Student Handbook 2015-2016
Sir Wilfrid Laurier Secondary School 1515 Tenth Line Road Orléans, Ontario K1E 3E8 Telephone: 613-834-4500 Fax: 613-834-4511 Website: http://sirwil.com
Principal Barry Armstrong
Vice-Principals Carol Cockburn Balazs Fazakas
This handbook belongs to: Name: Address: City: Postal Code: Telephone: Locker Number:
Cover design by Jeremie Berlanga Grade 11 Graphics Student We Strive for the Highest
1
TABLE OF CONTENTS A. GENERAL INFORMATION 1. Principal’s Welcome 2. Daily Timetable 3. School Administration and School Council 4. Student Services 5. Graduation Requirements, Timetables, Option Sheets and Transcripts 6. Finances 7. Code of Conduct 8. School Day: Attendance, Absences and Lates 9. Assessment and Evaluation B. STUDENT LIFE 1. Student Council 2. Interscholastic Sports 3. Student Organizations, Clubs and Co-Instructional Activities 4. School Dances and Evening Events 5. Commencement Celebrations C. POLICIES AND PROCEDURES 1. Cell Phones 2. Computers and Technology 3. Dress Code 4. Lockers 5. Physical Games 6. School Climate 7. School Community Obligation 8. No Smoking Policy 9. Textbooks and Library Books 10. Library 11. Health Services 12. Custodial Services 13. Current Address and Phone Number 14. Field Trips 15. Fire Alarms and Lockdowns 16. Transportation 17. Valuables 18. Visitors to the School D. THINGS EVERY STUDENT SHOULD KNOW 1. Helping You Learn Better 2. Keeping You and the School Safe 3. Showing Good Character 4. Being Healthy E. DATES TO REMEMBER F. YEAR AT A GLANCE CALENDAR
We Strive for the Highest
Page 3 4 5 5 6 7 8 10 11 16 16 17 17 18 18 18 20 20 21 21 21 21 21 23 24 24 24 24 25 26 26 26 27 28 29 29 31 32
2
A. GENERAL INFORMATION 1. Principal’s Welcome to Sir Wilfrid Laurier Secondary School 2015-2016
The staff of Sir Wilfrid Laurier Secondary School is committed to making the school year a fulfilling, positive and successful experience for all students. Student success depends on three key components: a positive attitude, regular attendance, and good study habits. Our school motto is “We strive for the Highest.” It reflects the staff and student commitment to excellence in academics, activities and athletics. We continue to work to maintain and ensure a safe and harassment-free learning environment that will permit every student to reach his or her full potential. As we enter our twenty-fifth year of operation in Orléans, it is important to consider the special role Sir Wil students play in the community. The school is physically linked to the Eastern Ottawa Resource Centre, River Heights Preschool Centre, Ray Friel Recreation Complex, and Ottawa Public Library; we are at the hub of community life. Accordingly, we must act and be seen as responsible neighbours and community members. The Vice-Principals, teaching staff and the administrative team wish you a successful year.
Barry Armstrong Principal We Strive for the Highest
3
2. Daily Timetable
TIME
8:20 a.m.
DAY 1 (Odd days)
DAY 2 (Even days)
Arrive at school at 8:20 or earlier
8:25
Warning Bell: Travel to Period 1
Warning Bell: Travel to Period 2
8:30 – 9:45
Period ①
Period ②
Block A
Block B
9:45 – 9:50 9:50 – 11:05
Travel Time Period ②
Period ①
Block B
Block A
11:05 – 11:55
LUNCH
11:55
Warning Bell: Travel to Period 3
Warning Bell: Travel to Period 4
12:00 – 1:15
Period ③
Period ④
Block C
Block D
1:15 – 1:20 1:20 – 2:35 p.m.
We Strive for the Highest
Travel Time Period ④
Period ③
Block D
Block C
4
3. School Administration and School Council a) School Administration Contact information for the school’s administrators: Barry Armstrong, Principal • e-mail:
[email protected] • telephone: 613-834-4500 extension 336 Carol Cockburn, Vice-Principal • e-mail:
[email protected] • telephone: 613-834-4500 extension 340 Balazs Fazakas, Vice-Principal • e-mail:
[email protected] • telephone: 613-834-4500 extension 339
b) School Council Sir Wilfrid Laurier has a School Council headed by an executive of parents, staff, students and the principal. Its role is to act in an advisory capacity to the principal, staff, and to the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board. The aim is to ensure quality education, encourage communication, advise on school policies and programs, and to promote parent involvement in school life. School Council meetings are held approximately six times a year in the school library. Meeting dates are determined at the first School Council meeting in September and will be published on the school website: www.sirwil.com along with the names of the executive members.
4. Student Services – Telephone number 613-834-4508 Sir Wil’s Student Services Department offers many services, including: • assistance with personal concerns • education and career counselling • information regarding colleges and universities • liaison between home, school and community services • career information • tutoring contacts • volunteer opportunities
We Strive for the Highest
5
5. Graduation Requirements, Timetables, Option Sheets and Transcripts a) Graduation Requirements Students entering high school must satisfy three graduation requirements: • earn 30 credits • complete 40 hours of community service • successfully complete the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test
b) Timetables Please note the following regarding timetables: • all students in grade 9, 10 and 11 must maintain a minimum of 4 courses per semester • changing of levels during the semester can only be done with teacher recommendation combined with course availability • requests for course changes must be done through Student Services • the student must attend all classes as originally scheduled until he/she receives a new computer-generated timetable from the counsellor • changes are only done during the first week of each semester (first week of September and February) • as stated in the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board course calendar, requests to change a course will be considered only for a valid reason: o timetable error or missing a course o change in level of difficulty o post-secondary requirements
c) Option Sheets During the month of February guidance counsellors make presentations to the students regarding courses being planned for the next academic year. Students will then complete a Student Option Sheet indicating the courses they wish to take. Based upon the option sheet course requests, the Administration compiles a master timetable and organizes the staffing of the school. As these decisions are based on the information from student option sheets, it is imperative that this information be accurate and complete. You and your parents must, therefore, give careful thought to the course options you select.
