Redwater School
“…making a difference”
Kerry Coxen PRINCIPAL
Greg Gibson VICE-PRINCIPAL
Street Address: 5023 - 50 Avenue Mailing Address: Box 790
Redwater, Alberta T0A 2W0
Telephone: (780) 942-3625 Fax: (780) 942-2021
Long Distance (780) 973-4317
Website: www.redwaterschool.ca
I GENERAL INFORMATION
Welcome to all parents, students and staff.
Redwater School’s Mission is to make a difference through excellence in teaching and learning for all. As a team, working together, we will develop our students to become responsible citizens of the world, with knowledge, skills and attributes to succeed when they graduate.
We believe that we must continually develop our ability to function as a professional learning community. We envision a school in which staff engage in meaningful development to enhance professional skills, utilize a variety of instructional strategies to promote success for all students, demonstrate a personal commitment to the academic success and well being of all students, target specific instructional areas identified by the analysis of student data, and work cooperatively and communicate effectively with students, parents, and the broader community.
Office Hours
Generally, the school office is open between the hours of 8:30 am and 4:00 pm. Before and after these times, an answering machine is available to receive calls.
School Time Schedule
Regular Day Staff Meeting Day_(Early Dismissal)
School day begins for staff at 08:20 School day begins for staff at 08:20 am
Doors open at 08:30 Doors open at 08:30
Morning (Warning Bell 8:35) **Morning only (Warning Bell 8:35)
Block 1 8:38 – 9:21 Block 1 8:38 – 9:21
Block 2 9:23 – 10:06 Block 2 9:23 – 10:06
Block 3 10:11 – 10:54 Block 3 10:11-10:54
Block 4 10:56 – 11:39 Block 4 10:56 – 11:20
Lunch 11:39 – 12:15 Lunch 11:20 – 11:30
(Elem. Lunch/Recess 11:30-12:15) Dismissal 11:30
Elem. Recess 9:55 – 10:11
Afternoon (Warning Bell 12:15) Sept., Nov., Jan., March, and May - will be Blocks 1, 2 , 3, & 4.
Block 5 12:20 – 1:03 Oct., Dec., Feb., April, and June - will be
Block 6 1:05 – 1:48 Blocks 5, 6, 7, & 8.
Block 7 1:53 – 2:36
Block 8 2:38 – 3:21
Dismissal 3:21
Operational Day ends for staff 3:30 P.M. Staff Meetings are held the 2nd Wednesday of each month.
School Calendar
August 2012
August 24 School offices open
August 29 Prof. Dev. Day-No Classes
August 30 Prof. Dev. Day- No Classes
August 31 Prof. Dev. Day- No Classes
September 2012
September 04 Classes Begin (Full Day)
September 12 Staff Meeting (Early Dismissal)
September 13 Terry Fox Run
September 17 Meet the Teacher 6:30 pm & School Council 7:30 pm
September 24 Grad Organization Meeting 6:30
September 24 Post Secondary Fair 7:00 pm
September 26 Picture Day
October 2012
October 05 Prof. Dev. Day - No classes
October 08 Thanksgiving Day - No School
October 09 Picture Day
October 10 Staff Meeting (Early Dismissal)
October 15 School Council Mtg 6:30 PM
October 22 Grad Meeting 6:30 pm
October 23-26 Book Fair
October 25 Awards Night 7 pm
November 2012
November 07 Parent-Teacher Interview 5-8 pm
November 09 Remembrance Day Service
November 12 In Lieu – No Classes
November 14 Staff Meeting (Early Dismissal)
November 15 Parent-Teacher Interview 5-8 pm
November 19 School Council 6:30 pm
November 26 Grad Meeting 6:30 pm
December 2012
December 06 Christmas Concert 7 pm
December 17 School Council 6:30
December 12 Staff Meeting (Early Dismissal)
December 21 Full day
December 24 Christmas Vacation begins
January 2013
January 07 Classes Resume
January 09 Staff Meeting (Early Dismissal)
January 21 School Council 6:30 pm
January 28 Grad Meeting 6:30 pm
