Carson Graham Secondary
North Vancouver School District
Student Code of Conduct

​​​​​EAGLES.png

EAGLES – Excellence, Learning, Acceptance, Growth, Empathy, Success

  • To maintain a positive and safe learning environment [E].
  • To foster a sense of personal responsibility, honesty, and self-discipline [A].
  • To foster cooperation among students in the pursuit of their intellectual, social, and career goals [G].
  • To encourage and promote educational opportunities for students [L].
  • To respect the dignity and property of oneself and others [E].
  • To create a balance between individual and collective rights, freedoms and responsibilities [S].


The Carson Graham Secondary Code of Conduct - school policies and rules - was developed in relation to the School Act (Sections 6, 10, 85, 91), the School Act Regulations, and the North Vancouver School District Policy 302 on Student Conduct. Students at Carson Graham Secondary School are expected to meet the standards set out in the BC Human Rights Code, section 7 and 8 that include the prohibited grounds of discrimination, behaviours that discriminate against a person or class of person by publishing or displaying a statement, publication, notice, sign, symbol emblem or other representation that indicates discrimination based on the race, colour, ancestry, place of origin, religion, marital status, family status, physical or mental disability, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, or age of that person or that group or class of persons.


STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

The pursuit of appropriate conduct is a shared responsibility among students, their caregivers and the school system. School should be a place for safe, purposeful learning. In accordance with the responsibilities assigned by the School Act and the Policies established by the Board of Trustees, the school has established rules and expectations as positive guidelines for students to develop their potential within our community.

These guidelines were developed with the following objectives in mind:

This Code of Conduct has been established, in consultation with staff, parents, and students. It is reviewed and updated on regular basis and it is promoted on an ongoing basis, in the classroom, in the hallways, at assemblies, in the agenda book and as part of our daily business. We have high expectations for responsible student behaviour and these expectations are communicated on a regular basis. We promote a climate of understanding and mutual respect in which all people in the building are treated with dignity. We strive to have students become engaged, responsible, independent learners who recognize their roles and responsibilities in their own learning, in their community, and in the world. This Code of Conduct helps students reach these goals.

Students are held to this Code of Conduct of behaviour while participating in or attending school activities, or a school related activity or in other circumstances in which engaging in the activity will have an impact on the school environment. The Code of Conduct also extends to student behaviour both on and off school property and outside of regular school hours:  Students are subject to all the expectations, as if they were in attendance at school. Non-compliance will result in disciplinary action. This includes any “cyber bullying" behaviour such as website postings, blogs, text messages, etc., that are created in a student's home, in cyber cafes, or other settings that potentially have a negative impact on the learning environment of a student, staff and/or the reputation of the school. Students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that brings credit to themselves and to the school at all times.

Students are required to know and understand the school rules, acceptable behaviors and the consequences for any misconduct. 

SCHOOL EXPECTATIONS FOR STUDENTS

Student conduct is based on respect for oneself and others, which is essential to the development of responsible citizens. Student behaviour, dress, and

decorum shall be in accordance with generally accepted community standards, appropriate for the educational environment, and in compliance with the school's dress code.

​Students shall adhere to the following Principles

Develop positive attitudes and behaviors by:

  • Respect yourself.
  • Respect the educational process and the learning environment of others. Everyone shares the responsibility to make the school a safe, caring and orderly place.
  • Respect the authority of all School District employees.
  • Conduct yourself in a manner that brings credit to yourself and to your school at all times.
Participate to the best of their ability in school programs by:
  • Working to achieve the objectives set forth for each class.
  • Being neat and thorough completing assignments.
  • Bringing appropriate equipment and materials to class.
  • Upon return from an absence, immediately contacting the teachers outside of class time to address missed work. Missed work must be completed and submitted as requested by the teacher.

Attend school on a regular basis as demonstrated by:

  • Attending classes regularly and punctually.
  • Being absent only for significant reason.
  • Bringing a note or having a parent telephone the school for each absence or late arrival.

​Respect the feelings of others by:

  • Respect the feelings of others: be courteous in words and actions to others.
  • Not engaging in behaviours that put down others, including com-ments that are racist, sexist or belittling in any way. Language is a very powerful force in our lives and it should reflect our values at all times, even in casual conversation. We need to ensure that we do not use language that is racist, sexist, homophobic or disrespectful to others in any way.
  • Not discriminate on the basis of an individual's race, colour, ancestry, place of origin, religion, age, family status, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation or gender identity or expression.
Respect the property of others by:
  • Not taking the property of others.
  • Not damaging or hiding the property of others.
  • Not defacing or damaging lockers, textbooks, or other school property.
  • Being environmentally responsible by disposing of garbage and recyclables in the appropriate receptacles.

Avoid conduct that interferes with others' health and safety by:
  • Not using physical violence, verbal threats, bullying, intimidation or harassment in or around the school.
  • Not possessing weapons or imitation weapons in or around the school.
  • Not causing false fire alarms.
  • Not possessing, using or selling fireworks or firecrackers.
  • Not use foul, offensive, or discriminatory language.
  • Not using tobacco or vapour products on or around school property.

