Academics Policy

Academic Conduct

Oasis believes that classrooms are safe, caring and orderly environments in which the rights of all students to learn and all teachers to teach have to be supported.All students are expected to follow the rules and regulations of the classroom.Students need to come into the classroom on time.Students need to be seated in their places with the books and stationery ready for the class.Students need to raise their hands to ask questions or clarify doubts.Students need to take permission from the teacher and take passes if they need to go out of the classroom for any reason.Students will not raise their voice, shout or talk in a group when the teacher is explaining.Students will do their tasks with minimal noise and movement.

Guidelines for conducting online Classes

1. Ensure that all teachers/parents and students are oriented on how to use ‘Teams’
2. Ensure that it is safe and secure.
3. Ensure that you model an effective and respectful tone when you communicate to students.
4. Use both synchronous and asynchronous models to teach.
5. See that you use active learning strategies and promote student interaction.
6. Have realistic goals for yourself and your students so that online learning does not become a burden [especially home assignments].
7. Focus on consolidation of learning rather than finishing of portions.
8. Plan intervention classes if you find most students are struggling with a concept.

1. Schedule your classes according to the timing given by the government as the Timetable will give everyone an hour slot.
2. Do not exceed the time and get into the time of another teacher. Also do not extend timings if there is a free slot unless it is an emergency.
3. Students would have forgotten concepts, revisit them and then start with the new concept.
4. We must be cognizant of the fact that the present times are trying for the teacher and student. Therefore, be very careful how you react to non- compliant behavior.
5. Be empathetic of the fact that many students are using devices that do not support a lot of apps also many of them have internet issues. If you find that many students cannot use an app, please don’t use it the next time.
6. Make students aware of cyberbullying and how to avoid getting bullied. Also encourage them to refrain from such acts and make them aware of its consequences.
7. Encourage parents and students to learn from peers if they have difficulty accessing the classes due to internet issues.
8. Give timely feedback of assignments given and make the student feel that you are there for them.
9. Be thorough with your planning and teach concepts rather than a topic.
10. When sending worksheets or tasks ensure that it is age appropriate, relevant, has clear instructions and exploratory in nature.
11. If you are using PPTs ensure that your slides have only key ideas. It should not have too much of text.
12. Create a congenial, safe and secure online learning environment.

Students’ Discipline Policy

Students’ Discipline Policy
Aims:
Oasis International School aims to provide a framework of affirmative, positive and caring discipline through timely and effective intervention. The school has clear expectations that the students will be courteous, polite and tolerant of the views and values of others. The school recognises that rewards are more important than punitive disciplinary measures.

Students are expected to comply with the Affirmative Discipline Policy to benefit both themselves and the wider community. Students will be praised and rewarded for displaying positive actions like excellent work, acts of kindness and consideration, good effort, exhibiting a high standard of personal grooming, excellent attendance and other areas worthy of private and public mention. Students are expected to conduct themselves in and outside the
school in a manner that will make the school and their parents proud.

Staff members positively encourage the development of student independence and self- discipline. They take every opportunity to give appropriate praise and celebrate students’ achievements. Staff members do understand that students sometime find it difficult to conform to the rules and regulations of the school. When this occurs, the school has a clear obligation to identify issues and support students as appropriate in order to enable them to overcome their problems.

While the school seeks to cultivate and maintain an environment of trust, care and open communication, the Management also believes that there is certain behaviour that will not be tolerated and will incur severe consequences. These consequences have been made for repeaters. Teachers will be able to use their discretion in identifying such students.

Oasis does not believe in Corporal Punishment.

There will be a Discipline Vigilance Committee to guard against possible issues like targeting of students, labeling, etc.

The Discipline Vigilance Committee will consist of:
1. The Principal
2. Trustee
3. School Coordinators
4. Counsellors
5. Student Council Heads

Purpose:
OIS Discipline Policy is therefore designed to support the way in which all members of the school can work together in a supportive way. It aims to promote an environment in which everyone feels happy, safe and secure.

