AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF JOHANNESBURG - Strategic Policies 2017 2018
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AMERICAN
INTERNATIONAL
SCHOOL OF
JOHANNESBURG
Strategic Policies
2017 - 2018
1
As of March 2018Table of Contents:
1. THE SCHOOL AND ITS GOALS ............................................................................................................................. 5
1.1. Vision and Goals.................................................................................................................................................. 5
1.1.1. Vision Statement ............................................................................................................................................. 5
1.1.2. Core Values (amended October 2015)............................................................................................................ 5
1.1.3. Parameters (amended October 2015) ............................................................................................................. 5
1.1.4. Mission Statement (amended October 2015) .................................................................................................. 5
1.2. Social and Ethics Policy....................................................................................................................................... 5
1.3. Non-Discrimination (amended April 2017) ........................................................................................................... 6
1.4. Environment and Sustainability ........................................................................................................................... 6
1.5. Good Corporate Citizenship and Community Engagement ................................................................................. 6
1.6. Protection of Personal Information....................................................................................................................... 6
1.7. School Calendar .................................................................................................................................................. 6
1.8. School Day .......................................................................................................................................................... 6
1.9. Accreditations, Memberships and Affiliations ...................................................................................................... 6
1.10. The Parent Associations (amended April 2017) .................................................................................................. 7
1.10.1. The Purpose of the Parent Associations (amended April 2017) ................................................................. 7
1.10.2. The Parent Associations’ Structures and Procedures (amended April 2017) ............................................. 7
2. GOVERNING BOARD ............................................................................................................................................. 7
2.1. Purpose ............................................................................................................................................................... 7
2.2. Board Liability ...................................................................................................................................................... 7
3. POLICY DEVELOPMENT ........................................................................................................................................ 7
3.1. Responsibility of the Board/School Director......................................................................................................... 7
3.2. Policy Resolutions ............................................................................................................................................... 7
3.3. Policy Review ( .................................................................................................................................................... 7
3.4. Policy Implementation.......................................................................................................................................... 7
3.4.1. School Director’s Responsibility ...................................................................................................................... 8
3.4.2. Handbook Revisions ....................................................................................................................................... 8
3.5. Strategic Policies ................................................................................................................................................. 8
3.5.1. Final Authority ................................................................................................................................................. 8
3.5.2. Exceptions ....................................................................................................................................................... 8
4. FISCAL MANAGEMENT .......................................................................................................................................... 8
4.1. Fiscal Year ........................................................................................................................................................... 8
4.2. General Policy ..................................................................................................................................................... 8
4.2.1. Board’s Fiscal Responsibilities ........................................................................................................................ 8
4.2.2. Annual Budget ................................................................................................................................................. 9
4.3. Funds Management/Depository ........................................................................................................................... 9
4.3.1. School Director’s Responsibility ...................................................................................................................... 9
4.3.2. Board Finance Committee’s Responsibility ..................................................................................................... 9
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As of March 20184.4. Preparation and Approval of Budget Documents................................................................................................. 9
4.5. Budget Adoption .................................................................................................................................................. 9
4.6. Budget Amendments ........................................................................................................................................... 9
4.7. Authorization and Limits of Authority for Expenditures of Money......................................................................... 9
4.8. Audit .................................................................................................................................................................... 9
4.9. Tuition and Other Fees ...................................................................................................................................... 10
4.10. Financial Aid ...................................................................................................................................................... 10
4.11. Scholarship Program ......................................................................................................................................... 10
4.12. Donations, Gifts and Bequests .......................................................................................................................... 10
4.13. Advertising and Sponsorship ............................................................................................................................. 10
4.14. Fundraising ........................................................................................................................................................ 10
4.15. Reserves ........................................................................................................................................................... 10
4.16. Periodic Financial Reports ................................................................................................................................. 10
5. HEALTH AND SAFETY (amended April 2017) ...................................................................................................... 10
5.1. General Health and Safety (amended April 2017) ............................................................................................. 10
