Residence Life Handbook 2012-2013

�� Our ProgramOur PhilosophyOur Purpose and Objectives

�� Residence Life Staff

�� Staff Screening, Training and Accountability

�� CommunicationParent VisitsTransfer of Guardianship

�� !��"��!�#�!$� %�&'What to Bring to SchoolResidence Life CalendarSchool Day RoutineResidence Life SchedulesSunday Quiet TimeOpen and Closed Campus HoursAllowance

�� (�� &&�&�Academic SupportSpiritual ServicesCounseling ServicesFood ServicesLaundry ServicesHealth ServicesTransportationFinancial Services

��)��!��*!��

OfficePoolGymShort Stay Program

��++! �� &�Dorm CouncilClass MeetingsSenior Privileges

��,-+��!�� &��'Behavior GuidelinesSocial GuidelinesMedia GuidelinesAfter School and Weekend Dress CodeOff-Campus and School TripsChores and Community ServiceStudent Safety

��*!��.��+�� &��Encouraging Appropriate BehaviorPreventing MisconductResponding to MisconductDiscipline GuidelinesProhibited Substances and MaterialsGang Involvement

!��.�/! 0� ��Admissions PolicyBoarding Home RatiosPersonal Protection Policy and Advocacy NetworkSchool JurisdictionDIS Residency and Guardianship PolicyEarly WithdrawalPreparing for School BreaksResidence Life Forms

��

�� !� �0

Welcome to the residence life program of DalatInternational School. We strive to make the residentialprogram as home-like as possible within the limits ofa large, close community. We want our dorms tobecome a “home away from home” for Dalat’sboarding students. One of our highest priorities is topartner with parents to help meet the needs of ourstudents, so that they will grow physically, socially,emotionally, academically and spiritually.

Our dorm staff are specifically called and committedto residence life ministry. For the 2012-2013 schoolyear, we have four dorm parent couples (one of whomalso serves as the residence supervisors), three assistantdorm parents and a nurse on the staff team. All arecommitted to Christ and to making each student’sstay at Dalat a positive and enriching experience.

There are four dorms located on Dalat’s campus:Jaffray, Ziemer, Jackson and Chandler. All dorm familiesare made up of sibling groups. Dorms are consideredprivate residences for dorm students and residencelife staff. Individuals from the school and communityare expected to respect the privacy of the dormfamilies.

This handbook is designed to help parents and studentsunderstand our mission, values, guidelines andexpectations. The more familiar students and parentsare with the expectations of our program, the easiertheir adjustment will be. Therefore, we require allstudents and parents to read our handbook and signa document stating that they understand and supportthe values and guidelines outlined therein.

�� !�!+�1

Dalat International School offers a residence lifeprogram for children enrolled at the school. Theresidence life program operates within the frameworkof the statement of faith, mission statement andpolicies and procedures of Dalat International School.

The residence life program strives to create acomfortable, homelike, Christian environment byproviding positive, loving care to meet the spiritual,emotional and physical needs of each child. Each staffmember views this as a vital ministry given by God.The residence life staff team will work together sothat each child will be ‘trained in the way he shouldgo.’ (Proverbs 22:6).

Sending a child to be part of the Dalat InternationalSchool’s residence life program is to be viewed by theparents as an extension of the family unit as institutedby God. As parenthood is a God-given responsibility,the residence life staff views their role as an extensionof the family unit. In order for children to grow in‘wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men’(Luke 2:52), the boarding staff recognize that thedorm students receive their primary training in thehome.

The residence life program identifies the need forcontinuing parental responsibility and involvement inthe care and training of children who reside in thedorms. Regular dialogue between parents and dormparents will help to maintain this continuum of carefor their children. The residence life program supportsthe values, teachings and beliefs of the parents,providing the parent's values are in alignment withthe Dalat International School mission statement.

Residence Life Handbook 2012-20132

Residence life staff need to be called by God and mustmodel a godly, spiritual life before the children.Residence life personnel exercise flexibility andunderstanding in the individual care of each dormstudent within the context of the group livingenvironment. Staff will be committed to personal andprofessional development by attending trainingsessions, workshops and by regular reading of thegrowing body of literature about child development,effective parenting, family dynamics and the uniqueneeds of third culture kids.

The residence life home setting will be a place whereGod’s love is taught, lived and demonstrated throughmodeling and instruction according to God’s Word(Deuteronomy 6:1-7). Open communication, mutualrespect and trustworthiness are fundamental to theeffective operation of each boarding home.

The residence life staff works as a team with parents,administrators and teachers. Each member of thisteam is striving to achieve the same goal of developingchildren into mature and godly young men and women.Residence life staff will assist in equipping studentsfor entry into adulthood and for returning to theirhome country.

Residence Life Handbook 2012-2013 3

�� +!��)2��(��The purpose of the Dalat International School residencelife program is to provide Christ-centered parentingin a home-like community through the followingobjectives:

3��(��!+0��We want to help each student reach his/her fullestpotential (spiritually, emotionally, academically, andphysically.) We plan to accomplish this throughfocusing our effort on these four areas:

a. Spiritual Growth – We want to model anauthentic, godly life that inspires students tobecome passionate followers of Christ.

b. Biblical Parenting – We want to parentstudents, in cooperation with their parents,according to Biblical values, providingunconditional love, nurture, encouragement,guidance, training, discipline and prayer.

c. Family Life – We want to share our lives andfamilies in a generous and transparent way.

d. Daily Care and Nurture – We want to providefor the spiritual, emotional, physical andeducational needs of boarders on a dailybasis, enabling them to develop life skills,respectful attitudes, self discipline and personalresponsibility.

3 *!00��!�We want to communicate effectively with students,staff, parents and others to achieve mutualunderstanding and cooperation.

3 *!00��1We want to love and support the members ofour community, seeking to live in unity, healthyinterdependence and mutual respect.

3 4�0�� !�We want to operate the residence life program inan effective and efficient way.

3 � �!��We want to provide ongoing, systematic screening,training, development and evaluation of ResidenceLife personnel.

3�/��We want to provide a safe, comfortable homeenvironment for boarders.

3�/��We want to follow a balanced and fair budgetthat provides for the needs of the boarding students.

��


Heather NicholsAssistant Dorm Parent

Barb NicholsAssistant Dorm Parent

Jan HoganNurse

Joe and Cheryl Young - Ziemer DormJonas and Mary Hawk - Jackson Dorm

Eddie and Becky Jenkins - Chandler DormAssistant Residence Supervisors

Brian and Valerie Weidemann - Jaffray DormResidence Supervisors


The residence staff and the school administrationagree upon the following values for our residence lifestaff. We value:

• Christ-likeness and personal integrity, as we believethat providing positive role models for our dormstudents is best done when we are continuallygrowing in spiritual maturity and character.

• Healthy marriages and families, as these are thefoundation for providing a positive homeenvironment for dorm students.

• Excellence in ministry, as we do our work untoGod our Master.

• Co-parenting with our dorm students’ parents, aswe believe that regular, loving and honestcommunication with parents is essential to bestserve the needs of their children.

• Team unity and community, as we believe thatinterdependence and mutual support is essentialto the success of our team.

�� 5�� 4!��)��1The administration follows careful hiring proceduresto ensure the selection of appropriate residence lifestaff to provide quality, Christian supervision forstudents residing in the dormitories. Each prospectivestaff member undergoes a screening process thatincludes, but is not limited to, background checks,personal references, personality profile, pastoralrecommendation, evaluation of spiritual and moralcharacteristics and child-care management skills,multi-faceted psychological testing and a personalinterview.

Incoming staff receive orientation and job training toequip them to fulfil the responsibilities of their position.The residence life team participates in on-goingprofessional development training each year. Residencelife staff receive annual evaluations which includeinput from student and parent surveys.

The residence life program receives accountabilityfrom the administration and school board of DIS, aswell as the on-going accreditation process with theAssociation of Christian Schools International.

The residence life program and the academic programare autonomous divisions of Dalat International Schoolbut both staff teams work in close partnership witheach other. The relationship of boarding students andtheir parents to the academic staff members is thesame as that for day-students and their families.

