Difference between revisions of "MS Student Information"

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Latest revision as of 10:15, 4 December 2018

Contents

Attendance, MS[edit]

Faithful attendance is an important requirement for our life together and one of the keys to academic success. Sometimes a student might not be able to attend school, and at those times we ask that he/she tell us what's happened, so we won't worry unnecessarily.

  1. Absence
    1. Unplanned absences (for example, sickness): Parents are asked to call the school office between 8:00 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. on the day the student is absent to give notice of the absence and the anticipated duration. An email can be sent to attendance@caj.ac.jp If the school is not contacted, a call home will be made to make sure the student hasn't had some unexpected difficulty on the way to school.
    2. Planned absences should be arranged in advance with the middle school principal and the academic office receptionist in an email sent to rvandruff@caj.ac.jp, attendance@caj.ac.jp at least one week in advance of the absence. The principal will create a planned absence google document where the teachers will list the work the student will need to complete due to his/her absence. Students are encouraged to complete assignments ahead of time, if possible, and are expected to complete assignments by the due dates set by the teacher. If due dates are not provided by the teacher, the provisions for making up work for unplanned absences will be used.
    3. Excessive absences (for middle school students) are defined as missing any one class (for any reason other than a school activity) more than 20 times during a semester.
    4. Half-day/whole-day absence: Students who miss 5 or more complete periods are considered absent for the entire day, even if they come to school for some portion of the day. Students who miss 3-4 complete periods are considered absent for one-half day.
    5. Truancy: Students who are absent without parental permission are considered truant. Truant students are ineligible to make up tests/quizzes but are eligible to submit assignments, which will be penalized for being late. The principal may take additional disciplinary steps to address truancy.
  2. Tardiness is inconsistent with our desire to respect the time we have together. Students are expected to be in their seats and ready to work at the start of each class period. a. Students who arrive late for school must report to the academic office, where a pass will be issued and the tardy recorded; students will also receive a tardy for any period during the day for which they are late. b. When a student is unprepared for class, a tardy will be issued by the classroom teacher and recorded in the office. c. Teachers or administrators who are responsible for a student’s tardiness to another class must supply the student with a pass. d. Students who receive 15 (for 6th graders) and 10 (for 7th and 8th graders) unexcused tardies in a semester will serve Saturday School for two hours. Saturday School carries with it a cost of ¥1000 per hour. This will automatically be charged to the family account.
  3. Making up work: Students should have all work completed on the date specified by the teacher. Students will be given sufficient number of days to complete work if they were ill or if other circumstances occur to prevent them from doing their work. Generally, for every day missed, students are given the same number of days to make up their work.


Bicycle Safety[edit]

Please ride safely: Translated from materials provided by the Japanese government[edit]

Bicycles are a great way to get around. Please ride safely. (There have been traffic accidents involving bicycles and pedestrians, bicycles and other bicycles, and bicycles by themselves. Many of these have resulted in serious injury or fatalities.)

Please follow bike safety rules and guidelines.

Japanese official guidelines for safely riding a bicycle:[edit]

  1. Bicycles must, in principle, use the road. Using the sidewalk is an exception.
  2. You must ride on the left side of the road.
  3. On the sidewalk, pedestrians have priority. If you ride on the sidewalk, you must ride slowly on the road side of the sidewalk.
  4. Observe safety rules:
    • No riding under the influence of alcohol, having two people on a bike (except when one is a child who is below six years old), or riding parallel (side by side).
    • Turn on your bike light at night.
    • At an intersection, observe the traffic light or signs, come to a complete stop, and make sure it's safe before proceeding.
  5. Children should wear a helmet.

Japanese regulations state that when riding a bike, do not:[edit]

  1. Ignore a traffic light.
  2. Ignore a stop sign.
  3. Interfere with pedestrians.
  4. Ride in the pedestrian crosswalk (when this interfers with the pedestrians).
  5. Ride bicycles in parallel (side by side).
  6. Ride on the sidewalk (see guidelines above).
  7. Ride on the right side of the road.
  8. Ride with 2 people on a single bicycle (except when one is a child who is below six years old).
  9. Ride without a bike light when it is getting dark and is dark.
  10. Ride while holding an open umbrella.
  11. Ride an improperly maintained bicycle (brake problems, no reflectors, etc.).
  12. Ride where riding is prohibited.
  13. Ride under the influence of alcohol.
  14. Ride with excessive speed.
  15. Enter a railroad crossing when the bars are coming down or down.
  16. Use a cell-phone (talking, looking at the screen).
  17. Carry big baggage.
  18. Use headphones.

You will be held responsible if you cause an accident with your bicycle:[edit]

  • If you cause the injury or death of another person, you may be held criminally liable for "gross negligence resulting in death or bodily injury."
  • For civil liability, you will be responsible for compensating the victim for damages.

Back to Bicycles and motorcycles[edit]

Chapel[edit]

Chapel Guidelines[edit]

At CAJ, chapel holds a special meaning because it is a time or worship and learning more about God and His Word. However, it is also an example of a public lecture with an audience, and there are certain behaviors society expects from an audience.

  • As an audience in a chapel service, there are many appropriate behaviors. It is appropriate to sing when led to do so, to stand or sit as directed, to listen actively and think carefully and critically. It is appropriate to laugh when the speaker says something funny and to clap when he or she is finished with the talk.
  • In any formal public speaking occasion, there are also inappropriate behaviors. These would include using electronic devices, doing homework, talking to others or sleeping. In a chapel, there are some behaviors that might not be considered inappropriate in other settings, but appear disrespectful in chapel. For example, it appears disrespectful when students choose to sit when others are standing during prayer or singing. This is not a comprehensive list of all disrespectful or inappropriate behaviors, but we expect students to follow normal rules of polite society.

All students attend chapel regularly. Chapel is designed to be a time of inspiration, worship, praise, teaching from God's Word, and promotion of spiritual growth. At least once a year, a special speaker is invited to interact with students during Spiritual Life Emphasis Week (SLEW), which includes a special chapel every day and discussions with the speaker during some classes when possible. Students are expected to respect all speakers and practice good audience behavior.

Elementary chapel[edit]

The elementary chapel coordinator sets the dates, books singing chapel leaders, puts in the on campus requests, etc.

