Ashern Central School Handbook
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Welcome to Ashern Central School!
Whether you are a student, a parent or guardian of a student, or simply a member of one of our communities, we welcome you to Ashern Central School. We have a long and proud tradition of offering our students strong academics, and a range of other interesting and enriching activities. We also value our students not as “adults in waiting”, but as fully realized persons in their own right. The staff of ACS is committed to helping our students grow in mind, body and spirit. Together we will learn with and from each other, support one another as we face the inevitable hurdles that life presents, and celebrate our successes.
Ashern Central School is a grades 5 – 8, and regional grades 9 – 12 school, educating students from Ashern, Moosehorn, and several surrounding communities. ACS is a part of the Lakeshore School Division.
Our enrollment is approximately 270 students, with 70 middle years students and 200 senior years students. Our staff this year consists of 22.7 teaching staff, 12 educational assistants, secretaries, a librarian, custodial staff and bus drivers.
ACS is proud of its multicultural nature, and the respect and tolerance developed by working, learning, and growing together. We may come from different homes and backgrounds, and have different strengths and talents, but we are all members of the ACS community.
This handbook has been designed to provide students, parents and guardians with information about Ashern Central School, and we hope you will find it helpful. If you cannot find what you are looking for,
do ask us! We are available by phone, by email or in person.
To our students, a couple of pieces of advice:
Firstly, don’t be afraid to jump into one or more of the teams, clubs, or activities available to you outside of your regular classes. You’ll meet and get to know people in a way that enriches your life and theirs, and you may just uncover hidden talents and strengths that you didn’t know you had.
Secondly, remember to focus on your coursework. Paying attention in class, completing assignments and studying is a time-honoured way to grow and prepare for the rest of your lives. Education, it has often been said, is your ticket to your future. If things go “off the rails”, don’t despair. This happens to all of us. Rather, ask for help. We will help you through those tough times, if you will just work with us – we promise.
Our very best wishes to everyone for a fulfilling, exciting, rewarding year!
Mr. MacNeil and Mr. Chartrand
Daily Schedule:
8:35 - 8:50 Bus unloading and Breakfast Program
8:55 - 9:00 Opening Exercises (National anthem and announcements)
9:00 - 10:15 1st period
10:15 - 10:30 Break / Recess
10:30 - 11:45 2nd period
11:45 - 12:45 Lunch
12:45 - 2:00 3rd period
2:00 - 2:15 Break / Recess
2:15 - 3:30 4th period
Opening Exercises:
Senior Years students are to attend opening exercises in their 1st period class.Those who do not have a scheduled class in the 1st period should be in the library or the multipurpose room. These students are urged to check the morning bulletin posted outside the school office for items relevant to them. Items for the morning bulletin must be submitted to the office by 8:30 a.m.
Students with Spares:
Senior Years students who do not have a regularly scheduled class are to remain in the library, the multipurpose room, another room as agreed upon with the school administration, or away from the school grounds (with permission from the school administration).
Signing in and out:
When leaving the school, students are expected to sign out at the office, and to sign in when re-entering. The school is required to know where students are throughout the school day.
Outside Doors:
All school doors are opened in the morning. After opening exercises
(at 9:00 a.m.), all doors except those at the main front entrance are locked so that we can monitor visitors to the school.
Break / Recess:
All students, grades 5 – 12, must remain on school grounds during breaks. Middle years students are expected to participate in outdoor activities after arriving at school in the morning, and during their recesses, weather permitting.
Parents/guardians, please ensure that your children are dressed appropriately for the weather so that they are comfortable while outside.
Lunch:
Students have a canteen available until approximately 12:10, which provides a variety of healthy food choices for purchase. Students may remain in the school’s multipurpose room to eat, or go outside as weather permits. Students in grades 5 and 6 will be expected to go outside following their lunch for the remainder of that hour. All other students may choose whether to be inside or outside of the school. Sunflower seeds are not to be eaten at ACS.
Health and Wellness
ACS is “Nut-Safe” and “Fish-Safe”
We have students enrolled at Ashern Central School who may have severe, life-threatening reactions to peanuts, peanut butter, or other products containing nuts. Some students may also be allergic to fish and fish products, especially those which have strong odours.
It is extremely important that no products be sent or brought to school which may contain, or have been exposed to peanuts or other nuts, or fish or fish products.
Students should engage in frequent hand-washing, and brush their teeth if they have touched or consumed such products, even at home.
Accidents or Illness at School
Should a student become seriously ill or incur an injury which requires medical attention beyond normal first aid, the following procedures will be followed:
- a parent or emergency contact person will be called to take the child for medical treatment.
- if no contact person is available, the child and a member of the school staff will travel to the nearest medical facility for medical assistance (normally, Lakeshore General Hospital).
- if an ambulance is needed, the school will call for one. The cost of the ambulance will be reimbursed to the parent/guardian by the divisional insurance plan.
The action chosen will be determined by the severity of the condition and the availability of the parent or guardian. An accident report (if applicable) will be filled out at the school and a copy forwarded to the Division Office.
Student Accident Insurance is recommended. Forms are distributed at the beginning of each school year.
If a student brings medications to school, please be advised that staff members cannot administer medication (e.g. Tylenol, inhalors, etc.) to students. Exceptions may be made on a case by case basis, in which case:
- Written authorization by a parent or guardian is required before any medication may be given to students by school staff. This authorization must include:
- the child’s name
- the name of the drug
- its dosage and method by which it is to be administered
- the time(s) when it is to be given to the child.
- It is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to ensure that the medication is safely delivered to the school office.
- The medication will be stored in a safe place in the school by the principal or his/her designate.
- Copies of the written authorization will be placed in the student’s cumulative file.
Parents/guardians are encouraged to notify the school of any possible side effects, including effects on the student’s behaviour, which may accompany taking the medication.
A breakfast program serving nutritionally appropriate food and beverages (e.g. fruit, toast, juice etc.) is available to all students free of charge between 8:30 and 8:50 each morning. Any parents/guardians interested in volunteering (regularly or occasionally), or who would like to donate food or cash to the program are asked to call the school. We’d welcome the assistance.
Middle years students may access the breakfast program in the Lifeskills room upstairs.
Senior years students will be informed of the location of the breakfast program.
This program is funded through grants and donations made specifically for this purpose, and does not utilize school funds.
The cafeteria is located in the multipurpose room. It is open during breaks, and again throughout the lunch hour.
A variety of homemade snacks and meals are sold, as well as prepackaged snacks. Prepared meals and snacks are made with nutrition guidelines in mind. Some favourite foods are served utilizing recipes that reduce fat, sugar, salt and caloric content while still proving to be popular with students and staff.
All foods are trans-fat free (to the best of our knowledge).
Weekly and/or monthly menus with their prices are posted beside the cafeteria. Feedback from students, staff and parents/guardians is always welcome.
Student Conduct (“School Rules”) and Other Information
When students register for school, we collect important personal and medical information. It is very important that this information is correct, and kept up to date. It is also important that we know who the student’s legal guardian is, as well as other persons that he/she may be living with, such as foster parents.
If you move, and/or change your phone number, email address etc., please notify the school so that we can keep these records up to date.
Registration for Courses:
In senior years, students have some choice in the courses which they elect to take. All courses chosen will be selected with help from the guidance counsellor, and must be acceptable to the school administration. Course additions, changes and withdrawals must be approved by the administration.
