British Columbia Global Education Program OPERATING MANUAL for OFFSHORE SCHOOLS

Transcription

1 2015/16 British Columbia Global Education Program OPERATING MANUAL for OFFSHORE SCHOOLS

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3 British Columbia Global Education Program OPERATING MANUAL for OFFSHORE SCHOOLS 2015/16

4 Contents 1.1 INTRODUCTION BECOMING A B.C. CERTIFIED SCHOOL 2 Pre-Certification Phase 2 Maintaining Certification 3 Remaining in Good Standing OFFSHORE SCHOOL PROGRAM FEES AND EXPENSES 6 Types of Fees PROGRAM GOVERNANCE (ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES) 8 School Owner/Operator 8 Offshore Program Consultant and Ministry Liaison 9 Principal (and Vice-Principal) Responsibilities 11 Teacher Responsibilities 12 Ministry of Education Responsibilities OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS AND EXPECTATIONS FOR OFFSHORE SCHOOL 13 Requirements for School Operations and Administration 13 Requirements for Retaining an Offshore Program Consultant 14 Requirements for School Records, Data and Reporting 16 Requirements for School Marketing and Public Announcements 18 Requirements for Teacher and Administrator Certification and Standards 19 Requirements for the Recruitment and Employment of Administrators and Teachers 20 Administrator and Teacher Evaluation and Professional Development Requirements 21 Dispute Resolution Process 21 Complaints and Compliance Process EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS AND EXPECTATIONS FOR OFFSHORE SCHOOLS 23 Grades Offered 24 Student Admission 24 Minimum Enrolment 24 Delivery of the B.C. Curriculum 25 Graduation Program 25 English Language Proficiency 26 Student Achievement 27 Provincial Examinations 27 Course Equivalency 29 Course Challenge 30 Board/Authority Authorized (BAA) Courses 30 Exempted Courses 31 Distributed Learning (DL) 31 Twinning 32 APPENDIX A 33 APPENDIX B 72

5 1.1 INTRODUCTION Introduction1.1 The purpose of the British Columbia (B.C.) Global Education Program is to encourage the development of international relationships and create opportunities for global learning experiences that will benefit B.C. students, teachers, schools, and communities by: increasing international recognition of B.C. s high-quality education brand creating more opportunities for B.C. public and independent schools to develop international partnerships, and attracting more international students to study and eventually work and live in B.C. This program is a key component of the Province s International Education Strategy, which aims to: create a globally oriented education system in British Columbia; ensure that all students receive quality learning and life experiences; and maximize the benefits of international education social, cultural and economic for all B.C. communities, families and businesses. As part of the B.C. Global Education Program, the Ministry of Education regulates the delivery of the B.C. K 12 education program (the B.C. curriculum) to students studying in K-12 schools overseas. There are currently 41 certified offshore schools operating in seven different countries, delivering the B.C. curriculum to more than 10,300 K 12 students. Additional schools are expected to join the program. This operating manual provides information to current and prospective offshore school Owners/Operators regarding the Ministry s requirements and expectations for becoming a certified offshore school under the B.C. Global Education Program, and for maintaining certification on an annual basis. If you have a question about the B.C. Global Education Program or the requirements for offshore schools, please contact: B.C. Ministry of Education International Education Branch PO Box 9146 Victoria, British Columbia V8W 9H1 International.Education@gov.bc.ca Please note that the policies and procedures described in this manual may change from time to time as communicated by the Ministry B.C. GLOBAL EDUCATION PROGRAM OPERATING MANUAL 1

6 1.2 BECOMING A BC CERTIFIED SCHOOL Becoming a BC Certified School 1.2 Becoming a B.C. Certified Offshore School requires a significant investment of dedication, time and resources. In cases where the Province sees the potential for a strong partnership capable of making a significant contribution to the goals of B.C. s International Education Strategy, the Ministry of Education may invite submission of an application to enter the B.C. Global Education Program. Applicants may be invited to begin operation as a pre-certified school and may, eventually, become a fully-certified school. Individuals or groups interested in learning more about the opportunity to become a B.C. Certified Offshore School may go to the Ministry s B.C. Offshore School web site to learn more about the B.C. Global Education Program s Offshore Schools Application Process. Pre-Certification Phase Owners/Operators who are invited to proceed toward certification enter the pre-certification phase. During pre-certification: 1. Owners/Operators sign a Pre-Certification Agreement with the Ministry (see Appendix A, page 33). For the term of the a Pre-Certification Agreement, the Owner/Operator is permitted to deliver the B.C. curriculum for the following school year is not permitted to advertise their schools as B.C. certified is not permitted to indicate that students will be able to receive a B.C. Dogwood diploma upon graduation 2. Owners/Operators pay the following fees (see Offshore School Program Fees and Expenses for more information) Curriculum usage fee Program administration fee Student registration fee $10,000 per school per year $5,000 per school per year $ per student per year 3. The school undergoes an initial onsite inspection: A Ministry-appointed inspection team performs an onsite inspection of the school in the spring at the expense of the Owner/Operator The inspection team notifies the Ministry of required changes and/or follow-up items for consideration The Ministry considers the recommendations of the inspection team and any other factors it deems relevant 2 B.C. GLOBAL EDUCATION PROGRAM OPERATING MANUAL