January 30-Feb. 2 Band Trip to Disneyland
January 31 Prof. Dev. Day- No Classes
February 2013
February 01 Semester 2 Start Day 1
February 05 High School Report Cards mailed home
February 07 Teachers’ Convention–No classes
February 08 Teachers’ Convention–No classes
February 11 School Council 6:30 pm
February 13 Staff Meeting (Early Dismissal)
February 18 Family Day Holiday
February 25 Grad Meeting 6:30
March 2013
March 04 Prof. Dev. Day – No Classes
March 13 Staff Meeting (Early Dismissal)
March 14 P/T Interviews 5-8 PM
March 18 School Council 6:30 pm
March 22 Lieu Day No Classes
March 25-April 1 Spring Vacation begins
April 2013
April 02 Classes Resume
April 09 P/T Interviews 5-8 PM
April 10 Staff Meeting (Early Dismissal)
April 11 Open House
April 15 School Council 6:30 pm
April 22 Grad Meeting 6:30 pm
May 2013
May 02 Sturgeon Night of Music
May 08 Staff Meeting (Early Dismissal)
May 13 School Council 6:30 pm
May 17 Prof. Dev. Day- No Classes
May 20 Victoria Day – No school
May 27 Grad Meeting 6:30 pm
June 2013
June 05 Spring Concert & Art Show
June 08 Grad
June 12 Staff Meeting (Early Dismissal)
June 17 School Council 6:30 pm
June 27 No Classes
June 28 Half Day.
Tentative Diploma Examination Schedule
2012 – 2013 School Year
January 2012
January 14 9:00-11:30 am
English 30-1/30-2 Part A
January 15 9:00-11:30 am
Social 30-1/30-2 Part A
January 21 9:00-11:30 am
English 30-1/30-2 Part B
January 22 9:00-11:00 am
Social 30-1/30-2 Part B
January 24 9:00-11:00 am
Biology 30
January 25 9:00-11:00 am
Applied Math 30
Pure Math 30
January 28 9:00-11:00 am
Physics 30
January 29 9:00-11:00 am
Chemistry 30
June 2012
June 12 9:00-11:30 am
English 30-1/30-2 Part A
June 13 9:00-11:30 am
Social Studies 30-1/30-2 Part A
June 17 9:00-11:30 am
English 30-1/30-2 Part B
June 18 9:00-11:00 am
Social 30-1/30-2 Part B
June 20 9:00-11:00 am
Biology 30
June 24 9:00-11:00 am
Chemistry 30
June 25 9:00-11:00 am
Applied Math 30
Pure Math 30
June 26 9:00-11:00 am
Physics 30
Busing
Busing is provided to students who reside more than 2.4 kilometers from the school. Some general guidelines regarding riding a bus are:
• Only students registered as passengers may ride on their assigned bus.
• Students may be denied permission to ride a bus if not dressed or do not have in their possession suitable clothing for cold weather.
• Disruptive and/or destructive behaviour is prohibited and subject to disciplinary action.
• Most luggage and equipment should be stored under the bus seat and stored in a durable case/bag, at the discretion of the driver.
• Other bus rules apply, as provided by the driver at the beginning of each school year.
• Busing may be available for students less than 2.4 km from the school providing there is no route change needed, space is available, and if safety considerations warrant this service. Bus concerns should first be directed to the bus driver. If necessary the Director of Transportation (1-888-459-4062) should be contacted. School personnel generally respond to busing issues after being informed by the driver and/or Director of Transportation.
Professional Development Days
Some of the Professional Development time has been added to Staff meeting days. Students will be released for lunch at 11:25, and buses will pick them up at 11:35. There will be three Professional Development days throughout the year.
Newsletter
Newsletters are posted on the Redwater School Website: www.sturgeon.ab.ca/rw/ or www.redwaterschool.ca on the last day of each school month. If you would like a paper copy of the newsletter sent home with your student please let the office know.
