Student Handbook

Policies & Procedures

2018 – 2019
Notre Dame International High School (NDIHS) is a college preparatory high school formed and
operated in partnership with Notre Dame “Les Oiseaux” (NDO) and is a member of the Nacel
International School System (NISS).

The policies and procedures contained in this handbook represent the basic framework of Notre
Dame International High School. The students, staff, and families of Notre Dame International High
School are expected to create a rich, open-minded, and exciting community in which to learn and
work.

Mission Statement
NDIHS prepares students for professional success in the global community and equips students with
the tools to become lifelong learners by fostering the development of critical thinking and
communication skills through inquiry and collaboration as they gain a strong sense of personal and
social responsibility. We encourage students to grow in their compassion for others, appreciate and
respect other cultures, recognize the value of different viewpoints and work towards a more
peaceful world grounded in intercultural understanding.

Curricular Goals
Students will demonstrate proficiency in the NISS curriculum by:
● Producing high-level work that prepares them for higher education or professional life;
● Demonstrating effective problem-solving skills in various settings;
● Integrating and applying the knowledge and experience gained in all subject areas;
● Gathering, analyzing, and interpreting information gained from research, prior learning, and
different world perspectives.

Students will develop and refine their intercultural thinking skills by:
● Learning to understand the viewpoints of others and allowing this information to shape their
own perspective of the world;
● Challenging their personal biases and beliefs through the examination of other worldviews;
● Using knowledge and critical thinking to develop educated positions on topics and issues
that will improve their interactions with others.

Students will demonstrate their ability to communicate effectively within an intercultural setting by:
● Improving skills in oral and written language;
● Expressing thoughts and ideas with clarity, purpose, and cultural awareness;
● Recognizing, analyzing, and evaluating various methods of verbal and nonverbal
communication;
● Developing mastery of English (or for U.S. students, another world language), to be
successful in postsecondary studies.

Students will exhibit personal and social responsibility by:

● Practicing personal and academic integrity;
● Accepting, appreciating, and understanding human diversity as it relates to themselves and
others;
● Developing cultural skills such as mindfulness, empathy, self-reflection, and patience in
uncertain situations
● Understanding the impact of their actions and those of others (individuals and groups);
● Appreciating the value of learning and taking an active role in their education.

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 Academics & Curriculum
As an International Baccalaureate World School offering the IB diploma program in eleventh and
twelfth grades, Notre Dame International High School offers students the opportunity to earn an
American diploma and/or a diploma from the International Baccalaureate. Teachers and facilitators
use a combination of traditional classroom teaching and project-based teaching techniques. Parents
and host families are encouraged to contact school administration or teachers whenever they wish
to discuss their student’s performance or any other school-related issue.

American Diploma Graduation Requirements

Notre Dame International High School’s graduation requirements are designed to meet Minnesota
state standards and entry requirements for a wide range of colleges and universities. Students are
required to attend eight semesters of high school in ninth through twelfth grades and complete a
minimum of ​48 semester credits for graduation​. These 48 semester credits must also satisfy the
specific departmental requirements described below.

Students are individually responsible for seeing that they are meeting the requirements necessary
for graduation, but a counselor or administrator will monitor each student’s records at the start of
each school year. Any student who has a question regarding graduation status should contact a
counselor or administrator.

Subject area graduation requirements are as follows:

Language Arts 8 semester credits (1 must be in Speech)
Math 6 semester credits
Social Studies 7 semester credits (including courses in geography, civics, U.S.
& world history, and economics)
Science 6 semester credits (2 must be in Biology)
Physical Education 2 semester credits
Health 1 semester credit
Fine Arts/Performing Arts 2 semester credits
Technology 1 semester credit
Foreign Language 6 semester credits (4 must be in the same language)
Elective 9 semester credits

Advanced Placement
To provide American diploma students with additional challenge, NDIHS offers Advanced Placement
(AP) courses. These courses allow students to explore subject matter at an accelerated level. The
AP exam for each course is administered in May of each year. ​All students enrolled in an AP class
are expected to take the AP exam in the spring. ​Preparing for and taking this high-stakes academic
test will prepare each student for the rigor they will face at the university level. ​Student fees
covering the cost of the AP exam and supporting materials appear on the student’s Powerschool
account.

Colleges and universities around the world award college credit for qualified AP exam scores. All
students who earn a C or better in an AP course will receive a 5% increase in their final percentage
grade for that particular course each semester. This results in an increase in the student’s overall
GPA. ​Please note: NDIHS does not elevate GPAs above 4.0.

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International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme Requirements (beginning in eleventh grade)
The Diploma Programme (DP) curriculum is made up of six subject groups and the DP core,
comprising theory of knowledge (TOK), creativity, activity, service (CAS) and the extended essay.
Through the Diploma Programme (DP) core, students reflect on the nature of knowledge, complete
independent research and undertake a project that often involves community service.

The three core elements are:

● Theory of knowledge (TOK) in which students reflect on the nature of knowledge and on
how we know what we claim to know.
● The extended essay (EE) which is an independent, self-directed piece of research, resulting in
a 4,000-word paper.
● Creativity, activity, service (CAS) in which students complete a project related to those three
concepts

NDIHS IB DP Course Offerings 2018/19

Students will take at least three but not more than four subjects at higher level (HL) and two or three
at standard level (SL). HL and SL courses differ in scope but are measured according to the same
grade descriptors, with students expected to demonstrate a greater body of knowledge,
understanding and skills at higher level.
Group 1 Studies in Language and Literature (Language A)
English Language and Literature SL
English Language and Literature HL
Group 2 Language Acquisition (Language B)
French Ab Initio SL
French Language B SL
French Language B HL
Group 3 Individuals and Societies
History SL
History HL
Geography SL
Group 4 Sciences
IB Biology SL
IB Biology HL
Group 5 Mathematics
IB Math SL
IB Math HL

The International Baccalaureate® (IB) assesses student work as direct evidence of achievement
against the stated goals of the Diploma Programme (DP) courses. The IB uses both external and
internal assessment in the DP.

