SOURIS SCHOOL
Box 639
Souris, MB R0K 2C0
483-2161 (phone)
483-2828 (fax)
SENIOR YEARS
INFORMATION HANDBOOK
for
PARENTS AND STUDENTS
2008-2009
Mr. Bob Young, Principal
Mrs. Leanne Rolfe, Vice Principal, Middle Years
Mr. Glenn Wallmann, Vice Principal, Early Years
PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE
The student handbook is provided on an annual basis to provide parents and students with relevant information about school policies and procedures with respect to daily operation. It is intended to help. Information in this edition includes dress code, attendance expectations, course sign up and withdrawal dates, as well as many other topics. I strongly recommend that all students and parents read this document in order to understand our expectations. I wish you a successful year at Souris School
Yours sincerely,
Bob Young
Principal
MISSION STATEMENT
Souris School, together with families and community, will provide a positive, safe environment where individuals can develop personal potential and life - long learning skills to achieve success in a changing world.
SOURIS SCHOOL GOALS
The school community (staff, students, parents) will:
a. promote positive attitudes and behavior towards learning.
b. facilitate knowledge and skill base acquisition for a changing world.
c. provide active, meaningful learning experiences which foster continued learning.
d. provide a stimulating, controlled environment with an emphasis on individual wellness.
e. promote self-worth, trust and will foster leadership and decision making.
f. develop positive school spirit, pride and a feeling of ownership.
g. model respect and empathy.
h. provide an opportunity to excel.
i. accept individual responsibility towards learning.
j. share responsibility for a positive partnership.
WELCOME
The staff, students and parents welcome everyone to Souris School.
Our expectations for each person are as follows:
R - respect individuals and their property.
E - each person is responsible for his/her own learning.
S - staff and students are responsible for contributing to a quiet and
safe learning environment.
P - prepare for school by doing homework daily and being punctual.
E - ensure that your school contribution is positive.
C - co-operate with classmates and staff.
T - try your best at all times.
If everyone at school follows the expectations as listed above, we will have a quality learning environment and respect that is earned and deserved.
This handbook is designed to provide information to students and parents or guardians about the function and operation of Souris School. It is intended that policies and procedures be established which will lead to a maximization of growth in the areas of intellectual, physical, social, aesthetic, moral and emotional development of our students. Sometimes policies may seem restrictive. This is sometimes necessary to provide an atmosphere which is condusive to the development of responsible citizenship and one which protects the rights of all who work within the framework of the school.
ADMINISTRATION
Mr. Bob Young - Principal (K-Grade 12)
Mrs. Leanne Rolfe - Vice Principal (Middle Years - Grades 6 - 8),
Mr. Glenn Wallmann - Vice Principal (Early Years - Grades K-5)
SENIOR YEARS STAFF
Mr. Adams - Business Education, Math
Ms. Hannah
Mrs. Bechtold - French, Art and Drama
Ms. Birch - English & K-5 Physical Education
Mrs. Dunbar - Senior Math
Mr. Feschuk - Senior Science
Mr. Kindle - Senior English
Mr. McConnell - Industrial Arts
Mr. Penner - Physical Education, Grade 5, M. Y. & S. Y.
Mrs. Sobry (Mrs. Penner when she returns from maternity leave) - Resource
Mrs. Popple-Senior Math
Mr. Skelton - M.Y. & S. Y., Science
Mr. Yon - Senior Social Studies, K-4 Physical Education
Mrs. Young - Physical Education
Mrs. Denbow - Futures in Business, Career Development, Middle Years French
MIDDLE YEARS STAFF
Grade 6 - Mrs. Kreusch
Grade 7 - Mr. Elder
Grade 7 - Ms. Keyes
Grade 8 - Mrs. Rolfe
Grade 8 - Mrs. Amos
EARLY YEARS STAFF
Kindergarten Mrs. Farmer, Mrs. Puhach
Grade 1 - Mrs. Hicks
Grade 1/2 - Mrs. Thomson
Grade 2 - Mrs. Falloon
Grade 3 - Mrs. McGregor
Grade 3/4 - Mrs. Kempthorne
Grade 4 - Mr. Quigley
Grade 5 - Ms. O’Brien
Grade 5 - Mr. Wallmann, Mrs. Turner
SPECIAL AREAS
Mrs. Karen Butterfield - Early Years Resource
Ms. Rhonda Dickenson - Coordinator of Special Services and .250 Resource, Souris School
Mrs. Glenda McConnell - Music /Band
Mr. Chris McConnell - Industrial Arts
Mrs. Darlene McLeod - K-12 Guidance
Mrs. Sobry (Penner) - Senior Years Resource
Mrs. Rolfe - .25 Middle Years Resource
Mr. Trever Penner - Physical Education
Mrs. Rhonda Young - Physical Education
Ms.Barb Birch - K-4 Physical Education
Mr. Paul Cwir - Band
Student Council for 2008-2009
President: Chad McKinnon
Vice President: Brynna Walker
Treasurer: Ellen McGregor
Secretary: Rinautta McConnell
Social Convenor: Katlyn Raymer
Sports Convenor: Laura Williams
Room Reps & Grad Convenor will be picked the first week in September
SENIOR YEARS TIME SCHEDULE
9:00 - 10:15 Period 1
10:15 - 11:20 Period 2
11:20 - 11:25 Break
11:25 - 12:30 Period 3
12:30 - 1:10 Lunch
1:10 - 2:10 Period 4
2:10 - 3:15 Period 5
Office Hours: General Office - 8:00 A.M. - 4:30 P.M., Monday -Friday
DISCIPLINE
While the school has been divided into three distinct groups for educational purposes and there in exist differing precise standards for discipline. The following principles guide all three discipline systems which will be implemented equally and fairly.
1. All students are capable of changing inappropriate behaviours.
2. Students must decide to change.
3. Staff must provide feedback to students to let them know which behaviours require attention.
4. Feedback will be given, orally or written (stop card and green slip, office referral) depending on the severity of the behaviour.
5. Behaviour consequences are progressive.
6. Students will be rewarded for appropriate behaviour by comment and classroom privileges.
7. Parents and staff must work together to help all students.
Discipline at all levels involves four degrees of severity.
Step 1: Warning or caution.
Step 2: Parental contact re. behaviour requiring attention.
Step 3: Administrator intervention-suspensions and conferences.
Step 4: Long term suspensions and board referrals.
We invite all parents and staff to work together to stop inappropriate behaviours at Step 1 or Step 2.
