STUDENT HANDBOOK Secondary School - Lycée Français de New ...

LYCÉE FRANÇAIS DE NEW YORK
STUDENT HANDBOOK
Secondary School
(Sixth through Twelfth Grades)
2009 – 2010 School Year
“Everyone is entitled to a social and international order in which the rights and
freedoms set forth in this Declaration can be fully realized.”
(Article 28, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, U.N. 1948)
“Everyone has duties to the community in which alone the free and full development of
his personality is possible.”
(Extract of Article 29, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, U.N., 1948)
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This page is to be signed by the parents and the student on or before the first day
of school.
Student’s Name: ____________________________ Class:______
The registration of a student at the Lycée Français de New York implies the acceptance
by the parents or legal guardians of all the clauses of the school regulations, as well as a
commitment to comply with them and to have their child respect these terms. The Lycée
Français reserves the right not to admit to class any student in breach of the regulations
summarized in this document.
Enrollment carries a level of trust, and a student may be called upon at any moment by an
adult to help resolve an incident.
Read and accepted by:
Student’s signature
Date
Parents’/Guardians’ signature
Date
For students of 4e-Tle only:
We the undersigned,
________________________
parents/legal guardians of
enrolled in class , hereby authorize our son/daughter to leave the Lycée Français
de New York during those times of day when she/he may have no classes and according
to the terms specified in this handbook (at lunch time, or in the event of a teacher’s
absence confirmed by the School at the end of a school day); we thereby absolve the
Lycée of all responsibility for our son/daughter during these periods of absence.
________________________________________________
Parents’/Guardians’ signature / Date
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Preamble
The current school regulations define the governing rules and the code of conduct in
effect at the Lycée Français de New York for the 2009-2010 academic year. Since this
document may be revised each year or contain new information compared to the
preceding year, all parents or legal guardians of students are asked to take careful note of
this document, and to assist the Lycée’s administration in making it respected and in
applying all its terms. The objective of many of its proposals is to assure the smooth
functioning of the school day and school life, to guarantee the safety of the students, and
to keep families informed. It is designed, therefore, to respond to our most legitimate
concerns.
The Lycée is a place of work where each student must learn to become an adult and a
citizen. The school regulations’ goals are to help the organization of this work, to
facilitate civic consciousness in a democratic and secular spirit, to allow teaching that is
open to all aspects of life, and to develop the learning of self-discipline through the
acquisition of a sense of responsibility.
These school regulations are to be respected throughout the campus and its
surrounding vicinity.
1. GENERAL RULES OF CONDUCT
During the school year, if a student discredits the school by his/her behavior on or off
campus, the school will inform the student’s parents of the incident and reserves the right
to take the appropriate disciplinary measures or sanctions.
1.1 Student Conduct
The principle of respecting the freedom of every individual requires the strictest
observation of the fundamental rules of neutral and secular behavior of the Lycée
and all of its members: one must avoid anything that could lend offense to the
convictions or sentiments of the students or their families, either through
insensitive words or acts, outrageous outfits, or through the introduction,
exposition and distribution of documents that might be offensive in either
language or nature.
Every secondary student who enters or leaves the premises must badge in and out
of the 75 th street lobby exclusively. Students without badges will remain within
the school and will not be allowed to leave the premises until dismissal time. The
cost to replace a lost badge is $20.00.
The use of mp3 players, I-Pods, cell phones, and beepers, as well as the use of all
electronic communication devices, is authorized only in the school lobby, the
student lounges or the cafeteria. Everywhere else, all apparatus must be turned
off or kept in “silent” mode (and this does not mean vibrate mode), and put
away.
The use of chewing gum is forbidden in the Lycée. This includes all classrooms
and common areas such as the drive-thru, cafeteria, lobby, etc.
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1.1.1 In Class
Beverages and food (with the exception of water bottles) are also not
permitted in class, except during exams and assignments of over two
hours’ duration.
1.1.2 In Study Hall
The study hall is place of quiet work. Study Hall may be held in the
library, following the authorization of the Dean’s assistants and the
librarian. Upon arrival in the library, the student must sign in and remain
in the library for the duration of the study hall.
Starting in the 2 nd trimester, and with the approval of the Conseil de
Classe, 9 th graders may be in the CDI, Gallery, or study room during study
hall hours as they prefer, without adult supervision. This privilege may be
granted or refused according to the academic and behavioral profile of the
grade as a whole.
1.1.3 Between Classes
The period between classes is a time allotted for movement from one class
to another or for a “break” between classes. Any student arriving for class
after the second bell has signaled the beginning of class is considered late.
The “break” between classes is not a time during which students may
leave the building (unless they have a free period directly before or after
the break in the afternoon). Thus, specifically, students may not leave the
building before the start of third period class, nor may they leave at the
start of the afternoon break intending to return at the end of the break.
An exception may be granted for the Terminales, who may be allowed to
leave the building one period earlier, but only after the first trimester and
with the approval of the Conseil de Classe.
1.1.4 Within the School Perimeter and while on Field Trips
When off the school premises, the students of the Lycée must not disturb
the residents of neighboring buildings by blocking their entrances or by
leaving their debris in public spaces or in front of private residences.
Furthermore, for safety reasons skateboards are not permitted neither
inside the Lycée nor within the school perimeter (the perimeter extends
from 73 rd Street to 78 th Street and from Second Avenue to the East River).
1.2 In-School Conduct
Each student is required to have all the materials requested by the teacher for
every class.
1.2.1 Respecting Deadlines
Students must submit assignments on time, at the designated hour, and
directly into the teacher’s own hands. If necessary, and only after an
explicit agreement is reached between teacher and student, the teacher can
accept work outside of class time or even once he has left the building;
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this applies most often to internet use.
After the assigned class period, two points will be taken off the assignment
for each day it is late, with the grade of zero being given at the end of
three days. In the case when an assignment due on a Friday, if the
assignment is turned in on Monday, 4 points will be deducted; if it is
turned in on Tuesday, it will receive a zero. Once the deadline has passed,
the teacher reserves the right to insist that the student submit the
assignment even though the student has been given a zero.
