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NEWMARKET HIGH SCHOOL 505 Pickering Crescent Newmarket, Ontario L3Y 8H1 Phone: (905) 895-5159 Fax: (905) 895-5726 email: [email protected] website: http://newmarket.hs.yrdsb.ca/ Follow us on Twitter @nhs_yrdsb Information Package 2017 - 2018 Work Conquers All

NEWMARKET HIGH SCHOOL - York Region District … to Newmarket High School by connecting with teachers via email or phone, following us on our Twitter account @nhs_yrdsb, and reading

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Page 1: NEWMARKET HIGH SCHOOL - York Region District … to Newmarket High School by connecting with teachers via email or phone, following us on our Twitter account @nhs_yrdsb, and reading

NEWMARKET HIGH SCHOOL

505 Pickering Crescent Newmarket, Ontario L3Y 8H1

Phone: (905) 895-5159 Fax: (905) 895-5726

email: [email protected] website: http://newmarket.hs.yrdsb.ca/

Follow us on Twitter @nhs_yrdsb

Information Package

2017 - 2018

Work Conquers All

Page 2: NEWMARKET HIGH SCHOOL - York Region District … to Newmarket High School by connecting with teachers via email or phone, following us on our Twitter account @nhs_yrdsb, and reading

N e w m a r k e t H i g h S c h o o l

505 Pickering Crescent, Newmarket, Ontario L3Y 8H1 Phone: (905) 895-5159, Fax: (905) 895-5726, email: [email protected]

website: http://newmarket.hs.yrdsb.ca/

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W e l c o m e

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Welcome to the 2017-2018 school year at Newmarket High School. I trust that you have had a restful and enjoyable summer break. As we prepare for the new school year, with all its excitement and busyness, I would like to emphasize that at Newmarket High School we are committed to ensuring our students and staff have a healthy balance in their lives. We believe it is important to balance the pursuit of educational excellence with personal well-being. We are committed to providing a learning environment that fosters well-being and inclusion while continuing to uphold our long history of academic and co-curricular excellence. In order that your child’s academic and emotional needs are met, I believe it is essential that we have a strong school to home connection. As parents or guardians of Newmarket High School students I ask that you remain linked to Newmarket High School by connecting with teachers via email or phone, following us on our Twitter account @nhs_yrdsb, and reading our bi-weekly e-Bulletin. At home, I encourage all families to intentionally look for ways to remain connected as a family unit during the school months. Together we can ensure that the school community we create is one that balances academic excellence and personal well-being. I wish you all a very successful school year.

Erik Gordon Principal

SCHOOL MOTTO LABOR OMNIA VINCIT - WORK CONQUERS ALL

SCHOOL MASCOT Raider

Principal – Mr. Erik Gordon Vice-Principal – Mr. Josh Platt

Vice-Principal – Ms. Pina Viscomi

We are proud of our tradition of excellence and of our caring approach to the education of young adults. It is our intention to provide the best learning experiences and support services to ensure your success. We want you to enjoy school life to the fullest, and to graduate with positive memories of your years at Newmarket High School.

Newmarket High School is committed to: · developing life-long learners; · developing students who are responsible, caring and self-disciplined citizens; · providing a strong co-curricular program; · providing access to information technology across the curriculum; and · strengthening our partnerships with parents and the community.

Page 3: NEWMARKET HIGH SCHOOL - York Region District … to Newmarket High School by connecting with teachers via email or phone, following us on our Twitter account @nhs_yrdsb, and reading

N e w m a r k e t H i g h S c h o o l

505 Pickering Crescent, Newmarket, Ontario L3Y 8H1 Phone: (905) 895-5159, Fax: (905) 895-5726, email: [email protected]

website: http://newmarket.hs.yrdsb.ca/

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This package has been prepared to: · introduce you to our school; · clarify your responsibilities and our expectations; · provide information on school policies and procedures; and · inform you of services which can provide assistance to you.

Information Package and Form Checklist

This package includes important information about our school, and a number of forms that you need to complete for each child.

Return the completed forms to your child’s homeroom teacher by Friday, September 15, 2017.

Required Forms These forms must be completed.

School Start-Up Permissions Form Policy Agreement Registration Verification/Office Index Card/Emergency Contact Information

Additional Forms These programs or opportunities are optional. These forms must be completed only if you wish or your child wishes to participate.

Consent for Information Sharing – Students at the Age of Majority Faith Request for Curriculum Accommodations Form School Council Nomination Form Student Accident Insurance Enrolment Form Volunteers in Our Schools

School Timetable

Period 1 8:05 a.m. to 9:25 a.m. (includes homeroom)

Period 2 9:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.

