“The World Awaits Us/Le Monde Nous Attend”

ÉCOLE JOHN McCRAE PUBLIC SCHOOL 189 Water Street Guelph, ON N1G 1B3 Phone: (519) 824-0028/ Fax: (519) 824-7067 Web Page: http://homer.ugdsb.on.ca/jmcrae.john.htm

JOHN McCRAE PUBLIC SCHOOL MISSION STATEMENT

Our Mission, as a unique school community, is to foster confident, responsible, lifelong learners. We do this by developing our students’ full potential within a stimulating, inclusive, equitable, bilingual environment. We do this so that our students will become positive, successful and contributing members of society.

“The World Awaits Us/Le monde nous attend”

Equity Statement

As an educational community we have a responsibility to identify and describe racism and oppression and then work to dismantle it. The Upper Grand District School Board is committed to disrupting systemic racism and oppression in all of its forms. We will implement ongoing mandatory anti-racism and anti-oppression training for all staff, review our protocols and policies, including our hiring practices, and be fully transparent and accountable to all Upper Grand students, staff, families, and stakeholders in an ongoing manner.

The School Day

8:20 School Supervision begins-please do not drop your children off before this time

8:35-9:25 Period 1

9:25-10:15 Period 2

10:15 -10:40 Outside

10:40 -11:00 Nutrition Break

11:00-11:50 Period 3

11:50-12:40 Period 4

12:40 - 1:05 Outside

1:05 - 1:25 Nutrition Break

1:25-2:15 Period 5

2:15-3:05 Period 6

3:05 Dismissal/Students report to their bus line or walk home

3:05 -3:20 Buses pull out/all students are expected to have left the school property

ATTENDANCE/SAFE ARRIVAL

Attending school on a regular basis will help your child do his/her best. All academic subjects are taught in sequence, requiring the understanding of each concept in the order of its presentation. Persistent absenteeism or lateness creates a genuine disadvantage for a student and is regarded as a serious problem.

If a student is going to be absent or late, please use our automated attendance service (519-824-0028) and leave a message (day or night), giving the child’s name, teacher’s name and reason for absence. Call the school each day that your child will be absent or late, unless you are able to inform us, on the first day of absence, of exactly how long s/he will be away. If a student must be away for an extended period, please notify the teacher and office in advance. An unexpected absence will be checked by the school office coordinator. Any student who is late must obtain a late slip from the office upon arrival.

According to Upper Grand District School Board Policy, it is the responsibility of parents to:

1.) Provide current telephone contacts, including home, cell phone and work numbers of parents, and emergency contact numbers of caregiver. Provide email information to get latest updates and information from the school and Board. (This info is confidential to the Board staff and is kept secure). 2.) Update the info during the school year (Please contact the office if there are changes to telephone numbers, addresses, medical info, email contact or emergency contacts. Such info is vital in emergencies). 3.) Communicate with the school, prior to the start of school in the morning or afternoon, when the child will be absent or late for any reason. 4.) Provide written permission for their child to leave the school during the day.

SAFE DEPARTURE

Classes end at 3: 05. Please inform the classroom teacher or the office, if you are picking up your child. It would be beneficial if students knew in the morning what the end of play plan is. It gets very busy in the office and it is often difficult to call into classrooms to make students aware of any changes of plans. If you must contact the office please do so before 2:15 pm, otherwise we cannot guarantee that the message will make it to your child. For the safety of all, we require all visitors to report to the office each time they enter the school. Please do not be offended if a staff member stops you to ask why you are in the school. Even if you have been in the school before, not all teachers will recognize you. Again, we request this for the safety of your child(ren).

STUDENT PICK-UP For our students’ safety, please sign your child out at the office before taking him/her out of the school at any time during the day. Also, if the school has not received a note or call from the parent/guardian, students will be sent home in the usual way. *If students are going to be picked up by someone other than the parent/guardian, a note is needed from the parent/guardian in order to ensure the safety of the children. 4

VISITNG THE SCHOOL

We welcome volunteers and parent visits. Please check in at the office and sign the Visitor Sign-In book so that we can direct/assist you. Please always wear a visitor or volunteer badge when in the school. If you are picking up your child, please remember to Sign Out upon leaving the school. Thank you.

