Family Handbook 2017-2018

FAMILY HANDBOOK2017 – 2018

Montcrest School4 Montcrest Blvd.Toronto, Ontario

M4K 1J7

Tel. 416- 469-2008Fax 416-469-0934

E-mail: info@montcrest.on.caWebsite: www.montcrest.on.ca

MISSION STATEMENT

Montcrest School is a co-educational community, small enough to honour the individual and big enough to provide an exceptional academic experience with balanced opportunities in leadership,

the arts, and athletics.

Our school challenges children to discover and acknowledge their own voices, so they

can understand and make meaningful connections with the world.

July 2017

Welcome to Montcrest School!

Every morning, sun, rain, snow, or cold, your child will be greeted by an adult and will be individually welcomed to begin their day. The care, support, and education of your child are our primary concerns. Montcrest will provide an exceptional academic experience with balanced opportunities in leadership, the arts, and athletics. We acknowledge the voice of each one of our students so they can understand and make meaningful connections with the world. You will discover that the support that your child receives academically and socially, is one of the hallmarks of Montcrest School. We want our children to grow to be confident in their abilities and their belief in themselves.

The Family Handbook has been produced to help guide you through “life” at Montcrest. Please take the time to review the booklet and share it with your child. We would particularly draw your attention to the Code of Conduct. We have tried to provide as much detail as possible. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the school.

In addition to this guidebook, there will, no doubt, be adjustments during the school year. I encourage you to be a regular reader of the Montcrest Mirror that comes out every Friday. The Mirror allows you to follow the weekly happenings at the school, share in the joy of Montcrest, and feel a part of the community. Go to www.montcrest.on.ca and click on “Parents” and then “Montcrest Mirror” – user name is parent; password is montcrest.

I hope that you and your child have a great year – there is always so much to look forward to at Montcrest as we aspire to be the leading elementary school community in Canada at bringing out the uniqueness of each child.

Sincerely,

� David ThompsonHead of School

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This booklet has been produced to inform parents about "life" at Montcrest School. While an attempt has been made to be as comprehensive as possible, there may be some questions left unanswered. Please do not hesitate to call the school at any time with questions that may arise.Please review the Code of Conduct, Dress Code (students in Grades 1-8), and the Discipline section with your child before school begins in September.

Table of ContentsParents, Students, And The School 5.........................................Montcrest Faculty And Staff 2017/2018 6....................................Holiday Dates For The 2017/2018 School Year 10......................School Hours 11............................................................................Routines 12....................................................................................

Drop-Off And Pick Up 12............................................................Broadview Avenue (Grades 2 - 8) 12......................................Montcrest Boulevard (Jk - Grade 1) 12...................................Carpools 12.............................................................................

Timetable 12................................................................................Lunch 13......................................................................................Aftercare 13.................................................................................

Building Together 13.....................................................................Communication 14.......................................................................

Friday File 14...............................................................................The Montcrest Mirror 14..............................................................Social Media 14...........................................................................Reporting 15................................................................................Parent-Teacher Interviews 15......................................................

Policies 15......................................................................................Attendance 15.............................................................................Security 15..................................................................................Change In Pick-Up Arrangements 15..........................................Uniforms & Tuck Shop 15............................................................Casual Clothes Days (Aka – Grub Days) 17...............................Allergies 17..................................................................................Discipline In The School 18.........................................................Code Of Conduct 18....................................................................

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Policy On Prohibited Drugs, Alcohol, And Tobacco 18................Anti-Bullying Policy 19.................................................................Student Cell Phone Policy 19......................................................Acceptable Use Of Technology Policy 20....................................Student Consequences For Code Of Conduct And Policy Infractions 20..............................................................................Suspension As A Sanction 21......................................................Expulsion From Montcrest School 22.........................................Denial Of Re-Registration 23......................................................

Academic Policies 23....................................................................Homework 23..............................................................................Extra Help 23...............................................................................Learning Support 23....................................................................School Supplies 23......................................................................Lost Textbooks & Library Books 24.............................................Birthdays 24...............................................................................Snow Days 24.............................................................................

Special Days 24.............................................................................Cocurriculars 25............................................................................

Clubs 25......................................................................................Sports Teams 25.........................................................................Honour Pins 26............................................................................House System 27........................................................................After School Programs (Beyond The Classroom) 27..................Private Music Lessons 27...........................................................

Montcrest Parents' Association (Mpa) 27...................................Community Building And Family Support 27..............................2017/18 Mpa Executive And Officers 28.....................................

Board Of Governors 29.................................................................Life After Montcrest 29.................................................................

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PARENTS, STUDENTS, AND THE SCHOOL

For a school to be effective, there must be a significant level of agreement between the parents, students, and school staff about expectations. The school, to be a good learning environment, must rely on three principles: 1. The primary purpose of a school is to help students develop the skills

necessary to learn and acquire the knowledge they will need to reach the goals that they set for themselves.

2. Students must pay attention to learn, while the teacher's job is to help students engage in the diversity of learning activities.