DISCIPLINE
Teachers expect all students to conduct themselves in a responsible manner at all times. School staff will place expectations on all students which will lead to a positive working and learning environment for all students. Some of these expectations will include:
A. In the Classroom
1. To be on time for all classes.
2. To bring necessary supplies to all classes.
3. To be "on task" at all times.
4. To be respectful towards (a) staff members (b) fellow students and (c) school property
B In the Hallways
1. To avoid running and roughhousing. (No bullying allowed.)
2. To avoid loitering in hallways during classes.
3. To maintain noise levels acceptable to teachers in adjoining rooms.
4. To avoid the use of food and drinks during classtime.
C In the Gymnasium
1. To refrain from the use of food or drink at all times.
2. To participate in activities only under assigned supervision.
3. To abide by procedures and policies as set out by the P.E. staff regarding use of equipment etc.
D On the Playground
1. To remain in areas designated for each grade level.
2. To ensure a safe physical environment.
E Relations with All School Personnel
1. To demonstrate respect and cooperation for all school staff.
2. To demonstrate respect for fellow students.
1. Tardiness: a 'late' is charged once the classroom door is closed.
a. At 9:00 A.M. students are expected to be in their classroom prior to the commencement of the playing of the National Anthem. There is an 8:55 warning buzzer.
b. 'Breaks' are intended as an opportunity to get books, have a washroom break and do errands. Students are expected to enter the classroom before the end-of-break buzzer.
2. Improper Language
a. In the case of "obscene" writing by a student, a copy of the materials will be sent to parents and marks will be deducted, including a zero in severe cases.
b. Disrespectful verbal comments to or about staff members will result in an automatic referral to a school administrator. Disrespectful comments to or about students will be dealt with by all staff members.
c. Inappropriate body language and gestures will be dealt with as in (b) above.
3. Chronic Offenders
Students who are chronic offenders of breaking school policies will be treated more harshly than one-time offenders.
4. Substitute Teachers
Students who take advantage of substitute teachers ie. inappropriate comments, ignoring classroom policies, etc. are to be referred to the office to see an administrator. Community service, loss of privilege, etc. may result. Substitute teachers are guests to our community and should be treated with respect.
RECORDING OF STUDENT BEHAVIOR
From time to time video recorders or other monitoring devices are used to record student behavior. Sometimes such recording is done to monitor inappropriate behavior. Fox example, many Southwest Horizon school buses now have the ability to record student behavior using a concealed video camera. In other cases, recording of behavior may be for instructional purposes. For example, recording of IITV classes will be routinely done to allow students who have missed classes to view the lesson later. In other cases, video recorders are used during Christmas concerts, etc. These recordings may occur and if such recording occurs, the information may be used in an investigation regarding inappropriate behavior.
CLASS CHANGES
Students are expected to take enough books with them for two periods. Students should go direct from class to class without going to lockers at the end of periods except recess and lunch. An exception is for physical education periods if a change of clothing is required.
CREDIT SYSTEM
The High School program is made up of a series of credits, each of which represents a total of 110-120 hours of classtime. A certain percentage of credits are compulsory and the remaining are optional.
REGISTRATION AND COURSE CHANGES
Students must register for all courses through the student services department prior to attending classes. All registration forms require the signature of a parent or guardian. Students wishing to change courses after the commencement of a course must do so within two weeks of the course start up date. The procedure to be followed is to obtain approval from the student services personnel and have the necessary paper work signed by a parent or guardian and administration.
Students who are new to the school are responsible for course material covered prior to their arrival. Students will be required to take all exams scheduled after they have registered. The previous school's mark will be considered for evaluation purposes. In the case of arrival just prior to mid term or final exams, teachers will use their judgement with respect to the weight and value of such tests.
POLICY FOR COURSE SIGN UP
Though there are no prerequisites listed in the Department of Education guidelines, at Souris School we feel it necessary to provide guidelines in order to help ensure student success. The intent of the following is to encourage success and help avoid unnecessary pitfalls. The senior staff and administration recommend course enrollments in the following order. It is our expectation that students take courses in the year which they are registered. (Grade 9 take only 10F level courses,
Grade 10-20S, Grade 11-30S and Grade 12-40S.)
1.0 Students may enroll in any course where they have taken and successfully completed the course at the level previously offered. ie: pass Grade 9 Math then take Grade 10 Math.
2.0 If space is available students may register in the course in the following order:
2.1 Graduating students may enroll in the next level while at the same time repeating a failed
course. eg. fail LA 30G in grade 11 and take LA 30S and 40S at the same time in their
graduating year. Graduating students who need the credit have first priority in selecting
classes.
2.2 Non-graduating students may enroll in the next level provided they are repeating the failed level. This course of action is not recommended. eg. fail Grade 10 Math, repeat
Grade 10 Math while taking Grade 11 Math .
2.3 Students may enroll in the next level on the advice of the sending and receiving teacher if
the student achieves a core of 85% or higher in the previous year’s work. eg passed
Grade 9 LA with 85%, student may take Grade 10 & 11 LA at the same time on the
consent of the sending and receiving teachers. This is not recommended.
2.4 It is not recommended that students with less than 85% take courses higher than the
next level.
Grade 10 L.A. -less than 85%-may take Grade 10 but not Grade 11
Any student must have parental, teacher and principal’s permission to select courses beyond the regular offering for their grade.
POLICY
Students who are transferring from one course to another, ie. Grade 11 Applied Math to Grade 11 Consumer Math will carry their grade with them. These types of changes must be made no later than three weeks after the beginning of a course. Students are responsible for all work covered prior to the course change.
Students who are having difficulty with a course, but have not changed course levels, may continue the course or drop the credit. Transfers will not be allowed after three weeks.
Students wishing to drop a course must follow the same procedure as used for a course change. If a course is dropped during the first month of the course, the grade will not appear on the student transcript. All other dropped courses will appear on the transcript. It is important for student to decide early in the year.
Students who are removed from a course during the last month of the course
due to the attendance policy will have the grade appear on the student transcript but no credit given.
When students are selecting courses in May, for the following school year, they must choose carefully. Staffing is done at this time and September changes are not always possible due to full classes. Therefore, it is critical to make appropriate choices in May.
Students may not enroll in the next year's course if they fail the current year. Therefore should a student fail a course compulsory for graduation, they will be scheduled for the same course in the following year. If the student chooses correspondence as an option, the next year's course may not be taken until the course is complete. i.e. student fails Grade 10 English, Math, Social etc, he/she may not enroll in Grade 11 English, Math, Social etc. until the Grade 10 course has been completed, but all other courses may be taken at the next level. Correspondence is not an option where the course is offered by a teacher, unless there is a timetable conflict. It is the student’s responsibility to follow this policy.
It is strongly recommended that students achieve a minimum of 60% if they wish to continue in the S level of the course. Students scoring lower than 60% are recommended to G level courses.
ATTENDANCE POLICY
While it is understood that students are expected to attend school all day every day, there are circumstances which cause students to not be able to attend every class. It is also understood that there is a direct correlation between attendance and student performance. 100% attendance helps produce better grades while poor attendance usually results in lower grades.
GENERAL:
Our intent is to encourage students to attend class every day.
1. Students are expected to attend every class.
2. Parents will be notified when an attendance concern arises. Attendance concerns occur when a
student misses 15% of his/her instructional time any course.
Note:
Students who are not scheduled for a class are expected to be at school working on their courses unless specific permission has been granted by the school to leave the school during these periods. When permission is granted, the student must "sign out" and "sign in" at the office. Students are not at liberty to miss the first period in the A.M. if they are not scheduled for a class at that time.
