Student Handbook 2010

- It is my RESPONSIBILITY to act in a way that does not tease, bother others or hurt their feelings. When conflicts occur, it is my RESPONSIBILITY to solve these conflicts peacefully through discussion.

- I have the RIGHT to be safe.

- It is my RESPONSIBILITY to move in an orderly manner throughout the building and behave in a way that does not threaten or physically harm anyone.

- I have the RIGHT to have my personal property respected.

- It is my RESPONSIBILITY to respect school property and the property of others.

Clements, Spencer and Gary Sova. Combating School violence: Practical interventions for managing disruptive students, conflicts, gangs and safety issues. Winnipeg, MB: New Directions in Discipline, 2000.

Welcome to Stonewall Collegiate Institute!!

High school is a place to find out who you are and who you will become! It is also the place to pursue your academic goals, make new friends, explore new interests, take part in extracurricular activities, choose a path in life, learn more about yourself, and have fun!!

It is important to stay on top of your studies so that you attain your goals and also have the time for all of the other things that high school life has to offer. We hope that this handbook helps you and your parents with some of the many questions that surround navigating your way through high school. Of course if you cannot find the answers to your questions in this handbook, don’t hesitate to ask someone – a fellow student, a teacher, a counsellor, or an administrator – we are all here to help!

If this is your first year at SCI – welcome, and remember that everyone else in your grade is new to this school too!! It will take some time before you know your way around - don’t be afraid to ask for help!

If this is your final year at SCI – this year will fly by for you and when Graduation approaches in June, you will wonder where the year went – don’t forget to work hard throughout the year and enjoy your last year with us!

To all of you, my advice is that you get involved in life at SCI! Whether this involvement comes in the form of sports, drama, volunteerism, music or student leadership opportunities - there should be something for everybody – you just need to give it a try!SCI is fortunate to have an involved and very dedicated staff that would be happy to help you fit into one of our many programs. Don’t be shy – being active in your school is a great way to ensure a rich high school experience!

Best of luck to each and every one of you in the upcoming school year!

Mrs. M. Ward

2011 - 2012 School Calendar

September 6 - Administration / Professional Development Day (no classes)

September 7 - 1st Day of Classes

September 29 - Picture Day

September 30 - Divisional Professional Development (no classes)

October 10 - Thanksgiving (no classes)

October 19 - Evening of Excellence 7:00 pm

October 21 - Professional Development S.A.G. (no classes)

November 2 - Grade 9 “Take Our Kids to Work Day”

November 4 - Picture Retakes

November 10 - Term 1 Interim Reports Issued

November 11 - Remembrance Day (no classes)

November 24 - Parent Teacher Interviews 5:00 – 9:00 p.m.

November 25 - Administration / Professional Development Day (no classes)

December 22 - Last day of classes before Christmas Break

January 9 - Classes Resume

January 26 - Term 1 exams begin

February 20 - Louis Riel Day

March 1 - Parent Teacher Interviews 5:30 – 8:30

March 7 - Grade 9-11 Information Evening

March 14 - Grade 8 Open House

March 23 - Last day of classes before Spring Break

April 2 - Classes Resume

April 6 - Good Friday (no classes)

April 13 - Administration / Professional Development Day (no classes)

April 19 - Term 2 Interim Reports Issued

May 21 - Victoria Day (no classes)

June 23 - Graduation

June 29 - Reports available for pick-up 9am – 12 noon

School-based exams 2011-2012

Term 1 - January 26 - February 1

Term 2 - Grade 12 June 10 -17

Grades 9 -11 - June 15 -21

Provincial exams 2011-2012

Grade 12 Consumer Math Project - April 23-30

Grade 12 ELA - June 4-7

Grade 12 Applied Math - June 11 & 12

Grade 12 Consumer Math - June 13

Grade 12 Pre-Calculus Math - June 14

Daily Schedule

Warning Bell - 9:00

Period 1 - 9:05-10:25

Break - 10:25-10:35

Period 2 - 10:35-11:50

Lunch - 11:50 -12:50

Warning Bell - 12:45

Period 3 - 12:50 -2:05

Break - 2:05 - 2:15

Period 4 - 2:15 -3:30

The High School Program

Students in high school gain credits for each course successfully completed. In order to obtain a High School Diploma, students will require 30 credits. All students are required to take certain courses during their four years of high school - these courses are listed as compulsory subjects. When a student fails to obtain a compulsory credit, the course must be repeated and is the first priority in terms of building a student’s timetable the following year.

