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Student Code of Conduct

CODE OF CONDUCT

The Code of Conduct is the result of consultation with the shareholders of the school including students, faculty, staff, parents, senior administrators and the Board of Trustees.  The purpose of the Code is to provide clarity and to assist in providing a safe learning environment. 

BEHAVIOUR

The following behaviours are not appropriate:

• Disruptive or disrespectful behaviour in the classroom

• Vulgar, offensive or disrespectful language anywhere

• Loitering in the halls

• Changing in the halls

• Excessive displays of affection

• Rough and disorderly conduct including play fighting

• Fight and feuding acts

• Gambling and extortion 

Students are allowed in the halls:

• Before the school day begins

• When moving from one class to another

• At the end of the school day 

Students must eat and drink in the Cafetorium only. Students are NOT to be sitting in the halls at any time. 

PROGRESSIVE DISCIPLINE POLICY

In accordance with the Education Amendment Act (Progressive Discipline and School Safety), 2007, a principal shall consider suspension or expulsion for a series of activities engaged in by a student while at the school, at a school-related activity, or in any other circumstances where engaging in the activity will have an impact on the school climate.  Our focus is on changing inappropriate, self-destructive and unsafe conduct within a progressive framework.  The following chart lists offences and the accompanying level of consequence. 

The following infractions will result in interventions designed to change the behaviour.  The interventions may include a teacher-student conference, teacher-parent contact, involvement of a vice principal, counseling and study hall.  If the behaviour is not changed after reasonable interventions, a suspension will be imposed.  The details of each category are listed on the pages provided. 

The infractions for which progressive steps will be taken include:

Some offences are more serious and will result in a suspension for a first offence.  Subsequent suspensions will increase in length and may lead to expulsion.  The fractions for which a SUSPENSION may be imposed include:

1. Uttering a threat to inflict serious bodily harm on another person

2. Possessing alcohol, illegal and/or restricted drugs

3. Being under the influences of alcohol

4. Swearing at a teacher or at another person in a position of authority

5. Committing an act of vandalism that causes extensive damage to school property at the student’s school or to property located on the premises of the student’s school

6. Bullying

7. Any act considered by the principal to be injurious to the moral tone of the school

8. Any act considered by the principal to be injurious to the physical or mental well-being of member of the school community; or

 9. Any act considered by the principal to be contrary to the Board or school Code of Conduct 

The infractions for which a principal may consider recommending to the Board that a pupil be EXPELLED from the pupil’s school or from all schools of the Board include:

1. Possessing a weapon, including possessing a firearm

2. Using a weapon to cause or to threaten bodily harm to another person

3. Committing physical assault to another person that causes bodily harm requiring treatment by a medical practitioner

4. Committing sexual assault

5. Trafficking in weapons, illegal or restricted drugs

6. Committing robbery

7. Giving alcohol to a minor

8. An act 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

9. A pattern of behaviour that is so inappropriate that the pupil’s continued presence is injurious to the effective learning and/or working environment of others

10. Activities engaged in by the pupil on or off school property that cause the pupil’s continuing presence in the school to create an unacceptable risk to the physical or mental well-being of other person(s) in the school or Board

11. 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

12. 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, or

13. Any act considered by the principal to be a serious violation of the Board or school Code of Conduct

 

ATTENDANCE

The Ministry of Education states that attendance in classes is mandatory and that a student is excused from school only by reason of sickness or other unavoidable causes.  It is our strong belief that parents should only excuse an absence when absolutely necessary.  Consistent attendance is essential to student success. 

All missed class work and assignments must be completed.  *NOTE:  These practices are essential to effectively monitor student attendance and to provide accurate attendance information on which to base the daily automated phone calls. 

GENERAL INFORMATION

1. Students are to be in homeroom at 8:50 am

2. Absences must be reported by the parent or guardian

3. In a situation where a student does not provide a note, the home will be contacted before the student will be permitted to resume classes

4. An automated phone message will be sent to the home to advise the parent/guardian of an unexplained absence

5. Absences for such things as haircuts, concerts, early vacations, studying or part-time jobs are NOT considered unavoidable and, therefore, are NOT excused.  Teachers will not be expected to provide homework in such cases. 