We Strive for the Highest
6
d) Transcripts The Ontario Student Transcript (OST) is the record of a student’s achievement in secondary school. The OST will include: • for Grades 9 and 10 courses, the student’s achievement with percentage grades for successfully completed courses •
for Grades 11 and 12 courses, all courses taken or attempted, percentage grades earned, and credits gained. A course will not be recorded on the OST if the student withdraws from a course within 5 instructional days following the first provincial report card each semester. If a student withdraws from a course more than 5 school days after a mid-term report card, a “W” will be recorded, as well as the student’s mark at the time of the withdrawal.
6. Finances a) There are various fees that students are asked to pay each year: • a voluntary general student activity fee that defrays the cost of items such as the school yearbook, student handbook, and school programming such as Student Council, various clubs and intramurals. Please note that the fee is reduced if a student does not purchase a yearbook. •
if a student plays on an interscholastic sports team, a fee is collected to cover the cost of team uniforms, transportation and referees.
•
a commencement registration fee for a graduating student that covers the expenses of the commencement ceremony and reception, the cost of the cap and tassel worn by the graduate, and the use of the academic gown.
b) Fee Structure for 2015-2016 In compliance with the provincial guideline about school fees, Sir Wilfrid Laurier Secondary School requests a voluntary student activity fee of $20.00 with an option to purchase the yearbook for $35.00, for a total amount of $55.00.
We Strive for the Highest
7
The $20.00 voluntary student activity fee will be used in the following way: • $3.00 to help defray the cost of producing the yearbook, i.e. photographic costs, courier, yearbook contest, camera repairs and replacement • $3.50 to Student Council to assist in sponsoring student activities and social events • $2.00 to help defray the cost of the student handbook and student I.D. card • $4.00 to the Physical Education Department for intramural activities and to replace equipment used in the sports program • $3.50 to the school’s “student general fund” • $1.00 to support School Council initiatives • $3.00 to support clubs and student initiatives Subtotal $20.00 Families with three or more children attending Sir Wilfrid Laurier may pay a “one fee amount” of $40.00. This does not include yearbooks. Should a student require financial assistance with regard to the payment of the student activity fee, parents/guardians are asked to contact a member of the Administration. Our yearbooks, which are full-colour, are priced at $35.00 to help cover the cost of production. This price is available until September 30th.
7. Code of Conduct The entire Sir Wilfrid Laurier school community is committed to providing a safe and comfortable learning environment for all students and staff. We believe that for this to happen, it is the responsibility of each person to encourage the development of attitudes and values which foster respect. Expectations Students should remember that during classes, in assemblies, at lunch hour, on field trips and at sporting activities, they represent our school. Expectations are that students will conduct themselves in accordance with the policies and procedures of the school. It is the right of all students to be safe and to feel safe when at school, or while involved in school activities. To that end, there is no tolerance for: • Physical, verbal, written (including social networking websites, e.g. Facebook), sexual or psychological abuse;
We Strive for the Highest
8
•
Bullying or discrimination on the basis of race, culture, religion, gender, language, disability, sexual orientation or other attribute;
•
Deliberate degradation of individual or Ottawa-Carleton District School Board property.
Consequences for these types of behaviour will be dealt with according to the student discipline policy as set out by the Ministry of Education, the OCDSB and the school. Actions that may result in suspension and/or expulsion include: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Any act considered by the principal to be contrary to the Board or school code of conduct Any activity listed in subsection 306(1) that is motivated by bias, prejudice or hate based on race, national or ethnic origin, language, colour, religion, sex, age, mental or physical Any infraction for which expulsion is discretionary Any other activity that is an activity for which a principal may suspend a pupil under a policy of the board. 2007, c.14, s.4 Any other activity that, under a policy of board, is an activity for which a principal must suspend a pupil and, therefore in accordance with this Part, conduct an investigation Being under the influence of alcohol Being under the influence of illegal drugs Bullying Bullying, if the pupil has previously been suspended for engaging in bullying and the pupil’s continuing presence in the school creates an unacceptable risk to the safety of another Committing an act of vandalism that causes damage to Board property or to property located on the premises of the Board Committing an act of vandalism that causes extensive damage to school property at the pupil’s school or to property located on the premises of the pupil’s school Committing an infraction for which expulsion is mandatory Committing physical assault on another person that causes bodily harm requiring treatment by a medical practitioner Committing robbery Committing sexual assault Conduct injurious to the moral tone of the school Conduct injurious to the physical or mental well-being of others in the school Giving alcohol to a minor Habitual neglect of duty as a student Inappropriate use of information technology as defined in Board policies and procedures Medical/Immunization Persistent opposition to authority
We Strive for the Highest
9
• • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Possessing a weapon, including possessing a firearm Possessing alcohol or illegal drugs Profane or improper language Sale of illegal or unauthorized tobacco products, prescription drugs and alcohol Smoking on school/Board premises Swearing at a teacher or at another person in a position of authority The student has engaged in activities that cause his or her presence in the school to be injurious to the physical or emotional well-being of other persons in the school The student has engaged in activities that have caused extensive damage to the property of the Board or to property on Board premises The student’s pattern of behaviour is so refractory that his or her presence is injurious to the effective learning environment of others Trafficking in weapons or in illegal drugs Using a weapon to cause or to threaten bodily harm to another person Uttering a threat to inflict serious bodily harm on another person Violation of the Board dress code Willful destruction of school property or property located on school premises
8.
