Code of Student Conduct
It is our belief that parents, and students of a Catholic high school believe that parents, students and staff in our school work collaboratively each day to establish a welcoming, caring, respectful and safe learning environment that honours diversity, inclusivity and that fosters a sense of belonging. This Code of Conduct is based on input from students, parents, and staff. This Code of Student Conduct is based on the Education Act and Edmonton Catholic Administrative Procedure 351 – Student Code of Conduct. We affirm that the rights set out in the Alberta Human Rights Act and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms are afforded to all students and staff members within St. Joseph High School. We affirm that pursuant to the Alberta Human Rights Act and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, students and staff members are protected from discrimination. More specifically, discrimination refers to any conduct that serves to deny or discriminate against any person or class of persons regarding any goods, services, accommodation or facilities that are customarily available to the public, and the denial or discrimination is based on race, religious beliefs, colour, gender, physical disability, mental disability, ancestry, place of origin, marital status, source of income, family status or sexual orientation. Acceptable Behaviour Students are expected to contribute to the positive learning environment of the school by acting in a responsible manner. The atmosphere we create is suitable for motivated, young adults who want to take advantage of the educational opportunities we offer. Students are expected to follow the behaviours outlined below. Respect yourself and others in the school. Act in ways that honours and appropriately represents you and your school Ensure that your conduct contributes to a welcoming, caring, respectful and safe learning environment in the school that respects the diversity and inclusivity that fosters a sense of belonging of others in your school. Refrain from, report and refuse to tolerate bullying or harassment, intimidation or other safety concerns, whether or not they occur within the school, within the school building, during the school day or by electronic means. Attend school regularly and punctually and be ready to learn and actively engage in your education. Know and comply with the rules of your school. Be accountable for your behaviour to your teachers and other school staff. Cooperate with all school staff and contribute positively to your school and your community. Unacceptable Behaviour It is the expectation of our schools that students understand and fully comply with Section 12 of the Education Act. The Act clearly states that students must realize that they will be held accountable for unacceptable conduct whether or not the behaviours occur within the school building, school day or electronic means (e.g. any form of social media). While school staff are not able to control what students do outside of school, where that behaviour spills into the school environment, there may be consequences for that behaviour. ALCOHOL, DRUGS AND TOBACCO Smoking and vaping are not permitted on school property. Students under 18 must not be in possession of tobacco products. Those who smoke or possess tobacco products will be fined and suspended. This policy reinforces section 2 of the Provincial Prevention of Youth Tobacco Use Act. E–cigarettes are considered banned substances in Edmonton Catholic Schools. A student under the influence or in possession of alcohol or illegal drugs at school will face suspension or expulsion. This policy applies to field trips and extra-curricular activities. Consequences of Unacceptable Behaviour. Students must be aware that failure to comply with Section 12 of the Education Act may lead to consequences for that student(s). Identified unacceptable behaviour will consider the student’s age, maturity, discipline history and individual circumstances. We will avoid a ‘one size fits all’ approach as it is inconsistent with the Education Act. The specific circumstances of any situation will be investigated fully, and an appropriate consequence will be applied to each situation. The full range of possible consequences (i.e. reparations, community service, suspensions, and/or expulsions) will be communicated to affected students deemed to be participating in unacceptable behaviour. As per the Section 24 of the Education Act, severe breaches of conduct can lead to suspension. The final decision with any disciplinary action rests with the principal. In cases of extreme behaviours the student may be recommended by the principal to School Operations Services for expulsion from the school.