St Peter’s Junior High

STUDENT HANDBOOK

Ms. Cecilia Kennedy Ms. Niki O’Brien Mac DonaldPrincipal Assistant Principal

100 Munden DriveMount Pearl, Newfoundland

A2G 5T6

Telephone: (709) 368-0189Fax: (709) 368-4806

Website: www. spjh.k12.nf.caFollow us on Twitter @SPJH2013

OUR MISSION STATEMENT St. Peter's Junior High strives to empower our community through fostering a safe, respectful, student-centered learning environment.

We shall work together to promote life-long learning, where students are actively committed to academic achievement, critical thinking and social responsibility.

DAILY SCHEDULE

7:55 Doors Open 8:12 Warning Bell 8:15 – 8:25 Homeroom Period

8:25 – 9:13 Period 1 9:13 – 10:00 Period 2

10:00 –10:10 Nutrition Break*

10:10 –10:58 Period 310:58 –11:45 Period 4

11:45 - 12:35 Lunch

12:35 – 1:23 Period 51:23 – 2:10 Period 6

2:10 – 2:15 Homeroom Period 2:15 Dismissal

NOTE: Students must stay inside the building during Nutrition Break.

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2014-2015 SCHOOL CALENDAR

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER

M T W T F M T W T F M T W T F 2 31 42 53 17 21 32 31 42 53 64 75

84 95 106 117 121 63 74 85 96 107

10 11 126 137 141

152

163 174 185 196 13 141 152 163 174

172 183 194 205 216

227

231 242 253 264 205 216 227 231 242

247 251 262 273 284

295

306 273

284 295 306 317

DECEMBER JANUARY FEBRUARY

M T W T F M T W T F M T W T F

15 26 37 41 52 1 2 25 36 47 51 62

83 9 4 105 116 127 56 67 71 82 93 93 104 115 126 137

151

162 173 184 195 124 135 146 157 161

16 171 182 193 204

22 23 24 25 26 192 203 214 225 236

235 246 257 261 272

29 30 31 267 271 282

293 304

MARCH APRIL MAYM T W T F M T W T F M T W T F

23 3 4 45 56 67 13 24 3 1 5

91 102 113 124 135 6 7 8 9 10 46 57 61 72 83

16 176 187 191 202 135 146 157 161 172

114 125 136 147 151

233

244 255 266 277 203 214 225 236 247

18 192 203 214 225

301

312 271 282 293 304

256 267 271

282 293

JUNE M T W T F Notes:

190 Teaching Days (White)2 Administrative Days (Yellow)Statutary Holidays (Red)

TERM ONE September 3, 2014 – November 21, 2014 (55 Teaching Days)

14 25 36 47 51

82 93 104 11 5

126

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157 161 172 183 194 TERM TWO November 21, 2014 - March 6, 2015(64 Teaching Days)

TERM THREE March 6, 2015 - June 25, 2015(71 Teaching Days)

225 236 247 251 26

DATES TO REMEMBER

September 3 – School Reopens for Students

September 4 – First Day of Regular Classes

September 18 – Curriculum Night

September 29 – PD Day for Teachers

October 13 – Thanksgiving Day

October 23 – PD Day for Teachers

November 10 – November Break

November 11 – Remembrance Day

November 24 - Reports Released

November 27 - Parent Teacher Conferences

November 28 – PD Day for Teachers (tentative)

December 19 – Last Day Prior to Christmas Break

January 5 – School Reopens

February 16 – February Break

March 9 – Reports Released

March 11 – Parent Teacher Conferences

March 12 – PD Day for Teachers (tentative)

March 16 – St. Patrick’s Day

April 2 – Last Day Prior to Easter Break

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April 13 – School Reopens

May 18 – Victoria Day

June 15 – 19 – June Exams

June 25 – Last Day for Students

FACULTY 2014-2015

AdministrationCecilia Kennedy- Principal Niki O’Brien MacDonald – Assistant Principal

TeachersGrade 7 HomeroomSherry Pearce 7-1 (328) Lisa Taylor 7-2 (329)Kim O’Keefe-Swain 7-3 (214)Gerard Walsh 7-4 (102)Jesenta Lilly 7-5 (213)Steve Moody 7-6 (322) (LFI)Stephanie Derible 7-7 (215) (LFI)

Grade 8 HomeroomAmy Sceviour 8-1 (211) Art & TechnologyMaria Young 8-2 (217)Greg Williams 8-3 (111)Patricia Clancy 8-4 (209)Mary Beth Ezekiel 8-5 (325)Jodi Gladney 8-6 (101) (LFI)Ashleigh Colbourne 8-7 (210) (LFI)Christine Blundon 8-8 (323) (LFI)

Grade 9 HomeroomShawn Foss 9-1 (216)David Thistle 9-2 (324)Erin Walsh 9-3 (326) English Department HeadKeith Molloy 9-4 (100) Social Studies Department HeadDarlene Torraville 9-5 (321)Lori Janes 9-6 (208)Nancy Mandeville 9-7 (212) Math Department HeadDean Tilley 9-8 (327) (LFI)Beth Hubley 9-9 (317) (LFI) French Department Head)