Emergency School Closure
School Board Policy dictates that schools remain open at all times regardless of weather conditions. However, at the bus driver’s discretion during extreme cold, hazardous road conditions or blizzard situations students may be taken home early. Also, other emergency situations (i.e. sewer back-up, electrical or water outages, etc.) may necessitate school closure. Parents should ensure that alternate arrangements for emergency situations are in place and discuss them with their child. The Superintendent may suspend school bus operations to ensure safety of students when there is inclement weather, or other safety concerns. Announcements will be made over various radio stations (Joe FM, Cool 88, Cisn, K rock, Big Earl & TV station (Global).
Fees/Textbook Rental
To off set rising costs, students will be charged fees, depending upon program requirements and involvement in various activities. For example students will be assessed additional fees for CTS courses, extra-curricular involvement, Music, Art, field trips, locks and Student Planners. Textbooks are rented to students for a nominal fee. Payment of Instructional Material Fees (IMF) is required at the commencement of each school year. Families who are experiencing financial difficulties are expected to make arrangements with the school Principal for alternative payment possibilities. Non-payment of IMF monies will result in a collection agency obtaining payments. Non-returned materials (library books, texts, etc.) and damaged materials will result in student/parent notification and the cost of replacement being assessed against the student/family.
Student Use of Telephone
Students will only be allowed to use the office phones for emergency purposes. A phone is located near the main office for personal use. The student telephone is paid for by Jr/Sr Student Council. Students will only be called from class for phone calls of an emergent nature. If possible, please leave a message with our office staff if you need to contact your child. Please do not call or text your child during school hours.
Cell Phones
Cell phones or other communication devices are not allowed in school. Students who use cell phones during the school day will have their phones confiscated. A parent or guardian must make arrangements with school administration for the return of the cell phone. The expectation is that the cell phone will only be returned to a parent. Please do not call or text your child during school hours – Our office staff will ensure messages are passed on.
Lockers
Lockers are provided for the convenience of students. The lockers are the property of Sturgeon School Division and Redwater School and therefore, may be entered by school personnel at any time. Locks are required for each locker and students are expected to keep their assigned locker neat and tidy. Students using the locker will be held responsible for any damage to the locker. Switching of lockers is not allowed unless approved through the School Administration. Combination locks may be purchased at the office. If your child is using their own combination lock we ask that it be registered at the office. Personal locks not registered or unable to be opened by school officials may be cut off if the need arises. Situations where lockers may need to be entered include lockers no longer in use, odors coming from lockers or food left in lockers or concerns of inappropriate activities.
Visitors and Volunteers
All visitors and volunteers are to report to the General Office. Visitors are allowed only during the noon break at the discretion of the School Administration and must sign in at the Office. Volunteers are an important part of offering opportunities to our students. We appreciate the support of our many parent volunteers. For purposes of liability and safety, we require that all volunteers working with our students register at the school office. Office staff maintain a log book. Please sign in on your arrival to the school. Students wishing to have a guest visit, must ask the administration 3 school days prior so that a back ground check can be made.
II. STUDENT EXPECTATIONS
Student Conduct Code
Redwater School operates on the premise that all students have the right to learn and that the school environment guides students towards responsible behaviour. It is expected that students, while in school or participating in school sponsored activities, behave in an appropriate manner that does not interfere with the rights and privileges of other students. Home and school alike must share the responsibility for acceptable behavior. The school is a safe and caring location where there is a joint effort to learn, relate and grow.
Common Student Code of Behavior
1. Respect for authority
2. Respect for other individuals
3. Respect for one’s own self
4. Respect for property
5. Respect for the learning environment
6. Consideration for safety of others and self
Sturgeon School Division and the School Act have also established expectations and responsibilities for students as noted below:
a) Be diligent in pursuing their studies
b) Comply with school rules
c) Attend school regularly and punctually
d) Respect the rights of others
e) Cooperate fully with school staff
It is the belief at Redwater School that it is the responsibility of each individual in a position of authority to insure that these guidelines be adhered to in a consistent manner. The focus of discipline at Redwater School shall be to:
1. Help the student identify the inappropriate behaviour(s)
2. Help the student solve the problem(s) created by these behaviour(s)
3. Leave the student’s dignity intact
Factors such as age, grade, nature of the misbehavior, degree of flagrance, emotional stability and past history of misbehavior will be considered when action is taken.
