St. Martin de Porres High School

2017-2018

Student Handbook

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Topic Page Table of Contents School Prayer 3 Welcome / Mission Statement / Vision/School Pillars 4 Community of Caring 5 Student Code of Conduct 6-8 General Information Academic Integrity 9 Academic Recognition 9 Alcohol and Drugs 9 Attendance Policy 10 Attendance Procedures 10-11 Awards Program 11-13 Bell Schedule 14 Brightspace (D2L) 14-15 Busing 15 Canteen 15 Career Centre 15 Chaplain 16 Communication Flow Chart 16 Counsellor 16 Course Marks Appeal 17 Course Selection Guidelines 17 Dress Code 17-18 Exam Period 18 Extra-Curricular Activities/Clubs/Teams 19 Food and Drink 19 Games 19 Graduation 20 Homework Policy and Expectations 20-21 Important Dates 21 Learning Commons 21-22 Lockers, Locks and Valuables 22 Ministry Hours 22 Parish 22 Parking 22-23 Religious Education 23 Safety, Security and Wellness 23-24 Student Fee Structure 24 Teacher Advisory Program 25-26 Technology Protocols 26-27 Textbook Rental 27

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SCHOOL PRAYER

Loving God, with confidence and devotion,

we seek to imitate the bold example of our Patron, St. Martin de Porres.

Like St. Martin, help us to be instruments of change in our world,

putting our faith into action. Show to the people of every race and nation

the paths of unity and justice. Help us to see the face of Jesus in the poor and

help us to love our neighbour as ourselves.

St. Martin de Porres, pray for us.

Amen.

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WELCOME Welcome to St Martin de Porres High School. A very special welcome to parents and students who are new to our community. The 2017-2018 school year represents our school’s nineteen year of operation. We continue in our commitment and belief of providing quality Catholic education for students of our Airdrie community. We will spare no effort to make our program successful; however, your success as students will be proportional to your efforts. We encourage your involvement in the curricular, co-curricular and extra-curricular programs. We invite you to take an active part in the wide range of spiritual, social and athletic activities that we offer. We hope that you will always be conscious of our school’s pillars: Fellowship, Leadership, and Mentorship and will incorporate them into your everyday activities. The contents of the Student Handbook incorporates the Alberta School Act, Calgary Catholic School District Administrative Procedures, as well as specific expectations of St. Martin de Porres High School. This is our Kodiak Code of Conduct. The staff of St. Martin de Porres wishes you an enjoyable and rewarding school year and with this wish, let us remember to always have the spirit to strive for excellence.

MISSION STATEMENT We, the Catholic community of St. Martin de Porres High School, with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, are committed to providing the best Catholic education in an optimal learning environment, for the intellectual, spiritual and personal growth of each student.

OUR VISION We, the Catholic Community of St. Martin de Porres High School, provide the strongest academic programs to meet each student's capabilities. Our school is a hope-filled community, which promotes a strong sense of belonging through open communication, active participation, accountability and service. Through Fellowship, Mentorship, and Leadership, we foster the uniqueness of individuals on pathways of learning. By creating and accepting challenges, we realize our fullest potential as witnesses and servants of Christ.

OUR SCHOOL’S PILLARS In the spirit of Catholic Fellowship, Leadership and Mentorship we:

• celebrate our belonging and individuality • care for one another and provide guidance and support • promote friendships and develop relationships based on trust • actively reach out to others and work together toward shared goals • pray and laugh together • make ourselves available to listen and respond • strive toward spiritual and personal growth • live and serve through the example of Christ and St. Martin de Porres • share individual gifts and talents.

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CATHOLIC COMMUNITY OF CARING

“The goal of the Community of Caring program, simply stated, is to create a school environment

that will help all students develop positive values.” A Catholic Community of Caring School is rooted in six core values:

FAITH: Prayer, belief, and commitment

FAMILY: Care, share and learn together

RESPONSIBILITY: Be accountable, dependable and reliable

RESPECT: For one’s self and others, and for all life

TRUST: Being confident and honest

CARING: Show compassion and kindness towards others

The Faith theme we are highlighting this year as a District, is Be Merciful.

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STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT Background As stated in The School Act, Section 45.1, the district is committed to providing welcoming, caring, respectful and safe learning environments that respect diversity and foster a sense of belonging. Each member shares responsibility for the well-being of every other member of the district. As such, a code of conduct must be established and reviewed yearly and shared publically with staff, parents/legal guardians, and students. The following elements will be common to the code of conduct in each district school: 1. Statement of purpose:

Calgary Catholic School District’s value statement is as follows:

“All members of our community are sacred and must be treated with dignity and respect. We value excellence in Catholic education, guided by shared responsibility and the moral authority of the Church.”

This statement guides all district stakeholders as they work to support student success and achievement. The school should be a positive learning environment in which students are safe, secure and successful. The code of conduct will outline expectations for student behaviour while at school, at a school-related activity, or while engaging in an activity that may have an impact on others in the school. The school’s code of conduct will be communicated to parents, students and staff annually and reviewed regularly.

2. The Alberta Human Rights Act:

Section three of the Alberta Human Rights Act prohibits discrimination on the basis of an individual’s race, religious beliefs, colour, gender, gender identity, gender expression, physical disability, mental disability, age, ancestry, place of origin, marital status, source of income, family status or sexual orientation of that person or class of persons. Any behaviour that supports this discrimination is prohibited.

3. Acceptable behaviours:

All district schools have established Catholic Community of Caring programs that focus on building respectful and caring school environments, rooted in Catholic values. Catholic Communities of Caring programs align with the School Act’s requirement to provide welcoming, caring, respectful and safe learning environments. Within our schools, we are building communities that are inclusive and celebrate respect for one another, community and diversity. This includes placing a strong value on: • Respecting all others, regardless of race, religious beliefs, colour, gender, gender identity, gender

expression, physical disability, mental disability, age, ancestry, place of origin, marital status, source of income, family status or sexual orientation.

