbook - International School of Curaçao
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Parent – Student
Handbook
Information set forth in this publication may be
altered and amended as seen fit by the
Administration and the Board of Directors of ISC.
Please refer to the handbook on our website for the
most currently updated version. Your suggestions
and comments are invaluable.
Revised November 2021International School of Curaçao
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Purpose 2
Vision, Mission and Beliefs 2
Internationalism at ISC – definition and statement 2
Accreditation and Memberships 3
Admissions Policy (Conditional/Probation Admission; Academic /Attendance Probation) 3
Birthday Party Invitations / Birthday Celebrations 5
Channels of Communication 5
Communication to Parents 5
Community Service Programs 6
Course Descriptions and Curriculum 6
Daily School Schedule & School Hours 7
Dental Program 8
Discipline Philosophy (Student Code of Conduct: I Am ISC; Harassment; Bullying Policy; Cyber Bullying Policy; Student Rights 8
& Responsibilities; Discipline Procedures; Policy on reporting Child Abuse or Neglect)
Early Withdrawals 19
Emergency Evacuations 20
Enrollment, Tuition Fees and Payment Policies & Procedures 20
Extra Curricular Activities 21
Field Trips 21
Graduation Requirements (Credits) 21
Health Care and Safety Issues 22
Homework 23
International Baccalaureate Program (IB) 23
Lost and Found 24
National Honor Society (NHS/NJHS) 24
No Smoking, Please! 24
Overdue Library Books 24
Parent Teacher Association (PTA) 24
Policy Manual 24
Promotion and Retention of Students 24
Reporting on Student Progress 25
Social Media 26
Standardized Testing 26
Student Absences, Tardiness & Missed Work 28
Student Arrival/Dismissal 29
Student Dress Code 29
Student Drivers 30
Student Lockers 31
Student Records 31
Student Services (Student Support Team; English as a Second Language; Guidance Counseling/College Placement; Health 31
Center; Learning Resource; Library-Media Center; Highly Able; Reading Specialist)
Technological Devices, Cell Phones, Toys, Bikes, Skateboards, etc. 34
Textbooks and E-texts 35
Visiting School Parents 35
Visitors to the Classrooms 35
Withdrawal of Students and Transfer to Other Schools 35
Parents are asked to sign the Permission Forms received and to return these
within 2 weeks to the main office. If a parent does not return the signed forms,
the school will consider that parents are in agreement with all the points on the
form.
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PURPOSE
The International School of Curaçao is a K-12, private, non-profit, coeducational day school
located in Curacao, Dutch Caribbean. ISC’s mission is to serve the expatriate and local
community in Curaçao by providing a high quality educational curriculum that prepares
students for further study at accredited schools around the world.
ISC VISION, MISSION AND BELIEFS
Our Vision:
An international education today for the global citizens of tomorrow
Our Mission:
The International School of Curaçao (ISC) educates students from diverse cultures to have
the skills to think creatively, communicate effectively, reason critically, and act
compassionately.
ISC has pledged to achieve this by providing a high quality English medium education using
United States and internationally recognized standards.
Our Beliefs:
In order to bring the Vision and Mission of ISC to life, we aim to develop future citizens as
individuals who are collaborative, involved, respectful, and responsible.
Individuality:
Students receive instruction that meets their learning needs.
Collaboration:
Collaboration and open communication among teachers, students, parents, and
administrators is essential for developing confident, self-directed, life-long learners.
Involvement:
Students learn best when they are actively involved in the learning process and reflect on
their learning experiences.
Respect:
Student performance is enhanced by mutual respect and cultural sensitivity within the ISC
community.
Responsibility:
Learning in a physically and emotionally secure environment provides students with the skills
and knowledge to become globally responsible citizens.
INTERNATIONALISM AT ISC
Definition
Internationalism at ISC: teaching about the lives, environments, social, political, economic,
and cultural interactions and connections that exist across national and cultural borders while
acknowledging people’s complexities.
Internationalism Statement
The International School of Curaçao strives to incorporate internationalism in all areas of the
school. Internationalism is an embedded core value in our curriculum, teaching practices, and
management. The ISC community values the school’s commitment to encourage global
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thinking, impart knowledge about the nations of the world, and inspire cultural awareness and
cooperation with others to develop an appreciation of universal human values.
The diversity of the school community contributes to the sharing and analysis of multiple
perspectives when examining the interconnectedness of local and global issues such
as geopolitics, environment, health, trade, sustainable development, and human
rights. Community service opportunities at ISC encourage international connections by
tackling global issues at the local level. Fluency in multiple languages is essential to the
practice of internationalism. The multilingual program and environment at ISC facilitates
communication that fosters cross-cultural understanding.
These values and practices enable our students to negotiate an ever-changing global society.
ACCREDITATIONS AND MEMBERSHIPS
The International School of Curaçao is accredited by the New England Association of Schools
and Colleges (NEASC) and by the Council of International Schools (CIS). The school is also
authorized by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO).
ISC is a member of The American International Schools in the Americas (AMISA), the
Association for the Advancement of International Education (AAIE), the Association of
International School Heads (AISH), Tri-Association, and The Association of
Colombian-Caribbean American Schools (ACCAS).
ADMISSIONS POLICY
The decision to admit a student to the International School of Curacao is based on the
fulfillment of the admission requirements, space availability at the appropriate grade level, the
school's ability to meet the needs of the student, and the student's ability to fulfill program
requirements.
Grade placement of students is decided after evaluation of the school records submitted by
parents/guardians and is provisional until all the candidate's school records have been
received. The school reserves the right to change a student's grade placement after reception
of these records. Students are placed in a grade compatible with their age, development, and
previous school performance. Unless admission placement determines otherwise, projected
age at completion of 12th grade must not be older than 20 years of age.