Use procedures of due process when necessary by:

  • Report any incidents that are a violation of the Code of Conduct to a “tellable" adult in a timely manner, and if possible, in advance of any incident. This reporting would include any incident of bullying, abuse, harassment or intimidation. 

    UNACCEPTABLE CONDUCT

    The following section outlines examples of misbehaviours that seriously undermine the safe and orderly functioning of the school. Students involved in these actions can expect a consequence from the school.

    1.  Behaviours that interfere with the learning of others or that interfere with an orderly and safe environment.

    2.   Behaviours that create a “victim" in any way. This includes any form of bullying, abuse, harassment or intimidation of others. Publication of inappropriate language or information (whether by hand or electronic), symbols, or other representation that is discriminatory or attempts to discriminate against a person or group of people will be investigated and dealt with accordingly. This also includes aggressive behaviours such as cyber hate messages and cyber bullying as well as websites created in the student's home, cyber cafes or other settings. This includes, but is not limited to, graffiti, student publications, blogs, websites, or other methods of communication. These behaviours also include any act of physical violence, retribution or intimidation against a person who has reported an incident.

    3.  Students are expected to adhere to the authority and direction of staff members. In serious cases, consequences for defiance to staff may include suspension or withdrawal from Carson Graham.

    4.  Behaviours that are disrespectful of our neighbours in the community. Do not intrude onto private property, leave garbage, gather in large groups, or use offensive language.

    5.   Behaviours that are illegal in any way and are in violation of the Criminal Code of Canada. This includes, but is not limited to:
  • Causing of false alarms.
  • Misuse of school equipment or school property.
  • Acts of violence or threats of violence.
  • Theft or vandalism.
  • Possession, use or distribution of illegal or restricted substances such as drugs, alcohol or tobacco.
  • Carrying, possessing, or using an illegal or restricted weapon, including, but not limited to, knives, firearms, martial arts weapons, or any object fashioned to be used as a weapon or have the appearance of a weapon.
  • Incidents of threatening language, intimidation or confrontational behaviour, which includes written or verbal harassment, misuse of computer communication, physical threats, and telephone intimidation. Any person who threatens the safety of the school environment or safety of an individual will be subject to severe disciplinary action and, where necessary, to RCMP intervention.

    6.   Behaviours that are in violation of the Carson Graham Code of Conduct in any way. School personnel are charged with maintaining an orderly learning environment. Any person who threatens the maintenance of order will be subject to severe disciplinary action. This policy includes but is not limited to:
  • Disturbing or interrupting the proceedings of the school or an official school function.
  • Failing to comply immediately with a direction by an employee of the Board to leave the school property.
  • Entering or re-entering the school property after having been given direction not to enter by an employee of the Board.

     7.  In accordance with Bill 10 (Tobacco Control Act, in effect September 2, 2007), the School District is responsible for enforcing the prohibition of smoking or any other tobacco use on any school property. This policy also applies to the use of e-cigarettes, electronic smoking products and cartridges of nicotine and/or flavoured solutions, and related products. (http://www.sd44.ca/Board/PoliciesProcedures/Series800/Policy804/Pages/default.aspx).

    Actions that violate the school's expectations are unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Students who are involved in these violations can expect disciplinary action.

    DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES

    Parents and students should be aware that the Board and the School Act authorizes administrators, teachers, and other appropriate personnel at the school to discipline students when warranted. The policy and specific regulations on student behaviour, school rules, and the Code of Conduct will apply to students while participating in or attending school activities, or at a school related activity, including those outside of the school, or in other circumstances where engaging in the activity will have an impact on the school environment.

    Generally, disciplinary procedures are responses to unacceptable behaviour and those responses should be thoughtful, consistent, fair, preventative and restorative in action. Consequences are intended to be as educationally purposeful as each situation warrants. Disciplinary action may take a variety of forms, which may include, but not be limited to, verbal warning, apology, detention(s), service work, ineligibility for Honour Roll and other awards, and loss of privileges to attend school events or be involved in extra-curricular activities. Some behaviour will be viewed as serious enough to warrant suspension or even dismissal.

    Parents and students should also be aware that as students become older, more mature and move through successive grades, not only will the expectations for increasingly mature and responsible behaviour increase, but also the consequences for any transgressions will become increasingly significant. In general, students are expected to accept increasing personal responsibility and self-discipline for their behaviour, and they are expected to accept increasingly severe consequences for inappropriate behaviour.

    Parents and students should also be aware that they will be contacted by the school in all circumstances that are deemed to be serious. In some cases, the school will be required to contact school district officials, outside agencies, or the police. When it is important to reassure members of the school community that school officials are aware of a serious situation or incident, all parents in the community may be informed.

    We feel that by stating our behavioral objectives in this way, we can avoid any misunderstandings between the school, the students and the parents.

    Finally, if there is a desire to appeal any disciplinary action undertaken by school authorities, the process for appeal can be found in the School District Policies that can be accessed at the School District website (Bylaw 906 School Act Appeals).

    GRIEVANCE POLICY

    We are very proud of the level of parental involvement in the school, and wish to encourage that partnership and communication, which is the key to success for our students. We ask that you respect the rights of staff and students to conduct the business of the day while at school.

