ST. JOSEPH'S GENERAL AGENDA: 2009 - 2010

DAILY SCHEDULE
 

SCHOOL CODE OF CONDUCT

The St. Joseph's Catholic School Community Council, as representative of the parents, students and greater community, provides advice to the school administration on a variety of school issues. In consultation with the CSCC, the staff and students of St. Joseph's High School, led by the principal, have developed this Code of Conduct for students that reflects a fair and balanced approach to school discipline and order. The St. Joseph’s Catholic School Community Council is pleased to offer our endorsement of the Code of Conduct, and to acknowledge the work of the St. Joseph's staff and students in its formation.

Standards of Behaviour Based on School Code of Conduct
Respect, civility and responsible citizenship:
The spirit of Christ must permeate all directives pertaining to conduct in the St. Joseph’s High School community. As such, all school members must:

• Respect and comply with all applicable federal, provincial and municipal laws.

• Demonstrate honesty and integrity.

• Respect differences in people, their ideas and opinions as each member is a unique creation of God.

• Treat one another with dignity and respect at all times and, especially, when there is disagreement.

• Respect and treat others fairly, regardless of their race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age or disability.

• Respect the right of others.

• Dress in a manner that complies with the St. Joseph’s High School uniform/dress code and is appropriate to school activities with regard to exposure, cleanliness and/or message.

• Show proper care and regard to school property and the property of others.

• Take appropriate measures to help those in need.

• Respect persons who are in a position of authority.

• Respect the need of others to work in an environment of learning and teaching.
   

Progressive Discipline Model

Unless otherwise specified, any disciplinary issues brought to the attention of school administration will result in a specific consequence. Usually a first offence generates a warning letter that must be signed by a parent and returned to the administrator before readmission to school. This warning will describe the progressive consequences for repeated violations. Students who repeat the same violation can expect to be assigned detentions, in school suspensions or out of school suspensions.

 UNIFORM POLICY

UNIFORM POLICY:

Click the icon for more information:

All students must wear the school uniform properly every school day. Ripped, torn, patched/frayed or ill fitting clothing is not acceptable at St. Joseph’s High School. Students must arrive and depart from school in complete uniform. The uniform must be worn during classes, detentions, lunch, assemblies, liturgies, field trips, bus loading times and any other designated times. Students who are not in proper uniform should expect to be denied entry to classes. Repeated violations will result in disciplinary measures.
 
Special Note: The uniform policy is subject to review and revision each year. All staff, students and parents are welcome to participate. Please contact the principal if you wish to take part in the annual review.

BASIC UNIFORM *

1. McCarthy’s white Oxford-style dress shirt with St. Joe’s crest(long/short sleeve).

2. McCarthy‘s white golf shirt with St. Joseph’s crest (long/short sleeve).

3. Navy blue dress cotton pants (only McCarthy’s or McCarthy’s standard are approved), not stretch pants, flare pants or cargo pants.

4. Navy blue cotton walking shorts (only McCarthy’s or McCarthy’s standard are approved), not sport shorts or cargo shorts.

5. St. Joseph’s High School kilt.

6. Footwear: Dress shoes/Running shoes (must be in the spirit of the school uniform). Open heel shoes or casual footwear must adhere snugly to the foot.

OPTIONAL ITEMS (Specialty)

Note: All optional /specialty items must be monogrammed with the St. Joseph’s crest
 

ACCESSORIES

• A plain white T-shirt, with sleeves over the shoulders and absolutely no graphics, or uniform shirt must be worn underneath vests, v-neck sweaters, cardigans and sweatshirts.

• Sleeveless T-shirts or camisoles should not be visible.

• Optional belts may only be dark coloured and must be worn inside the original belt loops
   

SUMMER DRESS

• Dress sandals and walking shorts may be worn until November 1 and after April 1. This applies to all summer dress days, including Civvies Days.

• Plastic thong-style flip flops are not acceptable footwear on any school day.
   

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS*

• Only school sweaters may be worn inside classes and the cafeteria. Coats, jackets and non-uniform sweaters must be left in lockers.

• The school kilt is to be worn at, or slightly above, the knee. The kilt may be accompanied by blue or black knee socks which are to be worn below the knee.

• All pants and shorts must be worn at the waist. Oversize pants/shorts and tight-fitting stretch pants are not permitted.