7 4. The Ministry determines whether to certify the school. If the School is certified: The Ministry immediately signs a one-year Certification Agreement with the Owner/Operator The school maintains certification by meeting the requirements of the certification agreement. see Maintaining Certification. If the School is not certified: The Ministry does not renew its a Pre-Certification Agreement The school is no longer proceeding toward certification The Owner/Operator is no longer permitted to deliver the B.C. curriculum, but may re-apply at a later time Maintaining Certification After a one-year Certification Agreement has been signed with the Ministry, to maintain an offshore school's status as a B.C. certified school, the Owner/Operator must remain in good standing with the Ministry pass an annual or biennial onsite inspection pay all fees and relevant expenses (see Offshore School Program Fees and Expenses) submit an Annual Report by September 30 (see Annual Reporting, page 5, for details) Owners/Operators who fail to meet all requirements for maintaining the school s B.C. certified status will not be invited to enter into a subsequent Certification Agreement. If there are more serious issues, the school will be put on probationary status or decertified. see Probationary Status, page 22 and Decertification, page B.C. GLOBAL EDUCATION PROGRAM OPERATING MANUAL 3

8 Remaining in Good Standing In order to maintain certification, an Owner/Operator must comply with the Ministry's requirements, including remaining in good standing. The Ministry will consider the following criteria in assessing whether an Owner/Operator remains in good standing with the Ministry: the Owner/Operator is and has been in compliance with agreement requirements all certification fees and expenses have been paid in full and on time the Owner/Operator or individuals/entities acting on behalf of the Owner/Operator are in compliance with relevant legislation of the country/region in which the school is operating (e.g., laws pertaining to employment standards, health and safety, human rights, and any others) current or recent actions of the Owner/Operator or individuals/entities acting on behalf of the Owner/ Operator that could negatively impact the integrity of the program or B.C. s positive international education reputation any other criteria that the Ministry considers relevant at the time PASSING ANNUAL INSPECTIONS Owners/Operators must pass an annual onsite inspection of the school. Annual inspections take place between fall and spring of each year at the expense of Owners/Operators. The Ministry also conducts random, unannounced inspections. The Ministry publishes final certified B.C. Offshore School inspection reports on its website. OUTCOME OF THE ANNUAL INSPECTION Following the inspection, the inspection team will inform Owners/Operators of any required changes, and will provide the Ministry with its recommendations for the school. The Ministry will carefully review the inspection results and follow up with Owners/ Operators. Following its review of the inspection, the Ministry will inform Owners/Operators of any remedial actions that must be taken to address inspection findings, and any other factors deemed relevant by the Ministry at the time. OPTION FOR BIENNIAL INSPECTIONS A school may request a biennial inspection if the following requirements are met: the Owner/Operator has been in good standing with the Ministry for a minimum of five consecutive years no significant turnover of administrators or teachers has taken place within the school over the past two school years the Ministry has not received any valid complaints related to the school or individuals/entities directly associated with the school the Ministry has no significant concerns regarding the quality of the educational program being provided. Note: A biennial inspection request is only valid for one year. REQUESTS FOR BIENNIAL INSPECTIONS An Owner/Operator must submit a written request to the Ministry for a biennial inspection. Schools approved for biennial inspections must continue to submit annual reports. Certification 4 B.C. GLOBAL EDUCATION PROGRAM OPERATING MANUAL

9 Agreements will be renewed on an annual basis provided that annual reporting requirements have been met and the most recent inspection process has been successfully passed. SUBMITTING AN ANNUAL REPORT An Owner/Operator must submit to the Ministry by the dates indicated a completed Annual Report consisting of three parts: Inspection Catalogue September 30 Update on the school s Business Plan September 30 Audited financial statements Upon request INSPECTION CATALOGUE AND BUSINESS PLAN The Ministry will provide templates for both the Inspection Catalogue and the Business Plan on the Ministry s website by August 1 each year. Owners/Operators are required to complete both templates as instructed. School Business Plans must include the following information: a description of the school, the larger school within which the B.C. Offshore School is housed (if applicable), and the B.C. Offshore School program a description of the business operations, including the school's unique culture, marketing activities and long-term growth plan a description of the school's operations, including the management structure and approach to engaging and communicating with parents, students, staff and school administration information about the school's approach to human resources, including the Owner/Operator's plan for ensuring that all teachers and administrators are properly certified at all times a description of partnerships with B.C. Onshore schools to promote cultural and language learning, collaborative approaches to pedagogy and professional development and including activities to encourage Offshore School students to study at post-secondary institutions in British Columbia AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS The Owner/Operator must submit audited financial statements as described in the Certification Agreement. The financial statements must conform with international accounting standards and be audited by a third party upon request by the Ministry. (see the Business Plan template on the Ministry website for more information.) B.C. GLOBAL EDUCATION PROGRAM OPERATING MANUAL 5