��


�� All of our residence life staff desire to see each boardingstudent grow in his or her understanding of God’slove. Each dorm family will spend time reading theBible and praying together, as well as attending localchurch services. In addition to these formal times ofspiritual instruction, our staff members will provideBiblical guidance and counsel to boarding students.

��As we live in close quarters and a small community,an extra measure of consideration needs to be shownto one another. Students are expected to show respectfor dorm-mates, dorm parents, teachers, support staff,and those in our community.

��The boarding program operates on a trust basis. Wetrust our students to follow the guidelines of theschool and of the boarding program.

Realizing that maturity comes through learning fromone’s mistakes, we expect students to be cooperativein accepting the consequences for misbehavior. Thisprocess will help students mature and develop intopeople of integrity. Personal modesty is an importantaspect of living responsibly and with integrity. Howwe dress reflects our desire to please God and live inconsideration of others. Therefore, dorm students areexpected to dress modestly at all times.

Students are expected to show respect for schoolproperty, including their dorm homes, classrooms, offcampus areas, books, clothing, personal effects, etc.They are responsible to keep their dorm living areaclean and neat.

��Students will be encouraged to develop and maintainhealthy relationships that are marked by love,consideration, purity and forgiveness. Students shouldseek to resolve conflicts in appropriate ways.

��We expect students to give their best effort to theirstudies. We will provide encouragement andaccountability to help them achieve their goals andreach their full potential.

�� A student’s attitude will determine whether his orher dorm stay will be a negative or positive experience.Staff and students will work together to foster anatmosphere of gratefulness, helpfulness, and unityin dorm families. Negative attitudes such ascomplaining, grumbling, and deception, a criticalspirit, divisiveness or disrespect for authority will beavoided.

��This includes maintaining appropriate personal habits,eating well-balanced meals, using proper manners,and adhering to school safety rules.

!�""��We believe that our students’ boarding experiencewill be enhanced if each one contributes to the dormcommunity and reaches out to those in need in andoutside of our community. Dorms will seekopportunities to bond as a dorm family and servetogether in their communities.

Dalat International School has developed values and guidelines for community living which provide both personalfreedoms and responsibilities. We desire that our expectations and guidelines be value-driven, so that ourstudents do not merely comply with a list of rules, but learn the importance of making careful choices in theirbehavior based on Biblical principles. We hope that our dorm students become known for embracing thesevalues, as they study at Dalat and continue on wherever God leads them.

As you read through this handbook, you will notice that our values form the foundation for all of our guidelinesin our boarding community.

As residence life staff, we seek to mentor and inspire our students to embrace these values:

��

#��

� ��


*!00��!�Correspondence between dorm parents and studentparents is essential for quality co-parenting. Dormparents write a general weekly letter and send picturesto parents, in addition to corresponding individuallyregarding specific student issues. Students are requiredto communicate with their parents on a weekly basis.

The privacy of boarding students will be respected asmuch as possible within the context of the boardingcommunity. Written, verbal and electronic informationof a sensitive nature concerning student behavior willbe held in confidence by residence life staff.

Residence life staff will be careful when discussingthe professional employment of the parents ofboarders.

(Value: Healthy relationships)

� �� !��6�� +If parents would like to check out their child from thedorm while they are visiting, they should fill out the‘Transfer of Guardianship Form.’ This form needs tobe completed and handed in to the dorm parentbefore the student leaves the dorm to enter the careof their parents or guardian. This form can be pickedup from the dorm parents or residence supervisors.Upon returning their child, parents should meet withthe dorm parent and sign their child back into thedorm. This procedure helps to avoid confusion aboutwho is responsible for the student at any given time.

(Value: Co-parenting)

� ��Parents are encouraged to visit their students oftenso that they can see them in the dorm context, getto know their dorm parents and family and observethe overall boarding program. They are invited toattend chapels, sports events, drama presentations,musical concerts, awards ceremonies and otheractivities in which their student participates. Parentsare also welcome to contribute to special events inthe dorms like providing a special cultural meal orsnack for the dorm family or share in the dormdevotions so that their child's dorm siblings can getto know them better. These kinds of activitiesstrengthen the connection between the dorm familyand visiting parents.

Visiting children are welcome in the dorm whenaccompanied by the parents. Any other questionsabout parent visits can be directed to the dorm parentsor residence life supervisors. The staff team iscommitted to welcoming and including visiting parentsso that each visit is a positive experience for both theparents and their student(s) and that the connectionbetween parents and dorm families is maximized.

�� !��"��!�#�!$


��!�� !��!!�Dalat International School requires students to weara uniform during the school day, so the list belowrepresents the clothes and other items needed forafter school times.

Battery operated alarm clock (hand phones areturned in at night and may not be used as an alarmclock)

Casual clothes for after school

Dress clothes for church and formal events

Modest sleep wear

Modest bathing suit (no Speedos for boys, girls’suits must cover their midriff, girls may not bringbikinis to school)

Twin/single size sheets, pillowcases and mattresspad, bath towels, wash cloths, swimming towel

Toiletries such as toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo,conditioner, deodorant

Comb or brush/hair accessories

Headphones

Bible and personal devotional material

Framed family photos, and other favourite keepsakes

Wallet or purse

Umbrella

Light jacket or sweater

Athletic shoes, sandals, and dress shoes

Overnight bag for sleepovers, dorm outings andsports/choir/band trips

Personal sunscreen and insect repellent

A set of older clothes for the evacuation backpackand/or work projects

The above is just a guideline for after school attire.Students may bring more or less, depending on theirpersonal tastes. If your child comes without one ofthe items listed above and the dorm parent finds thathe/she needs one, they will contact you to makearrangements to purchase one for your child andcharge the expense to your account. Your student’sname should be clearly marked on all of their clothingand belongings. This can be done with nametags orpermanent marker.

Dorm students are required to purchase three sets ofuniforms each. Uniforms and alterations will be chargedto the parents’ account.

The dorm rooms are not big and there are 2- 4 studentsto a room. Closet and dresser space is limited so usegood judgment in how much you send with yourstudent. It is hard to keep track of everyone’sbelongings and things will get broken when theyshare. Students should not bring anything of greatvalue. Students should not store cash or expensiveitems in their dorm rooms. Dorm parents may keepstudent allowances locked in their offices. DIS will notbe responsible for lost or stolen cash or personalbelongings.

If a student brings expensive personal belongings toschool, we encourage parents to have those itemsinsured. Parents may contact our school office to havean insurance agent assess their student’s belongingto purchase insurance.

Personal belongings should be taken home at the endof each semester. Limited storage may be availableto students over breaks, at the dorm parents’ discretion.Unclaimed items left after one semester become theproperty of the boarding program, unless priorarrangements are made. Dalat School is not liable forloss, theft or damage to stored items.

7��8��*�� Parents are advised to look carefully at the schoolcalendar each year to determine when the dormsopen and close each semester so they may plan theirstudent’s travel itinerary accordingly.

For the 2012-2013 school year, the boarding programwill adhere to these dates:

August 11, 2012, 5:00 pm – Dorms openAugust 14, 2012 – School startsDecember 20, 2012 – Last day of classesDecember 21, 2012, 5:00 pm – Dorms closeJanuary 20, 2013, 5:00 pm – Dorms openJanuary 22, 2013 – School startsMarch 30, 2013, 1:00 pm – Dorms closeApril 1-5, 2013 – Mid-semester breakApril 7, 2013, 1:00 pm – Dorms openJune 4, 2013 – Last day of classesJune 5, 2013 – CommencementJune6, 2013 5:00 pm – Dorms close

If students arrive before dorms open or depart afterdorms close, parents are responsible to arrangeother accommodations for them with localguardians. During the mid-semester break, thedorms will close so that students can go home andenjoy time with their parents.


Students are expected to check in with their dormparents after school. An after-school snack is provided.Afternoons are filled with a variety of activities forour dorm students: drama, sports practices, tutoringsessions, computer lab or library time, music practicingand lessons, and free time.

