O.D.S.S. Student/Parent Information and Code of Conduct
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O.D.S.S. Student/Parent
Information and Code of Conduct
www.ugdsb.on.ca/odss
Important Student Information for the
2020/2021 School Year
STUDENT SUPPORT CENTRE ONE VOICE, ONE TEAM
Counselors can be reached Monday - Friday from At ODSS we are always working towards building
8:00 a.m. to 4:00p.m in The Student Services an inclusive and accepting school community.
Department. Students are encouraged to submit a Along with all of our elementary partner schools
“Student Support Form” located in their Grade we have joined forces with Orlando Bowen and the
Classroom on UGCloud. Counselors are available One Voice, One Team movement to provide all
to assist students and parents in making ODSS students with an opportunity to achieve their
educational, career and personal decisions. At potential through leadership and service to our
times, counselors will be meeting virtually with community.
students to discuss academic progress and future
plans. However, we emphasize that when All students and parents are encouraged to join our
questions or concerns arise, students should request One Voice, One Team group to help make a better
an appointment. ODSS, a better community and a better world.
Watch for the opportunities to be a part of this
HEALTH SERVICES incredible movement.
The Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Health Unit is ONE VOICE…ONE TEAM!
pleased to provide the following services to
students of ODSS through the Teen Clinic:
• A counselor from Community Alcohol and Drug
Services is available by virtual appointment.
• An Attendance Counselor and Social Worker is
available daily.
• Days and times these services are available are
posted in the Student Services Area.
• All counseling and clinic services are
confidential.
Page 1
Orangeville District Secondary School
LEARNING COMMONS ATTENDANCE (Continued)
ODSS VIRTUAL LIBRARY Open 24/7 Please call or send a note before the start of school
www.ugdsb.on.ca/odss/department/Library.htm the day following the absence(s). If the student is
going to be away for more than one day, the school
should be notified as soon as possible. Notes can
ATTENDANCE also be dropped off to the attendance office before
the start of the school day.
Philosophy: It is expected that students will attend
all classes every day, on time. Consistent class School Attendance Email:
attendance and punctuality shows self-discipline orangeville.dss@ugdsb.on.ca
and is important to be successful. Attendance and Attendance Phone: (519) 941-0491 ext. 258.
punctuality will be expected in your future career Please leave a message.
and personal relationships. We expect each student
to take responsibility for his/her attendance and to Consequences for unexcused absences:
expect consequences for missed classes and Teachers will assign appropriate consequences for
arriving to class late. skipped classes. These could include:
• A phone call home
Excusing Absences: A student may only be • Detention
excused from attendance at school if they are • Make up time, etc.
unable to attend by reason of sickness or other • Other consequences assigned by the teacher
unavoidable cause (Education Act).
Parents/guardians need to supply a note, phone call Those who habitually miss classes will be referred
or email verifying that the absence is legitimate. to a Vice Principal or Admin Teacher for further
Phone calls may be made to the ODSS Attendance consequences. These could include:
secretary at 519-941-0491, ext. 258. • Parental contact and/or meeting
• Detention
E-Mails should be directed to • Suspensions
Orangeville.DSS@ugdsb.on.ca • Other consequences assigned by Admin
Notes may be dropped off to the Attendance
Office. Parent/Guardian Strategies to Ensure Good
Attendance: Our goal at ODSS is to help students
Lates: Students are expected to arrive at all classes achieve success throughout their high school
before the class begins. Subject teachers will apply experience. It is recognized that in order to meet
appropriate consequences for late arrival. If this goal, we must establish a partnership with our
lateness persists, students will be referred to a Vice students and their guardians. We believe that we
Principal. need to work together in order to ensure all
students attend classes regularly.
Procedure: Parents/Guardians can send an email,
call or send a note in order to excuse a student’s Parent/Guardian Tips
absence. A missed class is automatically a skip At home
until an acceptable email, phone call or note is • Talk about the importance of daily attendance
received from the parent/guardian. Phone calls or • Encourage good attendance practices
emails should be received as soon as possible. • Ensure that students have a way to get to school
on time
Page 2Orangeville District Secondary School
ATTENDANCE Tips (Continued)
Communicate with the school and teachers: Codes for attendance:
• Monitor your child’s daily attendance A - Unexcused absence/skip
• Maintain contact with teachers regarding the E - Excused by Parent (school has
performance and attendance of your son/daughter received note or phone call excusing
• Provide updated and accurate contact information absence)
to the school F - Field Trip or Sporting event
• Provide a secure email address to the school G - General Abs (No Bus Day, extended
• Attend parent/teacher/student conferences Medical absence, Bereavement,
• Play an active role in the education of your Cultural
son/daughter L - Late
• Let school personnel know if you become aware N - Non-Instructional
of problems at school O - Office/Guidance, Other
P - Present
S - Suspension
DID YOUR CHILD ATTEND
CLASS TODAY? Timetable - shows your child’s timetable, with
room numbers and teacher’s names for this year.