APPROPRIATE DRESS

Students must wear:

 A shirt or the equivalent (e.g. sweater etc.) with fabric in the front, back and on the sides under

the arms, AND

 Pants or the equivalent (e.g. skirt, sweatpants, leggings, dress, shorts) AND

 Shoes or the equivalent (e.g. boots, sandals, etc.).

 Clothing must fully cover genitals, buttocks and breasts with opaque (non-see

through) fabric.

 Any clothing that reveals visible undergarments (visible waistbands and visible straps

are allowed).

Students cannot wear:

 Clothing or accessories containing violent language or images.

 Images, logos or language depicting drugs, alcohol or any illegal item or activity.

 Images, logos or language that portray: ethnic prejudice, racism, sexism, vulgarity,

gang-related markings, obscenities, profanity, hate speech and/or pornography.

 Images, logos or language that creates a hostile or intimidating environment.

 Swimsuits (except as required in class or athletic practice).

 Accessories that could be considered dangerous or could be used as a weapon (with

the exception of religious accessories or articles of faith such as a Kirpan).

 For safety consideration; clothing items must not obscure the face or ears, except as a religious

observance.

ELECTRONIC DEVICES

Electronic devices may be brought to school although they cannot be turned on during the instructional day unless directed by the teacher. They may never be used on the playground for any reason (this includes taking pictures). Many teachers will be allowing students to use electronic devices during class time with their permission. Please check with the teacher if you are unclear about the expectations. Electronic items must be turned off and stored in a locked locker. Lost, damaged or stolen electronic equipment is the responsibility of the student and the school will not assume any responsibility for them. For infractions of these expectations, electronic items will be confiscated and can be picked up at the end of the day. Parents will be contacted if electronics continue to be misused and consequences will be adjusted accordingly. Use of digital or photographic imagery equipment including, but not limited to, cell phones, personal digital assistants, and cameras is not allowed in any school facility washrooms and change rooms.

COMMUNICATION AT JOHN McCRAE

Communication between school and home is vital for positive partnerships. Some ways that good communication happens at McCrae are:  Monthly school information will be posted on the school website the beginning of each month  Classroom teachers’ term newsletter (found on the school website) will be posted in October and February  Interviews, case conferences and telephone calls  Term reports (Progress Reports end of November, Term 1 February and Term 2 end of June)  Parent Council meetings (second Tuesday of the month) and communications  John McCrae website: http://www.ugdsb.on.ca/jmccrae/john.htm which has copies of information and School Council minutes as well as upcoming events  Student classroom emails or homework bags  Open House evenings (September)  Visits to classrooms.

Please feel welcome to contact the school at any time. Staff members have voicemail if you wish to make an appointment with a teacher. If you have concerns about your child’s progress, please discuss your concerns with the teacher. Open and honest communication between parents and teachers on a regular basis supports both your child and the school.

PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES

Parent-teacher conferences occur in the fall (the end of November, one night and one day), at the time of the progress report and at any other time of the school year when requested by a parent or teacher. Parent-teacher conferences are particularly important during the first term, as goals will be set for the student. These conferences may also include the student. Parents are asked to make a specific appointment with the teachers of each of their children, regardless of the progress of the child. Please do not wait for the regular conference time if you have a question or concern.

ORAL FRENCH LANGUAGE EXPECTATIONS

Given our status as a French Immersion Centre, we would like our students to take advantage of the unique opportunities available to them at John McCrae. Curriculum expectations for French Language instruction are found by grade level in the Ministry Guidelines, French as a Second Language: Extended French Grade 4-8, French Immersion Grades 1-8.

To support these provincial expectations, we will be reinforcing the following guidelines with our students (as appropriate to the grade level):

1) Use of French to address teachers 2) Use of French between students in classroom conversation 3) Use of French by students in the hallways 4) Use of French by students on school trips and tournaments as appropriate

Classroom teachers will regularly check student comprehension. With these guidelines in place, students will have the maximum opportunity to practice their oral French and improve their fluency. Report card grades for oral language will reflect the daily use of French by the student.

We will, at all times, be mindful that we are serving an English speaking community within an English language Board of Education. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the school or your child’s classroom teacher.

