JAMES MORDEN PUBLIC SCHOOL

Code of Conduct

The District School Board of Niagara is committed to student success by working
together to inspire and empower all learners to reach their full potential.  James
Morden Public School, in accordance with the Board, believes that a school is a
place that promotes responsibility, respect, tolerance and academic excellence
in a safe learning and teaching environment. Our vision is to have our students
learn the key academic skills presented within social contexts that will allow
them to be productive members of society.

All students, parents, teachers, staff and volunteers have the right to be safe, and to feel
safe, in our school environment.  Every student has the right to an education without disruption
and a corresponding responsibility not to deny this right to any other student.  With this right
also comes the responsibility to be law-abiding citizens and to be accountable for actions that
put at risk the safety of others or oneself.  All members of the school community are to be
treated with respect and are expected to use non-violent means to resolve conflicts.

The School Code of Conduct sets clear standards for behaviour in order to promote a positive
educational atmosphere for all.  To this end, the learning environment must be free from abuse,
bullying, discrimination, intimidation, hateful words and deeds, and physical violence in any form. 
The purpose of this Code of Conduct is to ensure that all students and their parents or caregivers
understand students’ rights and responsibilities as well as the school rules and the consequences
of violating school rules. This Code of Conduct is based on the Education Act, the Provincial Code
of Conduct and the D.S.B.N. Code of Conduct for Elementary Schools. The standards of
behaviour in the Code of Conduct apply not only to students, but also to all individuals involved in
the publicly funded system – parents/guardians, volunteers, teachers and other staff members,
whether they are on school property, on school buses or at school-authorized events or activities.

Rules make it possible for people to live and to work together in a safe, organized and
happy place.

RIGHTS and RESPONSIBILITIES

Like members of any community, students, staff and parents have both rights and responsibilities. 
A right is a privilege to which one is justly entitled.  A responsibility is an obligation one has
because it is expected. Responsibilities are things that one should do, without being told.

Student Rights

We believe that students at James Morden Public School have a right to:

• be respected as an individual.
• have an equal opportunity in education.
• a safe, happy environment at school, free from verbal and physical abuse.
• receive required help in regards to academic, emotional or social assistance.

• have the opportunity to express their concerns to a trusted adult.
  
  Student Responsibilities
  

  We believe that students at James Morden Public School have a responsibility to:

• show respect, honesty and courtesy to all staff, parents, guests, other students and
  their property at school and at all school-related events, both on and off site.
• respect self and others, including respecting differences in people, their ideas and opinions.

• work to the best of their ability in all areas of school life.
• demonstrate self-discipline.
• be diligent and do their best in their studies.
• attend class regularly and punctually, bringing all required materials.
• report incidences of bullying or mistreatment of others.
• take home and/or return school correspondence (newsletters, permission forms, etc.)
• take appropriate measures to help those in need.

RIGHTS and RESPONSIBILITIES continued

• remove hats when entering the building and wear suitable clothing, appropriate to an
  elementary school setting.

• use appropriate language when on school property and at school events.

• know and follow the rules of our school, conveying their Mighty Mustang pride!
  
  Staff Rights
  

We believe that staff members of James Morden Public School have a right to:

• receive the support, respect and co-operation of the school community.
• to work in an environment free from violence, harassment and discrimination in accordance
  with the Board’s Respectful Workplace Policy;
• expect reasonable behaviour in the classroom, throughout the school, and in all other
  educational settings from both students and parents (e.g., on the bus, trips, etc.) to
  ensure student safety.
• expect students to complete assignments to the best of their ability.

• exercise sufficient flexibility to deal with the needs and interests of students, parents and
  fellow staff as individuals.
  
  Staff Responsibilities
  

We believe that staff members of James Morden Public School have a responsibility to:

• help students work to their full potential and develop their self-worth, based on individual
  differences.
• provide a co-operative, supportive and caring learning environment.
• inform students of and maintain consistent standards of behaviour for all students by being
  fair, firm and friendly.
• plan and conduct an effective program based on the Ontario Curriculum.
• evaluate students and report student progress.
• promote communication between parents and teachers.
• ensure that measures of prevention, including progressive discipline practices, or early
  intervention are undertaken to assist all pupils to achieve their full potential and to maintain
  a positive school environment.
  
