the ASPectORIENTATION: YOUR GUIDE TO ASP
AUGUST 2011
ORIENTATION EDITION
If you have any queries, please don’t hesitate to call:
Reception: 01-41-12-82-82Admissions & Bus: 01-41-12-86-55Lower School Office: 01-41-12-82-78Middle School Office: 01-41-12-82-74Upper School Office: 01-41-12-82-88
2 the ASPect AUGUST 2011
INSIDE theASPect:
4
3
8
11
6 16
14
10
20
21
12
22
Calendar
Orientation Day Program & Goals
Welcome Program
‘Bienvenue’ from the Board
Getting to Know You
Parent Faculty Association
Investing in Excellence
Welcome from the Head of School
ASP Online
Map of ASP Campus
ORIENTATION
After School Activites
Useful Resources Section: (see this page for full contents listing)
Table of ConTenTs:
3www.asparis.org theASPect
Useful Resources Section: (see this page for full contents listing)
2011-2012 CalenDaR
S M T W T F S
August 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 Aug 22: Teachers return Aug 25: First day of classes 28 29 30 31
September 1 2 3
4 5 6 7 8 9 10
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
25 26 27 28 29 30 1
October 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
9 10 11 12 13 14 15 Oct 10: Parent-Teacher Conference Day (No School for Lower School & Middle School) 16 17 18 19 20 21 22
23 24 25 26 27 28 29 Oct 24 - Oct 31: Autumn Break 30 31
November 1 2 3 4 5 Nov 1: "Toussaint" - Bank Holiday (School Closed) 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Nov 11: Armistice Day - Bank Holiday (School Closed)
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
20 21 22 23 24 25 26
27 28 29 30
December 1 2 3
4 5 6 7 8 9 10
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
18 19 20 21 22 23 24 Dec 19 - Jan 2: Winter Break 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
January 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
8 9 10 11 12 13 14
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
22 23 24 25 26 27 28
29 30 31
February 1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10 11
12 13 14 15 16 17 18
19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Feb 23 - 24: Professional Development Days (School Closed)26 27 28 29 Feb 27 - Mar 2: February Break
March 1 2 3
4 5 6 7 8 9 10
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
25 26 27 28 29 30 31
April 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Apr 9: Easter Monday - Bank Holiday (School Closed) 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 Apr 16 - 27: Spring Break 22 23 24 25 26 27 28
29 30
May 1 2 3 4 5 May 1: May Day - Bank Holiday (School Closed) 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 May 8: Victory Day - Bank Holiday (School Closed)
13 14 15 16 17 18 19 May 17: Ascension Holiday – Bank Holiday (School Closed) 20 21 22 23 24 25 26
27 28 29 30 31 May 28: Pentecost Monday - Bank Holiday (School Closed)
June 1 2
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
10 11 12 13 14 15 16 Jun 15: Last day of school – School closes at 12:00
4 the ASPect AUGUST 2011
new faMIlY oRIenTaTIon DaY 2011-2012
PROGRAM*ESSENTIAL FOR NEW FAMILIES*
8:00
8:45
9:00
9:15
9:45
10:15
10:30
10:45
11:00
11:30
MIDDLE SCHOOL UPPER SCHOOL
A L L F A M I L I E S C H E C K I N ( G Y M )Please check in at the alphabetized tables in the Gym and receive your Registration Packet.
Complete any outstanding paperwork in the packet. Enjoy breakfast and visit the stands run by our parent volunteers.
A l l P a r e n t s a n d U p p e r S c h o o l S t u d e n t s p r o c e e d t o t h e P e r f o r m i n g A r t s C e n t e r ( P A C ) .
THE ASP STUDENT PRESENTATION
“ O u r a s p i r a t i o n s f o r e v e r y A S P s t u d e n t ”Performing Arts Center
STUDENTS TO HOMEROOMSParents take Students to their Homeroom Classes.
Homeroom assignments and maps of the Lower School are available at the Lower School tables in the Gym.
LOWER SCHOOL PARENT MEETINGLower School Library
Meet Margaret Coleman, Director of Lower School.
MIDDLE SCHOOL PARENT MEETINGRoom 464-468
Meet Kathy Miner, Director of Middle School.
UPPER SCHOOL PARENT MEETINGPerforming Arts Center
Upper School Students will leave the PAC to meet with current ASP Upper Schoolers. Parents remain in the PAC and meet Aaron Hubbard, Director of Upper School.
COFFEE BREAKLower School Atrium
COFFEE BREAKThe Cube
COFFEE BREAKLower School Foyer
Parents collect children from the Homeroom classrooms.
MEETING CONTINUES...
BBQ LUNCH & COMPLETION OF PAPERWORKParents and students are invited to a BBQ lunch by the Cafeteria Terrace.
This is also the time to return to the Gym if you have paperwork to complete or want to spend time visiting the other “help” tables for buses, cafeteria cards, Parent Faculty Association etc.
MEETING CONTINUES...
MEETING CONTINUES...
STUDENTS MEET yOUR BUDDIESStudents check in at the Middle School tables and meet up with their Buddies.
Parents remain in the Gym, enjoy breakfast and complete paperwork.
UPPER SCHOOL PARENTS AND STUDENTS REMAIN IN THE GyM.
Enjoy breakfast and complete all paperwork..
August 24th - Starts promptly at 8:00 AM
LOWER SCHOOL
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Here is what we hope you gain from your first day with us:
Sense the ethos of the American School of Paris. We want you to feel immediately welcome.
Understand our clear purpose for teaching and learning at ASP. We are a school that knows where we are going and why for every student.
Understand our personalized approach to knowing and addressing the needs of our students.
Discover our mandate to work closely with you. A strong partnership between home and school makes all the difference for learning and good citizenship.
Understand how we use technology to communicate and build community.
Feel confident that your children enthusiastically greet their first full day of school and quickly set aside any normal fears or concerns about their new learning home.
Hear the unequivocal message that we are here to help everyone in your family make a strong beginning at ASP and within the Paris region. We will always welcome your questions.
ALL PARENTS please note and check off the following items:
I registered for and/or picked-up my Vehicle Registration Sticker at the ID Table
I registered for my Parent ID badge at the ID Table(Only for parents who did not receive their badge already in their Orientation Packet)
I completed and turned in the Family & Emergency Contact Information Sheet at the Completed Forms Table (Only for parents who did not return this form over the summer)
I have visited the Cafeteria table and understood the options for my child(ren) and/or cafeteria card system (Upper and Middle School) and/or the Lower School Lunch Program)
I have my chil(dren)’s bus cards and understand the location of the stops (Only for families signed up for the bus program)
I have visited the PFA tables run by our parent volunteers in the Gym
welCoMe To THe aMeRICan sCHool of PaRIs!
A L L F A M I L I E S should make their way through reception into the G Y M for Registration.
Our special Orientation Team- all dressed in RED T-SHIRTS - will be on hand to direct you and answer all your questions and help you through the day.
We invite all new students and parents to attend a BBQ lunch at the end of the morning’s program.
W e l c o m e t o t h e A m e r i c a n S c h o o l o f P a r i s !
OUR GOALS FOR yOUR FAMILy ORIENTATION:
ON ARRIVAL:
CHECKLIST:
Orientation Activities will conclude at 1pm
6 the ASPect AUGUST 2011
MaP of asP CaMPUs
GET TO KNOW yOUR WAy AROUND!
>>
LOW
ER S
CHOO
L 3-
5
PAC
LOWER SCHOOL K-2(Lower school library downstairs)
ROOM 464- 468(upstairs)
7www.asparis.org theASPect
CAFETERIATERRACE PARKING
VISITORS’ ENTRANCE
ROUTE TO THE PAC
GyMAll families
CHECK IN
here first
41, rue Pasteur - B.P. 82 - 92216 Saint - Cloud Cedex - FranceTel. 01 41 12 82 82 Fax 01 46 02 23 90
www.asparis.org
AMERICAN SCHOOL OF PARIS
8 the ASPect
WELCOME TO PARIS! WELCOME TO ASP!
welCoMe PRoGRaM
At ASP we understand what it is to be new… everyone here was once new!
Every year we welcome hundreds of new families, and so we have developed an extensive Orientation and Welcome Program to help you find your feet, new friends and feel right at home!
Working with the Admissions Office, the Division Directors and the Parent Faculty Association, our program is designed to help you and your family integrate into the ASP and Paris communities as quickly and effortlessly as possible.
From the online resource center and buddy programs to a Fun Sports Day, Living Skills seminars and our Community Connections Fair, our goal is to help.
UPPER SCHOOL PLACEMENT TESTINGMonday August 2212.45pm
In order to make sure that the Upper School students will be properly placed in classes, they will have an oral test in French and Spanish and a written test in mathematics.
