Founded in 1977, Al-Bayan Bilingual School is a non-profit Arabic-English university preparatory educational institution, which fosters an environment for students to develop intellectual qualities, ethical values, and positive attitudes required for effective participation and leadership in the overall development of Kuwait and our rapidly changing world.

Al-Bayan Bilingual School students should:

1. acquire the learning skills needed to pursue knowledge and higher education independently.
2. learn to seek information from various sources in order to reach conclusions through sound objective reasoning.
3. adopt a scientific attitude to learning, which adheres to higher ethical standards and respect for other people's ideas and beliefs.
4. acquire problem-solving skills.
5. attain recognized standards of knowledge of their subjects, but also realize that learning is a continuous process.
6. develop a positive self-concept.
7. appreciate the value of time and learn how to manage time productively.
8. develop an active concern for the preservation and improvement of the environment.
9. learn how to manage their health and well being via a life-long physical fitness program.
10. appreciate the fine arts universally.
11. be responsible and committed citizens in their communities.
12. acquire, understand and respect Islamic teachings, traditions and culture.
13. understand and appreciate the culture and traditions of Kuwait, Arab Regions and the world.

Learning through the medium of two languages, Arabic and English, our students come to appreciate the traditions of the past and meet the challenges of the future of their own culture and that of others, while engaging in the process of promoting true international understanding. Arabic and English are developed to the highest academic standard through a demanding curriculum.

Al-Bayan Middle School consists of grades 5-8. The Middle School provides a superior educational program designed to meet the individual needs of a select student body. All pupils follow a core program of studies in each subject and are expected to achieve mastery of basic skills. The program emphasizes: academic excellence; personal, social and intellectual growth; and encourages each student to be a well-motivated and constructive member of society. The curriculum is departmentalized with different teachers for each discipline. Students have one team of teachers per grade level, which fosters rapport between teachers and students. Students are taught effective study habits and independent learning.

Arabic Language, Social Studies, Islamic Studies and Music

English Language, Science, Math, Computer, Art, and Physical Education

Applications for admissions should be submitted to the Registrar in February. Assessments in English, Arabic and math are given to all applicants. Students are admitted to the Middle School based upon the results of the assessments and previous school records. Spaces are limited, but new students are most welcome.

Al-Bayan Middle School’s advisory is a structured, nurturing program which allows students to develop their emotional, psychological, physical, intellectual and social values. The advisor provides a caring environment for all students to establish positive and trusting interpersonal relationships between students and adults. Each student is assigned an advisor (homeroom teacher) who monitors the total well being of that student. Students report to their advisor each morning. The advisor provides guidance and assistance to students in meeting their academic and social needs. They act as a liaison between students, faculty, administration and parents. During advisory class, students have an opportunity to talk about topics that a school family might want to discuss. The advisor acts as a mentor and friend, as well as a teacher. Advisors are informed of students’ academic progress. They are also informed of any behavior problems. Students and parents are encouraged to seek their advisor’s counsel when questions or concerns arise. In most cases, the student’s English or Arabic teacher serves as his/her advisor.

The Counseling Office is dedicated to helping students with both academic and personal concerns. Our Guidance Department supports and promotes the emotional, social and academic growth of all students at Al-Bayan Middle School. In addition, students will find a number of faculty members available to them to help with questions, to address problems and frustrations, and to guide them in positive decision making. A student’s advisor, the counselor, principal and all staff members are willing and eager to work with individual students on all matters.

After school co-curricular programs offer an opportunity for students to participate in a wide variety of activities. Some of the clubs offered include computer, drama, soccer, basketball, volleyball, ice-skating, etc. In addition, our school belongs to interscholastic sports and activities leagues. Students may participate in Under 14 Soccer, Basketball, and Volleyball leagues.

Students desiring help in any subject should not hesitate to see their teachers. This is a two-way arrangement. Students may also be requested by their teachers to attend After-School Help. For those who want to take advantage of this extra help, staff members are available in their rooms from 2:30-2:50 on Saturdays, Sundays, and Tuesdays.