• Login to our website - www.ugdsb.on.ca/odss
• Click on the Student Login (located under Quick
Links at the right side of the page) Transcript - shows courses completed, summary
• Student Login is the first 5 letters of the student’s of credits and community service hours.
last name, and the first 3 letters of their first name
(examples: Julie Smith would be smithjul and
Katelyn Robinson would be robinkat)
• The password is the student’s OEN number - this E-MAIL ADDRESSES (PARENT)
can be found on the student’s report card to the If you would like us to make an e-mail address
right of their name or on their student card - the available to your child’s teachers as a way to
OEN number is 9 digits). contact you, please send an e-mail to us at
• If you have security concerns about your orangeville.dss@ugdsb.on.ca - questions and
password, contact the school to have it changed. messages to teachers or the school may also be
• Click on the tabs to access information - directed to this address (we will forward them for
you). The e-mail address that you provide us
Attendance - check today’s attendance (it will should be secure and able to be accessed only by
appear as soon as the teachers report it - all parents/guardians. We will continue to send the
attendance should be reported by 2:30 p.m. daily.) automated call-home message for daily attendance.
Past attendance is available in history.
Page 3Orangeville District Secondary School
ACADEMIC HONESTY ODSS ASSESSMENT and EVALUATION
POLICY
Real learning is enhanced when you think
independently and honestly. It is expected that you The primary purpose of assessment and evaluation
will demonstrate respect for the intellectual is to improve student learning.
property rights of others and adhere to a code of • If there are circumstances that will prevent you
honour in all evaluated activities. from handing in an assignment on time, or
attending a test on the day scheduled, you are
• A student must not submit work that was written, responsible for speaking to your Teacher prior to
built, created or manufactured, in whole or in the due date or test date.
part, by someone else. • In order for a student to successfully obtain a
• A student must not submit an assignment or part credit, they must successfully complete and
of an assignment for credit in a present course submit all mandatory assignments.
that he or she has submitted in a previous course. • Teachers will evaluate all assignments so that
• A student must not quote or paraphrase from they accurately reflect student’s achievement.
another source without reference to the original • Teachers may deduct up to 10% off late
author. assignments, tests, presentations, and projects.
• A student must not intentionally allow someone The manner in which these marks are deducted
to copy and present their work as their own. will be defined on the first day hand-out/course
• A student must not submit an assignment that outline.
contains material copied from another source • Teachers may assign students to an extra help
without giving credit to the original author. room at lunch to assist in the completion of late
work.
Plagiarism is a SERIOUS OFFENCE AND
WILL NOT BE TOLERATED. If any part of a
student’s work shows evidence of plagiarism or a FREEDOM OF INFORMATION
student aided in plagiarism, the student will be
referred to an administrator for consequences. In September, a letter explaining the Municipal
Freedom of Information and Protection Act is sent
home. Parents are asked to read this letter
CHILD CUSTODY carefully. If you have any objections to your child’s
name, photo, student’s work, etc., being disclosed
Usually, unless otherwise directed by a court of in ways such as displays of student work, school
law, both natural parents have full access to and Board newsletters, (including the school digital
students and their records. If for some reason, magazine), videos, media news coverage
these rights are restricted, legal documentation (newspapers, radio and television), drama and
must be on file at the school. Occasionally, parents musical productions, academic and sports awards
may wish their child to assume a name other than and team lists please contact the Principal of the
that on the birth certificate. If this is the case, we school in writing as soon as possible. Otherwise,
must have a court order or a written request for this we will assume your approval.
to be done.
Page 4Orangeville District Secondary School
INTIMACY
ODSS is a public place. Displays of affection
should not be excessive and not offend others.
Student Dress Code:
Orangeville District Secondary School expects that
It is the policy of Orangeville District Secondary
all students will dress in a way that is appropriate
School to ensure a safe and inclusive learning
for the school day or for any school-sponsored
environment for all students, staff and the
event. Students have a right to learn in a safe and
community, regardless of age, ancestry, colour,
caring space that is free of bias and discrimination
race, citizenship, ethnic origin, place of origin,
and have a right to express their individuality
creed, disability, family status, marital status,
respectfully. It is an expectation that student dress
gender identification, gender expression, socio-
choices respect the Orangeville District Secondary
economic status, employment, housing, sex and
School’s intent to promote a community that is
sexual orientation (Policy 504 Equity and Inclusive
inclusive of a diverse range of identities.
Education).
