Behavior and Expectations
AIS-R is a school that honors and promotes respect for others, inclusivity, individual differences, and appropriate behavior. We believe that ethics and values are essential in learning together. The primary responsibility for a student’s behavior rests with the individual student. Every member of the AIS-R community has rights that must be recognized and respected. With these rights come responsibilities adhere to them, and the expectation that students are mature enough to assume them.
Among these rights and responsibilities are the following:
The right to a quality education, (and the responsibility to put forth a sincere effort to learn).
The right to equal educational opportunity and freedom from discrimination, (and the responsibility not to discriminate against other).
The right to procedural due process and an appeal process in disciplinary matters, (and the responsibility to respect the processes and exercise of those rights).
The right to free inquiry and self-expression, (and the responsibility to observe limitations of those rights necessary to the greater good of our school society).
The right to be treated in a dignified way, (and the responsibility to act in a manner, which exhibits courtesy towards classmates, teachers and other staff members.
Academic Integrity Practices and Procedures
AIS-R expects and requires that students will uphold the highest standards of ethics and academic excellence. The Academic Integrity Practices and Procedures represents our effort to guarantee that students are committed to building and maintaining a learning community of the highest integrity by carrying out academic tasks with honesty in all situations. Academic Integrity includes, but is not limited to, the following:
Plagiarism (i.e., using another person’s ideas or words without giving credit to that person, including direct quotes, paraphrasing, or summarizing, and use of artificial intelligence).
Copying, by any means, other students’ home learning. Students who are observed in common areas looking at their own and another student’s lab notebook, learning sheet, or any other home learning assignment would be assumed to be in violation of this rule, regardless of the exact wording of their learning. Equally, students submitting assignments with identical phrases in free-response sections would be assumed to have violated the policy
Allowing one’s home learning to be copied. In this regard, all home learning is considered individual learning unless otherwise stated by the teacher. As such, no student should physically give their home learning to another student. If copying occurs, it will be presumed that the student sharing their home learning, allowed it to be copied
Using written formulas, hidden reference sheets, notes, codes, or key words on one’s person or objects for use on any test, quiz, presentation, or assignment without prior permission from the teacher; also, carrying such materials with the intention of using them on a test or exam
Giving answers or questions to another student during or after a test or quiz; receiving answers or questions from a student who is or has already taken a test or quiz. Students engaged in any form of unauthorized communication while in the possession of a test or quiz may be presumed to be in violation of this rule
Using the Internet, laptop computers, text messaging, phone cameras, device or other modern technology to plagiarize, copy, or share learning with another student including - but not limited to - copying and pasting in whole or in part material from the Internet, purchasing material from the Internet to be submitted as one’s own learning, using a translation program for a world language class, presenting lab data found on the Internet as one’s original learning, using email to share individual home learning assignments
Taking credit for learning done by someone else (e.g. family members or tutors) including submitting rough drafts or similar ones created by another person
Presenting invented data as authentic (e.g. lab results for lab activities that have not actually been conducted, information, or cited sources in a 'works cited' or reference page)
Any other behavior that could be reasonably construed as academic dishonesty, including class-specific expectations.
Note: For cooperative learning: all written assignments are considered to be individual assignments unless otherwise stated by the classroom teacher. Although it is acceptable to talk with classmates, friends, and family members about what you are studying and thinking. Always remember that you are responsible for your own written assignments and you are also responsible if your friends copy your written assignments.
AIS-R Artificial Intelligence Policy
Latest developments in artificial intelligence (AI) software, such as ChatGPT, that can write sophisticated essay responses have generated a great deal of interest and discussion. AIS-R will not ban the use of AI software as that is not an effective way to deal with innovation. However, the use of AI tools should be in line with the AIS-R's academic integrity policy.
AIS-R predicts that artificial intelligence (AI) technology will become part of our everyday lives—like spell checkers, translation software and calculators. We, therefore, need to adapt and transform our educational programmes and assessment practices so that students can use these new AI tools ethically and effectively. As this innovation progresses, AIS-R will work to help support their students with how to use these tools ethically in line with our principles of academic integrity.
Students should be aware that the AIS-R does not regard any work produced—even only in part—by such tools, to be their own. Therefore, as with any quote or material from another source, it must be clear, using the appropriate citation format, that any AI-generated text, image or graph included in a piece of work, has been copied from such software. The software must be credited in the body of the text and appropriately referenced in the bibliography.