10 1.3 OFFSHORE SCHOOL PROGRAM FEES AND EXPENSES Offshore School Program Fees and Expenses /16 FEE PAYMENT PROCESS Program, Inspection, and Learning Audit Fees are due and payable as stated in the table on page 7. All fees are non-refundable. Effective June 30th, 2014, the Ministry will invoice schools thirty (30) days in advance of fee payment due date for the following fees: Curriculum Usage Fee, Program Administration Fee, and Student Registration Fees. The invoice for the Student Registration Fee will be based on 1701 data submission.» If there is a discrepancy between the 1701 data submission and student numbers as reported during Inspections, schools will be invoiced for the difference.» Fees related to discrepancies will be due and payable immediately on issuance of the invoice.» These fees are non-refundable (i.e. if a student leaves the school mid-year). DELINQUENT PROGRAM FEES The following processes will apply for schools whose fees are thirty (30) days delinquent:» The Ministry will issue a second invoice for the outstanding amount plus interest charges.» The School will be placed on probationary status for 60 days (regardless of when the fees are submitted). The following processes will apply for schools whose fees are sixty (60) days delinquent:» The Ministry will issue a third invoice for the outstanding amount plus interest charges.» The School will be placed on probationary status for 90 days (regardless of when the fees are submitted). The following processes will apply for schools whose fees are ninety (90) days delinquent:» The School will be decertified. Recertification will be subject to payment of delinquent fees plus interest charges, reapplication (including application fee of $5,000) and payment as liquidated damages of $10,000 (per section of the Certification Agreement) The following processes will apply for delinquent inspection fees:» The school inspection will be cancelled.» Uninspected schools will lose certification status.» Recertification will be subject to payment of delinquent fees plus interest charges, reapplication (including application fee of $5,000) and payment as liquidated damages of $10,000 (per section of the Certification Agreement). 6 B.C. GLOBAL EDUCATION PROGRAM OPERATING MANUAL

11 Types of Fees Fee Type Fee Amount Payable: Comments Application fee $5,000 (non-refundable) Curriculum usage fee Program administration fee Student registration fee* $10,000 per school per annum $5,000 per school per annum $350 per student per annum Time of application August 1 of each year August 1 of each year December 15 of each year Inspection fees** Varies 30 days in advance of inspection team s departure Applications will not be processed until the application fee has been submitted in full Ministry will invoice schools for the curriculum usage fee on June 30 Ministry will invoice schools for the program administration fee on June 30 Ministry will invoice schools for the student registration fee in the third week of November based on 1701 data submission Ministry will invoice schools for the inspection fee 45 days in advance of team s departure In-person application review Learning audits OTHER PROGRAM EXPENSES Travel, accommodation, per diem and incidental costs of all Ministry participants if held at the school location OR All relevant travel and accommodation expenses for the Owner/Operator (and accompanying officials) if held in British Columbia. Includes professional services of the audit chair and audit team members, as well as their travel, accommodation, per diem and incidental costs. Payment required 15 days in advance of departure (if taking place onsite at the school location). Payment required 15 days in advance of the audit team s departure. * If a student withdraws from the school up to November 30, the school is not required to pay the per student fee (school must provide proof of withdrawal). If a student withdraws from the school after November 30, the school is required to pay the per student fee. ** Inspection fees include the professional services of the inspection chair and inspection team members, as well as their travel, accommodation, per diem and incidental costs. Schools are not expected to pay costs associated with unannounced inspections B.C. GLOBAL EDUCATION PROGRAM OPERATING MANUAL 7

12 1.4 PROGRAM GOVERNANCE (ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES) Program Governance (Roles and Responsibilities) 1.4 The following sections outline the approved roles and responsibilities of each party involved in the administration of a B.C. offshore school, as outlined in the Ministry s Pre-Certification Agreement and Certification Agreement (see Appendices A and B for more detail). School Owner/Operator The Owner/Operator is solely and directly accountable to the Ministry for ensuring that the school is operating in compliance with all requirements of the Pre-Certification Agreement or Certification Agreement, as well as the provincial educational standards and program requirements and expectations identified in this operating manual. The Owner/Operator may not transfer, sell or license ownership of the School without the written approval of the Province including a change to the majority shareholder or controlling interest. SCHOOL OWNER/OPERATOR RESPONSIBILITIES Owners/Operators are responsible for: directly operating the school, including delivery of the B.C. curriculum in English the financial management and administration of the school, including the payment of all applicable fees improving and maintaining student achievement and ensuring that there are no significant discrepancies between provincial exam marks and course marks ensuring that the education program provided at the school meets provincial education standards as described in certification agreements (e.g., achieving Prescribed Learning Outcomes, using provincial Performance Assessment Standards, meeting instructional time requirements, adhering to exam invigilation instructions, meeting English language assessment and development standards, and others) developing policies and procedures regarding student admissions, student discipline, parental appeals, evaluation of teachers and administrators and dispute resolution ensuring that only those students with sufficient English language capability are permitted to enter the program and that students studying in the program have access to adequate English language development supports as required school marketing and student recruitment complying with all applicable laws, bylaws, orders, directions, rules and regulations of any city, state, provincial and national government body of the region/country in which the school operates recruiting, hiring, compensating and providing suitable accommodations for administrators and teachers establishing and maintaining complete and accurate records for students, the school and administrators and teachers meeting Ministry data and annual reporting requirements ensuring administrative staff in B.C. Offshore Schools are persons of good moral character and are otherwise 8 B.C. GLOBAL EDUCATION PROGRAM OPERATING MANUAL

