FAMILY HANDBOOK 2016 – 2017

Montcrest School

4 Montcrest Blvd. Toronto, Ontario

M4K 1J7

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

E-mail: office@montcrest.on.ca Website: 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.

August 2016 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. You will also have an adult say good-bye to you at the end of the 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 Thompson Head of School

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.

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 must be 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 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. The “GRAPEVINE” At times you may receive information that has been recycled over and over again. Open communications are necessary to avoid turning small problems into large

problems. If you have concerns, please call the faculty member involved to hear another side of the story. If you are dissatisfied with the response or concerned with school policy, please do not hesitate to call the Head of School. We are all working together to provide the best education we can for your child and will have a far greater opportunity to do so if we speak openly and honestly with each other and avoid "grapevine" exaggerations.

MONTCREST FACULTY AND STAFF 2016/2017 Head of School Mr. David Thompson Assistant to Head of School Ms. Maggie Zegas-Tepper Assistant Head of School Mr. Jeff Borsten Director of Teaching & Learning Ms. Nicole Davies IEP/Gifted Education Coordinator Ms. Elana Kerbel Director of Advancement Mr. Michael Dilworth Advancement & Community Relations/ Ms. Arlette Bax MPA Liaison Ms. Geneva Dalley Director of Finance Ms. Dawn Waisberg Finance Assistant Ms. Gilda Bissada Director of Admissions Ms. Erene Augustyn Assistant Director of Admissions Ms. Dana Rostowsky Director of Alumni Relations Ms. Mary Gray Director of Athletics Mr. Grant Nix Director of Performing Arts Ms. Lisa Swarbrick & Cocurriculars Director of Facilities Mr. Greg Reynolds Student Coach Mr. Terry Sherrard

Junior Kindergarten Ms. Mara Berzins Ms. Karen Bell Senior Kindergarten Ms. Diane Kingstone Ms. Christine Dewhurst Grade 1 Ms. Laurie Arseneau Ms. Krista Cobham Grade 2 Ms. Emily Woolner Ms. Silvia Pauksens Grade 3 Ms. Kerry-Ann Grant Ms. Miriam John Ms. Terra Sweet Grade 4 Ms. Emily Hall Ms. Lisa McMeans Ms. Karen Tanod Grade 5 Ms. Blair Livingstone Ms. Katie Willis Mr. David Wichman Grade 6 Ms. Wendy Bain Ms. Nicola Daykin Ms. Carley Page Grade 7 Mr. Ryan Coutts Ms. Mufridah Nolan Ms. Jennifer Vincent Grade 8 Mr. Dan Bailey Ms. Jennifer Bairos Ms. Dawn Cohen Grades 6-8 Science Ms. Yvonne Boyd Mr. Dan Bailey Grades 7 & 8 English Ms. Dani Klein Ms. Mufridah Nolan

Grades 7 & 8 Math Ms. Wendy Bain (Gr. 7) Ms. Dawn Cohen Mr. Peter Smith French Ms. Megan Smith (JK - Gr. 2) Ms. Kerry Hooton (Gr. 3 & 4)

Ms. Emma Stewart (Gr. 5, Gr. 6 - 8 small classes)

Ms. Jennifer Bairos (Gr. 6 - 8) Physical Education Mr. Nick Spence (JK - 5) Mr. Grant Nix (Gr. 5 - 8)

Grades 7 & 8 Ms. Dawn Cohen History/Geography Mr. Dan Bailey Mr. Ryan Coutts Teacher Librarian Ms. Sacha Neesham Vocal Music Ms. Karen Bell (JK/SK) Ms. Carol Macfarlane

(Gr. 1, 3, 4, & 5) Ms. Jennifer Vincent (Gr. 2) Instrumental Music Ms. Carol Macfarlane (Gr. 6) Ms. Jennifer Vincent (Gr. 6 –8) Drama Mr. Ryan Coutts (JK - Gr. 2) Ms. Lisa Swarbrick (Gr. 3 - 8) Art Ms. Catherine Ionno-Dias (SK - Gr. 5) Ms. Dara Gellman (Gr. 6 - 8)

Learning Support Ms. Kara Williams Ms. Sue Lincoln Ms. Jackie MacPherson Mr. Jay Prichard Ms. Tricia Smith Ms. Amy Wise Nature Based Learning/ Mr. Ben Blakey Teacher/Researcher

House System Coordinator Mr. Ryan Coutts Systems Administrator Mr. Krishna Sukhai Help Desk TBA Administrative Assistants Ms. Laura Bazilewich Ms. Barb Moore Maintenance Mr. Darcy Doone Mr. Shannon McEwen Aftercare Supervisor Ms. Johanna Weinstein After School Programs Coordinator Ms. Karen Bell Private Music Lessons Coordinator Ms. Barb Moore

