Baltimore School - Code of Conduct

1) Expectations of Students

A. Learning – Use class time productively, be organized and complete all assignments. Avoid unnecessary disruption through the use of non-educational electronic equipment.

B. Attendance and Punctuality – Attend School when school is in session and be on time for all classes.

C. Personal Appearance – Dress in a clean and appropriate manner.

D. Smoking and Substance Abuse – Smoking and using alcohol or illicit drugs on school property or at any school sponsored functions or trips is banned and will result in disciplinary action.

E. Honesty – Assume responsibility for their own actions

F. Respect for Others – Respect the rights and dignity of students, staff and other adults in the school. Respect an orderly, quiet and purposeful learning environment. Avoid racial or ethnic “put downs’ or inappropriate sexual comments. Including respecting the rights and dignity of LBGTQ students.

G. Safety – Play and work safely. Avoid wrestling, play fighting, tripping, pushing and other forms of physically aggressive behavior.

H. Bus Safety – Respect and obey the bus driver at all times and conduct themselves in a prudent and responsible manner so as not to jeopardize the safety of others.

I. Appropriate Language and Gestures – Use a respectful tone and appropriate language and gestures.

J. Weapons – Bringing any type of weapon on school property, to a school function or on a school trip is banned and will result in disciplinary action. Respect for Property – Respect the property of others and of the school. Leave valuables at home.

L. Promoting a Clean Environment – Keep classrooms and school grounds neat and clean. Practice the 3 R’s (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle).

2) Responsibility Towards Self

Students are expected to come prepared for class with appropriate materials and books, arrive on time, use class time productively, be organized and complete all assigned work. Non-educational electronic devices are not to be brought to class. This includes but is not limited to cell phones, camera-phones, portable video games, Blackberrys, MP3s and any other device that could disrupt the learning process. Optimal learning occurs when work is completed and class time is maximized. Responsibility for personal learning develops a sense of confidence and pride. Non-educational devices will be confiscated for one day for each offence with the parent/guardian having to retrieve it in the office. After three offences the student will be given an in-school suspension. A fourth offence will lead to an out-of-school suspension.

3) School Absenteeism /Punctuality

Students are expected to attend school when school is in session. Students are expected to be in their homerooms and/or classrooms before the second bell rings. Absence from school should only occur for sufficient reasons. When a student is absent, a note must be brought from the parent/guardian explaining reason(s) for the absence. To receive an early dismissal, students are expected to bring a note signed by the parent/guardian or have the parent/guardian contact the school, and stay in their class until the parent/guardian arrives at the office.

To ensure academic success, regular attendance is essential; being on time for school and/or classes shows courtesy towards the teacher and classmates. Regular attendance shows commitment and a sense of purpose, and like punctuality, will serve a student well in the workplace and/or post-secondary study.

The School’s Act states specifically that students are expected to be at school and in class on time each and every day that school is in session. It is the responsibility of parents/guardians to ensure that their son/daughter attends school regularly and that the school is notified when absence is required. Students who are chronically late for school will be subject to disciplinary action. After every three late slips a student will be given one days in school suspension, after four groups of three late slips the student will be given an out-of-school suspension.

Your son/daughter is asked to bring a note to the office on the day they return to school so that student can be noted in the register as “E” for Excused and not “A” for absent without notice. There is absolutely no reason for a student’s record to show “A” for absent without reason or just cause when a call or a note to the office could have easily prevented it. Your support in contacting the school is greatly appreciated.

From time to time students have to miss school to attend functions, meetings or other appointments. They need only to bring a note or have a parent/guardian call the school prior to their departure.

Any student who is registered as “A” or Absent for five days in a month will be reported to the Eastern Avalon School District under separate cover in accordance with Department of Education requirements and the School’s Act. All examples of chronic unexcused absenteeism noted by classroom teachers will be reported to the administration for follow-up.

4) Students Who Leave School Without Parental or School Permission

Parents/guardians are asked to discuss the importance of the following policy with their son/daughter in order to avoid being in contravention of this directive which is designed to ensure the health and safety of all our students.

Absenteeism and truancy, which involves a consistent pattern of lateness and skipping class or school, is perhaps the single major contributing factor to a lack of school success. Students who exhibit chronic absenteeism or truancy are usually destined to experience an unsuccessful academic school year. Parents must insist that students attend school and class each and every day that school is in session. Close parental monitoring of school attendance and notification when absence is necessary will help ensure that all students attain the academic success they so richly deserve.

