All registration forms clearly indicate the timelines and deadlines for school enrollment. In order to ensure an efficient process, deadlines must be met. Please refer to the registration agreement in regards to the method of payment and deadlines.

An application for admission with unpaid fees will be returned to the applicant. Financial terms will then be reviewed and established with parents. New students must provide access to the School authorities in regards to previous school records or any other relevant information.

Registration / Admission

All registration forms clearly indicate the timelines and deadlines for school enrollment. In order to ensure an efficient process, deadlines must be met. Please refer to the registration agreement in regards to the method of payment and deadlines. The admissions period runs from October 5th, 2024 to December 1st, 2024.

Applications for admission, whose fees are not paid, will be returned to the applicant. Financial terms will then be reviewed and established with parents. New students must provide access to the School authorities in regards to previous school records or any other relevant information.

Attendance and punctuality

Every child has the right to quality education. Attendance is essential and an absence from class is destructive to a student’s academic progress. During repeated and unjustified absences, parents will be contacted and met.

Students must arrive on time for class. Latecomers must report to the principal’s office and justify their delay. It is recommended to make any appointment with the doctor and the dentist after school hours or on pedagogical days.

When a student has to leave before the end of a class, a written request, indicating the specific date and time of the departure, must be signed by the parent or guardian and must be presented to the teacher, the secretary or the administration. The campus secretary can call to ask the reason of the student’s absence. The School may request a medical note to justify an absence during an exam. Neither the administration nor the teachers are required to repeat exams for unexcused absences. Vacations are not deemed as valid reasons.

It is expected that the student is punctual in the morning as well as for each course, plus for all other activities organized by the School. If school attendance is not considered sufficient, the School’s administration will notify the parents and decide with them on the means to fix the issue.

Arrivals

When the bell rings, students must meet in silence in the schoolyard to enter with their respective classes. Supervision of students begins only ten (10) minutes before the start of classes; therefore there is no oversight before this time. For safety reasons, students cannot enter the campus before the beginning of the school’s regular schedule.

Punctuality is compulsory in our School. Delays have a negative impact on students and the classroom. Latecomers receive a letter addressed to the parent or guardian, and a copy remains in the personal file of the student.

Departures

At the end of class, students are monitored until the departure of the school’s buses. Parents are responsible to inform the School, in writing, of any change in the transportation plan for their child (e.g.: school bus routes, the authorized person to pick up the student or the means of transport).

School schedule

The school schedule will be included and written in the student’s agenda. In search of forgotten equipment, students and parents are not allowed to enter the school premises after classes. Only students enrolled in the extracurricular program may remain in the building after school hours, the supervision being limited to these activities.

Safety in the parking lot

In order to ensure safety in the campus parking, students should never be alone and / or unsupervised. Furthermore, it is forbidden to block cars, congest traffic and to enter or leave the parking lot when students ascend or descent the busses.
At the end of the day, parents are required to leave immediately. The schoolyard is reserved for students of childcare.

Activities during breaks and lunch

Only the school’s equipment and material can be used in the playground, unless specifically authorized by the teacher and principal. Monitors of the balloons must be in possession of the ball before and after recess time. One must not kick, throw or bounce the ball after the bell. Students must remain on the field of play and not leave the playground to retrieve a ball that goes over the school’s fence. The loss must be reported to the superintendent of the schoolyard.

Fire Drills

Evacuation drills are held regularly without notice, as required by the fire department to ensure timely and systematic evacuation of the building in case it becomes necessary.

Telephone messages

Students have the right to use the office phone of the campus in the case of any illness or emergency. Students can use the phone with the authorization of the office staff or the class teacher. The use of cellular and / or other mobile devices by students is prohibited.

Library Policy

The library period is part of the student’s program. Out of respect for others, the School requires that each student be responsible for the return of borrowed material; such return is deemed to be on time and the material to be in good condition. A small fee is required for books returned late.

A letter will be sent home for any late, lost or damaged book. At that time, the library privileges will be suspended until the book is returned or payment is received.

Lunch box Policy

  • Fast Foods are not allowed in school.
  • Chocolate and candy are not allowed
  • All kinds of nuts are strictly prohibited.

Parents’ Committee

A committee of 25 parents represents each campus of the École Socrates-Démosthène. At the beginning or just before the end of each school year, the campus principal assembles a general meeting of the parents and informs them of the responsibilities of the parents’ committee, conducting the elections of the president, secretary, treasurer and members.

The responsibilities of the parents’ committee are to enrich the academic and social lives of students, as well as the physical environment of the campus. Meetings are held once a month, or as needed, and are accessible to all parents.