5.2. Security (amended April 2017) .......................................................................................................................... 11
5.3. Emergency School Closings .............................................................................................................................. 11
5.4. Drugs and Alcohol (amended April 2017) .......................................................................................................... 11
5.5. Child Protection Policy (adopted September 2014, amended April 2017) ......................................................... 11
5.5.1. Annual Training for Staff................................................................................................................................ 11
6. PERSONNEL ......................................................................................................................................................... 11
6.1. Appointment of the School Director ................................................................................................................... 11
6.2. Function and Responsibility of the School Director ........................................................................................... 12
6.3. Staff Recruitment and Evaluation ...................................................................................................................... 12
6.4. Professional Development (adopted April 2017) ............................................................................................... 12
6.5. Personnel Ethics (amended April 2017) ............................................................................................................ 12
6.6. Salary Scales/Benefits ....................................................................................................................................... 12
6.7. Disciplinary Decisions (amended April 2017) .................................................................................................... 12
6.8. Grievances (amended April 2017) ..................................................................................................................... 12
7. INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAM ............................................................................................................................... 13
7.1. Curriculum ......................................................................................................................................................... 13
7.2. Religion.............................................................................................................................................................. 13
7.3. Graduation Requirements.................................................................................................................................. 13
7.4. Class Sizes ........................................................................................................................................................ 13
7.5. After School Activities ........................................................................................................................................ 13
7.6. Service Learning ................................................................................................................................................ 13
8. STUDENTS ............................................................................................................................................................ 14
8.1. Admissions (amended May 2014) ..................................................................................................................... 14
8.1.1. General Policy ............................................................................................................................................... 14
3
As of March 20188.1.2. Admission Review Panel ............................................................................................................................... 14
8.1.3. Admissions for Students with Learning Support Needs................................................................................. 14
8.2. Guardianship Requirements (amended April 2017)........................................................................................... 14
8.3. Student Removal from School ........................................................................................................................... 14
8.3.1. General Policy ............................................................................................................................................... 14
8.3.2. Student Suspension or Expulsion.................................................................................................................. 15
8.3.3. Parental Appeal for Student Removal ........................................................................................................... 15
8.4. Age at time of Enrollment .................................................................................................................................. 15
8.5. Placement .......................................................................................................................................................... 15
8.6. Conduct ............................................................................................................................................................. 15
8.7. Student Records ................................................................................................................................................ 15
8.7.1. Collection, Maintenance and Dissemination of Student Records .................................................................. 15
8.7.2. Duration of Record Maintenance ................................................................................................................... 15
9. FACILITIES ............................................................................................................................................................ 15
9.1. Master Plan (amended September 2013) .......................................................................................................... 15
9.1.1. Annual Maintenance Plan ............................................................................................................................. 16
9.2. Housing ............................................................................................................................................................. 16
9.2.1. Staff Housing ................................................................................................................................................. 16
9.2.2. Faculty housing ............................................................................................................................................. 16
9.2.3. Student housing ............................................................................................................................................ 16
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As of March 2018AISJ STRATEGIC POLICIES
1. THE SCHOOL AND ITS GOALS
1.1. Vision and Goals
1.1.1. Vision Statement
Together we dare to imagine, inspire to succeed, and courageously make a difference.
1.1.2. Core Values (amended October 2015)
We believe that:
a. Honesty, integrity, and accountability are fundamental;
b. Personalized, differentiated, authentic, and inspired teaching and learning are essential for
achievement and growth;
c. A culture of continuous improvement is critical to success;
d. Diversity and inclusion encourage open-mindedness and empathy;
e. Learning is cognitive, creative, active, and purposeful;
f. Creativity, adaptability, curiosity, and inquiry equip us to thrive in a changing world;
g. Strong community is built through participation, communication, collaboration, and mutual
respect;
h. Contributing positively to society is our responsibility.
1.1.3. Parameters (amended October 2015)
AISJ will….
a. Ensure that school enrollment, resources, and capacity are aligned;
b. Maintain a sense of community and attention to individuals;
c. Not tolerate behavior that is detrimental to the safety, integrity, or dignity of any individual;
d. Hire and retain qualified and adaptable staff whose attitudes and actions reflect the school’s
Vision, Mission, and Core Values;
e. Adhere to a sustainable and transparent financial plan;
f. Maintain a strong international identity while respecting our host country’s cultures;
g. Approve and maintain only those programs that are consistent with the strategic direction, are
financially justified, and provide for professional development and assessment;
h. Provide a Pre-K-12 education;
i. Use English as the primary language of instruction.