1.2.2 Cheating
All cheating or attempts at cheating will be punished with the grade of
zero and reported to the school’s administration. The teacher concerned
will notify the parents, and the student may, at the discretion of the
Conseil de Classe, be barred from obtaining any honors on that trimester’s
report card. In the event of a repeated episode, the parents will be asked to
meet with a representative of the Lycée. “Cheating” includes allowing
one’s work to be used, in whole or in part, by another student who has
been asked to submit individual work. If a student allows a friend to copy
ideas or words for an essay, or to copy answers to a test, both students
have committed academic dishonesty.
1.2.3 Use of a Calculator
During an exam or a class, the teacher informs the students whether or not
they are authorized to use a calculator.
1.2.4 Use of a Handheld (Pocket) Computer
During class time, handheld computers may only be used as calendars
during the time set aside for noting homework assignments, due dates, and
upcoming tests.
1.2.5 Use of laptops
The individual use of laptops is a way to empower students and is in no
way destined to diminish the vital role of the teacher. Laptops allow
students to learn at their full potential and to prepare them for the real
world of college and the workplace. Laptops encourage students to solve
problems and think critically by stimulating their analytical thinking.
General Guidelines
Students may bring personal laptop computers to school only if they
comply with these rules:
1. Students will have access to the forms of electronic media and
communication approved by the Lycee.
2. Students are responsible for the appropriate use of technology resources
of the school. Please refer to the student handbook.
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3. Access to the Lycée Français de New York technology resources is a
privilege and not a right.
4. Students are responsible for their own personal property within the
school which includes, but is not limited to, electronic devices and
equipment. The school assumes no liability for the loss or damage of these
items.
5. The use of computers for any activity in class, including the use of the
wireless network, is at the discretion of the teacher or the learning
specialist.
6. Sound on laptops must be muted at all times unless permission is
obtained from the teacher for instructional purposes.
7. In the case of any abuse or any rule violation, sanctions will be applied.
Furthermore, any illegal activity may be reported to the appropriate
authorities.
1.2.6 Plagiarism/Intellectual Honesty
Our experience with the students of the Lycée proves that they are honest and
serious, and that they do their best work to succeed! However, candor obliges us
to remark that students have copied the work of others and presented it as their
own. In order to clarify our position on this subject, and in order to encourage
communication with students, we offer the following commentary:
Plagiarism means using another person’s work and trying to pass it off as one’s
own. This includes collaborative efforts when individual work is required. As
noted above, when one student copies the work of another, both are guilty of
academic dishonesty. Academic dishonesty distorts the “raison d’être” of the
school, which is to offer our students an education in an atmosphere that
encourages the desire for learning, honest intellectual pursuit, and shared respect.
Acts of plagiarism demean the honest endeavors of others and shake the necessary
trust between teachers and students, as well as among students themselves. The
flagrant recopying of another’s work and the inappropriate sharing of information
concerning tests and quizzes are considered serious offences by the school, and
are subject to severe punishments. Another potential source of plagiarism may
come from the Internet. Submitting essays or papers downloaded from the
Internet is expressly forbidden without appropriate citation.
In teaching written expression, the Lycée encourages its students to be creative
and to find their own ways of organizing and expressing their ideas. Written
expression is a tool for learning, and an approach for reflection; to learn writing is
an act of intellectual development. To depend on another’s work, to recopy the
main ideas of another person’s essay, or to depend on someone else for the
organization of an essay constitutes actions which prevent the student from
developing his or her own distinct intellectual capabilities. Students must not
utilize resources without citing them; they must correctly quote all critical
sources; and they must not reuse their own previous works without explicit
permission. Students who have any doubts concerning these matters should
discuss them with their teachers.
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Teachers will discuss the procedures with their classes for use and documentation
of secondary sources in essays, research projects, and other works of written
expression. All students will receive a manual or instructions from teachers on the
means to avoid plagiarism. Once these instructions are given to the students, they
will be held responsible for their actions. Neither ignorance, haste, indifference,
nor the pressure to hand in assignments is an acceptable excuse to justify
academic dishonesty.
1.2.6.1 Plagiarism consequences
During the first week of school, every homeroom teacher will explain the
definition of plagiarism to his or her students. Teachers will illustrate the concept
with different specific examples showing students the variety of ways it occurs.
The School’s policy in the handbook must be read to the students, and the
consequences of plagiarism clearly explained. Throughout the school year
teachers must revisit on a regular basis the school policy on plagiarism. If a
teacher suspects a student of plagiarism, she or he must immediately discuss their
suspicion with the student. (In cases where one student copies another’s work, in
whole or in part, plagiarism is considered proven.)
A. If a student admits to having done so, then the following consequences
occur:
For 6ème through 3ème:
In case of a first offense: a warning will be given, the paper re-written with five
points off the grade, and the CPE, the student’s parents and the homeroom teacher
will be notified by the teacher involved.
In case of a second offense: a zero will be given and the paper re-written but no
grade will be given. In addition, the student’s parents are called; the PP
(homeroom teacher), Headmaster, Assistant Headmaster, and the CPE are
notified; and a detention is given.
In case of a third offense, the student will be sanctioned at the discretion of the
Headmaster.
For 2nde through Terminale:
In case of a first offense during the year: the student will receive a zero, and the
work must be re-written with no grade given; the student’s parents are called; the
PP (homeroom teacher), Headmaster, Assistant Headmaster, the CPE, and the
College Counselor are notified; and a detention is given. If the plagiarism is on a
research paper, no re-write will be allowed.
In case of a second offense during the year: the student will be sanctioned at the
discretion of the Headmaster. Please note: all school suspensions that occur in
high school are reported to colleges on the college application forms. If the
plagiarism occurs after college applications have been filed, the colleges will be
notified of the suspension.
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B. If a student refuses to admit to plagiarism, then the following
consequences occur:
The Lycée will investigate the case, possibly submitting the paper to
Turnitin.com. If the paper is cleared of charges of plagiarism, then apologies will
be given to the student. If the paper is found to be plagiarized, then the following
applies:
For 6ème through 3ème:
• A zero will be given and the paper re-written but no grade will be given.