2011 - 2012 Courses

The following list identifies courses offered for Grades 9 through 12. Please note that not all courses are acceptable for university and college entry. Check with guidance counsellors if you are considering further education.

Grade 9

All Grade 9 students are required to take the following compulsory subjects (5 credits)
English Language Arts 10F
Mathematics 10F
Science 10F
Social Studies 10F
Physical Education/Health 10F

Grade 9 students are required to take 3 of the following electives
Applying Info & Communication Tech I/II 15F
Art 10G
Business: Futures in Business/Start Your Own Business 15G/25S
Family Studies 10F
French 10G
Home Economics: Clothing/Foods 15G
Introduction to Drafting Design/Electricity Electronics Technology 15G
Introduction to Metalwork/Woodwork Technology 15G
Music: Band 10G
Music: Choral 10G

Grade 10

All Grade 10 students are required to take the following compulsory subjects (5 credits)
English Language Arts 20F
Geography 20F
Mathematics: One of:
Introduction to Applied/Pre-Calculus Math 20S
Essentials of Mathematics 20S
Physical Education/Health 20F
Science 20F

Grade 10 students are required to take 3 of the following electives
Art 20G
Drafting Design Technology 20G
Dramatic Arts 20G
Electricity Electronics Technology 20G
Family Studies 20F
French 20G
Home Economics: Clothing/Foods 25G
Mathematics (in addition to compulsory)
Intro to App/Pre-Calc or Essentials 20S
Metalwork/Woodwork Technology 25G
Music: Band 20G
Music: Choral 20G
Retailing 20S
Web Design & 2D Animation 25S/35S

Grade 11

All Grade 11 students are required to take the following compulsory subjects (4 credits)
English Language Arts : One of:
Comprehensive Focus 30S
Literary Focus 30S
Transactional Focus 30S
History 30F
Mathematics : One of:
Applied Mathematics 30S
Essentials Mathematics 30S
Pre-Calculus Mathematics 30S
Physical Education
One of: 50% or 100%-IN Model 30F

Grade 11 students may choose up to 4 credits from the following list of electives
Art 30G
Biology 30S
Chemistry 30S
Clothing 30G
Digital Pictures/Desktop Publishing 25S/35S
Drafting Design Technology 30G
Electronics 30G
ELA (in addition to compulsory credit ):
Comprehensive Focus 30S
Literary Focus 30S
Transactional Focus 30S
Family Studies 30S
Foods & Nutrition 30G
French 30S
Mathematics (in addition to compulsory)
Applied Math 30S
Consumer Math 30S
Pre-Calculus Math 30S
Metalwork Technology 30G
Music: Band 30S
Music: Choral 30S
Peer Assistant 31G
Physics 30S
Promotions 30S
Woodwork Technology 30G

Grade 12

All Grade 12 students are required to take the following compulsory subjects (3 credits)
English Language Arts : One of:
Comprehensive Focus 40S
Literary Focus 40S
Transactional Focus 40S
Mathematics: One of:
Consumer Mathematics 40S
Pre-Calculus Mathematics 40S
Physical Education
One of: 33% or 100%-IN Model 40F

Grade 12 students may choose up to 5 credits from the following list of electives
One of:
Art 40S
Art 40G
Biology 40S
Calculus 45S
Chemistry 40S
Clothing 40S
Digital Film Making/Interactive Media 25S/35S
Drafting 40G
Dramatic Arts 40S
Electronics 40G
ELA (additional to compulsory)
Comprehensive Focus 40S
Language & Transactional Forms 40S
Literary Focus 40S
Transactional Focus 40S
Family Studies 40S
Foods & Nutrition 40S
French 40S
Jazz Band 40S
Law 40S
Mathematics (in addition to compulsory)
Consumer Math 40S
Pre-Calculus Math 40S
Metalwork Technology 40G
Music: Band 40S
Music: Choral 40S
Peer Assistant 41G
Physics 40S
Psychology 40S
Woodwork Technology 40G
World Issues 40S

Alternate Options for Obtaining High School Credits

Distance Learning

Students have the option of taking some senior high courses through the Distance Learning Branch. Distance Learning courses may be taken by students who wish to obtain extra credits (beyond those offered at SCI) or who are missing credits required for graduation. Students taking Distance Learning courses must be able to work independently and must be motivated and self-disciplined as each course takes approximately one hundred hours to complete. More information and registration forms are available in the Guidance Centre.

