2014-2015

South Colchester Academy

#207 Hwy 289
Brookfield, NS B0N 1C0
Phone (902) 673-5000 / Fax (902) 673-5005
Website: http://sca.ccrsb.ca
INDEX
Page
Announcements.. 28
Assessment, Evaluation, Academic Standing. 8
Athletic Eligibility Guidelines 20
Attendance.. 10
Behaviour 14
Bullying Policy... 17
Bus and Student Transportation.. 29
Cafetorium Food and Drink 19
Cell Phones & Other Electronic Communication Devices. 16
Daily Schedules and Bells... 22
Dress Code.. 18
Exam Exemptions 13
Extra-curricular Activities and Eligibility.. 18
Fire Alarms and Fire Drills. 28
Computer Usage .... 25
Moodle.. 25
Library 7
Medications 29
Physical Education, Athletics and Gymnasium Use... 19
PowerSchool... 25
Principals Message 4
School Calendar. 3
School Zones and Map.. 29
Security and Video Surveillance... 29
Staff Directory... 2
Student Council Presidents Message... 4
Student Fees.. 23
Student Recognition and Awards. 24
Student Services 5
Telephones. 25
Textbooks.. 25
Timetables. 21
Tobacco Free Facilities and Grounds 18
1
Vehicles and Parking 23
Visitors.. 28
2
STAFF DIRECTORY
Teaching Staff (*Dept. Head) Department Room #
Mr. R. Adams* Social Studies 2640
Mrs. J. Angevine-Spencer English & Fine Arts 1430
Mrs. J. Arenburg Options & Opportunities 2620
Mr. K. Aucoin Healthy Living, Physical Education, Family Studies 1181
Mr. J. Crewe Science and Technology Education 2130
Mrs. S. Deveau Mathematics 2520
Mrs. T. Deveau French 1410
Ms. L. Fiander Social Studies 2460
Mrs. J. Fisher Science and Technology Education 2510
Mr. T. Fitzgerald Science & Technology 1560
Mrs. K. Gamblin Family Studies 1630/40
Mrs. H. Hartlen Fine Arts 1170
Mr. P. Hunt English & Fine Arts 2430
Mr. N. Jackson, Principal Administration 1112
Mr. G. Kingston Mathematics 2150
Ms. J. Layden Mathematics 1440
Ms. J. Landry/Mrs. M. Legacy French 2550
Mrs. H. MacDonald Student Services 1450
Mr. L. MacKinnon Student Services 1520
Mrs. M. MacLeod* Student Services 1121
Mr. R. McNutt Science and Technology Education 1380
Mrs. K. OLeary, Vice-principal Administration 1113
Mr. D. Perry Science and Technology Education 2120
Mr. G. Renouf Social Studies 2630
Mrs. D. Roberts* English & Fine Arts 2540
Mrs. S. Roberts Student Services 1650
Mrs. L. Roop French 1530
Mr. C. Ross English & Fine Arts 1550
Mrs, M. Sadler English & Fine Arts 2110
Mr. B. Sears* Mathematics 2560
Mrs. C. Shea English and Fine Arts 2530
Mr. K. Spencer* Healthy Living, Physical Education & Family Studies 2610
Mr. Jody Upham* Science and Technology Education 2650
Mr. C. Weatherbee, Vice-principal Administration 1115
Mrs. L. Welton Student Services 2410
Mrs. H. Whitty Mathematics 2450
Ms. C. Williams Science and Technology Education 2130
Ms. T. Zann-Roland Student Services & Healthy Living 1122
Administrative Assistants Information Specialist/Librarian Maintenance
Ms. K. Dickie #0 Mrs. S. Cochrane #1260 Ms. P. Barclay
Mrs. A. Seymour Smith #1128 Mr. I. Barkhouse
Mr. T. Boyd
Teacher Assistants Mrs. K. MacKenzie
Mrs. T. Croft-Hoyt Mrs. S. Hughes Supervisors Ms. G. White
Mrs. S. Barnhill Mrs. C. Isenor Mrs. C. Doyle
Mrs. L. Verboom Ms. D. Messervey Mrs. L. Smith
Mrs. V. Digdon Mrs. L. Robichaud Mrs. S. Walters
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SCHOOL CALENDAR 2014-2015
September 1 Labour Day Holiday
September 2 & 3 Staff Orientation & P.D. Days (All Scools!
September " #irst Day for All Students
September $ Scool Pictures
September 11 Parent%&eacer Orientation Session ('%$ P(!
September 2) Scool Pictures (Retakes)
October 13 &an*s+i,in+ Holiday (-o .lasses!
October 2" Pro,incial &eacers .onference (-o .lasses!
-o,ember (&/A! 0rad Potos (Dates to be announced in September!
-o,ember 11 (id%Semester 2eports Distributed
-o,ember 11 Scools .losed (in lieu of 2emembrance Day!
-o,ember 13 S.A Parent%&eacer -i+t ('%$ P(!
-o,ember 1" -o .lasses (Site /ased P.D. in mornin+ & Parent%&eacer from 1%3 P(!
-o,ember 2$ &eacer 3n%Ser,ice Day (-o .lasses!
December " Holiday .oncert (4511 P( 6 &entati,e!
December 22 -o .lasses (.ristmas /rea* Dec. 22 6 7an. 2!
7anuary 8 .lasses 2esume
7anuary 2' 6 2) #irst Semester 9:ams
7anuary 2' ..2S/ 9:ams ((at 12;Ad,anced (at 12!
7anuary 24 Pro,. (at at <or* 11 9:am (mornin+!
7anuary 24 ..2S/ 9:ams (9n+lis 12;9n+lis .ommunications 12!
7anuary 31 -o .lasses (Secondary Assessment & 9,aluation Day!
#ebruary 2 Second Semester /e+ins (sub=ect to can+e!
#ebruary 11 #irst Semester 2eport .ards Distributed
#ebruary 12 0rades 4%) & (at 11 & 9n+lis 11 Parent%&eacer -i+t ('%$ P(!
#ebruary 1' New Holiday (No Classes)
(arc ' -o .lasses (Site /ased P.D. % All Secondary Scools!
(arc 1' 6 21 -o .lasses ((arc /rea*!
April 3 -o .lasses (0ood #riday Holiday!
April ' -o .lasses (9aster Holiday!
April 1" (id%Semester 2eport .ards Distributed
April 1' Parent%&eacer -i+t ('%$ P(!
April 14 -o .lasses (Site /ased P.D. in mornin+ & Parent%&eacer from 1%3 P(!
(ay 1$ -o .lasses (>ictoria Day Holiday!
(ay 28 1
st
<ee* of Pro,incial 0rade $ Assessments (2eadin+? <ritin+? & (at!
(ay 24 Student Participation 2eco+nition A@ards -i+t (4%) P(!
(ay 2$ 0rade ' Orientation Day (no classes for +rade 4As!
7une 11 Atletic A@ards -i+t (4%) P(! &9-&A&3>9
7une 11 (usic .oncert (4%) P(! &9-&A&3>9
7une 1$%2" Second Semester 9:ams
7une 1$ ..2S/ 9:ams ((at 12;Ad,anced (at 12!