If a student is having difficulty finding courses within the timetable that he/she would like to take, the guidance counsellor may be able to suggest other options, such as distance education or WebCT courses. Students and their parents/guardians are encouraged to contact the guidance counsellor if you would like to explore these other options.
School Closure and School Bus Cancellation
Adverse weather conditions, e.g. blizzards or freezing rain, or other rare situations may cause school disruptions, including school closure.
For families, instead of calling the local school trustee or the school principal, the best sources of information about this are the radio, radio station websites, or the Lakeshore School Divison website. Radio stations which are notified by Lakeshore include: CJOB 680; CKDM 730; CFRY 920; CBC 990
Normally, one of two announcements will be made:
- Schools Closed When an announcement is made that “Schools are closed”, students must not attend. Only a few designated staff members will be at the school; all other staff members are not required to attend.
On days when children are at school and weather develops that creates extremely hazardous conditions for travel on the roads, the children will be kept in school until the situation improves, or until the division superintendent gives other instructions.
Students will not normally be sent home early on days of inclement weather.
Only the superintendent or his/her designate may close the schools.
- Buses Not Running When an announcement is made that the school buses are not running, all students are requested not to attend school. All staff are expected to attend.
- This will normally occur when the temperature is below - 40 degrees, or when the wind chill is below - 45 degrees in a particular area of the division.
Guidance Counsellor:
Mr. Bain is our guidance counsellor. He is available for personal, academic and career counselling. Mr. Bain will also coordinate the scheduling of students into their courses, and will work with graduating students to ensure that they are prepared and able to enter desired post-secondary programs or an immediate career. The guidance office is found on the first floor, to the left of the main entrance as you enter the school. There are many resources available there, particularly for post-secondary and career planning. Parents and guardians are also welcome to peruse these. In the event of an emergency, students should go to the office for help if Mr. Bain is unavailable.
Resource:
Mrs. Plohman and Mr. Boblinski are ACS’s resource teachers. They will be assisting students who require individualized programming, and working with our educational assistants and selected teachers to provide individual and small group supports. They will also carry out any necessary testing of students to determine their needs, and will coordinate links with services outside of the school. These would include, for example, accessing a speech/language pathologist, psychologist, addictions counsellors, etc.
Success Coach:
Miss Halldorson is the school’s success coach. One focus of her work will be on helping students entering ACS for the first time to successfully transition into the school. Miss Halldorson will also work with students who are experiencing difficulties with their academics, or with other aspects of their life at ACS.
Student Success Initiative:
Mr. Chartrand will coordinate the school’s participation in the Student Success Initiative. This initiative, funded by the province and entering the 2nd year of a 3 year program, is meant to assist select schools in Manitoba to identify and support students who may be at risk of not succeeding in school. As vice-principal, Mr. Chartrand will also work closely with students and their families who exhibit behaviours which are not appropriate to a school setting, in order to ensure that all students and staff experience a safe, supportive environment for learning.
Students have a right to know that information shared in confidence with any staff member will be confidential. However, certain situations require that staff, including the guidance counsellor, must 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 the staff member permission to share the information.
- if a court orders the release of information through a subpoena.
Students at all grade levels are normally required to remain on the school grounds at all times during the school day, from the time they arrive in the morning until they leave for home at the end of the day.
This includes breaks, spares, before the start of school in the morning, etc.
Except during the lunch hour, if you wish for your child to have permission to leave the school grounds on a regular basis, please provide a letter to the school office indicating this permission. There should be a compelling reason for this permission, and if we do not think that this is in the best interests of the student, we will be in contact with you.
Lunch: We will “presume” that all senior years students have permission to leave school grounds at lunch, unless you provide the school office with a letter withdrawing that permission.
The lunch hour presents a special case, as a very large number of senior years students would like to leave the school grounds to go home for lunch, to various restaurants or stores, or simply to walk around town. You should know that it is very difficult for us to monitor students leaving the school grounds; we can only promise to let you know about problems as we become aware of them.
Middle years students are required to remain at the school throughout the lunch hour unless they are going home for lunch.
Spares: We will also presume that senior years students who have a scheduled spare have permission to leave school grounds during that period. Again, if parents / guardians wish to withdraw that permission, please provide the school office with a letter to that effect.
Signing in and out: Other than during the lunch hour, students leaving the school grounds for any reason, with permission, will be required to sign out at the school office, and to sign back in if/when they return.
Please note that the school retains responsibility for students throughout the school day, even while they are off school grounds. During this time, “school rules” still apply.
Electronic devices include cell phones, music players, tablet computers etc.
Our policy on students having electronic devices in school is very straightforward.
These devices are not to be used in class or in the library, and should be turned off and kept out of sight. Any device seen to be used by a student in class or the library, or a cell phone or other device ringing, may be confiscated by a teacher or other staff member. It may be kept until the end of the day, or longer if the student responds inappropriately, or if this is not the first instance of this happening.
A parent/guardian may be asked to pick up the device if it is deemed appropriate to do so.
Cell phones, music players and other electronic devices may be used in other parts of the school, when students are not in class, unless a staff member requests otherwise. Individual teachers may consult with school administration to temporarily allow for the use of electronic devices in class, for a specific purpose.
Recording devices such as cameras are not to be used by students without permission from staff.
It is absolutely important that text messages and other forms of social messaging not be used to spread rumours, to threaten or intimidate others, etc. Instances where students use technology to engage in these behaviours may result in a long-term or permanent loss of the privilege of having or using these technologies in school.
Ashern Central School insists upon the wearing of clothing that is appropriate to a learning environment, including during field trips to other locations. For this reason, no one may wear clothing that is too revealing of the body (e.g. very short shorts, bare midriff, visible underwear, etc.), or which displays objectionable language and/or messages such as alcohol or drug advertising, or which promotes violence.
Hats, caps, bandannas and other headgear such as hoods, and sunglasses may not be worn inside the school building.
All outdoor clothing such as hats, jackets, coats and boots are to be kept in lockers during class time.
Shoes that mark or scratch the floor, or which cause unnecessary noise will not be allowed in the school.
Middle years students are expected to have an “indoor” pair of shoes which are kept at the school.
Appropriate running shoes and a change of clothes is required for all students in phys. ed. classes.
If a student is at school wearing inappropriate clothing, he/she will be expected to change into something more appropriate, and/or may be removed from the classroom to work elsewhere.
Lost and Found boxes are located outside the main office, and in the middle years area of the school.
Found items, and items collected by staff from unassigned lockers and other areas of the school will be placed in the lost and found boxes. Textbooks and library books will be returned to the library, and school equipment (e.g. sports equipment, tools etc.) returned to that part of the school.
Items which are not claimed from the lost and found boxes will periodically either be given away or disposed of. Students who lose items and/or their parents/guardians are urged to check these boxes as soon as an item goes missing.
Small items, such as jewellery, eyeglasses etc. are normally kept at the office, and may be claimed there.
What to Do if You Have a Concern at Your Child’s School
When problems arise, respectful, prompt and open communication is essential. Please contact us as soon as possible to have a discussion about the matter.
The steps to follow:
- Talk to the person concerned first, e.g. the child’s teacher.
