Student E-Planner

THE WILDCAT PLANNER 2019 - 2020

Welcome to Westminster

HOME OF THE WILDCATS

“A Proud Past…..A Promising Future”

Daily Routine/Schedule

8:20 a.m. - Five-minute warning bell

8:25 a.m. - All students are in their home room

Daily Schedule		Assembly Schedule
Five-Minute Warning	8:20	Five-Minute Warning	8:20
Home Room	8:25-8:30	Home Room	8:25-8:30
Period 1	8:30-9:45	Period 1	8:30-9:30
Period 2	9:55-11:10	Period 2a Period 2b	9:40-10:40 10:40-11:40
Lunch	11:10-11:55	Lunch	11:40-12:25
Five-Minute Warning	11:55	Five-Minute Warning	12:25
Period 3	12:00-1:15	Period 3	12:30-1:30
Period 4	1:25-2:40	Period 4	1:40-2:40

A Wildcat Welcome to You

A Message from the Administration:

Westminster Secondary School has a long tradition of academic and extra-curricular accomplishments of which we can be very proud. The school offers a broad range of courses in a variety of subjects, sports, clubs and student activities as well as support services to help ensure student success. The staff and students of Westminster are committed to creating an inclusive learning environment that welcomes students from diverse backgrounds. We promote diversity, respect, responsibility and academic excellence.

Our planner link shares information about expectations and school events that happen throughout the year. Students are expected to be aware of, and to follow, expectations that are outlined in the planner. We have many supports in place to help our students to be successful, which include our classroom teachers, our staff in our Resource Room, Student Success Room, and Guidance Department. Our staff are willing to provide extra assistance as needed. Be sure to access all of the resources that are available at the school to help you be successful.

Westminster Secondary School is a great place to learn and work. You are encouraged to become actively involved in everything that Westminster has to offer. Go Wildcats!

Mrs. K. Mastrandrea, Principal

Mr. F. Sarani, Vice-Principal

Westminster Administrative Team

Guidance Counsellors

Counsellor	Responsibility
L. Barbon	A-Z students
B. Vladetic	ESL Students

Student Parliament

2019-2020 Student Parliament

Prime Minister	Bella Fisher
Deputy Prime Minister	Sajed El Tarras
Minister of Finance	Sofia Dhillon
Minister of Communications	Bara Banat
Minister of Internal Affairs	Jasmine Jawada
Minister of Social Affairs	Jana Beyrem
Assistants to the Social Ministry	Fran Reyes, Grace Carruthers
Minister for Grade 10	Eric McCarthy
Minister for Grade 11	Nour Fayadh
Ministers of Wildcat Pride & Spirit	Nada Baidas, Shevan Bladia

School Expectations - Image of the Graduate

Westminster students and our graduates are expected to know, do, and value the following.

Personal

Academic

Citizenship

Life Skills

Students are expected to:

demonstrate a confident and positive sense of self and others
be flexible and adaptable
take initiative and lead where appropriate
possess skills for employability, self-employment and entrepreneurship
recognize and respond to change as a challenge and an opportunity
respond to challenges with grace and humour, energy and perseverance
work independently and as part of a team

Responsible Choices

Students are expected to:

plan and manage time, money, and other resources to achieve goals
exhibit conflict resolution and social skills
set goals and priorities in school, work and personal life
recognize and respect strengths and limitations in self and others
participate in leisure and fitness activities for a balanced and healthy lifestyle

Literacy and Numeracy

Students are expected to:

read, understand and use written materials
understand and solve problems using technology, math, science and logic
understand and appreciate how the arts, technology and media contribute to and influence society

Critical and Creative Thinking

Students are expected to:

think critically and creatively to evaluate situations, solve problems and make decisions
access, understand, evaluate and apply specialized knowledge to life and work (e.g. history, literature, the arts, physical, social and natural sciences, technology and math)
integrate learning from various subject areas
be innovative by creating and testing new ideas

Communication

Students are expected to:

write and speak one or both of Canada’s official languages
seek opportunities to learn international languages
listen actively to understand and learn
use and integrate technology and information systems
present ideas clearly for others

Individual Responsibility

Students are expected to:

act morally, ethically and legally
be accountable for their actions
be self-directed life-long learners

Community Responsibility

Students are expected to:

respect the historical and cultural heritage of Canada
respect the environment and use resources wisely
participate in community service activities

Global Responsibility

Students are expected to:

understand and appreciate the diversity of the world’s people and cultures
understand and respect the interdependence of the world’s people and the natural environment
understand and promote equality, justice and democracy

Ontario Code of Conduct

A school is a place that promotes responsibility, respect, civility and academic excellence in a safe learning and teaching environment. All students, parents, teachers and staff have the right to be safe, and feel safe, in their school community. With this right comes the responsibility to be law-abiding citizens and to be accountable for actions that put at risk the safety of others or oneself.

