Acceptable Use Policy - American School of Doha

ELEMENTARY STUDENT HANDBOOK
Dear Students and Parents,
Welcome to the 2009/2010 school year at The American School of Doha. Every year, I write
about how new and different the coming school year will be, but this is only partially true for
this year. The biggest change is that we will be without construction on the elementary
campus for the first time in two years. Like the middle and high school, this is the year that we
will learn how to better use of facilities and take advantage of all the great opportunities within
our school. The other major change is that all the sand around the school will begin to be
planted and landscaped so that the outside of our school looks as nice as the inside of our
school. I hope that all of you will help us take good care of our new school.
As with every new school year, we have lots of new students and families joining our
community. Using our school values of Respect, Responsibility, Honesty, and Compassion,
we need to make all of our new ASD family members feel welcome in their new home.
If you are a new parent or student, my best advice to you is to get involved as quickly as
possible. We have lots of great after school activities, baseball, and soccer on weekends, and
a great swim club as well. Once you get to know us, you will love us!
Three things make our school special: great teachers who care about their students, terrific
students who want to learn and play together, and parents who support and help the school
and all ASD children. This is the type of collaboration that makes the school a wonderful
place for everyone.
This handbook has been put together to introduce you to the regulations that are our
guidelines at ASD. Please take the time to read these and if there are any questions or
inquiries, please feel free to contact us.
Once again, welcome to ASD, we look forward to another pleasurable and successful school
year all together.
Sincerely,
Edwin V. Ladd
Director-ASD

ELEMENTARY STUDENT HANDBOOK
Dear Elementary Families,
Welcome to the 2009-2010 school year at the American School of Doha! On behalf of the
faculty and staff of the elementary school, we would like to extend our welcome to all of you.
Our fundamental purpose at the American School of Doha is to develop academic success in
each of our students; however, the true secret of our school lies in the close relationships that
bind our community together. Here education is an active partnership. Parents and teachers
work together to create an environment, which is based on high expectations and excellence.
Our students achieve because we expect them to and they come to expect it of themselves.
Moreover, by their dedication and talent, our students challenge each other to find the best in
themselves. Working in partnership, we can produce a dynamic learning community
committed to student success.
Our program is a balance of structure and flexibility, designed to foster confidence and
creativity and to equip students with the skills and self-discipline they will need on their journey
to becoming independent life-long learners. Embedded in the heart of our program are our
school values of RESPECT, HONESTY, RESPONSIBILITY, and COMPASSION, which apply
to students, faculty and staff, as well as to our parental community.
Each year at ASD, changes are in the air, and we therefore ask that you review the contents
of this revised handbook carefully and share it with your child.
We welcome you to an exciting new school year. Thank you for your continuing support of our
elementary school program!
Sincerely,
Don LeBlanc Lana Al-Aghbar Scott Barnwell
Elementary Principal Associate Principal Associate Principal

THE AMERICAN SCHOOL OF DOHA
Our Vision
A dynamic learning community recognized as one of the leading
international schools in the world through our commitment to student
success.
Our Mission
The American School of Doha is an independent, U.S. accredited, college
preparatory school, committed to provide the highest standard of
educational excellence, through an enriched American curriculum. We
draw from, and build upon, the uniqueness of our multicultural student
body while preparing students for the challenges of a rapidly changing
global society.
The school will accomplish this by providing a positive, safe and
supportive environment, high measurable standards, and a clearly
defined, integrated curriculum implemented by a highly qualified and
motivated staff. In partnership with parents, and in an atmosphere of
open communication, the school will enable each student to reach his or
her full potential and to develop a lifelong love of learning.
Our Values
Respect
Honesty
Responsibility
Compassion

ELEMENTARY STUDENT HANDBOOK
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A Letter from the Director
Welcome from the Elementary School Principals
Vision, Mission, and Values of ASD
Admission Information, Requirements & Bussing
Admissions Policies and Procedures 1
Age Requirements 1
Registration Fee 2
Tuition & Capital Fees 2
Special Needs 2
Withdrawal from School 2
Bus Transportation 2
Elementary Events
Calendar 3
Action Unlimited Day 4
Assemblies 4
Back to School Night 4
Friendship Festival 4
Halloween Carnival 4
Curriculum
Overview 5
Literacy 5
Math 5
Science & Social Studies 5
Technology 6
Specialist Programs 6
Foreign Language 6
Support Services 7
Retention 7
Assessment & Reporting
Parent Conferences 8
Three-Way conferences 8
Portfolios 8
Reporting 8
Standardized testing 9
Fifth grade achievement awards 9
Values & Behavior Management
ASD Values 10
Behavior Guidelines 10
Playground Rules 11
procedures 11
Values Learning plan (vlp) 12
Behavioral Matrix 14
After School Student Activities
ASAs 15
Sports Programs 15
Fee-Based Activities 15
I
II
III

ELEMENTARY STUDENT HANDBOOK
General Information
School Day 16
Arrival & dismissal 16
Absence 16
Tardiness 16
Early Student checkout 16
Cancellation of school 17
Homework 17
Dress code 17
School visitors 18
Lost & found 18
Cafeteria 18
Ramadan 18
School supplies 19
Textbooks & workbooks 19
Toys and mobile phones 19
Classroom parties 19
School spirits days 20
Field trips 20
Teacher assistants 20
Room moms 20
Volunteers 20
Yearbook 20
Health & Immunization
Health 21
Lice 21
Immunizations 21
Medication 21
Safety & Emergency
Emergency contact list 22
Emergency drills/fire drills 22
Red flag days 22
Change of address/telephone number 22
Security 22
Facilities
Facilities Usage 23
Library Media Center 23
Communication Resources
Messages to Students 24
Parent Communication 24
Nesa virtual school 24
Arabic Translators 24
Parent Teacher Association (PTA) 24
Student Council 24
ASD directory 24
Technology
ASD Webmail-Getting Started for Students 25
Nesa Virtual School 25
Acceptable Technology Use Policy 26

ELEMENTARY STUDENT HANDBOOK
ADMISSION INFORMATION & REQUIREMENTS
ADMISSIONS POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
The American School of Doha provides an American curriculum education, taught in the
English language, for eligible and qualified students of all nationalities. Criteria for enrollment
include age, English language proficiency, previous school records, learning achievement,
special learning needs considerations and space availability.
New applicants may pick up an application packet from the registrar’s office in the central
administration area or it can be obtained from the school website. This packet includes all
pertinent information regarding the application process with a list of information and
documentation required. Once the school has received ALL materials, the application
information will be forwarded to the Admissions Committee for review.
Admissions testing will be done on all students who apply to the elementary school. The
admission’s test includes a reading and math assessment, as well as a writing sample. ESL
testing will be done if necessary. Testing will take place before any admissions decision is
made. The admissions committee will review the application documents and the results of the
admission testing and will then make a decision on acceptance.
Acceptance decisions could include full acceptance, wait list acceptance, conditional
acceptance or denial. The parents will be notified of the decision. Once a grade level closes, a
waiting list will be established. Parents and students will be notified should an opening become
available.
ASD does not accept students with physical, emotional, or learning needs that cannot be
appropriately remediated in the school's program. After initial acceptance of a student, the
school reserves the right to deny re-enrollment if the student's needs go beyond the scope of
available services.
Students may be denied admission or asked to withdraw for any of the following reasons:
✶ Lack of academic preparation for an age appropriate grade level
✶ Insufficient knowledge of English
✶ Disciplinary problems
✶ Academic probation for two consecutive terms
✶ Other reasons, which, in the opinion of the administration, may be in the best interest of
the school and/or the students.
AGE REQUIREMENTS
The minimum age for admission to the ASD pre-kindergarten program is four years old prior to
September 1st. September 1st is the cut-off date for placement in all grades at ASD. No
exceptions will be considered without formal testing and consultation to determine readiness.
Students who are considered to be exceptions will be accepted only on the condition that the
parents sign an agreement stating that if, for any reason, in the opinion of the teachers and/or
administration, the child's social, emotional, and/or developmental best interests are not being
met as a result of the grade placement, the child will then be moved back to the previous grade,
provided space exists, or repeat the grade he/she is in. No new students shall be admitted until
verification of age has been received in either the form of a birth certificate or passport.
Enrollment may be denied if the student's age significantly exceeds the normal average age for
his/her grade placement. Students who can be successful in a regular academic college
preparatory program may be considered as candidates for admission to the middle school, after
successful completion of Grade 5. The American School of Doha is open to qualified students
of all nationalities. Students will not be denied admission based upon race, color, religion, or
ethnic background.
- 1 -