Policy
1. Absences must be followed up with a note or phone call from the parent
or guardian. The onus is on the student to provide notes for absences.
2. Exceptions include serious medical or personal concerns (a doctors certificate will be required for medical. A parent or guardian note for personal.)
3. Parents will be notified after three absences by a phone call from the teacher. Students are expected to keep parents current with respect to all absences. The office will notify parents and request a conference at five absences. There will be a second meeting at eight absences with a possible referral to the Superintendent for possible expulsion from the course.
Students are reminded that the attendance policy applies to all band rehearsals that are scheduled outside of school hours as these rehearsals are included in the instructional time required to gain credit for the band courses. The same procedures must be followed if a student wishes to be excused as during the school day.
TESTS AND ASSIGNMENTS
1. It is the students responsibility to make up missed tests and assignments within two days of
absence.
2. A parent or guardian must notify the school before 10:00 A.M. if a student is going to be absent. Failure to phone could result in a “zero” being recorded on exams, tests, or assignments. (Please follow the absence with a written note.)
LATES
1. Students must be prepared for class and in the classroom on time.
2. Classroom doors will be closed. A reasonable period of time will be allowed for students to get from room to room, then doors will be closed.
3. If the door is closed the late may be recorded as an absence. Students must wait at the door to talk to the teacher and explain the reason for lateness. Students are responsible for missed work during each late. Teacher will notify parents of chronic offenders. (after 3rd late).
EXAMINATIONS
Students who must be absent from a Mid-term or final examination must make prior arrangements with the subject teacher to write the examination or a replacement examination within three days of the scheduled date. The granting of such a privilege is discretionary by the school. Failure to make prior arrangements may result in a zero grade on the examination. If a student has not made prior arrangements for the scheduling of an examination as set forth above, the student must produce a medical certificate to verify the unavoidable absence. In such cases, the student must write the examination or a replacement examination within three days of returning to school. There will be a mid term exam in every subject.
In situations where a student is absent long term for medical reasons, where it is judged impractical for a student to write the mid-term examination the student will be exempted from the mid term examination but will be required to write the final examination where applicable.
A student who absences him/herself from a final examination in June for medical reasons, must submit a medical certificate. Upon receipt of the certificate, the final grade will be calculated using the same mathematical formula as for those who have been granted exemption privileges when time does not permit the writing of the examination.
When a teacher provides for exemption privileges of final examinations, it must be understood that the exemption mark only qualifies the student for consideration of exemption. The final decision on the exemption will include such factors as work habits and patterns, attendance, unfinished assignments etc. Exemptions will be announced at the last regular class in each subject prior to the examination period.
EVALUATION
Teachers will present all students with a course outline at the beginning of each course which will include the mathematical formula to be used to calculate the final grade in that course.
POLICY FOR EXAMS
Preamble - While it is understood that exams are an integral part of education it is the intent of this policy to ensure equal and fair treatment for all students with respect to promotion policies and exams.
Policy: Final exams will be counted with respect to final grade of courses. The percentage of the final grade will be determined by the Department of Education or school policy. In cases of conflict, the department expectation will prevail.
Procedure:
1. The grading of courses will proceed in accordance to the outline as presented by the teacher near the beginning of every course.
2. Percentage grades will be given on a regular basis throughout the year. Individual grades must be appealed to the teacher in writing. This appeal must be filed with the teacher within one
calendar week of receiving the grade.
3. Exam marks may be appealed according to the process outlined above (within one week). All requests must be made to the teacher in writing.
4. Students are responsible for knowing their percentage score whereas teachers are responsible for grading and keeping the marks current.
5. Student marks will be tallied after exams and this mark will stand as the final mark. Students receiving 50% or above will pass the course. Students receiving less than 50% will not receive credit for this course.
6. Final marks less than 50% will not be raised to a pass.
7. Individual schools may establish a minimum standard of achievement for final exams. Students who score 35% or less on an exam at Souris School will automatically fail the course.
Appeals:
1. Exam marks may be appealed according to the process outlined above (within one week). All requests must be made to the teacher in writing.
2. Department exams may be appealed to ensure that there are no errors. This is done by making a written request to the principal.
3. Appeal procedures can have three results: (1) mark remains the same (2) increased grade (3) reduced grade. All three will be considered fairly, without bias.
General Comments
a. For Grade XII students, Manitoba Education requires final examinations in ELA and Math which would count for 30% of the final grade.
b. A minimum mark of 35% on a final exam is required in order to obtain a credit in all
subjects.
c. Grade 12 final examinations will be scheduled such that these students will be finished the school year three days earlier than other Senior High Students.
REPORTING
Formal reporting of student progress will take place at least twice per course; once at the midterm and once at the conclusion of the course. Often additional reports are issued. Teachers will report to parents on individual students whose work and or marks are deteriorating. Graduating students will receive three copies of their official transcript of marks if requested. Reporting for courses taken through the Independent Study program may vary from this procedure. Request for transcripts must be made to the counsellor by the second week in June.
PARENT-TEACHER INTERVIEWS
Parent-Teacher Interviews will be held on Wednesday and Thursday evenings in November scheduled interviews. Parents are encouraged to take these opportunities to discuss student progress and work habits. Interviews should not be limited to formal interview days, however. If at anytime parents would like additional information on student progress, they are encouraged to phone the subject teacher or the principal to make an appointment.
GUIDANCE SERVICES
Souris School has access to many agencies to help our students. Any student who has a personal matter they wish to discuss should come to the office and we can steer them in the right direction..
HOMEWORK
The amount of daily homework that a student should be expected to do each
night will vary with the student's abilities, interests and work habits. However, homework should be a REGULAR activity for all students in high school. Generally speaking, homework should consist of:
1. The working assignment assigned by the teacher during that school day.
2. A review of the work covered during all classes that school day to ensure thorough understanding of the material covered. Material not understood should be brought forward the very next class for further explanation.
3. A periodic review of material covered over a longer time frame to attain an understanding of how a unit of work ties together.
4. Preparation of study notes on the work of that day so that material is prepared in advance for test preparation.
Occasionally students will have all of their assigned work for that day done during the school day, however this is only one part of what should be considered as homework. It is true that some students can get by with doing little or no homework in early grades. However, in so doing, they are forming poor study habits which will come back to haunt them in later years, particularly in post secondary education. In addition, fundamentals will weaken and marks will gradually decline. Each student should get into the habit of sitting down to school work each night for a period of time. This length of time should increase gradually as the student moves through high school. A general guideline for average students might be: K-3 - 15 minutes, Grade 4-5 - 30 minutes, Grades 6-8 - 30 minutes - 1 hour, Grade 9 - 1 hour, Grade 10 - 1 1/2 hours, Grade 11 - 2 hours, Grade 12 - 2 1/2 hours. These time suggestions will vary with the ability of the student and the course load being
attempted. However, all students who wish to be successful in high school and beyond should develop a study program which is regular and progressive. Students wishing assistance in setting up a homework program should consult the guidance counsellor, the resource teacher or a classroom teacher.