In addition, the student’s parents are called; the PP (homeroom teacher),
Headmaster, Assistant Headmaster, and the CPE are notified; and a detention is
given.
For 2nde through Terminale:
• The student will be sanctioned at the discretion of the Headmaster. Please
note: all school suspensions that occur in high school are reported to colleges on
the college application forms. If the plagiarism occurs after college applications
have been filed, the colleges will be notified of the suspension.
1.2.7 Tests of Knowledge
Assessment is designed to measure the knowledge acquired by students and is a
contract of sorts between a teacher and a class: under no circumstance can assessment
be used as a way of punishing behavior or attitude. The test of knowledge is
accomplished by frequent oral and written tests, homework, graded in-class
assignments, exposés and reports based on class exercises. These grades are recorded in
the student’s Progress Report, which is sent home on specific dates set at the beginning
of the year. For each trimester, the average of these grades is noted in the Trimester
Report Card under the heading, “Note de l’élève.” This grade allows the student’s
academic progress to be evaluated throughout the school year.
1.2.8 Organization of work load
In order to help students plan out and organized their work load, it is recommended that
students not have more than two tests over one hour in length on any given day. In the
case such a situation arises, the class delegates should inform the teacher who can, to
the extent that it is possible, make the necessary changes.
1.2.9 Compositions and Practice Exams
In the classes of Troisième to Terminale, a series of exams in all required subjects is
organized for the students. These compositions enable students to evaluate their work
capabilities in similar performance conditions to those they will face in the national
exams. The grades obtained on the compositions and practice exams will count in the
calculation of the trimester average. A composition or practice exam may only be
missed with a written note from a physician or health care professional; otherwise, a
grade of zero will be given. Parents may not generally excuse children from such exams
due to illness. (Of course, in serious and highly extraordinary situations such as a fire or
death in the family, the school will try to accommodate students.) Students who arrive
late to a Composition or mock exam will be admitted at the discretion of the proctor
and may not be allowed to sit for the exam, therefore receiving a zero. If a student is
admitted late, extra time will not be given at the end of the exam to make up for the
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student’s lateness.
Unless specifically noted otherwise by the deans of students, mock exams and
compositions are not considered “dress down” days. The dress code applies, and
students who do not respect it can be punished.
Given that students will not be sent home during practice exams, dress code violations
will be punished with a 2-hour detention the same day. No excuses.
For all announced exams and tests a student who knows he or she will be absent must
contact the teacher concerned to arrange a make-up date. If the student does not do this,
he or she risks receiving a zero.
In case of unplanned absence, the student must contact the teacher concerned
immediately upon his or her return to school and must take the test before or during the
next class. If the student does not do so, the teacher reserves the right to give a zero.
1.2.10 Grading
The grading of students is based on the French system with a grading scale from 0 to
20. Any transcripts that are sent to American schools or universities include statements
of grades that have been adapted to the American system of letter grades. The grades
and decisions of all other authorized French establishments are totally respected.
1.3. Smoking
For health and safety reasons, and conforming to the laws of the city of New York, it is
forbidden for students to smoke inside the Lycée. This prohibition also applies to the
outskirts of the Lycée in the perimeter defined as 73rd St. to 78th Street and 2nd Avenue
and to the East River. Sanctions will be applied on an individual basis as described in
article 8.
1.4. Illegal Substances
The Lycée Francais de New York policy on substance abuse is attached to these rules as a
separate document, which must be signed by parents and students separately in the
correspondence notebook.
1.5. Dangerous or Inappropriate Objects
Bringing dangerous or inappropriate objects to school is strictly forbidden.
2. SCHOOL LIFE and COMMUNICATION
To ensure good communication between the parents/guardians and the Lycée (especially in case
of emergency), the parents/guardians pledge to update their own and their children’s personal
info on the Lycée website. This information will be input in the password enabled access part of
the website. This part is only accessible with a password that will be handed out by the IT
department to each family upon arrival to the school.
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2.1 Planner for Sixth Graders and Seventh Graders and Communication with
Families
The student planner is the principal tool of communication between the Lycée and the
students’ parents. In browsing through this booklet, you will observe that it contains
confidential information, and therefore, should be not circulated between students.
Parents/Guardians should assist the administration, teachers, and the Department of
Student Life to successfully utilize this tool by insisting on its importance and on the fact
that your child have it with him/her at all times, by signing it, and by regularly examining
it (once a week minimum) to make sure that you are apprised of all new information.
This notebook should be covered with the plastic cover given to the students. Homeroom
teachers will examine these notebooks at least three times a year to insure that everything
is in order. The rules for using the agenda will be communicated to students at the
beginning of the school year. Each failure to produce the notebook may result in a
sanction (see article 8).
2.2 Schedule of Classes
The course hours are communicated to students and their families at the beginning of the
school year. They may be modified by the Lycée’s administration to meet with teaching
requirements or to respond to special or unforeseen situations; any modifications in
scheduling will be given to those concerned in a timely fashion.
2.3 Obligation to be Present in Class
Attendance to every class on the schedule is mandatory, unconditional and nonnegotiable.
It is required equally in all optional courses for which the student has
registered. Check-In, the dialogue hour, class hours, assemblies, CPE hours, and studio
classes are also obligatory. Since these hours are listed on the schedule, families must not
organize other activities during these hours.
In addition, the authorized absence on an exceptional basis (for a medical visit, university
visit, religious holiday, or for any other reason) must, as a preliminary, be submitted in a
written request from the parents to the CPE (Dean of Students). This step allows the
student and the teacher to plan for the work given in class and the homework assignment.
The student is entirely responsible for keeping up to date in the classes that he/she will
miss.
Athletic events (cross-country, ski trip, sports championships and the end of year trip,
etc.) organized by the Lycée have the objective of building a sense of community and
school spirit; therefore, students are strongly encouraged to participate. Any absences
must be justified with a note from a parent or guardian.
Days of absence taken before and after vacation periods are not authorized or excused.
These absences are considered a serious disregard of the rules and will be noted in the
student’s evaluation. It is the student’s responsibility and obligation to make up all
schoolwork they miss during such absences.