• Jackets, coats, hats, headgear, (i.e.: bandanas, scarves), chain links or extra clothes are not to be worn with the school uniformAll items such as jewellery, shoes, hair accessories, makeup, hair coloring and facial piercings must be appropriate with regard to the spirit of the school uniform and are not permitted if they represent or create a risk as a possible weapon.

• NAVY BLUE colour as per the standard issued by McCarthy’s Clothing Company.

* Final discretion rests with school administration.

UNIFORM SUPPLIERS
 

GUIDELINES FOR “CIVVIES” DAYS *

• Civvies days, which are granted periodically, allow students to dress out of school uniform within the following guidelines:

• No logos or messages promoting lifestyle choices contrary to Catholic values.

• No tank tops or spaghetti strapped tops.

• No midriff baring tops.

• Skirt / dress length as per the uniform kilt policy.

*Final discretion rests with school administration.

Academic Honesty

Students must not plagiarize, cheat, copy, or, knowingly and deliberately, present the language, ideas or thoughts of another individual as their own work. Consequences may include any individual involved in academic dishonesty being assigned a grade of zero on the assignment, test or exam. Additionally, a suspension will be levied against students guilty of plagiarism.

Computers

Computer Passwords are to be changed regularly. Password confidentiality is the responsibility of the individual student. Acceptable use policy for computers is available as part of course packages from teachers. Inappropriate use of computer technology will result in automatic suspension of computer privileges and/or suspension from school if the situation warrants.
 

Pornography

Any magazine or reading materials brought on school property by a student is the responsibility of that student. Magazines/books which are deemed exploitive will be confiscated and consequences will follow.

Pagers / Cellular phones

These items are not to be used inside the building.

Ipods /MP3 /Ear Phones

These items must be stored in bags before entering class or in lockers.

Laser Pens

These items are not allowed on school property for any reason.  Any student using a laser in school will be suspended.

Smoking

In accordance with School Board policies, smoking is not allowed on school property.  Students who smoke may use the designated area only at the following times: BEFORE 7:55 a.m., AT LUNCH HOUR, AND AFTER 2:10 p.m.  Please use the waste cans provided.  No smoking (even in the designated area) will be allowed during class time.  There is zero tolerance for smoking on school property.  Please respect our neighbours by not smoking or loitering on the sidewalks in our neighbouring area, in the local streets adjoining the school or at the front entrance area of the school property.  This policy will be strictly enforced through school suspensions.

Theft

Theft will  be treated as a serious offence since it violates the spirit of respect for the property of others and contravenes civil law.  Theft is a direct contravention of the basic philosophy of St. Joseph’s High School.  Police may be called if deemed appropriate.

Vandalism / Willful Damage

Anyone who destroys, defaces or otherwise damages property belonging to the Board, another student or staff member will be required to make restitution where appropriate.   Offenders may be suspended on the first occasion and the police may become involved in the issue.

Weapons

Weapons or replicas of any kind are not to be brought into the school.  Possession of knives of any kind, pellet or BB guns, imitations or any other items that are potentially dangerous to others will result in suspension.   Imitations or any other items that are potentially dangerous to others will result in suspension, also possible expulsion as per the SMCDSB Student Code of Conduct, and police involvement, regardless of whether or not there was intent to injure others.   Any such items required for class purposes or dramatic productions/skits will be procured and kept under supervision by a teacher.

Skateboards/Rollerblades

No skateboards or rollerblades are allowed on school property.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Graduate Expectations

A student who graduates from St. Joseph’s High School

• Has respect for God, self and others.
• Demonstrates strong moral principles.
• Has an appreciation for other faith traditions and the diversity of all people.
• Is a lifelong learner who is capable of creative, independent and innovate thinking.
• Has developed a process for decision making, goal setting and lifelong learning.
• Applies her/his talents for the betterment and fulfillment of self and society.
• Has developed literacy and numeracy skills to the best of her/his ability.
• Displays a sense of belonging to, and a responsibility for, the local and global community.
• Recognizes the value and dignity of all forms of work.
• Explores career and education opportunities and plans for the future

O.S.S.  - ONTARIO SECONDARY

SCHOOL GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

In order to receive the Ontario Secondary School Diploma, students will have to earn thirty credits, pass the Grade Ten Literacy Test and complete forty hours of volunteer community involvement.  The thirty credits will include the following:

• 18 COMPULSORY CREDITS PLUS

• 12 ELECTIVE CREDITS

Compulsory credits include:
 

In addition, students enrolled at Catholic Secondary Schools in the Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board must take a Religion/Family Life Education credit each year from Grade Nine through Grade Twelve.  The remaining eight elective credits will be chosen from those offered.

