Family Guide

At Barrie, we want families to support our work with children and stay engaged as a valuable part of the larger community. We welcome a culture of questioning and deliberation as we seek to grow as a learning organization. We ask families to sign a family covenant acknowledging their vital role within our community.

The covenant states: I understand that all members of the school community must behave in a way that supports the Mission and Core Values of the school.
 
Thus, while a parent/guardian of a child enrolled at Barrie School I/we agree to the following:

• Abide by school rules and policies and support the mission of Barrie School.
• Support the growth of a positive community by being inclusive and embracing diversity.
• Actively communicate with other members of the school community respectfully, openly, directly, promptly and constructively without resorting to gossip and rumor.
• Model respectful behavior for my children and others and exemplify kindness, inclusion and honesty.
• Support the school through volunteerism and be an active participant in educational opportunities for families.
• Commit to reading and responding to oral and written communication from the school, including school publications, such as the weekly newsletters, parent handbook, and website postings.
• Support the security procedures of the school at all times.
• Support traffic safety on campus by observing posted signs and not speed or use a cell phone while driving on campus.
• Support my own child’s car safety by ensuring appropriate car seat and seat belt use in vehicles in which he or she travels.
• Support the Annual Fund either as a direct financial contribution or as a volunteer in support of the Annual Fund.
• Be open to sharing my interests and talents with the Barrie community.

Parents understand that their signature indicates that they will adhere to the items listed in the above Covenant, the Family Guide, and the Enrollment Contract.

Appropriate Dress

Barrie students and families are expected to respect the diversity of our community by wearing clothing without pictures, symbols, or words that may be offensive to others. Students are encouraged to wear simple, clean, neat, and comfortable clothing which allows students to participate fully in school programs and closed-toed shoes that are playground-safe.

Please check the weather forecast to ensure appropriate dress for both indoors and outdoors. We take advantage of being outside on our beautiful campus most days, including rain and snow, unless weather is severe. Students walk to and from Specials and need proper gear to do so.

Students should wear:

• Layers of clothing to maximize flexibility and comfort
• Raincoats and rain boots
• Snow pants, mittens, hats, and snow boots
• Sneakers for Physical Education 

Prep students are expected to: 

• Cover private parts, buttocks, and torso*
• No offensive or inappropriate language or images
• Dress to participate in all school activities

 *In the case of swimming, students may have an exposed torso while in or around the pool.

Events

Barrie offers a rich array of events for parents! Each year, Barrie publishes a school year condensed calendar for quick reference to school days, breaks, and school-wide events. An online calendar with details of division-specific events is also available. Division Heads and classroom teachers provide information specific to each event so that parents can make informed decisions on which events are essential to attend as well as traditional or relevant to the family.

Financial Aid

Each year, the Board of Trustees designates funds to assist families whose resources would prevent them from enrolling their children at Barrie School. We aim to attract students from a variety of socioeconomic groups that add to the complexity and richness of our school. All children admitted to Barrie are accepted on the basis of their academic qualifications, regardless of their financial status. Financial assistance is available for tuition only. Each year, Barrie offers a wide range of financial grants to families of various financial circumstances.

Our Financial Aid Program has, for many years, assisted families with moderate to significant need. Each year, all families requesting financial assistance are required to file an application with TADS, for a financial aid assessment.

The deadline for filing with TADS and submitting required documentation to both TADS and Barrie is mid-January; Barrie will notify parents in advance of the application deadline. Missing the deadline will delay the review of your application and may result in a reduction in or loss of financial aid award.

Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)

The purpose of Barrie's Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) is to promote relationships between and among families and the school to foster a vibrant community in support of the school’s mission and values. Visit the PTO web page for more information.

Re-Enrollment

The re-enrollment process begins when current families are notified that re-enrollment Agreements are available, usually in February. These Agreements are due back to the Admission Office at a specified time. In the event of a planned withdrawal from the school, current families are expected to submit a timely notice in writing to the Head of School.

Current families are issued re-enrollment contracts based on the recommendations of the Division Heads. In the event that a student is enrolled after the academic year begins, the school reserves the right to delay issuance of the re-enrollment contract.

Religious Holidays

Barrie is non-sectarian, and represents a very diverse population. The school encourages its students to observe their religious holidays and will honor all religious observance absences as excused absences. Parents must contact the division office either by phone or e-mail. Middle and Upper School students are responsible for making up all assignments missed during their absence.

Transportation 

Barrie offers bus transportation for ages age 5 and up. Stops include locations in Bethesda, Bowie, Chevy Chase, Northwest DC/Friendship Heights, Kensington, Silver Spring, Takoma Park, and Wheaton. Barrie also offers a free shuttle to Poplar Run and Glenmont Metro.

To view the bus routes and schedule, please visit the Transportation web page. 

Anti-Bullying Policy

Barrie faculty and staff are committed to providing a safe, engaging and educational environment for their students. Respect for others and their possessions is an essential element of a healthy school environment. Bullying is not tolerated in our school community. When warranted, sanctions up to and including expulsion from Barrie School may result from such behavior on the part of a community member.

