Grenfell Elementary Community School Box 519 609 Wolseley Ave. Grenfell SK. S0G 2B0 Phone: 306-697-2566 Fax: 306-697-2529 Email: [email protected] Website: [email protected]

Mrs. Dionne Sproat – Administrator Email: [email protected]

Student-Parent Handbook 2016-2017 School Vision:

Learners Today Leaders Tomorrow

Mission Statement:

A Healthy, Happy, Positive Community of Learners.

TABLE OF CONTENTS PRAIRIE VALLEY SCHOOL DIVISION #208 ...................................................................................................... 5 Central Office ............................................................................................................................................ 5 OUR MISISON ............................................................................................................................................ 5 OUR VISION ............................................................................................................................................... 5 OUR SHARED VALUES................................................................................................................................ 5 CELEBRATION ............................................................................................................................................ 5 LEARNING .................................................................................................................................................. 5 COMMUNICAITON .................................................................................................................................... 5 DIVERSITY .................................................................................................................................................. 5 LEADERSHIP............................................................................................................................................... 5 INTEGRITY ................................................................................................................................................. 5 RESPECT .................................................................................................................................................... 6 VISIONING ................................................................................................................................................. 6 SCHOOL PROFILE ........................................................................................................................................... 7 GRENFELL ELEMENTARY COMMUNITY SCHOOL STAFF 2015 / 2016.......................................................... 12 Hours of Instruction/Arrival .................................................................................................................... 13 Student Calendar 2016 - 2017 .................................................................................................................... 15 General Information and Guidelines .......................................................................................................... 16 Admission of Pupils to School ................................................................................................................. 16 Agendas................................................................................................................................................... 16 Allergy Alerts (Nuts, Aerosol Sprays) ...................................................................................................... 16 Assemblies .............................................................................................................................................. 16 Athletes Code of Conduct ....................................................................................................................... 16 Attendance.............................................................................................................................................. 16 o

Absence ....................................................................................................................................... 17

o

Extended Leave ........................................................................................................................... 17

o

Illness .......................................................................................................................................... 17

o

Irregular Attendance (Tardiness) ................................................................................................ 17

o

Lates ............................................................................................................................................ 17

o

Vacations During Instructional Time ........................................................................................... 17

Band ........................................................................................................................................................ 17 Bicycles, Scooters, Roller Blades and Skate Boards ................................................................................ 18 Billets....................................................................................................................................................... 18 Bullying.................................................................................................................................................... 18

PVSD Busing ............................................................................................................................................ 20 -

Student Conduct ......................................................................................................................... 20

-

Guest Rider Procedure ................................................................................................................ 20

Bus Service Cancellation - School Division-Wide ................................................................................ 20 Bus Service Cancellation at our School ............................................................................................... 21 Severe Weather Conditions after Students have arrived at school.................................................... 21 Responsibilities of Parents of Bus Students ........................................................................................ 21 Care of Property ...................................................................................................................................... 22 Change of Address .................................................................................................................................. 22 Code of Conduct and Discipline Policy .................................................................................................... 22 -

Behaviours which are considered essential to a positive learning experience include: ............ 23

-

Some of the consequences for inappropriate behaviour may include the following: ............... 24

-

GECS Hands Off Policy................................................................................................................. 24

Communication to Students and Parents may include: ......................................................................... 27 Computer Use Policy ............................................................................................................................... 27 Grenfell Elementary Community School Internet/Worldwide Web Acceptable Use Policy for Computer ............................................................................................................................................ 27 -

Guidelines for Acceptable Use of Computers and the Internet ................................................. 27

Food and Snacks...................................................................................................................................... 28 Contacting Students ................................................................................................................................ 28 Dress Code .............................................................................................................................................. 28 -

Footwear ..................................................................................................................................... 28

-

Dressing and Labeling of Clothing ............................................................................................... 28

-

Lost and Found ............................................................................................................................ 28

Evacuation and Fire Drills........................................................................................................................ 29 Extra-Curricular Activities ....................................................................................................................... 29 Gymnasium ............................................................................................................................................. 29 Injuries and Insurance ............................................................................................................................. 29 Medication .............................................................................................................................................. 29 Non-Student Days ................................................................................................................................... 30 Noon Hour Lunch .................................................................................................................................... 30 Lunch Hour Rules ................................................................................................................................ 30 Personal Invitations ................................................................................................................................ 30 Playground Procedures and Expectations .............................................................................................. 31 Recess/Break for Students ...................................................................................................................... 31 Resource Centre...................................................................................................................................... 31 Smoke and Idle Free Zones ..................................................................................................................... 32 3

Safe Student Drop Off/Pick Up Locations ............................................................................................... 30 Student Progress ..................................................................................................................................... 32 -

Evaluation: .................................................................................................................................. 32

Student Visitors ....................................................................................................................................... 32 Student Support Services Team SSST...................................................................................................... 32 Substitute Teachers ................................................................................................................................ 33 Telephone ............................................................................................................................................... 33 -

Cell Phones & Electronic Devices ................................................................................................ 33

Tobacco, Alcohol, Drugs ......................................................................................................................... 33 Visitor Parking ......................................................................................................................................... 33 Volunteering ........................................................................................................................................... 33 Awards .................................................................................................................................................... 34 GECS SCC ................................................................................................................................................. 35 GECS Locked Door Policy ........................................................................................................................ 36 Volunteering – Criminal Record Check ................................................................................................... 36

4

PRAIRIE VALLEY SCHOOL DIVISION #208 Central Office P.O. Box 1937 3080 Albert Street North Regina, SK S4P 3E1 Phone: (306) 949-3366 Fax: (306) 543-1771 Toll Free: 1-877-266-1666 Email: [email protected] Website: www.pvsd.ca

OUR MISISON To inspire and empower one another

OUR VISION Leadership in learning and life

OUR SHARED VALUES CELEBRATION We value the celebration of achievement.

LEARNING We value a holistic learning community. We strive to provide a meaningful, creative, and innovative learning opportunities for all.

COMMUNICAITON We value open and transparent communication.

DIVERSITY We value diversity and the rich array of participants within our School division, and actively understand the ideas of others.

LEADERSHIP We value cooperative and collaborative relationships. We are committed to responsible leadership.

INTEGRITY We value integrity and ethical behavior. We expect professionalism characterized by honesty, respect, commitment, and dedication.

5

RESPECT We value a culture of mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation. We strive to create safe, positive nurturing environments.