VANDALISM AND DAMAGE
Students take pride in their school and assist in keeping the school with an attractive and inviting atmosphere. Accidental damages to school property will normally be billed to the student, whether in whole or in part, depending on the circumstance surrounding this situation. Vandalism will result in total restitution being required and disciplinary action will be taken. In most cases of vandalism, the matter will also be referred to the R.C.M.P.
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE
Students owing the Souhwest Horizon School Division/Souris School/Student Council funds for fees, lost books, damages, etc. will have their charges accumulated into one account payable. Copies of this summary will be sent out periodically throughout the school year.
ACADEMIC USER FEES
The use of computer paper and ink cartridges has tripled during the past few years. This increase is largely due to student use for draft copies accidentally printed and support materials for essays and assignments. The school cannot support these expenses, therefore students are required to offset the costs by contributing a $15.00 per student user fee.
USER FEES
To assist in meeting the costs of such expenses as team uniforms, tournament entry fees, referees and other team expenses, the Student Council will charge a user fee for all participants in designated activities. User fees are due prior to participation unless arrangements for a late fee are arranged with the staff supervisor.
EXTRA CURRICULAR FUNCTIONS
Extra curricular functions are considered an extension of school programming. Thus, all school policies will be in effect. Where community volunteers are used as supervisors, it is expected that they will command the same respect as school staff. Participation in extra curricular activities is conditional on appropriate school conduct by participating students and as such is subject to the approval of staff.
EXTRA CURRICULAR POLICY
Souris School is a school known for both academic and extra curricular excellence. With this in mind the following policy is proposed to ensure that our reputation is guided by our expectations:
1. A participant list will be developed by each coach/leader of every extra curricular activity in the school. This participant list must be supported and approved by the current teaching staff and administrators.
Things to consider for permission are:
a) Academic performance based upon potential not grade. As long as the pupil is putting forth their best effort, they should not be penalized for lack of ability.
b) Classroom Performance
Student must be courteous and cooperative. Support will not be given to students who are absent or late on a frequent basis, disruptive, or not completing assignments. Support will be given to those students working to their potential.
c) General School Behaviour
Support will be given to students who are courteous and considerate in school during non class times. Frequent defiant and disruptive hallway behaviour will not be condoned, thus the
student would not be supported by administration.
d) If a student is absent from school on the day of an event, they will not be allowed to participate
ie. dance, game etc.
This policy is in effect for the duration of the season including any pre season and post season play. Consequences will be immediate regardless of the time of year.
PROCEDURES:
1.0 Coaches will post a list of players on the wall in the designated areas in the Senior High staff room once the team has been selected. Community coaches will give their lists to the staff sponsor. The staff sponsor will post the list.
2.0 Lists will be reviewed weekly.
3.0 Minor concerns will be discussed at the coach and teacher level.
4.0 Serious concerns will be discussed with the player in the office.
1st Offence - Warning
2nd Offence - Same Sport - one week immediate suspension from games
3rd Offence - Staff input required. Will be dependent upon severity of the incident.
PERSONAL INTEGRITY
Students who submit work for credit are expected at all times to submit only their own work. Any student caught cheating, whether it be copying from another student or permitting another student to copy from them will be assigned a zero grade for the work submitted. Repeated offences may result in a student being withdrawn from a course.
Plagiarism is a form of cheating. "Plagiarism is the act of inserting into your paper the ideas, opinions, or words of another and, without assigning proper credit to that individual, attempting to give the impression to the reader that this is your own work". Students who are unclear about the rules of plagiarism should consult with their class teacher prior to doing assignments. Talking to another student during a test is considered cheating.
TRANSPORTATION POLICY
Southwest Horizon School Division policy D.E. on transportation states: All students are expected to travel on school authorized transportation on all field trips and extra curricular trips. Parents who wish to have their child exempt from this policy for special circumstances must request exemption in writing prior to the trip. The request must provide a rationale for the request and include the following statement: "I accept full responsibility for getting my child to and/or from the event." The granting of the request is discretionary by the supervising teacher.
The use of buses for extra-curricular and field trips is a privilege. Any abuse of these privileges may result in the loss of the privilege for the individual, the whole group or the school. As such it is important that some "Bus Ridership" rules be followed. The School Division considers the bus trip to be a "class in transit" and therefore the teacher/chaperone is responsible for the student management and discipline on the school bus. Some of the more important rules which must be followed are:
Drivers must concentrate-do not distract them.
Remain seated at all times-except when loading or unloading.
Imitate good behaviours and ignore distractions.
Voice control-keep yours to a whisper.
Emergency doors and exits are for emergencies only.
Respect other passengers-do not hit or hurt.
Consequence:
Step 1 - Warning or Caution
Step 2 - Parental contact
Step 3 - Administration - will suspend privileges short term
Step 4 - Board-may suspend privileges long term
FIRE SAFETY
In a school that houses 500 students, fire safety is a major concern. Each room should have an evacuation route posted. At the sound of the fire alarm, students are expected to immediately file out in an orderly fashion and to remain outside until the "all clear" buzzer is sounded (2 short blasts) and the class teacher has taken a role call.
Fire safety equipment such as extinguishers, alarms, etc. are not to be tampered with or handled except in the case of a fire.
PRIVATE STORAGE
Students are provided with lockers and teachers with desks for private storage. Students are not at liberty to open another student's locker or a teacher's desk without the expressed consent of that person.
LOCKERS AND LOCKS (6-12)
All students will be assigned a locker, and as the name suggests, are expected to keep it locked at all times. Locking a locker is the only secure method of protecting personal belongings. Locks are provided by the school for a $5.00 deposit. These locks, however are to be used for school lockers only and are not available for non-school purposes. Students may use their own personal lock provided they turn in a copy of the combination or a spare key to the office for emergency purposes. Students are required to use the locker assigned by their home room teacher. Students are expected to keep their lockers tidy and sanitary at all times. Graffiti and pictures inappropriate for a school setting are not permitted in or on lockers. Valuables should not be left in clothes in dressing rooms. They should be locked in lockers.
Students are reminded to not bring money, walkmans, diskmans, toys or any other equipment from home that can be damaged or stolen from school. We will not be responsible for loss or damage.
CELL PHONES
School to home communication may be required occasionally. We have phone lines available for student use for these occasions. The use of cell phones during class time is not permitted.
TEXTBOOKS AND SUPPLIES
Textbooks are supplied by the Southwest Horizon School Division and it is expected that they will be returned at the conclusion of the course with minimal deterioration. Students will be charged for excessive damage to textbooks or for lost textbooks. Warning: Many textbooks cost in excess of $50 per book. Textbooks must be handed in to the subject teacher "in person". Supplies such as workbooks, writing supplies, computer disks etc. are the responsibility of the student. However in some situations, they may be purchased through the school at cost.