The students should not be overly anxious about these tests; they are given in order to help place students into the levels that are appropriately challenging.
And of course, parents are welcome to stay and meet current ASP parents and other new families at our informal ‘coffee house”.
Light snacks and refreshments will be available and computers set up for you to discover all ASP’s online resources with the helping hands of our Parent Faculty Association.
ORIENTATION DAyWednesday August 248.00am
This special day is mandatory for all new families. Scores of ASP parents will be on hand to welcome you and help you and your children discover what the year ahead at ASP holds. Starting with registering the students, you will receive information packets and the children will be taken to their classrooms, while parents are invited to attend special presentations for each division.
(For a detailed program see the website: www.asparis.org/starting_school )
Orientation Day is an exciting moment for the students to see the campus more fully, meet their teachers and some of their new classmates. This is their first real introduction to the school! Parents will be able to collect their pre-prepared security ID badges, car stickers (if car details are known ahead of time) and the student cards which serve as bus, library and cafeteria cards (see the website for the downloadable forms and details). This is also a good opportunity to be introduced to all the groups of the Parent Faculty Association (PFA) and find out how you can also get involved at the school.
And at the end of a busy morning, enjoy a relaxing moment at our BBQ lunch.
UPPER SCHOOL WELCOME BACK PICNICSaturday September 35pm to 9pm
All our Upper School families are invited to hang out, listen to music from our students and faculty, play some sports and enjoy a wonderful BBQ.
A chance for the teenagers to get to know one another and the parents to relax in the sun (hopefully!) and get to know the Upper School teachers and other ASP families.
9www.asparis.org theASPect
Please note that all of the above events are offered to you by ASP and the Parent Faculty Association. There are no charges associated with any of the listed events.
COMMUNITy CONNECTIONS FAIRMonday September 59am-11am
This is your chance to discover the many English-speaking resources and services available in and around Paris. While the kids are in school make the most of the morning Fair.
There will be more than 50 groups and organizations set up in the ASP Gym for you to wander around, picking up ideas and information, both practical and inspirational.
Representatives will include; local language schools, travel agencies, clubs, cooking schools, churches and other faith organizations, publications, health and beauty services, computer support services, insurance and English banking services by HSBC, our sponsors.
NEW PARENT COCKTAILWednesday September 77pm to 9pm
This is a ‘parents-only’ event giving all our new families the chance to meet each other without worrying about the children! We will even give you a list of possible babysitters from our Upper School students. And the invitation comes with a ‘no paper work’ promise!
Take a break from organizing your new lives and join us in The Cube for an evening with new friends.
It is also our chance to give you a brief introduction to some of the ways in which you might like to get involved at ASP. Come and enjoy a glass of wine and some delicious treats from our cafeteria team.
LIVING SKILLS SEMINARSTuesday Sept 13 9-12:30am
Friday Sept 16 9-12:30am
Tuesday Sept 20 8:30am-2pm
At these information seminars you will meet new friends, be informed on issues related to living in France, and once again, have many of your questions answered.
A culinary expert will provide information on what to buy and what to avoid when shopping at the local market as well as the French equivalents of your favorite foods.
A nurse working in Paris will tell us what to do in a medical emergency, and how the French medical system works.
There will also be presentations on travel and transportation, cross-cultural issues, and the best ways to enjoy the vibrant city of Paris.
And for the final session there will be lunch for all those attending to swap stories and exchange ideas.
BIENVENUE COCKTAILSaturday October 17pm to 9pm
All ASP parents, faculty and staff are invited to join the Head of School, Mark Ulfers and the Board of Trustees to celebrate the start of a new school year and to welcome everyone back.
This is a great opportunity for our fami-lies to socialize with our teachers and enjoy being part of the ASP family!
This is a chance to dress up and enjoy one of Paris’ sumptuous event venues – and perhaps go on for dinner ‘in town’ with new found friends!
10 the ASPect AUGUST 2011
WELCOME!
fRoM THe HeaD of sCHool
Dear ASP Student and Parents,
Our school is flourishing, and all the
more because you and your family have
joined us in the grand adventure of 21st
century learning.
The American School of Paris is a
remarkable school, nearing 70 years of
excellence in college preparatory teach-
ing and learning. Spending any amount
of time with us at ASP – be it one, two
or twelve years – becomes a lifetime
experience built on the strength of
relationships among students, parents
and highly-skilled teachers. High expec-
tations for each student’s learning are
matched by an environment of caring
and support.
We are all part of a new age
where both exciting possibilities and
unsettling questions exist. In response,
our students must develop adaptable
skills today to greet the jobs, opportunities,
uncertainties and technology that await
them tomorrow. We want our young
people to have all the tools to get to
the future and to thrive. Our ideas and
decisions on how we engage students
in learning are measured against our
new ASP mission– and you expect and
deserve a school with strong direction.
We emphasize traditional knowledge
and skills, yet ensure new fluencies
for critical thinking, problem solving,
leadership, environmental stewardship
and communicating in multiple
languages. Our students become
whole-minded thinkers who are flexible
in working analytically, creatively and
compassionately – and are people of
uncompromising character.
As we actively imagine our school’s
future together, we point to the value of
our freshly minted strategic plan. Our
ambitious blueprint for action looks
beyond the present to a future where
we ensure a broadly diversified education
and excellence in teaching. The back-
drop is an environment of heightened
expectations within a dynamic
curriculum for learning, facilities,
technology and resources to engage our
young people intellectually, emotionally,
physically and ethically. We are proud
to be a founding school of the International
Baccalaureate and are one of the few
international schools in the world that
also offers Advanced Placement course-
work– so a rigorous curriculum and the
wholeness of learning are dominant in
the DNA of our school.
As one school year ends, we are very
ready to open our doors to your family
for the 2011-2012 school year. We do so
as a school very much on the move. Talk
to any teacher or current ASP parent
and they will fill you in on our actions to
continually improve. Our mandate is to
respond with thoughtful and innovative
change and ensure every student of ours
achieves personal and academic excellence.
The days and years ahead hold
remarkable possibilities for teaching and
learning– especially now that you are
here with us.
All Good Wishes.
Mark E. Ulfers,
Head of School
Our MiSSiOn
THE AMERICAN SCHOOL OF PARIS IS A VIBRANT, INTERNATIONAL,
FAMILy-ORIENTED COMMUNITy.
OUR MISSION IS TO INSPIRE AND PREPARE EVERy STUDENT TO ACHIEVE
PERSONAL AND ACADEMIC ExCELLENCE AS AN ENGAGED GLOBAL CITIzEN
By PROVIDING A CHALLENGING, INNOVATIVE PROGRAM WITHIN
A COMPASSIONATE ENVIRONMENT.
11theASPect
bIenVenUe fRoM THe boaRD
Our BELiEFS
We Believe That:
• Every person has equal worth.
• Honesty and integrity are central to all we do.
• Individuals are responsible for their choices and actions.
• We best meet the needs of learners when we understand
them as individuals.
• Through hard work and determination individuals can
achieve their potential.
• Every member of a community has the responsibility
to contribute to the greater good.
• Seeking to understand diverse cultures, ideas and
practices enriches a community.
• A culture of high expectations and striving for excellence
leads to higher achievement.
• Learning is a continuous lifelong endeavor.
• Great schools nurture passion, curiosity, creativity,
self-expression and joy.
• Going beyond the familiar and taking risks stimulate
growth, innovation and self-discovery.
• In a rapidly changing world, achieving excellence
demands commitment to continuous improvement.
• Everyone shares responsibility for our global community
and environment.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES 2011-2012
Dear Parents, Students, Faculty and Staff,
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, welcome to ASP and
welcome to the start of the 2011-12 school year. The American
School of Paris is a place where your children are offered
outstanding opportunities to learn, grow and appreciate the
unique experience of an American style education in an
international environment and a fascinating host country.
If you are new, please be remember that we have all been
new once - some more recently than others. Staff, faculty,
students and parents are looking forward to doing all they can
to help you feel at home here and make the transition as easy
as possible.
As in many other schools, the Board of Trustees is
responsible for the long term viability of the school, strategic
and financial management. We work in partnership with the
head of school to ensure that resources are allocated and used
optimally and that the programs to continue to develop and
serve the needs of the ASP community as a whole.
The Board is currently
composed of fifteen trustees
including ASP current
parents, former parents and
alumni. Seven different
nationalities and a cross
section of skills and experi-
ence are represented and we
all are volunteers.
On Saturday, October 1, we
invite you all to our Bienvenue Cocktail. This event is enjoyed
by parents, faculty and staff alike and is a terrific way to start
off the year. An information night will be held in November.
This is an opportunity to hear more about the work of the
Board as well as ask questions in a group setting with fellow
parents, Trustees and administration in attendance. Details for
both of these events will be announced in September.