The Orangeville District Secondary School’s
Students must wear:
student dress code philosophy is one way that we
A shirt or the equivalent (e.g., sweater etc) with
are working to ensure safe, inclusive and equitable
fabric in the front, back and on the sides under the
learning environments for all of our students.
arms AND
Schools need to be able to focus on teaching and
learning without undue emphasis on monitoring Pants or the equivalent (e.g., skirt, sweatpants,
dress code infractions. Dress codes must be leggings, dress, shorts) AND
presented in a manner that does not reinforce Shoes or the equivalent (e.g. boots, sandals,
stereotypes. We believe that students have a right etc) Clothing must fully cover genitals, buttocks,
to learn in a safe and caring space that is free of midriffs and breasts with opaque fabric.
bias and discrimination, and that students have a
right to respectfully express their individuality. To Students cannot wear:
ensure that our learning environments are safe Clothing or accessories containing violent
and respectful spaces, our board has adopted a language or images
shared set of guidelines for student dress (listed Images, logos, or language depicting drugs,
below). alcohol or an illegal items or activity
Our Values and Beliefs: Images, logos, or language that portrays: ethnic
All students should be able to dress for school prejudice, racism, sexism, vulgarity, gang-related
without fear of unnecessary discipline, body markings, obscenities, profanity, hate speech,
shaming, bias or discrimination. and/or pornography
Individuals are responsible for managing their Images, logos, or language that creates a hostile
own personal biases and or perspectives/opinions or intimidating environment
(distractions) related to others choices of clothing. Any clothing that reveals visible undergarments
All students are treated equitably regardless of (visible waistbands and visible straps are allowed)
their race, age, ability, sex, gender identity, gender Swimsuits (except as required in class or athletic
practice)
expression, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religion,
Accessories that could be considered dangerous
cultural observance, socio-economic
or could be used as a weapon (with the exception
circumstances, or body type/size.
of religious accessories or articles of faith such as
Students have a right to wear clothing of their a Kirpan)
choice that expresses their self-identified gender.
For safety considerations, clothing items must
Students have a right to wear religious attire not obscure the face or ears, except as a religious
without fear of discipline or discrimination. observance.
Page 5Orangeville District Secondary School
Consequences of wearing inappropriate SNOWBALLS
clothing:
Throwing snowballs on school grounds and around
Students will be asked to: Board property could result in suspension.
• cover up inappropriate clothing
• change clothes
• go home to change TEXTBOOKS and WORKBOOKS
• Textbooks are loaned to students at no cost.
Hats may be worn except in the office and certain • If not returned in good condition, a fee for
classrooms. The classroom teacher will let you damage or loss will be charged.
know if you may wear your hat in their class. • Some courses require the purchase of workbooks
Students must follow the direction of their or materials.
classroom teacher. No hoods may be worn • The student must return the same text that they
anywhere in the building. were issued at the beginning of the semester.
RACE and ETHNO-CULTURAL POLICY IMMUNIZATIONS
Our Board of Education and our school are Provincial law requires that all students have up-to-
committed to provide a learning and working date vaccinations. Please consult your family
environment of: doctor or local Health Unit for more information.
• Tolerance, fairness, justice and equality
• Freedom from any expressions of racial, religious
or ethnic harassment.
If you feel you are being harassed or ridiculed for
any reason, you should tell a Teacher or Vice-
Principal.
SKATEBOARDS
The use of skateboards, longboards, scooters or
running shoes containing rollers is prohibited on
Board property and on buses.
SMOKING & VAPING
Provincial laws prevent smoking and vaping on
school property at all times.
• Smoking offences will result in a report to Public
Health and a possible fine of $320.00 - $600.00
plus a suspension.
• Counseling and smoking cessation programs are
available for those who wish to stop smoking.
Page 6Orangeville District Secondary School
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
Fire Alarm: Shelter in Place:
• Move quickly and quietly out of the school. Environmental or weather situation
• Move to the closest sidewalk or parking lot. • Everyone remains inside
• Exits are designated by signs in each classroom.
Tornado Warning Procedures:
Note: Tampering with the fire alarm system is a • Sit on the floor with your back against the
very serious offence punishable by a heavy fine and wall
a suspension. • Draw knees up towards chest, elbows
resting on knees and forearms covering
Lockdown: head
A major threat of violence within the school or • Sit close to the person next to you to protect
related to the school. each other
• DO NOT ATTEMPT TO EXIT THE
BUILDING
• In classrooms – teachers will check halls
and encourage students to enter the
classroom HONOUR ROLL
• Remain quiet
• Students should move to a secure location You are encouraged to work to your maximum
within the classroom and stay out of sight potential. ODSS presents certificates to Honour
until an “all clear” announcement is made Roll students.
• Turn cell phones off – do not use them
• In Hallways – go to closest office or Criteria for Honour Roll
classroom
• Outside the School – move away from the Grade 9 - 10 - 80%
school and go to the arena if possible. Do Grade 11 - 80%
not enter the school. Grade 12 – 80%
Ontario Scholar - 80% (the average in best six
Hold and Secure: grade 12 courses over the past two years)
There is an event outside the school that is not Certificate of Merit - 75-79%
related to us Note: Other programs outside of ODSS may
• Outside doors will be locked calculate averages differently.