USE OF COMPUTER LABS
Computers are expensive, delicate pieces of equipment that must be treated with respect. We want students to have as easy access to the computers as possible. However, due to inappropriate conduct in the past, some limitations have been imposed. These limitations are reviewed from time to time and will be adjusted in accordance with user cooperation. To begin with we ask the following policies be observed:
1. No food or drinks are permitted in the computer room at anytime.
2. No computer games are permitted except during designated games periods.
3. If a disk is jammed, do not force it out or use foreign objects to release the disk. Please put an out-of-order sign with your name on it and a teacher will remove the disk and return it to you.
4. Tampering with programs or network passwords will result in long-term loss of computer
privileges.
5. At noon hours and after school, students must be signed into the computer room by a staff member who is remaining in the school to close up after use. Students wishing to use a computer in the evening for course work must obtain a permission note from the subject teacher and present the note to the custodian for entry. Students will be asked to leave when the custodian leaves the school.
6. Students are expected to leave the room in a tidy manner. All used paper should be picked up.
7. Malfunctioning equipment should have a note posted on it explaining briefly the nature of the problem.
8. The school will supply rolled newsprint only. White bond paper for finished essays must be supplied by the student.
9. Loitering is not permitted in the computer room at anytime.
10. Internet may be accessed only after the parental permission form has been returned.
SCHOOL DRESS
A school dress code is established by the Southwest Horizon School Division Board of Trustees for all schools in the Division. The code is as follows:
The Division expects students to show an acceptable level of respect towards their school as environment is critical to the effective teaching and learning equation. In addition, the community has certain standards of dress which illustrate respect for the institution of the school. Accordingly, the following dress code requirements are expected of students when attending school and/or representing their school and its programming.
A change of clothing is required for all physical education classes. Further details on P.E. clothing expectations will be provided by your Phys. Ed. teacher.
In addition, caps/hats may be worn in the school only on special occasions such as "dress-up" days etc. Headwear is not permitted after hours until after 6:00 p.m. Teachers and administration are requested to apply this policy. Thus, if you are asked to take headwear off, you are expected to do so immediately, without protest. Medical requests must be discussed with administration.
All students are expected to respect the dress code. Some students have worn low cut tops or a shirt with mid riff exposure in the past. These situations create discomfort for staff or other students. This can be avoided by wearing appropriate school clothing.
ALLERGY REMINDER
Please do not bring or send products containing nuts, fish or seafood. We would also appreciate it if you can avoid sending egg products such as egg sandwiches, boiled eggs or meringues.
We ask that students and staff refrain from wearing perfumes, scented body lotions and hair products. Some staff and students are very sensitive to this and can have a serious reaction. Some reactions can even be life threatening.
Thank you in advance for helping us to keep everyone safe and healthy.
HYGIENE REMINDER
Washing of hands and face before coming to school helps stop the spread of germs as well as materials that could cause anaphylaxis (allergic) reactions. Please help to monitor and encourage your child's healthy cleanliness routine.
SMOKING, ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES AND NON-MEDICAL USE OF DRUGS (includes chewing tobacco products)
All schools in the Southwest HorizonSchool Division are smoke-free environments on a 24 hour basis. Also, students may not smoke on school property, on school buses or at school sponsored functions i.e. football game. Students may not smoke on field trips. This same restriction will apply to the use of all tobacco-like products.
The use of alcoholic beverages or non-medical use of drugs is prohibited at any school sponsored function. This policy extends to the use of alcohol or drugs at a time prior to a school event such that there may be a residual effect on the student at a subsequent school activity.
SOURIS SCHOOL STUDENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUG POLICY
Souris School establishes a Student Assistance program to provide education, assistance, and support for students affected by their own or others’ drug and alcohol-related problems along the following guidelines:
1. The possession, use, delivery, transfer, or sale of alcoholic beverages and/or other drugs by students, while in school or at school-sponsored events, is expressly forbidden.
a. FIRST OFFENSE: Parents will be contacted immediately upon reasonable belief of the violation. In addition, law enforcement will be notified and may be involved. The student will be suspended for three (3) days, and will be ineligible for participation in all extracurricular activities for a period of 1 calendar year. The principal may reduce the suspension to one (1) day and loss of extracurricular eligibility to one (1) month if:
(1) The student agrees to see the SAP Coordinator/Counsellor and follows
his/her recommendations satisfactorily; AND
(2) The student and family agree to an alcohol or other drug assessment
provided at an approved alcohol/drug agency in the community and
conducted by a qualified addiction counsellor, and follow his/her
recommendations.
b. SECOND OFFENSE: Parents and law enforcement will be contacted and involved immediately upon reasonable belief of the violation. A recommendation for expulsion will be made to the Superintendent. The principal, superintendent, or Board of Trustees may hold a recommendation for expulsion in abeyance if:
(1) The student agrees to see the SAP Coordinator/Counsellor and follows
his/her recommendations satisfactorily; AND
(2) The student and family agree to an alcohol or other drug assessment
provided at an approved alcohol/drug agency in the community and
conducted by a qualified addiction counsellor, and follow his/her
recommendations.
The student will be suspended for a minimum of five (5) days, will be ineligible
for participation in all extracurricular activities for a period of three (3)
months, and subsequently will be allowed on school grounds only during regular school hours to attend classes.
c. THIRD OFFENSE: Parents and law enforcement will be contacted and involved immediately upon reasonable belief of the violation. A recommendation for expulsion will be made to the Superintendent. There will be no recommendation for re-instatement.
2. Because of the potential dangers to the student presented by his/her acute intoxication with alcohol or other drugs, students exhibiting evidence of acute intoxication, incapacitation, or a drug overdose in school or at school-sponsored events will be transported immediately to the local hospital or facility designated to provide detoxification services, followed by immediate notification of parent and police. Following his/her return to school, section 1 of this policy will be implemented.
3. Reductions in length of suspension or extracurricular ineligibility, or withholding of expulsion may be revoked whenever a student fails to demonstrate compliance with expectations of, or satisfactory progress in, the Student Assistance Program.
4. All school staff members are obligated to refer to the principal or vice-principal who may then refer to the Student Assistance program;
a. any student who they witness in violation of section 1, above;
b. any student exhibiting signs, symptoms, or indications of an alcohol or
drug-related problem;
c. any student whose self-disclosed alcohol/drug-related behaviour places them or other at risk or in
imminent danger.
Referral of a student to the principal or vice-principal by itself does not constitute an allegation that a student has an alcohol/drug-related problem.
5. Students may also be referred to the SAP Coordinator/counsellor through
a) self-referral;
b) parents;
c) peer referral provided the referring student has collaborative intent; or
d) community agencies
6. An essential feature of the program is that students and their family members are encouraged to contact the principal and/or the SAP Coordinator/counsellor for help with alcohol and other drug-related problems, with the assurance that such contacts will be handled sensitively and confidentially.
