TEACHER HANDBOOK-1

THE HANDBOOK FOR THE ACADEMIC STAFF “It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expressions and knowledge”- Albert Einstein Revised 2021



THE HANDBOOK FOR THE ACADEMIC STAFF Revised 2021



TABLE OF CONTENTS Title Page numbers The Teacher’s Prayer ………………………….…………………4 Historical Background …………………………………………...5 School Profile …………………………………………………… 7 School Vision, Mission, Motto, Mantras, Value Statements……. 8 Core Values ………………………………………………………10 About Our Crest ………………………………………………… 11 The Houses ……………………………………………………… 13 School Song………………………………………………………14 School Hymn …………………………………………………..... 15 About Us …………………………………………………………16 Assessment Policies ……………………………………………...17-22 General Policies ………………………………………………….23-62 Classroom Management Policies ………………………………...62-66 Policies Regarding Student Discipline……………..……………. 67-77 Positive Reinforcement Policies …………………………………73-74 Roles, Functions and Special Responsibilities ………………….. 75-84 Appendices Procedural manual for reporting critical incidences……………...85-95 General Information, Organizational Chart, National Observances, Value Statements ……………………….. 96-99

4

Historical Background of Discovery Bay High School (STEM ACADEMY) Plans to establish the Discovery Bay High School started from as early as 2001. Construction works for the school started in August 2007 but the project was aborted soon after starting because of environmental concerns. This decision was a source of disappointment to the citizens of Discovery Bay. In 2018, a visit by Minister of Education, Senator the Honourable Ruel Reid, Chief Education Officer Dr. Grace Mclean, and other officials from the Ministry of Education to the Discovery Bay All Age School re-opened the discussions about the need for another high school in St. Ann to create additional spaces for secondary students. An eight-classroom block that was constructed by the Jamaica Social Investment Fund to take the All Age School off the shift system caught the attention of the team. They felt that Discovery Bay All Age campus could also accommodate a high school. Preliminary discussions were conducted by a team from Ministry of Education led by Dr. Grace Mclean, and the Board of Management of the Discovery Bay All Age to gradually transition the primary school into a high school. Consultations with the community by the Discovery Bay High Steering Committee revealed that the citizens of Discovery Bay wanted a high school but they were not prepared to lose the primary school. A proposal was presented to the Ministry of Education by the Consultation Committee for a Discovery Bay Group of Schools to include an Infant, Primary and High School. This proposal was accepted by the community and the Ministry of Education. Renovation works for the project started in April 2019 and like the first Discovery Bay High, the project was also aborted soon after. However, destiny was on the side of the citizens of Discovery Bay the second time around. The project was re-started by the Ministry of Education in July 2019. Work continued through the summer 5

holidays with the Ministry of Education and the Discovery Bay High Steering throwing its all into the renovation works for school to be ready for September 2, 2019. The Discovery Bay High School (STEM ACADEMY) was opened for classes on September 2. 2019 with12 teachers (including the principal Mr. Dwayne Mulgrave and 70 students. Mr. Mulgrave was unable to operate fully as the principal until September 16, 2019 hence the Regional Director at the time, Mrs. Sophia Forbes Hall, assigned Mrs. Millicent DaCosta to give oversight to the school until the principal took office. 6

School Code SCHOOL PROFILE 06107 School Name Discovery Bay High School Locale (Address) Discovery Bay, P.O., Saint Ann Owner Type Government School Type Secondary/Coeducational Principal Dwayne Orlando Mulgrave, JP. Chairman Mrs. Pansy Johnson Supervisory Area: MOE Region 3/QEC 26 Geographical Constituency North West, Saint Ann Contact Information [email protected] Classification Grade 2 Capacity 7-13 at 100 per grade School Day Organization Whole Day 7

VISION STATEMENT An inclusive, multidisciplinary teaching and learning environment that provides learners with world-class training, certification and skills for the global workforce and industry. MISSION STATEMENT To prepare successful and productive citizens by empowering our learners with relevant life skills and portable qualifications in an inclusive, holistic, project based, interdisciplinary and innovative stem centered teaching and learning environment. MOTTO Designed for Excellence latin: “Excellentia Disposito” SYMBOLIC NAME FOR STUDENTS Our students are referred to as Egrets. They are expected to soar academically and behaviourally and showcase strength, resilience and perseverance. EGRETS’ VALUE STATEMENTS We are the Egrets of Discovery Bay High School. As Egrets we will S.O.A.R. We will Strive for Excellence We will Organise for Success We will Associate with Greatness We will Respect Self and Others Egrets S.O.A.R.! PHILOSOPHY STATEMENTS 1. We believe in holistic development for all stakeholders. 2. We believe in maintaining a standard of excellence in all that we do. 3. We believe in healthy lifestyles. 8

4. We believe that the Discovery Bay High School (STEM ACADEMY) is the “School of Choice and Champions.” MALE EGRET MANTRA “The Egret gentlemen are men of Discipline and Decorum.” FEMALE EGRET MANTRA “The Egret ladies are ladies of the finest ilk.” 9

CORE VALUES DISCIPLINE INTEGRITY SUCCESS COMMITMENT ORDER VIRTUES EXCELLENCE RESPECT YOUTHFU1L0NESS

ABOUT OUR CREST The mission, vision, ethos, core values and philosophy of the Discovery Bay High (STEM ACADEMY) are expressed by the symbols on our crest. Inclusive Education that caters to the learning needs of all students, regardless of their challenges is represented by a cake with coloured hands reaching for a slice. Our students are given equal opportunities and access to educational programmes. Academic and Co-curricular Achievement is represented by a golden Olympic torch. Every student is recognized for their special abilities and will be provided with opportunities to excel at their academic level. Resilience, Strength and Perseverance are represented by an egret. The egret is one of the more prominent birds in Discovery Bay. Empowerment and World Class Certification is the ultimate vision of the Discovery Bay High School. This vision is represented by a globe with a graduation cap. STEM-Centered Curriculum is represented by the symbols for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. Wisdom and Integrity are represented by blue and white, the colours of Discovery Bay High 11