13 fit and proper to have daily contact with the school s students. working with the Offshore Program Consultant or Ministry Liaison (if applicable), the Principal and teachers as required to assist the Ministry in investigating complaints and resolving issues to the Ministry s satisfaction reporting dismissal, suspension, discipline, conduct and competence issues regarding the Principal or any teacher to both the Commissioner for Teacher Regulation and the Ministry s Director of International Education supporting and participating in the Ministry s inspections of the school as required ensuring that all communications with the Ministry, whether through the Offshore Program Consultant or the Ministry Liaison, are in English. SUBCONTRACTING SCHOOL OWNER/OPERATOR RESPONSIBILITIES Subcontracting to other entities to provide services does not relieve Owners/Operators from any of the obligations specified in the Certification Agreement. Offshore Program Consultant and Ministry Liaison The Ministry approves Offshore School Representatives who are not on the Ministry s pre-approved Offshore Program Consultant list. An Offshore School Representative means the person who has been selected by the Owner/Operator to fulfill the duties under paragraphs 1-9 Part II of Schedule B, who is not on the Ministry s pre-approved Offshore Program Consultant list, and whose appointment has been approved by the Director of International Education. An Offshore School Representative must meet the criteria on pages 15/16 to be approved. At any time, the Ministry may remove its approval of an Offshore School Representative if there are concerns about the Representatives conduct, competence, qualifications, or authorization. For the purposes of this manual, references to Offshore Program Consultants are applicable to Offshore School Representatives. An Owner/Operator may choose to hire an Offshore Program Consultant to assist with the management and operation of the school. If an Owner/Operator chooses not to hire an Offshore Program Consultant, the liaison responsibilities including the ability to legally represent the Owner/Operator in dealings with the Ministry will be assumed by the Principal (see page 10). A Principal who is appointed by the Owner/Operator as liaison with the Ministry must be approved in writing by the Ministry prior to performing the duties of liaison (see Offshore Program Consultant and Ministry Liaison Duties, page 10). At any time, the Ministry may remove its approval of a Principal serving as liaison if there are concerns about the Principal's conduct, competence, qualifications or authorization. The Owner/Operator must then select a new qualified liaison and submit a request for approval to the Ministry B.C. GLOBAL EDUCATION PROGRAM OPERATING MANUAL 9

14 OFFSHORE PROGRAM CONSULTANT MANAGEMENT AND OPERATIONS FUNCTIONS Offshore Program Consultants may perform the following functions (see Appendices A and B): assisting the Owner/Operator to recruit and hire qualified administrators, teachers and other school support staff, including support with acquiring visa and work permits arranging accommodations and dealing with any issues related to those arrangements assisting with cultural acclimatization professional development assisting the Owner/Operator to market the school within the guidelines set out in certification agreements OFFSHORE PROGRAM CONSULTANT AND MINISTRY LIAISON DUTIES Offshore Program Consultants and Ministry Liaisons must serve as the primary liaison between Owners/Operators and the Ministry, including representing Owners/Operators legally in dealings with the Ministry. The following are Offshore Program Consultant s and Ministry Liaison s key duties associated with the liaison function: acting as the primary contact to liaise and communicate with the Ministry in a timely manner effectively managing and resolving complaints to the satisfaction of the Ministry participating in and supporting the inspection team in conducting school inspections or audits actively working with the Owner/Operator to ensure compliance with all agreement requirements, including working with the Principal and teachers to ensure that the Owner/Operator s accountabilities and timelines are clearly understood and fulfilled ensuring all annual reporting requirements are met ensuring the Owner/Operator recruits and hires only qualified and competent personnel (see page 19) attending information sessions organized by the Ministry working with the Owner/Operator, Principal and teachers to address the Ministry s recommendations and requirements pertaining to the school B.C. GLOBAL EDUCATION PROGRAM OPERATING MANUAL