VISIONING We value a realization of learning potential. We strive to establish clear direction and high expectations through our visioning and strategic planning processes. For the current listing of Central Office Staff and the Board Members, please refer to the Prairie Valley School Division web site at www.pvsd.ca.

from Administrator

DEAR PARENTS/GUARDIANS AND SCHOOL COMMUNITY MEMBERS: On behalf of the entire school staff, we welcome you to Grenfell Elementary Community School. We extend best wishes to you and your child on a successful and rewarding year. The pages of this handbook are filled with information about Grenfell Elementary Community School. Parents, guardians and students are encouraged to read through the handbook together. Feel free to ask your child’s teacher or school administration for additional information. The handbook contains general information and guidelines for students and parents. The Grenfell Elementary Community School staff is here to help students develop lifelong skills and promote a positive sense of well-being. It is our pleasure to work together with parents and community members to achieve success. We are glad you are part of our school community. Please be aware that we welcome schedule appointments with school administration. When met with a concern that requires attention by school administration, you are welcomed to phone our school’s direct line (306-697-2566) to arrange a meeting. Sincerely, Mrs. Dionne Sproat Principal

6

SCHOOL PROFILE About Our School: Grenfell is a rural community with an elementary school from Grades Pre-K to Grade 6 and a high school from Grades 7 to 12. Total enrollment is approximately 150 students at the elementary school and 130 students at the high school. Grenfell Community Schools offers a full range of primary and secondary school academic classes as well as alternative education classes. Extracurricular programs include sports, clubs and community-school activities. Grenfell is located 120 kilometers east of Regina on Highway #1 with a population of 1067. The primary economic activity is farming and related services. Grenfell Community Schools have access to Skating, Hockey, Curling, Dance Club, Gymnastics Club, Minor Softball, Minor Soccer, Swimming, Camping, Golf, the Regional Library, and much more. The school year begins on the Monday, September 1, 2016 until June 30th with holidays for Christmas and Easter. The school day, Monday through Friday, is from 8:45 am – 11:40 am and from 12:30 pm -3:25 pm. School Curriculum: Each school follows the Ministry of Education’s provincially prescribed curricula. As well, students’ educational needs are supported through a variety of services and programs including locally develop initiatives, school resource centers, learning services team, counselors, learning assistance centers and access to education psychologists, speech-language pathologists and occupational therapists. For more information on your child’s school curricula, please access https://www.curriculum.gov.sk.ca/webapps/moe-curriculum-BBLEARN/index.jsp. School Highlights: Grenfell Schools received Community School status from the Ministry of Learning in 2002. Community Schools are founded upon the principles of community education, which in turn have roots in community development. Community Schools build strong relationships with families, community members, and organizations. These close ties serve to improve educational opportunities and programs and to strengthen the communities in which the schools are located. Opportunities and Challenges: (Community Schools Policy and Conceptual Framework, 2004)  Meeting the diverse learning needs of all children and youth;  Responding to the educational needs of Aboriginal students;  Enhancing involvement of First Nations and Metis peoples;  Facilitating family and community engagement and developing shared responsibility;  Engaging youth as authentic partners. Components of Community Schools:  PreKindergarten Program o GECS offers a funded PreK program for three and four year olds. The program is offered from 8:30 – 11:30 a.m. PreK is open to 16 students. An application for this program can be picked up from the school.  Nutrition Program o Nutritious snacks are offered each day at morning recess (10:23 a.m.) o Healthy lunches are offered every Thursday on a cost-recovery basis (average cost per meal is $3.50) o Fresh 2% milk is offered daily ($1.00)  After School Program

7

o



In the past, after-school activities were offered in 4-6 week blocks in the fall and spring. Activities have included crafts, cooking, sports, and field trips. This is a component of GECS that will be revisited in the 2016-2017 school year. Community School Staff o Community School Coordinator  Works as a liaison between the elementary and high schools  Works as a liaison between the schools and community  Assists schools with all school events  Co-ordinates nutrition and after-school programs o o

Social Worker Social Worker  GECS shares a social worker with Grenfell High, Wolseley High, Dr. Isman Elementary, and Montmartre School. Our social worker is generally with us once a week.  Provides support for students, families, staff.

Prairie Valley 310 Minute Day On April 22, 2009 the Prairie Valley School Division Board of Education approved the 310 minute day calendar as the model to be applied for the 2009-2010 school year and endorsed a 14 day Christmas break as well as a break in February. The proposed calendar structure is designed around 930 hours of student contact time, utilizing a 310 minute day for 180 days per school year and representing an overall increase in student contact time of up to 40 hours in some schools. This is directly reflective of the need for increased contact time between students and teachers across the division, as identified in the Calendar Year Review Final Report, authored by Dr. Larry Sackney. The recommended 310 minute day calendar option was presented to the board by a 22 person Internal Working School Calendar Review Committee earlier this year. The Calendar Year Review consultation process included eight regional public meetings as well as meetings with administrators, teachers and staff. Board Chair Janet Kotylak said, “Data was collected during the consultation process, from the table groups at the public and staff consultations, individual responses, comments provided through the online feedback form, by email and by phone. The board used the feedback to modify the proposed 310 calendar model to incorporate some of the lifestyle preferences, such as a February break, identified as important to parents and staff, while still staying true to the belief statements on student engagement, student learning and student achievement.” Kotylak said, “The board’s decision is supportive of the seven belief statements developed by the Calendar Review Committee to enhance student learning, one of which states that the division believes in a united Prairie Valley School Division that honours the diversity of our individual schools and communities within the unifying framework of a culture of learning.”

8

School Goals: Reading Goal: Math Goal: Other Goal:

School Values: The Pupils (Education Act 1985) In the exercise of his/her right of access to the schools of the division and to the benefits of the education services provided by the board of education, every pupil shall co-operate fully with all persons employed by the board and such other persons who have been lawfully assigned responsibilities and functions with respect to the instructional program of the school or such special or ancillary services as may be provided or approved by the board or the department and, without restricting the generality of the foregoing, every pupil shall: (a) attend school regularly and punctually; (b) provide himself-herself with such supplies and materials not furnished by the board of education as may be considered necessary to his courses of study by the principal; (c) observe standards approved by the board of education with respect to cleanliness and tidiness of person, general deportment, obedience, courtesy and respect of the rights of other persons; (d) be diligent in his studies; (e) conform to the rules of the school approved by the board of education and submit to such discipline as would be exercised by a kind, firm and judicious parent. Every pupil shall be accountable: (a) to the teacher for his conduct on the school premises during school hours and during such hours as the teacher is in charge of the pupil in class or while engaged in authorized school activities conducted in out-of school hours; (b) to the principal for his general deportment at any time that he is under supervision of the school and members of the teaching staff, including the time spent in traveling between the school and his place of residence; (c) subject to the stated policies of the board of education, the driver of a school bus and to any other person appointed by the board for the purposes of supervision during hours when pupils are in the personal charge of such employees of the board, and those employees shall be responsible to and report to the principal in accordance with the procedures approved by the board.