- If you can’t resolve the issue, contact the principal or vice-principal.
- If you are still not satisfied that the issue is resolved, contact the division’s superintendent.
We want to work with you to ensure that your child is safe, successful and happy at school.
Of course, we’d love to hear from you when things are going well too!
Since lockers, desks etc. are the property of the school, they may be searched at any time.
- All students will be assigned their own individual locker. Students may not share lockers with each other. Lockers must be kept locked at all times.
- Students are expected to keep their lockers clean and well organized.
- Students are encouraged to keep essential school supplies, books and binders, and outerwear in their lockers.
- Students should not keep valuables, especially money, in their lockers. If these must be brought to school, they should be kept on the person of the student, or they may be left for safekeeping with a member of the office staff.
The school is not responsible for articles or money lost or stolen while students are at school.
- It is also important that students not leave valuables in the gym change rooms. These rooms are very accessible to other students, and items too often go missing when left in the change rooms.
- Materials left on top of lockers, or inside unauthorized lockers, are discarded at the end of the day, or placed in the lost and found boxes.
Locks:
- Students will be required to rent a school-issued lock from the school at a cost of $10.00. At the end of the year, the student may return their lock, and receive a partial refund of $5.00.
- In the event that the school administration has a reason for wanting a student to open his/her locker, the student will be given an opportunity to open the locker voluntarily. If the student refuses, school administration will open the lock using a master key.
- Combinations are not to be shared with other students.
As noted elsewhere, students are charged a mandatory fee for the rental of a school lock.
Fees may also be charged to students in other instances, such as for:
- consumables used in Home Economics and Industrial Arts courses, and others as deemed appropriate.
- sports teams and other extracurricular activities.
- educationally related school (class) trips.
- participation in the band/music courses.
Some courses also require that the student invest in specialized equipment. For example, a student may need a graphing calculator for an advanced math course, or an instrument for a music course.
Students may be involved in various fundraising activities throughout the year to reduce some of these costs. We appreciate your cooperation with these endeavours.
Students are asked to respect the school and its grounds by placing all garbage and other litter in waste containers provided for that purpose.
Damage to school property is to be reported to the office immediately. It is not the policy of the school to charge students for accidental damage incurred through normal use.
Students who break or damage equipment or other school property through inappropriate behaviours will be charged for their repair or replacement.
Intentional vandalism and/or theft is a serious offence. The school will respond with appropriately severe consequences, and these actions may be reported to the RCMP.
Textbooks, Library Books, and other school equipment
Textbooks are issued for courses as the teacher deems appropriate. These textbooks are school property, and are expected to be returned in a similar condition as when they were distributed.
Our school library is well stocked with a wide variety of fiction and non-fiction resources. These may be signed out for a specified period of time.
If books or other equipment have been significantly damaged or lost while in the student’s care, a fee will be charged to cover their cost.
Financial Indebtedness to the school
Unpaid library fines, fees for locks, courses and extracurricular activities, and money owed for lost or damaged books and equipment and vandalism are considered an indebtedness to the school.
Students in this situation will be denied participation in any extracurricular activities hosted by the school. Report cards and transcripts will be stamped “MONIES OWING”. It is in the student’s best interest to remedy these situations as soon as possible.
The library at ACS is normally open from 8:35 – 4:00, including during the lunch hour.
The library has a wide variety of books and magazines available for use as resources, and for personal reading. There are also a number of computers in the library which may be used to access information on CD-ROMs and the Internet, and for word processing and other software needs.
To facilitate the use of our library and reduce the loss of materials, the following rules are in effect:
- Students may be checked as they are leaving the library to make sure they have no library materials with them which have not been signed out. This includes checking such student items as purses, gym bags, backpacks etc.
If library materials are found outside of the library which have not been signed out properly, this may be treated as theft.
- The standard loan period for books is one week, with an additional one week renewal period.
- A maximum of two books may be signed out at one time.A late fee of $0.25 per book per day will be charged on overdue books and other materials.
- Students who have outstanding late fees may not sign out more books, or use computers in the library, until all charges have been paid in full. These students may be denied any access to the library at all, except as part of a whole class activity as part of a scheduled course.
- Students are expected to be thoughtful of others by remaining quiet, or speaking very softly while in the library.
- Students must abide by the school’s computer and Internet use policies while in the library. These computers are not to be used for playing games, watching videos (Youtube etc.), listening to music etc.
- If students must print from computers in the library, they should check “Print Preview” before printing to ensure that only a reasonable number of pages are printed. It is preferred that materials be copied from a source, and pasted within a Word or other document rather than printing.
- Students coming to the library during class periods must have a library pass from the staff member sending them. Without this pass, students may be sent back to their class.
The services of the principal and vice-principal, guidance counsellor, success coach and other staff are available for all students. Students have the right to seek information, counselling, and help. Feel free to approach any of the office staff with any problems or questions that you may have.
General Office: Materials from the office are to obtained from one of the secretaries. At no time should students take materials on their own. Students are to wait in the reception area until someone is available to assist them. If a student wishes to speak with a staff member who is unavailable at that moment, a message may be left with one of the secretaries.
School Phones: Students and staff will not be called from class to the telephone unless an emergency exists. Personal phone calls should be made and received at home. The office will forward necessary messages to students at breaks or noon hour periods. The school cannot be responsible for searching out students who do not come to the office for these messages when called.
Students should not be using school phones unless a staff member has provided a note indicating that this is necessary. There are pay phones available in the school for student use, which are not to be used during class periods. Middle years students may not use the pay phones during recesses.
It has been communicated that racism is absolutely not tolerated at Ashern Central School.
In this school we respect various cultures, creeds, and all races.
We do not differentiate between our students from different communities and backgrounds.
All students attending here are simply Ashern Central School students.
Incidents of a racist, or otherwise discriminatory nature will be dealt with very seriously, and may result in suspension and/or expulsion from school.
Computer Facilities:
Ashern Central School provides computer facilities to enhance educational opportunities for our students.
It is important that this hardware and software be treated with respect, and that it not be tampered with.
Examples of the misuse of computer facilities would include such things as:
- deleting software
- changing computer settings
- tampering with a computer being used by another student
- tampering with cables
- running unapproved or inappropriate software, including games, without permission from a staff member.
Students who engage in this kind of misuse may be removed from class, and parents/guardians informed.
More serious infractions would include such things as:
- attempting to break or hack into system security
- infecting computers with a virus
- copying school software.
These more serious infractions may involve, in addition to removal from class, the loss of computer privileges in all classes for an extended period of time. There is the possibility of students losing credit in courses as a result of this misuse.
Internet Use:
Ashern Central School and Lakeshore School Division provide Internet access to students in certain situations for the purpose of enhancing and supplementing classroom teaching and learning.
The use of the Internet is a privilege, which may be revoked if a student is not using it appropriately and responsibly.
When students are using the Internet outside of a regular class setting, such as in the library during breaks or noon hour, they must:
- obtain an Internet pass from the staff member who is giving permission for its use.
- place the Internet pass on top of the computer while the Internet is being accessed.
- have appropriate supervision by the librarian, a teacher, or other staff member at all times.
Lakeshore School Division uses filtering technology to ensure that students are denied access to content that is morally or legally inappropriate.
Students are not permitted to:
- send, display or download offensive messages or pictures, including sexually explicit materials or hate literature.