All dorm students are required to attend the suppermeal on Mondays through Thursdays at 5:40 pm. Ourgeneral expectation is for students to attend theevening meal together as a dorm; exceptions aregranted by dorm staff occasionally for sports andspecial events. After dinner, students are free to enjoycampus activities until 7:30 pm. Dorm study roomsare quiet zones for homework only from6:00 pm - 10:00 pm.

A supervised study hal l is required from7:30 - 9:00 pm on Mondays through Thursday evenings.Locations for study hall include the dorm study room(for homework only, not multi-tasking), dorm loungesor the supervised computer lab. Students need dormparent permission to go to the computer lab wheremulti-tasking is allowed. Students may study in theirrooms during evening study hall with Ipads or laptopswith the permission of their dorm parents. There isno gaming at any location during evening study hall.All students return to their dorms after study hall.

Dorm parents may use discretion to modify the regularlyscheduled bedtimes for special circumstances.Responsible high school students may receive theprivilege of using dorm-provided reading lights forextra studying as needed. Students who showirresponsible behavior such as being late for class,sleeping in class or not fulfilling other school or dormresponsibilities may lose the privilege of using theirreading lamp to study after bedtime.

(Values: Healthy relationships, reaching one’s fullestpotential, respect for others, personal responsibility,personal health, spiritual growth)

��!!��1�7!��7:15 am Wake up, prepare for school, pick up/

drop off laundry, clean room

7:30 am Breakfast served in dorm

8:20 am School starts

3:45 pm School ends

5:40 pm Family-style supper in the cafeteria

6:00 - 10:00 pm Homework only in the dorm studyrooms

7:30 - 9:00 pm Supervised study hall in the dorm orcomputer lab

9:00 pm Dorm meetings, devotions or freetime

9:00 - 10:00 pm Bedtimes, depending on ages ofstudents

10:30 pm Lights out for all studentsOnly personal reading lamps may be used forindividual studying

Internet access available in dorms Daily 7:00 am – 10:00 pmQuiet zone - homework only in dorm study rooms Daily 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Curfews Bedtimes

SCHOOL 5:30 pm Gr. 6 – 9:00 pmDAYS Gr. 7-8 – 9:30 pm

Gr. 9-12 – 10:00 pm

FRI 10:00 pm Gr. 6 – 10:00 pmSeniors - 11:00 pm Gr. 7-8 – 11:00 pm

Gr. 9-12 – 12:00 pm

SAT 10:00 pm Gr. 6 – 10:00 pmGr. 7-8 – 10:30 pmGr. 9-12 – 11:00 pm

SUN 8:00 pm Gr. 6 – 9:00 pmGr. 7-8 – 9:30 pmGr. 9-12 – 10:00 pm

7��8��


��1�9��0�Each Sunday afternoon students will have a quiet timefrom 1:00 to 3:00 pm. Students stay in their dormsduring this time and no off campus students areallowed on the school grounds. The campus andthe dorms remain quiet during this time so thatstudents may rest. There are to be no phone callsduring quiet time.

(Value: Respect for others, Personal health)

While we want to cultivate a warm and welcomingatmosphere on our campus, we also have ‘closedcampus’ hours to protect quieter times for our dormfamilies.

Day students may occasionally remain on campusduring ‘closed campus’ hours if they are participatingin a school or dorm-sponsored activity or have beenspecifically invited by a dorm staff member. Whenthese exceptions occur, students need to be in theproper place of the activity, not loitering aroundcampus. For example, if indoor soccer is offered onFriday night, students may be in the gym from 10 –11:30 pm. No loitering outside the gym or on campusis permitted. At the conclusion of the activity, allstudents return to their dorms or leave campus.

4��!$��The chart below shows recommended amounts formonthly allowance for dorm students. Parents mayrequest that their students receive either higher orlower amounts by contacting the school’s financeoffice. If a special request is not communicated,students will receive the amount shown below. Studentallowances are not included in the boarding fees; theyare charged to the parents’ school account.

Grades 6 RM 40.00/monthGrade 7 RM 50.00/monthGrade 8 RM 60.00/monthGrade 9 RM 70.00/monthGrade 10 RM 90.00/monthGrade 11 RM 100.00/monthGrade 12 RM 120.00/month

�+��*�!��*�0+��:!� �Our campus is open to day students and others in thecommunity during the following times:

Monday - Thursday 7:45 am – 5:30 pm

Friday 7:45 am – 10:00 pm

Saturday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm

Sunday 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Due to the fact that our lower campus is not generallysupervised like our upper campus, students may onlybe on lower campus with the approval of their dormparents or under the supervision of a staff member.

After campus is closed, students who are waiting fora ride home should wait at the guard house. If seniorstudents return to campus on Friday nights for theextra hour between 10 – 11 pm, they may gather atthe student center on campus or they may return totheir own dorms.

(Value: Healthy relationships, Respect for others)


4��0��++! �Students and their parents retain full responsibility forstudents’ academic success. Parents, students anddorm staff have access to Powerschool, Dalat’s onlinegrading book. Dorm staff provide appropriateopportunity and accountability for students to focuson their studies. If a student’s GPA drops below 3.0or if they have an F in a class or incomplete/missingassignments, his/her weekend freedoms may berestricted and they may be given increasedaccountability during study hours.

Evening study hall on school nights is from 7:30 –9:00 pm. The dorm study rooms are homework only,quiet zones. Freedom to go to the computer lab forevening study hall is dependent on students’responsibility; permission is granted by the dormparents each time. Multi-tasking while doing homeworkis permitted in the computer lab only during eveningstudy hall. No gaming is allowing in either location(dorm study room or computer lab) during study hall.Dorm kitchens are closed during study hall.

�+� �� (��The residence program provides an environmentconducive to the spiritual growth of each student.The residence supervisors provide general oversightto the program to ensure that boarding studentsreceive adequate spiritual care. Dorm parents provideregular family devotional times and personal spiritualcounseling for students as needed. Boarding studentsare encouraged to develop a lifestyle that reflectsBiblical principles and values and to prioritize personalprayer and Bible reading.

All students are expected to participate in the DalatSpiritual Life program. This includes chapels, specialservices, Missions Emphasis Week, and SpiritualEmphasis Week. Dorm students are required to attendchurch, either with their dorm family or another churchapproved by their dorm parents. Midweek prayermeeting is optional for students.

(Value: Spiritual growth)

*!�� (��Counseling staff are available to meet with boardingstudents regarding personal issues or needs. Parentswill be informed of regular, ongoing counselingsessions between a student and the school’s counselingstaff.

�� (��

/!!�� (��Breakfasts are provided in each dorm on Mondaysthrough Saturdays. All other meals are provided bythe school cafeteria. Sometimes on weekends, dormfamilies will go out to eat together, enjoy a specialhomemade dinner in the dorm or dorm parents willgive students cash to eat out at local restaurants.

Students are expected to attend all meals in thecafeteria. Prior arrangements need to be made withthe dorm parents or residence supervisors if studentsneed to miss a meal.

Dorm parents will teach and encourage appropriatetable manners and healthy eating habits. Inappropriateor unhealthy behaviour will be handled at the discretionof dorm staff.

Students may not enter the cafeteria kitchen withoutthe permission of a dorm staff member.

(Value: Personal health, Respect for others)

8�� 1�� (��Laundry service is provided as a benefit for boardingstudents Mondays through Fridays. Students areresponsible to hand in their soiled laundry and pickup their clean clothes on each school day. If studentsare irresponsible or disrespectful of this service, theymay lose their laundry privilege for a time determinedby their dorm parents. In this case, laundry machineswill be made available for the student to take care oftheir own laundry.

Clothing items are sometimes lost or damaged in thelaundry, beyond the control of our employees. DISwill not be responsible to replace lost or damagedclothing items.

Senior students may be given the privilege andresponsibility of learning to do their own laundry inorder to help them prepare for college life.

:�� (��Residence life staff are responsible to respond to themedical needs of boarding students who become illor injured while under their responsibility. In anemergency situation, the dorm parents will takeappropriate action. Residence life personnel will informthe parents or guardian as soon as possible whenevera student requires emergency hospital treatment.Boarding program staff will encourage good healthpractices and limited supervision of the students’ diet,rest, exercise and emotional health.