2.4 Absences
Parents should notify Department of Student Life (for Middle School, email
viescolairecollege@lfny.org or dial extension 3843; for the High School email
viescolairelycee@lfny.org or dial extension 3844) if absence is unforeseen. The student
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will report to the appropriate office upon his return, with a note explaining the reason for
the absence.
--The Department of Student Life will contact families to notify them of any unreported
absence.
--If a student needs to leave during the day, he/she should:
- stop by The Department of Student Life with a note explaining the reason for his
departure
- OR report to the infirmary if he/she is unwell so that the nurse can contact
his/her family.
--As noted above, Bac blancs and Brevet blancs, practice exams for official ones, are
mandatory: consequently, and for the sake of fairness, every absence from such an exam
must be justified with a doctor’s note or valid document, in the event of an emergency, in
order to qualify for a make-up. Any unjustified absence will result in a “0” and the grade
will be included in the student’s trimester average. This rule also applies to Compositions
in Seconde.
Whenever parents are absent (for a business trip or any other reason) the Department of
Student Life in the Middle or high School, as well as the School Nurse, must be notified
in writing and the new telephone numbers of those in charge must be provided.
2.4.1 Medical Excuses
Parents may excuse a student from classes or school activities (except exams, practice
exams and Compositions) up to 5 days during a trimester. After this, ALL absence
due to illness must be justified with a note from a physician or health care provider.
Unexcused absences will be cause for a sanction (see article 8).
2.5 Lateness
More than five lateness’s will result in a call to parents, and the student may be
sanctioned (see article 8). Lateness will be communicated by email to the student’s
parents or caretakers and to the Homeroom Teacher.
If a student is more than 15 minutes late to class, the teacher may choose not to accept the
student in class. If so, the student will be sent to study hall to wait for the next class
period.
A student who arrives to class on time but without books or other required supplies may
be sent to his locker but will need to return with a late pass.
2.6 Requests to Be Excused From Class
A student may only be exempt from class for exceptional reasons:
As a result of illness: If the student is ill before arriving at the Lycée, it is
incumbent upon the parents/guardians to evaluate the seriousness of the illness, and to
make the choice of keeping the student at home or visiting a doctor. If the student falls ill
when he/she is already at the Lycée, the school nurse administers first aid, notifies the
parents, and according to the gravity of the illness, decides whether to send the student
home or to a hospital. The Lycée’s administration must give permission for any action.
Family reasons: A request for exemption from class for an important family event
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must be directed to the CPE. It is incumbent upon the parents to evaluate the importance
of the event, and as a general rule, to remain within reasonable limits in asking for class
exemption.
Exemption from physical education: It is compulsory for a student who is injured
or ill to attend class in the case of an exemption of less than 15 days. However, he/she
may be exempt from attending if the teacher deems it necessary, in which case the
student must go to the nurse.
Repeated unexcused absences could impact the student’s grades, as Physical
Education is evaluated continually throughout the year.
2.7 Nurse’s Office
Students who are not feeling well or who have a fever should not be sent to school.
Any student who advises a teacher or a Dean’s Assistant that she/he is ill must be
accompanied by a classmate or an adult to the nurse’s office.
If the student’s condition does not warrant moving on his/her own to the nurse’s office,
the teacher or Dean’s Assistant must notify the Nurse so that she will come to the
student’s location. If a student’s condition does not allow him or her to ask for help, any
adult present must alert the Nurse or the CPE so that the necessary measures can be taken
to aid the student.
At the beginning of the school year an authorization form is given to each student. This
form must be duly completed and returned to the Homeroom Teacher within the first
week of class.
The nurse’s office is a place for first aid. In case of a serious accident, the parents are
notified and must pick up their child in order to take him/her to the hospital or to a
doctor’s office. In the event of an emergency, after notifying the parents, an ambulance
can be called, and the student, accompanied by an adult, will be driven to the pediatric
emergency room at New York Hospital/Cornell Medical Center (except if a contrary
order is given) where the parents must meet their child as quickly as possible.
In the event of a contagious disease diagnosed by the school nurse or a doctor, and in
accordance with local regulations, the Lycée reserves the right not to admit the student to
class and to ask the family to take him/her into their care.
Visits to the nurse’s office are recorded. A monthly report of infirmary visits will be sent
to the Support Team and homeroom teachers and, if frequent visits are recorded, to
parents and caretakers.
2.8 Dismissal of Students in the Middle School and High School
Students in grades 6 and 7 are obligated to remain in the establishment from their arrival
at the Lycée until the end of the last class. Students in grade 8 may leave three times a
week, during their lunch time. Students in grade 9 may leave at lunch five days a week.
Authorized students in grades 10, 11 and 12 who have been authorized by their parents
may leave the premises if their schedule includes a free period, but only after the start of
the third period.
2.9 Students movements
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Students must account for all their movements within the premises, and must justify their
presence within the primary building in particular. Students must display their badges
visibly at all times.
2.9.1 Between Buildings
Physical education and sports classes may take place either in the Lycée gymnasiums
or at an outside location. If a student arrives after the beginning of a class located
outside, she/he may proceed to that location only if the school can assure her/his
safety.
2.9.2 School Excursions or School Trips
A certain number of excursions or trips may be organized in the course of the school
year. The families will be notified in writing and must give their authorization in
order to allow their child to participate. The Lycée reserves the right not to accept a
student without parental authorization or one whose conduct is not satisfactory.
Teachers may organize a timely excursion outside of the Lycée during their class
hours with the administration’s permission.
2.9.3 Use of Elevator
The use of the elevator is limited to the 6ème and 5ème students and restricted to the
Secondary Tower elevator only in the morning between 8:00am and 8:15am and
12:35pm and 2:05pm and to the 1eres and Terminales who are having lunch within
the school, in order to go to the 6 th floor only. Students with medical clearance will be
allowed to use the elevator once their name has been posted on a sign inside the
elevator by the school nurse.
3. RESPECT FOR OTHERS AND FOR THE PREMISES
3.1 Respect for the Lycée’s Property/Vandalism
Students must respect their work environment, take the greatest possible care of the
rooms, furniture, and material placed at their disposal, and vigilantly maintain the
cleanliness of the classrooms and the establishment at large.