High School Apprenticeship Program (up to 8 credits)

This option is available to Grade 11 and Grade 12 students who are at least 16 years of age. It combines regular Senior Years academic credits and on-the-job training. Students can earn up to 8 academic credits towards graduation while accumulating training hours in a trade of their choice. Students are granted one credit for every 110 hours of training they successfully complete.

Students must find a qualified tradesperson who will train them. An agreement between the student and employer is then forwarded through the school to the Apprenticeship Branch. Students will be enrolled in courses at school to satisfy the compulsory academic requirements for graduation, and when not in school, these students work for their employer and are paid a trade-regulated wage.

There is a fee of $50.00 to register with the Apprenticeship Branch. This fee covers all credits earned in their chosen trade. Please see Mr. Cassils for more information.

Other options for gaining credits…

Students have several options for gaining credits outside of the many traditional opportunities provided at SCI.

InForm Net - students who wish to complete courses online should check the course offerings available through InFormNet www.informnet.mb.ca

Community Service - students are eligible for 1 community service credit during their high school years if they have volunteered their time beyond the regular school program. 110 hours of volunteering is required for a full credit. Students must speak to a guidance counsellor.

Cadets - students involved in Cadet training may qualify for high school credits (up to 2 beyond the minimum required for graduation)

Private Music Option - students who successfully complete private music examinations with the Royal Conservatory of Toronto or the Western Board of Music may receive high school credits (up to 4)

Dance - students who complete senior dance levels with the Royal Winnipeg Ballet may receive high school credits (up to 4)

Special Language Credit -students with skills in languages (including sign language) may receive high school credits (up to 4)

Students and/or parents are encouraged to contact one of SCI’s guidance counsellors for more information regarding any of the above-mentioned alternate options for gaining high school credits.

Evaluation

As at least 70% of a student’s grade will come from course work, it is critically important that students stay on top of their daily work. Teachers will use a variety of assessment techniques to evaluate students. As evaluation methods will vary from subject to subject, it is crucial that students are aware of what is required in each course and accept responsibility for completing assignments and meeting deadlines.

Students are expected to be aware of scheduled tests and/or presentations. If a student is absent for a test or scheduled presentation, an explanation must be provided. Failure to do so may result in a mark of zero. Parents should contact the school regarding student absence, in any case.

Exams are to be written at the scheduled times. In the case of absence on the day of an exam, the school is to be contacted by the parent prior to the writing time. If school is cancelled (i.e. storm day(s) during the examination period), the examinations that were scheduled on the cancelled day will be written on the first day school re-opens. In such circumstances, the examination period will be extended.

The school year is made up of two terms. Each term has an exam week – one in January and one in June. Exams are 2 hours in duration with provision for an extra 30 minutes, if required, for final exams. Not all courses have exams – some have projects, presentations or demonstrations which take the place of an exam. Courses that do have exams have either school-based exams or provincial standards tests.

Provincial standards tests will be written in Grade 12 Mathematics (Applied, Consumer & Pre-Calculus) and Grade 12 ELA (Comprehensive Focus, Literary Focus, & Transactional Focus).

Report cards are distributed 4 times per year:
Term 1 Interim Report in November
Term 1 Final Report in February
Term 2 Interim Report in April
Term 2 Final Report in June

Attendance information and outstanding fee statements will be included in report cards which will be mailed to parents.

Final marks will be calculated as follows:

	Term 1 Course Work	Term 1 Exam	Term 2 Course Work	Term 2 Exam
Courses with no exams	50%	-	50%	-
Courses with school-based exams	35%	15%	35%	15%
Grade 12 ELA & Math	30%	10%	30%	30%

Discipline Guidelines

Students at SCI are expected to act in a responsible, respectful and cooperative manner. As a safe environment is a necessity, we strive to ensure that students are free from harassment, bullying and disrespect. Any student who chooses to threaten this safe environment in any way will be dealt with.

Matters involving discipline will be dealt with on an individual basis. Depending on the severity of the incident, the following strategies may be used to deal with students who choose to be uncooperative:

- 1-on-1 discussions with teachers - noon hour or after school detentions

- referrals to guidance counsellors - referrals to administrators

- restitution for damaged property - community service

- loss of privileges - suspension from class

- removal from extracurricular - removal from course/loss of credit

- suspension from school for up to five days

- recommendation to the Superintendent for suspensions up to six weeks and/or expulsions

According to the Interlake School Division’s Policies and the standards expected at SCI, the following unacceptable behaviour will be dealt with using the above-mentioned strategies:

- use of tobacco products on Interlake School Division property

- interference with the learning environment of other students

- disregard for classroom rules

- use of inappropriate language directed at any staff member

- inappropriate use of electronic equipment including cell phones, cameras, listening devices, etc.

