Contents
SECTION A - FOUNDATION FOR DUCHESS SCHOOL
VISION, MISSION, AND VALUES
SECTION B - BASIC SCHOOL OPERATIONS
ADDRESS AND PHONE NUMBERS
COLOURS AND MASCOTS
BELL SCHEDULE
SECTION C - GENERAL INFORMATION
STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT FROM THE ALBERTA SCHOOL ACT
PROMOTION POLICY
STUDENT FEES
SCHOOL SUPPLIES
COUSELLING SERVICES (K-12)
DRESS CODE
ACCIDENTS
BUSSING
OPENING EXERCISES
SCHOOL CLOSURES (refer to Grasslands’ Cold Weather Policy)
EMERGENCY DRILLS
HOMEWORK
LIBRARY SERVICES
LOCKERS
LOST AND FOUND
MEDICATIONS
NEWSLETTERS
SCHOOL COUNCIL
SCHOOL PICTURES
SUPERVISION OF STUDENTS
GUESTS AT SCHOOL
SECTION D - EVALUATION POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
FINAL EXAMS - GRADE 6-12
STUDENT APPEALS
ASSESSMENT GUIDING PRINCIPLES
SECTION E – DUCHESS SCHOOL ATTENDANCE POLICY
ELEMENTARY
JUNIOR HIGH/ SENIOR HIGH
ABSENCES FOR FAMILY VACATIONS
SECTION F - DUCHESS SCHOOL DISCIPLINE POLICY
PHILOSOPHY
DUCHESS SCHOOL RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
CLASSROOM EXPECTATIONS
CONSEQUENCES...... 19-24
SECTION G – INFORMATION SPECIFIC TO ELEMENTARY PROGRAMS...... 24
ELEMENTARY SPECIAL PROGRAMS
SPEECH THERAPY...... 25
ELEMENTARY RECOGNITION & AWARDS
SECTION H – INFORMATION SPECIFIC TO JUNI0R & SENIOR HIGH PROGRAMS
DISTANCE EDUCATION PROCEDURES...... 27
JUNIOR HIGH OPTIONS HIGH SCHOOL ELECTIVE COURSES...... 28
JUNIOR/SENIOR HIGH COUNSELLING...... 28
COMMENCEMENT
JUNIOR/SENIOR HIGH AWARDS
STUDENT COUNCIL...... 30
STUDENT PARKING...... 30
INTERSCHOOL ATHLETICS...... 30
TRANSPORTATION TO EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES...... 31
CLOSING...... 32
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SECTION A - FOUNDATION FOR DUCHESS SCHOOL
VISION, MISSION, AND VALUES
Our Vision
Duchess School is where students, staff and community are learning together today, for learner success tomorrow.
Our Mission/Purpose
Our students will:
M.1Demonstrate strong foundations in reading, writing, and mathematics
M.2Achieve grade level success in English, Mathematics, Sciences, and Social Studies
M.3Communicate clearly, articulating, processing, utilizing a variety of media and methods
M.4Demonstrate the skills required to effectively utilize technology and the ability to explore and evaluate a variety of career choices
M.5Effectively meet the provincial requirements for graduation, gaining acceptance in post-secondary institutions, and/or attaining desirable positions in the work force
M.6Demonstrate understanding of the importance of healthy, active lifestyle choices, and an appreciation for the arts
M.7Display strong thinking/problem solving skills, active citizenship, and positive character in school, community, and society.
Our Values
At Duchess School we value …
V.1a reciprocal commitment, between school, families, & community, toward the learning success of our students
V.2a learning environment that is safe, healthy, and inclusive of all people, regardless of diversity.
V.3learning opportunities that engage each student and are based on meeting individual needs, academically, physically, emotionally & socially, preparing students for successful citizenship in the greater society.
V.4the importance of conducting ourselves with integrity, purposefully developing relationships with students, and our colleagues, and community, which are respectful, supportive, committed and caring.
V.5collaboration, in order to adapt to changing needsof continuous learning and improving in our efforts to meet the learning needs of our students.Duchess School uses a student focussed approach to enhance and promote academic, social, and emotional growth, through community partnerships, in a positive and caring environment.