3. The teacher's authority must be accepted and supported as legitimate, both at home and at school.

Agreement with, and commitment to these principles ensures that a school staff can focus their energy on providing interesting and exciting educational activities. It minimizes the time spent on discipline and maximizes the time spent teaching. It is a major reason why families choose an independent school – to find a setting that sets reasonable expectations for students and then works consistently to offer the greatest opportunity for those expectations to be met.

It is important that the expectations of the school are supported in the home. Differing expectations lead to confusion for children and they perceive any consequences to their actions as unfair. Our objective is to guide students into appropriate work habits and social interactions. To be successful, such habits and interactions must be viewed as reasonable, and consequences viewed as fair and logical.Montcrest is an elementary school with a strong community feeling. Parents, staff and students often meet informally to discuss ideas and issues. We encourage parents to bring us their ideas and help us develop an environment that will bring about the best academic and social development possible for each child.

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MONTCREST FACULTY AND STAFF 2017/2018

Head of School David Thompson

Assistant Head of School Jeff Borsten

Director ofTeaching & Learning Nicole Davies

Director of Admissions Erene Augustyn

Director of Finance Dawn Waisberg

Director of Advancement Michael Dilworth

Assistant to Head ofSchool Maggie Zegas-Tepper

Advancement & Community Relations Arlette Bax, Geneva Dalley

MPA Liaison Geneva DalleyFinance Assistants Gilda Bissada, Taylore Yardley

Organizational Development & People Practices Michèle Andrews

IEP/Gifted EducationCoordinator Elana Kerbel

Assistant Director of Admissions Dana Rostowsky

Director of AlumniRelations Mary Gray

Director of Athletics Grant Nix

Director of Performing Arts Lisa Swarbrick& Cocurriculars

Director of Facilities Greg Reynolds

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Student Coach Terry Sherrard

Junior Kindergarten Mara BerzinsKaren Bell

Senior Kindergarten Diane KingstoneHannah Nitefor

Grade 1 Krista CobhamEmily Woolner

Grade 2 Christine DewhurstSilvia Pauksens

Grade 3 Laurie ArseneauTina Tammsalu

Grade 4 Chelsea JensenMiriam JohnKaren Tanod

Grade 5 Jane CalwayBlair LivingstoneDavid Wichman

Grade 6 Nicola DaykinEmma StewartKatie Willis

Mufridah NolanGrade 7 Peter Smith

Tricia SmithJen Vincent

Grade 8 Dan BaileyJennifer BairosDawn Cohen

Grade 6 Science Dan Bailey

Grade 7 & 8 Science Dan BaileyYvonne Boyd

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Grade 7 & 8 English Dani Klein Mufridah Nolan Tricia Smith

Grades 7 & 8 Math Wendy BainDawn Cohen Peter SmithTricia Smith

Grades 7 & 8 Dan BaileyHistory/Geography Ryan Coutts

French Megan Smith (JK - Gr. 3)Kerry Hooton (Gr. 4 & 5)Emma Stewart (Gr. 7, Gr. 5 - 8 small classes)Jennifer Bairos (Gr. 6 - 8)

Physical Education Kerry-Ann Grant (JK – Gr. 2)

Nick Spence (Gr. 3 – 6, & 8 )Grant Nix (Gr. 7)

Teacher Librarian Sacha Neesham

Vocal Music Karen Bell (JK/SK)Carol Macfarlane (JK – Gr. 5)Jennifer Vincent (Gr. 2)

Instrumental Music Carol Macfarlane (Gr. 6)Jennifer Vincent (Gr. 6 – 8 Concert & Stage Bands)

Drama Kerry-Ann Grant (JK - Gr. 2)Lisa Swarbrick (Gr. 3 - 8)

Visual Arts Sharon Charbonneau (SK - Gr. 4)Dara Gellman (Gr. 5 - 8)

Learning Support Stephanie CurtisSue LincolnJackie MacPhersonLisa McMeansCarley PageJay Prichard

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Learning Support Cont’d. Tricia SmithKara Williams

Teacher/Researcher Ben Blakey

Nature Based Learning Ryan Coutts

House System Ryan CouttsGrant Nix

Systems Administrator Krishna Sukhai

IT Help Desk Juan Garcia

Administrative Assistants Laura Bazilewich Barbara Moore

Maintenance Darcy DooneShannon McEwen

Aftercare Supervisor Johanna Weinstein

After School Programs Rebecca Madarasz

Private Music Lessons Barbara Moore

EMAIL

To email staff members:first name_last name@montcrest.on.ca.(e.g. david_thompson@montcrest.on.ca)

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HOLIDAY DATES FOR THE 2017/2018 SCHOOL YEAR

First Day of School: Thursday, September 7, 2017

Thanksgiving Day: Classes end Thursday, October 5, 2017Classes resume Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Fall Midterm Break: Classes end Wednesday, November 8, 2017Classes resume Tues., November 14, 2017*Thursday, November 9, 2017 is Parent/Teacher Interview Day (no school)

December Break: For Grade 7 & 8 Students:Classes end Friday, December 15, 2017For JK- Grade 6 Students:Classes end Thursday, December 21, 2017 Classes resume for everyone:Tuesday, January 9, 2018

Winter Midterm Break: Classes end Wednesday, February 14, 2018 Classes resume Tuesday, February 20, 2018

*Thursday, February 15, 2018 is Parent/Teacher Interview Day (no school)

March Break: Classes end Friday, March 9, 2018

Classes resume Monday, March 26, 2018

April/Easter Break: Classes end Thursday, March 29, 2018Classes resume Tuesday, April 3, 2018

Victoria Day: Classes end Friday, May 18, 2018 (Early dismissal at 2:30 p.m.)Classes resume Tuesday, May 22, 2018

Last Day of School: Thursday, June 14, 2018 – Noon dismissal

*For school events and important dates, or if you want to know what day of the cycle it is, visit our website www.montcrest.on.ca and click on calendar at the top of the homepage.

