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Rules & Policies

Yellow Grass School Handbook 

 
This handbook is intended as a student-parent guide to the policy of Yellow Grass School.  Please retain this booklet in your home.  The material is intended to answer many of your questions regarding school policy and operation.
 
MISSION STATEMENT
Our ‘Mission’ at Yellow Grass School is to empower students to develop academically, socially, emotionally and physically in a safe and respectful environment.
 
VISION STATEMENT
Yellow Grass School, where we are actively engaged in our learning, accountable for our actions and empowered to succeed.
CORE VALUES
            Be RESPONSIBLE for your words, learning, and attitue.
            Have RESPECT for yourself, others, and your surroundings.
            Everyone has a right to LEARN in a SAFE and ORGANIZED environment.
            Have FUN111
 
A.      INTRODUCTION
The purpose of this handbook is to provide students and parents with information about the structure and organization of the school, the programs which are offered and the rights and responsibilities of students.  This handbook will not answer all questions, please feel free to ask any staff member for information or direction.
 
B.      GENERAL INFORMATION
The School Term
The school year is divided into two semesters of approximately 98 days each.  The first semester is completed at the end of January and second semester at the end of June.  The semester system only applies to the Division IV program.  There will be three reporting periods for grades K – 9 and 4 reports for grades 10 - 12, with two formal, three-way conferences scheduled throughout the year.   The grade 10 – 12’s have a reporting period at the beginning and end of each semester, therefore they will have 4 reporting periods.  The school operates on a six day cycle with six periods in the day.
Entrances
During school days, all students should use their respective entrances (east, west or south entrances of the school).  The north entrance is to be used as an emergency exit only.
Registration
1.       All students at Yellow Grass School are registered on their first day of school.  Every new student is required to complete a student registration form.
2.       Students who enroll at the school at any other time report to the office and see the principal and then complete the registration form.
3.       Every student is assigned a home room and a home room teacher who will compile report cards, collect any fees                                    or  payments and dismiss students at the end of the day.
Extra-Curricular Activities
Extra-curricular activities involving sports are organized under the supervision of a staff member.  During the course of a school year many different teams are organized that will probably involve travel.  Drivers must comply with safety and third party insurance liability rules.  All practices, games and tournaments must be scheduled through the Principal and held under the supervision of a teacher.  All accidents and injuries must be duly reported as outlined this policy book.
 Community coaches are encouraged.  Anyone interested in coaching should contact he principal for                                     details.
 
 
        Lost And Found
        The school will not assume responsibility for the loss of personal belongings.  Students are                          encouraged to be responsible for their own belongings and take care of their books, and      personal items.  All staff will assist as best they can in recovering any lost or stolen belongings.
i)                    Found articles are to be taken to the office immediately.  If you lose anything, report the loss to the office immediately.
ii)                   Any equipment or supplies, if found, should be returned to the teacher in charge immediately.
iii)                 Students should keep valuable items locked in their lockers.
 
                Class Schedule
               08:55 Warning Bell
                09:00 Announcements Start Period 1
                09:50 End Period 1
                                5 minute class change break starts
                09:55 Start Period 2
                10:35 Elementary student recess dismissal
                10:45 End Period 2
                                5 minute class change break starts
                10:50 Start Period 3
                11:40 End Period 3
 
                Noon dismissal – all grades
 
                12:25 Warning Bell
                12:30 Start Period 4
                13:20 End Period 4
                                5 minute class change break starts
                13:25 Start Period 5
                14:05 Elementary student recess dismissal
                14: 15 End Periods 5
                                5 minute class change break starts
                14:20 Start Period 6
                15:10 End Period 6
                15:15 Student dismissal
               
 
 Student Government
                The Student Representative Council is the student organization which works in co-operation      with the   teaching staff to initiate and administer policies consistent with the terms of the  Council’s constitution and general school policy.  The organizational structure of student government is illustrated below;
 
                YGS SRC Student Government
                President
                Vice President, Treasurer
                Secretary Treasurer, Room Representatives:  Grades 7/8, Grade s9/10 and Grades 11/12.
                Fees
                WORKBOOKS: some students may be required to purchase workbooks in some classes such as  Accounting or Language Arts.  If   this becomes necessary, the school will purchase the workbook  and then sell it to the student at cost.
                DAMAGE TO SCHOOL PROPERTY:  Students are expected to pay the replacement cost of any  school property which they damage, destroy or lose as a result of carelessness or vandalism.      They may also move up a step in the discipline policy.
                OTHER FEES:  Some extra-curricular clubs which operate at Yellow Grass School have  membership fees and/or travel fees.  Students should be aware that membership on teams or in these clubs is voluntary.
              