SECTION B - BASIC SCHOOL OPERATIONS
ADDRESS AND PHONE NUMBERS
Name:Duchess School
Box 119
315 Louise Avenue
Duchess, Alberta
TOJ OZO
Telephone: 403-378-4948
Fax Number: 403-378-4523
School Website
COLOURS AND MASCOTS
Colours: Green & Gold
School Mascot: Eagle
BELL SCHEDULE
Jr /Sr High Bell ScheduleElementary Min
Warning Bell / 8:25-8:30 / 5 / Warning Bell / 8:25-8:30Block 1 / 8:30-9:05 / 35 / Block 1 / 8:30-9:10 / 40
Transition / 5 Min
Block 2 / 9:10-9:45 / 35 / Block 2 / 9:10-9:50 / 40
Transition / 5 Min
RTI/ LLI / 9:50-10:20 / 30 / RTI/LLI / 9:50-10:20 / 30
Transition / 5 Min / Recess / 10:20-10:35 / 15
Block 3 / 10:25-11:05 / 40 / Snack &
Transition / 10:35-10:42 / 7
Transition / 5 Min / Block 3 / 10:42-11:15 / 33
Block 4 / 11:10-11:45 / 35 / Block 4 / 11:15-11:45 / 30
Lunch / 11:45-12:25 / 40 / Lunch / 11:45-12:25 / 40
Warning Bell / 12:25-12:30 / 5 / Warning Bell / 12:25-12:30 / 5
Block 5 / 12:30-1:10 / 40 / Block 5 / 12:30-1:05 / 35
Transition / 5 Min / Block 6 / 1:05-1:40 / 35
Block 6 / 1:15-1:50 / 35
Transition / 5 Min / Recess / 1:40-1:55 / 15
Block 7 / 1:55-2:30 / 35 / Snack & Transition / 1:55-2:02 / 7
Transition / 5 Min / Block / 2:02-2:40 / 38
Block 8 / 2:35-3:15 / 40 / Block 8 / 2:40-3:15 / 35
Total Instructional Time / 325 / Total Instructional Time / 316
SECTION C - GENERAL INFORMATION
STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT FROM THE ALBERTA SCHOOL ACT
Section 7 of the Alberta School Act outlines student responsibilities necessary to foster a productive learning environment. It reads:
A student shall conduct himself so as to reasonably comply with the following code of conduct:
a. be diligent in pursuing his studies
b. attend school regularly and punctually
c. cooperate fully with everyone authorized by the Board to provide education programs and other services
d. comply with the rules of the school
e. account to his teachers for his conduct
f. respect the rights of others
PROMOTION POLICY
The normal procedure for promotion is to pass from one grade to another in an annual sequential manner at school closing in June of each year.
In some cases, the level of academic achievement or maturity may result in a decision to hold a student at a grade level for another year.
Included in this decision may be factors such as: ability, student effort, age, attitude to school, maturity (physical, emotional, social), and previous school history. The final decision will be made by administration and will involve consultation with the classroom teacher, and parent/guardian.
STUDENT FEES
a)Distance Education & CTS course fees –students who register in distance education courses will be required to pay a deposit of $150 for materials and equipment. In addition, students undertaking more complex CTS projects may be required to pay additional costs for materials. Course deposits and project budgets will be discussed in advance with students and their parent/guardian(s). Deposits will be refunded upon course completion.
b)Duchess School Athletic Fees
Athletic fees at Duchess School include a $20.00 uniform fee. Fees are to be paid in advance before the playing season begins-pay before you play. Our athletic fees are a result of a comparison between schools in our jurisdiction. Coaches will prepare a budget based on full payment of fees by all athletes on a particular team, allowing for most teams to attend 2-3 tournaments in a season. Any additional costs need to be approved by Administration.
Should a family be experiencing difficulty paying athletic fees, they are asked to discuss this with school administration. Duchess School Parent Council supports our Athletics Program by covering the cost of officials and contributing to the purchase of team uniforms.
Sport / Athletic FeeVolleyball
Juniors –
Intermediate –
Senior - / 60.00
80.00
125.00
Basketball
Junior –
Intermediate –
Senior - / 80.00
100.00
150.00
Badminton
Junior –
Intermediate –
Senior - / 10.00
20.00
60.00
Track & Field
Junior –
Senior - / Cost absorbed by school
Cost absorbed by school
c) Lost or Damaged Textbooks
Students are required to pay for damaged or lost textbooks. The amount charged for lost or damaged books is based on the age and condition of the book. In no case will the fee be less than one-third of the replacement value for a new book at the time of the loss or damage.