Period 3 10:50 a.m. to 12:05 p.m.

Period 4 12:10 p.m. to 1:25 p.m.

Period 5 1:30 p.m. to 2:45 p.m.

Office hours: 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Allergies/Medical Conditions/Fragrances

There are students and staff members in our school who have life-threatening allergies to certain foods and other allergens. If they smell or come into contact with these substances, they may have an anaphylactic reaction. To help create an allergen-safe environment, please do not bring nuts, nut products, or kiwis to school. Furthermore, there are a number of students and staff with severe allergies to fragrances, please do not come to school wearing scented products. Our building is a scent-free facility. For more information on

Page 4: NEWMARKET HIGH SCHOOL - York Region District … to Newmarket High School by connecting with teachers via email or phone, following us on our Twitter account @nhs_yrdsb, and reading

N e w m a r k e t H i g h S c h o o l

505 Pickering Crescent, Newmarket, Ontario L3Y 8H1 Phone: (905) 895-5159, Fax: (905) 895-5726, email: [email protected]

website: http://newmarket.hs.yrdsb.ca/

4

helping to create an allergen-safe environment, please see the section on Allergies in the Guide to the School Year. If your child has a serious or life-threatening allergy or medical condition, inform the school and complete the appropriate medical forms.

Announcements

Important information is shared with students during the morning announcements at the end of period one. Students should listen attentively and respectfully during the announcements. Announcements are also displayed on the screen outside the library.

Arrivals and Departures

Parents/guardians who drive their children to school are asked to: · drop children off before 7:45 a.m.;

· pick children up after 3:00 p.m.;

· refrain from driving through or parking in the designated bus lane (lane immediately in front of main

school doors) between 7:30 a.m. – 8:15 a.m. and 2:15 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.;

· park and wait in a designated parking spot when picking up children; and

· remain distraction free while moving through the parking lot.

Students are not permitted to be dropped off or picked up at the back of the school.

Students who drive to school must display a valid parking pass and park only in the designated student parking area. Parking passes are available in the main office for a cost of $3 per school year. For students who take the school bus students are dropped off and picked up at the front of the school. Please refer to the YRDSB Guide to the 2017-2018 School Year for additional information. Information about bus routes and times can be found at www.schoolbuscity.com. Parents/guardians, it is important to remember your child’s bus number and pick-up/drop-off times. Students may not rollerblade, skateboard or use a scooter on school property. If a student does not comply, these items may be confiscated and/or the student may be suspended for repeated offences. The school is not responsible for any lost or damaged personal items.

Students who use bicycles, rollerblades, skateboards or scooters to travel to school: · must wear a helmet; · must walk while on school property; · must lock bicycles on the bike rack; and · must store rollerblades, skateboards or scooters in their locker or backpack.

Assessment, Evaluation and Communication Policy

Assessment, evaluation and communication of student learning and achievement are essential components of the teaching and learning process, and form the basis of an effective educational program. The role of assessment is to improve student learning by providing information needed to inform instruction to meet each student’s strengths, needs and interests. Student involvement in assessment practices increases

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N e w m a r k e t H i g h S c h o o l

505 Pickering Crescent, Newmarket, Ontario L3Y 8H1 Phone: (905) 895-5159, Fax: (905) 895-5726, email: [email protected]

website: http://newmarket.hs.yrdsb.ca/

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engagement, learning, and achievement. High-quality assessment practices provide students with multiple and varied opportunities to demonstrate achievement, and lead to deeper learning.

Our procedures and process for assessment, evaluation, and reporting at Newmarket High School are outlined below, and stem from the fundamental principles found in the Ministry of Education’s document: Growing Success – Assessment, Evaluation and Reporting: Improving Student Learning. Policy for Evaluation and Reporting At the beginning of each course, students shall receive a course outline which includes how they will be evaluated. Ongoing assessments will be used to support course evaluations.

Student work is evaluated according to the following Achievement Chart categories: · Knowledge/Understanding; · Thinking; · Communication; and · Application.

Courses are divided into two parts for evaluation purposes: · 70% of the final grade will be based on cumulative evidence of the assessments and

evaluations completed throughout the course. · 30% of the final grade will be based on the final summative evaluations which take place toward the

end of the course.

Responsibilities Students, teachers, and parents all have critical roles in ensuring that students submit evidence of their learning to meet course expectations within established timelines.

