Code of Conduct

The TDSB has developed The Policy for the appropriate use of Personal Mobile Devices by students, staff and other members of the TDSB School Community at schools. The purpose of this policy is to create a conducive learning environment and promote responsible Digital Citizenship; and aims to reduce negative impacts of excessive screen time and social media use on students’ achievement, well-being, and mental health.

The Personal Mobile Policy states:

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

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

• Personal mobile devices must be powered off and secured out of sight when a student is in the classroom/instructional setting.

• 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 students should consult with their Vice-Principal in the main office.

• Exams: No personal mobile devices and/or ear buds will be permitted in the examination rooms. Cell phones may not be used as calculators or dictionaries. If either are visible to the teacher a mark of zero will be assigned.

• Personal Mobile Devices 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 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/guardian.

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, volunteers and visitors

• on school property

• while traveling on a school bus that is owned by the TDSB or that is under contract to the TDSB

• 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

1. At Westview, students and staff are to be cooperative and mutually respectful of each other.

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

3. 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.

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

5. All members of the Westview 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.

6. 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 could/may face legal sanctions or fines. School property extends to the sidewalk on all sides of the school.

Good Neighbour Policy

• Westview Centennial Secondary School is located in a residential and industrial area. When students travel through the local streets to and from school, or relax outside at lunchtime, it is important to respect the homes, businesses and property.

• Refrain from littering on school grounds or neighbouring properties.

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 outline in the Consequences of Inappropriate Student Behaviour Chart and will include suspensions.

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

Don't just walk on by.

If you see illegal activity, please report it to a teacher, counsellor, School Based Safety 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.