7. Upon referral to the SAP Coordinator/Counsellor, he/she may consult with the student, parents, and/or staff members in an attempt to assess the nature and scope of the student’s problem. This initial screening will result in one or more of the following recommendations:
a) No apparent personal or performance problem at this time; no further action
is necessary at this time;
b) No apparent alcohol/drug-related at this time; however, referral to other in-
school (e.g., guidance counsellor, divisional clinical services) or community
agency (e.g. mental health, family services, child and family services, or public
health) with follow-up by the Student Assistance Program
Coordinator/Counsellor;
c) Further assessment interviews with the SAP Coordinator/Counsellor are
needed;
d) The student needs to contract for specific behavioral changes in alcohol
or other drug abuse (AODA) related behaviour, monitored through regular
meetings between the student and the SAP Coordinator/Counsellor;
e) The student needs to satisfactorily complete an individually designed
program, after which additional recommendations will be made;
f) The student requires an in-school assessment, involving the student, parents,
and SAP staff, conducted by a qualified AODA counsellor or agency;
g) The student requires referral to a qualified AODA agency for a professional assessment;
h) Assessment information supports the need for chemical dependency treatment
in an inpatient or outpatient program;
i) The student requires involvement in other community services, such as
Alateen, Al-Anon, Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, etc.
8. Except for violations reported under section 1, a student who self-refers to the
Student Assistance Program and who is making satisfactory progress in following his/her recommendations will not be liable to suspension, extracurricular ineligibility, or other disciplinary action for behaviour which occurs prior to self-referral unless:
a) The student discloses conduct already reported under section 1, as a witnessed violation, OR
b) The student fails to follow the SAP coordinator/counsellor’s recommendations or to make
satisfactory progress, in the Student Assistance Program.
9. Evaluations concerning “satisfactory progress in the Student Assistance
Program’ will be made by the SAP Coordinator/Counsellor in consultation with the principal, staff, counsellors, and other members of the team (to be determined at a later date).
10. Participation in the Student Assistant Program is voluntary. At all times it is the prerogative of the of the student and/or parent to accept or reject referral to the SAP Coordinator/Counsellor or to community-based services.
a) Regardless of whether a student accepts or rejects assistance, it remains his/her responsibility to
bring school performance up to acceptable levels or face such corrective or disciplinary actions as
may be warranted.
b) If a student accepts treatment for chemical dependency, that fact will be regarded as it would for
any other illness with respect to the student’s rights, responsibilities, benefits, and privileges.
c) When either the student or parent(s) do not wish to cooperate in making needed assistance
available, the student’s status in school may have to be re-evaluated. [procedure: taking into
account the best interests of the student, the nature of the problem, and the health, safety, welfare,
educational opportunity, and rights of other students and staff.]
d) Any student judged by the principal to present a risk of imminent danger to himself/herself or
others may be removed from the school.
e) Refusal by parents to seek treatment for a chemically dependent child will result in a report to the
superintendent and Child and Family Services.
11. No records of the student’s participation in the Student Assistance Program will become part of the student’s permanent record or cumulative file. Diagnostic labels such as ‘drug abuser’ or ‘chemically dependent’, in addition to pejorative labels, are never to be used in documents referring to a student or in conversation about the student with third parties by any staff member.
12. The use of prescription medications is to be construed as an exception to this policy when used by the individual for whom they are prescribed, when used in the manner and amounts prescribed, and when used in accordance with other school policies governing student medications.
13. Parents of all students participating in the Student Assistance Program will be specifically notified of their child’s involvement.
a) Parents will be informed of their child’s involvement in the Student
Assistance program immediately in cases of violations of they policy.
b) In cases where students participate in the program through self-referral or other avenues (section
4), parents will be notified as soon as possible. The SAP staff will document reasons behind their
decisions to postpone parents notification and involvement.
c) Prior parent notification and consent will be required in all cases before student contact with any
AODA counsellor who is not a school division employee.
14. The School Division’s protection from liability will be extended to all staff to the extent that they act in accordance with policy and observe the procedures consistent with it established within Souris School.
15. The responsibility for operating the Student Assistance Program will be in the hands of the principal, or his/her designee, who will interpret the school’s policy to students, staff, parents and the community.
a) Final decision regarding disciplinary action and the consequences of otherVviolations of this policy
will be made by the principal in consultation with the SAP Coordinator/Counsellor and other
members of the school Core Team.
b) It shall be the responsibility of the principal, or his/her designee, to develop
procedures consistent with this policy and to permit the necessary staff
training and inservice necessary for their implementation.
SCHOOL TELEPHONES
The Student Council phone is available for student use for local calls (Souris and Brandon) only. Calls should be made prior to or following class time unless it is an emergency, at which time permission from the class teacher must be given.
The school secretaries will do their best to try and deliver phone messages to staff and students. Occasionally, unforeseen circumstances arise and it is impossible to do so. Please try to relay messages to your children at home before they leave for school and use the school telephone for 'emergency' messages only.
Students wishing to use the fax machine for personal use MUST use a calling card and must do so under the supervision of a school secretary.
SCHOOL CAFETERIA
All Grade 6 - Grade 12 students who eat lunch at school are expected to eat in the cafeteria. An exception may be made by the supervising teacher of noon hour activities or classes where permission may be granted to each lunch during an activity or class. However, food and drink are not permitted in or around computers at any time.
Students using the cafeteria during lunch hour are expected to demonstrate the maturity of young adults in assisting to create an eating atmosphere acceptable to all users. Failure to do so may result in a suspension or a loss of noon hour eating privileges in the school. If such occurs, the offending student will be required to make alternative eating arrangements outside of the school and leave the school for the lunch break.
USE OF GYMNASIUMS
The use of the school gymnasium and the multi-purpose room is permitted for recreational use only under direct supervision of a teacher, assistant or someone assigned by administration. The supervisor will be responsible for providing the equipment to be used. The use of private equipment is not permitted except where specifically identified - i.e. badminton racquets. Unauthorized private equipment will be confiscated for a period of time. The student will then be asked to take it home.
ANNOUNCEMENTS/NEWSLETTERS
Announcements will be made at 9:00 A.M. daily. Emergency announcements concerning cancellations of events will be made at 3:30 only.
Newsletters are printed every Friday (or Thursday, if no school on Friday). They are sent home with the youngest student in the family from K-5. It is up to M.Y. and S.Y. students to pick them up in the office. They are also available in a few stores uptown.
TRAFFIC SAFETY
Our school has approximately 500 students arriving and leaving at approximately the same time each day. Many of these students are very young and at times inattentive to traffic and some are on bicycles. The traffic situation can be very congested at times, leaving many students at risk. Students are expected to make every effort to create a safe traffic environment around the school at all times. Student pedestrians and cyclists are expected to assist in creating this environment by observing and obeying School Patrols at all times. Pedestrians are expected to walk on walkways, cross only at crosswalks and to assist younger children in observing safety rules. Cyclists are expected to obey traffic rules and to obey School Patrols also. Students who bring bicycles to school do so at their own
risk. It is recommended that students lock bicycles.
Students who drive to school are expected to be alert for youngsters at all times and to drive at a reduced speed in and around the school. Violators will be reported to the RCMP in the interest of the safety of other children.