• Respecting the school authority. • Respecting the school and district property, as well as the property of others. • Respecting yourself and the rights of others in the school. • Making sure your conduct contributes to a welcoming, caring, respectful and safe learning

environment in the school that respects the diversity and fosters a sense of belonging of others in your school.

• Refraining from, reporting and refusing to tolerate bullying or bullying behaviour, even if it happens outside of the school or school hours or electronically.

• Informing an adult you trust in a timely manner of incidents of bullying, harassment, intimidation or other safety concerns in the school.

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• Acting in ways that honour and appropriately represent you and your school. • Attending school regularly and punctually. • Being ready to learn and actively engage in and diligently pursue your education. • Knowing and complying with the rules of your school. • Cooperating with all school staff. • Being accountable for your behaviour to your teachers and other school staff. • Contribute positively to your school and community.

4. Unacceptable behaviours:

Behaviours that do not support the Community of Caring program, and therefore interfere with the establishment of welcoming, caring, respectful and safe learning environments are considered unacceptable. These include, but are not limited to: • Behaviours that interfere with the learning of others and/or the school environment, or that create

unsafe conditions; • Acts of bullying, cyber-bullying, harassment, or intimidation; • Retribution against any person in the school who has intervened to prevent or report bullying or

any other incident or safety concern; • Breaches of digital on-line safety; • Inappropriate use of mobile devices; • Inappropriate student dress; • Physical violence or threats; • Personal or sexual harassment; • Hazing; • Illegal activity such as:

o gang activity; o possession or use of weapons; o possession, use or distribution of illegal or restricted substances (including drugs,

alcohol, tobacco, or e-cigarette products); o theft or damage to property.

As outlined in Alberta’s School Act, students can be held accountable for conduct that occurs outside of the school building or school day and electronically (e.g. social media), if the conduct negatively affects a member of the school or interferes with the school environment.

5. Progressive discipline plan:

Students who engage in unacceptable behavior will be held accountable through the school’s progressive discipline plan. Consistent and logical consequences, rather than punitive measures, are important to support students in making appropriate choices and help shape their future actions. In any disciplinary situation, each student will be dealt with on an individual basis, and will take into account the student’s age, maturity and individual circumstances. As well, parental or district involvement may be requested to support school discipline procedures. The school’s use of the progressive discipline plan will determine the expectations, consequences and the progression of actions to be taken depending on the severity and/or frequency of the occurrences. At all times, teachers and administrators will use their professional judgment in applying consequences. Consequences must have a positive effect on the student’s journey through reconciliation, either formally or informally, with the school community and those affected by the student’s behaviour. The following consequences are progressive in their degree of intervention and will be enacted depending on the frequency and severity of occurrences. They will be applied consistently and equally to all students, notwithstanding the individual differences of children and the uniqueness of specific circumstances and situations.

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Progressive discipline is a whole-school approach that utilizes a continuum of interventions, supports, and consequences, including: • prevention measures and initiatives; • early and ongoing intervention strategies; • strategies to address unacceptable behaviour.

Interventions and consequences increase when: • the concerning behavior is persistent; • the concerning behavior escalates; • there is a very serious infraction of the code of conduct.

Interventions and consequences may include, but are not limited to, the following: • informal conferences; • restriction of privileges; • parent conferences; • in-school suspensions; • risk assessment; • suspension / expulsion (AP 356); • student redirection • Behaviour Support Plan (as part of the Learner Support Plan); • involvement of Instructional Services and supports; • involvement of external services and supports.

The principal may involve police in disciplinary matters when criminal activity has become evident. When police are involved, the principal will conduct a separate, parallel investigation at the school level and provide disciplinary action separate from any criminal charges that may be issued.

6. Student support:

Support will be provided to students impacted by inappropriate behaviour and to those students who engage in inappropriate behaviour. This is significant because while the student code of conduct must address the consequences for inappropriate behaviour, such as bullying, it also ensures that support (not just consequences) is provided to those students who engage in unacceptable behaviour. Examples of how support could be provided to students who have engaged in unacceptable behaviour include mentoring, restorative processes, regular check-ins with teachers or schools counsellors, counselling, etc.

7. Consideration of student diversity:

The School Act requires that the student code of conduct address consequences for unacceptable behaviour and that these reasonable consequences take into account the student’s age, maturity, and individual circumstances. The specific circumstances of the situation and of the student need to be taken into account when determining appropriate consequences. For example, any diverse needs that the student has – whether they are physical, behavioural, communicational, mental health, trauma, etc. – must be considered. The age and maturity of students involved should be considered when determining the consequences and support required.

Please meet with a guidance counsellor, teacher Advisor of Administration if you are concerned about the behaviour of others towards you or others.

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ACADEMIC INTEGRITY Students are expected to be rigorously honest in the pursuit of their education. A student is academically dishonest when they engage in any improper activity for the purpose of improving or misrepresenting an assessment or school work. This might include, but is not limited to cheating, copying and/or plagiarizing the work of others or allowing one’s work to be copied or plagiarized. Academic dishonesty is a serious offence and will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis following our approach to progressive discipline. ACADEMIC RECOGNITION Gr. 9 – 12: Average is credit weighted and calculated from all courses for each semester.

A B C Grade

(%) Credits ColumnA*ColumnB

Religion 35 Student Name 90 3 270 Physical Ed 30 3 Student Name 85 3 255 Math 30-2 Student Name 76 5 380 Coaching 2 Student Name 88 1 88 Human Movement Student Name 95 1 95 Injury Management 3 Student Name 92 1 92 ELA 30-1 Student Name 60 5 300 Student Total 19 1480 Credit Weighted Average = (Column C Total ÷ Column B Total)=

77.9

Honourable Mention 74.5 - 79.4% Honour Roll 79.5 - 89.4% Mark of Distinction 89.5 -100.00% In all categories no mark below 65.0% is allowed. Gr. 9 students - Credits will be assigned as follows for the purpose of academic recognition only. 5 credits = Math, English, Science, Social Studies, Phys. Ed and Religion. 3 credits = CTS and Options 1 credit = Health ALCOHOL AND DRUGS Students are not permitted to represent to sell, represent to dispense or dispense, possess, use, abuse or be under the influence of alcohol, drugs or other substances, on school property or at school sponsored events. Students under the influence of and/or in the possession of drugs or alcohol at school, on school property, or at any school related activity will be suspended and may face expulsion. Students should not be in the company of others using alcohol and drugs, as they are then also involved in the situation and it may result in disciplinary action. Administration will work cooperatively with the School Resource Officer (SRO) when students are involved in illegal activity.