  • Grades K-5 meet for chapel on the first and third Thursdays of each month from 8:30-9:00. Please watch the announcements for the week
  • Elementary also has a first day of school assembly and a closing assembly on the last day of school.
  • Elementary parents are welcome to attend chapel.

Secondary Chapel[edit]

The secondary chapel coordinator is responsible for middle and high school chapels.

  • All full-time secondary teachers and educational support staff are expected to attend.
  • Part time staff and others are also encouraged to attend.
  • Homeroom teachers may be asked to sit with their students in the assigned area for both chapels and assemblies to help students learn about appropriate behavior for these kinds of activities.




Computer and Technology Acceptable Use Policy[edit]

Within existing school policy, including Standards of Conduct, technology and digital resources are to be used to support, advance, and enhance learning and productivity in order to achieve CAJ's mission.

  • All computer and digital device use is covered by this policy, including (but not limited to) school laptops (see One-to-One Laptop Program), personal computers (see Personal Computers on Campus), tablets, cell phones, etc.
  • Appropriate use extends to social media, email, chat, and other online activities. (see also Online and Digital Behaviors)
  • Appropriate behavior is expected at all times, including outside of class and off campus.
  • Users will demonstrate discernment and caring for others when using computers. Do not use technology in ways that are objectionable, obscene, offensive, or harmful to yourself or others. Students and staff are required to report concerns in accordance with our Mandated Reporting Policy.
  • Middle school students may only play assigned games during the specific class the game is assigned, not outside of that class, including lunch, breaks or study halls.
  • Users will respect others’ privacy. Do not access or use another’s account or open, read, modify or remove another's files, postings or emails. Do not post pictures or make comments about others online without their permission.
  • Appropriate use includes only using computers, digital devices, and the CAJ network for legal activities. If you have a question about whether an application or activity is legal, please consult with the technology team.
  • Computers and other digital devices may only be used for school work during class, unless the teacher specifically allows an exception.
  • Users are responsible for the safety and security of their account and computer.
  • Users are responsible for properly saving and backing up their files.
  • Users will be good stewards of computer resources. Do not abuse, damage, or disrupt computers, networks, or other related technology. (see also Graffiti and Vandalism)
  • Users will not attempt to bypass CAJ's monitoring and filtering systems (i.e: GoGuardian).
  • Authorized staff will access student accounts (including data on the server, on the computer or other devices including cell phones, or online) and monitor usage when deemed necessary.
  • Violations of this policy will be reported to the appropriate authority and may result in discipline including the loss of computer privileges.

For more information about technology at CAJ see Technology Guide, Student and Technology Guide, Parent



Personal Device Policy[edit]

We value communication and interactions that happen between all members of the CAJ community. Although we acknowledge that technology can help us communicate and interact with others, we believe that this cannot replace what we gain through face-to-face interactions. Therefore, to encourage healthy communication and interactions, we are implementing the following guidelines:

  • Cell phones or other personal electronic devices (including the Apple Watch, personal computers, or similar communication devices) may not be used on campus during school hours by middle/high school students. (“School hours” begin when a student passes through the gate.) Students must keep personal devices in their bags or lockers during school hours, not in their pockets. Students may not have ear buds or other headphones (unless they have permission) in their ear during school hours unless in study hall or during lunch in the designated area (see below). Students may not use their devices during break even if they are off campus. Chromebooks may not be used in-between classes for non-educational purposes.
  • Exceptions to this are the following situations:
    • High School students may use personal devices in the cafeteria and on the cafeteria porch during high school lunch hours.
    • Teachers may give permission to use personal devices for educational purposes during class. (If students are working outside of the classroom, they need to have a device pass.)
    • Middle and high school students may use their personal devices after the last block, but not in the academic building.
    • Students may listen to music during study hall or in class if the teacher allows, as long the personal device is kept in bag.
  • Consequences: Cell phones and other electronic devices used inappropriately will be confiscated and must be reclaimed from the principal at the end of the school day.
    • Consequences are the following:
      First offense: warning
      Second offense: parents notified
      Third offense: parents notified and 1 hour detention
      Fourth offense: conference with parents and contract issued
      Fifth offense: in-school suspension, conference with parents, discussion of future
    • If a cell phone or other electronic device is confiscated because certain types of inappropriate behavior are suspected (harassment, cheating, pornography, illegal activities, etc.), the principal may examine the contents of the device. At least one other staff person will be present during the examination.
    • Students may be required to provide access and show the administrator what is preserved in the memory.

Dress Code, Student[edit]

At CAJ, we try to make a positive impression on each other and on those outside our community. We also do whatever we can think of to provide an environment that promotes learning. In order to do these two things, we need to decide on a standard of what is appropriate in many areas, including dress. Students are here voluntarily, which means that their parents choose to enroll them. Consequently, as a school, we assume students have agreed to dress appropriately, according to the school’s definition of appropriate dress and /or according to the principal’s interpretation of this definition.

Dress code is a school function code. It applies whenever a staff member or student is on campus for school events (either as participants or spectators) or off campus and representing the school (either as participants or spectators) on school functions (field trips, concerts, games, etc.).

All students must wear:

  • Clothes that cover the following at all times: buttocks, mid-chest, midriff and undergarments.
  • Tops that cover areas from one armpit across to the other armpit and have straps.
  • Any see-through or mesh garments must be worn with appropriate coverage underneath.
  • Skirts and shorts may be up to fingertip length. This is approximately 10 - 15 cm above the knee. Final decisions about length may still be made by the principal, since skirts and shorts vary in style. The rips or tears in pants/skirt must be below this area as well.
  • Footwear at all times.

Students cannot wear:

  • Clothing that shows undergarments, features violent language or image, or features language or images that may embarrass or discriminate against another student.
  • Clothing that has tears in areas that are supposed to be covered.
  • Leggings/spats without a cover (can only be worn under shorts or skirts that are of proper length).
  • Clothing that represents cross-dressing
  • Clothing, hairstyles, or body accessories that might distract, intimidate, or leave a negative or misleading impression with fellow students, younger children, guests at our school, or with the outlying Japanese community of which our school is a guest (this includes areas through which our students commute)


Dress code violations: Violations of the dress code will be handled as follows:

  1. First violation • change of clothes (supplied by principal) • violation is recorded
  2. Second violation • change of clothes (supplied by principal) • warning note home to parents
  3. Third violation • change of clothes (supplied by principal) • one-hour detention arranged by the principal
  4. Fourth violation • change of clothes (supplied by principal) • parents contacted • students and parents will sign a letter of compliance
  5. Fifth violation • change of clothes (supplied by principal) • possible out-of-school suspension assigned by head of school • meeting with parents must take place to discuss the status of the student at the school before student will be allowed to return to school

PLEASE NOTE that the rules listed in the dress code are generally not relevant for most of our elementary students and, therefore, we will not hold students in kindergarten through grade three to the dress code. We will hold students in grades four and five to the standards of the school dress code. Violations of the dress code will be handled on a case-by-case basis and may involve having the child change their clothing.



