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a World Class International School Leading Innovation

Stefanos Gialamas, Ph.D.

President of Schools

Dina Pappas
Elementary School Principal
pappasd@acs.gr

Anny Kalfa
Elementary School Administrative Secretary
kalfaa@acs.gr

129 Aghias Paraskevis Ave. & Kazantzaki St.

152 34 Halandri
Athens, Greece

Tel.: +30 (210) 639 3200

Fax: +30 (210) 639 0051
www.acs.gr
acs@acs.gr

Mission Statement
ACS Athens is a student-centered international school, embracing American
educational philosophy, principles and values. Through excellence in teaching and
diverse educational experiences, ACS Athens challenges all students to realize
their unique potential: academically, intellectually, socially and ethically -- to thrive
as responsible global citizens.
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Table of Contents
Mission Statement................................................................................................... - 3 - 
Table of Contents ....................................................................................................... - 4 - 
Who We Are .............................................................................................................. - 6 - 
Important Numbers ................................................................................................ - 6 - 
Facilities .................................................................................................................... - 7 - 
Elementary Campus ................................................................................................ - 7 - 
Library ................................................................................................................... - 7 - 
Computer Lab......................................................................................................... - 7 - 
The School Day .......................................................................................................... - 8 - 
What We Teach ...................................................................................................... - 8 - 
How We Teach ....................................................................................................... - 8 - 
How We Assess Learning ......................................................................................... - 8 - 
Text/Workbooks We Use ......................................................................................... - 8 - 
First Grade .......................................................................................................... - 9 - 
Second Grade...................................................................................................... - 9 - 
Third Grade......................................................................................................... - 9 - 
Fourth Grade....................................................................................................... - 9 - 
Fifth Grade.......................................................................................................... - 9 - 
Greek Language Classes......................................................................................- 10 - 
Greek Language A – Native speakers for Grades 1-5 ..........................................- 10 - 
Greek Language A – Near native speakers - for Grades 3-5 .................................- 10 - 
Greek Language B – Non native speakers - for Grades K-5 ..................................- 10 - 
Curriculum goals: ............................................................................................- 10 - 
General Notes .................................................................................................- 10 - 
Homework: .....................................................................................................- 10 - 
Arabic ................................................................................................................- 10 - 
Student Expectations .................................................................................................- 11 - 
Attendance............................................................................................................- 11 - 
Tardiness ..............................................................................................................- 11 - 
Daily Absences ......................................................................................................- 11 - 
Extended Absences ................................................................................................- 11 - 
Early Dismissal from School ....................................................................................- 11 - 
Personal Music Players, Roller Blades, Heelys & Skateboards .....................................- 11 - 
Policy on Possession of Cell Phones and Other Personal Electronic Signaling Devices ...- 12 - 
Emergency Drills ....................................................................................................- 12 - 
Homework Expectations ............................................................................................- 13 - 
Discipline and Time-Out Procedures ............................................................................- 13 - 
Time-Out ..............................................................................................................- 14 - 
Procedures When Handling Discipline Problems ........................................................- 14 - 
Dress Code............................................................................................................- 14 - 
Support Services .......................................................................................................- 15 - 
ESL.......................................................................................................................- 15 - 
Optimal Match .......................................................................................................- 15 - 
OM Consultation .................................................................................................- 16 - 
Counseling Services ...............................................................................................- 16 - 
ESAS and ICCT ARTS ACADEMY ..............................................................................- 17 - 
Staying After-School...............................................................................................- 17 - 
The House System .................................................................................................- 17 - 
Student Council .....................................................................................................- 18 - 
Health Services ......................................................................................................- 18 - 
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Lunch Program .........................................................................................................- 18 - 
Transportation ..........................................................................................................- 19 - 
Bus Procedures ......................................................................................................- 19 - 
Bus Code of Conduct:.............................................................................................- 20 - 
Special Traditions ......................................................................................................- 20 - 
September ......................................................................................................- 20 - 
October ..........................................................................................................- 20 - 
November.......................................................................................................- 20 - 
December .......................................................................................................- 20 - 
February.........................................................................................................- 20 - 
March.............................................................................................................- 20 - 
April ...............................................................................................................- 20 - 
May ...............................................................................................................- 21 - 
June...............................................................................................................- 21 - 
Role of Parents .........................................................................................................- 21 - 
PTO ......................................................................................................................- 21 - 
Room Parents ........................................................................................................- 22 - 
Parents Supporting Athletics (PSA) ..........................................................................- 22 - 
Personal Property ..................................................................................................- 22 - 
Lost & Found .........................................................................................................- 22 - 
Vehicles of Communication ........................................................................................- 22 - 
Report Cards .........................................................................................................- 22 - 
Conferences ..........................................................................................................- 22 - 
Student-Led Conferences ........................................................................................- 23 - 
Passports ..............................................................................................................- 23 - 
Elementary Newsletter ...........................................................................................- 23 - 
Monthly Principal’s Coffee .......................................................................................- 23 - 
Website ................................................................................................................- 23 - 
Telephone .............................................................................................................- 24 - 
School Activities ........................................................................................................- 24 - 
School Photos ........................................................................................................- 24 - 
Field Trips .............................................................................................................- 24 - 
Birthday and Holiday Celebrations ...........................................................................- 24 - 
Enrollment ................................................................................................................- 25 - 
Admission/Registration ...........................................................................................- 25 - 
Transfers From Our School .....................................................................................- 25 - 
Visitor/Guest Policy ................................................................................................- 25 - 

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Who We Are
We are a group of dedicated professionals who bring unique experiences and expertise to the
field of education. Most of us hold Masters Degrees in one or more fields of Education and
continue our professional development every year.