Grade 10 Literacy Test

All students must successfully complete the Provincial Secondary School Literacy Test in order to earn a Secondary School Diploma.  The test will be based upon the Ontario curriculum expectations for language and communication in all Grade Nine subject areas.

Additional Graduation Requirements Community Involvement

Students are required to complete forty (40) hours of community involvement activities.  These activities may be completed at any time during a students’  years in the secondary program.  The requirement is to be completed outside students’ normal instructional hours.    Students will maintain a  record of their community involvement activities.  The Principal will decide whether the student has met the requirements for these activities,  for both the Ministry and the Board.     

ACADEMIC EXPECTATIONS AND PROCEDURES

Attendance

Regular attendance is required of all students as part of their academic program.  One of the functions of the school is to help prepare individuals for successful entry into the work world.  Regular , punctual attendance is the expectation of society at large.  Students may be denied a credit due to excessive absences. Students with a Period One class must attend home room daily. Students who do not have a Period One class must sign in at the designated location before their first class of the day.  It is very important for these students to sign in every day.

If a student needs to be excused during the day to attend a medical appointment (or for other legitimate reasons), a note from home explaining the reason and the time to be excused MUST be brought to the office before 7:45 am.  The student will be issued an Excuse Slip indicating the time to be released from class.  If returning to the school that day, the student must sign back in at the office.

Absenteeism

Students who are absent from class without permission will be considered truant. Administration response will be consistent with the Progressive Discipline Model (see above).

Students are required to attend all classes daily unless they are ill or exceptional circumstances arise.  If an absence is unavoidable, a phone call from the parent or guardian is required  prior to the student’s return.  If this is not possible, the student must bring a note from home explaining the absence when he/she returns to school. The student must present this note to the office before home room in order to get an admit slip. Students will not  be admitted to home room or classes without an admit slip from the office.

Students who become ill during the day must report to the main office so that necessary assistance can be provided.  A phone call to a parent or guardian may be made to arrange for a ride home or permission to leave.  Students leaving the school without reporting to the office are considered truant.

The Education Act, Subsection 30(5) with respect to truancy,  reads:

A child who is required by law to attend school and who refuses to attend, is habitually absent from school, is guilty of an offence and, on conviction is liable to the penalties under Part VI of the Provincial Offences Act and Subsection 266(2) of this Act applies in any proceeding under this section. As a result of this amendment, courts will be able to sentence youths convicted of habitual absence from school to a fine or probation under the Provincial Offences Act. 

Evaluation

Evaluation is a complex process which, to be fair and accurate, requires a variety of assessment methods.  Each department at St. Joseph’s has developed assessment and evaluation strategies that must be in line with the Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board policy.   Teachers will make students aware of the criteria which will be used to evaluate their progress.  It is the student’s responsibility to fulfill the necessary course requirements in order to succeed.

Missed Tests/Assignments

Students who miss a test will generally fall into one of the following categories:

Co-curricular:  Students who miss a test/assignment or a co-curricular activity must notify the subject teacher before the date to make arrangements to write the test or hand in the assignment.  Failure to notify the teacher will result in a mark of zero.

Legitimate Absences:  Students who are absent from a test will write the test on the day they return.  A note from home explaining the absence and acknowledging that a test was missed, must be stamped at the office and signed by a Vice Principal or the Principal prior to the commencement of home room.  The student must present the teacher with this signed and stamped note at the beginning of their class.  Failure to do so may result in a mark of zero.

Truant: Students who are truant on test/assignments due date will receive a mark of zero.

Suspensions: Students who miss a test while on suspension may be permitted to demonstrate their learning through alternate assessment opportunities, as determined by the teacher.  In the case where no alternative assessments are possible, the student will be assessed a mark of zero.  While a student is under suspension, he/she should arrange to get class work from a classmate.   Assignment submissions can be made on the specified due date by arrangement with the office.