- possession or use of alcohol or illicit drugs

- use of verbal or written threats, racial, physical and/or sexual harassment or abuse

- theft

- possession of items regarded as weapons

- physical aggression

- vandalism to school property

- disregard for school dress code

Suspension from school is a serious matter. If students miss scheduled tests or school-based exams during a suspension, they will receive a grade of zero. Other scheduled events such as in-class presentations and assignments taken in for marks will be dealt with at the teacher’s discretion - students may receive a grade of zero. Students on suspension are not allowed to participate in extracurricular activities for the duration of the suspension nor should they be on school property for any reason.

Discipline of Bus Passengers

If discipline problems arise on the bus, the driver will provide a report to the school principal. In addition to other consequences deemed necessary by the principal, students will have ridership privileges withdrawn for continued infractions of the following rules:

- Students shall obey the driver promptly and respectfully. The driver is in full charge of the conduct of students on the school bus.

- Students shall be held responsible for the condition of their seats. The driver has the authority to assign seats.

- Students shall be at their designated stop five minutes prior to the scheduled bus arrival time. Students shall follow all road safety rules.

- Classroom conduct is to be observed. Students shall sit facing forward, and shall not stand or move about the bus while the vehicle is in motion. Ordinary conversation is appropriate. Loud or vulgar language will not be tolerated.

- Students shall not throw garbage on the floor of the bus or out of the bus windows.

- Students shall not get on or off the bus except at designated points unless a note, signed by their parent(s)/guardian(s) or school office, requesting a different stop has been given to the driver.

- Extra students may only be transported at the discretion of the bus driver and will be transported only with prior approval of the driver.

- Students shall not eat or drink on the bus unless permission has been granted by the driver and/or the supervising teacher.

- Carry on items for regular school programs must be transported safely and shall ONLY be carried with the permission of the bus driver.

In addition to other consequences deemed necessary by the principal, the following process occurs in the Interlake School Division when students misbehave on buses:

First infraction verbal warning

Second infraction 2 day bus suspension warning

Third infraction 2 day bus suspension

5 day bus suspension warning for any subsequent offence

Fourth infraction 5 day bus suspension

Up to 6 week bus suspension warning (in consultation with the superintendent) for any subsequent offence

Fifth infraction Up to 6 week bus suspension

Student will not be reinstated on buses until a meeting is held with the student, parent, bus driver, principal and the superintendent or designate.

Further infractions May result in permanent loss of ridership privileges

NOTE: Not withstanding the above, students may be suspended from the bus for any infraction if their actions seriously jeopardize the safety of those on the bus.

Attendance Policy

Stonewall Collegiate has developed a comprehensive attendance policy in an attempt to allow students to gain as much success as possible. A lack of attendance can have a serious effect on student performance and achievement since a large portion of a student’s final grade is based on daily work. It is up to students to be aware of scheduled tests and presentation dates and to provide an explanation for any absences from such events - failure to do so may result in a mark of zero. It is also the student’s responsibility to discuss their absences with their teachers upon return to school and, with the teacher’s permission, make arrangements regarding any missed work including tests, quizzes, homework, etc.

Attendance is taken in each class. Any information received regarding student absence (phone calls and/or notes from parents prior to 3:30, field trip lists, extracurricular lists, etc.) is also entered into the computerized attendance system. With the exception of school sponsored activities such as field trips or extracurricular events, if a student is not in class, they will be considered absent. As well, students who miss more than 30 minutes of class will be marked absent. Students who leave during the school day must check out through the office. Similarly, any student who feels unable to attend a class must report to the office – a parent or relative will be contacted.

Occasionally, Grade 11 or Grade 12 students may be released from class if there are no teachers available to supervise during a teacher’s absence. Students are notified by means of a sign posted on the classroom door. In such cases, the same rules that apply to spares shall apply - students may utilize the Library or the MPR or they may leave the school grounds for that 75 minute period.

At the end of each day, automated phone calls will be made to the homes of students who have unexplained absences in any period during the day. If a parent/guardian wishes to establish a personal identification number so only they can access these automated phone calls, they may do so by contacting the school. The automated call does request that you call the school to explain your son/daughter’s absence – the absence will then be changed to an explained absence.

Students who are having attendance issues will be referred to an administrator. The student and administrator will meet to discuss the reasons for the absences and to review attendance in all courses. The administrator will ensure that the student understands the school’s attendance policy and will deal with future attendance issues faced by the student.