In order to meet individual needs of students, a variety of math courses are offered:

7th Grade:	7th Grade Math	Pre Algebra
8th Grade:	Pre Algebra	Algebra I
9th Grade:	Algebra	Geometry
10th Grade:	Geometry	Algebra II
11th Grade:	Algebra II	Pre-Calculus
12th Grade:	General Math & Statistics	Calculus
	or Pre-Calculus	AP courses

Students need to acquire strong skills in one math course before proceeding to the next course of study. It is important that students are prepared both mentally and mathematically in order to get the most out of their math courses. All BBS students are capable of successfully completing Algebra I. Some students take Algebra I in 8th grade, and others take it in 9th grade. Students are assigned to their math course in grade 7 & 8 based upon their academic grade in math, maturity and teacher recommendation.

Course work grades are based on student participation, attendance, quizzes, projects, reports, tests and other assessments. Each department determines the system used to compute course averages. The department grading system is shared with parents at Back to School Night.

Students are required to sit for scheduled tests. Quizzes may be announced or unannounced. There are at least two tests per quarter in each subject. Tests are announced in the weekly schedule. In case of an excused absence, the student is required to take a make-up test. Generally, students do not make-up quizzes. Students who are absent for an announced test without justification are not eligible for make-up tests and will receive a zero grade. All make-up tests must be approved. The Principal will verify all excuses.

Semester grades are computed as follows: 75% of the semester grade is based on course work and 25% of the grade is based on the semester exam results. The annual grade average for each course is computed as follows:


1st semester (40%) + 2nd semester (60%) = Annual Grade

Grading is reported using a letter and percentage grade.


Grades 5 amp; 6

95 -100 A+	75 - 79 C+	55 - 59 E+
90 - 94 A	70 - 74 C	50 - 54 E
85 - 89 B+	65 - 69 D+	Below 50 F – Fail
80 - 84 B	60 - 64 D

Grade 7

95 -100 A+	75 - 79 C+	59 - 55 E
90 - 94 A	70 - 74 C	Below 55 F - Fail
85 - 89 B+	65 - 69 D+	80 - 84 B
60 - 64 D

Grade 8

95 -100 A+	75 - 79 C+	Below 60 F - Fail
90 - 94 A	70 - 74 C	85 - 89 B+
65 - 69 D+	80 - 84 B	60 - 64 D

Final annual grades are computed as follows:
The first semester is 40%     The second semester is 60%


Semester averages are developed from the following table:
Course work = 75%     Semester Exam = 25%

Students are expected to complete and submit their own work. Occasionally some students will need assistance from parents or classmates, but it is important that all students learn to work independently. Copying work during a quiz/test or classwork from other students is not acceptable. Using materials from books, websites or other sources without proper acknowledgment is not permitted. Such actions will lead to a “0” for the assignment, test, quiz, etc.

In order to be eligible for regular promotion, a student must have:

• met attendance requirements.
• an acceptable disciplinary record.
• passing grades in all core subjects: Arabic, Islamic Studies, Social Studies, English, Math and Science.

Students who fail three (3) or more core subjects will be automatically retained. They are not eligible for any resit exams.

Upon the recommendation of the faculty, students who fail one or two subjects at the end of the school year may take one or two resit exams prior to the opening of school in order to be eligible for promotion. This permission is not automatic and must be approved by both the faculty and the administration.

Students who are eligible for resit exams are given a study packet in June. They take a revised second semester exam before school begins in September. The grade they earn on the resit exam replaces the second semester exam grade. The annual grade is then recalculated.

Students who fail one subject must receive a passing annual grade, after they take the resit exam, in order to be promoted. Students who fail two subjects must receive passing annual grades in BOTH subjects, after they take the resit exams, in order to be promoted.

It is our goal to recognize each and/or every Middle School student sometime during the school year for achievement and/or effort in academics and co-curricular activities. We believe that all students are deserving and unique. What follows is a description of Middle School Awards.

