Viking School

2 0 1 2 – 2 0 1 3 Viking School HANDBOOK OUR VISION Respect, Responsibility, Success for All!

Our Motto “Yesterday I dreamed, Today I learned, Tomorrow I will succeed.”

Viking School Box 720

2 5503 – 51 Street Viking, AB T0B 4N0

Te: (780) 336-3352 Fax: (780) 336-2299 www.brsd.ab.ca/viking

DISCLAIMER A handbook of this size and scope cannot cover all aspects of the school’s operation and it should not be considered an irrevocable contract. We reserve the right to amend its contents throughout the school year as needed.

3 Viking School Background Viking School has a proud tradition of excellence that began back in the early 1900’s. Over the past thirteen years, Viking School’s population has slowly declined. In the 2012- 2013 school year, our enrolment numbers have decreased from last year and we now sit at approximately 318 students.

Kindergarten Our program was the first to be organized in the County of Beaver. It was started in 1974 as a private kindergarten organized by parents using a room in the school. It is now run by the Board of Education and we have 1 kindergarten class. Students attend for two, and occasionally three days each week.

Elementary School The elementary has 6 classes for grades one to six students. This year our grade 5 students will be combined with our grade 4 and 6 students for their option courses. Special Education programs follow the new Alberta Education Initiative for inclusion. In addition, Viking School offers French (FSL) beginning in grade 4.

Junior High School The Junior High School consists of four classes - 1 grade seven, 1 grade eight and 2 grade nine classes although the grade 9 classes will be combined for their Science and Math classes which are semestered. We offer the usual academic subjects together with complementary classes in Industrial Education, Home Economics, and Art.

Senior High School The High School also offers the usual academic subjects together with courses in Construction, Physical Education, Art, French, Music (guitar) and a number of courses in the CTS area offered to grade 11 and 12 students through Distributed Learning. As we are a small high school, many courses are available through Distributed Learning for those students unable to access a required course or those who need to repeat a course.

Mission, and Beliefs

Our Mission Together we can create an environment in which each individual will be encouraged to realize his or her own fullest potential.

Our Beliefs We believe in a student-focused school setting where the interaction between the staff and students forms the basis for quality student learning and development. We believe that

4 the staff must actively assume responsibility in educating our students. This can best be accomplished within a supportive and rewarding environment that includes parents, students, the community at large, central office personnel, and the Board of Education.

More specifically, every staff member will continue to help our students develop core values such as integrity, honesty, respect, responsibility, fairness, compassion, tolerance, loyalty, and perseverance, through their attitudes and actions. While attempting to develop these core values, the following fundamental Beliefs are relevant:

 Students are the focus of our efforts.  Our school will promote skills, abilities, and attitudes, which lead to life-long learning.

 All students and staff are entitled to a safe, orderly environment.  Positive role models are important to instilling desired values in children.  Students will have high expectations set for them and receive on-going, helpful, descriptive feedback.  Students should develop positive work ethics and be expected to take an active, responsible role in their own education.  Positive parental and community involvement are important to the success of students  All students have the ability to learn.  Where possible, instruction should be provided by instructors that have appropriate expertise.

5 Staff List

Administration Brett Huculak . Principal, Biology and Physics Philip Brick ..... Vice Principal, Grade 6

Teaching Staff Cumming Lisa Grade 3 Forster, Jana . Grade 4 Golka, Lana ... Grade 2 Josephison, Trudy ...... Special Ed Facilitator, Grade 6 Lyons, Josh ... Jr/Sr Math, Phys Ed Larson, Carrie Jr/Sr Math, Phys Ed Ogrodnick, Leann ...... Grade 1 Pedersen, Traci...... Kindergarten Pon, Norma ... Jr/Sr LA Reinhart, Jaymie...... Jr/Sr Science Samson, Richard ...... CTS-Shop, Jr Science, Green Cert., Work Ex., RAP, Music Sarafinchan, Lori ...... French 4–12, Health Shaw, Robert . A.I.S.I. Lead Teacher, Jr/Sr Social Taylor, Marlene ...... Grade 5 Trempner, Elizabeth..... Jr/Sr Science Whaley, Bev . . CTS-Foods & Fashion 7-9, Art 7-12, Jr LA & Social Wilkie, Wendy Student Services, CALM, Jr LA & Social

Support Staff Haeberle, Tami ...... Educational Assistant Hafso, Veronica ...... Distance Ed Supervisor Jakubec, Suzanne ...... Educational Assistant Koch, Dorothy Head Custodian Lefsrud, Wanda ...... Educational Assistant Loveseth, Colleen ...... Educational Assistant Majeski, Lisa .. Educational Assistant Maxwell, Laurie ...... Librarian, Educational Assistant McLaren, Ev . . Head Secretary Merta, Ev ...... Educational Assistant Newby, MaryAnn ...... Secretary Schaffner, Roxann ...... Educational Assistant Snider, Debbie ...... Educational Assistant