Student Expectations:
At Oasis International School, students are expected to: –
• Comply with teachers’ instructions
• Speak softly and politely at all times
• Refrain from backtalk with teachers
• Refrain from use of foul language, obscene gestures, racial, ethnic, religious slurs and disrespectful language or actions
• Avoid shouting in the corridors or on staircases
• Profanity is always prohibited
• Respect others and cooperate with others
• Act in a manner which is not disruptive and work without distracting others
• Changing classrooms between periods should be done in silence and in an orderly manner
• Get to the destination as soon as possible and no later than five minutes of the start of every period
• Avoid loitering in hallways/corridors and moving from place to place
• Avoid running, tripping, playing, fighting or delinquent behaviour in the corridors or on staircases
• Follow safety rules in the school
• Listen carefully to the instructions at the time of emergency
• Use positive corrective practice when dealing with conflicts
• Approach a teacher when faced with conflicts and comply with his/her directions
• Ensure appropriate use of school property
• Respect the property of others
• Students of all classes must arrive no later than 7.55 AM in the morning
Students arriving after 8:00 AM must get the handbook signed at the reception before getting into the class (This excludes students travelling by school bus, students with a doctor’s note, court documentation, amongst other similar cases. In case of exigencies that entail late arrivals, prior permission is to be sought by the student from the Level Coordinator)
• Students are expected to maintain good character, discipline and decorum and be punctual in submission of homework, assignments and project work. Under no pretext should a student miss any teaching / games / activity period
• In case a teacher is absent alternate arrangements are made by the Timetable Committee and students must stay in class, be disciplined and refrain from loitering around
• School uniform is a discipline in itself and should be adhered to by all students. Students are expected to come to school dressed appropriately with proper attention given to personal cleanliness, grooming, and neatness of dress. An acceptable hairstyle is always expected. Students must not wear expensive jewellery or accessories. Only small stud earrings are allowed
• Students must abstain from inappropriate actions and behaviour which includes but is not limited to harassment, bullying, gender, racial, ethnic and/ or sexual harassment, abuse, profanity, physical fight, public displays of affection
• Students are expected to approach the examinations with honesty and sincerity and follow rules and regulations
• Students must not indulge in plagiarism
• Expensive items, electronics items, cell phones etc. or large sum of money are not allowed in the school premises and/ or school functions/events inside or outside the school
• Laptops can be brought to school with prior written permission from the teacher concerned and after it is configured by the IT Dept
• Cell phones are not permitted in the school premises or outside on any day, at any time unless a written permission is obtained due to unavoidable circumstances
• AS and A level students who carry their cell phones will have to deposit it with the class teacher during class hours
• Students are expected not to indulge in any incident related to theft
• Students must refrain from going to unauthorized areas, missing class(s), indulge in frequent absenteeism from classes and being present in school beyond school hours without teacher’s permission/ supervision
• Use of English: English should be spoken in the school premise
• Students should not touch or use teachers’ belongings
Appropriate use of school computers and computer facilities
Network is provided for the students to facilitate learning, sharing and innovation. All facilities must be regarded as privileges, which may be withdrawn at any time.
• Students are not permitted to participate in chat rooms without their teachers’ permission
• Students are not permitted to download programs or games without their teachers’ permission
• Students are not permitted to purchase items online
• Students are not permitted to access inappropriate sites
• Students are not permitted to play games across the school network
• Students are not permitted to use, possess, download or search for any program that is designed to reduce or bypass network security
• Students must not store or transmit copyrighted material on the school network
• Students are not permitted to adjust any computer hardware
• Students are not permitted to add or delete software or change the settings on any computer
• The internet is provided to assist student’s education and is used with permission
• Students must refrain from viewing explicit content and using bad language whilst online and will report any sites containing this if they come across them accidentally
• Students must understand that they can only access sites relevant to educational work in school and they are not permitted to access social networking sites or visit sites not related to his/her curriculum
• Students must not attempt to deliberately hack into the school network
• Any electronic communication sent or received via school network can be monitored at any time without warning
• Students can bring secondary storage devices only with prior consent of the teacher
• All students are required to comply with the school’s computer usage policies

Accountable Action
Cards will be issued to students to recognise, encourage and reinforce positive and role model behaviour or to prevent and correct undesirable and/or unacceptable behaviour
1. Merit Card: Students will be awarded a merit card for exemplary behaviour
2. Merit Certificate: Three merit cards over the academic session will earn them a Merit Certificate
Classroom discipline strategies vary from room to room. When a behaviour issue arises, teachers need to manage it themselves before taking it to the Coordinators. The students need to be informed about the inappropriate and unacceptable behaviour and that further indiscretions will be dealt more sternly. Teachers need to ensure that 3 warnings are given to the student before issuing the card.
3. Disciplinary Cards: Students who violate the School Discipline Policy will receive disciplinary cards from the concerned teacher in consultation with the class teacher.
a. Yellow Card: Students will be issued a yellow card as delineated in the policy. The cards will be recorded in the student’s file. The parents will be notified by the class teacher at the receipt of 2 yellow cards. More than three yellow cards will lead to a red card being issued to the student by the Level Coordinator.
b. Red Card: Student will be issued a red card as delineated in the policy. The cards will be recorded in the student’s file. The parents will be notified by the Level Coordinator at the receipt of the first red card and a meeting will be scheduled
a) First Red card- Withdrawal from school activities and other privileges. The Level coordinator will inform the Principal and issue the card
b) Second Red card – Suspension from participation in various school events and or/ any form of suspension and /or other action deemed appropriate by the Principal.
c) Third Red Card – Suspension/expulsion from school or any action at discretion of the Principal in consultation with the discipline committee
All disciplinary actions for misconduct will include conference between teacher/Level
Early Dismissal from School
• Student will be denied permission for a sign out in the absence of appropriate documents of permission and/or approval
• In case of an unauthorized departure from school, the parent will be called for investigation
• Red card will be issued along with a conference of parents and student with the Level Coordinator. The card will be recorded in student’s file
• If problem persists, action will be taken at the discretion of the Discipline Committee in consultation with the Principal