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​External assessment
Examinations form the basis of the assessment for most courses. This is because of their high levels
of objectivity and reliability. They include:
● Essays
● structured problems
● short-response questions
● data-response questions
● text-response questions
● case-study questions
● multiple-choice questions – though these are rarely used.

Internal assessment
Teacher assessment is also used for most courses. This includes:
● oral work in languages
● fieldwork in geography
● laboratory work in the sciences
● investigations in mathematics
● artistic performances.

Source and more detailed information to be found on:

https://www.ibo.org/programmes/diploma-programme/

Grading System
Notre Dame International High School American Diploma grades on a four-point scale. The school
will use a variety of measures including classroom and standardized measures to document the
success of its students. Teachers will assign letter grades to students. The following letter grades will
be used:

All non-AP courses IB AP courses

courses
Grade range IB Grade range GPA
Grade
A+ 97-100% 7 A+ 92-100% 4.0
A 94-96% 6 A 89-91% 4.0
A- 90-93% 6 A- 85-88% 3.7
B+ 87-89% 5 B+ 82-84% 3.3
B 84-86% 5 B 79-81% 3.0
B- 80-83% 5 B- 75-78% 2.7
C+ 77-79% 4 C+ 74% 2.3
C 74-76% 4 C 2.0
C- 70-73% 4 C- 70-73% 1.7
D+ 67-69% 3 D+ 67-69% 1.3
D 64-66% 3 D 64-66% 1.0
D- 60-63% 3 D- 60-63% 0.7
F 40-59% 2 F 40-59% 0.0
F 0-39% 1 F 0-39% 0.0

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Percentages are rounded to the nearest tenth of a point in the calculation of grades. NDIHS does not
report class ranks.

During the first week of school, teachers will explain their individual grading policies.

All assignments must be completed before the last day of the semester. No further work will be
accepted after grades are finalized.

Cumulative grades, in the form of a report card, are available two weeks after the end of each
semester. Grades and attendance can be viewed in PowerSchool (link:
https://nacel.powerschool.com/public/home.html​ ).

Homework
Homework is an extension of classroom learning; it reinforces classroom instruction and it is
important for academic success. Students are expected to complete homework properly and on
time. The amount of homework will vary with grade, subject, and student work habits. Parents and
host families are encouraged to communicate with their student to ensure that homework is
manageable and up to date. Ultimately, the responsibility for meeting homework demands rests
with the student.

Final Exams
Final exams will take place at the end of each semester. All students are required to participate in
final exams. Students with conflicts due to multiple courses must schedule an alternative exam time
with the teacher.

Academic Intervention
If a student demonstrates unsatisfactory academic progress, they will meet with their advisor or an
administrator. The advisor assists the student in developing a student success plan. A copy of this
plan will be sent to host parents or natural parents. A copy of the report is also kept on file at NDIHS
to track future progress.

A plan for success may include the following:

● recommendation of outside tutoring
● meeting outside of class time with teacher
● student assigned to supervised evening study hall
● meeting with the student/parent(s)/school counselor
● limitation of participation or exclusion from athletics or extracurricular activities

Academic Probation
A student may be placed in academic probation if the student’s GPA falls below 2.0 at the end of any
semester or if the student earns a grade of F. Students who are placed on academic probation must
meet with teachers and administrators to address the deficiency and develop a plan for success.

A student who remains on academic probation for two or more consecutive semesters may not be
invited to return to NDIHS.

Academic Integrity
Cultures around the world have different ideas about what is considered cheating in school.
Students are responsible for learning, understanding, and following NDIHS guidelines for cheating in
school.

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Academic dishonesty is not tolerated at NDIHS. It is the responsibility of the school community to
educate students on academic honesty and integrity. As partners in education, parents are expected
to aid in holding students accountable to this policy.

Examples of cheating include, but are not limited to, the following:
● Turning in work that is not your own.
● Plagiarism (including copying from the internet).
● Collusion-copying the work of others or allowing others to copy your work.
● Sharing or acquiring test information from another student.
● Using crib sheets for exams (except as allowed by teachers).

More specifically, plagiarism is using another person’s words or ideas without giving credit to that
person. Plagiarism includes, but is not limited to, the following:
● Using another person’s words as your own (with or without that person’s consent).
● Buying a paper online.
● Copying from written sources without proper citation.
● Copying and pasting from online sources without proper citation.
● Failing to identify quotations in a paper.
● Changing words but copying sentence structure from another source.
● Copying so many words or ideas from a source that it makes up the majority of your work,
whether you give credit or not.
● Using pictures, data, graphs, etc. without proper citation.
● Citing sources incorrectly.

If students have questions about plagiarism, there are a variety of resources they may use to better
understand this topic. Students should talk with their teacher about specific assignments in
question. Also, students should speak with their English teachers or librarians as they are experts in
documentation. Finally, there are countless online resources to help students understand and avoid
plagiarism, e.g. Purdue OWL (Online Writing Lab).

All teachers use Turnitin as one tool to detect possible issues with academic integrity. Students are
encouraged to take full advantage of the training and diagnostic elements of this program before
submitting work to be graded.

NDIHS fully supports and adheres to all academic honesty policies of the International Baccalaureate
Diploma Program and will follow all procedures related to reporting violations of these policies.

Students who violate academic integrity shall, after due process, be subject to failure on assignments
and examinations, failure in courses, and suspension or expulsion as follows:
● First reported violation of the academic honesty policy results in a grade of 0 on the
assignment and a formal warning.
● Second violation will result in a 0 on the assignment and academic probation.
● Third violation or cheating on a final exam will result in loss of credit with a final grade of F
reported on the transcript and may result in further disciplinary action up to and including
dismissal from school.

Academic Transcripts
Academic transcripts are available at any time with the submission of a ​Transcript Request Form;​
allow up to two weeks for processing. Transcript cost: no charge for transcripts picked up in the
school office or emailed; 10.00€ for each transcript mailed to an address within France; transcripts
mailed outside of France require special, traceable shipping and charged depending on the country

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of receipt so the price range is 20-70€. Transcript Request forms can be found on our school
website.