.Specialists Teaching AssignmentAdam Staple Music & Special ServicesAngie Houlihan Special Services & TechnologyCathy Hodder Special Services Dawn O’Rourke Special Services Dustin Rideout Special ServicesHeather Seaward Home Economics & Special ServicesIsabell Caines Special Services Jessica Waterman Physical EducationLisa Budgell Learning Resources

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Lori Phillips Special ServicesLuke Neville Physical Education & TechnologyMelissa Barbeau Music Nicole Jones Special ServicesTrent Langdon GuidanceVincent Walsh Special Services

Support StaffBev Bailey Student AssistantCarl Whiteway Maintenance CustodianCharmaine Carew CustodianCharmaine Halleran Student AssistantFrances Galgay SecretaryKim Oakley Student AssistantLorraine Murphy CustodianRenee Jackson Student AssistantViola Slade Student AssistantVirginia Parrell Student Assistant

Please Note: Students will be assigned to a specific homeroom. Homeroom configurations are arrived at through teacher consultations with the intent to provide for diversity of backgrounds as well as equitable deployment of resources. Only under exceptional circumstances will a student’s homeroom assignment be changed. Such decisions will be made on a case-by-case basis.

SAFE AND CARING SCHOOLS

At St. Peter’s Junior High we are committed to ensuring that the learning environment is safe, caring and provides our students with every opportunity to grow to their full potential – physically, socially, emotionally, and intellectually. Building on our student Code of Conduct, St. Peter’s Junior High School actively seeks to provide an environment that is safe from all forms of harassment and intimidation. We feel that any form of bullying is unacceptable. Our Bully Prevention Program aims to ensure every person in the school feels safe and is treated with respect. Difference and diversity is part of life and is valued within this school. We aim to create a climate of respect in school where anti social and bullying behaviors are not accepted or tolerated.

Towards achieving the goals of our Safe and Caring Schools, we expect students to:

Participate in the school-wide bullying intervention program. Learn to distinguish between tattling and reporting bullying behavior. Learn and apply conflict resolution skills to resolve disputes. Take their role as a responsible by-stander seriously when they witness bullying. Report incidents of bullying to the school’s guidance counsellors/administration.

CODE OF CONDUCT

Because I am proud of myself, I will endeavour: To be clean and tidy about my appearance To refrain from using, distributing or selling tobacco, alcohol or other drug related substances To attend school regularly and punctually To complete assigned work in class and at home and to be prepared to submit materials at

designated times To be prepared for learning by bringing materials and supplies to class To keep my language and gestures respectful and free of profanity or obscenities To refrain from engaging in bullying, harassing, or intimidating behaviours To report harassment (relating to gender identity, gender expression, religion, race, etc.) as soon

as I become aware of it To play fair, keep the rules of the game, and be a good winner and loser in sports and other group

activities

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Because I am proud of my school, I will endeavour: To respect all school property by refraining from vandalising and littering desks, lockers, classrooms,

corridors, washrooms, and school grounds To conduct myself in a respectful manner while in school, on school property, on the school bus, and

at all school-sponsored activities To give my support and best effort in all school-sponsored activities To keep personal belongings in my desk and locked locker, clean and tidy and ensure that any

posters displayed are in good taste To keep my cafeteria clean by returning food trays to the counter and throwing garbage in the

proper containers To participate in student groups which promote school spirit and encourage recognition of students'

accomplishments

Because I am proud of my teachers, administration, secretarial and cleaning staff, I will endeavour: To look to them for guidance and support to improve my academic, social, and mental well-being To support them in their effort to maintain a safe, orderly, clean school environment To accept their right to require respectable behaviour in the classroom, in the gym, at assemblies,

on the bus, and at school-sponsored activities To respect them and expect to be respected To be good listener, and respond to directions when first given

I acknowledge that at St. Peter’s Junior High all rules and procedures promote an effective learning environment and ensure the wellbeing and safety of all.

I will accept the responsibility and the appropriate consequences for my actions,

Because I am a responsible person.

SCHOOL WIDE BEHAVIOR PLAN

ST. PETER’S JUNIOR HIGH - EXPECTATIONSRespect for Self Respect for

OthersRespect for Environment

Respect for Learning

Bus - Sit safely- Load & unload properly- Be on time- Use appropriate language

- Follow drivers instructions- Keep hands and feet to self

- Clean up garbage- Report vandalism- Be scent free- Take care of property

- Follow safety rules- Listen to adult in charge

Outdoors - Use equipment- Respect rules

- Respect smoke free policy- Play fair and safe

- Respect smoke free policy

Classroom & Teaching Areas

- Listen attentively- Follow classroom rules- Pass work in on time- Actively participate- Be prepared for class- Do your best

- Respect “no scent” allergypolicy- Respect personal space- Report bullying- Respect individual differences

- Recycle- Clean up your garbage- Respect school equipment and materials

- Maintain a good work ethic- Have a positive attitude- Follow class expectations- Complete assignments on time