 
C.  STUDENT CONDUCT RULES & REGULATIONS, STUDENT RIGHTS
 
All students are entitled to rights which stem from the fundamental right on which the school system is based; the right to a good education.  Inseparable from rights and responsibilities, each student has responsibilities of behavior which exist to protect the rights of all others.  Such responsibilities are more specifically stated in other sections of this handbook.
With this in mind, specific rights of all students at Yellow Grass School have the right to:
·         The best possible education the school can provide.
·         The proper use of all facilities, supplies and equipment; and the knowledge and skills of all school staff to reach their potential without infringing on the rights of others.
·         Special care if required.
·         Safety and comfort without infringing on the rights of others.
·         Discipline which is fair and consistent.
·         Assistance in planning for the future.
·         Assistance in dealing with any difficulty.
·         Join any club or participate in any school-affiliated activity within the guidelines set up for that activity and approved by the school administration.
·         Any and all services provided by staff members.
·         Financial assistance when required within the guidelines set up by the provincial government and the school division.
·         The latest available information to help in career and general planning for the future.
·         Confidentiality in relation to records maintained by the school and school division.
·         A proper hearing and review of any disciplinary action taken.
·         Treatment as an individual human being with respect toward one’s heritage without infringing on the rights of others.
 
           Student Conduct
 
        There are two basic principles that students should keep in mind.
 
1.       Your actions must not infringe upon the rights and feelings of other people in the school.  Respecting the school and its property, each other, yourself, the authority of the school and its teachers is essential.
 
2.       Your prime reason for being in school must be to obtain the best education possible.  Students, especially as they grow older are expected to take responsibility for their education.
 
It is understood that students who violate these basic principles have to accept the consequences that arise from their actions.
In addition to these general principles, students should be aware of the ‘Duties of Pupils’ as outlined in the “Education Act”.
The School Division expects certain standards of conduct and deportment from all students within the Division.  Every pupil shall co-operate fully with all persons employed by the Board of Education and with such other persons who have been lawfully assigned responsibilities and functions by the Board.
 
Without restricting the generality of the foregoing, every pupil shall;
 
·         attend a school regularly and punctually;
·         provide a reasonable explanation to the teacher, as required by the policies and regulations of the Board of Education, in case of absence and tardiness;
·         be kind, courteous and show respect to all classmates;
·         be co-operative with, and show courtesy and respect to teachers and all school authorities and guests;
·         use only decent and acceptable language in the school, on the school grounds, on the way to and from school and while on activities sponsored by the school;
·         behave in a respectable manner during assemblies, which must include avoidance of booing, whistling or stomping the feet;
·         accept responsibility for the care of personal belongings, and for practicing good organization and work habits;
·         provide such supplies, materials and fees which are not provided by the Board of Education and which are considered necessary to fulfill the obligations of his courses of study;
·         replace or pay for any school property which he has willfully destroyed, broken or damaged;
·         observe standards of acceptable cleanliness, dress and tidiness of person; no hats to be worn in the school; no roller blades or cleats to be worn in the school.
·         conform to rules and procedures established by the school he/she is attending and submit to the discipline as would be exercised by a kind, firm and judicious parent;
 
 
·         obey all safety patrols, even if conducted by another school; and
·         obey all other policies and regulations adopted by the Board of Education which affect pupil conduct.
 
Furthermore, each pupil shall be accountable;
 
1.       to the teacher for his conduct on school premises during school hours and during the time that a teacher is in the charge of a pupil in a class or while engaged in authorized school activities conducted in and away from school premises during out of school hours;
2.       to the principal for his/her general deportment at any time he is under the supervision of the school, including the time spent on the way to and from school; and to the driver of the school bus and to such other employees of the Board of Education who are in charge of supervision of pupils.
 
General Behavior Standards/Expectations
 
1.       Every student is expected to conform to the rules and procedures of the school.
2.       No student’s actions should infringe upon the rights and feelings of other people in the school.
3.       Every student’s primary reason for being in school must be to obtain the best education possible that the school has to offer.
4.       Students are accountable to staff members for their behavior.  Staff members will use the “Discipline With Dignity” model for handling discipline problems.
 
Discipline Policy
Purpose:
The purpose of the school’s discipline policy is not to be punitive but rather to encourage corrective, responsible, respectable behavior.  This pertains to any school personnel who students may have interaction with during school activities.
 
Step 1:
·         Teachers are expected to deal with discipline problems that arise with students under their supervision.   These issues should be documented as they occur.
·         Student action plans will be filled out by the students for each incident the teacher deems necessary.  Teacher will compile student action plans in a binder; once 3 have been accumulated, proceed to step 2.
·         If a student fails to complete an action plan, the teacher/principal will determine the action plan.
 