7une 1$ Pro,. 9:ams (9n+. 11 & 9n+. 11 Plus!
7une 1) ..2S/ 9n+lis 12 & 9n+. .om. 12
7une 1) Pro,. 9:ams ((at at <or* 11 & (at 11!
7une 2' & 2) -o .lasses (Assessment & 9,aluation Days!
7une 2) Senior Hi+ 0raduation
7une 31 2eport .ard Day (students in attendance from )%11 A(!
Awards Presentations 9:00 -9:45 AM - Report Cards Distribted 9:45 ! "0:00 AM
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PRINCIPALS MESSAGE
Dear Students? Parents and 0uardians5
On bealf of te Sout .olcester Academy staff? 3 @ould li*e to ta*e tis opportunity to
@elcome you bac* from your summer ,acation. Students and parents @ill opefully e:perience
many positi,e can+es tis year? as our scool continues to incorporate te many positi,e
features associated @it ..2S/As 2estorati,e Practices Strate+ies alon+ oter student%centered
initiati,es.
Our Senior Hi+ (+rades 11%12! 9:am 9:emption and Attendance policy @ill continue tis year
alon+ @it a re,ised +rade ) 9:am 9:emption pro+ram. &e 9:am 9:emption pro+ram re@ards
tose students @it ,ery +ood attendance? @ile te pro,incial attendance policy includes se,eral
sta+ed inter,entions and possible credit loss for tose students in +rade 11%12 @it cronic
absenteeism.
3 encoura+e eac of you to de,ote enou+ time and ener+y to your academic studies and to also
+et in,ol,ed in te ,arious co%curricular and e:tra%curricular acti,ities tat S...A as to offer.
One of my +oals tis year is to pro,ide a platform tat @ill enable our students to sare more of
teir ,ie@s and concerns related to life ere at S.A.
Please ta*e time to read te a+enda and sare tis information @it your parents or +uardians? as
tis information is ,aluable and @ill assist you durin+ te year. 3 stron+ly encoura+e you and
your parents;+uardians to access our online student information system (Po@erScool! on a
re+ular basis and to contact te Administration? Student Ser,ices? or your teacers if you a,e
any Buestions or concerns trou+out te scool year.
Ha,e a +reat yearCC
(r. -e,in 2. 7ac*son? S.A Principal
Student Council Presidents Message
Rachel Sears & Vince Kennedy
Hello SCA wolves,
And welcome to the 2014-2015 school year. We look forward to bringing you a fun and exciting
school year. While we hope that you join many extracurricular activities, we wish you well in all
your endeavors throughout the year. Regardless of what you do, whether its joining a sports
team, playing an instrument, joining a club or getting a job, we would ask that you remember this
quote by George R.R. Martin A man might befriend a wolf, even break a wolf, but no man
could truly ta#e a wolf. These are powerful words that say, it doesnt matter where or who you
are or even what you are doing, only one person can control you, that all your successes and
failures fall on one person, yourself. This is both a pride and a responsibility which we hope you
will use to reach your full potential.
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STUDENT SERVICES
The Student Services offices are located just inside the main entrance. All students are
encouraged to become familiar with the offices, and feel comfortable to access the services
provided. Students may make an appointment with a member of the student services department
by directly arranging it, or by seeing one of the school secretaries.
Guidance
South Colchester Academy has a comprehensive guidance and counselling program. This
program provides for the integration of guidance and counselling services across the curriculum
to address student needs. Guidance services will be administered by Mrs. Michelle MacLeod
(grades 10, 11 & 12), and Ms. Tamara Zann-Roland (grades 7, 8 & 9). The counsellors are
available to provide information, support and access to services for students both within and
outside the school.
In Good Standing (IGS)
SCAs Middle School "In Good Standing (IGS)" program is designed to support students in
completing their school work and meeting academic outcomes. The middle school learning
center will be open daily at lunch time to support students in completing assignments and
outstanding class work. Students will be asked to attend the "IGS" room at lunch time if their
work or assignments have not been completed. Students may eat their lunch in the "IGS" room
and receive support in completing their work from two Program Support Teachers. When the
student has completed their work they will be permitted to leave. "IGS" is an opportunity for
students to receive positive support and to develop confidence in their own abilities.
Career Centre
Student Services maintains an up to date career information centre including information on
universities, colleges, trade and technical schools, and other institutes of post secondary
education. Students should recognize that career education is an on going process, and they
should begin this process early in their high school education, with regular visits to the student
services department. Students are invited to visit the Career Cruising Website at
www.careercruising.com username: south password: colchester
Scholarships and Bursaries
Students are encouraged to review the scholarship booklet with information on scholarships and
bursaries of particular interest to students at South Colchester Academy. This will be available
to graduates in January, and can be obtained through our Student Services office. Students
interested in applying for school based scholarships must fill out the appropriate application, also
available in our Student Services office. Throughout the school year scholarships and bursaries
will be announced over the SCA-TV system as they become available. Graduates are
encouraged to check with Mrs. MacLeod on a regular basis regarding scholarships and bursaries.
Teen Health Centre
SCA offers a variety of services through our Student Services Department, including; Health
Nurse services one afternoon per week, Addiction Services Support, Third Place Transition
House Outreach Counselling, Psychologist, Speech Pathologist, APSEA (hearing impairments).
We also have school based groups including; Girls Circles, Smoking Cessation, Gay Straight
Alliance Group, Teens for Teens Support Peer Mediation Program and Teens Tackle Tobacco.
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Learning Centres
The Learning Centres provide opportunities for students to receive support and experience
greater success in their individual subject areas. South Colchester Academys goal is to have our
Learning Centres provide exciting opportunities for students, teachers, and support persons to not
only receive support, but also provide support. The learning centre staff is responsible for
assessing students, planning ways to assist teachers and students, implementing particular
strategies, and consulting with classroom teachers and parents to assess progress. To receive
further information on its operation parents and guardians should contact Mrs. M. MacLeod,
Student Services Department Head.
Severe Learning Disabilities Program
The SLD program is a student services initiative intended to support middle/junior high school
age students who demonstrate severe learning disabilities. The program is designed to enable
identified students to acquire the skills necessary to experience success in the regular classroom.
Students receiving SLD support will be scheduled out of the regular timetable for a small
number of periods per cycle to receive focused support on specific program areas.
Extended Program Support Learning Centre
The EPS Learning Centre provides additional support for students with individual program plans
in the core subjects. Students are able to work on their program outcomes through assignments
and projects. Authentic teaching and activity based learning strategies are utilized.
Program Planning Team
A Program Planning Coordinator is in place for each grade level. Students experiencing
difficulty in meeting the curriculum outcomes may receive program support through
accommodations or may have their programs modified into Individual Program Plans. The
program support teacher will work in consultation with students, teachers, support personnel, and
parents to meet individual learning and developmental needs.
Crisis/Tragic Events Response Intervention
South Colchester Academy recognizes that crisis and or tragic events may occur which could
disrupt and/or threaten the safety and security for members of the school community. A Crisis
Response Team is in place at our school to provide the assistance and support necessary in such
events.