Students will be expected to park in parking areas assigned to students. This area may vary in location, depending on the number of vehicles requiring parking space but at no time may they infringe on bus loading zones in a manner that interferes with safe loading and unloading of buses.
STUDENT GOVERNMENT
Student Government is regulated by the Souris School Student Council Constitution. This is always available in the school office for anyone to use. The Student Council has a budget for each school year that committees are expected to work within. No expenditures may be made in the name of the Student Council that have not been approved prior to purchase. If the expenditure has been included in the budget, approval must be obtained from the Committee Chairperson. If it is not included in the budget, approval of Council is necessary. All funds must be deposited in the Student Council account and all expenditures must be paid by cheque. Separate accounts for special activities are not permitted.
SCHOOL LOGO
The Administration controls the use of all logos on student articles. As such the purchase of any article using the school name crest or team name requires prior approval. Administration is very concerned that support for school activities depends to a great extent on the local community. Therefore student groups wishing to purchase outside the community should first obtain the approval of administration. The purchase of all school jackets is regulated exclusively by administration.
SCHOOL TRADITIONS
The school has established a number of school traditions which frequently require fundraising or personal payments of funds. Some of these traditions are listed as follows:
1. The Student Council conducts at least two major fund-raising projects annually to finance student activities. All students are expected to participate in these fundraising ventures to ensure funds are available for the variety of school activities sponsored by the various committees of council.
2. A school yearbook is published annually and is made available to all students for a fee (set yearly).
3. The graduating class usually participates in special projects. These projects may include the purchase of wearing apparel, grad rings, grad pictures etc. Some items may be ordered in the spring prior to the graduating year so that costs may be spread out.
4. A number of field trips frequently require funding by students. These may include trips to areas of interest with high curricular relevance like band tours, parliament buildings etc. :
5. Prom for Grade 9 - 12 students only. This event is held outside the school at the community hall with
parent supervisors.
6. Specialized Field Trips which individual students have the opportunity to make applications to. These trips (i.e. U. of W. Enrichment courses) are made available through the Guidance Department and may require students to pay part or all of the costs.
7. Various trips as required K-12.
GRAD NOTICE
Thus, Grads must note that any grad, or other student for that matter, caught in or around Souris School during events related to grad, will not be allowed to ‘cross the stage’ during grad ceremonies. Also, they will not be allowed to participate in the dinner. Should any laws be broken, such as break and enter or vandalism, the matter will be turned over to the RCMP and charges will be layed. All students are asked to pay special notice to this message. We want parents, students and staff to celebrate together without the residual feelings of anger with respect to some thoughtless acts on the part of a few individuals.
CORRESPONDENCE COURSES OR INDEPENDENT STUDY COURSES
Students wishing to enroll in an Independent Study Course should do so through the Guidance Centre. Students choosing to utilize this program will be required to pay course registration fees and any other fees associated with the course. There is a commitment to a work schedule so students should check this out at the Guidance Centre. Anyone enrolled in an Independent Study Course will be scheduled for one class per day in the library to work on the course as there are very strict deadlines which must be met. Independent Study courses include both correspondence and Distance Education courses.
It is expected that all students take a course during regularly scheduled blocks when the course is offered in the school timetable. “Before making application, students must meet with the counsellor and receive approval from school administration and parents prior to registering.”
In order to ensure successful graduation, all correspondence final exams, in the graduating year, must be written and sent by the end of the first week in June.
If a student decides to take a correspondence course, the student must pay for the course. If the course is completed successfully the student may be eligible for reimbursement. The school will not pay for correspondence courses in advance.
HOW TO DEAL WITH A CONCERN
1. Stay calm
2. Use common sense.
3. Phone for an appointment first.
4. Keep your child informed on what you are going to do.
5. Remember to look at both sides of the issue and listen to everyone.
6. Try to put your thoughts and question in writing.
7. Get your facts straight.
8. Do your homework.
9. Be firm, honest and open.
10. Be polite.
11. Be patient; it takes time for the wheels to turn.
12. Try to solve the problem at the level closest to the child.
13. Do not be discouraged.
14. If you are going to take further action inform the teacher or if the teacher
is not available inform the principal.
15. Do not go to a Board Meeting demanding action without following the
initial steps.
16. DO NOT GIVE UP.
LINE OF COMMUNICATION
Go to the right person with your concern or complaint. Talking to the wrong person can often create confusion and/or frustration. Please ignore gossip and exaggerations. Go directly to the source. Most concerns start at the student/teacher level and escalate or end there. If you have a concern with a teacher, please phone or write a short note to the teacher. Often this will help sort things out. If a teacher has a concern they will do the same.
Regardless of the level on the following outline, the communication process remains the same.
a) a person starts at the source,
b) clarifies his/her understanding,
c) discusses the problem with the other person,
d) resolves the problem (review after a set period of time) or agree to
disagree
e) end of situation or appeal the decision to the next level.
Level 1 - Students
Level 2 - Parents-Teachers
Level 3 - Principal, Vice Principals
Level 4 - Trustees/Superintendent/Secretary Treasurer
Level 5 -Provincial Government
Regardless of the concern, remember to keep focused on doing what is considered best for your child. School staff may not always agree with your opinion. They have a responsibility to look after the best interests of all children. Therefore, the needs of many will, in all likelihood, be different than the needs of a particular child. Please keep this in mind. Parents and
teachers are willing to do what is the best for the children. However, sometimes they disagree on which is the "best way". The bottom line is to help parents and teachers work together in the best interest of the student.
HARASSMENT, NOT JUST FUN AND GAMES
This policy is designed to prevent and deal with, student to student, or student to staff, or staff to student harassment in Souris School.
Our Belief
All people are deserving of respect and tolerance.
Harassment: Includes incidents of abusive or unwelcome conduct, comment or behaviour, towards another person or group based on any of the following:
1. ancestry, colour/race
2. religion
3. age
4. gender
5. income level
6. family status/marital status
7. source of income
8. physical/mental disability
9. body type
10. attire
11. interests or opinions
12. social group, lack of social group or friends chosen
13. sexual orientation
14. physical assault such as punching, kicking, slapping, use of weapons
15. verbal abuse such as name calling, insults, jokes and mockery
16. practical jokes that cause awkwardness and embarrassment
17. non verbal expression of anger and resentment
18. vandalism against property
19. intimidation or threats against person or property
20. rumor mongering at the expense of another persons dignity
21. unnecessary, or unwelcome physical contact such as touching,
grabbing, patting, pinching, squeezing, pushing
22. sexual advances or propositions
23. leering, other sexual gestures
24. sexist/racist jokes
25. sexually offensive or obscene material
26. sexual assault
*as is defined under the Manitoba Human Rights Code
Groups
Groups affected by harassment may include any person or persons, male or female, student, staff or volunteer.
Step 1: The victim will tell the person who is harassing them to “stop” and identify the offensive incident. If the behaviour continues, the victim must proceed to step 2.