• Classes continue as usual
• No one can enter or leave the school until
authorized by police/authorities
Page 7Orangeville District Secondary School
INTERNET ACCESS
UNACCEPTABLE PRACTICES
The internet is a dynamic, educational resource
which dramatically expands the classroom by These include but are not limited to:
delivering current information, data and images • Accessing or distributing inappropriate material
from around the world. The internet offers unique • Using the network for any unauthorized, illegal,
opportunities to educate, inform and communicate. inappropriate or obscene purposes
Students and staff using the resources of the • Using the network for financial gain or
internet will develop the ability to access, analyze, commercial activity
evaluate and manage information - essential skills • Plagiarizing or violating copyright
in today’s rapidly changing society. • Violating network security
• Accessing, vandalizing, damaging or disabling
We believe that the valuable information and the property of another user
interaction available to users through the resources • Engaging in any form of harassment on the
of the Internet far outweigh the possibility that network
• Allowing others access to personal passwords or
users may access material that may be accounts
inappropriate and inconsistent with school and • Posting personal contact information
community values. While teachers will monitor • Reposting or forwarding personal
the use of computers by students, ultimately, it is communications without the approval of the
the responsibility of the student to guard against author
unacceptable information. The complete Upper
Grand District School Board Acceptable Use
Policy for Computer Network and Internet Use, LOST and FOUND/PERSONAL ITEMS
which includes the information summarized below,
is available on the Upper Grand School Board Bring found items to the office to be placed in the
website at www.ugdsb.on.ca School Lost and Found. Small items such as glasses and
Administrators will deem what is inappropriate use watches will be kept separately.
and their decision is final. Failure to observe these
guidelines will result in loss of computer privileges Student’s personal property/effects are not covered
and/or other consequences consistent with under the Board’s insurance. Students/parents are
Board/School policies and procedures. reminded that if they choose to bring valuable
personal items to school, the Board’s insurance will
USER RESPONSIBILITIES not cover loss or damage.
Each user will comply with the following
conditions:
• Using e-mail and Internet access in support of
education and research, and in a manner
consistent with the educational beliefs and
objectives of the School and the Board.
• Accepting full responsibility for his/her own
exploration of the Internet.
• Respecting the privacy of others.
• Adhering to school standards of courtesy and
behaviour.
• Promptly reporting to staff any inappropriate
email or Internet data.
Page 8Orangeville District Secondary School
PERSONAL INFORMATION SIGN-OUT PRIVILEGES
Personal information about your child is kept on Students 18 years or older may apply to the
file. This information is confidential, kept secure Principal.
and is only available to Board staff. It is important
that this information be kept up to date. Home and
work telephone numbers, email addresses, mailing STUDENT USE OF INFORMATION AND
addresses, medical information, and emergency COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES (ICT)
contacts are vital in emergencies. Please make sure
that you inform us when changes occur. In The term Information and Communication
September, we will send home a pre-printed form. Technology (ICT) is often the reference for a
Please check all information on this form carefully number of existing and emerging technologies used
and sign and return it to the office as soon as in schools. The list includes interactive
possible. The school does not release personal whiteboards, storage devices, personal digital
information without parental consent. We are entertainment devices (PDEs), cell phones, MP3
unable to share the names, addresses or telephone players, personal digital assistants (PDAs), mobile
numbers of other parents in the school community. phones, laptops, desktops, tablet PCs, gaming
devices, assistive and adaptive technologies, digital
cameras, scanners, smart cards, Ipads and a range
PARENT COUNCIL of content delivery methods.
The Orangeville District Secondary School Council At Orangeville District Secondary School, it is
extends a warm welcome to all new students and expected that students will respect the learning
their parents. The Parent Council consists of environment that is determined by their teachers. It
parents, students, staff and community members. is also clear the ICT devices are expensive and
Its mandate is to assist in the development of valuable items. As such, students are responsible
excellent communication among all the partners. for the care, maintenance and security of their
The members of Parent Council shall: place the personal devices. No personal ICT device should
interests of the school and students first; participate be left unattended. It is recommended that all
in information and training programs; act as a link personal ICT devices be safely secured in lockers.
between the Parent Council and the community; Orangeville District Secondary School is not
encourage the participation of parents and others responsible for damage, loss or theft of any
within the school community; and seek to reach personal ICT devices.
consensus in the decision-making processes of the
Council. Please plan on attending and learning Student expectations related to the use of personal
about the school that your student attends - meet ICT devices include:
the teachers, learn about the programs and become
involved! The Parent Council usually meets • Students will power-off personal ICT devices as
virtually about once a month – usually on the last requested by their teacher during classes and put
Wednesday during the school year. Watch for them away so they are not visible.
notices on twitter (www.twitter.com ODSS_News) • Permission may be granted to students by
or register to receive emails from the school at teachers to power-up personal ICT devices.
www.ugdsb.ca/CASL to get notices of the Permission will not be granted during written
meetings. examinations and tests including provincial
mathematics and literacy tests, assemblies, drama
presentations, and morning announcements.
Page 9Orangeville District Secondary School
STUDENT USE OF INFORMATION AND Transportation Problems: On the bus, the driver
COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES (ICT) is in complete charge of the passengers. Video
(Continued) surveillance equipment is installed on most school
buses.