    The School Act states in Section 177(1): “a person must not disturb or interrupt the proceedings of a school or an official school function." The teacher's Collective Agreement (Article E.9) states: “the employer recognizes the right of all employees to work, to conduct business, and to otherwise associate free from harassment A balance must be struck between the right of an employee to be free from harassment, and the right of a parent to pursue a concern or complaint they may have. If care is taken in choosing the setting and manner for resolution of such issues, this balance can be maintained".

    If you have a concern about a mark, an educational matter or an extra-curricular activity, please follow School District 44 Policy 406: Complaints Concerning Personnel, Programs, or Procedures, which states that “complaints, questions, or expressions of concern shall be dealt with in a manner which reflects mutual respect and fair process.…“ Also…“Complaints are handled as near the source as possiblefrom complainant to employee, to the employee's immediate supervisor".

    If you have concerns, please adhere to this policy by contacting the employee concerned in advance, by telephone or email, to inform them of your concern/complaint, and to arrange a mutually agreeable time and place to meet, recognizing that the employee may choose to have a colleague or union representative in attendance. Hopefully, a satisfactory resolution of the matter will occur. If not, the line of appeal goes through their immediate supervisor, through the school board office, and then to the board.

    Following these protocols should ensure that problems are resolved in a constructive, positive manner.

 

ACCEPTABLE USE OF TECHNOLOGY AGREEMENT

Every North Vancouver student has access to the School District's technological resources, including an individual user account and internet service. Access via the Provincial Learning Network (PLN) – the Ministry of Education's secure, high-speed network, which serves B.C.'s public schools and colleges through a centrally managed intranet. PLN provides web-content filtering designed to reduce the risk of students accessing inappropriate or harmful sites.

This use of technology agreement describes a responsible digital citizen at school, at home as well as in personal life.

​Respect and Protect Self

  • I will show respect for myself through my actions, and will ensure that the information I post online will not put me at risk.
  • I will select appropriate online names, and will consider how the information and images that I post could affect my present and my future.
  • I will not publish personal details, contact information or a schedule of my activities.
  • I will not post personal information about my life, experiences or relationships. I understand that once I share something online, there's no getting it back.
  • I will not visit sites or download material that may be considered offensive or inappropriate. If I accidentally access a questionable site, I will leave it immediately and notify an adult of my mistake.
  • If I am unsure whether a site is appropriate, I will ask a parent or teacher for help.
  • I will immediately report any attacks or inappropriate behaviour directed at me.
  • I will protect my passwords, accounts, and resources.

    Respect and Protect Others
  • I will show respect to others by not using electronic media to bully or harass other people.
  • I will not make offensive comments or post images of others without their consent.
  • I will not abuse my rights of access or enter other people's spaces or areas.
  • I will protect others by reporting abuse, and by not forwarding inappropriate materials or communications.
  • I will abide by the School Code of Conduct and District Policy 302: Student Conduct.

    ​Respect and Protect Others' Property
  • I will respect the property of the North Vancouver School District, the school, and others.
  • I will protect intellectual property by fulfilling all legal requirements to purchase, license and register all software, music and other media.
  • I will request permission to use resources, where necessary, and will suitably cite any and all uses of websites, books, media, etc.
  • I will act with integrity and responsibility.

    By signing this agreement, I will act in a moral and ethical manner that demonstrates respect for myself and towards others. I agree to follow the principles that define a responsible digital citizen as outlined in the agreement, and accept that failing to follow these principles will result in appropriate disciplinary action by the school, which may include, but is not limited to, loss of access to district technological resources.

    Student Name: ____________________________________                    

    Student Signature: _________________________________
                               
    Parent Name: _____________________________________                        

    Parent Signature: ___________________________________

    Date: ____________________________________________                                   

GENERAL STUDENT INFORMATION

ACADEMIC HONESTY AND INTEGRITY POLICY

The faculty of Carson Graham aim to develop the attributes of the IB Learner Profile in each of our students. In our efforts to promote academic honesty and personal integrity, we encourage students to be:

  • ​​PRINCIPLED - Act with integrity, honesty, a strong sense of fairness, justice and respect for the dignity of the individual, group and communities. Take responsibility for their own actions and the consequences that accompany them.
  • INQUIRERS - Nurture their curiosity and develop the skills for inquiry and research.
  • KNOWLEDGEABLE - Explore concepts, ideas and issues. 
  • OPEN-MINDED - Seek and evaluate a range of points of view.
  • RISK TAKERS - Explore new ideas with resourcefulness and resilience                                                                  
    (IB Learner Profile, 2014).

     
    The academically honest student DOES:
  • Document all source material consistently in a standard style of referencing.
  • Use direct quotations and paraphrase appropriately.
  • Respect others' intellectual property.
  • Understand what constitutes academic dishonesty.
  • Understand the consequences of cheating regarding both academic and non-academic school work, examinations and assessments.
  • Acknowledge explicitly and appropriately help provided by another person.
  • Follow all exam rules.
  • Act with integrity.