It is the legal responsibility of parents/guardians to ensure that their son/daughter attends school regularly and that the school is notified when absence is required. Some parents/guardians are either unwilling or unable to ensure their child’s attendance as per the School’s Act. This is a particular problem at the senior high level. In some cases, students travel to school by car or bus, stay a period or so, then leave school without notice to the office or without the prior approval of their parents or guardians. Parents think their child is in school and school officials have difficulty contacting the home to advise them that their child has left school without proper leave or permission. Students who leave school often convince others to join them which compounds the problem even further. These students generally hang out in the community for the day risking serious injury or death should an accident occur. It is only a matter of time before one of these students is seriously injured as a result of not having been in school and in class as they should.

Unauthorized student absenteeism is a problem in most schools. Those schools in the province that have high attendance rates and few absentee problems have been successful because they enforce strict rules regarding student attendance. The rule is simple. Any student who leaves school, while school is in session, without a legitimate note or phone call from a parent or guardian, or any student who skips class by absenting themselves inside or outside the school premises will automatically receive an out of school suspension. These suspensions will be placed on the student record. Suspensions will only be lifted from the file if the parent/guardian contacts the school and agrees to attend a meeting with school administration to resolve the attendance issue. It is much easier to tell a parent/guardian that their child is suspended for skipping class or school rather than to tell them that their child, who they thought was in school, has been seriously injured or killed in the community at large. When students know that the school will take serious action against them through automatic school suspension they are less likely to leave school.

Should the problem persist, administration will be forced to take the unfortunate measure of contacting the Minister of Education with the recommendation of expulsion.

5) Student Dress and Appearance

Students are expected to not wear clothing/jewelry with offensive words/illustrations (i.e. including alcohol and drug slogans). Hats and outdoor clothing are to be removed upon entering the school building and stored in lockers. Students can not attend class with a hood over their head and can not wear sunglasses in class. Students are expected to practice good personal hygiene and dress in a clean and appropriate manner. Issues of hygiene will be reported to the school nurse for further investigation. Pajamas can not be worn other than special occasion days. No short shorts are to be worn, no belly tops or other clothing that is revealing including jeans that are worn too loose that show undergarments. Length of hem will be the same for boys and girls. Students who arrive at school with inappropriate clothing will be provided with appropriate clothes for the day from the office.

Appearance reflects respect for oneself and consideration for others. The way in which one dresses influences the tone and atmosphere of the school climate. We will continue to encourage the dress code for our K-6 students.

6) Smoking and Substance Abuse

Students and all school personnel are not permitted to smoke, or use alcohol and illicit drugs on school property or at school-sponsored functions or school trips.

The school promotes and encourages healthy lifestyle choices in order to ensure the health and safety of all students.

a. An individual who is caught or suspected of substance abuse in school will be reported to the administration immediately and will be suspended for a time deemed appropriate by administration.

b. Drug paraphernalia seen on school property will be confiscated. Students who do not comply will be suspended for a time deemed appropriate by administration.

c. If an individual is caught or suspected of distributing or selling an illegal substance, he or she will be reported to the RCMP.

7) Respect for Others

Students and staff are expected to treat all people with consideration and respect. They are to respect personal space and property, allow others to learn without disruption and avoid harassing behavior. Students are to respect the authority

8) Honesty

Honesty is an expectation of everyone. People are to accept responsibility and be accountable for their own actions without making excuses, lying, cheating or stealing. Individuals must avoid misinformation or misrepresentation of the facts. Honesty is essential to productive learning and

of teachers and other school personnel and extend the same respect to all substitute teachers, bus drivers and visitors.

Every student has the right to learn in a quiet, orderly and respectful environment and no person has the right to disrupt the learning of others. Cooperation, courtesy, and respect are important life skills.

Public displays of affection between students will not be tolerated in the school. This includes but is not limited to kissing, caressing and inappropriate touching. All incidents will be referred to the guidance counselor for follow-up.

9) Safety

While in school, on school grounds and during school-related activities, students are expected to work and play in a responsible manner with regard for the needs and safety of others. To ensure everyone’s safety, students must refrain from running, throwing things, pushing, shoving, hitting, fighting or shouting at other students or teachers. While in the building, students must be directly supervised by a teacher, and all students are expected to follow the code of conduct in place for each area of the school. All students are entitled to a safe environment in which to work and play.

Violence is defined as, but not limited to:

a. Physical violence and threats of same

b. Aggressive physical behavior.

c. Harassment (sexual, physical, and verbal)

d. Theft and damage

e. Destruction of personal or school property

f. Electronic threats, harassment, cyber bullying or possibly libelous messages

10) Disruptive Behavior

Students should recognize the following as disruptive behaviors:

a. Interrupting during instruction.

b. Talking during time on task.

c. Throwing objects such as paper and pencils.

d. Moving from established seating plan without permission.

e. Creating unnecessary noises such as cracking gum and tapping pencils.

f. Coming to class late or preparing to leave before being dismissed by the teacher.

g. Asking to leave the room immediately after morning/afternoon registration and recess except under extenuating circumstances.

h. Students who refuse to complete work will be reported to the office and consequences will be enforced, including in-school suspension, and removal from the classroom environment.

i. Students can bring water to class, they will not be permitted to leave class to buy food or drinks. Students who return from the washroom with food or drink will be reported to the office for discipline.

j. No food or drinks will be sold at the cafeteria other than during recess and lunch.

k. Sign-out sheets for the washroom will be used to minimize disruption with the teachers discretion.