Designed for Excellence is the motto of the Discovery Bay High School, Inspired by Psalm 139 verse 14. It is our belief that all our students were fearfully and wonderfully made by God with special talents and gifts to achieve their academic and co-curricular goals. 12

THE HOUSES The Houses at the Discovery Bay High School (STEM ACADEMY) are named in recognition of famous persons who contributed to the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. This is in keeping with the nature of the institution as a STEM-centered teaching and learning environment. Science - Einstein (Red) Einstein was born in Ulm on March 14, 1879 and spent his youth in Munich, Germany. Albert Einstein was a German-born American physicist best known for being the creator of the special and general theories of relativity and for this hypothesis concerning the particle nature of light. Einstein did not speak until the age of three. Despite this he even showed brilliancy as a child and understood difficult mathematical concepts. Technology - Edison (Yellow) Thomas Alva Edison was born on February 11, 1847 in Milan, Ohio. At the Menlo Park facility, Edison developed many important inventions. Though he is best known for his invention of the phonograph and incandescent electric light, Edison took out 1,093 patents in a variety of fields, including electric light and power, telephony and telegraphy, and sound recording. Engineering - da Vinci (Blue) Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519) was a painter, architect, inventor, and student of all things scientific. His natural genius crossed so many disciplines that he epitomized the term “Renaissance man.” Art, da Vinci believed, was indisputably connected with science and nature. Mathematics - Newton (Green) Isaac Newton was born in Woolsthorpe, England on January 4, 1643. His father, a farmer who was also named Isaac Newton, had died three months before his birth. Isaac Newton is considered one of the most important scientists in history. During his lifetime Newton developed the theory of gravity, the laws of motion (which became the basis for physics), a new type of mathematics called calculus, and made breakthroughs in the area of optics such as the reflecting telescop 13

School Song: “The Soaring Egrets” Verse 1 Steadfastly Striving, Soaring for Excellence Mounting hurdles, Soaring along the way Anchored firmly to our Vision It shall be accomplished someday Exquisitely designed for a purpose Blessed by our Father, He is most generous Determined we are on this journey Despite the challenges before us Chorus Persevering we are like egrets Designed we are for excellence From humble beginnings rise to prominence We are soaring to new heights From the northern side we come forth The Discovery Bay High School Verse 2 Guided Striving, Soaring for excellence By the vision of our founding fathers No reservations about our future He is our strength and shield Fearfully shaped for this mission Excellentia disposito, ready for service Forward together on this journey We are grateful for God’s favour towards us Chorus x2 Penned by: Raymon Treasure Musical Arrangement: Dwayne Mulgrave, Raymian Roberts 14

Discovery Bay High School (STEM ACADEMY) School Hymn \"Let the beauty of Jesus be seen in me\" Let the beauty of Jesus be seen in me All His wonderful passion and purity O, Thou, Spirit divine, all my nature refine Till the beauty of Jesus be seen in me Let my wonderful Saviour be seen in me His amazing compassion and constancy His great love is my goal, by His Spirit’s control Till my wonderful Saviour be seen in me Let the fruit of the Spirit be seen in me Grant me grace all sufficient that I may be True and faithful each day, ev’ry step of the way Pointing souls to the Saviour on Calvary By: Albert W.T. Orsborn, Tom Jones 15

ABOUT US OUR CURRICULUM The Discovery Bay High School is a STEM ACADEMY. The acronym STEM stands for (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). The STEM Curriculum blends all these subjects in the teaching and learning experience in order to provide our students with 21st century skills and certification for the industry and the global workforce. Our curriculum also emphasizes spiritual tenets, ethics, values and morals, and programmes that facilitate character development and a commitment to service, tolerance and respect for each other. The Discovery Bay High School (STEM ACADEMY) is committed to the education of the whole person by developing the intellectual, social, personal, vocational, spiritual, moral and physical dimensions. STRONG STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES The Discovery Bay High School (STEM ACADEMY) has a strong support team that provides a nurturing and supportive learning environment to our students to assist in the attainment of their stated academic and co-curricular objectives. PARTNERSHIPS Our curriculum is delivered with the support of our stakeholders including the Ministry of Education, Board, Parents, Community Groups, NGOs, Donor Agencies et cetera. FACULTY Strong instructional leadership is provided by our School’s Administration with the support of our teachers who are highly trained and committed to the development of all our students. 16

CAMPUS FACILITIES Discovery Bay High (STEM ACADEMY) is part of the Discovery Bay Group of Schools sharing the facilities with the Primary and Infant School. The school continues to grow and upgrade the facilities to deliver a STEM/STEAM curriculum up to Grade 13. The school boasts state of the art ICT, Human Ecology and Science laboratories that cater to the 21st century learning needs of our students. ASSESSMENT POLICIES • Assessment tasks administered by teachers should be based on syllabus outcomes and content. • Assessment tasks should be developed to measure a student’s achievement against the established curriculum standards and objectives. • This mapping of student achievement may also allow comparison to that of other students. • Teachers should use a wide range of assessment strategies to ensure that individual learning needs are catered for. Strategies used must be relevant and relate to appropriate syllabus outcomes. FORMAL ASSESSMENTS Heads of Department should ensure that, for each subject, values applied to each task being assessed are allocated in accordance with component weightings contained in syllabus guidelines issued by the Ministry of Education, and the relevant examination bodies. An individual task should normally not be worth less than 10%, or more than 40% of the total assessment mark. Task weightings should 17

increase towards the end of each course. Final Course work assignments for each term should be no more than 40% of the students’ term grade. TERM GRADES Students will be given several pieces of course work however only the best four grades/ averages will be used. In-class assessments should also be used to cover a range of student learning outcomes. The actual number of tasks should reflect the duration and learning outcomes of the course. Teachers should ensure that students are given graded assignments or tasks each month. The assessment process commences during Term 1 of the Academic Year and concludes at the end of Term 3. TERM EXAMINATIONS Assessment process should conclude with an Examination (formal or alternative) at the end of each term allowing time for final assessment marks to be forwarded to the Grade Supervisors and Administration. Exams are weighted 60% of the final grade. Formal examinations are written in December and June for Grades 7 to 10. The work is based on the work done during each semester · The grades 7, 8 and 9 examinations must be at least 1½ hours long. · The grades 10 to 13 examinations must be at least 2 hours long. · Formal examinations for grade 11-13 students are written in December, and Mock examinations are held in March. Mock examinations should prepare students for their final external examinations based on the all the work to be examined in final external examination. (Exception being work to be completed after the trial examination). 18