6 Bell Schedule – 2012-2013

Secondar Inst Inst Elementary Outside y Min Min 8:30 AM Doors Open 8:30 AM Doors Open 8:30 AM 8:44 AM Warning Bell 8:44 AM Warning Bell 8:44 AM Announcements & Announcements & 8:47 AM O Canada 8:47 AM O Canada 8:50 AM Classes Begin 8:50 AM Classes Begin 40 9:30 AM Block 1 Ends 82 9:32 AM Block 2 Begins 40 10:12 AM Block 2 Ends 10:12 AM Recess Begins Warning Bell 10:25 PM 10:17 AM Block 3 Begins 10:27 AM Recess Ends 40 10:57 AM Block 3 Ends 72 10:59 AM Block 4 Begins 40 11:39 AM Block 4 Ends 11:39 AM D.E.A.R. Begins 11:53 AM D.E.A.R. Ends 14 11:53 AM D.E.A.R. Ends 14 11:53 AM Lunch Begins 11:53 PM Lunch Begins 12:33 PM Warning Bell 12:33 PM Warning Bell 12:33 PM 12:35 PM Block 5 Begins 12:35 PM Afternoon Begins 12:35 PM 40 1:15 PM Block 5 Ends 82 1:17 PM Block 6 Begins 40 1:57 PM Block 6 Ends 1:57 PM Recess Begins Warning Bell 2:10 PM 2:02 PM Block 7 Begins 2:12 PM Recess Ends 40 2:42 PM Block 7 Ends 67 2:44 PM Block 8 Begins 3:24 PM Block 8 Ends 40 3:24 PM Dismissal 3:19 PM Dismissal Instructional Instructional Secondary 334 Elementary 317 Min./Day Min./Day

Time of Arrival and Departure at School It is the policy of the Viking school that:  Students will remain outside the school doors before 8:30 a.m., unless special arrangements have been made.

7  Unless students are under the supervision of a teacher, they are expected to leave the school within a reasonable length of time at the end of the regular school day.

Staff Meetings As you can appreciate, providing a well-organized and coordinated program requires extensive planning. While every effort is made to do as much planning as possible during non-school hours, time is occasionally required for meetings and professional development involving all school staff – both teaching and support staff. In co-ordination with the Battle River School Calendar, staff meetings at Viking School are scheduled on September 17, November 13, January 18, March 18, and May 17.

Fees Textbook rental fees and other school fees are payable in September. Students will receive a fee schedule at that time. If payment of school fees is a concern, parents are encouraged to contact the principal to make alternative arrangements. All requests are confidential.

INSTRUCTIONAL FEES Textbook Rental - Gr. 1-9...... $ 50.00 Textbook Rental - Gr. 10-12...... $ 100.00 Art – Gr 7-9...... $ 25.00 Art – 10-12 ...... $ 50.00 Industrial Ed. - Grade 7-9...... $ 35.00 (projects may be extra) Home Ec - Grade 7-9...... $ 35.00 (projects may be extra) Construction - Gr. 10-12...... $ 85.00 (projects may be extra)

EXTRA-CURRICULAR Volleyball - Jr. High ...... $110.00 Volleyball - Sr. High ...... $110.00 Basketball - Jr. High ...... $125.00 Basketball - Sr. High ...... $125.00 Jr. Varsity Teams...... $ 50.00 Badminton - Jr. High ...... $ 30.00 Badminton - Sr. High ...... $ 30.00 Curling - Jr. High (per bus trip) ...... $ 10.00 Curling - Sr. High (per bus trip) ...... $ 10.00 Track (per bus trip) ...... $ 10.00 Golf (per bus trip) ...... $ 10.00 Elementary Teams (BB & VB)...... $ 30.00

DEPOSITS ON UNIFORMS A deposit cheque in the amount of $100.00 for Junior and Senior High uniforms is to be paid by all team members. This cheque should be separate from the individual sport charge as these cheques are kept and returned to the students when their uniforms have been returned.

8 Maplewood – School Operating System Battle River School division has instituted a new and improved system throughout the division – Maplewood. Maplewood connectEd is designed to provide student information to authenticated users, including students, parents, teachers, librarians, and administrative staff. Parents can be actively involved in their children's education by reviewing very detailed information tracked in the administration system, including attendance and marks. Visit our website at www.brsd.ab.ca/school/viking and log in to the parent portal using your username and password. If you do not have a username and password, please contact the school.

Inclement Weather Elementary School Cold Weather Policy An In/Out day board is used for students in the Elementary Wing to indicate whether they must go outside at recess breaks or may stay indoors. Teachers determine “IN” days by considering a combination of temperature and wind chill factors that would make outdoor activities too uncomfortable or unsafe. Elementary students are expected to wear winter coats, hats, mitts and boots during recesses and on the busses during the winter months.

Extreme Weather or Unsafe Road Conditions In the case of extreme weather or unsafe road conditions, school administration and bus drivers will determine if bus routes will operate. This information will be posted on the Battle River website and can be accessed through the Viking School website – http://www.brsd.ab.ca/viking. It will also be announced on 790 CFCW as soon as possible after 6:30 a.m.

“Buses not running”: . The school is open and staff members that are able to make it to school will be supervising students. . Attendance will not be officially recorded. . Time will be spent in curriculum related activities for review and study purposes only.

“School is Closed”: . School is closed to staff and students. Do not send your children to school. . If a school is closed on a final exam day, alternate dates will be determined by the teacher for in-school exams. HOWEVER, any scheduled Diploma Exams WILL STILL be running.

If parents are uncomfortable sending their children due to weather conditions, please contact the school. Parents always make the final decision regarding attendance in inclement weather conditions.

9 Early Dismissal due to Extreme Weather In the event that school is dismissed early due to extreme weather conditions each family will be contacted by phone to ensure parents are aware before their child is sent home. If we cannot reach anyone by phone, we will keep those students at the school until other arrangements are made with the family. Please make sure the school is aware of your current phone numbers and the emergency contacts.

