General AmherstHigh School

2020 - 2021STUDENT HANDBOOK

General Amherst High School130 Sandwich Street South

Amherstburg, ON, N9V 1Z8

Phone: 519-736-2149Fax: 519-736-1473

Attendance Hotline: 519-736-2149 – Press 1 for the Attendance Line - 24 hour availability

DAILY SCHEDULE OF CLASSES

Daily Schedule

Warning Bell...............................8:20

Period 1 8:25 – 12:10 (at school) and 1:10 – 2:25 (at home)

Release time will be staggered for social distancing

General Amherst High SchoolStudent Council 2020-2021

Prime Minister TBDDeputy Prime Minister TBDJunior Prime Minister TBDStaff Advisors: Mrs. J. Balogh and Mr. J. McLean

IMPORTANT DATES

Professional Activity Day................................September 1, 2 and 3Labour Day....................................................................September 7First Day of School (Quadmester 1) .............................September 8Thanksgiving....................................................................October 12Quadmester 1 Exams .......................................November 10 and 11Remembrance Day.......................................................November 11Start of Quadmester 2..................................................November 12Winter Break............................................December 21 to January 3Gr. 9 EQAO Math Assessment.............................Mid-Late January Quadmester 2 Exams.........................January 28, 29 and February 1Professional Activity Day.................................................February 2Start of Quadmester 3.......................................................February 3Professional Activity Day...............................................February 12Family Day Holiday.......................................................February 15March Break...................................................March 15 to March 19Good Friday............................................................................April 2Easter Monday........................................................................April 5Quadmester 3 Exams ...............................................April 19 and 20Start of Quadmester 4...........................................................April 20Professional Activity Day .................................................. April 23Victoria Day..........................................................................May 24Gr. 9 EQAO Math Assessment..................................Mid-Late JuneQuadmester 4 Exams...........................................June 24, 25 and 28Professional Activity Day......................................................June 29

SCHOOL OBJECTIVES

In addition to strong academic skills in all subject areas, the staff at General Amherst High School is committed that all students, upon leaving school, will have developed:

a feeling of self-worth that will help them to understand their place in the family and in society;

those skills that will be of lifelong use in becoming an individual who is capable of dealing with the practical problems of life;

the attitudes and skills that will prepare students for a satisfactory life post-secondary; the characteristics of good citizenship including a respect for authority, good behaviour,

self-discipline and an ability to get along with others; a respect for the customs and cultures of others; good study and work habits; a sense of responsibility to deal with all levels of life in our world;

a strong feeling of self-respect and respect for the life, well-being, and property of others; an understanding of the dangers of substance abuse, including drugs and alcohol; and a set of values that will fit into all aspects of society.

CODE OF CONDUCT

General Amherst High School adopts as its Code of Conduct, the Code of Conduct for the Greater Essex County District School Board. All participants involved in the Greater Essex County District School Board - students, parents or guardians, volunteers, visitors, teachers, and other staff members - are included in this Code of Conduct whether they are on school property, on school buses, at bus transfer points, at school-authorized events or activities, or in other circumstances where engaging in the activity will have an impact on the school climate. All persons are responsible to the school principal or his/her designate, with regard to conduct, on or off school property, which has a harmful effect on the school, its participants or on the school climate.

Purposes of the Code1. To ensure that all members of the school community, especially people in positions of

authority, are treated with respect and dignity. 2. To promote responsible citizenship by encouraging appropriate participation in the civic

life of the school community. 3. To maintain an environment where conflict and difference can be addressed in a manner

characterized by respect and civility. 4. To encourage the use of non-violent means to resolve conflict. 5. To promote the safety of people in the schools. 6. To discourage the use of alcohol and illegal drugs.

Standards of Behaviour - Respect, Civility, and Responsible Citizenship All members of the school community must:

respect and comply with all applicable federal, provincial, and municipal laws; demonstrate honesty and integrity; respect differences in people, their ideas, and their opinions; treat one another with dignity and respect at all times, and especially when there is

disagreement; respect and treat others fairly, regardless of, for example, race, ancestry, place of origin,

colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, or disability; respect the rights of others; show proper care and regard for school property and the property of others; take appropriate measures to help those in need; seek assistance from a member of the school staff, if necessary, to resolve conflict

peacefully; respect all members of the school community, especially persons in positions of authority; respect the need of others to work in an environment that is conducive to learning and

teaching; not swear at a teacher or at another person in a position of authority.

SafetyAll members of the school community must not:

engage in bullying behaviours; commit sexual assault; traffic weapons or illegal drugs; give alcohol to a minor; commit robbery; be in possession of any weapon, including firearms; use any object to threaten or intimidate another person;

cause injury to any person with an object; be in possession of, or be under the influence of, or provide others with alcohol or illegal

drugs; inflict or encourage others to inflict bodily harm on another person; engage in hate propaganda and other forms of behaviour motivated by hate or bias; commit an act of vandalism that causes extensive damage to school property or to property

located on the premises of the school.