15 Principal (and Vice-Principal) Responsibilities SCHOOL RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE PRINCIPAL The Principal is responsible for performing the following duties: administering and supervising the school s operations and implementation of the B.C. curriculum providing direct oversight of student admissions, including the final decision and sign-off regarding students English language capabilities, admissions and grade/classroom placement providing quality assurance for the educational program(s) being delivered, including ensuring that provincial education standards and program requirements are met overseeing the development of course overviews that meet Prescribed Learning Outcomes evaluating and documenting the learning environment in individual classrooms establishing and communicating all teaching timetables to administrators and teachers as applicable establishing appropriate student evaluation and assessment processes, and reporting the results to parents in a manner that is consistent with the Student Progress Report Order supervising and evaluating the work of other administrators, teachers and administrative support staff supervising professional development activities for administrators and teachers performing teaching duties as required maintaining school records supervising the general conduct of students, both on and off school premises as appropriate, including student discipline leading or participating in the school s dispute resolution process as required Owners/Operators must allow the Principal sufficient time to perform his or her administrative duties. Owners/Operators must ensure that the Principal does not serve as Principal for more than one offshore school. VICE-PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES An Owner/Operator may hire one or more Vice-Principals to assist the Principal in performing his or her duties, with the exception of Ministry Liaison duties. However, the Principal remains accountable for the duties and responsibilities outlined above B.C. GLOBAL EDUCATION PROGRAM OPERATING MANUAL 11

16 Teacher Responsibilities All teachers are expected to: provide competent instruction to students in a manner that encourages and fosters learning teach only those programs of study that are authorized as part of the Owner s/operator s agreement with the Ministry (i.e., the B.C. curriculum) regularly evaluate students and periodically report the results of the evaluation to students and their parents under the direction of the Principal, manage student conduct in the classroom and at school functions outside of regular school hours and facilities For additional information on the standards for conduct and professional competence for B.C. certified teachers, see Ministry of Education Responsibilities In addition to setting goals/objectives, establishing regulations and requirements, and developing policy and legislation to support the administration of the program, the Ministry is responsible for: communicating requirements and expectations to the Owner/Operator developing curriculum, including provincial education standards authorizing the Owner/Operator to use the B.C. curriculum developing and evaluating provincial examinations issuing Certificates of Graduation to eligible students on behalf of the Minister certifying eligible teachers (through the B.C. Teacher Regulation Branch) performing regular inspections of the school, including providing a copy of the final inspection report and following up in a timely manner on any recommendations and requirements providing and renewing certification for eligible schools B.C. GLOBAL EDUCATION PROGRAM OPERATING MANUAL

17 1.5 OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS AND EXPECTATIONS FOR OFFSHORE SCHOOL Operational Requirements and Expectations for Offshore Schools 1.5 Requirements for School Operations and Administration Owners/Operators are expected to maintain sufficient organizational and financial capacity to effectively operate offshore schools. This capacity includes having a formal school management structure in which the accountabilities of the Owner/Operator, Offshore Program Consultant, Ministry Liaison, Offshore School Representative, Principal, Vice-Principal, teachers and administrative staff are clearly defined, communicated and understood by all parties. SCHOOL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES The Owner/Operator must have in place school policies and procedures that are consistent with the terms and conditions outlined in certification agreements. These must be easily accessible by relevant teaching and administration staff (e.g., through policy manuals and/or administrative handbooks for staff). Specifically, the school must have policies and procedures in place in the following areas: governance and administration student admissions, attendance and records management student assessment student supervision and classroom management parental appeals human resources (i.e., hiring, compensation, accommodation, leave, and dismissal policies and procedures that align with program requirements and adhere to relevant human rights and employment standards legislation) evaluation and professional development for administrators and teachers complaints management and dispute resolution (to resolve disputes between Principals/Vice-Principals, teachers, and/or the Owner/Operator as applicable). SCHOOL FINANCES An Owner/Operator is expected to undertake regular reviews of the school s finances to ensure sufficient financial capacity is in place for operating the school, including regular updates of expense and revenue information and audited financial statements B.C. GLOBAL EDUCATION PROGRAM OPERATING MANUAL 13

18 COMMUNICATIONS An Owner/Operator is expected to have in place clear and formalized processes for engaging and involving students, parents, staff and school administration (for example, all-staff operational meetings, regular written communications, and others). The Owner/Operator must be able to demonstrate how feedback and comments from these parties are being incorporated into the school's management practices. FACILITIES AND RESOURCES The Owner/Operator must ensure that school facilities are adequate for operating a school under the program, as outlined in the Inspection Catalogue. The annual inspection of the school will include a review of whether the school has in place sufficient resources (i.e., print, electronic and Internet library resources) to support the achievement of learning outcomes identified for the courses offered at the school. Requirements for Retaining an Offshore Program Consultant LOCAL HEALTH AND SAFETY STANDARDS Owners/Operators must ensure that the schools operations, as well as facilities, grounds and equipment, meet local health and safety standards. REQUIREMENTS FOR RETAINING AN OFFSHORE PROGRAM CONSULTANT An Owner/Operator wishing to retain an Offshore Program Consultant must: select the Offshore Program Consultant from the Ministry s list of pre-approved candidates. The list is established through a competitive pre-qualifying process and is updated as needed. submit a written request to the Ministry seeking approval for the selected Offshore Program Consultant and indicating that the chosen individual/entity has the ability to legally represent the Owner/Operator in dealings with the Ministry. REQUIREMENTS WHEN USING A CORPORATE ENTITY AS AN OFFSHORE PROGRAM CONSULTANT If an Owner/Operator selects a corporate entity to serve as its Offshore Program Consultant, the Owner/Operator is responsible for identifying one person within the entity to serve as the representative of that entity and the Owner/ Operator for the purposes of fulfilling the duties of the Offshore Program Consultant, including the ability to legally represent the Owner/Operator in dealings with the Ministry. 14 B.C. GLOBAL EDUCATION PROGRAM OPERATING MANUAL