1.1.4. Mission Statement (amended October 2015)
Inspired Learners: Connected, Creative, and Courageous
1.2. Social and Ethics Policy
The AISJ Board is committed to effective leadership based on a foundation of ethical standards and
social responsibility. This commitment means that the School’s values, including those of an ethical
nature, are emphasized, articulated and demonstrated in all actions of the School.
To achieve this goal and in compliance with the Companies Act, the Board maintains social and ethics
responsibilities for AISJ and monitors the School’s activities with regard to social and economic
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As of March 2018development; good corporate citizenship; the environment, health and public safety; consumer
relationships; and labor and employment. The Board monitors these through its standing committees
and ensures, through the School Director, that the School’s values are visible and realized across all
sectors of the School.
1.3. Non-Discrimination (amended April 2017)
AISJ is committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our
community, and prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, religion, gender, gender expression, sexual
orientation, ethnicity, age or disability. Further, all employment procedures will comply with the Basic
Conditions of Employment Act, Employment Equity Act, Labor Relations Act, and any other applicable
laws of the Republic of South Africa, including the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa.
1.4. Environment and Sustainability
AISJ considers the environmental impacts of its decisions, actions, and purchases with the aim of
minimizing the school’s negative impact on the environment. AISJ strives to conduct its activities in an
ecologically sound, socially just and economically viable manner and will continue to do so in the interest
of future generations. Guidelines for sustainability at all levels of the school and its activities are
contained in relevant procedural handbooks.
1.5. Good Corporate Citizenship and Community Engagement
As a good corporate citizen and in alignment with its Core Values, AISJ recognizes its responsibility to
the greater community in which it operates. AISJ is committed to positively impacting those outside of
AISJ and strives to enhance and improve the lives of others in the local community, South Africa, and
the world. The Board and the School Director together ensure that the School engages in good corporate
citizenship practices in line with the School’s Core Values, the Companies Act of South Africa and the
King IV Report on Corporate Governance for South Africa 2016.
1.6. Protection of Personal Information
AISJ is committed to protecting student, parent, and employee privacy and ensuring that all personal
information is stored, shared, and used appropriately, transparently, securely, and in accordance with
prevailing law, including the Protected Disclosures Act and the Protection of Personal Information Act.
Access to such data is limited to authorized School personnel who require the data for their job function.
The School Director ensures that AISJ’s protection of personal information procedures are aligned with
the relevant legislation and procedurally documented in the relevant handbooks.
1.7. School Calendar
The School Director prepares the school calendar for the ensuing academic year by December for
approval by the Board. The calendar lists student contact days (defined as a day when students are in
school), which normally number 180, and follows the North American school calendar.
1.8. School Day
The School Director sets and structures the school day to support the instructional program. S/he may
schedule release time for special activities for students or teachers when such activities are deemed
beneficial to the instructional program.
1.9. Accreditations, Memberships and Affiliations
AISJ maintains an American accreditation and may maintain other accreditations, memberships and
affiliations as deemed beneficial to AISJ by the School Director. Any change to accreditation agencies
requires Board approval.
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As of March 20181.10. The Parent Associations (amended April 2017)
1.10.1. The Purpose of the Parent Associations (amended April 2017)
The Parent Associations (PAs) provide a structure for parents to become involved in, and enhance,
the AISJ community experience, and to support the school’s Mission and Vision. AISJ believes
that vibrant Parent Associations contribute to the health of the school and encourage administration,
faculty and staff to work cooperatively with the PAs.
1.10.2. The Parent Associations’ Structures and Procedures (amended April 2017)
The PAs on both campuses exist as entities subject to the full legal framework of AISJ and the
School Director is, therefore, responsible for overseeing and approving all PA activities. The PAs’
Missions and accompanying By-Laws must be in alignment with the school’s Vision, Core Values,
Parameters, Mission and all school regulations detailed in the procedural Handbooks.