International students are responsible for providing administration with special instructions,
payment, etc. regarding legalization of documents. Final transcripts are available one week after the
close of grades.

Accommodations
While Notre Dame International High School does not provide special education services, we will
provide reasonable classroom accommodations to students who have been diagnosed with a
learning disability. Examples of reasonable accommodations include, but are not necessarily limited
to, the following:
● Extended time on tests.
● Preferential seating.
● Clarification of test directions and items.
● Oral testing.
Documentation of diagnosis and education plan recommendations must be kept on file in the school
office and updated as determined by the educational psychologist filing the report.

Notre Dame will also work with families regarding special education referrals and identifying local
service providers.

Honor Roll
To reward and encourage academic excellence among Notre Dame International High School
students, an honor roll is published at the end of each semester. This honor is extended to students
in grades nine through twelve with a semester GPA of 3.7 to 4.0.

Student Accounts
All students pay a powerschool fee at the beginning of the year to cover miscellaneous charges
including supplies, library subscriptions, standardized testing, lab and IT fees, and some school and
class excursions. Charges may be added throughout the year. Additional charges may include
school, class or club trips, exam fees (AP, IB), transcript and graduation charges, consumable books
and materials, replacements for lost keys, damaged or lost books, damage to school property, etc.
Payments can be made in cash, by French cheque, wire transfer, or by credit card using the Ecole
Directe system. Ecole Directe instructions are sent at the beginning of the year. ​Grades and
transcripts are not released if there is an outstanding balance.

Attendance
The process of education requires continuity of instruction, classroom participation, learning
experiences and study in order to reach the goal of maximum educational development for each
student. Many in-class learning experiences cannot be duplicated by make-up activities. A pattern of
good school attendance benefits the learner now and transfers to future success in higher education
and in the workplace, heightens the student’s sense of self-worth, and increases one's autonomy.

Attendance shall be uniformly and regularly taken in all classes and monitored by teachers and other
staff members so that it can be used as an early warning sign of academic difficulty. Parents are
advised to monitor attendance data in PowerSchool and unexcused class absences are reported to
parents and host parents. ​ In order to earn course credit, students are expected to be present for at
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least 90 percent of class time.​ When attendance issues occur, assistance and support shall be
requested from parents/host parents to remedy the problem. NDIHS may, at its discretion,
intervene with reasonable instructional alternatives when a student's absenteeism contributes
substantially to unsatisfactory academic achievement and progress toward a high school diploma.
Students that do not respond to school and parent interventions may be dismissed.

Attendance Responsibilities
Students ​are expected to:
● Attend class every day, be on time, and be prepared for class.
● Attend field trips and other mandatory school-sponsored events.
● Contact each of his/her teachers (in advance, if possible) to discuss missed work.
● Obtain assignments and complete make-up work within the time specified by the teacher.
● Present their ​carnet de correspondance​ with a note from their parent or host parent to the
school office upon returning from any absence.

Families or host families ​are expected to:

● Request authorization from the headmaster for foreseeable absences at least three days
prior to the absence. If the authorization is granted, the student is responsible for notifying
his teachers and requesting any make-up work ahead of time.
● Report unforseen absences, regardless of reason or cause, by 9h00 each day. Consecutive
absences must be reported daily. Report absences by one of the following methods:
o Phone 01 39 28 15 00. If the call goes to voicemail, please leave a message with the
student’s name, the date, and the reason for the absence.
o Email: ​[email protected]
● Complete the absence section of the ​carnet de correspondence​ so the student can present it
to the school office upon return from any absence.
● Monitor your student’s attendance online with Powerschool and notify the office of any
concerns or errors.
● Arrange any travel to occur within the school vacation periods as defined on the NDIHS
Academic Calendar. ​Note that absences outside of these dates will not be approved or
excused. ​The most up-to-date calendar is available on the school’s website.

Teachers​ will:
● Take attendance in Powerschool for each class period within the first 15 minutes of class,
noting whether students are present, absent, or tardy.
● Notify the office of any errors or corrections that need to be made.
● Follow up with students and parents when attendance issues adversely affect student
academic performance.

Administration ​will:
● Record all absence-related information reported by parents.
● Attempt to contact families/host families if a student is absent and the family has not
contacted the school.
● Determine whether an absence is excused or unexcused, based on school policy and the
information reported.
● Monitor student attendance for problems.
● Recommend and implement intervention when needed.
● Reevaluate process and procedures as needed.

Absences & Tardies

The following classifications will be used regarding absences: excused, unexcused, and
school-authorized.

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Examples of Excused Absences
Personal illness
Family emergency or death in the family
Medical/dental appointments
Prearranged college visits/exams (limit of 3 days)
Major religious holidays
Legal/visa matters, court appearances, etc.

Unexcused Absences –Absences which are not authorized by the parent/guardian or the school.
Unexcused absences include:
Arriving more than 20 minutes late to class
Departing early from class without authorization
Class "cuts" or "skips"
An unauthorized departure from campus
Vacation/weekend extensions
Suspension from class or school

School-authorized absences - The school authorizes students to miss regular classes in order to
participate in alternative activities. As these are school activities, students are marked ‘present’.
Interscholastic athletic or academic competitions and events
Approved field trips
Special services support groups
Student recognition and award ceremonies
Standardized testing

Consequences for tardiness

Students who arrive after the start of class, but before 20 minutes have passed, will receive a mark
of ​Tardy, unexcused. ​The administration considers 3 marks of ​Tardy, unexcused​ the same as one
class period skipped and will assign consequences accordingly. ​Even if a student will be late, it is
important that they attend class. ​Students, who are more than 20 minutes late, will receive a mark
of ​unexcused absence​ and will receive consequences accordingly.

Make-up Work
Each teacher has an individual make-up work policy. The student assumes responsibility for
understanding this policy, obtaining assignments, and completing the make-up work in the time
specified by the teacher.

Behavior & Conduct

Statement of Philosophy on Conduct and Discipline:
Respect for oneself, for others and for the educational institution.