Food, Drink and Gum[edit]

Middle and elementary School students are not allowed to be eating, drinking, or chewing gum in the school building unless special permission is given by a teacher.

Grievance Policy, Student and Family[edit]

Grievance Report Form
Whistle-blowing Report Form
日本語訳

Policies[edit]

This administrative policy fulfils three board policies:

  • B.4.11.3.2: The head of school shall not fail to have a written administrative policy outlining the process by which grievances are to be addressed.
  • B.4.11.4.3: The head of school shall not fail to have a written administrative policy outlining the process by which whistle-blowing incidents are to be addressed.
  • B.2.3.8: … the head of school shall not fail to provide a biblical grievance process and inform students/families of this policy.

This policy provides the first four steps of the complaint, grievance/whistle-blowing process up to and including resolution at the head of school level. If resolution is not reached at the head of school level, a grievance/whistle-blowing appeal may be taken to the board in accordance with board policies 4.11.3.3 and 4.11.4.4.

Policy Parameters[edit]

Definitions of complaint, grievance, and whistle-blowing (cf: board policy 4.11.1)

  1. Complaint: discontent or disagreement with conduct or decisions and/or administrative policies, procedures, management style, etc.
  2. Grievance: protest against board policy being violated to one's detriment, or the application of board policy in an unjust or unfair manner.
  3. Whistle-blowing: exposing wrongdoing within an organization, whether unethical or immoral, or violations of board policy.

Scope of policy (cf: board policy 4.11.2)[edit]

This policy is intended to address the handling of complaints, grievances and whistle-blowing as defined above. Complaints are to be dealt with at the administrative level, going no higher than the head of school. The administration and staff are expected to respond courteously to complaints, but it will be up to the administration’s judgment as to whether the complaint should be acted upon.

Who may register a complaint or grievance (cf: board policy 4.11.3.1)[edit]

A person (or couple) with a grievance must represent himself/herself, but may ask one other person to accompany him/her even at the first step of the process. No one may seek redress for a grievance on behalf of another person.

Principles of addressing a complaint or grievance (cf: board policy 4.11.2.1)[edit]

The process of addressing a complaint or grievance is based on several principles:

  1. Speaking up when one believes one has been wronged, rather than harboring resentment (Matthew 18:15)
  2. Attempting to contain the matter to as limited a number of persons as possible during the attempt to resolve the problem (Matthew 18:15-17)
  3. Being sensitive to the feelings of others and noticing when others seem to have been hurt by one's actions (Matthew 5:23-24)
  4. Settling matters quickly (Matthew 5:25)
  5. Speaking truthfully, but in a loving manner (Ephesians 4:15)
  6. Common courtesy (Romans 12:10)
  7. Allowing reasonable time for resolution before proceeding to the next step
  8. Documenting grievances and attempts at resolving the grievance
  9. Abiding by the disputed policy or decision until the matter is resolved
  10. Not persisting in a grievance once the full appeal process has been finalized
  11. While uniformity is not required, and diversity of opinion is encouraged, unity is to be preserved, and dissension avoided (Ephesians 4:3, 11-13)
  12. All parties have the right to legal counsel and have the right to call witnesses.

Discovery and Reporting of wrongdoing or violations of board policy (whistle-blowing)[edit]

  • All CAJ students and parents are asked to report suspected wrongdoing at CAJ, whether unethical, immoral, or violations of board policy, to division leaders or the head of school.
  • A reporter is asked to: Make a report whenever s/he has knowledge or reasonable suspicion of or observes a CAJ staff member acting unethically, immorally, or in violation of board policy by:
    • Making a verbal report as soon as is practically possible, ideally within 24 hours and
    • Preparing and submitting a signed, written report thereof, ideally within 36 hours of receiving the information concerning the incident. (Forms are available on CAJ’s Web site).
  • “Reasonable suspicion” means that it is objectively reasonable for a person to entertain a suspicion, based upon facts that could cause a reasonable person in a like position, drawing, when appropriate, on his or her training and experience, to suspect unethical, immoral, or board policy-violating action.
  • The reporting duties under this section are individual, and no supervisor or administrator may impede or inhibit the reporting duties, and no person making a report shall be subject to any sanction by CAJ for making a reasonable report.

Protection for whistle-blower (cf: board policy 4.11.4)[edit]

  • A whistle-blower who believes he/she has knowledge of wrongdoing at CAJ may speak to the authority over the alleged wrongdoer without going first to the wrongdoer, if he/she is quite sure that confirmation will be hindered by alerting the wrongdoer first (cf: board policy 4.11.4.1).
  • A whistleblower who has acted in good faith and has demonstrated a lack of malice in reporting what could turn out to be unfounded, will not face consequences for calling attention to what he/she believes is wrongdoing in the school (cf: board policy 4.11.4.2).

Process of Addressing a Complaint[edit]

Step 1 (Private Approach)

  • A person who has a complaint is to first privately approach the person or people whom the complaint is against and communicate the complaint verbally, giving opportunity for positive dialogue. If the person who has grieved the other responds positively to the airing of the complaint, the person with the complaint is to allow an agreed-upon period of time to ensure that the complaint is resolved.
  • If the agreed-upon time passes without steps being taken toward resolution or if the person who is approached responds inappropriately and does not agree to resolve the issue, it may be necessary to proceed to step 2.

Step 2 (With Others)

  • If resolution is not reached, the person with the complaint, along with one or more witnesses, should set a mutually convenient time with the person or people whom the complaint is against. During this meeting, a written statement of the complaint should be presented to the person or people whom the complaint is against, again giving opportunity for positive dialogue. A dated, signed copy of the statement should be kept. Before proceeding to the next step, the party (parties) with the complaint must allow an agreed-upon period of time to pass so that resolution may be reached.
  • If the agreed-upon time passes without steps being taken toward resolution or if the person who is approached refuses to meet or responds inappropriately and does not agree to resolve the issue, it may be necessary to proceed to step 3.