Suspension Policy
Suspension is the temporary removal of a child from school for violation of school policies and/or school rules. It is a serious disciplinary action in which a student is removed from the regular classroom for a day or longer.
Only the Principal has the authority to suspend a student. When an incident report is raised by a teacher / staff to the Discipline Committee, it is brought to the notice of the Principal.
Reasons for suspension include (but not limited to) the following acts by a student whether during the school hours or after and whether inside the school premises or outside.
• Physical assault on peers, teachers, staff
• Possession of weapons, drugs, alcohol, cigarettes and /or any articles prohibited by the school or law
• Smoking
• Use of drugs or alcohol
• Vandalism including graffiti
• Public display of affection in school campus or when in school uniform
• Theft
• Defiance or disregard to teachers and/or use of words like kill, bomb and other that connote a threat
• Repeated use of abusive language
• Sexual harassment
• Cyber-crime like hacking, misuse of social media websites or creating unauthorised group that could have a detrimental effect on others
• Rioting
• Any form of misbehaviour or harassments
• Bullying
• Ragging
Types of suspension:
1. In-School suspension (ISS)
ISS is usually for less serious acts. The decision taken is based on the nature, frequency of occurrence and severity of the act. Students serve the suspension in a special classroom supervised by school staff. They are denied participation in school activities. The school will provide the student with suitable work to do which will be marked by a teacher. In-School suspension will be recorded (ISS-R) in the student’s data file in the case of students from Grade 6 to 12 and will not be recorded (ISS-N) in the case of primary students.

2. Out-of-School suspension (OSS)
A student is not allowed in the campus during the suspension with the only exception of scheduled conferences with school officials. Suspension is for a given period. Out-of- School suspension can lead to expulsion depending on severity of the act and/or at the discretion of the Principal.

3. Suspension from Activities (SFA)
Students are suspended from school activities and events to prevent and correct undesirable and/or unacceptable behaviour. The school will provide the student with suitable work to do which will be monitored by a teacher. Suspension from Activities will be recorded (SFA-R) in the student’s data file in the case of students from Grade 6 to 12 and will not be recorded in the case of primary students.
Procedure for OSS:
Once an incident report is considered for out-of-School suspension the following steps are taken:
1. The case of indiscipline reported to the Discipline Committee
2. The Principal calls for a conference with the Discipline Committee
3. Issue of letter of suspension. The letter of suspension from the Principal’s desk will clearly state the period and reason for the suspension
Conference with the parent(s)
4. Parents to be provided with first-hand accounts of the student’s violation of the code of conduct, reasons for suspension, details of the incident including statements made by school staff, the expected duration of the suspension and recommendations for helping the student
5. The School Counsellor to be present in the conference
6. The student concerned to be present at the conference
7. An opportunity to the student concerned to be provided for a hearing attended by the Principal and members of the Discipline Committee
8. An initial suspension may be for a period of up to five days. In consultation with The Management of the school, the Principal may extend the suspension at her discretion

List of major and minor infractions

 Punctuality Policy

Healthy Eating Policy

Rationale:

The purpose of the policy is to develop a set of values and skills among students that promote honesty and integrity. It is to ensure that students take responsibility for their actions and the consequences that accompany them.

Purpose:

• Promote good academic practice and a school culture that actively encourages academic honesty. 
• Enable students to understand what constitutes academic honesty and dishonesty.
• Encourage students to look to their teachers, supervisors, and coordinators for support when completing assessed work to prevent any possible form of malpractice.
• Ensure that students understand the importance of acknowledging accurately and honestly all ideas and work of others.
• Explain to students that they have an important role in ensuring that their work is ‘academically honest’.
• Impart to students that plagiarism is a serious academic offence for which Oasis International School shows no tolerance.
• Explain to students precisely what penalties will be imposed should they be found guilty of malpractice.

What is Academic Honesty? 

Academic honesty refers to:

• Appropriate behaviour while examinations are being conducted.  
• The full acknowledgment of the original authorship and ownership of creative material.  
• The production of authentic pieces of work. 
• The protection of all forms of intellectual property –which include forms of intellectual and creative expression, as well as patents, registered designs, trademarks, and copyright. 

 What is Academic Malpractice? 

This includes:  

Plagiarism: this is defined as the representation of the ideas or work of another person as the candidate’s own.  

(Example: Using AI-based resources such as ChatGPT etc) 

Collusion: this is defined as supporting malpractice by another candidate, as in allowing one’s work to be copied or submitted for assessment by another 

Duplication of work: this is defined as the presentation of the same work for different assessment components and/or diploma requirements. any other behaviour that gains an unfair advantage for a candidate or that affects the results of another candidate.  

 Examples of Malpractice that refer to written examinations : 

• bringing unauthorised materials into the exam room or accessing unauthorised materials during the exam.  
  • For example:  
    electronic devices with data storage and/or communication capabilities by any method. For example, mobile phones, cameras, e-readers, Bluetooth headsets, tablet or laptop computers, and ‘smart wear’ such as smart glasses and smartwatches  

• revision notes of any kind;
• calculator cases 
• non-transparent pencil cases  
• any packaging with images or text on it  
• leaving and/or accessing unauthorized material in a bathroom/restroom that may be visited during an examination 
• misconduct during an examination, including any attempt to disrupt the examination or distract another candidate  
• exchanging information or in any way supporting the passing on of information to another candidate about the content of an examination  
• failing to comply with the instructions of the invigilator or other member of the school’s staff responsible for the conduct of the examination  
• impersonating another candidate  
• looking for, getting, receiving, exchanging, or passing on confidential exam material in any way including websites giving past papers or any website dealing with  Cambridge IGCSE/AS/A Level Examination. 
• stealing examination papers  
• using an unauthorized calculator during an examination, or using a calculator when one is not permitted for the examination paper
• disclosing or discussing the content of an examination paper with a person outside the immediate school community within 24 hours after the examination. 