Any voluntary damage of the premises and its components (furniture, computers, etc.) is
a serious violation and will be sanctioned (see article 8). Monetary reparation which will
be demanded from the families in such cases. In the case of accidental damage, there
may be no disciplinary action and an examination of the circumstances will determine if
parents will be required to pay for repairs. If a student damages the property of another in
a deliberate fashion (the Lycée’s material or that of a classmate), the punishment is the
same as that of a case of theft. The student may also be asked to make apologies, to
return the material, or to reimburse costs.
Since respect for the premises and its components is the business of the entire
community, it is the responsibility of each student to report each case of damage or
vandalism whether he/ she is responsible for it or not.
3.2 Cafeteria and Lunchtime
Students in 6ème and 5ème must have lunch at the Lycée, and use the cafeteria service.
The lunch break is equivalent to a class period, of which a part is dedicated to the meal in
the cafeteria and the rest to recreation. During the lunch break, students are not allowed to
walk around the empty classrooms of the school. A study room may be available for
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students who wish to work on their own if permission is granted by the CPE.
Students from 4ème to Terminale may have lunch outside the Lycée, provided they have
submitted a written authorization from their parents at the beginning of the year. These
students are instructed, however, to be always mindful of their safety, their good
behavior, and the time schedule.--4eme students are allowed to leave the premises three
times a week. --3eme students are allowed to leave the premises for one hour a day but
only for their lunch period. . In all cases, it is imperative that students return from lunch
on time for classes or they will lose their privilege to eat out (they should return at least
five minutes before the first bell).
The Lycée reserves the right to cancel this parental authorization and confine the student
to the Lycée in the event of misconduct outside the establishment (See Sanctions, article
8).
3.3 Cleanliness of the Premises
At the end of each class, the classroom or study hall must be left in a state of cleanliness
and order for those who will utilize it next: blackboard erased, papers picked up, and
tables and chairs rearranged.
3.4 Intimidation, Reprisals, Harassment, Bullying
Intimidation means a behavior that attacks or threatens another person. Disrespect of
others, depending on the gravity of the circumstances, will result in a disciplinary
meeting with the Dean or ultimately in a permanent expulsion form the Lycée, after a
meeting with the Head of School.
Intimidation may take different forms:
3.4.1 Physical
Fighting, hitting, kicking, pushing, shoving, pinching etc.
3.4.2 Sexual
Words or behavior of a sexual or sexist nature designed to embarrass a person or a
group of persons.
3.4.3 Verbal
Threats of violence or all other unpleasant consequences, and vulgar language.
Insults, rough jokes, teasing, humiliation, demands for money, etc.
3.4.4 Indirect
Spreading rumors, malicious talk, or excluding one person from a group.
Non verbal behavior such as looks and gestures.
Damaging the property of another, writing graffiti and all other forms of teasing
(for example, water games or snowball fighting).
3.4.5 Material
Introducing, brandishing or making weapons or any other dangerous object within
the confines of the Lycée is strictly forbidden. Any infraction of this rule will lead to
an immediate sanction.
3.4.6 Bullying
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Bullying is an American term, which designates several concepts familiar to French
schools, including: incivility, violence, lack of respect, exclusion, harassment,
intimidation, etc. Bullying is an action, a word or several words which may be
repeated on numerous occasions and which have the deliberate intention of harming,
humiliating, or inflicting suffering on another person either psychologically or
physically. There is often an imbalance of power between the bully/aggressor and the
bullied/victim. The consequences of these actions on the victim can include
psychological trouble or academic defeat. An intervention protocol for bullying has
been put into place by the pedagogical team. This document will be presented to
students at the beginning of the school year and will remain available in the deans’
offices.
3.5 Respect for the Property of Others
To assist the Lycée in its efforts against theft, parents are asked to avoid entrusting their
children with large sums of money, and not to allow them to wear expensive jewelry or
carry valuable objects, musical instruments, or any other equipment of monetary value.
In order to avoid certain complications, parents are asked to mark the name of their child
on clothing and personal objects, such as backpacks or handbags, sneakers, and any other
objects likely to be coveted. In addition, lockers are available in the gym’s dressing
rooms. Personal items must be secured with a lock provided by students.
Theft is a totally unacceptable act, whether it involves taking something in a deliberate
fashion or not returning an object found. If a student is in possession of objects that do
not belong to him/her, he/she must, in addition to the punishment imposed, return the
objects in good condition or replace them at his/her expense.
3.6 Gambling/ Betting
Gambling and wagering is forbidden inside the Lycée.
4. DRESS CODE
4.1 DRESS CODE
The dress code listed below is mandatory at all times of the school day and during all
activities organized by the Lycée, except when other instruction is given.
Parents/guardians must ensure that their children’s clothing conforms to the norms of the
establishment on a daily basis. A daily verification of the dress Code will be made by all
teachers during the Announcements period. Sanctions for failure to dress properly will
vary (See article 8).
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MANDATORY for GIRLS:
MANDATORY for BOYS:
Dress Code
A white, button down shirt with a collar and a
solid navy blue tie, OR
A white LFNY-logo polo shirt, no tie, OR
A white turtleneck shirt, no tie
AND
Solid gray pants in a classic cut (no shorts)*
AND
Solid, dark-colored shoes, OR
Solid, dark-colored boots
A white shirt with a full collar, OR
A white LFNY-logo polo shirt, OR
A white turtleneck shirt
AND
Solid gray pants in a classic cut (no shorts)*,
Gray dress with a white, collared shirt.
A solid gray skirt, not excessively short
Solid-colored black, gray, navy
blue, or flesh-colored stockings
for girls only
AND
Solid, dark-colored shoes, OR
Solid, dark-colored boots
OPTIONAL:
A navy blue or gray jacket,
A navy blue or gray sweater,
A navy blue, gray or white scarf
Any article of clothing not specifically mentioned above is not allowed,
including piercings, except those necessary for earrings.