Cafeteria - Select healthy choices- Use proper hygiene and manners

- Use manners- Line up properly and take your turn- Use your own money - Respect food allergy policy- Report bullying

- Clean up your eating area- Recycle- Eat in designated areas

- Make healthy food choices- Follow nutrition policy

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Hallways and staircases

- Walk safely and follow the traffic flow- Use appropriate language

- Respect others’ space- Wait turn when entering class

- Keep areas clean- Report vandalism- Respect school property

- Always carry hall pass- Keep noise minimal- Move along

Washrooms - Use proper hygiene

- Respect facilities - Report vandalism- Keep area clean

- Minimal washroom trips- Return promptly to class

Assemblies - Participate and listen appropriately- Follow directions

- Respect personal space- Act according to the tone of the assembly- Support those involved in the assembly- Stay in assigned area

- Keep area clean- Respect equipment

- Minimal interruptions- Listen attentively- Show appropriate behavior

School Wide Expectations – AlwaysAppropriate language and dress; Smoke free; Respect personal space; Respect food allergy & no scent policy

GENERAL GUIDELINES

Students are reminded to CARE: Cooperate, Appreciate, be Responsible, Empathetic and accountable for themselves, their learning style, and academic performance. Some general expectations of students are as follows:

1. Be prepared to learn.

2. Come to class on time and prepared for class with homework and assignments complete, and all required texts, paper, pens, pencils and any other necessary materials on hand.

3. Show respect towards staff and each other at all times.

4. Move safely about the building in a quietly and orderly fashion.

5. Store coats and book bags in locked lockers.

6. Visit lockers prior to homeroom, during recess and lunch and at dismissal time. (Students are not permitted to visit lockers between classes).

7. Respect all school policies.

8. Participate in Physical Education classes (unless excused by a medical note from a physician). It is recommended that students where appropriate gym attire and change before and after class.

9. Respect textbooks and keep them in good condition. (If there is any loss or damage to these books they must be replaced at cost by the student).

10. Be in homeroom by 8:15 a.m. and in class by 12:35 p.m. (Students should not arrive at school prior to 7:55 a.m., when teacher supervision duty commences).

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11. Be on time for homeroom and class periods. Teachers will record all occurrences of lateness and may contact parents or guardians at any time to discuss tardiness. After three late occurrences for homeroom or for a particular class in a month, the teacher will make contact with the parent or guardian. For homeroom class, contact will be made by the homeroom teacher or the administration. The student may be assigned a detention for Tuesday or Thursday lunchtime.

12. Be responsible for work missed during a period of absence. If the period of absence is known in advance, the student is to inform their various subject teachers. In the case of unforeseen periods of absence, the school should be notified. Students should be prepared to write any missed test or submit assignments on the day they return to school.

13. Clean up after themselves at lunch and recess times, i.e., throw garbage in the garbage containers and recyclables in the recycling containers. (Students are not permitted to eat in stairwells or washrooms).

SCHOOL POLICIES

VISITORS

All visitors, including parents/guardians, extended family members and friends are required to ring the doorbell and indicate the purpose of their visit. Visitors with a legitimate purpose are welcome at the school. Those who arrive for no official reason, however, will be asked to leave. After entering the building, all visitors should report to the main office.

During regular school hours parents and visitors are asked to enter the building via the main, front entrance that is adjacent to the school office. After students have entered the building in the morning all doors, except the front doors, will be locked.

BUS CONDUCT

The importance of proper conduct while waiting for, boarding, riding and getting off the bus is extremely important. Attitudes of helpfulness and cooperation will do much to en-sure safe and comfortable transportation for all. Any behavior that distracts the bus driver endangers everyone. The bus driver is expected to report any misconduct that oc-curs on the bus. Students who witness inappropriate behaviour on the bus are also encour-aged to report the incident to their teacher or to the school administration.

All students should understand, and parents/guardians are asked to impress upon their children, the need to comply with the following:

Students should remain well out of the roadway while waiting for the bus. Getting on and off the bus should be done in an orderly manner. Crowding, pushing, shoving, etc. are not appropriate. Students are to remain seated while the bus is in motion. No part of the body should ever be extended outside the bus. Aisles should be kept clear at all times. Conversations should take place in normal tones of voice. Nothing should be thrown either in or from the bus. Smoking and profane/abusive language is strictly forbidden.

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Parents will be notified of any reported misconduct. Depending on the seriousness of the offence, the student may receive a warning, be required to serve detention, or be suspended from privileges at school and/or from riding the bus.

SIGNING IN AND OUT

Students are expected to arrive at class on time. A student is deemed late if she/he is not in homeroom or class at the time at which the class activity is to commence: that is, after the allowable interval for student movement from class to class. The homeroom and/or subject teacher will record students who are late in Powerschool.

Students who arrive after homeroom period must sign in at the office before proceeding to their regularly scheduled class. A note or email must be provided in order for the tardiness to be recorded as excused.