19 REMOVING AN OFFSHORE PROGRAM CONSULTANT'S PRE-QUALIFIED STATUS If the Ministry has concerns about an Offshore Program Consultant s conduct, competence, qualifications or authorization, it may remove the Offshore Program Consultant from its list of pre-qualified candidates, and the Owner/Operator may select a new Offshore Program Consultant from the Ministry s pre-approved list, or transfer the liaison responsibilities to the Principal, or appoint an Offshore School Representative. If the Owner/Operator selects a new Offshore Program Consultant or appoints an Offshore School Representative, the Owner/Operator must submit another written request to the Ministry seeking approval for its new selection. REQUIREMENTS FOR OFFSHORE PROGRAM CONSULTANTS An Offshore Program Consultant: can be retained by no more than three Owners/ Operators must communicate with the Ministry in English may not perform any of the duties outlined on page 10 until the Ministry has provided written approval of the Owner s/operator s appointment of the Offshore Program Consultant or Offshore School Representative. MINISTRY OF EDUCATION REPRESENTATIVE REQUIREMENT FOR B.C. OFFSHORE SCHOOLS JANUARY 2015 The Ministry of Education requires that Owners/Operators of B.C. Offshore Schools have an offshore school representative with B.C. education credentials and experience to serve as the primary liaison between Owners/Operators and the Ministry of Education (more information can be found on page 9 and in Appendices A and B of the Global Education Program Operating Manual for Offshore Schools). Owners/Operators have three options regarding meeting this requirement: 1. Owners/Operators may choose an Offshore Program Consultant from the list of qualified vendors posted at the following site: (www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/topic/54bce40bef89c8de4fac8501cc63e384/ internationaleducation/os_consultants.pdf). 2. Owners/Operators may appoint the Principal of the school to fulfil both the Administrator and Ministry Liaison role. For a principal to assume the role of Ministry Liaison, he or she must meet all of the principal/liaison requirements as described in the 2015/16 Global Education Program Operating Manual for Offshore Schools. A principal who is granted an exemption by the province may not fulfil the role of principal/liaison. 3. Owners/Operators may appoint an Offshore School Representative of their choosing. In the case of an appointment of an Offshore School Representative, Owners/Operators must have Ministry approval. To request Ministry approval, Owners/Operators must provide evidence that the appointee meets the necessary requirements to perform the responsibilities of an Offshore School Representative. Note: It is recommended that new offshore schools retain the services of an Offshore Program Consultant for the first two years of operation B.C. GLOBAL EDUCATION PROGRAM OPERATING MANUAL 15

20 Appointed Offshore School Representatives must meet the following criteria: A current member/valid Certificate of Qualification holder in good standing with the Ministry of Education, Teacher Regulation Branch; Minimum 3 years experience working in a senior administrative capacity (e.g., Superintendent, Assistant Superintendent, district Principal or Director, school Principal or Vice-Principal, Dean) in a B.C. K-12 public or certified independent school or postsecondary institution; Expertise in current B.C. educational standards and practices for curriculum development and implementation, as well as evaluation of students, teachers, and principals; Understanding of the linkage between regulatory requirements and the delivery of educational programs in K-12 schools; Ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing, to an international audience; Ability to clearly and accurately communicate policy, legislation, goals and program criteria/requirements to diverse client groups; Ability to identify and manage complex issues and concerns raised by the Province of British Columbia and other education stakeholders, and to explore options to resolve issues and build consensus towards a satisfactory outcome; Understanding of, and recent professional experience working with teacher certification and regulation requirements in B.C.; Knowledge of the B.C. education-related legislation, regulations and orders, including B.C. s School Act and Independent School Act and accompanying Schedules, Regulations, Minister s Orders, and the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act; Knowledge and experience with school evaluation, audit or inspection processes in a B.C. K-12 public or certified independent school within the past 10 years; Knowledge of the B.C. Global Education Program (offshore schools) and B.C. s International Education Strategy; and, Knowledge of immigration application procedures and requirements (i.e., visas, work permits, etc.). Along with relevant materials supporting the requirements above, please submit: The Offshore School Representative s résumé; and, The names and contact information of two references that can attest to the individual s suitability as an Offshore School Representative. Requirements for School Records, Data and Reporting Owners/Operators are required to establish and maintain school records and to submit data and reports to the Ministry as required. School records and reports must be accurate, up-to-date, in English and securely kept Owners/Operators must have in place sufficient Internet connectivity, computer hardware/software and printer capabilities at the school to ensure efficient electronic transfer of data and printing of records. RIGHT TO INSPECT SCHOOL DOCUMENTS School documents, including the records of students, teachers and administrators, may be inspected and copied by the Ministry or a representative of the Ministry at any time during normal school hours. 16 B.C. GLOBAL EDUCATION PROGRAM OPERATING MANUAL