Roles and Responsibilities School Boards School boards provide direction to their schools to ensure opportunity, academic excellence, and accountability in the education system. It is the responsibility of school boards to:

develop policies that set out how their schools will implement and enforce the provincial Code of Conduct and all other rules that they develop that are related to the provincial standards that promote and support respect, civility, responsible citizenship, and safety;

review these policies regularly with students, staff, parents, volunteers, and the community; seek input from school councils, their Parent Involvement Committee, their Special

Education Advisory Committee, parents, students, staff members, and the school community;

establish a process that clearly communicates the provincial Code of Conduct and school board codes of conduct to all parents, students, staff members, and members of the school community in order to obtain their commitment and support;

develop effective intervention strategies and respond to all infractions related to the standards for respect, civility, responsible citizenship, and safety;

provide opportunities for all of the staff to acquire the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to develop and maintain academic excellence in a safe learning and teaching environment

Principals Under the direction of their school boards, principals take a leadership role in the daily operation of a school. They provide this leadership by:

demonstrating care for the school community and a commitment to academic excellence in a safe teaching and learning environment;

holding everyone under their authority accountable for his or her behaviour and actions; empowering students to be positive leaders in their school and community; communicating regularly and meaningfully with all members of their school community.

Teachers and Other School Staff Members Under the leadership of their principals, teachers and other school staff members maintain order in the school and are expected to hold everyone to the highest standard of respectful and responsible behaviour. As role models, teachers and school staff uphold these high standards when they:

help students work to their full potential and develop their sense of self-worth; empower students to be positive leaders in their classroom, school, & community; communicate regularly and meaningfully with parents; maintain consistent standards of behaviour for all students; demonstrate respect for all students, staff, parents, volunteers, & members of the

community; prepare students for the full responsibilities of citizenship.

Students

Students are to be treated with respect and dignity. In return, they must demonstrate respect for themselves, for others, and for the responsibilities of citizenship through acceptable behaviour. Respect and responsibility are demonstrated when a student:

comes to school prepared, on time, and ready to learn; shows respect for himself or herself, for others, and for those in authority; refrains from bringing anything to school that may compromise the safety of others; follows the established rules and takes responsibility for his or her actions.

Parents Parents play an important role in the education of their children and can support the efforts of school staff in maintaining a safe and respectful learning environment for all students. Parents fulfill their role when they:

show an active interest in their child’s school work and progress; communicate regularly with the school; help their child be neat, appropriately dressed, and prepared for school; ensure that their child attends school regularly and on time; promptly report to the school their child’s absence or late arrival; show that they are familiar with the provincial Code of Conduct, the board’s code of

conduct, and school rules; encourage and assist their child in following the rules of behaviour; assist school staff in dealing with disciplinary issues involving their child.

PROGRESSIVE DISCIPLINE POLICY

The teacher, in collaboration with administration, as appropriate, may utilize early and/or ongoing intervention strategies to address unsafe or inappropriate behaviours. These may include:

Review of expectations; Phone or mail contact with student’s parent(s)/guardian(s); Verbal reminders or written reminders to student; Written work assignments, that have a learning component, addressing the behaviour; Assigning the student to volunteer services in the school community; Conflict mediation and/or conflict resolution; Peer mentoring and/or peer mediation; Referral to behavioural support programs; Reward incentive system; Tracking and/or monitoring programs; Time Outs; Counselling by Vice-Principal and/or Child and Youth Care Worker; Referral to Student Success teacher and/or Learning Support teacher; Referral to counseling, as applicable – guidance, social work, psychology; Referral to community agencies; Positive Behaviour Management Plans; and/or Consultation.

Addressing Inappropriate BehaviourIf a student has displayed inappropriate behaviour, the principal or designate may utilize a range of interventions, supports, and consequences that are (1) developmentally appropriate, and (2) include opportunities for students to focus on improving their behaviour.

Inappropriate behaviour includes any behaviour that disrupts the positive school climate and/or has a negative impact on the school community. Inappropriate behaviour may also include, but is not limited to, one of the following infractions for which a suspension may be imposed:

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

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

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

If a student has engaged in inappropriate behaviour, the principal or designate may choose to use a progressive discipline strategy to address the infraction.

Interventions may include, but are not limited to: Contact with the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s) and/or teacher; Meeting with the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s), student, and principal; Referral to school or Board counseling services; Referral to a community agency; Detentions; Time Outs; Logical consequences; Written or Verbal Apologies; Behaviour Plans and/or Contracts; Tracking and/or monitoring program Withdrawal of privileges; Supervised withdrawal from class; Re-integration program; Restitution for damages; Consultation; Suspension (subject to mitigating circumstances); or recommend expulsion

Detentions:Detentions are the most common form of consequence administered by teachers and school administration.