School climate is shaped by many factors including: the nature of the student body, the teaching
staff, the family, the community, the educational program, the physical plant, and the available
resources. The impact of each of these factors is greatly affected by the school's policies which
attempt to bring them into a positive working relationship. There are school rules and regulations
designed to help sustain this relationship and forms of control over student conduct to help avoid
disruption of it. Without discipline in the school, optimum learning cannot occur.

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It is imperative that everyone be aware of the rights and responsibilities of the individual. Students
must be assisted to become both self-respecting and respecting of others. It is in this manner that
positive school climate can be built. However, in those instances where students do violate the rights
of others, neglect their own responsibilities, and in other ways cause school climate to deteriorate,
there must be forms of control over student conduct and forms of disciplinary action to be taken.

It is equally important that a truly humane school environment demonstrate a sincere concern for
the welfare and rights of staff members and our school policies must reflect that concern.

Responsibilities of the School

● The Administration and Board of Notre Dame International High School​ and ​Nacel
International School System​ in conjunction with the ​Assigned Principal (chef
d’établissement) ​establish and implement our code of conduct. The Board, acting through
the Administration, holds school employees responsible for the supervision of the behavior
of students while they are legally under the supervision of the school.

● The Headmaster ​shall be responsible for implementing all necessary procedures, rules, and
regulations to make effective the policies relating to the standards of student behavior and
for the total operation of the school, within the framework of the procedures established by
the Administration and the Board.

The headmaster shall be responsible for posting and disseminating the rules and regulations
currently in effect for the school to all students, parents, and all interested community
groups at the beginning of each school year and to each new student upon registration.

The headmaster is also responsible for informing students of their rights and responsibilities
and to lead a discussion of these rules, rights, and responsibilities with the faculty prior to
the opening day of school each year and with all new faculty members when they begin their
duties in the school.

The headmaster has the authority to impose suspensions consistent with guidelines of the
French Ministry of National Education on students who fail to comply with school
regulations.

● The Faculty​ shall be responsible to the headmaster for the implementation of all necessary
procedures, rules, and regulations to make effective policies relating to standards of student
behavior in the classroom, the school building, on school grounds, and at school events off
school grounds.

● Teachers​ have the responsibility to see that all students are informed of standards of
behavior required. In addition to enforcement of formalized rules and regulations, teachers
may use such reasonable measures as necessary to maintain student control in school
buildings, on school grounds and at school events off school grounds. Teachers have the
responsibility to record and report serious discipline problems to a building administrator.

Student Rights
The rights of an individual are preserved only by the protection and safeguarding of the rights of
others. A student is responsible for the manner in which his/her individual rights are exercised and
must accept the consequences of any actions that are committed outside the boundaries of those
rights.​ ​The staff, students, and parents must work cooperatively if the goal of the democratic society

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within the school is to be realized. Rights bring responsibilities. The rights and responsibilities stated
here are those which may arise in our school environment but may not be all-inclusive.

▪ The Right to Learn

Each student has the right to attend school and gain an education as provided by law. This
includes the right to make up work missed during an excused absence.

▪ The Right to Free Speech and Expression

Students at Notre Dame International High School represent a wide range and diversity of
opinion and background. Students have the right to express opinions, to take stands, and to
support causes, either publicly or privately, provided such expressions are not libelous or
obscene according to current legal definition and do not interfere with the rights of others or
disrupt the atmosphere for learning.

▪ The Right to be Informed of Rules

Each student has the right to be informed of all policies, rules, and regulations they will be
expected to follow. Copies of these rules governing the code of conduct shall be available in
each school office, and the basic rules shall be published and distributed to all students,
parents, and host families. Rules and regulations will be provided to all students in classes
and/or other groups during the first month of the school year.

▪ The Right to Privacy of School Records

Students' rights to privacy regarding school records will be protected and any disclosure of
information from student permanent records shall be consistent with legal requirements.

▪ The Right to Personal Property

Students have a right to be secure in their persons and property; however, they shall not
bring onto school property or to school sponsored events anything that would cause, or tend
to cause, disruptive activity or would endanger the health and safety of any person. Lockers
and dormitories are the property of the school and may be searched by school officials.

Student Responsibilities
Students are responsible for the consequences of their behavior. All students are responsible for
complying with all school rules and regulations. The headmaster shall be responsible for informing
the parent/guardian/host parent of any student whose behavior is in serious conflict with
established rules, public laws, and procedures.

▪ Responsibility for Academic Work

Students are responsible for completing class assignments on time and according to the
instructions given by the teachers, and for completing assignments missed during an
excused absence. Students are responsible for bringing to class all materials required for
daily classroom use.

▪ Responsibility Regarding Attendance and Tardiness

Students are responsible for being in attendance and on time both at the beginning of each
school day and for each class or activity for which they are scheduled. Students arriving to
school late are to report to the office before going to class.

▪ Responsibility for Self-Discipline

Students are responsible for complying with the rules and regulations of NDIHS and for

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 accepting the authority of school personnel on school property and at school sponsored
events. Failure to meet these responsibilities will be cause for disciplinary action.

All students should have a complete understanding of expected behavior as listed in the Student
Handbook. If a student does not understand any provision of the student handbook, the student is
responsible for seeking clarification from the headmaster.

Campus Arrival and Departure

Students can enter and exit only through the main gate unless they take the school bus to school.
These students will enter and exit by the Chemin Vert entrance (to the right of the cafeteria).

Students should not loiter outside the gates before or after school. Students must also avoid
gathering in large groups on the sidewalks off campus for security reasons and out of respect for the
local community and residents.

School Grounds
Students will respect the park, school equipment, security installations and the premises. Violations
will be punished according to the severity of the damage and the costs incurred will be charged to
parents.

Any false alarm activation will lead to expulsion.

Classroom Conduct
Teachers and facilitators may establish specific classroom rules in addition to those stated in this
handbook. Students are expected to follow classroom rules. Failure to comply with classroom rules
will result in disciplinary action.