This award is given on a monthly basis. Staff members recognize a student for any “good” deed that they have observed.

is presented to students who have achieved a 90% or above in all of their subjects.

is presented to students who have achieved an 80% or above in all of their subjects.

is presented to students who demonstrate outstanding citizenship qualities. These students consistently follow our school rules:

• Be prepared
• Be respectful
• Come on time
• Do your best

honor a wide variety of students. These awards are not designed to recognize just high achieving students. The criteria for these awards vary. Awards may recognize students who have shown improvement, who are helpful, organized, hard workers, etc.

are decided upon at Team Meetings.

There are two major grade level award ceremonies each year. Any one student may receive a maximum of four (4) awards per ceremony.

• Give yourself plenty of time. Don’t wait until the last minute!
• Find a quiet place to study.
• Use a table and chair.
• Plan your study time. Give yourself breaks too!
• Organize your materials.
• Check your homework diary and weekly schedules.
• Plan your work and activities for each week. Try to spread your work evenly throughout the week.
• If you are studying from class notes for a test, copy them over. This helps reinforce the information.
• After each assignment is completed, make sure that it is organized and ready for the next day.
• Put your subject file into your bookbag.
• When homework is completed, it is time to study. Read ahead for any upcoming lessons.

• Take a deep breath and tell yourself to relax.
• Remind yourself that you know the information.
• Read the instructions carefully.
• Look for the number of points on the question.
• If you come to a question you don’t know, skip it; you may remember the answer later!
• Answer the questions you are sure about first.
• If the question has 2 parts, underline both parts.
• Always answer “True/False” questions.
• In “multiple choice” questions, if you are not sure, cross out the answers you know are wrong.
• Don’t change answers. The first answer that comes to you is usually right.
• If the teacher leaves you a big space to answer a question or it is worth a lot of points, then you probably need to write more than one sentence.
• Look for key words in the question, like “discuss, describe, compare, contrast,” before you decide how to answer the question.
• Attempt to answer all questions
• Remember, a test is not a race. There are no bonus marks for finishing first. Read it over carefully, check your spelling, try to find mistakes. Careless errors cost lots of points.

School begins at 7:10 AM and ends at 2:30 PM. On certain days, after school activities/detention may be scheduled. Students are expected to arrive at school before classes begin. The school is not responsible for students remaining after 2:45 PM unless they are in a school sponsored event.

Students must get to class on time. There is plenty of time for all students to go from one class to the next. You are expected to be in class by the time the bell rings. If a student arrives after the bell rings, 1% will be deducted from his/her grade each time he/she is late to class. Teachers will talk privately to late students about the importance of coming to school on time. If lateness continues, parents will be contacted by the teacher, counselor and/or principal. A total of 10% may be deducted from a student’s grade, each quarter, if he/she is late to class. On the other hand, if students get to class on time and behave, they may earn “100%” for 10% of their quarter grade.

A school supply list is given to all students in the spring. This list is available from the Middle School Office.

Each student is assigned a locker so that he/she may have a place to store books and personal items in a secure manner. Students need to use their lockers. They should get into the habit of going to their lockers before school, during snack break, lunch break, and after school. They should not carry all of their books and supplies in their bookbags. Students may use only combination locks on these lockers. They may bring a lock from home or purchase one at school. Lockers are the property of the school, and the student will be held financially responsible for any damage.

Homework is a necessary part of each student’s educational program and is also a means of strengthening skills and reinforcing comprehension gained in the classroom. Weekly homework schedules are posted on the BBS web site each Wednesday. This schedule includes all of the homework for the coming week, as well as, announced quizzes and tests. Project due dates and general reminders are also included. Parents should regularly check with their children to make sure that homework assignments are being completed and that students have a quiet and suitable spot at home in which to study. Homework will be assigned in all classes during the course of a week, typically requiring the following time commitments. Homework is not given during a major holiday. No tests or quizzes will be scheduled the day after a holiday.