ELEMENTARY STUDENT HANDBOOK
REGISTRATION FEE
There is a registration fee charged for the first time registration of each child. Please refer to
the school fee policy in the school application packet, or contact the business office if you have
questions about registrations fees.
TUITION AND CAPITAL FEES
ASD fees are provided in the school application packet. Please refer to this written policy or
contact the business office if you have questions about fees.
SPECIAL NEEDS
ASD does not provide a special education program for children with special educational or
learning needs. The school does not accept students with physical, emotional, or learning
needs that cannot be appropriately re-mediated in the school's program. After initial acceptance
of a student, the school reserves the right to deny re-enrollment if the student's needs go
beyond the scope of available resources.
WITHDRAWAL FROM SCHOOL
Parents are requested to inform the school during the pre-registration process for the next year
of their intent to withdraw their son or daughter. If withdrawal is to occur during the school year,
written notification of intent to withdraw a student from ASD should be given to the ES
Office two weeks prior to the date of withdrawal. Upon notification, we will inform all applicable
administrative and office staff regarding the exiting student and their departure date. A
"withdrawal form" will also be sent home for parents to complete. The "withdrawal form"
asks for a forwarding address, date of withdrawal, and the official request for the school to
prepare the exit documents.
“Exit” or “transfer” documents are prepared for students permanently leaving ASD. These
documents will include past school records such as a student’s report cards and standardized
test scores. Exit/transfer documents will not be released until the student has completed the
checkout process and has returned all textbooks/workbooks, library books, and other materials
belonging to the school. All tuition fees, plus any fees for lost or damaged textbooks and library
materials, will have to be paid in full before exit documents are issued to the parents.
BUS TRANSPORTATION (Trilogistics)
Tri-Logistics is an independent bussing company that provides bussing for ASD students.
Parents are to contact them directly with bussing needs. Bus transportation fees are outlined in
the school admissions/re-enrollment packet. Parents will be invoiced for a full quarter of busing,
regardless of how many days transportation was provided. Students riding the buses are
expected to follow behavior and safety guidelines, as well as instructions of the bus monitors
and drivers. Riding the bus is a privilege and any infractions may result in the loss of this
privilege.
- 2 -

ELEMENTARY STUDENT HANDBOOK
CALENDAR
ELEMENTARY EVENTS
- 3 -

ELEMENTARY STUDENT HANDBOOK
ACTION UNLIMITED DAY
Formally known as Olympic Day, Action Unlimited is a morning filled with individual games,
events, as well as team challenges from around the world. Following tradition, there are only
winners during this day! Every student is able to bop, hop, drip, squirt, and tug their way
through each station. Action Unlimited Day is for students in Pre-K through grade 5 who attend
ASD.
ASSEMBLIES
Each of our counselors organizes a monthly/every other month assembly for his/her assigned
grade levels. These assemblies highlight grade level events, promote school spirit, and
recognize effort, achievement, and values through our Dragon Pride Award!
BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHT
This night is scheduled for the first quarter of each year for each division. This activity is
designed to provide a venue for the parents to meet their child’s teacher and view the
classroom setting. If parents required specific information concerning their child, the teacher
should suggest that the parent schedule a conference.
FRIENDSHIP FESTIVAL
This annual PTA fundraiser is the largest event of the year! Activities and games are organized
by school clubs, volunteer parents, students and teachers. A silent auction is held, as well as a
bazaar displaying merchandise from local venders. A large range of food items are available
throughout the event, as well as musical talent. Proceeds are used to fund large projects for our
school.
HALLOWEEN CARNIVAL
This Spooktacular evening is the highlight of the elementary calendar! Fully organized and
decorated by our ASD ES faculty, with the support of parent volunteers, the hallways are
transformed into "Trick or Treat" lane! The Haunted House, Games, and Jumpy Castles are
other highlights of the evening.
- 4 -

ELEMENTARY STUDENT HANDBOOK
CURRICULUM
OVERVIEW
The curriculum of The American School of Doha is a Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12
standards-based, American curriculum. The AERO (American Education Reaches Out)
curriculum standards along with appropriate U.S. national and state standards have been
adapted to meet the mission and values of the American School of Doha, thus providing a
quality curriculum for ASD students. The curriculum focuses on an inquiry approach to learning
in math and science and is built around the belief that the child is at the center of the learning.
The ASD elementary curriculum encompasses the core areas of Language Arts, Math, Science
and Social Studies along with the special areas of Information Technology, Physical Education,
Art and Music. We also offer students Modern Standard Arabic, Arabic as a Foreign Language
or Spanish.
LITERACY
In an aim to foster meaningful literary instruction, students are engaged in a variety of language
experiences that focus on developmentally appropriate skill acquisition in listening, speaking,
reading, and writing. A strong emphasis is placed on literature appreciation, with students
involved in literary discussions in literature circles, class novel studies and daily teacher read
alouds. Resources such as the Accelerated Reader Program, and both lower and upper
elementary reading rooms, which house a vast selection of leveled literature, assist educators
in instructing students at their ability levels and individualizing literary teaching and learning
experiences to best meet varied student needs. Through Writers’ Workshops, all students are
engaged in daily writing experiences, ranging from the very emergent writing forms in Pre-K
and KG, to more developed ranges of written expression in grades one to five. Writing
portfolios are developed throughout the year and used by students and teachers to monitor,
measure and celebrate growth. The elementary Literacy Coach provides on-going program
support by fostering best literary teaching and learning practices in the area of language arts.
MATH
The elementary math curriculum is delivered through an inquiry based approach, whereby
students engage in in-depth hands-on investigations in the areas of: number sense,
computation and estimation, geometry, measurement, problem solving, patterns, functions, and
algebra, statistics, data analysis and probability. The elementary Math Coordinator works
closely with teachers to provide continuous professional development, on-going curricular
support, and guidance with the planning, delivery, and assessment of math units. Students
work collaboratively to construct mathematical understandings and extend their learning based
on their individual abilities and needs. A strong emphasis is based on communicating
understandings and sharing strategies with others.
SCIENCE AND SOCIAL STUDIES
The elementary school facility is home to two newly built science labs and an outdoor science
lab. A science coordinator is responsible for facilitating science teaching and learning
experiences and coordinating the overall program. Science and social studies topics are
explored and taught through an inquiry based approach; whereby students are involved in
constructing knowledge by engaging in hands-on experiences and making connections
between new learning experiences and prior knowledge. Teachers facilitate the process of
developing the skills of questioning, analyzing, and reflecting upon learning throughout topic
exploration. Such inquiry-based programs effectively cater to the typical broad range of student
needs in any given classroom and provide room for enrichment opportunities. Social Studies’
skills are similarly developed in practical activities with topic related literature integrated within
the language arts program.
- 5 -