 Penalty in cases of Academic Malpractice: 

• The student/s will not be allowed to write /continue to write the Exam/Test in that particular subject. 
• No marks will be awarded. 
• Parents will be informed.  
• If students are caught stealing question papers, he/she will be expelled from school. 

 Bibliography: 

• Academic Honesty in the Diploma Programme. International Baccalaureate, Web. 05 Nov. 2017.
• Academic Honesty.  Cardiff: International Baccalaureate, 2011

Infirmary and Health Care Policy 

Rationale:

At Oasis International School, according to our EOMS Policy, we aim to provide students with a strong foundation by guiding them through the transition from youth to adult members of society. Successful transitions – whether from lower secondary to upper secondary; at age 16; into work-based training or university; are life-enhancing for every student. We believe that each transition is smooth and enriching for students, which help them make a wise decision about their higher education goals. The Career Counselling department was established formally in 2018 to provide our students to link their current learning to future career options.  All students of Grades 6-12 will have access to career guidance, the career counsellor, and the career counselling lab to develop a culture of ambition and aspiration in the school.

Objectives:

To encourage students to meet with career counsellors in one-on-one appointments to discuss their academic interests, subject selection, and career exploration.

2. To assess personal preferences, skills and interests which is an important part of the career development process.
3. To help students develop a better understanding of their skills, abilities, and career interests and to help them see how these relate to the workplace.
4. To assist students with college and university fairs, college and university visits in school, expert panel discussions, workshops, internships, webinars, and various other sessions.
5. To provide students with necessary resources for research and experiential learning through the career counselling lab.

Process:

The Career Counsellor helps students discuss their concerns about career and educational choices. We help them figure out who they are and what they want out of education, career, and life. Students have individual sessions where a personal analysis of their ideas, feelings and choices is done. These sessions help us to assess their interests and abilities. Students are made aware of the new and diverse career options available to get a great start in their professional lives. These sessions empower the students to have a deeper perspective and a sense of career self-awareness. It provides essential support and boosts the morale of a student and builds their motivational level. In addition to this, students are also guided through the application process and to determine the next steps related to the admission process.

Career Fairs: Students are given the opportunity to meet Universities and Educational centres across India, as well as Universities from different countries, throughout yearly fairs. These events will take place within school online and off campus and is at times the responsibility of the student to attend without the counsellor. Students, parents, and teachers get an opportunity to meet, interact and extract information about different courses across the globe. This aims at increasing students’ awareness about international universities within and outside India along with their entry requirements, admission process, etc.

Individual Counselling: One-on-one sessions offered by the Career counsellors to help students in creating and implementing their own career plans and in developing a greater sense of self-awareness relevant to the career development process. This also includes support for personal essays, support when required for the application forms and assistance to ensure all necessary documentation and additional (external) tests required for the application are complete.

Career-related Workshops: Throughout the academic year, the school arranges a range of interactive workshops to equip students with the needed skills and to prepare them for higher education Workshops may include:

• University Application Procedure
• Portfolio building (various kinds)
• Professional skills and academic CV development
• Preparing for IELTS, SAT, NEET, CET etc.
• Insight into Admission from University Perspective and Information about UCAS/Common App, etc.
• Entry-level examination Universities Presentation – Different universities visit the school to orient students about their universities, the courses and services offered by them. Also, information about eligibility criteria, entrance exams, expenditure and time of application is given to students

Participation in extra-curricular activities such as the Model United Nations, community service, internships, etc. is also highly encouraged, where they can hone their interpersonal skills and put them to good use.

In-house Support – Students are assisted if required in their application for UCAS, Common Application, etc. Personal statements and essay drafts done by the students go through a process of reviewing and proofreading to ensure that the documents portray the most accurate representation of each individual student.

Career Counselling curriculum: A specific Career counselling curriculum has been customized for the students of Grades 6 – 12. Each grade will have classes twice a month to ensure that the curriculum is completed.

Internet  Technology Policy 

Policy Statement 

This Policy applies to all Oasis International School (OIS) staff (including temporary staff), visitors and/or to those using the School’s IT resources. Inappropriate use of IT may expose the school to unnecessary risks including virus attacks, compromise of network systems and services, financial and legal issues. 

 This policy is drafted to keep in line with Information Technology Act 2000 and the guidance given in the document “Cyber Security For Teenagers, Ministry of Home Affairs (GOI) 2018”.  

 The purpose of this policy is to:  

• promote appropriate use of IT facilities  and capabilities 
• guard against the misuse of IT. 
• Prevent the  theft of the information stored on the storage facilities. 
• prevent damage to the network facilities.

Unacceptable use  

Use of the computers  for personal reasons during the course of a lesson is deemed inappropriate and unacceptable.  

Computers and Laptops belonging to OIS may not be used by non-school employees. 