Volunteer parents and visitors

The École Socrates-Démosthène welcomes and encourages the participation and help of all parents. The School firmly believes that “the involvement of a family is essential to raise a child.” All parents wishing to volunteer are asked to notify in advance the campus principal or a school teacher before intervening in the campus. Volunteers are asked to sign and carry proper identification when on campus grounds. They must also respect the privacy of all students and follow the School rules. The lives of children are enhanced by the making of a better environment. Volunteers who do not comply with the policies and regulations of the École Socrates-Démosthène can have their rights as volunteers revoked.

Lost and found objects

Each campus classifies a repository for lost and found objects. Parents are asked to check the designated area from time to time to seek for your child’s lost objects. Unclaimed items will be distributed to charitable societies or families in need at the end of the school year. It is suggested to take the time to check for the objects during scheduled parent / teachers meetings.

All items brought to school must be identified by the name of the student. A lost and found object can be retrieved at the campus office.

Closing of schools

In case of a storm, listen to the radio or television to receive information about the closing of schools. A list of radio stations will be sent at the beginning of the school year.

Policy on homework

The primary purpose of homework is to reinforce learning. It is also to solidify and deepen several skills learned in class. Assignments allow teachers and students to understand more content while teaching students initiative, independence, responsibility, and studying skills. Assignments demand an application or adaptation of the experience in the classroom. They are planned, thoughtful and relate to the knowledge, the skills and the curriculum expectations of MEQ.

An important aspect of assignments at home is that they create a link between home and school by providing parents with the information about the concepts studied and learned in class. They also offer an opportunity for parents to be part of their child’s school life and strengthen parent/school collaboration.

The School reserves the right to penalize any student who does not do his homework.

Relations with the School – expanded

  • Parents will be informed of the school life by e-mail or in a letter delivered by the student.
  • The School requests parents to leave messages to their children through the campus secretary, in an emergency only.
  • In case of absence, parents should notify the campus during the first hour of class of the day.
  • Parents can use the agenda as a communication tool.
  • Other useful information is available on the school’s website: www.socdem.org.
In the interest of the student’s health and safety, it is asked that parents inform the School of any health conditions of their children, such as: epilepsy, allergies, diabetes, heart problems, vision or hearing impairments, etc. Please notify the School of any changes in your child’s health.

 

Emergency forms

Every year parents/guardians must complete a number of important forms prior to their child’s eligibility in attending the École Socrates-Démosthène. One of the forms is a health/emergency card. The School requires that the previous information is accurate and up to date throughout the entire school year. It is critical that parents/guardians provide the School with other names and other telephone numbers in case of an emergency where the parents/guardians would not be available.

Remember that if your child is in an emergency situation and that the information on file is not updated, the situation becomes more difficult for both the staff and your child, who may be suffering from an injury or illness. If necessary, do not forget to include the name and telephone number of your child’s doctor.

REMEMBER TO ALWAYS NOTIFY THE SCHOOL ABOUT ANY DRUG ALLERGY, ANY HEALTH PROBLEMS AND ALL MEDICATION PRESCRIBED TO YOUR CHILD. This information is vital and necessary in cases where parents/guardians are not available, and the student must be transported to the nearest emergency center. This information is deemed essential for the student to receive appropriate care and treatment in the hospital.

First Aid

The following guidelines apply to the entire campus, as well as the teacher in charge when activities take place outside the institution:

  • The first aid kits are available at the secretary’s office and will be made accessible to officials during extracurricular activities.
  • The same goes for the use of the EpiPen.
  • A qualified first aid person will be titled to respond to such situations.

Safety, accidents and emergencies

In order to promote safety among all activities of the institution and to ensure a quick, well-coordinated and adequate institutional response, this policy applies to all people concerned: students, teachers, administrative staff and support.

The following procedures will be applied:

  • At least two (2) people are trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation techniques (first aid personnel).

In case of accidents:

  • A first aid helper should be notified. The director should also be informed immediately. The director will then take all appropriate action while in contact with this person.

In case of emergency:

The general director shall be informed promptly, and conduct any required procedures under the circumstances. All investigations, including those conducted by the media, should be brought to the general director’s attention. After consultation with the Administration Board, that person is the only one authorized to provide relevant information or to appoint the person assigned to this task.

Drugs/ Medication

The administration reserves the right to not administer medications.

Only designated members of the school staff are allowed to give prescription drugs, when parents/guardians have informed the school and provided it ONLY with medication prescribed by a doctor. The drugs must be identified by a pharmacist and must indicate the name of the doctor, the drug’s name, dosage and duration.

Medication must be brought directly to the office. Non-prescription drugs (such as Tylenol, vitamins, Triaminic, etc.) require written parental permission. In all cases, parents must take responsibility for the safe delivery of any medication at school. The parent/guardian is responsible for all expired medication.