2. GOVERNING BOARD
2.1. Purpose (amended April 2017)
The AISJ Board is responsible for the long-term sustainability of the school. It sets the Mission, Vision,
Core Values, Parameters, and strategic direction of the school as well as school policy. It is also
responsible for the hiring, retention and annual evaluation of the School Director, maintaining financial
sustainability and providing the oversight necessary to ensure a quality program. Full details of the
Board’s structures and procedures are contained in the Memorandum of Incorporation, the Board
Charter, and the Board of Directors Governance Handbook. The Board is committed to transparency
and good governance. It welcomes contributions and insight from the AISJ community at large and
encourages this by providing a variety of opportunities for public participation.
2.2. Board Liability (amended April 2017)
AISJ provides comprehensive professional liability insurance to all Board Members to the fullest cover
permitted by the applicable law.
3. POLICY DEVELOPMENT
3.1. Responsibility of the Board/School Director
The Board is responsible for policy development for AISJ. The School Director is responsible for the
development and implementation of guidelines and procedures to execute policy, as detailed in section
3.4.
3.2. Policy Resolutions
Policy resolutions must be discussed at a minimum of two Board meetings. Changes in policy are
introduced by the Board itself or by the School Director to the Board as per the Board of Directors
Governance Handbook with opportunity for public commentary before final Board approval.
3.3. Policy Review (amended April 2017)
AISJ's Strategic Policies are reviewed annually. The review is the responsibility of the Governance
Committee. Any amendments to the Policies require Board approval.
3.4. Policy Implementation
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As of March 20183.4.1. School Director’s Responsibility
The School Director is responsible for implementation of school policy and the detailed
documentation and implementation of procedures and practices through the development and
maintenance of procedural handbooks. The handbooks cannot be in contravention of any of the
strategic policies as approved by the Board. In the event of a conflict, the strategic policy will prevail.
3.4.2. Handbook Revisions
Handbook revisions are on-going and the most recently approved electronic version is the most
accurate. Any material changes to handbooks must be presented to the Board. All amendments to
the Financial Procedures Handbook are reviewed by the Finance Committee and must be approved
by the Board. In the case of Board procedures, the Governance Committee is responsible for the
development and maintenance of a Board of Directors Governance Handbook. The School Director
will ensure annual reviews of the procedural handbooks and the Governance Committee will
annually review the Board of Directors Governance Handbook.
3.5. Strategic Policies (amended April 2017)
3.5.1. Final Authority (amended April 2017)
The Strategic Policies serve as the final authority in the case of conflict between the Strategic
Policies and procedural handbooks.
3.5.2. Exceptions (amended April 2017)
Any exceptions to the Strategic Policies require the prior approval of the Board.
4. FISCAL MANAGEMENT
4.1. Fiscal Year
The fiscal year of AISJ runs from July 1 to June 30 of the following year.
4.2. General Policy
AISJ will adhere to the letter and spirit of all applicable laws and regulations in South Africa. The School
Director is responsible for ensuring this compliance. AISJ is a nonprofit institution incorporated under
the Companies Act, No.71 of 2008, as amended.
4.2.1. Board’s Fiscal Responsibilities (amended April 2017)
The Board recognizes that sound fiscal management provides the foundational support of the overall
AISJ program. To make this support as effective as possible, the Board is responsible for:
• ensuring advance planning through the best possible budget procedures and the maintenance of
an ongoing five-year operational and capital plan;
• exploring practical and feasible sources of income;
• ensuring appropriate risk management;
• budgeting and managing the school’s finances so that adequate financial strength is maintained;
ensuring quality accounting and reporting procedures are observed;
• maintaining the level of expenditure required to provide high quality education;
• maintaining responsible reserve funds.
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As of March 20184.2.2. Annual Budget
The annual budget, once approved, will be considered a controlled spending plan for the ensuing
fiscal year as detailed in the Financial Procedures Handbook.
4.3. Funds Management/Depository
4.3.1. School Director’s Responsibility
The School Director is responsible for the day-to-day management of AISJ’s funds. S/he will meet
monthly with the Finance Committee to inform it of the school’s current financial status and
to seek its advice concerning management of funds.