There are many, many opportunities, activities and events
as the school year gets underway which all the family will
benefit from being a part of. We look forward to meeting you at
any of those and welcoming you in person to ASP.
Elisabeth Seeley
President of the Board of Trustees 11-12
OFFICERSMrs Lis Seeley, President Mr David Tancredi, Vice-President Mrs Ilse Willems, Secretary Mrs Sue Carden, Treasurer TRUSTEESMr Zarif BadruddinMr Peter Barnet Mrs Betsy BlackwellMr André BrenninkmeijerMrs Lois FinkMrs Giovanna MonnasMr Eric OlsenMr Andrew PlumpMrs Claire StaniforthMr Mark TaplinMr Tomek Ulatowski
COMMITTEE CHAIRSAdvancement: Co-Chairs, Mrs Lois Fink & Mr Peter Barnet
Education: Chair, Mrs Giovanna Monnas
Finance: Chair, Mrs Sue Carden
Trustees: Chair, Mrs Ilse Willems
For more information see the Trustees area of the website under About Us or click: www.asparis.org/trustees
the ASPect AUGUST 2011
GeTTInG To Know
In the same way that we organize an extensive Welcome
Program for ASP families and parents, we also organize trips at
the start of the year with the sole aim of getting new ASP
students integrated as quickly as possible.
All Middle School grades undertake a week’s trip with
Outward Bound – either here in France, in the French Alps of
Savoie (Grade 6), or in the British Lake District (Grades 7 & 8).
And in Upper School there are two retreats (one for Grades
9 and 10 and another for Grades 11 and 12) also organized in
the first weeks of school.
In Upper School, both retreats will take place at the Château
de Grande Romaine, a retreat center in Lésigny (a suburb of
Paris). The program is run by professionals and chaperoned by
ASP faculty.
The students are involved in a range of team-building and
initiative exercises while also having time to relax and simply
enjoy themselves. They will learn more about the school and
its expectations as well as profiting from several seminars on
health.
The longer trips for Middle School create an amazing first
impression for
everyone!
YOU!YoU!
“We really learned to work together
as a team.”
“i made so many friends.”
US RETREAT
12
www.asparis.org
And when you
hear these sorts of
comments at the end
of a week of Outward
Bound, you know
you’ve reached your
objective; it’s the
reason why we’ve
been going for over
30 years.
Our Middle Schoolers spend a week working with two
Outward Bound teachers assigned to our Advisory groups of
12-14 students.
The goal is for each group, along with its ASP advisor, to
gel—for the students to develop a sense of trust, friendship,
cooperation and good spirit.
They go through a series of challenging outdoor activities,
including a gorge walk, high-ropes course, tunneling, canoeing,
rock-climbing and an overnight expedition in the mountains.
Only by working together can the group succeed, and through
the de-briefing sessions that follow the activities, they grow to
understand each individual’s strengths and weaknesses.
Importantly, they also learn to respect and listen to each other.
It’s a lot of time to take out of the academic schedule, for
sure; especially at the beginning of the school year. But the
teachers would tell you that especially for students of middle-
school age, the benefit is tremendous. It builds a foundation
for cooperative learning that will carry on throughout the year.
It creates a pool of shared memories which are still reference
points in June.
After our week at Outward Bound together, there are no
longer any new students in the Middle School!
“Can we stay another
week?”
OUTWARD BOUND
13
14 the ASPect AUGUST 2011
INVESTING IN ExCELLENCE
aDVanCInG asP
ASP is an exceptional place to learn and we warmly welcome all our new families into this dynamic and vibrant community.
Unlike schools that are funded by government resources (taxes), ASP is a private, independent school relying primarily on tuition revenues.
And as in the case of private schools everywhere, ASP seeks additional funds from grants and corporate sponsorships, as well as from our families and alumni in order to honor our mission and fulfill our vision.
At ASP we have The Excellence Fund.
For more than 60 years, the American School of Paris has prepared and inspired students to excel in a changing global
Our dynamic curriculum educates the “whole child”
through a combination of strong core academic subjects along
with fine arts, theater, music, and sports. The Excellence Fund
will position ASP to realize goals such as expanding the role
of technology in the classroom, enhancing the learning environment,
and expanding programs to ensure an unlimited horizon for
every child.
Learning at ASP creates lifelong memories from exceptional
opportunities in and beyond the classroom. The Excellence
Fund will invest in inspirational speakers, extraordinary field
trips, and global travel to deliver an unparalleled education.
ASP teachers are the foundation of both academic excel-
lence and the student experience. The Excellence Fund will
help ASP enhance a competitive package that includes ongoing
seminars, workshops, and conferences to further develop and
retain top-level faculty.
ACADEMIC ExCELLENCE
Investing in the future
society. Today, the unique advantage of an international education is vital to the future success of our children.
Delivering an ASP education requires considerable resources. Annual tuition covers basic costs; philanthropy enables us to further assure academic excellence, expand and deepen the student experience, and invest in faculty development.
The Excellence Fund, ASP’s annual giving program, positions the school to fund strategically those programs and initiatives that enable our school to remain “at the forefront of international education.”
For more information do not hesitate to contact Lara Tilley, [email protected]
FACULTy INVESTMENT
Teachers you remember for life
THE STUDENT ExPERIENCE
Bringing learning alive
What is The Excellence Fund?
15www.asparis.org theASPect
“Over the years, my children have received so much from ASP. The Excellence
Fund just seemed a natural way to begin to thank the school and the faculty for
our family’s incredible experience. In addition to the rich and diverse academic
program, my children have greatly benefited from all the ‘extras’ provided at
ASP, inlcuding Outward Bound and other field trips exploring France, string
ensemble and honor choir, swimming and soccer, Model United Nations and on
and on. Our wish is that future students of ASP have the same opportunities to
enjoy these and other wonderful programs.”
“As an ASP teacher for the past 23 years and an ASP parent of two children since 2001, I have come to
know the school in a way few others have. The superb academic program and the varied and excellent
extra-curricular offerings in sports, theater, art and service combine to make ASP an international
school without peer. By making a long-term contribution to The Excellence Fund, Florence and I are
reinforcing our commitment to the future and continued excellence of this wonderful school.”
Why I Support The Excellence Fund:
As a nonprofit organization, our tuition and fees only cover
operational expenses; philanthropy provides a measure of
sustainable excellence
As an independent school, ASP is not funded by government
or other public sources
ASP is committed to financial stability with less dependence
on tuition and other fees
Your gift makes a difference today and secures the future
of the School
Why Give?
- Hal & Florence Judis
Parents of children in grades 7 & 9 -
Hal is also an ASP Upper School
Social Studies Teacher
- Ilse and John Willems
Parents of children in grades 6, 9, & 11 -
Ilse is also a member of the Board of Trustees
16 the ASPect AUGUST 2011
On behalf of the ASP Parent Faculty Association, welcome to the start of another exciting school year. For our children, it’s the anticipation of new teachers and friends. For the parents, it’s a new year filled with many possibilities. If you are new to Paris, ASP or a returning family, this is the time to meet new friends, reconnect with old ones and hopefully participate in many of the exciting opportunities sponsored by the ASP Parent Faculty Association (PFA).
At the beginning of the school year, everything may seem a little overwhelming especially if you are new. Don’t worry, this is normal and we all have experienced it at some point. We have an amazing group of parent volunteers who have a wealth of knowledge ready to be shared. Please don’t hesitate to contact myself, any PFA Board Member, Parent Grade Liaison or Parent Neighborhood Liaison with questions you may have.
Just send me an email and I will make sure that you are put in touch with the right people! [email protected]
At the beginning of the school year, there are several events you will definitely want to attend:
Community Connections Fair on Monday, September 5 from 9am to 11:30am in the ASP Gym. This is your chance to discover the many English speaking service providers, groups and organizations in and around Paris.
Living Skills Seminars on September 13, 16 and 20 from 9am to 12:30pm in the ASP Performing Arts Center. These PFA sponsored seminars will help you with adjusting to life in France. Subjects covered include health care, transportation and shopping. It’s also a great opportunity to meet new and current ASP Families and have many of your questions answered.
Check out the full welcome program under Events in the Community section of the ASP website: http://www.asparis.org/pfa
What makes ASP such a successful school and incredible community is the involvement and support from our parents. Each family is automatically a member of the PFA and we encourage you to attend our monthly PFA meetings. We have many events planned throughout the school year and invite you to come see all the ways you can become involved.
Have a wonderful school year and we look forward to meeting you soon,
Theresa SchottASP PFA President [email protected]
WELCOME TO THE PFA!
PaRenT faCUlTY assoCIaTIon
What is the PFA?
The PFA or Parent Faculty Association is an organization run by the parents to enrich and support everyday life at ASP by offering additional activities, events and volunteer opportunities for parents at the school.