The parents of dorm students are responsible forkeeping their students’ immunizations up to date andinforming the dorm parents and the school nurse ofany known medical needs/problems their child(ren)may have. The residence program is not responsiblefor treating serious illness or injuries, arranging forroutine medical services or paying for medical expenses.

Health Center hours: 7:45 am - 4:30 pm

The nurse tries to be available during posted hoursand students are welcome to visit her. If the nurse isnot in the Health Center during school hours, studentsshould see the school receptionist. During after-schoolhours, dorm students should check with their dormparents before visiting the nurse. Students must receivepermission from the nurse to visit a patient at othertimes.

The cost of mileage to and from doctors/dentistsappointments and medication/treatment are chargedto parents’ accounts.

(Value: Personal health, respect for others)

� ��+! ��!�The boarding program provides transportation fordorm students to and from the airport at the beginningand end of each semester and the mid-semester break.Accompanying parents and guests may be chargedfor a percentage of transportation costs. Transportationto airports outside of the semester breaks for additionalpersonal trips will be charged to the parents’ account.

We encourage parents to plan student travel to arriveand depart before 11:00 pm. Students arriving/departing after midnight may be charged an additionalfee for transportation.

/�� (��Every family with a student attending DIS will beprovided with a financial account with the school. Allof the student’s expenses will be charged to thefamily’s school account, including tuition, room andboard, monthly allowance, uniforms, school-providedhealth services, local medical costs, office supplies,etc, as well as parent-approved student cashwithdrawals. The school provides parents with anaccount of the billing activity each month.

If a student wishes to withdraw money from theirparent’s account above the amount approved on theannual information form, an email from the parentsis required. Upon receipt of the email, the dormparents will give the student a finance slip which thestudent may use to withdraw the money from theparent’s account. A student’s cash withdrawal maynot exceed RM500 in total in any one statementperiod unless under emergencies at the approval ofthe school’s CFO. Parents are advised to maintain acredit balance in their accounts to pre-empt expensesincurred by their children to avoid financialcomplications.

Parents are reminded to settle any outstanding balancethat appears in their account within twenty-one daysfrom the date of the monthly statement. The schoolreserves the right to freeze the account if no paymentis received after the twenty-one day period. Once anaccount is frozen, the student will no longer be allowedto charge any of the above transactions to the account.

Parents may contact the Office of Finance (Adeline –[email protected]) should they have any questionspertaining to their account or related issues.

��School supplies are available for student purchasefrom the school office at specified times. Stamps, airforms, and the cashing of checks are handled onlyafter the office is closed. Students may not leaveunstamped letters at the front desk to be stampedby the receptionist. Students may not be in the officeafter it is closed, except when they are accompaniedby a staff member.


!!�Dorm students must ask for permission from theirdorm parents to use the pool and are required tofollow all posted pool rules. Students may never swimalone. When elementary students or co-ed groups areusing the pool, adult supervision is required.

610The primary purpose of the gym is for health/physicaleducation classes and for the extra-curricular athleticprograms of the school. When the gym and/or weightroom is not being used in one of those capacities, itis free for use by any Dalat students or staff. If studentswant to use the gym or weight room, they need tohave adult supervision.

(Value: Personal Health and Safety)

��! ��1� !� �0Dalat's residence life division offers a short stay programas an expression of our desire to minister to studentswho require short term care while their parents needto be away from Penang with a maximum of 10 daystotal per semester. This program allows current daystudents to continue attending Dalat School withoutinterruption during their parents’ absence.

Short stay application forms are available online andfrom the school secretary. Applications should be filledout by the parents and submitted to the office twoweeks in advance with a RM20 non-refundable deposit.The deposit is applicable to the short stay fees.


Applications will be considered on a case-by-case basisby the program coordinator. Not all short stay requestsmay be approved as available space and dorm dynamicsare considered when processing applications. Shortstay boarders are not scheduled during the first andlast weeks of each semester, holiday weekends orwhen the dorms are closed. Short stay applicationsmay request a specific dorm, but we do not guaranteeplacement in the dorm of their choice.

The fee for a short stay in the boarding program isRM120.00 per day per student, which will be chargedto the parents’ school account. This fee includeslodging, meals, dorm snacks, towels and linens.Missionaries may receive a discounted rate. If thedorm has a special activity or trip planned during thestudent’s short stay, the student may be asked to payhis/her own expenses. If a student is left in the dormbeyond their reservation date without communicationfrom the parents, there will be a 25% increase peradditional day added to the daily rate.

Communication between parents and dorm parentsis crucial to ensure a positive experience for short stayboarders. At least one parent is expected to personallymeet with the dorm parents before a student is leftin the dorm.

Short stay boarding students are required to sign acommitment form indicating their desire to supportand obey Residence Life guidelines and staff.

��++! ��


�! 0�*!��Each dorm elects one representative to serve on DormCouncil. These elections usually take place within thefirst few weeks of each semester. The same peoplemay be re-elected.

The Dorm Council meets monthly to plan activitiesand discuss ways to improve the residence life program.The Dorm Council is led by the residence supervisor.

The Dorm Council operates according to the followingphilosophy:

Purpose - Student leadership in the dormsObjectives - Good examples of community

citizenship- Foster communication between dormstudents and dorm staff

- Sponsor dorm programs- Plan special activities for dorm students- Provide a “suggestion outlet” for dormstudents

- Assist in solving dorm issues- Assist with study hall supervision

(Value: Community service)

*��;��Juniors and seniors participate in special activities withtheir class sponsors on a regular basis. Dorm studentsshould attend all class meetings and class functions.

(Value: Community service, Healthy relationships)

��! � �(��Seniors may earn special privileges which will bedetermined by the dorm parents and/or the residencesupervisors.

(Value: Personal responsibility)

��(�! �6��The residence life handbook is updated annually tocommunicate the values, guidelines, and expectationsof the program; however, residence life staff havefreedom and authority to apply and amend theguidelines or give exceptions according to theirdiscretion, under the authority of and withaccountability from the residence supervisors.The residence life program reserves the right todetermine behavior guidelines within which theboarding students are expected to live while they areunder its authority and responsibility.

Each dorm has designated boys and girls rooms andhallways. Boys and girls are not allowed to enter thedesignated hallways or dorm rooms of the oppositegender.

�!��6��Dating

Dalat International School encourages wholesomerelationships between boys and girls. We commit touphold Biblical standards in our relationships as outlinedin God’s Word. We will strive to conduct ourselvesaccording to the values of love, purity, honor, respectand self-control in our relationships. We expect studentsto be above reproach at all times with students ofthe opposite gender.

Occasionally, a male and female student may chooseto develop a deeper relationship. If students chooseto enter a more committed, positive dating relationship,the following guidelines will be followed becausedating relationships carry a greater responsibility.

• High school students (grades 9-12) have theopportunity to be involved in dating relationships.Students in grades eight and below are notpermitted to date.

• If a male student, dorm or day, chooses to establisha dating relationship with a female dorm student,he has the responsibility of asking permission fromher dorm dad. Likewise, a male dorm student whochooses to establish a dating relationship with afemale day student has the responsibility of askingpermission from her father. Both students in adating relationship are responsible to communicatewith their own parents.

• Dorm students who want to be involved in a datingrelationship need to discuss their plans with theirdorm parents. Both students may be asked toreview and sign the DIS Principles and Guidelinesfor a Dating Relationship form.

• The only appropriate physical expression in a datingrelationship at Dalat is holding hands. Handholdingis not permitted during school hours, as per theStudent Parent Handbook.


The family atmosphere of each dorm will be protectedso that boarding students may treat one another as‘brothers” and “sisters.’ Students within the samedorm are discouraged from dating one another, as aromantic relationship within a dorm can jeopardizethe family dynamic.

If a dating relationship develops within a dorm, thecouple involved must keep all aspects of their datingrelationship outside of the dorm facility. They may notappear as a couple when they are inside the dormtogether at any time. No physical contact may occurwithin the dorm; handholding is the only form ofphysical contact that is permitted between couples atDalat and this may only take place outside of thedorm. If the couple cannot abide by this policy, oneof them may be moved to a different boarding familyand facility.