School Day
a) Attendance Here are the basic attendance expectations:
•
• Arrive at school at 8:20 a.m. or earlier • There is a warning bell at 8:25 a.m. and classes begin at 8:30 a.m. • Attendance in all scheduled classes is compulsory. It is the student’s responsibility to report immediately to the main office in the event their teacher or class are not found in the normal place. • Attendance is recorded in each class If a student is absent, an automated attendance calling system will phone home and inform parents/guardians of the absence if there is not a predetermined legitimate reason.
b) Absences The following are school policies regarding absences: • Parents/guardians are to call the school attendance line (613834-4500, ext. 100) if their son/daughter is to be absent; students 18 years of age or over are expected to do the same. • Students who are required to leave school before the end of the day, including during lunch hour, must sign out at the main office with a note written by a parent/guardian We Strive for the Highest
10
•
• •
explaining the reason for leaving and the time of departure. If they are returning later the same day, they must sign in at the main office upon their return. Students without a note from a parent/guardian are not permitted to leave the school during the day until a parent/guardian has been contacted by telephone in the main office. In emergencies, if parents cannot be contacted, the administration will act on behalf of the parent/guardian. All notes provided for absences must be dated and signed, and contain valid reasons for the absence. Students are responsible for all work missed if they are absent.
c) Lates Students are expected to be in class and on time. If a student arrives to school before 8:50 a.m., they are to report to the cafeteria where the vice-principal will provide a late slip. After 8:50 they are to report to the main office to obtain a late slip for admittance to class. There are consequences for persistent lateness: • one detention will be given for the first five lates a student accumulates throughout a semester • two detentions will be given for ten lates, and three detentions for 15 lates accumulated throughout a semester • one detention each day that a student is late upon reaching 20 unexcused lates • Vice-Principals will deal with students who fail to serve their detentions, e.g. a suspension may be given • lates for all other classes will be dealt with by the subject teacher If a student is late for a legitimate reason (e.g. a medical or dental appointment), he/she should come to the main office for a late slip, and this will not count towards their late totals.
9. Assessment and Evaluation a) Student Evaluation and Reporting Evaluation is a regular and vital part of the school year and the learning process. There is a direct link between attendance and achievement. Through regular evaluation, you can measure how you are achieving in each course, relative to the expectations of achievement for the course. Most of the evaluation provided in any course is based on daily We Strive for the Highest
11
work and on assignments. Additional evaluation is provided by quizzes, tests and in most courses, a formal examination at semester end. When a formal examination is not required, another form of summative evaluation is used. It is expected that all students will meet deadlines for summative evaluations. Absences during summatives must be excused with official documentation. At the beginning of the school year, you will receive the written criteria of the evaluation process for each course. These requirements are established for all schools in the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board to ensure consistency for all students. Where formal examinations are held in a course, students are required to be present for these examinations. Exams are scheduled for the end of January and the end of June each year. Vacation and work commitments should not be made at these times in order that you will meet your school obligations. Students will receive two report cards per semester. There will be Parent-Teacher Interviews in each semester. b) Extended Time to Write Exams Any student may qualify for extended time on exams if at least one of the following criteria is met: • a student who is deemed an Exceptional Student by an Identification, Placement and Review Committee (IPRC) and whose stated needs include a program accommodation requiring extended time to write tests and exams. This will be identified in the student’s Individual Education Plan. • the presentation of a recent (within two years) psychological report carried out by a professional psychologist (outside of the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board) that deems the need for extended time to be necessary for tests and exams • the presentation of a medical certificate from a physician to the Administration of the school indicating the need for extended time on written examinations c) Assessment and Evaluation Policy Preamble: The Ontario Ministry of Education states that the primary purpose of assessment and evaluation is to improve student learning. Over the course of a semester students will be given many opportunities to demonstrate that they have met the expectations of the curriculum. Many assessments of student work will be undertaken during their efforts towards improvement. Teachers will evaluate the degree to which learning expectations have been met in accordance with Ministry of Education standards. We Strive for the Highest
12
Assessment Rights and Responsibilities STUDENTS
TEACHERS
PARENTS
Rights: • To know how they are performing • To receive timely marking/grading • To have opportunities to improve their work • To get feedback which is formative • To understand how they are being evaluated prior to the evaluation
Rights: • To have students take charge of their own learning as active partners • To receive student submissions that reflect a student’s best work • To apply professional judgment regarding assessment and evaluation • To have adequate training and in-service to implement sound assessment and evaluation practices
Rights: • To know on a regular basis how their child is performing • To know how their child is being assessed • To be able to contact teachers for advice or information regarding their child’s progress • To be informed through their child about subject requirements, assessment and evaluation and due dates for submission of work
Responsibilities: • To complete all work to the best of their ability • To submit work to teachers on time • To be active partners in the learning process • To take all opportunities to improve work after receiving feedback • To assist other students • To be fully prepared for all assessment and evaluation experiences • To provide sufficient evidence upon which to base evaluation • To inform their parents about subject requirements, assessment and evaluation, and due dates for submission of work
Responsibilities: • To deliver instruction that is supported by assessment and evaluation • To receive student submissions • To grade and return student work in a timely manner • To be familiar with, and implement, assessment and evaluation practices that are consistent with Ministry and Board policies • To implement assessment and evaluation practices that are fair to all students • To keep parents fully informed regarding the progress of their child • To ensure that students understand how they are being evaluated
Responsibilities: • To ensure that their child completes all work assigned for homework • To monitor the progress of their child • To act as partner in the learning process • To take advantage of interview opportunities provided at parent interview nights • To ensure that students spend time at home preparing for evaluation • To encourage students to have a healthy balance of family, school, social and employment responsibilities
We Strive for the Highest
13
Assessing and Evaluating Incomplete, Missing, or Plagiarized Work It is the responsibility of the student to complete all assigned work, to be present to write tests and to be prepared for and to attend assigned presentations and summative evaluations. When the student knows that he/she will be absent for a test, presentation, summative evaluation or other assignment due date, they are expected to make alternate arrangements with the teacher before the due date. In the event that a student misses a test, summative evaluation or presentation or fails to hand in an assignment, the student will initiate a series of steps with the teacher to ensure that the expectations are met. Behaviour Response Missed Tests / • Upon missing a test or presentation, the Presentations / parent/guardian will be informed, and the student Summative will be required, at the teacher’s discretion, either Evaluations to: a) Complete the test or presentation immediately upon return to school; or b) Make arrangements with the teacher for a make-up; or c) Write the missed test Friday morning at 7:30 a.m. of that week. • If, after an additional opportunity has been agreed upon, and the task is still incomplete, a mark of zero for that assignment will be assigned. • The teacher will communicate with administration if the teacher is considering deducting marks including all the marks after a student has been given a second opportunity for late or missing assignments. • The teacher will ensure that late and missed assignments or skipped tests used for evaluation are noted on the Learning Skills and Work Habits section of the report card. •
Summative Evaluations Summative evaluations include performance tasks, essays, etc. that are administered towards the end of the semester or term, in the case of half-courses, or school year, in the case of nonsemestered courses.