Throughout the year, the PFA also raises funds to give back to ASP in various ways.
www.asparis.org/pfa
ExECUTIVE BOARD President Theresa Schott [email protected]
Vice President Terry Bachmann [email protected]
Treasurer Yvette Haddock [email protected]
Secretary Catherine Sinegal [email protected]
Parliamentarian Joanna Perkins [email protected]
WELCOME PROGRAM
US Testing Thuan Mai [email protected]
Orientation Day Joanna Perkins [email protected]
Living Skills Darla Pape Terry Bachmann [email protected]
ORGANIzATION HEADSCommunity Bulletin Board TBC [email protected]
Community Room Michele Biggins [email protected]
Friends of the Arts Sherry Steiner [email protected]
Friends of the Library Bonnie Guth [email protected]
Holiday Boutique DeeDee McCabe [email protected]
International Day TBC [email protected]
Newsletter John Krueger [email protected]
PFA Kitchen & Storage TBC [email protected]
Sports Boosters TBC [email protected]
Saturday Sports LS Mendy Brady Alexis [email protected] School Portraits LS Kristi Palmer [email protected]
School Portraits MS Yvette Haddock [email protected]
School Portraits US TBC [email protected]
Website Liaison Jean Srivastava [email protected]
Volunteer Coordinator Yael Elfassy [email protected]
Senior Parents Lynne Sprague [email protected]
PFA Key Contacts 2011-2012
www.asparis.org
GROUPS:
Friends of the Arts support the drama, fine art and music departments by assisting with events and programs. They raise funds to help support: post concert receptions, drama and musical productions, student art exhibits, IB film festival, MS Honor Band Festival, replace musical equipment and sponsor the “Diane Flaum/Bev Price Arts Scholarship.
Friends of the Library support the Lower and Middle School library and the Upper School library. They provide a program called “Birthday Books”, where parents can buy a book and donate it to the Library in their child’s name. They raise funds to provide our libraries with author visits, guest speakers and additional computer programs/software.
Sport Boosters support ASP’s Middle School and Upper School athletic sports program. They raise funds through the sale of ASP logowear and concessions.
Saturday Sports Program works with the Athletic De-partment to coordinate the sports program for ASP’s Lower and Middle School students.
Senior Parents help plan special activities and events every year to keep our hard-working seniors sane and to celebrate this, their special year! They do this by raising funds for the senior class events with champagne sales and other fundraisers. They coordinate graduation announce-ments, monthly treats, senior t-shirts, organize the Prom, award luncheon, graduation dinner, class gift and senior directory.
Welcome Program organizes with Admissions, the Orientation Program including the Community Connections Coffee and Living Skills seminar for the new families twice a year, August and February.
School Portraits: This small group coordinates the taking of school pictures with an outside photographer and the yearbook department. They schedule, collect funds and distribute pictures to the students.
Homeroom Parents: In Lower School the Homeroom Parents support the teacher in small ways every week from organizing chaperones for trips to reading projects or parties!
PFA Liaisons: See the Liaison section on the next page.
INTERNATIONAL DAy
May 19 11am – 3pm
Food, games and more from around the world for the family to enjoy and celebrate our truly international community.
HOLIDAy BOUTIqUE
December 3 11am – 4pm
A wonderful opportunity to buy seasonal gifts while the children make crafts in the Ginger Bread House or visit Santa. This event allows the whole family to get into the spirit of the Holiday Season accompanied by festive music and food.
THANKSGIVING FAIR
November 222pm – 4.30pm
Get your turkey, sauce, pies and gifts for the Holiday and don’t forget your ASP champagne!
COMMUNITy ROOM
You will always find a warm welcome in this light, bright room which serves as a HQ for the Parent Faculty Association at ASP. The Community Room is located on the ground floor of Building 6. Apart from being a meeting place for ASP parents, you can also:
Buy Logowear to support our athletic teams.
Buy second-hand English language books.
Borrow a film through our Video Vault exchange project.
Find out more: w w w. a s p a r i s . o r g / c o m m u n i t y _ r o o m
in addition to these activities the PFA organizes three major community events each year >>
Volunteering is just one of the many ways
to support The American School of Paris.
Get involved, we welcome your support!17
The following explains some of our activities and how our groups are involved.
18 the ASPect AUGUST 2011
Brazil
Maria Almeida
Greece
Andrea Sterckx
Israel Lital Sela
Italy Elisabetta Beccari
Norway Linda Pekot
Portugal Maria Almeida
Spanish-speaking (Argentina) Rosana Echt
Sweden Maria Einarsson
Canada Edith Lemieux
Pierce Cumberlege
Japan Siko Kirkham
Tamako Sanno
Turkey
Emel Cankat
Venezuela Ada Tersigni
GETTING CONNECTED...
PaRenT faCUlTY assoCIaTIon
ASP MARCHé
Whether you are just arriving in Paris and are still missing some crucial home comforts or having a small clear out and want to get rid of stuff – ASP Marché is the place for you.
ASP Marché is an online service for the ASP community to help match up buyers and sellers.
And that is not where it stops… You can also post apartments to rent, or holiday homes for swaps. This is truly a marketplace!
All details are outlined on the ASP Marché webpage which you will find under the ASP Community area on the website or
click through directly:
w w w. a s p a r i s . o r g / a s p a r i s - m a r c h e
If you are new to Paris and your French is a little rusty, do not despair, there are plenty of easy to use and easily available English language resources on the web.
And if you are still living out of packing cases and don’t have internet access at home yet, you are welcome to use the computers in both the ASP libraries.
Don’t forget that you will also find an extensive selection of services and clubs at our Community Connections Fair on
Monday, September 5 at 9am in the ASP Gym.
English language online resources:
www.paris.angloinfo.com
www.expatica.com
www.theparistimes.com
www.parisvoice.com
www.fusac.fr/en
www.timeout.com/paris
www.messageparis.org
www.wice-paris.org
www.woac.net/bloom/bloom.html
www.famizen.com
PFA International Liaisons 2011-2012
LIAISONS:
19www.asparis.org theASPect
UPPER SCHOOL LIAISONS
Head Liaison
Thuan Mai
9th Grade Amy Lowry
Diena Kaser
10th Grade Thuan Mai
Nasreen Badruddin
Carol Olsen
11th Grade Mara Harrington [email protected]
12th Grade Susanne Wahlers
Betsy Dwyer (Sellers)
Brazil
Maria Almeida
Greece
Andrea Sterckx
Israel Lital Sela
Italy Elisabetta Beccari
Norway Linda Pekot
Portugal Maria Almeida
Spanish-speaking (Argentina) Rosana Echt
Sweden Maria Einarsson
Canada Edith Lemieux
Pierce Cumberlege
Japan Siko Kirkham
Tamako Sanno
Turkey
Emel Cankat
Venezuela Ada Tersigni
Saint Cloud/Suresnes
TBC
Garches Krista Schwab
Vaucresson/Marnes La Coquette/Versailles/ Ville d’Avray/Le Chesnay/Sevres Laura Cunningham
La Celle Saint Cloud/Louveciennes/ Bougival/Rueil Malmaison Amy Lowry
St. Nom la Breteche/L’Etang la Ville/Noisy Le Roi/Bailly/ St Germain en Laye/Le Vesinet TBC
Paris 5/Paris 6 Debbie Kupitz
Paris 7/Paris 8 Kim Sheehey
Paris 15/Paris 16/Paris 17 Sherry Steiner [email protected]
PFA Grade Liaisons 2011-2012
LOWER SCHOOL LIAISONS
Head Liaison
Bonnie Guth
Kindergarden 1 & 2 Kristi Palmer & Brooks Turner
1st Grade Lori Piper
2nd GradeYvette Haddock
3rd Grade Lea Holcomb
4th GradeNicola Cole
5th GradeDeeDee McCabe
MIDDLE SCHOOL LIAISONS
Head Liaison
Deborah Ludtke
6th Grade Nicci Brenninkmeijer
Beth Babin
7th Grade Yael Elfassy
Nathalie Chorna
8th Grade Kira Brandman
Christine Murphy
PFA Neighborhood Liaisons 2011-2012
20 the ASPect AUGUST 2011
THe onlIne asP CoMMUnITYAN INTRODUCTION
You will have already discovered that the ASP website
has a wealth of resources about our programs and community. You will find information specific to each division under the TEACHING & LEARNING tab, including special start of the year resources for new and returning students. Please also browse the OUR COMMUNITY tab for school wide information.
Families within the American School of Paris community receive a Community ID for each student when they begin at school. This consists of a Student ID number (used as a user-name) and a Family ID number (password).