Step 2: Persons who are victim of harassment should report the incident(s) to someone they trust (i.e., parent, friend, peer support, social workers, counsellor, school psychologist). It is the responsibility of the person being trusted to encourage the victim to report to the appropriate authority as soon as possible. The appropriate authority is defined as the person occupying the next position to the complainant in the Southwest Horizon School staff line.
That line being, the staff at hand, the Vice-Principal, the Principal, the Superintendent of schools, the school board, and finally The Minister of Education.
Step 3: If the reporting party does not feel satisfied with the result of a verbal report to the staff member at hand, then a written report should be given to the next person in the staff line. Parents will be asked to become involved if they aren’t already.
Step 4: If the allegations of Harassment are directed toward a staff
member of the school (ie, a teacher, or other member of staff), then a written report must be made to the next position in the Southwest Horizon School staff line.
Investigation of Harassment
When harassment occurs the consequences of harassment must be accepted by everyone involved.
All written report of harassment must be investigated by the Principal of the school, and consequences must occur.
*All sexual harassment must proceed directly to step 2.
*Sexual abuse is handled by previously established protocol.
BULLYING
Souris School is a safe secure environment for our students. In order to address bullying, we ask all students and parent to review the harassment policy. Often students say they were ‘just kidding’ when caught bothering others. We will be taking allegations of bullying seriously. Students will receive progressive consequences with respect to bullying behaviours. Failure to change aggressive behaviours may result in suspension and referral to the Superintendent.
Victims are required to do two things:
1. Tell the offender to stop the behaviour.
2. Tell an adult immediately. This should be a teacher or other school staff.
We offer this information, as part of a process to address bullying. In addition to this process we have a BUG card system, conflict managers, teacher’s as counsellors, peer support, extra supervision, counselling and a discipline referral system.
We offer this information in order to give all parents advanced notice on our stand with respect to bullying.
SSPAC - Souris School Parent Advisory Council “PAC Facts”
Mission Statement:
A community organization dedicated to the education and well being of children.
- To encourage parents to take part in meaningful activities and decision making regarding their children's education
- To strengthen the role of families in education
- To serve as the forum for the voice of parents/guardians of children attending Souris School
Getting the Work Done:
Executive Committee: President, Vice-President, Past President, Secretary, Treasurer, Room Reps for Early, Middle, and Senior Years, Special Needs, and Allergies in Children Representative.
What is the role of the Room Representative?
Each Classroom from Kindergarten to Senior 4 is to have a Room Rep. Their role may include:
a) attend PAC Meetings
b) be a contact person for parents and teachers
c) be familiar with school policies
d) provide the PAC with feedback on parent concerns, opinions and suggestions
e) seek parents' views on school policies and current issues at the request of the PAC
f) be knowledgeable about school procedures for channeling parent concerns or complaints, and
provide information and support to parents at their request
g) treat parent concerns with confidentiality
Coordinators:
A number of coordinators are appointed for key roles. It is the coordinators'
responsibility to recruit help if needed for specific tasks with the support of the PAC Executive.
Example: Microwave Coordinator, Communications Coordinator
Ad hoc Committees:
Commitment is very specific and of a short duration - Teacher/Staff AppreciationWeek
Ad hoc committees have included:
a) Parent Awareness Communication and Education (PACE) - Revised Student Handbooks,
developed PAC Newsletters, promoted importance of early Kindergarten registration.
Policy - Consulted parents and drafted policies. Re: Dress Code and Nutrition
PAC Meeting Schedule:
The first PAC meeting for the 2008-2009 school year will be held on September 15th (time and room will be put in first newsletter). It will decided at this first meeting which day further monthly meetings will be held. The Annual General Meeting is held once a year and everyone is welcome to attend any regular or Annual General Meeting. Childcare is available at no cost.
PAC Meeting Agreements:
Definition: Agreements are guidelines developed and agreed upon by a group to regulate or monitor itself and ensure that business is conducted within the time frame available and according to the values and objectives of the group within our PAC Constitution.
Examples:
- Requests for agenda items or speakers will be made to the President or Secretary 2 weeks
prior to the PAC Meeting in order to be placed on the agenda.
- Meetings will start and end on time.
- Everyone will have a chance to hear and be heard.
- Statements will be respectful of others.
- If presenting a problem, also suggest a possible solution.
Get Informed/Be Involved Sessions:
Periodically Guest Speakers are invited to present topics of interest.
SSPAC is not a lobby group, nor is it a forum for discussion of individual school personnel, students, parents or community members. It is a forum for the voice of parents. Sharing these thoughts has often assisted in creating better understanding and/or minor changes to create a more positive educational environment.
SSPAC REPRESENTATIVES needed for the 2008-2009 are as follows:
POSTION NAME
K1- Mrs. Puhach
K2- Mrs. Farmer
1- Mrs. Hicks
1/2 - Mrs. Thomson
2 - Mrs. Falloon
3- Mrs. McGregor
3/4 - Miss Hannah
4 - Mr. Quigley
5 - Ms. O’Brien
5- Mrs. Turner/ Mr. Wallmann
6- Mrs. Kreusch
7- Mr. Elder
7- Ms Keyes
8- Mrs. Rolfe
8- Mrs. Amos
Grade 9
Grade 10
Grade 11
Grade 12
SSPAC EXECUTIVE MEMBERS 2008/2009
POSITION NAME
President Jaycee Thexton
Past President Darcie Sabeski
Treasurer Heather Remillard
Secretary Scribe - Belinda West
Typing - Amy Heath
Communications/PR Becky Switzer
Special Needs Rep/ Gill Robertson
Allergy Rep
Before and After School Program
Hours are:
7:00 - 9:00 a.m.
3:30 - 6:00 p.m.
Snack if provided for after school.
In-service Program available on non-school days.
Government Subsidy Available.
1 session $5.85 a.m. or p.m.
2 sessions $8.00 a.m. and p.m.
Inservice Days $18.80 (full day)
For more information call Tara Mills @ The Day Care, Phone 483-0249
HELPFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS
You can reach the following Souris staff by dialing directly:
Bob Young, Principal - 483-6230
Glenn Wallmann, EY Vice Principal - 483-6231
Leanne Rolfe, MY Vice Principal - 483-6233
Computer Technician - 483-6232
Rhonda Dickenson, Special Services - 483-6234
Carol McInnes - Speech/Lang. - 483-6235
AFM - 483-6236
IITV - 483-6237
To reach the school secretaries call 483-2161 and dial 0 immediately.
DIVISION SCHOOLS
Pierson School 483-6292 or 1-866-422-5112
Melita School 483-6293 or 1-866-422-5113
Melita School Board Office 483-6294 or
1-866-422-5114
Hartney School 483-6295 or 1-866-422-5115
Deloraine Collegiate 483-6296 or 1-866-422-5116
Waskada School 483-6297 or 1-866-422-5117
Wawanesa School 483-6298 or1-866-422-5118
Souris School 483-2161
Souris Division Office 483-5533 or 1-866-447-3416
Souris Bus Garage 483-3158
Melita Bus Garage 522-3426
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