We Strive for the Highest
14
Missed Tests / • The teacher will inform the parent/guardian about a Presentations / late or missed summative evaluation. As with formal Summative examinations, a legitimate absence from a Evaluations summative is one resulting from student illness or (continued) family emergency, and appropriate documentation must be provided to the student’s vice-principal. In the case of a legitimate absence, the vice-principal will consult with the teacher and an alternate due date will be established. If the summative is timesensitive, an alternate task may be assigned Late or • If an assignment is late or incomplete, the Incomplete parent/guardian will be informed and the student Assignments will be provided with a second opportunity. • Students who are provided with a second opportunity shall complete the required assignment within five school days. If no evidence is forthcoming after five days, a mark of zero will be assigned. • The revised timelines for alternate assignments will not exceed one week before mid-term grades are due and one week before final examinations commence. • Mitigating factors to be considered before awarding a mark of zero will include: grade level, maturity, number and frequency of incidents, learning skills, work habits, and individual circumstances. Academic • Copied, borrowed or stolen work provides no Integrity evidence of learning and may be subject to academic and behavioural consequences. • The consequences of academic fraud will be based on mitigating factors including: i. the grade level of the student; ii. the maturity of the student; iii. the number and frequency of incidents; and, iv. the individual circumstances of the student • The teacher will document and archive the work in question. • On all occurrences, the parent/guardian, teachers of the student and administration will be notified. • Students will be given an additional opportunity to demonstrate achievement of the overall expectations. The teacher and administrator will define the parameters for the completion of this task.
We Strive for the Highest
15
Absence of Evidence
B.
• For Grades Nine and Ten, “I” may be used on a report card, including the final report card, to indicate insufficient evidence is available to determine a percentage grade. • A mark of zero will be applied to represent the absence of evidence after a student has been given a second opportunity to complete an evaluation and display understanding of overall expectations.
STUDENT LIFE
1. Student Council Sir Wilfrid Laurier’s Co-Presidents are elected in the spring. The Student Council organizes various activities throughout the year.
2. Interscholastic Sports Fall interscholastic sports are identified the first week of school in September depending on student interest and commitment, staff, coaches, and budget. Winter and spring sports will be identified in October and February respectively. Students participating in interscholastic teams are required to pay a fee. The amount of the fee depends upon the number of teams in which the student participates and the type of sport, i.e. whether it is a team or individual sport. Athletic fees help to defray the costs of league fees and transportation. It is recommended that students have an annual medical examination before they participate in any interscholastic sport. Students must not leave valuables (cell phones, wallets, etc.) in the Phys. Ed. changing rooms or lockers. Students are strongly advised to leave all valuables at home. The school is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
3. Student Organizations, Clubs, and Co-Instructional Activities Student life at Sir Wilfrid Laurier Secondary School is guided and enriched by student leaders in various organizations. All students are encouraged to join student organizations in order to get the maximum benefit from their high school years, and to gain leadership experience.
We Strive for the Highest
16
There is a wide variety of clubs, teams and co-instructional activities at Sir Wilfrid Laurier. Students will be informed of times for sign-up, tryouts, and meetings and locations as the year progresses. Students are advised to watch and listen to the announcements and to read bulletin boards for updates.
4. School Dances and Evening Events
• • • • • • • • • •
Throughout the school year, the Student Council and other school clubs organize a number of events that take place after school or in the evening. The following are the rules and expectations that all students are to adhere to when attending one of these events. school dance and evening event attendance is limited to Sir Wilfrid Laurier students only all students must purchase dance and evening event tickets during school hours and present this ticket upon entry to the dance students will not be admitted without a ticket students must be prepared to show their student ID card as proof of identification doors open at 7:00 p.m. and close at 8:00 p.m. there are no in/out privileges coats and bags are checked by staff supervisors upon entrance to the school. Once they have been cleared to enter the event, the student must check their coat and bag at the coat rack in the main lobby. there is no access to student lockers before, during or after the dance the school assumes no responsibility for any articles that are lost or stolen the use of tobacco products, drugs and alcohol is strictly prohibited. Violations will result in suspension or expulsion.
5. Commencement Celebrations Our school staff is happy to celebrate formally with the graduates at the school-sanctioned commencement. There are, however, a number of other activities associated with graduation, such as the graduation dinner-dance, the Quebec Ski Trip (February), the March Break grad trip and the Wonderland Trip (May) that are not sanctioned by the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board or the school, but are organized and managed by the student-run “Graduation Committee.” We Strive for the Highest
17
The administration and staff of Sir Wilfrid Laurier Secondary School assume no responsibility or liability for the events organized and managed by the student graduation committee, nor do we assume a supervisory role. We want to make our position clear so that parents may have appropriate discussions with their sons and daughters. While there may be a student-run “Graduation Committee,” it functions as a non-authorized body. Its activities are neither approved nor sanctioned by Sir Wilfrid Laurier Secondary School nor by the OttawaCarleton District School Board.