11) Bus Safety

Riding the school bus is a privilege. Any student failing to comply with the rules is endangering the lives of all passengers, and may lose their privilege to ride the bus.

1. The Bus Driver is responsible for the bus, and the safe arrival of students. Students shall not create a disturbance by distracting the Driver’s attention, or by interfering with another student or their belongings

2. Students must line up and board the bus promptly in single file, without crowding or pushing.

3. Students shall be picked up and discharged at their designated school bus stops only unless prior permission has been granted.

4. Bats, hockey sticks, skateboards, skis and snowshoes are not permitted on the bus.

5. Smoking, eating, chewing gum, drinking and profane language is prohibited.

6. Students must keep their arms and head inside the bus at all times; nothing should be thrown out of a bus window.

7. Animals are not allowed on the bus.

8. Rowdy behavior of any kind is forbidden.

9. Students will be held responsible for any damage to the bus as a result of rowdy behavior or vandalism.

10. K-6 students will have assigned seating on the bus and are restricted to those seats.

11. All incidents reported to the administration will be kept confidential.

12. All bus drivers are expected to be aware of the rules and apply them consistently. Students who fail to comply with the rules will be reported to the administration.

13. If a student opens the emergency door outside of an emergency they will lose the privilege of riding the bus.

14. Students are not to board the bus unless the drivers are on the bus.

12) Appropriate Language and Gestures

Students are to use proper language at all times. Sarcasm, put-downs, name calling, racial slurs, swearing and vulgarities, whether they be spoken, written or implied are unacceptable. The use of appropriate and respectful language demonstrates self-respect and respect for others. Infractions will be dealt with severely.

13) Items that could be perceived as Weapons

Students are expected to keep the peace and practice good behavior. Bringing any item which could be used as a weapon, whether or not harm was intended, on school property or at any school function or trip is strictly prohibited. The school has a responsibility to ensure the well-being and safety of all students and staff. Weapons can include items that may not easily be defined as such. If a student has any doubt about what they are bringing to school they should leave it home. Examples include shell casings, knives, etc.

14) Personal Effects

Students are expected to respect school property as well as the personal property of all students and staff. Permission should be obtained before borrowing the belongings of others; borrowed items should be returned to the owner on time and in the same condition in which they were borrowed. Vandalism to school or personal property is not acceptable and students will be held responsible for such action. All students are discouraged from bringing valuable items to school, since the school will not be held responsible for loss or damage to these items. A positive attitude towards school and its resources demonstrates a sense of pride and ownership.

15)Promoting a Clean Environment

Everyone is expected to deposit all garbage and recyclables in appropriate bins, to keep the school grounds and surrounding areas free of garbage, as well as to make a special effort to keep classrooms, washrooms, lockers and cafeteria neat and tidy.

Maintaining the school’s attractive appearance and cleanliness provide a comfortable environment in which students and teachers are proud to display to the public.

16) Cafeteria

Students are not permitted to consume food or drinks, etc. inside the building, except in designated areas, other than K-6 recess. Sitting on tables is not permitted. Empty chip bags, etc. are to be placed in the receptacles provided. Everyone is expected to take responsibility to clean up after themselves.

17) Corridors and Washrooms

Students are not permitted in the junior high wing or upstairs corridor during recess, lunch hour, or after school unless permission is given by a teacher. Loitering in the washrooms, dressing rooms, and entrances is not permitted. Students who loiter in unsupervised areas will be dealt with by the administration. High schools are not to be in the K-6 wing during recess or lunch.

18) Gymnasium

1. Students must have sneakers which will only be worn in the gym and must wear gym clothes when participating in gym activities. (Gym clothes = t-shirt, sweat pants, sweat shirt, shorts)

2. Students are not permitted to eat or drink in the gym.

3. Students are not allowed in the gym at any time unless accompanied by a teacher. Equipment of any kind may not be used without the permission of the supervising teacher. Permission is needed from the supervising teacher before entering the storage room and the physical education office.

4. Students must obey all instructions given. It is very easy for an accident to occur in a gym.

5. Students are responsible for their own property and must secure their valuables.

19) Rooms

Students are not permitted in the cafeteria kitchen, gym, storage room, lab or science rooms, music room, classrooms, or tech ed room without a teacher’s permission. No one other than teachers are permitted in the teacher prep rooms. Students must not enter the lab prep room or the network file server room unless supervised by a teacher. No one, other than staff members, is permitted in the staff room. Students who cause damage in the student lounge or any school room will lose the privilege of access to that room and will have to cover the cost of the damage.