Grades 5-6:  60 minutes

Grades 7:  90 minutes

Grades 8:  120 minutes


Weekend assignments may be given. 7Th grade Pre-Algebra and 8th grade Algebra may have homework every day.

Successful middle school students are those who take responsibility for their learning and who are organized. Notebooks or ring binders help students organize their papers. Students need to bring four (4) binders to school, one each for English, Math, Science, and Arabic/Islamic Studies/Social Studies. These binders should be no more than 1 inch or 2 cm. wide. Students need to purchase notebook paper, dividers and clear plastic pocket sheets for these binders.

Students are expected to speak only English in the following classes: English, Science, P.E, Art, and Math. They are expected to speak Arabic only in Arabic, Islamic Studies, Social Studies, and Music. Failure to comply may result in the loss of grade points and disciplinary action.

Students are given a copy of their science and math books to keep at home. This book is collected at the end of the year. Math and Science classes have a set of textbooks for student use during class. Students who damage or lose their textbooks or novels will be required to pay a fee.

Al-Bayan Middle School is a community where the following fundamental rights apply to all students and staff throughout the entire school day, including travel to and from home and during school field trips:

• The right to an education, which means that teachers are free to teach and students are free to learn without being interrupted by inconsiderate and unruly behavior.
• The right to develop one's own personality, so long as it does not interfere with the rights of others, without criticism or pressure from others.
• The right to be treated respectfully.
• The right to have freedom from physical and mental abuses such as intimidation, harassment, name calling or mocking because of race, sex, religion, culture, handicap, classroom performance, etc.
• The right to have personal and school property respected and safeguarded.

Self-discipline is essential to assure these rights for members of any community. Self-discipline develops and promotes responsible citizenship. Continued positive self-control requires the cooperation of students, faculty and parents.

Students must:

• arrive to school on time.
• wear proper school uniform.
• be prepared for all classes.
• speak respectfully to adults and fellow students.
• take proper care of school property.
• utilize a hall pass when necessary.
• not bring gum or banac to school.
• not bring mobile phones or pagers to school.
• not run in the building. Move safely between classes.
• not leave school without written authorization from the nurse or office.
• not engage in “playfighting.”
• not bring pets to school.
• keep the school environment clean and free of litter.
• line up when buying food from the canteen.
• follow all the rules of any special area, such as: the media center, the gym, the science labs, the theater, the clinic.
• follow exam rules.
• follow the English/Arabic rule.
• follow classroom rules set by the teachers.

Behaviors which will result in immediate referral to the administration, and may result in immediate suspension, are as follows:

• tardy to school/late to class during the school day; skipping class
• not in uniform
• acts of insubordination; disobedience or disrespect to a staff member; inappropriate language usage
• intentionally disrupting the teaching/learning process
• destruction of school property; littering the school; graffiti
• leaving school without written authorization
• substance abuse; use of tobacco, selling or using alcohol, drugs and hallucinogens
• fighting, play fighting, spitting
• cheating
• possession of any weapons, explosives, or other dangerous objects
• inappropriate behavior while arriving or leaving campus
• violation of fire safety; the use of any open flame
• harassment; bullying; racial slurs or any cruel treatment of others
• other inappropriate behaviors

In the event a student does not demonstrate appropriate self-discipline regarding the school's policies, procedures and regulations, a variety of procedures help the student improve his/her behavior. (Please note that this refers to behavior other than that described on page 16.)

Initially, the teacher concerned interacts with the student; a parent may be contacted; the student may serve a detention, or be referred to the counselor, deputy principal or principal. Parents need to help solve recurring misbehavior before it leads to suspension or expulsion.

Students shall comply with the 4 Basic School Rules at all times. These rules are posted throughout the school. Students are aware of and frequently reminded of these rules. Failure to comply with these rules may result in disciplinary action.