There is a difference between bullying and teasing. It is the responsibility of the adults in the school community to identify and distinguish, teasing from bullying. Bullying comprises the following:

• a desire to hurt
• hurtful action
• power imbalance
• repetition (typically)
• unjust use of power
• evident enjoyment by the aggressor
• the victim has a sense of being oppressed

Barrie provides an anti-bullying environment, in which students are able and encouraged to:

• develop a strong sense of self
• be a friend to others
• have friends
• succeed in a group setting

To ensure Barrie's environment is safe, we are committed to

• providing attentive and adequate adult supervision both in and out of the classroom
• training staff to respond to taunting and bullying behaviors in a sensitive and consistent manner
• establishing and posting clear school-wide and classroom rules about bullying
• gathering information about bullying directly from students

The educational experience of a student at Barrie is impacted by their active participation and punctual attendance at school. When students arrive habitually late, they are often not included in activities that other children have already chosen and started.

• Beginning in Kindergarten, children are required by Maryland law to attend school.
• Illnesses and other absences may be excused by the administration of the school with valid documentation.
• Students who require extended absences for medical or personal reasons must submit a written notice from their medical professional, to their Division Head, detailing restrictions to learning, accommodations needed and expected duration of illness. Each request will be reviewed carefully and in the best interest of the student.
• It is recommended that requests for planned absences are made directly to the Head of Montessori or Head of Prep at least two weeks prior to the planned absence.
• If a student misses enough days to compromise learning and is unable to achieve the goals of his or her grade, the student may be required to remain in that grade for an additional year.
• Barrie School is required to provide attendance history on school report cards and transcripts.

Students in grades 6-12 must abide by the Barrie Prep Attendance Policy.

Students are expected arrive at school on time ready to be fully engaged in the school day. Administrators, faculty and staff assist with arrival and dismissal of students. 

If your child will be late or absent, please notify the appropriate Division Office:

Montessori (Age 12 Months - Grade 5) -  Kimberly Foard, 301-576-2832
Prep (Grades 6-12) - Luticia Williams, 301-576-2855

Discipline Policy

At Barrie, the development of social skills is as important as the development of academic skills. Learning to be a positive, supportive member of a community is valued. Barrie students are treated with respect, and they are expected to treat others with respect. Barrie faculty and staff work to cultivate student awareness of three fundamental responsibilities:  
Respect for the feelings and rights of individuals
Respect for public and private property
Respect for the rules and guidelines of the school community

Children benefit from consistent behavior modeled by all adults. Discipline issues are effectively addressed by the combined efforts of the parents, school and the child. We teach children that conflict among peers is normal, and will arise from time to time; it is how we resolve these conflicts that is important. Students learn that people perceive events in their environment differently from one another and that often their values and views concerning various issues and events differ. To get along, we must learn to listen to what others are saying and feeling, be able to express our own feelings, and, when necessary, compromise. Sometimes we can even agree to disagree, and yet live harmoniously with that difference. We believe that this process of conflict resolution is the basis for learning respect for diversity. All these skills must be learned and practiced day by day.

To reduce the incidence of disruptive behavior, we create an environment that encourages self-control, kindness and empathy towards others, and respect of others and property. If a problem arises, we try to find the cause and help change the circumstances that precipitated the problem. Most problems are solved by guided conflict discussion among the individuals involved. 

For more information about the discipline policy for students in grades 6-12, click here.

Baseline Expectations

Students should act with respect for self, others, and environment; as such, they are expected to:

• Promote clear and respectful dialogue.
• Approach identified visitors with a friendly introduction and offer to assist.
• Care for our environment, inside and out.
• Contribute positively to the learning environment.
• Speak to community members and visitors using appropriate language and volume.
• Arrive on time and ready for engagement, learning, and discovery.
• Dress to participate fully in all school programs while respecting the diversity of our community.
• Avoid excessive public displays of affection during school hours, on campus, or at any time during a school activity.
• Adhere to the Barrie School Anti-Bullying Policy found in the Overview section of this document.
• Adhere to the Guidelines for Responsible Technology Use.

Behavioral Guidelines

• Practice safe and proper comportment throughout the buildings, on field trips, and on the playground. This includes playing safely on the playground and not running in the buildings.
• Exercise self-control during class and group times. This means not disturbing classmates. A child's behavior should not interfere with another student's learning.
• Listen and follow the directions of the adult(s) in charge.
• Be considerate of other people's feelings. We do not tolerate persistent teasing or making fun of others.
• Use words and listening skills to solve problems rather than fighting or aggressive physical contact.
• Speak and listen respectfully to fellow students and teachers.
• Wait one's turn to speak and use appropriate language during heated discussions or disagreements. Rational disagreement is encouraged, disrespectful comments are not.

Consequences of Inappropriate Behavior

• Inappropriate behavior is first brought to the attention of the student. Conflict resolution is encouraged and facilitated by the teacher.
• If necessary, the student is given a break to cool down and think about alternative solutions. A teacher will talk with the child about the behavior, offering solutions or clarification of problems. For recurring concerns, Upper Elementary students may be asked to complete a reflection sheet on his/her behavior that day, to be signed by the parent and returned to the teacher the following day.
• If inappropriate behavior persists, the teacher may notify parents. A formal conference with parents to discuss possible causes and potential solutions may also be scheduled.
• Continuing problematic behavior is brought to the attention of the Division Heads, and a conference may be scheduled with the parents, the School Counselor, and teachers. An appropriate course of action may be recommended by the school, which may include a behavior modification program, outside testing or counseling.

Continued and unresolved behavioral problems or failure of parents to follow through on a recommended course of action may result in the child's dismissal from the school.