The ACS Athens Elementary program relies heavily on the synergy that comes from good
teamwork. Classroom teachers work in tandem with their grade level colleagues and specials
teachers. Your student receives the benefit of teachers using their individual and collective
strengths to help the student learn quickly and feel successful. Teacher assistants work with
the teachers to help prepare and organize needed materials.

Important Numbers

Main Campus: 210 639-3200

Elementary School: 210 639-3200, ext. 229/231
Middle School: 210 639-3200, ext. 226/228
Academy: 210 639-3200, ext. 241/222
Admissions: 210 639-3200, ext. 263/251
Cafeteria: 210 639-3200, ext. 236
Cashier’s Office: 210 639-3200, ext. 206
Health Office: 210 639-3200, ext. 217
Transportation: 210 639-3200, ext. 239
Security (after hours): 210 639-3555

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Facilities
Elementary Campus
The Elementary School is located on the west side of the main ACS Athens campus. Shaded
by Mulberry trees, the Elementary School’s main building holds the office, library, computer
lab, KG-5th grade classrooms, art room, cafeteria, P.E. room, mini theater and special rooms
for ESL and Counseling. The Junior Kindergarten, part of the Kindergarten and OM
classrooms enjoy their own wing and large grassy playground. The Health Office is located in
close proximity to our classrooms. There is a commitment to ongoing upgrading of facilities
to provide for a better learning environment.

The Elementary School sits across the courtyard from the Middle School and Academy’s
special facilities, which are sometimes shared. They include the Main Academy Library,
Gymnasium, Swimming Pool, Soccer Field, Tennis Courts and Theater.

Library
The Elementary Library houses approximately 15,000 print and audio-visual materials. All
new and donated library materials are evaluated on the basis of their literary merit,
usefulness in balancing the collection, and value in supporting the curriculum. Our library is
fully automated and students use the OPAC check-out system. Students visit the library
weekly for formal lessons and to check out materials. Replacement costs will be charged for
lost or damaged library materials.

Computer Lab
The Elementary Computer Lab is adjacent to the Library and consists of brand new Lenovo
computers. Each computer is networked, internet capable, and supported by the use of an
LCD projector and a CD/DVD recorder. Classes attend one session per week during regularly
scheduled times. Additional computer class time is available throughout the week. Students
learn to use the computer as a tool to enhance their learning with different software
applications and with the use of the internet. The elementary lab is part of the ACS Athens
network that runs off our own server. Each classroom has its own computer and many
classrooms now have interactive boards for further word processing and research.

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The School Day
Every student at ACS Athens has Mathematics, Language Arts (Reading and Writing),
Science, Social Studies and Spelling classes daily. Units of study alternate between
Science and Social Studies. In addition, each grade level meets with specialist teachers
throughout the week for Art, Music, P.E., Arabic, Greek or English. (Students are supervised
on the playground from 8:15 to 9:00 a.m. The school day begins at 9:00 a.m. and ends at
3:30 p.m. We ask that all students arrive early to school so that they can be ready to learn
at 9:00 a.m. sharp!

What We Teach
Students get involved in units of inquiry that are subject-integrated. In addition to mastering
the basic tools for learning (language arts and mathematics), students learn to think
conceptually, gather facts and acquire knowledge, apply and practice skills, develop attitudes
and take action.

How We Teach
The Elementary School views students as thinkers with important, emerging theories of the
world. Building on students’ prior knowledge, teachers integrate their curriculum using a
range of teaching strategies, and resources. Rather than focusing on isolated and non-
contextualized facts, students develop critical thinking skills to become life-long learners and
problem solvers.

How We Assess Learning

As with our teaching strategies, ACS Athens Elementary uses a variety of assessment tools to
ascertain a student’s level of understanding. Students are also involved in the learning
process by giving critical feedback to their peers and themselves. Assessment can occur from
written tests, lab reports, performances, observations, research papers etc. Report cards are
used to assess students’ level of mastery and to provide important anecdotal observations
about a student’s progress and social development. Students take a standardized, norm-
referenced test (CTB/Terra Nova) every other year in grades 2–5. Once a year students lead
their own conferences using a portfolio of their work during the Student-Led Conferences.

Text/Workbooks We Use
Textbooks supplement rather than direct the curriculum
at ACS Athens. Students learn beyond typical
requirements. They strengthen higher level thinking
skills. In addition to the texts listed, teachers frequently
draw upon primary sources (including guest speakers or
performers), library/media, online resources, computer
software, trade books and literature to supplement the
curriculum.

Textbooks are provided to all students through their classrooms teachers. All books loaned to
students will be returned to the teacher at the conclusion of each course. Students who
withdraw from school should return all textbooks before they can clear their records. If a
student fails to return books or damages them, the student will be charged for the cost of the
text.

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First Grade 
EnVision Math (Scott Foresman-Addison Wesley)
Language Arts Readers (Silver, Burdett and Ginn) (Modern Curriculum Press)
(Scott Foresman) (School Readers)
Phonics (Modern Curriculum Press)
Science (Foss Kit)

Second Grade 
EnVision Math (Scott Foresman-Addison Wesley)
Investigations in Number, Data and Space
Math-A-Pedia
Quest 2000: Exploring Mathematics
Phonics (Modern Curriculum Press)
New Dimensions in the World of Reading (Silver, Burdett and Ginn), (Garden Gates),
(Gathering Sunbeams), (Tail of a Kite)
Plus many primary/secondary resource materials
Science (Foss Kit)
Everyday Spelling (Scott Foresman)

Third Grade   
EnVision Math (Scott Foresman-Addison Wesley)
Investigations in Number, Data and Space
Castles of Sand (Ginn Reader)
English Language Skills and Use (Scott Foresman)
Handwriting Workbook
From Sea to Shining Sea (Houghton Mifflin Social Studies)
Earth Beneath Your Feet (McGraw/Hill Science)
System of the Sky (MacMillan/McGraw Science)
Science (Foss Kit)
Everyday Spelling (Scott Foresman)