9

School Norms: Core Curriculum: https://www.curriculum.gov.sk.ca/webapps/moe-curriculumBBLEARN/index.jsp Core Curriculum is intended to provide all Saskatchewan students with an education that will serve them well regardless of their choices after leaving school. It reinforces the teaching of basic skills and introduces an expanded range of new knowledge and skills to the curriculum. Core Curriculum is developmental in nature and based on a kindergarten to grade 12 continuum. In recognition of the stages of child growth and development, the grades are grouped into the following levels:  Kindergarten  Elementary Level (grades 1 to 5)  Middle Level (grades 6 to 9)  Secondary Level (grades 10 to 12)

Broad Areas of Learning The Broad Areas of Learning reflect the desired attributes for Saskatchewan’s PreK-12 students. The descriptions below show the knowledge (factual, conceptual, procedural, metacognitive) that students will achieve throughout their PreK-12 schooling career.

Sense of Self, Community, and Place (Related to the following Goals of Education: Understanding and Relating to Others, Self-Concept Development, and Spiritual Development) Students possess a positive sense of identity and understand how it is shaped through interactions within natural and constructed environments. They are able to nurture meaningful relationships and appreciate diverse beliefs, languages, and practices from the First Peoples of Saskatchewan and from the diversity of cultures in our province. Through these relationships, students demonstrate empathy and a deep understanding of self, others, and the influence of place on identity. In striving to balance their intellectual, emotional, physical, and spiritual dimensions, students’ sense of self, community, and place is strengthened.

Lifelong Learners (Related to the following Goals of Education: Basic Skills, Lifelong Learning, Positive Lifestyle) Students are curious, observant, and reflective as they imagine, explore, and construct knowledge. They demonstrate the understandings, abilities, and dispositions necessary to learn from subject discipline studies, cultural experiences, and other ways of knowing the world. Such ways of knowing support students’ appreciation of Indigenous worldviews and learning about, with, and from others. Students are able to engage in inquiry and collaborate in learning experiences that address the needs and interests of self and others. Through this engagement, students demonstrate a passion for lifelong learning.

Engaged Citizens (Related to the following Goals of Education: Career and Consumer Decisions, Membership in Society, and Growing with Change) Students demonstrate confidence, courage, and commitment in shaping positive change for the benefit of all. They contribute to the environmental, social, and economic sustainability of local and 10

global communities. Their informed life, career, and consumer decisions support positive actions that recognize a broader relationship with, and responsibility for, natural and constructed environments. Along with this responsibility, students recognize and respect the mutual benefits of Charter, Treaty, and other constitutional rights and relationships. Through this recognition, students advocate for self and others, and act for the common good as engaged citizens.

Cross-curricular Competencies Although described separately, the cross-curricular competencies (i.e., Thinking, Identity and Interdependence, Literacies, and Social Responsibility) are interrelated. They are intended to embrace the Common Essential Learnings and support student achievement of subject area outcomes and, ultimately, the provincial Goals of Education (as expressed through the Broad Areas of Learning).These competencies will “strengthen and enrich students’ present learning and future lives” (Saskatchewan Education, 1988, p.11). The competencies are addressed through all areas of study and through school and classroom routines, relationships, and environments. Such inclusive, culturally diverse, resource-rich environments include increasingly networked, technology-rich classrooms. Each cross-curricular competency has three K-12 goals: Goals to develop Thinking are: o Think and learn contextually o Think and learn creatively o Think and learn critically. Goals to develop Identity and Interdependence are: o Understand, value, and care for oneself (intellectually, emotionally, physically, spiritually) o Understand, value, and care for others o Understand and value social, economic, and environmental interdependence and sustainability. Goals to develop Literacies are: o Construct knowledge related to various literacies o Explore and interpret the world using various literacies o Express understanding and communicate meaning using various literacies. Goals to develop Social Responsibility are: o Use moral reasoning processes o Engage in communitarian thinking* and dialogue o Take social action. Parent Involvement: Parents are encouraged to participate in the school. If you are interested in volunteering, please call us at Grenfell Elementary Community School. Please be aware that volunteering at GECS requires a passed Criminal Record Check, including a Vulnerable Sector Check. The School Community council welcomes parents to attend meetings and become involved. They support school programs and special events. More information can be found on our website [email protected].

11

GRENFELL ELEMENTARY COMMUNITY SCHOOL STAFF 2015-2016 Principal PreK Teacher Kindergarten Grade 1/2 Grade 2/3 Grade 1/2, 2/3 & Art

Mrs. Dionne Sproat Ms. Noelle Bonk Ms. Deb Brewster Mr. Kevin Dyck Ms. Oneida Woidyla Miss Megan Boake (on leave) Mr. Dickie (replacement) Mrs. Whitney Scheirer Mr. Edrian Pacio Ms. Charlene Kurtz Ms. Ann Dusterbeck Miss Ciara Boyer (on leave) Ms. Freitag (replacement) Mrs. Debra Kenny Mrs. Margo Thomlinson (.80) Miss Lisa Osiowy (1.0) Mrs. Linnea Thompson (.95) Mrs. Leah Wilde(.25) _________________ (1.0) Miss Danielle LeBlanc Mrs. Sherry Schoepp Mrs. Valeria Steininger Mrs. Debbie Peterson Ms. April Veidenheimer Mr. Kim Woods

Grade 4 Grade 5 Grade 6 Student Services Teacher Librarian Library Technician Educational Associates

School Counselor Band Admin Assistant Community School Coordinator Nutrition Worker Custodian

12

Hours of Instruction/Arrival Our school operates from 8:45 a.m. to 11:40 a.m. and then 12:30 p.m. to 3:25 p.m. on a daily basis. We ask that town students not arrive at school before 8:30 a.m. unless they are involved in extracurricular activities. The staff is in the school prior to 8:30 a.m. but staff meetings, parent-teacher conferences and special preparations for class are often scheduled at this time. Your co-operation is greatly appreciated. We ask that students line up in single file at their corresponding door when the bell rings to signal them to come inside. School hours are as follows: 8:30 a.m. ---------------------8:30 a.m. ---------------------8:45 a.m. ---------------------8:50 a.m. ---------------------10:23 a.m. – 10:38 a.m. ---11:40 a.m. --------------------11:40 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. ----12:00 p.m. – 12:27 p.m. ----12: 30 p.m. -------------------2:03 p.m. – 2:18 p.m. -------3:20 p.m. ---------------------3:25 p.m. ----------------------

school doors unlocked buses begin arriving 2 supervisors on duty first bell classes begin morning recess 3 supervisors on duty lunch bell rings students in classrooms for lunch 2 supervisors on duty outside play time 2 supervisors on duty afternoon classes begin afternoon recess 3 supervisors on duty bus bell town bell

Office Hours The school secretary is available in the main office from 8:15 a.m. until 4:15 p.m.