Parents/guardians will be contacted by the teacher when a student reaches:
4 absences in a half-credit course or in Phys Ed 40F 33%
6 absences in Phys Ed 30F 50%
10 absences in a full-credit course
The number of absences in each class will be included on the first three report cards (November, February and April).

If a student accumulates:
6 absences in a half-credit course or in Phys Ed 40F 33%
8 absences in a Phys Ed 30F 50%
12 absences in a full-credit course
the administrator and the teacher will discuss the student’s individual situation paying particular attention to the number of unexplained absences. After consultation with the teacher and the student, the administrator will contact parents/guardians. Based on the review process, a decision regarding the student’s continued attendance will be made. This may mean:
- continued attendance in the course
- continued attendance in the course with certain conditions applied
- denial of credit
- alternative program arrangements as appropriate
Parents/guardians will receive a letter indicating the decision regarding each review process. If the student is allowed to continue in the course, the situation will be revisited should the student reach 16 absences.

Students who reach the age of eighteen during the school year will be asked to sign a letter of consent allowing the school to stay in contact with parents/guardians. Students will be strongly encouraged to allow their parents/guardians to receive information from the school but in the event that this consent is not granted, all information will go directly to the student. Automated phone calls will continue to be placed to the student’s residence.

We hope that students and parents will do all that they can to support the school in the application of the attendance policy.

School Services

The Library is available to students prior to classes starting, during the noon hour, and after school. The Library provides students with reading and reference materials as well as a quiet place to study and to complete assignments. Internet access is available in the Library and in computer labs. Students may access approved sites only. A list of guidelines for use of the Internet is posted in the Library. Improper use will result in loss of privilege.

An office telephone is available for urgent student use. Parents and students are asked to keep the number of messages phoned in for students to a minimum. Students are asked to inform their employers that the school office will not be accepting calls for students regarding work.

All students are issued a lock and a locker. Use of personal locks will not be allowed nor will the sharing of lockers be allowed. It is the responsibility of each student to care for his/her own locker and ensure that it remains locked at all times. For reasons of security, we suggest that students do not share combinations with other students. As lockers are the property of the school, locker inspections do take place from time to time. SCI cannot assume responsibility for the loss of items from student lockers or from change rooms in the Gym. Do not leave valuables in the change rooms in the Gym – these rooms are very accessible and items can easily go missing.

The canteen will be open daily between 8:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Students are not to access the canteen during class time.

Students who drive to school may use the north parking lot as long as vehicles are parked along a fence-line that does not have lettered stalls (these are reserved for staff). Vehicles parked inappropriately may be towed at the owner’s expense.

Students at SCI often utilize community facilities such as Quarry Park, the outdoor rink, or the curling club. We do not request permission slips for these activities as students are not allowed to use vehicles and they walk with their teachers to these facilities. Please call the school if you have any concerns regarding off campus venues.

Counselling & Resource Services

Ms. Murray, Ms. Doerksen, Ms. Didychuk and Mr. Davidson are available for personal, academic and career counselling. In emergencies, counsellors are available at any time to meet with students – if the counsellors are not in the Student Support Centre, students should go to the office for help.

Students have the right to expect that anything they share with a counsellor will be confidential. Counsellors will respect and guard a student’s right to privacy and confidentiality. There are, however, certain situations that require counsellors to disclose information to someone else. These situations include:
- If the student or someone else has been or is in danger of being harmed.
- If the student gives a counsellor permission to share information.
- If a court orders the release of information through a subpoena.

Students interested in post-secondary opportunities should meet with a counsellor to ensure that the appropriate subjects for entrance requirements are being taken. Entrance requirements change frequently – it is the responsibility of the individual student to ensure that their course selections meet minimum requirements. Career information and university and college handbooks are available in the Guidance Centre.

Additional counselling personnel at SCI include an AFM (Addictions Foundation of Manitoba) counsellor, a Public Health Nurse, an Interlake School Division Psychologist, and student volunteers known as Peer Helpers. To access any of these services, students can speak with a guidance counsellor.

Resource support, including student volunteers known as Peer Tutors, is available to students who are experiencing academic difficulties. To access these services, students should speak to their classroom teachers or a resource teacher.

Extracurricular Activities

SCI offers a long list of extracurricular activities - sports teams, peer helpers and tutors, yearbook committee, drama, TADD, travel group - and everything in between!

Students are expected to exhibit appropriate conduct while participating in all extracurricular activities. These activities are considered to be an extension of the school program - all school rules apply even though most extracurricular activities take place outside of the regular school day. Remember, you are always representing your school.