20) Telephone

Pay phones have been provided for students in the lobby and outside the library. Cell phones are not to be used in class for any reason.

21) Tutoring for Tuition

Students helping students. A session open to all students Monday to Thursday from 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm in the school library. Students must follow rules as when in class.

22) Lockers

Lockers and locks are provided to students. Students are reminded that the school will not accept responsibility for personal possessions lost. Keep your locker locked when left unattended. Do not reveal your combination to anyone. Do not write on or in lockers or cause them to be dented or scratched. Students may not use lockers during class time or between classes without the permission of a teacher. Students must use the lockers provided to put their outer clothing and their book/gym bags into. Bringing these items to class can cause disruption and can become a safety hazard.

23) Breakfast Program

Available to all students everyday from 8:15 am – 8:40 am. Toast, juice and cereal will be served. The purpose of the program is to provide proper nutrition so that students can focus on academics. In case of a delayed opening, Breakfast Program will be cancelled for that day.

24) Student Vehicles

Vehicles coming onto the parking lot are monitored to insure safety of students. No vehicles are permitted to leave or enter the parking lot while buses are loading or unloading. This will be strictly enforced. The area outside the school is an idle free zone, no vehicle of any kind can be left to idle outside the school.

25) School Dance Regulations

1. No person suspected of being under the influence of alcohol or drugs or in possession will knowingly be admitted to any school function. If a person is found under the influence at a function they will be suspended for one calendar year from other such functions. Repeat infractions will result in permanent loss of privileges or referral to an outside agency to address the problem.

2. Smoking inside the building or on school property is absolutely prohibited.

3. Doors shall close one hour after dance begins. Any student who leaves after that time will not be permitted to return.

4. All parts of the building except the cafeteria and the washrooms are off limits. Students are not permitted to visit lockers.

5. Students who fail to comply with the above noted regulations will have their parents

called to pick them up.

A. Counseling

Counseling is the most common technique used in discipline and is normally used with all other forms of disciplinary actions. Generally, a teacher, principal, or vice-principal will discuss the reasons for a problem in the hope that the advice offered will assist the student in resolving the problem and thereby avoid similar offenses in the future.

Informal Interview – A teacher talks with the pupil seeking agreement about the pupil’s future behavior. Parents may be informed and the student may be required to provide a written assignment.

Formal Interview – A conference is held with the pupil, teacher and administrator to develop a plan for changing pupil behavior. Parents are informed and the student may be required to provide a written assignment.

Parental Involvement – Parents are contacted concerning pupil behavior and required changes. Contact could vary from a telephone conversation to a formal conference of parents and school personnel. Since the student must have ownership over his/her behavior, the informal discussion and initial planning for change occurs between the child and the school personnel so that the child is given the opportunity to rectify the situation on his/her own. In situations that are ongoing or so severe that they interfere with the learning and/or safety of others, parents are contacted to help support the child and the school in finding a solution to the problem.

Behavioral Contract – The pupil is required to meet specified standards of behavior so as to avoid more severe levels of consequence. These expectations are developed together by the school, parents and pupil. Consequences for failure to meet standards are clear and copies of the contract are provided to all concerned parties.

B. Removal of Privileges

Access to special events, membership in an extra-curricular activity, use of the school bus, and/or free time at recess or lunch are examples of the types of privileges that may be removed for a period of time. The selected privilege relates directly to the type of unacceptable behavior. Parents will be informed when a privilege is removed regarding field trips or bus use. They will also be contacted if the behavior is ongoing.

C. Withdrawal from the Learning Situation

When unacceptable behavior interferes with learning, the pupil is withdrawn from the group and is asked to work in isolation within the area of the classroom. When withdrawal is required repeatedly or for a prolonged period of time, the pupil is placed in an alternate supervised location and parents are informed.

D. Detentions

Detentions are given outside of class time and are used when it is believed some form of deterrent is needed. This will help ensure that the student is aware that his/her actions are unacceptable. This also provides time for him/her to rethink the attitude and behavior creating the problem.

E. Involvement of other Resource Personnel (ISSP)

Personnel such as social workers, guidance counselors or behavior specialists may be involved. Parents are involved.

F. Compensation for Damages

Pupils and/or parents/caregivers are required to compensate for wilful damages or losses to school or other people’s property at school.

G. Confiscation of Items Forbidden at School

Personal items confiscated during the school day may be reclaimed from the teacher or administration at the end of the day or week. If it is deemed unsafe or unwise to return the items, parental contract with the school will be required. If the item is connected to illegal activity, the police will be notified.