(Value: Healthy relationships, Personal integrity)

��,-+��!��

Language Guidlines

It is our desire that each student feels included in ourdorm families; therefore, we encourage all studentsto use English when in a group or public setting.

Earbud Use

Earbud/ear phone use is only appropriate when it willnot inhibit social interaction in a group or publicsetting.

(Value: Respect for others, Healthy relationships)

;��6��All media in the dorms will be screened according tothe biblical standards outlined in Philippians 4:8 and1 Thessalonians 5:21-22. We have a biblical injunctionto live cautiously, to judge that which is evil and thatwhich is good, and to strive for the ‘high calling ofJesus Christ.’ The content of songs, movies, TV, videos,internet material and computer games should describethings acceptable to the Christian mode of life andthinking, remembering that whatever we receive intoour minds becomes a part of us.

• Dorm students will be expected to use all technologyin appropriate ways.

• All media must be approved by dorm staff.

• In accordance with school policy, pirated mediawill not be permitted in the boarding program.

• Media viewing and gaming (on personal DVDplayers, MP4’s, iPods, phones, etc.) will be allowedin public areas and with permission from the dormparents.

• Students’ phones, Ipads and personal computerswill be secured each evening.

(Value: Spiritual growth, Personal integrity, Respectfor others)


Movies/Videos/DVD’s

Students are permitted to go to movies in the theaterunder the following guidelines:

• Parents may indicate on the annual permissionform whether their student is allowed to go to seemovies according to North American standards ofage-appropriateness (G, PG, PG 13) or whetherthey would like the dorm parents to screen moviesfor their student.

• Staff members retain the right to not allow studentsto view media that they deem inappropriate.

• Students must ask the dorm parents for permissioneach time they would like to see a movie.

• Students in grades 1-7 will be accompanied bytheir dorm parent or a person approved by theirdorm parent.

• Students in grades 8-12 will provide their dormparents with the movie stub upon their return tocampus.

• Movies rated R in the States or “18” in Malaysiawill not be permitted for theater or in-dorm viewingunless for educational purposes and viewed onlyunder direct dorm parent supervision. The moviemust be screened and approved by dorm parentsand the residence supervisor prior to studentviewing. Written or verbal permission must alsobe obtained from the dorm student’s parents foreach specific movie.

• NC-17 movies are never permitted.

Dorm parents will determine appropriate editing fortheir dorm, being careful to avoid showing sceneswith excessive violence, swearing, vulgar language,or nudity/sex.


Music

• Music must be respectful and does not go againstChristian values. Lyrics that contain vulgar, sensuallanguage, either explicit or implied, are consideredinappropriate for listening. Music that promotesrebelliousness, self-harm or suicide, endorses sexualpromiscuity, glorifies or promotes violence, endorsesuse of drugs, and treats the occult as attractive isequally inappropriate.

• Those playing music audibly must control thevolume so that it is not offensive to roommates,dorm mates, dorm parents or visitors.

• Students who own or play inappropriate music ordo not respect others will lose their music privileges.Privileges can be given or revoked at the discretionof the dorm parents and Residence supervisors.


TV

• TV is permitted at the dorm parents’ discretionand supervision in each dorm. All TV programsshown in the dorms will be consistent with Christianstandards.

• Students may not have TV’s in their dorm rooms,as all TV viewing is monitored by dorm parents.


Computer and Video Games

• Approval for gaming is at the discretion of dormparents.

• Games that have a first person, shooter-style modethat involves the killing of people are not allowed.

• Dalat International School believes in protectingthe intellectual property rights of softwaredevelopers. All software installed on school ownedcomputers (including those in the dorms) must belegally licensed.

• Computer gaming or internet browsing centresare permitted with direct dorm staff supervision.

• Boarding standards for all media use apply whilethe student is on off-campus trips or overnightevents. The boarding student is expected to callthe dorm parent if unsure about the appropriatenessof a movie, video, electronic game or otherentertainment options while on an off-campus tripor overnight event.

• Handheld gaming devices may be used at thediscretion of dorm parents.

• Gaming is not allowed during evening study hall.Gaming privileges at other times are determinedby dorm parents according to the responsibilityand age of students.


Computers and Ipads

• Each dorm facility has several computers for thestudents to share. The high school Ipad programis intended for school work primarily, then may beused secondarily for personal entertainment.Homework is always prioritized in the use of dormcomputers. The study rooms in each dorm arequiet study zones for homework only from 6:00-

10:00 pm every night, including weekends.

• The school’s computer lab will be available to dormstudents during the evening study hall time onschool nights.

• Internet access will be provided in the dorms from7:00 am till 10:00 pm daily. This schedule is subjectto review according to staff discretion.

• Students who wish to bring personal computersto the dorm must sign and abide by the “PersonalComputer Use Form.” Personal computers are aprivilege, not an entitlement; a student may losethe privilege if it is used inappropriately. Personalcomputers may not be shared with other students.

• Students are responsible to turn in all Ipads andcomputers at bedtime for safe-keeping andcharging. Students may retrieve them each morning.

(Value: Personal integrity, Respect for others)

Personal Hand Phones

• Dorm students may bring one personal phone toschool.

• Students are responsible to turn in their phonesto their dorm parents before bedtime. Phones maybe collected in the morning or after school.

(Value: Personal integrity, Respect for others)

Residence Life Media Library

Dorm students may borrow resources from the medialibrary under the direct supervision of a staff member.All resources may only be used on campus. The costof lost or damaged resources will be charged to theparents’ school account.



Specific Guidelines

• Girls’ dresses and tops must have straps and maynot show cleavage. Girls' tops and pants may notbe tight-fitting.

• Undergarments, midriffs and backs should not beseen.

• Shorts and skirts should be of a modest length.(When a girl is standing with her arms to her sides,her shorts or skirt may not be shorter than thebottom of her out-stretched fingertips.)

• Students should wear appropriate dress to churchfunctions.

• Swimming attire: Boys should wear properswimwear with lining (no speedos). Girls shouldwear modest bathing suits that cover the midriff.

• Shoes should be worn in the cafeteria. Hats shouldbe removed when entering any building.

• Words written across the back of students’ shortsor pants is not permitted.

4�� !!��<�� *!��Dorm students are expected to adhere to the DalatInternational School’s ‘expectations of personalappearance’ as listed in the Student Parent Handbook.Students will maintain standards of dress accordingto Biblical values by dressing modestly at all times,whether on or off campus. Modesty will be maintainedin the dorms, particularly in the shared co-ed commonareas.

(Value: Personal responsibility and integrity, Respectfor others)

• Visible body piercing is not allowed with theexception of pierced ears for girls and boys andnose studs for girls. Students may not get theirears pierced without specific, prior writtenpermission from their parents to their dorm parents.The school handbook does not allow boys to wearearrings to school functions such as sports gamesand tournaments, concerts, field trips, graduationservices and other school-sponsored activitiesoutside of the school day. The school handbookdoes not allow girls to wear nose studs to school.

• Students may not get tattoos while under thecare of Dalat staff. Students who come withinappropriate tattoos are to keep them covered atall times (outside of their own room). Inappropriatetattoos would include but are not limited to anydepiction of violence, vulgarity, immodesty, drugs,alcohol, weapons, the occult or disrespectfulbehavior or attitudes.

• Students should not have the appearance of beingin a gang and should not wear bandanas or othergang paraphernalia or clothing associated withgang activity.

• Students are not permitted to wear articles ofclothing or jewelry that carry motifs advertising orpromoting alcohol, tobacco, drugs, sexuallysuggestive or obscene language or any othermessage that conflicts with Dalat InternationalSchool values.

• If a student’s clothing or jewelry is determined tobe immodest or inappropriate by a dorm parent,the student will be asked to change. If a studentdresses immodestly consistently, they will be askedto turn in their inappropriate clothing which willbe returned to them at the end of the semesterfor them to take home.

(Value: Personal Responsibility and integrity, Respectfor others)


Banquet Dress

The boarding staff, Student Council or Parents’Organization periodically plan banquets for studentswhich are ‘dress up’ occasions. For banquets, girls’gowns must have backs that come to at least braheight and may not expose any area of the abdomenor show any undergarments.