ELEMENTARY STUDENT HANDBOOK
TECHNOLOGY
Utilizing technology as a teaching and learning tool is at center stage with a strong focus on
technology integration in the core curricula areas. Students also develop their information
technology skills in computer lessons taught by specialist teachers, both in a computer lab
setting and through the use of mobile labs and individual student laptops. Each student has a
school email account and enrollment in a NESA Virtual School class web page, through which
information pertaining to curricula documents, homework, discussion boards, and other student
resources can be accessed. Media literacy is complimented by the development of library skills;
instructed by the elementary librarian.
SPECIALIST PROGRAMS
Concerts, Swimming Galas, and Fine Arts Week, to name a few, highlight the unique specialist
program we have in place. Music, Art, and P.E. are taught by a team of specialized teachers,
in resource rich environments, which include art rooms, a kiln room, an outdoor pool, a fully
equipped gymnasium, and music rooms. With the exception of Pre-K and KG, students receive
foreign language instruction in either Spanish, Arabic as a Foreign Language, or Modern
Standard Arabic. An English as a Second Language Program is in place for non-native
speaking students who require further exposure to English. Furthermore, a Learning Support
Program serves students who would benefit from additional instructional support, to better
enable them to cope with the demands of the academic program. Though the school offers
additional instructional support, it is important to realize that the school does not offer a special
education program.
FOREIGN LANGUAGE
We offer our students from Grade 1 to Grade 5, choices of foreign language classes. The
foreign language classes are scheduled every other day. Students receiving support services
will receive instruction in either English as a Second Language or Learning Support in place of
Foreign Language.
CLASS GRADE SPECIFICS
Spanish for Beginners Gr. 1 - 5 basic Spanish
Spanish Intermediate Gr. 2 - 5 intermediate Spanish
Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) Gr. 1 - 5 for native speakers
Arabic as a Second Language (AFL) Gr. 1 - 5 non-Arabic speakers
Guidelines:
When entering ASD, new students will be enrolled in the above-mentioned options based upon
the following guidelines:
✶ Fluent English speakers* may choose Arabic as a Foreign Language or Spanish. AFL is
not intended for students who are native speakers of Arabic.
✶ Fluent Arabic speakers in Grades 1 and 2 may elect Modern Standard Arabic (MSA).
✶ Students will be tested for placement in MSA in grades 3, 4 and 5. Students who do not
meet the MSA language requirements will have the option of taking Spanish but cannot
be considered for AFL.
✶ Where there are two levels of the same language offered (i.e. Spanish) placement
would be based on the child’s previous exposure to the language and a placement
test/interview.
✶ Students with a Spanish background may choose between Spanish or AFL.
✶ If a student is placed in a language class and it is observed that his/her needs would be
better served in a different class level, a parental communication will be instituted to
inform the parents and request the change in language placement.
✶ Non-fluent English language speakers, or students with a defined academic weakness
who have been identified with a score of 1-year or more behind their assigned grade
level will be assigned to ESL or Learning Support.
✶ At anytime throughout the year if the child shows signs of weakness in their core
classes a referral to support services may be made.
- 6 -

ELEMENTARY STUDENT HANDBOOK
✶ At semester break, students released from ESL or Learning Support will follow the
Guidelines for Placement described above.
✶ Placement in a language is considered to be a yearlong commitment. Placement in ESL
or Learning Support will be reviewed at the end of each semester.
(*Fluent English speakers, for the sake of this document are defined as students who are able
to maintain an at grade level standing in English.)
SUPPORT SERVICES
ESL: ESL assistance is available for students whose first language is not English in grades
one through five. If a student appears to be experiencing difficulty with English in the
classroom, the teacher should inform the principal and the ESL teacher of the situation and
provide authentic samples of the student’s class work in addition to anecdotal records. Within a
reasonable period of time (no longer than one week) the student’s English language skills will
be evaluated.
Learning Support: Learning Support is available to students who have mild learning difficulties
that significantly interfere with their academic performance in the classroom, and who are at
risk for not meeting the grade level standards of our school.
Guidance: Guidance services are available for all students. The elementary school has
three counselors, two in the lower elementary, and one in the upper elementary. Teachers are
encouraged to support the counselor in working with students on their interpersonal and social
skills in small group, whole class, or individual settings. The counselors will provide lessons for
homerooms. Children referred for the "Child Study Team" are processed through the
counselor's office.
RETENTION
Retention at a particular grade level is a recommendation made by teachers and administrators
working with the parents and the student. Retention may be recommended for a variety of
reasons, including academic and developmental readiness. Retention decisions are made in
conjunction with the parents. Observations, review of school records, review of daily classroom
work and behavior, and additional assessments will be made if necessary. All are factors
considered during the decision process.
- 7 -

ELEMENTARY STUDENT HANDBOOK
ASSESSMENT AND REPORTING
PARENT CONFERENCES
Parent/Teacher conferences are held at end of 1 st quarter. During these conferences teachers
are expected to report student achievement in each subject area highlighting areas of strength
as well as areas in need of improvement. In the case of students of concern, prior
communication needs to have taken place in the weeks ahead of the parent / teacher
conference. Lengthier conferences involving LS, ESL, or counselor involvement may be
scheduled on alternative days before or after conference days.
THREE WAY CONFERENCES
Three way conferences involve the active involvement of the student in sharing his / her
learning with parents and teacher. This conference is referred to as "three way" rather than
"student led" as it involves participation by the teacher and the parents. It is expected that
students share their individual goals and accomplishments as well as utilize their portfolios to
share samples of their work highlighting growth and learning.
PORTFOLIOS
Portfolios document student work and growth over time. They provide evidence of
achievement toward outcomes and overall student performance, thus enhancing the
assessment process. Portfolios provide students with opportunities to learn the language of
evaluation through reflection on their growth and to share their work with others. Teachers are
responsible for developing these understandings and competencies by guiding their students
to:
✶ Demonstrate a developmentally appropriate understanding of the purpose of the
portfolio
✶ Be able to select and reflect on appropriate items for their portfolio, and demonstrate
greater levels of understanding and skill in this process as they progress from grade
level to grade level
REPORTING
Students in grades 1-5 receive report cards at the end of each grading period. Students who
are working on a modified program will have this information noted on their report cards.
Students in the Learning Support and English as a Second Language programs may receive
narrative reports in lieu of grades.
Report cards will be withheld if a student has outstanding financial obligations (tuition, library
fees, replacement fees for lost or damaged textbooks) to the school.
ASSESSMENT & REPORTING TIMELINE
✶ Aug. 30-Sept. 3: Common Writing Prompt (KG-5)
✶ September 6-29: NWEA MAPS Testing (3-5)
✶ September 10: Back to School Night (3-5)
✶ September 16: Back to School Night (Pre-K through 2)
✶ September 17: Transition Reports (3-5)
✶ September 17: Transition Reports (1-2)
✶ October 18-22: Gates MacGinitie Reading Testing (1-2)
✶ November 11-12: Parent/Teacher Conference
✶ November 10: Q1 Report Cards
✶ January 10-26: NWEA MAPS Testing (3-5)
✶ February 11: 1st Semester Report Cards
✶ March 24/25: 3-Way Portfolio Conferences
✶ April 11-27: NWEA MAPS Testing (3-5)
✶ April 15: Q3 Report Cards
✶ April 18-22: Gates MacGinitie Testing (1-2)
✶ May 2-6: Common Writing Prompt (KG-5)
✶ June 10: Final Report Cards
- 8 -