4.3.2. Board Finance Committee’s Responsibility
Financial management by the School Director must ensure sufficient liquidity to enable AISJ to
operate efficiently. The allocation of short-term surplus and management of cash flow will be
monitored by the Finance Committee on a monthly basis. The allocation of year-end surplus and
determination of reserve levels will be recommended by the School Director, reviewed by the
Finance Committee and approved by the Board annually.
4.4. Preparation and Approval of Budget Documents
The preparation of the budget is the responsibility of the School Director. The budget is initially reviewed
by the Finance Committee prior to submission to the Board for final approval each fiscal year.
4.5. Budget Adoption (amended April 2017)
The Board approves the preliminary annual operating budget parameters for the ensuing school year by
November of the current school year and approves the final budget by March. The budget must
adequately finance ongoing programs and provide for additions or alterations as dictated by the
projected needs of the school and reasonable allowances for the uncertainties of forecasting.
4.6. Budget Amendments
Amendments can be made at any time to the approved budget where significant changes to income or
expenditure have occurred or are expected. As detailed in the Financial Procedures Handbook, the
School Director is authorized to approve these changes within prescribed limits. All other amendments
are reviewed by the Finance Committee before they are submitted to the Board for approval.
4.7. Authorization and Limits of Authority for Expenditures of Money (amended April 2017)
All financial procedures, authorizations and levels of expenditures are set out in the Financial Procedures
Handbook. The Finance Committee reviews the Financial Procedures Handbook annually and it is
approved by the Board annually. It is the School Director’s responsibility to ensure the School’s financial
practices are aligned with the Financial Procedures Handbook.
4.8. Audit
The Board commissions an annual audit at the conclusion of the fiscal year, overseen by the Treasurer.
The preparation of materials for the audit is the responsibility of the School Director. The audited Annual
Financial Statements and accompanying Management Letter are reviewed by the Finance Committee
prior to submission to the Board for approval of the Annual Financial Statements. The Annual Financial
Statements must be completed and approved by November, presented to the AISJ community and filed
with appropriate government offices no later than the end of December following the conclusion of the
fiscal year.
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As of March 20184.9. Tuition and Other Fees
The Board will approve annually a Tuition Schedule detailing tuition and fees payable as per the
Financial Procedures Handbook. The establishment of any new fees requires the approval of the Board.
4.10. Financial Aid
AISJ provides financial assistance to AISJ families with a demonstrated financial need in accordance
with the Financial Procedures Handbook. Payment Plans are available and apply only to tuition; all other
fees must be paid as specified in the Tuition Schedule. Payment Plans are a form of financial aid and
are not intended to replace personal or commercial loans available.
4.11. Scholarship Program
AISJ will provide scholarships to local students who would not ordinarily have the opportunity to attend
AISJ due to financial constraints. The School Director is responsible for the development and execution
of a scholarship program at AISJ. Any significant program or budgetary changes to the program must
be approved by the Board of Directors.
4.12. Donations, Gifts and Bequests
AISJ may accept donations, gifts or bequests from any person, institution, trust or estate. The Board or
School Director may refuse donations, gifts or bequests offered to AISJ if, in their view, such acceptance
would compromise the Vision or goals of AISJ. The Board will be informed of any such donations, gifts
and bequests. The Board reserves the right to approve the naming rights within the AISJ facility.
4.13. Advertising and Sponsorship
The School Director must approve any advertising in/on the school’s facilities or in the school’s
publications and any sponsorship proposals or agreements.
4.14. Fundraising
Solicitations, canvassing and fundraising activities conducted on the school premises and/or in the name
of the school or in association with the school require the prior approval of the School Director. The
Board must authorize any capital fundraising activities directly for AISJ.
4.15. Reserves
Reserves are to be maintained at appropriate levels as recommended by the Finance Committee and
approved by the Board, as documented in the Financial Procedures Handbook.
4.16. Periodic Financial Reports
AISJ will maintain its financial books and records in accordance with International Financial Reporting
Standards and in the manner required by the Companies Act of South Africa. The School Director will
ensure the proper maintenance of the books and records of AISJ, as well as the preparation of all fiscal
and financial reports as documented in the Financial Procedures Handbook.