Step 3 (Supervisor)

  • If resolution is still not reached, the person with the complaint and the witnesses should approach the supervisor of the person or people whom the complaint is against and share the complaint. A copy of the written statement is to be given to the supervisor, who will research the complaint, talk with all primary parties, and act upon the complaint in a timely manner. The supervisor will document his/her decision and will report it to all parties involved.
  • If the agreed-upon time passes without steps being taken toward resolution or if the supervisor refuses to meet, responds inappropriately, or does not agree to resolve the issue, it may be necessary to proceed to step 4.

Step 4 (Head of School)

  • If resolution is not reached at the supervisor level, the complaint may be taken to the head of school. A copy of the written statement and the supervisor's documentation is to be given to the head of school. The head of school will communicate with the supervisor, act upon the grievance, document his/her decision, and report his/her decision to all parties involved.
  • Though it is unlikely that the head of school will be able to discuss with the reporter the details of the solution or of the supervisory actions taken with the divisional supervisor, the head of school will notify the reporter when the issue has been dealt with.
  • If the complaint is not resolved in a manner satisfactory to the complainant, while unfortunate, the complainant is requested to accept the decision of the head of school and cease the complaint. According to board policy 4.11.2, complaints are to be dealt with at the administrative level, going no higher than the head of school. The administration and staff are expected to respond courteously to complaints, but it will be up to the administration’s judgment as to whether the complaint should be acted upon.
  • However, if the agreed-upon time passes without steps being taken toward resolution or if the head of school refuses to meet, responds inappropriately, or does not agree to resolve the issue without explaining that in her/his opinion the issue is a complaint which has been dealt with and therefore should not go further than the administration, it will be necessary to proceed to step 5, grievance appeal to the school board (cf: board policy 4.11.3.3) .

Step 5 (Board) (board policy 4.11.3.3 and 4.11.4.4)

  • If resolution is not reached at the head of school level, a grievance/whistle-blowing appeal must be taken to the school board.
  • A copy of the grievance and documentation should be presented to the board chair.
  • The board executive committee will determine if it is appropriate for the grievance appeal to be heard by the board. If it is, the board will act upon the grievance and record the proceedings.
  • All decisions of the board are final. Those who persist in a grievance, by either word or deed, after final action of the board, will be subject to discipline, up to the point of being asked to leave the school.

Process of Addressing a Grievance or Whistle-Blowing[edit]

Reporting information regarding a suspected case of unethical, immoral, or board policy-violating action or a perceived unfair or unjust application of policy to another board-contracted staff member, co-worker, or person other than division supervisors or the head of school shall not be a substitute for making a report to a division supervisor or the head of school.

Step 1 (Supervisor)

  • The person with the grievance / whistle-blower should approach the division supervisor of the person who is suspected of committing an unethical, immoral, or board policy-violating action or a perceived unfair or unjust application of policy with a written statement on a report form. (Forms are available on CAJ’s Web site under Documents). If the division supervisor is implicated, the reporter should approach the head of school directly. If the head of school is implicated, the reporter should start with a division supervisor (a principal, the business manager, or the director of SSS).
  • The aggrieved/whistle-blower should keep a copy of the dated and signed report.
  • The supervisor will ask for clarification if necessary, set a reasonable deadline in which the issue will be dealt with and communicate this deadline to the reporter, will research the report according to a plan worked out with the head of school, and will act upon the report in a timely manner. The supervisor will document the actions taken and the decision reached.
  • Though it is unlikely that the supervisor will be able to discuss with the reporter the details of the resolution or solution, the supervisor will notify the reporter when the issue has been dealt with.
  • If the agreed-upon time passes without steps being taken toward resolution or if the supervisor refuses to meet, responds inappropriately, or does not agree to resolve the issue, it will be necessary for the reporter to communicate directly with the head of school.

Step 2 (Head of School)

  • The reporter must give a copy of the written grievance/whistle-blowing report to the head of school.
  • The head of school will set a reasonable deadline in which the issue will be dealt with and communicate this deadline to the reporter, communicate with the supervisor and take necessary corrective action, and act upon the unethical, immoral, or board policy-violating action.
  • Though it is unlikely that the head of school will be able to discuss the details of the resolution or solution with the reporter, the head of school will notify the reporter when the issue has been dealt with.
  • If the agreed-upon time passes without steps being taken toward resolution or if the head of school refuses to meet, responds inappropriately, or does not agree to resolve the issue, it will be necessary to proceed to next step, taking the grievance/whistle-blowing report to the school board (cf: board policy 4.11.4.4).

Step 3 (Board) (Board policy 4.11.3.3 and 4.11.4.4)

  • If resolution is not reached at the head of school level, a grievance/whistle-blowing appeal must be taken to the school board.
  • A copy of the grievance and documentation should be presented to the board chair.
  • The board executive committee will determine if it is appropriate for the grievance appeal to be heard by the board. If it is, the board will act upon the grievance and record the proceedings.
  • All decisions of the board are final. Those who persist in a grievance, by either word or deed, after final action of the board, will be subject to discipline, up to the point of being asked to leave the school.

Grievance Report Form
Whistle-blowing Report Form

Board Policy: B.2.3.8


Guidance center[edit]

  • CAJ provides a variety of services through the K-12 guidance office: study skills, career testing and guidance, college selection advice and information, academic support, course scheduling advice to high school students, and achievement testing. More information at: Guidance
  • The guidance counselor(s) provides limited, non-intensive personal counseling and is an information resource for the community; more serious issues are referred to outside resources.