• To respect individual privacy, permission must
be obtained from an individual if over the age of • Speak about transportation concerns to the driver
18, and from an individual’s parents if under the only when the bus is stopped. Should the
age of 18, before digital images or videos are situation warrant, meet with an Administrator.
taken. Failure to do this may result in charges • When student infractions occur, the driver will
being laid by the police. issue a warning and, depending on the severity of
• Cameras or other devices that record digital the incident the students may be interviewed by
images are not permitted in washrooms and an Administrator.
change rooms. • If violations continue, parents will be notified by
• In the case of a school emergency, students will the school that further offences may result in the
power-off all ICT devices. loss of riding privileges.
• Bus riding privileges may be suspended by a
Failure to follow these expectations will result in driver for one trip if, in his or her opinion, the
the student being banned from bringing the device safe operation of a vehicle has been threatened.
to the school again. The school will be notified.
TELEPHONE
Inclement Weather Procedures:
Except in emergencies, the office cannot take The UGDSB has procedures in place to deal with
telephone messages. inclement weather. These include canceling bus
transportation on days when it is not safe to operate
school buses (due to snow, sleet, fog, ice, extreme
TRANSPORTATION cold temperatures, etc.) and in cases when severe
Transportation Services www.stwdsts.ca weather requires, the closing of schools to all
students.
Buses will leave their regular departure points in
the afternoon no earlier than 3:15 p.m. For safety In the event of inclement weather, the Director of
and insurance reasons, students are NOT allowed Education will make the decision to close schools
to ride buses other than their assigned bus, except or cancel transportation.
in emergency situations.
• Announcements are made by local radio stations
General Expectations: To ensure everyone’s and posted to the Board’s website
safety, respect and good service, students are www.ugdsb.on.ca
expected to accept the following responsibilities: • Unless otherwise announced, the school will
remain open and teachers will be available to
• Remain in seats approved by the driver students.
throughout the trip. • Town students who do not take a bus are
• Refrain from loud, distracting, inappropriate expected to attend school on days when buses are
behaviour. cancelled.
• Respect the driver, fellow passengers and the
property of the bus company.
• Pay for intentional damage.
• Keep aisles clear and the bus free from litter.
Page 10Orangeville District Secondary School
UGCLOUD
Google Apps is a suite of products including Use of the Board Google Apps environment is
document (word processing, presentations, restricted to current staff and students of the Board
spreadsheets), sites, mail (limited to staff and only. All other access is strictly prohibited. As
students at UGDSB schools), calendar, and more. much as possible, the Board will control access and
All products are available in an Internet-based will monitor students’ activity. However,
format via the UGCloud; a secure, monitored site information created and/or stored on Google
for UGDSB staff and students. Application Workspace is done so at the user’s
risk. The Board cannot be held responsible for data
Strict privacy controls are in place to ensure safety stored on Google Application Workspace as it is
and security. outside of the care and control of the Board. All
users of the Upper Grand District School Board
Terms and Conditions of Use Google Application Workspace will indemnify and
save harmless the Board, its employees, officers,
The Upper Grand District School Board provides trustees and agents from and against any
and manages access to Google Apps for Education allegations, claims, costs, damages, expenses, suits,
service for staff and students. This service, settlements, awards or proceedings (including
UGCloud, access and the use of UGCloud without limitation, legal expenses) penalties or
including students email is a privilege provided by fines arising out of any injury to persons (including
the Board. The Board maintains the right to injuries resulting in death) or loss of, or damage to
immediately withdraw the access and use of these property of others which may be or be alleged to be
services including email at their sole discretion caused by or suffered as a result of the provision of
when there is reason to believe that violations of or as a result of the use of this service.
law or Board policies/procedures have occurred. In
such cases, the alleged violation will be referred to Personal and/or confidential information is not to
an Administrator for further investigation and be stored or disclosed on Google Applications
adjudication. The decision of Board Workspace.
Administration with respect to service withdrawal
is final. The Board reserves the right to access the data
stored on the Board Google Application
School Code of Conduct will be adhered to and Workspace, regardless of ownership, including
followed at all times. current and archival files of users accounts when
there is reasonable suspicion that illegal or
Users of UGCloud agree to comply with the unacceptable use has occurred.
Google Apps for Education Agreement and the
Laws of Ontario.
Digital respect will be used at all times, by all
users.
Users will be held accountable and responsible for
any and all content that they load and that is stored
on the Board Google Application Workspace.
Page 11Orangeville District Secondary School
VEHICLE PARKING What to do if:
Students must register at the office in order to YOU BECOME ILL OR INJURED AT
receive a parking permit. Parking privileges are SCHOOL
granted by ODSS and may be revoked due to
inappropriate behaviour or use, non-attendance First, obtain permission from your subject teacher
and/or chronic lates. Application forms are to report to the office. Do not go to the washroom
available from the front office. when you are ill without permission from your
teacher. If you need to go home, the office will
No Parking is permitted in the drive at the front of contact your parent/guardian and obtain their
the school. This area must be kept clear for permission before you may go home. All students
emergency vehicles. Parking permits must be MUST sign out at the office before leaving the
clearly visible on vehicle windshields. parking lot. school.