Supervision A minimum of two adults are on supervision at the following times: Playground and buses Hallway and classroom Playground Buses Dismissal

8:30 a.m – 8:45 a.m 10:23 a.m – 10:38 a.m. 11:40 a.m – 12:00 p.m. 12:00 p.m. – 12:30 p.m. 2:03 p.m. – 2:18 p.m. 3:20 p.m. – 3:25 p.m. 3:25 p.m.

GECS does not encourage students to stick around on school property after school without prior parental permission that has been shared with school staff. Town and non-bus students are expected to go directly home after dismissal at 3:25 p.m. There is no supervision after 3:25 p.m. 13

14

Student Calendar 2011 - 2012

15

General Information and Guidelines Admission of Pupils to School 1. Children enrolling in school for the first time need documentation of age. We will require a copy of his/her Certificate of Birth or Saskatchewan Health Card as proof of age.

Agendas -

All students, Grade 1 to Grade 6, are provided with a daily agenda that is to be used as an organizational tool for the student AND a communication tool between home and school. Students learn to use the agenda on an ongoing, class-by-class basis, recording assignments, projects, due date, etc. PARENTS/GUARDIANS ARE REQUIRED TO SIGN THESE DAILY. IT is the student’s responsibility to obtain the parents signature on a DAILY basis (following completion of noted assignments). The intent is to have the students learn to better organize their school lives within the context of their “larger” life. This is a required life-long skill. (Please note: should a student lose/misplace his/her agenda, he/she will be required to purchase another one.)

Allergy Alerts (Nuts, Aerosol Sprays) -

-

Nut-Free Products in the School Only o Some students have severe nut allergies. Please ensure the NO items containing nuts are sent to school. The danger of a student with a severe allergy would leave us in a difficult position and it could be LIFE THREATENING. Thank you! Aerosol sprays such as deodorants, hair sprays and perfumes are not to be brought to the school as these are a concern to our students with asthma.

Assemblies -

Assemblies are planned to be educational, to promote activities or to recognize student achievement. Students are expected to be courteous to the performers, presenters and fellow students by remaining quiet and behaving appropriately.

Athletes Code of Conduct -

It is a privilege to represent Grenfell Elementary Community School in curricular and extracurricular activities. All athletes and parents are expected to read and sign a player contract which outlines codes of conduct and expectations. Every student is expected to adhere to the expectations and rules of the teacher in charge. The school will not tolerate harassment of any sort, by any student, towards a student, staff, volunteer or visitor.

Attendance -

We expect that every student will strive for full attendance and punctuality in each class. The school attendance policy is based on: o The direct correlation between attendance and academic success. o Legal considerations of student attendance. o Responsibilities of parents, teachers and students

16

-

The Education Act states that children must attend school until they reach the age of sixteen years. Furthermore, the Act requires that every student (regardless of age) shall “attend school regularly and punctually”.

o

Absence  The only “excusable” reasons for absence are illness, a medical appointment or a family emergency. A parent or guardian must call the office to report a student absence. You can report an absence using message manager before school hours or by calling the office after 8:10 a.m. If phone is not made before 9:00 a.m. or 12:40 p.m., parents will be contacted by the office to verify the absence. Students who arrive at the school while classes are in sessions must check in at the office before proceeding to class. If for unforeseeable circumstances a student must leave the school during the day, he/she must sign out at the office. Students are responsible for all work missed.

o

Extended Leave  Although we do our best to support students requiring extended leave, we cannot assume responsibility for their achievement. Arrangements should be made by the home to acquire work assignments from subject teachers. Illness  Students with a contagious illness such as chicken pox, pink eye, measles or stomach flu should not attend school. Students who become ill at school, should contact the school administrative assistant. A parent/guardian will be called to pick up their child. In the event of serious illness or injury, the student will be taken to the hospital and a parent/guardian will be immediately notified.

o

o

Irregular Attendance (Tardiness)  When a student’s absence is, in the judgment of the teacher, adversely affecting his/her academic achievement, the teacher will discuss the concern with the student, contact the parent/guardian and alert the administration to discuss possible remedies.

o

Lates 

o

Punctuality is an expectation for all students. If a student is late for class, the incident will be recorded by the class teacher. If a student is delayed by another teacher, the delay will be verified.

 Vacations During Instructional Time  Students who will be away from class for vacations are asked to notify the classroom teacher two weeks in advance. In many cases, teachers cannot provide homework ahead of the normally planned curriculum schedule. Once students return from vacation, they are expected to complete missed assignments as outlined by the teachers.

Band -

Band is offered as an elective for grades 6 students and is delivered at the same time as arts education.

17

Bicycles, Scooters, Roller Blades and Skate Boards -

-

Students who ride bicycles to school are required to leave them in the appropriate stands and lock them! We do our best to ensure nothing happens to these items, but we cannot accept responsibility for damage or theft. Scooter, roller blades or skate boards are not allowed in the school. These items are not to be used on school property during the school day, recesses or noon-hour breaks. We recommend that students wear the appropriate safety gear when riding a bike. The bike rack for bicycles, scooters, roller blades and skate boards is located in the back south east corner of school property. When students are dismissed at day end, they have the option to either right ride their bicycles, scooters, and skate boards out the south back ally OR walk their mode of transportation up the east side of the school. If students choose to do the second option of walking their mode of transportation, they are required to walk their item to the side walk on the end of school property before using their item appropriately. Please be understanding that the GECS parking lot is a busy location with 1 supervisor. This is a safety precaution.

Billets -

-

All students (town and rural) from grades K-6 require billets. Billets are necessary in the event of storms, highway closures, etc. which might prevent parents from picking up their children from school. It is extremely important to provide the school with the name, contact number and address of a billet for your child.

Bullying -

At Grenfell Elementary Community School, every student has the right to work and study in a safe environment. The act of “bullying” denies this right and will be dealt with by following the school’s Discipline Policy. Definition: GECS defines bullying as any continual act of intimidating, frightening, terrorizing, domineering a person. Bullying can be physical, positional, social, verbal, emotional, and/or racial. Bullying may involve:  A desire to hurt  A hurtful action  A power imbalance  Repetition  An unjust use of power  Evident enjoyment by aggressor  A sense of being oppressed by the victim PVSD Administrative Procedures 1.