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ATTENDANCE POLICY

All students under the age of 16 are legally expected to attend school according to the School Act. Absences, whether excused or unexcused, adversely affect student success. Attendance expectations and procedures include the Teacher Advisor period. Procedures outlined below require the cooperative effort of teachers, parents and administration.

The St. Martin de Porres High School’s automated phone system notifies the home, in the event of a student being absent. The automated phone system is also used to make important general announcements. Parents can also monitor attendance using “Parent View” which is accessible from the school website. Please contact the office if you need assistance creating an account.

ATTENDANCE CODES CODE DESCRIPTION EXCUSED/UNEXCUSED L Late Unexcused Le Late Excused Excused ACC Accident Excused ADM Administrative Excused COU Court Appearance Excused DIL Death/Illness in Family Excused EXP Expulsion Excused FIE Field Trip Excused ILL Illness Excused MED Medical Appointment Excused NOR No Acceptable Reason Unexcused OTH Other Excused SUS Suspension Excused TRU Truancy Unexcused UNK Unknown Unexcused WEA Weather Excused VAC Vacation Unexcused

Notes:

• Truancy – Student is away without Administrative or parental approval. • Unknown - Student is absent and there has been no contact with the parent/guardian • No Acceptable Reason - Student excused by parent with no excusable reason. • Vacation/Extended Leave – The school does not approve extended leaves due to vacation, but

does record parental intent to have the student discontinue attendance for a specified period of time. The burden of responsibility for making up missed work lies entirely with the student. Vacation/extended leave may adversely impact a student’s ability to complete credits during the semester/quarter.

ATTENDANCE PROCEDURES The teacher advisor's role is to monitor, encourage, and direct students. The teacher advisor will be aware of a student's academic progress and attendance (lates and absences). When attendance becomes a problem, the teacher advisor will counsel the student, then contact parents, counsellors, teachers, and administration as necessary.

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The Teacher Advisor (T.A.) will monitor the attendance of the students in their T.A. group. The attendance procedure is as follows:

3 unexcused absences/lates: subject teacher discusses the situation with the student and informs the Teacher Advisor;

6 unexcused absences/lates: subject teacher informs the Teacher Advisor and parent/student meeting occurs to further discuss concerns;

9 unexcused absences/lates: subject teacher informs the Teacher Advisor; Counsellor discusses the situation with the student;

12 or more unexcused absences/lates: student will meet with Administration, Counsellor and Parents/Guardians to develop a contract that will support academic success. The contract will be signed by Student, Parent and Administration;

Administration and Counsellor will meet with the student on a monthly basis to monitor student progress. Parents/Guardian may be required to attend a meeting if absences/lates continue to be a concern.

Parents are required to phone the school if the student will be absent for any reason or if the student is required to leave the school for an appointment during the day. Students are not permitted to sign themselves out prior to the office receiving parent approval. Students who are late must sign in at the office prior to attending class.

A student may be withdrawn from a course due to lack of attendance. Parents will be informed during the process. This decision will be collaboratively made by the teacher, counsellor and administration. Students and parents must also understand that single credit CTS courses last a maximum of three weeks. On occasions where a student misses one or more of those weeks, it will have a significant impact on the student’s ability to complete credits.

AWARDS PROGRAM The awards program is established to encourage excellence and recognize achievement of students in academics, athletics, practical and fine arts, service and citizenship. Details are available from the guidance counsellor or the teacher overseeing the awards program. SUBJECT EXCELLENCE AWARDS These awards are presented to the student with the highest mark in each subject area. HIGHEST GRADES IN DIPLOMA COURSES Awarded to one student in each of the Grade 12 Diploma Courses who has achieved the highest grade on his/her school work, excluding the Diploma Exam. IVAN J MCMANUS AWARD Awarded to a grade 9 student who has the top academic mark coming from their best 5 subjects. MERIT CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION Career and Technology Studies award for a student pursuing a career in construction. LINDA BENNETT MEMORIAL MUSIC AWARD Awarded to a grade 12 student who demonstrates passion, dedication and leadership throughout their time at St. Martin and is involved in multiple music ensembles.

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PROMINENT HOMES KIRPAL DHINDSA SCHOLARSHIP Awarded to the student who demonstrates ambition and a dedication to education regardless of grades or educational path. CHRISTIAN LEADERSHIP Awarded to one student in each grade who:

• has completed the Religious Studies course for the academic year. • shows respect and courtesy to other individuals. • exhibits leadership in school sponsored, community and/or extra-curricular activities. • shows concern for the good of others: fellow classmates, teachers, citizens, etc.

JEAN ROUTHIER Awarded to one student in the Resource Program who:

• exhibits a positive attitude towards his/her learning. • demonstrates a willingness to receive support. • demonstrates personal and academic growth throughout the school year.