Students who leave school during the day (due to illness, appointments, etc.) must sign out at the office prior to leaving the building. A written note or email should be provided to the secretary if students are required to leave the school for an appointment. The school’s attendance email address is stpetersjunior@nlesd.ca. In case of illness, a telephone contact will be made to the parent /guardian prior to the student being given permission to leave.

Students who are not in their scheduled class and who have not signed out will be considered to be skipping class. Home contact will be made immediately to inform the parent/guardian that the child is no longer in attendance at the school. Consequences will be put in place for students who participate in such behaviour.

USE OF WASHROOMS

Students are asked to refrain from visiting the washrooms during Periods 1, 3, and 5 except in the case of an emergency.

Students must request and receive permission from the classroom teacher to visit the washroom. Only one student at a time may leave a class. Students must use the designated hall pass.

Any student who abuses washroom/corridor privileges during class time or recess/lunch time may have their privileges restricted by the administration.

CONSUMPTION OF FOOD

Co-operative, respectful behaviour towards staff, other students and one’s eating area is expected at all times.

Students must be respectful of all food allergies. Eating and/or drinking beverages other than water during class time and in the

gymnasium or Learning Resource Centre is not permitted. Students must clean up after themselves by placing their garbage and recyclables in the

appropriate cans. Any student who does not clean up after him/herself may be assigned a specific eating area by the administration.

CLOTHING/PERSONAL ATTIRE

Personal cleanliness is expected of all students. Students are expected to wear appropriate clothing for a school environment. Pyjamas

(except on Theme days) and clothing which permits the student’s under garments and midriff to be seen are unacceptable. Hoods should not be worn up unless authorized by the administration and only seasonally appropriate head wear is permitted.

Clothing or book bags with obscene or suggestive remarks, or labels that advertise 10

alcohol, cigarettes or illegal drugs, are not permitted. Students who do not adhere to this clothing restriction may be required to contact a parent/guardian to bring in appropriate clothing.

Outdoor jackets and book bags must be stored in the locked lockers and are not to be brought to classrooms.

Appropriate gym attire is recommended for all physical education classes. Lost and found items are placed in a box located near the Main Office. Lost items will

be donated to local charitable organizations if unclaimed after a reasonable period of time. Announcements will be made to this effect.

REMOVAL FROM CLASS

Any student who must be removed from class by a teacher because of misbehaviour and/or disruption to others may be sent directly to the Office after initial notification via the PA system. A member of the administration will meet with the student. An Incident Report will be placed in PowerSchool and home contact will be made by the teacher or the administration.

SMOKING/SUBSTANCE ABUSE

Students are not permitted to light matches, lighters or cigarettes in the school building. No smoking, alcohol or other drugs are permitted on school property or at school

sponsored activities such as sports events, field trips or school dances. A student who is caught or suspected of substance abuse will be reported to the school

administration. All offences will result in a phone call to parents / guardians and possibly the police. A suspension may be assigned.

A student who is caught or suspected of selling cigarettes or any illegal substance will be reported to the school administration. All offences will result in a phone call to parents / guardians and possibly the police. A suspension may be assigned.

Cigarettes, alcohol, drug paraphernalia and any illegal substances seen on school property will be confiscated and given to the police. Students who do not comply will be suspended.

TELEPHONES / CELLPHONES

Students are not to use the office phone or personal cell phones during class time. In cases of sickness, students should get permission from the teacher to go to the office and call home.

DETENTIONS

Students who are assigned detentions will be given a minimum of one day’s notice. Detentions will be served Tuesday and Thursday at 12:05-12:30. Students must report to the designated room 211 by 12:05 for half the lunch period.

Students will be permitted to eat during the 2nd half of lunch. If a student reports late, he/she must have a note from another staff member. Students must follow the directives of the supervising teacher. Any student who is late, disruptive, or does not follow the directions from the teacher

will be referred to the office for further disciplinary action. Dismissal will be by the teacher at 12:30. Students who miss an assigned detention will be assigned another detention. Any

additional unexcused missed detentions may result in suspension. Students who are participating in extra-curricular activities will not be excused from a

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detention. If a student misses a detention without an acceptable reason, a suspension may result after consultation with the parents/guardians.

CHEATING

Cheating is not permitted under any circumstances. This includes the following:

copying another student’s work, assignments bringing notes into class for reference during a test talking / communicating to another student during a test plagiarising

CARE OF SCHOOL PROPERTY

Students are expected to respect school equipment, and property. Students who destroy, damage or deface school property may be required to pay the cost of repair or replacement.

Destruction/damage to school property may result in suspension or possible police action.

The Department of Education provides textbooks free of charge to students in Grades 7– 9. Caring for the books and returning them at year-end is the responsibility of the student/family. Students must return their assigned books prior to or during June exams. A replacement charge of the full cost of the book will be levied for lost/damaged books.

INAPPROPRIATE LANGUAGE

Inappropriate language (verbal and non-verbal) is not acceptable at St. Peter’s Junior High and any school sponsored activities.

This language may be defined as, but not limited to: Vulgar language Profane language Sexual innuendos Derogatory comments Disrespectful tone Verbal interference Defiance of authority Obscene gestures

Students using inappropriate language are subject to disciplinary action that may include suspension.

INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOUR

Each of the following is strictly forbidden: Use and/or possession of any weapons (including pocket knives) Aggressive physical behaviour Throwing objects such as snowballs, rocks, etc Harassment (sexual, physical and verbal) Fighting, bullying, threatening, extortion and gambling Tampering with fire extinguishers and other lifesaving equipment Theft and damage

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Creating or instigating any potential danger to others Inappropriate use of school equipment and/or technology

Any behaviour that poses a risk to the safety of oneself or others is strictly prohibited and will result in serious consequences, including suspension and possible involvement of the RNC. Identified accomplices may receive the same penalty.

ATTENDANCE

All students are expected to attend school on a regular basis. This means that students are expected to be in attendance every day school is in session, unless they are prevented from doing so for a serious reason, such as illness. Staying at home the day before or after a special event or holiday, to "get ready, shop or rest up" etc., is not an appropriate reason for absenteeism from school.

When students must be absent from school for legitimate reasons (i.e., illness, medical appointments, death in family, etc.), the Schools Act states:

Every pupil in a school shall in cases of absence bring to his/her teacher from a parent or guardian, a written reason for his/her absence. (The School's Act, Section 82[b])

The following procedures shall apply to all students who attend St. Peter’s Junior High:

A written note or email from a parent/guardian is compulsory after any absence and must be provided to the homeroom teacher or the school secretary. The school’s attendance email address is stpetersjunior@nlesd.ca.

Permission must be provided in writing for students to participate in school sponsored activities. Students who miss school due to a school-sponsored activity such as a school sports team trip, speech contest or music performances are automatically marked present. These students are responsible for missed work.

MOVEMENT IN THE BUILDING

Students are not permitted to visit lockers after homeroom, between or during instructional periods without teacher permission.

Students are not permitted to take food or beverages (other than water), electronic devices not used for educational purposes, book bags and outdoor coats to any classroom during instructional time.

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT POLICY

To enhance learning opportunities for diverse learners and maximize the academic achievement of all students at St. Peter’s Junior High School, this policy encourages student responsibility.

Organization of Work and Class Preparedness: Students must keep their work organized. It is generally recommended that

students have an exercise book or binder with loose leaf sheets for each subject and keep it in an orderly manner.

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Students must come to class with all necessary materials for that class.

HomeworkPurpose of homework:

To improve academic achievement To improve independent study To provide parents/ guardians with the opportunity to see what their child is

doing in school To reinforce previous learning To enrich students To accommodate for ability/learning differences To prepare for tests and quizzes To work on major assignments and projects To work on missed or unfinished work

If for some reason homework cannot be completed, the parent/ guardian is asked to send a note/ email to the teacher concerning the matter. The student is responsible for homework/ assignments/tests missed due to illness and/ or class activities such as band, choir, enrichment, school trips, vacations, etc.

Assignments Teachers will communicate due dates for major tests, assignments and projects at

least one week prior to the due date. Teachers will return assignments and projects to students within two weeks from submission.

Students are responsible for the submission of all assignments and projects. Assignments must be submitted on the due date unless there are exceptional circumstances.

If a student knows that s/he will be absent on the due date (due to appointment, trips, etc.), arrangements must be made by the student to submit the work either immediately prior to the expected absence or immediately upon his/her return to school.

Assignments, projects, etc, may not be accepted after the teacher has returned the corrected materials to the class. A new assignment may be given. Where late assignments are accepted, they must be submitted in sufficient time to be graded or the mark may not appear on the report card for that period.

Any student who misses 60% of a term’s evaluation may receive an incomplete in that subject on that term’s report card.

Tests and Exams Absenteeism does not exempt students from missed assessments. Upon return to

school or at a later time determined by the teacher, students may be required to complete a missed assessment or an alternate form of the original assessment. In extreme circumstances, exemptions may be granted in consultation with parents/guardians, teachers, and administration. (Note: This applies to all forms of assessment except final exams)

ACADEMIC STATUS

Honours Status shall be granted to a student who meets the following criteria:14

Passes all subject areas Is on the prescribed program Obtains a minimum grade of 75% in each and every subject area. The various levels of Academic Recognition are for averages (rounded to the

nearest percent) achieved in the five core subject areas {English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Core French* (for English stream students) or French Language Arts (for French Immersion students)} as follows:

o 90 and up: Academic Excellence List o 80 - 89: Academic Achievement List

Pass Status shall be granted to a student who meets the following criteria: Is on the prescribed program. Obtains a minimum grade of 50% in each and every one of the following subject

areas: English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Core French (for English stream students) or French Language Arts (for French Immersion Students)

Receives a minimum grade of 50% in any two other of the following subject areas:

Religious Education Health Music Art

Technology Education

Home Economics Physical Education

Fail Status shall be granted to a student who is on the prescribed program and who fails to meet the criteria for pass status. (In some cases and in accordance with District policies a student may be placed in the next grade.)