  Parent/Guardian Rights
  

We believe that parents/guardians of students at James Morden Public School have a right to:

• be welcomed at the school and be encouraged to openly discuss the policy and
  procedures of our school.

• be welcomed and encouraged to become involved in the wide variety of our school
  activities including: volunteering, fund-raising, and by participating in school events, parent
  workshops and the School Council.

• know that students are provided with a meaningful educational program that follows the
  Ontario curriculum guidelines.

• receive regular communications (newsletters, notes in agendas, phone calls, etc.) from
  the school.

• confer with the school regarding any concerns for their child.
  
  Parent/Guardian Responsibilities

We believe that parents/guardians of students at James Morden Public School have
a responsibility to:

• show an active interest in their child’s school work and progress, ensuring that work is
  completed on time.

• ensure their children attend school regularly and are punctual, as well as notify the school of
  any absences/reasons for lateness (in advance when possible).

• encourage and assist their child to follow school rules and to meet expectations in the
  Code of Conduct.

• communicate regularly with the school regarding their child’s progress (i.e. student
  organizers)

• help their child to be appropriately dressed and prepared for school.

STANDARDS of BEHAVIOUR

“A school is a place that promotes responsibility, respect, civility and academic excellence in a safe
learning and teaching environment.” Ministry of Education for the Province of Ontario

Respect, Civility and Responsible Citizenship

All school members must:

• show respect for themselves, for others and for those  in authority;

• address people in a respectful, polite and courteous manner;
• show respect for themselves and others by avoiding inappropriate public displays of affection;
• show respect for themselves and others by using acceptable language, avoiding racist,
  profane or offensive comments;
• show respect for the property of others and of the school, including the local environment;
• refrain from bringing anything to school that may compromise the safety of others;
• follow the established rules and take responsibility for their own actions.

School Preparedness

All students are expected to:

• come to school prepared, having all the necessary supplies as well as all
  homework and assignments completed;
• come to school on time, being accountable for work or assignments missed due
  to absences or lateness;
• come to school ready to learn with a positive attitude, participate in activities,
  complete all assignments and strive for excellence.
  
  

Playground Rules

All students are expected to follow these rules in order to make the playground a safe, organized
and happy place.

• refrain from eating or drinking outside.
• no hanging upside down on the equipment.
• sitting/walking along the top of the climbers is not permitted.
• always slide feet first and in a seated position.
• no tag or tag like games on or around the climber.

Physical Aggression

All students must:

• not inflict or encourage others to inflict bodily harm to another person;
• not engage in rough play, bullying, fighting, physically and verbally abusive behaviour.
  

Weapons

All students must:

• not be in possession of any weapon;
• not use any object to threaten or intimidate another person.

Alcohol, Cigarettes and Drugs

All students must:

• not be in possession of, or under the influence of, or provide others with, alcohol,
  cigarettes or illegal drugs (mandatory suspension);
• not be in possession of matches or lighters.

Snow / Ice

All students must:

• refrain from throwing/kicking snow/ice on or in the proximity of the school
  grounds.

Care of School Property

All students must:

• take care of things that belong to the school (i.e. textbooks, library books etc.);
• keep desks, lockers free of litter;
• share the responsibility for keeping the school and school grounds clean;
• report any damage to school property to the office immediately.

Vandalism / Theft

All students must:

• NOT intentionally damage school property or property of any others in
  any way
• NOT go through any other person’s desk, locker, backpack, belongings,
  etc. for ANY reason.  Theft is a violation of the law and will not be tolerated.

Spitting / Eating on school property

For health and safety reasons, all students must:

• not spit in the school or on school grounds.
• not eat or drink in the hallways or bring food onto the school yard.
  

BULLYING

Anti-Bullying Statement

It is the goal of James Morden School to strive to create a safe, caring and supportive school
environment, free from any type of bullying, for all members of our community.

Definition of Bullying

Bullying behaviour is defined as any repeated verbal, physical or psychological action or implied
action intended to cause harm, fear or distress to another person.  A victim of bullying has a
difficult time defending him or herself.  Bullying may be carried out directly through physical or
verbal means, or directly through relational bullying.

All forms of bullying are unacceptable behaviours.

Responsibilities of Students, Staff, and Parents

• Ensure the school environment is one of respect, dignity, and trust
• Show care and concern for others
• Refuse to bully others
• Show responsibility by immediately reporting acts of bullying
  
  Caring bystanders are the key to stopping bullying!