PRINCIPAL’S AWARD Awarded to one student in each grade who achieves the highest overall mark in the five core subjects. For high school, these subjects include English and Social Studies as well as one Science and one Math. ALTA INNOVATION MANUFACTURING (A.I.M.) This award is presented yearly to one grade 11 ($1000) and one grade 12 ($1500) student. The winners will be selected for demonstrating leadership in promoting an entrepreneurial spirit, innovative and creative ideas, and a balanced approach to such areas as academics, the arts, design, technology, and manufacturing. The winners demonstrate the innovative and creative potential of Alberta’s future. AIRDRIE DISTRICT ROTARY CLUB AWARD Awarded to grade 12 student(s) who show good citizenship, have high academic, leadership and speaking skills who has shown volunteer work in the church school or community. FOUNDERS’ AWARD (THE AIRDRIE ROMAN CATHOLIC SEPARATE SCHOOL BOARD TRUSTEES’ AWARD) Awarded to the Grade 12 student who best exemplifies the pillars of St. Martin de Porres High School: Fellowship, Leadership and Mentorship. TIM JACKSON MEMORIAL AWARD The Airdrie Fire Department members have developed a Scholarship Fund that currently provides awards to local students who demonstrate Citizenship qualities during their High School education. Tim Jackson was a dedicated husband and father who was also active in the community as a Scout Leader and gave countless hours as a Volunteer Firefighter supporting the safety and wellbeing of our community. He died as a result of injuries he sustained in a trench collapse in 1997 at age 42. He was very well thought of in the department and we endeavor to keep his memory alive through this fund. TIMMERMAN’S AWARD Awarded to the Grade 12 student who is the best that he/she can be. This award is not primarily an academic award but is given to a student who strives to do their best academically and contributes to the school community. SPIRIT OF ST. MARTIN DE PORRES Awarded to one student from Grade 10, 11, or 12 who shows overall support for St. Martin de Porres School and demonstrates:

• positive leadership and positive attitude in classes.

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• support and participation in school activities – teams, student council, band, etc. • support for school policies. • school spirit by example. • an effort to follow Christ’s example. • academic, by maintaining a 65% minimum average in all subjects.

HONOUR CORDS Awarded to a Grade 12 student at commencement exercises who:

• is on the Year Long School Honour Roll for either Honour Roll or Mark of Distinction. • is representing the graduating class as valedictorian.

ST. PAUL’S PARISH THEOLOGIAN AWARD Awarded to a Grade 12 student (or students) who has enrolled in a post-secondary institution in pursuit of Theological Studies, or a vocation in the same area. GOVERNOR GENERAL’S ACADEMIC MEDAL Awarded to the graduating student with the highest overall average based on all Grade 11 and Grade 12 (20 and 30 level) courses. Grades are weighted according to credits earned. ALEXANDER RUTHERFORD SCHOLARSHIPS Maximum $2500 awarded to high school students entering post-secondary education who have achieved an average of 80% or more in five designated subjects in each grade level.

BELL SCHEDULE 2017-2018

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday

Wednesday Friday

Warning Bell

8:15

8:15

8:15

Period 1

8:20-9:40

8:20-9:33

8:20-9:35

TA/Flex

9:43-10:13 (TA)

9:36-10:34 (Flex)

No TA/Flex

Period 2

10:16-11:36

10:37-11:50

9:37-10:52

Lunch

11:36-12:07

11:50-12:21

10:52-11:23

Period 3

12:12-1:32

12:26-1:39

11:28-12:43

Period 4

1:35-2:55

1:42-2:55

12:45-2:00

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BRIGHTSPACE (D2L)

Students at St. Martin de Porres will continue to use Brightspace by D2L. This platform is a moderated and controlled environment that allows teachers to present learning materials and opportunities for student interaction within curricular areas. Every student will be provided with an individual username and a password to access this system. As the Brightspace by D2L platform is web-based, it will be available from both school and at home. Students may access Brightspace by D2L through our school web page or through the following address: http://dl.cssd.ab.ca/. Parents are invited to log in using their child’s username and password in order to view grades, news items and a calendar with course specific information. For further assistance regarding login procedures, please refer to instructions posted on our school web page. Brightspace by D2L Mark Entry Conventions:

1. The default dash (-) with no accompanying comment indicates that the assignment has not yet been assessed/collected. It requires no attention at this time. Items with the default dash (-) are not calculated as part of the cumulative average.

2. A mark of zero, with an accompanying comment, indicates that the item was not

submitted/completed on the due date* and needs to be submitted/completed in a timely manner in order to remove the zero. Students are responsible for meeting with the teacher to arrange a time to submit/complete the item and receive support if required. Suggested comment: This item has not been submitted/completed to-date. Mark will remain a zero until submitted/completed. Please see me for assistance/support.

3. Unresolved zeros from #2 will result in a meeting between student and teacher.

4. If zeros persist, contact home will be made. In this case, it is an “informed zero” where home and school work together to develop a plan for completion.

5. Once submitted/completed the teacher will indicate in the comments section that the late item has been received. The item will then be assessed.

a. In most cases, the teacher will remove the zero and assign a mark. b. If a numerical grade does not accurately reflect student achievement, the teacher may

choose to provide an alternative form of assessment and/or feedback on how curriculum outcomes were met. The zero will then be removed and replaced with a dash (-) accompanied by a comment indicating the type of assessment and feedback that was provided.

*Items not completed/submitted on time due to extenuating circumstances (i.e. death in the family, illness, family emergency, etc.) will remain as a dash (-) while alternative due dates are being arranged.

BUSING Inquiries regarding transportation routes should be directed to Rocky View School District (Transportation Department) at 403-945-4103 or www.rockyview.ab.ca/transportation. Students riding on the bus must remember that they are responsible for their conduct to the bus driver and through the driver to the Administration. The driver is in full charge of the bus and the driver’s directions must be obeyed. The driver will report any misconduct to the Administration of the school. Misconduct will be investigated and is subject to the progressive discipline plan.

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CANTEEN/CONCESSION St. Martin de Porres is a school that promotes healthy choices. We will maintain a canteen during the lunch hour. The Canteen menu is limited, but provides a variety of hot and cold healthy food choices. Canteen cards are available in $10.00 and $20.00 amounts. Beverage and snack machines are situated in our two general eating areas. The eating areas are furnished with tables and chairs. Students are expected to keep the area clean by placing garbage or uneaten food in the proper receptacles and stacking their chairs once they are done eating. All monies raised by the canteen will be used to purchase items or services for school use. Please support the lunch hour menu.