• Come on Time
• Be Prepared
• Do your Best
• Be Respectful

No student has the right to disrupt the teaching/learning process. Al-Bayan Middle School operates upon the assumption that students are honest and that they will conduct themselves with a high level of personal integrity. Misbehavior that causes a disruption in the operation of the school, as defined by the school administration, will be treated in a similar way as listed below:

Consequences for misbehavior vary from recess detentions to immediate suspension. The seriousness of the misbehavior and its repetition will determine the consequences applied. After investigation the Deputy Principal and the Principal will decide the consequences of the misbehavior. But as a guideline, consequences, for infractions different from those listed on page 16, usually follow a hierarchy of actions as follows:

• Detentions: 15 minutes or more, during school hours
• Parent contact
• Out of school suspension: one or more days
• Expulsion: immediate or at the end of the year

Students are expected to be in school and to follow their assigned schedule every day. Parents and students should be aware that what goes on in the classroom (teaching, interaction with teacher and students, discussion, lecture, reports, audiovisuals etc.) is essential for a student’s progress. In case of a student absence, parents should call the school nurse by 9:00 AM. When returning from an absence, the student must bring a written note signed by the parent, guardian or physician indicating the dates and reasons for the absence. Students are responsible for any work which they have missed. It is their responsibility to ask the teacher what work was missed. Assignments must be completed and submitted as soon as possible in order for students to receive credit. An excused absence is one caused by:

• personal illness.
• serious family illness or family death.
• family emergency.
• other extraordinary circumstances approved by the Principal.

In order to participate in a co-curricular activity, students must be present during the school day. This includes activities such as drama, athletic practices and competitions, rehearsals, school social events, class activities, etc. Occasionally, it might be necessary for a student to leave school before the end of the school day. A note from a parent/guardian, stating the reason, is required and must be given to the nurse. Parents picking up students are to go to the reception area. Al-Bayan does not have an open campus. Students may not leave school during the day (e.g. for lunch) and then return to school. Excused and unexcused absences are included in the total attendance record of each student.

A qualified nurse who is available to provide first aid care coordinates the MS/HS Health Office. Parents must notify the nurse of any health problems their children may have and if a student is taking medication. Students who become ill during class time should get a note from the teacher and go directly to the Health Office. If the nurse feels that the student is too ill to continue in school, she will call the parent or guardian to inform them that the child should be picked up. No child will be released to go home without prior authorization from the parent or guardian. Any parent who needs to take his child out of school before dismissal time must do so through the Health Office.

The school uniform must be worn to school or when students are engaged in school activities outside of school. School uniforms must be purchased through our Hawally storeroom.

• Middle School shirt is light blue.
• Uniforms need to be clean, neat, and ironed.
• Tight clothing is unacceptable.
• Shoes or sneakers of any color are acceptable. Sandals may be worn, but no beach-type thong sandals are allowed. Students need a separate pair of shoes for P.E. (See below.)
• Appropriate hair length for boys is required to be a length that may not be tied.
• Hats are not part of the school uniform and therefore should not be worn in the classrooms.
• Large or dangling earrings are unacceptable.

• Students in grade 5 and 6 may wear their PE uniform throughout the day on the days they have Physical Education.
• 7th and 8th graders must bring their PE uniform to school and change into it for PE. They must change back into their school uniform after class. Time is allotted for this.
• All students must have a separate pair of athletic shoes that have soles, which are any color other than black. Students will not wear these to the gym; they must change into them once inside of the gym and in the presence of the teacher.

Al-Bayan Middle School discourages the practice of private tutoring. Students are expected to receive assistance and explanations from their subject teachers. Private tutoring may negatively affect the development of a student's self-reliance and independence.

Student belongings (books, copybooks, jackets, PE suits, bags, etc.) must be clearly marked with the student’s name. Student book bags are property of an individual and are to be respected by all.

A Lost and Found container is located on the 1st floor. Students should check this area, as well as the Middle School Office for any lost items.

Gifts to school staff are not to be made. Parents and students are requested to abide by this regulation.