RULES AND REGULATIONS GOVERNING EXAMINATIONS AND THE CORRESPONDING PERIODS 1. Students are not to communicate to anyone other than the invigilator during an examination. 2. Students are to be prepared with your own resources for all examinations. 3. Cheating will lead to a student getting a zero for the exam he/she is sitting and may be barred from sitting all incoming exams for that period. 4. Students are expected to be early for their exams. No student will be allowed into an examination room after thirty (30) minutes has passed after the start of a paper. 5. Students are to remain in an examination room for the duration of an examination. 6. If students are to leave the room for unforeseen reasons, they cannot do so until 30 minutes has passed. 7. Students are to be properly attired in the school uniform for all examinations. 8. Only students who miss an examination due to illness and other serious/valid circumstances may be allowed to sit the paper they have missed. Proof of illness (doctor's certificate) or extenuating circumstances (formal letter) must be submitted to the VP's office before re-sit is considered. 9. Any student who disrupts an examination will be asked to leave the examination room immediately. The paper will be marked to the point where the student stopped or was disruptive and the grade given. Persistent disruptive behaviour will lead to the student being barred from incoming exams. 10. It is the student's responsibility to prepare and apply study timetables and be prepared for the daily exams. Poor grades may amount to a repeat of the grade level. EXTERNAL EXAMINATIONS All our Grade 11 students are required to sit a minimum of eight subjects in the Regional Caribbean Examination Council Examinations as well as one technical and vocational skill to meet the academic standards for graduation. Grades 12 - 13 students must sit four subjects including Caribbean Studies/Communication Studies. 19

GRADES AND GRADING 1. Purpose is to inform pupils and parents of how the student is progressing. 2. Grades are important to most parents. 3. Grades serve an important administrative purpose. 4. Grades can be a motivating factor when viewed in a positive respect. Guidelines for reporting grades: 1. Be able to substantiate the grade reported. 2. Report card grades should include achievement, participation, and attendance. 3. Substantiation of grades should include objective kinds of evaluative criteria such as tests, daily preparation, and attendance. 4. Students should be made fully aware of the standards you will impose upon them and the manner in which their performance is to be judged. 5. All incomplete grades are to be \"made up\" within 2 weeks from the close of grades for that term. In cases of extreme absence due to illness or other just cause, exceptions may be made. (Students missing class assignments or tests have two days to make arrangements for make-up with the teacher involved. If this is not done, the student will receive a \"0”). Grades are assigned according to the student's achievement in each subject. Teacher completed grades are to be in the computer by the first week of January, last week of April and the first week of July. 20

REPORTS Reports are designed to inform parents and students of progress. Completed Summative Reports must be ready by the First School week in January for the first term, first week of May for second term and first week of July for the third term. Reports are to be collected by parents/guardians or where it is difficult so to do, a responsible adult bearing a letter and copy of photo identification of the parent or guardian may collect report. The representative must identify him/herself using an accepted mode of identification. PROGRESS REPORT A progress report will be distributed six (6) weeks after the start of the first term to track the progress of students and apply the interventive strategies to scaffold the students. MID/ END OF TERM ASSESSMENTS Students will sit a standardized test for each subject after the first 6 weeks of the first term. These grades along with an alternative assessment/course work grade will be used to generate a progress report. Mid Term Assessments will also be given six (6) weeks after the start of the second term. For the Easter term, formal examinations will not be given to close the term. Teachers will give standardized assessments in lieu of the exams. These grades along with two alternative assessment course work grades will be used to generate the report for term two. GRADING SCHEMES F 0-29 POOR E 30-44 VERY WEAK D 45-54 WEAK C 55-69 AVERAGE B 70-79 GOOD A 80-100 EXCELLENT 21

CATEGORIES OF MASTERY Mastery: 70-100 Almost Mastery: 45-69 Non-Mastery: 0-44 RANKS FOR AWARDING PURPOSES Honours: 80-100 Credit: 70-79 Pass: 55-69 Fail: 54-0 TEACHER SUBJECT DATA ANALYSIS REQUIRES: 1. The overall number of students in each category. 2. Gender performance 3. Course work versus exam performance 4. Class performance 5. Trends and anomalies 6. Variables (System, Teacher, Student) affecting teaching and learning 7. Variables to be used to improve overall performance of students. CHEATING AND PLAGIARISM Students who are caught cheating for assessments will be asked to leave the invigilation centre and will be given a zero for those exams. Counselling will be mandatory for the cheater as well as a school- parent consultation on the infraction. Students who engage in academic thievery will be asked to do over assignments or may be given a zero after consultation with supervisors. Credit must be given to all sources of help using the appropriate referencing guidelines. 22

GENERAL POLICIES CODAL DUTIES OF A TEACHER (CODE OF REGULATIONS, 1980) Regulation 44-41) Principals, vice-principals, heads of department and teachers with special responsibility shall perform such functions as are stipulated in Schedule D and teachers shall perform such duties as are assigned to them. (2) In addition to regular teaching activities, a teacher's duties shall include- (a) developing lesson plans on a regular basis; (b) evaluating and testing students; (c) keeping adequate records of students' progress; (d) the facilitating of students' development on the personal and social level; (e) performing such other duties as may be required by the principal or such member of staff as may have been delegated responsibility by the principal (see Education Regulations, 1980). DISCIPLINARY OFFENCES Regulation 55:- A teacher in a public educational institution may have disciplinary action taken against him for- (a) improper conduct while in school; (b) neglect of duty; (c) inefficiency; (4 irregular attendance; (e) persistent unpunctuality; (f) lack of discipline; (g) such other conduct as may amount to professional misconduct. STAFF INCENTIVES Teachers will be awarded for outstanding work on an annual basis. Staff will be awarded for: 1. Exceptional Attendance and Punctuality 2. Exceptional Innovation 3. Form Teacher (s) of the Year 4. Grade Supervisor (s) of the Year 5. Teacher of Academic Excellence 6. Teacher of the Year CODE OF ETHICS The JTA Code of Ethics came into effect in 1977 after intensive and extensive discussion of the draft circulated to Schools, and Parish and 23

