Frequently Asked Questions
Why does ISS have a Compliance Department?
The ISS Compliance Department was established in 2009 to implement the organization’s internal audit program, good governance practices, as well as to oversee the management of risks, safety, and security for the organization and its affiliated schools. The Department has since grown to provide schools around the globe with tailored assistance in all facets of risk management, best practices and due diligence considerations, development of internal controls, and addressing various compliance and school safety and security issues.
How can the ISS Compliance Department help International Schools?
The well-being and safety of students is the main priority in all of our schools. The ISS Compliance Department can assist schools in all facets of school safety and risk management, including helping schools to build and maintain a comprehensive child protection program that also adheres to accreditation standards. ISS has partnered with experts in their field to procure reliable background checks, safety and security audits, and employee training on various compliance issues.
What are some key areas of focus for the Compliance Department?
The Compliance Department helps the organization and international schools to identify, assess, mitigate and manage risks. Areas of concentration include general school risk management, child/youth protection standards, assistance with background checks, recruitment best practices, and other school safety and security best practices.
What is a typical day for the Compliance Department?
The Compliance Department at ISS wears many hats and has to be available to assist whenever and wherever needed—in both times of helping a school manage an unexpected crisis and in assisting with day-to-day school management issues. A busy season or down time does not exist in the Compliance world. The Department could handle general due diligence inquiries one day, and then help out an international school with a complex risk management issue the next day.
What are some of the challenges the Compliance Department helps schools address?
The Compliance Department has to be able to assist schools on many different levels and areas, including assessing the potential impact of cultural and international law implications. We also work with schools internationally while not always being “physically present" to assess the situation. Our goal is to provide the best, comprehensive information in a timely matter whether it is through skype calls, conference calls or e-mails to ensure a level of safety and security in schools.
Resources
Child Protection »
Safe Teachers, Safe Schools »
ISS Continues to Support Worldwide Child Protection Efforts »
Update on Child Protection in International Schools »
ICME Education Portal »