ISC Age Guidelines – Student age by October 15:
Kindergarten Elementary
Grade 1 6
K4 4 Grade 2 7
K5 5 Grade 3 8
Grade 4 9
Grade 5 10
New students are admitted throughout the year, provided there are spaces available in the
respective grades and provided the applicant has submitted completed application
documentation together with an application fee of ANG. 200 per student.
Students who are on the island at the time of application will be administered an admission
screening test. For students who are overseas, official school records and the Teacher
Recommendation Forms are carefully reviewed to determine eligibility for admission.
Maximum class size is 18 students for all grades. Consideration is given by administration to
expatriate families up to a maximum of 20 students. When classes are full, students will be
added to a waiting list and may receive a letter of provisional acceptance. As soon as a space
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becomes available, parents of these students will be notified.
Admission of limited/non-English speaking students
Students who are not native English speakers will be enrolled into our English as a Second
Language Program (ESL) to receive intensive instruction in English by our qualified ESL
teachers. The following students must enroll in the ESL Program:
● Student whose native language is not English
● Students studying in English for the first time
● Students who have not attended a school with English language of instruction in 5
consecutive years
Admission of students with special needs
Students with mild physical, medical, or academic needs can be accepted as long as it is
determined that the school can positively serve their special needs. Applications for special
needs students must be accompanied by complete evaluation reports from specialists in
order to be considered. Upon revision of the application documents and reports, students may
be advised to enroll in ISC’s Learning Resource Program for additional academic support.
ISC also offers support for students who are highly able, and counseling support for students
with mild emotional/social needs. Please see Support Programs for further information.
If a student requires additional support – including but not limited to external assessments,
occupational therapy, speech & language therapy or tutors – services are at the parents’
expense.
Conditional Admission and Probation Policies
1. Conditional Admission
Students are granted "conditional" admission by the Director so that the student entering ISC
can be further evaluated throughout the school year.
1.1 A student on " conditional" admission is allowed to take part in all school activities
including field trips, assemblies, conferences, and extracurricular activities.
1.2 After reviewing a student’s records for admission to ISC, there may be a need to
place the student on "probation" for the first semester or school year. This "probation"
may be for academic, attendance or discipline. Our policy states that these students
are admitted under a "conditional" basis and that they will receive a letter explaining
the student’s admission status. These students, because of one or more deficiencies,
will be held to stricter standards to be reviewed at the end of each quarter.
1.3 At the end of the school year, the status of the student is reviewed. If he/she is
below minimum standards required by the school, the student may be asked to be
withdrawn from ISC.
2. Academic Probation
In order to continue their education at ISC, students are expected to remain in good standing
in the academic, social, and personal growth areas. Students who do not demonstrate a
consistent commitment to growth in these areas will be required to continue their education
elsewhere.
2.1 Conditions for Academic Probation:
● A student who has an average for the quarter of below 70%
● A student with a failing grade in two subjects in a quarter
2.2 A student, who is placed on academic probation and fails two or more core
subjects at the end of the school year, will be recommended to the Board of Directors
for retention or withdrawal.
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2.3 During the time that a student is on Academic Probation, the student is prohibited
from participation in any extracurricular activities, including athletics, conferences,
and any other activity where the student will be representing the school.
2.4 An F grade at the end of the school year means a loss of 1.0 unit of credit and
might impair the ability of the student to pass to next year and ultimately to graduate.
2.5 An ESL student receiving direct services who regardless of modifications,
accommodations and support from the ESL department does not
meet academic expectations.
3. Discipline Probation
Students on Discipline Probation may not receive more than three Student Behavior
Referrals in a semester.
3.1 More than three referrals would lead to a disciplinary conference with the Director,
and/or High School Principal, School Counselor, Parents, and student.
3.2 Referrals may lead to suspension, depending on the severity of the student’s
actions. After three suspensions, a student will be reviewed for possible expulsion.
3.3 The parents and student will sign a disciplinary contract outlining the conditions of
probation and the consequences of further violations.
3.4 In addition to the terms of the probation, the student may also be required to
successfully complete other conditions as determined by the Director and/or High
School Principal.
4. Attendance Probation
Students on Attendance Probation will be notified after five days of absence in the first
semester.
4.1 A letter will be sent regardless of the reason for the absences. Absences from
school are often closely related to academic difficulties.
4.2 After ten days of absence in the first semester, the school will require medical
verification for each subsequent absence for the remainder of the first semester.
Failure to comply will mean the absence is unexcused.
4.3 Excessive unexcused absences (20 absences or more) might result in expulsion.
4.4 Each student is permitted five tardies per quarter due to transportation reasons.
Tardies in between classes are not acceptable.
BIRTHDAY PARTY INVITATIONS / BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS
We ask parents to be sensitive to other students’ feelings when handing out party invitations
to their children’s birthday parties. Please do not hand out invitations at school if you are not
inviting the entire class to the party. Teachers are not responsible for handing or emailing out
invitations.
We do not host celebrations during school hours. To support the tradition of sharing on
students’ birthdays, parents may only bring cupcakes, a savory treat, and/or small juices to
share with classmates during breaks. This needs to be arranged with the homeroom teacher
in advance. Parents may not bring piñatas, goodie bags, party favors, candy and/or gifts.
CHANNELS OF COMMUNICATION
✔ If a question arises related to a particular class, you should speak to the teacher
first, and if further attention is needed, the level Principal should be consulted.
✔ If the question appears to need more attention, the Director should be consulted.
✔ If further attention is necessary and/or requested by the parent, the Board of
Directors will be consulted through the Director.