Field Trip and Off-campus Conduct

Students are expected to follow all NDIHS rules while attending school field trips or while off campus
during school. Students are further expected to act as school representatives and to behave in a
manner that will not embarrass themselves, their peers, their families, their individual countries, or
Notre Dame International High School.

Guests
For safety and security reasons, guests are not permitted on campus.

Identification
Students are required by French law to carry their identification with them at all times. They are to
present this to any law enforcement officer upon request. Students should carry their passport or a
copy of their passport along with their school identification at all times; students should keep an
extra copy of their passport in a safe location.

School issued agendas (carnets de correspondence) and ID cards, including meal cards remain the
property of Notre Dame International High. Students are to carry these agendas and cards at all
times when on campus and safeguard them against loss and abuse. If any school staff requests a
student to give them their ID, the student will give it to them respectfully. Lost or stolen cards must
be replaced via the school office for a small fee (6€). No exit from campus will be allowed without
school ID.

Lunch

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Lunch in the main cafeteria is provided to all NDIHS students and students must scan their cantine
card upon entering the cafeteria. Alternatively, students may choose to buy snack items or lunch at
the Open Cafe-adjacent to the cantine. Students must deposit money on their cantine card prior to
going to the Open Cafe to buy food or drink via the Ecole Direct system.

During the lunch break, students can relax in the park or in the lobbies of specific buildings. Students
are not allowed to be inside classrooms or other unsupervised areas.

Park, Environment
Students are responsible for respecting the school environment. Many of the trees on campus are
centuries old and the park is a protected area. It is the collective responsibility of all members of the
community. Students must respect the flora and fauna. Garbage should be placed in the bins
located around campus.
During times of high winds and lightning storms, the park may be closed and students must go inside
a school building immediately. In order to preserve our green space, the areas beyond the sports
fields are off limits.

Losses & Theft

Without waiving our educational role, the school cannot accept responsibility for valuables or money
that students bring to school. Students are discouraged from bringing items of value or personal
importance to school with them. We recommend clearly labeling all personal property with a
permanent marker. Unmarked items that are found will be taken to the Lost & Found. Items not
claimed at the end of the semester may be donated.

School Lockers
School lockers are the property of Notre Dame International High School and are provided for the
convenience of students. At no time does the school relinquish its exclusive control of its lockers.
Students should not have an expectation of privacy of the interior of their school lockers. Inspection
of the interior of lockers may be conducted by school officials for any reason at any time, without
notice, and without student consent. The personal possessions of students within a school locker
may be searched when school officials have reasonable suspicion that the search will uncover
evidence of a violation of law or school rules.

School Textbooks and Materials

Students will be issued textbooks and other classroom materials. Students are expected to return
these books and materials in good, usable condition, or pay for their replacement. Student records
and final grades will be withheld until all payments are made. Textbooks in some classes are
required to be purchased by the student.

Student Behavior and Dress

A student shall dress and behave in a manner that does not distract or detract from the educational
process or result in damage to school facilities. Dress and personal grooming should be modest,
neat, clean, and appropriate to the activity. Visible tattoos are not permitted.

Students must wear clothes that are appropriate for school. Students are not allowed to wear
low-rider pants, torn jeans or oversized clothing that would reveal any undergarments (such as bra
straps, underwear or boxer shorts); sports clothes outside of gym class; shorts, pajamas, revealing
outfits; clothing bearing messages or logos relating to violence, alcohol, drugs, sex, or gangs;
unnatural hair, or excessive piercings. Caps, hats and other headwear are not permitted in school.

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If students are dressed inappropriately, they may be sent home to change or required to wear a fully
buttoned lab coat for the remainder of the day; any absences due to inappropriate dress are
considered ​unexcused​. Repeated violations of this policy will lead to disciplinary action.

Student Searches
The personal possessions of students, whether on their person, in desks, lockers or in dormitory
rooms may be subject to a reasonable search when the school has a reasonable suspicion that
evidence will be produced that the student violated the law or school rules.

Materials
Lab coats are required at all times in the laboratories. Lab coats must be clean and labeled with the
student’s name.

Students will change clothes before gym class to appropriate sports apparel. Physical activity
requires appropriate sneakers ("Converse" type footwear is not appropriate). For activities
practiced in the gymnasium, students must have clean sneakers. Aerosol deodorants are strictly
prohibited.

Prohibited Behaviors
Disciplinary action may be taken for any behavior that disrupts the learning environment or violates
the rights of others. Prohibited acts that may result in disciplinary action (prohibited acts include but
are not limited to those listed below):

1. Food and Beverages

● Food and drinks may not be consumed in the classrooms or hallways.
● Energy drinks​ are not permitted on campus at any time.

2. Leaving Campus
● Students are not allowed to leave campus during the school day without proper
permission.
● Students are to show their school ID to the security guard each time they leave campus.
● Students leaving or re-entering campus during school hours must be accompanied by a
teacher or a staff member or must have authorization from the school office or
infirmary.
● In the event that a student must leave campus for any personal reason during school
hours, host parents or parents of day students must provide prior notice, if possible, and
must report to the front office to sign their child out of school.
● Office staff will mark the student’s carnet or provide a pass to inform the security guard
of the student’s permission to leave campus exceptionally.
● Violation of this policy will result in disciplinary action and notification of the student’s
parents and/or host family.

3. Portable Electronic Devices

● The use of cell phones, headphones, games, electronic consoles, and any other
electronic devices are only allowed outside of school buildings.
● Students must silence and store their cell phones when entering school buildings.
● At the request of a teacher, students may use their cellphones in an educational
capacity only.
● Music players and portable speakers are not allowed on campus (inside school
buildings or in the park).

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 If these rules are violated, the devices will be confiscated and turned over to the
headmaster. Devices will be kept for five school days. Repeated violations of this policy
will result in further disciplinary action, including extending the length of time for device
confiscation.

If a student is found using cell phones during testing, the student will receive a formal
warning. This policy also applies to​ ​watches that are "connected devices" which are
prohibited during all testing.