Fourth Grade 
EnVision Math (Scott Foresman-Addison Wesley)
Silver Secrets (Ginn Reader)
Selected Novels and Poetry
Language Skills (Harcourt)
Success with Maps, Level D (Scholastic)
Map Skills Gr. 4 (Scholastic)
Discover the Wonder (Scott Foresman Science)
Science (Foss Kit)
Cursive Handwriting (D’Nealian)
Everyday Spelling (Scott Foresman)

Fifth Grade 
EnVision Math (Scott Foresman-Addison Wesley)
English Language Skills and Use (Scott Foresman)
Building a Nation (Scott Foresman)
D’Aulaire’s Book of Greek Myths (and many more trade books)
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The History of US (Social Studies supplement)
Science Series (Scott Foresman and Foss)
Selected Novels and Poetry
Spelling (Scott Foresman) 

Greek Language Classes 

Greek Language A – Native speakers for Grades 1-5

Accommodates students for whom Greek is native language and are
fluent speakers and readers. Instruction is done in Greek. Students are
required to communicate fluently in Greek. 

Greek Language A – Near native speakers - for

Grades 3-5
Accommodates students who have an adequate level in speaking and reading Greek but need
to develop their oral/reading/writing skills. Instruction is done in Greek. Students are
required to communicate in Greek. 

Greek Language B – Non native speakers - for Grades K-5

Accommodates students whose oral skills are inadequate to hold a conversation in Greek with
ease. Instruction is done in English but Greek is used as much as possible.

Curriculum goals:
In KG students are divided into two groups: Language A native speakers and Language B
non-native speakers.
In JK instruction is common for all students (whether Greek is Language A or B), who play
and sing together as a group.  

General Notes
• Students who wish to be moved from one level to another are assessed by a
placement test after teacher’s recommendation.
• Students of all levels participate in celebrations of ethnic holidays of Greece, the host
country. 4th grade students organize and perform for the OXI Day celebration in
October, whereas all students of the Greek classes participate in the Greek
Independence Day celebration in March.

Homework:
Greek Language A classes are assigned homework regularly.

Please note:
Students who wish to be moved to a higher level are assessed by a placement test after
teachers’ recommendation.

Arabic 
A course description for each grade level is on file in the Elementary School Office written in
Arabic for your review.
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Student Expectations
Attendance
Regular attendance at school is a key element of academic success. Parents are asked to
plan outside activities (dental appointments, family trips, etc.) around the school schedule
and calendar. Students are expected to arrive at school punctually as classes start from 9:00
a.m. to 3:30 p.m. daily.

Tardiness
We expect students to arrive on time to all of their classes, especially the
morning homeroom. Chronic tardiness sends the wrong message to
children. Show the importance of punctuality by making sure your child
arrives on time. If your child is late, please make sure he/she
comes to the Main Office first to receive their late pass in order to go
to their homeroom. If students miss more than two hours of school,
they will be marked as a half day absence. Students coming to school
late will be marked for unexcused tardiness.

Daily Absences
If a student is absent for the day or part of the day, call Ms. Anny Kalfa in the Elementary
Office and state the reason for the absence. We will coordinate homework on an individual
basis. Students may not be taken out of school without parent notification to the Office. For
absences of more than three days, a doctor’s note is also required. Absences due to health
problems or family loss are considered excused absences. Mini trips or extended vacation are
considered unexcused absences. Parents are responsible to communicate with the classroom
teacher in order to pick up missed homework from the Office.

Extended Absences
An extended absence severely disrupts a student’s learning program. However we
acknowledge that extended absences are sometimes unavoidable. Please let us know well in
advance of any anticipated extended absences (five days or more) by writing a letter to the
classroom teacher and a copy given to the Principal. If a family decides to take additional
vacation time, homework is not the responsibility of the teacher to prepare in advance.
Please be aware that extended absences could prevent us from making a proper assessment
or any assessment on your child’s report card. Many of the homework assignments require
the student’s presence for completion and, thus, will have to be modified due to missed class
time. If a child has accumulated a large number of absences, the Principal reserves the right
not to promote him/her to the next grade level.

Early Dismissal from School

A student who must leave school early for a legitimate reason must have a parent note given
to the classroom teacher and be picked up from the office by a parent or guardian.

Personal Music Players, Roller Blades, Heelys & Skateboards

Personal music players must never be used on campus (except after school). Failure to
respect this policy will result in the confiscation of the item for an indefinite period of time.

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For safety reasons and to ensure the protection of school property, roller blades, heelys,
skateboards etc. are not allowed on campus.

Policy on Possession of Cell Phones and Other

Personal Electronic Signaling Devices
Students are not permitted to use any type of electronic signaling devices
during class time, passing periods or breaks within the classroom. Cell
phones can be used if the break is outside.

If a school staff member finds it necessary to confiscate a device, parents

will be notified promptly and the device will be returned in accordance with
school rules after the Principal has consulted with the student’s parent/guardian.
The school is not responsible for lost or stolen electronic signaling devices. Students are to
make arrangements with their parent(s) or guardian(s) to contact the school
office when attempting to reach them during the school day.

The following are inappropriate uses of electronic signaling devices:

harassment, threats, intimidation, electronic forgery,
cyberbullying/cyberthreats, videotaping in or out of the classroom,
invasion of personal rights, cheating on tests/exams, or other forms of
illegal behavior during the instructional and non- instructional day. Students
are not to use material or text message to invade personal privacy or harass another person,
or disrupt the instructional day, or engage in dishonest acts.

