SIGMA

At SIGMA, we reflect upon our choices, take responsibility
for our actions, and make amends through a restorative action plan with consideration of
the developmental levels, age, maturity, special circumstances or individual needs.
Whenever possible, consequences will be preventative and restorative.

The following guidelines are used for dealing with students who demonstrate unacceptable behaviour, or whose behaviour interferes with learning or safety beginning with those for more minor issues.

We use a tiered response plan:

Level 1 – When a student does not comply with the Code of Conduct. Sometimes students make mistakes, and it is a natural part of the learning process. At these times, we aim to acknowledge and learn from these mistakes.

• Referral to classroom teacher.
• Reminder of expectations.
• Possible restorative action.

Level 2 – When a student repeatedly does not comply with the Code of Conduct.

• Classroom teacher involvement.
• Parent involvement.
• Principal involvement.
• Possible student suspension (5 or fewer school days) – Principals are authorized to suspend students in accordance with the provisions of the School Act, where the student’s rights to participate in school or school-related activities are suspended.
• Restorative action and/or loss of privileges.

Level 3 – When a student does not comply with the Code of Conduct in a serious manner,

• Classroom teacher involvement.
• Parent involvement.
• Principal involvement.
• Student suspension (In excess of 5 school days) – Principals are authorized to suspend students in accordance with the provisions of the School Act, where the student’s rights to participate in school or school-related activities are suspended.
• Behaviour plan development.
• Restorative action.

Disciplinary action, wherever possible, is preventative and restorative, rather than merely punitive. The purpose of consequences for unacceptable behaviour is to help students learn from mistakes and be proactive about preventing further inappropriate behaviour.

As per Ministerial Order 89, the use of personal digital devices at school is to be restricted for educational purposes, to promote online safety and focused learning environments. Personal digital device (PDD) means any personal electronic device that can be used to communicate or to access the internet, such as a cell phone or a tablet. Other examples included: smart watches, digital accessories (earbuds), gaming devices, and electronic toys.

At New Westminster Secondary School, access to and the use of personal digital devices will not be permitted during instructional time. Hours of instruction is defined when students receive instruction in an educational program and does not include scheduled breaks and lunch periods.

At the teacher’s discretion, an exemption may be made when the use of such devices supports a specific curricular objective and is part of instructional planning. The school will follow up with further information for their school communities. The exception to these restrictions will be for students who have an Individual Education Plan (IEP), Learning Support Plan (LSP), or medical or health issue that specifically outlines the need for these devices for full inclusion in specific learning activities.

It is important to note that security and storage of personal digital devices is the sole responsibility of the owner/user. The district assumes no responsibility for the safety, security, loss, repair or replacement of such devices. If students must bring a device to school, they are encouraged to ensure they are locked away in lockers or kept in a secure location.

At New Westminster Secondary School, access to and personal digital devices will not be allowed during instructional time. At the teacher’s discretion, an exemption may be made when the use of such devices supports a specific curricular objective and is part of instructional planning.

These schools will follow up with further information for their school communities. The exception to these restrictions will be for students who have an Individual Education Plan (IEP), Learning Support Plan (LSP), or medical or health issue that specifically outlines the need for these devices for full inclusion in specific learning activities.

Security and storage of personal digital devices – It is important to note that security and storage of personal digital devices is the sole responsibility of the owner/user. The district assumes no responsibility for the safety, security, loss, repair, or replacement of such devices. If students must bring a device to school, they are encouraged to ensure they are kept in a secure location.

All public and private kindergarten to Grade 12 schools in B.C. are tobacco and vape-free
under the Tobacco and Vapour Products Control Act and Regulation. This ban extends to
all school property 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, regardless of whether or not school is in
session.

Lockers are the property of the New Westminster School District and students are responsible for the locker assigned to them as well as the contents. No illegal substances, weapons or other prohibited or offensive material may be placed in school lockers. School officials may search student lockers at any time and without prior notice in order to ensure compliance with the conditions of use and other school policies and rules.

Permission to use a locker may be terminated when a student does not comply with the conditions of use or school policies or rules. It is the responsibility of all members of the school community to keep our schools safe. If any student has reason to believe that any locker contains anything which would impact the health or safety of other students or staff, that student is expected to report the information to a staff member.