COMMUNICATION TO PARENTS
Our chief means of communication with parents is through our school website www.isc.cw
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Our ISC Weekly Newsletter on the school website (under Important Links) is the best place to
keep updated with announcements and upcoming activities or events. Parents will also
receive emails with important announcements. It is also important to check the Parent Portal
on a regular basis.
Response time to emails
We value parental involvement and ask for your assistance in an attempt to improve
communication between home and school. You can help by using this handbook and/or our
website to answer your general questions; this will minimize the phone calls and emails and
improve our response time.
If you need to contact a specific staff member or department, the preferred method is via
email. While you should receive a response fairly quickly, please allow our staff 2 working
days to reply. If you have a message that requires immediate attention or must be
communicated to your child in a timely manner, please phone the school office.
COMMUNITY SERVICE PROGRAMS
The International School of Curacao aims to provide students with a means to give something
back to their community. With this aim in mind the school is committed to community service
and offers its students opportunities to participate in community service projects throughout
the school year.
Community service teaches students the value of humanity and giving to others less fortunate
than themselves. We teach our students that they can make a difference. Involvement in our
community service program raises self-esteem, promotes cooperation and teaches
citizenship. Community service fosters a sense of pride and purpose in school, providing real
life experiences and an alternative learning style for children.
Middle School and High School students engage in service both in class and as individuals.
ISC and the International Baccalaureate Organization (MYP and DP) are in agreement that in
addition to academics, schools should encourage students to explore creative interests, keep
their bodies strong through physical activity along with giving back to their communities.
With this, ISC requires a certain number of CAS hours at each grade level. Students are
expected to get a minimum number of hours and to spread those hours over the three CAS
strands (Creativity, Activity and Service).
Grade level CAS hours required
6 15
7 20
8 25
9 and 10 30
11 and 12 50 hours or a CAS portfolio and project for IB diploma students
CAS hours should be earned outside of school hours. CAS hours may not be earned by class
requirements assigned by teachers, any activities for which students receive payment or for
family obligations (including faith based responsibilities).
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COURSE DESCRIPTIONS AND CURRICULUM
ISC offers classes from K4 through grade 12. Instruction is in English with an
international curriculum using texts and materials mainly from the United States and Canada.
Detailed descriptions of courses and the school’s standards can be found on school’s
website.
DAILY SCHOOL SCHEDULE & SCHOOL HOURS
K4 through 5th: 7:50 AM – 2:00 PM
6 through 12: 7:50 AM – 2:00 PM (or a later time depending on the student’s courses)
ELEMENTARY (K4– 5th)
Times Period / Block Minutes
07:50 - 08:00 Homeroom
08:00 - 08:45 A 45
08:45 - 09:30 B 45
09:30 - 09:45 Recess
09:45 - 10:30 C 45
10:30 - 11:15 D 45
11:15 - 12:00 E 45
12:00 - 12:30 Lunch
12:30 - 01:15 F 45
01:15 - 02:00 G 45
MIDDLE SCHOOL (6th through 8th)
Times Period / Block Minutes
07:50 - 08:00 Homeroom
08:00 - 08:45 A 45
08:45 - 09:30 B 45
09:30 - 10:15 C 45
10:15 - 11:00 D 45
11:00 - 11:45 E (Recess)
11:45 - 12:30 F 45
12:30 - 01:15 G 45
01:15 - 02:00 H 45
HIGH SCHOOL (9th through 12th)
Times Period / Block Minutes
07:50 - 08:00 Homeroom
08:00 - 08:45 A 45
08:45 - 09:30 B 45
09:30 - 10:15 C 45
10:15 - 11:00 D 45
11:00 - 11:45 E 45
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11:45 – 12:30 F (Lunch)
12:30 - 01:15 G 45
01:15 - 02:00 H 45
02:00 - 03:30 I/J 90
Assemblies are announced on the school calendar and ISC Weekly. Changes will be
announced at least a week before, whenever possible.
DENTAL PROGRAM
The Sociale Verzekerings Bank (SVB) offers a dental program available to children between
the ages of 6 – 17 years (until student turns 18 years). This package involves coverage for
periodic dental check-ups as well as any other necessary treatments. The child’s dentist will
be able to provide parents with a list of treatments that are covered. This service is free of
charge.
Procedure:
● Parent has to register student at SVB, Pater Eeuwensweg 9, Otrobanda - at the
department named “Registratie” (Registration).
o For those already insured by SVB: bring the student’s SVB card.
o For government employees, bring student’s medical card.
o For those privately insured: bring proof of registration from Kranshi that has
the student’s ID number (note: NOT only date of birth, but ID number has to
be on form).
● Student has to go to one of the dentists on the list provided by SVB (available from
the School Nurse).
For questions or more information, you can contact the SVB, telephone: 434-4000, Care
Department.
DISCIPLINE PHILOSOPHY
A social contract exists among all people, whether there are written rules or not. To be a
contributing member of a civilized society, students have obligations to themselves and to
others. No person exists in a vacuum. While it is important to satisfy personal needs, it is
equally important to develop skills in cooperative ventures leading to close and positive
working relationships within groups.
A truly educated person must possess a set of personal values and code of ethics. ISC has a
major responsibility in assisting students to develop personal values, which are generally
accepted within the context of the school community and society in general. Away from ISC,
students still are representatives of their school and family, and therefore, their behavior
should reflect the highest standards.
I AM ISC (Student Code of Conduct)
I AM ISC is an ongoing code of conduct promoting the behaviors and attitude that the ISC
community as a whole strives to embody. It is part of our continuous effort to maintain a
positive school climate in the elementary, middle, and high school classes, as well as among
the teachers and staff at ISC. I AM ISC includes eight pillars of conduct: I am caring, I am
thoughtful, I am exceptional, I am honest, I am helpful, I am responsible, I am respectful, I am
internationally minded.