CAREER CENTRE Services provided include assistance with: career planning and research; job search techniques and summer programs. Students are encouraged to explore how their unique interests, skills, values and personality relate to a number of occupations. Students also have access to a unique Career Research website Career Cruising. Access information for Career Cruising is available in the Learning Commons or through the Career Counsellor. *Students wanting to meet with the Career Practitioner can make an appointment at the main office. CHAPLAIN

Our Chaplain is in the school daily. The Chaplain facilitates, co-ordinates, and organizes liturgical celebrations, retreats, and is the school liaison to St. Paul’s Parish Community. The Chaplain leads classroom discussions on Catholic faith, morality and behaviour as well as attends and animates the school-based organization in their mission to reach out to the poor and the needy. Our School Chaplain regularly meets with other School District Chaplains to prepare and co-ordinate the yearly celebration of the District Opening Mass and Faith Day. COMMUNICATION FLOW CHART

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COUNSELLOR The counsellor, a trained teacher and counsellor, provides services designed to assist individuals and groups of students related to health information, choosing, planning, adjusting and achieving goals in educational, career, personal, social and spiritual areas. The counsellor provides counselling, student appraisal, referral and educational/occupational planning services in an attempt to meet the developmental needs of all students. The Catholic counsellor is concerned with all aspects of a student’s growth. As well as educational, career, behaviour, personal and/or social growth, the Catholic counsellor is vitally interested in fostering and promoting the spiritual growth of students within a Catholic context. Students wanting to make an appointment with a counsellor can do so at the main office. You have a voice! If are the subject of or witness to unacceptable behaviours (as outlined in our Code of Conduct), seek out the assistance of a trusted adult. 24 hour support is offered via the Distress Centre, http://www.distresscentre.com/, 403-266-4358 COURSE MARKS APPEAL A student must appeal in writing to the principal within 10 (ten) calendar days of receiving the mark at the end of semester one and by the end of the second week of September for marks received at the end of June. The principal will consult the coordinating teacher, and, if necessary will meet with an Appeal Committee which will include the principal, vice-principal, the coordinating teacher and the subject teacher. The final decision will be made by the principal who will inform the student of the decision. COURSE OFFERINGS, REQUIREMENTS, REQUESTS & CHANGES Together with parents, counsellors, and teacher advisor, each student is expected to have an educational plan that will realistically allow them to accomplish their graduation goals by the end of their grade 12 year. Parents and students are encouraged to review information on the following websites for detailed information to guide educational planning.

• Alberta Education Graduation Requirements • Footprints to your Future: A guide to High School • St. Martin de Porres High School Course Offerings and Selection

Course Changes Course changes will only be facilitated during the first 5 days of each semester or 3 days of each quarter.

• Ensure that you are aware of the requirements for an Alberta High School Diploma. • Grade 10 students must plan a full schedule and will not be permitted to drop a course or have a

spare (unless approved by administration). • Grade 11 students course load expectations are a minimum of 35 credits unless otherwise

approved by administration. Grade 11 students will not be permitted to drop a course if it puts them below a potential of 75 credits at the end of their grade 11 year.

• Grade 12 student course load expectations are that all graduation requirements will be met. Students may not drop a course if it takes them below graduation requirements. Work experience credits or classes taken out of term are not generally included in the above guidelines as they outside the school day.

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• If the above conditions are all met and a student would like to drop a course, students must have their TA and counsellor initiate the process and must have administrative and parental approval.

Course Requests • The number of course sections is based on student requests each spring. Initial individual requests

must be as accurate as possible. • Elective courses have limited space due to the nature of instruction, safety concerns and resources.

We will do our best to meet elective course requests but cannot guarantee that all requests will be filled. An alternate elective is requested for this reason.

• A course request does not ensure enrolment in the course. There may be scheduling considerations that may not make the request possible. Scheduling conflicts give priority to core classes and graduation requirements.

DRESS CODE If it is appropriate for the professional workplace, it is appropriate for school. Students are expected to support standards of dress and grooming reflecting the school’s purpose as a place of learning and as a place of work. Students should be sensitive to the values and expectations of our Catholic community. The following guidelines will be observed:

• Cleanliness and neatness — all clothes should be clean and in good repair. • Safety and health — shoes must be worn at all times • Clothes must not display slogans or advertising which is controversial, obscene and/or depicting

drugs, alcohol or other illegal activities. • Brief, beach-style or revealing clothing is inappropriate. The following clothing is prohibited: • Clothing that reveals bare backs, strapless tops, bare midriffs, plunging necklines, drooping muscle

shirts and hats • Sheer clothing without layers • Pants, shorts and skirts which reveal underwear • Gang related clothing or accessories including but not limited to bandanas, or other symbols,

emblems or insignias, may not be worn • Any clothing, jewellery or accessories, which create a safety or health concern, or cause or threaten

to cause disruption to the educational process. Students whose dress does not comply with the above guidelines will be expected to change their clothing prior to returning to class. EXAM PERIOD

Final exams for Semester 1 are scheduled in January. Final exams for Semester 2 are scheduled in June. See the school website for Final Exam Rules and Procedures and dates. Vacations should not be scheduled during these exam periods as exams cannot be written early and Diploma Examinations cannot be rescheduled for any reasons.

Students are expected to complete all assessments and examinations. Failure to do so may reflect on the final grade unless arrangements have been made due to special circumstances which may include:

• Medical • Major illness in the immediate family • Funeral in the immediate family • Family crisis • Other exceptional circumstances

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A parent/guardian shall apply in writing or discuss in person with the principal, no later than the end of the examination period explaining the reason for the absence and providing a medical certificate, if applicable. The principal, with input from the subject teacher, will then determine whether:

• The student's final mark be calculated based solely on the class mark. • The student writes the exam (except for diploma exams) at a later date. • The student completes an alternate final assessment. • At the Diploma level only, the student will be required to write the exam at a subsequent sitting

unless an exemption is granted by Alberta Education Special Cases. The student’s final mark will not be released by Alberta Education until the exam is written or an exemption is granted. For exemption information, students should meet with the Vice Principal who is the exam coordinator.

EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES / CLUBS / TEAMS St. Martin de Porres provides a wide range of activities and athletics. These programs encourage students to develop new interests, pursue new ventures and develop new skills. Some of the choices may include: Badminton Art Kodiak Council Basketball Band Graduation Committee Cross Country Choir Liturgical Band Soccer Drama Improv. Team Volleyball Guitar Club Track & Field Swimming Intramurals Social Justice Projects Yearbook Debate

Fees When a student is chosen for a team/club at St. Martin de Porres, there may be a fee associated. The fee will be posted on acorn for the appropriate team/club with payment and consent forms due before the athlete is allowed to participate.

Expectations of Kodiaks Students are representatives of St. Martin de Porres School and are expected to be exemplary role models for other students and for the community at large. Students are bound by the Kodiak Code of Conduct when representing the school. In order for a student to be a member of a school team/club they are expected to be meeting and/or demonstrating a desire to achieve their academic potential. Students who fail to achieve this standard may be withdrawn from their respective team/club. Students whose attendance is under review may not be able to participate. Students cannot participate in practices, games, or events while they are under suspension. A review of their standing on the team will be held in the event of a suspension. Eligibility for Athletics/Clubs A student is eligible to participate in the Calgary Senior High School Athletic Association program for three years. Year one is the year the student registers in Grade 10. A student is able to transfer High Schools once only and still be eligible to play sports.

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FOOD AND DRINK Clear water bottles, coffee or tea drinks and hot chocolate are permitted in the classroom unless they are a safety issue or interfere with instruction. No other food or drink is permitted in the classroom at any time. Teachers may use discretion for special events and/or circumstances. GAMES Students are reminded that playing games which involve gambling activities or inappropriate content that contravenes the Kodiak Code of Conduct or our Pillars of Catholicity are prohibited. If game playing in the Kodiak Den or Learning Commons is disruptive or inappropriate, students will lose the privilege and may be subject to the school’s progressive discipline plan. GRADUATION It is the student’s responsibility to work with parents, counsellors, teacher advisors, and school administration to ensure that their credits, courses and grades are in order by the specified deadline. Please note that many post-secondary institutions require more than the minimum Alberta High School Diploma requirements. Students are required to research the criteria for their post-secondary program of choice and advocate for their educational needs. CONVOCATION Convocation activities for Grade 12 students are divided into two categories: Farewell Celebrations and Activities

• All Grade 12 students are provided the opportunity to attend the grade 12 Retreat, Mass and the Grad Banquet and Dance.

• The school neither promotes nor is affiliated with any graduation activities other than those listed above.

Commencement Ceremony The academic exercise recognizes those students who have fulfilled all the academic, attendance, and behavioural expectations determined by Alberta Education, the Calgary Catholic School District, and St. Martin de Porres High School. The following criteria must be met in order to qualify for the Commencement Ceremony:

• A potential graduate will successfully complete credits in Religious Studies 15, 25 and 35. • A potential graduate is expected to complete 30 Ministry Hours as detailed in this handbook. • A potential graduate will fulfill all the requirements set out by Alberta Education as per the

“Course Offerings, Requirements, Requests and Changes” section of this handbook. • ULearn, self-directed courses must be 85% completed a week prior to the final posting of the

graduation list. • A potential graduate is expected to attend all scheduled classes, including T.A. on a regular

basis. Chronic lates and absences may result in the student forfeiting the privilege of participating in the Commencement Ceremony. Students accumulating 12 or more unexcused absences will be required to meet with Administration, Teacher Advisor, Counsellor and Parents to develop a plan of action that will ensure academic success. Names of students who are experiencing chronic attendance difficulties will not appear on the graduation list until a sustained commitment to their studies is demonstrated.

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• A potential graduate will adhere to the Kodiak Code of Conduct as outlined in this handbook. A student serving a suspension is not eligible to participate in school events, including graduation activities and ceremonies, during the suspension.

• A potential graduate must have a grade of 50% or greater in all courses needed to graduate to be on the final graduation list.

HOMEWORK POLICY AND EXPECTATIONS Homework is any task assigned by teachers that students complete during non-school hours. The Calgary Catholic School District recognizes well-planned homework in Grades 3-12 can be a meaningful part of a student’s learning. Time spent on homework may vary from one student to the next. Parents who have concerns with homework expectations should contact their child’s teacher or the school principal to discuss the situation and the options available. The Calgary Catholic School District finalized a Homework Administrative Procedure in consultation with its community. You can find more information about the District’s homework by clicking on the preceding hyperlink or on the district website: www.cssd.ab.ca. St. Martin de Porres considers homework a vital and integral part of every student’s educational experience and is an extension of classroom work.

This extra time is critical if students are to achieve their potential. Students in academic courses should expect to be completing work or reviewing each evening. Supervision of daily home study is the responsibility of parents; daily study is the obligation of the student. Home study time should be spent on:

Reading text Preparation for lab work

Reviewing notes and lab work Research

Studying vocabulary and terms Supplemental reading

Study for examination and quizzes Preparation for projects and papers

IMPORTANT DATES All Important Dates are available and will be updated regularly on our school website at: http://schools.cssd.ab.ca/stmartin

LEARNING COMMONS ROUTINES, PROCEDURES AND EXPECTATIONS

1. Learning Commons Hours

The Learning Commons is open 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM, Monday – Thursday and 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM Fridays. During instructional time, the Learning Commons is reserved for learning opportunities. Students on a study period wishing to socialize are expected to use the Kodiak Den.

2. Borrowing Materials • Students MUST present their VID cards to borrow materials. • Learning Commons books and chrome books are accessible to all students.

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• Learning Commons materials not returned by the due date may result in suspension of borrowing privileges. Privileges will be reinstated once materials are returned or if payment has been received.