This Community ID will grant you access to the following online resources:
www.asparis.org
For Community ID (username and password)
queries please contact our IT Manager, Michel Lami:
For queries about Poodle please refer to our Educational
Web Coordinator, Chris Chater: [email protected]
For more about our online research resources contact
our librarians Mario Chioini (US/MS): [email protected]
or Meg Seaver (LS): [email protected]
For any other questions about ASP’s technology services, including the main website, please contact our
Technology Director, Larry Love: [email protected]
qUESTIONS?
ASP subscribes to a growing number of research resources which are accessible to all members of the community including:
Destiny Library Catalog - Search our libraries by title or topic, browse the library shelves from home and check availability
EBSCO – an incredibly powerful research tool
Grolier – a collection of online encyclopedias
Newsbank - A huge selection of global newspapers, journals, magazines and periodicals
Grove Art Online - More than 45,000 signed articles on painting, sculpture, architecture, decorative arts, textiles, jewelry, design, furniture, and more.
Online Research Resources
This feature will be launched later in 2011. Our aim is to provide a private, password protected side of our website for ASP community members, and to streamline access to our main online services with a single sign on procedure.
Community Login
For Upper and Middle School students, parents can recharge their children’s cafeteria cards through our online recharge sys-tem. You will receive an access code, password and instructions before the start of school. Use the Cafeteria card recharge link in QUICKLINKS on our website homepage. Lower School parents should go to w w w. a s p a r i s . o r g / c a f e t e r i a to find information about the hot lunch program for their children.
If you have any problems or questions concerning cafeteria
payment please email [email protected]
The Cafeteria
PowerSchool is ASP’s online database, where a variety of information – student and family demographics, contact information, student schedules, attendance data, grades and report cards – is available through a web-based interface.
PowerSchool
h t t p : / / w w w. a s p a r i s . o r g / p o w e r s c h o o l
Poodle is the school’s online learning portal. Many teachers use Poodle to augment and extend the classroom environment. For the ASP student, Poodle provides access to a variety of resources and information related to classes, clubs, and other activities.
Poodle
h t t p : / / w w w. a s p a r i s . o r g / p o o d l e
When on the ASP campus, you can use computers in the libraries and computer labs.
The American School of Paris network
21www.asparis.org theASPect
A wide range of after school activities are also run at ASP for children in Grades 3 and up.
From fencing, math, studio arts and cooking through to softball, flag football, ping pong, judo, basketball and tennis there is something for everyone.
In addition there is an athletics program for Lower School on Fridays and Saturdays.
The after-school activities have a cost-only fee and children from Grade 3 and up can use the late buses at 5pm when the activities end.
A full program will be advertised on the Lower School website, www.asparis.org/lower_school, within the first few weeks of school and for further information you can contact Stacey Wilson McMahon: [email protected]
Many different extra-curricular activities take place either at lunchtime or after school. You can find full details in the Student Handbook, which you can download from the Middle School homepage: www.asparis.org/middle_school and which will be updated after the Outward Bound trip.
Activities in the past have included:
The Student Council coordinating nu-merous activities throughout the year that serve the school community as well as the wider world.
Model United Nations bringing students into the world of global politics and international conferences.
The Yearbook Club, involving MS students on its staff producing the MS section.
Arts and Crafts Club
Lunch in the Library
Green Team
The ASPress - the MS student newspaper.
Knowledge Bowl - a challenging but fun academic competition, run like a television game show.
The MS Drama Production and the MS Musical - two major events in our school community.
String Ensemble for developing string musicians.
Homework Club
Life in the Middle – a student produced video highlighting daily life in Middle School.
Private music lessons – Several English-speaking music teachers come to ASP to offer private music lessons after school.
Here is an example of the extensive range of clubs and activities are available for Upper School students. Please contact the division offices for further details.
CAS (Community, Action, Service) Film ClubGreen TeamHabitat for Humanity ImprovJazz Band Kenya Club Kids’ Home Club Knowledge Bowl Literary Magazine Math Club/Math Team - Junior & Senior Model United NationsMusical National Honor Society Newspaper Club Romania Club Soccer Club Spanish Club Student Council Student Run Service ClubYearbook
afTeR sCHool aCTIVITes
LOWER SCHOOL AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES
MIDDLE SCHOOL AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES
UPPER SCHOOL CLUBS & ACTIVITIES
Spotlight on MUN: (MS)
The Middle School Model United Nations team has literally impressed the world bringing home awards from every conference despite being, very often, the youngest participants.
We have attended conferences in Luxembourg, Madrid, Switzerland, Norway and Spain, as well as organizing international conferences at home at ASP.
The trips combine sightseeing with the more serious business of debate and in MS MUN tradition always a royal feast at the local Burger King!
Spotlight on Performing Arts: (MS)
Amongst the Middle School drama productions, Middle School Musicals are always a delight for the spectator and performer. Our Performing Arts Center has been transformed into Rydell High for a dazzling production of Grease, and a Dr Seuss paradise with our own musical ‘Seussical’.
As with all productions, every student is welcome to take part and from set design and construction through to backstage team and of course those center stage, it is a truly student production.
And there are also concerts for the band, choir, strings and guitar groups each trimester.
22 the ASPect AUGUST 2011
USEFUL RESOURCES SECTION
2
1
6
10
3-5
14
13
8
16
17
12
18
Note from the Business Office
ID and Access
Lower School Cafeteria
Middle School Supplies List
Transport: Navigo Pass
Know your numbers in French!
How to Write a Check
Lower School Supplies List
Sample Certificate of Enrollment (certificate de scolarité)
Bus: Letter, Rules & Regulations & F.A.Q.s
NotesCalendar Notes & Important Dates(Cut it out for easy reference!)
ASP LIFE
PARIS LIFE
Table of ConTenTs:
1www.asparis.org theASPect
Calendar Notes & Important Dates(Cut it out for easy reference!)
ASP LIFE
NOTE FROM THE BUSINESS OFFICE
PAyMENT OF TUITION FEES AND OTHER FEES: Payment of Tuition Fees and other fees for the 2011/2012 school year should be received by ASP by May 30th, 2011 for all
returning families, and three (3) weeks after invoice issue date for new families. If tuition and fees are paid in total or in part
by a third party, it is the parent’s responsibility to ensure that payment is made to ASP on time. In the case of students enroll-
ing after the beginning of the school year, payment of tuition fees is due within three weeks of billing. Unpaid tuition fees
may result in students being put on a waiting list or suspended from the school, report cards and transcripts are withheld
by the school and, in the case of failure to pay, the account is transferred to a recovery agency. Do not hesitate to contact the
Business Office if you have problems paying tuition fees.
PERSONAL INSURANCE: It is important that your children are covered for their activities related to the school. Your household insurance policy,
in French, assurance multirisques, may cover incidents involving your child for which you could be held personally liable
(responsabilité civile). Some policies exclude liability coverage for extra-curricular activities, use of the school facility outside
normal school hours, or school-sponsored sporting events. Please double-check to make sure you have adequate insurance
coverage before a problem occurs. If your policy is incomplete, your housing is provided by your employer, or if you do not
have an assurance multirisques, we recommend you purchase a student liability policy. You will find a list of Insurance
companies on the US Embassy website under the section “Living in France”.
HEALTH SERVICES: All students are required to provide the school nurse with a current list of vaccinations. Vaccinations must be up to date.
Parents should make sure that the B.C.G. vaccination for tuberculosis or the Tuberculin (TB) skin test is valid. Please take care
of these vaccinations before school begins.
ACCIDENTS OR ILLNESS AT SCHOOL: All accidents or illnesses occurring during school hours are reported to the school nurse. If the nurse recommends
immediate medical treatment, she will contact the parent or the emergency contact. If there are medical expenses incurred
as a result of treatment ordered by the nurse, you must submit the claim to French Social Security, and to your supplementary
insurance (Mutuelle), or health insurance carrier for reimbursement. The school’s insurance policy provides limited third
party coverage for medical costs. It will intervene only for the portion of the medical expense that remains unpaid after
the parent has claimed reimbursement through his medical plan. Thus, if your insurance will not cover the expense, even
partially, neither will the school’s. Please review your medical coverage to verify coverage for accidents or illnesses that may
occur while your child is at school.
Should you require assistance in any of the items aforementioned, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Joyce Kearney
Dir. Finance & Human Resources
2 the ASPect AUGUST 2011
PARENT ID & ACCESSIn order to follow the required steps regarding our security procedures, please fill out the form available from the
Admissions Office, at Reception, in your packet or on the website Admissions Page - Starting School (www.asparis.org). Each
parent is required to have an access badge, even if it is only for dropping off his/her child(ren). If you have already handed in
the relevant forms and id photos, you will find your parent id badges and car sticker(s) in your Orientation packet. If you have
not yet done this, please fill in the form and hand it in with parent id photos to Reception.