Detentions can be assigned for any violation of the Code of Conduct and Rules. Detentions assigned by the Main Office are served from 2:20-3:00 in Room 118 Extra-curricular activities do not constitute a reason for missing an assigned detention.

Escalated consequences will be issued for missed detentions. Repeated examples of missed detentions will result in suspension from school for

progressively longer periods of time. Detentions may be served with teachers during the designated time for students who are

seeking extra help and support.

In School Supervised Withdrawals:These are the second most common form of consequence and are used instead of suspension whenever possible. Students are sent to room 118 and are supervised by the CYW. There, the students may be required to complete a behaviour and improvement plan. The remainder of the time will be spent working on their regular class work. Once all work is completed they must read. Students must behave and follow direction in this room or they will lose this opportunity to avoid suspension.

Suspension:

A principal shall consider whether to suspend a student if he/she believes that the student has engaged in any of the following activities while at school, at a school-related activity, or in any other circumstances where engaging in the activity will have an impact on school climate:

1. Uttering a threat to inflict serious bodily harm on another person.2. Possessing alcohol or illegal drugs.3. Being under the influence of alcohol.4. Swearing at a teacher or at another person in a position of authority.5. Committing an act of vandalism that causes extensive damage to school property at the

student’s school or to property located on the premises of the student’s school.6. Bullying. 7. Any another activity that is an activity for which a principal may suspend a student under a

policy of the board. 8. Any act considered by the principal to be injurious to the moral tone of the school; 9. Any act considered by the principal to be injurious to the physical or mental well-being of

any member of the school community including Bullying and Cyberbullying (Bullying is typically a form of repeated, persistent and aggressive behaviour directed at an individual or individuals that is intended to cause (or should be know to cause) fear and distress and/or harm to another person's body, feelings, self-esteem, or reputation. Bullying occurs in a context where there is a real or perceived power imbalance.

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

During a suspension, students are not permitted to enter the school building or come onto the school property for any reason for the duration of the suspension. In addition, the student may not attend any school-related activities, functions or events even if he/she was expected to participate in these activities. Violation of this policy may result in further consequences.

Suspension Pending Expulsion

The principal shall suspend and may consider recommending to the Board that a student be expelled if he/she believes that the student has engaged in activities while at school, at a school-related activity, or in any other circumstances where the activity has a negative impact on the school climate. The enumerated activities are:

1. Possession a weapon, including possessing a firearm,2. Using a weapon to cause or to threaten bodily harm to another person;3. Committing physical assault on another person that causes bodily harm requiring treatment

by a medical practitioner;4. Committing sexual assault5. Trafficking in weapons, illegal and/or restricted drugs6. Committing robbery;7. Giving alcohol to a minor;8. An act considered by the principal to be significantly injurious to the moral tone of the

school and/or the physical or mental well-being of others9. A pattern of behaviour that is so inappropriate that the student’s continued presence is

injurious to the effective learning and/or working environment of others;10. Activities engaged in by the student on or off school property that cause the student’s

continuing presence in the school to create an unacceptable risk to the physical or mental well being of other person(s) in the school or Board;

11. Activities engaged in by the student on or off school property that have caused extensive damage to the property of the Board or to goods that are/were on Board property;

12. The student has demonstrated through a pattern of behaviour that he/she has not prospered by the instruction available to him or her and that he/she is persistently resistant to making changes in behaviour which would enable him or her to prosper; or

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

The principal will also contact the police consistent with the Police-School Board Protocol if the infraction the student is suspected of committing requires such contact.

CREATING PATHWAYS FOR SUCCESS

The Ministry of Education has recently released the new policy document and associated information regarding the Education and Career/Life Planning Program entitled, ‘Creating Pathways for Success’. Beginning in the 2013-14 school year, the introduction of the Individual Pathways Plan (IPP) will be used to support a student's journey from grade 7 to their post-secondary destination. Students will receive support from their teachers, guidance counsellors, school administrators and student success teachers in the development of their IPP. Multiple opportunities will be provided to support students in their education and career/life path through active planning that continues with: course selection, curriculum connections and experiential learning within our communities.

The development of the new Education and Career/Life Planning Program was designed to enable secondary school students to complete their studies in four years and make a successful transition to their initial post-secondary destination. To this end, the Ministry of Education continues to support student success with a greater focus on having students graduating from secondary school in four years.

As part of this Ministry directive, boards of education will receive reduced funding for students in courses that could earn them more than 34 credits. Exemptions to this policy include:

Students with an Individual Education Plan (IEP); Credits achieved in English-as-a-Second Language; and Students enrolled in their first four years who earn more than 34 credits.

Given this direction, The Greater Essex Count District School Board recognizes that some students for variety of reasons may return for additional credits above and beyond those required for the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). Should students plan to return to school beyond the thirty (30) credits required for graduation and exceed the 34-credit threshold, their program of study may not be in a regular day school program. Students exceeding the 34-credit threshold will be afforded opportunities to achieve credits through:

Night school; Summer school; Part Time Studies; E-Learning (on line) Courses; Blended Model Courses (combination of on line and face to face courses); and Independent Study.