To assist students, teachers will: · implement effective assessment, evaluation and communication practices which are carefully

planned to relate to the curriculum expectations and learning goals, to the interests, learning styles, needs and experiences of each student;

· include a variety of assessment as, for and of learning practices on an ongoing basis over a period of time;

· provide ongoing descriptive feedback that is clear, specific, meaningful and timely regarding learning, prior to the final evaluation;

· develop and assess students’ learning skills and work habits that support life-long learning; provide clear communication of timelines, due dates and the school policy for assessment and evaluation, including academic integrity;

· set new due dates for individual students on an individual basis, should extraordinary circumstances arise;

· provide ongoing communication with parents/guardians about student learning and achievement throughout the school year; and

· use fair, transparent and equitable assessment, evaluation and communication practices. Students will:

· provide evidence of their achievement of the curriculum expectations within the time frame, and in a form approved by the teacher;

· demonstrate the learning skills and work habits that support life-long learning; · use descriptive feedback to monitor their own learning;

Page 6: NEWMARKET HIGH SCHOOL - York Region District … to Newmarket High School by connecting with teachers via email or phone, following us on our Twitter account @nhs_yrdsb, and reading

N e w m a r k e t H i g h S c h o o l

505 Pickering Crescent, Newmarket, Ontario L3Y 8H1 Phone: (905) 895-5159, Fax: (905) 895-5726, email: [email protected]

website: http://newmarket.hs.yrdsb.ca/

6

· recognize, describe and apply success criteria in relation to the learning goals; · reflect on their thinking and learning to inform next steps; · fulfill their responsibilities and commitments within the learning environment; · seek assistance proactively where appropriate; · communicate with the teacher prior to the due date, if unable to meet timelines; · advise teachers prior to authorized absences due to school events, and assume responsibility to

complete missed work; and · ensure that late and/or missed assignments for evaluation are completed within the re-negotiated

timelines. To assist students, parents/guardians will:

· learn how assessment and evaluation information is being used; · work collaboratively with the school, teacher and child; · actively monitor their child’s learning and support the child in implementing next steps for

improvement; · communicate regularly with their child’s teacher(s); · assist with developing the importance of creating and submitting high quality original work; · assist with developing learning skills (especially time management) in order to meet deadlines; and · advise teachers and provide documentation prior to authorized absences.

For more information, please review http;//www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/policyfunding/success.html

Policy for Completion of Assignments Students are expected to complete all tasks. Any work not completed may receive a mark of zero. Refer to the Assessment of Learning Student Contract for the submission of late work found on the school website.

Policy for Absences Regular attendance is one of the most important contributors to success at school. Students must make every effort to attend regularly. A great emphasis is placed on active participation and on the process of learning. Lengthy or frequent absences are detrimental to a student’s success.

a. Summative Evaluations including Exams:

Students who cannot complete the final evaluation due to illness or family emergency must provide: · a medical note, in the case of illness, indicating the date of illness; or · documentation of the emergency in the case of a serious family situation. Students who do not complete the final summative evaluation for any other reason may receive a mark of zero.

b. Evaluations/Deadlines Missed Due to Truancy (Unauthorized Absence):

When a student is truant for any evaluation or deadline, a mark of zero may be assigned.

Academic Integrity Students at Newmarket High School are expected to think independently and work honestly. They must provide original evidence of their learning and appropriately acknowledge the work of authors. Cheating and plagiarism are not condoned.

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N e w m a r k e t H i g h S c h o o l

505 Pickering Crescent, Newmarket, Ontario L3Y 8H1 Phone: (905) 895-5159, Fax: (905) 895-5726, email: [email protected]

website: http://newmarket.hs.yrdsb.ca/

7

Consequences for Plagiarism and Cheating: Students involved in acts of academic dishonesty will be referred to a school administrator. Consequences may include:

· parental/guardian contact;

· a mark of zero for the assignment or evaluation; and

· completion of an academic integrity workshop.

Attendance

There is a positive relationship between regular attendance and success in school. Students at NHS are required to attend regularly, to be punctual, and to participate in all scheduled classes. Failure to attend class will result in one or more of the following interventions: counseling, warnings, parental contact, detentions and/or suspension. There are some reasons for a valid absence. These include illness, bereavement, doctor appointments, driver’s test, and/or court appearances. Students who have been excused for field trips, and sports events will be considered to be “in attendance” at school although they may not be physically in the building. Extended absences, two school days or more, require the completion of the “Extended Absence Form.” This form may be obtained from the Main Office. Subject teachers and a parent/guardian signature are required. The completed form must be returned for approval by a vice-principal at least one week prior to the absence. It is the student’s responsibility to catch up on all work missed.