The Ontario Code of Conduct sets clear provincial standards of behaviour. It specifies the mandatory consequences for student actions that do not comply with these standards. The Provincial standards of behaviour apply not only to students, but also to all individuals involved in the publicly funded school system – parents or guardians, volunteers, teachers and other staff members – whether they are on school property, on school buses or at school-authorized events or activities.

Fundamental Beliefs

Everyone has a responsibility to promote a safe environment.
Everyone should be aware of their rights, as active and engaged citizens. More importantly, everyone should also accept responsibility for protecting their rights and the rights of others. Responsible citizenship involves taking part in the civic life of the school.
All members of the school community are to be treated with respect and dignity, especially those in positions of authority.
Everyone has a responsibility to resolve conflicts in a way that is civil and respectful. Insults, hurtful acts and a lack of respect for others disrupt learning and teaching in a school community.
Everyone is expected to resolve conflicts without using violence. Physical aggression is not a responsible way to deal with other people. No one should use an object to injure another person, or even threaten to use an object to injure another person. This is unacceptable and puts everyone’s safety at risk.

Standards of Behaviour

All school members must:

respect and follow all applicable laws
demonstrate honesty and integrity
respect differences in people
treat one another with dignity and respect at all times, especially when there is disagreement
respect and treat others fairly, regardless of race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age or disability
respect the rights of others
show care and respect for school property and the property of others
take the proper steps to help those in need
respect all members of the school community, especially those in a position of authority
respect the need of others to work in an environment that encourages learning and teaching
seek help from school staff, if necessary, to resolve conflict peacefully
not swear at a teacher or at another person in a position of authority

Safety

School community members must not:

engage in any form of bullying, whether it is in person or through technology, like email or cell phones, or online through social media of any type
commit sexual assault
traffic weapons or illegal drugs
commit robbery
give alcohol to anyone under the legal drinking age
be in possession of a weapon, including firearms
use any object to threaten or intimidate another person
injure anyone with an object
be in possession or under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs, or give them to anyone else inflict or encourage others to inflict bodily harm
engage in hate propaganda or other types of behaviour caused by hate or bias
commit an act of vandalism that causes extensive damage to school property at the student’s school or to property on the school premises

Roles and Responsibilities

Principals, under the direction of their school board, take a leadership role in the daily operation of a school.

They provide this leadership by:

demonstrating care for the school community and commitment to academic excellence in a safe teaching and learning environment
holding everyone under their authority responsible for their behaviour and actions
empowering students to be positive leaders in their school and community
communicating regularly and meaningfully with all members of their school community

Teachers and School Staff, under the leadership of their principals, help maintain order in the school and are expected to hold everyone to the highest standard of respectful and responsible behaviour.

As role models, staff upholds these high standards when they:

help students work to their full potential and develop their self-worth
empower students to be positive leaders in their classroom, school and community
communicate regularly with parents on important issues
maintain consistent standards of behaviour for all students
show respect for all students, staff, parents, volunteers and members of the school community
prepare students for the full responsibilities of citizenship.

Students are to be treated with respect and dignity. In return, they must demonstrate respect for themselves, for others and for the responsibilities of citizenship through acceptable behaviour.

Respect and responsibility are demonstrated when a student:

comes to school prepared, on time and ready to learn
shows respect for himself/herself, for others and for those in authority
refrains from bringing anything to school that may put the safety of others at risk
follows the established rules and takes responsibility for his/her own actions.

Parents play an important role in the education of their children and can support the efforts of school staff in maintaining a safe and respectful learning environment for all students.

Parents fulfill this responsibility when they:

show an active interest in their child’s school work and progress
communicate regularly with the school
make sure their child is neat, properly dressed and prepared for school
ensure that their child attends school regularly and on time
inform the school promptly about their child’s absence or late arrival
become familiar with the provincial code of conduct, the board’s code of conduct and school rules
encourage and help their child follow the rules of behaviour
help school staff deal with disciplinary issues involving their child

Community Partners

Partnerships already in place may be enhanced and new partnerships with community agencies and members of the community may also be created. Community agencies are resources that school boards can use to deliver prevention or intervention programs. Community members need to support and respect the rules of their local schools.