C.
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
1. Cell Phones
• Sir Wil students are expected to display cell phone etiquette (manners) on school grounds and during school-related functions. Such etiquette requires that students use their cell phones respectfully, at respectful times and in respectful places in order to be considerate of others. • As with other electronic devices that may be connected to the school internet network, students’ access of this network with their own cell phones must follow OCDSB policy and procedure regarding acceptable use of technology. • Students are advised that cell phones may be used outside of class time as long as the use does not interfere with the learning and working environment of others. It is not acceptable for students to use cell phones in any capacity during assemblies and detentions. • There may be occasions when it is appropriate for students to use certain cell phone functions during class time, and staff will make this clear to students. Staff direction on this matter must be respected. Students will be referred to the Vice-Principal if they fail to follow staff direction on cell phone use and limitations.
2. Computers and Technology Sir Wilfrid Laurier operates both PC and Mac labs. In order to continue to provide a high level of technological support for our students, students must not eat or drink in the computer labs. If computers and other technology are mishandled or damaged by students, they will be liable for the repairs and/or replacement costs. Ottawa-Carleton District School Board Policy and Procedure regarding Appropriate Use of Technology – Abbreviated Version The District recognizes the benefits that technology can bring to support student learning. The District supports and encourages We Strive for the Highest
18
responsible use of technology through the nine principles of digital citizenship. Users who are given access to the District’s technology, its electronic devices, or who use their own technology or personal electronic devices in the District’s learning or work environment are required to know and abide by the District’s policy (P.100.IT Appropriate Use of Technology) and procedure (PR.622.IT Appropriate Use of Technology) to ensure that all technology is being used in a safe, legal and responsible manner. Learning and Technology Plan The Ottawa-Carleton District School Board’s Learning and Instructional Technology plan will ensure that the District’s schools are connected and relevant. The District expects that its students will be able to access educational resources online and engage in learning through wireless networks. Digital Citizenship Students will use technology for educational purposes only. By accessing the Internet while on District property or by logging in with a District login, students accept all terms and conditions of the appropriate use of technology policy and procedure. Students will demonstrate appropriate online conduct and manners. Students must follow security procedures and use District virus scanning software. Although the District uses a content filter, students may encounter inappropriate material. Students are required to report any inappropriate use of email, data or unauthorized technology or data to a teacher or administrator immediately. Information created on the District’s network may be accessed and is subject to review. Users will refrain from improper/unethical use of technology, including computer hacking, cyber-bullying, and sending or receiving offensive pictures or materials. The Internet must not be used for any purpose that violates the school’s Code of Conduct or the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. Personal Device Use The District encourages the use of personally owned devices such as laptops, handheld devices or peripheral devices, in the District’s learning or work environment under the terms and conditions of use outlined in the District’s procedure. Personal devices may not be used to record audio or video of people unless the user has been given express written permission to do so. The school’s Code of Conduct will apply to all electronic use as will the consequences. Personally owned devices used inappropriately to access/produce or share unlawful materials will result in full investigation and necessary action will be taken.
We Strive for the Highest
19
Consequences of Misuse If a user violates or fails to adhere to this procedure, one or more of the following consequences may occur: • suspension or cancellation of use of access privileges; • payment for damages and repairs; • discipline under other appropriate Board policies, including suspension, expulsion, • exclusion or termination of employment; or • civil or criminal liability under other applicable laws.
3. Dress Code Students are to be neat and clean in appearance and to dress in a modest and appropriate manner as befits business and educational institutions. These are the expectations for student dress: • tops should not expose cleavage, belly buttons or midriffs • undergarments should not be visible • bandanas, do-rags, or flags are not to be worn • advertisements or slogans that impact on the moral tone of the school or that offend others, through the mention of alcohol, drugs, or sexually explicit language are not acceptable • hoods are not to be worn in the school building • students who dress in an unacceptable way will be asked to change to more acceptable dress • some classes, including physical education classes, may require additional dress policies • muscle shirts are not permitted
4. Lockers Each student is assigned a locker at the beginning of the school year. Please follow these procedures with regards to locker use: • use the locker that is assigned to you • do not share lockers • do not use more than one locker • do not switch lockers with another student • use a quality combination lock • it is best to leave your valuables (i-Pods, etc.) at home, but if you must bring a valuable item, carry it on your person during class time • students must clear out their lockers at the end of the school year; if not, valuables left behind will be donated to a local charity • lockers are the property of the school, not the occupant, and the school has the right to inspect a locker without notifying the occupant. We Strive for the Highest
20
5. Physical Games No outdoor activities are allowed inside the school because of liability concerns in case of injury to the student. Skateboarding/longboarding is not permitted on school property.
6. School Climate It is OCDSB and Sir Wilfrid Laurier policy that all students and staff can learn and work in an environment which is free from discrimination (being treated unfairly because of who you are, e.g. race or gender) and harassment (being bothered by someone else that makes one feel uncomfortable). These policies are backed up by provincial legislation-Bills 157 and 168. If anyone feels that they are being discriminated against or are being harassed, report it to Administration immediately.
7. School Community Obligation All members of the school community have an obligation to act in situations involving inappropriate behaviour: • if it is safe and wise to do so, and one has the skills to intervene, one should do their best to discourage, prevent or stop the inappropriate behaviour • if it is not safe and wise to intervene, one should leave the area and seek staff assistance immediately Staff and students can work together to maintain a safe environment for learning.