EMAIL

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

HOLIDAY DATES FOR THE 2016/2017 SCHOOL YEAR

First Day of School: Thursday, September 8, 2016 Thanksgiving Day: Last day of classes - Thursday, October 6, 2016 Classes resume - Tuesday, October 11, 2016 *Thursday November 10, 2016 is Parent/Teacher Interview Day (no school) Fall Midterm Break: No school on Friday, November 11, 2016 Classes resume Tuesday, November 15, 2016 December Break: Last day of classes - Thursday, December 22,

2016 Classes resume – Tuesday, January 10, 2017 *Thursday February 16, 2017 is Parent/Teacher Interview Day (no school) Winter Midterm Break: No school on Friday, February 17, 2017 Classes resume Tuesday, February 21, 2017 March Break: Last day of classes - Friday, March 10, 2017 Classes resume - Tuesday, March 28, 2017 April/Easter Break: Last day of classes - Thursday, April 13, 2017 Classes resume - Tuesday, April 18, 2017 Victoria Day: Last day of classes - Friday, May 19, 2017 (Early Dismissal/No Aftercare) Classes resume -Tuesday, May 23, 2017 Last Day of School: Thursday, June 15, 2017 - 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.

SCHOOL HOURS

Outdoor Supervision 8:00 - 8:20 a.m.

Doors Open 8:20 a.m.

O’Canada & Attendance 8:25 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 - 5:30 p.m.

ROUTINES DROP-OFF AND PICK UP

• 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. CARPOOLS Carpools must have one pick-up point. If your carpool includes JK/SK students, please advise the homeroom teacher. Aftercare staff escort JK/SK children 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. TIMETABLE Montcrest’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.

LUNCH Students are not permitted to leave school grounds during school hours to purchase food. Lunch is eaten in the homeroom from 11:40 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 an external provider, details of which are available on our website. AFTERCARE Aftercare 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 will need to complete an Aftercare Registration Form. If Aftercare is required occasionally, please notify the office as the need arises so that the Aftercare staff may be informed. Children must be signed out of Aftercare when being picked up. COMMUNICATION Website: www.montcrest.on.ca Username: parent Password: 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 at any time, and are usually returned the same day.

FRIDAY FILE Most 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 MIRROR Our digital newsletter, The Montcrest Mirror is published at the end of each week, and contains useful information about school life.

REPORTING Communication regarding your child’s academic progress occurs through day-to-day conversations and email, written reports, and parent-teacher interviews. Reports are distributed four times each year. PARENT-TEACHER INTERVIEWS Parent-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.

• 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 the main office at 658 Broadview 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.

SECURITY For 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 ARRANGEMENTS We 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 Girls Number One Dress: Grades 4 - 8 Long-Sleeve Crested Oxford Kilt (Buchanan Plaid) OR Charcoal Grey Pants Tie (Buchanan Plaid) Green Tights (winter) or Green Knee Socks (fall and spring) Black Leather Dress Shoes

Girls Number One Dress: Grades 1 - 3 Long-Sleeve Crested Oxford Crested Tunic OR Charcoal Grey Pants Green Tights (winter) or Green Knee Socks (fall and spring) Black Leather Dress Shoes Boys Number One Dress: Grades 4 - 8 Long-Sleeve Crested Oxford Charcoal Grey Pants Tie (Buchanan Plaid) Black Leather Belt Grey Socks Black Leather Dress Shoes Boys Number One Dress: Grades 1 - 3 Long-Sleeve Crested Oxford Charcoal Grey Pants Grey Socks Black Leather Dress Shoes Girls and Boys Gym Uniform: Grades 1 - 8 Grey “Montcrest” T-Shirt Montcrest Track Pants Montcrest Track Jacket White Socks Running Shoes

• The Tuck Shop sells all items listed above excluding black shoes, running shoes, and white socks.

• The Tuck Shop sells additional seasonal uniform items. • Please ensure that all students’ belongings are LABELLED. • Any unclaimed uniforms in Lost & Found will be sold at the school

store, and other unclaimed items will be donated to a charity. • Children must come to school prepared with appropriate outerwear in

all seasons. 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 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.

ALLERGIES Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can lead to rapid death if left untreated. All schools in Ontario, by law, as of January 1, 2006, 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 of you 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 dog on 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. DISCIPLINE IN THE SCHOOL Appropriate 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 challenged 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 CONDUCT The 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 Tobacco Possession 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 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 Policy We 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 Policy All students may use these devices on campus before school begins and 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 Policy Students 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 at their discretion and communications 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 or staff member, a requirement to attend specific counseling, 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. Examples of 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. 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 sanction A student will be immediately suspended for the following actions:

1. Uttering a threat to inflict serious bodily harm 2. Possession of illegal drugs 3. Acts of vandalism causing extreme damage to school property or

property located on school premises. 4. Swearing at a teacher, or other person in authority 5. Being in possession of alcohol 6. Being under the influence of alcohol 7. Persistent opposition to authority 8. Persistent truancy 9. Conduct injurious to the moral tone of the school 10. 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.