Police

The police play an essential role in making our schools and communities safer. Police investigate incidents in accordance with the protocol developed with the local school board. These protocols are based on a provincial model developed by the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services and the Ministry of Education.

Westminster Code of Conduct

Westminster Secondary School and the Thames Valley District School Board abide by the standards of behaviour and consequences laid out in the Ontario Code of Conduct. Students and parents/guardians must familiarize themselves with the following chart at the beginning of each school year.

Expected Behaviour

Reasons

Consequences

Attendance

students are expected to attend all classes every day
all unexplained absences are considered truancies
students who are ill or who need to leave school early must sign out at the office before leaving
parent or guardian permission is required for the release of students under the age of 18
students who have been absent from school are required to bring a note explaining their absence
parents are encouraged to phone school before 8:30 a.m. if their son or daughter is going to be away from school

Lates

students are expected to show up on time to every class

the Education Act requires an oral or written explanation to validate each student absence
every student has the right to an appropriate education
students who do not attend classes regularly are at risk of failing

Ontario regulations state that students must attend classes punctually and regularly

As Result of Absence

Teacher conference with student
parent/guardian is informed
student is interviewed by guidance counsellor
student is interviewed by vice-principal
student/parent/guardian are interviewed by vice-principal
student is interviewed by attendance counsellor
student is suspended from school
student is removed from course
student is removed from roll

As Result of Late

teacher conference with student
student may be assigned a detention
student is interviewed by vice-principal
parents are contacted
student is suspended

Expected Behaviour

Reasons

Consequences

AREAS OF THE SCHOOL

Buses

students are expected to follow the rules established by their bus driver
students are expected to act courteously and respectfully towards the bus driver and towards other passengers on the bus

use of the bus is a privilege, not a right

student is warned by bus driver
student is warned by vice-principal
parent/guardian is contacted
student bus privileges are temporarily suspended
student bus privileges are permanently suspended

Cafeteria

students are expected to use the cafeteria in a courteous, cooperative and respectful manner
food purchased in the cafeteria should be consumed in the cafeteria
no food or objects are to be thrown
students are expected to put garbage and recyclable items in appropriate containers
students are expected to pay for goods from the servery

students must work together with cafeteria and custodial staff to maintain a safe, hygienic and enjoyable lunchtime environment

student is warned by teacher or administrator
student may be assigned a detention
student is interviewed by vice-principal
student assists in cafeteria clean-up
student is denied cafeteria privileges
students may be suspended or charged if they are caught stealing items from the servery

Classroom

food and drink are not allowed in classrooms
bottled water is allowed in classrooms

students must work together to ensure a quiet, safe, and healthy learning environment

student is warned by teacher or administrator
student may be assigned a detention
student is interviewed by vice-principal

Halls

students are not permitted in halls during class time
students with spares should be in the library or cafeteria
students are expected to keep the benches in front of the cafeteria vacant during class time

students in the halls are disturbing classes in nearby rooms

student is warned by teacher or administrator
student may be assigned a detention
student is interviewed by vice-principal

Expected Behaviour

Reasons

Consequences

AREAS OF THE SCHOOL

Lockers

all students are responsible for purchasing their own Dudley locks (the school no longer sells locks)
locker combinations are to be registered through the office
all students will maintain and use their lockers in an appropriate manner
all locks must be removed from lockers by the last exam day in June
only homeroom teachers or office staff assign lockers
students must use their assigned locker
students are advised not to give out their combination
if students use an unassigned locker, their lock may be cut and the contents of the locker will be removed
the school is not responsible for compensating students for cut locks or confiscated items

students have a responsibility to know and obey the school rules and to respect school property
lockers are the property of the TVDSB and Westminster Secondary School

locker abuse and/or misuse will result in disciplinary action (e.g. detention, locker clean-up, loss of locker)

Computers

school computers are to be used for academic purposes only

to ensure a safe, positive learning environment

infractions may result in a loss of computer privileges, detentions, suspension, or other appropriate action

Destruction of Property/Theft

theft, vandalism and graffiti in the school environment (including school grounds and buses) are unacceptable

students have the right to learn in a clean, orderly school environment
students have a corresponding responsibility to treat the school property carefully and respectfully

student is interviewed by vice-principal
parent/guardian is contacted
student cleans/repairs damaged property
student returns/pays for stolen or damaged property
student is suspended
police may be contacted