Step 2:
·         Teacher takes student to the office for a three-way conference (student, teacher, principal) with action plans.
·         Review and/or revise action plan in conference.
·         Student phones home to inform parents of incident and action plans.
·         Student initials step menu for documentation.
 
Step 3:
·         Teacher takes student to the office for a three-way conference.
·         Parents are called to arrange a meeting.
·         Student is given in-school suspension until parent arrives.
·         Student can only return to school in the accompaniment of parent/guardian for four-way conference.
·         Action plan is reviewed/revised with parent(s), student, teacher, and principal.  Parent, teacher and student sign.  Copy of action plan goes home with parent.
 
Step 4:
·         Same as step 3, but includes 1 full-day in-school suspension after parent meeting.
 
Step 5:
·         Same as step 3, but includes three-day out of school suspension.
 
Step 6:
·         Same as step 3, but may include suspension for up to 10 school days.
 
Step 7:
·         Principal will submit documentation and possible recommendations to the Director of Education.
 
Attendance
 
·         Regular attendance of students under the age of sixteen is compulsory.   Students will not be given the option of deciding whether or not to attend class except in accordance with the provisions set down in the Education Act.
·         Attendance at YGS is taken each morning and immediately after the lunch hour.  All unconfirmed absences are given to the office secretary immediately, who follows up on them with a phone call home.   In grades 7-12 attendance is kept on a class by class basis.  If it is known in advance that children will be missing school, parents are asked to call the school, or send a signed and dated note in advance of the miss explaining the students’ absence.  Notes do not need to be detailed, and are needed only to ensure that both the family and the school know of the students whereabouts.  Parents should continue to notify the school in the morning by phone in those cases of sickness or other short notice absences.
·         Every student is expected to be in school every day and for every scheduled class unless excused by a parent.  Parents should contact the school when this occurs.
·         The Principal/Vice-Principal may contact the parent/guardian should a note be found unsatisfactory.
·         Any work missed due to absences must be made up.  The onus is on the student to complete work/assignments that are missed.  It is up to the teacher and the student to determine when this work is to be done.
·         Any student who is absent for 5 or more days, for unacceptable reasons, will be reported to the Division Attendance Counselor.
 
 
Late Attendance
 Students are expected to be on time for every class.  Breaks are to be used to prepare for the next class
 
Cheating On Exams
Students who are caught cheating on exams will be subject to the following.
 
 Result from this behavior:
1.       The student will be required to rewrite the exam.
2.       Their parents will be notified.
3.       Other punishments may be implemented.
 
Student Dress Guidelines
The school does not want to interfere with the way students dress.  However, students should not dress in a way that would be disruptive or offensive to others. dress policy is as follows:
a)      Responsibility for dress rests primarily with the parents.  They should see to it that their children are appropriately dressed for school.  If in doubt, be conservative.
b)      Clothing that promotes drug or alcohol use is unacceptable.
c)       If in the judgment of the teacher or the administrator, attire is disruptive to the education process or is offensive, the student will be required to change or may be sent home.
 
Proper Supplies, and Equipment, Etc.
1.       Every student is expected to bring the proper books and supplies to class.
2.       Students are expected to wear the proper clothing in physical education class, which includes non-marking gym shoes.
 
Arriving and Leaving the School
1.       General Information
Students are not normally permitted to leave the school from 9:00 am until noon or from noon until 3:15pm.  Only under special circumstances or when parents have contacted the school by note or phone call in advance will students be allowed to leave the school during the school day.
a)      Mornings:
The school will be open for students between 08:30 and 08:45 am when supervision starts.  Students are asked to use the proper entrances:  7-12 students use the east doors; 5-6 students use the west doors; K-4 students use the two south entrances.
 
b)      Afternoons:
Most school facilities will be available from 3:15 to 4:15 pm for use by students who have permission of a teacher and where a supervisor is available.
c)       Noon Hours:
Upon arriving at school, no students will be allowed to leave the school until the 3:15 pm, unless excused by a parent/guardian, dismissal except at noon hour,
·         When they go home for lunch
Or
·         When grades 7-12 bus students have the permission of their parent/guardian and the Principal to leave school over the lunch break.
d)      Class Time:
Students will be expected to be in class all times during the day.
e)      Driving To School:
i)        Students, who choose to drive to school, must use the student parking lot and will not be allowed to drive during the school day.  Students should use good judgment when driving and respect all traffic laws while operating a motor vehicle.
 
Textbook Regulations
Each student, upon receiving a text, assumes the responsibility of keeping it in good condition throughout the school year.  [At the time texts are issued, and when they are returned, the  condition of each text must be assessed by the mutual agreement of classification (Good, Fair, Poor) by teachers and student (with the teacher’s will prevailing)].
1.       Upon receipt of texts, every student must write in ink, in the form provided in the text, his/her name, the term (e.g. 1993/94) and condition (Good, Fair, Poor) of the book.  Any book found during the term or at the end of the term missing the provided form will be charged to the student according to classification.
2.       For books lost and replaced, students will be charged according to the following formula, Good 75% of full price, Fair – 50% of full price, Poor – 25% of full price.
3.       Any damage (such as purposeless writing or scribbling and rippling of pages) will be assessed by the teacher and a bill forwarded to the student’s parents.
 