ELEMENTARY STUDENT HANDBOOK
STANDARDIZED TESTING
The Gate MacGinitie Reading Test is a widely used, U.S. formed group test that is
administered to students in grade KG – 2 in both the fall and the spring. The results of this test
are used to measure student growth, strengths and weaknesses.
Students in Grades 3-5 are assessed using the Northwest Evaluation Associations (NWEA)
assessment known as Measures of Academic Progress (MAP). This assessment is aligned
with national or AERO standards. The assessments are computerized adaptive tests that
accurately reflect the instructional level of each student and measure growth over time. Test
items dynamically adjust to a student's performance level, and as a result, test scores are more
accurate. NWEA utilizes a web-based program that adapts the level of the question complexity
based on a student’s response. The MAP provide highly accurate results that can be used to:
✶ Identify the skills and concepts individual students have learned.
✶ Diagnose instructional needs.
✶ Monitor academic growth over time.
✶ Place new students into appropriate instructional programs.
FIFTH GRADE ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
The United States Department of State, and its Office of Overseas Schools distributes
certificates, each signed by The President of the United States. There are three awards
presented to the qualifying students in June. The criteria, as explained in the official
documentation, is as follows:
President’s Excellence Award:
This award is given to students who earn a minimum grade point average of 90 on a 100-point
scale for each reporting period and who are ranked in the 85 percentile or higher in either math
or reading on the NWEA assessment.
President's Achievement Award:
This award recognizes a very different type of academic achievement. It is given to students
who have worked hard and have given their best effort in school, often in the face of special
obstacles to their learning.
Citizenship Awards:
This award is given to students who are always willing to help, who contribute to the school,
and who show empathy to all.
- 9 -

ELEMENTARY STUDENT HANDBOOK
VALUES AND BEHAVIOR MANAGEMENT
ASD VALUES
ASD is founded on the core values of responsibility, respect, honesty and compassion and
these values drive our approach to education and managing student behavior. ASD will
manage student behavior to support the teaching and learning process and to uphold and
reinforce commonly accepted standards of behavior. Managing student behavior assists
students to develop personal, school and community responsibility. To put this plan into
practice, the following procedures are provided.
The conduct of ASD students and parents should reflect standards of citizenship desired by
members of the expatriate community. Respect for the laws and customs of the people of
Qatar is fundamental and therefore expected. As stated in our mission statement, our school
values are:
✶ Responsibility
✶ Respect
✶ Honesty
✶ Compassion
Responsibility:
✶ · On time
✶ · Has all learning equipment
✶ · Self managing so as not to require follow up
✶ · Is accountable for actions
Respect:
✶ · Sets and maintains high standards for self
✶ · Interacts with other people appropriately
✶ · Accepts individual differences
✶ · Displays cultural sensitivity
✶ · Cares for the environment
✶ · Values teaching and learning
Honesty:
✶ · Relies on own knowledge and completes own work
✶ · Speaks truthfully
✶ · Maintains integrity
Compassion:
✶ · Has empathy for others
✶ · Warm, caring and friendly
✶ · Supports and encourages other students who need it
✶ · Understands that growth comes from mistakes
BEHAVIOR GUIDELINES:
✶ Students and staff are expected to uphold these values to ensure teaching and learning
are the primary focus and to allow students every opportunity to excel.
✶ This plan is based on the premise that students will be responsible for their actions. This
means they should understand they will be held accountable and face consequences for
inappropriate behaviors.
✶ It is understood that students, like adults, will make decisions and take actions at times that
are inappropriate or unwise and that learning can take place from these actions.
✶ Consequences for inappropriate behavior will, as much as is practicable be immediate,
relative, cumulative and consistently enforced.
✶ While consistency is a key component when managing student behavior, it is understood
that each case is unique. Also, the ASD school community, local community and wider
environment are to be considered when applying this plan and its procedures.
✶ This plan is applicable during regular school hours or when students are associated in any
way with ASD, such as traveling to or from school or when attending any school associated
- 10 -

ELEMENTARY STUDENT HANDBOOK
activity.
✶ ASD cannot be held responsible for the actions of its students in the wider community
outside of regular school hours or school associated activity. However, any student action
at any time that harms the reputation of the school may result in a consequence consistent
with this plan.
✶ Relevant staff will be informed about a student that is involved in a significant discipline
issue, so that staff members are aware in order to support the student if needed.
✶ This plan should be read in conjunction with other relevant policies such as information
technology, academic honesty code, etc.
PLAYGROUND RULES
We believe that the playground is an extension of our school and the rules that apply in school
also apply while students are on the playground. We expect students to play respectfully, be
kind, share, and, most importantly, play safe.
At 7:40am, supervision starts with teachers and assistants’ assigned supervisory
responsibilities. If a situation does occur, students are expected to report the incident
immediately to the playground supervisor.
During recess, school personnel supervise students. Rules are reviewed with all classes on a
periodic basis. Common recess rules include:
✶ RESPECT OF ONE ANOTHER AND OF THE FACILITIES
✶ ROCKS AND SAND REMAIN ON THE GROUND.
✶ STUDENTS REMAIN OUTSIDE UNLESS A TEACHER OR SUPERVISOR MAKES AN EXCEPTION.
If infractions occur, the on-duty supervisory will dialogue with the students and depending on
the situation, the following possible actions may be taken:
✶ Time-out for several minutes during the recess.
✶ Missed recess in collaboration with the classroom teacher.
✶ Referral to appropriate counselor
✶ Referral to administration.
If the student is referred to administration, he/she will have the opportunity to reflect and explain
the incident and propose a new course of action. In most cases, when a student is sent to the
administration, parent notification will occur.
PROCEDURES
The following procedures are provided to give a clear understanding of how student behavior
will be managed.
All faculty and staff have a responsibility to address inappropriate student behavior to maintain
a positive teaching and learning environment at ASD. The response from faculty/staff will be
appropriate in relation to the student behavior that is being addressed and consistent with this
plan.
Faculty and staff should always try to address behaviors at the lowest possible level. This
places an emphasis on the small things and signals that these are important in day-to-day life
at ASD. Things like punctuality, appropriate behavior, and a clean environment set the tone for
maintaining high standards.
Faculty and staff will address students with courtesy and respect while assisting the student to
‘discover’ why their behavior is inappropriate and does not meet the standards of ASD and
conflicts with its values.
Once the student is aware of their behavior and its unacceptability faculty/staff will outline to the
student the consequences of their actions.
Faculty/staff will apply the appropriate consequence for the inappropriate behavior as outlined
in the behavior consequence matrix.
- 11 -

ELEMENTARY STUDENT HANDBOOK
VALUES LEARNING PLAN (VLP)
Students who are referred may complete the “Values Learning Plan.”
The “Values Learning Plan” must be signed by the student, parent, staff, counselor,
and returned to the administrator within 24 hours.
Behaviors:
Behavior Description Category
Abuse, physical Physical assault of a staff member or student 3
Abuse, verbal Intimidation or insult of staff member or
3
student, language that demeans one’s color,
race, gender, or sexual orientation
Bullying
To annoy, attack or bother another person or 3
group of people
Dishonesty
Being deceitful or lying, cheating, forgery,
2
plagiarism
Disruption or
Behavior which interrupts the learning
1
disturbance
environment anywhere on campus
Dress
Failure to meet the standards as outlined in the 1
dress code
Fighting Exchange of blows between students 3
Fire Alarm
Vandalism with fire and/or setting off a false 3
alarm
Gum chewing Chewing gum on campus contrary to the
1
student code of conduct
Inappropriate Behavior that fails to meet ASD expectations 1 - 4
behavior
or fails to uphold ASD values
Information
Inappropriate use of school technology in
1 - 4
Technology
breach of the information technology policy
Intimidation
Threatening or purposely embarrassing
3
another person with intent to frighten, demean
or harm
Obscenity/profanity Written or oral language or drawing that
1
offends the senses or the standards of morality
of the school and/or community
Safety
Behavior which infringes safety regulations and 3
which endangers or causes harm or injury to
self or others
Skateboard/Heelies Use of a skateboard/Heelies at school contrary 1
to the student code of conduct
Skipping class Unexplained absence from class(es) 2
Tardiness
Arrival to class late, and/or after the bell has 1
stopped ringing
Theft Taking another person’s or school property 3
Vandalism Defacing, damaging or destroying property 3
- 12 -