5. HEALTH AND SAFETY (AMENDED APRIL 2017)
5.1. General Health and Safety (amended April 2017)
In alignment with the AISJ Mission and the Occupational Health and Safety Act of South Africa (OHSA),
and through the provision of appropriate systems and resources, the Board strives to ensure a safe and
healthy learning environment and promotes responsible behavior for all community members. AISJ
provides a safe and healthy environment by taking sensible, proportionate, and effective steps to
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As of March 2018manage the School’s risks and to protect people from harm. The School Director is responsible for
ensuring health and safety procedures are documented in relevant handbooks and implemented
effectively.
5.2. Security (amended April 2017)
In alignment with the AISJ Mission and through the provision of appropriate systems and resources, the
Board strives to ensure effective security measures. The School Director is responsible for the
development of detailed security and emergency procedures. Final responsibility for the timing and
nature of emergency action rests with the School Director. The School Director will designate leadership
personnel to act in his/her absence.
5.3. Emergency School Closings
The School Director is authorized to close the school, delay the opening time of school, dismiss students
early, or hold students in school past dismissal time if, in his/her judgment, actual or potential hazards
to the safety and well-being of the students and staff make it necessary to change normal school
schedules.
a. If the School Director considers it necessary to close the school for longer than one day, s/he will
confer with the Board Chair before announcing closure of the School.
b. If the School Director considers it necessary to close the school for longer than one week, s/he
must make this recommendation to the Board. With the Board’s approval, this action will be taken
in accordance with the requirements of the Emergency Plan.
c. Instructional days lost due to emergency closings may be rescheduled by the School Director in
consultation with the Board.
d. The School Director is required to maintain an accurate and updated School Emergency Plan and
file it with the US Embassy Regional Security Officer.
5.4. Drugs and Alcohol (amended April 2017)
AISJ is smoke free and drug free. Alcohol may be served at predominantly non-student events and
requires the prior approval of the School Director. Specific procedures regarding Drugs and Alcohol are
found in the Faculty, Operations, and Parent/Student Handbooks.
5.5. Child Protection Policy (adopted September 2014, amended April 2017)
AISJ recognizes the impact of abuse and neglect on learning. Any staff member at AISJ must report
suspected incidences of child abuse, neglect or bullying whenever the staff member has a reasonable
cause to believe a child has suffered, or is at risk of suffering abuse, neglect or bullying. Reporting and
follow up of all suspected incidents will proceed in accordance with AISJ’s administrative regulations
relevant to this policy, which will be reviewed annually by the School Director.
5.5.1. Annual Training for Staff
AISJ will annually train staff to recognize and report child abuse, neglect and bullying.
6. PERSONNEL
6.1. Appointment of the School Director
The School Director is hired by the Board, which may utilize the advice of consultants or professional
services as needed. The Board will determine the School Director’s salary and benefits package, the
process for which is detailed in the Board of Directors Governance Handbook.
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As of March 20186.2. Function and Responsibility of the School Director
As the Chief Executive Officer of AISJ, the School Director is responsible for administering AISJ within
the limits imposed by established policy and procedures of the Board. The School Director is responsible
for the administration and supervision of the education program, selection and assignment of all AISJ
employees, maintenance of school-community relations and management of the plant and equipment.
The School Director should inform the Board of any promotions, significant personnel changes and
resignations.
6.3. Staff Recruitment and Evaluation
All personnel positions are appointed by the School Director. S/he will maintain job descriptions for all
staff positions detailing desirable experience and specific job tasks. The School Director will maintain a
process for evaluating performance in a fair and non-discriminatory manner as detailed in the Faculty,
Staff, and Teaching and Learning Handbooks.
6.4. Professional Development (adopted April 2017)
In alignment with its Core Values, AISJ is committed to a culture of continuous improvement and, as
such, funds relevant professional development opportunities for its employees. AISJ makes available
and encourages and supports employees to actively pursue professional development opportunities that
increase their skills, knowledge, and understanding. Supporting employees in these pursuits enhances
their contributions to the school. It is the School Director’s responsibility to ensure that the process,
eligibility, and requirements for professional development are outlined in the relevant handbooks.