A staff member may reserve the right to administer tablets, capsules or liquid medicine and can help a child with his/her inhaler. Staff must not administer any medication requiring injections or the use of needles or similar instruments, with the exception of the EpiPen in the treatment of an allergic reaction.

Children returning from a recent illness, and that are still taking medications but are no longer contagious, can attend school if they are able to participate in all activities, including outdoor activities. Medications are kept locked and administered only by the school’s authorized staff or the child’s parent/guardian.

Procedure in the event of an accident or illness

The school has its students’ health and well-being at heart. If a student is injured or becomes ill after arriving at school, the parent/guardian will be contacted to pick up the child. If the school can’t get in touch with the parent/guardian, it will attempt to contact the person assigned in case of an emergency.

If the student requires immediate medical attention, the school will call 9-1-1. Afterwards, the child’s parent/guardian will be called. If the parent/guardian cannot be reached, the person assigned in case of an emergency will then be called. The student will be transported to the nearest emergency center, with the child’s folder and all permission forms signed by the parent/guardian.

To protect other students and staff, parents should keep at home students suffering from: fever, vomiting and/or diarrhea, a rash of an unknown origin, or any disease that interferes with student’s school activities. A STUDENT SHOULD BE FREE OF FEVER, VOMITING AND / OR DIARRHEA, WITHOUT USING DRUGS, FOR AT LEAST 24 HOURS BEFORE RETURNING TO SCHOOL. IMMEDIATELY inform the school if your child develops a contagious disease. If your child must limit his or her activities once he or she returns to school after an illness, please send a note to the class teacher with the appropriate details.

During breaks, the children remain in school only in cases of extreme temperature. It is only with a doctor’s note that a child will be allowed to stay inside during breaks.

Pets and allergies

In order to avoid health problems for students with allergies to various animals, animals will not be allowed within the school’s walls. Exceptions may be authorized for animals that would be used for educational purposes. In such cases, the students’ parents/guardians will be notified, in writing, in advance and if there are possible health problems, these animals will be banned from being in the classroom.

Allergies

One of the School’s most important responsibilities is to promote a safe environment for all children. A number of students attending our School are severely allergic to peanuts and nut products, to the point where the smallest trace of any of these products can cause a fatal reaction

IN ORDER TO CREATE A SAFER ENVIRONMENT, THE SCHOOL FOLLOWS A STRICT POLICY: ABSOLUTE PROHIBITION OF PEANUTS AND NUTS. PLEASE DO NOT PROVIDE FOOD CONTAINING PEANUTS AND NUTS FOR YOUR CHILD.

It is impossible to ban all foods that produce allergic reactions. However, each campus may establish its own regulations to ban certain foods depending on the severity and number of specific cases in the school.

Both the School and families of children with allergies, recognize the difficulty of ensuring a completely safe environment for those whose life is at risk, despite best efforts. Your cooperation is essential to ensure the safety of the children.

Family and student responsibilities

In order to ensure a safe environment in the École Socrates-Démosthène:

  • Respect the School’s Health Policy;
  • Inform the School of any allergies of the child;
  • Do not give products containing peanuts or nuts to your child;
  • Teach your child to manage his/her food allergies;
  • Cakes are not accepted in the school for a child’s birthday or party;
  • Do not share or exchange food;
  • Do not eat any food without knowing the ingredients;
  • Immediately notify an adult if the child believes he/she ate food to which he/she is allergic.

In the case of allergic reactions

An urgent call to 9-1-1 is made as soon as the EpiPen is administered to a student. Parents / guardians or one of the persons referred for an emergency, are contacted immediately.

School’s responsibilities

  • Include students who have an allergy in school activities;
  • Ensure that all staff that interacts, on a regular basis, with children with food allergies, can recognize the symptoms and know what to do in an emergency. All staff follow an annual training on the use of the EpiPen;
  • Practising a plan of action in case of a food allergy, before a reaction occurs, ensures the effectiveness and proper functioning of intervention plans;
  • Identify and acknowledge the school staff who have been trained to administer medication related to food allergies;
  • Discuss with the family of the student experiencing allergies, to determine appropriate strategies to manage any food allergy during school trips;
  • Pictures and information sheets on each case, are displayed in the staffroom and in the classroom (case by case);
  • Two doses of EpiPen are available for students: one in the principal’s office and one with the child or in the classroom.

Lice

The presence of lice is a major concern for all schools. Students with head lice at school must return home and require immediate treatment with the appropriate medications. Students must remain at home until the end of the treatment. All lice nits must be removed before a student can return to class. The school will inform all parents of the class, if it suspects the presence of lice in the classroom. The CLSC will be contacted for persistent cases.