    The academically honest student DOES NOT:
  • Submit as his/her own any material that has been copied from another source without giving credit to that source in proper bibliographic format.
  • Engage in any behaviour that gains an unfair advantage over others (including the use of unauthorized electronic devices).
  • Give another student his/her work to copy.
  • Copy the work of other students.
  • Present material written, created or produced by another person as his/her own.
  • Use notes during a test unless allowed by the teacher or permitted by the examination rules.
  • Purchase and submit pieces written by someone else.
  • Present artistic or creative work in any medium that has literally been reproduced except in a manner allowed by the teacher or permitted by the examination rules.
  • Do work for another student.
  • Write essays for other students.

    While the faculty at Carson Graham choose to focus on implementing positive behaviour, aimed at teaching and fostering academic honesty and student integrity, students who either intentionally or accidentally engage in behaviour that gains an unfair advantage over others, including academic dishonesty or malpractice, will be subject to consequences as follows:

The first time a student is suspected of or caught being dishonest in an academic or non-academic course, the following actions will be taken:

  • Teacher will inform the Grade Counsellor.
  • Grade Counsellor will start an electronic file detailing the dishonesty. This information will remain on file until you leave the school.
  • Teacher and Grade Counsellor will decide on appropriate consequences.
  • The teacher will notify parents and guardians. 

If again a student is suspected of or caught being dishonest in an academic or non-academic course, the following actions will be taken:

  • Teacher will inform the Grade Counsellor and give a detailed description of the dishonest incident that will again remain on file.
  • Counsellor will inform the Administrator who will review the details of the electronic file and decide on appropriate consequences.
  • Parents/guardians will be notified by the administrator.
  • Exemption from awards and scholarships may be considered.
  • Repeat offences may include suspension and/or withdrawal from a class or program.

Being unaware or pleading ignorance of the standards related to academic honesty and student integrity is not an excuse for dishonesty, plagiarism and malpractice. 

To read the entire Carson Graham Policy for Academic Honesty and Student Integrity please visit the school policies section of Carson Graham website: http://www.sd44.ca/school/carson/About/schoolpolicies/Pages/default.aspx

SOURCE:  IB Learner Profile. (2013). International Baccalaureate. Retrieved April 11, 2014, from http://www.ibo.org/myib/digitaltoolkit/files/pdfs/learner-profile-en.pdf

ATTENDANCE

Student attendance is the shared responsibility of parents, students and staff.  Parents have the responsibility to ensure their child's attendance at school and to communicate with the school regarding their child's absences or tardiness.

Students are expected to report to classes on time - prepared to work and to participate. The school will track attendance daily and will update the MyEd Parent Portal with this information. Parents should discuss attendance with their child and help reinforce the importance of attendance to learning.

Regular attendance is essential for success in school. When students are away from school, we ask parents to notify the school by telephone. Please ensure your current e-mail addresses are on file at the school. Regardless of the reason for absence, it is the student's responsibility to catch up on missed work.

Attendance Call Line is available 24 hours a day at 604-903-3645

Excessive absences will lead to the following actions:

  • A warning, a detention, or a phone call home from your teacher; an interim report sent home.
  • An interview with the counsellor and/or the grade administrator.
  • A meeting with your parent/guardian and the grade counsellor and /or administrator.
  • Poor attendance in any course could lead to removal or suspension from a school team.

     Tardiness

Students arriving late to class create an unnecessary disruption. Students who are late for class MUST report to the classroom immediately, knock on the classroom door, and wait for the teacher to admit them. A note explaining the student's lateness may be required. Students are responsible for all work missed. Habitual lateness will be dealt with in the same manner as absenteeism.

Why is attendance so important? See Attendance Matters at: http://www.sd44.ca/school/carson/About/FAQs/Pages/default.aspx

AWARDS

School awards and recognition information is available on the school website: http://www.sd44.ca/school/carson/ProgramsServices/AwardsRecognition/Pages/default.aspx

​CALCULATOR POLICY

As recommended by the British Columbia Ministry of Education, calculators used in schools must be hand held devices primarily for mathematical computations. Each course has unique requirements, and students should consult with their teacher to confirm what specific functions are required. All students in Math 8-10 and students in Apprenticeship and Workplace 11 must have a teacher approved scientific calculator for classroom use. All students in Foundations and Pre-Calculus Math 11-12, and students in the IB Diploma Programme must have a teacher approved graphing calculator for classroom use. For more information on calculator policy please see the Ministry of Education website:

http://www.bced.gov.bc.ca/exams/calculators/calculator_policy.pdf

Calculator Regulations

Using a calculator that contains information that would be unacceptable in paper form (e.g. programs or pre- entered notes) is prohibited unless previously approved by the teacher. Additionally, calculators are not to be shared during any form of assessment (e.g. assignment, quiz, test, or exam). This will be treated as cheating. All electronic devices that are not primarily used for mathematical computations (e.g. cell phones, musical devices, translators) are not to be used as calculators at school. Please refer to the section in the student agenda on Technology Communication Devices (pages 26-28). The use of a communication device in relation to any form of assessment will be treated as cheating according to the School, District, and Ministry of Education polices. As per the Ministry of Education requirements, during provincial exams a math or science teacher will conduct a calculator inspection for those exams where calculators are allowed.