ELEMENTARY STUDENT HANDBOOK
Consequences:
Community service
Conference
· Staff
· Parent
· Teacher and Counselor
Counseling, mandatory
Values Learning Plan
(VLP)
Loss of Recess
· Morning
· Lunch
Letter Home
Privileges, removal of
Student Contract
· Academic
· Behavior
Restitution
Suspension
· In school
Out of school
Expulsion
Serving the school or local community in some way
Meeting with administration staff member and either staff,
parent or both. A counselor may also be present.
Students meet with a counselor in relation to the behavior
Students complete a values learning plan with the purpose
being to reflect on their behavior
Students accompany a staff member or must remain in a
designated location during the break
Parents receive a letter from the school in relation to the
behavior
Loss of privileges, such as ASA, club or sport team, special
events, etc.
Students will be on a contract with ongoing monitoring of their
behavior and/or academic progress with clearly outlined
consequences for failing to meet expectations
Restoring of things as to how they were before the behavior,
including financial reimbursement
Removal from regularly scheduled classes and school related
activities
The student is removed from ASD. Students who are expelled
from the school may be entitled to re-enroll in the following
school year as part of the normal process but can not be
guaranteed a place
- 13 -

ELEMENTARY STUDENT HANDBOOK
BEHAVIORAL MATRIX
- 14 -

ELEMENTARY STUDENT HANDBOOK
AFTER SCHOOL STUDENT ACTIVITIES
ASAs
ASD provides an after-school activities (ASA) program during each quarter for students in
grades 1-5. After school activities are scheduled each quarter and run for 6 consecutive
sessions. Some activities are limited to certain grade levels and/or number of students. A
student must pre-register for the activity on-line. The school will provide instructions regarding
registration so every family is able to complete this process at home. Once assigned to an
activity, the expectation is that the student remains in it until its completion. Students may not
attend an activity that they have not been assigned to, or change activities once the sessions
have started.
There is no busing transportation available to students enrolled in after school activities.
Parents are expected to collect their children promptly at 3:45 from the back gate (# 5). Three
late pick-ups will result in the student’s suspension from after school activities program for the
rest of the current session. Parent questions and concerns should be directed to the After
School Activities Coordinator, Susan Barnwell; smbarnwell@asd.edu.qa
SPORTS PROGRAM
The elementary after school sports program offers students the opportunity to participate in the
following sports after school:
✶ Soccer
✶ Track & Field
✶ Basketball
✶ Swimming
✶ Indoor Athletics
The term of these sessions varies from sport to sport and is outlined at the beginning of the
school year as well as communicated to parents in the After School Sports brochure. Students
interested in participating in any or all of the above sports must sign up during specified times
once they have obtained parent approval and submitted the registration form.
The After School Sports Program also offers students opportunities to participate in a
competitive one-day all-city sports tournament, which are organized for basketball, soccer,
Indoor Athletics, and swimming. For each sport, a Grade 2-3 team and a Grade 4-5 team is
selected. For these competitive events, players are selected after an intramural tournament in
which all participating students play a round-robin tournament. After the completion of the
tournament, the more skilled and coachable students are selected for the school team based
on their performance and attitude exhibited during their practice sessions and tournament.
Unfortunately, only one team per sport/grade can be sent, according to the rules of the
organization, but all students do have the opportunity to participate in our school intramural
program.
There is no bussing transportation available to students enrolled in the after school sports
program. Parents re expected to collect their children promptly at 3:45 at the back gate (gate #
5). Three late pick-ups may result in the student’s suspension from after school
activities. Parent questions and concerns should be directed to the After School Sports
Program Coordinator, Susan Barnwell; smbarnwell@asd.edu.qa
FEE-BASED ACTIVITIES
Every year the elementary school runs several fee-based after-school activities that are
administered by community members/institutions using the elementary school facilities. This
information will be provided to parents by the ASA coordinator.
- 15 -

ELEMENTARY STUDENT HANDBOOK
GENERAL INFORMATION
SCHOOL DAY
Our school week is from Sunday through Thursday.
The ASD Pre-Kindergarten program begins at 8:00am and ends at 12:30pm. It is imperative
that students be collected at the school's parking lot entrance by 12:30pm.
For elementary students in kindergarten through 5, the program begins at 8:00am and ends at
3:00pm. The bell rings at 7:55am.
ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL
All students are welcome on campus starting at 7:40am. Students arriving at school should go
directly to the playground, after putting their backpacks or lunch boxes in their cubbies.
Students are to enter the building at the sound of the first bell and go directly to their
classrooms.
When the bell rings at dismissal time, students are to go either to their busses or go home with
their drivers or parents. If they are participating in an after-school program, they should go
directly to that activity.
All elementary students must be in a supervised program after school. Elementary students
are not allowed to stay after school unsupervised. Same rule applies to siblings not
participating in an after school activity.
Professional and Collaborative Time (PACT) Tuesdays are 12:30pm dismissal days for the
students. These afternoons are designed for teachers to work collaboratively with their grade
level teams and individual parent conferences cannot be scheduled during this afternoon.
ABSENCE
Regular attendance is essential for a student's success in school. Persistent absenteeism
creates a genuine hardship for a student and is regarded as a very serious problem. ES
students absent for more than 25 school days during an academic year will be required to
successfully complete next grade entrance assessment for placement in the next grade level.
The decision for placement will rest solely with the ES school administration. Student absences
exceeding 50 school days will lose their seat at ASD. Students registered and attending
another school while away from ASD are exempt from this regulation.
A student and his/her parents should work closely with the classroom or specialist teacher to
ensure that any missed work due to an absence is made up as soon as possible. Students are
responsible for making up any missed work.
TARDINESS
Punctual arrival at school is another important factor for a student’s academic success but also
provides the student a smooth transition to start the day. Classes begin at 8:00 AM. A student
is considered tardy at 8:01 AM. A student’s tardiness not only affects the late arriving child but
also negatively impacts the start of the day for all students in the class.
Students who are tardy more than 10 times in a quarter will be sent home on the 11 th day of
tardiness, and for each subsequent day during the quarter, the student will be sent home. A
consistent pattern of tardiness will merit a recommendation to be forwarded to the Director to
consider voiding this student’s enrollment at ASD.
EARLY STUDENT CHECKOUT
Students who leave early during a school day must be accompanied by a parent or guardian
who has received a gate pass from the ES office. No student is permitted to leave school
grounds before 2:55 unless they have a pass in hand. The school nurse may also issue a
gate pass to the parent and will inform the ES Office that the student has been sent home for
the day.
In the event that a student is absent from school for any reason other than illness, the parents
must notify the teacher and office by email prior to the student's absence. If an extended
- 16 -