Effects of Bullying

Children may develop long term, serious problems as a result of bullying or victimization. 
It is critical that appropriate support and intervention strategies be provided to help bullies, and
all students build positive relationships with their peers.

Consequences

Every school must have procedures in place for investigating bullying issues.  Consequences will
range from apologies to serious sanctions involving parental involvement – depending on the
frequency, intensity and severity of each situation.

Forms of Bullying

ADDITIONAL BEHAVIOURAL EXPECTATIONS

It is impossible to write a complete list of all behavioural expectations.  However, the list below
details a number of the most common expectations

Attendance and Punctuality

The Education Act/Ontario Regulation states “A pupil shall attend classes
punctually and regularly.”  This includes moving from class to class.

• If a child is to be absent (or late), it is essential that the parent call the school
  before the day begins (905-358-5011).  This enables us to ensure your child’s
  safety.  If no contact is made, the school will call parents of absent children.
• Habitual absences will be followed up with a letter from the school and/or a visit from Board
  personnel.
• Late students must obtain a Late Slip from office staff before entering class.

Arrival & Departure

All students must:

• walk bicycles to and from the street when arriving on or leaving school property;
• upon arrival, go directly to the assigned area, while waiting for the bell to ring;
• use the entrance designated for their classroom at all times;
• move quickly and quietly to all classes in the time allotted;
• leave the building promptly at 2nd Nutrition Break and after school by the designated
  entrance or report promptly to the activity permitted by the co-instructional program;
• upon departure, go directly home (or follow other arrangements) unless involved in an
  after-school program.

Appropriate Dress

Hats or head-coverings are NOT to be worn indoors (head-coverings worn for
religious or medical purposes are exempt).

• It is expected that clothing covers the student’s front and back, and have appropriate
  covering over the shoulders, midriff, chest and legs. Cut-offs, halter tops, tube tops,
  spaghetti strap tops, bare backs or midriffs are not to be worn at school.
• Clothing which advertises or promotes alcohol, drugs, violence or racism or that displays
  obscene, distasteful or hurtful messages/images are not to be worn in school or in any of its
  activities or field trips.
• Appropriate gym clothing and running shoes are expected for physical education and sports
  activities.
• Students are expected to be dressed appropriately for the weather to go outside.

• Metal spike studded collars, wrist bands, pocket chains etc. are not to be present in
  the school.

Parking Lot

The parking lot is out-of-bounds to students unless accompanied by an adult. 
Please make arrangements with your children regarding dismissal ahead of
time.  When driving, BE AWARE OF THE CHILDREN while using proper
entrances/exits and avoid blocking the flow of traffic.

Bicycles, Skateboards, Roller Blades , Scooters & Heelies

For safety reasons, bicycles, skateboards,roller blades, scooters and heelies are not
permitted to be used on school property. Thus, students are discouraged from
bringing them to school.

Students must:

• Walk their vehicles on and off school property.
• Stay away from the bicycle racks during the day.
• Ensure the safety of their bicycle, once it is parked in the rack by using a lock.
• Students may NOT bring their bicycles inside.
• If students bring skateboards, roller blades or scooters to school, they are responsible for
  their secure storage in a locked locker.
• If students violate these expectations, they will not be permitted to bring these items to
  school at all.

MP3 Players, Cell Phones, Etc.

Students are not permitted to use or wear personal MP3 players or other personal
electronic devices in the school building.  Cell phones must be turned off and out of
sight while on school property. Students are responsible for their own items that
they bring to school.

 Breakfast Club

Students who are using the ‘Breakfast Club’ must:

• Enter and exit the school using the appropriate doors.
• Follow all guidelines in the breakfast room.
• Refrain from going to any other part of the school unless permission has been given.

Bus Procedures

Students are expected to follow the instructions of the bus driver and teacher.

Some of these include:

• Be at your stop on time;
• Wait for bus to stop before getting on or getting off the bus;
• Ensure nothing is put outside of the windows
• Use an appropriate voice level when riding

If student conduct on the bus or waiting for the bus is such that there is
concern for the safety on the bus (disobedience, defiance), the student will not
be permitted to ride the bus. (It may be for that single ride or for a longer
duration, depending on individual circumstances.)  Parents will be notified and
will be responsible for finding alternate transportation arrangements.