- release personal information such as their address, phone number, family names, email addresses, etc.
- send public or private messages that include profanity, put-downs, sexual, racial, religious or ethnic slurs.
- bypass the division’s filters, or otherwise access Internet materials which are not to be accessed at school, such as Youtube or online games.
- willfully damage computers, computer systems or networks.
- violage copyright laws.
- use another person’s password.
- trespass in another person’s folders, work, or files.
- intentionally waste network or other computer resources.
- employ the network for commercial purposes.
- download and/or install unauthorized software, pictures, or music.
Violations may result in the loss of Internet access for the student in all courses, as well as other consequences and/or legal action. Parents/guardians will be notified in this instance.
The onus is on individual students to ensure that they are abiding by all expectations for the use of computers and the Internet. If you are unsure whether your use of these is appropriate, ask a staff member.
Given rising concerns about child exploitation via the Internet, Ashern Central School does not permit students to access chat rooms or email hosting sites such as Hotmail, Yahoo mail, Canada.com etc. Students may be granted Internet email services only when provided and approved by Manitoba Education, for purposes such as WebCT courses.
Student accounts may be monitored to ensure appropriate use.
Parents/guardians are strongly encouraged to monitor students’ use of the Internet at home.
Ashern Central School offers opportunities for students to become involved in a variety of activities outside of regularly scheduled classes.
School-based teams in many different sports are organized for students on an ongoing basis.
Other groups and activities such as the Yearbook Committee, Student Voice, TADD, Driver's Education (offered by Manitoba Public Insurance, and not a school activity), and intramurals are also available to interested students.
Participation in extracurricular activities has been linked to improved academic outcomes and attitudes for students. All students are strongly encouraged to consider participation in one or more activities.
A student’s participation in extracurricular activities is contingent upon taking a course load satisfactory to the school administration, and appropriate behaviours. Students who are suspended from school are also suspended from extracurricular activites during this time.
All school rules apply during extracurricular activities and transportation to and from these activities. Permission must be obtained from a member of the school staff before leaving the site of these activities, including travelling with a parent/guardian or other responsible adult.
Multipurpose Room, Hallways & other Common Areas
Student use of the multipurpose room, hallways and other common areas within the school is restricted during class periods to ensure the best possible learning environment within the school.
Students are encouraged to consume food and beverages in the multi. Senior years students may also do so elsewhere in the school, subject to these other areas being kept clean, and all garbage placed into appropriate containers.
Senior years students should not be present in the middle years part of the school unless they have been asked to be there by a member of the staff.
The school, and individual classes in particular, are a learning environment. Inappropriate student behaviours compromise that environment, and can make it difficult for the offending student and others to learn.
Teachers are given the responsibility to maintain an effective learning environment, and certain rights to enable them to see this through. Different strategies are effective for different teachers and groups of students, and teachers exercise their best judgment in choosing appropriate ways to create that environment.
Foods and drinks (except water, where permitted by the teacher) are not to be brought into classrooms.
Student Incident Reports: When students are disruptive in class, the teacher may fill out a “Student Incident Report” form. If the student is also removed from the class, he/she will bring be sent to the guidance counsellor, success coach, or to the office, and will bring the form with him/her. The form will indicate why the student was removed, and that the removal from class will count as an absence for the entire class period. Failure to do so may result in the student not being allowed back into that class.
The guidance counsellor, success coach or administrator will sign the form, and meet with the student to discuss what happened. The student may then be required to take the form home, have it signed by a parent / guardian, and bring it back to the classroom teacher the next day.
Please note that the use of this form by the teacher indicates that the student’s behaviour was very inappropriate and/or disrespectful, or that it has continued on a repeated basis (such as being frequently late to class).
In situations where a student’s behaviour severely compromises his/her ability and the ability of others to work and learn effectively at school, the school may require that the student be placed on a contract.
The terms of the contract will clearly set out the behaviours that require changing, supports provided by the school and the home, and what will constitute effective remediation by the student.
Parents/guardians will be invited to a meeting to discuss the terms of the contract. They, the student, and either the principal or vice-principal will be asked to sign the contract, indicating consent and willingness to help the student positively change his/her behaviour. All parties will receive a copy of the contract.
Should the student not meet the terms of the contract, the student may lose the right to attend school for the remainder of that school term (quarter or semester).
Bus Ridership and Safety
The school bus is the safest mode of transportation for students travelling to and from school, and for field trips and other extracurricular activities.
School administration is responsible for student behaviours while students are travelling on the bus; school rules apply. Bus drivers and the administration will ensure that students are aware of rules of conduct for travelling on the bus.
Students may lose the right to travel on the school bus if their behaviour is determined to be sufficiently inappropriate, or at all hazardous to their safety and/or the safety of others.
School Bus Loading and Unloading
On regular school days, school staff supervise the unloading of buses in the morning, and loading in the afternoon. All other vehicular traffic is banned from the lot in the front of the school between 8:30 and 8:50 a.m., and from 3:25 to 3:45 p.m.
Middle years students are to use the east door entrance when entering or leaving the school.
Senior years students are to use either the front or west door entrance at these times.
Students must not walk between buses that are in their loading positions.
Leaving the School at 3:30 Dismissal (Pedestrians)
Students not taking a bus may leave the school yard while the buses are loading at the end of the school day, provided that the following conditions are met:
- Vehicles may not leave the school yard; they may leave from the curling rink parking lot.
- All pedestrians are to exit the school lot by walking east or west away from the school, and staying well away from the buses.
- Pedestrians should use sidewalks where available, and stay well off the street where they are not (such as on Provincial Road 325 in front of the school).
- When buses are moving, pedestrians and vehicle traffic in the school or curling rink parking lots are to stop and wait until all moving buses have departed.
Parents and Others Driving Students to and from School
When another person is dropping off or picking up students during bus loading and unloading times, you are asked to do so to the east of the school lot (in front of the United Church). Passing a parked bus with lights flashing is a criminal offence, even at a school parking lot.
Students are then to enter the school yard east of the main lot, and to remain off the front lot until they reach the sidewalk in front of the school.
Permission to Travel on a School Bus
Bus drivers require a bus note signed by one of the office staff in order for students other than their regular passengers to travel on their bus.
Parents/guardians are expected to either send a signed, written note with the student, or to phone the school to provide permission for their child to travel on a different bus. Please inform the school prior to 3:00 of that day.
Alternate Plans for Bus Students
If a student has alternate plans for a regularly scheduled activity – hockey, figure skating, piano lessons, etc. – and will not be taking their bus home, parents/guardians may provide a single note to the school for that season.
If a student has alternate plans for a single activity or event, please inform both the school and the bus driver prior to 3:00 of that day.
Students and Vehicles
Many students bring vehicles to school. We strongly advise against this, as the school bus is the safest mode of transport for students. Parents and guardians are further advised that, should you allow your children to drive during the school day, you may be legally liable in case of accidents where minors are involved.
When students have vehicles at school, we are concerned about other students being in the vehicle with them. This is very hard for us to monitor. We ask parents/guardians to instruct their children not to be in vehicles with other students during the school day.
If students will be travelling in private vehicles to or from school, or during the day, parents / guardians are asked to provide the school office with written permission.