Expected Behaviour

Reasons

Consequences

Drugs and Alcohol

students shall not use, possess, or be under the influence alcohol, illegal drugs, cannabis, or unless the pupil is a medical cannabis user, on school property, on school buses, or at school-approved activities (e.g. dances)

to encourage the health and well-being of students
to promote a positive image of the school
to create a safe, positive learning environment
to comply with the Canadian Criminal Code and Board policy

student is interviewed by vice-principal
parent/guardian is contacted
student is suspended
student is referred to support services and/or community agencies
police may be contacted
in extreme cases (e.g. trafficking), administration may pursue expulsion procedures

Dances

students and guests who attend dances will follow school rules and dance code as outlined in the Guest Application form
students and guests must show a school identification card
guest applications must be submitted by noon the day before the dance
students and guests must submit to an individual search/check in order to gain entry to the dance
if a student leaves a dance he or she may not re-enter
if a student plans on arriving late for a dance, he or she must provide a reasonable explanation and obtain a late pass from the vice-principal
if a student arrives late without a late pass, he or she will not be permitted into the dance

students must assume responsibility for their actions and those of their guests while on school property

student and/or guest is interviewed by vice-principal
parent/guardian is contacted
student under the influence of drugs or alcohol will be not be admitted to the dance and will be suspended
ticket fees will not be reimbursed
student will be suspended from all student council activities (including prom) for one academic year
police may be contacted

Expected Behaviour

Reasons

Consequences

Dress Code

students will dress in a non-offensive manner; clothing that is sexually explicit, racist, sexist, homophobic or that glorifies violence, drugs, alcohol or gang membership is prohibited
bare midriffs, see-through fabrics, halter or one-strap tops, muscle shirts, revealing necklines and micro shorts or skirts are unacceptable
undergarments should not be exposed
footwear must be worn at all times
bags and backpacks should be kept in the lockers
physical education students are expected to wear appropriate attire such as shorts, t-shirt and running shoes in order to participate
hoods are not to be worn in any area of the school
hats are not to be worn in the office, nor at assemblies;
individual classroom teachers will establish expectations regarding hats

students are expected to dress in a manner which shows respect for self and others, reflects a positive learning environment, and demonstrates preparation for the workplace

student will be asked to find suitable clothing before being admitted to class
parent/guardian is contacted
if student is unable to procure suitable clothing, he or she will be sent home
student is warned by teacher or administrator
student earns a detention
student is interviewed by vice-principal
parent/guardian is contacted
student earns a suspension

Expected Behaviour

Reasons

Consequences

Harassment/Intimidation/ Threats

students will show respect for others regardless of gender, race, culture, religion, language, disability, economic background, sexual orientation or any other attribute
physical, verbal, written or cyber harassment is unacceptable

students and staff have the right to learn and work in a safe and positive environment free from prejudice and discrimination
Westminster Secondary School promotes an environment of respect, trust and acceptance

student is interviewed by vice-principal
parent/guardian is contacted
computer privileges revoked when appropriate
student is suspended
student is referred to support services and/or community agencies
police may be contacted

Perfume/Aerosol Sprays

perfume and aerosol sprays are not to be used in classrooms or hallways

students have the right to learn in a healthy environment
perfume and aerosol sprays are toxic to staff and students with allergies

student is warned by teacher or administrator
student earns a detention
student is interviewed by vice-principal
parent/guardian is contacted
student earns a suspension

Personal Electronic Devices (PEDs)

PEDs (personal electronic devices) include cell phones, pagers, iPods, iPads, etc.
PEDs are not to be used during instructional/class time without permission
PEDs are NOT allowed in the library or office without permission
PEDs are allowed in the hallways between classes and in the cafeteria during non-instructional time
non-instructional time is the time between classes and lunch time and during legitimate spares for senior students
students are not permitted to photograph, videotape, or record any staff member or student

All members of the school community must: Respect the need of others to work in an environment that is conducive to learning and teaching, including by ensuring that cell phones and other personal mobile devices are used only during instructional time (as directed by an educator), for health and medical purposes and/or to support special education needs.
students are expected to support a safe and productive learning environment in the school
it is strongly recommended that students not bring their PEDs to school
if students choose to bring their PEDs to school, they are required to use the devices responsibly and in accordance with school policies
Westminster is not responsible for lost or stolen PEDs

student is warned by teacher or administrator
PED is confiscated by vice-principal until end of school day
PED is confiscated by vice-principal until picked up by parent/guardian
repeated infractions may result in suspension