Infractions of the ODSS parking policy will result
in loss of parking privileges and suspensions. YOU ARE LATE
Persistent offenders may be towed at the owner’s
expense. Proceed to your class. If you have a note, present it
to your subject teacher. If you were detained by a
Students without permits may park vehicles in the teacher, request a note stating the reason.
last two single rows on the WEST side of the arena.
YOU MUST LEAVE DURING THE DAY
VISITORS
You MUST always check out at the attendance
Non-essential visitors are not permitted at this office BEFORE you leave the school. You must
time. have a note from a parent/guardian stating the time
that you are leaving and the reason.
YOU RETURN FROM AN ABSENCE
Bring a note from your parent/guardian to the
attendance office or your teacher on your first day
back to school. The note must state the date(s) and
the reason of your absence.
YOU HAVE AN EXTENDED ABSENCE
If a student will be absent for more than five days,
please see a Vice Principal to make the appropriate
arrangements.
Page 12CODE OF CONDUCT
Goal
It is the policy of the Upper Grand District School Board to maintain a safe and inclusive learning and teaching
environment through the adoption of a Code of Conduct which promotes responsibility, respect, civility and academic
excellence, and sets clear standards of behaviour for all members of the school community. The goal is to create a
positive school climate where all members of the school community feel safe, comfortable and accepted.
General
Our School Code of Positive Student Behaviour is based upon the Ontario Code of Conduct and the Upper Grand
District School Board Code of Conduct (Policy # 213) which applies to all members of the school community;
students, administrators, staff, parents and guardians, community users, visitors, volunteers, etc. while on all school
and Board property, school buses, at school-authorized events and off site at school-sponsored activities, or in other
circumstances that could have a negative impact on the school climate.
Rights
Student Rights Include:
to be treated with dignity and respect
to be provided with activities that are success oriented and build on individual strengths
to receive a quality education
Parent Rights Include:
to be treated with dignity and respect
to be heard and to have concerns addressed
to communicate with the school
Staff Rights Include:
to be treated with dignity and respect
to have a safe working environment
to expect parents and students to be involved in creating a positive school environment
Standards of Behaviour
A) Respect, Civility and Responsible Citizenship
All members of the school community must:
• respect and comply with all applicable federal, provincial and municipal laws;
• demonstrate honesty and integrity;
• respect differences in people, their ideas and opinions;
• treat one another with dignity and respect at all times, and especially where 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 rights of others;
• show proper care and regard for school property and the property of others;
• take appropriate measures to help those in need;
• respect all members of the school community, especially persons who are in a position of authority;
• respect the needs of others to work in an environment that is conducive to learning and teaching;
• not swear at a teacher or at another person in authority; and
• seek school staff assistance, if necessary, to resolve conflict peacefully.
Page 13B) Safety
All members of the school community must not:
• engage in bullying behaviours
Definition of bullying:
A) The behaviour is intended by the pupil to have the effect of, or the pupil ought to know that the behaviour
would be likely to have the effect of,
i) Causing harm, fear or distress to another individual, including physical, psychological, social
or academic harm, harm to the individual’s reputation or harm to the individual’s property, or
ii) Creating a negative environment at a school for another individual, and
B) The behaviour occurs in a context where there is a real or perceived power imbalance between pupil and
the individual based on factors such as size, strength, age, intelligence, peer group power, economic status,
social status, religion, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, family circumstances, gender, gender identity,
gender expression, race, disability or the receipt of special education; (intimidation)
C) Bullying by electronic means (commonly known as cyber-bullying), including:
a) creating a webpage or a blog in which the creator assumes the identity of another person;
b) impersonating another person as the author of content or messages posted on the internet; and
c) communicating material electronically to more than one individual or posting material on a website
that may be accessed by one or more individuals.”
Bullying takes on different forms and contexts with age. It can be physical, verbal, social/emotional or through
electronic means (cyber-bullying). Bystanders contribute to bullying by doing nothing to prevent it or by
becoming actively involved in supporting it.
• commit sexual assault;
• traffic in weapons or illegal drugs;
• be in possession of any weapon including, but not limited to, firearms;
• use any object to threaten or intimidate another person;
• cause injury to any person with an object;
• be in possession of, or under the influence of, or provide others with, alcohol or illegal drugs;
• inflict, or encourage others to inflict, bodily harm on another person;
• engage in hate propaganda and other forms of behaviour motivated by hate or violence;
• commit robbery;
• commit an act of vandalism that causes extensive damage to school property or property located on the
premises of a school; or
• engage in any form of electronic communication directed to an individual or group of people that is intended
to cause (or should be known to cause) fear, distress, and/or harm to other persons; feelings, self-esteem, or
reputation, or that has a negative impact on the school climate.