The Junior-Senior Banquet (JSB) is usually held in lateApril or early May and is sponsored by the junior classin honour of the seniors. For boys, the key issue isappropriateness. This is a dressy occasion whichwarrants shirt, tie, dress slacks, and dress shoes or,possibly, culturally appropriate options. For girls,appropriateness and modesty are the key issues.Although modesty is a value to be applied consistently,appropriateness does change depending on theoccasion. For the JSB, the girls’ dress code may varyin two ways: Gowns may be strapless, but if the dressis designed with straps, the straps must be worn.Gowns can be backless, but may not go below thewaist (measured by the belly button).


��*�0+��!!�� +�Dorm parents often plan special activities and tripsfor dorm students on weekends and holidays. Theymay visit shopping malls, theatres and bowling alleys,restaurants, nearby beaches or other local touristspots.

Each time a student desires to go off campus on apersonal trip, dorm parent permission is required.Each student must fill in the ‘Daily Sign-Out’ sheetbefore leaving campus and, then again, when returningto campus. Students should remember that theyrepresent Dalat International School and should showproper respect and behavior at all times.

Specific Guidelines

• Students in grade 6 may go off campus with theirdorm parents’ permission and when supervised byan adult. Supervision may occasionally be providedat an off campus location for a 6th grader by anolder student approved by the dorm parents andparents.

• Students in grade 7 may go off campus whenaccompanied by an adult. They may be droppedoff and picked up by an adult, but have freedomto enjoy shopping and other activities in groupsof 2 or more at approved locations without adultsupervision.

• During daylight hours, students in grades 8-12 maygo off campus, with dorm parent permission, ina group of two or more. However, a group of twopeople may not be comprised of one male andone female unless they are siblings. During after-dark hours, students in grades 8-12 should be ingroups of 3 or more.

• Students must remain in a group at all times whenoff campus.

• School social guidelines are in effect for all off-campus trips.

• Overnight events will occur on Fridays or longweekends. Students may not spend the night off-campus on school nights. Overnight invitationsshould be discussed with dorm parents in advance.

• Day students are permitted to stay overnight in adorm with the permission of the dorm parent.

• When visiting other students’ homes, it is requiredthat the parents are at the home and supervisingduring the entire duration of the visit.

• Boarding standards for movies, videos, music, TV,radio, electronic or computer games apply whilethe student is on an off-campus trip or overnightevent or at a local internet cafe. The boardingstudent is expected to call the dorm parent ifunsure about the appropriateness of a movie,video, electronic game or other entertainmentoptions.

• Students are permitted to play computer gamesat local internet cafes under the supervision of anadult approved by the dorm parents.

• Students are permitted to use licensed taxis (notpirated) or buses for off campus trips.

• Boarding students will not be permitted to ridewith other students who have their own vehiclefor off-campus trips.

• Students need to ask their dorm parents beforethey change locations off campus. If they cannotreach their dorm parents, they can contact theresidence supervisors.

(Value: Personal safety, Personal responsibility andintegrity, Healthy relationships)

For school sponsored trips, dorm parents can givepermission to students. For any overnight, off-islandtrips, students need to receive their parent’s and dormparent’s permission.

All non-school sponsored trips (overnight or off-island)must be supervised by an adult who is approved bythe dorm parents and parents. Parents need to givespecific permission and fill out the transfer ofguardianship form to the supervising adult.

(Value: Personal Safely)


��1Reasonable precautions will be taken to protect andprevent boarding students from being injured whileresiding in the boarding program. Dalat InternationalSchool assumes no responsibility for lost, stolen, ordamaged personal property kept in the dorms. Studentsare encouraged not to leave their valuables unattendedor unsecured. Dorm parents are able to store students’cash and valuables in their locked offices.

The residence life program reserves the right to setsafety standards for boarding students under itsauthority.

*�! ��*!00��1�� (��Dorm students will be responsible to do daily, age-appropriate chores in the dorm.

Each dorm family will engage together in a communityservice project each semester.

(Value: Personal responsibility, Community service)

Safety and security procedures include, but are notlimited to the following:

• All Dalat boarding students must use the crosswalkwhen crossing the street in front of the school.

• The following items are prohibited: dangerousmaterials including but not limited to candles,matches, lighters, fireworks and explosives;dangerous instruments including but not limitedto knives, bows, arrows, guns, and martial artsweapons.

• Boarding students are not permitted to drivemotorized vehicles. This includes but is not limitedto motorcycles, scooters and cars.

• Boarding students may not ride in vehicles drivenby other students or drivers under the age of 21.

• Regarding pranks and practical jokes, all ideas mustbe proposed by the students in advance to a dormstaff member. Only those approved and supervisedby a dorm staff member may be carried out.

(Value: Personal safety)


��*!��+��

We operate our dorms with a foundation of trustwhich means we expect students to follow ourguidelines and live with integrity. We know they willmake mistakes because by nature they are immatureand still learning, but we choose to believe the bestin them and help them learn from their mistakes alongthe way. Our desire is to mentor students, showingthem how to work through the daily challenges oflife to achieve greater maturity and responsibility. Weare committed to patient mentoring and grace-basedparenting.

As outlined below, staff will proactively encourageappropriate student behavior, take reasonable measuresto prevent misconduct, and respond appropriately tomisconduct when necessary.

,�!� ��4++ !+ ��(�! • The first step that determines the potential for

appropriate behavior among our dorm studentsbegins with the admissions process. We carefullyscreen and prayerfully consider every student whoapplies to boarding. The following factors affectour decision-making process:

• One of our admission requirements is the abilityof the student to contribute to a positive Christianenvironment in the dorm home. Every incomingstudent is evaluated according to this standard.We do not expect kids to be perfect, but we arealso not a reform school. We do not admit studentswho we know have significant personal issues thatwould hinder their ability to contribute positivelyto the boarding program. Our boarding applicationforms require detailed information about eachstudent’s history and background to assist us indetermining their suitability for boarding.

• We want to create an environment among ourdorm students in which there is positive peerpressure to do what is right. One tangible step wetake to cultivate this atmosphere is by maintaininga seventy-percent majority of students from aChristian background in each dorm family. Weexpect that the sending parents’ Biblical world viewand values will strengthen and support what ismodelled in each dorm home.

• While we are committed to maintaining Biblicalvalues and a Christian atmosphere in each dorm,we also welcome the diversity of students Godbrings to us. One of the strengths of our programis that each of our dorm families includes studentsfrom a variety of backgrounds with diverse personalvalues and viewpoints. We do not seek to be asheltered, homogenous community in whichstudents become stagnant in their personal growthand faith journey because everyone is the same asthem. Students can only learn and grow as theyare stretched to love and accept others who aredifferent than themselves. We plan to continue toembrace the diversity God provides and welcomestudents from other backgrounds so that they willhave opportunity to experience Christian love andcommunity.

After students are accepted into our boarding program,we begin the communication process to share ourvalues and expectations with incoming students. Ourdorm staff team reviews the expectations with studentseach year as outlined in our handbook and patientlyreinforce the guidelines in the daily routine of livingtogether. As caregivers, we strive to provide a safeand secure environment by encouraging students tomake good choices. Personal responsibility and integrityis one of the top values that we teach our students.

�(��;��!��God has created people with free will; he does notforce obedience or require submission. Likewise wecannot control student behavior; they are free to makepersonal choices. However, we want to take reasonableprecautions to limit opportunities for students toengage in irresponsible behavior.

In the area of maintaining purity in relationships, webalance trust with boundaries. For example, we allowboys and girls to live together in family-style dormsbecause we believe this paradigm of boarding is thehealthiest model. We continue to believe that thebenefits of family-style dorms far outweigh the risks.At the same time, we take proactive steps to createhealthy boundaries to minimize the risks and reducetemptations for students. For example, each dormhas security alarms, designated girls’ and boys’ hallwaysand a policy that no students are allowed to go tothe rooms of the opposite gender. While our systemsare not foolproof, it requires a high level ofdetermination and deceit on the part of a student tobypass these safeguards. Any student engaging inthis significant level of dishonesty would not be asuitable candidate to continue in the boarding program.