District Associations. It was amended by annual conference in 1992. It is a tool to assist teachers in evaluating their behaviour and conduct. Preamble The teacher recognizes the magnitude of the responsibility inherent in the teaching process. The necessity to earn the respect and confidence of one’s colleagues, students, parents and the members of the community provides the incentive to attain and maintain the highest possible degree of ethical conduct. The Code of Ethics of the Jamaica Teachers’ Association sets standards of conduct for teachers in Jamaica. The term “teacher” as used in this Code of Ethics includes principals. Principles Principle 1 – in Relation to Students 1. The teacher speaks to and acts towards pupils in a respectful and dignified manner. 2. The teacher does not discriminate against students on the basis of class, colour, creed, status, religious or political belief. 3. The teacher does not engage in illicit/indiscreet actions involving his/her students. 4. The teacher does not intentionally expose the student to embarrassment or disparagement. 5. The teacher does not act in such manner as might lead his/her student/students into breaches of the law nor accepted moral or social codes of behaviour. 6. The teacher does not disclose confidential information about students unless disclosure serves a compelling professional purpose or is required by law. 24

Principle 2 – in Relation to Colleagues 1. The teacher does not undermine the position, status or influence of any colleague. 2. The teacher does not accept a position where there is dispute surrounding the vacancy of the position. 3. The teacher refers to the Association disputes with colleagues arising from his/her work or professional activities which cannot be resolved at the local level. 4. The teacher recognizes the authority of school administrators and seeks to influence administrative policies and practices through accepted channels. 5. The teacher-administrator respects staff members and provides opportunities for them to participate in the decision-making processes of the school. 5. The teacher seeks to operate at all times in a context of mutual respect for the rights of other teachers. Principle 3 – in Relation to Association 1. The teacher adheres to Association policy and the decisions of its governing bodies and seeks to change these only through the Association’s constitutional channels. 2. The teacher accepts as a professional obligation participation in the activities of the Association. 3. The teacher honours commitments made on his/her behalf by Association. 4. No group of teachers or any teacher purporting to speak on behalf of such group makes representations to government, its members or officials or any other authority on matters affecting teachers generally 25

or advocates a change in educational policy without the knowledge and consent of the Association. 5. The teacher adheres to collective agreements negotiated by the organization; in case of any disagreement, he registers his protest through the constitutional channels provided within the Association. 6. In the event of dispute arising between a member and the Association, either party seeks to settle such a dispute through the constitutional channels of the Association. 7. The member does not hold membership in any other teachers’ union or organization with principles, objectives and operations which are in conflict with those of the JTA. Principle 4 – in Relation to Employers 1. The teacher honours agreement made in his contract or term of employment. 2. The teacher notifies all Boards to which he/she has sent applications as soon as he/she has accepted a position. 3. The teacher, intending to terminate his employment with a school authority, gives notice of his/her intentions according to regulations laid down by the authorities. 4. The teacher does not accept a position with any employer whose relations with the Association are unsatisfactory without consultation with the Association. 26

Principle 5 – General 1. The teacher does not engage in activities which adversely affect his professional status or ability to perform adequately his/her duties as a teacher. 2. The teacher does not engage in actions which disrupt the peace, order, discipline, and work of the institution in which he/she is employee except for industrial actions agreed upon by the Association. Postscript This Code of Ethics applies to all members of the Jamaica Teachers’ Association. A complaint of violation of the principles outlined above made to the Association by any person or group may be regarded as a charge of unprofessional conduct and shall be investigated by the Association through channels outlined in its legal documents. EMPLOYEES’ ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES The employee’s obligations to the school arise from several sources including: Ø Employment Contract Ø Personal performance objectives that has been captured through the action plans submitted and annual performance appraisal setting and review process. Ø Established prudent ethical practices and behavior. All employees should: • Know, understand and familiarize himself/herself with the terms and conditions of his/her employment. • Perform his/her duties to the best of his/her abilities with due regard to the performance and behavioural expectations established by the school and by extension the Ministry of Education Youth and Information. 27

• Ensure that his/her behaviour do not prejudice the health, safety and well-being of of fellow employees and students • Know, understand and abide by the established procedures for dealing with disputes and grievances All employees are required to: • Adhere to policies, practices and expectations, including operational and regulatory procedures. • Avoid any activity that would expose the school to loss or embarrassment. • Cooperate with any investigations being conducted as required. • While working in good faith with colleagues, be alert for any suspicious activities or unusual requests and report same to management. EMPLOYEES’ RIGHTS All staff members of the Discovery Bay High School (STEM ACADEMY) have the following rights: 1. Right to be free from discrimination based on age, gender race, national origin or religion during the hiring process and after employment. 2. Right to receive a Contract of Employment that clearly states the basic details and the main terms and conditions of their employment. 3. Right to express him/herself freely in a respectful manner. 4. Right to be compensated at the correct pay grade and on time. 5. Right to obtain all leaves entitlement (Vacation, Sick, Maternity, Departmental) 6. Right to become or not to become a member of a staff association and or trade union 7. Right to work in a safe and healthy work environment. 8. Right to have adequate resources to enhance working performance. 28

