IB School Policies | CIS 303
CIS 303 Handbook

Our IB School Policies

A living guide to how we embrace integrity, assessment, language, and inclusion in our culturally rich learning environment.

Our Mission

We provide a safe and affirming environment where the community holds shared responsibility for the success of each member through efficient structures and clear expectations. We believe in the infinite potential of our members. Our commitment to embracing the lessons from our errors and leveraging a nurturing community fosters a culture of growth, empathy, and action.

Through rigorous instruction rooted in the IB Framework, we prepare our students to navigate and influence an ever-evolving world.

Our Vision

An IB student at CIS 303 is empowered to think conceptually, ask important questions, make connections to oneself and our world, and act as an agent of change who recognizes and celebrates diversity through worldwide perspectives.

Equity Statement

We are aware of our individual identities, the power they hold, and the ways they influence our work. This is evident in a school culture where the voice of students is valued by adults and children. Staff understands that the language, delivery, actions, and beliefs used with, about, and among students is important. The content reflects a range of diverse experiences. As a result, students understand that their voices have power and they have agency over the decisions in their classrooms, the school, and beyond.

Policy Explorer

Select a policy below to explore our shared community expectations.

"There is just some magic in truth and honesty and openness." — Frank Ocean

Overview & Philosophy

CIS 303 promotes a principled and nurturing community in which integrity, honesty, and trustworthiness are at our core. We believe that truth matters, and that true leadership requires a commitment to honesty.

Academic integrity is a choice to act in a responsible way whereby others can have trust in us. It is the foundation for ethical decision-making.

Community Responsibilities

  • Teachers: Be principled by modeling integrity and providing clear expectations.
  • Students: Produce authentic work, properly cite sources, and seek clarification when unsure.
  • Families: Model integrity and maintain open communication regarding honesty.
"I see it instead as forward motion, a means of evolving, a way to reach continuously toward a better self. The journey doesn't end." — Michelle Obama

Overview & Philosophy

We believe that assessments are a vital tool for personal reflection and promoting a growth mindset. Assessment should not be the purpose, nor end goal, of education, but act as a guide for each community member on their own learning journey.

Statements of Belief

  • Learner-Centered: Assessments should be authentic and provide space for demonstration of knowledge.
  • Meaningful Feedback: Assessments offer "pivot points" for students to reflect and move forward.
  • Criterion-Based: Using the MYP 0-8 achievement levels instead of traditional norm-referenced grading.
"We believe in the power and strength of our words." — Malala Yousafzai

Overview & Philosophy

At 303, language is at the heart of our teaching and learning. We affirm that language is identity. Rooted in the principles of the IB, our language policy fosters communication, understanding, and cultural awareness.

Language in Practice

  • Working Language: English is our working language (Language and Literature).
  • Language Acquisition: All students take Spanish to broaden perspectives and connect globally.
  • Mother Tongues: A person's first language is intrinsically linked to their identity and is deeply respected and honored here.
"Diversity is being invited to the party. Inclusion is being asked to dance." — Verna Myers

Overview & Philosophy

We recognize each student is unique with their own set of strengths and challenges. In order to improve learning opportunities for all students, we must identify and address obstacles that hinder engagement and access to education.

Our Inclusion Beliefs

  • IB is for all: Every student at CIS 303 is enrolled in the MYP.
  • Meet students where they are: Learning is not one-size-fits-all. We use differentiation to accelerate learning.
  • Disrupt Barriers: Supporting the most underserved improves outcomes for all.

A Moment for Reflection

The IB Learner is Balanced and Reflective. Take a mindful break before you continue.

Breathe

Breathe in through your nose, fill your belly...

Sit tall in your chair facing forward. Drop your shoulders and relax your face.

Need more information?

Our policies are living documents updated regularly by our community. If you have questions or want to request a hardcopy, please reach out to our team.

Ms. Shantel Concepcion

Parent Coordinator

📞 Ext. 5072

Ms. Emilie Jones & Mr. Damen Davis

IB Coordinators

School Administration

Ms. Brady, Principal

Ms. Lerro, AP | Mr. Davis, AP