H. Suspension from School

Suspension from school is reserved for serious or habitual offenses and is often preceded by other forms of discipline. Certain offenses are so serious that a suspension may be given on the first offence. The purpose of suspension is intended to give the student time to rethink his/her behavior. It is the student’s responsibility to keep up with work missed and to attempt to arrange for the make-up of any missed evaluation with the teachers concerned.

I. Expulsion

Expulsion is the permanent removal of a student from school. This action is the prerogative of the Director of the Eastern School District and is conducted in consultation with the school.

To represent Baltimore School on a team is a privilege.

§ Students must be performing to the best of the abilities academically.

§ Students must follow all school rules and procedures.

§ Students must follow all rules set out by the high school athletic federation.

§ Students must be in attendance at school in order to participate in any extra curricular activities (i.e. practices and tournaments).

§ Students must have a signed permission slip in order to participate in activities outside of the school.

Reason for dismissal from a team.

1. Repetitive unexcused absences.

2. Disrespectful or disruptive behavior in class or other areas of the school.

3. Any breech of the players code of conduct.

Players Code of Conduct

1. I will remember that coaches and officials are there to help me. I will accept their decisions.

2. I will exhibit positive behavior at all times.

3. I will take all practices seriously, if not I may be removed from the team.

4. I will play by the rules and in the spirit of the game.

5. I will control my temper – fighting and/or “mouthing off” will mean I will be disciplined and will be removed from the team immediately.

6. I will respect my opponents.

7. I will do my best to be a true team member. There is no “I” in team.

8. I will remember that winning isn’t everything – that having fun, improving skills making friends and doing by best are important.

9. I will acknowledge all good plays – those of my team and of my opponents.

10. I will attend all scheduled practices or will make notice to the coach prior to practice if I cannot make it.

1. Students are responsible for knowing their own exam schedule. If a student misses an exam because s/he forgets his/her exam schedule, the mark for that exam will be 0%.

2. Anyone late for exams will be admitted to the exam room provided no one writing his/her exam has left the exam prior to their late arrival. No additional time will be given to write that particular exam.

3. No student may re-enter the exam room after he/she has left.

4. Students must provide all items necessary for writing their exams except paper. Paper will be provided and exams will be written on exam paper only.

5. There will be no coats permitted in the exam room. If students feel they may be cold they are to bring a sweater with them. There will be no pencil cases permitted in the exam room. Students are expected to bring in pens, pencils, rulers and erasers in their hands.

6. Teachers will be checking all calculators and calculator cases being brought into the exam room.

7. Any student caught cheating will receive a score of 0% in the exam. In addition, administration will decide upon the length of suspension that the student will serve. Cheating will include bringing course material into the exam room, talking to other students in the exam room, passing any materials to students, or any other activity that teachers observe that gives a student an unfair advantage in their exam.

8. Students who remain in school after they have written their exam will be supervised in a common area where they will study quietly. Students who do not wish to remain at the school after they have written an exam must provide a letter to administration from their parent which clearly explains the arrangement the parent has made for their child’s return home (if other than the Kindergarten bus). Teachers who are not supervising in the exam room will be available to help students with questions they may have. Any students who do not remain in the study area will be instructed by administration to contact a parent to pick them up to go home. At approximately 11:30 a.m. each day there are two Kindergarten buses leaving the school, one heading to Cappahayden and the other heading to Brigus South. These buses will be used for students wanting to go home to study.

9. Exams may only be missed in cases of illness or bereavement. A doctor’s note Must be provided for missed exams due to illness. This note is to be submitted to the principal upon the students return to the school. In a case of bereavement, the parent or guardian must contact the principal. Approval from the administration is required prior to the student being excused from writing the exam at it’s scheduled time. Individual cases will be judged according to circumstances.

10. Students will be assigned seating in the exam room. There will be no liquid ink/whiteout permitted in the exam room. These products have been banned from the school.

11. Delayed Opening/School Closure: In the event that school is closed for a morning session, the afternoon exams will go ahead as scheduled. The morning exams will be moved to the end of the exam schedule. In the event that school is closed for an afternoon session, those afternoon exams will be moved to the end of the exam schedule. In the event that school is closed for an entire day, the whole exam schedule is pushed back one day. For example, if school is closed for all of January 27^th, the exams scheduled for the 27^th will go ahead on the next day school reopens. All other exams will then follow in order.