ABSENCES FROM SCHOOL

Parents are expected to inform the School of an intended absence prior to 8:50 am

1. Phone:  519-751-2030 ext. 227 (this line is available 24 hours a day)

2. In the event that a parent has not reported the absence, a note must be provided upon student return.

3. Students who are 18 years of age may excuse themselves. However absences will be recorded as “Truant” unless they can provide proof of a valid reason for missing classes (ie. Appt. slip) NOTE:  The student will be recorded as unexcused, until the absence has been explained. Signing out during the day: (for illness or appointments only) 

SIGNING OUT DURING THE DAY:  (for illness or appointments only)

1. Provide notice in writing or by phone to the attendance office before 8:50 am

2. Students must record their name and departure time on the “Sign-Out Sheet” in the attendance office.  A Release slip will be issued. 

3. Students must be off school property immediately after sign out time. NOTE:  Absences not handled in this manner will be recorded as “Truant” 

SIGNING IN DURING THE DAY:  (for illness or appointments only)

1. Provide notice in writing or by phone to the attendance office

2. Student must record their name and arrival time on the “Sign-In Sheet” in the attendance office immediately upon arrival.  An Admit Slip will be issued. 

LATES:  Late-to-class is defined when the student does not arrive on time and prepared for class.  Seven (7) lates may result in administrative discipline including suspension.   

FARM RELATED ABSENCES: Farm contracts are available in the attendance office. Students and parents must advise a Vice Principal in advance, detailing the length of the absence.  

UNIFORM The uniform we wear at Assumption College School is a vibrant symbol of “our Catholic learning community where we strive for excellence” as outlined in our Mission Statement.  Therefore, the manner in which we wear our uniform indicates how authentic we are in our commitment to be both respectful and responsible 

THE EXPECTATIONS ARE: • IN SCHOOL = IN UNIFORM…INCLUDING LUNCH HOUR 

Consequences for uniform infractions – students will not be admitted to class. If a student is missing a uniform part, the following options are available: • Call home to have the missing uniform part delivered, or • student is sent home to replace the missing uniform part, or • select an item from the used uniform supply of Assumption College School (if available – note this supply is very limited) Consequences for persistent uniform infractions – may include loss of ‘nonuniform day’, not admitted to classes, suspension for opposition to authority.  

Out of uniform pieces may be confiscated until the end of that school day.  Excessive opposition to the school uniform policy may result in parent/guardian requirement to pick up the non-uniform items. 

Important – all students: 

• Hats/bandanas should be removed immediately upon entry to the building

• Theme jewellery that challenges our values is unacceptable (jewellery that suggests domination, promote violence, alcohol or drugs is unacceptable).

• Non uniform sweaters and jackets may not be worn in the building.  A direct route and timeliness is expected for their removal.  They should be stored In the student’s locker.

• No backpacks or bags are permitted in any classroom or in cafeteria.  Female students may bring a small purse to class.  (No larger than 25 cm x 25 cm.)

• Black shoes or sandals are part of the uniform and must be worn in the building at all times (i.e.: during the school day includes lunch hour). 

Uniform Policy Table 

• All items indicated with an asterisk (*) are to be manufactured by R.J. McCarthy Ltd. • Uniform parts must be worn as purchased, not significantly altered in length, shape or constructions and maintained in good repair.   

UNIFORM PURCHASES: 1. R.J. McCarthy Store – 125 Nebo Road, Hamilton 2. Online at www.rjmccarthy.com 3. Phone at 1-800-668-8261 

Good quality used uniform pieces will be available in the Student Services Offices during Timetable Pick Up in August.  Selection is limited and available first to families with financial need then on a first-come, first-served basis.   

Uniform Basics 

Description

oxford shirt* *must be worn under pullover (tucked in), cardigan, vest, jumper

white, monogrammed (ACS), must be tucked in, no portion of the hem visible. *Box cut, straight bottom may be worn untucked.

golf shirt* - navy *may be worn under pullover (tucked in), cardigan, vest, jumper

monogrammed (ACS), can be worn untucked, layering of golf shirts is NOT permitted * Plain White undershirt only (worn under shirt).  No logos.

rugby shirt* striped, embroidered with ACS crest, tucked or untucked, with pants ONLY * Plain White undershirt only (worn under shirt).  No logos.

dress pants* grey, hemmed, not rolled up with the waistband worn at the waist 

kilt* With kilt  -  fullback Black shoes only (no boots) Sandals can be worn only when time frame is announced

plaid, no shorter than 4 inches (10 cm.) from the middle of the knee, with the waistband worn at the waist  - absolutely no rolling up of kilt 

jumper* sweater may be worn over jumper - No Boots 

navy, no shorter than 4 inches (10 cm.) from the middle of the knee 

shorts* - No Boots

navy, no shorter than 4 inches (10 cm.) from the middle of the knee, with the waistband worn at the waist  Tights may be worn with shorts.