Special Education

With coordination and assistance by our Special Education Facilitator, Mrs. Trudy Josephison, the staff at Viking School offers a wide variety of special education services for children experiencing learning difficulties. Some of the services we currently offer are:  Ongoing special needs assistance for those children with severe learning disabilities, enabling them to integrate into the regular classroom setting with the assistance of a trained teacher assistant.  Short-term remediation programs for children experiencing specific learning difficulties in the classroom environment.  Referral to outside agencies for specialist assessment,  Liaison with outside agencies for the provision of specialized support programs,  Identification and diagnosis of student learning disabilities,  Design, facilitation, and monitoring of Individualized Program Plans (IPP) or Inclusive Education Planning Tool (IEPT) for students experiencing learning difficulties.

Student Services – Mrs. Wendy Wilkie Student Services is located on the north side of the main office, in the Junior High Wing. Viking School has a Counsellor, who is available to assist students with their individual developmental needs. Using skills in counselling, assessment, consultation and coordination, our counsellor works for and with students, parents, school personnel and outside agencies. She is also available to assist secondary students in making educational and career decisions, and in finding scholarships and bursary information. Referrals can be made in person, or by telephone. Confidentiality is maintained unless emotional or physical health is at risk, or in case of illegal activity. Our school counsellor is Mrs. Wendy Wilkie and she can be contacted through the school office at 336-3352.

Family School Liaison Program (FSL) Intended for students from ECS to grade 12 and their parents, the Family-School Liaison Program offers support services and acts as a resource to families and individuals who may be experiencing difficulties at home or at school. The Family-School Liaison Program may be an extension of existing services provided for students or it may provide new services for those students and their families who are not currently involved with other support services.

10 THE PROGRAM  Ensures that individuals and families seeking assistance are involved in the decisions that affect their lives.  Provides education and support to children, youth, and parents to help them to positively manage challenging issues and events.  Focuses on the child; is community-based and available to children, youth and their families.  Facilitates the family’s functioning and encourages well-being.  Enhances personal strengths and coping skills.

REFERRALS Referrals for services can be made by:  family members  individual students  school staff  community agencies 1 SERVICES PROVIDED  Offer support services to individuals, families, and/or groups focusing on various topics. These may be in-class for students, or after school hours and in other settings depending on the group or family.  Provide information related to relevant issues and referrals to appropriate community agencies.  Communicate among families, schools, and community agencies to enhance and/or coordinate services.  With consent, program workers will work with students and families on an individual, on-going basis. In order for a student to receive these services, the student’s parent or guardian must provide written consent.  Convenience . . . services can be offered at your community school, in your home, or at another mutually agreeable location.

Canteen In addition to the canteen, there are three dispensing machines which provide juice, water, and milk-to-go. All profits from sales at the Canteen are divided between the Grad class and the school Library. Profits from the sales in the dispensing machines go to Viking Student Council.

Agendas

Grades 1 to 6 All students in grades 1 to 6 will be using agendas to assist students with personal organization and also as a tool with which to communicate with parents on an on-going

11 basis. The School Council has kindly paid for an agenda for each student throughout the year. We encourage parents in turn, to make use of these agendas to communicate with your child’s teacher(s).

Grades 7 to 12 We have ordered a few extra agendas for purchase from our office. Please see Mrs. McLaren if you wish to purchase one.

STUDENT ACTIVITIES

Extra-Curricular Activities INVOLVEMENT IN EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES:  enhances the total school program;  strengthens the relationship between students and teachers;  contributes to the intellect, social and physical growth of students;  enables students to pursue skills and activities of personal interest outside their regular curricular program;  enhances school spirit.

EXPECTATIONS:  Participation in a wide variety of clubs, teams and activities is available to all students throughout the school year.  Information concerning these various activities is provided through the daily announcements, the school newsletter, special posters, and student assemblies.  Student and staff interest and support determines the success or failure and ultimately the continuation or termination of each extra-curricular activity.  Parent Consent Forms must be completed ahead of time for all off-campus trips.  A student in violation of Viking School Policy regarding drugs and alcohol while at school or representing the school will face suspension or possible expulsion. Athletics Extra-Curricular At Viking School the athletic program operates on the premise that participation is a privilege not a right. Our coaches share a common purpose – to develop the ideals of dedication, sportsmanship and pride in representing Viking School. We believe that all actions of individuals reflect on both the team and the school community; therefore the conduct of our athletes should reflect these ideals. Mrs. Carrie Larson is the Sport Co- ordinator for Viking School.

Viking School supports the following teams: Elementary: Grade 5/6 Basketball Grade 5/6 Volleyball

12 Secondary: Badminton Basketball – Junior and Senior Boys and Girls Cross-Country Curling Golf Track and Field Volleyball – Junior and Senior Boys and Girls TEAMS – All our teams for Individual and Groups sports will PRACTISE and will be chosen to represent Viking School in league and tournament play.

Extra-Curricular Eligibility Students must be in regular attendance and maintaining reasonable passing grades to participate in school sports. Failure to maintain regular attendance and passing grades may result in suspension from extra-curricular participation.

Intramurals Noon hour Intramurals are organized by the physical education teacher. Intramural teams are from Elementary, Junior High and Senior High, and benefit from extensive participation at all levels.