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SCHOOL HOURS

Outdoor Supervision 8:00 - 8:20 a.m.Doors Open 8:20 a.m.O’ Canada & Attendance 8:25 a.m.Homeroom 8:20 - 8:40 a.m.Period 1 8:40 - 9:30 a.m.Period 2 9:30 - 10:20 a.m.Morning Recess 10:20 - 10:50 a.m.Period 3 10:50 - 11:40 a.m.Lunch 11:40 - 12:00 p.m.Lunch Recess 12:00 - 12:30 p.m.Period 4 12:30 - 1:20 p.m.Period 5 1:20 - 2:10 p.m.Recess 2:10 - 2:40 p.m.Period 6 2:40 - 3:30 p.m. Homeroom 3:30 - 3:40 p.m.Dismissal 3:40 p.m.Driveway Supervision 3:40 - 4:00 p.m.

Aftercare 3:40 - 6:00 p.m.

Office Hours 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

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ROUTINES

DROP-OFF AND PICK UP These guidelines must be followed in order to maintain order and safety.• DO NOT leave your car idling at any time. • DO NOT use neighbours' driveways to park or turn around in.

BROADVIEW AVENUE (GRADES 2 - 8)• Enter driveway and drive as far forward as possible. • Parents remain in cars, while staff help offload children and bags. • Exit the driveway by TURNING RIGHT only.• DO NOT DROP CHILDREN OFF ON BROADVIEW AVENUE!• DO NOT turn around in the driveway of apartment buildings on the

east side of Broadview, opposite the school. • DO NOT leave your car unattended on the driveway. • If parked on the east side of Broadview, you must accompany your

child across the street (there is a crossing guard at the crosswalk just north of the school).

• In the morning, parking is available on the east side of Broadview (until 4:00 p.m.) After 9:00 a.m., parking is available on the west side of Broadview.

MONTCREST BOULEVARD (JK - GRADE 1)• Please park and walk children in, or stop at the gate of 4 Montcrest,

remaining in cars while staff walk children safely into the playground. • Please use the turnaround opposite the school to turn your vehicle

around and exit Montcrest Blvd. • DO NOT PARK on the turnaround or on the north side of Montcrest

Boulevard.• At pick-up time, please park and walk to school to get your children.

CARPOOLSCarpools must have one pick-up point. If your carpool includes JK/SK students, please advise the homeroom teacher. JK/SK children are escorted to the backyard at 3:40 p.m. to meet their carpool. You must inform the office in writing of drivers and children in your carpool, as well as the designated pick-up spot, on or before the first day of school.

TIMETABLEMontcrest’s timetable is organized on an 8-day cycle. Days 1 - 8 successively determine what the schedule is for each class that day. The days of the cycle are marked in the school calendar (on our website), and student agendas.

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LUNCHStudents are not permitted to leave school grounds during school hours to purchase food. Lunch is eaten in the homeroom from 11:40 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Please provide your child with a nutritious lunch, and minimize sweets and junk food. The school offers a hot lunch program through The Lunch Mom (TLM), details of which are available on our website.

AFTERCAREAftercare runs from 3:40 to 6:00 p.m. Any child not picked up from school by 4:00 p.m. will sign in to Aftercare. If your child will be staying on a regular basis you can register on the Parent Portal or email the finance office at dawn_waisberg@montcrest.on.ca. If Aftercare is required occasionally, please notify the office as the need arises so that Aftercare staff may be informed. Children must be signed out of Aftercare when being picked up.

BUILDING TOGETHER

Montcrest has commenced its largest ever building project to transform our learning and teaching spaces. The approximately $10.2 million project will construct a new facility that connects 650 Broadview Ave., the senior building, with 658 Broadview Ave. while maintaining the integrity of the two historical houses. The new structure will provide tremendous benefits for our students, faculty and staff. To learn more about this exciting project, visit www.montcrest.on.ca/buildingtogether.

Throughout the year, regular construction and campaign updates will be shared with our community through email updates, the Montcrest Mirror, and on our website. Urgent logistical updates such as changes to pick up and drop off routines will be emailed directly to parents.

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COMMUNICATION

Website: www.montcrest.on.caUsername: parentPassword: montcrest

EMAIL To email staff members: first name_last name@montcrest.on.ca. (e.g. david_thompson@montcrest.on.ca)

PHONE• It is essential that we have current contact details for parents. • Should your number be unlisted, please inform the office so that we

can avoid publishing these numbers on lists that are distributed. • The best time to reach faculty members is before and after school

and during lunch. Only in emergencies will teachers be called to the phone. Every staff member has voicemail so messages may be left any time, and are usually returned the same day.

FRIDAY FILEMost Fridays your child will bring home a "Friday File,” a folder containing news about upcoming events. Once you’ve seen the contents, please have your child return the “Friday File” to their homeroom teacher on Monday morning.

THE MONTCREST MIRROROur newsletter, The Montcrest Mirror is published at the end of each week, and contains useful and current information about school life. The Mirror is emailed to all parents each Friday, and can also be found on the website under “Parents” then “Montcrest Mirror”. For questions contact Geneva Dalley at geneva_dalley@montcrest.on.ca.

SOCIAL MEDIAConnect with Montcrest on social media for regular updates on activities at school.

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‘Like’ Montcrest on FacebookPage: Montcrest School @montcrest

Follow Montcrest on Twitter@montcrest

REPORTINGCommunication regarding your child’s academic progress occurs through regular conversations with your child’s teachers, written reports cards and parent-teacher interviews. Report cards are distributed four times each year.

PARENT-TEACHER INTERVIEWSParent-teacher interviews are held in September, November, and February. In the junior and intermediate grades, interviews include the students. Scheduling is done online, and details are provided in advance.

POLICIES

ATTENDANCE• Attendance is taken daily at 8:25 a.m. • If your child is going to be late or absent please let us know by calling

the attendance reporting line before 8:25 a.m. at 416-469-2008 ext. 405 or emailing attendance@montcrest.on.ca.

• If the office has not been informed of a child's absence, parents will be called.

• Students arriving after 8:25 a.m. are marked late and must report to Barb Moore’s office in 660 Broadview Ave. for a Late Slip.

• If your child must leave early for any reason, please pick him/her up from either one of our two reception areas having ensured that they have been signed-out.

SECURITYFor safety reasons, the gates will be locked every school day. To gain entrance to the school, please use the access buzzer located at our main entrances.

CHANGE IN PICK-UP ARRANGEMENTSWe request that you avoid last minute changes in pick-up arrangements. Any change must be communicated by parents in writing to the homeroom teacher. Teachers cannot give permission for students to go to friends’ homes, nor will students be allowed to call home after school to make social arrangements.

UNIFORMS & TUCK SHOP• The Tuck Shop is located in the basement of 4 Montcrest Blvd. and

sells uniforms as well as snacks for children during lunch recess and after school.

• The Tuck Shop sells all items listed below excluding black shoes,

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running shoes, and white socks. • The Tuck Shop sells additional seasonal uniform items.• Please ensure that all students’ belongings are LABELLED. • Any items found around the school will be placed in the Lost & Found

bins outside the gym in Danson House.o At the end of the school year, any unclaimed uniforms in the Lost

& Found will be sold at the tuck shop, and other unclaimed items will be donated to a charity.

• Children must come to school prepared with appropriate outerwear in all seasons.

Girls Number One Dress: Grades 4 - 8Long-Sleeve Crested OxfordKilt (Buchanan Plaid) OR Charcoal Grey PantsTie (Buchanan Plaid)Green Tights (winter) or Green Knee Socks (fall and spring)Black Leather Dress Shoes

Girls Number One Dress: Grades 1 - 3Long-Sleeve Crested OxfordCrested Tunic OR Charcoal Grey PantsGreen Tights (winter) or Green Knee Socks (fall and spring)Black Leather Dress Shoes

Boys Number One Dress: Grades 4 - 8Long-Sleeve Crested OxfordCharcoal Grey PantsTie (Buchanan Plaid)Black Leather BeltGrey SocksBlack Leather Dress Shoes

Boys Number One Dress: Grades 1 - 3Long-Sleeve Crested OxfordCharcoal Grey PantsGrey SocksBlack Leather Dress Shoes

Girls and Boys Gym Uniform: Grades 1 - 8Grey “Montcrest” T-ShirtMontcrest Track PantsMontcrest Track JacketWhite SocksRunning Shoes

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CASUAL CLOTHES DAYS (AKA – Grub Days)Grub Days are days when everyone in the school wears casual clothes. Students still need to dress appropriately for school. Everyone needs to dress neatly, in good taste, and in a modest manner conducive with and to a positive learning environment.

APPROPRIATE clothing consists of the following: • All tops must meet the bottoms at waist level (midriff must be covered). • Slogans on T-Shirts cannot be demeaning to any individual or group or suggestive of actions inappropriate to school age children. • All undergarments must be covered.• No clothing worn can be see-through.• Shorts/skirts of appropriate length, must reach the tips of their extended fingers when standing ‘at attention.’ • Clothing should not be ripped.

ALLERGIESAnaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can lead to rapid death if left untreated. All schools in Ontario, by law, are required to follow a protocol in regards to protecting children in our care who have severe allergies. In recent years, anaphylaxis has increased dramatically among children and adolescents. Peanuts and tree nut products are the most common foods to cause anaphylaxis. We endeavour to help our students who have these allergies by reminding families not to send food for sharing unless it is produced in a nut-free bakery or kitchen, or if it comes to school in a package stating that it has been produced in a nut-free factory. This means that unless you have a nut-free home, you cannot send home-baked goods to school with your child for sharing. Also, please do not send lunches made with peanuts or tree nut products.* For those with children who are anaphylactic and use an EpiPen, please make sure that they bring their EpiPen to school every day and carry it with them at all times!

Dogs may be brought to school but we request that you keep your dogon a short leash, away from the JK/SK outdoor play area. Some children and staff are allergic to animals, so please do not bring your pet inside the school buildings.

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DISCIPLINE IN THE SCHOOLAppropriate behaviour, consistent completion of homework assignments and preparation for tests, exams, projects, and culminating tasks are expectations of Montcrest School. In cases where a student is struggling to meet the guidelines set out by the school, parents will be contacted and strategies developed to encourage a positive contribution by the student to the school. Should this fail, suspension may occur or in exceptional instances, a student may be asked to leave the school at any time during the year. Parents would be responsible for the full year’s tuition.

CODE OF CONDUCTThe Code of Conduct, developed by staff and students, embodies our Standing for Character values (Respect, Responsibility, Courage, Compassion and Integrity), and is intended to provide a guideline for the entire community. A Montcrest citizen represents the school’s positive spirit and contributes to its growth by:

• demonstrating honesty and integrity at all times;• respecting people and property in the Montcrest community;• accepting responsibility for work and behaviour;• conducting him/herself with courtesy, compassion, courage and

cooperation

In the event that a student is not following the guidelines established within the Code of Conduct, or where a student is abusive, belligerent, or the safety of others is in question, or would bring the name of Montcrest School into disrepute, some or all of the following consequences may occur:

• The student may be placed on an in-school supervised time-out.• The student may be placed on an in-school supervised suspension.• The student may be placed on an out-of-school supervised time-

out.• The student may be placed on an out-of-school supervised

suspension.• The student may be expelled from the school and parents would be

responsible for the full year’s tuition.• The student may not be offered re-registration for the following year.

POLICY ON PROHIBITED DRUGS, ALCOHOL, AND TOBACCOPossession or use of prohibited drugs is a criminal offence. Any student who uses, possesses or is under the influence of prohibited drugs while on school property, which includes all public areas within a

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one kilometre radius of the school or at any events sanctioned by the school, will be liable for suspension or expulsion. This includes all time spent on field trips, outdoor education trips, athletic trips, dances and other school-sponsored extracurricular activities. Furthermore, any student who distributes or facilitates the distribution of prohibited drugs to any other student on school property or in a public place within a one kilometre radius of the school, or at any school sanctioned event, will be liable for suspension or expulsion.

The use, possession, and being under the influence of alcohol on school property, which includes all public areas within a one kilometre radius of the school, or at any event sanctioned by the school, is considered a serious offence. Violators will be liable for suspension or expulsion. In the event that a student is suspended, a subsequent violation shall result in expulsion. Any student who distributes or facilitates the distribution of alcohol to any other student on school property or in a public place within a one kilometre radius of the school, or at any school sanctioned event, will be liable for suspension or expulsion.

Smoking on school premises, including school buildings, gardens, and sports fields is prohibited. Any student smoking in the school or in any building associated with a Montcrest School field trip or excursion will be liable for suspension or expulsion. In all other situations the emphasis of the consequences will be placed on helping the student refrain from tobacco use. However, repeated violations of the school’s tobacco ban will be dealt with by increasingly strict responses.

ANTI-BULLYING POLICYWe believe students have the right to feel safe and secure at school, and have the responsibility to help prevent bullying. Bullying is defined as a form of repeated, persistent, and aggressive behaviour, directed at an individual (or individuals), which causes distress and/or harm. Bullying will not be tolerated in any form at Montcrest School.

If a bullying incident is reported or observed, it will be addressed with those concerned, and the situation will be monitored. If the problem persists, efforts will be made to reach resolution, providing strategies and support to prevent further conflict. If necessary, parents will be contacted, and a meeting may be arranged to discuss further consequences, which may include suspension, or even expulsion.

STUDENT CELL PHONE POLICYAll students may use cell phones on campus before school begins and

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after school ends. These devices must be kept out of sight and turned off during the school day. There may be times during the school day, and with the permission of a faculty member, a cell phone may be used. Unauthorized use of such devices disrupts the instructional program and distracts from the learning environment. Therefore, unauthorized use is grounds for confiscation of the device by school officials, including classroom teachers. Repeated unauthorized use of such devices may lead to disciplinary action.

ACCEPTABLE USE OF TECHNOLOGY POLICYStudents in Grades 6-8 have their own laptops, purchased through the school. The following policy applies to the use of technology regardless of location or network. To protect the rights and safety of all, the use of technology, the Internet, and online resources, for academic or social interactions, must reflect the Code of Conduct. Computer storage areas including documents, email, CD/DVDs, external hard drives and memory sticks will be treated like school lockers. Users should not expect that files stored on servers or disks will always be private. Faculty may review files and communications at their discretion to ensure responsible use of the system.

During school, teachers will guide students toward appropriate materials. Outside of school, families bear responsibility for such guidance, as they must also exercise guidance with information sources such as television, telephones, movies, radio, and other media. Anything produced with the use of Montcrest technology is considered school property. Both professional and personal use of school technology must reflect the guidelines of responsible conduct. A review of documents, email messages, and Internet use may be conducted on computers or personal electronic devices and network accounts at any time. Consequences may include, but would not be limited to, any or several of the following: a written warning, loss of privileges, repairs to damages at a cost to the student a requirement to attend specific counselling, suspension or expulsion from school. All student violations will be tracked through the IT Computer Misuse Ladder. Conditions for reinstatement of privileges will be determined and reviewed by school administration.

STUDENT CONSEQUENCES FOR CODE OF CONDUCT AND POLICY INFRACTIONS For those few students who experience difficulty in meeting the Code of Conduct, a process of supportive and corrective actions will be followed.

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They include:• Reminders• Warnings• Time out with the teacher and/or Assistant Head of School• Telephone call home• Email home• Related written assignments• Written ‘contracts’• Loss of a privilege• Parent/teacher/student conferences• Team Meeting (Admin., teachers, parents, and in some cases,

the student)• In-school community service work• Repair/restitution for damaged or missing property• Removal from class setting• In-school suspension/out of school suspension• Police contact• Expulsion from the school

SUSPENSION AS A SANCTIONA student will be immediately suspended for the following actions:

1. Uttering a threat to inflict serious bodily harm2. Possession of illegal drugs3. Acts of vandalism causing extreme damage to school property

or property located on school premises.4. Swearing at a teacher, or other person in authority5. Being in possession of alcohol6. Being under the influence of alcohol7. Persistent opposition to authority8.  Persistent truancy9. Conduct injurious to the moral tone of the school10. Conduct injurious to the physical or mental well-being of others

in the school

Circumstances in which suspension might be considered could include:• Repeated incidents of indiscipline in spite of warnings and

counselling by staff• Failure to recognize and submit to legitimate authority• Behaviour which is considered to interfere with the right to learn of

other students• Particularly serious incidents which endanger the welfare of others

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Suspension is a serious sanction and should only be imposed where other efforts to resolve a disciplinary situation have failed or where thenature of an incident dictates that the student be removed from the school immediately. Suspension means that a student has been required to take a “time out” to think seriously about whether he or she wishes to still be a part of the Montcrest community, and about whether he or she can commit to the community values and standards. The duration of the suspension from Montcrest school activities will vary depending on the circumstances. While serving a suspension, a student is barred from all school privileges, including classes, cocurricular activities, and Montcrest School sponsored events.

During their suspension, a student is expected to reflect formally in writing on their behaviour and to set personal goals for improvement. Before their return, the student and their parents may be required to attend a re-entry meeting in which the student, with the support of their family, must demonstrate that they have thought seriously about their attitude, choices, and actions and have made a deliberate re-commitment to Montcrest School’s values and standards.

EXPULSION FROM MONTCREST SCHOOL A student may be expelled for the following actions:

1. Demonstrating a pattern of behaviour where the pupil’s presence is injurious to the effective learning environment of other pupils or persons

2. Engaging in an activity or activities that cause the student’s presence in the school to be injurious to the physical or emotional well-being of other students or persons in the school, or

3. Demonstrating through a pattern of behaviour (eg. neglect of duty, truancy, or opposition to authority) that he/she has not prospered by the instruction available to him/her and that he/she is persistently resistant to making the changes in behaviour which would enable him/her to prosper.

As well, the police may be involved and a student may be immediately suspended and/or expelled for the following actions:

• Possession of a weapon including, but not limited to, firearms• Trafficking in drugs or weapons• Robbery• Use of a weapon to cause bodily harm, or to threaten serious

harm

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• Physical assault casing bodily harm requiring professional medical treatment

• Sexual assault

For extremely serious offenses and violations of school standards and for the failure to meet the requirements of Montcrest School’s Code of Conduct, consideration will be given to the expulsion of the student.

DENIAL OF RE-REGISTRATIONAt the discretion of Montcrest School, a student may be denied re-registration for the subsequent year for reasons including, but not limited to, those set out as suspendable or expellable offences.

ACADEMIC POLICIES

HOMEWORKTeachers will send home information on expectations for parental support in homework assignments. If you have any concerns regarding homework, please speak to the teacher concerned.

EXTRA HELPTeachers provide specific times during the week when they are available for extra help. At the Junior/Senior level, students are expected to take some responsibility in seeking extra help.

LEARNING SUPPORTLearning Support Specialists provide guidance and support in literacy, math, writing, and assistive technologies to homeroom teachers as they differentiate the academic program to support a range of student needs. These specialist teachers, in consultation with the Director of Teaching and Learning, IEP/Gifted Education Coordinator, and homeroom teachers, assess and identify students who are experiencing academic difficulties. Working one-on-one or in small groups, they provide specific, research-based intervention, using a variety of strategies. Learning Support Specialists support students as they transfer their developing skills to their daily work.

SCHOOL SUPPLIESStudents are expected to bring their own supplies as outlined in the “school supply list” available in the Parent Portal. If any special supplies are required, teachers will inform you. Some homeroom teachers choose to use an agenda (daily planner) with their classes. These are printed by the school and if lost, students are required to pay $10 for replacement.

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LOST TEXTBOOKS & LIBRARY BOOKSThe school provides all textbooks. The cost of lost or damaged textbooks and library books will be charged to the parents.

BIRTHDAYS Our school honours children’s birthdays by posting them in the Mirror every month. Some parents bring in nut-free treats. If party invitations are to be handed out at school, they should be given to your child's teacher for distribution in the Friday File. It is expected that all children from your child's class/grade, or all children of the same gender in your child's class/grade be included. If only a few children are going to be invited, please send the invitations out from home.

SNOW DAYSSchool will only be closed if it is impossible or unsafe for staff to get to school by public transportation. If the decision is made to close, this will be communicated as early in the morning as possible, via an email blast as well as on our website.

SPECIAL DAYSThese annual events honour some of our most cherished school traditions and are open to parents and other family members.

Mini Marathon (fall) – Students wear gym clothes to school for this annual run/jog/walk through Riverdale Park.

Muffin Morning (fall) – an opportunity to visit your child’s classrooms, see specialty/rotary teachers, and informally tour the school, while enjoying coffee and a muffin.

Kite Day (spring) – Students wear gym clothes; following a ceremonial assembly they fly their kites (made in art class) in Riverdale Park.

Concerts – These showcase our vocal and instrumental music and are held in December and June. Students wear #1 Dress uniforms on these days.

House Spirit Days – These days are an infusion of house spirit in which the whole school comes together for a short time to work and play together. These days will also provide leadership opportunities for Grade 8 students. House Spirit Days will consist of a variety of pre-planned, cooperative, competitive, and fun inter-house activities. To accommodate for these days, there will be an accelerated schedule in which students attend shortened classes with House Spirit Day commencing at 2:00 p.m. and ending at 3:30 p.m.

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COCURRICULARSAt Montcrest School, we are committed to offering a rich and diverse co-curricular program. Cocurriculars help students to discover their interests, develop confidence, and build their athletic, artistic, and leadership skills. The cocurricular program is driven by our mission statement’s promise to provide balanced opportunities in leadership, the arts, and athletics. The program provides a wide array of offerings for students to participate in.

Students are encouraged to participate in the cocurriculars of their choice during any or all of our three terms. Participation is voluntary and based on each student’s interests and comfort level.

At the start of each term, all cocurricular offerings are presented at a Clubs Assembly. Students are free to participate in as many cocurriculars as they can successfully balance with their academics, and can choose to be more committed in one term than another. The Director of Performing Arts and Cocurriculars and the Director of Athletics work collaboratively with students, homeroom teachers, and teachers offering cocurriculars to help each student identify new or existing areas of interest, and make a plan that best suits them. Parents are also invited to encourage their children to become involved in cocurriculars throughout the year.

CLUBSTeachers offer a variety of cocurricular clubs, most of which run at recesses, however, certain activities for Grades 4 - 8, such as sports teams or Montcrest Singers, are held before or after school. At the start of each term, the new clubs are announced at a Clubs Assembly and a cocurricular calendar is posted in the Montcrest Mirror. Students are encouraged to get involved with at least one club, and for Grades 6 - 8, students are expected to be involved in one club per term.

SPORTS TEAMSMontcrest competes in the Conference of Independent Schools Athletic Association (CISAA). Within CISAA, our students have the opportunity to compete against the very best athletes from other independent schools. This is an important component of the school’s mission to help children reach their potential. In order to develop the skills of our CISAA-level athletes, it is essential that team rosters be kept at a manageable level. This necessitates try-outs and cuts.

This year, all of our Montcrest teams will have tryouts (except cross country and track & field). For students who do not make it on a team,

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there will be the option of joining our intramural program. We have taken time this spring and summer to develop a robust intramural program that will allow our students to develop their skills in organized and competitive team play.

Playing on a team within CISAA is a great experience for our students. They are given the opportunity to meet and play against students and friends from other CISAA schools and they get to travel in Ontario and, on occasion, to tournaments in other provinces. Along with these benefits comes a higher level of commitment. Players on teams also realize that even though they have “made the team”, the amount of playing time a player receives will depend on player skill, game experience, and status of the game (league, exhibition, or playoff). Team practices take place two or three times weekly; often starting at 7:00 a.m. Students must learn to manage their time carefully, remembering that academics always come first. As our graduates move on to high school athletics and beyond, they are not only prepared in the skills and rules of the game, but also in the mindset needed to be an athlete.

It is the expectation that if your child commits to a school team, that they attend all practices, games, and final tournaments.

HONOUR PINSHonour Pins are awarded to recognize students in Grades 4 - 8 for outstanding contributions to our cocurricular program. Students accumulate points for each club/team in which they participate, as well as for community service to the school. Those who have sufficient points will earn a Silver Honour Pin or, very rarely, the Rene Pantalone Gold Honour Pin, named after a longstanding member and past chair of our Board of Governors. Honour Pin presentations take place at assembly, and these pins may be worn on the uniform.

Fall Winter Spring

U10 Boys’ SoccerU12 Boys’ SoccerU14 Boys’ SoccerU10 Girls’ BasketballU12 Girls’ BasketballU14 Girls’ BasketballCross Country (Grades 3-8)

U12 Girls’ VolleyballU14 Girls’ VolleyballU10 Boys’ BasketballU12 Boys’ BasketballU14 Boys’ BasketballCurling (Grades 6-8)

U10 Girls’ Soccer ClubU12 Girls’ SoccerU14 Girls’ SoccerU12 Boys’ SoftballU14 Boys’ SoftballU14 Co-ed Ultimate FrisbeeTrack and Field (Gr. 3-8)Tennis Club

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HOUSE SYSTEMAll students and staff at Montcrest School belong to one of four houses. The houses offer additional opportunities for our community to work and play together and our house system emphasizes cooperation over competition. In addition, each of the houses represents one of the shared values of Responsibility, Integrity, Compassion, and Courage from our “Standing for Character” initiative. Each house is named for a great individual who, through determination and courage, brought about significant positive and lasting change. FOX (Terry Fox - a Canadian Hero), LIVINGSTON (Katherine Livingston - Montcrest School's First Principal), MASIH (Iqbal Masih - the Inspiration for "Free the Children")& MCLUNG (Nellie McClung - a Champion of Women's Rights).

AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS (Beyond The Classroom)Montcrest School organizes fun, interesting, and interactive after school programs for students. Information is posted in the Mirror as well as on our website and in the Parent Portal.

PRIVATE MUSIC LESSONSPrivate music lessons are available for students in Grades 1-8 during all recesses or after school. Registration forms are available on the Parent Portal or from Barb Moore.

MONTCREST PARENTS' ASSOCIATION (MPA)Every parent who has a child at Montcrest School is an automatic and valued member of the Montcrest Parents’ Association. Our primary purpose is to enrich the lives of our children at school by building a strong and nurturing community. We organize, volunteer, and provide support for some of the following events and programs that help build our community. Community Building and Family Support • Fall Fair • Class Cocktail Parties • Family Fun (Past events include Bingo Nights, Pancake Breakfast,

Dance Night) • Welcome Back Coffee Morning • Tuck Shop* • Pizza Lunch* • Climbing in the Gym • Class Parent Representatives • Parent Ambassadors• New Parent Reception

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• Parent Spring Social & Fundraising• Recess Surprise Treats for the Kids• Lice Checks*MPA’s prime sources of income

2017/18 MPA Executive and Officers

Executive

Council

We are always looking for volunteers and new ideas! Please feel free to contact any of the MPA Officers by email or join us at an MPA meeting.

Erin Wright Chair kellyewright23@gmail.com

Kirsten Cooney Vice Chair kirsten.cooney@rogers.com

Kirsten Posehn Past Chair posehn1145@rogers.com

Kelly Shortt Secretary kshortt@willowmedia.ca

Connie Castillo Treasurer lorenzofamily@rogers.com

Geneva Dalley School Liaison geneva_dalley@montcrest.on.ca

Michael Dilworth Director of Advancement

michael_dilworth@montcrest.on.ca

Daphne Pressman Tuck Shop dpressman@rogers.com

Mandi Kimsa Used Uniforms mandi.j.kimsa@gmail.com

Tiffany Knight Fall Fair tiffanybellknight@gmail.com

Heather Abbott Pizza abbott.heather101@gmail.com

Elaine Chan-Dow Community Outreach elaine.chandow@gmail.com

Nancy Hollyoak Lost & Found nhollyoak@rogers.com

Connie Castillo Interguild lorenzofamily@rogers.com

Cari SteinbergParent Ambassador Coordinator cari.steinberg@live.com

TBC Pub Quiz TBC

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During the 2017/18 school year, MPA meetings will be held at 8:30 a.m. in the Learning Commons in Danson House on the following Thursdays:

- Thursday, September 28th - Thursday, November 16th - Thursday, January 25th - Thursday, April 12th - Thursday, May 24th

All parents in the Montcrest community are welcome and encouraged to attend these informative and interactive meetings. If you cannot attend in person, please note that minutes from each meeting will be posted on the Montcrest website under the “Parents” banner and in the MPA sub-section shortly after each meeting.

BOARD OF GOVERNORSThe Board is charged with the responsibility of ensuring the continuing success of the school. Among its members are lawyers, accountants, entrepreneurs, and educators, whose valuable expertise benefits the Board and the school as a whole. Most are either current or former Montcrest parents who are very familiar with the school. A mix of both men and women serve to provide a balance of viewpoint and experience. Over the years, the number of members has varied from 9 to 15, generally serving one or more three-year terms. In addition, outside advisors often serve, making an important contribution, and the Head of School serves "ex officio." While the Board may be the least visible of the school's constituents, it is a group of dedicated volunteers who give a great deal of time and thought to what is best for Montcrest. To read the bios of our current Board members click here.

LIFE AFTER MONTCRESTWe support the transition to high school for our Grade 8 students and their families in the following ways:

• By providing a high school information package in the fall.• By hosting “Life After Montcrest”, a night in September where

you can hear parents of graduates from the previous year talk about their experiences with high school.

• Administration and teachers provide ongoing counselling.• Mock interviews are conducted to prepare students for the

admission process in independent high schools.

Please email Dani Klein at dani_klein@montcrest.on.ca if you have any questions about the application process.

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