CG-P1 - Smoke Free Environment

For the purpose of this procedure “smoke” includes any product illegal for minor possession or consumption  including but not limited to  tobacco, nicotine or marijuana products.

Consistent with The Non-Smokers Health Protection Act of the Province of Manitoba, smoking and vaping shall not occur in school and Division buildings, school and Division grounds and vehicles, and School or Division  sponsored activities.

Purpose

• To provide a smoke/vape free environment for students and staff.

• To enhance the general health and performance of all persons in the Division by eliminating smoking and vaping.

• To educate students on the hazards of smoking and vaping.

• To promote non-smoking as the norm.

Education

An ongoing educational program which will promote a smoke free and vape free life-style will be provided for students during health classes. Materials prepared by the Manitoba Heart Foundation, the Canadian Cancer Society and the Department of Health will be used to supplement curricular information.

Smoking Cessation Programs available from the above organizations will be made available to students and employees requesting assistance.

Enforcement

A. Students

Confiscation of Smoking/Vaping  or Nicotine Products;

• If a staff member sees a student with smoking/vaping or nicotine products on school property or during a school sponsored event, the student will be required to turn the smoking/vaping or nicotine product over to a  staff member.  

  • Parents/Guardians will be informed by the Teacher or Principal and may be required to claim the confiscated items.

  • Privileges and/or access for students may be limited (ie: students who vape in the gym change room may have their access to the changeroom limited, likewise students who attend events outside of school hours may have their access to extracurricular events eliminated).

Failure to turn over the  product  may result in; 

• first offence - one day suspension;

• second offence - three day suspension;

• third offence - five day suspension;

• fourth and subsequent offence - refer to Superintendent's department and/or Board.

A Principal may enact other school or divisional procedures if deemed necessary, especially as it pertains to the safety and well-being of others.

B.   Employees

First offence - discussion between the administrator and employee regarding the policy and consequences.

Second offence - written reprimand by the administrator and documentation placed in the personnel file, with a copy to the School Board and the employee.

Third offence - referral to the Senior Administration for disciplinary action with information provided to the School Board. Any offence beyond the third will result in suspension for three days without pay. Further offences will result in termination of employment for insubordination.

C. Community Groups

All community groups using the facilities of the Prairie Spirit School Division will be required to comply with this policy. Non-compliance will result in a reminder, to be followed with the loss of the group’s privilege to use the facilities.

Revised November 27th, 2001

Revised May 7, 2018

Revised August, 2024

Revised September, 2024