Missed Presentations

When a student is ill on a day that he/she is to make a class presentation, the student must call the school in order to notify the teacher.

Vacations

As the school calendar is approved and distributed during the previous school year, vacations should be planned around the school calendar.   Rescheduling of required assignments,  tests, or exams will not be granted for vacations.  Teachers are not required to provide school work for students who are not in attendance for this reason.

Dance Regulations

Assemblies

Assemblies are designed to generate school spirit.  We believe that students and teachers should enjoy assemblies and that they should provide information and entertainment to all.  We believe that all students, teachers and visitors to our school should feel welcome at assemblies and that they should always be conducted appropriately. Students must be attentive and respectful during assemblies, and conduct themselves as though in class.

Masses and Retreats

A Mass or other liturgical service is an opportunity for us to celebrate our faith as a community. Attendance is required, as are respectful and appropriate behaviour.  As well, annual retreats are considered an integral part of our spiritual growth, so students are required to attend, prepared to participate in the experience.

Field Trips

When students are part of a field trip, uniform policy remains in effect, unless notified differently.  Smoking restrictions and code of conduct expectations remain in effect during a field trip. 

Conduct as a Team Member (Mr. B. Wakewich / Mr. R. Tynes)

As a member of a St. Joe’s Jaguars team, the student athlete agrees to the following conditions and responsibilities:
 

Failure to comply with the above conditions and responsibilities may result in the student’s removal from the team.

Completion of the entire season’s commitment to a school team is imperative. Failure to communicate and negotiate a change in commitment with the coach and co-curricular chairperson may result in a one year suspension from all school sports teams. 

Cafeteria

The cafeteria is located on the ground floor of the school.  It is open for breakfast and lunch.  This space is for all students to enjoy and we expect you to keep it clean.  Food and drink are only to be consumed in this area of the school and not in hallways or classrooms.  Students may go to their lockers only during the first and last five minutes of each lunch period.

Hallways

During certain parts of the day, hallway traffic needs to be minimized.  Students should not be in hallways during classes unless proceeding directly to a teacher directed location.  During period three lunch, students must vacate hallways and may not return to them until the times directed on posted signs. No food or drink (other than bottled water) should be consumed in the hallways at anytime.

Lockers (Mrs. Janda)

Your locker is provided to you as a safe place to store personal items and books. Although it is your locker for the duration of the year, it is the property of the school and the school reserves the right to inspect it at any time. Each student will be assigned a specific locker and must not change lockers without the permission of the Vice Principal in charge.  Dudley combination locks are sold at the school at the beginning of the year for a nominal fee. These are the only type of locks permitted at St. Joseph’s. All other types will be removed. A permanent record of lock combinations is kept at the main office. For security reasons, combinations should not be shared with other students and students should not share lockers. Students should also keep their lockers locked at all times. Students are asked to show good taste in decorating their lockers and will be asked to remove offensive pictures, posters or statements. Please do not decorate the outside of your locker.

Textbooks

Textbooks and library books are provided to you on loan from the Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board.  Please use the books with care as they must be returned in good condition at the end of the semester. If a book is lost or damaged during the year, the student will be required to pay a replacement fee. Students will not be issued new textbooks until existing ones have been handed in or replaced.

Vehicles

Students are asked to exhibit safe driving practices in the school parking lot.  Drivers exhibiting dangerous driving habits will be banned from the school parking lot. Vehicles parked in unauthorized areas are subject to ticketing and towing.

School Insurance

Early in the school year, insurance forms will be issued to all students.  Students and parents are encouraged to consider taking out insurance especially if students plan to become involved in athletic activities.

Fire Drills

A very loud beep together with a red flasher is the signal for a fire or other emergency evacuation.  No other bell in the school has a similar sound.  Fire drills will be carried out regularly throughout the school year to ensure student safety.  If you hear the fire bell, you must assume that a fire has actually broken out.  Go quickly and quietly out the exit indicated on the sign  near the door in each room.  All students must leave the building.  Stay with your class and  teacher and move away from the school.  Staff will help to direct you in leaving the school and will let you know when it is safe to return.