tights/nylons * may be worn with kilt/jumper or with shorts

white, navy, grey, maroon, or flesh tone, solid colours only. **must have feet (no leggings)**

Socks Worn with pants only

white, navy, grey, or maroon, form fitting, solid colour, below the knee

Shoes With kilt and jumper -  fullback Black shoes only (no boots)

any solid black shoe worn in good repair with black laces  and hosiery

Sandals (time frame to be announced)

solid black dress sandals or dark brown Birkenstock-style sandals only.  No flip-flops, no plastic styles, with or without hosiery.

pullover* navy, knitted, monogram (ACS). Must be worn with white t-shirt, white uniform shirt.

Zip-up jacket may be worn with solid white t-shirt, uniform shirt

Zip-up sweater may be worn with solid white t-shirt, uniform shirt

sweatshirt* navy, zipper front, with embroidered lion, may be worn over jumper or t-shirt

vest* - knitted

navy, monogrammed (ACS), may be worn over ACS oxford shirt or golf shirt only

undershirt and/or turtleneck

White undershirts only with no logos or writing, is worn under ACS oxford shirt, golf shirt, or rugby shirt.  Undershirt may not be visible below cuff or  hem of uniform shirt

Belt solid black or solid dark brown, through all loops at waist, worn with pants or shorts only - no logos on belt buckles

Accessories small, in good taste, not detracting from the uniform  nor drawing undue attention to the accessory  

Non-Uniform Days: Theme days and Dress Down days clothing must be clean, modest and appropriate.  This policy is in effect for school dances, trips and dress down days.  Failure to comply with guidelines for non-uniform days will result in the student calling home to remedy the situation.  If a remedy cannot be found, the student will not be permitted to class.  

Spirit Wear Days: • Students are expected to be in spirit wear OR in complete uniform • Spirit wear tops include any team jersey, any Lions Inc., spirit wear purchased through student council or shirts from any clubs or former ACS events worn in good repair and unaltered • Spirit wear bottoms must be spirit wear seat pants, spirit scrubs or sports teams pants or shorts • If any student is not in compliance with the 50% expectation, they will not be allowed to classes until the problem is rectified.  

CELL PHONES & ELECTRONIC DEVICES

As the use of technology in education becomes more prevalent, the effective use of electronic devices in classrooms will be closely monitored by teachers. Classroom use of such devices will be at the discretion of the teacher. Should a cell phone or electronic device be brought to the Vice-Principal’s office, it may be picked up at the end of the instructional day. Upon a second infraction, a parent may be required to retrieve the item.  

ONLINE ETIQUETTE

A friendly reminder that all online communication is expected to be respectful and appropriate. At BHNCDSB we encourage staff, students and parents to T.H.I.N.K. Before you post/tweet/reply ask yourself: Is it TRUE? Is it HURTFUL? Is it ILLEGAL? Is it NECESSARY? Is it KIND?  

Online activity that is not in support of the Board’s policies, procedures and appropriate online etiquette will be addressed by the school administrator. You may also be asked to take a conversation ‘offline’ if the content is not appropriate in a public forum.  

SMOKING

SMOKING IS NOT PERMITTED ON SCHOOL PROPERTY! (Tobacco Control Act) Cigarettes should not be visible while in the school or on school property. Consequences include: 1. Fines and charges under the Provincial Offences Act 2. An immediate suspension from school 3. Informing the Health Unit resulting in a fine and court appearance for those under 16 years of age. 

LOCKERS

Lockers are the property of the school and as such must not be written on using markers or other devices.  All postings must be with moral code.  Administration has the right to search lockers at any time.  Due to enrolment, students may be asked to share a locker.  Only school locks are permitted.  *(Note:  Students are assigned lockers and must remain in that assigned locker for the school year).  

PARKING

Parking areas are clearly designated for the use of students and staff.  There are handicapped and daycare parking located at the front of the building.  Please watch for these spaces and avoid parking in them.  Student parking is offered however, this privilege may be removed should abuse in any form occur.  