8. No Smoking Policy Smoking is not permitted on OCDSB property at any time. You can be fined for the following infractions: • $365 fine for giving or selling cigarettes to anyone under nineteen (19) years of age • $305 fine for holding a lit cigarette on school property; this includes sitting inside a vehicle that is on school property
9. Textbooks and Library Books The school lends students all the textbooks that they require. Students are expected to keep these books in good repair and return them at the end of each semester. Fines will be assessed for damage to textbooks. Only the student to whom the book was originally issued will be given credit for its return. If a textbook or library book is lost or stolen, the student to whom the book was issued must reimburse the school immediately through the main office or, in the case of a lost library book, through the library. We Strive for the Highest
21
When students change courses, or withdraw, they are required to hand in the textbook to the subject teacher of the course being discontinued. Students withdrawing from school must ensure that all library books are returned to the library. Administration reserves the right to withhold the timetables of students who owe textbooks, fines or library books.
10. Library Welcome to the Lancer Library! • food and drinks are not permitted in the library • school bags must be placed in the designated area • valuables should not be left unattended • overdue books are subject to a fine Lancer Library Wikispaces – our library website: http://swllibrary.wikispaces.com/ This is your link to a variety of resources and guides. The teacherlibrarian updates this site regularly and posts direct links to some of your course and summative resources. There is also a link to Sir Wil’s catalogue, the Ottawa Public Library, and credible internet sites. All guides for documentation, works cited, essay writing, etc. are found here as well. We offer the following: •
A vibrant and welcoming environment where students are encouraged to use the tools available to enhance the quality of their assignments.
•
Information Literacy Skills Continuum: Grades 9 – 12 Instruction regarding accessing, evaluating, and incorporating all types of resources Senior Grades – accessing scholarly sources, critical analysis , analysing conflicting information, determining purpose and bias Information technology workshops – evaluating your sources Conferencing and evaluating process for major assignments and summative evaluations Equity Education / Character Education
•
High Interest Fiction, Non-fiction, Magazines, Current Best Sellers We encourage students to go ahead and buy an interesting book or magazine (they must check to make sure we do not
We Strive for the Highest
22
already have it) and provide the teacher-librarian with the receipt (imperative). We will then reimburse the student and put the item in the library. Ottawa Public Library Website: Connection to Electronic Databases • Please acquire an Ottawa Public Library card. • Many teachers require research from these databases as the sources are credible and subject specific. • The barcode on this card is your user name. Your password is the last four digits of the phone number you provided on your library card application. • Scholarly articles and journal articles are available on these databases and THEY ARE FREE. • You can access them remotely at home or any computer and they are much more reliable than the general Internet. • Access free databases which subscribe to thousands of magazines and journals FULL TEXT. • Type in a subject and you will get Articles, Journals, Pictures, Maps, TV and Radio and Government Transcripts, Audio Visual clips, and Newspapers. • All articles related to your topic will be provided in full text and the reading level is specified for all sources. Go to the Ottawa Public Library site: http://www.biblioottawalibrary.ca/
1.
Sign in on the right side. You will be asked for your library card number (barcode on your card) and your password (your last four digits in your phone number) 2. Click on “COLLECTIONS” 3. Menu will appear. Click on Online Resources. You will have the choice of directly typing in your topic or you can “browse list of featured databases” or “click to see all databases” to explore the different and interesting areas offered. Great databases for students and parents! Consumer Reports.org Chilton Auto Repair Academic Onefile Canadian Newsstand Teen Health and Wellness Consumer Health Complete Info Trac Student General Reference Centre Gold Science in Context Repere (French information) Teen Health and Wellness We Strive for the Highest
23
11. Health Services The Ottawa Public Health Department provides nursing and public health services for the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board. Contact can be made with the nurse at the Ottawa Public Health Department at 613-580-6744. Students who are ill should report to the Main Office. After the student’s parent or guardian has been contacted, the office will provide him/her with a permit to go home. Leaving the school without signing out will be treated as skipping. In emergencies, when parents cannot be contacted, office staff will phone the student’s emergency contact. In the event that neither a parent nor the alternate contact can be located, the Administration will act in loco parentis. Any student who suffers from an on-going medical condition (e.g. diabetes, epilepsy, asthma, heart condition, or severe lifethreatening allergy) should contact the main office to obtain the appropriate OttawaCarleton District School Board form(s) pertaining to serious medical conditions and/or administration of medication or Epi-pens®. Various forms must be completed so that the school staff can provide informed assistance in an emergency. Students whose immunizations are not up-to-date will be informed by the Ottawa Public Health Department to get the immunization required. The Health Department will suspend any student who does not comply with their directions.
12.
Custodial Services
The Chief Custodian coordinates custodial services at Sir Wil. Keeping the school clean is a major undertaking. Students are requested to show pride and respect of their school at all times by helping to keep the school clean and using garbage and recycling bins properly.
13.
Current Address and Phone Number
Please keep the school administration informed of any changes to address, home telephone number, and work numbers for parents/guardians and emergency contacts.
14.
Field Trips
All students who participate in field trips or other out-of-class activities are responsible for informing their teachers well in advance of the We Strive for the Highest
24
event. Students are expected to do all the work missed in their other scheduled classes. The responsibility for catching up rests solely with the student. When the event conflicts with a scheduled test, the student must make arrangements with the teacher to write the test at the teacher’s convenience. Students should have a “subject buddy” in each of their classes. A subject buddy is a person with whom students exchange phone numbers and call to find out what happened if a class is missed. A subject buddy in each subject area will ensure access to all pertinent information for any missed class time. Students are expected to return to full time attendance at school immediately following a field trip. Students must travel to and from school authorized activities using school approved modes of transportation. Students are not permitted to drive themselves or other students to such activities. As field trips are a privilege, be aware that due to poor attendance, poor academic performance or for behavioural reasons, students can be notified that they are not eligible to attend field trips or sporting events.
15.