STUDENT AWARDS

Prestigious Python Award is given each year to the students in grade nine who demonstrate exceptional ability during their time at St. Peter’s Junior High. In order to be considered for this award a student must have an average of 90% or higher in all subject areas and be active in one or more of the following areas: Athletics, Fine Arts and Leadership

Maurita Bavis Memorial Award for Student of the Year is given to a student in grade nine who excelled during their time at St. Peter’s Junior High. The award is based on four aspects of the school community: Academics, Leadership, Fine Arts and Athletics. In order to be considered for Student of the Year, students should have achieved Academic Excellence, have involvement in all aspects of the school community (excelling in 2 or more areas) and display a positive attitude and school spirit. The Student of the Year should reflect the values and the vision of our school through his/her approach to learning and behavior. He/she should be a role model for others.

Jim Murphy Memorial Award for Most Spirited Python is given to a student in grade nine who during their time at St. Peter’s Junior High, exhibited a positive attitude, contributed to developing school spirit and was an example of school spirit to others. In order to be considered for this award, a student must have a passing grade in all subject areas and a minimum overall average of 75% or higher. The Most Spirited Python would have been involved in planning activities and events that are related to fostering school spirit. He/she should be an active participant in spirit related activities and events.

Senior and Junior Athlete of the Year Awards are awarded to students based on the following requirements:

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must pass all subjects must maintain an overall B average (70% or higher). The calculated average would

include all subject areas. should excel in one or more sport or activity. (Preference will be given to

students/athletes who participate in more than one sport). should display a positive attitude and sportsmanship as a member of a school team and

within the Physical Education Program.

ELECTRONICS POLICY

Students are expected to respect the learning environment of SPJH and the personal privacy of other individuals within the school community especially when it comes to the use of electronic devices (including cellphones). As a result the following guidelines have been established:

Students are only permitted to use electronic devices prior to the start of homeroom, at recess, at lunchtime and at dismissal. Students are not to use electronic devices for non-instructional purposes without teacher permission during homeroom, class time or at the Main Office. When students are permitted to use ear buds, only one can be located in the ear. For safety reasons, students are never permitted to wear both ear buds. Electronic devices are never permitted to be used during class change times. Teachers will prepare students for departure and movement to next class by reminding them to put ear buds away and reminding them not to use electronics on route to the next class.

Due to concerns over the unauthorized distribution or use of images, digital cameras and other recording devices whose primary purpose is to record images are not permitted in the school without permission from the administration. The unauthorized taking or distribution of pictures, video or recording will result in referral to the school administration and may result in consequences including, but not limited to, suspension and/or referral to local police authorities

The school is not responsible for lost, stolen or damaged electronic devices.

The consequences of breaching the policy are outlined as follows:

First Occurrence: Student will be reminded to put the electronic device away.

Second Occurrence: Student will be required to bring the device to the office (and teacher notifies the office via the pa). The device will be stored at the office for the remainder of the day. A log entry of the incident will be recorded in PowerSchool by the teacher. If a student refuses to hand over the device, he/she maybe sent home.

Third Occurrence: Student will be required to bring the device to the office (and teacher notifies the office via the pa). The device will be stored at the office for the remainder of the day. A log entry of the incident will be recorded in PowerSchool by the teacher. Home contact will be made by the administration (synrevoice call). The student will receive a detention. A parent will have to come to the school and retrieve the device.

Fourth Occurrence: Student will be required to bring the device to the office (and teacher notifies the office via the pa). The device will be stored at the office for the remainder of the day. A log entry of the incident will be recorded in PowerSchool by the teacher. Home contact will be made by the

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administration. The student may be suspended for failure to comply with school rules. A parent will have to come to the school and retrieve the device.

If the second, third or fourth occurrence happens in the hallway, the teacher will notify the administration via email and a log entry of the incident will be recorded in PowerSchool by the administration.

NUTRITION POLICY

Schools can play a significant role by ensuring an environment that supports healthy eating. Improving the quality of students’ dietary intake is important since meals and snacks consumed at school make a major contribution to their total daily consumption of food and nutrients. The relationship between good nutrition and learning is well documented with well-planned and well-implemented school nutrition programs being shown to positively influence students' food choices. Healthy eating is essential for maximum academic, physical and mental performance. It improves punctuality, behavior, social skills, alertness, and the ability to cope with stress. Research has also clearly shown that many of the chronic degenerative diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and cancer have their roots in childhood and early food consumption habits. For these reasons all students are asked to adhere to the following food regulations:

Students should bring nutritional items to school for recess and lunch. Energy Drinks are prohibited. Bags of candy, gum and chocolate are prohibited and may be confiscated by the

Administration.

STUDENT TRAVEL DURING SCHOOL TIME

The parent/guardian should inform the school in writing of the dates a student would be away on travel, and the reason for such travel. The school’s attendance email is stpetersjunior@nlesd.ca.

The student is responsible for determining all work missed while away, and completing the same upon returning to school.

SCHOOL LOCKERS

Students will be provided with a locker for storage of clothing, books and other possessions.

In special cases of student disability, which inhibits the use of the combination lock, the school administration will consider each case individually and decide the appropriateness of that student using a key lock. This decision will be made by the school administration only.