Birthday parties are not permitted.

After School Clubs take place on Wednesdays, from 2:45-3:45. An additional fee is required for these clubs. Joining a club is optional.

Educational trips provide students and teachers with opportunities for learning and teaching beyond the classroom. One letter is sent at the beginning of the school year to all parents to secure their written approval for their children to participate in all trips that will take place during the school year. In addition, a written notification indicating the purpose of each trip will be sent before every trip. A student must be in school on the day of the trip in order to attend any field trip or special event. Bus and entrance fees will be collected for each trip.

Students elect Middle School Student Council Representatives. The Student Council has a faculty advisor. The Student Council serves as a vehicle for students to exercise effective leadership; address concerns coherently; sponsor school activities and service projects; and accomplish tasks efficiently.

Items delivered to school such as food, clothes, etc. must be properly labeled with the student’s name and grade. These should be delivered to the school receptionist where they will remain until the student claims them. Each student is responsible for checking with the office between classes to see if items have arrived. Items will not be delivered directly to the classroom as this disrupts the instructional process.

Students may use the school telephone for EMERGENCY calls, before school, during snack and lunch, and after school, only with our authorization. Calling to ask for permission to go to a friend’s house is not an emergency. Students who need to call home must do so from the Middle School Office.

The school canteen is open every day during morning snack and lunch break. Students may purchase food from the MS Canteen ONLY. They may not go to the HS Canteen.

Your home and emergency telephone numbers and email addresses are essential for the school to have on file. Please notify the school of any information changes.

SStudents are provided with the necessary textbooks for the Middle School’s educational program. However, each student is responsible for his/her own books. Students must pay for or replace any lost textbook issued to them. If a Media Center book or other material is lost or damaged, the person to whom it is checked out must pay for its replacement. Report cards will be withheld from any student who has lost or damaged books.

In case of fire or emergency evacuation, every student is to leave the building as quickly and quietly as possible. Evacuation procedures are posted in each classroom and are reviewed on a regular basis. Drills to reinforce these procedures are practiced throughout the school year.

Students are advised not to bring money or valuables to school. The school will not assume responsibility for money or possessions lost at school. In addition, students may not bring cellular phones to school. They may be held for 7 days by the administration. It is best not to bring walkmans, radios, etc to school. Any time such a device is used in a way that interrupts or distracts the educational process, it will be confiscated and will only be returned pending parent notification.

Students must comply with end of year procedures. These include returning all media center books, textbooks, emptying lockers, desks, etc.

We are proud of the way our campus continues to improve its appearance. Our campus must be free of litter. Students must dispose of trash in trash bins. Students cannot throw trash on the ground and expect the cleaning staff to pick it up. Canteen service will be suspended if this rule is not followed.

Students receive four (4) report cards per year:

• Fall midterm report
• First semester report
• Spring midterm report
• Second semester/Final Report

These reports give the results of continuous evaluation and help diagnose a student's progress. In addition, a mid quarter progress report is given to any student who may be in danger of receiving less than a 70% for the given quarter. This communication is done in a timely manner in order to allow a student to improve his/her performance. Parents are invited to meet with teachers to discuss ways to help students progress.

A teacher or parent may request a Parent-Teacher Conference. Parent contact is essential to the well being of our students. The school receptionist will assist families in scheduling Parent-Teacher Conferences throughout the school year.

Communication between school and family is of utmost importance. Students are expected to deliver school letters and circulars to their parents on the day of distribution. Please check our website at www.bbs.edu.kw for important information. Remember that each subject teacher posts weekly homework schedules on Wednesdays.

Parents are invited to Back to School Night when teachers present their course descriptions, goals, curricula, expectations, grading policy and regulations. Teachers prepare handouts with this information. Check the school calendar.

The administration operates an "Open Door Policy." Parents are always welcome to call or come in to ask questions, discuss concerns or offer suggestions at any time. If possible, call for an appointment.

Together We Can!