General School Rules
1. Store items that could interfere with the learning environment securely in student’s lockers, unless required for the classroom.
2. Refrain from bullying – This includes physical, verbal, and cyber bullying.
3. Walk quietly and safely to and from all activities.
4. Avoid the use of profane language and the use of inappropriate gestures.
5. Be in classrooms during regular class times, on time, and leave only with teacher's permission.
6. Bring all required materials to class and ensure that all supplies are replaced as needed.
7. Keep school desks, lockers and classrooms in good order.
8. Report acts of vandalism, damage and criminal acts to the office.
9. Adhere to School dress code – see below.
10. Refrain from riding skateboards and bikes on school property. The bike must be placed in the supplied bike rack and secured with a lock until departing the school grounds in a safe manner at the end of the school day. It is recommended that bikers use an approved CSA helmet.
11. Keep items which can be viewed as a weapon, or are deemed to be weapons under the Criminal Code, all off school property.
12. Refrain from using alcohol or drugs at school or school sponsored events.
13. Follow School Board regulations relative to students conduct on school buses.
14. A student may be suspended/recommended for expulsion for:
1. A single deliberate misbehavior or
2. Repeated misconducts committed either at school or while involved in a school sponsored activity or while being transported on Board supervised vehicles
Dress Code
In keeping with the philosophy of Alberta Education, we strive to help our students become productive citizens who are ready to enter the work force or are ready to pursue post-secondary education. As a result, students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that demonstrates respect and to dress appropriately for a school/work place setting.
(a) Footwear must be worn at all times in the school/Outside footwear is not permitted inside the gym during PE class.
(b) Students must not wear clothing or accessories that have sharp points or edges.
(c) Students must not wear clothing or accessories that are offensive or depict illegal or immoral behavior.
(d) Students must wear clothing that covers their chest, back and midriff (no spaghetti straps or strapless/off the shoulder shirts).
(e) Shorts and skirts must be a reasonable length.
(f) Make-up must be appropriate for the work place.
(g) Hats are allowed in classrooms and work spaces at the teachers discretion.
** The final determination about modesty and/or appropriateness of dress lies with school staff.
Food and Drinks
At Redwater School we take pride in keeping our classrooms clean and best suited for learning.
In order to make Redwater School a safe place for all of our students we ask that no nuts or nut products are brought to the school. We will remind students and staff throughout the year so that we do not create a medical crisis for any of our students.
Computer/Internet Access
Redwater students have the opportunity to be exposed to computers on a ratio of one computer for every five students beginning in grade 5 up to and including grade 12. Teachers make use of computer technology to assist with instruction. Students must adhere to strict guidelines on usage and are restricted to Internet use for authorized educational use only. (see web site www.sturgeon.ab.ca ) for the school division expectations. Students may bring their own laptops or electronic devices that can log on to our wireless internet.
Educational Purpose
a. Redwater School’s computers and Internet access have been established for an educational purpose. The term “educational purpose” includes:
i. teacher-directed classroom activities
ii. personal career exploration activities and
iii. high-quality research activities
Suspension of Privileges
Students who violate Sturgeon School Division practices may have their computer access suspended. The length of the suspension will be determined by the principal, in consultation with the technology facilitator and teacher involved with the student at the time the unacceptable behavior was observed.
Monitoring of Activity
Sturgeon School Division and/or Redwater School may monitor at any time computer activity occurring on Division equipment or accounts.
Violence/Harassment
Students have the right to an environment that is free from threats and violence; where all students feel welcome and safe. In its broadest sense threats and violence are forms of harassment. Harassment consists of any unwelcome conduct, either verbal and/or physical that has the effect of interfering with an individual’s work performance or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive learning environment. Students who engage in violent, aggressive or harassing types of behaviour face a variety of discipline actions which may include, but are not limited to, the following: warnings, parental involvement, suspensions, expulsions and counseling. It should be noted that students who are spectators or encouragers during these types of behaviour will be subject to the same or similar consequences.