21 SCHOOL RECORDS Owners/Operators must maintain the following school records: record of local government approval student records administrator and teacher records records related to the operation of the school (including financial records) Annual Reports and supporting documentation (see page 5). RECORD OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT APPROVAL Owners/Operators must have the approval of the appropriate government for their school in the form of a letter of approval (or statement of no objection) from the appropriate government entity with paramount authority over the school. The approval must be kept on file at the school at all times. The Ministry may take steps to verify that the documentation is authentic and valid, including meeting with local, regional or national government authorities as required. signed consent forms as required under certification agreements additional documentation as required under the Permanent Student Record Order; instructions can be found at assessment/psr_instruct.htm any other relevant records related to the student (e.g., disciplinary action taken, attendance records, other records) Student records must be maintained for between 10 and 55 years (see section of the Certification Agreement for details) following the student s graduation. If a student decides to leave the school at any time and requests that his/her records be transferred to either another offshore school or a K-12 public or certified independent school within B.C., the Owner/Operator is responsible for ensuring that the student s record is transferred in a timely manner as per the student s request. STUDENT RECORDS Individual student records must be maintained in English as well as in the language of the jurisdiction in which the school is located. Individual student records must include the following: STUDENT DATA COLLECTION Owners/Operators are required to submit to the Ministry a Student Data Collection form (1701) for each student enrolled in the school. Forms and instructions can be found at the following link: datacollections. the results of the English language assessment, including the Principal s sign-off a record of any supplementary English language supports provided to the student a record of Distributed Learning courses taken or scheduled B.C. GLOBAL EDUCATION PROGRAM OPERATING MANUAL 17

22 ADMINISTRATOR AND TEACHER RECORDS Records for the Principal, Vice-Principal (as applicable) and teachers must include the following: a copy of their B.C. Certificate of Qualification or an Independent School Subject-Restricted Teaching Certificate and proof of a minimum of 2 years teaching experience in a B.C. independent school copies of all contracts of employment between the Owner/Operator and the individual signed consent forms as required under certification agreements any human resource-related issues pertaining to the individual copies of all performance evaluations a record of the individual s professional development activities Requirements for School Marketing and Public Announcements In marketing offshore schools, the Owner/Operator must ensure that all publications accurately reflect the status of the school in relation to the Ministry s certification process (see Appendix A, page and Appendix B, page 80), as follows: an Owner/Operator of a pre-certified school must indicate only that they have been granted approval to deliver the B.C. curriculum but are not permitted to indicate that a school is, or will be, certified Owners/Operators of certified schools must indicate only that the school» has been granted certification status» has entered a Certification Agreement with the Province under the program» is operating a B.C. Certified school» has authority to offer educational programs at the school leading to a B.C. Dogwood diploma. Owners/Operators are responsible for ensuring that all school promotional materials accurately convey the number and amount of fees charged, both by the Ministry to operate the school and by the Owner/Operator to attend the school, including all fees and expenses listed on school websites B.C. GLOBAL EDUCATION PROGRAM OPERATING MANUAL

23 Requirements for Teacher and Administrator Certification and Standards Owners/Operators must ensure that only B.C. certified administrators and teachers are permitted to plan, evaluate, and provide instruction to students using the B.C. curriculum, including reporting on student progress to parents or legal guardians. ADMINISTRATOR AND TEACHER CERTIFICATION Administrators and teachers hired to teach in an offshore school must hold a valid Certificate of Qualification or an Independent School Subject-Restricted Teaching Certificate (with a minimum of 2 years teaching experience in a B.C. independent school) from the B.C. Teacher Regulation Branch, Ministry of Education, prior to being hired by the Owners/Operators. Administrators or teachers who do not have the proper certification but are interested in teaching in a B.C. offshore school must make timely application to the B.C. Teacher Regulation Branch. For more information on the certification requirements for teachers and administrators in offshore schools, see BecomingATeacherOverview.aspx; and BCOffshoreSchools.aspx. EMPLOYMENT OF LOCALLY-CERTIFIED TEACHERS Owners/Operators may employ locally-certified teachers working under the supervision of a school administrator to teach specifically exempted courses. For more information, see Exempted Courses, page 30. ADMINISTRATOR AND TEACHER STANDARDS All certified administrators and teachers in offshore schools are required to adhere to provincial Standards for the Education, Competence, and Professional Conduct of Educators in B.C. For more information on these standards, see the following link: Standards/StandardsDevelopment.aspx. REQUIREMENT FOR REPORTING BREACHES OF CONDUCT If a teacher or administrator is in breach of provincial Standards for the Education, Competence, and Professional Conduct of Educators in B.C., the Owner/Operator must report this breach to both the Commissioner for Teacher Regulation and the Director of International Education. Furthermore, as described in certification agreements, if a teacher or administrator is suspended or dismissed for misconduct, including causing harm to a student, the Owner/Operator must report the suspension or dismissal immediately to that individual, the Commissioner for Teacher Regulation, and the Director of International Education. COMPLAINTS AGAINST ADMINISTRATORS OR TEACHERS If the Ministry receives a complaint regarding the conduct or competence of an offshore teacher or administrator, it will follow the B.C. Teacher Regulation Branch s complaints process. Additional information on how to submit a report or complaint to the Commissioner for Teacher Regulation is available at ProfessionalConduct/ComplaintsReports.aspx B.C. GLOBAL EDUCATION PROGRAM OPERATING MANUAL 19