Please do not plan extended absences during exam/summative periods as these assessments cannot be re-scheduled. Absences at this time will result in a mark of zero on the exam or summative. The following information outlines an attendance situation and the process to be followed: Full Day Absence

· a parent/guardian phones the school with a valid reason. A secretary notes the call on the student’s attendance.

· if a parent does not phone the school, a note with a valid reason for the absence must be presented to the Attendance Office upon return.

· the student receives an admit slip. The admit slip is to be shown to each teacher. Absent For At Least One Class

· a parent/guardian phones with a valid reason or provides the student with a note. · if the student is late arriving, s/he goes to the Attendance Office to sign in and get an admit slip. The

admit slip should be shown to the subject teachers of missed classes. Leaving Before the End of the Day

· the student signs out in the Attendance Office with a note from a parent/guardian. In the case of an emergency, the office will phone the parent/guardian.

· an admit slip is shown to the subject teachers of missed classes the following day. Late for Class (Arriving After the Bell)

· if a student is less than fifteen minutes late, the student will go directly to class. The subject teacher will discuss the tardiness with the student and may refer to an administrator.

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N e w m a r k e t H i g h S c h o o l

505 Pickering Crescent, Newmarket, Ontario L3Y 8H1 Phone: (905) 895-5159, Fax: (905) 895-5726, email: [email protected]

website: http://newmarket.hs.yrdsb.ca/

8

Absences for students over the age of 18 Students 18 years of age or older are adults, and can, therefore, sign in and out of school. They are expected to report their absence to the attendance office before 8:00 a.m. when they are going to be absent. Students arriving or leaving during the school day must sign in/out with the attendance secretary. These students have 5 sign in and 5 sign out privileges per semester. Administrator approval must be obtained for additional sign in/outs. Students still remain responsible for the completion of class work missed during an absence.

Awards and Recognition Program

Honour Roll – awarded to students achieving an average of 80% or higher in Newmarket High School courses in the previous school year. (Grade 9 – at least 8 credits, Grade 10 – minimum of 8 credits, Grade 11 – minimum of 7 credits, Grade 12 – minimum of 6 credits). Principal’s Honour Roll – awarded to students achieving an average of 90% or higher in the previous school year. This award follows the guidelines as indicated for the “Honour Roll”. Student Excellence Awards – awarded to students in recognition of outstanding academic achievement in a particular subject (e.g. Grade 10 math) in the previous school year. Subject criteria may vary depending on the Department.

Cafeteria

The cafeteria has been designed as an environmentally friendly facility. All students work together to maintain a clean and healthy environment. Use the garbage and recycling boxes appropriately. Deposit

recyclable items in the receptacles provided.

Canada’s Anti-Spam Legislation (CASL)

Canada’s Anti-Spam Legislation (CASL) impacts how schools, staff and school councils communicate electronically to parents. CASL prohibits the sending of any type of electronic message that is commercial in nature (e.g., registration fees, pizza days, field trips, fundraising, etc.) unless the recipient has provided specific and informed consent. CASL does not apply to electronic information messages or to hard copy formats.

To subscribe or unsubscribe to commercial electronic messages, parents/guardians should visit the school website and, using the link provided, submit a valid email address.

Co-curricular Activities

Students are encouraged to participate in a wide variety of activities beyond the academic program. Joining a club or team provides an opportunity to meet additional friends, and to develop a variety of skills. For club membership students must:

· have paid the school activity fee; · have a Student Card, which will enable them to participate in all school activities; · have regular school attendance; and · have paid any club/team fee to offset costs (e.g. transportation, material, officiating etc.).

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N e w m a r k e t H i g h S c h o o l

505 Pickering Crescent, Newmarket, Ontario L3Y 8H1 Phone: (905) 895-5159, Fax: (905) 895-5726, email: [email protected]

website: http://newmarket.hs.yrdsb.ca/

9

Code of Student Conduct

Students are expected to demonstrate behaviour that is respectful and courteous at all times. This includes demonstrating respect for each other and our community. These expectations are indicated in our Code of Student Conduct. The Code of Student Conduct is based on the YRDSB Policy #668.0, Caring and Safe Schools. The Board’s policies are based on the standards of behaviour as established in the Provincial Code of Conduct and the Ontario Human Rights Code. Students are expected to follow these rules of behaviour on school property and during Board or school-sponsored events and activities. Specifically students shall:

· understand that they are critical partners in establishing and supporting a positive school climate and are expected to learn and practice the standards of respectful and responsible behaviour;

· contribute to the positive school climate; · accept responsibility for protecting their own rights while respecting the rights of others; · be accountable for their actions; and · uphold the standards of responsible behaviour by;

· communicating respectfully verbally, non-verbally and through technology, · making positive decisions that develop character and promote well-being, · coming to school prepared, on time and ready to learn, · showing respect for themselves and for others, · following the established rules and taking responsibility for their own actions, · refraining from any action or behaviour that may put their safety or the safety of others at risk,

and · reporting incidents of inappropriate or unsafe behaviour.