Students may park in the curling rink parking lot, except when this lot is required by the curling club, or where permitted on the street. Students may not park on school property. Power mechanics students are to make arrangements with their teacher if they are moving through the school’s parking lot.
Lakeshore School Division and ACS accept no liability for vehicles brought to school by students.
Extracurricular Trips and Field Trips
Reasonable efforts will be made to have students transported by school bus for these trips.
Where this is not possible, parents/guardians will be informed of alternate arrangements. Parents/guardians and other adults who provide transportation for students on school activities are required to have criminal record and child abuse registry checks completed.
Under no circumstances are students (including adult students) allowed to transport other students for school activities.
Student attendance is one of the very most critical factors in students being successful learners.
We urge you to support us in making every effort to ensure that students are at school on time, attending their classes, and that they are prepared for these classes in every way.
We appreciate your efforts in this regard.
When a student is away from class for another school activity, this is not considered an absence.
There is no such thing as an “excused” absence, nor is there an “allowed” number of absences. Rather, students are simply required to attend school and all of their classes as scheduled, unless they are too ill to attend, or there is another reason why they cannot be at school.
Contacting the School: If a student is absent for only one day, it is not normally necessary to notify the school. When students know in advance that they will be absent, their teachers should be informed prior to the absence.
We appreciate parents and guardians letting us know when students are away from school for
two or more days, and why they are absent.
Because of concerns about H1N1 and other communicable diseases, it is especially important that you call the school when you are keeping your children away from school due to a significant illness.
Public health authorities have in the past required us to let them know if more than 10% of students or staff are absent due to illness, and we can only know this if you notify us, as students may be absent for a variety of reasons. Thank you for doing so.
Attendance Notification: In middle years, we presume that parents / guardians and individual classroom teachers will be in contact with one another when students are away for extended periods of time, or if the number of absences from school becomes a cause for concern.
In senior years, individual classroom teachers are responsible for tracking individual student attendance in their classes. Absences and lates are recorded in Maplewood, the school’s organizational software program, and an automated phone call will let parents/guardians know that the student has been late or absent.
Please feel free to contact individual classroom teachers if you have any questions about the absences recorded, and especially if you have any concerns about the student’s progress in the course. You do not have to wait for “official” parent-teacher meetings to do so; we welcome your input and questions at all times.
Student Progress while Absent:When children are absent from school, they are inevitably missing work which is important to their learning, and this becomes of greater concern as the number of days absent increases. We encourage you to seek ways for our students to continue their learning while away from school.
Normally, the most efficient method of ensuring that this learning continues is to have a sibling, a friend, or someone else at the school collect their work and to bring it home to the student on the day they are away. Having a classmate do this is best, as the classmate understands the context of the daily work.
Ashern Central School does not have a “hard-line” policy on denying credit to senior years students when they reach a particular number of absences. We recognize that removing a student from a course is a very strong measure. However, we also do not believe that it is in the best interest of students that they be allowed to miss significant numbers of class periods, without an appropriate consequence.
When the number of absences in a course begins to seriously impair the student’s progress, and the student is demonstrating an inability or unwillingness to keep up with the work and learning necessary for success, we will try to be in contact with parents/guardians about the possibility of denying credit to the student in that class. The student and his/her parent/guardian may be required to meet with school administration and the teacher(s) to develop a plan to prevent this consequence, and appropriate indicators of remediation.
Normally, this would happen after the student has accumulated 6 or more absences in a quarter-long course, or 12 or more absences in a semester course, and where there is no justifiable reason for the student’s absences. In consultation with parents/guardians, we would determine reasons for the absences, and why the student is not succeeding.
We want to act in the best interest of the student, and of all the students in the course. If it is determined that this means denying credit in the course, all concerned will be notified.
Students being late/tardy to class
Students are expected to be in class and prepared to learn when the bell rings signalling the beginning of class. This includes having all necessary materials for the class.
Late Slips: If a student has a valid reason for being late to class, such as being kept back while speaking with a staff member, he/she is to present a late slip from a staff member, indicating that the late has been excused. This excused late will not be recorded by the teacher. If appropriate, this late slip may be obtained from a secretary or the school administration.
Consequences: If a student has been late to class without good reason at least twice in any 3 week period, he/she will receive a warning from the teacher of that class.
When the student is late a third (or subsequent) time in any 3 week period, and having received a warning, the student will normally be removed from class, and will meet with an administrator or the guidance counsellor or success coach to discuss the problem. The student may be asked to contact a parent/guardian during this meeting, and will need a note signed by the staff member before being allowed to return to class. The student may also be required to make up lost time by attending class during breaks, lunch hour etc.
Students missing from/skipping school: Hooky
Hooky is defined as students being away from school, and/or school activities (such as assemblies, ceremonies etc.), and/or their assigned classes without the expressed permission of their parents/guardians or the school. Particularly for senior years students, it is their responsibility to inform their teacher or the school office when they are not where they are assigned to be, and why this is the case, in advance.
Hooky is a serious infraction, and the consequences for hooky reflect that seriousness:
1st instance: The student will be called to the office to discuss the hooky, an official warning letter for the student will be issued to parents/guardians, and an effort will be made to contact parents/guardians by telephone or other means.
2nd instance: The student will be again be called to the office again to discuss the hooky, and the student will likely be suspended from school for one day, normally the next school day.
Again, an effort will be made to contact parents/guardians, and a letter will be sent indicating the consequence imposed.
3rd and subsequent instances: Parents/guardians may be asked to attend a meeting at the school to discuss the student’s continued attendance at the school. The student will likely be suspended for one or more additional days, at the discretion of the school administration.
As with all policies and procedures, the school administration reserves the right to consider circumstances relevant to the student and the individual case in administering this policy.
The use of tobacco products, including smoking, is strongly discouraged by Ashern Central School and Lakeshore School Division, and is prohibited by the division on school property.
Students who smoke on school property will be given a written warning. Further instances may result in more severe consequences, including detentions, possible suspensions from school, etc.
Tobacco products which are seen in the school or on school grounds may be confiscated and disposed of by school staff.
Permission for Photographs, Videos, etc. of Students
Ashern Central School will “presume” to have permission to take and use photographs,
videos etc. of students enrolled at the school.
We are well aware of the justifiable concerns of parents and guardians surrounding this issue. We assure you that these will not be made available to other persons or organizations without your expressed permission, and that they will not be made available on the Internet, except on blogging pages run by the individual classroom teachers.
If you do not want us to have this permission, please provide the school with a letter to that effect, and we will make every effort to respect your wishes. This may also be indicated on the registration form when students register at ACS.
Students have been told not to take photographs or video of other students during the school day, unless they have permission from staff at the school.
Ashern Central School is pleased to have a Parent Advisory Council. This is a group of parents and others who are interested in assisting the school to provide the best possible education for our children, including their intellectual, moral and ethical, cultural and physical development.
What do PACs do? PACs act in an advisory capacity to help schools and divisions develop effective policies and procedures affecting many aspects of school life. They may choose to organize and/or assist in fund-raising activities in the school. PACs are also very important in helping to facilitate communication between the school and students, parents/guardians, and community members and organizations.
Why join the PAC? This is one way to be involved in your child's education. By showing an interest, you are indicating to your child(ren) that education is important. When parents are involved with their child's education from an early age, the beneficial effects persist throughout the child's academic career.