Usage 

• Incidents: All known or suspected security incidents related to IT must be reported to IT HelpDesk at your respective schools 
• Applications: All general purpose Personal Computer (PC-including desktops, laptops, tablets or other such devices) are installed with a standard set of applications. Self-installation of unauthorised software is prohibited 
• Data Storage: All data stored on OIS property is considered OIS property. All such data may be considered temporary data and is subject to being deleted at any time 
• Copyright Laws: Any copying without permission, including electronic copying, is prohibited as per the relevant state or country law 
• Computer Hacking: Any hacking is strictly prohibited and can be a criminal offence as per the relevant governing law of the state or country 

 Computers, Internet, email, social media etc. should be used appropriately. Inappropriate use includes the following (this is not an exhaustive list): 

• Visiting pornographic sites 
• Sending untrue/malicious statements 
• Receiving, sending or downloading pornographic information 
• Breaches of copyright 
• Sending offensive/obscene statements/attachments 
• Cyberbullying/harassment 
• Anything that may damage the reputation or interests of OIS 
• Discriminatory or illegal religious, gender and preferences materials, including visiting sites which contain extremist materials or views, or promoting or disseminating the same 
• Making potentially libellous statements 

 Internet 

At school premises, internet access provisions are primarily for educational purpose. Hence the usage for the purpose of storage of, access to, or downloading of material the is illegal, obscene, abusive, racist sexist, libellous, breach of copyright defamatory, playing computer games, access to chat rooms and personal entertainment are forbidden. At school, all internet users will be logged, subject to local regulations and subject to disciplinary actions if required. 

Email 

OIS provides an Oasis email id and access to all its students. Email system is to be used for education purposes only. Any student receiving any inappropriate content should inform their respective class teacher or IT HelpDesk immediately. Students/parents are responsible for the safety and security of their Oasis email login credentials and in case of incident the audit trail login credentials will be used for authentication. In case of student/parent forgetting the login credential or suspect theft please reach out to school IT immediately for recovery. 

Passwords  

To guard against unauthorised usage of the IT facilities a power-on password has been enabled. 

Social Media 

Social media for the purpose of this policy refers to social networking sites (e.g. Facebook, Linkedin, Twitter etc), online forums, chat rooms, blogs, wikis or electronic newsletters and other technologies that allow creating and sharing of information via virtual communities and networks. Only social media sites authorized by OIS ca be accessed via the school information system and infrastructure while at school premise or when using school devices. Use of social media shall not affect OIS reputation through offensive, inappropriate or deregulatory remarks. 

Viruses 

 Laptops are configured to update the anti-virus on start-up and will attempt to locate updates from the Internet when not connected to the school network.  

Staff must be aware that laptops which have not been connected to the school network for any period of time may not have most up-to-date protection. 

Wireless connectivity  

 Technological developments in the area of cordless connectivity e.g. wireless protocols, Bluetooth and infrared have significantly increased the risks of unauthorised interception of a signal and of unauthenticated links being made to other devices.  

Staff should be cautious when using wireless connectivity to connect to any networks outside the school. Staff must ensure that measures such as encryption and address control have been enforced on the wireless network they wish to connect to. 

The wireless settings should not be altered, as this may result in the case of a laptop not being able to connect to the school’s wireless network. 

IT Support reserves the right to disable wireless facilities on a laptop if deemed necessary. 

Monitoring  

Staff should be aware that the use of IT facilities is monitored in accordance with this policy.  

School management reserves the right to audit correct usage at any time, and the individual may be held liable for illegally held software or material e.g. in breach of copyright legislation.

Rationale: The Transport Department of Oasis International School is established by seasoned transportation professionals to provide strategic solutions to student transportation issues. We at Oasis respond to all critical needs by creating smart solutions to unique situations involved in school bus operations.

Objective: At Oasis International School, we aim to provide a safe and secure transportation services to and from school to students most in need of service and enable them to reach school on time.

The Transport Department & our School

When we appoint Transport Contractors, we hire a strategic partner who works closely with us to implement solutions, identify opportunities and confront strategic issues.

We believe that a school bus is an extension of a classroom and it is important that the school authorities give adequate attention to the discipline and well-being of the children in buses. It is with this purpose we as a responsible school ensure that Conductors and Lady Attendant is there in every bus.

We also have student monitors, in every bus, who maintain discipline inside the bus but also give feedback to the Facilities Manager of the school regarding the bus service.

The Transport Department & Parents

We endeavour to provide the best possible service for both parents and students.

We place the safety and responsibility of the children as our highest priority.

We value the parents trust in our service and endeavor to provide the highest standards of care. In this regard our Facilities Manager in the Transport Department is in constant touch with the parents.

Student Management and Control

One area in student transportation that can cause very serious problems for the transportation supervisor, bus driver, and the school system, is student behavior.

It is probably the most complex and demanding phase of the student transportation system, as well as the hardest to satisfactorily handle. Student behavior on school buses can become a serious problem for bus drivers and the school if not corrected properly and in a timely manner.

A co-ordinated and mutually respected platform for the parents, school and the Transport Department in the form of a “Transport Committee” will go a long way in bringing about positive attitudinal changes in all concerned.