12. No food or drink is permitted in the exam room except water.

Conditions of Use

1. The contact person of the group will be responsible for the proper use of the building and property.

2. Adequate and responsible adult personnel must be available to supervise when students are present.

3. The building will be left in the same condition as it was found. This includes:

a) All tables, chairs, bleachers, etc. must be put back in their proper place.

b) All garbage must be put in bags and then put in the garbage shed at the back of the building.

c) All equipment being used must be put back in its proper place before leaving the building and the appropriate rooms locked.

d) All lights must be turned off before leaving the building.

e) All doors must be locked and windows closed before leaving the building.

f) Inspect all areas used and eliminate any evident fire hazards before leaving the building.

g) Any damage or breakage must be reported to the school custodian.

h) Any costs of repairs due to damage caused by the group using the school must be paid to the school in full.

4. Use of tobacco, alcohol and illicit drugs are not permitted in the building or on school property.

5. The Eastern School District or the school principal has the right to cancel any agreement of school use at any time that they so wish.

6. This agreement can be canceled at any time by the School Board or School, but in any event, concludes on the last day of school in the current school year.

7. Rental fee is $15/hr.

8. Periodic emergency evacuation drills must be conducted.

9. The Eastern School District and Baltimore School will not be liable for any injury received by any participant or spectator, for the loss of, or damage to property, clothing, or personal effects of any person or group using school facilities after regular school hours.

At Baltimore School we strive to provide the best possible learning experience. As part of this we provide access to computers and the internet to reinforce and enhance learning. With the use of this resource, there are certain policies which are to be adhered to by everyone. We follow the Avalon East School District Computer and Network Acceptable Use Policy as approved on November 25, 2002

PREFACE

This policy includes the following sections:
• Statement of Policy
• Introduction
• Procedures
• Penalties for Contravention of Any of the Procedures
• Privacy
• Disclaimer
(This policy in its entirety can found on the Avalon East School District website)

The policy is as follows:

STATEMENT OF POLICY

The Avalon East School District, through its schools, is pleased to offer access to computer networks and the Internet. To ensure that these networks function smoothly all users must adhere to strict guidelines. In general, these guidelines require efficient, ethical and legal utilization of the schools’ network resources. Without exception, the following guidelines and
expectations apply equally to students, teachers, work term students, and any other person receiving a computer account or Internet account through the School’s computer network.

The District believes that, where possible, schools should provide access to current information technologies so as to prepare their students for the world they will enter after leaving school. Students should be able to select from a variety of information sources, including the Internet, to support and extend the intended learning outcomes described in the various curriculum
documents. Access and use of the Internet will allow students to obtain information from local, national, and international sources. Such access will also allow for collaboration with peers and experts to solve various curriculum-related problems and issues. Such collaboration and skills form the basis for success in the information age.

INTRODUCTION

Computer networks have been established for the enrichment of learning in the school. These networks provide students with the opportunity to prepare for the technological world in which we live, and provide access to online resources enabling integration in all areas of learning. The Avalon East School District is pleased to offer this access to our students and teachers. We believe the online materials, which are accessed through the Internet, offer a vast, diverse, and unique set of resources. It is our belief that this service will promote educational excellence in schools by facilitating the sharing of resources as well as innovation and communication in the teaching/learning process.

In addition to the vast educational resource base that may be accessed through the Internet, there exists material that may not be considered of educational value in the context of the school setting. Some of this material may be pornographic, racist, or in other ways offensive. The Avalon East School District firmly believes that the value of the information and the interactions
available on this world-wide network far outweighs the possibility that users may access material that is not consistent with the educational goals of the District. Access to the Internet is coordinated through a complex association of government, educational, and private agencies as well as regional and provincial networks. The smooth operation of this network relies upon the proper conduct of the various users who must adhere to strict guidelines. The policy described below will address acceptable use standards for students, and responsibilities of the Board, School, and Individual teachers to prevent misuse of these networks. These guidelines are provided here so you are aware of the responsibilities you have when using the computer
networks of the Avalon East School District to access the Internet. The signatures required for the User Agreements are legally binding and indicate that the parties who have signed have read the terms and conditions, understand their significance, and agree to abide by these terms and conditions as outlined herein. It is also understood that if a user violates any of the provisions of this policy, his/her access to the network and/or Internet will be terminated, and other disciplinary and/or legal actions may result. The issue of hacking is one that is covered in the Criminal Code of Canada, and thus for the student's own safety they should be made aware of these laws and consequences for failing to comply with them.

PROCEDURES

1001.1
Prior to issuing access to students, each school, which offers Internet access to their students, will clearly communicate with students and parents the purposes, benefits, and risks associated with the use of Internet resources.

1001.1.A
The Principal shall designate staff to manage the Local Area Network and Internet account granting (Network Administrator).

1001.1.B
Before a student is issued an Internet access account, the sponsoring teacher will ensure they have read and understood the responsibilities and requirements as delineated in this policy as well as the dangers associated with providing personal information to other Internet users.

1001.1.C
At least once each calendar year, the Principal shall invite parents to a presentation and demonstration of the Internet, its capabilities and associated risks.