Students who have been involved in harassment behaviours may appeal the results/consequences of any investigation under this policy first to the school principal, secondly to the Superintendent of Schools and finally the Board of Trustees.
Please note: Harassment may be an assault and in that case, a formal complaint to the RCMP may be placed.
Attendance
Regular attendance is essential to success in school and is expected of all students. Section 12 of the School Act stipulates that students must attend school regularly and punctually. If for some reason your child must be away please:
1. Contact the school prior to the date of the absence at (780) 942 – 3625 or
2. Leave a message on our school answering machine at (780) 942 – 3625.
Student attendance is monitored in the morning and the afternoon for elementary students and by each block for junior high and high school students. If we have not heard from a parent/guardian, we will contact you at work or at home. Repeat absences may result in a letter or meeting between the school, the parents and the student. Students are accountable for any assignments work, etc. missed during absences.
Even though some students may be away from school for a field trip, regular classes are held and it is the responsibility of all other students to be in attendance.
In extreme cases, chronic attendance concerns may result in the school recommending involvement of the Attendance Board.
Lunch
Please provide a written note to the homeroom teacher if parents wish to allow students in grades 5-9 to leave the school for lunch. Students who are late due to leaving school during lunch may have this privilege revoked.
Late
Students registering late must report to the office prior to going to their classes otherwise the office records will indicate an absence and a call will be made to parents. Students will be given a late slip to present to their teacher upon asking permission to be allowed into class. Initially, teachers will take disciplinary action for habitual tardiness. If students continue to arrive to classes late, administration will take further action.
Early Sign Out
Students who, for whatever reason, must leave the school prior to the end of the school day MUST sign out at the office.
Smoking/Tobacco Products or use of tobacco products
Sturgeon School Division has a “non-smoking” policy. Smoking is not permitted on the school grounds or at any school sponsored activities. It is an offence in Canada for any person under the age of 18 years to smoke in public places or be in possession of tobacco products. Students using tobacco products within the proximity of the school may face sanctions. Students who violate the rules regarding smoking & tobacco use may be suspended.
Drugs/Alcohol
Students who are found to be in the possession of or under the influence of drugs or alcohol or are in possession of drug paraphernalia face immediate suspension/and/or recommended for expulsion.
Weapons
Students who are found to be in the possession of a weapon, or anything used, or intended for use in causing injury to any person, or for the purposes of threatening or intimidating any person may face immediate suspension and/or recommended for expulsion.
Unacceptable Behavior
Students may face immediate suspension and/or recommendation for expulsion for behavior that is deemed unacceptable at school. This list includes, but is exclusive of:
a) Conduct that physically, verbally or emotionally threatens the safety of students or staff.
b) Willful damage of school or personal property.
c) Discrimination or harassment.
d) Participating in froshing or hazing activities.
e) Extortion
f) Disruptive behavior, willful disobedience or defiance of authority.
g) Criminal activity
h) Interference with the orderly conduct of classes or the school.
i) Tampering with items such as fire alarms, or safety equipment.
j) Contravention of the school code of conduct.
k) Bystander encouragement or involvement instigating or escalating aggressive behavior.
III. STUDENT SERVICES
Progress Reports
Teachers will use a variety of evaluative techniques students and parents are able to check on their progress by loggin on to the Parent Portal and time of the day or night seven days a week, 365 days a year. Parents and students are welcome to make telephone inquires about the progress made in any subject area.
Course Selection, Minimum Credit Loads and Withdrawal from Classes
In order to allow students to graduate within three years and to provide a reasonable range of program offerings, all RWS students are required to earn and carry the following minimum credit load: gr. 10-40-42 credits (NO study periods); gr. 11 earned 35 credits AND carry 35 credits; gr. 12- earned 70 credits AND carry 30 credits; returning gr. 12-15 credits unless an arrangement is made with administration. Note: If a grade 11 or 12 student has not earned sufficient credits, the minimum credit load for that particular student will be increased by adding a course(s) to the student’s program.