6.5. Personnel Ethics (amended April 2017)
The AISJ Core Values commit the Board, School Director and all employees to integrity and
responsibility in their professional actions. The Board and School Director expect the highest standard
of personal and professional conduct from faculty and staff. The School Director is responsible for
ensuring that specific protocols are set forth in procedural handbooks and that faculty and staff adhere
to such protocols. The School Director is also responsible for ensuring that the School is aligned with
the social and ethics guidelines of the Companies Act 71, of 2008 (the Act) and the King Report on
Governance for South Africa (2017) (King IV), which are documented in appropriate procedural
handbooks.
6.6. Salary Scales/Benefits
The School Director will review the teacher and administration salary scales and benefits annually.
Changes will require Board approval.
6.7. Disciplinary Decisions (amended April 2017)
The School Director is responsible for decisions pertaining to the suspension or dismissal of any staff
member. It is the School Director’s responsibility to ensure that the Board Chair is informed, within seven
working days, of any decision made in this regard. The Board Chair will be informed of formal appeals
of disciplinary decisions and the Board will act as the final arbiter in the event of appeals as detailed in
the relevant handbooks and in line with the School’s Code of Conduct.
6.8. Grievances (amended April 2017)
In alignment with its Core Values AISJ aims to provide a fair, equitable and productive work environment
for all employees. All employees of the School have recourse to higher levels of authority should
grievances arise and they will all be treated with respect and impartiality and provided with support
throughout the process. The School Director is responsible for ensuring procedures for recourse are
12
As of March 2018detailed in relevant handbooks. It is the School Director’s responsibility to ensure that the Board Chair
is informed, within seven working days, of any formal grievance lodged. The Board will act as the final
arbiter in the event of appeals as detailed in the relevant handbooks and in line with the School’s Code
of Conduct.
7. INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAM
7.1. Curriculum
AISJ offers an American curriculum enriched with a diversity of international courses and programs.
The School Director is responsible for providing a complete and balanced educational program reflecting
AISJ’s Core Values.
a. AISJ also offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IBDP) for Grades 11-12.
b. Changes to the curriculum which have a significant financial impact on the school budget require the
approval of the Board.
c. The School Director will maintain a comprehensive plan for qualitative and quantitative assessment of
student learning as detailed in the Teaching and Learning Handbook.
d. The School Director is responsible for designing and implementing regular communication regarding
student progress as detailed in Parent/Student Handbooks.
7.2. Religion
AISJ is secular. Religious instruction is not a part of the scholastic program nor will the school premises
be used for religious-sponsored activities. The school respects specific student or teacher absences to
observe documented religious holidays. This absence must be in compliance with the procedures
and guidelines detailed in the relevant handbooks.
7.3. Graduation Requirements
The School Director sets graduation requirements as per accreditation standards, which must include a
service learning component as detailed in the Parent/Student Handbooks.
7.4. Class Sizes
AISJ maintains the following class size in any given year. The School Director may make short-term
adjustments to class sizes (not to extend beyond the current academic year) if unusual circumstances
exist or class balance requires adjustment and s/he will inform the Board of any such exceptions. In
some specific subjects, class size may be increased to enhance the learning environment.
Optimal Maximum
Pre-K – K 14 16
Grades 1 – 12 16 18
7.5. After School Activities
AISJ recognizes that a strong After School Activities Program is an essential part of a student's
education. The School Director is authorized to approve and administer all activities programs. No
academic credit will be given unless an activity is part of an approved academic course.
7.6. Service Learning
AISJ is committed to a culture of service. Service Learning is teaching and learning that connects
academic learning, personal growth and civic responsibility with positive and meaningful action in the
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As of March 2018community. AISJ delivers a K-12 Service Learning Program that is embedded into the curriculum, fulfils
graduation service requirements, and develops sustainable community partnerships. The School
Director ensures that Service Learning Program goals, procedures, and graduation requirements are
set forth in the relevant handbooks.
8. STUDENTS
8.1. Admissions (amended May 2014)
8.1.1. General Policy
AISJ is an inclusive, diverse, non-discriminatory international school. All interested students are
encouraged to apply. The admission process is guided by AISJ’s Core Values, School Parameters
and Mission Statement. AISJ views students as individuals and evaluates their ability to succeed
in the classroom and AISJ’s capacity to support and enable them to reach their fullest potential.