Staff at all levels are expected to respond firmly, decisively, and without delay to behavior which causes or threatens to cause harm to any student.

2.

All staff members are responsible for all students and all students are responsible to all staff members with regard to the maintenance of a safe and secure environment.

18

3.

It is important to note that while safety and security violations commonly revolve around student violence against other students, all staff members must be aware of two other dimensions of possible violations – student violence against teachers and teacher violence against students.

4.

Staff are directed to take particular note of the most common safety and security violations faced by students: a) bullying and threatening; b) physical violence; c) harassment and mistreatment; d) vandalism, theft and extortion; e) sexual abuse; f) drug and alcohol offenses, and g) possession of weapons.

5.

School expectations concerning student conduct with respect to violence/harassment, and the possible consequences of serious or repeated misconduct, are to be communicated to students, parents and staff.

6.

The onus is on the victim, student/staff witness, or parent/guardian to report incidents of violence as soon as is reasonably possible.

7.

Reported cases of violence/harassment shall be investigated by the appropriate school-based or system administrator in keeping with the requirements of Division procedures. The investigative procedures shall include: a) a review of the complaint, interview of the complainant and, if possible, interview of the alleged perpetrator or perpetrators, as well as any witnesses, and determination of whether to proceed on a formal or informal basis, b) a decision by the school-based or system administrator to proceed with formal action would follow one or more of the following: i) school-based discipline procedures; ii) Division policy and procedures on suspension and expulsion; iii) the convening of a Division Discipline Committee hearing; iv) involvement of the police or other agencies.

8.

As part of the investigation: a) the victim and the alleged perpetrator shall be requested to provide a statement; b) the victim and/or witness shall be made aware of their right to report the incident to the police; c) school principals are authorized to report incidents directly to the police; d) in case of students, the parent/guardian of both the complainant and perpetrator shall be advised of the reported incidents.

9.

Written records of the incident shall be retained by the investigator.

10.

Where possible, student victims and perpetrators shall be provided with counseling and support from system personnel.

11.

Offenders may be asked to obtain external counseling.

19

PVSD Busing -

-

Student Conduct o For safety and respect purposes, there are definite behavioural expectations for students who are riding PVSD buses. i. Students are to be ready to board the bus at the appointed pick-up time, both before and after school; ii. Students must understand that the bus driver is in charge at all times while on the bus; iii. Students must observe instructions given by the bus driver when they are boarding, riding or leaving the bus; iv. The bus driver has the right to assign seating; v. Students must stay in their seats while the bus is in motion; vi. Students may not eat, drink or smoke on the school bus; vii. Students must keep all body parts, including hands and arms, inside the bus and not out the window; viii. Students shall respect bus property by not littering or defacing the bus or its contents; ix. Students will us appropriate language and appropriate voice levels while on the school bus; x. Students shall treat the bus driver and fellow students with courtesy and respect; verbal or physical fighting will not be tolerated; xi. Students under the influence or in possession of alcohol or drugs, will not be allowed on the bus; xii. Students must be appropriate dressed for cold weather conditions; drivers have the right to refuse service to any student that is not dressed appropriately. o Note: Students may be suspended from riding on the bus when they fail to abide by the rules or misbehaves on the bus. The school administration has the right to administer consequences, if deemed necessary, as students are also responsible to the school principal for their behaviour on the bus. Guest Rider Procedure o Students and parents need to be aware that bus service is for registered bus students only but occasionally may be provided to non bus students subject to the following: o Permission must be obtained by the school in consultation with the driver o There must be space on the bus o The drop off must be to a regular stop o Students must obey all bus rules

Bus Service Cancellation - School Division-Wide o The director or designate has the authority to cancel bus service on a division-wide basis. In making this decision, the director will use discretion, based on the best interests of students. Factors to be considered include, but are not limited to i. Severe cold weather temperatures of -40 Celsius or colder without a wind chill factor at 6:00 a.m. as reported by Environment Canada (www.weatheroffice.gc.ca) ii. Severe cold weather temperatures of -45 Celsius or colder with a wind chill factor at 6:00 a.m. as reported by Environment Canada (www.weatheroffice.gc.ca) iii. Severely limited visibility created by blizzard, whiteout conditions or extremely dense fog; and/or 20

o

o

iv. Unsafe or extremely adverse road conditions caused by ice or drifting snow. If the Director decides to cancel bus service school division-wide, the Supervisor of Transportation will: i. Notify all families, administrators, the Administrative Council Team and supervisors starting at 6:15 a.m., and ii. Contact the following radio stations: CKRM, the WOLF, LITE92, CAC, CJME, Z99, CJGX 94 YORKTON, CREEK Radio and 1190 WEYBURN; and iii. Arrange a notice to be posted on the division website at www.pvsd.ca All out of school curricular and extra-curricular activities are cancelled on days that transportation services are cancelled

Bus Service Cancellation at our School o If weather conditions do not meet the criteria for division-wide bus cancellations, the decision to cancel bus services may be made a local level by the bus driver as per the conditions listed below i. Severely limited visibility created by blizzard, white out conditions or extremely dense fog; and/or ii. Unsafe or extremely adverse road conditions caused by ice or drifting snow, and/or iii. Mechanical issues with the bus. o If the bus driver decides to cancel the route for the day, the driver will: i. Notify the Supervisor of Transportation and the principal by 6:45 a.m., and, ii. Contact the homes of each student who rides his/her bus. o The principal will: i. Cancel curricular and extra-curricular travel for the day, regardless of the mode of transportation to the activity, if the cancellation of bus service is sufficient in number to disrupt the normal functioning of the school. o If the bus driver decides to stop the route after some or all students have been picked up, the driver is to deliver each student to a safe, supervised destination and: i. Inform parents and guardian directly or indirectly of the location of the students and inform any families who have not yet been picked up, and, ii. Inform the Transportation office and the principal. - Due to the unpredictable nature of Saskatchewan winter weather, it is possible that bus services may be cancelled before morning pick-up or during the school day. Listen to the local radio stations for announcements of school bus cancellations. - If buses are not running in the morning, they will not run after school regardless of a warmer temperature change. Severe Weather Conditions after Students have arrived at school o The principal will, in consultation with the driver(s), make the decision to cancel bussing and prepare to put the school’s procedures to billet students and staff into effect o Bus drivers may not come to school to start their runs early. o Students may not be released until the normal school dismissal time, unless a parent or guardian comes to the school and take their child(ren) into their own care. Responsibilities of Parents of Bus Students - It shall be the responsibility of the parent to ensure that: 21