ELEMENTARY STUDENT HANDBOOK
absence is planned, parents are asked first to contact the ES Office, in order to fill out
a "Request for Absence" form and to arrange for any missed work.
Students departing before the last day of school, unless officially withdrawing, will receive their
report card at the designated report card date. Report cards are not provided to parents earlier
than the identified day.
CANCELLATION OF SCHOOL
If school is to be cancelled for any reason, every effort will be made to contact families as soon
as possible. An emergency contact chain has been established, whereby ASD teachers would
contact the oldest student of the family.
HOMEWORK
Homework is an extension of the regular school program. It is a responsibility that the student
undertakes independently, whether at home or outside of class periods in school. A planner is
provided to each student in grades two to five, so that he/she can write the daily assignments.
Parents need to review this planner and sign it daily.
Pre-K, KG, and grade one have homework folders, which go home on a daily basis and contain
parent and homework information as well as the student’s finished work.
Homework given to our students has a definite purpose; that being to supplement, complement,
and reinforce classroom learning. Teachers provide a review of homework each day, so that
students understand what is to be done and what is to be expected. Homework could also
include independent reading at home, to encourage and support the love of reading.
Grade level homework allocations:
✶ KG: 10 minutes of reading
✶ 1st and 2nd Grade: 20-25 minutes total (10-15 minutes reading/10 minutes other)
✶ 3rd Grade: 30-35 minutes total (20 minutes reading/10-15 minutes other)
✶ 4th and 5th Grade: 40-50 minutes total (20-25 minutes reading/20-25 minutes other)
DRESS CODE
Students should appear neat and clean when they arrive at school each morning. Proper dress
is what is acceptable to a majority of our community and is in good taste for school attendance
and life in Qatar.
Footwear is an important safety consideration. Students are encouraged to wear shoes that
fully cover the toes. Students are not allowed to wear flip flops to school. In order to participate
in any type of active running activity like soccer, basketball, or tag, students must wear a tennis
shoe. Running in "crocs" is a safety concern.
Hats and sunglasses may not be worn in school, but are acceptable during recess and lunch
periods when students are outside. Decorative items should be conservative. Jewelry, glasses,
and t-shirt decorations and logos should be culturally sensitive, inoffensive, and in good taste.
Physical Education:
On PE days, students in Pre-K to Grade 5 must wear the PE uniform to school with appropriate
sports shoes with the exception of swimming days, when students may wear "crocs." The PE
uniform may also be worn on non-PE days. PE uniforms are expected to be labeled with the
child’s full name and class on the small tag located on the shirt and shorts (ie: Joel White 5-A).
During colder months, track or sweatpants may be worn along with the standard PE shirt and
shoes. During swimming days, students must also bring/wear a swimming cap and towel.
Uniforms may be purchased at Zak's Clothing store, located near Decoration Roundabout. A
map is available on the ASD website.
In order for a student to not participate due to an illness, a note from the child's parent must be
submitted to the PE teacher prior to class. The student must also bring a library book or class
work to work on during this time. The classroom teacher and/or teaching assistant will escort
the child to and from the library, unless the PE teacher deems attendance at PE necessary.
- 17 -

ELEMENTARY STUDENT HANDBOOK
Art Classes:
For art classes, during painting activities, students are provided smocks to cover their clothes.
Smocks are also available whenever a child would like to protect his/her clothes. Students also
have the option of bringing their own smock from home, which they can leave in the Art Room.
SCHOOL VISITORS
Every effort is made in our school not to disturb the learning process of our students. Visiting
your child’s classroom during school hours without proper communication with your child’s
teacher is discouraged. Visits to campus during the school days are restricted, unless prior
arrangement is made with the school administration.
LOST AND FOUND:
Please teach students to be responsible for picking up their belongings before leaving the
playground or other areas of the school. Lost items should be taken to the “Lost and Found”
located in the cafeteria. There is also a “Lost and Found” bin located outside the gym. Students
and parents should be directed to both of these areas in the event that they have lost an item.
During conference days, all "Lost and Found" items will be displayed in the breezeway for
identification and pick up. All items not claimed will be periodically given to a charitable
organization or dispose of depending on the condition of the item.
CAFETERIA:
Three staggered lunches are scheduled in the elementary cafeteria every day except Tuesday.
KG students eat in their classrooms.Grade level lunches are scheduled at the following times:
✶ KG and Grade 1 at 11:50
✶ Grades 2 & 3 at 12:10
✶ Grades 4 & 5 at 12:30
Students in KG and 1st grade have a pre-set menu. KG students pre-pay and select their lunch
on a weekly schedule for the desired days. First grade must purchase their meals on a daily
basis. Choices are offered on a pre-set menu with lunch money collected once per week.
Students are also able to bring their own packed lunch. The weekly menu is published in the
school’s Sahifa – weekly newsletter.
Students in Grades 2-5 can choose to bring a lunch or money. This is a daily decision. All
present food services are organized as a cash and carry system. There is a set 10 QR meal
option each day, or students may choose another options such as sandwiches, salad, soup,
etc. There are no microwaves available for student use.
Sweets or what many consider as junk food such as chocolates or soda are not sold to our
elementary students, but we do allow students to purchase one ice cream treat on the final
school day of the week. In striving to promote healthy eating habits, we ask parents not to pack
sodas, candy, or other junk food.
Parents are not permitted to bring in fast food or restaurant lunches (McDonalds, Pizza Hut
etc.) in the event that they are joining their children for lunch in the cafeteria.
RAMADAN
ASD is a diverse community of students from various countries and religious backgrounds. As
guests in our host country of Qatar, we respect their religious beliefs and traditions.
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Every day during this month,
Muslims around the world spend the daylight hours in a complete fast. The annual fast of
Ramadan is considered one of the five "pillars" of Islam. Muslims who are physically able are
required to fast each day of the entire month, from sunrise to sunset. The evenings are spent
enjoying family and community meals, engaging in prayer and spiritual reflection, and reading
from the Qu'ran.
- 18 -

ELEMENTARY STUDENT HANDBOOK
During the month of Ramadan the school day ends at 2:30. The length of recess, snack and
lunch times remain the same; however, each period is reduced to 35 minutes rather than 40.
During Ramadan, the regular Tuesday schedule continues to be implemented.
✶ At snack and lunch, students who are fasting may proceed directly to the library.
✶ Students and teachers are asked to eat in the cafeteria.
✶ Students wishing to pray at lunchtime may proceed to an identified Arabic classroom
where they will be supervised by an Arabic program teacher.
✶ Adults are asked to be sensitive to eating and drinking in the presence of fasting
students and in public places throughout the school. Walking through the hallways with
food or beverages is frowned upon, and every effort is made to ensure that eating and
drinking be done privately.
✶ Students will still be able to purchase lunch in the cafeteria during Ramadan.
SCHOOL SUPPLIES
Prior to the beginning of the year, a supply list for student materials is provided to every
student. This list, developed by each grade level, identifies the school supplies needed for the
school year. Though every attempt is made to insure the list is comprehensive and economical,
teachers may request additional supplies during the year.
The school supply list also includes the purchase of a PE uniform. The uniform can be
purchased at the local provider, Zak’s Trading, located at Decoration Roundabout, about 1 km
from school. Also on the supply list, all students in Grade 1-5 (male and female) must purchase
a swim cap to wear during the swimming unit.
TEXTBOOKS and WORKBOOKS
Textbooks are provided to students on a loan basis. Textbooks and workbooks are the property
of the school and damage beyond ordinary wear may result in a damage fee being assessed.
Lost textbooks and workbooks will result in a fee being assessed to cover the replacement
cost, which includes the cost of the book and shipping. Should a lost book be found, the
replacement cost will be reimbursed to the student. Report cards and end of year records (if a
family is moving) will be held until the replacement costs are settled. Parents will be informed of
replacement costs once determined.
In June, the completed workbooks may be returned to students, however if a student leaves
during the year, the workbook remains the school's property. This is to ensure that adequate
materials are in place for newly arriving students.
TOYS and MOBILE PHONES
Students should not bring toys, electronic devices, or any item to school that may potentially
interfere with their learning. Students in the lower grades may bring special belongings to share
on “Show and Tell” days.
Students who wish to bring mobile phones to school must ensure that they are turned off during
school hours. Students who do not comply with this rule may lose this privilege. The school is
not responsible for the loss or damage of mobile phones on campus.
CLASSROOM PARTIES
Class parties are most commonly held to mark the following occasions:
✶ Thanksgiving
✶ Halloween
✶ Christmas - Holiday Celebration
✶ Valentine’s Day
✶ End of Year
- 19 -