Our overall level of achievement increases when parents/guardians are actively involved in the school.
If there is a specific issue concerning middle or senior years areas, please contact your representative, and he/she can voice it at the meeting for you if you are unable to attend.
PAC meetings are held once a month. Specific dates and times are available from any member of the PAC executive.
Whether through the PAC, or as individuals, we urge all parents and guardians to be active, involved partners in the education of our children. We welcome your questions, comments and feedback at any time. You are always welcome to contact the teachers of your children for information specific to their courses; it is not necessary to wait for “formal” parent-teacher conferences to do this.
ACS students and staff will prepare throughout the year for the possibility of an emergency. This involves planning for all imaginable circumstances, and practicing what to do and how to conduct ourselves should an emergency arise.
These practices include:
- School Evacuation Drills
- Fire Drills
- Lockdown Drills
- Bus Evacuation Drills
If it is likely that parents/guardians might have reason to be alarmed by these drills, we will attempt to contact you by sending a message home with students, and/or using the school’s automated telephone messaging service. This would also happen, of course, if an actual emergency were to occur.
Parents/Guardians are asked not to contact the school during an emergency, so that phone lines can be kept open to communicate with the RCMP, Division office, and outside agencies.
If a friend or relative of a student is to visit the school, especially during class hours, arrangements must be made in advance with the school administration. This is discouraged, and may be refused, as visitors can be disruptive to the learning environment in the school.
All visitors to the school are asked to check in at the office, and to let us know when they are leaving.
Visitors may be required to wear identification while at the school.
Lakeshore School Division Regulations and Procedures
Please note that Lakeshore School Division has a number of policies, regulations and procedures which relate to student conduct, rights and responsibilities. These are available on the division’s website, and/or from the superintendent or other division office personnel.
Many of these are incorporated into other parts of this handbook. Some others relate to:
- Interrogation and Searches
- Expulsions and Suspensions
- Responsibilities of Students, Parents/Guardians, and School Staff
- Bullying, Threats, Harassment, Abuse and Assault
- Possession and Use of Weapons
- Trespassing on School Grounds
- Vandalism and Theft
- Possession or Use of Drugs, Alcohol, and other Illicit or Intoxicating Substances
Ashern Central School will of course abide by the terms of these regulations and procedures.
Ashern Central School Code of Conduct
The Code of Conduct for Ashern Central School outlines the behavioural expectations and consequences for students, staff, and parents/guardians of the ACS community. Consequences for inappropriate behaviours should be based on individual needs, the degree of the problem, and the ability of the person to understand the consequences.
Together with these rights, there are RESPONSIBILITIES that each of us needs to assume:
For the Student:
- Attend school regularly. Be on time. Bring all required supplies and completed homework.
- Make the most of the time in school: strive for academic excellence.
- Show common courtesy and respect to all; defiance of authority, abusive language and aggressive behavior are unacceptable at all times.
- Behave respectfully and with courtesy to all regardless of race, religion, gender, age, or sexual orientation. Exhibit behaviour that avoids all forms of intimidation, bullying, harassment, racism, and discrimination.
- Solve conflicts peacefully through discussion or by seeking help. Promote positive behaviours through the avoidance of all types of violent acts. Gang involvement and possessing a weapon will not be tolerated.
- Dress appropriately for classes and activities.
- Respect school property and the property of others.
- Adhere to school policies respecting appropriate use of computers and the internet.
- Follow this Code of Conduct and any other rules the school may have.
For the Staff:
- Provide the programs and services prescribed by the Lakeshore School Division, Ashern Central School and the Department of Education, Citizenship and Youth.
- Establish a positive learning environment.
- Evaluate students’ achievement, and explain the evaluation procedures to be used in each course.
- Keep students, parents/guardians and administration informed about student progress, attendance and behavior in a timely manner.
- Show common courtesy and respect to all; behave respectfully to all regardless of race, religion, gender, age, or sexual orientation.
- Treat students and other staff members fairly and consistently.
- Respect confidential information about students and staff.
- Assist students in resolving conflicts peacefully and use the Code of Conduct to encourage appropriate behavior.
- Treat parents, students, and fellow staff with dignity and respect at all times.
For Parents/Guardians:
- Make sure your children attend classes regularly, arrive at school on time, and do their homework.
- Participate in school events and meetings, and offer constructive input.
- Stay in contact with school staff regarding your child’s educational progress as necessary.
- Help your children develop positive attitudes toward school.
- Help your children develop positive attitudes toward staff and school property.
- Show common courtesy and respect to all - treat all individuals respectfully regardless of race, religion, gender, age, or sexual orientation.
- Encourage the peaceful resolution of conflict. Discourage violent or aggressive behaviour to solve a problem. Solve problems in a manner respectful of all involved. Abusive language and aggressive behavior are unacceptable.
- Should there be a concern, try to resolve it with your child’s teacher. If unresolved, contact the principal. If the problem remains, then contact the superintendent. If the concern is not resolved at this level, then contact the Board of Trustees.
- Talk about the Code of Conduct with your children, and about what it means.
- Late arrival to school and to class
- Disrespect
- Failure to obey instructions; forging notes or excuses
- Failure to arrive with the materials required for class
- Disruptive in class (talking out of turn, passing notes, making silly noises, etc.)
- Non-attendance or poor attendance in school or specific classes
- Failure to attempt and/or complete assignments
- Loitering
- Profanity (swearing or using inappropriate language)
- Minor conflict (shoving or pushing)
- Being a bystander; support and/or encouragement for the misconduct of others
- Minor theft
- Inappropriate use of computers, e-mail or the internet
- Other acts of misconduct that are disruptive or that may create a potential safety hazard
- Chronic disruptive behaviour (a repeated pattern of misbehaviour)
- Vandalism
- Theft
- Smoking on school property
- Possession or use of alcohol or drug paraphernalia
- Disruptions to school operations
- Racial and/or other discriminatory misconduct
- Sexual harassment
- Bullying, hazing, fighting and/or assaults
- Inappropriate use of computers, email or the internet
- Verbal abuse
- Possession or use of weapons
- Gang involvement
- Informal interview with students
- Formal interview with the student
- Teacher/student/administrator conference
- Phone call home by teacher or administrator
- Meeting with parents
- Involvement of school guidance counselor
- Time out: a “cooling off” period
- Student detention
- Withdrawal of privileges
- Withdrawal from course because of poor attendance
- Making amends, either monetarily or through school-based community service
- Implementation of a behavioural or performance contract
- Involvement of school division clinicians and/or student support services staff; involvement of community agencies, including police and/or Child and Family Services
- Out of class/in-school suspension
- Out-of-school suspension
- Alternative educational settings
- Immediate suspension of up to 5 days to secure safety before broadening any response
- Involvement of the school administration, superintendent and Board of Trustees for suspension beyond 5 days or for expulsion. Teachers have the authority to suspend from their class for up to 2 days, and principals have the authority to suspend for up to 5 days. The superintendent may suspend for up to 6 weeks, and Board has the authority to expel.
- is the gathering of information about student learning that can help to direct our teaching, and the learning activities of students.
- It happens essentially every day that students are in school.
- Students are assessed by the teacher, sometimes their peers in the class, and by themselves.
- These assessments are meant to help students learn more, and to learn more deeply.