Students have the right to attend school and to learn in an environment that is dynamic, purposeful, inviting, and secure. Behaving as a contributing member of the school community will enhance a student’s sense of self-worth and develop the self-discipline required of responsible members of society as a whole. Therefore, the Code of Student Conduct exists to:

· create and maintain the best learning environment possible; · ensure that the rights of every member of the school community are protected and that harmony and

respect exist amongst all of these members; · build self-worth, self-respect and self discipline; · identify and develop the habits and qualities that define a multidimensional global citizen; and · maintain a safe learning environment.

When a student’s behaviour does not meet the expectations found within the Code of Student Conduct. Any of the following actions or a combination of these may be employed to improve this behaviour:

· counselling by teachers, guidance counsellors, vice-principal or the principal; · parent consultation by telephone or through meetings at the school; · exclusion from class for a specified time; · community work within the school property boundaries; · referral to outside agencies; · payment for, or replacement of, stolen or damaged goods; · student contract; · withdrawal of privileges such as participation in school events, and team membership;

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N e w m a r k e t H i g h S c h o o l

505 Pickering Crescent, Newmarket, Ontario L3Y 8H1 Phone: (905) 895-5159, Fax: (905) 895-5726, email: [email protected]

website: http://newmarket.hs.yrdsb.ca/

10

· suspension from school; or · expulsion from the York Region District School Board.

Communication Home

Parents/guardians are our most important partners in educating children. We communicate with you in a variety of ways throughout the year. We encourage you to remain linked to the school by connecting with teachers via email or phone; through our school website at http://newmarket.hs.yrdsb.ca/; or follow us on Twitter @nhs_yrdsb.

To improve communication between home and school and reduce paper use, we coordinate an email distribution list. The list will be maintained and used only by school staff to communicate electronically to parents/guardians. In addition, you can follow Board news and updates through www.yrdsb.ca ; Twitter@YRDSB; YouTube channel YRDSBMedia; and the Board app YRDSB Mobile.

Dress Code

Newmarket High School is a learning environment in which all participants are expected to dress appropriately. The school dress code is designed to promote respect and well-being; while maintaining academic focus in the school. Instruction is interrupted when a student has to be seen by an administrator because his or her dress is inappropriate.

Students may not wear clothing that: · displays provocative, obscene, sexist or racist graphics or language;

· refers to drugs, alcohol, or smoking;

· contravenes the Ontario Human Rights Code; and

· reveals midriffs, undergarments or is a low-cut top.

Furthermore, students are not permitted to wear hoods, bandanas or sunglasses. Students may wear hats and they must wear footwear at all times.

Infractions may result in one or more of the following consequences: · initial warning; · phone call to parents/guardians; · request to change or return home to change; and/or

· detentions/suspension for habitual infractions.

Emergency Information

Office staff should be notified as soon as possible if any of the following information changes: · address, work or home numbers or other contact information; · emergency contacts and telephone numbers; · changes in custody agreement; and · medical alert or changes in health condition (e.g. allergies, medications).

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N e w m a r k e t H i g h S c h o o l

505 Pickering Crescent, Newmarket, Ontario L3Y 8H1 Phone: (905) 895-5159, Fax: (905) 895-5726, email: [email protected]

website: http://newmarket.hs.yrdsb.ca/

11

Emergency Procedures

The Board has a number of policies and procedures in place to address emergency situations when normal school operations cannot continue or where student and staff member safety may be at risk. This could include a fire, flood or acts of violence. All schools have individual plans and conduct drills throughout the year.

There will be six fire, two lockdown and one hold and secure drill annually so students become familiar with emergency preparedness procedures. These drills are important so that in the case of an actual emergency, students and staff members know what to do to be safe.

In a hold and secure situation, York Regional Police will ask that outside doors of a school be locked. Normal school operations will continue inside the building, but no one may enter or leave the building until police indicate it is safe to do so. This will occur regardless of weather.

Excursions/Community Walkabout

Teachers may take classes on walks around the community to support classroom programs. As well, many physical education classes and other activities are held outdoors, weather permitting. You will be informed whenever school vehicles are used for longer trips.

Field Trips

School field trips are excursions organized by staff members for students. Field trips are used to enhance the curriculum by providing enrichment activities for students. They are enrichment activities, and student participation is recommended, but not mandatory. A student’s evaluation will not be adversely affected if he/she chooses not to participate in a field trip.

