A positive school climate is essential for students to succeed in school, as it promotes a safe, respectful and welcoming learning environment. The Code of Student Conduct sets standards of behaviour for students and members of the school community that support a caring, safe and inclusive school environment. All school members must respect and treat others fairly, regardless of race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, creed, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, family status or disability. The code applies whether on school property, on school buses, at school-related events or activities, before and/or after school programs or in other circumstances that could have an impact on the school climate.
To enhance caring, safe, and inclusive school climates, positive student behaviour supports are provided and inappropriate behaviour is addressed using a bias-aware progressive discipline approach that takes into account mitigating factors.
Students are expected to demonstrate behaviour that is respectful and courteous at all times. This includes demonstrating respect for each other and our community members. These expectations are indicated in our School Code of Student Conduct. Students are expected to demonstrate this code of behaviour on school property and during offsite Board or school-sponsored events and activities.
Our primary goal at S.D.S.S. is to help students develop their potential as individuals and as contributing responsible members of society who will think critically, demonstrate empathy, and act responsibly. This goal can best be realized in a school environment in which all individuals have a clear understanding of their rights and responsibilities, as well as an awareness of the rights and responsibilities of others within our community.
Students, teachers, and parents share the responsibility of developing and achieving the goals of S.D.S.S. Listed below are areas for which behaviour inconsistent with expectations may result in progressive discipline while providing support for improved student behaviour. In each area a rationale is given, the expected behaviour is explained and the possible consequences for harm caused by inappropriate actions are outlined.
Academic Honesty
Stouffville District S.S. students are expected to think independently and behave honestly. True learning in an intellectually stimulating environment is enhanced when students consistently demonstrate respect for the intellectual property rights of others in all evaluation activities. Students are also expected to complete their tests, assignments and exams independently. Students are not permitted to speak to each other or out loud to themselves during tests/exams or to use unauthorized aids or resources of any kind. For YRDSB definitions of cheating and plagiarism, refer to the Academic Honesty section in the YRDSB Guide to the School Year booklet.
Consequences/Supports
The consequences and learning about cheating or plagiarism may include: contact with parents/guardians, referral to administration, disciplinary action, re-doing the task or a portion of the task, or a mark of zero in the absence of original work, and completion of a learning activity. Consequences are administered in alignment with Growing Success and Board Policy and Procedure 305.2 taking into consideration knowledge of the learner, circumstances and responses designed to facilitate collection of evidence.
Respect for Property
Students are expected to treat the school grounds, building, and resources with respect and care. Students are expected to keep the property tidy. Therefore, all food must be disposed into proper receptacles. It is expected students will familiarize themselves with and follow the expectations governing the use of lockers, parking facilities, textbooks, bulletin boards, and the cafeteria. Students are expected to treat all school property and facilities with respect. Vandalism of any nature will not be tolerated.
Consequences/Supports
A student who damages school property will be referred to an administrator and progressive discipline will apply. Parents will be contacted and informed that payment may be made for the cost of any repairs or replacement of items. Students will be supported with activities such as counselling, restorative circles/conference or referral to outside agencies aimed at supporting improved behaviour.
Respect for Others
Students are expected to comply with the behaviour expectations of the school and to cooperate with adults in the building, on the grounds, on the school buses, in the community, and at any school activity. This includes providing your full name upon request. As well, students are expected to use respectful language, in an appropriate tone of voice at all times. Hateful, offensive and/or derogatory comments will not be tolerated. All individuals, regardless of their sex, religion, race, ethnic background, sexual orientation, size, or ability, are entitled to personal dignity and to learn in an environment free from any form of harassment.
Consequences/Supports
Showing a lack of respect for others will result in progressive intervention/discipline referral to an administrator, parent contact, restorative practices, counselling, possible police involvement, and/or suspension from school.
Respect for Self
Students are expected to come to school free from the influence of alcohol or drugs. Such substances are forbidden on school property or at any school sponsored activity.
Consequences/Supports
Showing a lack of respect for oneself will lead to interventions/consequences such as: referral to an administrator, parental contact, referral to a counsellor, referral to a social agency, involvement of police, and/or suspension from school.
Preparation for Class
Students are expected to be prepared for each class; that is, to have the books and materials specified by their teachers. They are expected to submit completed homework and assignments on time. Students are expected to study for and attend each test or exam.
Consequences/Supports
Arriving habitually unprepared for a class will lead to: parental contact by a teacher, referral to an administrator, referral to a counsellor and/or performance contract.