Videotaping within the ACS Athens Campus is not only inappropriate but ILLEGAL.

Students who act in violation of this policy shall be subject to ACS’s progressive discipline as
follows:
1. Initial violation – electronic signaling device will be confiscated by school staff and
secured in a safe location. The electronic device will be returned to student in seven
days;
2. Second violation – electronic signaling device will be confiscated and secured in a
safe location. The electronic device will be returned to the student in a month and
the student's parent or guardian meets with the school Principal for the purpose of
clarifying this policy;
3. Third violation – the electronic signaling device will be confiscated and secured in a
safe location. The electronic device will be withheld for a semester and the student's
parent or guardian provides written assurance that the student will no longer be
allowed to possess the electronic device during the instructional day;
4. Fourth violation – the electronic signaling device will be confiscated and secured in
a safe location. The student will be suspended;
5. Fifth violation – the electronic signaling device will be confiscated and secured in a
safe location. The student will be removed from school.

Emergency Drills
Evacuation drills are conducted regularly and have undergone a review by the Regional
Security Office of the U.S. Embassy. Students are taught to leave the buildings quickly and
safely for any type of campus emergency. Students are expected to:
• Be familiar with exit route
• Respond quickly, cooperate and give attention to their teacher or supervisor
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 • Walk quickly and silently
• Stay in formation to the left and right sides of the corridor and staircase as they
proceed to the exit
• Remain clear of the building as directed by teacher or supervisor
• Remain quiet once outdoors and cooperate fully with attendance taking procedures

It is imperative that we have your current address and phone number/s (including cell
phones) plus the number of someone else to reach, on file, in case of an emergency. If any
of your numbers (home, work, emergency) change, please alert us immediately through
your child’s Passport or call the Main Office. Thank you.

Homework Expectations
It was on my fifth birthday that my father put his hand on my shoulder
and said, “Remember son, if you ever need a helping hand, you’ll find
one at the end of your arm.” - Sam Levenson.

Most students at ACS Athens will have homework on a daily basis.

Homework is given to strengthen skills taught at school, enrich and
extend a concept and help develop solid work habits.
Some of the homework assigned may require adult help or guidance.
Parents should not do homework for their children. Parents should
take a coaching role or follow the Socratic method of questioning:
“What is your assignment for tomorrow?” Parents should encourage
their children, ask deeper questions and assist them when need arises.

If absent from school for any reason, the student is responsible for making up all of the class
work and homework he/she missed. If a student is absent for only one day, it is best for
him/her to telephone a friend to find out what material was covered in classes and what
homework assignments were given. If it is not possible to get this information, students
should ask their teachers about missed work immediately upon their return to school.

If absent from school for an extended period of time (two days or more), the student or
his/her parent or guardian should telephone the school. Assignments should be collected
from teachers. They can be delivered by a friend/neighbor, or be picked up by parents from
the school.

Students are expected to set goals and work to achieve them. It is important to get the most
out of one’s time in every learning situation. Students are asked to maintain a serious
attitude towards their work, think positively, and stick to a plan.

Discipline and Time-Out Procedures

At ACS Athens Elementary School, we work with students so that they may become
managers of their attitudes and actions. We discuss with them how then can become better
students and cooperative members of our community. We actively encourage students to be
Inquisitive, Good Thinkers, Quality Communicators, Knowledgeable, Risk-Takers, Principled,
Caring, Open Minded, Well Balanced and Reflective. These characteristics are discussed
during Morning Assemblies and within the classroom along with our virtues of the month.

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Time-Out
Time-Out is a school-wide discipline plan that deliberately seeks to extinguish inappropriate
behaviors and allows students to make appropriate choices. The Time-Out philosophy and
procedures are posted on the school website under Elementary School.

Positive Decision Making

We know that by rewarding positive behaviors we encourage children to
repeat these behaviors. We are proud of our students when they make
appropriate decisions in their approach to academics, safety, and inter-
personal relations. To help them grow, we use positive praise, notes in
the Passport, assemblies, class meetings, and reinforcement from adults
with whom they come in contact. We know that these actions speak
volumes to children. In some cases we even reinforce behavior with small
prizes or awards. Our goal is to find success in each and every child.

Procedures When Handling Discipline Problems

We all have the ability to make either appropriate or inappropriate choices. Part of the
learning process involves knowing how to maturely accept the consequences of our actions,
whether positive or negative. If a student does not follow the rules, the teacher will
administer our Time-Out discipline during which students reflect about what they have done.
This is not a punishment. If the student chooses not to show progress and has three Time-
Outs in one day, the child is sent to the Principal’s office. The number of Time-Outs for
upper elementary (grades 3-5) is subject to change at the end of the school year, but parents
will be notified by the classroom teachers. Once sent to the Principal, the following
consequences will be imposed:

First Referral: Student meets with the Principal; warning or other consequence
commensurate with the action given at the discretion of the Principal. (Record kept of all
incidents.)
Second Referral: Loss of recess/es and parent notification
Third Referral: Meeting with parents and student at school
Fourth Referral: In-school suspension
Fifth Referral: Out-of-school suspension
Sixth Referral: Staff meeting called to discuss recommendation for expulsion. A conference
will be scheduled with parents.
Serious Offenses (fighting, possession of weapons, destruction of school or personal
property, leaving campus without permission, stealing) could result in immediate suspension
or expulsion from our school.

Parents are asked to take an ACTIVE ROLE in the development of their child’s behavior at
school by conferring regularly with their child, their child’s teacher, the Counselor or the
Principal.

Dress Code
Cleanliness, appropriate grooming, and proper dress are important in promoting a positive
atmosphere for school and social conduct. The standards of dress for school should reflect
cleanliness and appropriateness.