Fire Alarms and Lockdowns
a) Fire Alarms The signal to evacuate the school is a pulsing, blaring alarm. Route directions are posted in each room. In case of a fire alarm: • take note of the fire exit (and alternate exit) to be used • leave room promptly • exit the building via designated route • if your route is blocked, use alternate route and exit • when outside, stand well back from building and do not leave school property • return to building only when called back • follow teacher directions Remember: • deliberate and unnecessary pulling of the fire alarm or tampering with fire extinguishers is illegal and can result in criminal charges • fire direction signs must not be taken down (please report any missing signs or extinguishers to the Administration) b) Lockdowns Lockdowns can occur if police and administration believe that the safety of students and staff is in question. If a lockdown is called over the PA system by a member of the administration the following is to occur: We Strive for the Highest
25
• • •
students who are in the hallways are to enter the closest classroom that is supervised by a teacher classroom doors will be shut and locked; exterior and interior windows including those on classroom doors are to be covered students and teachers are to sit on floor against wall adjacent to classroom door and remain out of sight and quiet until the police have come to the classroom and have given them permission to go back to their seats
Remember: Regular classroom activities may be resumed only when the police have inspected the classroom – only the police have the power to determine when a lockdown is over.
16.
Transportation
While travelling on a school bus, students are governed by all policies that prevail at Sir Wilfrid Laurier, i.e. no smoking, being courteous, etc. Failure to do so may result in withdrawal of bus privileges.
17.
Valuables
It is best to leave valuables (e.g. i-Pods, cell phones and/or money) at home, but if you must bring a valuable item, students must remember: • carry a valuable item on your person during class time • do not leave valuables in change rooms • bicycles are to be secured with a good and sturdy lock • the school and the OCDSB do not assume responsibility for the loss or theft of personal valuables • it is the responsibility of all students to help with school security • students who suspect criminal activity should inform a member of the school administration – confidentiality is assured
18.
Visitors to the School
During the regular school day, Sir Wilfrid Laurier is a closed campus to all except registered students, staff and parents. Visitors to the school are to come to the main office for assistance. Only under special circumstances will arrangements be made permitting a visitor to attend classes with a student. Visitors also include former Sir Wil students. Former students must have an appointment with Guidance or Administration and check in at the main office for a permit if they have a reason to be on property. Students sighting strangers on school property are encouraged to report all non-Sir Wilfrid Laurier students to staff or Administration immediately.
We Strive for the Highest
26
D. THINGS EVERY STUDENT SHOULD KNOW 1. Helping You Learn Better a) Time Management Here are some helpful tips to get school work done on time. • KEEP A LOG OF WORK DEADLINES - what has to be done and when is it due. Start work on all projects when they are announced rather than at the last minute. When work is rushed it is often incomplete and your grades will suffer. • DEVELOP AN ACTION PLAN and prioritize your tasks in the order they should be completed. It is often best to complete work you don’t like to do first. • COMMIT to finishing your work in a timely manner. Assignments should be completed several days before they are due, leaving time for reflection and review. • REVIEW what you have accomplished. Have someone proof-read what you have done and make changes until you are satisfied with the finished product. b) A Time and Place to Work Find a comfortable and quiet place to work, a place clear of potential distractions, in order to be as effective as possible. Here are some helpful hints: • Start work when you are fresh and eager to get things accomplished. • Stay motivated. Reward yourself when something is completed-all work and no play can wear a person down. • Work alone; it reduces the amount of distraction. You’ll get a lot more work completed in a shorter period of time. • Make sure you have everything you need to complete the task before you start. Unnecessary interruptions have a negative affect on efficiency. • Background music may keep you focused or it may distract you. c) Which Learning Style Suits You Best How do you learn? We’re all different. There are three types of learning styles. Which one do you think best suits you? Auditory Learner: Do you learn better when someone tells you something, like following oral instructions? If this sounds like the way you learn, try these: o when studying for a test, read your notes out loud o if you’re having trouble understanding something, talk it over with your teacher or a classmate We Strive for the Highest
27
Visual Learner: Do you learn better from reading, writing things out, or picturing them in your head? If this sounds like you, try the following: o take notes to stay focused o make up diagrams or charts to help you better understand concepts o highlight concepts and important facts from your readings Kinesthetic Learner: Do you learn by doing? If you feel this describes your learning style, give these a try: o use your computer or other types of study aids o make lists or write things out several times
2. Keeping You and the School Safe a) Internet Safety
• • • • •
Internet research offers millions of sources of information at your fingertips. However, the Internet can be a source of problems as well. Beware of the following: Internet strangers: people who will stalk you over the Internet and try to take advantage of you Cyber bullying: the use of technology to embarrass or ridicule Information theft: people hack into computers to steal personal information like passwords and PIN numbers Inappropriate content: “spam” e-mail that is sent out with graphic pictures or information Viruses: these are also sent out by e-mail and their purpose is to ruin your computer and its software
b) Bullying Students need to be aware of many forms of bullying that are often confused with innocent teasing. Don’t fall into that trap. The results of bullying can be very damaging to the victim, and the bully could end up in legal trouble. Report any of the following situations to Administration. It could be happening to you or a friend, or you may see or hear it happening to people you don’t know. You are not a snitch if you report it and names will remain confidential. • Physical bullying: actually hitting or shoving someone as a way to intimidate them • Verbal bullying: making verbal threats to injure or using discriminatory language against a person or a group of people • Social bullying: this is done by spreading rumours or by exclusion • Cyber bullying: things are said about and to people through text messaging or on social network sites like Facebook or Twitter We Strive for the Highest
28
Remember: If you are a victim or witness to any of these types of bullying, please report it to the Administration. Print or save what is being said and show it to your Vice-Principal. You may also report concerns via the feedback buttons on the school website (www.sirwil.com).
3. Showing Good Character Staff and students are expected to show good character. For example, making a joke about an ethnic or racial group shows bad character; picking up garbage off the floor and placing in the nearest garbage can shows good character. All OCDSB schools focus on the character traits of Acceptance, Appreciation, Cooperation, Empathy, Fairness, Integrity, Optimism, Perseverance, Respect, and Responsibility. Look at the back cover of this handbook to read more about our District’s “Community of Character.”