DUCHESS SCHOOL FEES
Please return this form along with your payment on or before November 1, 2016.All fees include the whole school year (not just one semester.) The fees requested below are for options and supplies.
Please make cheques payable toGRASSLANDS PUBLIC SCHOOLS. A receipt will be issued upon payment. If you have any questions please call the school at 378-4948.
If it is impossible to pay fees by this time please make other arrangements by contacting the principal, Mr Payne.
STUDENT’S NAME (S): ______
ECS (Kindergarten), Grade1, Grade 2
$30.00 common school supplies were provided at cost. Total $30.00/student= $______
Grade 3-6 No fee
Jr. High (Grade 7-9)Total $40.00/student
$10.00 Student Union fee
$30.00 Option fee for 1 year
#of students__x$40.00= $______
Sr. High (Grade 10-12)Total $50.00/student
$10.00 Student Union fee
$40.00 option fee for 1 year#of students___x$50.00= $______
Pre-Ordered Yearbook (optional)$ 25.00$ ______
Community Calendar (Optional)$ 10.00$ ______
Grand Total$ ______
Students are expected to return rented materials (textbooks, etc.) in the same condition they received them (allowing for reasonable wear during the course of the year.) It will be the responsibility of students to pay for lost or damaged texts and/or materials. Special events and field trips may require fees as they come up.
SCHOOL SUPPLIES
In addition to the common supplies provided by the school for a fee each year, students are provided with a brief list of school supplies that is required by each homeroom teacher. This list may be found in your child’s report card at the end of the school term. This list would then be used for the forthcoming school year. This list is also available on our website.
Each student should have a pair of “indoor” runners for Physical Education.
COUSELLING SERVICES (K-12)
This program is centred on assisting the student in his/her development in the following areas:
1. Personal (Emotional/Psychological)
2. Academic (Progress in School)
3. Social (Relationships/Interactions with peers, etc.)
To this end, the program provides for individual personal counselling through referral from the student, teacher or parent. Additional group counselling may be provided if appropriate to support social skill development
With the help of the administration, teachers, community and individual households these goals may more easily be met.
DRESS CODE
Clothing worn to school must be suitable for a learning environment and respectful to students, staff and parents. It is expected that students do not wear swimsuits, halter tops, or clothing that exposes undergarments or does not adequately cover the student. Any clothing that displays vulgar or derogatory images / language, displays alcohol, drug or tobacco content, or displays images or text that may imply any of the stated items are not permitted at school. We do understand that students and parents have varying opinions regarding appropriate attire for school, but it is the job of the school to ensure a learning environment that respects the rights of all people in the school and community and promotes a positive learning environment for students and staff. Should a student wear inappropriate clothing they will be asked to change the clothing, turn the article inside out, or cover up.
Students must dress appropriately for the weather and are expected to wear appropriate footwear at all times while in the school. Emergencies or drills may require students to be outside so students are to be prepared for those events. Students are asked to remove muddy footwear when entering the school.
Physical Education students in grades 4-12 are to wear proper gym attire for Phys. Ed. Class. A separate pair of white soled or non-marking shoes is to be worn in the gym.
ACCIDENTS
Despite adequate supervision and all precautions taken, occasional accidents will occur. In every instance, parents will be notified if at all possible, and a request made of them to transport their child for attention by a doctor. In extreme cases, where the parent cannot be reached, the child will be taken for emergency care by the school staff.
In case of emergency, please ensure that the school has current information (telephone number, names, health care number, alternate contact person, etc.) This information will be on file if the registration forms have been completed.
BUSSING
Questions regarding bus routes and times should be directed to Bill Best, Transportation Supervisor, at the Grasslands Regional Board of Education office (793-6700). Drivers have the direct and immediate authority over students while being transported. Drivers are to ensure that students conform to current regulations which shall be posted at all times. All cases of student misconduct shall be reported through use of the Bus Misconduct Tickets.
Student Conduct on Busses (Board Policy 5.5.1.3.5)
OPENING EXERCISES
Opening exercises at Duchess School consists of general announcements and the playing/singing of the Canadian National Anthem.
SCHOOL CLOSURES (refer to Grasslands’ Cold Weather Policy)
If rural buses going to our rural schools are cancelled due to deteriorating road
conditions or if the temperature reaches -37 C, the Principal of the school in
consultation with the Bus Drivers will determine if all/any of the bus routes going to
their school will be cancelled. The Principal of the school will contact the local radio
station Q-13 or The One 101.1 FM by 6:30 am to put an announcement on the local
radio station. The bus drivers will contact all of the students on their route or put a
phone fan out into operation. Please listen to one of these local stations for any school
bus cancellation announcements. If bus routes are cancelled for this reason, they will
not operate all day.