I am Caring:
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I show concern for others and cooperate with them.
I show compassion and try to understand other people’s needs and perspectives.
I am Thoughtful:
I think before I act.
I think about the well-being of myself and others.
I think about how my behavior can benefit or cause damage to others.
I am Exceptional:
I always try my best.
I value excellence and support it.
I accept challenges and opportunities offered to me.
I am Honest:
I say the truth.
I take responsibility for myself, my work and actions, and the resulting consequences.
I am Helpful:
I help others to achieve their goals.
I am always cooperative.
I encourage others and accommodate their needs when I can.
I am Responsible:
I am reliable.
I can be trusted and depended upon.
I am accountable for my own actions and decisions.
I am Respectful:
I respect everyone and their worth, rights, and dignity.
I respect rules.
I respect all property: mine, others’ and that of ISC.
I am Internationally Minded:
I am tolerant. I am sensitive to differences and the needs of others.
I am fair and honest no matter who I am with or where I am.
I appreciate the wonder and beauty of the world and its people.
Harassment Policy
ISC will not tolerate any behavior within the learning community, which a reasonable person
would objectively find intimidating, degrading or humiliating to others based on all relevant
facts and circumstances of each case.
Racial, Religious, National Origin, Ethnic and Gender Harassment:
Is intimidation, humiliation, or degradation of an individual or group on the basis of race,
religion, or national origin, ethnicity or gender. These forms of harassment will not be tolerated
and will result in appropriate disciplinary action.
Sexual Harassment:
Are unwanted sexual advances and other verbal, visual, physical conduct or any other
behavior of a sexual nature that is intimidating, hostile, degrading, or offensive so that a
reasonable person would objectively feel uncomfortable and possibly threatened. ISC
recognizes that healthy social and personal relationships among students include dating and
courting behaviors. ISC also recognizes that these behaviors are present in healthy
relationships among adult employees of the School. However, sexual comments, gestures, or
other forms of expression that a reasonable person would objectively find intimidating,
degrading, or offensive will not be tolerated.
There are several types of sexual harassment;
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Quid Pro Quo: someone with power uses that power improperly to gain an advantage
over someone else.
Peer to Peer: someone harasses an equal.
Hostile Environment: persistent and calculated behavior in which a reasonable person
would objectively find unreasonable and in which an unpleasant place to learn has been
produced because of things said or done to others.
Any student, teacher or personnel who has been or is being subject to harassment by a
member of the ISC community, should report such incident immediately to the Designated
Compliance Officer and/or the Director. The incident will be promptly investigated for its
validity and if deemed appropriate, action will be taken.
Bullying Policy
Philosophy
ISC is committed to providing a safe, caring and positive environment to maximize the
learning experience and opportunities for all students. Every member of this school
community (teachers, students and parents) must take personal responsibility for the
emotional and physical safety of one another and the environment. In accordance with
this mission, bullying is considered a very serious offense at our school. The staff and
administration will address incidents regarding bullying and disciplinary actions will be
applied accordingly.
In an effort to provide support to our students we have the I AM ISC Program that promotes
prosocial behaviors, and we support this program with a variety of character education
initiatives
Definition of Bullying
Any type of conduct that may:
● Reflect a coercive imbalance of power; AND
● Is severe, pervasive and often purposeful and repeated; AND
● Places an individual in (a) reasonable fear of substantial detrimental effect to his or
her person or property; or (b) to otherwise substantially interfere in a student’s
academic performance or ability to participate in any school related activity
Bullying can include, but is not necessarily limited to the following categories and specific
behaviors:
Verbal Bullying
a. Name-calling.
b. Making fun of or being disrespectful of another person’s i) physical characteristics, ii)
nationality, iii) religion, iv) color, v) size, vi) physical disabilities, vii) family issues, viii) ability to
learn, or ix) athletic ability.
c. Using inappropriate language (e.g. swearing).
d. Spreading lies or rumors about a person.
e. Laughing at another’s misfortune.
f. Inciting others to fight or bully someone in any way.
g. Putting people down.
h. Using threatening or antagonistic language.
Social Exclusion
a. Not allowing someone to play with or participate in a group.
b. Forming a circle or group on the playground so that another person cannot join in.
c. Speaking with a group so that one person is excluded either because of the language being
used or the slang used by a group.
d. Ignoring a person.
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e. Refusing to be someone’s friend, groups pressuring others to isolate someone or exclude
as a friend.
f. Refusing to allow someone his or her place in a line.
Physical Bullying
a. Pushing or shoving someone, hitting someone, poking or jabbing someone with hands,
fingers or objects such as pencils, sticks, etc.
b. Grabbing someone’s clothes i.e. taking off someone’s hat and throwing it down or to
someone else, grabbing a person’s clothes with the intent to tear.
c. Fighting.
d. Damaging someone’s books, pencils, pens or personal property.
Extortion/Theft
a. Taking another person’s lunch money.
b. Taking another person’s lunch.
c. Taking or hiding something that belongs to someone else.
The consequence will be based on the nature and frequency of the behavior and on the
student’s disciplinary record.
ISC expects parents to work collaboratively with the school in the solution of behavior issues.
Remediation and consequences
It is the responsibility of our staff members to use violations of the school rules as
opportunities to help students improve their social and emotional skills, accept personal
responsibility for their learning environment, and understand consequences for poor
choices and behaviors. A clear distinction exists between remediation and
consequences.
a) Remediation, intended to counter or “remedy” a behavioral mistake, can be
an effective prevention practice. Remediation measures are intended to correct the
problem behavior, prevent a recurrence, protect and provide support for the victim and
take corrective action for documented systemic problems related to bullying and
harassment. Remediation measures allow the student an opportunity to reflect on
behaviors, learn pro‐social skills and make amends to those affected.
b) Consequences tend to be punitive in nature and should be used only when
appropriate and almost always in conjunction with remediation measures.