* = This includes denim pants, provided they are gray and “classic cut.” Pants with holes, rips, or
tatters, as well as pants worn below the waist, are not considered classic.
4.1.1 Dress Down Days
Dress down will be allowed on every last day before a mid-trimester or end of trimester
vacation. This privilege will be maintained so long as students respect the dress code on
an ongoing basis and dress respectfully on dress down days.
It is possible that the Senior class will be allowed extra dress down days at the end of the
year.
4.1.2 Gym clothing
T-shirts, blue shorts, Lycée sweatshirt, white socks and sneakers; the colored sports bag
with the Lycée’s emblem is on sale in the school store.
4.1.3 Clothing for Special Classes
Wearing a white lab coat is mandatory during all experiments in the science laboratory.
The lab coats are on sale in the school store.
5. CDI (CENTER OF INFORMATION AND DOCUMENTATION)
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5.1 Signing in
Any student in the library MUST sign in upon entering.
5.2 Priority for TPE and IDD
During TPE and IDD hours, priority is given to classes working with a teacher or
substitute.
5.3 Access to Computers
Multimedia computers are available. Their use is predicated upon proper respect of the
general chart on computer use, available throughout the school.
5.4 Access to photocopiers
In the case of a student’s prolonged absence, their work may be photocopied for them by
another student. The Librarians will furnish a card for this purpose.
5.5 Loan Policies
Most works can be borrowed for 3 weeks, with a maximum of 3 books at a time.
6. LYCEE TECHNOLOGY POLICIES AND PROTOCOLS
6.1 Conditions of Access to the Lycée Network
At the beginning of the year, each user is issued a login name and a password which
allow him/her to connect to the Lycée network and to the information available on the
Internet. This computer account is strictly private. Each user is responsible for its use, and
must not communicate his/her password to a third party.
6.2 Respect for the rules of computer procedure:
Each user must respect proper procedure and notably not engage in any operation which
would result in the following:
Masking one’s proper identity or utilizing someone else’s password ;
Altering the system or accessing information belonging to other users of the
network without their permission ;
Attacking the integrity of another user or his/her sensitivity through the use of
messages, texts or provocative images ;
Interrupting the normal functioning of the network or any system connected to the
network ;
Modifying or destroying information on system connected to the network ;
Connecting to trying to connect to a website without being authorized to do so.
These rules apply to all users, whether on the premises or outside of the school.
It is against the rules to change the configurations of the computer or to alter the screen
saver.
Much of the communication today between and among students takes place through a
variety of electronic means. Unlike verbal communication or private correspondence,
these communications are often available to many people, both intentionally and
inadvertently. The Lycée believes it is important to give some thought to this issue
because students do not always know or anticipate who may see communications they
make through electronic networks and how those communications could impact the
student.
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Lycée students know that communications on the Lycée network and with or about Lycée
teachers, staff and students is subject to the Lycée code of conduct for students. Improper
conduct on the Lycée network, such as harassing or discriminatory comments about
fellow students or disrespectful statements about employees, can be the basis for
discipline. What may not be as clear is that other electronic communications can have
unanticipated consequences also. These communication systems include emails, instant
messaging, text messages, cell phone messages, voice mail messages, blog postings,
social networking sites such as but not limited to MySpace and Facebook, and videos or
images. It is logical to assume that the Lycée will consider taking disciplinary action if a
student made statements to or about a fellow student on a MySpace posting that was
threatening or discriminatory. Similarly, a Facebook or blog posting that consisted of
insulting or vulgar comments about an employee of the school will be the basis for
discipline.
However, some conduct, which may or may not be subject to immediate school action,
can create serious difficulty for a student separate from Lycée action. The sending of
“hate mail” or harassment can subject a student to action by law enforcement. Evidence
of violation of laws prohibiting underage drinking or involvement with illegal drugs could
subject a student to action by law enforcement. A student (or her or his parents) can be
sued by someone who believes they have been harmed by the actions of a student.
There also have also been numerous articles in the press and college newspapers that
prospective employers check internet postings and social networking sites when
considering applicants and that the same ability is available to college admissions offices.
Therefore, a student’s recognition of responsibility for his or her actions, and common
sense, lead to the conclusion that students should consider what they say, display,
transmit and share electronically. Once sent, it is not possible to retrieve it, or prevent it
from being forwarded widely, and postings can and do live on the internet for years. We
believe that our students develop and demonstrate a growing maturity during their time at
the Lycée and are confident that they will understand the implications and risks that are
part of the new world of electronic communications.
6.3 Respect of property
Each user is expected to respect the equipment, not damage it in any way, and bring
attention to any incident or dysfunction to which he/she may be a witness.
6.4 Rules for Consulting the Internet and for printing documents.
The consultation of a website is allowed for research connected to academic study only.
Students are asked to print with moderation (no more than 5 pages printed for one
subject), not to change the computer’s configurations; not to consult violent, extremist, or
pornographic sites; and not to spend more than 20 minutes on consultation (outside of
class assignments).
E-mail, chat, or blogs, without the justification of a work assignment, are prohibited.
The person in charge of the network sees all student internet consultation. At any given
moment, the person in charge of the network may consult student work, and will keep an
account of all research done every week. Only the printing of documents related to class
work is authorized. The student will be sanctioned for breaking these rules (see article 8).
Such sanctions will vary, but will most likely include some restriction of network
privileges.
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7. COMMUNITY SERVICE
7.1 Goals
According to its mission statement, “The LFNY’s mission is to prepare its students to be
responsible citizens equipped for the world of tomorrow.” While there are some middle
and upper school students who commit themselves to helping others on a regular basis,
we want to ensure that community service becomes an integral part of every student’s
experience at the Lycée Français de New York. Indeed, learning how to help othersneighbors
or persons in the broader community- or improving the environment in which
we live, is at the heart of community service. It is our hope that, through serving and
reflecting on their service, students will develop civic responsibility and real-world skills,
while learning to become active citizens and compassionate human beings.
Community service completed over the summer will be credited towards personal hours
required for the following school year. However, involvement in group activities (class,
level, school) and various school committees (notably in Terminale) is an integral part of
school life and can in no way be replaced by individual community service hours.