STUDENT PARKING

Parking at the school is a privilege and as such, students: • May only park in the designated student parking area • May not sit in their cars or allow others to do so while it is parked in the designated student parking area • May not loiter around their cars or other cars in the student parking lot • May not play music in their cars in the parking lot • May not smoke in their cars in the parking lot • May not try to by-pass the speed bumps • May not drive through the bus zone while they are loading or unloading students • Must drive safely at all times • All vehicles require a visible ACS parking permit (vehicle without a permit will be tagged and/or towed at the owner’s expense) 

Students wishing to obtain a parking permit are required to: 

1. Complete and submit an application form to school administration 2. Complete the Responsible Driver course/seminar offered by the school Resource Officer 3. Remit payment of $10 for parking permit ($5 reimbursed at the end of the year) 

If any of the above conditions are violated, students may lose their parking privileges at Assumption College School.  These conditions are being enforced to promote and support student safety in the parking area.  

DANCES/ACTIVITIES

The following are rules that will be enforced for all school dances/activities throughout the school year. 1. The use of drugs or alcohol is prohibited.  Any person suspected of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol will be refused admission to the dance.  Further action may be taken with respect to suspension from school and/or police involvement.

2. After a specified time no one will be admitted to the dance unless special permissions was received beforehand

3. Anyone who leaves the dance will not be re-admitted

4. Anyone displaying disorderly conduct may be asked to leave the school premises.  If there is refusal to leave, suspension may result.  Disorderly conduct includes suggestive dancing or touching.

5. No student from another school will be allowed to enter a school dance without a sign-in sponsor from ACS.  One sign-in is permitted per ACS student.  The ACS sponsor is responsible for the behaviour of their guest.

6. Appropriate dress – see Uniform Policy:  Non-Uniform Days.  

ACADEMICS

ACADEMIC HONESTY: Academic dishonesty is a serious offence which is contrary to the personal integrity which we strive to develop in our students.  Such conduct will receive significant consequences. Academic dishonesty may occur in a number of ways, including, but not limited to:

1. Copying parts or all of a fellow student’s homework

2. Copying parts or all of a fellow student’s assignment, essay, project, etc.

3. Having someone do parts or all of your work and submitting it as your own

4. Superficial paraphrasing of someone’s ideas or writing and submitting them as your own

5. Using someone’s ideas in your work whether quoted directly or written in your own words, without citation

6. Submitting work which has been entirely or partially obtained from an Internet site as your own

7. Failing to place quotation marks around a passage that you have not paraphrased, even if you acknowledge the source

8. Using sources that are not permitted for a particular assignment as instructed by the teacher  

The consequences are as follows:

Level 1 Citation correction and warning Technical and unintentional in nature (an error in citation)

Level 2 Re-Writing and Warning Unintentional and fails to meet criteria.  The infraction is on record

Level 3 No Mark Intentional or significant infraction that ought reasonably be known to be dishonest.  The infraction is kept on record and could impact on the student’s eligibility for academic awards  No Mark and Suspension A second Level 3 infraction, in any course, during the same school year 

If a teacher suspects academic dishonesty, the teacher will follow this procedure:

1. Consult with the Department Head to determine if there are sufficient grounds to proceed

2. If there are sufficient grounds, discuss the matter with the student and allow the student to provide explanation

3. Consult an administrator to determine whether there should be a consequence and what an appropriate consequence would be for the infraction

4. Inform both the student and the parent of the consequence If a student is uncertain whether his/her efforts might constitute academic dishonesty, it is the responsibility of the student to check with the teacher before completing and submitting his/her assignment for evaluation.    

EVALUATION:

• Students are informed at the beginning of each course as to how they will be evaluated

• Evaluation of student progress is a continuous process and involves a variety of activities

• It is vital that teachers and parents work together to monitor and support student progress  

Parents may contact the school – 519-751-2030 – to speak to the teacher and/or arrange an interview to review student progress. 

HOMEWORK:

 Homework includes:  completion of daily class assignments, review of work, previewing work to be done and preparation and research for projects, essays and long-term assignments. 

ACS STYLE GUIDE:

 Please refer to the ACS website, under the tab of “Students”, for the link to OWL Purdue Writing Lab for the Proper Citation Chart showing the APA, MLA and CHS style guides. 

EXAMS:

Students are required to write every exam for which they are scheduled.  Failure to write an exam without verified, written emergency or medical statement will result in a mark of zero.  Parents may request rescheduling of final examinations for medical reasons only and must contact administration.