ELEMENTARY STUDENT HANDBOOK
These parties are organized by homeroom parents and usually involve student participation in
crafts and/or games as well as enjoying tasty treats. Parents not wishing their children to
participate in a class party/celebration must inform the homeroom teacher in advance. Any
student not participating in these parties/celebrations may be sent to the library.
Birthday Snacks:
It is permitted for students to celebrate their birthdays at school during snack time by sharing a
treat with their peers. Teachers need to receive prior notification from the parent and every
effort should be made to schedule these celebrations with the least interruption on instructional
time and impact on student learning. Birthday invitations will not be distributed/placed in
students’ home folders unless the entire class is invited or only students of the same
gender are invited. It is extremely upsetting, therefore disruptive to the class, when 2 or 3
students are left out of a birthday party invitation given out by a classmate.
SCHOOL SPIRIT DAYS:
On a regular basis Student Council sponsors spirit days to foster school spirit. These days may
include: crazy hair day, twin day, inside out and backwards day, etc.
FIELD TRIPS
Educational field trips are encouraged for students in all grades. On all school-sponsored field
trips, the teacher leads supervision with help from parents. During school days, transportation
costs are borne by the school while parents assume any fees associated with the trip.
TEACHER ASSISTANTS
Our teacher assistants provide assistance to the classroom teachers in a variety of ways:
working with students on a one-to-one basis, working with small groups of students, and
preparing materials for the teacher. They are also responsible for lunchroom and playground
supervision.
ROOM MOTHERS
The Room Mother's primary functions are organizing holiday parties for the classroom, assist, if
called upon, with special projects such as field trips, or solicit additional helpers for these
projects. Room Mothers also organize the” Basket' for the annual Friendship Festival, the major
PTA fund raiser for the school. Room Mothers enhance our program and add a wonderful touch
to our students' school lives.
VOLUNTEERS
ASD appreciates the many people who are willing to volunteer in the school. There is a
classroom volunteer program, which includes volunteer training before working in a classroom.
The library also has a volunteer program. Volunteers are also welcome to help with field trips,
assist with special projects, and for a variety of special tasks. Please contact the elementary
office if you are interested in volunteering.
YEARBOOK
An elementary school yearbook is published each year and is available for all students to
purchase. The yearbook contains photos of students and various activities school-wide that
have taken place during the course of the year. Order information is sent home mid-year to all
students. Yearbooks are then ordered and delivery is usually by the end of the school year.
- 20 -

ELEMENTARY STUDENT HANDBOOK
HEALTH & IMMUNIZATION
HEALTH
The major purpose of the school health program is to maintain, improve, and promote the
health of the school age child. To accomplish this purpose, the school joins the parents and
community personnel and agencies in a team effort. Parents have the primary responsibility for
the health of their children.
Your child's health is important to us. We attempt to maintain a good healthy environment
while your child is at school. Health education is a regular part of the curriculum: the care of
teeth and skin, the need for proper foods and rest, self help for minor first aid problems, and
disease prevention are some of the units studied. You can help by encouraging your child to
practice at home the good healthy habits he/she is studying at school. Vision and hearing
screenings are done annually, and lice checks are done regularly.
Daily outdoor recesses and regularly scheduled physical education classes are valuable factors
in promoting healthy learning conditions. Children are expected to participate and wear
appropriate clothing for these activities.
LICE
If a student is suspected of having lice, they need to be sent to the clinic for a second check. If
lice are present, the student will need to be picked up by parent/guardian and treated. They
may return to school the following day, if free of lice and nits. The school nurse will conduct a
head check before students can be permitted back into class. If lice or nits are still present, they
will be sent home and will be rechecked upon return by the nurse. If the child has siblings in
another class, that class will also be checked.
IMMUNIZATIONS
Health, immunization, and tuberculosis screening records are maintained on every child.
Parents are required to submit a health status update as they register their child for each
school year and are urged to notify the school health clinic of any significant changes in health,
which occur during the school year.
A standard immunization record is required for attendance at the American School of Doha.
There may be occasions when immunizations will be available at school through the Ministry of
Health.
MEDICATION
NO MEDICATION SHALL BE ADMINISTERED WITHOUT EXPRESSED WRITTEN PARENTAL PERMISSION.
If your child must bring medication to school, the following steps need to be followed:
1. Parents should notify the school nurse when a child is taking medication.
2. All medications must be brought to and kept in the Health Clinic.
3. The medicine must be clearly identified with the name, type of medication, student's
name, and dosage.
4. A note, signed and dated by the parents, must accompany the medication.
- 21 -

ELEMENTARY STUDENT HANDBOOK
SAFETY AND EMERGENCY
EMERGENCY CONTACT LIST
Each year, in the event that families would have to be notified for emergency reasons, the
school establishes and maintains an updated Emergency Contact List. Classroom teachers
are responsible for directly contacting the families of their students.
EMERGENCY DRILLS / FIRE DRILLS
Emergency and fire drills are practiced on a regular basis. Safe exit procedures are posted in
each classroom and throughout the school. Classroom teachers practice, with students, the
safe exiting procedures when the alarm is sounded.
RED FLAG DAYS:
During the hot months, the number of days that students are actively participating in an outdoor
recess is limited because of the dangers associated with outdoor play in high temperatures.
There are only two times that weather safety becomes a concern.
The first is when the weather is very hot. On days when the temperature is extremely high (35
°C), the Health Clinic will put out the RED FLAG. Students need to drink plenty of water and
stay in the shade. Physical activity should be restricted, and students may stay inside with
permission if necessary.
The second time there is a concern is when there are severe winds that could possibly develop
into sandstorms. There are certain times of the year when this could pose a health concern to
students with asthma or breathing conditions. These students should stay inside as much as
possible. Everyone else needs to use caution. It will be up to the discretion of the School Nurse
and Administration if students can play outside based on the severity of the wind and the
blowing of the sand.
CHANGE OF ADDRESS/TELEPHONE NUMBER
Please make changes to your child’s profile on powerschool. Each family is given a user name
and password in order to log-on. If you are unable to make these changes on powerschool
please notify the ES Office and the office will make these changes on your behalf.
SECURITY
There are security measures in place, enhanced by the cooperation with the Qatari Police, a
private security company and an individual hired by the school. There is 24-hour security
presence and coverage at the school, and the premises are monitored electronically. On-going
consultations are undertaken with the U.S. Embassy to insure that our security steps are
continually reviewed.
Visitors to campus are requested to check-in at the Security Office and present a valid school
ID or a valid photo ID.
- 22 -

ELEMENTARY STUDENT HANDBOOK
FACILITIES
FACILITIES USAGE
There are strict guidelines and procedures for using the facilities at the school. Rooms must be
reserved in advance. Room reservation forms may be obtained in the central office or in the
respective school offices. Forms must be submitted to the receptionist in the central
administration office for approval and processing.
LIBRARY MEDIA CENTER
The elementary library is open from Sunday to Thursday from 7:45 to 3:30. The collection has
over 12,000 volumes and includes fiction, nonfiction, picture books, reference materials, early
reader books, films, and professional resources for teachers, books on cassette and
magazines. There are several computers available for students' use, all of which are online.
The library is staffed by two certified teacher-librarians; supported by several library assistants.
The goals of the elementary library program are to enable students to learn independently, to
support critical thinking in research, and to foster a love of reading. Students in all grades have
a weekly scheduled library time. The library is also available for all grades to schedule
additional time for research. The library catalog is available to students anywhere via
http://library.asd.edu.qa. The library website includes helpful links for parents as well as
children www.asd.edu.qa “quick links” and “elementary library.”
The library information center staff works with teachers in planning and teaching information
skills within the context of the curriculum. These lessons include locating and accessing
information, evaluating information sources, the Big 6 method of research and utilizing
technology. In addition to library skills, the librarian provides story times for primary grades,
book talks for older children, and special displays that highlight various genres of literature,
holidays, or themes. Parent and teacher workshops are held throughout the year.
Overdue notices are printed out weekly and distributed by the classroom teacher. No overdue
fees are charged. End-of-year report cards and exit documents are withheld until the accounts
for all lost or damaged library materials have been settled. Books that are lost or damaged are
charged a full replacement fee, which includes international shipping and handling charges,
and a processing fee.
Students may visit the library before school, during recess and lunch. They also may come to
the library during class time with the permission of the classroom teacher. All students are
welcome to check out or return books any time during the day. First through fifth graders may
check out three books, kindergartners two books and pre-kindergartners one book. Accelerated
Reader (AR), an independent reading program, is also available. The library is proud to host
study club and other after school activities. If you have any questions about the library
collection or program please e-mail the librarian at eslibrarian@asd.edu.qa
- 23 -