Lockers and property[edit]

  • Lockers and other property (personal and school) A fundamental principle for our life together is respect for each other, which includes each other's property. We expect that everyone who shares the use of school facilities will help to take good care of them as part of our desire to be good stewards of the resources God has given us to use. Those who are disrespectful will make restitution with their time and their yen. There is no insurance to pay for personal or school property that is abused.
  • CAJ provides storage space for every student for personal items.
  • Students in Grades 6-12 are assigned school and PE lockers, and combination locks are provided for security. Students are expected to keep their lockers locked at all times. High School students see also: Locks
  • All lockers and school desks are school property loaned to students. Principals may inspect lockers and desks at any time.
  • Damage to lockers (which includes anything students stick on that won't come off) will be repaired and students billed for the cost.
  • Unfortunately, occasionally a member of our community does not respect the property of others. Don't leave money or things of value where others may take them. If you must take something valuable to school, ask a teacher or someone in the office to keep it for you until you need it. Report suspected thefts immediately to the academic office.
  • P.E. lockers, which are especially vulnerable to theft, must be locked at all times (except, obviously, when you are placing or removing items). PE lockers that are left unlocked will be secured by a second padlock and you will have to:
  1. retrieve your padlock from your principal, #ask the PE teachers to let you into your locker, and
  2. you will be required to miss the next PE class or athletic practice (you will be allowed to play in a game if it is the next day).


Middle School Reading List[edit]

Grade 6 Summer Reading and Guidelines[edit]

The rising 6th graders are required to read at least 3 books for the summer reading assignment.

Requirements:

  • 1 Fiction book from the MS section of the library
    • Task: Brochure
  • 1 Non-fiction book from the MS section of the library
    • Task: Book Report
  • 1 Free Choice - written in English at your own reading level but does not have to be from the library

Grade 7 Summer Reading and Guidelines[edit]

The rising 7th graders are required to read at least 3 books for the summer reading assignment.

Requirements:

  • 1 Fiction book from the MS section of the library
    • Task: Brochure
  • 1 Non-fiction book from the MS section of the library
    • Task: Book Report
  • 1 Free Choice - written in English at your own reading level but does not have to be from the library

Please complete the google survey for ALL the books you finish this summer!


Class Goal = 200 Books!


Grade 8 Summer Reading and Guidelines[edit]

8th Grade students: You must read 3 books as described below. Notice how you should submit each one:

1) ONE book from the 8th grade Summer GOR List

  • Choose one question to answer in 2-3 paragraphs:
    • Describe how the theme of Taking a Stand is seen in one of the characters.
    • Describe how South East Asian history is a necessary part of the main plot.
    • Explain your expectations at the beginning of the book and how/why you were satisfied or disappointed at the end.
  • Go to Google Classroom and open the Class of 2024 (Summer Reading) classroom. Use this code to enter: b87cwy9. Use the attached document in that classroom to type your paragraphs for the first summer reading book you chose.

2) ONE book from the Bible, Math, Science, Social Studies Content List

  • To complete the Summer Reading #2 Content Book form:
  1. Create an A4 size electronic document similar to: this template.
  2. Fill in the title and author of the book.
  3. Choose the number of stars that shows your opinion of the book (5=beyond my expectations-WOW! 4=excellent, 3=good, 2=OK), and put that number in the star.
  4. In the “Let Me Recommend...” box, write 4-5 sentences why you would recommend this book to other 8th grade students.
  5. Take a picture of you holding the book and insert it in the photo position like the template.
  6. Fill in your first and last name at the bottom.
  7. Print your A4 size color document.
  • SUBMIT this by bringing it to class during the first week of school.

3) ONE book of your choice, written in English at your own reading level, on or off the 8th grade Summer Reading List

  • Complete the Summer Reading #3 Choice Book ticket by completing these:
    • Fill in your first and last name.
    • Fill in the title of the book and the author’s name.
    • Ask your parent to sign after you finish reading the book.
  • SUBMIT this by bringing it to class during the first week of school.

Guided Outside Reading List[edit]

"*" Indicates title available in audio format

Author Title Call Number
Abeel, Samantha My 13th Winter M B ABE
Alifirenka, Caitlin I Will Always Write Back: How One Letter Changed Two LIves M 305.235 ALI
Avi Nothing but the Truth M F AVI
Avi Seer of Shadows M F AVI
Avi The Traitor’s Gate M F AVI
Balliett, Blue *Chasing Vermeer J F BAL

J AUD F BAL

M F BAL

Balliett, Blue *The Wright 3 J F BAL

M AUD F BAL

Balliett, Blue The Calder Game M F BAL
Balliett, Blue Pieces and Players On Order
Barnhill, Kelly The Girl Who Drank the Moon M F BAR
Baskin, Nora Anything but Typical M F BAS
Bauer, Joan *Hope was Here, Close to Famous, Stand Tall M F BAU

M ONLINE AUDIO

Blackwood, Gary Curiosity M F BLA
Bond, Gwenda Lois Lane Fallout H F BON
Boyne, John The Boy at the Top of the Mountain (2017 Sakura book) M F BOY
Bradford, Chris Young Samurai: The Way of the Sword M F BRA v.2
Calonita, Jen Flunked On Order
Clements, Andrew Things Not Seen J F CLE
Cochrane, Mick The Girl Who Threw Butterflies M F COC
Connor, Leslie Waiting for Normal M F CON
Cooney, Caroline B. If the Witness Lied M F COO
Crossan, Sarah Apple and Rain M F CRO
de Quidt, Jeremy The Toymaker M F DEQ
Fenner, Carol The King of Dragons M F FEN
Fitzgerald, Laura Marx The Gallery M F FIT
Funke, Cornelia Reckless H F FUN
Funke, Cornelia *Thief Lord J F FUN

M F FUN


M AUD F FUN

Funke, Cornelia *Inkheart J F FUN

M AUD F FUN

Funke, Cornelia *Inkspell J F FUN

M AUD F FUN

Gordon, Amy Twenty Gold Falcons M F GOR
Grennan, Conor Little Princes: One Man’s Promise... M 362.76 GRE
Grisham, John The Testament H F GRI
Grisham, John Theodore Boone, Kid Lawyer (multiple books) M F GRI
Gutwein, Aaron Take Your Best Shot M 260.8 GUT
Heldring, Thatcher Roy Morelli Steps Up to the Plate M F HEL
Henkes, Kevin Olive’s Ocean M F HEN
Hiaasen, Carl *Flush M F HIA

M AUD F HIA

Hiaasen, Carl *Hoot M F HIA

M AUD F HIA

Hoobler, Dorothy The Ghost in the Tokaido Inn M F HOO
Hoose, Phillip The Boys Who Challenged Hitler M 940.53 HOO
Hopkinson, Deborah The Great Trouble: a Mystery of London, the Blue Death, and a Boy Called Eel On Order
Ingold, Jeanette Paper Daughter M F ING
Jacobson, Jennifer R. Paper Things M F JAC
Jacobson, Jennifer R. Small as an Elephant M F JAC
Kadohata, Cynthia Half a World Away M F KAD
Kadohata, Cynthia *Kira-kira M F KAD