1001.1.D
The Principal and/or Network Administrator shall ensure all staff are provided with information relating to the benefits and risks associated with using the Internet for educational purposes. Teachers shall provide this information to their students as part of their orientation process.

1001.1.E
The Principal shall facilitate staff development related to Internet access and curriculum use.

1001.1.F
The Principal or Network Administrator shall ensure all User Agreements are signed by the student’s parents or guardians and kept on file at the school.

1001.1.G
It is strongly recommended that schools refrain from the use of student names and pictures in school web pages. Where student pictures are to be used, it is the responsibility of the school to obtain permission, in writing, from the student’s parents or guardians. Schools are not to post any student bibliographic information to the Internet.

1001.2
The Avalon East School District, its schools and agents, have the right, but not the obligation, to monitor all computer use (both student and adult use) to ensure compliance with the regulations and expectations set forth in this policy. See “Privacy” section at end of policy statement for further information.

1001.2.A
All computer and Internet accounts may be examined without notice to the account holder to ensure compliance with this policy.

1001.2.B
All electronic mail (e-mail), both outgoing and incoming, may be examined at any time by the School/Network Administrator to ensure compliance with this policy. Students with ClassAct accounts must abide by the ClassAct Terms of Services (see Appendix G).

1001.2.C
No student shall have access to the Internet unless supervised by a teacher or other designated adult.

1001.2.D
Students in Primary and Elementary School shall not be permitted to conduct Internet searches unless a teacher or other designated adult is monitoring directly. Primary and Elementary students shall only access the Internet through “book marked” sites that have been examined and approved by their teachers.

1001.2.E
In the case of student violation of the rules, regulations or expectations outlined in this policy, the Network Administrator, in consultation with the school Administration and other faculty members will decide upon the appropriate action/sanction. In the case of an adult user violation of the rules, regulations, or expectations outlined in this policy, the Network Administrator will immediately inform the Principal. The Principal, in consultation with School District personnel, will decide upon the appropriate action/sanction.

1001.3
The use of the Internet is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use will result in a cancellation of this privilege.

1001.3.A
The School Administration and Network Administrator will determine what is inappropriate use and their decision is final.

1001.3.B
The Network Administrator may close an account at any time as required.

1001.3.C
The school administration, faculty, and staff may request the Network Administrator to deny, revoke, or suspend specific user accounts for reasons deemed necessary.

1001.4
The use of all Internet access accounts must be in support of education and research and be consistent with the educational objectives of the Avalon East School District and its schools. In the case of teachers and other professional staff, use of an Internet access account may also reflect STEM~Net’s Acceptable Use Policy (see Appendix F). Any unacceptable use will result in termination of the user’s account as well as access to the network/Internet. Depending on the nature of the offence, further action, including, but not limited to, notification of the police, may occur.

1001.4.A
Unacceptable use includes, but is not limited to
(a) Access to sites which contain information that is pornographic, racist, sexist, malicious, vulgar, immoral, or promotes or fosters hatred or illegal activities or which is prohibited by the School / Network Administrator;
(b) Use of the computer network for commercial or financial gain;
(c) Playing computer-based/web-based games unless specifically approved by the School;
(d) Using IRC (Internet Relay Chat) or unauthorized chat rooms;
(e) Using ICQ or other instant messaging programs unless specifically approved by the School;
(f) Subscribing to inappropriate news groups or accessing inappropriate BBB’s (Bulletin Board Services);
(g) Sending trivial or excessive messages such as electronic chain-mail; and
(h) Downloading of excessively large files unless specifically approved by the Network Administrator.

1001.4.B
Any student who accidentally accesses a prohibited site shall immediately exit the site and notify their teacher or the Network Administrator.

1001.5
Transmission or use of any material that is in violation of Canadian or Provincial laws, or of School, or School District Policy is prohibited and will be reported to the appropriate school or law enforcement authorities.

1001.5.A
Use or transmission of inappropriate material constitutes grounds for termination of all computer and Internet accounts.

1001.5.B
Inappropriate transmissions include, but are not limited to,
(a) Unauthorized copying, reproduction, downloading, use or transmission of files, programs, data, documents or information protected by copyright, trademark, trade secret, or by licensing agreements, user agreements, or similar contracts (This includes the downloading of illegal MP3 files and the duplicating or burning of CDs);
(b) The downloading, copying, reproduction, or transmission of threatening or obscene materials or materials demonstrating antisocial behaviors or activities;
(c) The transmission of materials associated with commercial activities;
(d) The transmission of materials/messages relating to or in support of illegal activities; and
(e) The use or transmission of materials used for political lobbying.

1001.5.C
Language in email is to be of the same standard as other forms of communication within the school setting. Therefore, use of profane, harassing, or otherwise inappropriate language is forbidden.