Curriculum Time Allocations – French Immersion Programs

F.I Grades Total Time Allocation for French Total Time Allocation for English Programs in F.I. Instruction in F.I. Program

K - 2 100% French 0% English

3 & 4 80% French 20% English 240 minutes/day 60 minutes/day 1,200 minutes/week English Language Arts - 300 minutes/week

5 75% French 25% English 225 minutes/day 75 minutes/day 1,125 minutes/week 375 minutes/week English Language Arts - 275 minutes/week Integrated subject areas -science, social studies etc.- 100 minutes/week

6 70% French 30% English 210 minutes/day 90 minutes/day 1,050 minutes/week 450 minutes/week 300 minutes/week - Integrated subject areas science, social studies etc. - 150 minutes/week

7 - 8 50% French 50% English 150 minutes/day 150 minutes/day 750 minutes/week 750 minutes/week (50 mins flexible) Math 300 minutes/week English Language Arts -300 minutes/week French Language/Drama/300 minutes/week Science & Technology - 150 minutes/week Geography/History 150 minutes/week Physical Ed and Health -150 minutes/week Art & Music - 100 minutes/week 7

BOARD AND PROVINCIAL ASSESSMENT

The Upper Grand District School Board administers the following standardized tests yearly:

EQAO (Education Quality and Accountability Office) – Administered to Grade 3 and 6 in May or early June. For French Immersion students, the Grade 3 Reading and Writing tests are in English and Mathematics is in French. The Grade 6 Reading, Writing and Mathematics tests are all in English.

CCAT (The Canadian Cognitive Abilities Test) – Administered to Grade 3 in the fall. This test measures verbal, nonverbal, and quantitative reasoning to determine a student's eligibility for admission into the gifted program. The test is in English.

Information concerning the administration of the CCAT and EQAO test will be shared by the school and classroom teachers when the testing dates approach. Please contact the school if you have questions.

SUGGESTIONS FOR HELPING YOUR CHILD IN THE FRENCH IMMERSION PROGRAM (You don’t have to speak French!)

Listen to your child speak and read in French. As early as Kindergarten, students will be bringing home books to share with you. If the book is part of the program, the student should be able to read it and will take great pleasure and pride in sharing it with you. Listen and enjoy it even if you do not speak French!

 Read to/with your child in English. Your child will be learning to read in French in the primary grades at school. Those reading skills should transfer into English reading. Give your child lots of opportunities to allow the transfer to happen. The reading of easy pattern books by your child will encourage him/her to develop sight vocabulary and story patterns in English. There are many series available in the public library, through Scholastic book orders (offered through the school) and in the school library. Continue to read to your child stories of interest which may be above his/her own reading level but which provide a wealth of information and ideas.  Pre-Kindergarten, help your child learn the alphabet letters and their sounds. Play with words and numbers (rhymes, beginning sounds, counting). Teach your child how to print his/her name.  Purchase a French/English dictionary as a resource for the family. Purchase some reading materials for your child in French (Scholastic/Arc-en-ciel book club). Visit the public library for books in French and English.  Communicate regularly with the classroom teacher: conferences, notes, phone calls. Make sure that you receive all classroom communications. Visit the McCrae website for school news.  Students will have access to google classroom and/or communications/book that should be checked every night. Your child should be able to explain their work to you. If this is not happening, contact the teacher.  Read the Ministry curriculum documents. Be aware of the expectations at each grade level. Ministry curriculum is available at the Ontario government website: http://www.edu.gov.on.ca.  Consult the Canadian Parents for French website: www.cpfont.on.ca.  Pursue opportunities to develop your own French language skills.

HOME LEARNING POLICY

Home Learning Activities

 should include an interesting variety of activities  should reinforce skills already taught in the classroom  should be a positive time for parents and children  should become a link between home and school which supports the child’s progress in school and provides parents with information about how and what their child is learning  teacher initiated home learning activities need to be time limited

EXTRA ASSISTANCE FOR STUDENTS

If your child is struggling to grasp a concept or a skill, please do not hesitate to contact the classroom teacher to discuss the situation. Assistance is provided on a regular basis by the classroom teacher in the form of reviews, individualized help, extra practice at school or at home, a slower pace or other appropriate strategies. Please feel welcome to contact your child’s teacher at any time to discuss his/her needs. Often some simple adjustments can make a significant difference to your child’s progress. Please set aside time daily to read with your child.