4. Public Displays of Affection

● Public displays of affection are not permitted on school property.
● Examples of public displays of affection include, but are not limited to, kissing on the lips
and sexual contact.
● Standard greetings such as a handshake or short hug are permitted between students.

5. Truancy
● Students shall not be truant from school. Truancy is the absenting of one's self from
school or class without lawful excuse and approval of school officials. As required by
statute, regulations of the Ministry of Education, and the administration, students shall
be in attendance each day that school is in session. The authority to decide whether an
absence is excused or unexcused rests with the administration of NDIHS. Students
returning to school following any absence will be expected to report to the office prior
to attending class and to complete all missed assignments (for excused absences) within
a reasonable period of time to be determined by the teacher.
● Habitual tardiness will be defined as truancy.
● Truancy may result in suspension or dismissal.

6. Disrespectful Behavior
● Disrespectful behavior is rude or derogatory behavior, and includes making threats or
refusing to follow directions and will not be tolerated at Notre Dame International High
School.
● Disrespectful behavior can be exhibited orally, electronically or in writing.
● A student shall comply with all reasonable directives issued by school personnel.
● A student shall not disturb or interrupt the peace and order of the school or any school
sponsored activities.

7. Failure to Speak English and/or French

● One of the goals of our program is to encourage the development of English and French
skills in our international students. For this reason, students are required to speak
English and/or French while they are at school. Exceptions will be made for language
classes and other language-based activities.

8. Theft and Vandalism

● Stealing shall be defined as the act of intentionally and without claim of right taking,
using, transferring, concealing, or retaining possession of the property of another
without regard to value, without consent of the owner, and with intent to deprive the
owner of the property, or the finding of and keeping of lost property without making
reasonable effort to find the owner
● Students suspected of possessing stolen items may be subject to a search of their person
and belongings.
● Students will respect the park, school equipment, security installations and the
premises.

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 ● Vandalism is willful damage to or destruction of school property or the property of
others.
● A student shall not cause or attempt to cause willful damage to property nor steal or
attempt to steal school or private property either on the school grounds or at a
school-sponsored activity or event.
● Any student who commits vandalism will be required to pay for the damages caused, will
be subject to disciplinary action, and may be reported to law enforcement. Student
records and final grades will be withheld until all amounts are paid.
● Theft will lead to suspension or dismissal.
● Any false alarm activation will lead to dismissal.

9. Profanity
● The use of profanity in a verbal, electronic, or written form and insulting and profane
gestures in any language or culture is prohibited at school and at school functions.

10. Assault
● A student shall not commit physical or verbal assault.
● Physical assault is any action which intentionally inflicts or attempts to inflict, or
threatens to inflict bodily harm upon another.
● Verbal assault is abusive, threatening, profane, or obscene language either oral or
written by a student toward any person. Verbal assault includes conduct which offends
or degrades persons because of their gender, race, color, creed, religion, national origin,
age, physical or mental ability, sexual orientation, or socio-economic status. Verbal
assault also includes intimidation, harassment or extortion.
● Assault will lead to suspension or dismissal and may result in referral to law
enforcement.

11. Tobacco
● French anti-smoking laws ban smoking in all schools (2006-1386 Decree of 15 November
2006) and are enforced on campus. There is no smoking in the school buildings or
anywhere on the campus. ​This also includes the use of electronic cigarettes​.
● Disciplinary action for the use of tobacco may include assignment to a Smoking
Cessation Program, suspension and/or dismissal. International students who are
dismissed will be repatriated immediately.

12. Chemicals: Drugs & Alcohol

● Any use or possession of drugs, alcohol or other illegal substances or paraphernalia may
result in immediate dismissal from school.
● Any student that buys, sells, possesses, uses, or is under the influence of alcohol or any
illegal drugs at school, on any school vehicle, or at any school event or activity, may be
subject to immediate dismissal. International students who are dismissed will be
repatriated immediately.

13. Weapons
● A student shall not have possession of a weapon in school buildings and vehicles, on
school property, in a host family home, or at any school-sponsored activity, function, or
event off school property.
● "Possession" refers to having a weapon on one's person or in an area subject to one's
control on school property or at a school activity. "Weapon" means any firearm,
whether loaded or unloaded, any device designed as a weapon or through its use
capable of producing great bodily harm or death, or any device or instrument which may
be used to threaten or cause bodily harm or death, or devices which reasonably appear

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 to be capable of threatening or causing bodily harm such as guns (including pellet guns),
knives, box cutters, lasers, clubs, metal knuckles, throwing stars, explosives, mace, stun
guns, and ammunition.
● The school administration has sole discretion in determining when an​ ​object or
substance is a weapon.
● Possession of a weapon will result in automatic and immediate suspension pending
dismissal. International students who are dismissed will be repatriated immediately.

14. Harassment and Violence

● The policy of Notre Dame International High School is to maintain a learning
environment that is free from religious, racial, or sexual harassment and violence. The
school prohibits any form of religious, racial, or sexual harassment and violence.
● No student may verbally or physically assault or harass another student, or staff
member. No student may make dangerous or intimidating threats to another person.
● A student shall not make threats which interfere with normal school operations or
school activities. These include, but are not limited to, the reporting of dangerous or
hazardous situations that do not exist.
● Harassment includes, but is not limited to, the use of degrading, profane or obscene
language, gestures and slurs on race, religion, disability, ethnic background or other
words or conduct that is threatening, offensive, or discriminatory.
● Harassment may be face-to-face, written, or sent through a third-party or an electronic
media.
● Violence is an intentional physical act of aggression upon another person that is
intended to cause fear of bodily harm or death, inflict bodily harm, or threaten bodily
harm.

16. Other Unacceptable Behavior

A student may be subject to disciplinary action for any of the following:
● Willful conduct that materially and substantially disrupts the right of others to an
education
● Willful conduct that endangers school employees, the student, other students, or the
property of the school
● Conduct which demeans, degrades or threatens another person because of gender, race,
color, creed, religion, national origin, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation or
socio-economic status
● Willful violation of any rule of conduct specified in this policy

Discipline
Rules and Regulations
The goal of discipline is educational and should lead towards a secure learning environment,
self-control, responsibility for self, and respect for law, authority, property, and the rights of others.
The ideal student behavior is that controlled by self-discipline. When that fails, school officials must
provide corrective measures which may include disciplinary actions such as detention, parent
conference, in or out of school suspension, expulsion, or referral to outside agencies. In all serious
disciplinary actions, parents, guardians, or host parents are to receive early notification of the
problem.