• Students are responsible for any replacement costs of any lost or damaged materials. • All students are required to follow the Calgary Catholic School District Acceptable Use Policy

for Internet Use (signed at beginning of year) when using Learn Commons Devices and when accessing the school network. Students using Personally Owned Devices inappropriately in the Learning Commons are subject to the progressive discipline plan.

3. Conduct Rules

• Students are expected to follow the Kodiak Code outlined this Student Handbook. • ONLY water permitted. Absolutely NO food, drinks or candy are permitted in the learning

commons area. Students found with the above while in the Learning Commons risk losing the food item and/or their library privileges.

• Students using the library during study opportunities and not following the conduct rules, or causing disruptions may have their library privileges suspended during that study opportunity.

LOCKERS, LOCKS, VALUABLES The Calgary Catholic School District, through its agent St. Martin de Porres High School, provides lockers for student use and convenience. The school owns and controls the lockers. School locks will be provided to all new students at no cost. Replacement locks are available at the cost of $7.00. We encourage only locks issued by the school to be used. The school reserves the right to search a student's locker when there is a reasonable cause to believe that the locker is being improperly used for the storage of any substance or object, the possession of which is illegal, or any substances or materials which pose a hazard to the safety and good order of the school. Valuables must never be left in locker rooms or unattended around the school. The school is not responsible for lost or stolen items. MINISTRY HOURS Each student will complete a total of 30 Ministry Hours during their 4 years at St. Martin de Porres. These hours consist of volunteer and social justice experiences. Students are encouraged to work with their TA, school chaplain, and parents to choose suitable opportunities. Students submit completed Ministry Hours to their TA for tracking. The Ministry Hours template can be obtained at the office or on the school website. The 30 hour requirement will be pro-rated for students joining St. Martin de Porres after their grade 9 year. PARISH Please visit the St. Paul’s website for information about our school parish. School liturgies and masses are planned in coordination with the church priests, deacons and staff. They also visit the school to promote and strengthen our Catholic Community of Caring. PARKING Parking is limited at St. Martin de Porres High School. Parking permits are a privilege and, as such, the school reserves the right to suspend permits for contravention of any parking regulations or violation of our

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Kodiak Code of Conduct. Vehicles not displaying permits will first receive a warning. Subsequent incidents may result in the vehicle being towed at the owner’s expense. Students are required to drive safely while in the parking lot and when entering and leaving school property. Stereos are to be silenced upon entering the parking lot as they disrupt classes, meetings and other school activities, in addition to disturbing the neighbours. In order to ensure security for student and teacher vehicles, students are to be in the parking lot only if they are coming to school or leaving the grounds. It is not to be used as a lunch area, a meeting area or as a place to spend study blocks. Students are held accountable for the conditions of the Parking Permit Contract. Students can apply for a parking permit at the office and a fee of $40.00 is used to offset costs of parking lot maintenance and snow removal. RELIGIOUS EDUCATION Religious Education is a required course for at St. Martin de Porres students as part of the Calgary Catholic School District. All grade 9 students will attend Religion 9 classes. Students in grades 10-12 are required to successfully complete Religious Education 15, 25, and 35 for a total of 9 credits toward their high school diploma. Students are also expected to participate in liturgies and faith-based events. SAFETY, SECURITY AND WELLNESS

FIRE ALARMS/LOCK DOWNS It is important that students feel safe and have a sense of well-being, not only in school, but also at school activities. The moral tone of the school, and the safety or well-being of persons, or school property must be maintained at all times. Our regulations are ALSO based on Occupational Health and Safety regulations at both the District and Provincial level.

There are situations which require that the building be secured or evacuated. For the safety of all in the building, students must be extremely cooperative during these situations. In the event of an alarm, students and teachers will follow evacuation instructions as posted in each room. All personnel will move quickly and quietly to designated areas outside the school. During a “lock down” students will be secured in the closest available location. Students are expected to turn off all electronic devices. Fire alarms, evacuations and “lock downs” will be practiced throughout the year. Students are expected to report any hazardous incidents and/or potential accident areas.

SKATEBOARDS, ROLLERBLADES AND SIMILAR WHEELED APPARATUS

The use of wheeled apparatus within the school or on school property is forbidden for safety reasons. Students may carry them in the school and store them in their lockers if space permits. A skateboard rack is available in the office on a first come, first served basis. The school is not responsible for lost or stolen items.

VISITORS/TRESPASSING All visitors (on official school business) must report to the main office and be identified. A sign-in book is located in the front office. Do not invite friends to visit, likewise do not visit other schools. If friends from other schools are meeting you, they must do so off of school property. High schools are prepared to lay trespass warnings and charges when appropriate. Visitors are not allowed on school grounds during normal school hours, as a focus on education is our primary responsibility.

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Students are STRICTLY PROHIBITED from walking on the railway tracks at any time. Students caught doing so, may be charged with trespassing.

VISUAL IDENTIFICATION (VID) All students and staff are expected to have their visual identification in their possession during their time in the building and on school property. Visitors will be provided with special identification tags upon their arrival. Students must show their VID to receive service at the office, textbook rentals and learning commons. All students require a VID to write final exams. Replacement VID’s are available for purchase at the textbook rental.

AIR RIFLES/GUNS The district prohibits students from possessing weapons or engaging in violent or threatening acts on school property, and at school sponsored functions and activities. “Weapon” means any object, device, or instrument designed or through its use is capable of producing bodily harm to oneself or others. By this definition, air rifles/guns are therefore considered weapons. As it is challenging to visually identify these weapons as air rifles/guns, school staff, and the RCMP will likely respond in the same manner as they would an actual rifle/gun. For the safety of all students, staff and visitors in the school, these items are not allowed on school property or at school-related activities under any circumstance. INSURANCE School accident insurance is a voluntary program offered at all schools and is highly recommended, as accidents can occur off the school grounds as well as during school hours. Students participating on school teams are strongly suggested to have some type of accident insurance. SMOKING, VAPING, AND THE USE OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS No one is permitted to smoke or use other tobacco products or e-cigarettes/electronic vaping devices on the school grounds. Students not adhering to this administrative procedure may be suspended.