P.O.P. Stars Program at Elementary We believe that a conscious, deliberate program that openly addresses various issues would give our students a sense of belonging to their school community and to the greater community. One of the underlying principles of our initiative is that the more developmental assets that students have, the more successful they will be in school and in life. Our underlying focus is the building of a caring community. An important element in promoting belonging and community wellness is the creation of our mentoring program. Starting in September, almost every adult in the elementary portion of our school will meet at least twice a month with his/her small group of students or mentoring group. Each group includes students from ECS to Grade 6. The groups were organized to:  Create a purposeful and meaningful opportunity to build community in our school  Develop relationship between students and between staff and students  Establish an environment of trust between students and between staff and students  Build self-esteem  Teach values; empathy; respect for self and others; honesty; trustworthiness; kindness; concern for others; self-control; responsibility; anger management; tolerance; conflict resolution; appreciation for differences; sharing; etc.  Model attitudes and behaviors to facilitate our students’ growth to be healthy, “contributing” and “caring” adults.

We are using materials that have been used by schools all over North America. We are only using materials obtained through books or reliable Internet sources. Each mentor will be given a package of activities that they may choose from. While the mentoring sessions are guided, they are flexible to meet the needs of the students. At Viking School there is a strong belief that our school needs to be a welcoming place for everyone. Committees were set up to formulate a plan that would make our school even

13 more “safe and caring.” The plan was to develop a mentorship Program (now called POP Stars) that reflects the mission of Viking School; “Together we can create an environment in which each individual will be encouraged to realize his or her fullest potential.” POP Stars activities were developed and staff training sessions began in January 2005. With an eye to the importance of building a “caring community” within the school, and the decision to focus on the positive, we strive to build the following qualities in children:  Belonging - A sense of community, loving others, and being loved  Mastery - Competence in many areas: cognitive, physical, and social, having self- control, responsibility, striving to achieve personal goals rather than superiority.  Independence - Making one's own decisions and being responsible for failure or success, setting one's own goals, disciplining one's self.  Generosity - Looking forward to being able to contribute to others, be able to give cherished things to others.

If you would like more information about our POP Stars program and ways parents can be involved contact either Philip Brick at 336-3352 to arrange a meeting.

Safety Patrollers At Viking School we are fortunate to have two Safety Patrol Teams, coordinated by Mrs. Wanda Lefsrud: the Crosswalk Patrollers (Sponsored by the Alberta Motor Association) and the Playground Patrollers. These teams consist of grade 5 and 6 students who donate their time to help ensure the safety of all of our students. The members of the Viking R.C.M.P. are strong supporters of both of these programs.

Travel Club Each year there is an opportunity for students who want to expand their education and represent Viking School abroad. Through the Travel Club under the coordination of advisors Mr. Robert Shaw and Mrs. Wendy Wilkie, students in grade 10 to 12 are able to visit exotic, far-away places. In spring of 2013, the club will be travelling to Great Britain.

VIKING SCHOOL RULES

Announcements Morning Announcements are delivered at 8:47 in the morning. If you wish to have an item announced (community teams, etc.) please call the school BEFORE 8:30 am. As the period between 8:30 am and 9:00 am is the busiest time of day in the office, any calls after 8:30 may not have their message included that day. Secondary Students - For non-emergency messages from parents, a class will not be disrupted. The student’s name will be posted on the Announcement Board outside of the office. Students are expected to take responsibility to check the Announcement Board frequently during the day. (See Telephone Messages.)

14 Attendance Policy POLICY STATEMENT The Alberta School Act, 2000, as amended requires that all children of compulsory school age “attend school regularly and punctually.” [Section 12(b)] Regular attendance is a necessary condition for success at school and students who attend regularly generally achieve greater results. However, we recognize that students may be absent from school from time to time due to a variety of circumstances. Responsibility for regular and punctual attendance rests with the students and their parents.

GUIDELINES 1. Absences are categorized as either excusable or inexcusable according to the criteria outlined below: a. Excusable Absence – means an absence as defined in Section 13(5) of The Alberta School Act, 2000, as amended: (the following are from the School Act). Excusable absences are those which generally fit the category of the unavoidable. The administration has the authority to make the determination of whether or not the absence warrants being “excused”. Conditions noted below apply to various types of excused absences: i. Personal Illness: The principal may require the certificate of a physician. ii. Compassionate: The absence arising from this circumstance is limited to a reasonable length of time. iii. Work at Home: Any absence arising because of this situation will be substantiated. iv. Emergency or prearranged absence caused by a set of circumstances which, in the judgment of the administration in consultation with the parents, constitutes a good and sufficient cause of absence from school. v. Suspension or expulsion from school. vi. Bus-related problems. vii. Religious Holidays. vii.i.b. Inexcusable absence – means any absence other than an excusable absence as defined in Section 13(5) of The Alberta School Act, 2000, as amended. Inexcusable absences are those which generally fit the category of being of such a nature that prudence would have precluded the absence such as, but not limited to: i. when a student leaves the school premises without parental consent and without prior knowledge of the school staff. ii. non-educational absences that have parental consent but involve activities that could be scheduled at other times, such as holidays, hunting, fishing, shopping, haircuts, etc. iii. Truancy - an absence during which neither the parents nor the teachers know the whereabouts of the student The administration has the authority to determine whether or not the absence warrants being considered “inexcusable”.

2. A student may be released upon the written or verbal request of the parent. These absences may be treated as excusable or inexcusable depending on the application of the above definitions or the reasons submitted at the time of the request.

15 3. Students who are absent on the day of co- or extra-curricular events are denied the right to participate in that event.

PROCEDURES General

1. Each day teachers shall input absences for each class on the Maplewood System via the Local Area network. These class absences will be reported electronically daily by 4:30 pm.