- Most often, the assessments are “anecdotal”, i.e. they are not graded, but rather describe the student’s learning.
- These assessments lead to ongoing changes in teaching by the staff, and to changes by students in how they learn.
- observation by the teacher, and conferencing with one or more students.
- practice and review of vocabulary, problems, etc.
- comparison of student work with exemplars of desired outcomes.
- student journalling and portfolios.
- small group and class discussions.
- ungraded practice quizzes, reports, etc.
- draft versions of essays, projects and so on.
- is the process of reviewing the evidence of student learning, and then determining its value.
- Evaluation is not an everyday activity; it usually takes place at the end of a period of learning activities.
- Students are evaluated by the teacher, not by themselves or their peers.
- Evaluations are used by teachers to help direct their teaching in the future.
- At higher grade levels, these evaluations will often result in a letter grade or numerical mark assigned to the student’s learning.
- This grading is done relative to student learning outcomes set out in curriculum documents, and/or by the classroom teacher.
- quizzes, tests, and exams
- inquiry and research projects
- student presentations, displays, and performances
- essays and other forms of written work
- cheating (copying the work of others, etc.),
- lying (not being truthful about group work; the circumstances given to ask for extensions, etc.),
- plagiarism (submitting someone else’s work as their own). Plagiarism in particular can be “subtle”, and easier than ever using the Internet.
- Dates for these report cards and meetings can be found on the school’s yearly calendar.
- language arts
- mathematics
- sciences
- social studies
- basic French
- other second languages
- the arts
- visual arts
- music
- drama
- dance
- physical education
- health education
- skills for independent living
- technology education
- vocational education
- home economics
- business and marketing
- industrial arts
- apprenticeship
- others as organized by the school
- 16 compulsory credits
- 8 – 14 technology education credits
- 0 – 6 optional credits
- Middle Years timetables are distributed to individual students.
- Independent Study Option (ISO): A wide range of compulsory and optional credit courses are available as print-based (i.e. “correspondence”) distance education courses. Usually, a student may begin these courses at any time, and work through them at a somewhat independent pace.
- Teacher Mediated Option (TMO): These courses are delivered in partnership with a host school division. TMO courses are scheduled into the school year, and use a variety of technologies to assist students. Students are expected to attend these to these courses similarly to a timetabled course, and to progress at a pace dictated by the teacher.
- Web-Based Course Option (WBO): Web-based courses are delivered using the Internet. Usually, the course is taught by a teacher who is off-site. Occasionally, the web-based course may be mediated by a teacher within the school. Students may access course materials at home using the Internet, as well as at school.
- Cadets
- Private Music Option
- Dance
- Special Language Credits
Inappropriate Behaviours:
The nature and scope of inappropriate behaviour ranges from disruptive to severely disruptive and should be addressed appropriately.
Disruptive Behaviour:
Examples of disruptive behaviour may include, but are not limited to:
Severely Disruptive Behaviour:
Examples of severely disruptive behaviour may include, but are not limited to:
Discipline
Under the provisions of Bill 30, The Safe Schools Charter, principals and teachers are required to maintain a safe and caring learning environment.
Discipline is intended to change inappropriate behaviour, alter inappropriate behaviour, promote the learning of self-control and restore safety. Expected behaviours must be actively taught both at home and in school. The strategies used to develop understanding and respect for the rights of others may vary from student to student. When there is non-compliance with the Standard of Behaviour, appropriate consequences shall follow.
Consequences/Strategies for Students in Response to Inappropriate Behaviour:
The following are examples of consequences and/or strategies that may be considered in response to inappropriate behaviour:
Consequences for Staff in Response to Inappropriate Behaviour:
The conduct of the Lakeshore School Division staff is governed by the policies of the Division, the Codes of Conduct of their individual organizations, and by relevant provincial and federal legislation.
Consequences for Parents/Guardians in Response to Inappropriate Behaviour:
The conduct of parents/guardians in schools is governed by Board policies and by relevant provincial and federal legislation. Consequences for inappropriate behavior may include a verbal warning, restricted access to the school or other consequences as defined by law.
Grade 9 and 10 students are expected to have a full timetable of courses, which means that they will have no scheduled spare periods.
Students in grades 11 and 12 may have less than a full timetable of courses; however, this must be approved in advance by the school administration or guidance counsellor.
Students who wish to switch courses at the beginning of a quarter are expected to make this request within the first two (2) days of the quarter.
Changes to students’ timetables after this time, including withdrawals from courses, must be done in consultation with the guidance counselor, and must be approved by the school administration, and a parent / guardian if the student is less than 18 years of age.
Senior years students who do not have a regularly scheduled class, i.e. who have a spare period, will be expected to make arrangements to remain at home or elsewhere not on school property during that time. If the school administration consents to the student remaining on school property, he/she will normally be assigned to a classroom or other defined room, and will abide by the rules set for other students in that room.
What’s the difference?
Assessment and Evaluation (sometimes called “formative assessment”, or assessment for learning)
So… while students are in class, they and their teachers are engaged in ongoing assessment of how well they are learning. They are asking themselves and each other: what have I learned? how well have I learned it? Are there things that need to be reviewed? Are there learning gaps which need to be filled? What helps me to learn well, and what might be getting in the way of effective learning?
These assessments by students and the teacher are critical to the process of learning itself. Teachers are expected to structure opportunities for students to assess themselves, and to carry out their own assessments of students to guide further instruction. These (formative) assessments will be made clear to students throughout a course. Some examples would be:
These assessments will be communicated to students, with clear indications of what the desired learning outcomes are for a unit of study.
Homework: Homework can be an important part of assessment. It is assigned to give students the opportunity to put into practice and to reinforce the lessons learned during the day. It also serves to develop a sense of responsibility in working without supervision. Homework and assignments are an integral part of the learning process; they are not optional and need to be completed as assigned. Homework is not graded to form part of a student’s mark in a course.
______________
Evaluation (sometimes called “summative assessment”, or assessment of learning – yes, we know it can be confusing!)
Evaluation / summative assessment is carried out by teachers to find out what students have learned, and how well they have learned it. It usually occurs at the end of unit of study, and therefore much less frequently than (formative) assessment. Students will be informed about how they will be evaluated, and this too may take a number of different forms. A few examples:
These evaluations / summative assessments are graded, often using a rubric to guide the assigning of a letter grade or numerical mark (often a percentage). Again, this grade or mark is determined relative to the outcomes set out for students, rather than as a comparison to other students in the class.
Deducting marks and the use of “zero”: A zero will normally only be used to indicate that a student has not learned a particular outcome, and not as a punishment for behaviour. Before marks are deducted, or a grade of zero is assigned due to academic dishonesty or other circumstances, parents/guardians will be contacted, the student and teacher will meet, the student may have to redo a test or assignment, and/or alternative methods for determining student learning may be discussed.
The use of “IN”: A designation of “IN” (Insufficient Evidence) allows students in grades 9 – 12 to continue working toward the expected learning outcomes of a course, without failing that course.
The teacher will establish timelines for completion of these learning outcomes which are appropriate for the student, and taking into consideration the school’s timetable, course requirements, and the policies of Manitoba Education.
The circumstances for the granting of an “IN” designation would be very unusual. It is not something which students should expect simply because they have made choices which result in not submitting assigned evaluations on time, or to complete quizzes, tests or exams on time.