M AUD F KAD

Kerley, Barbara Greetings From Planet Earth M F KER
Lane, Andrew Death Cloud M F LAN
Lasky, Kathryn Hawksmaid M F LAS
Lawhead, Stephen Byzantium M F LAW
Leeds, Constance The Unfortunate Son M F LEE
Lekich, John The Prisoner of Snowflake Falls On Order
Lewis, C. S. Out of the Silent Planet M F LEW v.1

H F LEW

Lowry, Lois Messenger M F LOW
Lowry, Lois Gossamer J F LOW

M F LOW

Lowry, Lois Son M F LOW
Maguire, Gregory Egg and Spoon M F MAG
McCaughrean, Geraldine Cyrano M F MCC
Meloy, Maile The Apothecary M F MEL
Milford, Kate The Left-Handed Fate (2018 Sakura Book) M F MIL
Mone, Gregory Fish M F MON
Mortenson, Greg Three Cups of Tea H 371.822 MOR
Muchamore, Robert The Recruit M F MUC v.1
Napoli, Donna Jo Daughter of Venice M F NAP
Nielsen, Jennifer A. The Scourge M F NIE
Oppel, Kenneth The Boundless (2016 Sakura book) M F OPP
Oppel, Kenneth The Nest (2017 Sakura book) J F OPP
Orr, Wendy Peeling the Onion H F ORR
Patterson, Valerie Operation Oleander M F PAT
Peck, Richard The Teacher’s Funeral J F PEC
Peck, Richard Here Lies the Librarian M F PEC
Perkins, Lynne Rae As Easy as Falling off the Face of the Earth H F PER
Preus, Margi West of the Moon M F PRE
Raskin, Ellen The Westing Game J F RAS

M F RAS

Reeve, Philip Here Lies Arthur M F REE
Rhuday-Perkovich, Olugbemisola 8th Grade Super Zero M F RUH
Ryan, Pam Munoz Echo (2017 Sakura Medal Winner) M F RYA
Sachar, Louis Small Steps M F SAC
Schlitz, Laura Splendors and Glooms M F SCH
Schmatz, Pat Bluefish M F SCH
Schmidt, Gary *Wednesday Wars M F SCH

M AUD F SCH

Sensel, Joni The Farwalker’s Quest M F SEN
Sheth, Kashmira Koyal Dark, Mango Sweet H F SHE
Shinn, Sharon Gateway M F SHI
Shulman, Polly The Grimm Legacy M F SHU
Shulman, Polly The Poe Estate On Order
Shulman, Polly The Wells Bequest M F SHU
Shurtliff, Liesl Rump M F SHU
Shusterman, Neal Tesla’s Attic (2016 Sakura book)
Shusterman, Neal The Schwa was Here M F SHU
Smith, Gordon The Forest in the Hallway M F SMI
Strasser, Todd Fallout On Order
Stratton, Allan The Grave Robber’s Apprentice M F STR
Tashjian, Janety My Life as a Book J F TAS
Updale, Eleanor Montmorency: Thief, Liar, Gentleman? M F UPD
Updale, Eleanor Montmorency: On the Rocks M F UPD
Updale, Eleanor Montmorency and the Assassins M F UPD
Van Draanen, Wendelin The Running Dream H F VAN
Vawter, Vince Paperboy M F VAW
Weeks, Sarah So B. It M F WEE
Wolk, Lauren Wolf Hollow On Order
Yolen, Jane Trollbridge M F YOL

Social Studies Reading List[edit]

Author Title Call Number
Barakat, Ibtisam Tasting the Sky M B BAR
Boyne, John *The Boy in the Striped Pajamas M F BOY

M AUD F BOY

Bruchac, Joseph Code Talker M F BRU
Burg, Ann All the Broken Pieces M F BUR
Burg, Ann Serafina’s Promise M F BUR
Carmi, Daniella Samir and Yonatan M F CAR
Chapman, Fern S. Is It Night or Day? M F CHA
Compestine, Ying C. Revolution is Not a Dinner Party M F COM
Cushman, Karen The Loud Silence of Francine Green M F CUS
Engle, Margarita Silver People M F ENG
Gleeson, Libby Mahtab’s Story M F GLE
Gratz, Alan *Samurai Shortstop M F GRA

M AUD F GRA

Gratz, Alan Prisoner B-3087 M F GRA
Gold, Alison Leslie A Special Fate M B SUG
Houston, Jeanne W. Farewell to Manzanar M B HOU
Hughes, Dean Missing in Action M F HUG
Kadohata, Cynthia A Million Shades of Gray M F KAD
Kadohata, Cyinthia Weedflower M F KAD
Kidd, Ronald Monkey Town M F KID
Leyson, Leon The Boy on the Wooden Box M B LEY
Laird, Elizabeth A Little Piece of Ground M F LAI
Li, Cunxin Mao’s Last Dancer M B LI
Master, Irfan A Beautiful Lie (2016 Sakura book) M F MAS
Nelson, Pete Left for Dead M 940.545 NEL
Park, Linda Sue *A Long Walk to Water M F PAR

M AUD F PAR

Paterson, Katherine Master Puppeteer M F PAT
Perkins, Mitali *Bamboo People M F PER

M See Librarian

Preus, Margi Heart of a Samurai M F PRE
Salisbury, Graham Eyes of the Emperor H F SAL
Salisbury, Graham House of the Red Fish M F SAL
Salisbury, Graham Hunt for the Bamboo Rat M F SAL
Salisbury, Graham Under the Blood-Red Sun M F SAL
Senzai, N. H. Shooting Kabul M F SEN
Sepetys, Ruth Between Shades of Gray H F SEP
Smith, Roland Elephant Run M F SMI
Spinelli, Jerry Milkweed H F SPI
Uchida, Yoshiko Journey to Topaz M F UCH
Whelan, Gloria Chu Ju’s House J F WHE
Wiles, Deborah Countdown M F WIL
Yep, Laurence Dragon’s Gate M F YEP

SOCIAL STUDIES (Not on GOR List)