9. Right to receive time off for union business. The request for time- off should be in writing and accompanied by documentation to certify the nature of the meeting/activity. (Page 78: 16.8, Staff Orders for the Public Service 2004) 10. Right to participate in industrial actions without having the fear of being disciplined. Industrial actions shall be determined in accordance with any law, policies or procedures existing for such purpose. (Page 77: 16.7, Staff Orders for the Public Service 2004) EMPLOYEE RECORDS (STAFF ORDERS OF JAMAICA, 2004) A file shall be created when an employee starts working in the public service regardless of the type of employment. Standard documentation to be placed on file includes: a) The letter of application and/or completed application form. b) Record of employee’s performance in the selection process. c) Proof of age, qualification, marital status. d) Report of medical examination (s). e) Documentation of reference checks. f) Letter (s) of appointment g) Personal Information (next of kin, emergency contact numbers, special needs and/or circumstances, etc.). h) Leave application and permission letters. i) Copies of performance evaluation. j) Copies of training and development plans. k) Copies of certificates, results of training and development activities, citations, awards, etc.) l) Record of changes in salary, benefits and allowances. m) Copies of any disciplinary actions against the employee. DAILY SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES MONDAY: GENERAL DEVOTION AND ASSEMBLY TUESDAY: FORM CLASS DEVOTION AND ASSEMBLY WEDNESDAY: FAMILY DEVOTION AND ASSEMBLY THURSDAY: 29

WEEK 1: FORM TIME WEEK 2: CLUBS AND SOCIETIES MEETINGS WEEK 3: PRINCIPAL’S OPTION WEEK 4: CLUBS AND SOCIETIES MEETINGS WEEK 5: PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT FRIDAY: GENERAL DEVOTION AND ASSEMBLY (TERM1) HOUSE/GRADE DEVOTION AND ASSEMBLY (TERM 2) GENDER DEVOTION AND ASSEMBLY (TERM 3) ARRIVAL AT SCHOOL AND DEPARTURE The working hours of the staff in keeping with the Staff Orders of Jamaica is eight (8) hours. Faculty are expected to be at school and to sign in no later than 8: 00 a.m. using the time on the clock in staffroom and can sign out at or after 4:00 p.m. Staff members who need to leave campus during the school day must seek permission from administration. Signing in and out of the attendance register is not optional but is a requirement of the Government of Jamaica LATENESS FOR SCHOOL If circumstances beyond the control of the staff member will result in late arrival for school, it is the responsibility of the teacher to notify the office immediately so that arrangements can be made to ensure instructional supervision of assigned classes. Persistent lateness of teachers will result in disciplinary action taken against him/her citing the Education Regulations (1980)-Regulation 55. ABSENCE OF TEACHERS Casual Leave may be granted to teachers on the grounds of urgent private affairs or minor illness. The requisite documentation must be filled out prior to being granted casual leave for urgent private affairs. If a teacher is unable to come to school due to minor illness or extenuating circumstances, please inform the Principal, Vice Principal, or your Head of Department. Every attempt should also be 30

made to send work for students. In the case of pre-arranged leave, work must be left for the students with Administration so that the substitute teacher will be able to deliver the instruction to the students. ASSEMBLIES Morning assemblies take varied forms and is stipulated and facilitated by the daily schedule of activities and the Devotion Roster. During assemblies, teachers are asked to supervise the students and to be proactive in maintaining appropriate student behavior and a respectful atmosphere. All academic staff members MUST be present at the varied assemblies. Afternoon assembly is facilitated to ensure an orderly dismissal. This may be whole school, by grade, by block or varied groups of students as the case may be from time to time. REGISTRATION Students are registered at the start and end of the school day (twice daily) in keeping with the Education Regulations, 1980. After the 2nd Registration, students are required to pray and then orderly be marshalled by form teachers to assemble as directed in the prescribed area (s) for an orderly dismissal. SCHOOL BELLS The bell will ring at 8:00 a.m. every day to signal the start of school. The bell will also ring to signal the beginning and end of each class period, break, lunch and registration. These bells are the signals to mark students tardy and to release students from class, respectively. Students should be in their assigned rooms and ready to work when the bell rings for classes. Form teachers are to have the daily/class timetable posted in the Form Room and subject teachers are to release the students or wrap up the sessions on time. Please don’t release students earlier as this disrupts other classes and if they are released later it will result in them being late for the next class. 31

SURVEILLANCE CAMERAS To provide a safe and healthy environment for all our students, Surveillance cameras and recording devices will be used to monitor all activities on the campus. CLUBS/SOCIETIES/FRATERNITIES The Discovery Bay High School (STEM ACADEMY) believes in the holistic development of students: students who will be optimally rounded having the propensity and the proclivity to make positive contributions to the society and the global workforce. Extracurricular activities provide students with the avenues to unearth and develop their human resource as well as providing the ideal situations for good and creative expressions. All teachers are expected to be a part of the Clubs and Societies and serve as staff advisors as required by the Principal or his designate. Standard Procedures and Protocols for managing a Club/Society/Fraternity 1. Each club will have Staff Advisors (Volunteered or Selected) from the Academic Staff 2. All clubs must have an executive body (selected or elected) which includes: President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer 3. All clubs must meet as stipulated by the school and can meet on demand as necessary. 4. Club/Society leaders should ensure that clubs/societies collect dues and accurate records be kept of the resources by the treasurer. 5. Minutes of club meetings must be taken by the secretary. 6. Each Club/Society is to have a register of attendance and students are to be registered for each club/society meeting/session. 32

7. The Executive for Clubs and Societies should be appropriately given a badge/mark of identification and their position of responsibility should be highlighted on report cards. 8. Fundraising activities contemplated by Clubs and Societies must be sanctioned by administration and all finances must be appropriated and, in most instances, kept by the bursary. 9. Each student must be a part of two Clubs/Societies (one STEM/STEAM and one Regular) and that membership should be indicated on the student data sheet in the form registers and on report cards. STEAM CLUBS Science and Environment Technology Engineering Arts (Cultural) Arts (Visual) Maths and Games PUNCTUALITY Students are required to turn up for classes on time and teachers are expected to lead by example. The marks register should be marked for each session to monitor attendance and punctuality of students. Please ensure that classes are effectively managed. This begins with you being in the class BEFORE or at the starting time. If a student is late for your class DO NOT send them to the office but rather mark them late in your marks register and apply the requisite behaviour modification strategies to correct the behaviour. If the office is responsible for a student being late for class, a pass will be given to the student. If you are responsible for students being late to someone else’s class, you should write a pass or send a message to the teacher. 33