Parents entering the campus with a personal car are also required to have an ASP sticker so that we can easily identify the
car on campus. This can be obtained with the same request form.
ACCESS TO CAMPUS The only access for dropping off your child(ren) will be the main school entrance also known as “Garches
Gate”. Please make sure you have with you your access badge or car sticker.
The “Middle Gate” is for EXIT ONLY. No one will be allowed to enter campus through that gate.
The “Paris Gate” is only for pedestrians with a valid school ID.
Please park your car on the “Garches” parking lot.
For the safety of your children, please respect the speed limit of 10 km/h on campus.
FAMILy INFORMATIONYou will find a Family and Emergency Contact form in your packet (as well as on the websit). Please take time today to
update this form. It is vital that we have at least one local French telephone number for you. If you cannot give us this new
information today, you can access and update your personal information on Powerschool directly from the website. Your
codes for access to Powerschool are enclosed in your packet.
STUDENT ID A card is issued to all middle and upper school children as school id, cafeteria, library and bus card. Only lower School
students who take the bus also have a card. Your child(ren)’s card(s) are in your packet but if not, it is possible that we have
not been able to make it/them up yet as we do not have a photo of your child(ren) or a bus route. It is not compulsory for
students to wear the card in school but should be kept in their school bag to use/show as and when necessary. These cards
can be replaced. Any broken ones should be brought to the Admissions office and a replacement one will be made up free of
charge. If a card is lost, there is a charge of 10 euros for a new one.
If you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact us. Wishing you a very warm welcome to the
American School of Paris!
Admissions Office [email protected]
01.41.12.86.55
ID & ACCESSASP LIFE
3www.asparis.org theASPect
The ASP bus system is very diverse
and transports children not only in the
suburban areas near the school, but also
in far removed and often isolated areas
of the western suburbs and in numerous
sectors of Paris. The difficulty of this
system lies in the fact that the buses are
limited in their routes by road weight
limitations, narrowness of the roads and
streets, and quite often, especially in the
morning, by snarled traffic conditions. Yet,
an intensive effort is made to minimize
the travelling time the children spend on
the bus to and from school.
Because of the above hindrances and
due to the language barrier between
the drivers and the students, the school
relies on children’s understanding of
correct behavior and on the Bus Monitors
selected from the student body of the
Upper School to ensure a safe and
comfortable ride for everyone. Don’t
hesitate to introduce yourself to your Bus
Monitor(s) by email, phone call or on the
bus.
Communication of any problems/
emergencies on your bus line is done by
SMS text direct to your cell phones. Please
ensure that we have your numbers and
send us any changes that may occur
during the school year. In addition,
please have your cell phones with you
and in service during bus hours.
All Middle and Upper School students
will be required to show their school ID
cards before boarding the bus. Lower
School students should have their ID/
bus cards in their possession (in their
backpacks is ideal!) at all times.
The tasks of the bus monitor are:
a) To ensure that all the students behave in a safe and sensible manner
Wear seatbelts at all times
NO eating or drinking
Keep noise level down
b) To make sure Lower School children are met at the bus stop in the
afternoons by a parent/guardian or are accompanied by a Middle
School/Upper School sibling/friend
c) To report any unruly or aggressive behavior to the Division Directors or
the Admissions Office immediately upon arrival in the morning
d) To help with new students joining the bus throughout the year
e) To report any other problems
The communication between the school and the monitors occurs on a regular
basis through the use of a weekly bus monitor report. Any unacceptable or dangerous
behavior is reported to me immediately upon arrival to school. The settlement of
the situation involves parental contact, discussion with the youngster(s) involved,
and eventual discipline measures as described on the “BUS RULES & REGULATIONS”
form.
Please note that ASP and the SAVAC bus company are not responsible for objects
left/forgotten on the bus. We ask that you please label all your children’s items with
their names so that we can easily contact you if the object is found by the bus driver
and returned to our office. If your child forgets an item on the bus, please contact us
immediately so that we can try to find it and return it to you. The buses often have
other clients immediately following the ASP bus line service and therefore, forgotten
items may be picked up by the following bus users without our knowledge.
I am confident that with your cooperation and frequent reminders and discussions
at home with your children about the bus rules, we will be able to offer the best bus
service possible and minimize eventual problems. Please don’t hesitate to contact
me at [email protected] or 01.4112.8245 or Solange, Bus Secretary, at [email protected]
or 01.4112.8659 should you have any comments, concerns or questions.
Kind regards,
Brenda Heussaff Director of Admissions and Bus Coordinator
BUS: LETTER ASP LIFE
Dear ASP Parents and Students,
4 the ASPect AUGUST 2011
BUS: RULES & REGULATIONSASP LIFE
All Lower School children should be in the company of an adult or a high school student while waiting for the morning bus.
In the afternoon, Lower School children should be met by an adult, or accompanied by a Middle School of Upper School student
when descending at their stop. In case of an unforeseen problem where the adult is not at the stop to meet the bus, the child must
STAY ON THE BUS AND BE BROUGHT BACK TO THE SCHOOL after the bus has finished its route to be picked up by the parents at
the school. Please instruct your young children not to get off the bus if you or a baby-sitter/guardian are not there to pick them up!
It is forbidden for Lower School students to sit in the first row of seats on the bus.
Seating for Lower School students is from the back exit forward to row 2.
There is a strict rule concerning the use of objectionable language on the bus. Any violation
of this rule must be reported to the bus monitor or to Brenda Heussaff immediately.
In the interest of safety, ALL students must be seated and facing forward with their seat
belts on while the bus is moving.
*** Disruptive behavior can be dangerous! Any violation will be viewed as a serious offense.
Food and drinks are prohibited on the bus. Trash should never be left on the bus. The drivers
arrive with a clean bus and the children should leave a clean bus at the end of the route.
ASP is not responsible for items left on the bus; nevertheless, please contact us immediately
(01.4112.8245, 01.4112.8659, or [email protected]) if your child leaves something on
the bus and we will do our best to coordinate with the bus company to find the item. Please
write your child(ren)’s name on backpacks, lunchboxes, sports bags, etc. to help us return
found items to you.
Enter the bus by the front door only.
Please remember that the bus monitor is on the bus to assure that safety and correct
behavior are observed. They are to be respected, as you would want them to respect you.
***Any conduct which endangers the safety of students on the bus will result in a phone call
and letter to the parents and the student being removed from the bus for a period of one week.
All other violations of bus rules will result in a warning letter being sent to the parents outlining the student’s behavior.
After a second violation of the bus rules, the student will be removed from the bus for one week. Additional violations will
result in additional suspension from the bus and additional sanctions until the bus privilege is finally removed permanently.
Thank you for taking the time to review the above information with your children.
5www.asparis.org theASPect
Q: Can I change to another bus stop
on the same route?
Q: Can I change to another bus?
Q: I’m going to take my kids to school
for the first few days and then I will start
putting them on the bus. Do I have to
notify anyone about this?
Q: Does my child need to show his/her
bus card to board the bus?
Q: Can parents ride the bus?
Q: Who will be helping younger
children with their seatbelts?
Q: Can I ask the driver to stop in
between two stops or at a former stop?
Q: What happens if we’re running late
in the morning? Can we call someone to
make sure the bus waits for us?
Q: Can I get the phone number of the
bus driver for my child’s bus?
A: Yes, but please inform Brenda Heussaff.
A: Please contact Brenda Heussaff before switching buses. Some buses,
particularly those serving Paris neighborhoods, are quite full.
A: No. Your child is guaranteed a seat on the bus to which he/she is assigned.
A: All students are issued bus cards and they should carry these with them at all
times. For younger children, you can put the bus card in a secure spot in their back-
packs (for example, a zippered pocket) so they always have them. Starting this year,
middle and upper school students will be required to show their bus cards on boarding.
This is just to ensure that everyone is riding the bus to which he/she is assigned.
A: In general, no. Even if it looks like there is room at your stop, consider that other
kids will be boarding at later stops. Also if many parents board on days when there
are special events at school, that could result in there being no seats for students.
A: Upper school students are assigned as monitors on each bus and are responsible
for communicating with the driver, reminding students about rules and regulations,
and making sure that all children are buckled in. We will also be experimenting with
adding paid adult monitors to several of the Paris buses this year although plans are
not yet finalized.
A: No. We’ve mapped out the routes and bus stops based on where students live
and a reasonable estimate of how long children should be on the bus. Adding addi-
tional stops slows down the commute for everyone.
A: Please make every effort to be on time. The bus driver may wait for two minutes
past the scheduled departure time but cannot wait longer than that. If you cannot
make it to the bus stop by that time, you will need an alternate plan for getting to
school.
A: Bus drivers change every now and then depending upon the needs of the bus
companies with which ASP contracts. In addition, we want to be sure that the drivers
are focused on the road and are not distracted by calls from parents and others.