Exams and other Final Evaluations
Many courses will have a final exam or other “summative” evaluation of student learning in the course. These final evaluations will normally count for 30% of the student’s final grade for the course in senior years.
The exam schedule will be posted prior to the exams, and students should not make vacation or work commitments during exam time. Exams are to be written as scheduled. It is the student’s responsibility to be present at the scheduled time.
Students who miss an exam do not qualify for credit. Exceptions will be made for students affected by certified illness, bereavement or other extraordinary circumstances.
Permission to leave the school after an exam: Parents or guardians may send a signed note to school with a student on the day of an exam, giving permission to leave the school for the rest of the day. This note must state where the student is going, and how he/she is to get there. Without such a note, students will be required to remain at the school after an exam.
All forms of evaluation which student submit as evidence of their learning must be their own work. Academic honesty means that students must not engage in:
For example, even if something is not copied “word for word”, the submission of someone else’s ideas, paraphrasing, etc. is plagiarism. The onus is on students to check with the teacher before submitting work to ensure that it has not been plagiarized.
There is a range of possible consequences for academic dishonesty, including detentions, the loss of other privileges, the deduction of marks, and other consequences set out in the code of conduct. Parents/guardians can expect to be informed of this dishonesty.
Regardless of the consequences, students will likely be expected to redo or to complete the work in an honest way.
Reporting on Learning
Reporting to parents/guardians on student progress may change in the near future, as provincial report cards are being developed. For this year, we will continue reporting as we have in the past several years.
Please know that you never need to wait for report cards or scheduled meetings with teachers to find out how your child is doing. You are always welcome to contact teachers for information or clarification.
Middle Years
Formal report cards are issued for middle years students in November, March, and June. A less formal, introductory progress report will be issued in October as students have settled into their classes.
Parent – teacher meeting days are scheduled shortly after the November and March report cards.
Senior Years
Progress reports are issued for high school students at the end of the 3rd and 7th weeks of each quarter. A final report card is issued shortly after the end of each quarter.
Parent – teacher meeting evenings are scheduled during the fifth week of each quarter.
Awards Celebrations and Honour Roll
At ACS, we recognize the importance of celebrating the achievements of our students with them, and with their parents/guardians and other friends and family.
An Honour Roll will recognize the academic achievements of students in the courses they are taking. Criteria for the Honour Roll will be redefined during consultations with students, staff, and parents/guardians, and shared with everyone.
Other awards will recognize participation in the various athletic and citizenship teams and groups organized at ACS.
Celebrations of these achievements will be announced during the year, and everyone will be invited to join us in honouring the efforts of our students.
Graduation
Graduation ceremonies are held for those students who have completed earning a high school diploma, or who will receive a school-leaving certificate.
Graduation ceremonies and the supper/evening celebration are hosted by Ashern Central School.
The school therefore has responsibility for these exercises.
Safe Grad is a separate function. Responsibility for Safe Grad is assumed by parents and/or other community members. Ashern Central School cooperates with these persons in trying to ensure the safety and well-being of our students and their guests.
Credit Requirements for Graduation
Senior Years English Program
In high school, students do not progress “grade by grade” as they do in early and middle years.
Rather, senior high students accumulate credits within a variety of subject areas, and at each of the four grade levels.
A minimum of 30 credits is required for students to graduate.
In order to graduate from high school, the student must have earned all of the compulsory credits listed below on the left, and 13 or more of the optional credits in the areas listed on the right.
Students and parents/guardians are encouraged to consult with the school’s guidance counsellor if they would like more information, or to go to the website of the department of education, Manitoba Education.
www.edu.gov.mb.ca/k12/policy/grad_require.html
Compulsory Credits: 17
Compulsory subject areas:
Grade 9 (5 credits)
language arts (English)
mathematics
science
social studies
physical education / health education
Grade 10 (5 credits)
language arts (English)
mathematics
science
social studies
physical education / health education
Grade 11 (4 credits)
language arts (English)
mathematics
social studies
physical education / health education
Grade 12 (3 credits)
language arts (English)
mathematics
physical education / health education
Optional Credits: 13 or more
Optional subject areas may include these or others:
Students must complete one Grade 11 credit and two Grade 12 credits within these optional subject areas.
School-Initiated Courses (SICs – max. 11) and Student-Initiated Projects (SIPs –
max. 3) may be used to fulfill the graduation requirements within the optional credits.
The Technology Education Program consists of 16 of the 17 compulsory credits listed in the English proram requirements (grade 11 social studies is not required), and an approved cluster of 8 to 14 compulsory technology education credits.
Any remaining 0 to 6 necessary credits to fulfill the 30 credit minimum for graduation may be chosen from the school’s optional credits offered.
So, in short:
for a minimum total of 30 credits.
At Ashern Central School, technology education diplomas are available in Power Mechanics and Business Education. Please contact the guidance counsellor for more information.
Please note that all course selections are subject to approval by the school administration.
Distance Learning
Students have the option to take some courses through the Distance Learning branch of Manitoba Education. In order to be successful, students must be self-disciplined and able to work independently.
There are three different forms of distance learning courses:
These courses have been known as “WebCT” courses until now; however, Manitoba Education is in the process of converting the delivery system for web-based courses to a different platform.
More information is available from the guidance counsellor, and from Manitoba Education:
http://www.edu.gov.mb.ca/k12/dl/index.html
Student Initiated Projects (SIPs)
Community Service: Students may earn one credit while in high school for at least 110 hours of community service performed outside of regular school hours. In addition to the credit, students can develop self-esteem, and an awareness of the many needs within our communities for volunteer services and the needs of others.
It is important that this credit be discussed and agreed upon by the guidance counsellor, the student and his/her parents/guardians before beginning to accumulate the hours required for this credit.
Cultural Exploration: A valuable educational experience may be had by learning more about one’s own cultural background, or that of others. The learning path followed by the student throughout this experience is created in consultation with parents/guardians and the guidance counsellor.
A full credit is earned for 110 hours of participation in the course, or ½ credit for 55 hours. As with the community service credit, only one credit may be earned throughout high school for this cultural exploration SIP.
Please contact the school’s guidance counsellor if you wish to explore earning either of these SIP credits. More information is available at:
http://www.edu.gov.mb.ca/k12/policy/sics_sips.html
High School Apprenticeship Program (HSAP):
This option is available to grade 11 and 12 students who are at least 16 years of age, and who have met certain minimum requirements in terms of credits attained. It combines senior years academic credits with on-the-job training in a community setting. Students may earn up to 8 apprenticeship credits while accumulating training hours in a trade of their choice. One credit is earned for every 110 hours of training successfully completed.
Students must find a qualified tradesperson who will hire and train them. An agreement between the employer and the student is then forwarded through the school to the Apprenticeship Branch. When students are not in school working toward attaining their academic credits, they work for their employer, earning a regulated wage while accumulating their training hours. These hours may be applied toward continued, full-time apprenticeship training after graduation from high school.
More information can be found at the following website:
http://www.gov.mb.ca/tce/apprent/apprentice/apprenticeship_hs.html
Other Options for Gaining Credits:
These credits may be available to students who have enrolled in these programs which are accessed outside of the school setting. More information is available from the guidance counsellor.