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Students who come to school without proper attention toward personal cleanliness or
appropriateness of dress may be sent home to be properly prepared for school or required to
prepare themselves for the classroom before entering.

Students are expected to dress in an appropriate manner at all times. In particular, the
following items are not allowed at school: shorts and skirts that are higher than mid-thigh
and clothing with obscene or suggestive words or patterns. Torn clothing, halters and shirts
that are deemed too revealing and showing one’s stomach are also not allowed. A student
violating the dress code will be asked to change clothing.

A dress code is also required for P.E. classes. The P.E. attire includes sports shoes and a P.E.
outfit (a winter and a summer set) worn on the days of P.E. Keep in mind that students will
be graded on their readiness for P.E. classes.

There will be times when students will be asked to dress up for an occasion such as a field
trip or a special day at school. Students should plan to wear special clothing (dresses for
girls, ties or button-down shirts for boys) to the Winter Concert, Spring Concert and
Graduation (Fifth Grade).

Parents should be sure all clothing and items worn or brought to school are labeled with the
child’s name. Please check our Lost & Found periodically located in the cafeteria. We don’t
have enough space for ‘Jacket Mountains’!

Support Services
ESL
Students who are at beginning and intermediate levels of English are required to enroll in the
ESL program. The ESL teacher works with students during their language learning time on
English reading, writing, speaking and listening skills. The ESL teacher collaborates with each
student’s homeroom teacher to ensure continuity of learning and skill building. There is an
additional fee for this program due to its small size and individualized attention.

Optimal Match
The Optimal Match (OM) learning support program provides
students an equal opportunity at excelling in the classroom by
providing individualized and small group instruction that
supplements various learning styles. The process begins with
the student being referred by the classroom teacher or parent.
The Child Study Team which consists of the Elementary School
Principal, the JK-12 Counseling-Psychologist, the Elementary
School Counselor, and the OM Specialists work together to
determine a program that would be most beneficial to meeting
the student’s needs. Admission to OM is based on program
capacity and upon the receipt of current psycho-educational
testing.

A full battery of psycho-educational assessments, which are

administered by non-school-based psychologists, must be
completed prior to enrollment in the OM program. Based on
their findings and subsequent report, standards are set
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according to the individual needs of the referred student. Effective strategies are developed
by the Optimal Match Specialist and are then shared with all teachers working with each
particular student. Small group instruction and cooperative learning activities are incorporated
within the student’s curriculum in order to complement various learning abilities.

The Optimal Match Specialist provides support and guidance to the classroom teachers in
order to properly support student abilities. Collaboration is established amongst the entire
team and valuable tactics are adopted in order to enable students to maintain success within
the classroom. Monitor Sheets are student assessments that are distributed to parents
monthly to validate student strengths and to determine areas that need improving. The
Monitor Sheets are kept in the student’s confidential file. This information provides the
program with evidence of student strengths and areas where additional assistance is needed
in order for the student to excel in the classroom.

OM Consultation 
OM consultation is performed on a case by case basis. Students that are placed in OM
Consultation are monitored by the OM specialist and their classroom teachers. An
observation of the student is performed through the above mentioned monthly monitor sheet.
There are fees for enrollment in either the Optimal Match Program or the OM Consultation.

Counseling Services
The Elementary School Counselor works with all students individually and in group settings to
help them succeed in the Elementary School emotionally, socially and cognitively. If a
student has a challenge or feels uncertain about some aspect of the Elementary School, the
Counselor may be consulted. The Counselor works closely with teachers and parents to
resolve any issues students may be faced with. The Counselor provides yearly school-wide
psycho-educational programs for grades JK-5 on various topics. Some of these topics include
the Wellness (Anti-Drug) and the Anti-Bullying Programs. The Counselor also provides
classroom interventions on a needs basis (i.e. communication skills, respect of one’s privacy,
stress, conflict resolution, etc.)

In addition the Counselor invites parents to discuss a variety of child development issues once
a month (every 3rd Wednesday of the month from 9:15-10:00 a.m.). Parents may contact
the Counselor Ms. Alessandra Sax-Lane at 210.639.3200 ext. 266.

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ESAS and ICCT ARTS ACADEMY
(The Elementary Sports After-School and Institute for Critical and Creative Thinking Arts
Academy)

ACS Athens Elementary believes that participation in a co-curricular

activity is important to a student’s development.

The ESAS and Arts Academy programs are primarily run by

teachers or other professionals. Participating students are asked to
make a donation. Parents provide their own transportation.
Classes typically run once a week from 3:45 to 5:00 p.m. We
strongly encourage all ACS Athens students to get involved. Many
of the programs culminate with an exciting exhibition of some kind.
If there is an activity you would like to suggest or lead, please let us know!

All ESAS information will be made available on our website at the beginning of each
semester. Registration will be made available online.

A Sample of Past ESAS Activities Offered at ACS Athens:

• Basketball
• Karate (Beginning and Advanced)
• Soccer
• Swimming (Various Levels)
• Tennis

A Sample of Past Arts Academy Activities Offered at ACS Athens:

• Ballet
• Modern Dance
• Chinese Language and Culture
• Classical Guitar
• Art History

Staying After-School
Buses depart campus at 3:40 p.m. All students must leave campus at that time unless they
are staying for an activity that starts immediately after school. Students are not allowed to
wander around school grounds or play outside without parental supervision. Parents must
pick up their child(ren) on time as students are too young to be left unaccompanied.

The House System

The House System was started at ACS in 1950 and established in the Elementary School in
2007. All students, faculty, and staff are assigned to one of four houses as a life-time
member; Athenian (green), Corinthian (red), Spartan (blue), or Trojan (yellow). It is a
concept meant to bond teachers and students, encourage school spirit and build a strong
sense of belonging to our school. It is also meant to create a sense of continuity and
permanence for our graduates.