2. a) A parent or guardian is requested to telephone the school at 336-3352, to report a student’s absence and the reason, the morning of the absence. 1.b) If a parent has not telephoned the school, students are required to bring a note from their parent/guardian when returning to school after an absence. The note must contain the date of absence, reasons for absence, and must be signed by a parent/guardian. 1.c) If a student is absent and the office has not been contacted or given a note, it will be recorded as an unexcused absence.

3. After an absence, secondary students must: a.a) go to the office as soon as they arrive at the school after their absence. a.b) obtain a “green admission slip” (for excusable absences or a “red admission slip” (for inexcusable absences) to take to each of their teachers.

4. All teachers are expected to ask for the “green or red admission slip” from all students who have been absent.

5. Absence from school, excused or unexcused, does not exempt a student from learning the subject matter covered in class or from completing assignments. It is the student’s responsibility to acquire the missing assignments and to complete them in accordance with teachers’ requests.

6. For the safety of students, when leaving or returning to school during the school day due to appointments, they must sign in or out at the general office. It is expected that a parent note or appointment slip will be provided at that time. Absences by students who sign out of school during the day are considered inexcusable until parents/guardians phone in or a note from same is brought to the office.

7. A student at school, who refuses to attend classes after being directed to do so by a staff member or the administration, may be suspended from school.

8. If a student is unable to attend school the day an evaluation has been scheduled or an evaluation assignment is due, he or she must ensure that his or her parents or guardians phone the school the day of, or the day following and verify the reason for the absence.

16 9. Students with poor attendance may be denied the right to participate in co-curricular activities, school sponsored field trips, and extra-curricular activities.

10.If a student knows that he/she will be missing a class or classes, the student is responsible for informing his/her teachers and for bringing a note to the office or having his/her parent or guardian phone the office prior to the expected absence.

Lates We believe that punctuality is vital for the effective operation of the classroom. Students that are late do not only miss out on critical instruction, they can also disturb classmates upon their entrance. Not only is learning time affected by irresponsible tardiness; teacher and administration time is wasted as well.

1. In order to minimize disruptions, the following policy will be followed for all classes: a. Late students are to wait quietly outside the room until the opening activity has taken place. The classroom teacher will open the door and allow the late students to enter. Students are to enter quietly and take their seats immediately. b. If a student is late because of finishing work with another teacher, the teacher will give the student a late slip to show to their next teacher. c. Failure to serve a detention or comply with a consequence constitutes defiance and will result in an in-school suspension. 2. Consequences for being late to class, in any one particular month:  First Late. . Student is given a warning.  Second Late Student is given a second warning.  Third Late. It is up to the teacher to decide upon the appropriate consequence. Failure to comply with consequences will result in the administration being notified and a one-class in-school suspension may be issued.  Fourth late It is up to the teacher to decide upon the appropriate consequence. Failure to comply with consequences will result in the administration being notified and a one-class in-school suspension may be issued. Parents will be contacted. The teacher will also refer the student to the counsellor.

Requesting Assignments due to a child’s Illness When a child is absent from school, parents/guardians will often call to request assignments and work missed. If a child is absent for a short-term illness, which constitutes one or two days, the staff of Viking School (using teacher discretion) will provide assignments upon the child's return to school. If parents wish to have homework assignments provided for their child, please give your child’s teachers a minimum of 24 hours notice, to gather these assignments together.

17 Extra-Curricular Activities Students traveling to and from extra-curricular activities shall travel as a group in school busses. Exceptions include cases where appropriately insured vehicles are used and where prior approval has been granted by the Principal. All students riding on school busses or other Board approved vehicles during winter months shall be required to wear/have available winter footwear, outerwear, headwear and gloves/mitts. Bus drivers are to use their discretion in determining the suitability of the student's clothing for the weather conditions.

Cell Phones POLICY STATEMENT To ensure minimal disruption to the learning environment, students at Viking School will be allowed to have cell phones and pagers, but they are not to be visible, heard or used during the instructional day from 8:44 am to 11:56 am and from 12:38 to 3:30 pm. Students shall respect the rights and needs of other students and staff to encounter minimal disruption to the school day, and observe common courtesy. Students shall be personally and solely responsible for the security of the cell phones or pagers. Viking School and Battle River Regional School Division #31 are not responsible for the loss, theft, damage or vandalism to student cell phones or pagers as well as other student property.

PROCEDURES 1. Students will always keep their cell phones and/or pagers on their person and out of sight, or in a locked locker. Students are not permitted to wear their cell phones and/or pagers clipped to a belt or otherwise display them in plain sight during the instructional day. 2. Students will keep their cell phones and/or pagers off (not simply on silent, vibrate or text message mode) while on campus unless the teacher requests that the student use it in class for some educational purpose. 3. Use of cell phones during extra-curricular sporting events outside of school hours will be at the discretion of the sponsor/coach. 4. Parents who need to contact students in an emergency during the school day are directed to phone the main office (336-3352). Please do not try to contact students by cell phone. 5. Students who need to make an emergency call during school hours must use the student phone provided in the main foyer or go to the office and request to use the office phone. 6. Fire drills, lockdowns or other school evacuations are considered cell phone blackouts. Students are directed NOT to use cell phones during these situations as it may interfere with the safety and efficiency of the procedures. 7. Students whose cell phones and/or pagers ring or vibrate in a classroom or use their phones during class time in a classroom or in the hallway will: a. First Offence - Student’s phone will be confiscated by the student’s teacher or other school personnel and kept for the duration of the period.