Suspension is a serious sanction and should only be imposed where other efforts to resolve a disciplinary situation have failed or where the nature 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

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 • Physical assault causing 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-registration At 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. HOMEWORK Teachers 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 HELP Teachers 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. SCHOOL SUPPLIES Students are expected to bring their own supplies as outlined in the “school supply list” available on our website. If any special supplies are required, teachers will inform you. Homework books are supplied in Grade 1 and students in Grades 2 - 8 will be supplied with an agenda (daily planner). These are printed by the school and if lost, students are required to pay $10 for replacement.

LOST TEXTBOOKS & LIBRARY BOOKS The 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 DAYS School 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 DAYS These 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 a 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 May or June. Students wear #1 Dress uniforms on these days. COCURRICULARS At 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, beginning in Kindergarten. 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 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. CLUBS Teachers offer a variety of clubs, run at all three recesses, however, certain activities for Grades 4 - 8, such as 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 TEAMS Teams at Montcrest foster a sense of cooperation and school spirit. The teams compete in a variety of sports against other independent schools within the Conference of Independent Schools’ Athletic Association (CISAA). In the fall, Montcrest will be fielding teams in co-ed cross-country running (Grades 3-8), U10 boys’ soccer (Grades 3&4) U12 boys’ soccer (Grades 4-6), U14 boys’ soccer (Grades 7&8), co-ed field hockey (Grades 6-8), and girls’ basketball, U10 (Grades 3-4), U12 (Grades 5-6) and U14 (Grades 7&8). During the winter term, Montcrest will be offering U10 co-ed basketball (Grades

3&4), U12 boys’ basketball (Grades 4-6), U14 boys’ basketball (Grades 7&8), U12 girls’ volleyball (Grades 4-6), and U14 girls’ volleyball (Grades 7&8), and curling Grades 6-8). During the spring term, we will have the co-ed track and field team (Grades 3-8), co-ed ultimate Frisbee team (Grades 7&8), U12 boys’ softball (Grades 4-6), U14 boys’ softball (Grades 7&8), U10 girls’ soccer (Grades 3&4), U12 girls’ soccer (Grades 5&6), U14 girls’ soccer (Grades 7&8), and co-ed tennis (Grades 6-8). HONOUR PINS Honour 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 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. HOUSE SYSTEM 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 Respect, 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).

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.

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, ParentPortal, and flyers are distributed in the Friday File. PRIVATE MUSIC LESSONS Private music lessons are available for students in Grades 1-8 during all recesses or after school. Registration forms are available on our website. LEARNING SUPPORT Learning 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. 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 the following events and programs that help build our community:

• 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 Family Orientation • Parent Spring Social & Fundraising • Recess Surprise Treats for the Kids • Lice Checks

*MPA’s primary sources of income

2016/17 MPA Executive and Officers Executive Chair Alison Cook alison.cook@sympatico.ca Vice Chair Claire Adams cadams@bristowglobalmedia.com Past Chair Kirsten Posehn posehn1145@rogers.com Secretary Heather MacInnis h_macinnis@yahoo.com

Communications Coordinator

Caroline Coulson carolinecoulson@mac.com

School Liaison Geneva Dalley geneva_dalley@montcrest.on.ca Officers Tuck Shop Volunteer & Refreshment Coordinator

Jacquie Gardner jgardner@rogers.com

Tuck Shop Merchandiser Geneva Dalley geneva_dalley@montcrest.on.ca Used Uniform Coordinator

Joanne Sterling joanneandjazz@yahoo.com

Spring Event Coordinator

Andy Cleghorn Kirsten Cooney

andycleghorn@gmail.com kirsten.cooney@rogers.com

Fall Fair Coordinator Caroline Coulson carolinecoulson@mac.com Pizza Lunch Coordinator Heather Abbott abbott.heather101@gmail.com

Family Fun Night Coordinator

Sue ten Brummeler sue@onlinecottagerental.com

Lost and Found Coordinator

Nancy Hollyoak nhollyoak@rogers.com

Community Service Coordinators

Connor Turnbull Kirsten Cooney

connorturnbull@hotmail.com kirsten.cooney@rogers.com

Interguild Representative Connie Costillo lorenzofamily@rogers.com Advertising Coordinator Craig Shibley cshibley@interlog.com Parent Ambassador Coordinator

Cari Steinberg

cari.steinberg@live.com

Parent Ambassadors

Carrie Weston – JK/SK Erika Veh - Gr. 1 Connor Turnbull - Gr. 2-5 Jacquie Gardner - Gr. 6-8 Christina Tuns (small classes)

cweston29@gmail.com erikaveh@rogers.com connorturnbull@hotmail.com jgardner@rogers.com christinatuns@yahoo.ca

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.

During the 2016/2017 school year, MPA meetings will be held at 8:30 a.m. on the following Thursdays: Sept. 29, Oct. 27, Nov. 24, Jan. 26, Feb. 23, Apr. 27, & May 25. 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 GOVERNORS The 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. LIFE AFTER MONTCREST We support the transition to high school with 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 October 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 admis-

sion process in independent high schools