IN-SCHOOL TEAM

When a child continues to struggle, the classroom teacher will bring the concern to an In School Team Meeting (IST). The Team consists of the classroom teacher(s), the Resource Teacher and the Principal. Sometimes the Child and Youth Counsellor (CYC) may be present if social skills are a concern. The IST generally meets on a weekly basis to problem solve and suggest strategies and next steps. The classroom teacher will inform parents about the IST, the recommendations and the success of these strategies. Suggestions will also be made for helping at home. Informal academic assessment may be initiated by the Resource Teacher. Resource assistance may be provided if there is resource time available and depending on the severity of need. Reading tutor or parent volunteer time may also be made available to the student. CYC assistance may be recommended.

CONSULTANT TEAM

In some cases, if a concern continues, student may be referred to a Consultant Team Meeting. These meetings take place at the school two times per term and involve the classroom teacher(s), Resource Teacher, Principal, CYC and the Board’s Psychological Consultant, Speech and Language Consultant and Special Education Consultant who have been assigned to the school. Once again, this is a problem-solving meeting in which ideas are shared and recommendations are made about next steps. Parents are always informed about the meeting. Accommodations and/or modifications to the student’s program may be recommended and possible further formal assessment by one or more of the consultants.

IPRC

Some students with special needs may be designated as exceptional by an Identification, Placement and Review process. These students benefit from an Individual Education Plan and regular resource assistance or a Special Education class placement. Please contact the school if you would like more information about the IPRC process.

Your child may need extra help when:

* your child’s grades are below average * a teacher talks to you directly about an issue * there seems to be consistently too much homework or it is consistently too difficult * your child is upset about school, avoids talking about it or does not like coming to school.

Helping your child succeed with extra help:

* be positive and give praise * keep in regular communication with the teacher * get your child involved in the plan - set goals, time lines and limits together

ILLNESS AT SCHOOL

When a child becomes ill at school, we contact the parents or emergency contact to take your child home. We do not have facilities at school to care for sick children and, when sick, they always prefer to be at home. If a child is too sick to go out at recess, they are usually too sick to remain at school. We appreciate your understanding of the health and well-being of all our students.

MEDICATION

There are times when it may be necessary for a student to take medication at school on a short-term basis, or in some cases, for extended periods of time. Medication needs to be brought to the office by a parent. Parents are required to complete a form, giving permission to school staff to administer medication.

All medication will be kept in a locked cupboard in the office, and times of administering will be recorded by office staff. With the exception of puffers and EpiPens, students are discouraged from carrying medications. Aspirin/pain killers are not available for students. Medication will not be left in teachers’ or students’ desks, bags, backpacks or lunch pails. Students with severe allergies should have an EpiPen with them at all times, and an EpiPen should also be kept at the office as a back-up.

ALLERGIES

Students in our school may have allergic reactions to milk, wheat, peanuts, peanut butter, kiwi fruit, eggs, etc. These classrooms will be designated as allergen free zones. You should provide an alternate to these foods if your child is in one of these designated classrooms. Students bringing these foods will be asked to eat in another area. All parents should be aware of the potential risk in allowing peanut/nut products to come to school in children’s backpacks or in classroom treats. Please discourage your children from sharing lunches or snacks.

If your child has a life-threatening illness of any kind, please inform the principal so that a life-threatening illness management plan is completed promptly. This plan is essential so that the school can take appropriate action in the event of any emergency. (i.e. use of EpiPen).

SABRINA’S LAW

This legislation makes it mandatory for all schools to minimize the risks for students who have life-threatening allergies. The Upper Grand District School Board, under Policy 509, has had policies and procedures in place for schools in the district. This policy is being amended to comply with the new law. Under the law, it is the responsibility of staff and parents to protect any student who suffers from severe allergies. The key points are as follows:

1. Substances that can cause a severe allergic reaction in affected students must be kept away from them. 2. A student who has severe allergic reactions should carry an EpiPen with them at all times. A back-up EpiPen should be kept in the school office. School staff members will receive training in using them. 3. A student who has severe allergic reactions must have a written emergency plan, updated as necessary. This plan is to be completed in consultation with parents. 4. Staff will be made aware of each student with a severe allergy and with his/her emergency plan.

In order to comply with the law:

1. Parents are asked not to send any item of food (peanuts, fish, etc.) if so requested by the classroom teacher, 2. Parents of students with severe allergic reactions are asked to keep the school informed of any changes in their child’s condition and to have the necessary medications brought to the school along with a doctor’s instructions for the administration of them.