Physical Education

The physical education program is an integral part of the curriculum. The school expects that students fully participate in physical education classes and are properly attired for this activity. They cannot be exempted from these courses, except for medical reasons. Students are encouraged to participate in sporting activities with other schools, as well as those of their campus. Students must comply with the dress code for gym classes and sports, including during the “dress down” days.

Code of student behavior: rules and expectations

Guiding Principle

The school Socrates-Demosthenes, students, parents, teachers, principals and other professionals representing the CHGM, are committed to maintaining a school environment open to learning, fostering a sense of community while creating an atmosphere of integrity and responsibility. The school promotes respect for oneself, others, diversity and our environment. The school believes that discipline is substantial when it is self-managed and there is a spirit of collaboration among students, parents and the school community. The empowerment of self and others helps each student reach their full academic, social, emotional and physical potential

This code aims to develop self-discipline and autonomy. Students will enjoy their institutional attendance by actively and positively participating to activities and by complying with common-sense rules that govern life and work in our community. To this end, the School encourages honesty, fairness, courtesy and security for all, in the effort of promoting respect for self and others both in society and at school. Students should develop a sense of responsibility, and thereby develop self-discipline and self-reliance.

The school Socrates-Demosthenes makes it a point to instill in its students the highest standards of conduct and the devotion to academic effort.

The school’s discipline policy is based on the following premises:

  • Personal freedom is accompanied by a responsibility to respect the freedom of others;
  • Regulations and policies exist in order to facilitate a sense of responsibility and to ensure respect for self and others;
  • Regulations make a student’s school life easier and aid to maintain a pleasant, safe and caring school environment.

Academic Success

To guarantee success in their studies, students must not spare efforts in all aspects of school life. For instance, making homework on time, having all the necessary equipment needed for schoolwork and demonstrating sustained attention are all essential components to success.

School Sanctions

  • Not handing in on time a homework within its time limit, is susceptible to not being accepted and therefore, may result in unsatisfactory marks. If the failure persists, parents/guardians will be alerted, which may eventually lead to additional sanctions.
  • Delays in submitting assignments may result in loss of points.
  • Cheating and plagiarism call for a zero, and possibly other sanctions.

General Sanctions

The school encourages students to always behave with courtesy, honesty and respect with their peers as well in person and on the Internet. In any case, unacceptable behavior, either at school or in outings and school buses, will be punished.

Written Warnings

Such warnings are served by teachers or the school management towards violations of school and/or school buses rules.

Detentions

Detentions are given by teachers or school management at their discretion, after repeated disciplinary offenses or repeated warnings. These retentions are one hour and take place after school hours.

Suspensions / Expelling

In some extreme cases, a student may be suspended or expelled from school without prior notice. The grounds for such sanctions include the following:

  • Uncivilized or chronic misconduct
  • Academic dishonesty
  • Theft
  • Harassment and intimidation
  • Violence (physical and verbal)

Policy in case of absence during an exam

As a member of an educational institution, a student who misses an exam must accept the resumption of his/her examination upon his/her return to school (or a specified date determined by the teacher). If the absence is not justified, it is up to the teacher to accept or not to accept the student to retake the exam or require a doctor’s note from the student.

Intellectual honesty and plagiarism

As a member of an educational institution, a student must demonstrate signs of honesty and good faith in his/her conduct. Cheating or plagiarism is a form of disloyalty, and by definition, unacceptable at all times. This type of offense is highly detrimental to the learning process and against the very purpose of the institution.

The use of computer at school

The academic institution has installed computers in a laboratory for students and staff only. Access to the computer is a privilege; thus, students are required to comply with the directives. Inappropriate use of computers can lead to the revocation of this privilege and other sanctions. A quick reminder of the guidelines:

  • The computer’s primary usage is for school work.
  • Students should and cannot download or install any program (including games and MSN Messenger).
  • The use of the printer is limited to school work.

Guidelines for Internet use

The use of Internet is not a right but a privilege. Internet access is intended for educational activities ONLY.

The Socrates-Demosthenes school recommends that students and parents refer to the following government website to guide them in the use of Internet: http://www.healthycanadians.gc.ca/init/kids-enfants/internet/cig-gci/index-eng.php
In addition, the school recommends that all students follow the subsequent code of conduct when using the Internet outside of school:

  • Always be respectful to others and yourself.
  • Never give out personal information (including your name, address, phone number).
  • While surfing the Internet, remember that you are responsible for your actions.
  • Following an electronic meeting, never agree to meet someone in person without talking to your parents about it.
  • Never visit banned websites.
  • Never go to a new service that involves additional costs without permission from your parents.
  • Never give a credit card number without your parents’ permission.
  • Always remember that strangers can get your address through social networks or chat-sites such as: Facebook, Twitter, MSN, etc.
  • Do not assume that information obtained from the Internet is always accurate.