Expected Behaviour

Reasons

Consequences

Physical Violence and/or Threats of Violence

uttering a threat to inflict harm on another person is unacceptable
fighting and horseplay are not permitted
students must resolve conflict in a non-violent manner

students have the right to learn in a safe, orderly, peaceful and welcoming environment

student is interviewed by vice-principal
parent/guardian is contacted
student may earn a suspension
violent incident report may be filed
police may be contacted
in extreme cases (e.g. aggravated assault, sexual assault, etc.), administration may proceed with expulsion process

Respect & Responsibility

students are expected to respect the authority of all school staff during school and school-related activities
school staff includes teachers, cafeteria staff, secretaries, custodians, support staff, bus drivers and community volunteers
students must stop and identify themselves when asked to do so by school staff
inappropriate public displays of affection are not permitted

students have the right to learn in a safe, orderly, peaceful and welcoming environment

student is warned by teacher or administrator
student earns a detention
student is interviewed by vice-principal
parent/guardian is contacted
student earns a suspension
student is referred to peer mediation/conflict resolution service

Skateboards, Rollerblades & Rollershoes

skateboards, rollerblades and rollershoes are not permitted in school or on school grounds at any time

students have the right to learn in a safe environment

student is warned by teacher or administrator
item is confiscated by vice-principal until end of school day
item is confiscated by vice-principal until picked up by parent/guardian

Expected Behaviour

Reasons

Consequences

Smoking / Vaping

smoking, chewing tobacco and vaporizers are not permitted on school grounds, on school buses, or during any official school event
smoking/vaping is limited to the designated smoking areas at the front of the school
smoking and vaping is not permitted during class time

Thames Valley District School Board buildings and property are designated smoke-free environments
Westminster Secondary School supports all provincial and federal legislation regarding smoking and vaping
Westminster Secondary School encourages the health and well being of all individuals

students who smoke on school property will be referred to the Tobacco Enforcement Officer for a possible fine
students in possession of contraband tobacco will be referred to the Tobacco Enforcement Officer for a possible fine

In addition to the Smoke-Free Ontario Act’s prohibition of smoking tobacco products on school property, Westminster Secondary School has banned the use and selling/purchasing of any electronic smoking device or accessory on school property given their unknown manufacturing origins and chemical composition. Electronic smoking devices include, but are not limited to, e-cigarettes, vapour cigarettes, e-hookah, e-cigars, e-juice, e-liquids, cartridges and atomizers. The use and selling/purchasing of these devices is banned through the property including in all school buildings, parking lots, roadways and sporting fields.

Swearing

students are not permitted to use inappropriate language on school property, on school buses, or during any school-sanctioned event

Westminster supports a positive and respectful school environment

infractions may result in a detentions, suspension, or other appropriate action
parent/guardian may be contacted

Weapons/Laser Pointers

possession of weapons or weapon “look-alikes” is strictly forbidden on school property, on school buses, or during any school-sanctioned event
jack knives, laser pointers, fake guns and fake knives are considered weapons

weapons and weapon “look-a-likes” are illegal and have no place in a school environment
laser pointers can cause serious damage to a person’s eyesight

student is interviewed by vice-principal
parent/guardian is contacted
student may earn a suspension
violent incident report may be filed
police may be contacted
in extreme cases (e.g. assault with a weapon), administration may pursue expulsion procedures

General School Information

Athletic Conduct

Students shall:

participate in the spirit of fair play
participate in a manner which is free of violence
participate in a manner that is free from substance use (performance enhancing drugs, illicit drugs, alcohol)
be subject to applicable rules, policies and decisions as determined by the TVRAA, the officiating personnel, coaches and school authorities
respect the spirit and intent of the rules and regulations contained within the TVRAA Constitution and its related rules
adhere to all school rules when participating in athletics or as spectators

Failure to comply with the expectations above, may lead to discipline by both TVRAA and the school.