INCLEMENT WEATHER PROCEDURES

In case of severe winter weather, with poor driving conditions and bus cancellations and delays, please listen for important information on 1460 AM, CJOY, Magic 106.1 FM (CIMJ FM) and 92.9 FM CIZN-FM (Announcements for John McCrae (yellow card) are included in South Wellington and the City of Guelph) or you can visit the transportation website at: http://www.stwdsts.ca .

Possible announcements:

1. All schools, taxis and buses in South Wellington and the City of Guelph will not be operating today. All schools, both Public and Catholic are closed. 2. All school taxis and buses in South Wellington and the City of Guelph will not be operating today. All schools, both Public and Catholic, are open with the exception of those schools totally dependent on transportation. When a bus does not travel a route in the morning, it will not do so in the afternoon. If a parent elects to drive his/her child(ren) to school, the parent is responsible for the child(ren)’s pick-up at 3:05.

BUSING OF STUDENTS

Many John McCrae students ride a school bus to and from school daily. Most students also ride school buses during the school year when classes are extending their learning experiences beyond the classroom. Board transportation procedures (Policy 3650-A) delineate a Code of Conduct for students. Parents are asked to read and discuss these regulations with students.

Student Code of Conduct When Using the Bus

1. General a) Every student is expected to behave in accordance with the expectations of the Principal at the pick-up and transfer points, and while travelling on the school bus. While on the premises of any school, a student is required to behave in accordance with the expectations of the Principal of that school. b) Every student will follow the driver’s directions and co-operate with and assist the patrollers c) A student is responsible for compensation for any damage or destruction to school buses that he/she causes.

2. Loading Procedures - A Student Must a) Arrive at the bus stop five (5) minutes before pick-up time. b) Stand well away from the road until the bus is stopped. c) Line up in a single file, and when the bus is stopped, board the bus in an orderly fashion using the handrail. d) Check traffic before walking across a road, if it is necessary to cross it, before boarding the bus. e) Stay at least five (5) to eight (8) paces in front of the bus when crossing the road.

3. Unloading Procedures - A Student Must a) Stay in the seat until the bus comes to a stop. b) Leave the bus in an orderly fashion, using the handrail. c) Continue up the lane, if his/her laneway is directly beside the door of the bus. d) Remain on the shoulder of the road at a safe distance from the bus [three (3) paces], if it is necessary to walk to get to his/her laneway, until the bus has departed.

e) Line up single file, if it is necessary to cross the road, and when everyone is off, walk along the shoulder for five (5) to eight (8) paces, then, when the bus driver indicates it is safe to proceed, cross the road while continuing to check for on-coming traffic.

4. A Student Shall a) Follow the directions of the driver and obey the patroller. b) Be courteous and respectful at all times. c) Keep off the travelled portion of the road on the way to the pick-up time. d) Ride only the bus assigned. e) Be picked up only at designated stops. f) Keep books, lunch boxes and bulky items on his/her lap. g) Leave windows closed, unless authorized by the driver to open them and keep arms and head inside the bus at all times. h) Not carry potentially dangerous or objectionable objects and/or materials. (It is advisable not to bring umbrellas). i) Not eat or chew gum on the school bus. j) Remain in the assigned seat while the busy is in motion. k) Be discharged only at designated stops. l) Whenever possible, leave the last row of seats vacant. m) Personal IPods may be used with earphones.

5. A student must be aware that serious or repeated misconduct will be recorded and that the report may be placed in the Ontario Student Record folder. A student must also be aware that such conduct may result in the loss of the provision of transportation.

PARENTS/GUARDIANS

1. Parents are responsible for the safety and conduct of their children at bus pick-up points.

2. Parents should be familiar with the Code of Conduct for Bus Students.

3. Parents are advised that serious or repeated misconduct will be recorded and that the report may be placed in the student’s Ontario Student Record folder. They must also be advised that such conduct may result in the loss of the provision of transportation.

4. It is a parent’s responsibility to determine whether or not it is safe for their students to leave for school in inclement or severe weather.

5. Parents must be aware that: a) When a bus does not travel a route in the A.M. due to poor weather, it will not do so in the P.M. b) On a “bad weather” morning, information will be given regarding bus delays/cancellations on CJOY radio.