o

o o o o o

o

o

The child is warmly dressed during the winter months with the proper coat, hat, mitts and boots. (Bus drivers may refuse to pick up student who are habitually not dressed safely. Students are ready to board the bus when the bus arrives on schedule. All driveways and yard are kept open if pick-up and delivery of students in yard is to be expected. Bus drivers have been instructed not to use unopened driveways and yards. There is a turnaround site in the yard. Turnaround and lanes are kept free of children, livestock, obstructions, and during the winter, snow. They receive their students when the bus delivers them at their home. This is especially important for small children i. The parent of an elementary student is to inform the bus driver before the bus leave if the child won’t be on the bus. ii. High school student should inform the bus driver if they are not returning home on the bus. If a parent is going to transport a child home prior to dismissal and if the child is unaware that the parent is coming to pick him/her up, then the parent should phone ahead to the school or else come to the school to notify the teacher. ***NO PARKING ON THE BUS RAMP.***

Care of Property -

-

Students are expected to respect school property. All repairs or replacements, which result from carelessness or malicious damage, will be paid for by the individual or group responsible. Students and visitors can help keep the school clean by removing outside footwear when entering the school. Footwear must be removed in snowy, wet or muddy conditions. Students are responsible to clean up their lunch areas. Recycling bins and garbage cans are located throughout the school. With more than 150 students at the elementary level, we must all work together to keep our school clean. Students are responsible for the care of their own property. All personal textbooks and gym equipment should be clearly marked with the owner’s name. Large amounts of money or valuable items such as jewelry, i-Pods, MP3 players, cellular phones, etc. should not be brought to school. The school carries no insurance on student property and does not have secure lockers.

Change of Address -

Please notify the office if you have a change of address, home or work phone number

Code of Conduct and Discipline Policy -

At Grenfell Elementary, students are in control of their behaviour and are expected to make decisions that prove to set them up for success in this building. Below is GECS’ Circle of Courage Behaviours, which students use to reference appropriate behaviour in our building:

22

-

Lifelong success depends, in part, on learning to make responsible decisions. We are confident that clearly stated and fairly applied school rules will teach our students to be responsible for their actions and make school a positive and motivating experience.

o o

Behaviours which are considered essential to a positive learning experience include: Following directions Coming to class prepared to work and with an attitude to learn 23

o o o o o -

Coming to class on time Respecting your own and other’s personal space Respecting your own and other’s rights to an education Completing assigned homework Following school rules

Some of the consequences for inappropriate behaviour may include the following: o Verbal reprimand o Seating change o Removal of privileges o Parent/student conferences o Work duty o Time out (in or out of class) o Restitution

24

Major/Minor Student Behaviour

-

At GECS we have a Hands Off Policy, which can be referenced here:

25

26

Communication to Students and Parents may include: -

Newsletters, notes, calendars, agendas, etc. Email communication

Computer Use Policy -

Grenfell Elementary Community School has laptops and netbooks available for student use. With access to computers and people all over the world also comes the availability of materials that may not be considered of educational value in the school setting. On a global network, it is impossible to control all materials; however, we believe that the valuable information and interaction available on this worldwide network far outweighs the possibility that users may obtain material that is not consistent with the education goals of Grenfell Elementary Community School. One major component of this learning is to impress on users the responsibility that goes along with the privilege of accessing our equipment. Students are required to follow the GECS Computer Use Policy, displayed below.

-

Grenfell Elementary Community School Internet/Worldwide Web Acceptable Use Policy for Computer  The internet is an electronic highway connecting thousands of computers all over the world and millions of individual users. Our goal in providing this service to students and staff is to promote learning and teaching through resource sharing, innovation and communication.  Within the internet is a global system of computers connected by telephone or cable lines. It is a fluid environment of constantly changing, unregulated information. It is a two-way communication tool, which enhances the ability to engage in new and exciting learning opportunities. Using computers in practical applications and accessing information via the Internet are skills that users need now and will need in the future.  It is impossible to predict, with certainty, the accuracy the age-appropriateness of material users may access. It is possible that Internet users might access sites that could be considered objectionable. While reasonable steps to prevent such access will be taken, it is not possible to guarantee that users will not accidentally or purposely find inappropriate materials.  It is an expectation that Grenfell Elementary Community School computer resources are to be used in a reasonable, efficient, ethical, moral and legal manner in accordance with the mission statements, values, understanding and beliefs for the Prairie Valley School Division.  School considers all connections to remote locations on the internet as “Electronic Field Trips”. Therefore the rules that apply to student conduct on regular field trips also apply to theses electronic field trips

-

Guidelines for Acceptable Use of Computers and the Internet Any use of the internet shall be for the exchange of information in order to further a person’s education and research o At all times, consider the following standards: Is it safe? Is it appropriate? o Do not view, display or send offensive text and pictures. Should a student accidentally come across material of this nature, it is the student’s responsibility to leave the offending site immediately. o Use appropriate language when communicating with others on the internet. o Never give out personal information such as your home address or telephone number. o

27

o

o o

Obtain the consent of the teacher before:  Sending email  Accessing chat line/discussion groups/news groups  Printing Do not download inappropriate sounds, videos or graphics. Do not download or install programs onto any computer.

Prairie Valley School Division AP-1300 Information Technology Acceptable Use provides information that conforms to the Ministry of Education Acceptable Use Policy. Students will be held accountable for their actions and will lose their privileges if the Guidelines of Acceptable Use is violated.

Food and Snacks -

-

We would appreciate the assistance of parents in discouraging children from bringing junk food to the school. Gum will be allowed in controlled situations, otherwise gum and sunflower seeds are not allowed at school as they create a distinct problem in cleanliness of the school and on the playground. Food is not allowed on the playground during recess and lunch.

Contacting Students -

If you need to speak with your son/daughter during school hours, we recommend that you call at the breaks or during noon hour if possible. Please restrict requests for immediate contract with a student to genuine emergencies only.