Options and Opportunities Program
Options and Opportunities (O2) is a program designed to assist students who are seeking
alternative options to traditional learning. High school students who participate in the program
receive hands-on experience in a career academy, increased opportunities for community based
learning, such as co-op credits, and short-term work placements. The O-2 program will be
linked to post-secondary education and training and other opportunities such as apprenticeship.
The O-2 program is available to students entering grade 10. Students must apply and participate
along with their family in an interview and screening process. Information pamphlets are
available in Student Services.
Site Based Support Team
South Colchester Academy has a Site Based Support Team consisting of school administration,
program support teachers, guidance counselors, student services dept. head, and a school
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psychologist. The team provides leadership and support in areas such as allocation of resources
and prioritization for assessment. Administrators, teachers, and parents are welcome to make
referral to the Site Based Team. Referral forms are available through Student Services.
LIBRARY
Hours: 8:15 am 2:45 pm (Regular School Days)
Access
Students in grades 9 12 are required to enter and exit the library from the Forum.
Students in grades 7 & 8 are required to enter and exit the library from the corridor adjacent to
their classroom. Students and staff are reminded not to cut-through the library (no through fare)
Students must have their IDs with them.
Students are to be prepared to work quietly.
During class time a library pass is required from your teacher.
Food and Drink are not allowed.
Always leave your work space clean.
Borrowed materials are to be returned on time.
The library does not charge overdue fines, but it is important to return all materials on or before
their due date. Remember you are responsible for the care and preservation of all materials
checked out in your name. Materials may be renewed, if students and staff need extra time, as
long as no other requests for that item have been made. Students will not be loaned new material
if they have previous items overdue, and students may not be permitted to attend extra-curricular
school activities, such as dances, until the item has been returned or paid for. Any books owing
at the end of the school year will be charged to the student. Students with outstanding library
items may be have their non-class computer time restricted until their account has been settled.
Circulation Policies:
Any student or staff of South Colchester Academy may borrow from the school library.
Students must have their student ID card to check out materials.
Books are loaned out for two weeks.
Magazines are loaned for one week. Most recent copies of magazines remain in the library.
Popular magazines are kept at the circulation desk.
Newspapers must remain in the library.
Videos are to be signed out by teachers and the loan period is one week.
The one video camera may be signed out for one school period or day at a time. The camera
must be used on school property only, and is not to be taken home.
Inter-library loan among CCRSB school libraries is now available. Please ask at the library for
details and assistance.
Reference
The reference section houses encyclopedias, atlases, dictionaries, and many other fact-finding
books. Reference books are to be used in the library only and do not circulate. Please ask before
using.
Photocopier
Photocopies are 10 cents each. You must pay library staff directly.
Computers
The library has 10 computers available for research and curriculum purposes. SCA library
policies regarding computer use are posted in the library. The library has various on-line
9
services available. Check out the school library services website at
http://schools.ccrsb.ednet.ns.cs/lib to use the CCRSB school library catalogues, as well as direct
access to online databases that contain full text magazine, newspaper and reference book articles.
Students are restricted to five pages of print from the computer printer during class time.
Additional copies will cost 10 cents each.
ASSESSMENT, EVALUATION AND ACADEMIC STANDING
Student evaluation in all of their academic programs will be based on assessments that are
regular and varied. Successful completion of programs will require completion of tests and
examinations (grades 9 12), completion of projects, essays, presentations and assignments
within the required timeframes as well as maintaining regular attendance. It is the students
responsibility to contact their teachers should they miss a test, or fail to pass in assignments on
time due to absence or for any other reason. Assignments not passed in or work not completed
may eventually be assigned a mark of 0. The passing mark in all subjects is 50%.
Grade 7, 8, 9
Students are required to complete the following compulsory subjects; English, Social Studies,
Mathematics, Science, French, P.D.R./Health, Physical Education, and at least one elective of
Music, Technology Education or Family Studies.
Grades 7 & 8 Honours with Distinction and Honours is currently under review given the
recent change to a letter based, non-numeric grading system.
Grade 9 Honours with Distinction
Grade 9 Honours with Distinction will be awarded to a student achieving an average mark of
90% or above with no mark below 85% in grade 9 at South Colchester Academy.
Grade 9 Honours
0rade ) Honours @ill be a@arded to student acie,in+ an a,era+e mar* of $8D or abo,e @it no
mar* belo@ $1D in +rade ) at Sout .olcester Academy.
Grade 10, 11, 12
Students entering Grade 10 will require 18 high school credits to obtain a high school completion
certificate. From this, a maximum of 7 credits may be at the Grade 10 level, and a minimum of 5
credits must be at the grade 12 level. Compulsory credits will be 3 English, 2 Mathematics, 2
Sciences, 1 Global Studies, Canadian History 11, 1 Fine Arts, Phys. Ed. (Grade 10 students),
PAL 11 (1/2 credit), and CLM 11 (1/2 credit) (for grade 11 & 12 students), and an additional 2
courses in science or technology.
Grade 10 students will be registered in 8 semestered subjects.
Grade 11 students will be registered in 8 semestered subjects. Students in grade 11 who have
received 7 or more credits may request to be registered in 7 courses, and receive a period for
study/preparation in one semester. This request must be made to the senior high guidance
counselor and be supported in writing by a parent or guardian.
Grade 12 students will be registered in 8 semestered subjects. Students in grade 12 who have
received 14 or more credits may request to be registered in 6 courses, and receive a period for
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study/preparation in each semester. This request must be made to the senior high guidance
counselor and be supported in writing by a parent or guardian.
11
Changing & Dropping Courses
Please read CCRSBs policy below carefully regarding changing, adding, and dropping courses.
A student in grades 10 to 12 may:
a! Add a course before te end of te ei+t day from te be+innin+ of eac semester5 Sept 1! 201" and
#e$ 11! 201
b! Drop a course by te end of te day on #riday of te @ee* midterm reports are sent ome (-o,ember
and April! @itout @itdra@ (<D! bein+ so@n on transcript5 No% 1"! 201" and Apr 1&! 201
c! Drop a course from te (onday follo@in+ midterm report @ee*? to te end of te day on #riday fi,e
@ee*s later. A @itdra@ (<D! @ill be so@n on te transcript5 'e( 1)! 201" and May 22! 201
*Beyond the end of the 15th week of each term, a student who drops a course will be evaluated on the
work completed to that point plus zero for the remaining assessments for that term !he mark will be
shown on his"her transcript
September 15 Deadline to add a course
November 14 Course withdrawal deadline WD will NOT appear show on transcript
December 19 Course withdrawal deadline WD WILL appear on transcript
*Beyond December 19 a mark will appear on a students transcript (see note above)
February 11 Deadline to add a course
April 17 Course withdrawal deadline WD will NOT appear show on transcript
May 22 Course withdrawal deadline WD WILL appear on transcript
*Beyond May 22 a mark will appear on a students transcript (see note above)
*Grade 10 students are reminded that as per SCA policy grade 10 students are to be enrolled
in four courses each semester.
*Student-Athletes are reminded that they must be enrolled in a minimum of 3 courses each
semester to be eligible for participation on school athletic teams.
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HONOURS WITH DISTINCTION
Grades 10 Honours with Distinction recognition will be awarded to students having achieved
an average of 85% in 5 academic/advanced courses with no mark below 80% in these 5 courses,
including English. Students will not have any mark below 50% in the current school year.