Athlete/Participant Eligibility

a) In the first three years of high school students must be registered as full-time students. In the fourth year of high school students must be registered in at least four courses

b) All students are expected to be in attendance in all classes on the day of the competition

c) It is expected that student athletes will maintain regular attendance in all their classes

d) A student is eligible to participate for a maximum of 5 consecutive school years from the date of entry into grade 9

Code of Conduct for Spectators

Cheer in a positive manner
Respect the officials’ decisions
Do not interfere with the competition
Keep off the playing area
Be courteous and respectful

Student Concussion Policies

In response to Ministry of Education requirements and in support of our existing school safety procedures, schools are required to follow certain steps whenever a student suffers a concussion or whenever a concussion is suspected. Parents can access Concussion Policies and Procedures through the board website or by contacting the school and requesting a copy. As with any potential injury, our first goal is prevention; concussion awareness and prevention is part of ongoing professional training for staff and is integrated into students’ Health and Physical Education curriculum.

Since concussion can affect a student’s ability to learn or to participate in activities, schools will work with parents and medical contacts to assist any student who has suffered concussion. If an injury occurs on a weekend or after school, parents are asked to inform the school so that appropriate accommodations and support can be provided.

Questions can be directed to the school principal.

Lost and Found

Recovered articles should be brought immediately to the office. It is strongly suggested that students not bring valuables to school. Students should not leave valuable items in Phys. Ed. change rooms. The school is not responsible for lost or stolen property.

Phone Calls

A phone for personal calls is located in the main office. Calls are restricted to contacting parent or guardian.

Posters

Students must obtain a signature from a vice-principal to distribute or post materials on school property. Posted materials are restricted to designated school areas.

School Council

School Council plays a vital role in our school. It provides a forum through which parents, guardians, students, school staff and community people can contribute to improving student achievement and school performance. The council meets 4 times a year at Westminster and is open to all members of the school community. For more information, please contact the Principal.

School Nurse

A school nurse from the Middlesex-London Health Unit is available at Westminster once a week. Parents and students are invited to call the school nurse about any student health concerns.

Smoke Free Ontario

Smoking is prohibited on school property 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year. School property includes the interior of the building and school grounds. Smoking in your car on school property is still an offence. These rules apply to all parents, teachers, students, and visitors. An individual who contravenes these rules is subject to a maximum fine of $5,000.00.

Student Fees

Students enrolled in secondary schools in the Thames Valley District School Board can expect to be provided with the basic classroom learning resources that are required in order to complete the course expectations. It is recognized there may be optional resources that students may purchase to enhance their program (e.g. field trips, upgrading materials in courses such as construction tech or visual arts).

Students are expected to come to school ready to participate actively in their own learning. To that end, students are expected to bring materials with them for their own personal note taking (e.g., pencils, pens, paper, and binders).

Students are expected to purchase a Student Card and pay the Student Activity fee of $20.00. Fees support student parliament activities and various functions. A student card is needed to withdraw books from the library, to enter a dance, to join a school team or club, etc. Students involved in teams and clubs will be made aware of any additional participation fees prior to making a commitment to the group.

Student Identification

If you are asked to identify yourself by a staff member (teacher, custodian, bus driver, secretary, etc.) you must do so. If you are asked to go to the office for disciplinary reasons, you must go immediately. Failure to comply with the above may result in an immediate suspension.

Student/Parent Portal

It is possible to find out about your student’s attendance, lates, credit counselling summary (marks), and homework through the student/parent portal or the school’s website. Parents that have provided the school with e-mail addresses will be invited to participate in the parent portal and will also receive regular electronic information updates from the school. Students and parents have separate logins to the portal. Students who are experiencing difficulty accessing the portal should go to the main office.

Textbooks and Other School Materials

Textbooks, library books, uniforms and other materials are loaned to students. Materials that are not returned to the school in good condition must be paid for by the student.

Vehicle Policy

Students should be dropped off at the east side of the school. The turning circle is reserved for buses and delivery vehicles. Students must not park in areas reserved for staff and visitors. Motorcycles may be parked next to the tennis courts. Bicycles should be securely locked to the bicycle rack located in the turning circle.

Visitors

All visitors, immediately upon entry, must report to the main office, sign in, receive a visitor’s pass while at school and then sign out upon leaving. Students may not bring guests to the school. According to the “Trespass to Property Act,” offences are committed when a person who has no legal right to do so enters on school property, and when a person does not leave the school immediately after being directed to do so. Permission from the principal or vice principal gives legal right. We must know at all times who is in our school and why.