Students' rights to an education should not be denied because of the disruptive behavior of other
students. ​ In those instances, however, where students violate the rights of their peers, neglect their

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own responsibilities, or in other ways interfere with the climate of the school and its educational
processes, the following rules and regulations will be used to maintain an orderly educational
process. This will be done in a manner that respects the dignity of the student and promotes healthy
and responsible behavior.

Discipline will be administered in a manner which is humane, respectful and fair, and does not
discriminate on the basis of race, gender, color, creed, religion, national origin, sexual orientation,
socio-economic status, or disability. Students' rights to equal protection of the law and due process
are described in the attached rules and regulations.

Teachers have the right to remove disruptive students from the classroom under the conditions
specified in these rules and regulations. Everyone concerned with student behavior shall be
expected to deal with students in a firm, fair, and consistent fashion. It shall be the responsibility of
the headmaster to assist all concerned with this task.

Disciplinary Decisions and Actions

● All decisions regarding the level and severity of discipline are the sole discretion of school
administration (headmaster and assigned principal). Administration may, at its discretion,
consider input from faculty, parents, and student in the process.
● These decisions are final and a student does not have any right to appeal such decisions.
● A conference with a parent or host parent is required following any suspension before a
student may return to school.

Detention
● Detention is assigned for minor violations of rules.
● Skipping a scheduled detention will lead to immediate probation.
● Repeated failure to attend assigned detention may result in suspension or dismissal from
school.
● Students, parents, or host families are responsible for transportation to and/or from school
during a detention that is not held during normal school hours.

Formal Warning
● An official warning for behavior is normally accompanied by a loss of privilege and can result
in the exclusion from activities, educational outings and overnight trips. Students are not
reimbursed for expenses incurred as a result of these exclusions.
● Two formal warnings may result in a student not being invited back the following year.
● Three official warnings will result in dismissal.

Suspension
● Suspension is the separation of a student from the school community for a period of one or
more days.
● Suspension includes:
o in-school suspension: where the student is removed from class but stays on
campus;
o out-of-school suspension: where the student stays at the home of his or her host
family or returns home for a period of time while the student, family, and
administration consider whether and/or how the student can successfully continue
at NDIHS. The student’s family is responsible for costs incurred as a result of
out-of-school suspension.

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 ● The terms of a suspension are defined in each instance at the discretion of the school
administration.

Dismissal
Dismissal is the permanent barring of a student from NDIHS. Dismissal may occur for reasons stated
in this Handbook, when a student continues inappropriate behavior after probation or suspension
for the same or similar behavior, when a student’s conduct significantly disrupts the rights of others
to an education, or when school officials determine a student’s conduct endangers the student,
other students, surrounding persons, including school employees, or property of the school.

Teachers and other school officials may recommend that a student be dismissed. The school
assigned principal makes the final decision whether a student is dismissed.

Cause for suspension, exclusion, probation, or expulsion/dismissal and repatriation include, but is
not limited to:
● Any conduct to “substantially disrupt” the educational process
● Any violation of school rules or district policy
● Any damage or destruction of school property or private property on school grounds
● Any theft or attempted theft of school property
● Any threats or assaults on any person on school property or at a school-sponsored event
● Any violation of local or federal law

Should a student be dismissed from Notre Dame International High School for any reason, any
paid tuition is forfeited.

Behavioral Incident Reports

Whenever a behavioral incident requires the intervention of an administrator, the administrator will
fill out an incident report. This report documents the discussion, plan of action, and any
consequences that are appropriate. A copy of the report is sent to local parents or host parents. The
original report is kept on file at NDIHS for future reference.

Responsibilities of Parent/Guardian/Host Parent

Parents, guardians, and host parents have the legal responsibility for the behavior of their children
as determined by law and community practice. Parents/guardians/host parents are expected to
exercise the required controls so that the student's behavior will be conducive to the development
of self-discipline and the educational progress and will not be disruptive to the school's educational
program.

Since cooperation between parents and school is essential in assisting students to work to the best
of their ability and achieve a good school experience, parents/guardians/host parents have a
responsibility to help maintain communication with the school by participating in school community
activities, attending scheduled individual conferences of the headmaster or faculty, and bringing
matters of concern to the attention of the faculty and/or administration.

Possible Disciplinary Actions

Disciplinary actions may include but are not limited to:
● Detention
● Loss of school privileges
● Parental conferences with school staff
● Official warnings
● Modified school programs

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 ● Behavior Modification Plan
● Removal from class
● Suspension
● Exclusion
● Expulsion/Repatriation
● Referral to Police
● Restitution
● Referral to outside agencies for assessment

These disciplinary options are not progressive, that is, any option may be used for first offenses
dependent upon circumstances or severity.

Student Services
Notre Dame International High School believes student development is enhanced through career
and educational planning. To foster such planning, all students are assigned an advisor at the
beginning of each school year who will follow their progress throughout the year. Juniors and
seniors also have access to college counseling services at school. Notre Dame International High
School can also refer students for counseling regarding non-academic issues, vocational and business
schools, and future career planning. You can get contact information for the counselor in the school
office. Any fees incurred through these services are the responsibility of the student’s family.

International Student Health Insurance

All students are required to have a full understanding of how their personal health insurance is
administered and applies to their stay at NDIHS. Copies of coverage plans including emergency
coverage procedures that differ from the standard issue Nacel insurance must be submitted to the
NDIHS office upon arrival for recordkeeping.

Health Services
Notre Dame International High School’s infirmary is staffed by a nurse whose mission is to serve the
health needs of students. The nurse is able to treat minor injuries and ailments, and may
recommend that students see a physician for assessment of more serious problems and
recommended treatment. The NDIHS office will contact the parents and/or host family when they
learn of a serious injury or illness.