NOTE:   IT IS A CRIMINAL OFFENCE TO TAMPER WITH FIRE ALARMS OR FIRE EQUIPMENT.  OFFENDERS WILL BE PROSECUTED

Inclement Weather

In the event of inclement weather, students and parents are directed to listen to B101FM ,  ENERGY FM at  93.1FM, ROCK 95 at 95.7FM, or KICX at 104.1FM for information regarding possible school closures and / or bus cancellations.   Also, updated school closures and bus cancellations will appear on the school board website - smcdsb.on.ca.

Visitors

All visitors are asked to first report to the main office to sign the guest book and obtain permission from the Principal/Vice Principal to be on school property.

 STUDENT SERVICES AND RESOURCES

Guidance

The Guidance Office is located next to the Main Office and provides the following services:

• Personal and group counselling

• College/University/Apprenticeship information

• Referrals to outside agencies

• Maintenance Student Records

• Career development and exploration

• Leadership Program

• Grade 8 Student /Parent Preparation for High School

• Student Registration and Scheduling

Confidentiality: Guidance is a confidential service, except in the case where a student may be a danger to him/ herself or others.

Student Appointments: If you require a guidance appointment, simply fill out a green Guidance Appointment slip in the Guidance office.   Your counsellor will schedule your appointment and the appointment slip will be returned to you by your Home room teacher.  Come to the Guidance Office at the time indicated on your slip.

Course Changes: Course changes may be made until the end of June of the previous school year, and they will only be granted due to extenuating circumstances.  See your Guidance Counsellor.

WEBSITES FOR CAREERS
 

Special Education Services:

The goal of the Special Education Department at St. Joseph’s is to provide a  sense of self worth and belonging within the school community.  Our aim is to offer programing which meets the needs of each student.  We also strive to help students with an IEP make an easy transition into Grade 9.  Students are given the opportunity to receive help or enrichment in a variety of subjects.  Special Education Teachers are available to help students with organizational, time management and study skills.  Students who have been receiving special education assistance at the elementary level may continue to receive it at the high school level through St. Joseph’s Special Education Department.

REACH

Chaplaincy (Ms. Michael)

As a Catholic School we are privileged to provide an atmosphere in which faith is lived in the community. With the Chaplain’s direction, we have daily prayer, liturgical celebrations, prayer services and the annual retreats.  Together, through service projects, we actively work to provide charity and promote justice, locally and globally. The sacrament of reconciliation is offered by local clergy. Both the Priest and the Chaplain are available as a pastoral resource to students who wish support in times of spiritual or personal crisis.

Library Resource Centre (Ms. Longo, Mr. Cepas)

One of the major functions of the Library Resource Centre is to help students become independent learners and problem solvers.  The development of these skills will lead to lifelong learning and the appreciation and enjoyment of literature throughout adult life.  The library staff provides assistance in the use of learning resources according to the student needs, interests and learning styles.

The Library Resource Centre is available to all students. Classes are often booked into the library for research on specific curriculum areas.  As well as academic and recreational books, there is a large selection of periodicals, reference material and  CD-ROM’s.   Students have Internet access in the library which allows them to do on-line research.  Most resources may be signed out on a two week loan basis. There are fines for overdue materials.  Students are responsible for replacing lost or damaged materials.

Students’ Council

The Students’ Council acts as the official communication link between the students and the staff.  All functions that bear directly on the student body are channeled through the Students’ Council.  Their responsibility is to make proposals, recommendations and decisions on many aspects of student life at St. Joseph’s. Each year, the executive members (President, Vice President, Activities Coordinator, Treasurer, Executive Assistant, Athletic Association Representative, Arts Representative and Grade Representatives) are elected by the student body.  Representatives are also elected by each home room to serve on the council. 

The following are the Student Council members for 2009-2010 school year:
 

JAGUAR CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

ST. JOE'S - HOME OF THE JAGS

 
THE SIMCOE-MUSKOKA CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD VISION STATEMENT:

We are a faith-filled Catholic learning community dedicated to Excellence

From this Vision Statement, we have committed ourselves to the following five Strategic Directions:
 

THE SIMCOE MUSKOKA CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD CODE OF CONDUCT:

Introduction

The Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board (the “Board”) recognizes that conflict is a part of all human relationships.   Our Catholic schools promote responsibility, respect, Catholic moral teachings, spirituality, civility and academic excellence in a safe learning and teaching environment.  As a Catholic school system, we must be proactive to ensure that our Catholic values are preserved and promoted.  All students, parents, teachers and staff have the right to be safe, and feel safe, in their school community.  With this right comes the responsibility to be law-abiding citizens and to be accountable for actions that put at risk the safety of others or oneself.