Fundraising
All fund-raising activities carried on in school must be approved by the Principal.   The choice of contributing to a fund-raising event is completely voluntary.
 
Out of Bounds
1.       The teacher’s desk, cupboards and equipment are out of bounds to all students.
2.       The following areas are out of bounds except when students are involved in a class or other supervised activity; gymnasium, change rooms, science, and computer lab.
3.       The Staff Room is also out of bounds to all students.
4.       Storage rooms and heating and mechanical rooms are out of bounds to all students.
 
C.       REGULATIONS REGARDING THE USE OF SPECIAL EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES
USE OF OFFICE EQUIPMENT
·         Students wishing to use office equipment must receive approval from the Principal or the office secretary. 
 
 
Computer Lab
·         Permission from the teacher to be obtained for the use of equipment at all times.
·         If equipment is not working properly, advise the supervising teacher.   
 
Science Lab
·         The science lab is a place for serious experimental work as a part of your science study program.
·         Strictly follow guidelines regarding safety and handling of chemicals and equipment.
·         Perform only those experiments which are assigned or approved by your instructor.  Unauthorized experiments are prohibited.
·         Report all damages immediately to your instructor.
·         All students are responsible for the proper care of laboratory materials.
·         Before leaving the laboratory all chemicals/apparatus must be returned to proper location and stored neatly as directed by your teacher.
·         All chemicals/apparatus/equipment not being used in an assigned experiment are off limits.
·         Start an experiment ONLY after you completely understood the instructions.
 
Resource Centre
Removal of Materials:
Reference works, including vertical file material and periodicals, may only be removed with written permission from the librarian or supervising teacher.
·         Not more than three (3) books should be signed out by any one student at any time.
·         Return of Materials:
Reference works and periodicals must be handed directly to the librarian.  All books must be returned to the Book Return box.  Materials used in the Library and not signed out should be placed in the cart located in the Library.
Behavior:
·         Please remain quiet while working in the library.
·         Absolutely NO FOOD OR DRINK allowed in the Library.
·         Handle books with care
·         Students are expected to clean up after themselves and leave the Library neat and orderly.
 
Internet Usage:
The advancement of technology can be of great value as an educational tool.  The issue of the Internet and email are examples of this.  With new technology comes new responsibility.  YGS has developed a policy pertaining to the use of the Internet and email.  Every student at YGS must follow the guidelines set out in the Internet Policy.  One of the guidelines is that each student must have a parent or guardian sign and return the “Declaration of Understanding and Adherence” portion of the Internet Policy.  Each student must have a copy of the signed form in his/her file.  Any violation of the Internet Policy will result in a loss of Internet privileges and may result in further disciplinary action by the administration.
 
 
E.   SAFETY & FIRE REGULATIONS
Accidents
1.       Accidents to any person should be reported to a teacher or the office immediately.  An attempt will be made to inform the parents immediately and request further instructions.
2.       Accident report forms will be completed by the supervising teacher or principal.
3.       Any accidental breakage should be reported immediately to the office.
 
Safety Regulations
To ensure the safety of all students and staff, the Board of Education has established the regulations listed below.  Any student who observes a situation which may threaten a person’s safety should report this matter to a teacher or the office immediately.
 
1.       Exits and Passageways
Doorways and hallways must be kept free of materials that would block or narrow the exits.
Doorways of classrooms must be kept entirely clear.
Fire doors may not be fastened open at any time.
Exit doors must be kept clear of snow and ice.
2.       Gymnasium and general purpose rooms
Moveable chairs, benches and other temporary seating must not be stored within these areas.  All equipment and supplies shall be stored in appropriate storage areas immediately after use.  The seating capacity of each auditorium or gymnasium shall not exceed the maximum number recommended by the Fire Department.
3.       Storage and general “housekeeping”
Doors of storage rooms, science lab and any other rooms containing supplies and equipment likely to present a hazard must be locked when these rooms are not in use.  Pupils should not be permitted access to such rooms unless supervised by a teacher.  Floors and equipment such as work benches and tables must be kept clear of accumulations of sawdust, shavings and litter.  Unused classrooms shall be kept clean and orderly.  Rooms such as lunch rooms must be kept in a clean and sanitary condition.
4.       Flammable Materials
Combustible material must not be stored under or near gas meters, electrical meters or switchboards.  Flammable liquids must be kept in approved fire proof automatic self-closing metal containers.  Matches must not be stored with the school.  In science laboratories where it is necessary to ignite gasses, candles, etc, it is advisable to use friction lighters instead of matches.
5.       Electrical Equipment
Electrical appliances of any kind must not be attached to light sockets.  Electrical equipment which is not the property of the Board of Education must not be used without the approval of the Board of Education.
 
