Parent Information

Your Peace of Mind Matters

Comprehensive information to help you prepare for your teen's SCISS experience and feel confident about their safety and wellbeing.

Parent Peace-of-Mind

Everything parents need to know for confidence and comfort

🏠

Dedicated Dorm Staff

Clear guidelines and 24/7 supervision with caring residential staff

👥

Age-Appropriate Cohorts

Junior (G4–G7) and Senior (G8–G12) groups ensure right pace and support

⚖️

Balanced Days

Academics, projects, sports, and downtime for healthy development

🏥

Safety Protocols

On-site first-aid and established escalation protocols

📞

Regular Updates

Open communication with dedicated parent contact channel

Your Teen's Safety is Our Priority

We understand that sending your teenager abroad is a big decision. Here's everything you need to know about our comprehensive safety and support systems.

📞

Regular Updates

Weekly progress reports and communication from our staff

📱

24/7 Access

Emergency contact information and real-time updates

📧

Digital Portal

Online platform for photos, updates, and communication

Safety & Security

Your child's safety is our top priority

24/7 Supervision

  • Certified residential advisors on every floor
  • Professional security staff on campus
  • Check-in/check-out procedures for all activities
  • Emergency response protocols in place
  • Night supervision and room checks

Medical Care

  • Licensed medical staff on campus 24/7
  • Fully equipped medical facility
  • Direct partnership with local hospital
  • Prescription medication management
  • Emergency medical response team

Campus Security

  • Secure campus with controlled access
  • ID card access system for all buildings
  • CCTV monitoring in common areas
  • Emergency alert system
  • Regular safety drills and training

Activity Safety

  • Certified instructors for all sports activities
  • Safety equipment provided for all activities
  • Pre-activity safety briefings
  • Risk assessment for all field trips
  • Emergency action plans for all excursions

Communication Timeline

Stay informed throughout your child's journey

Welcome Call

First day of program

Personal call to confirm safe arrival and initial impressions

Weekly Updates

Every Sunday

Comprehensive update on academic progress and social activities

Mid-Program Report

Day 10-12

Detailed academic assessment and behavioral observations

Photo Gallery

Daily uploads

Secure online gallery with photos from daily activities

Final Report

Last day of program

Complete evaluation with recommendations for future development

Emergency Contact

24/7 availability

Immediate contact for any urgent matters or concerns

24/7 Emergency Contact

Emergency Hotline: +1 (555) 123-HELP (4357)
Email: emergency@sciss.org
WhatsApp: +1 (555) 123-4567

Health Requirements

Important health information and deadlines

Medical Forms

Due: 30 days before program start

Complete medical history and physical examination form

Immunizations

Due: 14 days before program start

Up-to-date vaccinations including COVID-19 if required

Insurance Coverage

Due: Registration confirmation

Valid medical insurance covering international treatment

Prescription Medications

Due: Arrival day

All medications in original containers with English labels

Dietary Restrictions

Due: 14 days before program start

Detailed information about food allergies and preferences

Emergency Contacts

Due: Registration confirmation

Multiple emergency contacts with international phone numbers

Packing Guidelines

What to bring and what to leave at home

Clothing

  • Casual clothes for 3 weeks (consider laundry schedule)
  • Formal attire for special events and university visits
  • Comfortable walking shoes and sneakers
  • Swimwear and beach/pool accessories
  • Light jacket or sweater for air conditioning
  • Rain jacket or umbrella
  • Sleepwear and undergarments

Academic

  • Laptop or tablet with charger
  • Notebooks and writing materials
  • Calculator (if needed for program)
  • Any specialized materials for chosen program
  • Backup storage device (USB drive)
  • Portable phone charger

Personal

  • Personal medications with prescription labels
  • Toiletries and personal hygiene items
  • Towels and bedding (or arrange rental)
  • Laundry supplies or plan for laundry service
  • Personal entertainment (books, games)
  • Camera for personal photos

Documents

  • Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
  • Visa documentation (if required)
  • Medical insurance cards and documentation
  • Emergency contact information
  • Copy of birth certificate
  • Program acceptance letter and materials

Packing Tips

📦

Label Everything

Include name and contact information on all luggage and valuable items.

✈️

Check Airline Restrictions

Verify weight limits and prohibited items with your airline.

🧳

Pack Smart

Bring versatile clothing and leave space for souvenirs on return trip.

Campus Services

Comprehensive support services available to your teen

Laundry Services

On-campus laundry facilities available daily. Students can do their own laundry or arrange for laundry service.

Included (self-service) / $15/week (full service)

Mail & Package Delivery

Students can receive mail and packages during their stay. All items are screened for security.

Included

Banking Services

Assistance with local banking, currency exchange, and managing spending money.

Guidance included / Transaction fees may apply

Technology Support

IT help desk for device setup, WiFi connection, and technical troubleshooting.

Included

Transportation

Airport pickup/drop-off and transportation for all scheduled activities and field trips.

Included

Storage Services

Secure storage for valuable items and documents during the program.

Included

Travel Tips

Helpful advice for smooth travel to and from SCISS

Arrival Planning

  • Book flights to arrive on designated arrival day
  • Use Boston Logan Airport (BOS) for easiest transportation
  • Allow extra time for customs and immigration
  • Have all documents easily accessible
  • Pack essentials in carry-on luggage

Money Management

  • Notify banks of international travel dates
  • Bring mix of cash and cards
  • Consider travel money cards for better exchange rates
  • Set daily spending limits with your teen
  • Keep copies of all financial documents

Communication Setup

  • Check international roaming charges
  • Consider local SIM card or international plan
  • Download messaging apps like WhatsApp
  • Establish regular check-in times
  • Share emergency contact information

Emergency Protocols

Our comprehensive emergency response procedures

Medical Emergency

Response Steps:

  1. Immediate medical assessment by on-site staff
  2. Transport to partner hospital if needed
  3. Parent notification within 1 hour
  4. Continuous updates until resolution
  5. Insurance coordination and documentation

Natural Disaster/Weather

Response Steps:

  1. Activation of emergency alert system
  2. Implementation of shelter-in-place protocols
  3. Regular parent updates via emergency hotline
  4. Coordination with local emergency services
  5. Alternative accommodation if necessary

Behavioral Issues

Response Steps:

  1. Immediate intervention by residential staff
  2. Parent contact within 24 hours
  3. Counseling and support services
  4. Development of behavior modification plan
  5. Regular progress monitoring

What Parents Say

Hear from parents who have experienced SCISS with their teens

💬
"The communication from SCISS was exceptional. I felt connected to Carlos's experience every day through photos and weekly calls. The safety measures gave me complete peace of mind."
Maria RodriguezParent of Carlos, Age 16
2024
💬
"Lily came home more confident and focused than ever. The academic program challenged her, and the international friendships she made are still strong today."
James ChenParent of Lily, Age 15
2024
💬
"SCISS exceeded our expectations. The program was well-organized, safe, and truly transformative for Alex. We're already planning for him to return as a counselor!"
Sophie WilliamsParent of Alex, Age 17
2023

Start Your Summer at SCISS

Join students from around the world for an unforgettable experience