Rights and responsibilities of students

To ensure a school environment that promotes a balanced and quality education, the school Socrates-Demosthenes emphasizes on the following academic requirements and behaviors:

  • Compliance with the school’s educational mission ;
  • Respect towards teachers, other students, school staff and to oneself;
  • Respect for the environment and property;
  • Compliance with the school’s dress code;
  • Compliance with safety regulations in the school bus;
  • Respect towards the school’s community as a representative of the Socrates-Demosthenes school;
  • Compliance with the school’s policies.

Protocol and consequences for students who do not comply with the code of conduct

For students who do not comply with the code of conduct, there will be consequences. For repeat offenses and in severe cases:

  • The school management and teachers will exercise their professional judgment. They will meet to decide on an appropriate consequence.
  • The student and his/her parents/guardian will be invited to meet with the staff of the school and will subsequently be informed of the decision and the action plan.
  • Depending on the severity of the offense, the following consequences will be applied: loss of privileges, detention, suspension or expulsion without notice (in extreme cases).

1. Respect for academic success

  • Students have the right

To reach their full potential, students are entitled to quality education with significant learning and school success.

  • Students also have the responsibility to:

Prepare for school each day by doing homework and bringing all the necessary books and school equipment. Homework is an extension of their learning and complements the work done in class. Students who do not do their homework on a regular basis may find it difficult to follow the curriculum of the class. Teachers will be giving homework regularly and students should note their homework in their agenda. The agenda is a communication tool for parents and teachers and it must be daily reviewed and signed by the parents/guardians. It also allows teachers and parents to interact with the student’s work. For example, if the student cannot perform his/her job due to illness; parents can notify the teacher by using the agenda. Homework must be supervised, but in order for students to take initiative, they should be encouraged to do their work alone.

2. Respect for teachers, other students, school staff and oneself.

  • Students have the right to:

Treat and to be treated with respect and to feel safe.

  • Students have the responsibility to:

Behave in a courteous and respectful way towards teachers, other students and all school staff, including principals, supervisors, dinner supervisors, parents and volunteers. Students must behave in a harmless and pleasant manner, by respecting each person’s physical space, the school’s property and always speak and act with courtesy towards everyone.

Some behaviors demonstrate a lack of respect for the school and its staff:

The following behavior is deemed intolerable: ignoring classroom rules, cheating, swearing, being rude and disrespectful, using abusive language (including racism, sexism or being bias against ethnic groups), throwing objects, destroying furniture, committing physical abuse, etc. These behaviors will receive immediate attention which may include one of the following interventions: meeting teacher/student, a letter sent to parents/guardian, meeting parent/school staff, a letter of apology, a “reflection” essay, or any other legal action that the school deems necessary to ensure that the student learns that his/her behavior is inappropriate and should be substituted by adequate behavior.

Behavior that affects the physical and emotional integrity of other students:

Fighting, bullying, pushing, leg hooks, kicking, swarming, name-calling, throwing things … Such actions shall be subject to immediate action, and depending on their severity, it could include any of the following consequences or interventions: a student-teacher or student-direction meeting, a letter to the family, a meeting with parents, a letter of apology, mediation to resolve the conflict , loss of privileges or any other legal action that the school believes it is necessary for the student to cease such behavior and learn that his/her action is inappropriate.

  • • Parents and teachers have the responsibility to:

Encourage a friendly behavior by providing a good model. Parents and the school personnel must work together to solve problems that may affect the safety of students so that they can flourish in a peaceful and stimulating learning environment.


3.  . Respect for the environment and property

  • Students have the right :

In respect of their personal property (ex: books, educational material, personal belongings).

  • Students have the responsibility to:

Respect school property. This includes classrooms, hallways, library, gym, restrooms, playground and school busses. Parents and teachers must demonstrate how to respect and value personal and public property, by guiding children to take the necessary steps to correct the harm caused to the property of the school or peers (ex: by replacing a library book, by paying the cost of a damaged object). To ensure compliance with the objectives of the school’s policy, some personal items (such as playing cards, GameBoy, iPods, DS or toys) that could interfere with the learning process or the general well-being of students WILL NOT BE PERMITTED. The school reserves the right to confiscate these items to ensure a smooth and efficient running of the school day. These items will be confiscated and returned at the discretion of the teacher or the school principal.

4.  Compliance with the school’s dress code

  • Students have the right to :

Attend school wearing their clean school uniform, and to be dressed appropriately for the temperature (refer to school uniforms).

  • Parents/guardian have the responsibility for:

Providing students with appropriate clothing and monitoring what students wear to go to school.