Fire Drill Regulations
Procedures to be followed in the event of a fire alarm are listed below and posted in each classroom.  It is the student’s responsibility to familiarize him/her self with these procedures and to see that they are followed.  Students are reminded that it is a criminal offence to tamper with fire equipment.
 
Regulations:
·         The definition of School Fire Drills is the orderly, systematic evacuation of a building on fire, in danger of taking fire, or any other valid reason.  The purpose of a Fire Drill is to move the occupants of the building to a point of safety.
·         There will be no talking or horseplay by students during a fire drill.
·         Students will walk out quickly but no running will be permitted.  Avoid jostling the person in front of you.
·         When the alarm sounds, note the direction that the arrow points on the sign located above the door in the room you are then occupying.  Turn in that direction when you leave the room.
·         The first person coming to a door should stay behind and hold this door open until all of the students are out of that area.  The door is then closed.
·         Students will leave their rooms in single file and remain in single file until they form up in double lines by classes in an area outside of the school.
·         If a particular exit is blocked; the teacher will indicate what route should be taken.
·         Classes are not to re-enter the school building until the all-clear signal (two rings of the bell) is given.
 
Emergency School Closing
Billets
·         Each September, rural students must make arrangements to be billeted in Yellow Grass.  These billets are necessary in the event that buses are unable to run after school.  The school administration will require the following information:
·         Student’s name and phone number.
·         Bus driver’s name.
·         Names and phone numbers of two billets.
·         Town students must make arrangements for contact in case of illness or emergency and parents cannot be notified.  Names and phone numbers of two contacts are required.
 
School Closure
To make certain parents, guardians or designated billets are informed of a school closure and students have a safe place to go.
·         Billet information will be gathered at the beginning of each year.
·         The office secretary will be responsible to contact each of the families/relatives/billets for each student.
·         The principal, upon school closure, will contact CFSL radio announcing the school closure.
School Bus Rules and Regulations
·         Bus students will be directly supervised by the bus driver.
·         Students who do not respect the authority of the bus driver will be referred to the principal.
·         Students riding on a bus are subject to the same rules of conduct and discipline as the classroom.
The driver shall assign specific seats to students who must then retain that seat at all times unless moved by the driver.  While on the bus, students must adhere to the following expectations;
·         Students shall not move about or attempt to get off the bus while it is in motion.
·         Students must not extend their arms or heads out of windows.
·         Crowding and jostling when entering and leaving the bus is not allowed.
·         Materials and supplies shall not be placed in the aisles of the bus.
·         Students may not tamper with the bus or any equipment on the bus.
·         All damage noticed by the students must be reported to the driver.
·         Students may not talk or interfere with the driver while the bus is in motion.
·         The ‘no smoking, eating or drinking’ rules are to be observed.
·         Students must not throw paper or other waste materials on the floor or out of the windows of the bus.  It is the responsibility of the pupil to assist the driver in keeping the bus clean and tidy.
·         Students must conduct themselves in a quiet and courteous manner, showing consideration for the comfort and safety of others.
·         Scuffling, fighting and the use of obscene language on the bus and at bus stops for loading and unloading passengers is prohibited.
·         Students causing willful damage to a bus will be held fully accountable.
·         When leaving the bus, pupils must observe the instructions of the driver.
·         Older students should display a responsible and protective attitude toward younger pupils.
 
1.       Safety precautions must be observed at all loading and unloading stations.  Students are required to;
·         Walk on the left side of the highway, road or street, if sidewalks are not available, facing the oncoming traffic.
·         Walk in single file when walking along the highway, road or street.
·         Refrain from playing on the highway, road or street while waiting for the bus.
·         Deny all rides from strangers.
·         Wait for the bus to come to a full stop before trying to get on.
·         Wait for the driver’s signal before crossing the highway, road or street.
·         If it is necessary to cross the highway, road or street, always cross in front of the bus.
·         Check for an oncoming traffic before crossing a highway, road or street.
2.       Students shall be at the point of pick-up at the time designated by the driver to assist the driver in staying on schedule.
3.       Students should be at the bus stop in plenty of time in the morning and after school.  Bus drivers are not required to wait for tardy students.
4.       In the event that a student will not be riding a bus either to or from school, the student should notify the bus driver of the change in plans.
5.       Students may only board the school bus if they utilize the transportation service for the complete route from the home to the school of attendance and vice versa.
6.       Students are to be adequately dressed for bus transportation.  During the winter months, students may be required to bring additional clothing, boots, and blankets for given periods of time.
7.       The driver is in full charge of the bus and therefore his/her direction must be obeyed at all times.
8.       Students shall not carry skates onto a school bus unless the skates are enclosed within an appropriate container.
STUDENTSD WHO VIOLATE THE RULES AND REGULATIONS MAY BE TEMPORARILY OR PERMANTELY SUSPENDED FROM RIDING THE BUS.
Tobacco and Other Drugs
1.       Smoking on school property is strictly prohibited.
2.       Possession of tobacco products, illicit drugs, and/or alcohol is strictly prohibited on school property.
 