Student Considerations:
● Age and developmental maturity of the students involved;
● Nature, frequency and severity of the behaviors;
● Relationships of the parties involved;
● Context in which the alleged incidents occurred;
● Patterns of past or continuing behaviors;
● Other circumstances that may play a role.
School Considerations:
● School culture, climate and general staff management of the learning environment;
● Social emotional and behavioral supports;
● Student‐staff relationships and staff behavior toward the student;
● Family, community and neighborhood situation;
● Alignment with policies and procedures.
● Examples of remedial measures and consequences may include, but are not limited
to, the examples listed below:
Examples of Remedial Measures
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Personal- Student Exhibiting Bullying Behavior
● Develop a behavioral contract with the student. Ensure the student has a voice in the
outcome and can identify ways he/she can solve the problem and change behaviors.
● Meet with parents/family to develop a family agreement to:
o Ensure parent/family/student all understand school rules and expectations
o Explain the long term negative consequences of bullying on all involved
o Understand consequences if bullying behavior continues
● Meet with School Counselor to:
o Decipher mental health issues – what is happening and why?
o Develop a learning plan with consequences and skill building
o Consider internal and/or external support services
● Additional social skill training such as impulse control, anger management,
developing empathy and problem solving.
● Arrange for apology – written is recommended
● Reflective essay to ensure student understands the impact of their actions on others
● Research and teach a lesson to class about bullying, empathy or similar topic (related
to incident)
● Restitution – particularly if any personal items were damaged or stolen
● Follow-up conference with student
Personal – Target/Victim
● Meet with trusted staff member to:
o Explore feelings about incident
o Develop a plan to ensure student’s emotional and physical safety at school
● Meet with School Counselor to:
o Ensure student does not feel responsible for behavior
o Ask student to log behaviors in the future
o Develop skills, tools, and strategies to resist bullying
● Follow-up conference with student
Parents, Family and Community
● Development of a family agreement
● Referral for family counseling
● Parent education workshops related to bullying and social emotional learning:
Environmental (Classroom, School Building)
● School and community surveys or other strategies for determining the conditions
contributing the bullying
● School policy and procedures revisions
● Adoption of research based social and emotional guidelines
● Communicate behavioral expectations with students, parents, and staff
● Increased supervision in known areas for bullying such as the locker areas, hallways,
and playgrounds
● Increased supervision of students during school hours (7:30 AM‐2:00 PM
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Elementary/Middle school – 7:30 AM‐3:30 PM High School)
● Professional Development for staff to learn effective intervention and prevention
strategies
The consequences for bullying include but are not limited to:
● Warnings
● Conference with student / verbal warning
● Written warning
● Detentions
● Temporary removal from the classroom
● Detention (classroom or administrative)
● Deprivation of privileges
● Suspensions
● In school suspension (after school, weekend)
● Out of school suspension
● Behavior contract (disciplinary probation)
● Parental Notification ‐Letter sent home to Parent(s)
● Parental Notification ‐Phone call to parent
● Recommendation for expulsion
● Report to law enforcement if required
Cyber Bullying
Bullying—in any form—will not be tolerated on ISC grounds. It disrupts the learning
environment and adversely affects the quality of a student’s education. Since the advent of
the Internet and personal electronic communication devices, bullying has expanded to include
cyber bullying.
Cyber bullying is the use of electronic information and communication devices to willfully and
repeatedly harm either a person or persons through the medium of electronic text, photos, or
videos. Examples of this behavior include but are not limited to:
a. Sending false, cruel, vicious messages
b. Creating websites that have stories, cartoons, pictures, and jokes ridiculing others.
c. Creating false email or social media accounts with the purpose of impersonating others or
ridiculing others.
d. Breaking into an email account and sending vicious or embarrassing materials to others.
e. Engaging someone in electronic communication, tricking that person into revealing
sensitive personal information and forwarding that information to others.
f. Posting a picture, video, or audio recording of a student without their permission.
Students must follow three basic rules in addition to the Agreement for Student Use of
Technology:
1. Any student who uses a school-provided communication device (including a computer) or
computer network (a) with the intent to intimidate, harass, or coerce another person, or (b) to
use vulgar, obscene, profane, lewd, or lascivious language to communicate such harassment,
or (c) to threaten an illegal or immoral act shall be subject to school disciplinary procedures.
2. Any student who uses a personal communication device on ISC grounds or at a
school-related function (a) with the intent to intimidate, harass, or coerce another person, or
(b) to use vulgar, obscene, profane, lewd, or lascivious language to communicate such
harassment, or (c) to threaten an illegal or immoral act shall be subject to school disciplinary
procedures.
3. In any instance in which cyber bullying creates a climate of fear and/or causes a substantial
disruption of the work of the school or impinges on the rights of other students, the person
committing the act shall be subject to school disciplinary proceedings.
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Consequences for Violation:
Any violation of these regulations shall result in loss of computer-system (technology)
privileges and may also result in appropriate disciplinary action and/or reporting to the local
judicial system.
Reporting and Investigating:
Students and staff are required to report any incidents of cyber bullying about which they are
aware. Reports may be made anonymously. Designated staff will investigate all reports, using
any electronic communications records currently kept by the school, and recommend the
school’s next course of action.
References
“DuPage County Anti‐Bullying Best Practices Manual.” January 2011.
Student Handbook‐American School Foundation of Monterrey, A.C.
Virginia Department of Education; Office of Educational Technology – Information Brief
Cyberbullying and School Policy, August 2008.
