Code of Conduct

In the spirit of Northern's tradition and pride, the student, staff and parent communities support this CODE OF CONDUCT to ensure a positive learning environment.

The Toronto District School Board policy regarding personal electronic devices (cell phones, music players, ipods, video camera, electronic tablets, computers) states:

  • Personal electronic devices may be used during instructional class time for educational purposes, if permitted by the teacher;

  • Personal electronic devices may be used outside of instructional class time, so long as the use of these devices does not distract from instructional class time, extra-curricular activities or co-curricular activities.

  • Use of personal electronic devices is not permitted in any classroom or any instructional area including library, guidance office, main office, gymnasium and auditorium, except as outlined in the preceding policy statement.

  • Personal electronic devices must be powered off and secured out of sight when a student is in any instructional area including Library, guidance office, main office, weight room, gymnasium and auditorium.


  • Electronic devices are not to be plugged into the school's electrical system except when they are being directly used for educational purposes. Recharging electronic devices for personal use is not allowed.


  • Student achievement is enhanced by maximizing uninterrupted in class time. Students will not be excused from class to make or receive personal phone calls. If there is a critical need for communication between a student and family, please consult the VP office and staff will facilitate emergency contact.


  • Exams: No personal electronic devices will be permitted in examination rooms. Phones may not be used as calculators. Students are not allowed to use electronic dictionaries during examinations unless specific permission is given.


  • Personal Electronics in a Lockdown: A lockdown in a school is an emergency situation. It is natural that students and staff may want to communicate during these times; however, it is equally important that emergency personnel have access to phone lines. In many situations of this magnitude, phone lines get jammed through excessive use of cell phones, preventing emergency Personnel from communicating effectively. Cell phones are not to be used during a lockdown as they create a communication barrier for emergency Personnel. In an emergency, the office will provide full and immediate electronic communication to students, staff and parents / guardians.


  • Expectation of Privacy: Recording, electronic transmission, or posting of photographic images of any person on school property, at school events, and during school activities and/or hours, is prohibited without the permission of: 1) the person or persons being photographed; 2) the principal or designated 3) where the student is below the age of 18 years, the consent of the parent /guardians.

TDSB Online Code of Conduct

Smoke-Free Ontario Act, 2017 - Smoking and vaping is not allowed in public and private schools, including the grounds associated with the school, and public areas within 20 metres of any point on the perimeter of the grounds of the school.

The following standards of behaviour shall apply to all members of the school community, including students, parents and guardians, teachers or other school staff members, Board members, volunteers and visitors

· on school property

· while traveling on a school bus that is owned by the Board or that is under contract to the Board

· during in-school sports activities

· in off-site school-sponsored activities

· in circumstances where engaging in an activity could have a negative impact on the school climate.

  • At Northern, students and staff are to be cooperative and mutually respectful of each other.

  • Students have a responsibility to attend all scheduled classes, to be on time and to be prepared for class.

  • Aggressive and violent behaviour will not be tolerated. The use of profanity, racist, sexist or homophobic language is not acceptable on school property or at school-related activities.

  • Alcohol, illegal drugs and weapons (including replicas) are NOT permitted on school property or at school-related activities.

  • All members of the Northern community are expected to treat school property and the possessions of others with respect, so that the school continues to provide a safe and positive learning environment. Illegal activities will be reported to the police. Costs for repairs due to vandalism and graffiti will be charged to those responsible for the damage.

  • All school properties in Ontario are smoke-free, under the terms of the Tobacco Control Act. Students smoking or holding a lit cigarette on school property face legal sanctions or fines. School property extends to the sidewalk on all sides of the school.


Good Neighbour Policy

  • Northern Secondary School is situated in a residential area where many families with young children and senior citizens make their home. When students travel through the local streets to and from school, or relax outside at lunchtime, it is important to respect the homes, property safety and security of our neighbours.

  • Avoid congregating such that others are made to feel uncomfortable.

  • Refrain from littering on school grounds or neighbours property.

  • During winter be mindful that snowball throwing is both a dangerous and prohibited activity and may cause injury to individuals or property.

If the Code of Conduct is not followed, realistic consequences will be imposed. Consequences may include contact with parents, interviews with the Principal or Vice-Principal, and detentions. More serious or repeated violations carry penalties as outlined in Consequences of Inappropriate Student Behaviour and will include suspensions.

Many opportunities exist for positive and constructive resolution of conflict and/or disagreement between members of the Northern Community through peer mediation or through consultation with teachers, Curriculum Leaders, Vice-Principals or the Principal.

Don’t just walk on by.

If you see illegal activity, please report it to a teacher, counsellor, hall monitor, Vice-Principal or the Principal.

Or, call Crimestoppers at 416-222-TIPS.

You can also call the TDSB Safety Hotline at 416-395-SAFE.