4. Being Healthy a) Taking Care of Your Body The teenaged body is changing very quickly and you have to treat it properly in order to get the most out of it, whether it is in the classroom or on the playing fields and courts. You’ll be surprised at how quickly your body will let you down if you don’t properly feed and rest it. Make the following habits and then you’ll see how much you can get out of yourself. EAT BREAKFAST: Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. EAT PROPERLY: Eat good and healthy foods throughout the day and you’ll get through the school day alert and full of energy. GET YOUR SLEEP: Teenagers should be getting at least eight to ten hours of sleep every night. EXERCISE: It is important to exercise regularly. Walk to and from school every day instead of getting a drive from your parents.
b) Getting Addicted Being a teenager is almost synonymous with experimentation. There is a chance that while you are in high school you might try things like cigarettes, alcohol or drugs. Whether it is due to peer pressure or We Strive for the Highest
29
curiosity, teens may try things that they shouldn’t. The problem is that sometimes experimentation goes farther and it turns into a bad habit, or even worse, an addiction. Here are some signs that you should look for if you think that you or one of your friends are addicted to a drug or alcohol: • extreme mood changes, i.e. happy to sad • change in sleep patterns • weight loss or weight gain • unexpected and persistent coughs or sniffles • pupils of the eyes seeming smaller or larger than usual • secretiveness • lying • stealing • financially unpredictable, i.e. having a lot of money at one time, but no money at other times • changes in social groups, new and unusual friends, odd cell phone conversations • repeated unexplained outings, often with a sense of urgency • drug paraphernalia such as pipes, cigarette papers, small weighing scales, etc. • “stashes” of drugs, often in small plastic, paper or foil packages What to do if you or a friend has an addiction to drugs or alcohol? The answer is pretty simple – get help. Go see a teacher, guidance counsellor, administrator, or any adult in the school you trust and talk about your problem. Here are some contact numbers of agencies that deal specifically with drug and alcohol dependency: Rideauwood Addiction and Family Services 312 Parkdale Avenue Ottawa, ON K1Y 4X5 613-724-4881 www.rideauwood.org
Dave Smith Youth Treatment Centre 786 Bronson Avenue Ottawa, ON K1S 4G4 613-594-8333 www.davesmithcentre.org
Adam Kayiwa Rideauwood Counsellor 613-834-4500 ext. 329
Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868 www.kidshelp.sympatico.ca
c) Gaming and Gambling There has been a growth of the gaming culture and the popularity of card games like poker and the legalized betting on sports. If you think that you or a friend might have a gaming or gambling problem, here is the contact information of some organizations that can help: Ontario Problem Gambling Helpline 1-888-230-3505 www.opgh.on.ca
We Strive for the Highest
Gam-Anon and Gam-Ateen www.gam-anon.org
30
E. Dates to Remember - 2015 – 2016 September 2015 Tuesday, September 8
First Day of School
October 2015 Friday, October 9 Monday, October 12 Thursday, October 22
Secondary P.A. Day Thanksgiving Holiday Parent/Teacher Interviews
November 2015 Tuesday, November 17 and Tuesday, November 24 December 2015 Monday, December 21 to Friday, January 1 January 2016 Tuesday & Wednesday, January 19 & 20 Tuesday, January 26 to Monday, February 1 February 2016 Tuesday, February 2 Friday, February 12 Monday, February 15 March 2016 Monday, March 14 to Friday, March 18 Friday, March 25 Monday, March 28 Tuesday, March 29 Thursday, March 31
May 2016 Monday, May 23 June 2015 Wednesday & Thursday, June 8 & 9 Tuesday, June 21 to Monday, June 27 Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday, June 28, 29,& 30 Thursday, June 30 Thursday, June 30 We Strive for the Highest
EQAO Online Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT) Christmas Break EQAO Grade 9 Math Assessment Final Examinations
Semester 2 begins Secondary PA Day Family Day March Break Good Friday Easter Monday Parent/Teacher Interviews EQAO Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT) Victoria Day Holiday EQAO Grade 9 Math Assessment Final Examinations Secondary P.A. Days Commencement Last Day of School Year 31
F.
Year at a Glance Calendar - 2015 – 2016 August 2015
September 2015
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa
1 2
3
9
4
5
6
7
8
October 2015
6
7
1
2
3
4
8
9
10 11 12
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa
5 4
5
6
7
1
2
3
8
9
10
10 11 12 13 14 15
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
16 17 18 19 20 21 22
20 21 22 23 24 25 26
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
23 24 25 26 27 28 29
27 28 29 30
25 26 27 28 29 30 31
30 31
November 2015
December 2015
January 2016
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa
1
2
3
8
9
10 11 12 13 14
4
5
6
7 6
7
1
2
3
8
9
10 11 12
4
5 3
4
5
6
7
1
2
8
9
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
22 23 24 25 26 27 28
20 21 22 23 24 25 26
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
29 30
27 28 29 30 31
24 25 26 27 28 29 30
February 2016
March 2016
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa
7
1
2
3
4
5
8
9
10 11 12 13
April 2016
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa
6 6
7
1
2
3
4
8
9
10 11 12
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa
5 3
4
5
6
7
1
2
8
9
14 15 16 17 18 19 20
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
21 22 23 24 25 26 27
20 21 22 23 24 25 26
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
28 29
27 28 29 30 31
24 25 26 27 28 29 30
May 2016
June 2016
July 2016
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa
1
2
3
4
5
6
8
9
10 11 12 13 14
7 5
6
7
1
2
3
8
9
10 11
4 3
4
5
6
7
1
2
8
9
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
12 13 14 15 16 17 18
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
22 23 24 25 26 27 28
19 20 21 22 23 24 25
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
29 30 31
26 27 28 29 30
24 25 26 27 28 29 30
© www.calendarpedia.com
We Strive for the Highest
32