AIS-R expects to update this policy on a regular basis as this, and other innovations, develop.
Please note: AIS-R AI Policy is guided by and aligned with the policy articulated by the International Baccalaureate Organization.
Consequences for not Honoring Academic Integrity
All academic integrity violations will be reported to the MS Office. The violation will be recorded internally.
1st Offense:
Student will re-do the essential parts of the assessment with integrity within a timeframe set by the teacher
Student will be required to meet with the AP to discuss the importance of academic integrity. Parents will be informed of the violation by the teacher.
Student will have a reflection session with the teacher, and the Grade Leader.
2nd Offense:
Student will re-do the essential assessment with integrity within a timeframe set by the teacher
Student’s parents will be informed of the violation
Student will be required to meet with the Associate Principal to discuss the importance of academic integrity and will write a reflection, review an action plan for academic integrity.
Student will after school reflection session
3rd Offense:
Student may be suspended from extracurricular activities, school trips at discretion of Principal.
Student may re-do the the assessment or be required to demonstrate their learning as determined and within a timeframe set by the teacher.
Student’s parents will be informed of the violation
Student will be required to meet with the Principal and their parents to discuss the importance of academic integrity and will write a reflection.
4th Offense: Additional Offenses will result in an invitation to leave AIS-R.
Note: If a student facing an invitation to leave AIS-R for an academic integrity violation has had no violations of academic integrity for at least one full calendar year, the school may choose, at the discretion of school administration, to allow the student to present information to support their ability to continue attending school and/or school-related events.
Parent Conferences
Parents are encouraged to make appointments for conferences with teachers at any time during the school year. This is most easily done through Powerschool or by contacting the MS School office (msoffice@aisr.org). Additionally, Parent-Teacher conferences are scheduled and indicated on AIS-R’s Master Calendar.
Middle School Dress and Appearance
AIS-R takes pride in the appearance of its students. We know that student dress and appearance are directly related to school atmosphere, student conduct and the quality of schoolwork. In keeping with the traditions and customs of the host country, modesty in school attire must be maintained. It is impossible to develop guidelines for every fad regarding dress and appearance. Please use the following guidelines in selecting appropriate clothing and determining a suitable appearance for your child.
Clothing worn to school must be clean and well-maintained. Students must keep pants on their hips without bare midriff or buttocks exposed. Modesty must prevail.
Clothing must be without chains or excessive rips, tears, and/or holes that create revealing clothing and prevent modesty.
Clothing that is sheer or mesh or undergarments that are visible, including ripped shirts, or ‘cold shoulder’ shirts and tops are not allowed
Clothing that displays offensive or distracting pictures or words or adult advertising will not be permitted. Clothes should be age appropriate!
Shirts, blouses or dresses must have sleeves that cover the shoulders and upper arms
Shorts, dresses or skirts must be an appropriate length (to the knee) and modest.
Distracting hairstyles, hair colors or tints are not appropriate in the Kingdom or at school
For safety, students should wear secure footwear to school. Shoes that are secured on the feet are best for play and running at school.
Caps, hats, bandanas, and/or sunglasses may be worn outside and removed once inside the school buildings to the discretion of the teacher. Sunscreen is highly recommended!
Abayas and Thobes are not to be worn during school
When students are found to be in violation of the dress code, they may be sent to the Middle School Office and asked to change their clothing depending on the nature of the violation. The Principals will decide the appropriate action for all dress code violations, which may include the following consequences.
1st Offense: Student receives a warning and the violation is recorded internally and notification is emailed home.
2nd Offense: Dress code violation is recorded internally. A letter is emailed home and parents are asked to respond that the dress code has been addressed at home and will not continue to be an issue. Student will sit out of both breaks in the office the following day.
3rd Offense: Dress code violation is recorded internally. Principal phones home to speak with parents. Student loses the right to abide by the AIS-R dress code and must wear AIS-R polo shirt and/or appropriate pants for 2 weeks.
4th Offense: Parent/student conference with Principal. Dress code violation is recorded internally. Student loses the right to abide by the AIS-R dress code and must wear AIS-R polo shirt and/or appropriate pants, purchased from the EAGLE’s Nest store for one month.
Dress Up Days
The school administration may designate certain days throughout the school year as Dress Up Days such as during Spirit Week or United Nations Day. Guidelines for such days will be provided prior to the designated day.