Significant problems arise when students stop attending a class or wish to change their course selections after the school has organized its timetable and hired staff. However, after the extensive registration process which begins in the spring with report cards, counseling sessions, Open House and registration requests, there shall be no withdrawals from any class after ten (10) days without counselor and parental input. If a student wishes to transfer from one class to another in the same subject, and it is reasonable to do so, (eg. Social Studies 10-1 to Social Studies 10-2), every effort will be made to conduct this change.
Students withdrawn from courses will be expected to maintain the appropriate credit load by enrolling in and completing distance education courses.
High School Awards
Merit Award
The following agreed upon criteria are to be used for Merit Award at 10-12 grade levels:
1. Average of 75%-79% in the four core subjects (Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies)
2. Passing grade in all other courses.
Final marks in each course will be rounded to the nearest %.
Final average mark will be rounded to the nearest %
Honours Award
The following agreed upon criteria are to be used for Honours Award at 10-12 grade levels:
1. Average of 80% or higher in the four core subject (Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies)
2. Passing grade in all other courses.
Interviews
Parents and students are encouraged to attend the scheduled interviews held each year in the fall and the spring. Although only two formal interview dates are set, parents should feel free to contact the school/teacher(s) at any time to inquire about their child’s progress.
Examinations
Examination schedules are posted well in advance of final examination dates. It is the responsibility of the students to familiarize themselves with the pertinent dates. Students must conduct themselves in a mature and responsible manner during all scheduled exam writing situations. Many exams at the end of January and June are diploma/achievement examinations and dates are set by the provincial government.
Missed Final Exams
Non-Diploma Exams
(a) Supervising teachers will take attendance during final exams and the office staff will phone home if a student is missing. The student must make an attempt to come in to write the exam within one hour of the start time. The student will not be allowed an extension of the writing time unless approved by the school administration team.
(b) If the student is unable to come in on the day of the exam due to extenuating circumstances (illness – medical note required, bereavement), the student’s parent/guardian must contact the school as soon as possible.
(c) If buses are not running, Sturgeon School Division and the school administration team must act in the interests of the health and safety of their students in emergency situations. If students are not able to write their final exam the administration team and teacher(s) will meet and decide on a plan of action. The teachers will then phone their own students with the same plan. If a student does not hear from his/her teacher on the day of exam, it is the student’s responsibility to contact the school the day following the exam to find out when he/she can write the makeup exam.
Diploma Exams
(a) If buses are not running, Alberta Education, and Sturgeon School Division must act in the interests of the health and safety of their students in emergency situations. If a student is not able to write a diploma exam due to inclement weather the needs of the student will be addressed by the “Special Cases Committee” of Alberta Education subsequent to the recommendation of the school principal.
(b) If a student is not able to write due to illness or another emergency (i.e. bereavement) a form (available from the Office) must be completed by the student/parent/guardian and principal. If the reason is due to illness, the form must be completed by a physician parent/guardian and principal. The principal will make recommendation, based on the beest interest of the student, and the submit to the “Special Cases Committee” of Alberta Education for approval.
ALTERNATE WRITING TIMES (NON-DIPLOMA EXAMS ONLY)
Administration must be very careful in allowing students to leave early as they are not receiving all of the instruction required to complete a course(s), and this may necessitate that teachers prepare an additional exam. Parents are required to complete an Alternative Writing Request form which is available in the General. Because circumstances vary, each case will have to be considered on its own merit. The final decision will be made by the Administration Team.
Plagiarism or Cheating
Evidence of plagiarism or cheating on an exam or assignment may result in a mark of zero on the entire exam or assignment. Any student assisting another to cheat may also receive the same penalty.
