Appendix 1 - Student Code of Conduct

West Point Grey Academy is a community of children and adults whose common goals include the pursuit of personal excellence in academics, the fine and performing arts, athletics and service. The achievement of these goals depends on each individual contributing to the collective experience of the community. Each community member must commit to a standard of behaviour that fosters consideration, trust and mutual respect. The Student Code of Conduct outlines the expectations of student members of West Point Grey Academy.

 

Shared values are the foundation of a successful community. These beliefs guide our attitudes and behaviours. The following are the core values of West Point Grey Academy and accompanying statements of affirmation.

 

Globally Inspired                      We are inspired by, and seek to contribute to, the great ideas of the world.

Academically Innovative          We pursue progressive programs that drive learning and innovation.

Character Driven                     We model empathy and integrity as the basis for all our actions.

Community Spirited                 We are stronger because of our deep connections to each other.

Intentionally Balanced             We thoughtfully and healthily balance our academic, athletic, artistic and social activities.

 

Our values inform our behaviour choices and provide the moral road map for students’ actions as they navigate school life. Values are shown daily in efforts to do one’s best, act with social interest and conduct oneself honourably, all with the view of developing into a young adult of solid moral character. While West Point Grey Academy always takes into account a student’s developmental age, maturity and any special circumstances that may interfere with the student’s ability to adhere to behavioural expectations, the following are what we expect of all students.

 

At West Point Grey Academy, the wellbeing of our students is our priority, and we ensure all children experience a learning environment in which they feel safe, accepted and respected. Bullying, harassment and discrimination on any ground, including sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, race, religion, or physical or mental disability, will not be tolerated. Bullying is defined as a pattern of unwelcome or aggressive behaviour, often with the intent of making others uncomfortable, scared or hurt. It is almost always used as a way of having control or power.

 

Unacceptable student behaviours which may be subject to discipline include, but are not limited to:

 

Where appropriate, the School may involve the police in serious issues of misconduct. School administration will cooperate with law enforcement agencies where student violations of the law affect the school and the community. Where an out-of-school incident may impact on the school environment or reputation, student disciplinary action may also be taken.

 

West Point Grey Academy believes that compassionate discipline is educational, contextual and restorative. Guidance and discipline begin at the homeroom, advisory and classroom level. Regular dialogue with the student, ongoing communication with the parents, appropriate consequences, and formal documentation of incidents provide the basis for behaviour management. The counselling department may further the work initiated by providing an opportunity for continued dialogue, problem solving and personal reflection. Where a student does not exhibit a significant positive change in behaviour, the Administration will become involved with disciplinary action.

 

Due process will be followed during investigations and the imposition of discipline having regard to the nature and seriousness of the conduct in issue. The designated administrator shall have responsibility for the investigation of disciplinary incidents and for the imposition of discipline. Decisions regarding the imposition of suspensions shall be the responsibility of the Head of Junior/Senior School. Decisions regarding expulsion or non-re-enrollment shall be the responsibility of the Head of School. Prior to a suspension being imposed, the parents/guardians will be notified and will be provided with the opportunity to offer any information they consider relevant. Prior to a decision respecting expulsion or non-re-enrollment, the student and parents/guardians shall have the opportunity to meet with the Head of School. Decisions to expel a student or not to re-enroll a student may be appealed by a family to the Chair of the Board of Directors within seven days of notification of the expulsion/non re-enrollment decision. The decision of the Chair is final.

 

When determining the severity of the consequence, the student’s developmental stage, the student’s previous history, the seriousness of the behaviour and the student’s willingness to make positive changes will all be considered.

 

Consequences may include but are not limited to the following:

 

As well, students are subject to discipline for conduct that is inconsistent with school policies, available on Wolfnet > Resources.

 

Academic Integrity means being honest, fair and responsible for learning both at school and at home and that the authenticity of assessment is indisputable. This involves the commitment by all students, teachers and staff, parents and all members of the school community to ensure that academic work represents the highest standards of individual student integrity and preparation. Academic dishonesty, to any level, is not acceptable and students who are found to be academically dishonest will be subject to consequences as described in the Senior School Academic Integrity Code (see below).

 

Confidentiality between a counsellor and student is required to establish an environment of trust and security for constructive, safe disclosure and counsel, and forms the ethical basis of many professional counselling bodies. However, if the counsellor feels a student’s safety and well-being are compromised, or the safety of others is in dispute, the counsellor may disclose information to the parents, the Ministry of Children and Families, or other appropriate persons.

                       

At WPGA, we believe in effective communication: clear messages presented for open, honest and respectful dialog, in which we take into account each other’s perspective and understanding, and foremost, the wellbeing of students. This applies to students, parents, teachers, staff and all community members. Effective communication may not solve a problem immediately; sometimes, it requires a series of conversations to resolve an issue.

 

To facilitate effective communication between parents and the school, we offer these guidelines: