The Ministry of Education and Training requires that each school in Ontario develop a Code of Behaviour. At Tilbury Area Public School we expect children to learn and to live according to the philosophy of our school. Therefore, self-discipline and respect are the two most important elements in our code. Students who live by this code will show:

• respect for themselves
• respect for other people
• respect for authority
• respect for property

These four elements, when understood, mean that each of our students understands why he/she is at school and that each of them will:

• be responsible for his/her behaviour;
• put forth the best possible effort to get the most out of all school activities;
• attend school regularly and on time;
• respect the right of other students to have the same opportunity for a full education;
• work and play in a way which ensures no bad feelings, injuries or accidents;
• look after all property around the school so that everyone gets the most use out of it;
• remember to do all activities in a way which shows consideration for our environment today and in the future;
• listen to and respect the good judgement of those people who are in charge, including everyone who works at the school - staff, parents and volunteers;
• obey the laws of the land and the standards of the community;

These simple rules, when followed by everyone, will lead to a positive school climate at Tilbury Area Public School.

By working together the school staff, parents and community members will model and encourage appropriate social behaviour. This includes accepting the consequences for any action that does not follow the rules. These consequences may include:

• loss of privileges;
• work, serve or pay to correct the damage or problem;
• detention;
• behaviour contract;
• time-out;
• removal from class;
• suspension;
• interview with teacher, principal and/or parents/guardians;
• referral for assistance from an outside agency;
• referral to police or court action.

These consequences will be based on the need of the students and the best interest of the school and community. All students will have the right to express their view of the situation.

Students are advised that desks and lockers are considered school property and that a search of such property is permissible by school administration or designate. In addition, pupils may be directed by the principal/designate to display the contents of clothing, duffle bags, backpacks, etc., that are worn or carried on school property.

Dress Code

All clothing is to be appropriate for the school environment and free of offensive language and any reference to sex, tobacco, alcohol, drugs, violence or demeaning to race, religion or women.

Appropriate standards are to be determined by the Administration, staff and School Council yearly as fashions change.

General guidelines include:

Shirts and tops should cover the abdomen and back. Muscle shirts are not appropriate.
Shorts should be an appropriate length – about to the end of hanging arms.
All undergarments should not be visible.
Hats should be removed upon entry to the building.
Chains and necklaces are discouraged due to safety risks.
Indoor footwear is required for cleanliness, health and emergency reasons.

If parents/students are unsure if clothing would be acceptable, an alternative article or cover-up should be brought to school.

Alcohol and Drugs, and Smoking

Possession or use of alcoholic beverages, illicit drugs, or smoking material is strictly forbidden at school events and on school property, including the playground. Individuals are asked to refrain from smoking once they enter the school grounds. Any student who brings such substances to school, or who is under the influence, is subject to suspension and, if appropriate, the police will be called.

Locks and Lockers

Students in grades 6, 7 & 8 classes, in the intermediate wing, will be assigned lockers. Combination locks are required. You may wish to purchase a lock from school since these can be opened if the student forgets the combination with a master key. Lockers should be locked at all times. The only person other than yourself who should know your combination is your teacher. Lockers are school property. They are to be kept in good order and may be searched if circumstances warrant.

Personal Property

The school cannot be responsible for personal property which is lost or broken at school or at school functions. Students are encouraged to leave valuable property such as ipods, walkman, CD players, gameboys, remote control cars, jewellery, cell phones, laser pens, and large amounts of money at home.

As well, items that are not conducive to a safe school environment are not to be brought to school. Matches, lighters, cap guns, air guns and shells, slingshots, hardballs, pocket knives or any similar item which could pose a threat to the safety of others are not allowed at school.

If cell phones, mp3 players, interactive gaming devices, etc. are brought to school, they must remain turned off in student lockers. If the technology can take pictures, make phone calls or access the internet – it must be turned off and locked in the locker.

Cell Phones

Cell phones need to be turned off and locked in lockers. If the technology can make calls, access the internet or take pictures - it needs to be turned off and locked in lockers during the day.