  • Teachers are responsible for :

Enforcing the dress code of the school and informing parents when it is not respected.

5.  Compliance with safety regulations in the school bus

  • Students have the right to:

Be transported safely to school, both emotionally and physically.

  • Students have the responsibility to :

Behave according to the same code of life at school (refer to school’s transportation policy).

  • Parents are responsible for :

Cooperating with the school and encouraging their children to follow the rules and behave in an acceptable manner in the school bus (refer to school’s transportation policy).

6.  Respect for my community / my school and my role as a representative of the Socrates-Demosthenes school

  • Students have the right to :

Be proud and appreciate their cultural heritage.

  • Students have the responsibility to:

Make necessary efforts to respect and appreciate their cultural differences and similarities in their school and community in general. As ambassadors of the Socrates-Demosthenes school, they represent values, ideologies and practices of their school. Within the school community, CHGM and society in general, they are responsible to behave with courtesy, respect and consideration for others and to encourage the same respect and consideration on the part of others. In this way, the Socrates-Demosthenes school continues its rich and distinctive tradition.

7.  Compliance with the school’s policies

  • Students have the right to :

High-quality education in accordance with their personal freedom and that of others.

  • Students have the responsibility to:

 

Respect school policies in order to improve the climate of school life and to maintain a pleasant, safe and warm environment for them and others.

Specialized services offered by the Socrates-Demosthenes school, are made in a personal approach to effectively respond to our customer’s needs. An interdisciplinary team of professionals is dedicated to working closely with teachers, parents and other stakeholders to address the educational, medical, psychological and social needs of each child.

1. Referral of a child to multidisciplinary team or to one of its members.

A child can benefit from the help of the following specialists when he/she experiences academic, social, emotional, or behavioral difficulties.

Internal and external members of the school team may include the following::

Internal:Specialized instructors (psycho-educators), remedial tutors, teachers and school principals.

External: Dental hygienists, psychologists, speech-language pathologists, social workers, health care personnel, parents/guardians.

Note that particular specialized services offered at school Socrates-Demosthenes, may vary from year to year. The policy for specialized services applies only to those services available in the school year.

2.Reference to internal team members

Following a parent / teacher communication, any teacher can discuss the student’s difficulties (academic, social, emotional or behavioral) with any internal member of the school’s multidisciplinary team.

Following a request made by a teacher or the school principal, any internal member of the school’s multidisciplinary team can be called in a classroom, (without parental consent) as an observer, to collect information on any child with difficulties of all kinds.

The specialized educator/instructor, the remedial tutor and other professionals (when available) make every effort to support the work of teachers. A teacher or a specialist can request assistance from an education specialist, a remedial tutor, or any other specialist available to assist a child, either inside or outside the classroom. Assistance from specialized educators, remedial tutors, and other available internal specialists, requires a written parental consent. A consent form is sent to parents/guardians through their child in order to permit new support measures. The consent form must be returned to the school.

Parents / guardians may at any time contact the teacher and/or the specialized educator to receive information about their child or to make a request to hold a formal meeting with all stakeholders involved.

Parents / guardians may themselves make a request for the professional services available or to arrange an appointment for a consultation (meeting with a professional) as and when they observe difficulties or new needs in their children.

3.Evaluations

When a child has persistent social, emotional, psychological and/or behavioral learning difficulties, the school has the right to recommend an appropriate professional assessment (academic, psychological, medical, neuropsychological, etc.). It is strongly suggested that any recommendations made by the school regarding any evaluation or support measure are respected and followed in the shortest possible time.

If a parent/guardian refuses to follow formal recommendations made by the school, supported and sanctioned by a professional evaluation, it may be required for him/her to sign a form absolving the school of any responsibility for any negative consequences that might result directly from this decision..

When there is reason to believe that the security or the development of a child is in danger, sections 39 and 39.1 of the Youth Protection Act mentions that professionals working with children and teachers are required, in the performance of their duties, make a report to the D.P.J.

The purpose of a policy on field trips/outings is to facilitate their planning for the school year and set a safe environment for teachers and parents. Guidelines for teachers are based on past experience and future requirements, and are intended to give them a variety of choices and flexibility in planning.

 

Objectives of field trips/outings

Field trips/outings should:

  • complete the academic curriculum;
  • increase the student’s understanding;
  • educate youth about appropriate attitude and behavior in groups, by experiencing recreational activities adapted to suit their age;
  • develop awareness and sensitivity to cultural and humanitarian aspects of the student’s environment;
  • develop a team spirit;
  • reinforce topics covered in class;
  • enrich the teacher/student relationship.