7��+!��!�;��!��Our goal in responding to student misconduct is toshow God’s love and grace while also protecting thehealthy home environment in each dorm. On rareoccasions when a student is involved in seriousmisconduct that jeopardizes the positive Christianatmosphere in the dorm home, administrators willtake decisive action. Just as we treat every dormstudent with respect and trust, we expect studentsto reciprocate by respecting the authority of the adultsover them. When a student violates that trust, wesometimes have to admit that we can no longerprovide the care they need. We understand thatstudents who have experienced significant personalfailure require a higher level of intervention and supportthat only parents can provide.

Removing them from the dorm also provides protectionfor the other students from their destructive behavior.Although asking a student to leave our boardingprogram is painful for the staff and involves changefor our students, our desire is to do what is best forthe student involved in harmful behavior, as well asfor the other students who have proven to betrustworthy. Our desire is to protect the foundationof trust in the dorms so each student can feel safe,secure and grow in integrity and responsibility.

��+��6��The Residence Life program reserves the right todetermine the standards of conduct within which theboarding students are expected to live while they areunder its’ authority and jurisdiction. Failure to complywith the regulations of the school as listed in theResidence Life Handbook is sufficient cause fordisciplinary action by the residence life staff or DalatInternational School.

Residence life staff reserve the right to provideappropriate discipline for boarding students whoviolate the rules and standards of the residence lifeprogram. The purpose of disciplinary action is toencourage boarding students to be responsible fortheir actions and to help them integrate Christianprinciples in their lives. Each dorm parent is responsiblefor the discipline of the students in their dorm. Theresidence supervisors are responsible for the generaloversight of student discipline for the boardingprogram. The residence supervisors will ensure thatproper documentation and due process is followedin the administration of disciplinary action. Disciplinemay be administered to dorm students by Dalat staffmembers.

The following behavior is unacceptable and disciplinaryaction will be taken in the cases of these offences asdeemed necessary by the residence life staff:

• Violating residence life rules

• Disrespect

• Direct disobedience

• Verbal or physical behavior that hurts or takesadvantage of others, either emotionally or physically,including making inappropriate, demeaning orderogatory comments

• Leaving one’s room after bedtime

• Leaving the dorm after curfew without permission

• Failure to sign in/sign out

• Leaving campus without permission

• Lying/deceitfulness

• Destruction or theft of property on or off campus

• Promotion or involvement in harassment, hazing,bullying, fighting, violence or abuse

• Promotion, involvement or the appearance of beingassociated with a gang or gang activity

• Racial prejudice

• Possession, use or promotion of controlledsubstances, illegal drugs or drug paraphernalia

• Use of profane, vulgar or obscene language

• Possession or use of tobacco products or alcoholicbeverages

• Sexual promiscuity

• Inappropriate use of computers, phones, or otherelectronic equipment

• Promotion or involvement in the occult

• Possession or use of firearms, fireworks or knives

• Attending clubs, discos, or bars

• Possession or use of pornographic material

• Reoccurrence of infractions

• Other infractions, not listed above


Possible disciplinary actions include, but are not limitedto, restrictions, probation, suspension and expulsion.The use of corporal punishment is prohibited.

Restrictions: A boarding student may be restrictedto the campus or dorm for disciplinary purposes. If astudent is restricted to campus for longer than oneweek or to the dorm for longer than two days, theresidence supervisors will be consulted ahead of time.When these restrictions are imposed, the dorm parentswill communicate with the student’s parents regardingthe reasons for the discipline.

When discipline is necessary for correcting unacceptablebehavior, it will be administered according to thefollowing guidelines:

• Discipline will be fair, appropriate and timely,

• Discipline will be administered with an attitude ofrespect and love,

• Discipline will maintain the dignity of the student,

• Discipline will include proper communication withthe parents and parties involved, while maintainingappropriate confidentiality.

Probation: The dorm parents and residencesupervisors, in consultation with the director, mayplace a student on probation for a defined period oftime, the details of which will be communicated withthe student and the parents.

Suspension: A dorm student may be suspended fromthe dormitory for violations of dormitory rules whichare deemed by the administration to be a seriousdetriment to the student, staff or dorm family. Students,whose presence pose a danger to persons or property,or fail to comply with the regulations of the boardingprogram or are an on-going threat or disruption tothe Christian home environment, may be immediatelyremoved from the dormitory. The length and termsof the suspension will depend on the situation andthe discretion of the director in consultation withresidence supervisors. The director will communicatewith the parents regarding the reasons for thesuspension, with conditions of re-admission establishedin writing. All expenses incurred due to a student’ssuspension will be charged to the parents’ account,including the student’s travel home.

Expulsion: Students who pose a danger to personsor property, or fail to comply with the regulations ofthe boarding program or are an on-going threat ordisruption to the Christian home environment, maybe expelled from the boarding program. The directorwill communicate with the parents regarding thereasons for the expulsion. The director will provide areport to the school leadership team regarding anystudent who is expelled from the dorm program.Parents may make an appeal to the school leadershipteam in writing within two weeks after officialnotification of the expulsion. All expenses incurreddue to a student’s expulsion will be charged to theparents’ account, including the student’s travel home.


The residence life team is committed to protectingthe atmosphere of trust in the boarding community.When students make choices that damage our trustand their integrity, we sometimes have to choose toprotect the other students in our care from the onewho has chosen behavior that is harmful to themselvesand others. Students who have experienced significantpersonal failure usually require a different style ofparenting and a much higher level of intervention andsupport that only parents can provide.

Although making the decision to expel a student fromthe program is very difficult, the goal is to enable thestudent to work through their issues with their ownparents and to protect the foundation of trust for thestudents remaining in the dorm. It is important forparents to understand that in the decision-makingprocess in major discipline cases, we consider not onlywhat is best for the one student, but for all of theothers in the dorm who faithfully make good choices.


!��)��)��;�� The possession and/or consumption of any beveragecontaining alcohol are prohibited for all students whileunder the jurisdiction of Dalat International School.Any student caught in possession of or using alcoholproducts will be suspended or expelled from DalatInternational School.

Students are to refrain from any use of tobaccoproducts or smoking paraphernalia (cigarettes, e-cigs,chewing, nicotine gum, etc.) while under the jurisdictionof Dalat International School.

Drugs are illegal in Malaysia. Any student found to bein possession of any drug deemed illegal in Malaysiawill be expelled from Dalat International School.

Possession or use of any pornographic material isprohibited at all times, on or off campus. Any studentfound to be in possession of or using pornographicmaterial will be suspended or expelled from DalatInternational School.

Fireworks, firearms, and weapons (weapons used ordesigned to attack, harm, or kill) are illegal in Malaysia.Any student found to be in possession of any itemconsidered an offensive weapon or firearm deemedillegal in Malaysia will be expelled from DalatInternational School.

(Value: Personal responsibility and integrity, Personalhealth and safety)

6��=�(!�(�0��Students should not have the appearance of being ina gang and should not wear bandanas or other gangparaphernalia or clothing associated with gang activity.A student who associates with or becomes a memberof a gang faces expulsion from Dalat InternationalSchool.

(Value: Personal safety, personal integrity)


4�0��!��!��1Admission to the boarding program will be a separatestep from admission to the school. Each applicationfor admission to the dorms will be considered on acase by case basis.

• Students are accepted into the boarding programaccording to the following criteria:

• Confirmed admittance to Dalat International School,

• Completion of the necessary boarding applicationforms and procedures,

• Space availability,

• Potential for the student’s needs to be met by thecurrent boarding staff,

• The student’s potential to make a positivecontribution to a Christian dorm environment.

In cases where the application file and/or referencesof the applicant indicate that the student may notmake a positive contribution to the dormitory, apersonal interview between the residence supervisorsand the student and their parents may be required.

Students in good standing normally retain residencyin the dorm, and will not be involuntarily replaced bynew applicants.

Applicants who have siblings already in the boardingprogram will be placed in the same dorm as theirsibling, whenever possible.

Students returning from a furlough will be placed inthe dorm they left, whenever possible.