Grades 11 Honours with Distinction recognition will be awarded to students having achieved
an average of 85% in 6 academic/advanced courses with no mark below 80% in these 6 courses,
including English. Students will not have any mark below 50% in the current school year.

Grade 12 Honours with Distinction students must have an average of 85% in 6
academic/advanced grade 12 courses (regardless of year they were attained), including English,
with no mark in the 6 courses below 80%. Students will not have any mark below 50% in the
current school year.
HONOURS
Grades 10 Honours recognition will be awarded to students having achieved an average of 80%
in 5 courses with no mark below 75% in these 5 courses, including English. Students will not
have any mark below 50% in the current school year.
Grades 11 Honours recognition will be awarded to students having achieved an average of 80%
in 6 courses with no mark below 75%, including English, in these 6 courses. Students will not
have any mark below 50% in the current school year.
Grade 12 Honours students must have an average of 80% in 6 grade 12 courses (regardless of
year they were attained), with no mark below 75%, including English, in these 6 courses.
Students will not have any mark below 50% in the current school year.
ATTENDANCE
Senior *ig+ ,grades 10-12. Attendan(e Po/i(y
In September 2011, the Minister of Education authorized a two-year trial period enabling schools
to implement a policy whereby senior high students who do not attend 80% of their classes may
become ineligible to receive credit for a course(s). This is intended to be a tool of last resort
after staged interventions have taken place.
The Principal is expected to make recommendations to the school boards Family of Schools
Supervisor for credit withdrawal after a student has reached twenty-two (22) absences.
The Senior High Attendance policy is posted on our schools website. http://sca.ccrsb.ca and
students and parents are strongly encouraged to monitor the attendance daily through their
PowerSchool account.
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Attendance in each course is viewed as important and is expected at South Colchester Academy.
Students must assume personal responsibility for maintaining regular attendance in all courses in
which they are registered. A student who has failed to attend class for any reason is deemed to
be absent. Unless the absence is school generated a parent or guardian must excuse each absence
from class. Parents should call the school (673-5000) to excuse a student or send a written
excuse. Notes are to be passed in to the Administrative Assistant prior to 8:45 am. Absences are
recorded as excused absences and unexcused absences. Excusable absences include a
medical excuse from a doctor/medical officer with specific dates, death in family, court related
appointment, excused by a parent and school sponsored events.
A note or contact by a parent, indicating the reason for the absence, must occur within five
school days of the student returning to school. After five days the absence will be recorded as
non-excusable, even if information is later received from the parent or guardian.
The following are procedures to be followed in the event a student misses a class:
1. Students are required to provide excuses for all classes for which they are absent.
Excuses should be received in a timely manner. For example, absentees should not
expect to be excused for an absence at the beginning of a semester, if the excused arrives
at school near the end of semester.
2. Classes for which students are absent will be marked as excusable or un-excusable.
3. While it is not possible to make an exhaustive list, the following are examples of
excusable and non-excusable absences:
Excusable Absences Un-excusable Absences
Excused by parent
Medical excuse (for specific dates) No written excuse or contact from parent
Court related appointment Truancy
Death in Family Missed the School Bus
School sponsored event
". A note or contact by parent, indicating the reason for the absence, is expected within
five days of the student returning to school.
8. The school is not required to provide make-up tests or work for missed classes if the class
missed is recorded an un-excused. This does not mean that a school/teacher is required to
offer make-up tests in every case when there is an excused absence.
'. Students/parents are to be informed after five un-excused absences.
4. Students/parents are to be informed again if the absences become excessive, according to
the boards Attendance Policy. The school may request a meeting at this time in
accordance with CCRSBs Attendance Policy.
$. Students are referred to the Attendance Review Committee in accordance with the
boards policy. The Family Suspension Review Committee is also the Attendance
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Review Committee; however, this review may or may not include a meeting with the
parent and student.
). Students are referred to the Attendance Review committee after twenty un-excused
absences are accumulated in a non-semester schedule. The Family Suspension review
Committee is also the Attendance Review Committee; however, this review may or may
not include a meeting with the parent and student.
11. Excuses provided by parents, although they may be deemed to be for non-educational
events, are to be considered excusable absences.
11. It is the students responsibility to make up for the work missed.
12. Truancy (skipping of classes) may result in suspension from all school activities.
13. Students who must leave the school during the day are required to sign out at the office.
1". Examinations missed require a medical or similar excuse to be provided before the end of
the examination period, if a student is to be permitted to write a make-up exam.
EAny (+anges to CCRS0s Senior *ig+ Attendan(e Po/i(y 1i// $e (ommuni(ated to students 2
parents t+is Septem$er3
Late Policy
Students who arrive late to school are required to sign-in in the main office, and a late slip may
be issued for class depending on the circumstance and how late the student arrives. Students
arriving late for class are responsible for checking with the teacher at the end of class to ensure
they have not been recorded as absent. Students must be issued an admit slip from the staff
member or teachers who has detained them. See revised policy below:
1
st
Late5 &eacers are to remind student of te policy? @ic sould be posted & i+ly
,isible in classroom.
2
nd
or 3
rd
Teacher shall contact home and explain to the parent(s) how lateness impacts the
Late: classroom, etc. Teachers shall check student attendance for total number of lates
& forward totals & parent contact summary information to administration.
8%4 Lates5 8%4 lates in total @itin a 8 @ee* period @ill result in a 21 minute lunc
detention. &eacers @ill alert Admin. at #3>9 lates & administration @ill
contact ome. Administration may also reBuest a parent meetin+.
&e detentions @ill be super,ised by administration.
11 Lates5 <itin 11 @ee*s period @ill result in one day 3SS or one day OSS & St. Ser.
referral. OSS suspension may also result in loss of e:tra%curricular
pri,ile+es.
18 F Lates5 Students e:ceedin+ 18 lates @itin a semester @ill be referred directly to te
office before enterin+ te class or immediately upon disco,ery of te 18 F
lates. OSS? 3SS? detentions? loss of pri,ile+es? and oter conseBuences may be
imposed dependin+ on te circumstances.
$tdents %onsistently late &or &irst period %lass #ay be wit''eld &ro# t'e %lass in t'e o&&i%e in
order to li#it t'e disrption to t'e (earnin) *n+iron#ent, $tdents late #ore t'an -0 #intes in
t'e #ornin) wit'ot reasonable e.%se will not be allowed to pro%eed to &irst period %lass /
t'is will be re%orded as an 0ne.%sed Absen%e1 ntil parent2)ardian %onta%ts $CA / e.%ses
15
t'e stdent, #enior $igh students are not permitted to leave the building during the morning
break and they are also reminded that smoking on school property is strictly prohibited
Leaving School Property
Middle school students in grades 7 and 8 are not permitted to leave school property at any time
during the school day unless a parent/guardian informs the school in advance, and appropriate
transportation arrangements have been made.
16
CCRSBs Senior High (grades 10-12) Exam Exemption Policy
Gnder our boardAs current policy? senior i+ students @o meet te follo@in+ criteria @ill a,e
te option of not @ritin+ one scool based e:am;final assessment per semester. Any updates to
tis policy @ill be made a,ailable to students and parents tis comin+ September? 211".