Communication Regarding Discipline

Disciplinary issues are communicated to parents and school personnel primarily through email, which allows Barrie to maintain records and identify trends. The school welcomes follow-up communication with families related to any incident or issue. Following the initial communication, phone calls, and face-to-face meetings may be necessary.

Observations are one part of the system used to communicate directly with families regarding student behavior. The school reserves the right to communicate important information directly by phone or other notes and include students as deemed appropriate by the school.

In Barrie Prep, more significant academic and behavioral concerns may require the implementation of a Student Success Agreement (SSA). The SSA is a contract developed collaboratively by relevant members of the Prep Leadership team, the student, and his or her family. The purpose of the SSA is to provide a framework of clear expectations and measurable outcomes which will ensure that students in need of support, reach their full academic or social emotional potential.

The advisor’s role in the disciplinary process is to:

• Discuss disciplinary matters with students
• Communicate with families regarding disciplinary matters or concerns
• Track observation data and SSA progress

Barrie has established norms which apply in all forms of communication, including (but not limited to) public meetings, private meetings, parent conferences, email exchanges and phone conversations. These norms require all members of our community: to assume positive intent at all times, speak directly to the person involved, and communicate in a timely and effective manner.

Modes of Communication

Emergencies - In the event of an emergency, the school will contact parents via the emergency phone/text notification system in ParentSquare. See School and Campus Safety below for more information.

Email - In general, email is the best way to contact a faculty member. Barrie School faculty and staff strive to respond to messages and emails within 24 hours when school is in session.

Email Newsletters - School and classroom news are communicated on a weekly basis via email newsletter. 

PowerSchool Learning (formerly Haiku) - PowerSchool websites are maintained in Grades 6-12 by class, and enable students and parents to access information about specific courses, classroom information, study guides, and homework.

Parent/Teacher and Advisory Conferences - Parent/Teacher and Advisory conferences are held in the fall and spring for Barrie Montessori, and October and January for Barrie Prep. Parents are encouraged to contact their child's teachers throughout the school year or to set up an in person conference as needed.

Parent Events - Parent events provide important information to families. Please check the website calendar regularly for the most current information.

ParentSquare - ParentSquare is the primary communication tool for Lower School parents and emergency communications. 

Health Forms

Health Forms are required by the State of Maryland and Barrie, and must be submitted prior to the start of school for your child(ren) to be allowed to participate in any school-sponsored activities.

See Health Resources for the required forms.

Medication Policy

Download Medication Policy PDF

Allergies

Barrie School is not a nut-free campus. The School Nurse should be made aware of a student's dietary restrictions in order to support them and inform faculty and staff. Older students are also responsible for reminding their peers and faculty of their restrictions and needs, so that appropriate arrangements may be made. This is particularly important when food is being ordered from an outside vendor.

Barrie’s programs are “nut and allergy aware”. We do not exclude nuts or other foods packed in individual lunches that is not intended for sharing. However, as a general rule, we ask parents not to provide nut containing products in food items provided to the classroom in birthday treats, celebrations and events, in efforts to minimize exposure to those with known and unknown nut allergies.

Lunch

Students are required to bring their own lunch, and should also bring with them a nutritious snack. We provide microwaves for warming lunch items. To support our commitment to the environment, lunches should be packaged in reusable and/or recyclable materials.

• Montessori students who bring their lunch to school must do so in clearly labeled lunch containers. In the Primary division, children eat two snacks a day; Barrie provides the morning snack. Parents of primary students should pack an additional piece of fruit to share for the afternoon community snack.
• Prep students eat lunch in the Commons areas or outdoors depending on division policies. Students are responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of all areas they use. Prep students with a Student Success Agreement (SSA) are not permitted to leave campus for lunch.
• Seniors earn the privilege to leave campus for lunch (with parental permission). In order to maintain this privilege, seniors must remain in excellent social and academic standing (not tardy for classes particularly following the lunch privilege and must have no outstanding homework and assignments). Food deliveries such as UberEats are not permitted.

Potluck and Community Meals

Throughout the school year, Barrie students and staff celebrate various events with potluck and community meals. All potluck meals served must be accompanied by a comprehensive list of ingredients.

Please be certain to inform the School Nurse, Prep Advisor and Montessori classroom teacher of any food allergies at the beginning of the school year on your child’s health form.

General Safety - All campus visitors are required to report to the appropriate Division Office or the Administrative Office to sign in and receive a visitor’s pass. Faculty and staff are required to wear a photo ID. Please use only the designated walking paths when moving around campus. Montessori students are escorted on campus at all times.

Please park in designated spaces and do not block fire lanes.

Speed Limits and Cell Phone Use - The use of cell phones (texting or talking) while driving is illegal; all drivers on campus are expected to obey the law. The speed limit on campus is 15 mph.

Emergency Notification Procedures - In the event of an emergency, the school may activate its automated emergency phone/text notification system. This system allows us to record and send, or text a message directly to your daytime and/or night time telephone number.

It is imperative that the school has parents' and students' most current contact information. It is the responsibility of each family to log in to Family Access Module (FAM) to make changes to your contact information. If you need assistance, with logging, please contact Kim Foard or Tish Williams.

Emergency Response - Barrie has an active Emergency Response Team (ERT) comprised of staff members across campus that is co-chaired by the Head of School and Chief Financial Officer. The team meets monthly throughout the year to review safety procedures and strategies at Barrie. In addition, the Administrative Team discusses campus-wide safety and security matters on a weekly basis. We have been advised by law enforcement professionals to be extremely mindful when sharing specific details about our emergency plans because wide dissemination of procedures can actually make us less safe as a school.