Assessment and Evaluation Policy at Westminster

The purpose of assessment and evaluation is to improve student learning. Assessment and evaluation tasks allow students to demonstrate their learning and provide teachers with information for further instruction. Assessment and evaluation tasks at Westminster Secondary School are based on the principles of assessment and evaluation outlined by the Ministry of Education and the Thames Valley District School Board. Information about the overall assessment expectations and assignment of marks will be provided in the course outlines distributed at the beginning of each course. Additional information about assessment tasks and evaluation criteria will be clearly communicated to students and parents throughout the semester. Teachers will plan assessment tasks that are fair, equitable, varied and reflective of diverse student needs. Feedback will be provided in a timely manner. Students are expected to complete assignment tasks to the best of their ability, using the resources at the school for support. Parents are encouraged to monitor student progress through ongoing communication with their child and teacher.

Late and Missed Assignments

It is important that students complete assignments in a timely manner so that teachers can provide feedback to help students improve. Teachers will provide students with clear evaluation criteria and assignment due dates when assessment tasks are assigned. Students will be given reasonable notice of test and exam dates.

Time management is an important skill for the workplace and post-secondary education. Students are expected to take responsibility for completing work by the assigned due date. Students and/or parents should be in contact with the classroom teacher if extenuating circumstances prevent a student from completing work by the assigned date.

Teachers will offer students support in various ways such as: providing ongoing feedback and reminders of expectations, planning for major assignments to be finished in smaller segments and offering additional assistance as appropriate. To help students submit work on time, teachers will offer support which may include: reminders about deadlines, conferencing with the student, providing opportunities for the student to work with school staff to complete the work or negotiating alternate due dates or assignments. The types of support will vary according to student needs, course type and grade level. If strategies to support students have been implemented and the assignment is handed in late or not submitted, the teacher may deduct part or full marks. If a teacher is planning to deduct marks for late or missed assignments in a course, this must be communicated to students in writing at the start of the semester.

Academic Dishonesty – Cheating and Plagiarism

Cheating can be described as “an effort to defraud, deceive or elude someone else.” Examples include: “taking a test or exam in a dishonest way through improper access to answers, or giving or obtaining assistance without knowledge.” Plagiarism is defined as an “act of theft such as borrowing, cheating, stealing, or copying. Plagiarism is intentionally or unintentionally using another person’s work or ideas and presenting them as [one’s] own” (TVDSB Assessment & Evaluation Procedure).

The consequences for academic dishonesty may include: a loss of partial marks, receiving a mark of zero, redoing the assignment, completing an alternate assignment, or suspension. Consequences will be determined based on the circumstances of the incident and the course level. Consequences will be communicated to the student and parent.

Examinations

All students are expected to write final examinations that are held at the end of each semester. Medical certificates may be required for students who miss exams due to illness.

Alternate exam requests due to family commitments, vacations or job conflicts will not be approved. Textbooks and all outstanding materials must be returned to the teacher prior to writing the exam.

Calculation of Honours Standing

Gr. 9 - final average of at least 80% on best 8 courses
Gr. 10 - final average of at least 80% on best 8 courses
Gr. 11 - final average of at least 80% on best 7 courses
Gr. 12 - final average of at least 80% on best 6 courses

* any combination of u, m, c, o, or e level will be considered

TVDSB Assessment and Evaluation Message

Message to Parents/Guardians and Students

In April 2010, the Ministry of Education released a document called Growing Success, Assessment, Evaluation, and Reporting in Ontario Schools (available at www.tvdsb.ca → under Programs → under Assessment and Evaluation). The document provides details regarding assessment and evaluation practices which all teachers in Ontario must implement.

The Assessment and Evaluation (Growing Success) Policy and Procedure developed by the Thames Valley District School Board is also found on the Board’s website at www.tvdsb.ca → under Board → under Policies and Procedures → Assessment and Evaluation (Growing Success) Policy and Procedure #5015. These documents clearly describe the important roles that teachers, students, principals, parents and superintendents play in ensuring fair, transparent and equitable assessment and evaluation practices to meet the learning needs of all students.

The Board also developed a homework guideline and parent brochure (also found on the Board’s website) to assist teachers, students and parents/guardians in the assignment and completion of homework.

We invite you to review these policies and procedures and to discuss with staff at your school.

Thames Valley District School Board is committed to providing high quality education for all students. We are confident that by working together, we will be able to achieve this goal.

Best wishes for a successful school year!