Student Responsibilities
All students will:
• be treated with respect and dignity by all school and board staff;
• accept responsibility for their personal actions;
• demonstrate respect for self, and others, and for those in authority;
• fulfil expected academic obligations;
• come to school punctually each day, prepared and willing to learn;
• obey the rules of the school, on school buses, and at other sites during school activities,
• dress appropriately in accordance with the Board’s and the School’s policies regarding appropriate dress;
• use respectful language, free from profanity;
• work cooperatively with staff and other students;
• be honest in their academic work (refrain from plagiarism, cheating, etc.);
• use free time responsibly; and
• refrain from bringing anything to school that compromises the safety of others
Page 14Staff Responsibilities
The Principal will:
• take a leadership role in the daily operation of the school by demonstrating care and commitment to
academic excellence and a safe teaching and learning environment;
• hold those under their authority accountable for their actions and behaviour;
• empower students to be positive leaders in their school and community, and
• communicate meaningfully and on a regular basis with all members of the school’s community.
• ensure that a School Code of Conduct, based on the Ontario Code of Conduct and the Board’s Code
of Conduct is developed and communicated annually to the school community; and
• review the school Code of Conduct at least once every three years, and seek input from School
Council, staff, students, parents and guardians.
Teachers and school staff will:
• maintain order in the school;
• serve as role models;
• maintain consistent standards of behaviour for all students;
• help students work to fulfil their potential, develop self-worth, and prepare them for the full
responsibilities of citizenship;
• communicate regularly and meaningfully with parents/guardians;
• demonstrate respect for all students, staff, parents, volunteers, and members of the school
community; and
• empower students to be positive leaders in their school and community.
Parental Responsibilities
Parents play an important role in the education of their children and can fulfil this responsibility by:
• demonstrating respect for all students, staff, volunteers and members of the school community;
• supporting the efforts of school staff in maintaining a safe and respectful learning environment;
• showing an active interest in their child’s school work and progress;
• communicating regularly with their child’s school;
• assisting staff in dealing with disciplinary issues involving their child;
• helping their child be neat, dress appropriately, be well rested and prepared and ready to learn;
• ensuring that their child attends school regularly and on time;
• promptly reporting their child’s absence or late arrival;
• showing that they are familiar with the Ontario Code of Conduct, the Board’s Code of Conduct, and the
School’s Code of Conduct and rules of behaviour; and
• helping and encouraging their child in following the Board’s Code of Conduct and the School’s Code of
Conduct and the rules of behaviour.
Page 15Police Services
The Board believes that the Police are partners with schools and school boards in maintaining safe schools and
communities. Through the guidelines established in the Police/School Board Protocol Agreement, Police support
schools by encouraging, enabling and maintaining positive relationships with school administrators, staff, students,
parents and members of the school community.
Community Partners
The Board believes that community agencies and members of the school community are resources that can help boards
deliver prevention and intervention programs. Current and new partnerships, protocols and outreach are encouraged
and supported by the Board to formalize and enhance relationships to maintain safe communities.
Implementation of the School’s Code of Conduct
Schools focus on prevention and early intervention as the key to maintaining a positive school environment in which
pupils can learn. The Board supports the use of positive practices and progressive discipline as a whole school
approach to foster the building of healthy relationships and encourage appropriate behaviours, as well as the
application of consequences for inappropriate behaviour.
Progressive Discipline
Progressive Discipline is a range of early and later interventions, supports, and consequences that are developmentally
appropriate, and include opportunities for students to learn from mistakes and that focus on improving behaviour.
These may include, but are not limited to:
• Student Success and Character Development strategies and programs;
• providing students with the opportunity to learn life skills such as conflict resolution, anger management and
communication skills;
• utilizing models based on the concepts of peer mediation and/or peer counselling;
• documenting incidents requiring disciplinary measures, and applying the mitigating factors;
• being sensitive to unique circumstances which may affect student behaviour;
• ensuring that contact with the parent(s)/guardian(s) of students, under the age of eighteen, is made early in the
disciplinary process;
• maintaining contact with the parent(s)/guardian(s) and involving them in a plan to improve the behaviour until
the behaviour is acceptable.
As incidents arise, it is recognized that each situation is unique. Incidents are managed in a consistent manner to
ensure that fairness is integral to the process, and that this fairness is perceived by all participants. Within this process,
consideration for consequences will be given for:
• student age
• frequency of incidents
• nature and severity of incidents
• student exceptionalities
• extenuating circumstances
• impact on the school climate
Page 16Consequences
The school will use a range of interventions, supports and consequences that include learning opportunities for
reinforcing positive behaviour while helping students to make good choices.