The ERT collaborates regularly with Montgomery County Police, Montgomery County's SWAT team, and Fire department to implement and continually update our Emergency Plan. As required by state and local regulations, we conduct fire drills, lockdown drills, weather, and evacuation drills on a regular basis, and we have a variety of communication tools that allow us to be in contact with parents quickly when needed. In age-appropriate ways, our teachers explain the context of this preparation to our students so they can develop awareness about the importance of safety while doing everything we can to minimize any anxiety.

Barrie understands the value of technology in education and how technology can be leveraged to expand students’ intellectual abilities, develop creative talents, and discover passions. We strive to create lifelong learners who are confident, competent, and responsible digital citizens, and who understand appropriate and equitable use of all of the technologies available to them.

At Barrie, students generally interact with technology in three methods: technology assigned for individual use from the school as part of our 1:1 Chromebook program, shared technology resources provided at school (including borrowed devices), and personal devices brought from home.

Understanding how each of these technologies work to support academic and personal excellence, as well as how to fulfill their role as a responsible user, is vital for student success. As such, our Student Responsible Use Policy is grounded in our mission and supported by our core values of Respect for Self, Others, and the Environment; Collaboration and Teamwork; and Social, Emotional, and Physical Well-being.

Responsible Use of Technology Policy - Grades 1-5

Responsible Use of Technology Policy - Grades 6-12 (revised August 2019) 

Weather Related Closings and Delays - In the event of weather-related full-day closings, delayed openings, and early closings, Barrie adheres to the decisions made by Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS). In the event that school holidays or professional days do not align, Barrie will make an independent decision whether to close during a weather emergency. Parents are encouraged to sign up for Alert Montgomery to keep abreast of Montgomery County updates related to traffic, weather, and local emergencies.

Delayed Openings - When Montgomery County Schools are delayed, Barrie doors open at 10:00am. Faculty and staff report at 9:30am. During delayed openings there is no morning Extended Day. Information regarding delayed openings are made available on the school's switchboard (301-576-2800), website, and local TV and radio stations.

Full Day Closings - Barrie follows Montgomery County Schools regarding weather-related closings. When Montgomery County Schools are closed due to a weather emergency, Barrie will also be closed. As with delayed openings, Barrie's switchboard (301-576-2800) and website will maintain current closing information. In addition, school closures will be announced on local radio and TV stations.

Please note: should Montgomery County Schools be operating on a regular schedule, but campus conditions necessitate closing Barrie's campus (e.g., downed trees, power loss, creek flooding), a message will be posted on our homepage and delivered via Barrie’s emergency communications system. This system allows us to notify parents by text message, email, and phone.

Early Closings - Barrie follows Montgomery County Schools closing decisions when closing school early for weather or other county-wide or regional emergencies. Early closing information will be delivered via Barrie's switchboard (301-576-2800) and website (barrie.org).In addition, school closures will be announced on local radio and TV stations.

If there is an early closure, students who have not been picked up by the early closing time will remain with school staff on campus until parents arrive to take them home. There will be no afternoon supervision, athletic events, or practices on these days.

Transportation
For information on changes to Barrie bus schedules during weather emergencies, please see the Special Bus Schedules on the Transportation web page.

Athletics - Barrie's Athletics program provides each student the opportunity to participate in team sports or a health, fitness and wellness program. The school promotes the ideals of a healthy lifestyle and support all students to that end.

Barrie's competitive athletic program is committed to ethical conduct and fair play incorporating the tenants of the Positive Coaching Alliance. Additional information regarding Barrie's athletic programs is available in the Athletic Handbook. For more information contact Seth Lieberman, Director of Athletics, Health, and Wellness.

Academic Integrity and Probation - Our academic integrity policy is simple: “The work you turn in must be your own.” A student may be placed on academic probation or face expulsion for behaviors which include, but are not limited to:

• plagiarism
• cheating
• copying of graded work
• peer discussion during tests

Students may also be placed on academic probation if their quarterly grades fall below 65% in two or more classes in a marking period. A plan for success will then be developed by the student support team, which includes the advisor, the teacher, and the Director of Prep Learning Services. Following this period of probation, Barrie will reevaluate the student to ensure he/she has the tools necessary for successful completion of the Barrie program. Barrie School is required to inform other schools and colleges of a student’s academic probation record.

Formal Reports - Formal evaluative report cards which are sent to families three times a year. For classes in which the student is earning a 75% or below, or classes in which the teacher needs to communicate a concern, progress reports with narrative comments are issued. Report cards include letter grades for most classes, pass/fail grades for others. 

Parent Observations - Teachers and staff communicate with families about a variety of academic and behavioral accomplishments and challenges. In each observation, you should expect to find a statement of the accomplishment or challenge; a synopsis of the conversation between the adult and the student; and the plan to move forward or continue with success. Observations are sent by email to the parent/guardian and may be copied to:

• Advisor
• Dean of Students
• Dean of Studies
• Director of Prep Learning Services
• Student & Family Services Director
• Head of Prep
• Director of College Counseling
• Director of Athletics, Health, and Wellness

We ask parents to contact the teacher or the advisor for appropriate follow-up upon receipt of an observation.