CHALLENGE POLICY

Our Challenge Policy supports students earning credits towards graduation in a number of ways. The purpose of Challenge is to permit students to obtain credit for a course where they have already acquired the appropriate learning elsewhere. Students who request the opportunity to challenge a course must be able to give compelling evidence that they will succeed in the challenge and that it is in their best interest. The process of Challenge is intended for students of exceptional ability or for those who have had exceptional opportunities for learning through some special circumstance. Challenge is not a way for students to improve their course marks, nor a replacement for the valuable experience of learning in a classroom setting.

Students should see their Counsellor and grade administrator in September to determine if the challenge process is appropriate for them and understand any potential implications to earning a MYP certificate.

SERVICE AS ACTION REQUIREMENTS (formerly known as Community Service)

Why are Service as Action hours required?

BUILDING BETTER CITIZENS

Service as Action is an integral component of the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme. It is the service volunteered by an individual to an organization for the benefit of the community. Starting within the classroom and extending beyond it, Service as Action aims to encourage responsible, caring participation in the local community and in the wider world. Our emphasis is on examining our roles as citizens in our local and global community; instilling a sense of personal responsibility with others and within ourselves; and developing the skills and attitudes needed to make a positive contribution to society. By volunteering, students gain a variety of important experiences and knowledge. They gain a sense of responsibility to their community, learn that one person can make a difference, learn the benefit of sacrificing time to help others, tolerance and understanding of the different members of our community, and finally, they gain important job skills and experience.

Students are required to complete 30 hrs of Service as Action by the end of Grade 10 in order to receive an IB MYP certificate. Grade 12 students must earn 30 hrs of Work Experience/Community Service for graduation. This is documented in the Career Life Connections course (MCLC-12) taken in Grade 12, which is intended to prepare students for a successful transition to life after secondary school (https://curriculum.gov.bc.ca/curriculum/career-education).

To receive credit for their service to the community, whether in school or out of school, students must record their hours in their *Managebac account. Summer hours can be counted for Grade 9, 10, & 11. (*Managebac accounts

can be created by emailing lthornhill@sd44.ca or cpross@sd44.ca with the student's name, grade, and current email address. The username for the Managebac account will be the email address the student provided at time of set-up).

Check the website for further information www.carsongraham.ca > Students > Community and Service.

CURRICULAR MATERIALS

Students are assigned textbooks from their classroom teachers at the beginning of each course. Textbooks, equipment, team uniforms, lockers, library books and materials are issued for the use of the student. Lost or defaced school property is the student's responsibility and compensation will be required: Students must pay for lost or damaged textbooks and library books. The school will withhold privileges to students who are in a debt situation with the school. Refunds will only be issued until the end of the first week of July. 

EXAM POLICY – SCHOOL/MISSED FINAL EXAMS 

Final exams are an important part of the assessment process in many courses at Carson Graham. The primary purpose of these exams is to evaluate individual student learning within these courses. In addition, they serve to reinforce the content that has been taught and they provide valuable preparation for future examinations. As such, all students who have final examinations are required to write them during the scheduled examination period.

If, for some reason, such as a medical emergency, a student is unable to attend the examination session, he/she will be assigned a “zero" letter grade (0) for the exam. In order to change the zero grade, the student must make arrangements for an alternative writing of the examination. The writing of this rescheduled exam must take place within two weeks of the original exam or by the end of the school year, whichever occurs first. Students who are medically unable to write a rescheduled exam within the two-week period will be assessed at the discretion of the individual teacher. If the student fails to complete these alternate arrangements, the result of the examination will be zero, which will be included in the calculation of the final letter grade/ percentage for the course.

DRESS CODE

We expect all students to dress appropriately.

Acceptable clothing:

  • Allow for individual difference, style, and expression
  • Demonstrates respect for a school environment
  • Be appropriate for the intended activity
  • Demonstrates respect for the rights and perspectives others

Certain clothing is not acceptable and this includes:

  • Clothing with derogatory words or pictures, including sexist, racist, drug related, poor taste, or violent logos or commentary.
  • Clothing that is offensive or districting to the learning environment
  • Sexually provocative and/or revealing
Students will be asked to change/remove unacceptable clothing.

​DRUGS & ALCOHOL

The use, possession, or distribution of illegal or restricted substances, including alcohol, is not permitted and will result in suspension from school. Students are not to be in the presence of others using illegal or restricted substances. Consumption of drugs or alcohol is forbidden on any school premises and at any school sponsored event. Students should be aware that association with or even suspicion of involvement in these activities may result in disciplinary action.

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

Students practice emergency fire, earthquake and lockdown drills throughout the year. While often only a drill, it is expected that students follow directions issued by staff. Students who do not comply with emergency directions may face disciplinary consequence. During any school lockdown students may not use cell phones to communicate in any form.

COUNSELLING

School Counselling Services provide a continuum of services to support the social, emotional, behavioural and mental health needs of students. Counsellors are available to meet with students and/or parent(s) in a consultative capacity or to provide direct counseling related services that are primarily intended to support academic success. School counseling may involve coordinating support with other adults involved including parent(s), teachers and outside agencies.