Listen closely to the morning announcements to hear about meetings, tryouts, rehearsals, etc. Get involved!!

Grade 12 – it’s finally here!!

There will be many additional opportunities for students to get involved in their last year at SCI!!

A Leadership Team will be established at the start of the school year. To be eligible for the Leadership Team, students must:

- Be willing to help out and have some time to spare

- Be willing to act as positive role models for younger students

- Maintain satisfactory attendance and academic progress in all classes

- Maintain a behaviour record which illustrates an ability to cooperate with all students and staff

- Have school spirit!!

Although we will not have a student Grad Committee, there will be plenty of opportunities to help out with Grad preparation. Grade 12 students are encouraged to listen for announcements and sign up for volunteer opportunities as they arise.

The Class of 2012 will choose two Valedictorians just before Spring Break. It is a huge honor just to be nominated for Valedictorian! To be eligible for Valedictorian, Grade 12 students must:

- Have passing grades in all courses on all 3 Grade 12 report cards

- Maintain a behaviour record which illustrates an ability to cooperate with all students and staff

- Not be afraid to speak in front of 1500 people!!

ODDS & ENDS

Dress Code

Students are expected to dress appropriately for a learning environment. Students are not allowed to wear any form of headgear (headbands, caps, toques, or hats) nor are they allowed to wear sunglasses. Clothing with vulgar or suggestive pictures or wording, clothing with advertisements or logos pertaining to alcohol or drugs, clothing associated with gang membership, or clothing that is too revealing is unacceptable for school. Apparel that is offensive to peers and/or staff will not be permitted.

Electronic Devices

Listening devices such as iPods can be used in the hallways and in selected classes at the teacher’s discretion. Listening devices will not be allowed in academic classes but may be permitted in some practical courses such as Art or Foods. Regardless of the class, it is up to the teacher to decide if and when a student may listen to music. Listening devices used inappropriately will be taken from students and will be given to an administrator - parents will be contacted to collect the item.

Cell phone use is prohibited in the school. Cell phones should be turned off at all times to ensure that they do not “accidentally” go off. Students are to step outside if they need to use their cell phones during breaks or over the noon hour. Cell phones definitely disturb the learning environment and will be taken from students if they are in use in the building. When cell phones are taken from students, they will be delivered to the office where they will remain until a parent/guardian comes to collect the item. Cell phones will not be returned to students by means of a parent/guardian phone call – someone must physically come and pick the phone up.

Students should note that NO photographs or digital capturing of images of ANY person may be taken without the permission of the person(s) involved.

Visitors in the school

NO VISITORS will be permitted to accompany students in the school either to classes or during spare periods. Visiting friends or family members will need to make other arrangements while students are at school.

What To Do…

What To Do If
…if you are absent from class
…if you ride the bus to school
…if you need to use your cell phone
…if you want to change a course
…if your class is cancelled
…if you are looking for career information
…to find out about coming events
…if you need to see a counsellor
…if you have a detention
…if you are having difficulty with a course
…if you are not sure about the dress code
…if you want to sign up for Driver’s Ed
…if you need to drop a course
…if you have an exam conflict
…to get involved in extracurricular activities
…if you owe fees
…if the fire alarm rings
…if you need food
…to graduate
…if you are late for class
…if you want to be on the Leadership Team
…if you need to leave during the day
…if you need to use the Library
…if you have trouble with your lock or locker
…if you stay for lunch
…if you are upset about a mark
…if you want to be a Peer Helper
…if you want to be a Peer Tutor
…if your personal information changes
…if you need to use the phone
…if you want info on scholarships
…if you want to join a school team
…if you need help selecting courses
…if you are sent out of class
…if you smoke
…if you need to see a teacher
…if your textbooks are lost or damaged
…if you need a transcript of your marks
…if you need info about university or college
…if you are going on a vacation
…if you want to qualify for Valedictorian
…if you bring a vehicle to school

…if you are absent from class.

Attending all classes is the best way to ensure success! We assume students recognize the importance of attendance, but realize at times you may need to be absent for medical or other valid reasons.

If you know in advance you must miss a class, notify your teacher and make arrangements to get the work you will be missing. If you are absent for reasons you could not know in advance, have a parent notify the school and be prepared to catch up on missed work. Regardless of why you are absent, it is your responsibility to ensure that you have caught up on missed work. Obviously it is extremely important to speak with your teacher if you have missed a test, quiz, scheduled presentation, etc. Ask your teacher about arrangements to make up what was missed - then make sure you follow through! If, for example, you arrange to write a test in the Library - don’t forget!!