Students in consultation with their families are strongly encouraged to actively plan their respective high school course selection and initial post-secondary destination with the help of their school guidance counsellor and student success team members. Each year of secondary school brings new opportunities, programs and pathways to support a student’s journey from grade 7 to their post-secondary destination. The transition to a post-secondary destination is best navigated with the support from our guidance department and their collective expertise during this important time in the lives of our students. Should you have questions please contact your school guidance department to assist in the planning process.

General Information Regulations and Procedures

ABSENCES FROM CLASS

1. If a student is absent from school, a parent/legal guardian must contact the school that day or send a note explaining the reason for their son/daughter’s absence the following day.

2. If a phone call is made, the parent/legal guardian can call the school (736-2149 Press 1) and leave a message regarding the absence. Please be sure to spell the first and last name of your son/daughter and indicate the reason for their absence. In addition, please leave a phone number where we can contact you.

3. If a note is submitted, please indicate your son/daughter’s first and last name and the reason for their absence. Please date the note and indicate the date of the absence(s). The student must report to the Attendance Office with the note. An admit slip will be issued to the student and will be used to gain admission to classes for the remainder of that day. If the student does not have a note, she/he will be marked truant and assigned detention(s).

4. Forged documents and/or parent/guardian impersonations via phone contact are a serious violation of trust and will result in disciplinary action.

5. It is the responsibility of a truant student to meet with the teacher to make up any missed class assignments, homework, notes, tests.

6. Once a pattern of truancy is established, parents will be notified to help resolve the problem. Should the pattern continue beyond this point the student may be suspended. Should the pattern persist, the student may be invited to seek out an alternate school setting or educational environment.

7. If the student must leave the school early or for part of the day, parents must send a note excusing the student from classes. Students must get an excusal slip before 8:20 a.m. and present this to the teacher before leaving the building. If a student leaves the building without permission from the attendance office, the student will be considered truant.

8. If a student should become ill, she/he must report to the Attendance Office. The parent, guardian or emergency contact will be notified, and arrangements will be made for his/her release from school. Any student leaving school for the day must report to the attendance office to Sign Out.

9. Students who reach the age 18 will be held accountable for their attendance and academic progress.

10. Explained absences due to field trips, hospitalization, illness or school activities are recorded as explained absences. 

11. School Sanctioned Event - A student must be at school for the entire day in order to participate in a school sanctioned event after school unless the Vice-Principal or Principal has approved the absence. 

AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES: Attendance in school is mandatory in order to participate in any after school activity (i.e. sports team, clubs etc.). Students cannot participate in these activities without teacher supervision.   

ASSESSMENT & EVALUATION: Refer to the school website for a complete review of the school’s Assessment & Evaluation Policy. Go to: www.publicboard.ca Proceed to Tab named <School>. Click on <School List - Websites>. Scroll down to <General Amherst High School>.

Click on sidebar tab <School Planner>. Click on <Assessment & Evaluation Policy>.

AUTOMOBILES AND PARKING: Parking is provided across Sandwich Street as a convenience and all drivers must proceed slowly and cautiously. The school parking lot is not a social area for students.  Students are not to loiter in the parking lot nor in their cars during the school day, including lunch.  The school assumes no responsibility for damage or loss to vehicles or their contents.  Any violation of these rules, or any rules of good driving, can result in immediate and permanent suspension of the privilege to park on school property. 

BUS TRANSPORTATION: Riding a school bus is a privilege and not a right. Bus routes are set to service all students as safely and efficiently as possible. Bus stops are located in accordance with Board and Ministry guidelines.  Alternate drop-off points are not available. Students are to be picked up at one designated stop and dropped off at one designated stop during the year. Other students and “friends” are not allowed on the bus. When inclement weather occurs and schools are to be closed or transportation routes delayed or canceled, an announcement will be made on local radio and TV stations. Students are expected to display respect, responsibility and citizenship while on any school bus. Smoking, eating or drinking while on the bus is strictly prohibited. Students will be held liable for any damages to seats and/or equipment. Any behavioural infractions will be reported to school administration by the bus driver. Students can lose the privilege of riding the bus. Please visit buskids.ca for further information pertaining to COVID-19 procedures.

CAFETERIA, FOOD & DRINK: The cafeteria and cafeteria services are closed until further notice. Students will not have a scheduled lunch break in their timetable. In order to reduce the number of direct student contacts there will be nutritional breaks threaded into the morning and afternoon. Students are encouraged to bring their bag lunch, snacks and re-fillable water bottle to class. Student must eat their lunch or snack at their assigned desk. After eating, students are expected to clean up and dispose of their garbage in a responsible manner and sanitize their hands and desk.