HOMEWORK REQUESTS

If parents anticipate their child will be away for more than three days please contact the office and they will arrange for homework. All homework requests can be picked up in the main office. In the case of a single days' absence students should contact a friend in class or contact the teacher directly through e-mail.  Many of our teachers post homework online on the school web site or on Microsoft TEAMS. Students should see their subject teachers immediately upon their return to school to ensure that they have caught up on all their work.

LEARNING CENTRE

Our Learning Centre (LC) serves a diverse population of students with a broad range of learning strengths and needs. Our LC focuses on approaches to learning, self-discovery, and personal responsibility which foster success in secondary school and lifelong learning. The LC program offers academic support, while assisting students to better understand personal strengths, needs, learning styles, and effective strategies. It fosters a nurturing environment where hard work and mutual respect create a sense of community and a positive experience for all. In order to service students with specialized learning needs with equity and efficiency, the following process is adhered to:

Students Transitioning From Other Schools

Students considered for LC should have a Ministry designation and/or have been recommended by a previous teacher based on a history of learning challenges and/or past LC success.

Current Carson Graham Students

Student concerns are brought to either a grade counsellor or to a LC Teacher

by one of the following: teachers, students or parents. After team discussions, parents are contacted to see what interventions have been initiated at home. Classroom interventions are attempted including differentiated curriculum, appropriate adaptations, and/or seeing teacher during tutorial times. If interventions are attempted and challenges persist then the Learning Assistance Teacher will bring forth the student to the School Based Resource Team. A team decision will be made around appropriate intervention or possible LC placement.

LIBRARY LEARNING COMMONS

21st Century Learners are inundated with information (both print and electronic) and are forced to master ever-changing tools to access that information. In this age of information, personalized, project, and research-based learning, we at Carson Graham recognize that school library programs are vital to teaching students how to develop the skills to safely, effectively, efficiently, and ethically use information to suit the variety of their needs.

To that end, the Carson Graham Library Learning Commons aims to enrich and supplement the curriculum; develop inquiry, critical thinking, creativity, and collaborative skills in our students; promote the lifelong use of libraries; develop the habit and love of reading; teach library users the necessary tools to become proficient and ethical users of information in order to prepare them for their life-long learning journey.

The library program helps students and staff to identify, locate, evaluate, and synthesize both print and non-print resources. The Teacher-Librarian works cooperatively and collaboratively with teachers to plan lessons that engage students in learning about themselves, their subject matter and our world, and in the production of a variety of media.

The library is open to students for borrowing, reading, researching, and completing homework and assignments from 8-4 (with some exceptions).  Users may borrow material for 3 weeks, and are responsible for damages and losses. iPads and desktop and laptop computers are available for student use; personal devices are welcomed; all users must comply with the Acceptable Use of Technology Agreement, Technology Policies as outlined in this agenda.

Please visit http://www.carsongraham.ca > Programs & Services > Library for access to the Carson Graham Library LibGuide, course and general resources, databases, and more. 

LOCKERS

Lockers are the property of North Vancouver School Board and must be maintained in the condition in which they are allocated. Lockers are not student's private property. Students may use only school, distributed locks on assigned school lockers. Students need to be aware that appropriate employees of the Board have access to lockers at any time.

Students are encouraged to use the lockers in the gym change rooms during gym class to protect their personal belongings; they must bring in their own lock for these lockers. If personal items do not fit in the PE lockers, students should secure their belongings in their assigned school locker. Backpacks and personal items are not to be left in the gymnasium during class time.

MEDICAL CONCERNS

The office does not dispense medication. Annually, students with medical concerns are required to report their condition to the school office so that it can be recorded on the student's alert record. If a student feels ill while at school they should report to the main office. The office staff will contact the parents/guardians if necessary or seek the appropriate medical attention. If a student must leave the school before the end of their school day due to illness or appointments, the student MUST SIGN OUT AT THE OFFICE.

POLICY 906

For information regarding possible review of a particular action taken by the school or district, please visit the NVSD website (www.sd44.ca). Review information can be found under Administration > Policy and Procedures > 900 Series, Board Bylaws > Bylaw 906.

SCHOOL FUNCTIONS

Students must be aware that all school rules will be in effect at any school sponsored function, both on and away from school property, including the walk to school and the walk home each day. The policy and specific regulations on student behaviour, school rules, and the Code of Conduct will apply to students while participating in or attending school activities, or at a school related activity, including those outside of the school, or in other circumstances where engaging in the activity will have an impact on the school environment.

SKATE BOARDS

Skateboarding is prohibited on school property or on the surrounding sidewalks.

SMOKING / VAPING

Smoking and vaping is prohibited in any school building or on or around any property owned by the School Board.