Miscellaneous Rules
1.       All types of explosives are prohibited.
2.       Outdoor clothing should not be worn in the classroom.  In general this matter is left to the discretion of the classroom teacher.
3.       Hats, caps and toques must not be worn in the school during school hours unless permission is granted in co-ordination with special events such as spirit day, etc.  Shoes must be worn at all times.
4.       Sunflower seeds or gum should not be brought into the school.
5.       No rough housing.
6.       Defacing or destroying school property may result in a suspension from school.
7.       Students must remove or clean thoroughly wet or muddy footwear upon entering the school.
 
 
F.       ACADEMIC POLICY
Elementary and Middle Years Program – (Division I-II, Grades 1-9)
All students are required to take all subjects offered at each grade level unless special permission carry fewer is granted by the Principal.  Permission to take fewer classes is granted only under the following circumstances.
·         In the opinion of the staff, it would be beneficial for the student because of low academic achievement to concentrate on fewer subjects.
·         It can be ascertained that the mental or physical health of the student requires him/her to be offered a special program.  The following subjects are taught in elementary and middle years here at Yellow Grass School.  English, Language Arts, Mathematics, Social Studies, Arts Ed, French Physical Education, Health/Guidance, Computers and PAA.
 
ACADEMIC POLICY (DIVISION IV, GRADES 10-12)
All grades Ten, Eleven and Twelve students are required to carry a full load of credits each semester/year unless special permission to carry fewer is granted by the Principal.  Permission will normally be granted only under the following circumstances.
·         It can be ascertained that the mental or physical health of the student requires him/her to carry less than a full load of credits.
·         The student is pursuing a program of independent study approved by the Principal and under the supervision of a teacher.
·         The student is carrying enough credits to graduate and has the permission of the parents/guardian to take fewer credits.
·         A teacher may grant an “incomplete” standing to a student if the student does not complete the required assignments for the course.  A student can remedy the “incomplete” by submitted the required assignments within a time period specified by the teacher.
·         No student may withdraw from a class without the permission of their parents/guardian and the principal.
Saskatchewan Credit Requirements (GRADES 10, 11, AND 12 STANDING)
 
1.       For complete grade 10 standing (effective September 1988) candidates must acquire a minimum of eight credits.  Required courses of study for Grade 10 are English 10 (2 credits), one of Social Studies 10 or Social Studies History 10 or Native Studies 10, Science 10, one credit from Mathematics 10 area of study.  Three unspecified elective credits at the 10 level or higher are needed.
2.       For complete grade 11 standing (effective September 1989), candidates must acquire a cumulated minimum of sixteen credits.  Required Areas of Study are English 20 (1 credit) and Mathematics 20.
3.       For complete grade 12 standing (effective September 1990), candidates must acquire a cumulated minimum of twenty-four credits, five of which must be at the grade 12 level.  English 30 (2 credits) is compulsory.  Also one of Social Studies 30 or Social Studies History 30 or Economics 30 plus one credit from each of the Science, Social Science and Mathematics areas of study at the grade 11 or 12 level are compulsory.
4.       One credit is required at the grade 10, 11 or 12 levels in Physical Education (Wellness 10) area of study.
5.       Two credits are required at the grade 10, 11 or 12 level in the Practical and Applied Arts areas of study.
6.       To meet the June 1997 credit requirements, students will be required to take nine elective courses at the Secondary Level.  These courses will include at least six courses at grade 11 or 12.  To fulfill elective credit requirements, students may choose courses from the Required Areas of Study, the Practical and Applied Arts, language courses, and local-developed courses.  In addition, students may acquire one credit for an out-of-school personal learning initiative (Special Project Credit).
7.       For admission to the University of Saskatchewan and to the University of Regina a complete secondary level standing (24 credits effective September 1990) or equivalent standing is required.  The compulsory and elective credits (subjects) will be determined by the college the student wishes to enter.
8.       Standing Granted indicates that credit has been given for courses taken under a jurisdiction other than this Department of Education.
9.       The pass mark in each subject is 50.  At the Secondary Level, there are three categories in which students must obtain credits; required courses of study, specified areas of study and electives.
 