· students on school field trips are subject to the same expectations that apply at school. It is expected that students will behave appropriately on all field trips;

· teacher supervisors are responsible for the safety and welfare of students; therefore, students must follow instructions at all times;

· a student going on a school trip must have returned a signed parent consent form prior to the date of the trip;

· whenever a bus is arranged for a field trip, all students must go on the bus and return on the bus; · while riding on the bus, students are expected to act in a manner which allows the driver to give full

attention to the driving of the bus and safety of the passengers; · students who misbehave on school field trips will forfeit the privilege of participating in other school

trips for a specified period of time; · it is the responsibility of the student to complete the work missed in other classes as a result of

participating in the trip;

· students should notify their teachers at least two days in advance of a trip; · the organizing teacher has the right to refuse a student the opportunity to participate on a trip if the

student is not achieving well, or if discipline or attendance is a problem; and · smoking is not permitted on field trips.

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N e w m a r k e t H i g h S c h o o l

505 Pickering Crescent, Newmarket, Ontario L3Y 8H1 Phone: (905) 895-5159, Fax: (905) 895-5726, email: [email protected]

website: http://newmarket.hs.yrdsb.ca/

12

Guidance

The Guidance department offers a number of services, including support for academic and career planning, personal counseling, referrals to community resources, and support for the development of study habits and life skills. For more information, contact the school’s Guidance department.

Course Changes Changes will only be made for the sound educational reasons. Courses may not be added after the first two weeks of the semester, unless, due to extenuating circumstances, as approved by the Principal. Students may request a pathway change, provided this is done no later than one week after mid-semester report cards are distributed in November and April. Grade 11 and 12 courses that are changed or dropped after this time are subject to full disclosure.

Course Load All students are expected to be full-time students and take four courses each semester until they have achieved 24 credits. After this, students must take three or more courses per semester to ensure graduation. Taking only three courses in a semester is not recommended. When choosing courses, pay close attention to all pre-requisites, as well as to the graduation requirements outlined under the heading, “Credit Totals,” located at the bottom of every student’s Credit Counseling Summary. Guidance Counselors and teachers are available to support the course selection process which students (with their parents) ultimately complete on-line. Remember, the courses that run each semester are entirely dependent on courses students choose electronically at course selection time. If only a few students select a course, a course will not run. Research and choose courses carefully the first time, because it is not always possible to make changes once a semester is underway. Choose once, choose wisely!

Course Selection Information about all courses can be found at www.yrdsb.ca. The courses offered at NHS can be found via our school’s link on the Board’s website. Requests for course changes (adds or drops) cannot be processed within the two-week period prior to report card distribution.

Homework

The Ministry of Education defines homework as “work that students do at home to practise skills, consolidate knowledge and skills, and /or prepare for the next class.” The Board has a homework policy that supports student learning and recognizes the importance of personal and family well-being. The amount, frequency and nature of assigned homework will vary depending on the student’s strengths and needs, well-being, grade, subject and other factors. For more information about time guidelines and how parents can provide support, please see the Guide to the School year and Board Policy and Procedure #320.0, Homework.

Information Sharing – Students at the Age of Majority

Once a student reaches the age of majority (18) all communications regarding their school matters (e.g., absences, etc.) will cease to go to the parents/guardians as the student is deemed an adult for the purposes of the Education Act.

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N e w m a r k e t H i g h S c h o o l

505 Pickering Crescent, Newmarket, Ontario L3Y 8H1 Phone: (905) 895-5159, Fax: (905) 895-5726, email: [email protected]

website: http://newmarket.hs.yrdsb.ca/

13

A student may complete the Consent for Information Sharing – Students at the Age of Majority Form available through the school to provide express approval for the school to contact parent(s)/guardian(s).

Lockers

School lockers are the property of the York Region District School Board. Lockers are on loan to students and can be opened and searched by school personnel at any time. Lockers are loaned to students to store textbooks and personal belongings. Students will be issued a shared locker at the beginning of each school year. Students are expected to:

· maintain the locker in a clean and orderly fashion; · keep the locker locked using the assigned lock; · be aware that the school cannot assume responsibility for lost or stolen articles; and

· leave valuable items at home.

Requests for Religious Accommodation

There may be circumstances where students and families request accommodation for religious beliefs in curriculum areas including the Arts and Physical Education. Accommodations may include different instruction and assessment opportunities, or full withdrawal. If you are interested in discussing an accommodation based upon your religious beliefs, speak with your child’s teacher and the school principal or complete the Faith Requests for Curriculum Accommodations form available through the school. By providing a range of accommodations, we are building a sense of community and belonging for all students. For more information, see Board Procedure #261.8, Equity and Inclusivity: Religious Accommodation.