Some Playground Guidelines

a) Students are not to play in front of the school building.

b) Playground equipment is out-of-bounds until a teacher is present to supervise.

c) Students should play activities which are not rough (use common sense)
and abide by the
“Hands Off” approach.

d) Ball and other games are NOT be played near entrances and windows.

e) Students should consider others nearby when playing to avoid injuries.

f) Students should use all equipment safely and properly.

g) Students should adhere to the playground schedule.

Nutrition Break Procedures

• Students are not permitted to leave school property during the 1st Nutrition Break.
• During Nutrition Breaks students MUST follow lunchroom guidelines, exercise good
  manners and share responsibility in keeping the room clean.
• Students eating lunch at school are expected to remain seated in their rooms
  until dismissed.
• Students who leave school property for the 2nd Nutrition Break are NOT permitted to bring
  food back into the school or onto school property.
• Students MUST have written or verbal permission to leave school property at 2nd
  Nutrition Break. 
• During Nutritional Breaks, students are expected to remain outside and may NOT be inside
  the building unless they have teacher/supervisor permission.

Participation in Class/School Trips

Only those students who consistently adhere to the Code of Conduct will be permitted to
participate in class and/or school trips outside of the school grounds.

Use of School Telephone

Students are expected to make arrangements prior to school regarding club meetings,
practices, etc.  Use of the school telephone is for emergency purposes only as determined by
the staff.  Students must obtain a phone pass from a teacher prior to using a school phone.

Prescriptive & Non-prescriptive Drugs

Students are NOT to have any prescriptive or non-prescriptive drugs in their possession
for any reason.

If students require any medication, please make arrangements at the office.
Authorization forms must be completed.

Only medication that is prescribed under written directions will be given at school. 
Prescriptive medication must be prescribed by a medical doctor. 
All medication to be administered at the school must be kept in its original container. 

Fire Drills – Be Ready

When the fire alarm is activated, students are expected to stand immediately and
exit the area/room.  They must exit quietly in a single line and follow the
instructions on the yellow exit cards posted in each area/room. 
When students are assembled outside, attendance will be taken.

Students should have proper footwear at all times in case of an alarm.
During the winter, students should have ‘indoor shoes’ kept at school.

Visitors and Parents Picking Up Students

We welcome visitors to James Morden, but for the protection of all students, visitors are
expected to make their presence known at the office.  This includes those parents entering to
pick up their children at the end of the day. Parents picking up and children would assist us by
waiting  for them at their regular exit door. If at any time, visitors are remaining at school, please
sign in at the office and pick up a volunteer or visitors badge.  Following this check-in and badge
procedure is essential for the safety of your children.

Should you wish to see a teacher, please come to the office through the front doors or phone
the school, and we will make arrangements. Similarly, if you must see your child at other times of
the day, for security reasons, the Board policy is that you must report to the office where your
concern will be dealt with.

RESPONSES to BEHAVIOUR

“The District School Board of Niagara believes that the primary aim of discipline is for all students
to acquire positive skills and attitudes associated with responsible conduct.”

District School Board of Niagara

      Administrative Procedure AP3-11

Responses to inappropriate behaviour will be determined by the nature and frequency of the
behaviour.  Responses may take two forms:

Positive practices that reinforce appropriate behaviours.
Corrective practices that may require intervention.

Communication between home and school will facilitate this process.

Positive Practices include:

•       program modification / accommodation
•       positive feedback for desired behaviours
•       interview between teacher and student
•       involvement of resource personnel
  (ie.youth counsellor, resource teacher in-school team, Board/community agencies)
•     formal interview between student, teacher, principal, vice principal
•       parent/guardian contact or interview

Corrective Practices include:

•       warnings
•       conflict mediation
•       withdrawal of privileges
•       time out
•       think sheets
•       apology
•       classroom detention
•       review of expectations in the Code of Conduct
•       community service
•       contract
•       controlled timetable
•       supervised study
•       exclusion from optional activities
•       restitution of damages
•       in-school detention
•       suspension from school for major or repeated offences ranging from 1-20 days
•       expulsion for extremely serious offences (under Board authority)

Corrective practices will not be imposed in sequential order but will depend greatly on the
severity of the behaviour.  It is important to note that parent consultation will take place
whenever the misbehaviour is of a serious nature.