1. A student who has any unexcused absence in any course will not be considered for an
exemption.
2. A student shall not accumulate any more than six (6) excused absences in any course in which
the student is enrolled.
3. Any student who has accumulated any out-of-school suspensions is not eligible for an exam
exemption in that semester. Please note that repetitive lateness for classes will be addressed
through the CCRSB Code of Conduct and could result in out-of-school suspension causing the
student not to be eligible for an exemption.
4. Excused and unexcused absences are defined in the Chignecto-Central Regional School Board
Attendance Guidelines. While it is not possible to make an exhaustive list, the following are
examples of excusable and un-excusable absences:
a. Excused Absence: Excused by parent or Medical excuse (for specific date)
b. Unexcused Absence: An absence with no written excuse or contact from parent, truancy, or
missing the bus
5. Students are required to provide excuses for all classes for which they are absent. A written
note, email, or verbal contact by parent, indicating the reason for the absence, is expected within
five (5) school days of the student returning to school.
6. A student may request to be exempt from no more than one final assessment/examination per
semester provided the student has completed all major assessment components (other than the
final assessment/examination) in each of the courses which s/he is enrolled.
7. A student cannot be exempted from a Nova Scotia Examination except on the terms laid down
by the Department of Education.
8. A student cannot be exempted from a CCRSB examination except on the terms laid down by
the Chignecto-Central Regional School Board.
9. A student cannot be exempt from any grade 9 course examination for which there is a grade
ten Chignecto-Central Regional School Board examination.
10. A student cannot be exempt from any grade 11 course examination for which there is a grade
12 Nova Scotia Examination.
11. A student cannot be exempt from any examination related to the International Baccalaureate
(IB) program or Advanced Placement (AP) program.
12. Classes missed due to co-curricular and extracurricular activities are not classified as
absences. However, schools should monitor the number of classes individual students miss due
to co-curricular and extracurricular activities.
13. If a student is exempt from an exam, the student's term or final mark (usually out of 70%), is
converted to a score out of 100%. There is no redistribution of weighting among other categories
within the 70% term mark.
Please note: There are circumstances where principals are able to not count excusable absences.
I. When a student is absent due to a death in the immediate family [maximum # of days is five
(5)] the absence will not be counted. Immediate family is defined as parent/guardian, step-parent,
spouse, sibling, grandparent, aunt, and uncle. Immediate family shall be determined in particular
cultural contexts, as required.
17
II. When a student is absent due to a verifiable religious observance, the absence will not be
counted.
III. When a student is absent as a direct result of legal obligations which are supported by court
subpoenas or appropriate documentation, the absence will not be counted.
IV. When a student, with a chronic illness, has an appointment(s) with a physician who is a
specialist, (medical or dental), or mental health care professional who is a specialist, the principal
will not need to count these excusable absence(s). Principals must receive proof of appointment
in advance of any such absence.
V. When a student is a participant in a provincial, national, or international sporting, fine arts, or
leadership event (excluding team tryouts and practices) or when a student is absent as a result of
participation in an educational opportunity as deemed appropriate by the school administration,
the absence will not be counted.
VI. When a CCRSB/private contractor is unable to provide conveyance the absence will not be
counted.
Students and parents are reminded to check attendance online using PowerSchools Public
Portal at least twice a week.
The Attendance Policy is currently under review by CCRSB and any changes will be made
public this September.
BEHAVIOUR
Students at South Colchester Academy are expected to demonstrate a commitment to learning
and achieving success. The school community encompasses younger students in the middle
school, and the older students in senior high who have distinct areas in the school for learning
and socializing. Students must take responsibility for their behaviour as well demonstrating
respect and courtesy for the personal learning space and property of others. We are indeed
privileged to have the opportunity to have a bright, new technology rich school, and all members
of the school community are expected to demonstrate pride in their school, and ensure that it is
maintained in a clean and orderly manner.
Students and staff are to be treated in a fair manner by all. It is the duty of the teacher, under the
Education Act, to maintain proper order and discipline in the school or room in his/her charge,
and report to the vice-principal the conduct of any pupil who is persistently defiant or
disobedient. Disciplinary action will be based on the severity of the behaviour, and the
cumulative record of the student. All infractions, and disciplinary actions will be documented
with parents and guardians receiving written or telephone communication from the school.
Student and staff are also reminded that SCA, like other CCRSB schools is a Scent Free
facility. Students and staff are not to wear any perfumes, colognes, or heavily scented
deodorants that may cause a negative reaction from those that are sensitive to such aromas and
scents. Students who purposely spray or emit such scents or aromas will be immediately referred
to the administration, where detentions or in-school suspensions will be imposed.
18
School Rules
Students are to respect the rights of others, and in particular the right of each student to
pursue an education without interference, intimidation or harassment of any kind. No
student has the right to interfere in any way with the educational opportunity of others.
Fighting or other violent acts while students are under the jurisdiction of the school will
result in suspension. All incidents will be investigated by the administration with the
circumstances of the incident determining duration of the suspension.
Disobedience, defiance and insubordination towards staff members are unacceptable, and
will not be tolerated. Students are required to treat staff members with respect, provide
their names when asked to identify themselves, and respond positively to their directives.
Profanity and inappropriate language is abusive to others in the school community, and
will not be tolerated. This rule also extends to articles of clothing and pins.
Students shall not loiter (gather) within 10 feet of any washrooms.
Students are not permitted to be in possession of weapons or other articles that pose a
threat to the safety of others. This includes, but is not limited to, articles such as knives,
laser lights, firecrackers, other exploding devices, and certain studded armbands or
clothing.
Snowballs are not to be thrown on school property as personal injury or damage to
property may result.
Narcotic substances and Alcoholic Beverages Students who are under the influence of
or in the possession of narcotic substances, drug paraphernalia, or alcoholic beverages
on school property or at school events will be suspended from school for five days, and
be referred to the Suspension Review Committee of the School Board.
Damage/vandalism is defined as the unnecessary breakage and/or damage to school
property either by accident or intent, and is the responsibility of the person or persons
committing the infraction. The actual costs for repairing or replacing any such damage
will be borne by the responsible person/persons or their parents or guardians.
Decorating lockers is limited to the area inside the locker door with decorations removed
and lockers cleaned out before the end of June.
Students caught cheating on tests, examinations, or assignments will receive a mark of
zero, and parents will be informed. Students are reminded that copying the work of other
or submitting downloaded material from the Internet without appropriate permission or
notations are forms of cheating.
All students in the school are assigned a locker and a combination lock to secure their
personal property. Combination numbers should be kept private. Lockers remain school
property, and are subject to inspection at any time. The school will not be responsible for
valuables or books left in lockers. Food items should not be left in lockers overnight.
Rough play and play fighting are unacceptable. Students are required to move
throughout the school in an orderly and appropriate manner. Running in corridors, and
pushing other is unacceptable.
Skateboards are not permitted on school property. Students using bicycles to come to
school must store their bikes on the racks provided in the front of the school. The school
will not be responsible for damage to bicycles that are stored on the bicycle racks.
19
Late assignments students should ensure that all assignments are completed and passed
in by the required date. Students will receive a mark of zero if his/her assignment(s) is
not passed in by the fall and spring midterms.