In addressing inappropriate behaviour by students, schools will:
• utilize a progressive discipline approach;
• utilize Student Success or Character Development strategies and programs;
• provide students with the opportunity to learn life skills such as conflict resolution, anger management and
communication skills;
• utilize models such as those based on the concepts of peer mediation and/or peer counselling;
• document incidents requiring disciplinary measures, and apply the mitigating factors to be sensitive to unique
circumstances which may affect student behaviour;
• ensure that contact with the parents and guardians of students under the age of eighteen, or students over the
age of 18 or those 16 or 17 years old who have withdrawn from parental control (adult students), is made early
in the disciplinary process and involves them in a plan to improve the student’s behaviour until the behaviour
is acceptable; and/or
• utilize consequences such as short-term suspension as a useful tool, and respond as required with long-term
suspension or expulsion.
The following are examples of consequences and supports / interventions, in no particular order. The application of
consequences, supports and interventions are determined by the incident and the individual students involved.
Examples of Consequences: Examples of Supports / Interventions:
· verbal reminder · discussion with P / VP
· warning · reflective paragraph / essay
· review of expectations / rules · problem solving
· written or verbal apology · conflict mediation
· incident sheet · social stories
· yard: 5 minutes on the wall · discussion with parents (next steps, solutions)
· yard: walk with the teacher · conference with others involved
· letter written to parent · restorative justice
· phone call home · Child and Youth Counsellor support
· student contract sheet · positive reward system
· restitution · Attendance Counsellor support
· in-school community service · student / teacher / parent meeting
· recess detentions · case conference with school staff and/or Board
· class time detentions consultants
· loss of in-school privileges · referral to outside agencies
· loss of field trip privileges · Suspension / Expulsion Program
· suspension from the bus
· suspension
expulsion
Page 17Suspension and Expulsion
It is understood that discipline serves not only to correct inappropriate behaviour, but also as a deterrent. To
maintain a safe and effective learning environment, suspensions and expulsions may be imposed not only to
deter inappropriate behaviour, but also to remove individuals who pose a threat to the safety and well being
of others. The Provincial Code of Conduct specifies that for student actions that do not comply with the
Provincial Standards of Behaviour, suspension and expulsion may be considered. The Board’s Student
Discipline Policy (Policy #503) sets out the process for Suspension and Expulsion. This policy specifies the
student actions that may result in the Principal imposing a suspension, as well as the student actions that will
result in the Principal imposing a suspension and considering an expulsion pending an investigation of the
incident.
Mitigating Factors
The Principal will consider the following mitigating factors when considering a suspension:
• the pupil does not have the ability to control his or her behaviour;
• the pupil does not have the ability to understand the foreseeable consequences of his or her
behaviour;
• the pupil’s continuing presence in the school does not create an unacceptable risk to the safety of any
other person.
The Principal will also consider the following factors if they mitigate (moderate) the seriousness of the
incident or the behaviour of the student involved:
• the pupil’s history and age, whether progressive discipline has been used, if a behaviour has been
motivated by harassment or discrimination, the impact on the ongoing education of the student, the
student’s Individual Education Plan.
Note: In some cases, even though the offence calls for a mandatory suspension pending an
investigation, the consideration of the mitigating circumstances may cause a principal not to
suspend.
Activities that may lead to a Suspension
Police may be involved, as required, and a suspension may be imposed for one of the following infractions which has
occurred on school property, during a school related activity or event, and/or in circumstances where the infraction has
an impact on the school climate:
a uttering a threat to inflict serious bodily harm on another person;
b possessing alcohol or illegal drugs;
c being under the influence of alcohol;
d swearing at a teacher or at another person in a position of authority;
e committing an act of vandalism that causes extensive damage to school property at the pupil’s school or to
property located on the premises of the pupil’s school;
f bullying, including cyber bullying;
g any act considered by the Principal to be injurious to the moral tone of the school;
h any act considered by the Principal to be injurious to the physical or mental well-being of members of the
school community;
i persistent opposition to authority;
j habitual neglect of duty; or
k a serious breach of the Board or School’s Code of Conduct.
Page 18Activities that will result in a suspension, an investigation
and a possible recommendation for expulsion
Police may be involved, as required, and a student will be immediately suspended, an investigation will
occur and may lead to a recommendation of expulsion to the Board’s Discipline Committee for one of the
following infractions which has occurred on school property, during a school related activity or event, and/or
in circumstances where the infraction has an impact on the school climate:
a possessing a weapon, including possessing a firearm;
b using a weapon to cause or to threaten bodily harm to another person;
c committing physical assault on another person that causes bodily harm requiring treatment by a
medical practitioner;
d committing sexual assault;
e trafficking in weapons or illegal drugs;
f committing robbery;
g giving alcohol to a minor;
h an act or activities considered by the Principal to be significantly injurious to the moral tone of
the school and/or to the physical or mental well-being of others;
i activities engaged in by the pupil on or off school property that have caused extensive damage to
the property of the Board or to goods that are/were on Board property;
j the pupil has demonstrated through a pattern of behaviour that s/he has not prospered by the
instruction available to him or her and that s/he is persistently resistant to making changes in
behaviour which would enable him or her to prosper;
k bullying – previous suspension / risk to others;
l any suspendable activity that is motivated by bias, prejudice or hate.
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