Author Title Call Number
Benge Janet & Geoff Douglas MacArthur M B MAC
Blumberg, Rhoda Commodore Perry in the Land of the Shogun J 952 BLU
Galloway, Priscilla Adventures on the Ancient Silk Road M 950 GAL
Grant, R. G. Why Did Hiroshima Happen? M 940.54 GRA
Keat, Nawuth Alive in the Killing Fields M B KEA
Lekuton, Joseph Facing the Lion M B LEK
Tunnell, Michael Candy Bomber M 943 TUN
Turnbull, Stephen R. The Most Daring Raid of the Samurai M 952 TUR

Bible Reading List[edit]

Author Title Call Number
Benge, Janet & Geoff David Bussau: Facing the World Head-on M B BUS
Benge, Janet & Geoff Jacob DeShazer: Forgive Your Enemies M B DES
Benge, Janet & Geoff Lillian Trasher: The Greatest Wonder in Egypt M B TRA
Benge, Janet & Geoff Sundar Singh: Footprints Over the Mountains M B SIN
dcTalk Jesus Freaks: Stories of Those who Stood for Jesus H 272.9 JES v.1
dcTalk Jesus Freaks: Stories of Revolutionaries H 272.9 JES v.2
Jackson, Dave & Neta Hero Tales J 270.092 JAC
McKissack, Pat Let My People Go M F MCK
Morimoto, Toshio By Grace & Mercy M B MOR
Zhang, Song Nan A Little Tiger in the Chinese Night: An Autobiography in Art M 759.11 ZHA


Math Reading List[edit]

Author Title Call Number
Bendick, Jeanne Archimedes and the Door of Science M B ARC
Collier, Bruce Charles Babbage and the Engines of Perfection M B BAB
Harkins, Susan Sales The Life and Times of Pythagoras M B PYT
Hayhurst, Chris Euclid: the Great Geometer M B EUC
Reimer, Luetta & Wilbert Mathematicians are People Too M 510 REI (2 volumes)
Tent, M.B.W. Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz: The Polymath Who Brought Us Calculus M B LEI
Tent, M.B.W. Leonhard Euler and the Bernoullis: Mathematicians from Basel M B EUL
Tent, M.B.W. The Prince of Mathematics: Carl Friedrich Gauss M B GAU
Tent, M.B.W. Emmy Noether: The Mother of Modern Algebra M B NOE


English Reading List[edit]

Author Title Call Number
Gorrell, Gena K Say What?: The Weird and Mysterious Journey of the English Language M 420 GOR

Sports Reading List[edit]

Author Title Call Number
Blumenthal, Karen Let Me Play: The Story of Title IX, the Law That Changed the Future of Girls in America M 796 BLU


Science Reading List[edit]

Author Title Call Number
Burns, Loree G. Hive Detectives: Chronicle of a Honey Bee Catastrophe M 638 BUR
Burns, Loree G. Tracking Trash: Flotsam, Jetsam, and the Science of Ocean Motion M 551.46 BUR
Challoner, Jack The Visual Dictionary of Chemistry M 540.3 CHA
Chevat, Richie The Omnivore’€™s Dilemma: The Secrets Behind What You Eat M 338.1 CHE
Coelho, Alexa Why is Milk White?: & 200 Other Curious Chemistry Questions M 540 COE
Dingle, Adrian How to Make a Universe With 92 Ingredients M 546 DIN
Fleisher, Paul The Secrets of the Universe (5-item series) M 530s
Gogerly, L. Fossil Fuels M 333.8 GOG
Green, Dan The Elements M 546.8 GRE
Green, Dan Extreme Physics: Take a Quantum Leap to the Edge of Science M 530 GRE
Hoose, Phillip Moonbird: A Year on the Wind With the Great Survivor B95 M 598.072 HOO
Latham, Donna Bridges and Tunnels: Investigate Feats of Engineering M 624.2 LAT
MacLeod, Elizabeth Bones Never Lie: How Forensics Helped Solve History’s Mysteries M 614 MAC
Markle, Sandra The Case of the Vanishing Golden Frogs: A Scientific Mystery M 597.8 MAC
Malnor, Bruce Earth Heroes: Champions of the Wilderness M 920 MAL
Marrin, Albert Black Gold: The Story of Oil in Our Lives M 553.2 MAR
Mebane, Robert Adventures with atoms and molecules, v. 3 and v. 5 M 540 MEB
Morris, John D. The Geology Book M550 MOR
Murphy, Jim Invincible Microbe: Tuberculosis and the Never-Ending Search for a Cure M 616.9 MUR
Murphy, Jim An American Plague: The True and Terrifying Story of the Yellow Fever Epidemic of 1793 M 614.5 MUR
Newmark, Ann Chemistry (Eyewitness book) M 540 NEW
Newquist, H.P. The Book of Blood: From Legends and Leeches to Vampires and Veins M 612.1 NEW
Richardson, Gillian Ten Plants That Shook the World M 581.6 RIC
Rusch, Elizabeth Eruption!: Volcanoes and the Science of Saving Lives M 363.34 RUS
Silvey, Anita The Plant Hunters: True Stories of Their Daring Adventures to the Far Corners of the Earth M 580.75 SIL
Van Rose, Susanna Earth M 550 VAN
Wicker, Benjamin The Mystery of the Periodic Table M 546 WIK
Winchester, Simon When the Earth Shakes: Earthquakes, Volcanoes, and Tsunamis M 551.22 WIN
Woodford, Chris Atoms and Molecules: Investigating the Building Blocks of Matter M 539 WOO



Study Hall[edit]

Effective Use of Study Hall[edit]

  • In the first weeks of a semester, student schedules are changing, and students may not have much work – study hall teachers are to use their judgment as to when to implement a more rigid study atmosphere.
  • Study halls need to be an effective part of slowing down. If students use study halls well, they lighten their homework load and have opportunity to get help/ask questions during the school day.
  • If students are uncooperative and resist repeated efforts to get them to use this time well without distracting others, let the principal know.
  • Feel free to ask the principal questions anytime.