Inappropriate contact or amorous behaviour is not acceptable. Senior high students are
reminded that they serve as role models for the younger middle school students, and are
to be sensitive to this potential influence.
The opening and closing of windows, blinds, and folding walls is only to be performed
by school personnel.
Students are not permitted to use the gymnasium, music room, and library, or remain in
any part of the school building following dismissal, unless they are under the direct
supervision of a staff member.
The growing numbers of digital communication and entertainment devices, which are in use at
school for both instructional and non-instructional purposes, present new challenges for all
school community members. Respect for the privacy, safety and legal rights of each person,
respect for the integrity of the teaching-learning process, and respect for the teaching-learning
environment must be considered therefore, the following guidelines have been implemented by
the school board.
Digital devices capable of taking or transmitting digital images or sound, are not
permitted in washroom, change rooms, locker rooms or any space or circumstance
where students or others expect a greater degree of privacy than in public spaces
within schools.
Any violation of the principles of these guidelines will be dealt with by way of
CCRSBs code of conduct and SCAs code of conduct policy.
Cell Phones & Other Communication Devices Policy
Middle school students are not permitted to use or have their cell phone or similar device
during the school day. The Senior High policy is described below:
Senior High students will not be allowed usage of such devices once O Canada has started
(approx. 8:50). Student will be allowed to use the devices during break, lunch time, and after
being dismissed from classes at 3:00 PM.
*Devices must be turned off and in lockers during instructional time.
*Students on prep may use the devices in the Cafetorium, Main Foyer, or outside.
*Such devices can only be used during instructional time under the direction of the
classroom teacher.
Consequences will include, but may not be limited to the following:
1
st
Offense: Device is given to the teacher or staff member and delivered to the main office.
The incident is recorded and the teacher contacts home regarding the
incident he/she will explain the impact on learning environment. Student
may pick up the device at the end of the day.
20
2
nd
Offence: The device is banned from the school and the student is banned from using any
such device(s) in school for one month or the remainder of (10 week mid-
term) reporting period, whichever is greater. Administration may consider a two
week ban if there is considerable time between offenses.
Administration will contact home regarding the incident.
3
rd
Offence: One day ISS or OSS and the device(s) is banned for remainder of semester or 2
months, whichever is greater. The student is also banned from using any
such devices.
4
th
Offense: OSS combined with ISS and ban for the remainder of the year or possibly through
September if incident occurs in June. The student is also banned from using any
such devices.
*Students may be given time to remove the battery and/or chip from the phone before turning it
over to staff, provided it is done in a respectful and timely manner.
Special Consideration: Request for special considerations (for emergencies) must be made
directly with administration at least one day prior to intended
usage.
Photographing and sharing/posting (electronically or otherwise) of students and staff images is
not permitted unless authorized by SCA staff.
BULLYING
South Colchester Academy aspires to create a safe, caring and supportive environment, free from
bullying, for all members of the school community.
The Chignecto-Central Regional School Board Bullying Policy states that bullying happens
when a student or group of students targets an individual(s) repeatedly over time, using verbal,
physical, or psychological aggression toward the victim(s). In the policy, it is written that three
characteristics must be present in order for a conflict to be categorized as bullying. The three
characteristics are:
- There is a pattern of repeated aggression
- A more powerful person or group attacks a less powerful victim or victims.
- There is a disturbing, humiliating, demeaning or controlling affect on the victim.
Bullying takes many forms, and may include many different behaviors such as:
- Physical- hitting, punching, slapping, kicking, tripping, spitting, etc.
- Verbal hurtful teasing, malicious name-calling, put-downs, etc.
- Social group exclusion, gossip, rumours, slander, etc.
- Cyber using MSN, e-mail, cell phones, websites, text messaging
All members of the SCA school community are expected to do the following things to prevent
bullying:
- Promote a positive and caring environment for all by developing an awareness of
bullying issues.
21
- Refuse to bully others or to be a bystander to acts of bullying.
- Report all acts of bullying that they may experience or observe to appropriate
school personnel.
- Assist and co-operate in the implementation of school-wide anti-bullying
initiatives.
The Nova Scotia Dept. of Education and CCRSB will be introducing new policies and strategies
related to Cyber Bullying which will be introduced this fall. Students, parents, guardians, and
school staff will be made aware of this new information early in the school year.
DRESS CODE
South Colchester Academy provides learning opportunities to students from grades 7 to 12
whose ages may vary from 12 21. It is important for all members of the school community to
recognize the potential influence that older students may have on students in the earlier grades.
While students and adults may have individual tastes with regards to clothing styles, SCA
students are expected to be dress in a manner that is:
% Neat and tidy
% Respectful of others, not indecent, provocative, risqu, or racist
% Appropriate for class
The following items or styles are not appropriate:
% Outdoor clothing; coats, jackets, hats and other headgear (placed in locker upon arrival)
% Strapless tops, halter tops, spaghetti straps
% Bare midriffs, short shorts (must be mid thigh), ragged cut offs, muscle shirts
% Clothing bearing profanity, inappropriate words or images.
Hats
Students are not permitted to wear hats or hoods in classrooms, library or in the cafetorium
during assemblies or lunch. Students are permitted to wear their hats to and from their lockers in
the morning and after school, as well as outside during lunch. Student Council and other school
groups will sponsor hat days throughout the year as fundraising activities.
*SCAs Dress Code is reviewed yearly and any changes will be communicated to students and
parents during the school year.
TOBACCO-FREE FACILITIES AND GROUNDS
The Chignecto-Central Regional School Board owned or operated property shall be free of the
use of tobacco products (including cigarette tobacco, leaf tobacco, cigars, pipe tobacco, chewing
tobacco, and snuff or other tobacco-containing products). Accordingly, South Colchester
Academy offers students, staff and other users of our facility and grounds a tobacco-free
learning/working/play environment. Students and staff are also required to refrain from the
use of tobacco products while participating or engaged in extra-curricular activities and other
student activities. Devices that mimic smoking are also banned from SCA. Consequences for
possessing such devices will be similar to tobacco related offences.
22
EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES AND ELIGIBILITY
Participation in all extra-curricular activities is deemed a privilege at South Colchester Academy.
Satisfactory academic performance, attendance, and behaviour are required if a student is to
maintain this privilege. Staff, including administration and SCAs athletic director will review
this policy as needed. Suspension from school may result in certain privileges being removed,
including attendance at school dances, school prom and other extra-curricular activities.
23
CAFETORIUM FOOD AND DRINK
The terraced cafetorium has been designed to offer flexibility to the school community in that it
combines the components of an auditorium with the ability to provide cafeteria services. Our
cafetorium will host several different functions over the school year, and will be the location for
our school dances and prom. The railings surrounding the terraces are required for safety.
Climbing on or over the rails will result in disciplinary action, and loss of the privilege to
attend after school functions in the cafetorium.
Chartwells will be providing full cafeteria service to the school. Several food options are
available to our students with a daily hot meal special. All food will be consumed in the
cafetorium. Students are expected to respect the school environment, and make every effort to
ensure it is maintained in a clean and tidy manner. Everyone is responsible for disposing of their
own garbage, and returning their trays to the cafetorium receiving window.