Student Rights
Each student has the right:
1. To be provided with a classroom atmosphere most conducive to learning,
2. To have a teacher who will provide positive support of the student’s appropriate behavior
and to limit the student’s inappropriate behavior,
3. To be secure and safe in his/her person and property,
4. To be treated with respect, courtesy and consideration by every student, teacher,
administrator and adult in the school,
5. To know what the rules of student behavior are,
6. To benefit from and be recognized for his/her own efforts.
Student Responsibilities
Our school requires adherence to certain basic patterns of social behavior. This applies not
only to classroom and campus events, but also at school-sponsored activities.
Specifically students will:
1. Be free of alcohol, drugs, tobacco products, and weapons, arrive to school and class on
time,
2. Be on campus during designated hours unless official permission is granted by the
Director.
3. Refrain from plagiarism and copying. A student who knowingly and deliberately uses
words or thoughts of another without acknowledging the source is committing plagiarism,
a serious offense,
4. Abide by instructions and requests of school personnel, use appropriate language,
behavior and attire,
5. Treat others with courtesy and respect, without inflicting physical or emotional harm,
6. Be honest and trustworthy, respect school property and that of others.
7. Public display of affection is not allowed.
8. General classroom management rules and expectations are set by each teacher who is
instructed to enforce good discipline at all times.
9. It is of utmost importance that all groups involved acknowledge and agree on the basic
concepts involved.
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Discipline Procedures
Certain actions disrupt the life of the school or threaten the common good. Some are very
serious, even dangerous, others are less serious and some are merely annoying. In the lines
that follow, several of these actions will be considered.
Automatic and immediate expulsion in the following cases:
Possession, sale or use of illegal drugs at school or at school functions
Possession of a firearm at school
Conviction of a felony
Spreading racial, ethnic or religious hatred or the use of fascist symbols
Out-of-school suspension or expulsion in the following cases:
Theft,
Serious physical assault,
Possession or use of alcohol at school or a school function,
Possession of weapons other than a firearm at school,
Behavior seriously interfering with the learning of others.
Out-of-school suspension or detention in the following cases:
Insubordination: Not following directions of a staff member
Gambling
Harassment, intimidation, bullying, verbal or physical threat of student, teacher or other
person
Fighting
Cheating or plagiarism (copying the work of someone else without giving them credit)
Leaving campus without permission
The use of tobacco on, or in view of campus.
Vandalism:
A vandal will clean part of the school.
Repeated vandalism will result in an out-of-school suspension.
Disruption of class:
Disruption of a class is a form of theft. It robs other students of learning. The school will not
tolerate continuing disruption of work in a class. A disruptive student may be:
a) Removed from class;
b) Be sent to the administration;
c) Be placed in detention;
d) Be placed in in-school suspension;
e) Be permanently removed from the course.
Cutting a scheduled class while in school:
First offense: Parents and School Counselor will be notified in every case.
Second to fifth offense: In school suspension
After the fifth offense the Director may recommend expulsion for the year.
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Unexcused lateness to class:
Students are expected to be in school on time. School starts at 7:50 am. A student arriving
after 7:50 is tardy and has to report to the main/high school office. Attendance records are
reviewed by the Principals quarterly.
Tardies are documented each quarter via a letter that is sent home with report
cards, a copy of which is placed in student files.
Gum chewing: Gum is not allowed in school for students and staff.
a) Do not chew gum in classrooms or school property.
b) A student who gets gum on furniture may be asked to clean gum from many pieces
of furniture.
Some further notes:
a) In the case of a detention, the parents will be notified.
b) In the case of a suspension, the parents will be asked to come for a conference.
c) All expulsions are subject to Board confirmation.
d) Students who are suspended are responsible for their missing assignments and
may lose points for work handed in late. Students are not allowed to retake any
type of tests or exams if these are scheduled on the day(s) the student was
suspended. Suspended students will get a zero (0%) for any scheduled tests or
exams on the day(s) of suspension.
e) After three suspensions, a student will be reviewed for possible expulsion.
f) In case of a criminal event occurring on campus, police will be notified to
investigate the case. Anyone who might have information during such an
investigation may be required to be interviewed by the police, including staff and
students.
g) The administration may deal with any discipline problems not treated above and
may assign penalties deemed appropriate.
ISC Child Protection Policy
Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to protect children whose health and welfare may be jeopardized
by abuse or neglect. It is further the purpose of this policy to make clear to all employees that
it is not their role to be investigator, judge and jury in cases of suspected abuse or neglect.
Rather, it is the role of employees to be faithful and timely reporters of suspected abuse or
neglect so that allegations can be brought to the attention of objective, trained and
experienced investigators.
Every student should feel safe and protected from any form of abuse which includes any kind
of neglect, non-accidental physical injury, sexual exploitation – including exposure to sexually
explicit material in any form - or emotional mal-treatment.
The I.S.C is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our students.
The I.S.C. will take all reasonable measures to:
1. Ensure that safe recruitment procedures are practiced in checking the suitability of
staff to work with students
2. Protect each student from any form of abuse, whether from an adult or another
student
3. Be alert to signs of abuse both in the School and from outside
4. Deal appropriately with every suspicion or complaint of abuse (see next section)
5. Support students who have been abused in accordance with their needs/child
protection plan
6. Be alert to the medical needs of students with medical conditions
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7. Take all feasible steps to ensure that the School premises are as secure as
circumstances permit.
8. Operate clear and supportive policies on drugs, alcohol, and substance misuse in
accordance with I.S.C’s policies
9. Every complaint or suspicion of abuse from within or outside the I.S.C. will be taken
seriously.