CELLULAR PHONES, PERSONAL COMPUTING DEVICES:

Computing devices such as cellular phones, Smart Phones, laptops, Netbooks or other electronic communication and computing devices have value and can be used effectively to support learning. However, within the confines of the school environment, their use has the potential to be disruptive when it undermines the integrity of an individual’s right to privacy; adversely affects the quality of teaching or learning; and/or interferes with the safe and efficient operation of the school.

1) Use of personal communication and/or computing devices is only permitted during instructional time when permitted and supervised by a staff member for educational purposes.

2) Students who choose to bring personal communication and/or computing devices to school do so with the understanding that:

i) Personal communication and computing devices that are brought to school are the responsibility of the owner. The GECDSB and/or the school are not liable for damage, loss or theft of the device or data that is stored on the device.

ii) Personal communication and computing devices that are brought to school, are to be off during instructional time unless use is approved by a staff member;

iii) Personal communication and computing devices may not be used at any time where individual

privacy must be protected such as washrooms, locker or change rooms.

iv) Unless expressly permitted by a staff member, personal communication and computing devices are not to be used during a curriculum assessment or evaluation (test or examination).

3) Students will be subject to progressive discipline including confiscation of the device, suspension, expulsion and/or police involvement, as per the school and board policy, for the inappropriate use of personal communication and computing devices including the sharing of inappropriate sexual material.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS, TELEPHONE NUMBER or EMERGENCY CONTACT: Any student who has a change of address, telephone number or emergency contact must report this information to the Main Office. 

CLASSROOMS: Classrooms have been re-organized to encourage physical distancing. There are 15 desks/chairs in each classroom. Students must sit in their assigned desk at all time. Classroom desks/chairs must be sanitized by the student at the start and end of each day, and after nutrition breaks.

CLASSROOM MATERIALS: The sharing of any learning materials and/or equipment is not permitted. Students are responsible to sanitize any classroom materials and/or equipment they use. The sharing of any shop coat, bibs, culinary aprons, towels etc. is not permitted. Textbooks, classroom library books and any paper must only be used by a single student.

COMPUTER USE:   Every student who uses a computer of the GECDSB, is consenting to proper use and conduct while using such devices. Students who use computers/Edsby in an unacceptable manner (i.e. chat rooms, computer games, inappropriate websites, cyber bullying, posting of irrelevant information, etc.) may be disciplined or lose the privilege of using a computer/Edsby for a period of time. Students are not to use staff member’s names or photos in any form of social media unless explicit permission has been granted.

COURSE CHANGES: There will be no course changes at this time unless for academic reasons.

DAILY SELF ASSESSMENT: Students, staff or workers must conduct a daily self-assessment prior to entering the school/workplace. If you experience symptoms of COVID-19, you must stay home, seek medical attention/testing and self-isolate until the results are communicated to you. School work will be provided during a students’ absence/recovery. Medical documentation from the primary care provider, or from the test assessment center will be expected for the student, staff member or worker to return to school.

DETENTIONS: A detention may be assigned by the Main Office or by school administration.  Students will be given one day’s notice in order to arrange alternate transportation on the day of the detention.  School detentions are to be served on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday from 1:25 – 2:00pm in Room 118. Any detention not reconciled during the week it is issued will result in an in-school withdrawal and may lead to further disciplinary actions. Students are to sit and complete their homework quietly. 

DRESS CODE POLICY:

Students are expected to take pride in their appearance by dressing cleanly, neatly and appropriately.  In general, all clothing worn to school must be conducive to an academic environment. Clothing or accessories containing inappropriate or objectionable pictures and/or

words such as references to alcohol, drugs, profanity, obscene language, statements promoting violence, racism or illegal behaviour, sex (including words or phrases with double meaning), or gender-offensive language are not acceptable.

Specific dress requirements for technical classes, physical education classes and co-operative education will be outlined by your teacher.  For health and safety reasons, shoes must be worn at all times. Sandals are not permitted in the technical shops and technical classrooms.   

This dress code policy must be adhered to at all times including during exams, field trips, sporting events and excursions to other school events.  In all cases, any dispute regarding what is or is not appropriate, will be decided by school administration. Students may be required to change any improper clothing at school, or if necessary, be sent home to change.

EXAMS AND FSEs (Final Summative Evaluations):

i. Missed due to an Anticipated Surgery / Medical Procedures

Where possible, surgeries / medical procedures should not be scheduled during exam or FSE periods. If this is not possible, contact the school as soon as the procedure is scheduled to make alternative arrangements for exams and /or FSEs to be completed at another time.

ii. Missed due to illness day of exam or FSE

If you are ill and miss an exam or any component of an FSE, you must notify the school on the day of absence. As well, you will need to provide the school with a note issued by a doctor indicating the date or dates you were unfit to attend school and meet with administration to reschedule the missed evaluation. Failure to provide a medical note will result in a mark of zero being assigned for the exam or component of the FSE missed.

iii. Missed for Other Reasons

If you miss an exam or FSE for any other reason (e.g. slept in, forgot the date, left for holidays etc.) you will be assigned a mark of zero for the exam or any component of the FSE missed. In certain cases, (e.g death in the family consideration will be given at the sole discretion of the principal.

EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITY POLICY:

Activities provided by our schools are meant to complement and enhance the academic program so that all students have an opportunity to enjoy a well-rounded educational experience.   Extra-curricular programs are a privilege for students to enrich their school lives.

Students who wish to participate in extra-curricular activities are subject to the expectations and standards outlined in the new Greater Essex County District School Board policy and that of any policies, expectations and standards found within the governing sport bodies: WOAA, WECSSAA, SWOSSAA and OFSAA.  The criteria for eligibility in extra-curricular activities include the following three areas:

Academics:  Although there is not a set average to determine eligibility, it is expected that all student participants strive towards academic success.  School administration will review the eligibility of any student failing one or more courses.  IPRC and SECC students may be exempted by the Principal.  Reviews will be held prior to major sports season and will be based on the last full report.  Interim progress reports may also be used to determine eligibility.  For all fall activities, the previous year’s results will be used.  In the event that a student was successful at

summer school in a course failed during the previous academic year, that course will no longer be considered a failed course.   Elementary marks will not determine a student’s first eligibility in high school.

Citizenship:  Student participants must be in good standing (ie. behaviour and deportment etc.) at the school as outlined in the pages of the school’s current student handbook.

Attendance:  Student participants are required to attend all classes and arrive to class on time.   Unacceptable attendance patterns and lack of punctuality may cause a student to be deemed ineligible.  Excessive absences and/or unexcused absences will not be tolerated.  Student participants must attend school for the full day on game days in order to play. 

Based on the criteria outlined above, school administration will declare a student eligible or ineligible.

a) Eligible – The student has met all three criteria and is therefore eligible to participate in all organized extra-curricular activities or events.  If the student fails to maintain any one of the three eligibility criteria during the term, the student will be immediately declared ineligible.

b) Ineligible – The student has not met one or more of the criteria and is unable to participate in any extra-curricular activities during the present term.  Should the student improve and meet all three criteria, the student may be declared eligible pending a written appeal to the Principal.

Appeal Process:  Students who have been declared ineligible due to extenuating circumstances may appeal their eligibility in writing to the Principal.  Once the appeal is received it will be reviewed by school administration and a final decision will be made.  Students may be deemed to remain ineligible or eligible for participation in the extra-curricular activity.

EXHIBITING SYMPTOMS AT SCHOOL: If a student, staff member or any other person in the school/workplace exhibit the symptoms of COVID-19 while at school/workplace, they must immediately report to the Main Office. Assistance will be provided by school administration. Parents/Guardians will be notified to pick up their son/daughter and seek medical attention/testing. The student, staff member or worker must self-isolate until the results are communicated to them. School work will be provided during a students’ absence/recovery. Medical documentation from the primary care provider or from the test assessment center will be expected for the student, staff member or worker to return to school.

FUNDRAISING EVENTS:  Any fundraising events such as a bake sale, pizza sale or ticket sale must be approved by the Principal.  Requests to hold a fundraising event must be submitted in writing to the Principal at least one week prior to the event. 

GYM USE:  Students cannot access the gymnasium/weight room and/or classrooms without direct teacher supervision. 

HALLWAYS: Students are expected to show courtesy while walking quickly and quietly to class. To encourage physical distancing, hallways are divided directionally with arrows to show the flow of traffic. Students are encouraged to stay to the right and maintain 2m (6ft) distance between students.

HAND SANITIZATION: All students, staff and visitors must sanitize their hands when entering and exiting the building. Alcohol based hand sanitizers are located at school entry points, in classrooms and at various locations throughout the school. Students are encouraged to sanitize (or

wash) their hands after a classroom activity, nutrition break and throughout the day. Students should avoid touching their face with unwashed hands. HAND WASHING: Classrooms with sinks will be outfitted with soap dispensers and paper towels. Students are expected to wash their hands using soap and water after a classroom activity or nutrition break. Students must always wash their hands after using the washroom. It is essential that students scrub their hands with soap and water for a minimum of 20 seconds and turn off the manual tap with a paper towel. Students should avoid touching their face with unwashed hands.

HORSEPLAY, PLAY FIGHTING, PUSHING, SHOVING, etc.:  All students have the right to be treated with courtesy and respect in a safe, enjoyable learning environment.  All instances of horseplay, play fighting, pushing, shoving, bullying etc. must be reported immediately to the nearest teacher or the Main Office.  Students involved in such behaviours may be subject to disciplinary action. 