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Student Council
The Student Council plays a significant role in the life of the Elementary School. Student
Council representatives are elected in class three times a year while meetings are held twice
a month. Student councils representatives work with faculty and are encouraged to assume
the position of spokespeople for their classmates. Students are encouraged to make
suggestions to their representatives concerning the school.

Health Services
The health and safety of your child at school is of utmost concern. A registered full
time nurse and a consulting part time physician on campus administer emergency
first aid treatments and care for sudden illnesses. In addition, several elementary
staff members including the PE Teacher are trained and certified in CPR/First Aid.

The nurse also conducts regular vision and lice checks and maintains a health
record for every student. If the child needs to be taken home, the nurse will call
you directly. If the student is severely injured and we cannot reach anyone at home, the
student will be taken directly to the nearest hospital for proper treatment. Ms. Mary
Papalanis, the School Nurse, can be reached at: 210 639-3200, ext. 217.

All students are required to have a physical examination by their family physician within thirty
(30) days of their enrollment which must be updated yearly. Please note the following:
Prescription medication will not be administered by the Health Office to students of any age
unless the medication is provided by the parent and accompanied by a note which clearly
states the dosage and time the drug should be given as well as the reason it was ordered.
Non-prescription medication may be administered to JK-5th grade students only when parent
consent has been obtained by phone on each occasion.

A child recovering from an illness should not return to school until she/he is well enough to
participate in the full, regular school day, including recess, lunch and PE classes. Students
must be fever free for at least 24 hours before returning to school.

Students cannot attend any ESAS activities including swimming without an updated
physical examination form.

Lunch Program
Students are offered a complete, balanced hot meal. A detailed
menu will be posted monthly on the school website. Each lunch menu
(a complete meal) will have a set price and students will be able to buy
the meals in advance using a card system.

The cafeteria is equipped to provide daily lunches and to serve food for
various events and activities during the year. Proper behavior in the
cafeteria means exhibiting good restaurant dining manners. Students
are to proceed in single file through the serving line, and once they have received their food,
they are to remain seated until they are done eating. All students are expected to dispose of
their own trash and to return the trays before leaving the cafeteria.

Many students choose to bring lunches from home. Please be aware that students are not
allowed to purchase items from the on-campus kiosk or off-campus taverna while at school.

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If your child is staying for after-school activities, please have them bring a healthy snack or
drink from home.

Important Note: Parents are responsible to provide their children with a lunch, a lunch card
or money to buy lunch daily. The Elementary School Office does not provide lunch passes.

Transportation
Bus services are contracted by ACS Athens parents and cover virtually the entire Athens area.
Students are transported by professional drivers and are supervised on the bus by a
monitor. Bus monitors regularly communicate and collaborate with the
building principals regarding discipline issues. Ms. Leta Meleki,
the Transportation Head, can be reached at: 210.639.3555 or
210.639.3200, ext. 239.

Bus Procedures
Students must be at the assigned stop at the scheduled boarding
time. Students must disembark only at the scheduled stop.
If a student wishes to take a bus other than the one normally
assigned, or get off at a stop other than the one normally assigned, a
written parent request must be submitted to the transportation
office for approval 24 hours in advance and presented to the
monitor before boarding. Permission to ride on a different bus will be granted only if
space is available.

Change of address resulting in a change of route or bus stop should be presented to the
transportation office in writing two days prior to the change. Failure or considerable delay of
the bus in arriving at the scheduled pick-up point entitles students to secure alternate
transportations to the school. The Transportation Officer will make reimbursement of any
costs incurred.

Concerns regarding the bus monitor or driver must be registered with the Transportation
Officer. Bus monitors reserve the right to assign students to a specific seat and all passengers
must comply with these directions.

Students are expected to follow the Bus Code of Conduct to ensure a safe ride for
everyone. Consequences are clearly spelled out for students. Please review the
transportation code of conduct, talk with your child about these rules, and let transportation
know if there is a concern or problem. Making sure your students are feeling safe and happy
during their commute is important to us. Should students not follow the Bus Code of
Conduct, they will first be given a warning from the Principal. If the behavior is repeated a
second time, they will be asked not to ride the bus for a week. If the behavior is repeated for
a third time, they will not be allowed to ride the bus for the month. Finally, if the behavior is
repeated for a fourth time, they will not be allowed to ride the bus for the remainder of the
school year. Students’ safety is a serious issue.

There are no after-school activity buses (ESAS or ICCT Arts Academy) for elementary
students. Parents must provide transportation after school on these days. Students need to
be picked up at 5:00 p.m.

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Bus Code of Conduct:
Students must follow the directions of the bus monitors, adults and drivers at all times.
No eating, drinking or smoking is allowed.
Students must be quiet and seated in their assigned seat at all times.
Respectful language must be used at all times.
No weapons/toy weapons or incendiary devices are allowed at any time.

Special Traditions
In addition to our curriculum activities, the Elementary School enjoys its own special
traditions. Parent volunteers are essential to the success of these events. If you would like
to assist with any one of these traditional events, or others, contact the classroom teacher.
Please understand that some of these events are subject to change.