To help prevent the theft of items from lockers, students should take care to keep their combination confidential and ensure that their locker is kept locked at all times. It should be noted that the school and the School Board cannot guarantee the security of any locker particularly in relation to illegal activities of others in stealing possessions from such lockers by forcible entry or otherwise. Furthermore, the school and School Board accept no responsibility for losses, damages or expenses incurred as a result of missing or damaged possessions stored in such lockers during the course of the school year.

Student lockers remain the property of the school. Students may be required to open them 17

at any time, with sufficient reason. The administration has the combinations to all locks and may enter the locker at any time, with good reason.

Students are expected to clean out their lockers regularly, and empty their lockers prior to the start of June exams and return locks to their homeroom teachers. Students will be billed for unreturned locks. The school will discard contents not removed by students in June.

COMPUTER NETWORK ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY

The faculty of St. Peter’s Junior High recognises that the use of computers/electronic devices and computer networks/Internet is advantageous to the overall education of our students, yet remains a privilege rather than a requirement. All school computer network systems are legally owned by the Newfoundland & Labrador English School District and must thus follow the Acceptable Use of Information and Communications Technology policy of the Board (full text available at www.nlesd.ca or by contacting the school). Every student at St. Peter’s Junior High is given the privilege of a computer account on registering at the school, and upon giving written agreement to the guidelines of the School District’s Acceptable Use Policy. Parents/guardians must also sign the acceptable use agreement form provided by the school.

In signing the AUP the student agrees to the following: To use the computer network for acceptable educational purposes only To be responsible for his/her own account; to maintain the secrecy of his/her password;

not to share his/her account with anyone To use the school’s computer equipment with respect and care Not to use the network for illegal, obscene, harassing, or inappropriate purposes or in

the support of such activities Not to download any programs or software unless directed to do so by a teacher Not to violate, or attempt to violate, the security of the school’s computers, data or

network equipment or services. Denied access to the school’s network or services, if they are identified as a security risk While school and school board personnel respect their right to privacy, the expectation

of privacy does not extend to computer accounts. The School Board or its representatives have the right to search a student’s computer account to ensure compliance with the AUP.

Being aware of the penalties that may be imposed for infractions to the Acceptable Use Policy.

EMERGENCY RESPONSE PROTOCOL

Evacuation Procedures

When the alarm sounds, each class group will vacate the building in a calm, orderly manner under the direction of its teacher. Once outside, classes will remain together with their teachers until advised to re-enter the building. Teachers are required to take attendance to ensure that all pupils are accounted for. Students are to remain outside the building until the all clear is given and they are directed to return to their classes or to another location. (Newtown Elementary)

Each classroom has a designated fire exit posted near the door. In case a designated fire exit is blocked, teachers should direct students to the nearest accessible exit.

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Fire exit designations appear on the building floor plan, which are posted in each room. Teachers are required to familiarize themselves and their classes with the locations of the fire exits. During the first week of classes, teachers should have their students “walk the exit route” for each of the rooms in which they conduct classes to ensure everyone is familiar with the route.

Students who are out of class at the time of an alarm are to proceed directly outside through the nearest exit and to rejoin their class outside. If the fire alarm sounds during times when students are not in class (e.g. during lunch or recess), students are to immediately exit the building and proceed to the area designated for their homeroom class.

It is important to note that when the alarm sounds, all students are to move quietly and calmly to their exit. DO NOT RUN. Always move in a single file when the alarm sounds and assemble in class groups in designated areas of the parking lot. Students are to walk directly from the exit in a straight line across the paved roadway dividing the parking lot from the school. Do not cross diagonally. Walk straight across the paved roadway and walk behind the parked cars so that you may proceed to the area designated for your class group.

EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSURE

If school is closed due to weather conditions, a radio announcement will be made by the district between 6:00a.m – 7:00 a.m. and a notice will be posted on the district web site. If weather conditions improve and there is an announcement on the local radio stations saying that schools will re-open for the afternoon session, the following applies for all students of St. Peter’s Junior High:

12:15 p.m. – Doors open12:35 p.m. - Classes begin

Bus runs for students will begin at 11:45 a.m. Doors open at 12:15 p.m. and teacher supervision will be provided for all students.

ADMINISTERING OF MEDICATION

It is the policy of the Newfoundland & Labrador English School District that educators, student assistants, volunteers or other school staff should not be responsible for the administering of medication. There are, however, some exceptions and in these instances, the policy for Administering of Medication of the Newfoundland & Labrador English School District is used. http://www.esdnl.ca/about/policies/esd/regulations/J_JLD_JLD.pdf

LEARNING RESOURCE CENTRE EXPECTATIONS

The Learning Resources Center at St. Peter’s Junior High is a hub for several curriculum endeavors throughout the year. Programs focus on research projects that are school-wide, cross-curricular and student centered. In addition to resource books and materials, our Centre contains computers for student use. The following rules and expectations are to be followed by students who use the Resource Centre.

Students may only access the Resource Centre when there is a teacher on duty to supervise.