Gum Chewing
Chewing gum is not permitted on campus on school days from the time a student arrives on campus until s/he departs. The consequence for each offense is break/lunch reflection session. After the third reflection, the student will be required to attend after school reflection sessions.
Fighting
To contend through physical contact or altercation is considered fighting. All who participate, regardless of who initiates the contact are responsible. This includes “fooling around” or “play” fighting. Consequences for fighting range from missing breaks/ lunch to expulsion.
Profanity
Profanity, whether expressed in written form, verbal comments (in any language), or through hand/body gestures, will not be tolerated.
Culturally insensitive and racially offensive comments and ‘jokes’
We do not tolerate culturally insensitive or racially offensive comments or ‘jokes’ of any kind at AIS-R. Any written or verbal language, or physical gesture directed at an adult or at another student which is culturally or ethnically insensitive or racially or ethnically offensive including ‘jokes’ either implicitly or explicitly is totally unacceptable. Such actions will be dealt with immediately. This includes actions in online e-forums such as social networks, chats, blogs and the like. The consequences for culturally insensitive and racially offensive comments and ‘jokes’ range from after-school reflection sessions, meetings with parents, and/or possibly expulsion.
Intimidation and Harassment
We do not tolerate intimidation and/or harassment of any kind at AIS-R. Any written or verbal language, or physical gesture directed at a teacher or at another student which is insolent, demeaning, abusive, or implicitly or explicitly implies a threat of bodily harm is totally unacceptable. Such actions will be dealt with immediately. This includes actions in online e-forums such as social networks, chats, blogs and the like. The consequences for intimidation and harassment range from after-school reflection to out-of-school suspension.
Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment is defined as “unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal, visual, or physical conduct of a sexual nature, made by someone from or in the educational setting.” This can also include, but is not limited to, sharing inappropriate pictures via email and on the Internet and inappropriate sexual advances conveyed in online forums such as social network, chats and email. Board policy makes it clear that a student may be suspended from school or recommended for expulsion if the Superintendent and the Principal determines that the student has committed sexual harassment.
Theft/Vandalism
Theft and vandalism will not be tolerated. Students will be held responsible for behavior (regardless of their intent) which results in the damage or loss of school property or the personal property of another community member.
Smoking/Vaping
AIS-R is a smoke/vape-free campus and is serious about the health risks associated with smoking/vaping. Students will neither be allowed to smoke/vape nor be in possession of any tobacco or vaporizer (eCigarette) products and/or paraphernalia under any circumstances on the AIS-R campus, including in the parking lot. This also applies to all school-related functions and activities, including Week Without Walls and other school trips, whether on or off campus. Anyone caught in possession of smoking/vaping paraphernalia or caught in the act of smoking/vaping will adhere to the following:
1st offense: Student will be assigned an in school suspension, meet with the Principals and write a reflection. A notification to parents will be sent home, and the behavior will documented internally.
2nd offense: Student will be assigned an out of school suspension, meet with the Principals and write a reflection. A notification to parents will be sent home, and the behavior will documented internally.
3rd offense: Student will be sent home and parents will be asked to meet with Principals for a review of enrollment.
Drug-Free Environment
Unlawful possession, use, or sale of any controlled substance or alcoholic beverage (including being under the influence of) is a serious matter, and a violation of the laws of our host country, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Any infraction, including possession of drug paraphernalia while under the supervision of the school, subjects a student to expulsion. AIS-R reserves the right to monitor its students’ health through medical testing for illegal substances should it be deemed necessary by the school administration.
Weapons/Look-a-like Weapons
Use or possession of weapons or look-a-like weapons may result in recommendation for expulsion.
Public Displays of Affection/Inappropriate Physical Contact
Public displays of affection and inappropriate physical contact include, but are not limited to: hand-holding, arms around each other, kissing, hugging, sitting in between the legs of another, etc. Public displays of affection are not appropriate in the Kingdom or at AIS-R. Repeated PDA will result in consequences as determined by the school’s administration.
Deliveries
Students are expected to come to school prepared each morning. Among the items the school will not accept for delivery to Middle students are home learning assignments, laptops, food, lunches, money, sports clothes and projects.