These standards of behaviour apply not only to students, but also to all individuals involved in the school system - parents or guardians, volunteers, teachers, and other staff members - whether they are on school property, on school transportation or at school-authorized events or activities.

Guiding Principles

Our belief in our system, as a learning organization and our key strategic directions, speak of the importance we place on supporting and guiding students’  faith formation and approaching discipline as a learning opportunity.  The Code of Conduct applies to all individuals involved in the school system.  The school community will work in co-operation with police, parish and community members as essential partners in making our school communities safer.

All members of the school community acknowledge that the Spirit of Christ must permeate the Code of Conduct in each school.  Each member of the school community is recognized as a unique creation of God and must be treated in a manner which reflects the dignity and respect of each individual, especially people in positions of authority.  As a school system, we promote learning that allows each student to learn in an environment which respects each individual.

Responsible citizenship involves appropriate participation in  the civic and spiritual life of the school community and the appropriate use and care of school and personal property including, but not limited to, bringing objects to school that may compromise the safety of themselves or others.  Active and engaged citizens are aware of their rights and the rights  of others.   Members of the school community are expected to use non-violent means to resolve conflict.  Physically aggressive behaviour is not a responsible way to interact with others.  Our goal is to champion continuous improvement in all students and fostering of positive relationships.  The possession, use, or threatened use of any object to injure another person, endangers the safety of oneself and others.

Alcohol and illegal drugs are addictive and present a health hazard.  Schools will work co-operatively with police, drug, alcohol and parish agencies to promote prevention strategies and, where necessary, respond to school members who are in possession of, or under the influence of, alcohol or illegal drugs.  Insults, disrespect, abuse, bullying and other hurtful acts disrupt learning and teaching in a school community.  Members of the school community have a responsibility to maintain an environment where conflict and difference can be addressed in a manner characterized by respect and civility.

Consequences for failure to meet the expectations of appropriate school conduct will be communicated to students and enforced.  Such consequences will include suspension and expulsion according to the mandatory consequences of the Safe Schools Act, 2001, Bill 212: Education Amendment Act, 2007 and the Ontario Code of Conduct.

Roles and Responsibilities

The Board provides direction to the schools that ensures opportunity, excellence and accountability in the education system.  The Board will:

• Develop policies that set out how their schools will implement and enforce the Code of Conduct and all other rules developed as related to the provincial standard for respect, civility, responsible citizenship and physical safety.
• Seek input from school councils and review these policies regularly with students, staff, parents or guardians,
• volunteers and the community.
• Establish a process that clearly communicates the Code of Conduct to all parents, students and staff in a manner that ensures their commitment and support.Ensure an effective intervention strategy and response to all infractions related to the standards for respect, civility, responsible citizenship and physical safety.
• Communicate effectively and accurately to enable all of us to promote the core values of the Catholic school system in which we work.
• Provide opportunities for all staff to acquire the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary to develop and maintain academic excellence and safe learning and teaching environments.

Principals, under the direction of their School Board, take a leadership role in the daily operation of a school.   They provide this leadership by:

• Demonstrating care and commitment to academic excellence and a safe teaching and learning environment.
• Holding everyone, under their authority, accountable for their behaviour and actions.
• Communicating regularly and meaningfully with all members of their school community.

Principals must conduct their role in accordance with their statutory duties under the Education Act, including their duty and authority to maintain proper order and discipline within the school.

Teachers and School Staff, under the leadership of their Principals, maintain order in the school and are expected to hold everyone to the highest standard of respectful and responsible behaviour.  As role models, staff uphold these high standards when they:

• Help students work to their full potential and develop their self worth.
• Communicate regularly and meaningfully with parents.
• Maintain consistent standard of behaviour for all students.
• Demonstrate respect for all students, staff and parents.
• Prepare students for the full responsibilities of citizenship.
• Teachers have a duty to co-operate with the Principal and other teachers to establish and maintain consistent disciplinary practices in the school.