1001.5.D
Use of anonymous email sites or any other method of disguising source of electronic communication is forbidden.

1001.5.E
Account holders shall not post or transmit information that would reveal personal information about themselves or others (for example addresses, telephone numbers, or pictures).

1001.6
All account holders shall make security of the network a priority.

1001.6.A
The individual account holder in whose name a system account is issued is responsible at all times for its proper use and will be held accountable for any misuse.

1001.6.B
If an account holder’s password is known to anyone else, or if there is reason to suspect that someone has access to their password, the student should inform the Network Administrator and change their current password.

1001.6.C
Use of accounts by anyone other than the registered account owner is prohibited. If someone other than the registered user is using an account, both the unauthorised user and the registered owner will have computer privileges suspended or revoked.

1001.6.D
Users shall ensure they have logged off before leaving a computer.

1001.6.E
To "hack", to "crack", to access or attempt to access ANY computer, network, or resource files or data for which the account holder does not have authorization is strictly prohibited and will lead to immediate and permanent revocation of computer privileges. All incidences of such activity are to be reported to District Information Technology personnel. Please refer to the District Network Security Policy.

1001.6.F
It is the user’s responsibility to keep programs of a viral nature off any school computer. The user will be held accountable for any deliberate attempts at knowingly installing and/or running a computer virus on the school’s computer network.

1001.6.G
No student is permitted to download any software programs without the express permission of the supervising teacher or Network Administrator.

1001.6.H
No student is permitted to install any downloaded programs without the express permission of the supervising teacher and Network Administrator.

1001.7
No user shall interfere with the functioning of the school’s Local Area Network and/or related systems.

1001.7.A
An account holder who has knowledge of a violation to this regulation must report this to the Network Administrator. Violation of this expectation will result in immediate and permanent revocation of computer privileges.

1001.7.B Any account holder who feels they can identify a security problem on the school’s network must notify the Network Administrator immediately. Under no circumstances should the account holder demonstrate the problem to other users.

1001.7.C
No use of the Internet or School’s Local Area Network shall serve to disrupt the use of the Internet or School’s Local Area Network by others. Hardware and software shall not be destroyed, modified, or abused in any way.

1001.7.D
Any user identified as a security risk or having a history of problems with other computer systems may be denied access to the school’s computer network and/or the Internet.

PENALTIES FOR CONTRAVENTION OF ANY OF THE PROCEDURES

Depending upon the specific situation, the penalty for contravention of any of the above procedures will range from revocation of any or all computer privileges, and/or other disciplinary action including expulsion and/or criminal prosecution. Specifically, penalties may include, but not be limited to, the following:

1. Warning;
2. Suspension of computer and/or Internet privileges;
3. Termination of computer and/or Internet privileges;
4. Expulsion from a computer course or computer/Internet aspect of course;
5. Disciplinary action by the school including suspension and/or expulsion;
6. Criminal prosecutions under the Canadian Criminal Code or Provincial Statutes;
7. Civil actions where appropriate (e.g. intentional damage to the computer network, computer hardware, software, etc).

In the case of School District employees (Central Office Staff, Teachers, Administrators, Student Assistants, Support Staff, etc), sanctions, including termination of employment contract may also occur. All users of the School’s Computer Network and Internet System are bound by the rules; procedures; and/or expectations outlined in this policy and are subject to the penalties/sanctions outlined herein.

PRIVACY

Though the School District and its agents respect everyone’s right to privacy, it must be understood that expectations of privacy are limited within the school setting. Students, teachers, and other computer account holders should view storage space on computer networks as analogous to physical storage space in student lockers and other school property. The account holder does not “own” the storage space; the school is providing this space for the convenience of the account holders. As a result, the School District and its agents or representatives have the right to conduct random searches of all ”computer accounts” to ensure compliance with the rules, regulations, and expectations set forth in this policy. Furthermore, account holders should be aware that the school computer network has software that creates regular backup files of all data and information contained in user accounts. These “backup” files may also be examined to ensure compliance with the rules, regulations, and expectations set forth in this policy. In the case of legal issues, these backup files will be made available to the appropriate authorities.

DISCLAIMER

Although this policy has been carefully drafted and reviewed, the School District assumes no liability for any errors, omissions or misinformation. The School District makes no warranties of any kind, whether express or implied, for the service that is provided. The School District shall not be responsible for any damages suffered by the account holder, including, but not limited to, loss of data resulting from delays, non-deliveries, misplaced deliveries, or service interruptions,whether caused by negligence or otherwise of the School and/or School District, by the errors or omissions of the account holder, or by third parties. The School District makes no guarantees of complete privacy. The School Board expressly denies any responsibility for the accuracy or quality of the information obtained via the Internet, and use of any information so obtained by the account holder is at the sole risk of the account holder.