18 b. Second Offence – Student’s phone will be confiscated by the student’s teacher or other school personnel and kept for the rest of the day. A disciplinary referral will be written and given to administration. The student can pick up the phone at the end of the day. c. Third Offence - Student’s phone will be confiscated by the student’s teacher or other school personnel and taken to administration. A disciplinary referral will be written and given to administration. The student must pick up the cell phone from the administrator at the end of the day. d. Any Further Offences - Student’s phone will be confiscated by the student’s teacher or other school personnel and taken to the administration. A disciplinary referral will be written and given to administration. The student’s parents will be notified. Students may also be subject to other disciplinary consequences, including, but not limited to, suspension from school. 8. The administration reserves the right to modify the consequences as appropriate.

Food and Drink in the Classroom Food and drink is permitted in classrooms at the discretion of the teacher. Students may eat in the hallway area at break and in the classrooms (elementary), lunchroom (junior high) and “The Pit” (senior high) at lunch. Drinking water is permissible and encouraged in classes.

General Student Behaviour Expectations Rules Hands-Off In order to protect and respect the safety and dignity of students, Viking School maintains a “HANDS-OFF” rule for all students at all times during the school day. Any type of negative or inappropriate physical interactions between students (i.e. slapping, punching, kicking, pushing, tripping, excessive hugging, play fighting, etc.) is strictly prohibited. “HANDS-OFF” also refers to touching or taking other people’s property. It is essential to have parental support in this endeavour to ensure a safe and caring environment for all students.

School Rules Students shall: 1. Attend regularly and punctually. 2. Work diligently and complete all assigned work. 3. Dress in accordance with the Dress Policy of the Handbook. 4. Under normal circumstances, not carry backpacks or book bags to class. 5. Behave in a safe manner. 6. Not smoke on school property. 7. Not use inappropriate language and/or gestures. 8. Respect the authority of the school and staff.

19 9. Not steal. 10.Not vandalize school property or the property of others. 11.Not fight, abuse or harass other students. 12.Not use, possess, or be under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs on school property or during school sponsored activities. Unless there are special circumstances, secondary students will be suspended from school for infractions of rules 8 through 12.

Student Behaviour and Conduct The Board believes all students have the right to be safe and secure in school. With that right comes the responsibility to respect the rights of those around them, and to accept the rewards and consequences of their behaviour. Students will:  attend school regularly and punctually.  complete all assignments and homework.  work to the best of their ability.  continually strive for excellence on endeavours.  dress appropriately and use appropriate language and behavior.  respect the safety and well being of all in the school.  adhere to board and school policies and rules  cooperate fully with everyone authorized by The Board to provide educational programs and services.  conduct themselves with respect for legal authorities.  respect school property.  respect the property of others.

Student Dress Code At Viking School, we allow students to have the right to determine individual patterns of dress and grooming, provided that such dress and grooming does not interfere with the health and safety of themselves or others, and does not interfere with the educational process of the school. Good judgment when selecting clothing for school is expected. Remember that weekend attire might not be appropriate for classes. Clothing or lack of clothing should not disrupt the educational process of the school. Examples of current fashion items that are not in good taste, or dress that disrupts the educational process may include, but are not limited to, the following:  necklines that are too low or exposed midriffs.  shorts, skirts, dresses, or shirts that are tight, short, or  transparent. strapless or spaghetti strap attire.  pants, shorts, or skirts that permit the display of undergarments, whether worn low or have a low rise The dress of students should contribute to a school atmosphere conducive to learning. Specific guidelines are: 1. Clothing should be clean and tidy. 2. Suitable clothing is necessary for CTS (Shop and Foods) and Physical Education.

20 3. Clothing worn at the beach is not suitable for school (e.g. bare midriffs, short shorts, tube tops, halters, etc). 4. Clothing should completely cover the midriff. 5. Clothing should not display sexual, foul, offensive, or inappropriate language or graphics. 6. Graphics promoting smoking, drugs, or alcohol are not suitable for the school environment. 7. No hats are to be worn during the school day. 8. Footwear is to be worn at all times. 9. Outside jackets should not be worn in class under normal circumstances. Staff members will be asking our students to follow these guidelines. If dress is deemed disruptive to the educational process, a student may be asked to change into some of the “extra” clothing items we have at the office or, if they refuse, the student will be asked to go home to change. In the latter case, parents of secondary students will be contacted. Parents of elementary students will be called and advised of the problem in all cases.

I-Pods, etc. Students must comply with individual teacher decisions regarding the use of these devises in their classes. In the hallways, “The Pit”, and the Library, use of these devices will be monitored with the possibility of a ban if it is interfering with learning. During examinations, these devices are not allowed in the examination room. Failure to comply will result in the device being held for the remainder of the day and in some cases loss of the privilege altogether.

Jackets Students are expected to dress appropriately for the varying weather conditions throughout the year; therefore jackets and other outside wear are to be kept in the student’s locker. During the winter, some of the classrooms may experience a lower than tolerable temperature and, at the discretion of the teacher, students may wear jackets to keep warm.

Laser Pointers Laser pointers are not allowed in school, as they are dangerous. Any student who has a laser pointer at school will have it permanently confiscated and may also face further disciplinary action.

Leaving School Grounds The following School Policy shall apply to Viking School Students:

21 Elementary Students: All bus students leaving the school grounds at noon must have a note giving parental permission. For permanent arrangements a blanket note should be sent to the school at the beginning of the year. Junior and Senior High Students: are permitted to go up town without notes unless the parents specify otherwise.