7.2 Requirement
7.2.1 For the Sixth and Seventh grades: For the school term, the students must
perform at least 8 hours per year of combined individual and class service, with a
minimum of 4 hours performed outside of school. Every student will also participate
in the class activities.
7.2.2 For the Eighth through Tenth grades: For the school term, the students must
perform at least 10 hours per year of combined individual and class service, with a
minimum of 5 hours performed outside of school. Each student will be required to
participate in class activities.
7.2.3 For the Eleventh and Twelfth grades
Taking into account the time constraints placed on our juniors and seniors due to
college admissions, standardized testing and the Baccalauréat, Première and
Terminale students will be required to perform only 8 hours. Every student will
participate in a class activity. For Premieres, a minimum of four hours will be
completed off campus. In Terminale, every student is expected to serve on a
committee.
The Community Service Office offers a wide listing of opportunities for both
individual and class community service. Students are also encouraged to seek out
their own activities, though it is highly recommended that they confirm their selection
with the Community Service Office before any activity is performed.
The final trimester report card will include the designation “Hours Completed” and
will be reported on the student’s transcript and the third term report card.
The community service office can be reached at 212.439.3881 or by contacting Vivianne
Kurzweil at vkurzweil@lfny.org.
7.3 Deadlines
For the school year, students from Sixth to Tenth grade will have until the end of the first
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week of June to complete the requirement. For Eleventh and Twelfth students, the
deadline is the last day of April.
7.4 Non-Completion of Requirements
While the great majority of LFNY students complete, and even exceed their community
service requirements, there are students who, by the end of the year, will still not have
completed the necessary hours. In addition to a permanent notation in their transcript,
such students may be barred from participating in certain end of year activities, including
the Senior Prom, bals and class outings, and may lose their 3 rd trimester awards. These
students will also be asked to perform extra community service hours during the first
trimester of the following year.
8. PUNISHMENTS, SANCTIONS AND DECISIONS
The sanctions of the Lycee Français de New York are listed below. Decisions about
which sanctions to apply for a given offense, and how and when to apply them, are highly
complex. They can vary based on many factors, such as the student’s previous record, the
severity or flagrancy of the offense, whether it was accidental or intentional, and the
student’s level of remorse. Decisions regarding sanctions are made by the teacher
concerned, the homeroom teacher, the Deans, and in extraordinary cases the Head of
School or Assistant Head of School.
Corporal punishment, as well as physical or psychological abuse, is forbidden.
Punishments which cast curricular or academic work as negative and punitive (the
writing out of lines, conjugations, etc) are also forbidden.
8.1 Warnings
Warnings are the mildest sanctions available. A warning will usually, though not always,
be given before stricter penalties are imposed. A warning cannot be appealed.
8.1.1 Verbal Warning
A simple, verbal caution from a teacher or staff member that a student is engaging in
behavior which, if continued, will result in more severe sanctions. On occasion, parents
can be called even if no other penalty is given, to underscore the seriousness of a
warning.
8.1.2. Written Warning
A formal notice of concern, sometimes academic, sometimes behavioral. The teacher or
administrator concerned will send an email to the parents, the PP and the Support Team
to let them know that the teacher is seriously concerned about a student’s situation,
academic or otherwise.
8.1.3 Warning from the Conseil de Classe
This warning is decided upon by the conseil de classe at the end of each trimester and
noted in the trimester report card. The warning applies to three aspects of student
performance either as a whole, separately, or in diverse combinations: warning for
insufficient work, insufficient scores, or conduct. The conseil de classe’s warning on a
trimester report card should be interpreted by the family as an alarm bell, which should
result in an immediate meeting between the parents and the head teacher in order to
rectify the situation.
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8.1.4 Contract
If serious problems arise, a contract will be written spelling out the school’s concerns and
mandating academic improvement and/or behavioral change. It must be signed by the
student, the parents, the homeroom teacher and the administration. Contracts are always
part of a larger project of reform, and may be issued in addition to other sanctions.
If a contract is not respected, the Lycée reserves the right to refuse to re-enroll the
student.
8.2 Academic Sanctions
Academic Sanctions can be imposed when a student’s work in class falls below minimum
expectations. Occasionally these sanctions can be imposed for behavioral offenses.
Punishment is of an academic nature and will be given out by the adult concerned. As a
measure of internal order, punishment is not subject to recourse. However, in order that
the punishment retain an educational value, it is desirable that a dialogue take place with
the student so that he/she can be heard and that the punishment can be explained.
According to the nature and the gravity of the act committed, adults can give out all
punishments noted below:
8.2.1.Rewrites
A teacher may ask that an assignment be rewritten, in school or at home, for credit.
8.2.2.Supplemental Assignment
This is a written assignment to be completed at home or general work to be completed for
the Lycee. The assignment is specified on a special form that exists online. A copy is
automatically sent to the parents, the Dean, and the Homeroom Teacher.
8.2.3 Grade Reduction
Assignments that are turned in late are subject to a reduced grade. After the date and hour
announced by the teacher, 2 points are taken off for one each day of lateness. After three
days, a zero will be given. It is the teacher’s discretion whether or not to accept
assignments more than two days late.
8.2.4. The “zero”
A grade of zero (0) is recorded when assignments are turned in very late or not at all. A
zero is also usually recorded in cases of plagiarism or academic dishonesty. A teacher
who gives a grade of zero will immediately so inform the parents and the Homeroom
Teacher and the support team.
8.2.5 Transcript Notation
Repeated offenses for academic dishonesty, consistent absence from class and other
severe breaches of the school’s policy regarding academic work will usually be noted in a
student’s permanent record. If a transcript has already been sent to a college or university,
they will be advised of the notation. This is in addition to the impact on grades and any
other sanctions.
8.3 Behavioral Sanctions
These sanctions are usually imposed for tardiness, dress code violations,
insolence, and other behavioral problems.
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8.3.1. Confiscation
Students who use cell phones, cameras, iPods and the like during class will have these
items confiscated. They will be returned at the end of the class period.