Students are permitted to smoke in the designated area only (bus stop adjacent to student parking lot).

STUDENT FEE STRUCTURE St. Martin de Porres fee structure is reviewed yearly by the School Council. It reflects the costs that will be incurred depending upon the courses that students select and their grade level. On-line payment will be accessible beginning the first week of school. In order to avoid a deficit we appreciate all accounts being cleared. Fees for out-of-class activities such as swimming, field trips and sports team memberships, will be an additional cost. Students entering or exiting partway through the school year, pay or are refunded a portion of fees that reflect the enrolment period at St. Martin de Porres High School. Questions regarding fees can be directed to the school’s business office. Likewise, families experiencing financial hardship are encouraged to contact the business office so that arrangements can be made.

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TEACHER ADVISORY (TA) PROGRAM

The teacher advisor plays a key role in a student’s success at St. Martin de Porres High School. The primary purpose of the program is to enable students to develop a meaningful relationship with a mentor. The TA is an advocate for the student. They are “advisors” and not “guardians”. Trust is the key element in a successful teacher advisor relationship.

All teaching staff serve as a TA to approximately 20 students. TA groups include students from all four grade levels. Students are assigned to a TA group when they register and remain with that same advisor throughout their high school years.

Teacher Advisor – Student – Parent Partnership at St. Martin de Porres High School

The Teacher Advisory period takes place Monday, Tuesday & Thursday. This is a mandatory class for all students. The Teacher Advisor (T.A.),

• is an advocate for the student and the primary point of contact for students and parents at the school.

• oversees the student’s overall academic progress, attendance, behaviour, involvement in school activities, ministry hours, and growth and development as a person.

• communicates with other school staff and then relays pertinent information about the student. • tracks the student’s pre-requisites, course selection, graduation requirements, and post-

secondary and career opportunities. • assists the student with time management and setting and monitoring short, medium and long

range goals, if necessary. • makes referrals to other student services such as our School Nurse, School Resource Officer

(SRO), Career Counsellor/Practitioner, and School Resource Team (SRT) which consists of counsellors, administration, diverse learning teachers, and district supports.

• coordinates the development and ongoing review of Learner Support Plans (LSPs) • manages administrative duties such as relaying daily bulletin information, lockers, and other

home-school communication/paperwork. • will make contact with parents/guardians when concerns or issues arise with respect to

attendance, behavior, and/or academic progress Students,

• are expected to be in attendance and punctual for T.A./Flex period Monday-Thursday. • are expected to work cooperatively with their T.A. to set short, medium, and long term goals, if

necessary and to track graduation requirements and ministry hours. • are responsible for scheduling and attending individual meetings with their T.A.s to address

specific concerns, goals, aspirations, graduation requirements, course selection, attendance, learning needs, etc. Email and Brightspace (D2L) pager can also be used to ask questions and schedule appointments.

• are responsible for monitoring Brightspace (D2L) regularly and seeking guidance from the T.A. when necessary.

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• are responsible for reviewing the information in Brightspace (D2L) with their parent on a regular basis.

• are responsible for sharing information discussed in T.A. during daily announcements with parents.

Parents, • are encouraged to contact the T.A. throughout the year to inquire about their child’s overall

academic progress, graduation requirements, attendance, social/emotional/spiritual well-being, etc.

• email subject teacher or T.A. when necessary • phone call (403)500-2041 • request a teacher-parent-student conference • (Subject specific questions should be directed to the appropriate teacher.) • are requested to relay relevant home information to the T.A. that may impact the child’s success

at school. • are required to inform the T.A. of extended absences • are encouraged to monitor Brightspace (D2L) on a regular basis with their child. Please contact

the T.A. if you require assistance with navigating Brightspace (D2L) or resetting the password. • are encouraged to monitor the school website, www.cssd.ab.ca/schools/stmartin, for upcoming

school events, important dates and to contact the T.A. if further information is required. TECHNOLOGY – School and Personally Owned Devices (PODs) As technology advances, it is important that we all use technology in both an ethical and responsible manner.

• Students may use their devices in the school during non-instructional times so long as the use does not interfere with school operations.

• During spare, students may use these devices in the gathering area or outside for personal use. Devices should only be used in the Learning Commons for educational purposes. Distracting use of PODs in the Learning Commons may result in the student being asked to leave.

• During instructional time, the use of these devices is at the sole discretion of the classroom teacher. Teachers have the authority and are expected to ensure that the devices are used for teaching and learning purposes. Should the device be a distraction to the student or others in the classroom, the teacher may direct the student to store the device in their locker or it may be confiscated until the end of class.

• Teachers will contact parents of students who are habitually using their PODs irresponsibly at school and develop a plan (i.e. banned from bringing to class for a specified period of time, etc.). Persistent defiance that has been documented will be referred to administration as part of progressive discipline plan.

• PODs should not be used for communication during instructional time about appointments, pick up, non-urgent family matters, etc. Parents can contact the office if it is necessary to locate the student immediately or to leave a message. Students may not have access to these messages until class is completed.

• The school and school district are not responsible for lost, damaged or stolen personally owned devices.

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Computer access to the Internet is provided for students to conduct research and complete other curricular objectives only. Independent access to Internet services is provided for students who agree to act in a considerate and responsible manner. Access is a privilege, not a right, and entails responsibility. Students using school or personally owned devices (PODs) to access the Internet will be held responsible for their actions and communications. Each year all students must sign the Calgary Catholic School District Acceptable Use Policy for Internet. Students will be subject to the progressive discipline plan in the event of inappropriate use of the school’s networks, hardware or software. TEXTBOOKS Students are financially responsible for the condition of their assigned texts. Students are assigned barcoded texts based on subject requirements. The condition of the book is noted as the textbooks are assigned to the student. At the end of each quarter or semester, all students must return their books, or no new books will be issued. Students will be invoiced if their assigned books are damaged beyond repair, lost, or not returned at the end of the semester/quarter.