Locks and Lockers Lockers are available for use by all students, however, remain the property of Battle River School Division. Locks for use on the lockers may be purchased from the school. Junior and Senior High students are encouraged to keep their lockers locked at all times to discourage unauthorized entry and the subsequent problems which may occur. Other locks may be used on the lockers, but spare keys or combinations must be supplied to the office so that lockers may be inspected if necessary. The school reserves the right to enter and search lockers at any time in the event there are reasonable and probable grounds to believe that there is contraband in the locker. Again, lockers are the property of the Battle River School Division, and searches will take place at the discretion of the school administration. Once a locker is assigned, students are responsible for the care of the locker. Students who damage or deface a locker may lose their locker privileges and will be assessed the damages. Students are also responsible for cleaning out their lockers on a regular basis and at the end of the school year. Students' articles of value are only as safe as the students' willingness to safeguard them. Students should keep locker combinations to themselves and keep valuables locked away. Items of great value should not be brought to school, but if it is necessary, please advise the office for security reasons. Parents please be sure that all goods are clearly marked for easy identification. The school and BRSD do not accept any responsibility for lost or stolen items.

Lunchroom and “The Pit” All students share the responsibility to keep the classrooms, hallways, lunchroom and “The Pit”, clean by removing any garbage from their area to the receptacles provided. Students may become responsible for others’ garbage if they share the same area with those who left their garbage behind. Any high school students on spares, who are not specifically assigned to a classroom area, are expected to be studying in the library, “The Pit” area, or to leave school grounds. “The Pit” area of our school is designed as a student lunch/study area as well as a general student use area for high school students only. We will ask that all lunches, snacks, etc. be confined to this area of our school. Students are not to be eating or loitering in the hallways.

Medications Administering Medicines to Students

22 While the Board believes that the responsibility for the administration of medication does not lie with the school system. It also recognizes that, from time to time, situations may arise which will require an employee to administer medication and/or take action in order to ensure the well-being of and/or preserve the life of a student. The responsibility for providing complete information relative to the administration of any medication to a student (prescription and/or non-prescription) lies with the parent(s) or guardian(s) of the child(ren) in question. Parents are also responsible for ensuring that all persons administering medication to students are fully in-serviced. This information must be registered at the School Office. BRSD requires a Request for Administration of Medication at School Form be completely filled out by the parent and the physician, in the indicated areas. Medicine will not be administered until the completed form is brought to the principal and the employee administering the medication is in-serviced. Until such time, parents/guardians will be required to come into the school to administer the necessary medications.

Physical Education Clothing and Requirements Students are expected to wear proper shorts (no cut-offs) or sweat pants, appropriate T-Shirts or sweatshirts, and running shoes and socks. Track suits may also be worn. If a student is unable to take part in P.E. class because of sickness or injury, the student must bring a note from their parent/guardian. If a student has a medical problem that requires them to abstain from P.E. for more than one week, a doctor’s note is required.

Pictures A professional photographer is contracted each year to take individual pictures of all students. Those who desire to purchase a package of pictures at a pre-determined price may do so. This year the main photo day will be Thursday, September 20, 2012. All students must have their picture taken for the yearbook, student ID cards, and Maplewood system.

Playground Rules In an effort to promote safe and enjoyable play for all students, the following Playground Rules have been established, and are explained to all elementary students at the beginning of the school year. It would be helpful if parents would ask their child(ren) what his or her understanding was of these rules – the better to have them followed. 1. In winter, students must wear hats, mitts, boots and winter clothing when going outside for recess. 2. Leave the school promptly when the bell signals recess. 3. Slide properly on playground slides. No sliding face down, on stomach, or head first. No climbing up the slide or sliding rocks and other items, down the slide. 4. Swing properly on swings, in sitting position only. A maximum of 3 students at a time on the tire swing 5. Do not push, trip, etc. when playing, or when leaving or entering the school.

23 6. Wait your turn at equipment. Also, make sure you share equipment with other students. 7. When climbing playground equipment, do so only on equipment designed for climbing, and climb safely. 8. Play only in assigned areas. 9. We would prefer that you do not take food outside on the playground during recess. The area becomes very messy, very quickly. 10.Report wrongdoings to an Outside Supervisor or Playground Patroller. 11.If you have injured yourself, or see another student injured, report it to an Outside Supervisor. 12.Do not reenter the school during recess, unless given permission by an Outside Supervisor. 13.Do not loiter around school entrances. 14.Play fighting, wrestling, or rough play is not allowed. 15.Throwing or kicking snow, ice, rocks, or sand in any manner is not allowed. 16.Hard or rigid sleighs are not allowed on the hill. 17.Ski pants must be worn when sliding down the hill. 18.Stay away from the ball diamonds when they are in use by secondary students 19.Stay away from any secondary equipment in the schoolyard (eg. High jump equipment). 20.Wear masks and body protectors when catching in ball games. 21.Return to the school promptly when the end-of-recess warning bell rings. Play equipment (balls, skipping ropes, etc.) should be carried in and returned to where they were taken from. 22.Students should not bring any expensive toys from home to play with on the playground, as any damage to them is the responsibility of the student. 23.Trading cards of any sort are prohibited at school.

Skateboards and Rollerblades Students are asked to refrain from skateboarding or rollerblading anywhere on the grounds at Viking School at any time. Any students who do so will have their equipment confiscated for a period of time. Repeat offenders will be suspended.