If you have concerns, talk to Brenda Heussaff. If you have a last minute problem,
exchange phone numbers with other parents at your bus stop or the bus monitors.
BUS: FAQSASP LIFE
Welcome to ASP! We are delighted that you are now a part of our community and honored that you have entrusted us with
your child. The first few days and weeks of school can sometimes feel chaotic as you and your child get acclimated to life in Paris.
To help allay some of your concerns, here are answers to some of the questions most frequently asked by new families. Please also
review the list of bus rules and regulations with your child.
In case of a true emergency, contact Brenda Heussaff on her cell phone at 06.85.31.51.17.
6 the ASPect AUGUST 2011
At ASP our Lower School students can either enjoy the Hot
Lunch Program provided by our French chefs or can bring with
them to school each day a packed-lunch from home.
The dedicated Lower School Cafeteria has several
microwaves to allow children with packed-lunches to heat up
food brought from home with supervision.
LOWER SCHOOL CAFETERIAASP LIFE
Welcome to the Lower School Cafeteria
OUR CAFETERIA MANAGER PATRICK GINESTET ExPLAINS THE HOT LUNCH PROGRAM FURTHER:
It is our belief that students who are enrolled in the cafeteria program should receive a healthy and satisfying meal every
day. Our goal is to prepare meals that are nutritionally balanced and pleasing to the children. We will also integrated organic
food when possible.
Students enrolled in the lunch program may join for a trimester or the year.
Register for our lunch program on-line: see the next page for detailed instructions.
Packed lunch on Field Trip days provided: All children participating in the lunch program will be provided with packed lunch when going on a day trip.
We continue to look for ways to ensure that our cafeteria is eco-friendly.
As always, if your child has allergies or requires a special diet, please inform us.
Please, feel free to contact me if you have any questions, Many Thanks,
Patrick GinestetCafeteria Manager
7www.asparis.org theASPect
Price for Full Year (includes a 5% discount)
KINDERGARDEN & GRADE 1: 1072€
GRADES 2-5: 1040€
Price for TRIMESTER 1 (DATES: 25.08.11 to 16.12.11)
ALL GRADES: 485€
Price for TRIMESTER 2 (DATES: 03.01.12 to 30.04.12)
ALL GRADES: 445€
Price for TRIMESTER 3 (DATES:02.05.12 to 14.06.12)
KINDERGARDEN & GRADE 1: 200€
GRADES 2-5: 167€
CAFETERIA PRICES 2011-2012
SIGNING UP FOR THE LUNCH PROGRAM
1. Click through to the SIGN UP SITE after carefully reading the instructions below.
2. Once you have clicked through, enter your ID and password (if you didn’t receive it, please contact urgently IT Manager Michel Lami: [email protected]
3. Select payment for the current trimester OR year payment and confirm (‘valid’) your choice
4. Fill in the banking data and submit
5. Make sure you valid at the end of the transaction
6. You will be registered when this message appears: “Your transaction has been recorded”
7. Click on “Back to the shop” to exit
8 the ASPect AUGUST 2011
2 boxes paper tissues
1 plastic transparent folder with elastic
1 plastic cup with handle
LOWER SCHOOL SUPPLIES LIST 2011-2012ASP LIFE
4 large glue sticks
1 set thin felt tip markers
1 set thick felt markers
10 lead pencils with erasers
1 set colored pencils
1 large eraser
1 pencil sharpener
4 Elastic closing folders 1 green, 1 red, 1 yellow, 1, blue
2 large format spiral bound “Travaux Pratiques” Notebooks (24x32cm) Note: these must be as specified
2 soft side pencil cases as needed
1 pair children’s scissors
2 boxes paper tissues
1 small water bottle
1 plastic sleeves folder for Music
2 highlighters of different colors
1 backpack (not on wheels) ** French Teachers may have specific requests depending on French level
6 sharpened pencils (to be replenished)
2 large erasers
1 pencil sharpener
1 large set of at least 10 thick tipped markers
1 set of watercolors
1 pair of scissors
2 large glue sticks
2 liquid glues
1 spacious zip bag pencil case
2 spiral notebooks, 240 x 320 mm (“Travaux Pratiques”)
3 folders - red, blue, green - with elastics
1 box paper tissues
1 water bottle with top for drinks (to be taken home & washed weekly)
1 set of markers for homeroom
1 pack of at least 8 colored pencils
** French Teachers may have specific requests depending on French level
1 box paper tissues
2 glue sticks
1 Set of markers , fine or medium point
2 box or case to hold markers
1 plastic folder with elastic ribbons (any color)
1 red plastic folder with elastic ribbons
1 paint smock with long sleeves
1 water bottle with top for drinks (to be taken home & washed weekly)
1 pair of scissors
1 plastic folder for music
2 erasers
2 “fat” pencils
1 set of colored pencils
1 pencil sharpener
KINDERGARTEN 1
KINDERGARTEN 2
2ND GRADE
1ST GRADE
9www.asparis.org theASPect
pencil case
Pencils
Pens
Erasers
colored pens/pencils/markers
1 large stick of glue
1 pair scissors
2 boxes of tissues
1 stapler & box of staples
1 roll of scotch tap
1 binder with dividers
1 Plastic sleeve folder for Music
1 plastic sleeve folder for French (100 pages)
1 plastic folder for homework
4 pads post-it-notes (7.5 cm x 7.5cm)
1 Clipboard
** French Teachers may have specific requests depending on French level
3 large A4 notebooks (no spirals)
2 plastic folders with elastic band
1 set of markers, felt pens or colored pencils
1 set of pencils
1 pencil sharpener
1 pencil case
Erasers
Scissors
2 large glue sticks
2 red marking pens
1 clipboard for field trips
2 plastic sleeve folders with 200 + pages for Music and French
2 boxes paper tissues
1 scotch tape roll ** French Teachers may have specific requests depending on French level
2 plastic folders with elastic (1 green/1 red)
2 plastic sleeves folder for music and French (100 pages)
4 notebooks (cahiers 24 x 32cm), book bound (no spirals)
1 pair scissors
6 pencils with erasers
1 pencil sharpener
1 eraser
4 glue sticks (large)
1 set of highlighters stored in a ziplock bag
1 set of thick felt tip markers stored in a ziplock bag
1 set of colored pencils stored in a ziplock bag
1 big soft pencil case with zipper, no bigger than 23cm x 12 cm
1 box paper tissues
4 pads of POST-IT notes (7.5cm x 7.5cm)
1 Clipboard
1 backpack (not on wheels)
** French Teachers may have specific requests depending on French level
3RD GRADE
4TH GRADE
5TH GRADE
10 the ASPect AUGUST 2011
MIDDLE SCHOOL SUPPLIES LIST 2011-2012ASP LIFE
1 A4 size, 4 ringed binder, (classeur léger A4 – 2cm) and dividers
(for English)
2-3 packages of notebook paper (grands carreaux format) to fit in the binder and for use in other classes
50 plastic sleeves for saving papers
1 notebook or section of binder for math (+ paper for homework)
a pencil case containing:
pencils eraser blue/black/green/red pen(s) glue stick scissors pencil sharpener white out small stapler
a set of colored pencils or markers
a 30 cm. ruler, a compass and a protractor
a box of tissues to keep in the locker
a French-English translating dictionary for use at home (Larousse or Robert)
a simple calculator
USB key (labeled if possible)
A lightweight clipboard
3 A4 size tri-fold folders with elastic bands
1 small (17 x 22 cm) non-spiral (not wirebound) notebook of 96 pages in grands carreaux format
1 large (21 x 29.7 cm) non-spiral (not wirebound) notebooks of 96 pages in grands carreaux format
2 large (24 x 32 cm) non-spiral (not wirebound) notebooks of 96 pages in grands carreaux format
Supply of lined A4 paper
a pencil case containing:
pencils eraser blue/black/green/red pen(s) glue stick scissors pencil sharpener white out small stapler
USB memory stick
a set of colored pencils/markers
a 30 cm ruler, compass and a protractor
a simple calculator
a clipboard (for use on field trips)
a box of tissues to keep in the locker
French- English dictionary (Larousse or Robert) for use at home
English language dictionary
These lists reflect the items that we are sure that all students will need. Almost all supplies can be bought in the larger supermarkets and in most department stores. Below is the supplies list in a shopping list format. On this page the supplies are listed by subject so students know what is needed in which class.
SUPPLIES REqUIRED FOR GRADE 7
SUPPLIES REqUIRED FOR GRADE 6
11www.asparis.org theASPect
Additional information for Algebra I & Geometry students
For advanced math students who will be taking Algebra I or
Geometry, a Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus Silver Edition calcula-
tor may be used but is not required; this model will be used in
the following years in the Upper School mathematics courses.