6. The provision of transportation to and from a care-giver/babysitter is dependent upon the following criteria: a) The student must be eligible for transportation (Section 3650-A) b) The request must be submitted in writing to the Principal. c) The student must be picked up and dropped off on the same bus route following a pattern which repeats itself daily. d) If changes in daycare/babysitting are made during the school year, transportation will only be provided if space is available on the requested bus. e) The care-giver/babysitter must be located in the student’s school attendance area.

SAFETY PATROLS

John McCrae maintains a large patrol team, consisting of both bus and street patrols. Safety Patrollers are volunteers who demonstrate reliability and a strong sense of responsibility and commitment. Safety Patrollers assist parents and caregivers by helping at road crossings and with keeping students safe on the bus.

Safety Patrollers are maintained on all buses, the crosswalk in front of the school and at the front of the school parking lot.

Please make sure that your child comes to school via the same route every day. It should be the route that makes use of the Safety Patrols, where appropriate. Please encourage your child to leave home early enough to ensure the opportunity of crossing with the Patrollers. Walking the route with a young child, or reviewing the route in discussion with an older child, are excellent ways to:

a) ensure that the route is appropriate and b) know the route that your child always takes

Bus Patrollers or helpers are assigned to accompany Kindergarten and Grade 1 students to and from the bus on a daily basis. Please ensure that an adult is available to meet your child OR if you have a young child and know of an older student who could assist your child on the walk or bus ride, please feel welcome to organize a buddy system (with parent’s permission) or contact the school for assistance.

BICYCLES AT SCHOOL

For the safety of our students, we ask that all riders wear helmets and use a bicycle lock or combination. We ask that all riders walk their bicycles on the school grounds and park them in the racks provided. We are not responsible for lost or stolen bikes.

THE UPPER GRAND LEARNING FOUNDATION

The Upper Grand Learning Foundation is a vehicle for school fundraising that allows groups or individuals to contribute funds in support of school activities and resources. Tax receipts are available through this foundation. School Council coordinates some of their fundraising through the Learning Foundation. Information regarding donations to John McCrae School processed through the Upper Grand Learning Foundation will be distributed at various times throughout the school year. Your donation will be much appreciated.

FUNDRAISING

The School Community continues to benefit from funds collected through fundraising by School Council. Throughout the year, profits from the milk program and weekly pizza lunches also support school resources, activities and events. 14

INSURANCE

The Upper Grand District School Board strongly recommends that parents have student insurance coverage and has endorsed the plan offered by the Reliable Life Insurance Company. Applications for the Student Accident Insurance Plan are sent home with the children in September. The plan supplements the Ontario Health compensation for the specific major accidents and includes the treatment of specified injuries. Applicants are covered during the enrollment period. Parents’ contact is with the insurance company, not with the Board of Education.

COMMITMENT TO GOING GREEN

For the past number of years, John McCrae has received the honour of being accredited as a gold status ECO School. We continue to recycle, reuse and reduce. We are sorting our garbage so it can be recycled and diverted from landfills. We are trying hard to reduce our paper consumption and we are turning off lights when not in use. These are all important steps toward meeting the goals from our Waste Audit and educating our students about the importance of recycling. Earth Day Assemblies and Earth Week activities, environmental fundraising, litterless lunches, school yard clean- ups, and gardening, are just a few of the green activities that students can take part in throughout the year. Don’t be surprised if these efforts and this learning spill over into your home when your children ask you to turn out lights, use a clothesline, buy food with less packaging, use reusable bags when shopping and walk them to school all in an effort to be friends to our Earth.

LOST AND FOUND CLOTHING Please visit our “lost and found” whenever you are at school!

Please make sure that your primary child’s name is on the inside of coats, hats, backpacks, boots, etc. We have a “lost and found” area located in the lower hall near the back door (close to the kindergarten rooms) and one upstairs. At the end of each term, articles will be on display for several days so that you may help your child retrieve lost belongings. It will then be given to a local charity.

USE OF COMPUTER NETWORKS AND INTERNET

The Internet is a dynamic, educational resource that dramatically expands the classroom by delivering current information, data and images from around the world. The Internet offers unique opportunities to educate inform and communicate. Students and staff using the resources of the Internet will develop the ability to access, analyze, evaluate and manage information-essential skills in today’s rapid changing society.

We believe that the valuable information and interaction available to users through the resources of the Internet far outweigh the possibility that users may access material that may be inappropriate and inconsistent with school and community values. While teachers will monitor the use of computers by students, ultimately, it is the responsibility of the student to guard against unacceptable information.