General rules governing school field trips

Parents should receive a standard form of the type “Parental Permission” for any school outing. This form should include the following:

  • The field trip’s/outing’s purpose;
  • The cost;
  • The time of departure and return;
  • The signed authorization of the parent and/or guardian.

Safety during field trips/outings

  • The school staff will assume the organization and safety of students;
  • The school first aid kit on the bus, as well as a cell phone should be included for each field trip/outing;
  • Parents/supervisors will be informed of the requirements, tasks, safety measures and emergency procedures before the departure (the assignment of parents to a group of children for whom they should be responsible). Parents/supervisors do not have the right to take children who are not part of the school’s group.

Medications to bring during school trips

The teacher will ensure that the student has his/her medication or EPI-PEN. The EPI-PEN should be brought to school in a container, clearly indicating the name of the student and the teacher, as well as the dosage required by a doctor’s prescription.

The École Socrates-Démosthenes aims to facilitate access to its educational program by providing a safe transportation system for students while taking into account government regulations

Eligibility

All students in preschool through sixth grade are generally eligible. There may be some restrictions: therefore, please verify with the School.

Shared Responsibilities

The School considers its students’ safety of the utmost importance and will take all necessary precautions to ensure the safest transportation services.

The Parent/Guardian

Parents / guardians are responsible for the child’s safety between home and the bus stop.

Parents / guardians must be at the door when the child enters or exits the bus. Drivers do not have to wait until the children enter their home.

Parents / guardians must notify the School in writing if the student does not take the bus as planned.

The Students

Students must comply with the regulations (refer to the detailed document, distributed at the beginning of the school year). Students must behave in the same way as at school.

Students must respect the authority (meaning: the bus driver), and follow his or her instructions.

Students must respect their classmates on the school bus and avoid causing each other any problems.

The School Bus Driver

  • The school bus driver is responsible for the safety of all passengers;
  • When students come down the bus, the school bus driver is responsible until the students are on the sidewalk and not the entrance to the house;
  • When picking up a child, the driver will wait 15 seconds before departing;
  • When picking up a child, the driver is obligated to wait until all children are seated before starting the bus;
  • The driver must not leave the bus when children are on board, with the exception of an emergency.


The School Bus Contractor

  • The contractor is responsible for the contract under the terms established. The door to door service is not guaranteed by the transportation service. In case of relocation, a file review will be conducted by the Company. The transportation Company may change its course during the year.


The Administrators and Teachers

  • School administrators and teachers are responsible for students during the arrival and departure of school buses, as well as school trips and outings.
Disruptive Behavior on the School Bus

Depending on the severity of the acts, a student may lose his or her right to transportation or may be suspended immediately after the following warnings:

1st transgression: Warning from the campus direction:

2nd transgression: Letter to parents / guardians with notice of suspension

3rd transgression: Suspension of transportation privileges (1-5 days).

4th transgression : Suspension of transportation privileges (5 days or more).

School Transportation Regulations

  • Be ready and wait on the sidewalk in the morning.
  • Wait until the bus stops completely before getting on the bus.
  • Carefully regain your seat as soon as possible.
  • Respect the three students per seat rule.
  • When sitting, always face the front of the bus.
  • Always place school bags on the floor and in front of you.
  • Do not disturb or distract the bus driver or other passengers.
  • Do not open the windows without permission.
  • Windows should never be opened over two levels.
  • Never put your head or hands out of the windows.
  • Stay seated at any time.
  • Always be alert and ready to get out of the bus on the designated place.
  • It is forbidden to swear in the bus.
  • It is forbidden to eat, drink or chew gum in the bus.
  • It is forbidden to take out books, pens or pencils from school bags.
  • The transportation company and the bus driver are not responsible for lost personal items.
  • The school bus service is available to addresses that are fully accessible for a 72-passenger bus and when the weather permits.
  • The transport company and the bus driver are not responsible for children after they exit the bus in the afternoon.
  • Representatives of the school transportation must be notified in advance of any change of address or destination of the child. However, these changes will only take place if the new destination is within the normal route of the bus.
  • No change of address or change of place of destination will be accepted during the first two weeks of the school year.
  • The transport is not guaranteed if you relocate (moving).
  • The door to door service is not guaranteed: it is a privilege provided by G & N Transportation.

Intrusion at school

The following measures should be used as a framework and have been designed to ensure the safety of students and staff in the event of intrusion into the school. Generally, administrative and support staff shall ensure that all exit doors are locked at all times during school hours. A main entry must be identified for the public and this entry should be monitored, either directly or by a surveillance camera, by the administrative assistant and/or the director. This main entrance acts as a first filter device of the public visiting the school. This entry door also serves as the staff’s entrance. Anyone entering the facility must immediately report his/her presence to the administrative office.