Students may borrow books at non-instructional times that the Resource Teacher 19

is present. No food or drink is permitted in the Resource Center at any time. The Resource Centre is to be kept neat and tidy by placing all materials back to the

designated places. All tables and chairs are to be left in an orderly manner. Use of Computers in the LRC is governed by the Acceptable Use Policy.

SCIENCE LABORATORY SAFETY

At St. Peter’s Junior High, we are pleased to offer a complete science program that incorporates a lot of hands-on work by students. Your teachers will review safety rules and procedures at the beginning of the year and throughout the year as necessary. Because of the nature of the Science Laboratory, students are expected to be on their best behavior here and to follow their teacher’s instructions. Students who present as a safety hazard may be suspended from the laboratory and have to make up the work they miss on their own time. The following are some general rules to follow when working in the Science Laboratory. You teacher will provide you with a more comprehensive list and description of expectations.

1. Conduct yourself in a safe and responsible manner at all times in the laboratory. 2. Be familiar with your lab assignment before you come to lab. Follow all written and

verbal instructions carefully. If you do not understand a direction or part of a procedure, ask the teacher before proceeding.

3. Ensure a teacher is present prior to entering the lab. No student may work in the laboratory without a teacher present.

4. Do not eat food, drink beverages, or chew gum in the laboratory. 5. Perform only those experiments authorized by your teacher. Unauthorized

experiments are prohibited. 6. Wear safety goggles whenever you work in the lab. 7. Do not enter the science storage rooms or preparation areas unless given specific

permission by the instructor. 8. Dress properly during a laboratory activity. Long hair, dangling jewelry, and loose or

baggy clothing are a hazard in the laboratory. 9. Do not touch, taste, or smell any chemical unless specifically instructed to do so. All chemicals in the laboratory are to be considered dangerous. 10. Ask the teacher for help If you do not understand how to use a piece of equipment.

CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Our co-curricular program at St. Peter’s Junior High is quite extensive. In the past we have offered a variety of activities which appeal to many different interests. We hope you will join in and make this part of your school life very worthwhile. Here are some of the activities we have offered in the past:

Fairs and Performances Science Fair Public Speaking (English and French) Annual Concerts Café Night Heritage Fair

Sports Cheerleading Basketball Hockey

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Volleyball Cross Country Soccer Outdoor Club Intramurals

Curricular/Extra-Curricular Links Mini Enrichment Course- Offered through the ESDNL School trips (local and international) Learning Strategies Tutoring (English and French) School Assemblies and Celebrations Spirit days Halloween Activity Day Science Field trips Math Pi Day Math Contests - Gauss (Grades 7 & 8); Pascal (Grade 9) Junior High School Math League Team Building activities to strengthen School Culture and Climate Positive Python Program- promotes respect for our school community Literature Circles Guest Speakers for various curriculum related projects Field trips Band Program/ Music Program Art Club Book Club Writing Club GSA Social Action Student Leadership

PARENT VOLUNTEER PROGRAM

St. Peter’s supports a volunteer program that provides, parents, guardians and others who are interested in volunteering, opportunities to become involved in a variety of daily school routines and/or special events.

If any person is interested in becoming a volunteer, please contact the school for a copy of the Volunteer Application Form, http://www.esdnl.ca/about/policies/esd/regulations/I_IJOC_IJOC.pdf , which you may then return to the school office.

SCHOOL COUNCIL

The St. Peter’s Junior High School Council was established in 2003-2004 as part of the school's development plan. Under guidelines established by the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador Department of Education and the Eastern School District, elections were held to select representatives of the parents, teachers and the St. Peter’s Junior High school community at large.

The specific purpose of the School Council is defined as follows:

"To develop, encourage and promote policies, practices, and activities which will enhance the quality of school programs and the level of student achievement in the school."

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The School Council at St. Peter’s Junior High has met regularly since its inception. There are usually ten meetings scheduled per year. Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of the month, at 5:30 p.m. each month during the school year. Should you wish to have an issue related to student achievement or the school’s educational programs considered by the school council, please contact any of the council members. Issues and concerns that fall outside the scope of the school council may be brought in confidence to the school administration.

HOME SCHOOL COMMUNICATION

SynervoiceSynrevoice is an automatic dialer that the school has acquired. The system will communicate an automated message to the home or other specified location in the event of an unexcused absence. (An unexcused absence is simply any absence for which there is no foreknowledge by the homeroom teacher.) The system can also be configured manually to make telephone contact in the event of a school emergency with a recorded message. Classes or groups of students can also be contacted with important recorded messages. Synrevoice is also configured to send an e-mail message to parents, similar in content to the telephone message.

Newsletter Every month we send home our newsletter, SPJH PRIDE, filled with information about the happenings at St. Peter’s Junior High School. It is filled with important dates and upcoming events, as well as news about our students. The newsletter is sent home electronically, however, paper copies are available if requested. A copy of all newsletters is located on the school’s website.

If you would like to submit information for publication in the SPJH PRIDE, please contact a member of the school’s administration.

School Website www.spjh.k12.nf.ca

School Twitter Account@SPJH2013

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