24 Requirements for the Recruitment and Employment of Administrators and Teachers The Owner/Operator is responsible for the recruitment and hiring of B.C. certified administrators and teachers, and must adhere to all relevant local human rights and employment standards legislation EMPLOYMENT CONTRACTS Employment contracts between administrators and teachers and Owners/Operators should clearly outline the terms of employment, including the following information (as applicable): duties, responsibilities and accountabilities teaching/administration assignment hours of work length of the school day and school year, including key dates, events and special functions commitment to professional development salary and benefits travel and accommodation arrangements provided, including moving expenses if applicable availability of instructional supplies other employment terms and conditions that may be relevant (e.g., applicable visa/work permit requirement, contract renewal/termination process, overtime, bonuses and others) The Owner/Operator may wish to provide information to administrators and teachers to ensure they are properly informed of what to expect when living and working in the host country. The Ministry expects that all parties will abide by all contractual arrangements. Administrators and teachers are responsible for due diligence when entering into an employment contract. The Owner/Operator is responsible for ensuring that disputes over contracts are dealt with through the school's dispute resolution process. For more information, see Dispute Resolution Process, page 21. ADMINISTRATOR AND TEACHER CONSENT REQUIREMENTS Administrators and teachers must provide consents for the collection, use and disclosure of relevant personal information as outlined in certification agreements. If at any time an administrator or teacher withdraws his or her consent, as described above, the Owner/Operator must suspend the employment of that individual immediately, and notify the Commissioner for Teacher Regulation and the Director of International Education. EMPLOYMENT OF PRINCIPALS AND VICE- PRINCIPALS Owners/Operators must employ a qualified Principal at all times. At the time the Principal is hired, he or she must have the following qualifications: be fluent in English hold a valid British Columbia Certificate of Qualification or an Independent School Subject-Restricted Teaching Certificate be affiliated with the Owner/Operator only through their employment contract with the B.C. Offshore School have a least one year of experience working at a principal or vice-principal level and have a minimum of three years of teaching experience, preferably in a British Columbia school. If a prospective Principal does not have at least one year of experience working at a principal or vice-principal level, or is missing any of these requirements, the Owner/Operator is required to contact the Ministry to request approval at International.Education@gov.bc.ca. Vice-Principals must also hold a valid Certificate of Qualification or an Independent School Subject-Restricted Teaching Certificate from the B.C. Teacher Regulation Branch and have a minimum of 2 years teaching experience in a B.C. independent school. 20 B.C. GLOBAL EDUCATION PROGRAM OPERATING MANUAL

25 Administrator and Teacher Evaluation and Professional Development Requirements The Owner/Operator is responsible for ensuring that administrators and teachers undergo rigorous evaluations on a regular basis, and that the results of these evaluations factor into decisions regarding the frequency and type of professional development activities provided for each individual. Each administrator and teacher must be provided a minimum of two days of professional development per year (preferably more frequently) in order to ensure that administrators and teachers remain current with the B.C. curriculum and associated teaching strategies and have the opportunity to update and/or improve their professional practice as needed. Administrator and teacher evaluation results and professional development activities must be documented in the school s files for each individual. This information may be reviewed as part of the Ministry s annual inspection process. Dispute Resolution Process An Owner/Operator must develop and implement a formal process for resolving disputes. It is the Ministry s expectation that the school dispute resolution process is the primary mechanism for resolving disputes between: teachers teachers and administrators administrators teachers or administrators and the Owner/Operator Complaints and Compliance Process The Province may investigate or act on any complaint or information regarding a pre-certified or certified school. Owners/Operators are expected to respond to requests from the Ministry concerning complaints. INFORMING OTHER CANADIAN JURISDICTIONS When the Province validates a complaint about a school, the Province may discuss the complaint and share information with education authorities in other Canadian jurisdictions. UNSCHEDULED COMPLIANCE OR COMPLAINT INSPECTION The Ministry may inspect the school facility to investigate a complaint or to determine whether the Owner/Operator is complying with agreement/program requirements B.C. GLOBAL EDUCATION PROGRAM OPERATING MANUAL 21