As soon as the Administrative Assistant, the Director or a staff member suspects that an individual has entered or attempts to enter the school without permission, the following actions should take place:

  • The office staff must immediately notify the rest of the school, through the intercom, that there is an intruder in the school, and that the emergency lock process should initiate immediately.
  • The office staff should immediately call the police by dialing 911.
  • Upon receipt of the message, all teachers should empty corridors and barricade everyone in their classroom or another room, by locking the door or placing a cabinet behind the door in order to obstruct the intruder as much as possible.
  • Everyone should remain calm, quiet and lie down, away from the door.
  • In rare circumstances, if deemed possible and preferable, an evacuation effort can be made to keep students and staff out of the building.
  • Cell phones must be in vibration mode and can be used for communication.
  • If the fire alarm is triggered, no one should try to evacuate the building unless sensing smoke odour.
  • If a person meets the intruder, he/she should do exactly what the intruder wants, do not run unless the intruder is distracted.
  • Everyone must remain in their classrooms until authorities indicate the end of the alert.
  • The above procedures will be put into practice on a regular basis with simulated exercises.

This policy applies to all school students and staff in any sort of threatening situation.

Most threats turn out to be hoaxes, but it cannot be assumed in the beginning.
The person receiving the call or the threat must:

  • Stay calm
  • Gather as much information as possible
  • Write the exact words
  • Note any useful details about the individual: gender, age, accent, etc.
  • Immediately notify the director.

Generally, the police does not investigate the school. After consultation with the police or the staff, the campus director and his/her secretary walk inside the building looking for any anomaly and notify the police. Then the police will search outside the building and its surroundings.

The campus will be evacuated if and only if the police gives the evacuation order. In the event of an evacuation, a nearby school will be used as a temporary shelter.

The purpose of this policy is to prevent the harassment or intimidation of any person due to race, religious beliefs, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, physical or mental disabilities, political beliefs, appearance, age, and marital or family status. This policy applies to students, parents, teachers, administrators, and support staff.

Harassment is a repetition of words, actions or gestures of a derogatory or vexatious nature that concern a person or a group of persons, this also includes cyber bullying. This is particularly the case when such behavior seems to hurt the person’s dignity, their physical or psychological integrity. The conduct in question does not need to be intentional to be considered as harassment. It can occur in or out of the school establishment or in connection with an activity organized by the School.

Harassment will not be tolerated under any circumstance within the life of the institution. Any complaint in this regard will bring an investigation or an appropriate disciplinary action.

École Socrates-Démosthène is committed to protecting the rights of the plaintiffs as well as those who are implicated in all cases that are brought to its attention. This policy implies the confidentiality regarding the identity of all parties, as well as the circumstances linked to the complaint and any taken measures to address the issue.

Therefore, the School implicitly says that courtesy, tolerance and education are the best ways to prevent differences of this nature.

If anyone considers being a victim of one form or another of harassment, they should report the incident immediately.

Procedure:

  • 1. If you are harassed or intimidated:

a) If deemed appropriate, let the offender/harasser know that their behavior is unwelcome and ask them to stop.

b) Note significant details surrounding the incident: dates, times, places, witnesses, documents and your reaction. It is not necessary to record everything but the true story of the events can be very useful.

c) If you do not want to directly confront the harasser, or if the approach does not lead to anything, then you should complain to your teacher about the situation.

  • 2. Processing of the complaint:

a) Once the complaint is reported to the teacher, three scenarios are possible:

i) The teacher may assess that the behavior in question is not considered harassment and no further action is required

ii) In this case the complainant is dissatisfied with the teacher’s response; they can go directly to the direction.

iii) The complainant and the teacher may agree that this is indeed a case of harassment or intimidation and that this behavior should be reported to the alleged harasser. The teacher will determine what to do to fix the problem.

iv) If the complainant and the teacher agree that the author of harassment or bullying is the director of the campus, the problem should be confidentially exposed to the General Director.

b) If the problem remains unresolved, the situation will be entrusted to the Director, who will separately interview the parties and revise the resolution method initiated by the teacher. The Director will study the nature, persistence and seriousness of the alleged offense. If the Director finds that the allegation has not been substantiated, they will make its decision in a written report that will be sent to both the alleged harasser and the complainant, also a copy shall be kept in the complainant’s file. If the complaint appears to be justified, the Director shall determine the appropriate action to take. The actions that the Director may take, without excluding other options, include a reference to a doctor or a psychologist, suspension, time trial, expulsion or dismissal.

c) Whatever the outcome of the complaint made in good faith, the author, as well as anyone providing information on the case, will be protected from all forms of retaliation by staff or students.

d) Because complaints of harassment or bullying will be treated very seriously, mischievous or groundless complaints can lead to disciplinary action against the person who complained.