Ill students must report to the infirmary during school hours. Under no circumstances may a student
remain in his or her dorm room during the school day if s/he is ill.

Any prescription medications that a student needs to take during the course of a school day must be
presented to the school nurse with written authorization of a physician and parent/host family. The
medication should be labeled by the parent/host family and must include the following information
in English:

1. Student’s name
2. Name of medication
3. Dosage
4. Date and time of the day it is to be given
5. Duration of time it is to be administered
6. What the medication is treating
7. Physician’s name and telephone number

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Parents and host families should notify Notre Dame International High School of any changes in their
student’s health that may affect the student’s performance in school. A parent or host family should
inform the school administrative office of any change in address or phone number (home and work)
to be used in case of an emergency. If a host student is sick, please respect the welfare of others by
keeping the student home to avoid spreading the illness to others.

Activities and Athletics

Notre Dame International High School believes in involving students in activities beyond the
classroom as an integral part of their educational experience. Participation in athletics and activities
provides students with leadership opportunities and helps students develop into mature adults. To
meet the needs and foster the interests of students, Notre Dame International High School
encourages students to participate in its high school clubs and intramural sports leagues.

Any fees or other costs for private teams and clubs are the responsibility of the student.
Participation in extracurricular activities is a privilege, not a right, and students are expected to
conduct themselves as responsible citizens, to adhere to the highest standards of social behavior and
sportsmanship, and to show proper respect for authority at all times. Students may be removed
from sports or activities for some or all of a season if the student’s academic record supports such a
decision.

Technology
Student Technology Responsible Use Policy
The following procedures are applicable to all student use of network and internet systems while
using Notre Dame International High School property at any location or during school activities at
any location.
All use of educational technology must be in support of education and research and be consistent
with the mission of the school. In addition, educational technology may only be used in a manner
consistent with French law, license agreements and school policy.
Access
Network and Internet access is a privilege that requires a high level of personal responsibility and
may be denied due to inappropriate use. Inappropriate use shall include but not be limited to:
1. Using the school system for commercial and/or personal purposes.
2. Using the system to transmit inaccurate information.
3. Using the system to send, receive or view objectionable material or material that could be
described as defamatory, slanderous, libelous or inciting racism.
4. Damaging the security system.
5. Using another individual's system account.
6. Forging or attempting to forge electronic mail messages.
7. Attempting to read, delete, copy or modify electronic mail of other system users.
8. Misusing electronic mail retention guidelines.
9. Exceeding resource quotas or disk usage quotas.
10. Failing to conduct virus checks on downloaded material.
11. Vandalizing the system.
12. Violating copyright laws.

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 13. Failing to follow network etiquette procedures.
14. Submitting false or misleading information to obtain or retain access to the system.
15. Accessing the system in any manner inconsistent with the mission of the school.
16. Interfering with official school communications
The network administrators may withdraw access at any time as required. The administration,
faculty and staff of the school may request the network administrator to deny, revoke or suspend
specific system user access.
Security and Usage Guidelines
1. Appropriate language will be used in electronic mail and other electronic communications.
2. System users will be respectful of others' opinions.
3. System users will not seek information on, obtain copies of, or modify files, other data, or
passwords belonging to other system users, or misrepresent other system users, or attempt
to gain unauthorized access to the system.
4. Communications may not be encrypted so as to avoid security review.
5. Personal information such as addresses and telephone numbers will remain confidential
when communicating on the system. Students will never reveal such information without
permission from their teacher or other adult.
6. Students will never make appointments to meet people in person that they have contacted
on the system without school and parent permission.
7. Students will notify their teacher or other adult whenever they come across information or
messages that are dangerous, inappropriate or make them feel uncomfortable.
8. All Internet users are responsible to notify a system administrator or building administrator
promptly upon discovery of any suspected security breach.
9. The school unconditionally reserves the right for authorized personnel to review system use
and file content. The school reserves the right to remove a system user account on the
system or to disconnect any system user to prevent unauthorized activity.

Copyright
One of the most important issues to be addressed and taught to students is the issue of copyright
and the related areas of trademark and licensing.
System users may download material for their own use in accordance with applicable copyright laws,
school policy and administrative regulations. The Fair Use doctrine allows an individual to reproduce
portions of copyrighted work for non-commercial purposes, in some instances. Reproduction beyond
fair use requires the permission of the copyright holder or authorized person. The permission must
be specified in the document or must be obtained directly from the author in accordance with
applicable copyright laws, school policy and administrative regulations. Violations of copyright law
could lead to civil liability with excessive penalties.
System users may upload public domain programs to the system. System users may also download
public domain programs for their own use or non-commercially redistribute a public domain
program. System users are responsible for determining whether a program is in the public domain.

Liability
Access by the school to the system will be through the establishment of individual accounts. The use
of the accounts constitutes acceptance of the account and agreement by the system user to abide by
the rules of conduct and to assume responsibility for the content of that account.

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The school does not warrant that the functions and services performed by or the information or
software contained in the educational technology resources will meet the system user's
requirements or that the system will be uninterrupted or error-free, or that defects will be
corrected. The school's system is provided on an "as is, as available" basis. The school does not make
any warranties, whether expressed or implied including, without limitation, those of merchantability
and fitness for a particular purpose with respect to any services provided by the system and any
information or software contained therein.
The student and his/her parents or guardians will hold the school harmless from student violations
of copyright laws, software licensing requirements, student access of inappropriate materials,
violations by the student of others' rights to confidentiality, free speech and privacy, and damage to
systems accessed by the student.

Student Printing and Duplication Policy

Students may not print or make photocopies in the school office. Printing is available in the library
only and will require that documents be transferred to the student’s google drive. Careful planning
is required to avoid missing assignment deadlines.

Non-Discriminatory Policy
Notre Dame International High School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender,
creed, religion, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, or disability in
administration of its admissions and scholarship programs, the administration of its educational,
athletic, or other school programs, or its employment practices.

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