Code of Conduct 2024-2025
Our Code of Conduct is designed to provide guidelines for appropriate student behavior while under the jurisdiction of the school or at any school-sponsored function. Devereaux Elementary School Code of Conduct has been structured to align with and adhere to the standards outlined in:
- The School Act
- B.C. Human Rights Code
- B.C. Ministry of Education: Safe, Caring and Orderly Schools Guide (2014)
Prohibited Grounds of Discrimination
Devereaux promotes the values expressed in the BC Human Rights Code (RSBC 1996, c. 210), respecting the rights of individualism in accordance with the law - prohibiting discrimination based on race, colour, ancestry, place of origin, religion, marital status, family status, physical or mental disability, sex or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or age of that person or that group or class of persons - in respect to discriminatory publication and discrimination in accommodation, service and facility in the school environment. Also prohibited - gestures, published, or displayed anything that would indicate an intention to discriminate against an individual or group, or expose them to contempt or ridicule on the basis of race, colour, ancestry, place of origin, religion, marital status, family status, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, and age, or for any other reason set out in the Human Rights Code of British Columbia.
Rationale
To promote a safe, caring, inclusive and orderly learning environment for all students. We believe in respecting and valuing all people and voices and providing engaging learning opportunities for the students in our school. Our expectations are that students will maintain an attitude that is cooperative, courteous, and respectful.
Some Examples of Acceptable Behaviour
- Socially responsible
- Empathetic - learning to take the perspective of others
- Active participation in learning
- Expressing concerns and needs
- Listening to the concerns and needs of others
- Giving and receiving respect
- Trustworthy, helpful, and honest
- Caring for/advocating for self and others
- Safe use of school, playground, equipment, and property
- Follow rules, routines, and expectations
Some Examples of Unacceptable Behaviour
- Physical or verbal aggression
- Physically dangerous (throwing objects such as sticks, rocks, snowballs)
- Defiance, insolence, non-compliance, or disrespect
- Teasing, rudeness, or swearing
- Misusing or damaging property or equipment
Safe and Caring School Environments
Are Free from Acts Of
- Bullying, cyber-bullying, harassment and marginalization
- Threat and intimidation
- Violence, abuse or discrimination in any form
- Retribution against anyone who reported an incident
Do Not Tolerate the Misuse Of
- Cyberspace, Cell Phones, Electronic Devices, Computers
Students should be aware that they may receive a consequence or confiscation of personal property for misuse of technology if it negatively impacts the school environment.
Do Not Tolerate the Presence Of
- Theft or vandalism
- Intoxicating or banned substances
- Weapons or replica (toy) weapons and explosives
- Intruders or trespassers
Consequences
Consequences will be applied in a fair and consistent manner, respecting individual rights, responsibilities, age and maturity; and be restorative rather than punitive in nature.
Inappropriate Behaviour Typically Has the Following Consequences
- Review of expectations, timeout, teaching of social skills, loss of privileges
- Restorative practices (restorative conversation, circle, conference)
- Phone call home, meeting with parents
- Work with staff and family to develop a plan to address the behavior.
- Suspension (in school or at home, up to 5 days)
- Consultation with police and/or fire department
- Expulsion
Notification
As circumstances warrant, the administrator has a responsibility to advise other parties following a behaviour incident:
- Parent of student exhibiting major behaviours (in every instance)
- Parent of student on the receiving end (in every instance)
- Superintendent and/or other District Staff
- Ministerial agencies and/or School Liaison Officer (Police)
Student Cell Phones
Students will not be permitted to use cell phones or other personal devices at school without explicit permission from their teacher and for specific learning purposes. Students may not text, make calls, take pictures or videos, or play games or apps in class or during breaks. Students should leave their devices in their backpacks or give them to their teacher to hold onto for the school day.
Dress Code
Students should dress in a manner that is appropriate for learning and active play, and for the season (outside play morning, recess, and lunch). This includes wearing footwear at all times (inside shoes and outside shoes). Clothing of any kind condoning violence, profanity, hatred, discrimination, negative stereotypes, or promoting drug and alcohol use are not appropriate.
Accommodation of Students with Special Needs
Special consideration may apply to students who are unable to comply with the Code of Conduct due to a disability of an intellectual, physical, sensory, emotional, or behavioral nature.