LATE: Being late for reasons like: “I slept in”, “I missed the bus” even with parental/guardian consent, is not acceptable. Students who are late to class will be counseled by their classroom teacher on their first 4 lates. On the 5 th late, the student will be sent to the Attendance Office to be counseled by a School Administrator. An electronic “Late Slip” will be issued to the teacher through Edsby. Parents will be notified to help resolve the problem. Progressive Discipline will be assigned to remedy the situation.

LIBRARY LEARNING COMMONS: The Learning Commons is an essential resource for learning in our schools. We offer a wide variety of best-selling paperbacks, hardcover fiction, non-fiction as well as reference books. Virtual resources are available as well. A protocol has been devised to allow the use of books (without sharing) to safely manage the use of print materials. Students cannot share books. Once completed with the book, the book will be placed in a bin and will be collected by the Teacher Librarian (once a week). Books cannot be touched for a minimum of 48 hours before being shelved again. They can then safely be re-assigned to a new classroom or group of students. Students are to return all borrowed books or materials on or before the assigned due date. Students will be held responsible for lost and/or damaged books or materials.

LOCKERS: In an effort to promote physical distancing and to avoid congregation in the hallways, lockers will not be issued to students. Students may bring their coat, books, lunch/snacks and backpack to class. Students are encouraged to keep all money and valuable items at home. The school does not assume responsibility for personal property that is lost or stolen. School administration reserves the right to examine a student’s backpack at any time when deemed necessary.

LOST AND FOUND:  Articles which have been found are to be taken to the Resource Centre/Library where they can be claimed by the owner.  The school assumes no responsibility for lost or stolen items.  Students are encouraged to keep all valuable items at home.   

MASKING: All staff members will be provided with the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to safely interact with students and each other. PPE provided to staff may include medical masks, face shields, gloves and gowns, based on their job responsibilities. All students are required to wear a non-medical or cloth mask/face covering when attending in-person instruction at school. The mask must be worn correctly throughout the day. It should cover your nose and mouth and extend below your chin. It is the parent/guardian responsibility to provide masks for their son/daughter. For those students who chose to wear a cloth mask, parents/guardians will be responsible to ensure that it is properly cleaned. If you lose, damage or require a mask, please visit the Main Office and one will be provided.

OVERRDUE (LATE) SUBMISSION: It is the responsibility of the student to submit work in a

timely manner. If work is not submitted in a reasonable time frame, the teacher has the option of refusing to grade the work. For example, once the assignment has been evaluated and returned to the rest of the class, the teacher is no longer required to grade the late assignment. Teachers will accept the late assignment in order to provide feedback. Student who habitually submit late work are demonstrating poor Learning Skills.

PAGED TO THE OFFICE:  Students who are paged to the Main Office must report as directed.  Failure to report is a serious offence and may result in disciplinary action.   

PERSONAL ENTERTAINMENT DEVICES: Use of Ipads, cell phones is restricted in school.  Students may use these devices before school, during lunch time and after school.  These items are to be stored in student lockers or backpacks during class time.  For safety purposes, earphones or ear buds are not to be worn in the hallways. 

PHYSICAL DISTANCING: Students are not to congregate in groups at any time during the school day. Physical distancing must be maintained whenever possible in the classroom, in the hallway, in gym class etc. It is recommended than 2m (6ft) distance be maintained between students at all time.

PHOTOGRAPHIC AND AUDIO/VIDEO RECORDING DEVICES:  The use of any photographic or video recording devices shall be strictly prohibited except for instructional purposes as outlined in the Ontario curriculum. Students DO NOT have permission to take any photos and/or audio/video recordings of other students and/or staff. Violation of this school code of conduct will result in progressive discipline. RESPIRATORY ETIQUETTE (coughing/sneezing): Students that feel the need to cough or sneeze should cough/sneeze into their elbow or into a tissue. Students must immediately dispose of their tissue and wash/sanitize their hands. If you do not, droplets will remain on the skin which have the potential to be spread to other people or to other surfaces.

SENT OUT OF CLASS:  Students are to proceed to the Attendance Office and complete a Class Dismissal Form.  Once completed, students are to submit their Class Dismissal Form to the Attendance Secretary.  They will then wait quietly in the office until the Vice Principal reviews the reason(s) for the dismissal from class.  Depending on the nature of the incident/infraction, the student will receive instruction from the Principal or Vice Principal on what to do for the remainder of the day.  Failure to report to the Main Office is a serious offence and will result in disciplinary action. 

SKATEBOARDS, ROLLER BLADES, HEELIES AND TRICK BIKES: Skateboards, roller blades, wheelies and trick bicycles are not to be used on school property at any time. All property is the responsibility of the owner.  Neither the Greater Essex County District School Board, the School or its employees are liable for the safe keeping of these items. 

SMOKING:  According to Board Policy and the Smoke Free Ontario Act, smoking including any type of e-cigarette/vape is not permitted on designated school board property or property adjacent to the school including the sidewalk at the front of the school, the bus or at school sponsored events and activities.  Students will be suspended from school and/ or fined for smoking. Under the Act, individuals who are not students can also be fined for smoking on school property or property adjacent to the school.