ELEMENTARY STUDENT HANDBOOK
COMMUNICATION RESOURCES
MESSAGES TO STUDENTS
Parents may leave important messages at the elementary office for students. It is important to
remember to allow enough time for the office staff to reach your child.
PARENT COMMUNICATION
The Sahifa, our school newsletter, is published weekly on Thursdays and provides information
pertaining to, special events, notices of calendar changes, and general information important to
our families as well as, messages from the director and the principals. Teachers email or post
their own monthly newsletter on their respective NVS class pages.
If parents would like to discuss their child's progress with the child's teacher they can make an
appointment with the teacher directly.
NESA VIRTUAL SCHOOL
Teachers at ASD are required to post information about their classes on NESA Virtual School.
This includes, but is not limited to, announcements, homework, assignments, and a course
description/syllabus, newsletters, and schedules. NVS would be used in the case of an
emergency closing to deliver instruction to ASD students. It is also used on a regular basis to
improve communication and access to course materials.
ARABIC TRANSLATORS
An Arabic translator will be provided for parent conferences if a parent requires assistance.
Please contact the office before the conference to arrange for a translator.
PARENT TEACHER ASSOCIATION (PTA)
The Parent Teacher Association at ASD is made up of teachers and parents of the students
who attend ASD. It has an elected Executive Board that consists of a president, vice-president,
secretary, and treasurer. In addition, it has an elected Steering Committee that consists of at
least 10 parents and 2 teachers, one of which represents the elementary school, middle, and
high school. Every parent belongs to the General Assembly.
The objectives of the PTA are to promote an extended relationship between the staff, parents
and others associated with the school, as well as to engage in activities, which support the
school in both financial and practical terms. Such activities will normally be in concert with, and
always subject to, the agreement of the School Director.
STUDENT COUNCIL
The Student Council is a service organization in the elementary school. It is sponsored by at
least two faculty members and is comprised of elected officers of the student body from grades
three through five. There are also representatives and alternatives from grades two through
five. The members are elected during the early part of every school year. The students
themselves, under the guidance of the sponsors run the weekly meetings. This organization
helps develop leadership and encourages the students to take an active role in their school and
community. It also builds awareness of service activities, which encourage student
participation.
ASD DIRECTORY
Once a year the PTA publishes a directory of names, addresses, and telephone numbers of all
students and their families. Parents have the option of not publishing their contact information.
This directory is given out to all school families.
- 24 -

ELEMENTARY STUDENT HANDBOOK
TECHNOLOGY
ASD WEBMAIL
All students should know how to check ASD email to get important information from the school.
1) Go to this website: https://exchange.asd.edu.qa
2) You will see the login screen for our webmail system.
3) If this is your personal laptop, you can select “This is a private
computer”, otherwise leave the
first button checked.
4) Your username is: (graduation year) + (first initial of first name) +
(last name)
For example, if John Doe graduates in 2009, his username would
be 09jdoe
Your password is 123456
5) The next screen you will see only once. It allows you to choose your language preference
and
time zone. The default settings will usually be correct. Click
6) To compose a new email click
7) Click to get a list of everyone at ASD to choose from as recipients or just enter the
email address in the
line. When you are done click
8) To change your password click , then click . You must enter your
old
password once and your new password twice.
9) Click Log Off when you are done using webmail.
NESA VIRTUAL SCHOOL
Courses from PK to 12 th grade are on NVS for teachers to distribute course information, assign
homework and to be used for school to continue if we needed to shut down in an emergency
situation. You need to know how to login and browse your courses.
1) LOGIN: Go to this website: http://nesa.blackboard.com
Your username is:
(graduation year) + (first initial of first name) + (last name) + (.asd.qa)
For example, if John Doe graduates in 2009, his username would be 09jdoe.asd.qa
Your password is 123456
2) CHANGE PASSWORD: Change your password to something secret by selecting Tools,
Personal Information then Change Password.
3) CHECK YOUR COURSES: Your course list should be in the first window that appears.
If you are missing one of your courses, inform the instructor to enroll you.
If you have courses that should not be there, email itsupport@asd.edu.qa
4) LOGOUT: Click the at the top of the screen.
- 25 -

ELEMENTARY STUDENT HANDBOOK
THE AMERICAN SCHOOL OF DOHA--ACCEPTABLE TECHNOLOGY USE POLICY
Purpose
Information and interactions available through the school network and the Internet
have become a vital part of the education process. The American School of Doha
is committed to providing safe access to computers, network services, and the Internet.
Expectations
Users are expected to make appropriate choices when using the
school’s technology resources, just as they are anywhere on the school campus.
Appropriate behavior should also extend beyond our campus. Inappropriate use of
electronic communications at home can have a negative impact on the school
climate. Parents have a responsibility to monitor student computer use at home,
and students have a responsibility to report problems. Students who bring their own
laptops or other technology devices to school must follow the ASD Acceptable Use
Policy. Additionally, personal laptops must have active, up-to-date virus protection.
Unacceptable Technology Use
• Using inappropriate language
• Going to inappropriate Websites
• Downloading anything from the Internet, including music or video or program files
• Installing personal software on school computers
• Damaging or altering technology equipment or files
• Hacking or any other malicious actions, including circumventing Internet filters
• Violating copyright laws by unauthorized copying of software
• Plagiarism
• Harassing, insulting, or attacking others
• Revealing passwords or personal information or using another person’s account
• Intentionally wasting resources such as printer ink and paper
• Using the network for commercial purposes
• Using the Internet for nonacademic purposes during school hours
• Playing online music, videos, or games
• Using online e-mail accounts like Yahoo or Hotmail or instant messaging without teacher
approval
Plagiarism
Plagiarism is “taking ideas or writings from another person and offering them as
your own.” With Internet access, it has become a major problem because copying
and pasting text and images is so easy. Be sure to put information you gather in
YOUR OWN WORDS, and give credit to the creators of articles, ideas, or images
through the use of citations. Be aware that it is not difficult for teachers to
determine if work has been plagiarized from the Internet.
Consequences for Inappropriate Use
Violations may result in a loss of privileges to use ASD technology resources, as
well as other disciplinary or legal action.
Cautions/Disclaimer
ASD staff members have the right to monitor student use of all technology
equipment on the ASD campus, including personal electronic devices. This might
include examining student files and e-mails stored on servers, computers (including
personal laptops), and phones. Computer work on the school network may be
remotely observed without a student’s knowledge. The American School of Doha
will take reasonable precautions to insure the security and appropriate use of the
computer networks. Ultimately, it is the responsibility of each individual
to be familiar with these guidelines and to monitor their own behavior. ASD
reserves the right to make adjustments to these guidelines throughout the school
year if necessary.
- 26 -