Credit Policy
The following chart outlines the credit policy for secondary education in Saskatchewan.
 
Areas of Study
Number of Credits Required
English Language Arts
5
Mathematics
2
Science
2
Social Sciences (includes Canadian Studies)
3
Health Education
1
Physical Education
1
Arts Education
2
Practical and Applied
 Arts
2
 
                Electives 9, total 24
                Note:  1 credit = 100 hours of classroom instruction.
 
                Credit Requirements for Grades 10, 11 And 12
 
Program Credits
Required Courses of Study Grade 10, 11 and 12
Area of Study
Number of Credits Required
English Language Arts 2
1 2
Mathematics 1
1
Science
1
Social Science
1
 
Canadian Studies
1
 
Specified Areas of Study - (Grade 10, 11 or 12)
   (Grade 11 or 12 Science 1)
Area of Study
Number of Credits Required
Social Science
1
Health Education
1
Physical Education
1
Arts Education
2
Practical and Applied Arts
2
 
                Electives Grade 10, 11 or 12/Grade 11 or 12
                Electives 9, total 36
 
 
Graduation Requirements
Students must have a Minimum of (24) credits, five of which shall be 30 level credits.  Students must have ELA 30 AND B30, History 30 or Social Studies 30 or Native Studies 30, a Science and a Math at the 20 level.
 
Notes:
Modified courses (11, 21, 31 and 10A, 20A, 30A) can be used to fulfill requirements mentioned above. Locally-developed courses may be used to meet elective requirements only.
Graduation requirements are the minimum requirements for grade 12 standing.  Students may choose to exceed these requirements.
 
Evaluation Policy
Continuous evaluation:
All evaluation at all grade levels is continuous, which means that more emphasis is place on day-to-day work (essays, assignments, participation in discussion, etc) than on a final examination.  Except in the case of non-accredited teachers, final exams will count for less than 40 percent of any final mark.
This type of evaluation enables teachers to better evaluate the student skill development and final marks become more than just a measure of how many facts a student has memorized.
 
Continuous evaluation also means that students must keep up with their day-to-day work
 
Grade XII Evaluation:
Grade XII (Level 30) subjects are evaluated in one of two ways; by fully accredited teachers or by partially accredited teachers and Departmental exams.
Accredited Teachers – are those who have the right to submit to the Department of Education a final mark for a Level 30 subject.  Accredited teachers follow a procedure of evaluation similar to that outlined in Section 1 above “Continuous Evaluation”.  Any student who does not wish to accept the mark assigned by an accredited teacher may select to write a Departmental Exam.
 
 
·         Partial Accredited Teachers – all teachers teaching at the Grade XII level are partially accredited.  That is they submit 50 percent (or 40 percent in the area of Science) of the final mark based upon the year’s work and the remaining 50 (60) per cent is determined by a Departmental exam covering the entire year’s work.  Since the number of accredited teachers may vary from year to year, students are informed at the commencement of a Level 30 class as to whether or not the teacher is accredited.
G.    AWARDS
Valedictorian
                Being selected as valedictorian is both an honor and a privilege.  It provides the opportunity to represent both the school and the graduating class at a very prestigious event.  As such, we have    established criteria for eligible candidates and a procedure for final selection.
                Criteria; an eligible candidate must;
·         Be a member of the graduating class and eligible to graduate in June.
·         Be in the top third of the class academically.
·         Have represented the school in a positive manner.
·         Have demonstrated leadership qualities through involvement in SRC, sports, drama or other school sanctioned activities.
Procedure
·         The teaching staff shall submit a list of eligible candidates to the members of the graduating class who will determine their selection through secret ballots.
 
 
Scholarships
Bolton Scholarship
·         This is a $100 scholarship awarded to the student in the South East Cornerstone School Division #209 with the highest final standing in Social Studies 30.
Hill Family Award
·         This is a$500 scholarship awarded to the Grade 12 student in the Yellow Grass School with the highest academic average in the following subject areas;
·         ELA, A30, ELA B30, Math 30 A, B OR C, Biology 30 or Chemistry 30 or Physics 30 and one elective.
W.O. Hockley Memorial Scholarship
·         The W.O. Hockley Memorial Scholarship is awarded at the beginning of the fall school term.  This $1,000 scholarship and is limited to Yellow Grass students who meet the following criteria.
·         Candidate must be attending a recognized post-secondary institution in the fall term
·         Candidate must not be a recipient of another major scholarship from the Yellow Grass Community.
·         The candidate should be of academic standing
·         The candidate has participated in leadership within the school and its programs
·         Involvement and showed interest in the community.
·         This scholarship is given in honor of the late W.O. (Oliver) Hockley.
 