Students are to be treated with respect and dignity.  In return, they must demonstrate respect for themselves, for others and for the responsibilities of citizenship through acceptable behaviour.  Respect and responsibility are demonstrated when a student:

• Comes to school prepared, on time and ready to learn.
• Shows respect for themselves, for others and for those in authority.
• Is courteous to fellow students and obedient and courteous to teachers.
• Refrains from bringing anything to school that may compromise the safety of others.
• Follows established rules and takes responsibility for his or her own action.

Parents play an important role in the education of their children and have a responsibility to support the efforts of school staff in maintaining a safe and respectful learning environment for all students.  Parents fulfill this responsibility when they:

• Show an active interest in their child’s school work and progress.
• Communicate regularly with the school.
• Help their child be neat, appropriately dressed and prepared for school.
• Ensure that their child attends school regularly and on time.
• Promptly report to the school their child’s absence or late arrival.
• Encourage and assist their child in following the rules of behaviour.
• Assist school staff in dealing with disciplinary measure.

Police and community members are essential partners in making our schools and communities safer.  Other community members need to support and respect the rules of their local schools.   Police investigate incidents in accordance with the Police/School Protocol developed in co-operation with the Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board, the Simcoe County District School Board, Barrie City Police Service, South Simcoe Police Service, Town of Midland Police Service and Regional Commander Ontario Provincial Police Central Region ) the “Police/School Protocol”).

Parish and Clergy members provide support and resources in the development of the faith life, providing the foundation for the moral tone of our school community.  (Father Frank McDevitt)

STANDARDS OF BEHAVIOUR

Respect, Civility and Responsible Behaviour

The Spirit of Christ must permeate all directives pertaining to conduct in each school.  As such, all school members must:

  Physical Safety

  Weapons

All school members must:

• Not be in possession of any weapons including, but not limited to, firearms.

• Not use any object to threaten or intimidate another person.

• Not cause injury to any person with an object.

Alcohol and Drugs

All school members must:

• Neither be in possession of, or under the influence of, nor

• provide others with alcohol or illegal drugs.

Physical Aggression

All school members must:

• Not inflict or encourage others to inflict bodily harm on another person.

• Seek staff assistance, if necessary, to resolve conflict peacefully.

 SAFE SCHOOL STRATEGY

Progressive Discipline and Promoting Positive Student Behaviour

A progressive discipline approach includes:

• early and ongoing intervention strategies.
• addressing inappropriate behaviour.
• opportunities for the student to learn from the choices he or she makes.
• parental awareness and involvement

A student may be suspended for:

• Persistent truancy.
• Defiance of authority.
• Being under the influence of other intoxicants.
• Non-compliance with the Standards of Behaviour as previously outlined in the Code of Conduct.
• Non-compliance with Board policies
• Conduct that is injurious to the health and safety of persons within the school community and conduct injurious to the     moral tone of the school.

Activities Leading to Possible Suspension (Bill 21: Education Amendment Act)

The principal shall consider whether to suspend a student if he/she believes that the student has engaged in any of the following activities while at school, at a school-related activity, or in any other circumstances where engaging in the activity will have an impact on school climate.

• Uttering a threat to inflict serious bodily harm on another person.
• Possessing illegal drugs or alcohol.
• Being under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs.
• Swearing at a teacher or other person in authority.
• Acts of vandalism causing extensive damage to school property or property located on school premises.
• Bullying
• Any activity for which a principal may suspend a student under a policy of the board.

In these instances, police will be involved, as required, and conditions to return to school will be specified in accordance with School Board policies.          

Activities Leading to Suspension and Possible Expulsion (Bill 21: Education Amendment Act)

The principal shall suspend a student if he/she believes that the student has engaged in any of the following activities while at school, at a school-related activity, or in any other circumstances where engaging in the activity will have an impact on school climate.

• Possession of a weapon including, but not limited to, possession of firearms.
• Use of a weapon to cause or threaten bodily harm to another person.
• Committing physical assault on another person that causes bodily harm requiring treatment by a medical practitioner.
• Committing sexual assault.
• Trafficking in illegal drugs or weapons.
• Committing robbery.
• Giving alcohol to a minor.
• Engaging in another activity that, under a policy of the Board, is an activity for which a principal must suspend a student    and conduct an investigation to determine whether to recommend to the board that the student be expelled.

 Police will be involved, as indicated by the Police/School Protocol and the student will be immediately suspended.

 End of Agenda