CORRIDOR PASS All students outside of class while classes are in session are expected to have a corridor pass. All teachers will be issued with corridor passes. Teachers should use the corridor pass judiciously and with discretion. Only one student should be using the corridor pass at any given time except in special circumstances. MAINTAINING PROFESSIONAL BOUNDARIES Staff should always maintain a professional relationship with students. It is unethical for staff to have intimate relationships with students. MENTORSHIP The Discovery Bay High School (STEM ACADEMY) believes in mentorship as an initiative to scaffold observed deficiencies. The school therefore has a mentorship programme that will require teachers to serve as mentors to certain students as well as serve as mentors for staff members or be mentored as may be necessary from time to time (See mentorship programme). P.E. REGULATIONS For recreational sports, the selected venues must be close to a health centre, and of course, all students must be supervised. No training or participation in any sporting/physical activity is to take place without the supervision of qualified staff. The readiness of participants in activities is of high priority based on age, skill and their physical condition. All participants must be cleared by a medical doctor and deemed healthy on a periodic basis especially during peak periods. SUPERVISION OF STUDENTS Student supervision is to ensure optimum productivity. It is also a health and safety issue hence it is of great importance. Students must be supervised at all times. No training, activity or meeting should happen without teacher supervision. 34

The special duty assignments regarding supervision, Prep sessions et cetera, will be communicated in writing to teachers by Administration. When everyone helps, things go smoothly. General responsibilities for supervision: Teachers should: • Turn up for duty on time and actively supervise students and encourage appropriate behavior. • Let your presence be felt by moving around and talking to students. DO NOT SIT OR STAND IN ONE PLACE. STUDENT DISCIPLINE Effective schools need a teaching-learning environment with an emphasis on positive discipline in a safe and orderly campus. For such an environment to exist, teachers should model exemplary conduct and reinforce student behaviours that demonstrate respect and excellence. Teachers should be capable of handling most cases of mis-behaviour, however serious infringements and those repeatedly occurring without any improvement in the situation should be referred to Senior Administration using the prescribed referral/intervention forms. UNIFORM ENFORCEMENT It is expected that ALL teachers will assist the Administration in enforcing the school’s uniform policy. Students out of prescribed uniform should be sent to the office. If a student is in breach of the uniform policy, every effort should be made to enforce the code. Students who appear on campus with non-uniform sweaters, sweatshirts and under-shirts showing should be asked to remove them, and they should be confiscated and logged. Please check the students´ attire at every opportunity and especially once they enter your class. 35

TUTORING Staff members must receive the approval of the principal before acting as a paid or unpaid tutor for any student. Paid tutoring is not to take place on campus during school hours. Recommendations to parents that students need tutoring should only be made after prior consultation with and approval of the principal. ALCOHOL, DRUGS AND SMOKING Discovery Bay High School is an alcohol, drug and smoke free campus. Teachers are asked to be vigilant and to report any concerns or suspicions to the principal. SCHOOL NURSE All instances of student injury or sickness are to be sent to the School Nurse immediately. A Nurse Pass will be given to teachers by the office to issue to students if they must go to the nurse’s station due to illness during your assigned sessions. Incident report forms will be provided by the office when appropriate. A teacher who gets ill at school should also report to the nurse who will do the necessary checks and make the necessary recommendations. ATTENDANCE TO AND PARTICIPATION IN SCHOOL RELATED ACTIVITIES Teachers should contribute to the holistic development of our students by supporting extracurricular activities. Students appreciate when teachers are involved in their total educational experience. Teachers are expected to attend and participate in school related functions, ceremonies and activities that lead to the personal and social development of the students. Teachers are also expected to join a S.T.E.A.M. club and a regular club. SCHOOL COMMITTEES There are several committees in the school. Teachers are expected to sit on varied committees based on their particular interests and expertise with a view to advancing the institution. 36

ATTENDANCE/TARDY REPORTING PROCEDURE 1) The beginning of each school day – Record attendance in the form/attendance register. 2. The end of each school day – Record whether the student is still at school in the attendance /form register. 3) All other class periods - ATTENDANCE MUST BE TAKEN BY EACH SUBJECT TEACHER. The integrity of our attendance reporting and tardy reporting policies relies on EACH TEACHER being prompt and consistent with reporting procedures. Attendance Registers (THE EDUCATION REGULATIONS, 1980) Regulation 27 (1) The attendance registers of students shall be marked at the beginning and end of each school day. (2) The names of boys shall be entered in the register separately from those of girls. (3) The name of a student shall be removed from the register of attendance as soon as it is known that the student has ceased to attend the institution or when the student has failed to attend the institution for a period of one month without notification of withdrawal. (4) The attendance register shall give the date of withdrawal and if it is subsequently confirmed that the student will not be returning an entry recording such withdrawal shall then be entered in the admissions register. (5) At the end of each school day the total number of students in attendance for that day shall be recorded in the logbook and the number of boys and girls in attendance shall be recorded separately. 37

(6) Attendance registers of students when completed shall be carefully preserved for at least five years after termination of the school year to which they relate. Postscript: 1. Registers are to be wrapped with cartridge paper in the colour selected by the grade level to enable preservation of the registers and easy identification. 2. All registers MUST be kept in the assigned area in the Main Staffroom so that they can be readily accessed. 3. All registers are to be checked monthly by Grade co- ordinators/supervisors to ensure that the registers are being kept in accordance with the Code of Regulations. 4. The attendance summaries in the registers must be up to date at all times. 5. The attendance registers must highlight the date of withdrawal of a student. Additionally, the date of and reason for withdrawal must be submitted to the Senior Secretary who will make a record of same in the Admissions Register. 6. Form teachers are to be vigilant regarding poor attendance or absenteeism. Once the aforementioned are noticed, the guidance counsellors, grade supervisors and senior administration should be notified so that the requisite interventions can be made. 7. If students are absent for two (2) or more consecutive days, they MUST return to school with a sick leave or letter for their files justifying their absence. Form teachers are to call home on the second day of student absence. 8. The following symbols and key should be used in the attendance registers. 38