Governor General’s Award (bronze medal) is awarded annually to the student who achieves the highest average in their year of graduation.  The average shall be based upon the following criteria which are compulsory for graduation.
·         English A30, English B30, History or Social Studies 30
·         Highest Math 30, highest Science 30, highest two electives at the 20 or 30 level.
 
        Local Awards
·         English;  sponsored by the Church of Christ
·         Social Studies;  sponsored by the Yellow Grass Recreation Board
·         Physical Education; sponsored by Yellow Grass Legion
·         Information Processing;  sponsored by Trossachs Parks and Recreation
·         Practical and Applied Arts;  sponsored by the Yellow Grass United Church
·         Science;  sponsored by the Yellow Grass Masonic Lodge
·         French;  sponsored by the Yellow Grass Town Council
·         Academic Proficiency for each of Grades 7-12
·         Blair Whitrow Memorial Awards
Volleyball:  Male & Female
Basketball:  Male & Female
Curling:  Male & Female
·         Leadership Award
H.            HOME AND SCHOOL COMMUNICATION
Report cards are issued three times a year with two formal three-way conferences planned (one in the fall and one in the spring).  Scheduling of such conferences is partly to meet the recognized need for contact with the home, however, parents are encouraged to contact a specific teacher, or the Principal when they have any questions or concerns.   First contact should be made with the teacher involved.  If a solution cannot be reached the issue should then be brought to the attention of the principal.
 
 
 
APPENDIX A;      INTERNET POLICY
Yellow Grass School Internet Access Policy:  Student Use of Internet/Computer Facilities.
The formation of this policy was motivated by a need to develop guidelines for users of the Internet Access provided by Yellow Grass School.  Users must realize the Internet capabilities as a resource available with the provision that they are responsible in how many they use the access or transmit information through the Internet.
The internet is an electronic networking of computers all over the world.  It is the exchange of information, ideas, products and services.  It is essential for each user on the Internet to recognize his/her responsibility in having access to such a vast amount of information.
In the end it is the user who is responsible for their actions in accessing network services.
With access to computers and people all over the world also comes the availability of material that may not be considered to be of any educational value.  Through staff supervision and some computer software, Yellow Grass School will endeavor to prevent access to unsuitable and controversial materials.  A priority for staff and students is to learn about high quality sites and to develop the evaluation skills necessary to sort out ‘acceptable’ from ‘not acceptable’ information.  However, on a global network it is impossible to control all materials and an industrious user may discover controversial information.  We firmly believe that eh valuable information and interaction available on this worldwide network far outweighs the possibility that users may attain material that is not consistent with educational goals.
Users of the Internet are expected to apply the same standards in the use of the Internet as they would apply in any other school based activity.  This is the uses must be related to the approved provincial curriculum and the course objectives.  Information placed on the Internet, or received from the Internet, must be such that it would be acceptable to the curriculum to parents and to staff. 
Remember, the fact that a user “can” perform a particular action does not imply that they “should” take the action.  The use of the Internet Access is a privilege, not a right, which may be revoked at any time for abusive conduct.  The length of time of the suspension of Internet privileges will be determined by the administration.  We ask that you and your child read, sign and return the Parent Internet Agreement” on the last page of this policy.  Once signed, this contract will be in effect until the student leaves our school.  Students will not be allowed access to the Internet unless we have a copy of this permission form on file.  (This is for new students; every current student at Yellow Grass School should have one on file). 
 
 
 
 
Internet Etiquette and Privacy
Users are expected to abide by the generally accepted rules of net etiquette.  These rules include (but are not limited to) the following:
·         Be polite, do not send, or encourage others to send, abusive messages.
·         Appropriate use, misuse may come in many forms, but it is commonly looked at as any information or messages(s) sent or received that involve or suggest pornography, unethical or illegal solicitation, racism, and sexism.  Swearing or any other in appropriate language is also unacceptable.
·         Privacy, do not reveal any personal information such as your home address or home telephone number or for anyone else.
·         Electronic mail is not guaranteed to be private.  Messages relating or in support of illegal activities must be reported to the authorities.
·         Disruptions do not use the network in any way that would disrupt use of the network by others.
 
DECLARATION OF UNDERSTANDING AND ADHERENCE
I have read the “Student Internet Access” policy, understand it, and agree to adhere to the guidelines and principles outlined in the policy.  Should I breach the guidelines, I understand that I may lose all Internet Access privileges provided by Yellow Grass School.  As well, additional action may be taken by the administration if deemed necessary.
 
 
___________________________________
Student’s Name
 
___________________________________                __________________________
Student’s Signature                                                                                Date
 
___________________________________                           __________________________
Parent or Guardian’s Signature                                         Date
 

 

 

 

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AUP Staff signing page.pdf
  
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Cornerstone AUP Dec 9 2009.pdf
  
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