As these graphing calculators are expensive, you should only
purchase one if you are not likely to misplace it! (You may find
these to be less expensive in the United States or in a duty-free
store.) Otherwise, a scientific calculator (with sin, cos, tan,
square root, and exponent ^ features) is fine.
a pencil case containing an on-going supply of:
pencils pens colored markers/pencils pencil sharpener eraser scissors simple calculator white out stapler & staples
a ruler (15 cm)
a lightweight clipboard (General Use)
5 A4 sized 4-ring binder/classeur – 4 cm thickness (All subjects)
100 plastic sleeves – A4 size (Math, English)
lined A4 paper - graph paper (Math)
Spiral Notebook – 100 pages (Math)
5 Page dividers for binder - to fit A4, 4-ring binder and paper (All Subjects)
Lined A4 paper - grand format/grands carreaux, perfore (French)
2 tri-fold folders with elastic bands (French, Social Studies)
2 soft-cover folder with 60 pages of plastic sleeves/ porte-documents 60 vues (1 for Science, 1 for Social Studies)
2 poster boards (Social Studies)
100 index cards (Social Studies)
French-English translating dictionary for use at home (Beginner to Advanced French)
French-French dictionary (Larousse ou Petit Robert) (Francophone)
other things to consider:
tissues water bottle USB key
SUPPLIES REqUIRED FOR GRADE 8
12 the ASPect AUGUST 2011
FOR NEW FIRST-TIME APPLICATIONS PROVIDE A PHOTO
HOW TO FiLL OuT THE nAViGO PASS APPLiCATiOn
STUDENTDETAILS LAST NAME
FIRST NAMEDAy MO yEAR
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SCHOOL STAMPSCHOOL ADDRESS & DETAILS
SEE ADMISSIONS
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yOUR DETAILS
BANK DETAILS ADDRESS
DATE & SIGNATURE
ACCT.
EACH yEAR COLORCHANGES
If you wish to apply for a student Navigo pass (transport card at a reduced price), please pick up a packet (as shown for 2011-2012) from your local railway or metro station. Complete the form and have our Admissions Office stamp it. You can send it off in the envelope provided. Each year, you will receive a pre-filled form at your home address for renewal. Please note that Paris is zone 1-2; ASP is in zone 3. You must choose at least two zones. Students may use the card over all the zones free of charge during the weekend (Saturday and Sunday), and on public holidays .
TRANSPORT: NAVIGO PASSPARIS LIFE
13www.asparis.org theASPect
GRADEEqUIVALENT
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14 the ASPect AUGUST 2011
KNOW YOUR NUMBERS IN FRENCH
0 zéro1 un2 deux3 trois4 quatre5 cinq6 six7 sept8 huit9 neuf10 dix11 onze12 douze13 treize14 quatorze15 quinze16 seize17 dix-sept18 dix-huit19 dix-neuf
20 vingt21 vingt et un22 vingt-deux23 vingt-trois
30 trente31 trente et un32 trente-deux
40 quarante41 quarante et un
50 cinquante51 cinquante et un
60 soixante61 soixante et un62 soixante-deux63 soixante-trois64 soixante-quatre65 soixante-cinq66 soixante-six67 soixante-sept68 soixante-huit69 soixante-neuf
70 soixante-dix71 soixante et onze72 soixante-douze
PARIS LIFE
http://french.about.com/od/vocabulary/ss/numbers.htm
73 soixante-treize74 soixante-quatorze75 soixante-quinze76 soixante-seize77 soixante-dix-sept78 soixante-dix-huit79 soixante-dix-neuf
80 quatre-vingts81 quatre-vingt-un82 quatre-vingt-deux83 quatre-vingt-trois84 quatre-vingt-quatre85 quatre-vingt-cinq86 quatre-vingt-six87 quatre-vingt-sept88 quatre-vingt-huit89 quatre-vingt-neuf
90 quatre-vingt-dix91 quatre-vingt-onze92 quatre-vingt-douze93 quatre-vingt-treize94 quatre-vingt-quatorze95 quatre-vingt-quinze96 quatre-vingt-seize97 quatre-vingt-dix-sept98 quatre-vingt-dix-huit99 quatre-vingt-dix-neuf
100 cent101 cent un125 cent vingt-cinq
200 deux cents201 deux cent un243 deux cent quarante-trois
1,000 mille - 1 000 or 1.0002,000 deux mille - 2 000 or 2.0002,500 deux mille cinq cents - 2 500 or 2.50010,498 dix mille quatre cent quatre-vingt-dix-huit 10.498 or 10 498
1,000,000 un million2,000,000 deux millions3,800,107 trois millions huit cent mille cent sept 3.800.107 or 3 800 107
a billion un milliard
15www.asparis.org theASPect
A qUICK ExPLANATIONFor the French numbers 20 through 59, counting is just like in English: the tens word (vingt,
trente, quarante, etc.) followed by the ones word (un, deux, trois). The only difference is that for 21, 31, etc., the word et (and) is introduced between the tens word and one: vingt et un, trente et un, quarante et un, etc.
But then when 70 rolls around, instead of a new “tens” word, soixante is kept and the “ones” word continues counting from 10. So 70, soixante-dix in French, is literally “sixty-ten.” 71 is soix-ante et onze (sixty and eleven), 72 is soixante-douze (sixty-twelve), and so on, up to 79.
There is no word for “eighty” in standard French,* instead 80 is quatre-vingts, literally four-twenties (think “four-score”). 81 is quatre-vingt-un (four-twenty-one), 82 is quatre-vingt-deux (four-twenty-two), and so on, all the way up to 89. There’s no word for ninety either, so you contin-ue using quatre-vingt and adding from ten. 90 is quatre-vingt-dix (four-twenty-ten), 91 is quatre-vingt-onze (four-twenty-eleven), etc.
In French, 100 to 999 work just like in English - just say how many hundreds and then add the other numbers. Note that when cent is at the end of the number, it takes an s, but when it’s fol-lowed by another number, the s is dropped.
1,000+ are also similar to English, but there are a few things to note: The separator is a period or space, rather than a comma (learn more) Mille never takes an s When reciting a long number, you can pause to take a breath at the
separator (after mille, million, or milliard)
PRONUNCIATION NOTEThe consonants at the end of the French numbers cinq, six, huit, and dix are pronounced when
at the end of a sentence or in front of a vowel. However, they drop the final sound when followed by a word beginning with a consonant (such as cent, mille, million, mois, or livres). For example, huit is normally pronounced [weet] and huit élèves is [wee tay lehv], but 800 is pronounced [wee sa(n)].
http://french.about.com/od/vocabulary/ss/numbers.htm
16 the ASPect AUGUST 2011
SAMPLE CERTIFICATE OF ENROLLMENTPARIS LIFE
Please contact the Admissions office for certificates of enrollment, ([email protected] ). You may be required to have this document for visa or social security applications.
17www.asparis.org theASPect
NOTES
41, rue Pasteur - B.P. 82 - 92216 Saint - Cloud Cedex - FranceTel. 01 41 12 82 82 Fax 01 46 02 23 90
www.asparis.org
AMERICAN SCHOOL OF PARIS
ASP KEY DATES!AUGUST
22 All teachers return to school
Upper School testing
24 Orientation Day for new families
25 FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL
29 Sport try-outs start
31 Middle School Open House (7pm)
SEPTEMBER1 MS Outward Bound packing day (no school Gr.7&8)
2 MS Gr. 7&8 Outward Bound trip departs (2nd – 9th)
3 US Welcome Back picnic (5-9pm)
5 Community Connections Fair (9-11.30am)
MS Gr.6 Outward Bound trip departs (5th – 9th)
7 New Parents Cocktail (7pm)
9 First sports weekend at home
12 Parent Faculty Association 1st general meeting (9am)
13 Living Skills Seminar 1 (9am-12.30pm)
15 LS Open House (6.30pm)
16 Living Skills Seminar 2 (9am-12:30pm)
US Gr. 9&10 retreat starts (2 days)
18 US Gr. 11&12 retreat starts (2 days)
20 Living Skills Seminar 3 (8.30am-2pm)
23 First sports weekend away (Holland)
28 Upper School Open House (7pm)
OCTOBER1 Bienvenue Cocktail (7pm)
10 Parent Teacher Conference Day – School closed for
Lower & Middle School only
21 Last day of School (Toussaint Vacation)
CUT THIS OUT AND STICK ON THE FRIDGE FOR EASy REFERENCE!
KEY DATES FOR THE START OF THE ASP YEAR!
Many of you will still be struggling to get internet access at home and organize email accounts.
Here is a summary of some of the important ASP dates up to the Toussaint Vacation at the end of October.
The listing covers the range of activities from extended field trip departure dates and Division Open Houses, to PFA meetings and social events. For further information or clarification please contact the division offices.