Town students and students who can attend school should report to school even if the buses do not run.
On occasion it is necessary to close the school during the school day. If this is necessary, all bus drivers will be contacted and every attempt will be made to make sure students are able to go home or go to a relative's or friend's home if the parents are not at home. If there is a concern about the child arriving home to an empty house, the child will be kept at school until satisfactory arrangements are made.
EMERGENCY DRILLS
Every effort is made to ensure that students are familiar with procedures to vacate the building should there be a fire or some other emergency. Several fire drills and lockdowns will be practiced during the school year.
HOMEWORK
Normally, sufficient school time is provided to complete exercises and assignments given. Homework should not be required of elementary students if they are on task during class time. Rather, the elementary staff would wish that students have time to play and get adequate sleep so they are ready to do their best work the next day.
Parents and teachers should encourage children to read from books of their choice. For Grade 3, 4, 5, and 6, formal assignments and specific projects may be given at the discretion of the teacher. Students in junior high may expect about 30-45 minutes of homework per evening. High school students may expect between 30-90 minutes of homework per evening depending on course load.
Students are responsible for catching up on work that they missed due to illness. Study time will also be required for test purposes, particularly at the upper elementary level.
LIBRARY SERVICES
The school library is an area designated for quiet work and study. It is staffed by a full time library technician. The hours of operations are from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on school days.The library offers a variety of study, reference and curriculum related materials, including books, magazines, CDs and access to the Internet. Textbook distribution and collection is also handled through the library.
Responsible use of our library involves:
a.No food or drink allowed.
b.All library material must be signed out.
c.Library privileges may be suspended for overdue material.
d.The library is an area for quiet study, research and reading, not for socializing.
e.Books can be signed out during library periods and anytime during school hours.
f.The librarian will help you find material. Please ask for help.
LOCKERS
Students are issued a locker and a lock at the beginning of the school term. Most elementary lockers are located in their classrooms. Students should be aware of the following matters with respect to use of school lockers:
- Elementary lockers do not have locks, therefore expensive toys, games, etc. shouldnot be brought to school.
b.Valuable items or money should not be stored in change rooms, in the gym or in unlocked lockers. The school cannot accept responsibility for any items lost or stolen from lockers (or change rooms).
c.Lockers should be locked at all times and especially before the student leaves school for the day.
d.Students are expected to keep their lockers neat and clean at all time. Lockers should be cleaned each month and emptied by students at the end of the school term or upon leaving the school.
e.School authorities reserve the right to search student lockers in special situations such as suspicion of rule violation and concerns for student health and safety. Lockers are the property of Grasslands School Board.
f.Willful damage done to lockers will result in the offending person(s) being charged for the full costs of all repairs including labor and materials.
LOST AND FOUND
Duchess School utilizes two methods of locating items that may be lost. First, for any clothing or boots that are lost, there is a large blue bin located just outside of the office. Second, any jewelry, glasses, or other valuable items are turned directly into the office.If your child comes home without their boots, or hats, etc., please encourage him or her to check our Lost and Found. For valuable items, please direct your inquiries to our school office at 378-4948.
Please have all removable articles of clothing tagged with your child's name so they can be more easily identified and returned to the proper owner.
MEDICATIONS
The Board is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for its students. The Board recognizes that Division employees do not generally possess the expertise required to determine the needs for or deal with student health emergencies. The Board nevertheless supports staff members who may be required to administer medication, medical assistance or emergency medical procedures to a student in order to preserve the life or well-being of a student.
The Board believes administration of prescribed medication/personal care is a medical, not an educational function. Primary responsibility for the administration of prescribed medication/personal care rests with the individual student, his/her parents or the guardians and/or the appropriate medical personnel. The Board believes it is appropriate for staff to assist in the self administration of medical/personal care if so requested. The Board further authorizes the provision of medical assistance to students in emergency situations.
Responsibility for administration of prescribed medication shall rest with the student and/or his parent or guardian. Upon written request of the parent, the school shall assist by providing safe storage for prescribed medications. Parents are encouraged to advise schools of medications which are being carried and self-administered by students.