/ \\: Present aa: Absent SK: Sick SP: Suspension E: Excused 9. Registers are to be marked neatly with a blue or black ink pen only. Only one colour ink should be used. For Marks Records, the grades are to be recorded in red. N.B. The attendance registers are legal documents and are to be treated accordingly. CARE OF CLASSROOMS, BOOKS AND EQUIPMENT The classroom is the responsibility of the teacher using the room. The ancillary staff should be supported to carry out the many housekeeping chores needed to keep all classrooms as clean, neat and orderly as we want them to be. Please help the school to keep the rooms clean by asking students to pick up litter before starting a class. Students who litter the floors should be encouraged to pick up the waste matter. The care and condition of all desks and equipment is the responsibility of the teacher. Students should never be allowed to deface the furniture, equipment and facilities in any way. If students are seen damaging school property, please take appropriate action. REQUISITION FOR RESOURCES The resource room governed by the Bursar’s office is opened for resource distribution between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. daily. Items needed MUST be requested during the stipulated hours. Documents for printing and photocopying should be submitted two (2) days before they are needed. CHILD ABUSE (SUSPECTED) Suspected cases of child abuse or neglect must be reported to the Guidance Department immediately. Teachers owe the students a duty 39

of care and must never abuse or neglect the students in anyway. Do not touch the students except in emergency cases or in cases where it is necessary to do so for the child’s safety and security. CLASS COVERAGE FOR STAFF WITH EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES Teachers having extracurricular activities and assigned duties will, on occasion, have to leave the building before their teaching assignments are completed. These teachers should contact their supervising Vice Principal time in advance with proper arrangements made to have the classes covered. CLASS MOVEMENT If your class moves from one area to another, be sure your students do not interrupt the classes that are in session and they must walk in a queue on the right side of the corridors to and from the varied spaces. CONFIDENTIALITY Teachers are required to protect the confidentiality of all general school and students’ records. Please do not discuss confidential matters regarding the school and students in the staffroom or to external persons. STUDENT RECORDS All data regarding students should be kept with utmost care in the required data storage media. Records for students managed by teachers must be available upon request. COURSE OUTLINES/SYLLABI A detailed, typed course syllabus is to be handed out to each of your students during your first class meeting with them. Your students should keep a copy of your syllabus in the front of their class 40

notebooks. Each class syllabus should contain the following information (plus whatever else you feel may be relevant): Subject name and your name Class meeting times Texts and other required books, etc. Type and frequency of assessments Format and number of research papers/reports Homework policy Coursework makeup policy/retake policy Class participation policy Absence/attendance police (with at least 20% of student grade based on attendance) Skeletal course outline Detailed accounting of how quarter/semester/yearly grade is to be computed SUBMISSION OF SYLLABI TO OFFICE A copy of every syllabus will be kept on file in the office for any officer, parent or school board member to refer to or review. APPRAISALS Each permanent teacher will be appraised at least once for the year. New teachers (provisional and temporary) will be appraised at least once per term. The appraisal process starts with the submission of the teacher action plan and the selection of a nominee. Class observations (scheduled and unscheduled) will be done by Supervisors. A panel will observe at least one lesson which leads to the completion of the instrument. Appraisal conference will be facilitated to highlighted strengths and weaknesses. See Appraisal Policy for further details. CRITICAL INCIDENT REPORTS When a student is injured on school grounds in \"your area\", first aid should be immediately administered to the injured student, and the nurse called in to administer further care. The teacher who witnessed the accident should also complete a critical incident report. The critical incident report should be handed to the Principal. (Please see appendices for further information). 41

STUDENT GOVERNMENT Disciplinary Officers, Sub-prefects, Prefects, Student Ambassadors, Peer Counsellors, Grade Ambassadors, Safety and Security Officers and Form Captains will be selected by the school to help to maintain the ethos of the school. Student leaders may be demoted for indiscipline and neglect of duty. STUDENTS’ COUNCIL Each class/form is required to elect a Students’ Council Representative to represent the interests of students and keep the administration informed about the concerns of students. An elected students’ council representative shall sit on the board of management. Elections will be held annually to select the Executive for the Council. DRESS AND DECORUM Employees should be appropriately dressed for work at all times, in a manner that demonstrates professionalism, decency and a respect for colleagues, students and members of the general public. In certain circumstances, specific attire (e.g uniform) may be required. (Page 9: 4.2.2, Staff Orders for the Public Service 2004) Good personal hygiene and personal habits are also very important. Body cleanliness, especially of the hands and fingernails is a must. No employee will be permitted to showcase piercing in any visible part of the body other than the ears while at work. All employees should use discretion in wearing attire that is appropriate for school and interaction with both internal and external customers. Clothing should therefore be neat and not body hugging whereby undergarments can be seen. 42

The Ministry of Education has given the following guidelines re dress code. What not to wear for ladies § Jeans (pants, blouses, jackets and skirts) § Tight-fitting clothing (dresses, blouses, skirts, pants) made from denim or similar materials § Camisoles, sleeveless blouses, halter or tank tops without jackets § Walking shorts, tights and pants above the ankle (cropped pants) § Slippers/sandals (except for certified medical reasons) and flip- flops § Where female staff wish to dispense of high heels at work, they are encouraged to wear flat shoes § Micro-mini and mid-thigh dresses or skirts § Skirts or dresses with splits in excess of four inches above the knee § Skirts or dresses with hemlines more than two inches above the knee § Sheer or revealing clothing that exposes cleavage/midriff § Excessive jewellery (No more than two pieces of any one item) § Eyebrow, lip or nose rings § Multicoloured or brightly coloured hair What not to wear for men § Jeans pants and shirts § Ear or nose rings § Designs in haircut, hairstyles and cornrows § Sandals and sneakers § Pants below the waist § Sweatpants § Shoes without socks § Polo shirts, T-shirts and 'ganzies' § Shirts outside of pants (except bush/shirt jackets) N.B. The School restricts the wearing of head covering except for religious/medical purposes. All formal meetings will require the business attire. CLASSROOM DISCIPLINE It is assumed that each teacher will handle his or her own classroom discipline. However, when the teacher has exhausted all immediate means of solving the problem, the student should be sent to the office. 43