Programs - Barrie School is committed to delivering a challenging curriculum informed by best practices in independent school education. 

Transcripts and Transcript Requests

• The Prep transcript is an official academic record containing:
• completed courses with final grades (and credits for grades 9-12)
• absences
• cumulative grade point average for grades 9-12

Barrie transcripts do not include transfer student's previous grades from other schools. Barrie School transcripts and copies of previous school transcripts will be sent to colleges. To request an official or unofficial transcript, please complete the Transcript Release form. Correspondence regarding transcripts should be emailed to the Registrar. Transcripts cannot be released on the day they are requested; transcript requests require one to two weeks to process. Before academic records can be released, approval is required from the Business Office.

Arrival

Barrie Prep (Grades 6-12)

All Prep students are to be dropped off at the Lower Campus Parking Lot. Do not drop off in front of the Prep Commons, as this results in a safety concern for teachers and students.

Students should arrive between 8:10 am and 8:25 am. Classes begin at 8:30 am

If you anticipate that your child will be arriving late, please contact Tish Williams in the Prep Office at 301-576-2855 prior to 8:00 am. Prep students arriving after 8:30 am must report to the Prep office to check in before going to class.

Prep students are tracked daily for absences, late arrivals, tardiness and early dismissals. With the exception of lunch privileges for seniors (grade 12) and pre-approved early dismissals, students are not permitted to leave campus unsupervised for any reason during the regular school day.

ADD JUNE 15 EXT DAY INFO

Extended Day Location

• Middle School: Strauss Gym on the upper campus

Dismissal

• Pick up is from 3:30 pm to 3:45 pm
• Students will wait for their parents at the Lower Campus Parking Lot on the right side.
• Drivers must follow the Traffic Flow Map from the East Entrance into the parking lot.
• Cars should form a line to the right of the pick-up area.
• Middle School students who are not participating in a supervised after school activity and/or not picked by 3:45 pm will be escorted to After School Supervision on the Lower Campus. Parents will be billed the appropriate drop-In fees.
• Upper School students are permitted to remain on campus for specific athletic, performing arts, academic support, or club-related events.
• The Upper School Commons building will be locked at 6:00 pm. All other academic buildings are locked at 4:30 pm. Upon the conclusion of the last scheduled school event, students are expected to depart campus in a timely fashion.

Extended Day Location

• Middle School: Middle School Commons

Change in Pick Up Time

In the event a student must leave early, parents are required to email the Prep Administrative Assistant Luticia Williams with the following information:

• the reason for early dismissal
• the time the child will be picked up
• the person to whom the child is to be released
• With the exception of Upper School students with driving permission, all students are to be met by an authorized adult (18 and over). Prior to departure, students must be signed out from their respective division office. Teachers are not authorized to release students directly from class.

Change in Pick-Up Person

Barrie will only release a student to persons authorized on your family's Emergency Form and/or by written or verbal consent from the child’s parents/guardians. No exceptions. Please email Luticia Williams to communicate any changes to pick-up authorization.

Teachers of individual classes will determine whether distributed books are “to be returned” or “kept by the student and not required to be returned.” This information is discussed with students in class, reviewed with parents at Back to Barrie Night, and designated on the course syllabus on PowerSchool.

When books are:

• to be returned - students must return the books in very good condition** or they will be billed at the end of the year. Students cannot write in these books.
• to be kept by students and not required to be returned - students can write in these books.*

If a student loses a book during the year, it is the family’s responsibility to replace (order and pay for) the missing book. In this case, families can reference the ISBN for the missing book in the class’s syllabus posted on PowerSchool.

At any point, a family is welcome to purchase additional copies of any book for their student’s use.

*In June, we welcome families to return any unwanted books originally designated as “no return”  back to the school, if the books are in very good condition or better. Such voluntary returns will help offset the costs of books for future years.

Very good condition is defined as: “A well-cared-for item that has seen limited use but remains in great condition. The item is complete, unmarked, and undamaged, but may show some limited signs of wear. Item works perfectly.”  Amazon Condition Guidelines, accessed August 22, 2018.

Grades - Middle and Upper School students are evaluated using the following grading scale (GPA only applies to Upper School students): Letter Grade Numerical Average GPA.

Letter Grade Numerical Average GPA:

Homework - Students in grades 6-9 will receive a Barrie School Planner as a tool to help manage long term projects, daily homework, and general school activities. Parents and students can also check the student portal on the Barrie website for individual teacher PowerSchool sites and assignments.

Homework is an extension of classroom studies and an integral part of course work. Students are responsible for the quality and timeliness of their homework. While parents are encouraged to monitor schoolwork completed at home, that work should be a true representation of the effort and capabilities of the student. If parents observe that their child is having difficulty with their assignments, they should encourage their child to speak directly with their teacher, advisor, or the Director of Prep Learning Services. Missing, incomplete, or late assignments can negatively affect a student's grade, so taking initiative and responsibility is key to success.

The amount of homework will vary from course to course and grade to grade. Depending on the study habits and organizational skills of a student, Middle School students can expect approximately 20- 30 minutes of homework per academic class per evening. Most major long term assignments, including science projects, boat construction, writers' workshop and research are done during class time, so that teachers can monitor student progress and provide support as needed. Additionally, these long term assignments may require time, support, and supplies from home in their final stages of completion.