8.3.2 Remaining “in” for lunch
Students who are allowed to leave the Lycee for lunch can have that privilege revoked for
behavioral reasons, including lateness, dress code violations, etc. Generally, a student
will be kept in one day for a first offense, or one week for repeated offenses.
8.3.3.Restriction / Elimination of other privileges
Along with going out for lunch, a secondary student at LFNY enjoys many other
privileges. Among these are riding the elevator at certain times; admission to the CDI
during non-class hours; the opportunity to represent the Lycee as a delegate, a graduation
orator, or on sports teams; the use of the student lounge, the use of the computer network,
and many others. Any or all of these privileges may be revoked for behavioral violations.
8.3.4 Detention (Retenue)
A student may be assigned to the study hall for quiet work or reflection. Sometimes, a
student will be allowed to choose the hour(s) of detention. However, in more serious or
immediate cases, the detention day and hour will be assigned by a teacher or CPE.
Provided staffing for the study hall is available, the student must do the detention exactly
when it is assigned. Sports (including league games), along with all other after school
commitments are not valid excuses for missing detention, nor may parents excuse a child
from detention except for medical emergencies. If detention is not respected, a
suspension will be considered.
8.3.5 Removal from class (Exclusion de Cours)
Removal from class is a very serious sanction, indicating that the student’s behavior in
class has made his or her own and other students’ learning impossible. The teacher will,
in all such cases, record the sanction online, which results in an email to the parents
detailing the event, with a copy to the Dean and to the Homeroom Teacher. A student
who is removed from class must go immediately to the Department of Student Life office
on the third or fifth floor, with a student from the class and work to do, and speak to a
Dean. If no Dean is available, the student must seek one out at his or her earliest possible
convenience. In any event, the remainder of the removal must be spent doing silent work
either in the study hall or the CDI. Under no circumstances may students use the
Lounges, the Cafeteria, or go outside the Lycée while excluded from a course.
After three such removals, the student and his or her homeroom teacher must schedule a
conference with a member of the guidance team (possibly including the teachers who
have removed the student from their courses) to implement more serious sanctions, such
as a suspension. This state of affairs will also be brought to the attention of the Head of
School or Assistant Head of School.
8.4 Special Sanctions
Special sanctions are used only for the violation of specific rules.
8.4.1Returning Home
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Students who do not respect the Dress Code may be sent home to dress more
appropriately. In the case of younger students, parents will be called before sending
students home.
8.4.2 Gum Detention
Students who repeatedly chew gum may be asked to stay after school in order to assist
with the removal of gum from the bottoms of desks and chairs, or may be otherwise
asked to do work in the general interest of a cleaner environment.
8.5 Exceptional Sanctions
Before any exceptional sanction is given, a dialogue must take place among the
student, the family and the school. Regarding sanctions, it is important to state the
principle called the principle of contradiction. It is not a matter of giving free rein to
students and their parents to contest any decision to sanction made by the Lycée, but
to create situations that promote dialogue and agreement in view of the decisions
made. The nature of these objectives is double:
1) To achieve justice: To respect the rights of the defense, that is to say, to allow the
student in question to present oral or written observances at his/her request, in
order to be represented or aided. To discuss the elements of proof in a
contradictory manner in order to verify the reality of the facts, and thus show
reason for the sanction.
2) To be educative: to listen, to allow the student to express his or her point of view.
To explain the wrongdoing and the sanction that will result. In order to insure the
educative role of the sanction, to be certain that it be understood, and, if possible,
accepted.
For an Exceptional Sanction to be issued by the Head of School:
a. The student must be heard, and a dialogue must take place;
b. The parents must be informed that they, too, can be heard, if they wish ;
c. The student must be allowed to be assisted by the person of his/her choice:
(another student, a student delegate, etc...)
8.5.1 “In-House” Suspension
The student is removed from all classes, but remains in the school under close adult
supervision for a period of days, with a portfolio of assigned work to complete. The
student may not participate in sports or after-school activities, and he or she eats
lunch in the Cafeteria, with an adult.
8.5.2 Suspension
The student is removed from all classes, and outside the vicinity of the school for a
period of days, with a portfolio of assigned work to complete. The student will not
participate in sports or after-school activities.
8.5.3 Expulsion
The student is permanently removed from the school.
9. POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT
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We would be misguided to view these rewards as the simple maintenance of an ancient
tradition that has since disappeared from the French education system. It is much closer
to, as are many other elements of the education system at the Lycée, the adaptation of an
Anglo-Saxon tradition which serves the interests of those of our students who are heading
towards American higher education. These rewards are mentioned in the grade
transcripts and in registration files.
As far as students who are heading towards higher education in France are concerned,
knowing that the recruitment of preparatory classes in the “grandes écoles” or other
institutions of higher learning is based on the student’s academic file, being able to
produce a report card showing these distinctions is not an unimportant trump card.
9.1. Academic rewards
The following rewards are attributed to students in order to honor their efforts, their progress, and
their success on the academic level.
9.1.1 Trimester Encouragements determined by the conseil de classe
These Encouragements take into account notable progress and do not depend on
grades. They otherwise reflect a positive attitude.
9.1.2 Compliments determined by the conseil de classe
These Compliments underscore good results and a satisfactory attitude.
9.1.3 Félicitations of the conseil de classe
These félicitations (or congratulations) take into account the excellent results and
attitude of students and are only awarded on a unanimous basis by the conseil de
classe.
9.1.4 End of the year prizes
At the end of the school year, these prizes are given in each class to the students who
have obtained three encouragements, three compliments or three félicitations.
Prize for Excellence for 3 félicitations ;
Prize for Honor for félicitations or compliments, in any combination, each
trimester; or three compliments.
Prize for Merit for compliments or encouragements, in any combination, each
trimester ;
Prize for Effort for 3 encouragements.
In the spirit of positive reinforcement, the third trimester Conseil de Classe reserves
the right to award a special prize to any student who, over the course of the year, has
either overcome obstacles or demonstrated remarkable progress.
9.1.5 Other prizes
These are additional prizes awarded to a student who has excelled in diverse subjects
such as art, physical education, or community service. These prizes are brought to the
students’ attention in the course of the first trimester of each academic year.
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