School Council

As parents/guardians, there are many ways you can be engaged in your child’s learning at home and at school. NHS has an active School Council comprised of parents, community members, students, and staff who provide advice on matters pertaining to the school. All parents are welcome to attend the meetings to discuss issues, exchange information, or pose questions. Contact the school office staff for more information. Meeting dates and times are posted on the NHS website.

Smoking/Vaping

There is no smoking or vaping on any York Region District School Board property. Students found to be smoking, vaping, or holding lit tobacco products on school property may be fined in excess of $300, as per a Newmarket municipal by-law.

Student Council Executive

The Student Council represents all students in our school. The elected executive acts as a liaison between students and staff/administration by voicing student concerns and opinions. The council encourages students to participate in school and community life by recognizing student achievement, by organizing a variety of activities, and by providing leadership opportunities. The student council executive is comprised of President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, Fundraising Director, Media Director, Advertising Director, Senior Representative, Junior Representative, Minister of External Affairs, Social Convenors and Technical Directors. These members play a leadership role in organizing school activities, such as spirit days, school dances, fundraising activities, food drive, etc. The Student Council provides funds to school clubs and charities. Elections for Student Council executive take place in May. A Vice-President election takes place in

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N e w m a r k e t H i g h S c h o o l

505 Pickering Crescent, Newmarket, Ontario L3Y 8H1 Phone: (905) 895-5159, Fax: (905) 895-5726, email: [email protected]

website: http://newmarket.hs.yrdsb.ca/

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January and June. Student Council positions are open to NHS students with an overall academic standing of 65% in their current year.

Student Personal Information

Schools routinely collect, use and release student personal information, in keeping with the Education Act and other laws. Whenever your child’s personal information is collected, its use will be explained to you. Please see the section on Student Personal Information in the Guide to the School Year for a list of examples of when permission will be sought. Parents must sign the Policy Agreement Form, acknowledging that they have read and understood this information. If you have any questions about your child’s privacy protection, please contact the school principal or the Information Access and Privacy Office at 905-727-0022 ext. 2015.

Textbooks/Library Materials

Textbooks and library materials are the property of the YRDSB. All students must return all items and materials

in good condition or pay the replacement cost.

Use of Non-Board Electronic Devices

Each school has its own guidelines about electronic devices. At a minimum, cell phones and other personal communication devices must be turned off and kept out of sight during all instructional periods, except with the clear permission from the classroom teacher.

Discussions will take place in our classrooms throughout the year about the impact of digital footprints and how a positive attitude towards using technology supports collaboration, learning and productivity. Camera and/or video functions on mobile devices are not permitted for use on school property without clear permission from the principal or teacher. Infractions will be dealt with as student discipline, under Board Policy #668.0, Caring and Safe Schools and its related procedures.

Check with the school’s main office to find out if students may bring electronic devices into the classroom, use them in school, or if they must leave these items in their backpacks/lockers. There are exceptions for students who need specific devices as per their Individual Education Plan, such as voice recorders and other mobile technology. The use of these tools is managed by Board staff.

At no time may electronic devices be used in washrooms or change rooms. Students are responsible for the care and security of their personal devices. The school is not responsible for any damage, loss or theft.

Valuables

Students are cautioned against leaving money and/or valuables in lockers or in the Physical Education change rooms. The school is NOT responsible for lost or stolen articles. Should it be necessary to bring money or other valuables to school, they may be left in the office for safe-keeping. Articles found in and around the school should be brought to the office, and students should inquire at the office regarding lost articles.

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N e w m a r k e t H i g h S c h o o l

505 Pickering Crescent, Newmarket, Ontario L3Y 8H1 Phone: (905) 895-5159, Fax: (905) 895-5726, email: [email protected]

website: http://newmarket.hs.yrdsb.ca/

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Visitors

All visitors, including parents/guardians, must: · use the main entrance of the school; · check in at the school’s main office upon arrival; and · sign in and obtain a visitor pass while in the school.

The office staff will get important messages and materials to your child. Bringing friends or siblings to the school or inviting friends to visit is not allowed and will not be accommodated. Unauthorized visitors are subject to charges under the Trespass to Property Act.

Volunteering in the School

We welcome and encourage the important role that parents/guardians and community members play in education. There are many opportunities for you to get involved at the school. For more information, contact the school office staff or review Policy and Procedure #280.0, Volunteers in Our Schools. If you are interested, please complete the Volunteers in Our Schools Form and return it to the school office.