Juice and water vending machines are located in the cafetorium, and on the corridor wall outside
the gymnasium. All drinks, except water must be consumed in the cafetorium. Water bottles
are permitted in the instructional areas.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION, ATHLETICS AND GYMNASIUM USE
Clothing/Footwear
All students will be expected to have a change of clothes (suitable for activity). Any student who
does not have suitable clothing will be required to wear clothes provided in the gymnasium. All
students will be expected to have non-marking athletic footwear.
Food and Drink
No food or drinks are allowed in the gymnasium. There is a water fountain inside the
gymnasium entrance.
Gym Supervision/Access to Equipment Room/Access to Fitness Room
Students are not permitted into the gymnasium, equipment room or fitness room at any time
without direct supervision of a teacher or coach.
Athletic Fees
The student athletic programs receive financial support from the Students Council. Student
athletes are expected to participate in fundraising campaigns sponsored by the Students Council.
All student athletes will be required to pay a user fee to play on a school team. The fees listed
below are anticipated annual fees. Athletic fees vary (slightly) based upon length of season,
number of scheduled games and/or other variables.
*Some teams/groups may have additional team fees or participate in team fundraisers to
help offset significant expenses.
7unior Soccer H31 7unior /as*etball H"1
Senior Soccer H"1 Senior /as*etball H81
0olf H18 .urlin+ H18
I%.ountry 2unnin+ H18 /adminton H18
24
7unior >olleyball H31 Senior Softball H"1
Senior >olleyball H"1 &rac* & #ield H28
Ete abo,e fees are sub=ect to can+e
ATHLETIC ELIGIBILITY GUIDELINES
South Colchester Academy will be represented by both junior and senior teams in the NSSAF
competition.
Student in grades 10-12 will be given priority to compete on senior teams.
Grade 9 students will compete on junior teams with the following exceptions:
1. When a team for that sport does not exist at the junior level.
2. NSSAF guidelines allow for grade 9 student athletes to compete at the senior high level
for a maximum of two games (1 tournament = 1 game) without forfeiting eligibility to
compete at the grade 7-9 levels.
3. Special circumstances in consultation with the athlete, parents, coaches and
administration. In any special circumstance, every effort will be made to best meet the
needs of both the student athlete and the athletic program.
Academics
In a semestered schedule, when a student is enrolled in 4 courses per semester, a minimum
passing mark would be required in 3 courses at the last month-end reporting period. A student
must be enrolled in at least 3 courses in each semester in order to be eligible to play on a school
team. A minimum passing mark would be required in all 3 courses at the last month-end
reporting period. No student is eligible to compete if they are enrolled in 2 or fewer courses in a
semester.
In a non-semestered schedule, where a student is enrolled in 8 courses, a minimum passing mark
is required in 7 courses at the last month-end reporting period.
When a student athlete does not meet the academic eligibility requirements to play on a school
team he/she will be referred to the Eligibility Committee. The Eligibility Committee consists of
the athletic director, an administrator and one member of the physical education department.
Behavior/Conduct
Any athlete that is suspended (in-school/out of school) is ineligible to participate in any team
activity (practice, games, etc) based on the following guidelines.
A suspension results in a loss of participation on the day of the incident and the day(s) that the
suspension is being served. If the suspension penalty spans a weekend the athlete is not eligible
to compete on Saturday or Sunday as well. Example: If a student serves their 1
st
in-school
suspension (1 day) on a Thursday, they must also sit out Friday (Saturday and Sunday) and
Monday to complete their suspension.
In-School Suspension
1
st
in-school suspension = 2 additional school days
25
2
nd
in-school suspension = 5 additional school days
3
rd
in-school suspension = 10 additional school days
4
th
in-school suspension = termination for the remainder of the season and or school year
26
Out of School Suspension
1
st
suspension = 5 additional school days
2
nd
suspension = 10 additional school days
3
rd
suspension = termination for the remainder of the season and or school year
*Any out of school suspension of 5 + school days automatically results in termination for the
remainder of the season and or school year.
Attendance
The athletic department at SCA believes that regular attendance is essential to academic success.
It is understandable that when participating on a school team a certain number of absences will
occur due to competitive circumstances, therefore, all student athletes are expected to attend
classes on a daily basis without significant interruption. When attendance levels are deemed to
be problematic by the athletic director and administration, a students participation on a school
team can be placed under review.
TIMETABLES
All students will be provided with an individual timetable on their first day of registration.
Students should copy their timetable into their agenda, and ensure that they will have access to
the information printed on it at all times. The timetable identifies your courses, teacher names
and room numbers. All programs at South Colchester Academy are scheduled on an eight (8)
day rotational timetable with grades 7, 8 & 9 scheduled by homeroom classes for the academic
year from September to June.
Students in grades 10, 11 and 12 will receive an individual timetable that will consist of four (4)
semestered courses for each semester. Students in grades 10, 11 and 12 will have an opportunity
to gain eight (8) high school credits each year.
This year senior students will be required to report to a homeroom class each day at 12 noon.
This will be the start of the reading period, followed by the senior lunch. Regular attendance
will be taken during this period.
Grade 10! 11 and 12 Eig+t-'ay 4imeta$/e
,50-minute periods.
'ay 1 'ay 2 'ay 6 'ay " 'ay 'ay 5 'ay & 'ay 7
A ' C 0 A ' C 0
A ' C 0 A ' C 0
0 A ' C 0 A ' C
Reading 2
Lun(+
Reading 2
Lun(+
Reading 2
Lun(+
Reading 2
Lun(+
Reading 2
Lun(+
Reading 2
Lun(+
Reading 2
Lun(+
Reading 2
Lun(+
C 0 A ' C 0 A '
' C 0 A ' C 0 A
27
Note: The school timetable will not be interrupted for storms and unexpected cancellations (ex: if a storm
causes classes to be cancelled on a Wednesday that is scheduled to be Day 2, then Thursday will still be Day 3,
and Wednesdays lessons will be picked up on another day on the schedule).
DAILY SCHEDULES AND BELLS
South Colchester Academy will attempt to maximize learning opportunities for students and
minimize interruptions. Students will be expected to monitor their time wisely taking advantage
of the digital clocks that are visible in teaching areas. Teachers are required to ensure students
remain in their seats until they are dismissed as well as record late arrivals on the school database
as they occur. Please see the revised Middle & Senior Schedules/Timetables:
Middle School (grades 7 & 8) Timetable
8:00 Building open to students (supervisors & administration on duty)
8:30 - 8:40 All teachers to classrooms/instructional areas.
8:45 Music (grades 7s & 8s proceed to homerooms)
8:50 Morning Program (O Canada & Announcements)
(7s & 8s then proceed to first period)
8:55 Period 1 (change at 9:55)
10:00 Period 2 (report to homeroom at 10:55)
11:00 Homeroom /20 minute Silent Rdg./Extra-Help (proceed to lunch at 11:20)
11:20 Lunch Period (40 minutes, return to class for 12:00)
12:00 Period 3 (change at 12:55)
1:00 Period 4 (break at 1:50/report to period 5 for 2:00)
2:00 Period 5
2:55 Locker Dismissal
3:00 Bus Dismissal
Senior High (grades 9-12) Timetable
8:00 Building open to students (supervisors & administration on duty)
8:30 - 8:40 All teachers to classrooms/instructional areas.