Dress Code GECS is currently creating a task force of volunteer parents to develop a fair dress code for students of PreK to Grade 6. Once the dress code has been passed, it will be communicated to all students and parents. It will then be updated in our 2016-2017 student handbook. Until this process is complete GECS will abide by the following dress code: -

-

-

Footwear o Because footwear must be worn in the building at all times, we encourage students to have a set of footwear for indoors as well as outdoors. Please ensure your footwear does not mark the floors. In cold weather, children should wear warm footwear. All boots should be labeled. Dressing and Labeling of Clothing o Parents will judge what appropriate dress is for their children. However, we do want students to dress for the weather, as children need to be outside at recess. Dress should reflect respect, cleanliness, neatness, good manners and school pride. Please label all belongings. o Students are expected to dress in a neat and acceptable manner. No midriff is to be exposed. Outfits with “spaghetti straps” are not to be worn. Garments suggestive of sex, alcohol, drugs or racial discrimination are not acceptable. Hats are not to be worn in the school, except for special events. Lost and Found o There is a lost and found bin located in the school. Please note that names in books, clothing and equipment will help ensure that owners get their lost items back. 28

Evacuation and Fire Drills -

Evacuation and fire drills are held periodically throughout the year. When the alarm is heard, students under the direction of the classroom teacher follow the school safety plan. The school is constructed in such a way that students are safe for a reasonable amount of time. Therefore, the office will advise classes of the location of the fire and the subsequent procedures students should follow. In cases where smoke is visible, we ask student to leave the school through the nearest exit.

Extra-Curricular Activities -

The school recognizes the importance of strong programs. It is our belief that school programs should stress academic, aesthetic, athletic, leadership, social and emotional attributes in students. We encourage students to participate in extra-curricular activities. We believe this is an excellent way for students to develop personal interests, skills, self-confidence, self-esteem and lifelong friendships. We have the following programs in place: o Teams: Badminton, Track, Volleyball, Curling o Clubs: Drama, Science, Lego, Craft Club, Computer Club, Chess Club, Girls Club

Gymnasium -

We all have a responsibility to look after the gymnasium and its equipment. Our expectations for gymnasium users are: o Students must wear appropriate footwear when in the gym. To protect the gym floor, street shoes or black-soled shoes may not be worn at any time on the playing area. o Unsupervised activities will not be permitted in the gym at any time. o Muddy footwear must be removed before entering the gym. o Spectators at activities must observe gym regulations and exercise good conduct. o Food items and drinks may not be taken into the gym at any time.

Injuries and Insurance -

All accidents must be reported to the office. Office personnel will ensure student comfort and safety by contacting the appropriate resource. Parents will be notified as soon as possible. Accident insurance is available at a reasonable cost. Applications will be available at the beginning of each school year. Students participating in athletic activities or any other school related activities are strongly urged to have adequate insurance coverage.

Medication -

If there is a need for medication (including Tylenol and/or Aspirin) to be given to your child during school hours, please arrange to complete a provision of medication form at the office. All medications must be locked safely in our office and should not be kept in your child’s desk, jacket or lunch kit. o An Administration of Medication letter must be completed by the parent/guarding and physician before any school division employee can administer medication. o The medicine bottle must carry the official label from the pharmacy, stating the child’s name, physician’s name, the name of the drug, the dosage to be administered and the time of day it is to be given. 29

o o

It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to see that the medication is delivered safely to the school office. The principal and/or designate will give all medication.

Non-Student Days -

The purpose of non-student days is to provide staff an opportunity to conduct parent/teacher interviews, study and learn curriculum implementation, participate in professional development/training and conduct staff meetings.

Noon Hour Lunch 

All students entitled to ride a school bus must stay at school over the lunch period. Non-bus students may stay for lunch but this is a privilege and not a right. Please be aware that this right can be revoked if the privilege is misused.



Good nutrition is critical to your child’s growth, development, and performance in school. We encourage all children to bring fruit and veggies for lunch. A milk program is available to provide fresh 2% and chocolate milk. Students are asked to not share their lunch with other children and to take home uneaten items.



Hot lunches are provided one day per week. The menu and price list are sent home at the beginning of each month on a bright coloured paper. Students pre-order for the month.

Lunch Hour Rules 1. Noon hour supervisors supervise children in the school and on the playground from 11:40 – 12:30 p.m. There are 2 noon supervisors on duty at all times. 2. Students who remain at school for lunch will not be allowed to leave the school grounds during the lunch period. A parent/guardian wishing to alter the arrangement must contact the school. 3. Town students who stay at school for lunch must exhibit appropriate behaviour. Students who act inappropriately will have their lunch privilege revoked and will have to make arrangements to eat their lunch elsewhere. 4. All students are expected to be outside or in a supervised activity after they have eaten lunch. 5. The majority of students stay at school for lunch making for heavy demand on the microwave ovens. Please send only food that needs to be warmed up (1 minute preferred) not cooked.

Personal Invitations -

Students are asked not to bring any birthday party or other related social event announcements to school for distribution. Feelings are often hurt when invitations exclude classmates.

30

Playground Procedures and Expectations -

Town students and/or students arriving at the student by means other than the bus, should not arrive any earlier than 8:30 a.m. Candy, gum, sunflower seeds, energy drinks, pop and slurpees are not permitted in the school or on the playground with the exception of designated special events. Disrespectful behavior will not be tolerated Students must respect the private property of citizens who live close to the school. Students must stay off lawns and not trespass on these properties. Students who damage school property, including textbook or the property of others will be responsible to pay for repair or replacement. Play SAFELY! We are a “hands off” school with no rough play. Please refer to GECS’ Hands Off Policy for further explanation. Climbing on the fence or wire backstops is not allowed. No riding or playing on bikes during school hours If you must enter the school for any reason during recess or noon hour, please contact the supervisor. Use appropriate and respectful language Follow the school values rubric.

Recess/Break for Students -

-

In an effort to increase physical activity for all students, children are expected to go outside at recess unless they have a note from their parent/guardian. Parents should encourage their children to play outside at recess. Ensure children are dressed appropriately for the weather. Note that recess will be held indoors should the temperature be below -35 degrees Celsius.

Resource Centre -

-

-

-

-

The function of the Resource Centre is to supplement and enrich the curriculum for all students. Students are asked to sign out all materials and return books promptly within the specified oneweek sign-out period. Reference materials may be used in the Resource Centre only and are not available for loan. To encourage students to return their books and develop within them a sense of responsibility for the materials they borrow, we will assess fines, as set out by Prairie Valley School Division policy, for books which are lost or not returned. Further to this, students who have a large number of overdue books or who have not paid will have their borrowing privilege suspended. There are no fines for overdue material, but students are expected to return things promptly. The cost of lost books will be billed to the student. Our Teacher-Librarian is at GECS on Days 1 and 4. Resource Centre Expectations o Appropriated behaviour is expected o No food or beverages allowed o Leave premises tidy and orderly o Anything taken out of the resource center must be signed out o Students are encouraged to used the resource centre for research and reading To encourage reading, each student is asked to have a library book at all times. Student may read when assignments have been completed an/or at teacher designated reading times.