The Designated Compliance Officer
The I.S.C. has appointed the School Counselor with the necessary status (Designated
Compliance Officer, hereinafter referred to as Compliance Officer) to be responsible for
matters relating to child protection and welfare. The main responsibilities of the Compliance
Officer are:
1. To be the first point of contact for parents, students, teaching and non-teaching staff
and external agencies in all matters of child protection.
2. To coordinate the child protection procedures at the I.S.C.
3. To maintain an ongoing training program for all employees.
4. To monitor the keeping, confidentiality and storage of records in relation to child
protection.
The designated Compliance Officer at the I.S.C. may be contacted on the school number
(5999) 737-3633 or at complianceofficer@isc.cw. The Compliance Officer will:
1. Advise and act upon all suspicion, belief and evidence of abuse reported to her.
2. Keep the Director informed of all actions.
3. Coordinate with the proper authorities on behalf of the school.
Types of Abuse
1. Abused or neglected child means a child under the age of eighteen whose physical
health, psychological growth and development or welfare is harmed or at substantial
risk of harm by the acts or omissions of the child's parent or other individual who may
be responsible for the child's welfare (e.g. guardian, foster parent, stepparent,
teacher, etc.), or in the case of sexual abuse, of any individual. Harm can be caused
by the actual infliction of harm, including physical injury or emotional maltreatment, by
allowing such harm to occur, by failing to provide the child with adequate food,
clothing, shelter or health care, or by abandonment of the child.
2. Sexual abuse means any act by a person involving sexual molestation or exploitation
of a child including but not limited to incest, prostitution, rape, sodomy, or any lewd
and lascivious conduct involving a child. Sexual abuse also includes the aiding,
abetting, counseling, hiring, or procuring of a child to perform or participate in any
photograph, motion picture, exhibition, show, representation, or other presentation
which, in whole or in part, depicts sexual conduct, sexual excitement or
sadomasochistic abuse involving a child. Involuntary exposure to sexually explicit
material in any form is also considered sexual abuse.
3. The I.S.C. is also alert to the possibility of students harming themselves, for example
through cutting, burning, or misuse of substances as well as forms of self-harm
related to anorexia and bulimia.
Duty of Employees
1. Every employee of the I.S.C. is obligated:
a. To protect students from abuse.
b. To be aware of the school’s child protection procedures and to follow them.
c. To keep a sufficient record of any complaint, conversation or event.
d. To report any matters of concern to the Compliance Officer immediately.
Procedures
1. Initial complaint: a member of staff suspecting or hearing a complaint of abuse:
a. Must listen carefully to the student and keep an open mind. Staff should not
take a decision as to whether or not the abuse has taken place.
b. Must not ask leading questions - that is a question which suggests its own
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answer.
c. Must reassure the student but not give a guarantee of absolute confidentiality.
The member of staff should explain that they need to pass the information to
the Compliance Officer who will ensure that the correct action is taken.
d. Must keep a sufficient written record of the conversation. The record should
indicate the date, time, and place of the conversation and the essence of
what was said and done by whom and in whose presence. The record should
be signed by the person making it and should use names, not initials. The
record must be kept securely and handed to the Compliance Officer
immediately.
e. The compliance officer may draft the complaint based on the report of the
complainant, for the complainant to review and sign.
2. Reporting
a. All suspicion or complaints of abuse must be reported to the Compliance
Officer. In her absence, all suspicion or complaints must be reported to the
Director immediately.
3. The director or compliance officer may conclude that the School needs to conduct
an investigation based on information in their possession regardless of the
complainant's interest in filing a formal complaint.
The following process shall be followed:
1. The compliance officer shall investigate all formal, written complaints of abuse,
harassment, intimidation or bullying, and other information in the compliance
officer's possession that the officer believes requires further investigation.
2. In addition, the School may take immediate steps, at its discretion, to protect the
complaining student, alleged harasser, witnesses, and school employees pending
completion of an investigation of alleged harassment and may make any
appropriate referrals for assistance, including but not limited to counseling, rape
crisis intervention, etc.
3. When the investigation is completed the compliance officer shall compile a full
written report of the complaint and the results of the investigation. If the matter has
not been resolved to the complainant's satisfaction, the director shall take further
action on the report.
Allegations against Staff
The School has procedures for dealing with allegations against staff that aim to strike a
balance between the need to protect students from abuse and the need to protect staff from
false or unfounded allegations. Suspension will not necessarily be an automatic response to
an allegation. Full consideration will be given to all the options, subject to the need to
ensure:
1. The safety and welfare of the students or student concerned; and
2. The need for a full and fair investigation
Whistleblowing
All staff members are required to report to the Compliance Officer any concern or allegations
about school practices or the behavior of colleagues which are likely to put students at risk of
abuse or other serious harm. There will be no retribution or disciplinary action taken against
a member of staff for making such a report provided that it is done in good faith.
Informing Parents
Parents will normally be kept informed of any action to be taken under these procedures.
However, there may be circumstances when the Compliance Officer will need to consult the
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proper authorities before discussing details with parents.
Confidentiality and Information Sharing
The School will keep all child protection records confidential, allowing disclosure only to
those who need information in order to safeguard and promote the welfare of the student.
The School will cooperate with police and social services to ensure that all relevant
information is shared for the purposes of child protection investigations.
Orientation Process
A fixed component of all school orientation sessions for employees, students and regular
volunteers shall introduce the elements of this policy. Staff will be provided information
on recognizing and preventing harassment, abuse, intimidation or bullying. Staff shall be
fully informed of the complaint processes and their roles and responsibilities under the
policy and procedure.
Certificated or professionally licensed staff shall be reminded of their legal responsibility
to report suspected child abuse, and how that responsibility may be implicated by some
allegations of abuse, harassment, intimidation or bullying. Employees and regular
volunteers shall get the portions of this component of orientation relevant to their rights
and responsibilities. The school shall clearly post this policy against harassment,
intimidation and bullying at the school, in a place accessible to students, faculty,
administrators, employees, parents and members of the public. The notice shall include
the name, mailing address, email address, and telephone number of the compliance
officer.