Sincerely,

Laura Elliott

Director of Education

Thames Valley District School Board

Awards at Westminster

Westminster recognizes a number of academic achievements. An annual Awards Assembly recognizes honour roll students and subject award winners. Commencement celebrates potential Grade 12 graduates:

Alumni Scholarship - awarded to a graduating student who has demonstrated academic achievement and school leadership, and who is pursuing post-secondary education at college or university in the fall.
Compass Group Bursary - awarded to a student who displays positive character while demonstrating a strong commitment to their education.
MP Citizenship Award - conferred upon a graduating student who exhibits the qualities of the image of the graduate.

Elizabeth Gormandy Arts Scholar Award - conferred upon three art students who exhibit excellence in arts and community involvement and who are considering post-secondary education in Drama, Music and Visual Art.
Governor General’s Medal - awarded to the student with the highest graduating average.
Jim Leatham Memorial Award - conferred upon a graduating student who has overcome difficulties and shows volunteerism.
John Robinson Home & School Citizenship Award - a mint coin set conferred upon a graduate who has contributed to the school and the community.
Lawson Proficiency in French Award - conferred upon a French student whose first language is not French but who has made great progress in the subject area.

Lieutenant-Governor Community Volunteer Award - conferred upon a student who regularly volunteers in the community.

Major Business Award - conferred upon a student who has demonstrated academic excellence in all areas of the business curriculum.

Major Computer Award - conferred upon a graduating student who has been successful in computer hardware and software.

Major Dance Award – conferred upon a student who shows excellence in Dance studies.

Major Drama Award – conferred upon a student who shows excellence in Dramatic Arts.
Major History Award - conferred upon a student who has demonstrated academic excellence in all areas of the history curriculum.

Major Mathematics Award – conferred upon a graduate who shows the most proficiency in all three grade 12 University level Math courses.
Major Social Sciences and Humanities Award - conferred upon an outstanding Social Science student.

Major Technology Award - conferred upon a student who has demonstrated academic excellence in all areas of the technology curriculum.
OSSTF E.C. McTavish Award - conferred upon a graduating student who has demonstrated perseverance by overcoming adversity and achieving success.

OSSTF Grade 10 Citizenship Award - conferred upon a grade 10 student who contributes to the quality of life in the school and who shows concern for others.
Principal’s Award for Student Leadership - awarded to a highly motivated, well-rounded graduate who displays strong educational and personal values combined with excellent leadership skills.
Sang Kim Bursary - awarded to a graduating student who has demonstrated excellence in athletics and academics and is pursuing post-secondary education.

School Council Award - conferred upon a graduating who has persevered in meeting the challenges of education.
Shoppers Drug Mart Award - conferred upon an outstanding science student.
Thames Valley Education Foundation Award - conferred upon a graduate who has demonstrated good citizenship and strong commitment to school or community life.
Westminster Music Scholarship Award - conferred upon an outstanding student who is pursuing music at the post-secondary level.

Student Teams and Clubs

Westminster Secondary School believes that extra-curricular activities help to improve learning for all students.
Opportunities are available for students to participate during and outside of school time. Participation in extra-curricular programs develops social skills, enhances self-esteem, and promotes leadership qualities.

Students participating in extra-curricular programs must:

attend school full-time (e.g. at least 3 courses per semester)
participate regularly and behave appropriately
demonstrate a serious commitment to their studies (e.g. earn a passing grade in all courses)
have their current student card

Note: If students do not fulfill the above expectations, they will be suspended from teams and clubs (practice and performance) for a two-week period. At the end of this suspension period, the student’s participation status will be reassessed by coaches and administration. If it is determined that a student is now meeting expectations, he or she will be reinstated. If the student is still not meeting expectations, he or she will be withdrawn from teams and clubs for the rest of the academic year.

Athletics

Badminton
Boys’ Basketball
Boys’ Volleyball
Cross-Country

Football
Girls’ Basketball
Girls’ Volleyball

SAA
Soccer
Track & Field

Music

Guitar Ensemble
Music Council

Student Band

Student Choir

Service Organizations

Best Buddies Program
Blood Donor Clinic
Cancer Campaign
Christian Student Association
Diversity Club

Environmental Club
Gay-Straight Alliance
Grad Committee
Healthy Schools Committee
Leadership

Muslim Student Association
Safe Schools
Students’ Parliament
Wildcat Radio

Special Interest

Chess Club
Dance Company
Diversity Club

Drama Club
Robotics Club
Stock Car Challenge

Science Olympics
Skills Competition