Copies of the complete Upper Grand District School Board Acceptable Use Policy for Computer Network and Internet Use which includes the information summarized below. Failure to observe these guidelines will result in loss of computer privileges and/or other consequences consistent with Board/School policies and procedures.

USING UG2GO AND UGCLOUD

What is UG2GO? (https://www.ugdsb.on.ca/ug2go/)

UG2GO is the virtual learning commons for the Upper Grand District School Board. UG2GO provides 24/7 access to quality online subscription databases and websites for the UGDSB community.

UGCloud is a secure, monitored site for UGDSB staff and students using Google Apps for Education. Google Apps is a suite of products including Documents (word processing, presentations, spreadsheets), Sites, Mail (limited to staff & students at UGDSB schools), Calendar, and more. All products are available in an Internet-based format via the UGCloud. (www.ugcloud.ca)

Google Apps is accessible on almost any device or computer anywhere in the world. “Google Apps for Education” allows for our students to access homework and assignments from teachers, both at home and at school. It also provides them with opportunities to collaborate with staff and other students, 24/7. Teachers are able to assess student work online and this decreases the amount of paper used by staff and students which has an immediate environmental impact.

Google Apps provides the opportunity for meaningful assessment, promotes both peer and self-editing, as well as easily creates online portfolios of student work allowing students to self-assess, set goals, and monitor growth throughout their years of education with the UGDSB.

UGCloud Important Features

. All content is managed by the Upper Grand District School Board. . Teachers and administrators have full administrative capabilities on all student accounts. . Strict privacy controls are in place to ensure safety and security

USER RESPONSIBILITES

Each user will comply with the following conditions:  Using e-mail and Internet access in support of education and research, and in a manner consistent with the educational beliefs and objectives of the school and Board  Accepting full responsibility for his/her own exploration of the Internet  Respect the privacy of others  Adhering to school standards of courtesy and behavior  Promptly reporting to staff any inappropriate e-mail or Internet data

UNACCEPTABLE PRACTICES

These include but are not limited to;  Accessing or distributing inappropriate material  Using the network for any unauthorized, illegal, inappropriate or obscene purposes  Using the network for financial gain or commercial activity  Plagiarizing or violating copyright  Violating network security  Accessing, vandalizing, damaging or disabling the property of another user  Engaging in any form of harassment on the network  Allowing others the access to personal passwords or accounts  Posting personal contact information  Reposting or forwarding personal communications without the approval of author

LEARNING COMMONS/MAKERSPACE

Our Learning Commons/MAKERSPACE provides an important learning experience for our students. Students and staff are encouraged to make use of our facilities in a variety of ways: for book exchanging, book browsing, quiet reading times and research study and for creating and exploring! We have a great variety of materials which include factual information and leisure reading books, children’s magazines, computer material and novel sets which provide many choices for learning of all ages.

As consumers, we are all aware that everything is becoming more expensive and that also includes library materials. We appreciate the time you always take to emphasize to your child the need for caring for borrowed materials and the responsibility one assumes when one becomes a “borrower”. Please make sure that students are responsible for all library book returns.

SPORTS ACTIVITIES

John McCrae has an active sports and intra-mural program supported by staff members and parents. Primary intramurals involve such sports as Skipping, Dance and Volleyball.

Junior and intermediate students participate in Cross Country, Soccer, Volleyball, Basketball, Track and Field, or Ultimate Frisbee, both in intra-murals and in city wide team competitions. The practices for school teams take place during activity breaks, and before and after school. The teams attend a one day tournament for most sports.

It is important to remember that teachers volunteer their time to organize and coach various teams. Teachers recognize the positive impact sports have on the development of the whole child. Representing our school teams is a rewarding and exciting experience. Coaches select players based on a number of criteria, which include: school conduct, academics, attendance, sportsmanship and ability.

All students participate in daily Physical Education and regularly scheduled Physical Education programs.

CLUBS

Various clubs are offered by our staff and will meet during activity breaks. Some of these are: chess club, choir, band, kindergarten helpers, environmental club, Safety Patrols, skipping clubs, reading clubs, lunch and rainy day helpers, pizza and milk helpers.