Student Appeals
To ensure that student evaluation procedures have been fair and just, a student or parent/guardian shall have the right to appeal his/her standings awarded in any subject. The right to appeal may be exercised in the following manner:
a. Appeal of an assignment mark must be made to the teacher not later than 2 days after the assignment has been returned. Teacher response will be made within 5 working days of receiving the student appeal. In the event that no agreement is reached between the student and the teacher, the student may then submit in writing to the principal an appeal of the assignment mark along with the reasons for making the appeal. The principal will acknowledge receipt of the appeal and indicate the expected date of the decision.
b. Appeals may also be made after a regular reporting period. The correct procedure is the same as in a.
c. Appeals on final marks must be made to the principal not later than 5 days following the receipt of the marks. The appeal must be in writing providing the reasons for the appeal. The principal shall advise the student within 5 days of receipt of the appeal of the decision regarding the appeal.
d. Should the student not be satisfied with the outcome of the school level appeals, he/she may request a hearing from an appeal committee appointed through the office of the Superintendent of Schools. The Superintendent must receive the appeal request within 5 days of the school ruling. The Superintendent or his designate, shall advise the student in writing, within 10 days of receiving the appeal.
Course Challenge Policy
Alberta Education allows enrolled high school students to challenge the expectations for a course by participating in a formal assessment process, rather than taking the course. Students who believe that they already possess the expected knowledge and skills as described by the Program of Studies for a given course may apply to challenge the course through a formal, summative assessment process. For diploma examination courses, this challenge only applies to the school-awarded mark component.
The following are excluded from the course challenge provision:
· French 13
· Math 10 Prep
· All RAP Courses
· Special Projects 10/20/30
· Work Experience 15/25/35
· CTS Courses completed in junior high school
A challenge summative assessment for a course shall follow the outlined procedure:
1. The student shall initiate the course challenge process, and shall take the responsibility for providing evidence of readiness to challenge a course by providing a portfolio of work documentation/assignments and/or experience, proof of a completed final exam, and the recommendation of a teacher. The portfolio submitted must reflect the curriculum outcomes of the Program of Studies and represent a minimum 20 hours of work.
2. A student who successfully completes a course challenge of the school-awarded mark component of a diploma exam course must write the diploma exam in order to be eligible for a final course mark and credit in that course.
3. A student’s readiness for a course challenge shall be determined by the school principal, through consultation with the student, parent/guardian(s) and subject teachers.
4. The principal shall ensure that assessment for course challenges is carried out in a timely and practical manner and that the assessment includes strategies that will assess the breadth and scope of the learning expectations for the course as outlined in the Program of Studies.
5. The principal will assign the administration and evaluation of assessment for a course challenge to a certified teacher who has taught the course.
6. Appropriate course challenge assessments will be provided for the full range of courses offered by the school.
7. Challenge assessments for courses not offered by the school will result in arranging with other schools/school authorities to conduct the assessment. A student who undertakes such a course challenge is responsible for all expenses associated with the challenge (e.g. Personal transportation, etc.).
8. Course challenge assessment opportunities will be provided in September, and February of each school year.
9. A student who successfully demonstrates through a course challenge process that he or she possess the learning expectation for the course to at least the acceptable standard, shall be awarded a final mark and credits for the course challenged, except in the case of diploma exam courses (see above).
10. No fee will be charged to an enrolled high school student for administration of a course challenge.
11. A student, who challenges the course, either successfully or unsuccessfully, may subsequently choose to take the course.
12. Students who receive course marks by way of challenge assessment shall be eligible for school based awards and scholarships.
Extra-Curricular Activities
A variety of extra-curricular activities are available throughout the school year. Activities range from sports to the fine arts and student council. Students are encouraged to become active in the area(s) of their interest. Students are reminded that being a member of an extra-curricular team is a privilege, not a right. As school ambassadors it is important that they display a positive attitude, behave in appropriate ways and maintain their academic standing to the best of their ability. Students who fail to act as positive role models, both academically and in behaviour, may forfeit the right to participate in extra-curricular activities.
School policy specifically states that students must maintain satisfactory attendance, as determined by the school administration, in all courses, maintain good standing in all courses, at high school, be registered in a minimum of 30 credits, and display positive and responsible behaviour as per the Redwater School Code of Conduct to continue with extra-curricular activities.
Guidance Counseling Services
A guidance counselor is available to provide assistance to students who may be experiencing difficulties of a personal nature or require assistance in regards to career or post-secondary choices. Information is provided at appropriate times during the school year on scholarships and other financial assistance for post-secondary institutions.
