CODE OF CONDUCT

The School Code of Conduct comprises principles, standards of behaviour, identification of disruptive behaviours and consequences of non-compliance. Its purpose is to set the context for a safe and productive learning environment, by outlining expected behaviour in safe and caring schools. It also provides a framework for the development and implementation of provincial, board and school level discipline policies in reference to guideline regulations under the Education Act, and safe schools initiatives.

The basic underlying premise of the Code of Conduct is RESPECT whereby all are required to exhibit behaviour that shows respect for the rights, property and safety of themselves and others.

Standards of Behaviour

School members will:

-show respect for the rights, property, and safety of themselves and others

-respect and appreciate diversity of all school members regardless of their race, culture, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexuality orientation, age, and ability

-express themselves with socially acceptable language and gestures

-exhibit behaviour that avoids all forms of intimidation, harassment, racism and discrimination,

-dress in accordance with school dress standards

-treat school property and the property of others with a reasonable standard of care

-respect the responsibility of all school members in exercising their duties

-promote positive behaviour through the avoidance of all types of violent acts

-refrain from the possession of any form of a weapon on school property

-refrain from the possession of and being under the influence of all forms of intoxicants on school property

-and as appropriate, attend classes, activities, and events and be prepared and punctual,

use all technology for educational purposes and refrain from use for bullying/ intimidation purposes.

Disruptive Behaviour

Behaviour that is not serious enough to significantly interrupt the learning climate of the school, endanger the well-being of others, or damage school property is classified as disruptive. Examples of disruptive behaviour may include:

-chronic minor offences

-smoking

-profanity

-disrespect or insubordination

-failure to obey instructions

-forging notes or excuses

-non-attendance or poor attendance in school or specific classes

-loitering in school areas when asked not to

-petty stealing

-fighting (shoving, pushing, or scuffling)

-bullying

-other acts of misconduct that are disruptive or that may create a potential safety hazard

Severely Disruptive Behaviour

Behaviour that is serious enough to significantly disrupt the learning climate of the school, endanger the well-being of others, or damage school property is classified as severely disruptive. Examples of severely disruptive behaviour include:

• vandalism

• disruptions to school operations

• verbal abuse

• racial and/or discriminatory misconduct

• sexual misconduct, sexual abuse, or physical abuse

• physical violence

• use or possession of weapons

• illegal activity

Disruptive Behaviour – All students are expected to behave in an appropriate manner while on school property. The classroom teacher often deals with minor student misbehaviour; however, when a teacher is confronted by repeated or extreme misbehaviour, it will be dealt with by the administration or guidance. All discipline issues will be documented.

When dealing with matters of discipline, the school administration and all teachers shall deal with students in a fair, equitable, and reasonable manner. The approach to discipline within our school shall be flexible to the point that extenuating circumstances shall be considered and decisions shall not be strictly bound by a predetermined set of rules. The degree of severity of the offence shall determine the consequences for the action.

The school administration may employ one or more of the following strategies when dealing with students on matters of discipline:

- discussion with the student

- referral to the Guidance Department

- contact with home

- detention

- in-school suspension

- out-of-school suspension

- restitution where appropriate

- loss of privilege to participate in school functions.