Absences will be reported on each report card, regardless of the reason. It is your responsibility to keep track of your absences as you may be asked to provide reasons should you reach 12 absences in a particular course and come under review. Keep track right from the start!

…if you ride the bus to school.

Bus students arrive at SCI between 8:25 and 8:50 in the morning. It is your responsibility to get to your locker and get organized for the day prior to the warning bell at 9:00. Likewise at the end of the day, it is your responsibility to get to your locker after last period, gather your work for the evening and proceed to the bus. There really is no time for visiting – the buses will not wait for you!

…if you need to use your cell phone.

Step outside the building!! Cell phones in use in the building at any time (yes, including noon hour and breaks!) will be confiscated. Once you lose it, a parent must come and pick it up and generally, they are not all that pleased about that! Turn them off when you are here and if you absolutely must use them – get outside!!

…if you want to change a course.

Most course changes are done at the beginning of the year and it may take a while before we get to each request. Course change request forms are available at the office – fill one out and leave it at the front counter. While you are waiting for us to call you, continue to attend classes as they appear on your schedule – we will give you a new schedule once the change is official. It will speed things up if you bring a note from a parent approving the change – then sit tight, we’ll get to you as soon as we can!

…if your class is cancelled.

If your class is cancelled, someone will come and take attendance and then “release” you or there will be a note posted on the classroom door. This will only happen on rare occasions (and only with Grade 11 & 12 classes) when a substitute teacher is unavailable. Students are then free to use the Library or the MPR as study areas, or to leave the building. Please do not disturb other classes by hanging out in the halls. Remember, one cancelled class means just one, not the whole day – if you do leave, make sure you arrive at your next class on time!!

…if you are looking for career information.

www.careercruising.com username: manitoba26

password: careers

…to find out about coming events.

Announcements will be read in each class at 9:05 – listen up! If you miss the announcements, ask at the office; there are always extra copies of announcements available.

…if you need to see a counsellor.

Drop in at the Guidance Centre and make an appointment. If the counsellors are busy, leave a note and they’ll get back to you.

…if you have a detention.

GO! Obviously you have made one wrong move already (it can happen) – don’t make it worse by missing your detention. Maybe if you get there on time and are as “good as gold” you’ll get out early!!

…if you are having difficulty with a course.

Everybody does from time to time! Tackle the problem right away before it gets out of hand! Start by talking to your teacher. Asking a few simple questions can often prevent major confusion! Arrange to get some extra help at lunch or after school and if you think you need more help than that, ask your teacher to refer you for a Peer Tutor.

…if you are not sure about the dress code.

Students are not permitted to wear:
-headgear (hats, toques, headscarves, etc.)
-t-shirts with suggestive messages
-clothing with advertisements or logos pertaining to alcohol or drugs
-revealing clothing
-sunglasses

…if you want to sign up for Driver’s Ed.

Listen for the announcements. When Driver’s Ed is about to start a new class, students will be invited to sign a sheet in the office. Don’t delay – it’s the one time that students rush to the office!! The classes are filled with the “oldest” applicants.

…if you need to drop a course.

This must be done through the office – don’t just decide to do this on your own without telling anyone! You must bring a note from a parent and leave a request at the office. Continue attending all classes until someone officially notifies you that you have been removed. We will need to ensure that you have the required courses before any courses will be dropped. Grade 9 & 10 students – sorry, you will not be dropping courses – this is only for Grade 11 & 12 students!

…if you have an exam conflict.

Report it to the office immediately!! A conflict is defined as two exams being written at the same time.

…to get involved in extracurricular activities.

JUST DO IT! Extracurricular activities will be advertised in the morning announcements – there are lots to choose from. You will have a much more enjoyable year if you get involved!

…if you owe fees.

Drop by the office before classes, at a break, or at lunch and someone will help you. Receipts will be provided – take them home to your parents.

…if the fire alarm rings.

Evacuate the building with your class. Stay together – your teacher will be taking attendance. Wait patiently for a signal to return to class. Teachers will be going over evacuation routes at the start of the year.

…if you need food.

There are vending machines available in the MPR and a canteen which is open for most of the day providing breakfast, hot lunches, and snacks in between! Leave yourself enough time to eat your food before class starts!

…to graduate.

Work hard! Students must meet all of the compulsory requirements and attain 30 credits for graduation in 2010 and beyond. If you are unsure of your status, check with a guidance counsellor. Don’t leave it until the end and hope to pull it off – it’s too important!!