SNOW & SNOWBALLS: Serious injuries can happen when students throw snowballs or loose snow.  Students who throw snowballs or loose snow may be suspended from school. 

STAFF INQUIRIES: Students are not to access the staff mailboxes, work areas or lunch areas at any time throughout the day.  Students who wish to contact a teacher should seek assistance from the Main Office.

STAIRWELLS: Stairwells have been directionally changed to promote social distancing. Please follow the directional arrows when using the stairwells. Students are encouraged to stay three steps behind someone when going up or down stairwells.

STUDENT FEES: All students are required to pay a student fee.  Student fees are collected with option sheets. The fee is used to supplement the costs of a yearbook, student card, and student activities such as: clubs, dances, graduation, assemblies, athletic teams and student council.  If there is more than one son/daughter/ward per family registered as a student at GAHS please contact the office for family rates.   

STUDENT WALKERS: Students who walk to and from school are expected to displaying courtesy to our neighbours by respecting their privacy and property.  Please do not litter, loiter and or take shortcuts through their yards.  For safety reasons, students are not allowed to congregate on the adjacent properties around the school, including across Sandwich Street. 

STUDY PERIODS:  Grade 12 students with 23 credits may be assigned a study period on their timetable.  Students with study periods are to spend this time on schoolwork in the Learning Commons, the Cafeteria or outside.  Students must not wander the halls or interrupt classes. 

TEAM UNIFORMS: Team uniforms are issued to students on a loan basis. Team uniforms remain the property of the school and must be returned at the end of the scheduled season. Students will be required to pay for any lost or damaged uniforms.  Report cards, transcripts, diplomas or textbooks will be withheld until all outstanding items have been accounted for. 

TEXTBOOKS:  Textbooks are on loan to students. A replacement cost will be applied to lost or defaced books and to books that are returned in such poor condition that they are no longer useful. Report cards, transcripts, diplomas or textbooks will be withheld until all outstanding items have been accounted for. 

VANDALISM: Any property damage will result in discipline up to and including criminal charges.

VISITORS and TRESPASSING: Due to COVID-19 restrictions, visitations will be kept at a minimum. Visitors must contact the school and make an appointment with school administration. Visitors must conduct a daily self-assessment, sign a logbook, wear a mask, sanitize hands before entering/leaving the building and practice physical distancing at all time. Only 1 (one) visitor is allowed in any office area. Individuals entering the school without permission will be asked to leave the building. Failure to comply may lead to trespass charges. Parents/Guardians are encouraged to contact school administrators and staff by phone, or electronically through Edsby for any information regarding their son/daughter.

WASHROOMS: School washrooms will be assigned for each class. Students are expected to use their assigned washroom, and not another washroom. When finished, students are expected to wash their hands with soap and water for 20 seconds and turn off the manual tap with a paper towel.

WEIGHT ROOM or WEIGHT EQUIPMENT: To reduce contact and possible contamination of resources, students and staff are not allowed to access the weight room or weight equipment at

any time.

STUDENT SERVICES / GUIDANCE

Guidance Department Head: Ms. Tulett (M-Z) Guidance Counsellor: Mrs. Coulson (A-K)

The Guidance Counsellors are available to all students and provide the following services: Individual counselling about courses, careers, personal matters; Interest and Aptitude tests to learn more about yourself; Information about jobs and careers; Printed information about jobs, colleges, universities, and other opportunities; Records of courses taken and total credits towards graduation; Scholarship and Financial Aid information for post secondary study; Group sessions on job search techniques, post secondary planning, home study and on-line

learning; Tutoring provided by professionals and/or students on either a volunteer or paid basis; Assistance with registration for the next school year at General Amherst, college or university.

Interviews may be requested by filling in a request form in the Guidance Office. Do not go to Guidance during class time unless it is an emergency. All students will be seen by a Counsellor at least once during the school year to discuss selection of courses and possible career directions. A referral to a Psychologist, a Social Worker, a Youth Worker, or Learning Support Teacher is also available through the Guidance Office.

Learning Support Teacher: Mrs. Soucie – Room 119 Prepares Individual Education Plans for students and teachers Provides assistance and help with academic work in room 119 Prepares and implements accommodations for academic work.

Student Success Teacher: Library Pathways to Success and the world of work liaison Extra support and homework program Peer Mentoring program

Child and Youth Worker: Room 118 Counselling, mediation, conflict resolution

Social Worker/Attendance Counselling: Ms. Badaoui - Guidance emotional, individual and family counselling Make appointment request in Guidance

COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMUNITY AGENCIES AVAILABLE TO SUPPORT STUDENTS

There are a number of professional agencies and organizations in Windsor and Essex County that students can access to help a family member, or friend in need.

PLEASE REFER TO THE FOLLOWING SITE: matrix.accesscounty.ca

40 hours Community Involvement sheet