Smoking In the interest of promoting the health and welfare of all employees and students, the Board mandates the existence of a smoke-free environment in all its building, grounds, school buses, vehicles and property, except in designated smoking areas outside buildings. This ban applies on a 24-hour basis each day, every day, whether the buildings are used for school, entertainment, recreation, business, or private functions. Viking School staff and School Council have approved the area east of the building, within the fence of the student parking lot, as the designated smoking area. Additionally, in accordance with 2003 Alberta Government Regulations, no persons under the age of 18 shall be allowed to smoke in the designated area on school property.

24 Student Parking The fenced off parking lot on the east side of Viking School is the designated area for students to park. Students are not to park in visitor parking, handicapped parking, staff parking stalls, in front of the gate in the student parking lot, inside the school grounds, or on the bus section of the west parking lot. If students park in any of these areas, they will be warned and asked to remove their vehicle or the offending vehicle will be towed away. Viking School does not accept responsibility for damages and/or thefts, which occur in the parking lot. Complaints should be filed with the R.C.M.P.

Student Transportation in Private Vehicles

BACKGROUND When it becomes necessary for students to take part in school approved co/extra curricular activities away from the home school, the Division permits the transportation of students in privately owned vehicles. With the exception of trips of an emergency nature, prior approval of the Principal must be obtained for the transportation of students in privately owned vehicles.

PROCEDURES 1. Before private vehicles are used to transport students, the following conditions will have been met: 1.1 School bus transportation is not feasible or economical. 1.2 Adequate measures are established for the safety of students. 1.3 Adequate insurance coverage is in place on the vehicle in question. 1.4 Adults over the age of 18 years who are responsible and are in possession of a valid license are assigned as drivers. 2. All volunteer drivers must provide on an annual basis and to the applicable school, a driver’s abstract and copy of their driver’s license. 3. Only private vehicles for which a minimum of two million dollars ($2,000,000) public liability coverage is in place shall transport students. 4. Proof of adequate insurance coverage must be filed with the Principal and attached to Form 559-1. (Principals must note expiry dates.) 5. Persons registering with the school to transport students in accordance with this administrative procedure must ensure that they have informed their insurance company as to their involvement with transportation of students to determine if their private insurer requires anything special with respect to coverage or licensing. 6. All children can only be transported in a privately owned vehicle where each child is equipped with a Canadian Standards Association approved child restraint device (car seat), suitable for each child’s age, weight, and height. 7. Approval will be required to be renewed annually. 8. The Principal must approve use of private vehicles and shall log a record of all such use.

25 Students 18 Years of Age or Older When a student turns 18 years of age, he or she may choose to be solely responsible for his or her attendance, behaviour, and general success at school. To do this, students must sign a letter requesting that the school have no further communication with their parents. The parents must be given a copy of this letter. When a student chooses this route and is now considered one of the adults in the building, in addition to the regular rules of the school, they will be bound by the following requirements:  There will be allowed only 2 unexcused absences each month.  More than 2 absences in a month must be accompanied by a doctor’s note.  Being late for class is not acceptable.

Students on Spares Only grade 12 students will have spares. Students who have a spare are expected to either leave the school, be in the “Pit” behaving in a quiet and respectful manner, or be working quietly in the Library. Students are not to “hang out” in hallways or school entrances, or in any way interrupt any classes that are in session.

Telephone Messages/Requests to See Students We understand that there are times a student must call home or there is a circumstance that requires a child to receive a message; however, this will be allowed only in an emergency situation. Since one of our objectives is to instill responsibility in the child, students should be prepared for school with all of his/her instructional materials. This shall include homework, musical instruments, library books, snack, sneakers, etc. As much as possible, we ask that parents avoid leaving phone messages for their child during the school day. With our present enrollment of just under 318 students, it is becoming increasingly more difficult to deliver phone messages, particularly those made just before dismissal at the end of the day. While there will always be exceptions, we ask for your cooperation in limiting phone messages to those which are important or urgent family matters. To reduce the number of classroom interruptions, please DO NOT go to your child’s classroom, or knock on the door during class. Please go to the office and see the secretary. Also, please make after school plans and pick up arrangements with your child before he/she comes to school. Classroom instruction will be interrupted only for emergency messages. While we understand that this policy may be difficult to adjust to in the beginning, it will instill in each child a level of responsibility and will minimize disruptions in the instructional program. Parents may leave messages for secondary students with the school secretary. If it is an emergency, the student will be contacted as per the above method. If not, the student’s name will be posted on the Announcement Board outside of the office. Students are expected to take responsibility to check the Announcement Board frequently during the day. Parents and other students will not disturb class to talk to students. All inquiries must be directed to the School Office.

26 Visitors to the School Parents and other visitors are always welcome at Viking School. For the safety of our students and staff, we request that all visitors to the school report to the general office upon arrival. Parents or others who are dropping off items for students will normally be asked to leave the item at the office and the student will be called down at break time to retrieve it. We ask that you respect this policy as we do have students in our school with custodial concerns and security is an issue. All visitors are asked to park on the street or in the Visitor Parking area marked on the west side of the school. Please do not park in the staff parking. Also, when dropping off and picking up your child(ren), please do not block crosswalks or important traffic signs such as stop signs. From time to time we receive requests to have visiting relatives/friends spend the day with a Viking student in the classroom. Although there may be some educational value for the individual in a visit of this sort, the introduction of a temporary addition to the classroom tends to be very disruptive to the overall routine. Students tend to get very excited when there is a stranger in the room, and this can distract them from the work that they should be doing. Our policy is to not grant requests of this nature. This policy also applies to requests for recess and noon visits.