September
• Opening Assembly
• First Grade Parent Orientation
• Back To School Night

October
• Picture Days
• Parent Teacher Conferences
• OXI Day Celebration (Fourth Grade performance)
• PTO Halloween Carnival / Pumpkin Patch

November
• First Grade Dino-Daze Show
• Thanksgiving Holiday

December
• Winter Concert
• Second Grade Greek Folk Museum Exhibition
• Report Cards

February
• Second Grade Food Show
• Fifth Grade Play
• Third Grade Space Gallery
• 100th Day Celebration

March
• Fourth Grade Reader’s Theater Performance
• Report Cards/Parent-Teacher Conferences
• Greek Independence Day Celebration

April
• Fourth Grade Simple Machines Expo
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 • Poetry Break
• Taverna Day

May
• JK/KG Field Day
• Spring Concert
• Third Grade Talent Show
• Student-Led Conferences
• Student Art Show
• Spring Fair

June
• Grades 1-5 Field Day
• Second Grade African Exhibition
• Kindergarten Graduation
• Fifth Grade Graduation
• Volunteer Reception
• Report Cards

Role of Parents
Due to the rigor of our program, parents need to take an active role in guiding schoolwork
and organizational skills. Besides creating a quiet study area, parents can help to foster a
positive academic attitude by engaging their children in dinner discussions about what
transpired during the day’s classes. Having resource materials handy, such as a dictionary,
thesaurus, internet connection etc., and limiting T.V. viewing and non-academic computer
use can also help. Encourage your children to read for pleasure. Take time to share
responses to books and articles you have read in common. The Home/School Connection is a
vital one as it sends a clear message to students that we are all working together for their
success. In short, we need to be on the same team. If you have concerns, or questions, go
to the teacher and talk with him or her first. Parents should seek to resolve problems
by conferring with the teacher first. Should there be any further concerns after
consulting with the teacher, the chain of command is as follows: Department
Chair, Principal and, finally, President of ACS Athens.

There are many volunteer opportunities at the Elementary School. Some are assisting in the
library or art room, sewing costumes or building sets for grade level plays, taking photos for
the Yearbook, being a guest speaker, assisting during DIBELS Testing, helping with Bake
Sales, ad infinitum! We welcome you to our school as a volunteer. Please contact your
child’s teacher or call the Main Office if you would like to volunteer in any area.

PTO
ACS Athens has an active and enthusiastic Parent/Teacher Organization. A combined PTO
serving all three schools meet monthly after the Principals’ Coffee and work collaboratively to
support the respective schools. There are representatives who serve each school. The PTO
organizes social activities for the families at ACS Athens, parent and staff functions, fund-
raising events and informational programs. All parents are asked to get involved with the
PTO in some capacity and attend monthly meetings. Big PTO Events include: Welcome Back
Barbeque, Halloween Carnival, Christmas Bazaar, Spring Fair and Campus Beautification.
Please get involved!
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Room Parents
Each grade level has one or two parents that act as room parents and work closely with the
classroom teacher to arrange various celebrations in the Elementary School throughout the
year. In case of school cancellation, the room parents will be contacted by the pertinent
teacher and will be asked to assist in notifying parents according to an existing phone tree.

Parents Supporting Athletics (PSA)

An active group of parents, the “PSA”, help raise money and encourage participation JK–12 in
athletic events and programs. Please contact the Athletic Office for more information.

Personal Property
The school cannot assume responsibility for the loss of personal property, and the school
does not carry insurance to cover the loss of student property. To avoid the possibility of
loss, students should not bring expensive jewelry, large sums of money, radios, CD players,
iPods or other valuable or personal objects to school.

Lost & Found

Label, label, label!!! And when this fails, check the Lost & Found (located in the
multi-purpose room) for items that are missing. We will set up a Lost & Found
table during Winter Break, the Parent/Teacher Conferences and at the end of the
school year. Unclaimed items are given to a charity. Expensive toys, electronics, and
valuable items in general should not be brought to school.

Vehicles of Communication
Report Cards
Report cards are posted on Family Access three times a year at the end of each trimester.
Parents can view their child’s report card on line by entering the Skyward Family Access
Report Card program.

ACS Athens will report on each student’s achievement and progress at the conclusion of each
60-day trimester.

A student must be enrolled at least five weeks in order to receive a complete report card.
If a child demonstrates achievement or behavior that would result in a “1” rating (“Not
Meeting Standards: Is not yet demonstrating expected skills and knowledge”) parents should
expect to be informed. In this way parents are informed and invited to an “intervention
process” for their child.

In the event a child leaves ACS Athens prior to the last day of school, the final report card
may be mailed to the family on the last day of school. Parents should provide the school an
address of the new school.

Conferences
Conferences are scheduled three times per year; Parent/Teacher Conferences in the fall,
Parent/Teacher Conferences “As Needed” in the spring, and Student-Led Conferences in the
spring. We consider the Parent/Teacher Conference the most important means of reporting

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student progress and sharing information about your child’s successes and challenges in
school. We also encourage you to arrange for a conference at any time throughout the year
to gather more information about your child’s learning experience and find out ways you may
be able to help at home. Please make arrangements with the teachers in advance via the
student Passport.

Student-Led Conferences
ACS Athens is excited to have student-led conferences during the spring. Student-led
conferences have been used at many state-of-the-art schools. Students and teachers jointly
select finished work to be shared, and the students direct the conference by sharing his/her
Portfolio with his/her parents. Both the student and the parent reflect upon the successes
achieved and challenges ahead. Students take ownership of their academic progress while
parents dialogue with their child about schoolwork and assessment.

Passports
Each student Grades JK to 5 is issued a Passport at the beginning of the school year.
Students are expected to write down assignments and organize their homework in these
notebooks DAILY.

Teachers will often write special messages for parents in the Passports and parents are
encouraged to use the Passport to communicate with the teacher. We also use Passports to
motivate students and ask that you do the same. Students must bring their Passports to and
from school DAILY. Parents are expected to sign the passport should a message be written
from the teacher so that we know they have seen it. Replacement Passports will be issued
for 5 Euro (subject to change depending on current prices) available at the Main Office.

Elementary Newsletter
Every month the entire school community JK to 5 publishes The Muse, a newsletter for
parents which apart from the hard copy distributed to students, is posted on our website. The
Principal and teachers share highlights from the school and explain what is happening in each
grade level.