8.1.2. Admission Review Panel
A review panel of appropriate staff members from each division is responsible for making an
admissions recommendation; however, final admissions decisions are made by the School
Director. It should be noted that in making a decision, the review panel is informed by a set of
factors or criteria that addresses the diverse characteristics and capacity of the particular grade for
which a student is applying. These factors would include, in no particular order:
a. Gender
b. Citizenship
c. Language proficiency
d. Parent’s employer
e. Learning differences
f. Current schooling situation
g. Family links with the school
h. Date the application is complete
8.1.3. Admissions for Students with Learning Support Needs
In cases where a student (PreK-12) may need additional support, a review panel will evaluate the
student’s needs and AISJ’s capacity to offer accommodations within the guidelines of its Learning
Support services. Students entering high school are expected to be able to meet graduation
requirements.
8.2. Guardianship Requirements (amended April 2017)
Students must reside with at least one parent or guardian in the Johannesburg/Pretoria area to be
admitted and maintain enrollment status. The School Director may grant exception based on a student’s
well-being and education.
8.3. Student Removal from School
8.3.1. General Policy
The School Director reserves the right to remove a student if his/her medical condition, learning
progress or behavioral performance is detrimental to his/her own or other students’ learning and
safety.
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As of March 20188.3.2. Student Suspension or Expulsion
The School Director may suspend or expel any student in accordance with the Parent/Student
Handbooks at his/her sole discretion.
8.3.3. Parental Appeal for Student Removal
Parents may appeal to the School Director in writing within one (1) week of notification of
suspension or expulsion. The Board will be notified in the case of an expulsion and serve as the
final arbiter in the case of an appeal.
8.4. Age at time of Enrollment
To be eligible for enrollment at AISJ, students must be
a. Four years old to enter Pre-Kindergarten;
b. Five years old to enter Kindergarten; or
c. Six years old to enter First Grade on or before August 31st of the year of enrollment.
The School Director may exercise his/her discretion to make exceptions in unusual circumstances.
8.5. Placement
Academic placement will be determined by the School Director, Principal and professional staff and must
be in the best interest of the student.
8.6. Conduct
Students are expected to be responsible for their own behavior and to follow all rules and regulations
while on AISJ premises, during AISJ functions and while on AISJ-sponsored trips. Behavioral guidelines
are outlined in the Parent/Student Handbooks.
8.7. Student Records
8.7.1. Collection, Maintenance and Dissemination of Student Records
A cumulative record will be maintained for each student which includes such administrative and
supplementary information as may be necessary to provide an academic record.
8.7.2. Duration of Record Maintenance
Elementary and Middle School cumulative academic records are to be kept for two years beyond a
student’s anticipated high school graduation date. High school academic records are to be kept for
thirty-nine years beyond withdrawal.
9. FACILITIES
9.1. Master Plan (amended September 2013)
The Board is responsible for the development and maintenance of a five-year Master Facilities Plan for
each campus. All major capital developments must be in line with the Master Facilities Plans and
are recommended by the Facilities Committee for Board approval. The Plans will be based upon
the following maximum capacities:
a. Johannesburg Campus
1. Pre-K: 3 sections
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As of March 20182. K – 8: 4 sections
3. 9 – 12: 6 sections
b. Pretoria Campus
1. Pre-K: 1 section
2. K – 8: 2 sections
9.1.1. Annual Maintenance Plan
The School Director is responsible for the appropriate and prudent upkeep and maintenance of all
AISJ facilities. As part of this responsibility the School Director will develop an annual maintenance
plan and ensure funds are allocated from the capital and operational budgets.
9.2. Housing
The School Director is responsible for annually updating the housing procedures and allocations. Any
major changes to the housing benefits which have financial implications must be approved by the Board.
9.2.1. Staff Housing
At the discretion of the School Director, AISJ provides non-teaching staff housing when it is
beneficial to the school’s operation for an employee to reside on campus. These employees living
in campus accommodation will pay rent to AISJ.
9.2.2. Faculty housing
AISJ provides reasonable, furnished accommodation for teachers and administrators who have
been recruited overseas and hired on an overseas contract.
9.2.3. Student housing
AISJ provides on-campus housing to students who have been awarded scholarships in line with
the scholarship program as detailed in policy 4.12.
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