The School-Wide Positive Behavioural Interventions and Supports Tracking Form should be completed and turned in to the office. These forms are available in the office. DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES Depending upon the severity of the situation, a teacher may wish to use the following procedure beginning at any intervention level. 1. Classroom warning - firm, but reasonable, state the offensive behaviour and that it has no place in the classroom. 2. Speak with the student outside of class. 3. Require student to meet with you after school. 4. Assign teacher detention. 5. Contact parents. 6. Referrals - with written pertinent items 7. Take student to Administration 8. Staff meeting with all involved personnel, student and parents. EMERGENCY EVACUATION PROCEDURES 1) Go over the escape route with each of your classes. Every student must be told how to exit your room and the school building in case of an emergency. \"Go through this door, turn left/right and. . . .\" 2) Remember that the exit you use for a fire drill and the exit you use for an emergency evacuation may be different. 44

FIRE DRILLS Fire drills will be held at various times throughout the school year. These drills are extremely important. Staff must behave as if the drill were a real emergency. Evacuation procedure: 1. Staff members are expected to leave quickly, quietly and along the wall where their room is located. Exit directions will be posted along the corridors. 2. Teachers are to lead students at least 100 feet from the building to the assembly point. 3. The register is to be taken or re-marked and immediately by the subject teacher or form teacher depending on the time of emergency evacuation. 4. Students are to return to the building in the same orderly manner when instructed so to do. 5. The intermittent siren signifies that there is a fire on the campus. The constant ringing of the bell signifies an invasion and staff members are required in that instance to lock themselves away with the students they are supervising or in a safe place in other cases until further instructed. REIMBURSABLE EXPENSES If staff attends any approved conference or meeting, and it is pre- approved by the Head of Department, or the Principal, it is expected that the school will pay for the meeting and reimburse mileage and other approved expenses. These forms are in the office. FIELD TRIPS Field trips are an important part of the teaching learning experience at the Discovery Bay High School. However, to facilitate the planning of those concerned, these trips must be planned well in advance of the schedule date of the trip and approved by the principal at least two weeks before the trip is to be taken. For liability reasons, each student 45

is required to turn in written permission from his or her parents for all field trips. Forms are available in the office for parental permission. It is the responsibility of the supervising teacher to see that the students return these forms, properly signed, to the school. These forms should be returned at least a week prior to the activity and turned in to the office by the teacher no later than the Friday before the trip. Teachers are required to keep a copy of these forms on file. If a trip is likely to involve dangerous equipment or machinery, the responsible teacher should make a personal \"pre-visit\" in order to be aware of any hazards and take all necessary precautions. Field trips are an extension of the classroom. Proper preparation should be put into them. This would include pre-planning, examining with students the purpose of the trip and what outcomes are expected. Proper follow-ups should take place in class following the trip. Transportation for all field trips should be by sanctioned by the school. Properly completed forms must be submitted to the principal at least two weeks in advance. The principal must clear all non-school transportation. The form is in the office. The office must have two copies of the trip list of participating students at least one week in advance so other classroom teachers may be notified. Any other teacher, who has a valid reason for not wanting a particular student to attend the field trip, must have dialogue with the teacher planning the trip. Teachers going on a trip should arrange with the office to have their classes properly covered. A notice of one week is required. FOOD AND DRINKS IN THE CLASSROOM Food and drinks are not allowed during class time except by permission because of special circumstances. Clear water in a bottle is an exception. If there is a special occasion in which food may be consumed it is the responsibility of the classroom teacher and the students to clean the room afterward. Please do not leave that job for the ancillary staff. 46

LEAVES (PROFESSIONAL, PERSONAL AND BEREAVEMENT) Leaves for professional, personal and bereavement days must be approved by the administration. Medical appointments, when known in advance, will be counted toward sick leave. This assists the office in arranging for a substitute. The request forms are in the office. LEAVE 1) Sick Leave Sick leave is granted to a teacher based on continuous service Continuous Duration of Sick Duration of Sick Leave New Service Leave1980 (Act) Entrants 01.09.03 3 months 5 days full pay --- 6 months 5 days full pay and 5 days 5 working days full pay half pay 12 months 10 days full pay and 10 7 working days full pay7 days half pay working days half pay 2 years but less 20 days full pay and20 15 working days full pay15 working days half pay than 5 years days half pay 5 years and over 40 days full pay and 40 28 working days full pay 28 days half pay working days half pay 47

2) Casual Leave A Board may grant leave on full pay to any teacher for short periods not exceeding three working days at a time or for not more than twelve days for teachers employed to the service before September 1, 2003. *New entrants to the service are entitled to nine days. (Note: *The term ‘new entrants’ as used in this document refers to teachers who joined the service after September1, 2003). The teacher is expected to give prior notification to the school authority of his/her intention to access casual leave. Work should be left for classes assigned. Where this is not possible, the school should be contacted as soon as possible. 3) Maternity Leave Maternity leave is granted to teachers who are absent from work because of pregnancy or confinement. A teacher who is permanently employed or has been in a temporary acting or provisional position continuously for not less than fifty-two week is entitled to two months maternity leave with pay. A teacher is entitled to maternity leave for no more than three pregnancies A teacher may use her vacation leave to which she is entitled to supplement maternity leave with full pay. 4) Vacation Leave A teacher who is recommended by the Board of a public educational institution and with the approval of the Minister be granted vacation leave of one school term if: i) He/she is a permanently employed Principal in a public educational institution for not less than four years immediately preceding the commencement of the term, or ii) Other categories of permanently employed teachers who have served in public educational institutions for not less than five 48