Boarding students who leave before the completionof a semester leave a vacancy that is difficult to fill.Therefore, the family will be reimbursed for the costof the student’s food for the remaining weeks, not apro-rated percentage of the semester’s room andboard rate.

In order to protect the stability of dorm families,students will not be admitted to the boarding programafter the mid-point of the third quarter.

Our recommendation and expectation is that a studentenrolling in the boarding program will be present onthe first day of that semester.

!��4��/! 0�

�!� ��:!0��7��!�The ratio of adults to students in each dorm homewill not exceed 1 to 9. The adults counted for eachhome are the full time dorm parents and a percentageof the dorm assistant’s time. The biological childrenof the dorm parents are included in the studentnumbers, if they live in the boarding home under thecare of the parents. The following students will becounted as 1.25 because of their greater need fordorm parent support and assistance:

• Students who have diagnosed special needs,

• Students who are registered in the ESL program atDalat,

• Students who are in elementary school.


Boarding students are under the jurisdiction of theschool from the time they arrive for the semester untilthey leave at the end of the semester. This means thatthey will remain under the care and responsibility ofdorm parents from the time they are picked up at theairport until they are taken back to the airport to gohome, unless they are checked out to the care of theirown parents in Penang or a local guardian with a‘Transfer of Guardianship Form.’

Students whose behavior brings reproach to the schoolare subject to disciplinary action by the school, whetheror not they are under the school’s jurisdiction asexplained above.

Dorm facilities and furnishings are the property of theresidence life program. Dorm parents may confiscatepersonal belongings which violate dorm rules or havebeen used abusively. Residence life staff may searchany room in the dorm with probable cause, asdetermined in consultation with the residencesupervisors. Such action shall be done in the presenceof the residence supervisor or an impartial witness.

(Personal responsibility and integrity)

�=��7��1��6�� +�!��1All students attending Dalat International School areexpected to live with their parents or in one of theschool dormitories. If these options are not feasible,parents may request that their student live with adocumented guardian by submitting the school’sGuardianship Request Form to the director before thefirst day of classes each year. Request for guardianshipsmay be refused and permission for living with aguardian may be rescinded if the school determinesthat the living situation is not in the best interest ofthe student or the school. DIS defines a guardian as‘an adult over the age of 25 who lives in the homeon a daily basis providing on-going support and carefor the physical, emotional and academic needs ofthe student. The guardian is responsible to serve asthe liaison between the school, the student and thestudent’s parents.’ Attendance at Dalat is dependentupon adherence to this policy; failure to abide mayresult in the student being asked to withdraw fromDIS.

Parents of boarding students must sign theGuardianship, Medical Release, and Parent Supportforms stating that the residence life staff has the legalright to make crucial decisions when neither parentcan be contacted in a timely manner.

� �!�� !��!��!��1��4�(!�1�"��$! <The school has a zero tolerance policy for harassment,hazing, fighting or any other form of abuse. Dormscannot function safely or effectively when this typeof behavior is present. Students who feel they havebeen subjected to harassment or abuse, or whoobserve conduct of a harassing or abusive nature, areencouraged to promptly report the matter to a school-appointed advocate or staff member. Any reports ofthis type of behaviour will be investigated accordingto DIS’s Personal Protection Policy (printed in theStudent Parent Handbook). Students found guilty ofany of these offences may face suspension or expulsionfrom the boarding program.

An independent advocate is appointed by the schoolboard each year as an objective, trained and trustedadult to whom students may go if they feel that aconcern they have reported to a staff member is notduly addressed. The advocate promotes the protectionof students and enhances the responsibility andobjectivity of the school administration in investigatingand addressing all reports of harassment and abuse.The advocate does not investigate reports personallyor administer discipline, but serves as the representativevoice for students or parents who are not able to bepresent. Dorm students and their parents are informedeach year of the name and contact information ofthe approved advocate.

(Value: Respect for others)

��!!��>� ��!�Students, while under school jurisdiction, are requiredto comply with the regulations of the school listed inthe handbooks and submit to the authority of staffmembers. Failure to do so is sufficient cause forsuspension or expulsion from school.

If the parents of a dorm student will not be personallysupervising their child during the weeks of vacationwhen the dorms are closed, a guardian must beidentified on the Annual Boarding Student Informationform. The parents need to complete the Transfer ofGuardianship form at the end of each semester tochange responsibility for the child from the residencelife staff to the local guardian.

,� �1�� $��If a dorm student withdraws early from the boardingprogram (either voluntarily or because of a suspensionor expulsion), only the cost of their food for theremaining days of that semester will be refunded totheir parents’ account

�+� ��! ��!!�� <�It is our expectation that students will return to theirparents for each of the school breaks (Christmas,spring break and summer.) If the parents of a dormstudent will not be personally supervising their childduring any of the school breaks, they need to identifyan adult guardian who will provide adequate care andsupervision for the student during the time that thedorm is closed. This plan must be clearly communicatedto the dorm parents in advance of the school breakthrough the submission of a Transfer of Guardianshipform. Signatures are required from both the parentsand the temporary guardian. This ensures that allparties (dorm parents, parents and guardians) areproperly informed and that the student understandswho is taking responsibility for them when they arereleased from the supervision of the dorm parents.

For the school breaks such as Christmas Break, SpringBreak and Summer Break, parents are responsible tonotify the school regarding travel arrangements fortheir student. They may request assistance from theschool secretary ([email protected]) OR inform herof their students’ itinerary if they are personallyarranging the tickets. The school secretary will notmake student requested travel arrangements, theymust come through parents. The deadline for finalizingtravel arrangements is two weeks before each break(Christmas, mid-semester and summer). If the schoolhas not heard from parents regarding their student’stravel plans by two weeks before the break, the schoolwill purchase a ticket for the student to their homeaddress on record which will be charged to the parents’account. This is to ensure that every boarding studenthas secured travel home for each break when thedorms will be closed.

At the end of each semester, dorm students mustcheck out of their dorm rooms. This means they mustclean it sufficiently and have all of their belongingseither packed or stored. Dorm parents will check tomake sure that all work is completed. When a studenthas been checked out by the dorm parent, he or sheis free to spend time with friends, go off campus, etc.However, they remain under the authority andresponsibility of the dorm parents; therefore, theymust abide by all school rules and guidelines.

(Value: Personal responsibility and integrity)

At the end of the semester, a parent may transferguardianship to themselves if they are visiting Penangor to a local guardian via email. To do this, the ‘Transferof Guardianship’ form needs to be completed andhanded in to the student’s dorm parent. This formmay be obtained from the residence supervisors, dormparents or web site. If the parents would like thestudent to be released from the dorm parents’guardianship but not transferred to a local guardian,the ‘Release of Guardianship’ form needs to be mailedto the dorm parents.

7��8��/! 0�The Annual Boarding Information Form is required forall boarding students each year and is accessible onour school web site. When students return to school,they will remain on campus until their form is turnedin to the dorm parents.

The following forms are also used in the boardingprogram:

• Student Commitment Form

• Transfer of Guardianship Form

• Release of Guardianship Form

• Personal Computer Use Form

• Principles and Guidelinesfor Dating Form



Dalat International School

Residence Life Program

Tanjung Bunga, 11200 Penang, Malaysia

Phone: +60 (4) 899-2105 Fax: +60 (4) 890-2141

Email: [email protected] Website: www.dalat.org

Accredited by:

Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)

Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI)

Member:

East Asia Regional Conference Overseas Schools (EARCOS)

International Children’s Educators Conference (ICEC)

Dalat International School educates children in

preschool to grade 12. Located in Penang, Malaysia,

Dalat is a leader in international education and

provides an ‘education for life’. Dalat started as a

school for missionary kids in Dalat, Vietnam 81 years

ago in 1929. Since then it has relocated to Bangkok,

Thailand for a year before moving to the Cameron

Highlands, Malaysia in 1966. The school has been

on its current location in Penang since 1971. The

school offers an American, college-preparatory,

Christian-integrated curriculum, and its academic

and boarding programs are fully accredited.

education for life

Residence Life Handbook 2012-2013

Documents

Transcript of Residence Life Handbook 2012-2013