Information for Study Hall Supervisors[edit]

  • What the handbook doesn’t say, but what this means specifically in study halls:
    • Study hall teachers are expected to check each students progress records and, if a student is missing any assignments, not allow that student to leave unless for official or health related reasons. Study hall teachers should also work to provide additional support for those students and ensure they are on task.
    • Study hall teachers should encourage students to check LearnerBuild for any missing assignments at the beginning of each class.
    • Students need a pass to leave study hall. If a teacher from another class would like to see a student during their study hall, the teacher must write a pass for the student to give to their study hall teacher.
    • Students are under study hall teacher direct supervision so need to be somewhere where you can check on them. Students are not to be outside at the picnic tables, not in the atrium, not at the tables upstairs, not in another room, etc. If your study hall is located in an area (for example next to the atrium), where you feel you can effectively monitor students in both places please ask the principal about an exception.
    • Seniors do not have special study hall privileges unless study hall teachers are notified by the principal.
    • We allow students to listen to music on headphones/earpods in study halls (MS students a maximum of 35 minutes).The music should not be so loud that others can hear it when they walk by and their devices should be kept in their bags.
    • Occasionally (not every day) study hall teachers should do a spot check of the library to make sure students who have signed out are where they should be.
    • Students are expected to get to work promptly, come prepared, and to not be a distraction to others. Students can work together at the study hall teacher’s discretion and only if they can do so in a way which doesn’t distract others.
    • Students should feel that they can ask the study hall teacher questions about homework. Study hall teachers will not always be able to help, but please make sure students know you are a resource and someone to ask. Please apply the Nordstrom Principle in study hall as well.
    • Students are expected to come to class with all the necessary study materials and are not to return to their lockers for anything.

Supply List[edit]

These items will be needed for your classes this year. Please bring them to school by the first week of classes. Some items such as ruler, covers for textbooks, etc. are good items to purchase in other countries. However, please purchase the notebooks in Japan.

GRADE 6[edit]

Items You Must Bring:

  • Planner (monthly and weekly) to write down homework
  • Personal water bottle with your name on it
  • Drawstring bag (sports bags work best), needs to be sturdy and large enough to carry class materials during the day.
  • Pencil case with the following items:
    • Pencils and eraser
    • Small ruler, highlighters, marker
    • Blue/Red/Black pens and whiteout
    • Scissors
    • Personal whiteboard marker
    • Glue tape (it should have 10 meters or more of tape)
    • Glue stick
  • Two more glue tape or refills (10 meters or more)
  • Colored pencils
  • Deodorant
  • Earbuds for use with Chromebook

Bring and give to Homeroom teacher:

  • 20-Pocket A4 file folder with your name on it.
  • 2 boxes of tissues

Other Items
Bible:

  • An NIV Bible will be issued to you on the first day of school
  • One lined B5 notebook

English:

  • One B5 notebook

Mathematics:

  • One B5 lined notebook (50 pages) OR two lined B5 notebooks (30 pages)

Science:

  • One B5 lined notebook (100 pages), composition/perfect bound and non-perforated

Social Studies:

  • One B5 notebook

PE:

  • One B5 binder (26 holes)
  • PE T-shirt (one will be issued in the fall)
  • Sweat wipes for after PE and sports activities
  • Indoor and outdoor shoes, good for sports

Band/Choir:

  • Band/Choir uniform will be issued in class and must be returned after the final performance.
  • Band students must bring two 40-pocket clear file folders thinnest ones you can find and percussionists need a third 40-pocket clear file folder.

A multi-pocket folder will be provided in August
MS T-shirt and PE T-shirt will be issued in August

GRADE 7[edit]

Items You Must Bring:

  • Planner for recording assignments
  • Personal water bottle with your name on it
  • Drawstring Bag
  • Deodorant
  • Earbuds for use with Chromebook
  • B5 loose leaf paper
  • Pencil case with the following items:
    • Pencils, colored pencils
    • Small ruler, eraser, whiteout
    • Highlighter markers
    • Blue/Red/Black pens
    • Scissors
    • Personal whiteboard markers
    • Glue tape (2 - 3)
    • Mini-calculator (100 yen store version is fine)
    • Protractor

Bring and give to Homeroom teacher:

  • 1 box of tissues
  • 10-20-pocket A4 file folder (used for Student Led Conference - May use the old one from last year.)

Other Items
Bible:

  • You will receive a new NIV Bible on the first day of school if you are new to CAJ. If you were at CAJ last year, ensure you have the Bible from last year.

English:

  • One B5 notebook

Mathematics:

  • 2 B5 notebooks 50+ pages

Science:

  • One B5 notebook

Social Studies:

  • One B5 notebook

PE:

  • One B5 binder (26 holes)
  • PE T-shirts (New students will receive one PE T-shirt)
  • Indoor & outdoor shoes good for sports
  • Sweat wipes for after PE and sports activities.

Band/Choir:

  • Band/Choir uniform will be issued in class and must be returned after the final performance.
  • Band students must bring two 40-pocket clear file folders; if you are a percussionist, you will need a 3rd 40-pocket clear file folder

Students will cover all textbooks
A multi-pocket folder will be provided
New students will receive an MS T-shirt

GRADE 8[edit]

Items You Must Bring:

  • Personal water bottle with your name on it
  • Drawstring bag
  • Planner with calendar for keeping track of assignments and events
  • Colored pencils
  • Deodorant
  • Earbuds for use with Chromebook
  • B5 loose leaf paper
  • Pencil case with the following items:
    • Pencils
    • Small ruler, eraser, white-out
    • Highlighter markers
    • Blue/Red/Black pens
    • Scissors
    • Personal whiteboard markers
    • Glue tape and glue stick

Bring and give to Homeroom teacher:

  • 1 box of tissues
  • 20-pocket A4 file folder (used for Student Led Conference - May use the old one from last year.)

Other Items
Bible:

  • If you are new to CAJ, you will receive a new NIV Bible. If you were at CAJ last year, make sure you have the Bible from last year.
  • One B5 binder w/ dividers (Not thin)

English:

  • One B5 notebook (50 pages or two 30 pages)
  • One B5 binder with dividers

Algebra:

  • Two B5 notebooks (50+ pages)

Science:

  • One B5 notebook

Social Studies:

  • One B5 notebook (50+ pages)
  • One B5 binder with dividers

PE:

  • One B5 binder (26 holes)
  • PE T-shirts (New students will receive a PE T-shirt)
  • Indoor and outdoor shoes good for sports
  • Sweat wipes for after PE and sport activities.

Band/Choir:

  • Band/Choir uniform will be issued in class and must be returned after the final performance.
  • Band students must bring two 40-pocket clear file folders, if you are a percussionist, you will need a 3rd 40-pocket clear file folder.

Students will cover all textbooks
A multi-pocket folder will be provided
New students will receive a MS T-shirt