…if you are late for class.

Don’t be!! You are expected to be in the classroom, ready to start, before the bell rings. If you are late, slip in quietly without interrupting the class and speak to the teacher at the end of class about your lateness (otherwise you may be marked absent). If lateness becomes a habit, you may be referred to the office.

…if you want to be on the Leadership Team.

You must be in Grade 12 and maintain satisfactory attendance and academic progress. Your behaviour record must indicate the ability to adhere to the rules of the school and cooperate with staff members and fellow students. Oh yeah…and…you must have school spirit!!

…if you need to leave during the day.

Report to the office! The office will issue a pink permission slip for you to give to your teacher. You will only be allowed to leave on a direct request from a parent, either by note or by telephone call. If you become ill during the day, report to the office. We will contact your parents and arrange for you to be sent home if need be. Students who do not check through the office will be considered to be skipping.

…if you need to use the Library.

The Library is available before and after school and during the lunch hour – feel free to use it at your leisure. Some video equipment is available on a sign-out basis – ask one of the Library staff for assistance.

…if you have trouble with your lock or locker.

You will be issued a lock and locker. It is your responsibility to care for your locker – don’t let things grow in there! We suggest that you do not share your combination with others so as to ensure the security of the contents and don’t keep large amounts of money or expensive belongings in your locker. If you have a problem with your locker or lock (like you can’t remember the combination), ask for help at the office.

…if you stay for lunch.

The MPR and some classrooms are available for students over the lunch hour. Wherever you choose to eat, clean up your mess!

…if you are upset about a mark.

Stay calm! Speak to your teacher – there may be something you can do to fix it!

…if you want to be a Peer Helper.

See one of the guidance counsellors if you want more information about becoming a Peer Helper.

…if you want to be a Peer Tutor.

See one of the resource teachers in Room 211 if you are interested in becoming a Peer Tutor.

…if your personal information changes.

If info such as parents’ work numbers, your home phone number, or your address changes, let us know at the office so we can keep our records up-to-date.

…if you need to use the phone.

If you need to call your parents, even if they are at work in Winnipeg, come to the office and ask if you may use the phone.

…if you want info on scholarships.

Listen to the morning announcements as much of the info about specific scholarships is posted there. If you want more info, see Ms. Doerksen. If you want to check out scholarships on your own, try www.studentawards.com or www.scholarshipscanada.com

…if you want to join a school team.

Listen for announcements and then speak to the coach for the particular sport you are interested in – try-outs are open to anyone – go for it!!

…if you need help selecting courses.

Information sessions are held each year with students as they move from one grade to the next. If you need more info, ask one of the counsellors or administrators.

…if you are sent out of class.

Don’t let this happen!! If you are asked to leave a class for misbehaviour, you will either be asked to wait in the hall (if so, do so quietly) or you will be asked to go to the office (if so, go directly to the office). If you are sent to the office because your behaviour is disruptive, you will be asked to write up what happened and then an administrator will deal with you.

…if you smoke

Try quitting!! If that doesn’t work, make sure that you get off school property before you light up! That means no smoking in the parking lot or on the sidewalks that lead out of the school – make sure you are completely off the property!

…if you need to see a teacher.

Try them at their classroom before classes start, over the lunch hour, or after classes are over. Don’t leave it until the last minute though – teachers do have other things to do – sometimes they have meetings or practices and may therefore be hard to find! If you cannot find a teacher, come to the office and someone will help you.

…if your textbooks are lost or damaged.

You will be charged for lost or damaged textbooks so take care of them! If you lose your textbook, let your teacher know and when you are assessed a charge, pay your fee at the office

.…if you need a transcript of your marks.

University and college applications often require a transcript of your marks – just drop in to the office and make a request and we’ll call you when it’s ready.

…if you need info about university or college.

Make an appointment with a guidance counsellor during a spare or at lunch.

…if you are going on vacation.

Bring a note to the office and let your teachers know – they may be able to provide some work – just what you want when you’re on vacation!

…if you want to qualify for Valedictorian.

You must be taking enough credits to graduate in June, have passing grades in all courses on all three Grade 12 reports, have a clean behaviour record and be willing to give up lots of time in May and June!!

…if you bring a vehicle to school.

Students may park in the North parking lot as long as space allows.
Do not park:
-in front of the dumpster or the garage
-beyond the no parking signs
-where there are signs indicating staff parking
-in the way of the buses

STUDENT HANDBOOK 2011 - 2012

Please click on any of the links below to view the documents.

TABLE OF CONTENTS