Monthly Principal’s Coffee

Parents are welcome to join the Elementary Principal and Counselor for a
monthly coffee meeting. The agenda for that day is posted in our
webpage for parents to view. Educational innovations are discussed,
recent developments school-wide are introduced and upcoming calendar
events are explained. Principal Coffees are another form of
communication at ACS Athens. Teachers sometimes conduct lessons,
as well, for parents. It’s a wonderful way to meet other parents. Join
us!

Website
The ACS Athens website www.acs.gr can be accessed by parents and students. It contains
a variety of useful announcements, the school calendar, our Elementary School Newsletter
and upcoming events to name a few. Should there be an announcement for school

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cancellation, for whatever reason, it will be posted on our website and/or emails will be sent
to parents notifying them of the closing of school.

Telephone
The phone is a quick and personal way of getting in touch with
a teacher or staff member. Call Ms. Anny Kalfa, Elementary
School Administrative Assistant, ext. 229 to leave a message.
The teacher or staff member will return your call as soon as
they are able to do so. Please remember that a teacher’s day is
quite full and may extend into the evening. Therefore, it may
take a day to get back to you.

School Activities
School Photos
A photographer comes to the school every fall to photograph students individually and with
their class. Parents may choose to purchase the photo package, but there is no obligation to
do so. See Ms. Anny Kalfa in the Main Office for more information. We sometimes have
volunteers throughout the year taking publicity shots for school. You may see them in the
annual Yearbook!

Field Trips
During the school year, several trips are scheduled which relate to specific subject matter
studied at each grade level. We consider the field trips to be a crucial element of our
curriculum. Field trips extend the classroom studies allowing students to collect data and
apply and connect learning to the real world. We expect all students to attend. There are
usually two field trips a year for each grade.

No child is permitted to take a trip without parental permission (given via a permission slip
prior to the trip). Students are expected to exhibit good behavior as representatives of ACS
Athens Elementary School. If the teachers and Principal feel that a student’s behavior and/or
decision-making is questionable, we reserve the right to have him/her remain at school
during the trip.

Birthday and Holiday Celebrations

If your child wants to celebrate his/her birthday with the class, we ask that
you provide enough treats for the entire class. They will be distributed
during snack break. These celebrations are short (usually celebrated at
recess or in the last fifteen minutes of the school day), as we need to keep
all non-instructional class minutes to a minimum. Teachers must know well
in advance of any celebrations planned. Cupcakes, cookies or individually
wrapped treats are appropriate.

Only when there is an invitation for every child in class may invitations for any party be
distributed at school. All others must be mailed. The school cannot be responsible for
handing out party invitations. Please be willing to teach your child discretion for the feelings
of those not invited.

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Enrollment
Admission/Registration
*See Student Admission Policy for detailed information or contact Mr. John Papadakis,
Director of Enrollment Management at 210.639.3200, ext. 263.

Junior Kindergarten students must be three or four years old on or before December
31st of the year they register at ACS Athens. No exceptions will be made. Junior
Kindergarten is a two year program.

Kindergarten students must be five years old on or before December 31st of the year
they enter school. No exceptions are made.

Parents registering their child for school must make an appointment to meet with Mr. John
Papadakis, Director of Enrollment Management, ext. 263. The school carefully reviews the
student’s academic history/portfolio (KG to Fifth Grade only) and conducts an informal
assessment and interview before acceptance into the program (JK to Fifth Grade). Parents
should bring student report card/s and records, samples of student work, if available,
passport/s and/or birth certificate, and a residence permit with them when registering their
child(ren).

Transfers From Our School

Given the transient nature of many of our families, it occasionally becomes necessary to
withdraw a student from school during the year. If your child is moving to another school
please let us know at least one week in advance so that we can efficiently collect and
prepare needed transfer materials. Records will be mailed if the request is immediate and
urgent. A forwarding address will be requested in either case. The receiving school will
receive student report card/s and records.

If there is anything else we could provide to ensure proper placement and success for your
child, please let us know.

Please note: Any student officially withdrawn from ACS Athens who wishes to return to the
school, needs to re-apply for admission, submitting all application related documentation. For
more information, please contact the Office of Enrollment Management, extension 251 or 263
or visit the Admission section at www.acs.gr.

Visitor/Guest Policy
We make every effort to keep the classroom sacred so that maximum teaching and learning
can take place. Serious work is being done in the classroom and teachers appreciate
professional space and respect. For that reason, visitors are not allowed in a classroom
unless they have a Visitors Pass or have made prior arrangements with the teacher
and Principal.

Prospective students are invited to visit the school for a day after speaking with the Principal
or Counselor and allowing at least one day to make proper arrangements with the teachers.
We limit visitations during the first two weeks and the last two weeks of school.

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Students may be permitted to bring a guest to school for one day only, providing it is not
during exams. Prior approval is required and can be secured from the Principal by bringing a
note from parents a day before the visit.

First, the parents of the ACS Athens students must write a letter to the school Principal asking
for permission for their child to bring a student guest. This letter should be written at least
one day prior to the guest’s arrival on campus and should state the reason why the ACS
Athens student would like to have a guest on campus for that day. It is suggested that the
reason for the visit be educationally appropriate and that the visiting guest respect the
educational environment and not distract the other students, teachers or the academic
program.

Each request will be carefully reviewed by the Principal and a decision will be made based on
what is best for the student body as a whole. Unfortunately, same day requests will not be
approved.

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- 27 -
129 Aghias Paraskevis St. & Kazantzaki, 152 34 Halandri, Athens, Greece
Tel.: +30 (210) 639 3200, Fax: +30 (210) 639 0051
www.acs.gr- 28
™ -acs@acs.gr