SNOWFALL PROCEDURE

During heavy snowfall, school will remain open unless declared otherwise. Please refer to the NVSD website by 7:00am, or listen to local radio broadcast for school closures messages. When school remains in session and traffic is compromised by snow, students are encouraged to walk to school. If driven to school, students should be dropped off at the nearest major intersection to reduce traffic congestions near the school. ​

STUDENT COUNCIL

Student Council takes an active role in the leadership and decision-making processes at the school. Meeting weekly, the aim of the Student Council is to promote understanding and cooperation between the students and staff. The mission statement of the council is as follows:

  • Council will serve as a voice on various committees to represent student interests and concerns.
  • Council will foster better school spirit and pride.
  • Council will help to improve the school's climate. The intention is to make Carson Graham a better educational, social and physical environment in which to live and work.
  • Council will help promote multi-culturalism in our school.
  • Council will improve communication within the school community.
  • Council will organize social activities and events.

    STUDENT PARKING

    Those students who bring cars to school must park in the student, designated areas. Students are not to park in fire lane access, reserved or accessible stalls. Students who fail to follow these guidelines risk having their vehicle towed.

    STUDY BLOCKS

    Grade 11-12 students who carry a heavy academic load and who are also involved in extracurricular activities may apply for a supervised study block. Ideally, students applying for a study block are mature, independent learners who are capable of organizing their time efficiently and effectively. Students should be intrinsically motivated and be willing to use their time productively. Consideration for a study block will be given to those who will be carrying a heavy load of at least six academic subjects and have a good record of attendance, punctuality and citizenship. Students who have an approved study block are expected to bring sufficient schoolwork or study material to occupy the entire study block time to either the Library or Agora. Applications are available in the counselling area.

    TECHNOLOGY

    Communication Devices

    Cell phones and other electronic devices can disrupt the learning environment in the classroom. Cell phones must be turned off and remain unused, including use as a calculator, during class time. If a student is found using a cell phone during class time the teacher may do the following in progression:
  • Take phone away for the remainder of the class.
  • Take phone away for a school day and phone to be picked up from the teacher at the end of the day.
  • Take phone away and parents will be required to collect it from an administrator.

    Parents should not phone or text-message their child on their cell phone during the school day.

    If an emergency arises please contact the school and a message will be passed on to your child. In addition, students taking the opportunity to use their cell phones while out of a scheduled class (for example visiting the washroom) will receive the same consequences as outlined above.

    Camera phones must only be used with the consent of those being photographed, and in public areas. Any use of a camera phone that compromises the privacy of another student could lead to confiscation of the phone, and consequences up to and including suspension. 

    Other electronic devices, such as iPods, may only be used with teacher permission. These items will be dealt with in the same manner as the cell phones if students do not follow the instructions of their teacher. 

    The use of a communication device in relation to any form of assessment (e.g. assignment, quiz, test, or exam) will be treated as cheating according to school, district, and Ministry of Education Policy (see Academic Honesty Policy on page 16).

    INTERNET USE

    Students are expected to use the school's computer network in an appropriate fashion. Communication on the network is often public in nature: the use of the network is a privilege and as such, it will be taken away if the Rules of Use are not followed. Students are advised not to access, keep or send anything that they would not want their parents or teachers to see.

    Rules of Use
  • PRIVACY - While using the network, students should not expect that any files on the network are private. Network storage areas are like school lockers ... subject to inspection at any time. Network administrators may review documents to maintain system integrity and ensure that students are using the system responsibly.
  • ILLEGAL COPYING - Students should never download or install any commercial software, shareware, or freeware onto network drives, without written permission from the Network Administrator. In addition, students must respect the Canadian copyright laws.
  • INAPPROPRIATE MATERIALS OR LANGUAGE - Profane, abusive or inappropriate language should not be used in communications. Materials that do not comply with the rules of school behaviour should not be accessed.  Should students encounter such material by accident, they should report it to their teacher immediately.
  • PRIVILEGE - Inappropriate use, including any violation of these conditions and rules, may result in cancellation of Internet access privileges.

WIRELESS GUIDELINES

North Vancouver School District provides students access to its Guest Wireless network. These guidelines ensure that students and their parents recognize the limitations that the School District and the School imposes on the use of personally owned devices when they are used at school in conjunction with the wireless network. These guidelines are supplemental to the North Vancouver School District Policy 609: Communication Systems and Policy 302: Student Conduct, the School Code of Conduct and the Student Acceptable Use of Technology Agreement. These guidelines and policies apply to the use of all laptop computers and all other mobile internet devices.

General Usage Guidelines

  1. The School District will not be held responsible in any capacity for physical damage, loss or theft of any personally owned device.
  2. Student use of personally owned devices in the classroom will be at the discretion of the classroom teacher. Classroom teachers may prohibit, restrict or regulate use of personally owned devices.
  3. Student use of a personally owned device must support the instructional activities currently occurring in the school environment.
  4. Students should be aware that the use of mobile devices could cause distraction for others, especially in regards to audio. Therefore, audio must be muted unless otherwise directed by a school authority.
  5. Student devices with camera and video capability must not be used to impinge upon the privacy of students and staff.
  6. Before school, at lunch, and after school, students may use their personally owned devices only for instructional purposes and only in adult-supervised areas. 
  7. By bringing personally owned devices to school, students and their families accept that school authorities may inspect the device and its contents to ensure compliance with school and District codes of conduct, policies and guidelines, including the Student Acceptable Use of Technology Agreement.
  8. Students use the Guest Wireless network at their own risk. The School District will not be held responsible for any damage that may occur as a result of connecting to the Guest Wireless network or any electrical power source.
  9. The parents and/or guardians of any student bringing personal technology to school are responsible for and will be required to reimburse the School District for any damage that their child may cause through the use of Guest Wireless network with his/her personally owned device.