In Upper School, students can expect approximately 30-45 minutes of homework per academic class per evening. Those in Advanced Placement courses can expect a substantial increase in homework volume and may be required to attend additional classes.

Schedule and Graduation Requirements for Grades 9-12 - Upper School students are required to carry a full course load comprised of core courses and electives. General scheduling guidelines for each grade are:

• Grade 9: Humanities, math, science, language, health and wellness, athletics, electives
• Grade 10: Humanities, math, science, language, health and wellness, athletics, electives,
• Grade 11: Humanities, math, science, language, health and wellness, athletics, electives,
• Grade 12: Humanities, math, science, electives. Students have the option for additional coursework in world language.

All Barrie students are required to graduate with a minimum of 27.333 credits. The following courses are required:

• Humanities (8 credits)
• Mathematics (4 credits)
• Science (4 credits)
• Modern Languages (3 credits)
• Fine or Performing Arts (4 credits)
• Electives and Independent Studies (4 credits)
• Health (0.333 credits)
• Physical Education/Athletics, Community Service, Internship, and Extended Study Week (yearly requirements)

Adding or Dropping a Course - Upper School students may add or drop electives only during the add/drop period. 

If approved, courses may be added or dropped before the date stated on the Add-Drop Form. Courses dropped within the allotted time frame will not appear on a student's transcript. After the indicated time period, dropped courses will appear as a withdraw pass or a withdraw fail on a student's transcript. It is the responsibility of the student to complete the appropriate add/drop paperwork by the deadline.

The Director of College Counseling guides students through the college application and selection process. Support is based on the needs of each student and family but is generally provided through individual meetings (beginning in the spring of junior year through senior year) and college information sessions/workshops to educate students and parents about colleges, the admissions process, standardized testing, procedures, and trends.

The Director of College Counseling establishes and maintains relationships with colleges and college admission officers through college tours, conferences, and visits to Barrie School. The Director of College Counseling writes the official letter of recommendation for all seniors and processes the college application (transcripts, letters of recommendation). The College Counseling Office does not package the full application together to send it to colleges; students may request an application review by the Director of College Counseling if materials are submitted at least one week in advance of the mailing date. There are a handful of colleges that request that all materials be sent together; these requests will be honored.

Advancement Placement Exam Policy - All students enrolled in Advanced Placement (AP) courses at Barrie are required to take the AP exam(s). By early March, a student will receive an AP examination contract/order form.

The contract can be nullified only by the Director of College Counseling, based upon a request of an AP faculty member. Any student breaking the contract will incur the appropriate fees as designated, in accordance with College Board AP examination policy.

Testing and Evaluation - Each year, we carefully consider our options for formal assessments. blurb on ERB

Selected testing helps inform our practices and benchmark performance to others.

The Preliminary SAT (PSAT) is given each year in October on a date designated by the College Board. The PSAT offers preparation for the SAT Reasoning (SAT) test, which is required for admission to most colleges. All tenth and eleventh graders are expected to take the PSAT and are automatically registered for the test by the College Counselor.

The SAT, SAT Subject Tests and ACT are offered at numerous testing centers in the area. Registration information is available in the office of College Counseling. Official score reports must be requested from individual reporting agencies.

Any student whose native language is not English should take the T.O.E.F.L. (Test of English as a Foreign Language) as part of the college application process. Colleges and universities in the United States use the T.O.E.F.L. to help determine the level of English proficiency in non-native speakers. Barrie students should contact the College Counselor if interested in taking the T.O.E.F.L.

(Note: Students registering for the PSAT, SAT, SAT Subject Tests, ACT, and T.O.E.F.L. must use Barrie's CEEB code number: 210951.)

College Disclosure Policy - Colleges and universities have become increasingly concerned about student behavior on their campuses and, with growing frequency, are posing questions about disciplinary infractions on their admission applications. When asked, at any point in the application process, student applicants are expected to answer those questions regarding disciplinary action(s). Students, when reporting these matters, should answer truthfully and are encouraged to use past mistakes to their advantage by demonstrating thoughtful reflection and growth.

The College Counselor, when asked, will disclose any disciplinary action(s) and a subsequent letter of notification from the Head of Prep will also be sent. Such reporting may occur at the time a college application is submitted, while the application is being reviewed, or after the decision has been made. Barrie School's college disclosure policy complies with the application requirements of the individual college or university and with the National Association for College Admission Counseling's Statement of Principles of Good Practice which states:

Counseling members agree that they should report any significant change in a candidate?s academic status or qualifications, including personal school conduct record, between the time of recommendation and graduation, where permitted by applicable law and regulations and if requested by an institution?s application. III.A. 8, 9

College Visits - Two days in October are designated as College Visit days. Seniors are allowed to miss classes for college visits, but must submit a Planned Absence Form. Students are urged to make their college visits during vacations and the regularly scheduled Barrie visit days; however, should this timing not be feasible, other dates may be cleared.

For more information, see the College Placement web page.

Extended Study Week Program

The Extended Study Week (ESW) program is a collection of co-curricular projects that include a week of specialized instruction, providing both individual and community experiences that extend learning beyond the traditional classroom. Each year, students are offered a choice of developmentally appropriate projects tied to curriculum and grade themes. To support a cohesive program, these offerings cycle every two to three years. This approach maximizes choice and exposure to diverse activities. This required program is an additional cost to parents.