STUDENT RECOGNITION AND AWARDS

We encourage the recognition of all students in intramurals, clubs and day-to-day participation in our school community. Our assemblies, bulletin boards and public address system are used to applaud these individual and group accomplishments throughout the year.

FIELD TRIPS

Field trips are organized throughout the year to support curriculum objectives. Please be assured that if you cannot afford it, your child will still be able to go on the trip.

VOLUNTEERS

John McCrae School maintains an active volunteer program. Volunteers come from all sections of the community. We welcome students, parents, grandparents and community friends. Volunteers help us daily in classrooms, working with individual students or sharing rich experiences and skills with small groups of students. Our busy Learning Commons Centre welcomes volunteers to assist with circulation tasks, magazine processing, and filing. Our staff and School Council rely on volunteers to help with special events. We welcome volunteers throughout the lunch period each day and to accompany us on school trips when our learning environment extends beyond the classroom. Working and learning with children is a rewarding experience for volunteers and, volunteers sharing experiences, skills and values with us will contribute very positively to our life experiences.

Parents working in classrooms and with students must respect the confidentiality of student information.

Volunteers must complete a Volunteer Information Form. If you would like to be a volunteer at John McCrae, please call the school office for additional information (519-824-0028) or drop by to pick up a volunteer information form for our files.

VOLUNTEERS STATEMENT FOR THE PROTECTION OF PRIVACY

The Volunteer’s role in the school is one of partnership with the employees of the Upper Grand District School Board. In this capacity, it is understood that the volunteer will follow the terms and conditions relating to security and confidentiality of personal information according to the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

Pursuant to Board Policy # 205, it is understood that the volunteer will work under the direction of an appropriate staff member and be privy only to that information that is necessary for working effectively with a student(s) and/or for the purpose of performing the task assigned (e.g. office/clerical).

SCHOOL COUNCIL

The purpose of the School Council is to act in an advisory capacity to the principal and the Board of Education regarding current school issues. All community members are welcome to attend School Council meetings and we encourage interested parents to become involved. Some of the areas addressed by School Council are: fundraising, provincial testing results, school improvement plans, services and programs, extra-curricular activities, school, Board and Ministry policies, the school Code of Conduct and Dress Code.

This year’s School Council priorities will continue to include communication, community liaison and advisory responsibilities. The School Council By-Laws are available for your perusal.

We welcome new members! Please call the school office at (519) 824-0028 if you are interested in joining. We generally meet on the second Tuesday of the month from 6:30-7:45. Babysitting can be arranged.

ÉCOLE JOHN McCRAE SCHOOL BLENDED KINDERGARTEN PROGRAM

The Kindergarten Program in the Upper Grand District School Board is a full day, two year blended program. Junior and Senior Kindergarten students are in the same class and grouped according to levels of readiness, skills and interests. Students have two years to reach the Kindergarten objectives and develop their readiness for Grade One.

If you are the parent of a Kindergarten child, please feel welcome to communicate with the classroom teacher regularly through the ‘sac en plastique’, by phone, email or in person. The Kindergarten teachers do strive to keep you informed on the themes, skills and concepts being taught on a monthly basis through google classroom and constant communication. Our Kindergarten teachers work as a team to co- ordinate programming. Please do not hesitate to contact your child’s teacher if you have questions or concerns.

Parent volunteer assistance is always valued, and especially at the Kindergarten level! Please let the teacher know if you are available to help out during the day, either in class or at lunch.

As Kindergarten parents, we welcome you also to our School Council monthly meetings, as helpers on special days, extra-curricular activities or with some of the regular services provided, such as the Milk and Pizza programs. Merci!

Helpful online information and Tools

John McCrae Public School: http://www.ugdsb.on.ca/jmc/

Upper Grand District School Board: http://www.ugdsb.on.ca/

Ontario Curriculum: http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/curriculum/elementary/grades.html

Sites for Building French and Math Skills http://www.lasouris-web.org/prescolaire/prescolaire.html http://www.maxetom.com/jeux_lecture http://www.lasouris-web.org/prescolaire/prescolaire_lecture.html http://www.duplaisiralire.com/jeux/index.htm http://www.lepointdufle.net/apprendre_a_lire1/combinaisons_de_lettres1.htm http://www1.tfo.org/education/Home# www.multiplication.com http://www.mathplayground.com/wordproblems.html http://www.wordreference.com/

Thank you for taking the time to read this handbook. We are looking forward to an excellent year! 20