    Usage Consequences

Failure to comply with these guidelines and policies may result in disciplinary action by the school, which may include, but is not limited to, loss of access to the Guest Wireless and other school discipline.

TEXTBOOKS

Students are assigned textbooks by their teachers, who will keep a record of serial number. Students must return their book in good condition upon the request of the teacher or at the conclusion of the course. There is no rental charge; however, a student who loses or damages a textbook will be assessed a replacement of damage fee. Refunds will be issued if lost textbooks are found and returned.

THEFT

Theft is an opportunistic event. As a result, students are strongly encouraged to remove the opportunity for theft by reframing from bringing any valuables such as iPods, cell phones or large sums of money to school. Students are responsible for their own belongings. Backpacks and bags should not be left unattended in the building. The school is not liable for lost or stolen items.

Students using the PE change rooms must lock up their belongings in their assigned locker or bring a lock and use the PE lockers provided. Backpack and personal items are not to be left in the gymnasium during class time.

VACATIONS DURING SCHOOL TIME

While the school recognizes the value of travel and family holidays and supports the benefits and educational opportunities that travel affords, parents and students should expect that missing school time to go on a holiday will have an impact on progress and achievement at school. We do not encourage or recommend that parents take students out of school for holidays or other family business. Parents and students should make all reasonable efforts to avoid planning holidays that interfere with scheduled classes. Class time cannot be replicated and some activities and assignments may be impossible to do if students miss classes. Students and parents should be aware that teachers are not required to provide extra work or extra time to complete assignments for missed absences.

Students are responsible for finding out what they have missed; either from the teachers' web sites or a friend. Students who are absent for unit examinations are particularly at risk.

With that in mind, the school recognizes that there will be times when families will go on holidays during school time. Families and students must make every effort to minimize the impact of missing classes by informing the school and individual teachers as early as possible.

Vacation forms are available in the main office and need to be completed by the students and returned to the office at least 2 weeks prior to the absence.

VISITORS

All visitors are required to report to the main office upon arrival. Students are not to invite visitors to Carson Graham, by the same token Carson Graham students should not visit other school when they are in session.

Student Fees INFORMATION & POLICIES

Fee schedules are established by principals, in consultation with staff, student and parent groups, and provided to the Superintendent for review. As per Board Policy 706, the Superintendent of Schools reviews annually the schedule of student fees for all schools, and provides this schedule to Trustees for information. Carson Graham Secondary's fee schedule was approved by the Board in December.

We encourage you to pay your child's fees online by e-Transfer. Payments can be made at https://sd44.schoolcashonline.com

Student Activity Fee ($45)

As per the recommendation of the School District Fees Task Force, schools may charge a Student Activity Fee to support student activities, student agenda books, student awards and recognition, special events and assemblies.

Graduation Fee ($70)

This fee covers the cost of graduation gowns, graduation portfolio, and certificates presented at the Graduation Ceremony.

 Yearbook Fee ($50)

The purchase of yearbooks is optional. The receipt of payment determines the number of books ordered in January. Extra books are not usually available in June.

Supplemental Fees (by course)

In accordance with the School Act, all students at Carson Graham Secondary receive free of charge an educational program sufficient to meet the general requirements for graduation. In accordance with the School Board Fees Order, supplemental fees may be charged for goods and services associated with optional enrichment activities and take home items that extend learning outcomes for students beyond the basic educational program. Supplemental fees are published in the Course Programming Guide available online.

International Students

Due to fees already paid at the District level, the Student Activity Fee is waived. Supplemental fees apply for courses (Home Economics, Photography, etc.) not needed to graduate.

Textbook Policy

Students are assigned textbooks by the subject teacher. There is no rental fee charged; however, a student who loses or damages a textbook will be assessed a replacement or damage fee. Students must return the textbook assigned to them. Textbooks are numbered. At distribution time, teachers record the number and students sign a textbook record sheet in receipt and acknowledgement. Students must record their textbook name and number on the form included in their agenda book for their own records. Refunds will be given only if lost textbooks are found and returned by the first week of July

Workbooks (by course)

Students may have the opportunity to purchase workbooks that are suggested for optional, supplemental “practice". Purchase of these workbooks is optional as they are not required for successful completion of the courses' learning outcomes. These workbooks are available for purchase at cost from the school.

Students are sent invoices in October for fees owing for the current school year. A refund will be issued when a student withdraws from Carson Graham Secondary provided all withdrawal procedures are completed and all books/materials are handed in. Refund of fees paid will be prorated up until the end of January. After that time, there will be no refund of supplemental fees. If a refund is due to a student whose sibling has outstanding fees, the refund will first be applied to the sibling's outstanding fees. NOTE: $25.00 will be charged for NSF cheques.

Fee Waiver

Should you wish to complete a fee waiver application form due to financial hardship, please contact the main office.​