Additional Information

You can find more information on these and other topics in the Guide to the School Year included with this package or on the York Region District School Board website at www.yrdsb.ca.

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Semester 1

Thursday, September 7 Safe Schools Assemblies

Tuesday, September 12 Photo Day – Small gym

Monday, September 18 School Council Meeting & Election – 6:45 pm

Wednesday, September 20 Post Secondary Information Kickoff

September 21, 22 Rosh Hashanah

Monday, September 25 P.A. Day – no classes

Monday, October 9 Thanksgiving Day

Thursday, October 12 College Presentation

Thursday, October 12 Photo Re-take Day/Photos for New Reg's

Friday, October 13 Apprenticeship Panel/Workplace Panel

Friday, October 13 Interim Reports issued

Wednesday, October 18 Diwali

Thursday, October 19 Volunteer Fair

Friday, October 20 P.A. Day – no classes

Tuesday, October 24 Awards Ceremony - Periods 1/2

Thursday, October 26 Interview Night

Tuesday, October 31 Hallowe'en Activities - Modified schedule

Wednesday, November 1 Take Our Kids to Work Day/Grade 8 Visits

Thursday, November 2 Fall Coffee House

Tuesday, November 7 Beaver Computing Challenge

Thursday, November 9 NHS – Post Secondary Fair – 6:30 p.m.

Friday, November 10 2nd Half of Semester begins

Friday, November 10 Remembrance Day Service – 10:50 a.m.

Friday, November 17 Mid-semester reports issued

Monday, November 20 University/College Applicants Presentation

Wednesday, November 22 Canadian Senior /Intermediate Math Contests

Friday, November 24 P.A. Day – no classes

November 27 to December 1 Grad Photo Days

Thursday, November 30 Team and Club Photo Day

December 7 to 16 NHS Musical

Wednesday, December 13 Hanukkah begins

Wednesday, December 20 Music Night

Friday, December 22 Holiday Activities – Modified schedule

December 25 to January 5 Winter Break

Thursday, January 11 Grad Photo Re-take Day

Thursday, January 11 Vocal Night

Friday, January 12 Course Selection Presentations

Friday, January 12 EQAO Math information session – Gr. 9

January 22-23 EQAO Math Exam - Gr. 9 in class

January 25 to 31 Semester 1 Final examinations

Thursday, February 1 Exam Review Day

Thursday, February 1 Semi Formal

Friday, February 2 P.A. Day – no classes

Semester 2

Monday, February 5 Semester 2 begins

Friday, February 9 Safe Schools assemblies

Friday, February 9 Semester 1 Report Cards issued

Wednesday, February 14 Canadian Computing Competition

Friday, February 16 Lunar New Year

Monday, February 19 Family Day

Friday, February 23 Photo Day/Retakes

Tuesday, February 27 Math Competition (Pascal, Cayley, Fermat)

Tuesday, March 6 Grade 10 Assembly – OSSLT

March 12 to 16 Mid-Winter Break

Thursday, March 22 Spring Coffee House

Friday, March 23 Interim Reports Issued

Friday, March 30 Good Friday/ Passover begins at sunset

Monday, April 2 Easter Monday

Thursday, April 5 Interview Night

Friday, April 6 Canadian Math Contest

Friday, April 6 Holy Friday (Eastern)

Tuesday, April 10 OSSLT - Grade 10 students

Wednesday, April 11 Euclid Math Contest for Grade 12 students

Thursday, April 12 Math Competition (Fryer, Galois, Hypatia)

Friday, April 13 Vaisakhi

Wednesday, April 18 2nd Half of Semester begins

Thursday, April 26 Mid-semester reports issued

Friday, May 4 P.A. Day - no classes

Wednesday, May 9 Financial Aid Presentation

Wednesday, May 9 School Council Award Evening

Thursday, May 10 Prom

Monday, May 14 OSAP Presentation

Wednesday, May 16 Ramadan begins

Thursday, May 17 Relay for Life

Monday, May 21 Victoria Day

Wednesday, May 30 Music Night

Thursday, May 31 Athletic Banquet

Wednesday, June 6 EQAO Math information session - Gr. 9, Per. 4

Thursday, June 14 EQAO Math Exams - Grade 9 in-class

Friday, June 15 Eid-ul-Fitr

Monday, June 18 EQAO Math Exams - Grade 9 in-class

June 20 to 26 Semester 2 Final examinations

Wednesday, June 27 Exam Review Day

Thursday, June 28 Graduation

Thursday, June 28 P.A. Day – no classes

Friday, June 29 P.A. Day – no classes