The Extended Study Week Program reinforces our community values and prepares students for global citizenship. Each project embodies our commitment to 21st Century Learning Capacities, and the philosophies of teaching and learning that we embrace as a school: experiential, project-based, multi-disciplinary, and thematic learning, as well as service, stewardship, and community outreach. Local, regional, national, and international experiences provide students with opportunities to make meaningful connections between the project’s driving question(s) and their respective grade-level theme(s).

Each project requires students to create authentic products that reflect their respective learning experience(s). These products serve as artifacts to build program legacy and are intended to create greater community access to what was learned and developed through the ESW experience.

Students are tasked with presenting individual and group learning outcomes through a project showcase, where they share products, experiences, and curricular connections with a wider audience. Students access these outcomes through guided reflections in regular group meetings as part of the year-long process.

While faculty collaboration establishes project offerings, students are integral partners in the development of the driving question, project itinerary, and projected outcomes. These projects are supported by outside organizations, formal school partnerships, and other area resources. In project development, students are given opportunities to advance their leadership, teamwork, organizational, and practical-life skills.

Open Campus Learning Opportunities

Rooted in the Montessori principles of our Lower School, the Barrie Middle and Upper School understands and appreciates the power of learning outside of the traditional classroom environment. As such, we regularly seek out, create, and embrace learning opportunities that capitalize on the expansive resources of our 45-acre campus, surrounding communities, Washington, DC and Baltimore metropolitan areas, and the greater mid-Atlantic region.

Driven by our mission and values, Open-Campus Learning Opportunities provide authentic experiences for students to develop 21st Century Learning Capacities. An Open-Campus Learning model allows for intensive, cross-curricular, and/or service-based extensions of coursework. These extensions translate into the development of life skills and a deeper understanding of content knowledge, improving student success both within and outside of our educational setting. Our Open-Campus approach provides internal and external opportunities for learning, such as hosting guests on campus to share their expertise with students, performing service for others, or exploring off-campus resources and school partnerships.

As an extension of our core curriculum, Open-Campus Learning Opportunities are often directly connected to course projects and program themes, often leading to graded coursework. Additionally, students are expected to share the learning from these experiences with a wider audience using various formats, such as class pages, the school newsletter, blog posts, videos, and presentations.

Open-Campus Learning Opportunities can be identified and outlined by faculty, students, and parents alike. Each constituency is empowered to share and support opportunities they feel will extend student learning and enhance engagement. Each Open-Campus experience is then coordinated and led by a faculty member, with support from other staff, a lead student, or parent volunteers.

Open-Campus Learning is supported by the school through the designation of Open-Campus Days, which provide predictable times in the academic year for students and teachers to make the world around them their classroom. Teachers are also encouraged to take advantage of events and opportunities that enrich and extend the curriculum that occur outside of designated Open-Campus Days.

Fall Retreat

Each fall, Prep students and faculty participate in a retreat, usually over two days. The purpose of retreat is to strengthen community by establishing and sharing norms, setting goals, nurturing a cohesive and healthy student body, and embracing grade themes. During retreat, students participate in activities by advisory, grade and division. We strive to focus on experiences and activities which can be reinforced academically and socially over the course of the school year.

Retreats are mandatory for all students and faculty, involve no additional costs, and may include an overnight component, on or off campus.

Barrie's commitment to respect for self, others and the environment permeates all aspects of student life. We support and encourage our students to develop a sense of responsibility and engagement which will strengthen Barrie and communities outside of campus.

Service Learning is a method of teaching, learning and reflecting. Through its experiential components, Service Learning provides all Middle School students with an enriching hands-on learning experience interwoven with instruction and reflection. Most Service Learning opportunities are embedded into the school schedule and students are encouraged and supported to integrate their service into the fabric of their experience.

Barrie's commitment to respect for self, others and the environment permeates all aspects of student life. We support and encourage our students to develop a sense of responsibility and engagement which will strengthen Barrie and communities outside of campus.

Community Service is donated time through an activity or service. Students in the Upper School are required to complete 175 hours of Community Service or Internship during their time in upper school. While some Community Service opportunities are scheduled as part of the program, students work with their advisors, Internship Coordinator, and the Montgomery County SSL website to identify opportunities. As part of their Community Service experience, students participate in pre and post reflection exercises.

Internships are completed by students in upper school and provide them an opportunity to have real world experiences associated with their career interests. Guided and assisted by our Internship Coordinator, using a new online platform called x2Vol, search for internships in a variety of fields, including medicine, law, diplomacy, theater arts, and more. During their internships, students are encouraged to journal as a reflective exercise.

Finally, a timesheet, self-evaluation, and supervisor performance evaluation form must be submitted in order for Community Service and Internship hours to be approved and documented.

Internships are completed by students in grades 11 and 12 and provide them an opportunity to have real-time experiences associated with their career interests. Guided and assisted by their advisors, students are required to complete a minimum of 75 hours as a graduation requirement. During their internships, students are encouraged to journal as a reflective exercise.

A timesheet, self-evaluation, and supervisor performance evaluation form must be submitted in order for Community Service and Internship hours to be approved and documented.

Advisory Program - The Advisory Program is a central aspect of a student's experience in Barrie Prep. Advisors are the primary liaison between home and school and they are the student's advocate and mentor on campus. Barrie's commitment to providing a supportive and nurturing environment is enabled through advisory. Students can request specific individuals to be their advisors as well as state their preference for single or mixed advisories.

Collaborating with the Dean, Director of Student & Family Services, Director of Prep Learning Services, and Head of Barrie Prep, Advisors are guided in what they do during advisory as well as how they can most effectively support students and parents. Advisory provides students the opportunities for self-reflection, executive skills reinforcement, and healthy lifestyle review. Advisors are also able to spend time in an unstructured way chatting, playing games and getting to know their students. Advisors should communicate with parents regularly, particularly at the beginning of the school year, around reporting cycles and prior to conferences, and a student's transition to the school and its routines. Advisors are expected to have daily contact with their advisees.

Advisory meets at different times of the week to follow a pre-designed curriculum and for the purposes of checking in. 

Assembly - Assemblies are an essential aspect of school life at Barrie. We participate in a variety of assembly structures including All School (two years to grade 12), Prep (grades 6 to 12) and divisional (MS and US). Assemblies are thematic and led by staff, students and guests to the school.

Awards - At the end of the school year, Barrie School recognizes outstanding student accomplishments at the Awards Ceremony. Our ceremony celebrates accomplishments in the arts, athletics and academics.

Clubs and Committees - Clubs and Committees are essential aspects of student life at Barrie. Both Clubs and Committees offer opportunities for student leadership, and each demonstrates Barrie’s commitment to honoring student voice. Clubs and Committees are embedded within the schedule rotation, which highlights our dedication to these programs and the skills and outlets they provide our students.

• Clubs offer students and staff an opportunity to participate in activities and experiences with peers who share a common passion or interest. Club proposals are collected at the beginning of each trimester and can come from both staff and students. Regardless of where the proposal originates, each Club has both a student leader and a faculty advisor. Students and staff present Club offerings at the beginning of each trimester, and students sign up for the club of their choice. Clubs with the greatest interest are adopted, and the proposal and sign-up process is revisited each trimester, allowing some Clubs to be offered again and continue throughout the year. Clubs are also encouraged to meet outside of the designated Club period, and many take advantage of time during lunch or after school to plan and participate in their activities.
   
• Committees are structured to promote and develop leadership, life, and work skills, and are led by students and advised by staff with complimentary experiences. Unlike Clubs, Committees stem from both the needs of the school and those of the Student Government Association. Whether planning a school dance, advocating for Green initiatives, or participating in a new marketing venture, these opportunities provide students with authentic experiences to practice these skills. Participation in a Committee is not mandatory for all students, however it is encouraged and supported by students and staff. Committee involvement is generally a year-long commitment, and students take on many different roles within the Committee throughout the year.

Lockers

• All Prep students are assigned a locker. Middle School students are usually assigned two as well as a gym locker for their athletic gear. Students are required to keep their backpacks, clothing and other personal items in their lockers.
• Students are responsible for maintaining their lockers and are not permitted to leave food or other perishables in their lockers overnight.
• Most Upper School student lockers have locks included. Middle School and gym lockers must use a lock purchased by the student. 
• Barrie School has the right to open any locker for inspection and remove any unauthorized item found in the locker. The school is not responsible for damage occurring to unauthorized personal items during any inspection.
• Prior to breaks and holidays, students are required to clean and tidy their lockers. This is usually done during advisory. Anything left in lockers past the last day of school becomes property of the school.

Supplies and Textbooks

• Books are included with tuition, and are provided to students upon enrollment.
• Students are responsible for providing their own pencils and pens, binders, papers, and calculators. Some teachers may provide a list of additional school supplies to the student at the beginning of the school year.

Student Drivers

• Students who drive to school must register their cars using the Car Registration Form.
• Students must park their vehicles in the Wat Thai parking lot. This parking lot is available to the school through the kindness of the Wat Thai community. Students are reminded to respect their property, and to behave in a socially acceptable manner.

Social Events

• Social events are scheduled throughout the school year and are organized by the Student Government.
• Expectations for dress and for behavior are the same as during the school day. Students will be informed of appropriate dress guidelines for special events. Students who wish to bring guests to events must complete the activity guest form in advance.
• Students are to be picked up promptly by their parents at the end of each event.

Student Government Association (SGA) - In Barrie Prep, students elect officers and class representatives to serve as on the Student Government Association (SGA). 

Yearbook - Barrie School publishes a yearbook annually. This student run (faculty guided) publication is available for advance purchase during the school year.

Middle & Upper School Division Office

Kristin Arndt, Head of Barrie Prep - 301-576-2854
Luticia Williams, Prep Administrative Assistant - 301-576-2855

Advisor - First point of contact for general questions.

Teacher - First point of contact for specific questions related to an academic class.

Dean of Student Life - Liaise with and guide teachers and advisors in providing support to students. Toni Myers Perry, 301-576-2859

Dean of Studies - Works with teachers and students to provide a rigorous and supportive academic experience. David Weiner, 301-576-2850

Student and Family Services Director - Social and emotional support. Natosha Speight, 301-576-2880

Director of College Counseling - Support and guidance with college search and applications. David Weiner, 301-576-2850

School Nurse - Physical health and well-being of students. Kirstie Abernathy, 301-576-2814

Learning Support - Academic and classroom learning support. Rachel Tate, 301-576-2825

Director of Health, Wellness, and Athletics - Athletics, health curriculum, sports participation. Seth Lieberman, 301-576-2886

Registrar - Transcripts. David Weiner, 301-576-2850

For a comprehensive list, see Who to Contact:

• All School
• Middle & Upper School