Responsibilities

The best way to correct the student behavior problem is to have a clear and definite understanding of what is expected on the part of all parties concerned. All guidance concerning student behavior should be well known and clearly understood by bus drivers, students, parents, administrators and teachers and School Transport Services members. All concerned are requested to abide by the following:

Transport Department’s Administrative Responsibilities

The Transport Department at Oasis International School sets the tone for the safe transportation of children. Clear and concise policy statements are made and adopted. The Transport Department will adhere to all the bus specifications and safety measures prescribed by the Regional and State Transport Authority. They are responsible for-

• Comprehensive evaluation of the transport system of the school
• Preparation of policies and procedures and effective implementation
• School bus routing efficiency audit
• Routing and logistics solutions
• Recruitment and training (pre-service training programme, Monthly in-service training) of drivers, Conductors and Lady Attendants and monitoring their performance on a daily ongoing basis.
• Deployment of buses with specification prescribed by RTO / local authorities
• Maintenance and upkeep of buses
• Ensuring the highest standards in school transportation

Functional Responsibility of the Transport Department

• For bus drivers to effectively perform their duties, the Facilities Manager must enforce rules and regulations concerning transportation of pupils.
• When cases of indiscipline, damage of buses or any misbehavior are brought to the attention take necessary disciplinary action.
• Should be aware of the seating plan of students in the buses, details of the routes and the time taken for picking-up and dropping-off of children.
• Create awareness of road safety and bus safety amongst the students through various activities.
• Provide a safe environment in the bus parking zone.
• Provide necessary training to the attenders/ bus supervisors to take care of the students, to take their attendance in every trip and also etiquettes and manners in dealing with parents and students.
• Teachers and administration staff of schools must be present at the parking zone to ensure safety of children when they arrive and depart.

The School and Teachers:

• It should be mandatory that students are provided instructions in school on bus safety. Teachers have a golden opportunity to impart safety instructions and material in the classroom. Lessons can be geared around transportation according to grade level. Students can be asked to write compositions expressing feelings, reactions and concerns about transportation. Class discussions are beneficial. Teachers can do some seemingly small things that will help educate the students, obtain brilliant ideas from them for us to emulate and to prevent accidents.
• Send students on time for buses. Let them not run to catch buses.
• Teachers should discourage students to carry bulky projects or instruments that might block aisles.
• Speak positively to students about transportation safety.
• Teachers should have a good knowledge of local rules and regulations regarding transportation.

Student’s Responsibilities

Students must bear their share of responsibility for safety while travelling in school buses. The privilege of any student to ride a school bus is conditioned upon their good behavior and observance of the rules and regulations set forth by the school and transport operator. Certain levels of conduct are expected of any and all students riding the bus. All students shall conduct themselves in a manner conducive to the safe transportation of all. No conduct will be tolerated that will in any way cause distraction of a driver’s attention that might result in unsafe operation of the bus. Students are expected to respect the authority of the bus driver / bus supervisor and obey his/her instructions. If the rules are followed, all concerned can expect to have a safe bus trip.

While Waiting to Board the Bus

• Arrive at your assigned bus stop five (5) minutes ahead of the bus. The driver cannot wait for you, as it may create traffic problems.
• Do not play in the path of traffic and stand well away from the road when the bus approaches.
• Remember the danger zone around the bus. The danger zone is anywhere close enough to the bus to touch it. The bus driver cannot see you when you are in the danger zone.
• Do not damage other people’s property while waiting for the bus.
• Avoid making excessive noise.
• Fighting and playing at bus stops and on the way to and from school should be avoided.
• Never run alongside the bus when the bus is moving. Wait until the bus stops and the driver/conductor signals and then walk to the door and board the bus in an orderly manner.   DO NOT PUSH OR SHOVE.

While Riding on the Bus

• Obey the Supervisor’s/Lady Attendant’s instructions. The Conductor / Supervisor of a school bus is in complete charge of students while they are on the bus. Complaints regarding discipline on the bus should be taken to the Principal / Transport Department.
• The supervisor / bus conductor has the authority to assign seats.
• Students shall remain properly seated while the bus is in motion.
• The windows of the bus must be closed at all times, if there are no grills. On no account does any student have the right to open a window (without grills) of a bus. This is in keeping with the preventive measures against any injury to the student.
• Refrain from talking to the driver except in an emergency.
• No one shall tamper with any equipment or operate any part of the bus.
• Do not mar or deface the bus. Students caught damaging bus equipment will be subject to disciplinary action and/or restitution.
• There is to be no fighting or profanity on the bus or any loud disturbances.
• Students must not wave or shout at pedestrians or occupants of other vehicles. Do not throw objects from bus windows.
• Eating inside the bus is not permitted. Save snacks for snack time at school or till you get home. They may spill or you may choke if the bus goes over a bump.
• Use of tobacco and its by-products or drugs, in any form, is prohibited.
• Bullying / fighting, use of abusive language is not permitted.
• Students are required to ride their assigned bus, unless they have written request from parents and duly approved by the Transport Department.

While leaving the bus

• When you leave the bus, hold the handrail.
• In case you need to cross a street, ensure that you cross it in front of the bus. Cross only when the driver/conductor gives a signal. Cross the street in single file.
• If you drop something near the bus, don’t pick it up. Tell the driver or the attender or another adult.
• If everyone is getting off the bus, the people in the front leave first. Do not push. Allow small children and/or disabled children to board/alight first.
• Be familiar with the rules of emergencies.