Classroom Behavior
In order for students to make the most of their educational experiences they must assume the responsibility to:
Respect AISR Core Values
Report to classes on time
Bring appropriate learning materials and supplies to class with them, including laptop and charger
Not chew gum or bring food or drink (except water in a reusable bottle) to the classroom
Be attentive to teacher instruction, learning on assigned tasks, participate in class activities and complete all assigned learning to the best of their ability
Language Usage at AIS-R
English is the primary language of instruction at AIS-R. As a result, students are encouraged to speak English when communicating at school to be inclusive of all school community members. We believe that language plays a central role academically, and also the socially. We also believe that language plays a significant role in the development of community identity and inclusion. We recognize that Mother Tongue is a valuable part of a students' identity but we ask that when speaking in one's native language, all Eagles are reminded to be respectful of the learners around them.
Cell Phones
Cell phones must be stored in a student’s locker with the ringer turned off. Cell phones are not to be used during break or lunch. Students may use their cell phones for appropriate purposes before school and after school. Any recording (audio or visual) using a cell phone is strictly prohibited unless with the direct permission of the teacher and/or person being recorded/photographed. Middle School leadership reserves the right to check phone contents when necessary.
Misuse of Cell Phones
1st offense: The cell phone may be confiscated and held in the office for remainder of the day. It may be collected no earlier than 3:30 pm. A Student Care Form ticket to be completed.
2nd offense: The cell phone may be turned into the MS Office each morning for one calendar week. It may be collected no earlier than 3:30 pm each day.
Repeated offenses or keeping the phone when it is expected to be turned in: The cell phone may be collected until parents are able to pick it up.
Search and Inquiry of Personal Property, including Devices
In cases where a student is suspected of using a device inappropriately (either on or off campus), bring contraband items to school, etc. an AIS-R administrator and/or faculty member has the right to search the device or personal belonging of the student, to include, but not limited to: bag, pencil case, wallet, pocket, device, phone, car, locker and PE locker.
In turn, AIS-R administrators and Faculty Members are in loco-parentis while school is in session, on school trips, during after-school activities etc. and thus have the right to question students who are believed to be in violation of school rules by using devices inappropriately or bringing contraband items to school, or are believed to be witnesses to a violation of school rules and Core Values involving using devices inappropriately or bringing contraband items to school. Parents will be contacted when such an incident occurs and appropriate disciplinary consequences will be enacted once a thorough inquiry has taken place.
Devices include password protected devices, where the student is honor-bound to provide the AIS-R Administrator/Faculty member with the password if any of the above incidents occur.
Littering
All food and other items to be discarded are to be thrown in the trash cans and recycling bins provided. Discarding trash in the parking lot, flower beds, halls, desks, locker areas, and courtyard areas etc. is unacceptable and will result in disciplinary action.
Reflection Sessions
A reflection session is assigned for unacceptable behavior, including but not limited to sleeping in class, play fighting, defiance and disrespect. These reflection sessions are designed to have students grow from their mistakes, and take responsibility for their decisions, while developing actions to prevent a reoccurrence as well as make amends for their decision. Reflection Sessions may be served after school between 3:30 - 4:30 at the discretion of the Administration. If a student repeatedly misses or refuses to attend an assigned reflection session, the situation may be escalated and result in further consequences, including but limited to suspension from school.
In-School Suspension (ISS)
Students may be assigned either a half or a full day ISS. Students in ISS are provided with assignments and required to spend their time reading and writing. They may complete their assignments for full credit.
Out-Of-School Suspension (OSS)
OSS is the temporary removal of a student from school for various reasons which include (but are not limited to) disrespect for an adult or peer, lack of cooperation, or disrupting the teaching and learning process. Students who are suspended out-of-school are not allowed on the school campus until they have been reinstated. Suspended students are not allowed to participate in school activities. Upon reinstatement, a signed letter and parent meeting are required before a student is readmitted.
When a student receives an out of school suspension, the following steps are taken:
Principal informs Superintendent
Superintendent approves suspension
Principal and/or Associate Principal:
Withholds suspended student from class until transportation is arranged
Contacts parents over phone to explain the incident, the determination of suspension and the logistics of the suspension
Prepares and sends the letter/email to parents
Principals
Communicates with teachers to inform them that the student will be out of class for the decided upon time
Meets to discuss clear expectations of behavior with student and parent upon their return to school
Collects letter signed by parents before admitting student back to class
Expulsion
Repeated violation of school rules and procedures may make a student subject to expulsion. Expulsion is a permanent removal from the student body. Only the Superintendent, following the policy stated in the School Board Policy Handbook and after recommendation from the Principal has the authority to make the decision to expel a student. Students who are expelled for disciplinary reasons are not allowed to return to campus to visit or attend any activities, nor may they re-enroll at a later date.