Graduation/Promotion
At the Junior High level, students are promoted to the next grade on an individual basis with regard to their effort and achievement in all courses taken during the year. In general, successful completion requires a 50% final average in the four core subjects. An average of less than 50%, or failure in two or more core subjects may result in a recommendation for retention. High School graduation is based upon the completion of a minimum 100 credits in the required Alberta Education courses.
Participation in Graduation Ceremonies at Redwater School
The high school graduation ceremonies mark an important milestone in the lifetime of a person. To some students, it is a stepping stone to university, college or a technical institute. For others, it means the culmination of educational aspirations by which they are ready to assume an adult role in the community. Each high school student eagerly looks forward to participating in high school graduation ceremonies. In order to preserve the significance, participation in these ceremonies must therefore be the result of well deserving efforts on the part of the student.
At Redwater School, to be included in the high school graduation ceremony a student shall:
· Have completed a minimum of 80 credits toward a High School Diploma prior to the beginning of the second semester of their graduating year. (Exceptions to this requirement will be made in instances where the student is enrolled in full year courses at Redwater School which will result in a carry over of credits from term 1 to term 2)
· Be enrolled in sufficient courses through Redwater School or Redwater Learning Center to complete the requirements of the Alberta High School Diploma by the conclusion of semester 2.
· Be responsible to ensure that all credits from correspondence and Distance Education courses are completed and submitted for grading by May 21 of the graduating year.
· Be responsible for providing documentation by May 21 for any work experience and/or special project(s) in progress and filing a detailed timeline to fulfill requirements. Students must have demonstrated diligence towards completion of requirements.
· NOTE: The onus is on the student to ensure they meet the graduation requirements and that all documentation regarding credits earned from outside the school. Each student’s marks, attendance, attitude and number of credits will be monitored by the grad advisors and administration up to the date of the ceremony. Only students in good standing will be allowed to participate in the ceremony.
Library
The purpose of the Redwater School Library is for quiet study, individual and class research, and computer based learning.
Career Corner
Redwater School has a resource center located in the library, designed for secondary students to research career information, conduct job searches and produce portfolios. This workstation is reserved for this purpose only. Students must gain permission to use this workstation according to the rules posted. Unauthorized use of this resource center is not allowed.
Health/Insurance Services
The local Health Unit provides health education services, a program of health protection and promotion along with consultation services.
Any concern over a student’s physical well-being should be directed to the Public Health Nurse. In addition, the services of a School Liaison worker (780 460-8903) are available. The role is one of working with residents of the area to resolve family problems, especially those related to school age children. Liaison workers operate independently of the school system but rely on teachers and counselors for the referral of clients.
Accident insurance is made available each year through a private company for students. School Board basic insurance is available for coverage under the following circumstances:
a. school activities during the regular school day
b. school sponsored off-premises, non-athletic volunteer activities year round
c. work experience programs
d. school sponsored field trips year round
Healthy Interactions: Resolving Interpersonal Conflict
In an organization like a school system, conflict occurs from time to time. It is part of human nature. However, if not handled carefully, all conflict comes with a very high human cost. Healthy Interactions is an interest-based, problem-solving approach to conflict resolution, that creates and maintains open lines of communication. The program is intended to help staff, parents, and community members more effectively and efficiently resolve potentially difficult issues while minimizing unproductive conflict. Therefore, it is important that all possible participants be familiar with the process and understands that in Sturgeon School Division there is one standard and consistent manner in which complaints, problems and issues will be handled.
a. Consistency: all people in all schools follow consistent procedures and use consistent terminology - people know what to expect.
b. Comprehensiveness: the interests of all parties involved (parent, staff, student, others) will be considered every time a concern arises - nobody is ignored.
c. Credibility: all people in the community must know that all concerns are handled in an interest-based manner that is fair to everyone.
Healthy Interactions meets the needs of staff, parents, students and community by building stronger relationships. It is an ongoing process within which all parties commit to making relationships work – a winning approach for staff, parents, community and especially for students.