Parent’s Responsibilities

Progress has been made in the improvement of safety and safety awareness in the transportation of students. One critical area is the role and responsibility of parents and guardians of the students. Safety awareness must begin and be consistently reinforced at home. The following points are suggested for parents / guardians:

• Familiarize themselves with school and transport provider policies and procedures pertaining to riding a bus. Know their child’s bus number, telephone numbers of the Bus Attendant, Supervisor and School.
• Parents should try to establish the exact time their child should be at the bus stop in the morning. They should also recognize the dangers of students playing at the edge of a busy roadway.
• Warn their children of the dangers of strangers who appear friendly and hang around bus stops.
• Provide their child with a school bag to carry all their school supplies. Loose papers / materials are a serious hazard.
• Stress the importance of remaining properly seated and reasonably quiet and disciplined while aboard the bus.
• Familiarize them with emergency procedures and danger zones around the bus and suggest they discuss these zones with their children.
• Make sure children have their ID Cards.
• Parents should explain to their child that situations aboard the bus may not always be familiar. The bus might have to take an alternative route, a substitute may be driving the bus, or occasionally another bus might be used. If the child is confused, they need to be encouraged. It is in order to ask the Supervisor, Lady Attendant or Driver relevant questions.
• Parents should also support policies of the school and transport provider.

Responsibilities of students and their Parents / Guardians

• Parents / Guardians to drop their children to the school bus or pick-up point well before time. In the event of any delay from their part, they bear the responsibility of dropping their children to the school without any responsibility on the part of the School Transport Department.
• Assist in training and educating their children on the importance of safety and how to wait for the school bus and board it.
• Report to the Management of the school / transport department regarding any offence or failure on the part of the Lady Attendant/driver/ supervisor.
• The driver is responsible to return the student to the school if there is no person to collect him or her at the time of returning home and parents / guardians are responsible for any associated outcome.
• The student must maintain cleanliness of the bus and advise the school management or his / her parent / guardian in case the driver or any other student breaches the rules in transit.
• The Transport Department / School is solely entitled to deny any student from transport service in case any of the following condition apply:
  1. If the student is to blame for delaying the trip more than three times in a single academic year.
  2. If the student breaches any safety rule and makes others liable to danger during the trip.
  3. If the student deliberately alights from the bus before arriving to the specified drop-off point, without a prior consent.
  4. If the student, against whom more than three written complaints were made during a single academic year, continues to cause troubles.

Some actions listed as undesirable while travelling by the  school vehicle  are:

• Engaging in a fight physically with another child.
• Running up and down inside the bus.
• Suspending from the ceiling rods, which could make him/her fall when the bus moves.
• Using abusive language / foul language with other children/staff in the bus/ at other commuters.
• Showing disrespect to Staff / or senior/ junior/ any student.
• Mocking or Passing comments on other children /passersby.
• Throwing water or any other liquid /material on other students.
• Screaming in the bus/jostling or pushing other commuters in the bus.
• Throwing water/paper /stationery/wrappers/bottles out of the bus.
• Passing chits to other fellow students in /out of the bus.
• Standing on the foot-board.

School Bus Driver’s Responsibilities

The conduct of students on a bus has a direct relationship to their safety. The position should be taken that no act or conduct that distracts the driver from safely maneuvering the school bus through traffic and operating the bus safely will be condoned or tolerated. Swift and firm action must be taken by the driver to solve and correct these problems.

• One of the first steps a school bus driver must take toward controlling student behavior is to set a proper example. The driver should always practice good driving habits, take personal interest in the job, keep abreast of all advancements that take place in pupil transportation and take excellent care of the equipment.

The School bus driver should be the best defensive driver on the road.

• understand and obey all traffic laws.
• attend all training sessions.
• maintain the buses in excellent condition.
• never over-speed.
• physically check the bus after every trip to be sure that no child is left behind.
• send an SMS to the Transport Manager after the last child is dropped off.

Transport Supervisor / Lady Attendant’s Responsibilities

• ensure that students are picked up and dropped off at the designated points agreed upon – from home and in school.
• handle children carefully and maintain safety and discipline on the bus.
• help children to cross roads, where required.
• Girl students will compulsorily be assisted by Lady Attendants only.
• communicate with parents politely in a disciplined manner.
• report any misbehavior of the student to the Principal/Transport Department.
• clean the bus before and after every trip.
• take daily attendance of students and give report to the Facilities Manager.
• physically check the bus after every trip to be sure that no child is left behind and/or no important papers / bags / education materials are left behind.
• ensure the bus is kept neat and tidy internally and externally, washed / cleaned every day.
• Ensure that route details and student details are available with the bus supervisor in each bus.

External Bus/Van Providers:

• External Bus/Van Providers have to ensure that they hand over the students they are transporting to the attender waiting at the school gate and pick up the students from the attender at the end of the school day. The students will not left unattended at any point of time.

Facilities

• A number of buses owned by Oasis International School are installed with CCTV Cameras to monitor student discipline, any on toward happening, etc.
• Every Bus owned by the School is installed with Speed Regulators / Governors, so that there is no complaint regarding over speeding.
• A number of buses owned by Oasis International School have been provided with a fire extinguisher and First Aid Kit.

In the event of an operational emergency :

1. When there is an emergency related to the vehicle, it will be parked aside.
2.  The Driver inspects the problem and tries to rectify it on site.
3. If there is a major problem, the same is intimated to the Transport department.
4. A backup bus is arranged within half an hour of the time when the request for it is made.
5. An immediate SMS is sent to the Parents about the delay.

In the event of a medical emergency:

1. In case of medical emergencies, the Teacher in charge will provide First Aid. Parents and Transport Department will be informed.
2. In case of serious medical issues, the student will be taken to the nearest hospital by the teacher in charge.  Parents and Transport Department will be kept informed.

In the event of hiring a driver:

1. If a driver is on leave, or the driver is not well in the second half of the day or we need to hire a driver. The facilities will hire a driver from the trusted vendor who already has the driver’s fitness certificate and licence and other documents.
2. The bus incharge teacher will guide the new driver to that respective route.

Rationale:

The purpose of any education system is not only to foster academic learning but also all-round development of students. Besides cognitive development, schooling also involves appropriate socio-affective development (i.e., self-reliance, self-discipline, taking initiative, independence of thought, understanding relationships with people and environment, responsible action, etc.). Development of such personal-social qualities includes knowledge and understanding, abilities and skills in relation to oneself and others.

Oasis International School has drafted this policy keeping in line with the Karnataka Education Institutions rules of 2017 and the recommendations of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).

The school, besides the family, is a major influence in children’s personal-social development. As students’ progress through primary and secondary stages of schooling, they need an environment that is secure, warm, caring and nurturing.

Guidance and counselling in harmony with the goals of education, aims to facilitate maximum personal development of students in all spheres of life. In its attempt to meet the needs of all students, guidance and counselling makes education a meaningful and satisfying experience. Learning and understanding about self is as important as learning about various school subjects. Every child has the potential to develop self-understanding which includes understanding of abilities, interests, behaviours, attitudes, values, conflicts, anxieties, likes, dislikes, impulses/emotions, goals, one’s role in society etc.  

The School Counselling Program provides a professional and confidential setting to encourage and enhance the development of students.

EXCEPTIONS TO CONFIDENTIALITY:

• The counsellors work as a team. OIS Counsellor may consult with other counsellors/supervisors to provide the best possible care. These consultations are for professional and training purposes. However, the client’s identity would not be revealed.
• If there is evidence of clear and imminent danger of harm to self and/or others, a Counsellor is legally required to report this information to the authorities responsible for ensuring safety.
• Disclosure of information, if required by law.

OIS Counsellor:

The school counsellor has a minimum of a Master’s degree in Counselling and has special qualifications professional and skills to address students’ academic, personal/social, and career development needs. They uphold the ethical and professional standards and other applicable professional counselling associations.

Counselling Delivery Model

Referral and Communication

Students may be referred to the counsellor by parents, teachers, self-referral, or by request of a counsellor. When teachers or parents refer, they complete a Counselling Referral Form.

• Parents collect the referral form from the reception or ask the teachers to mail it to them
• Teachers can access the form uploaded on the intranet under counselling department
• Students collect the form from the counsellor before or after the first counselling session

All parties are informed about the availability of counselling services during the orientation and all other possible occasions.

Why Parents Would Contact the School Counsellor?

• Concerns over student achievement
• Test interpretation
• Discussing special concerns of their child
• Early discussion of potential crises
• Family difficulties or concerns

Individual Counselling

The school counsellor understands and utilizes a variety of individual counselling strategies and provides appropriate referral services. The counsellors often use an approach that is solution-focused rather than problem-focused and is designed to resolve current issues and concerns.

The goal of the individual counselling is to:

• Assess and understand the needs of the student
• Help the student to think and act differently, by developing a plan of action to best assist the student
• Provide individual support as needed
• Refer to appropriate community resources as needed

External Referral: If the counsellor feels that school counselling is not enough to meet a student’s needs, then the counsellor may make a referral to an external professional (certified counsellors and agencies working with children and adolescents – refer to list) in consultation with the student’s parent or guardian. External referrals are based on client requirements, availability, financial considerations and professional expertise.

Reasons for referral:

• Client’s concern goes beyond the counsellor’s knowledge and expertise
• Client has other needs. Example- wants information or advice
• Client has a mental health condition that requires medical attention
• Counsellor knows the client beyond professional basis
• Counsellor and client are unable to establish a therapeutic relationship or make progress (reluctant client, personality differences, unrealistic expectations etc)
• Counsellor identifies that the client is becoming too dependent and unwilling to maintain boundaries
• Client in partaking in disruptive behaviour that might be harmful to self and/or others

Group Counselling

The school counsellor understands and implements principles of group counselling in the school setting. Counsellors believe in the benefits that group counselling can provide. Group counselling is a counselling model that is used, should there be a need to address problems specific to a group of identified students.

Counselling for Staff members and Parents

The school is committed to caring for its staff (teaching and non-teaching) and ensuring it provides a safe, healthy and supportive workplace. As part of that commitment, the school provides a professional and confidential counselling service for all employees. Counsellors assist with a wide range of personal or work-related issues. The service operates on a self-referral basis. This means staff can contact the service directly without needing to inform anyone at the school. The service is completely confidential unless disclosure is required by law. Session details or any documentation is only accessible to the counsellor

The school does not offer counselling services to parents. The school counsellors are always willing to meet with the parents in order to cater to the counselling needs of students.