Students will be provided with age-appropriate information on the recognition and
prevention of harassment, abuse, intimidation, and bullying, its devastating emotional
and educational consequences, and their rights and responsibilities under this and other
policies, and rules. This information will be shared at student orientation sessions and/or
on other appropriate occasions, which may include parents.
In addition, multicultural education programs must be developed and implemented for faculty,
staff and students to foster an attitude of understanding and acceptance of individuals from a
variety of cultural, ethnic, racial and religious backgrounds. Parents shall be provided with
copies of this policy and procedure and appropriate materials on the recognition and
prevention of harassment, abuse, intimidation and bullying.
Availability of Policy
This policy shall be provided each year to the parents of students in attendance at I.S.C. and
to each employee of the School including substitute teachers.
EARLY WITHDRAWALS
We expect students to attend school until the last day of each term, however, in special
circumstances the following applies:
✔ Parents requesting to take their child(ren) out early should write a letter with their
request to the Director at least two weeks in advance.
✔ Parents need to contact the main office coordinator to request a letter from the
school in order to receive permission from the government office (Servisio pa
Asuntonan di Enseñansa) to leave the island.
✔ Student records cannot be processed on short notice.
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✔ Report cards are not issued ahead of scheduled reporting dates, unless a student
is leaving the island. In such a case the parents should request report cards and
transcripts in the main office.
✔ Early withdrawals may result in partial credit, non-promotion and where work has
been missed, may be reflected in the subsequent progress report.
✔ It is not always possible to provide additional work for students who leave school
before the term break.
✔ A student leaving early because of extended vacation will not be given exams
missed ahead of time. Missing exams will affect the student’s grade.
✔ Absences because of illnesses or an emergency will be recorded as an excused
absence. Students who miss school for extended vacations will be recorded as
having taken unexcused absence. This is recorded as such in the attendance
records. More than 20 unexcused absences may result in a student repeating the
year.
A student who has withdrawn from school for two months or longer will be subject to
the rules of the admissions policy.
EMERGENCY EVACUATIONS
The school Administration will determine when students will be evacuated from the school.
Students rehearse evacuation and fire drills on a regular basis throughout the school year. In
case of evacuation the Class Phone Trees will be activated to ask parents to pick up their
students. These procedures are recorded in ISC’s Crisis Handbook.
In case of an emergency with the Isla Refinery, or other island-wide emergency, parents can
make the decision to pick up their children from school.
ENROLLMENT, TUITION FEES AND PAYMENT POLICIES & PROCEDURES
Please refer to the schedule of School Fees on the school website under Admissions.
Payment Policies and Procedures:
✔ An application fee is payable when handing in the application documents.
✔ All parents should fill out and hand in the Letter of Financial Responsibility.
✔ A Building Levy is charged only in the first year per new family.
✔ An applicant’s space in the school is only guaranteed after receiving the
enrollment fee. The enrollment fee is non-refundable and paid annually on April
1st.
✔ Tuition is charged yearly, per installment, or on a monthly basis. Installment and
monthly payments need to adhere to the due dates on the school fee schedule.
✔ In the case of early withdrawals, a refund could be given, contingent upon the
attendance of the student.
✔ This refund applies solely to tuition.
✔ Attendance during any part of a quarter requires payment for the entire
semester.
✔ There will be no refund for absences caused by illness or vacations.
✔ Checks should be made payable to the International School of Curacao or
deposited into one of the school’s bank accounts listed below.
✔ Late payments are subject to an additional 2% per month late payment fee.
✔ Please deliver checks in Antillean Guilders (no dollar checks) to the school office,
or deposit into the school’s account at Maduro & Curiel’s Bank,
Account # 52395204, Vidanova Bank, Account # 419900-001, or
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Orco Bank # 1096910195 payable to the International School of Curacao.
Payments can also be made via Maestro, Kompa Leon, or Credit Cards in the
school office.
No cash payments, please.
A student cannot attend classes unless tuition fees and other charges have been paid
according to the school fee schedule. Questions regarding payments should be
addressed to the Account Manager.
EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Learning Plus Program:
The school offers additional learning opportunities for students beyond the regular school day
through its Learning Plus program. Activities offered vary and may include Crafts, Dance,
Choir, Sports, Computer classes, and Chess. Course descriptions and sign-up procedures
are published and distributed at the beginning of the year. An additional fee is charged for
participating in the Learning Plus activities .More information is available from the Learning
Plus Coordinator.
Varsity Program:
The main sports covered in the school Varsity Program are Volleyball, Basketball, and Soccer.
Students have an opportunity to compete with students from local schools, and inter-islands
(e.g. Aruba, Trinidad). Information is available from the Athletic Director.
FIELD TRIPS
✔ Parent permission for occasional field trips is a part of the application for
enrollment. Please sign and return the form that you receive with this
handbook to give permission for your student to attend field trips.
✔ Such trips are covered by the school’s student insurance.
✔ Parents are notified before the trip.
✔ Kindergarten room mothers are asked to contact parents to be certain they
received the note sent home.
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS (CREDITS)
The following are the credit requirements for students to graduate from High School:
English 4 credits
Math 3 credits
Science 3 credits
History 3 credits
Foreign Languages 2 credits
Fine and Performing Arts 1 credit (music, art or drama)
PE/Health 2 credits
Other classes 6 credits
Total 24 Credits
One (1) class credit is equal to a minimum of 120 contact hours within the school's calendar
year. High School students need to complete a total of 12 credits or two years at the
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