31

Smoke and Idle Free Zones -

All Prairie Valley School Division operated building and grounds are tobacco free. We are also an idle free zone and ask that you do not let your vehicles idle in the school parking lot.

Student Pick Up Zone -

Students who do not ride the bus will either walk/bike home. All bikes must either be walked up the side of the school and then rode once at the cross walk or leave through the South East exit. The parking lot is extremely busy. Students who are being picked up will wait at the GECS Pick Up Zone, just North of the East playground. Supervision is provided until all students are picked up safely.

Student Progress -

The Grenfell Elementary Community School reporting system: Gives parents and students an accurate and informative picture of student progress. Give students, no matter what their abilities, an incentive to do well academically as well as socially and emotionally. - Evaluation: o The evaluation of students is a continuous process. Evaluation results are reported to parents three times a year through conferences and report cards (November 21, 2016, March 13, 2017 and June 28, 2017). Parents of students who are not progressing well academically, socially or emotionally are informed by letter or phone if it is not possible to arrange an interview. o Parent/Student/Teacher Conferences are held on the evenings of November 23, 2016 from 3:30 – 8:00 and November 24, 2016 from 3:30 to 6:30 PM, and again on the evenings of March 15, 2017 and March 16, 2016. However, conference may be held as many times as the parent or teacher wishes. o o

Student Visitors -

The school extends a courteous welcome to parents and other visitors who have reason to visit the school. We ask visitors to inform the office of their presence in the school. Student visitors are not permitted during school hours. Students not registered at Grenfell Elementary Community School, who are loitering on school grounds or in the building, will be asked to leave immediately.

Learning Support Services Team LSST -

Educational Assistance (K-6) Assistance is provided for students who require additional support to succeed in the classroom. - Counselor (K-6) o A Counselor is available to discuss and help students resolve problems - PVLS (Prairie Valley Learning Services) Team o The Division’s student services team (psychologists, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, social workers) provides additional support to students through a referral process. o

32

Substitute Teachers -

The staff at Grenfell Elementary Community School expects students to: o Respect the substitute teacher at all times and fulfill the requests of the substitute as long as the requests are not immoral or life threatening. o Cooperate by supplying information about the room, class or procedures when asked. o Share feelings/attitudes but are willing to work for the substitute. o Complete fully and in good form all assigned work given by the substitute during the class periods of marking. o The Discipline Policy will be followed if students do not cooperate.

Telephone -

Students may use the telephone with permission from their teacher. The intent is to allow students to communicate with their parents. Social calls and arranging for after school play dates are not permitted. If a younger student needs to call home, he/she is to ask their homeroom teacher to make the call from the classroom.

o

Cell Phones & Electronic Devices Students are encouraged to leave their cell phones at home. The phones are not to be used during school time. The phone is available with permission from the homeroom teacher or the office. Cell phones do not substitute for calculators and PVSD Privacy Regulations emphasize that electronic devices with camera-video capability are not permitted in the classroom.

Tobacco, Alcohol, Drugs -

Smoking, smokeless tobacco, alcohol or drugs may not be carried, or used, on or near the school premises at any time. Consequences will apply as per the Discipline Policy.

Visitor Parking -

Visitors are asked to avoid parking on the bus ramp at all times. Visitors should park in the parking lot on the east side of the school and should enter the school through the front doors.

Volunteering -

The Prairie Valley School Division Board of Education encourages parents/guardians and other members of the community to share their time, knowledge and abilities with our students.

33

-

-

Volunteers enrich the total educational program and strengthen our schools’ relationships with our homes and communities. Prairie Valley School Division Board of Education policy requires that each volunteer in the school show an original current criminal record check every five years. This includes a vulnerable sector check, which is a search for pardoned sexual offenses. The process is quite simple and can be done at our local RCMP office; make sure to take your driver’s license and birth certificate. Refer to the division Volunteer Handbook for more details.

AWARDS Honour - Roll   

Eligible: All grade six students Presented to: Students who receive an average of 80% or greater over the course of three terms and in the following subjects: Language Arts (Reading, Writing, Speaking, Listening, Representing, viewing), Mathematics, Social Studies, Science Award: certificate 

  

Band Award - Beginner

Eligible: all students in beginner band (all first year band students) Presented to: one student who attends classes/rehearsals, brings required materials is prepared for class, practices at home, and participates in music festival. Award: Certificate

HOME/SCHOOL CONNECTIONS Communication: Parents are encouraged to contact the school whenever concerns or questions arise. Please feel free to contact the homeroom teacher for assistance. Community Use of Facilities: Applications for use of school facilities are to be made to the Community School Coordinator at least one week in advance. The Principal must approve all community use of facilities.

34

Interim Reports: Weekly, monthly or interim reports may be issued any time throughout the year to report work habits, successes, attendance problems, conduct problems or academic progress in a particular subject. Newsletters: Newsletters are sent home with the mail carriers in the family at the beginning of each month. Newsletters are posted on the school’s website at http://www.pvsd.ca/school/grenfellelementary. The newsletter contains information about school events and important dates. If you would like to receive your newsletter by e-mail, please contact the school at [email protected]. Open House Night: Grenfell Elementary Community School hosted an open house on September 14, 2016.

GECS Community Council We are very fortunate to have such an incredible school administration to partner up with incredible parents who support us! Our motto really sums it up: “Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow.” Here is a bit of information about our association, the program we offer, and hopefully ways you can become involved. We usually meet the first Tuesday of each month at 5:00 in the GECS Library. Every parent is a member of our association. Please feel free to stop by our next meeting! Grenfell Elementary Community School Community Council Chairperson Principal Treasurer Secretary School Rep Event Coordinator Food Parent Phone Tree First Nations Representative Member

Jana Wolfe Dionne Sproat Debbie Peterson Kirby Durya __________________ Gina Kempton Doane Cindy Thomlinson __________________ Rachel Sangwais

35

GECS Locked Door Policy Student safety is our top priority at GECS. We are aware of our transient location, just off the number 1 highway. All doors into GECS are locked. If guests wish to enter our building, they are expected to knock at the front entrance, to which a staff member will welcome you in.

Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Check If any parents wish to volunteer in our building, attend field trips, or transport students, a valid criminal record check and vulnerable sectors check is required. Please show the office staff your valid checks. They are able to be used for 5 years once on file.

Scholastic Orders To save a middle man in ordering Scholastic items, GECS will be having parents place their order and payment online. Please discuss this with your child’s teacher if you need further assistance.

36