8:45 Music (grades 9-12 proceed to first period class)
8:50 Morning Program (O Canada & Announcements)
8:55 Period 1
9:50 Senior Break (return to class by 10 AM)
10:00 Period 2 (change at 10:55)
11:00 Period 3 (report directly to homeroom at 11:55)
12:00 Homeroom/Silent Reading. (proceed to lunch at 12:20)
12:20 Lunch Period (40 minutes, return to class for 1:00)
1:00 Period 4 (change at 1:55)
28
2:00 Period 5
3:00 Bus Dismissal
Please note: Students are given a maximum of five minutes to change classes and students are
not permitted to leave the building between classes, unless directed by staff.
VEHICLES & PARKING
All vehicles transporting passengers to South Colchester Academy are required to use
appropriate access areas. The bus loop is to be used exclusively for school buses during the
period from 7:30 am to 5:00 pm on school days. Vehicles may access the school using the
entrance adjacent to the soccer field. There is a traffic loop above the student parking area
for vehicles dropping off students. Students are not to be dropped off in the top parking
lot.
The upper parking lot is designated for staff and visitors. The lower paved parking lot is for
students bringing vehicles to school. Students are not permitted to park in the upper
parking lot. Students must apply for and obtain parking permits to park on school property.
$tdents are re3ired to re)ister t'eir +e'i%le(s) wit' $CA ad#inistration wit'in t'e &irst two
wee4 o& s%'ool in $epte#ber, $tdents #st pro+ide proper do%#entation1 s%' as a +alid
Dri+er5s (i%ense and Re)istration be&ore re%ei+in) a Par4in) Per#it, A di)ital pi%tre o& t'e
+e'i%le1 alon) wit' a pi%tre o& t'e li%ense plate #ay also be in%lded in t'e re)istration pro%ess,
Per#its will be wit'drawn i& stdents &ail to operate t'eir +e'i%le in a sa&e #anner, 6'e per#it
#st be %learly +isible inside t'e +e'i%le (top area o& das'board) w'en t'e +e'i%le is on $CA
property,
STUDENT FEES
All students are required to pay a student fee of $25.00. This fee is used to cover the costs of
lockers, student locks and lock maintenance, student ID Cards, and the student agenda. A $1.00
refund may be issued for the return of the combination lock in June. All students will be issued a
locker.
Students participating in the school music program will have three options available regarding
musical instruments, and instrument maintenance. Students may purchase or lease their
instruments from a music store or pay an instrument maintenance fee for an instrument issued
through the band auxiliary.
The Grad Class Executive will coordinate a series of fundraising events throughout the school
year. A graduation fee of $50.00 will be collected prior to the end of April each year. This fee
helps cover the cost of grad gown rentals, cap and tassel keepers, graduation reception, safe grad,
folders for graduation certificate.
29
STUDENT RECOGNITION AND AWARDS PROGRAM
The Middle School Recognition Ceremony for students in grades 7 and 8 is scheduled for 9:15
am on the last day of school. This program is coordinated by the Middle School teachers.
The Senior Student Recognition Night is tentatively scheduled for May 27, 2015. Students are
recognized for their leadership and participation in various school based activities. Students
accumulating 7 points during the school year will receive year 1, 2, 3 and 4 pins accordingly.
These pins may be attached to the large wolf paw medallion presented to recipients in grade
12, who have earned pins each of their senior high years (grade 9 12). P/ease note t+at it is
t+e responsi$i/ity o8 t+e student to maintain t+e (o//e(tion o8 t+eir pins in order to 8i// t+eir
9pa1: upon graduation3
Point System
5 Points
Student Council President
Student Council/Grad Class Treasurer
Yearbook Editor
SCA TV (director, producer, senior anchors)
4 Points 3 Points
Varsity Teams (exception Golf) SCA TV
Yearbook Committee Technical Support Leadership
Concert Band Yearbook Committee
Jazz Combo Grad Class Fundraising
Student Council Executive Teens Tackle Tobacco
Peer Mediation
2 Points
Adopt a Child Student Council
Set-up Crew Book Fair
Grad Class Executive Safe Grad
School Advisory Council Chess Club
Water for Life Project Love
Prom Committee Art Club
Student Host Student Services Committee
Minor Official Golf Team
Bio-Tech Challenge SCA TV
Media Competition Gaming & Rubics Club
Science Fair/Club Yearbook
Math League Technical Support
SCA Bands Anti-Bullying
Drama Club NSSSA
Girls Leadership Skills NS & Canada
Reach for the Top
Points will be awarded by coaches and staff advisors, based on the duration of the activity, and
level of commitment/involvement of the individual student. Points may range from 1 5.
30
TEXTBOOKS
Textbooks are numbered and issued without cost to the students. Students are responsible to
ensure their books are maintained in good condition and returned to their teachers when their
programs are complete. Lost or damaged textbooks should be reported to the subject teacher.
Report cards may be withheld should textbooks not be returned or payment for replacements not
received.
COMPUTER/LAPTOP USAGE POLICY
South Colchester Academy is a high tech school, in which students are required to utilize
digital resources. It is expected that students will take advantage of the many opportunities to
access computer stations throughout the school for research, sharing, and communication.
Computers are to be used as directed by the classroom teacher or other SCA staff. Laptops,
including students personal laptops, and other similar devices are to be used under the direction
of the classroom teacher or other SCA staff. Usage of the above devices during non-class time
shall be done under the approval of SCA staff.
TELEPHONES
Telephones have been placed in the front entrance, across from the main office. Students should
always have a quarter in their possession, should they be required to place a telephone call.
Students will not be permitted to place calls from the office phone. In the event of an
emergency or illness, someone from administration will call for you. All classrooms have
phones in them, which are to be used by the teacher, for school purposes. A teacher may give a
student permission to contact home should the teacher feel the reason is justified. The teacher is
required to supervise this.
MOODLE
(oodle allo@s teacers to e:tend teir classroom onto te @eb. (oodle offers a secure place for
students to en+a+e in discussions and oter online @or*. Gsin+ (oodle? teacers can post ne@s
items? assi+n and collect assi+nments? post electronic =ournals and resources? and more.
PowerSchool
During the 2010-2011 school year, the Chignecto-Central Regional School Board introduced a
new student information system called PowerSchool for 12 schools within CCRSB.
South Colchester Academy started using PowerSchool during the 2011-2012 school year.
This system allows teachers and school administration to manage student attendance, schedules,
achievement, and behavior.
&e student information system also includes an updated Report Card format and an 3nternet%
based portal for students and parents? enablin+ tem to access student information? suc as
attendance and academic pro+ress.
31
&e Report Card consists of te follo@in+5
&e Learner Pro8i/e is a snapsot of te studentAs @or* abits and social de,elopment. As tey
a,e an impact on learnin+ success? it is important for parents and students to understand @at
tey are and o@ te student is doin+ in tese areas.
Attendan(e Re(ord trac*s te days students a,e been absent a+ainst possible scool days for
eac mont in te term.
A(+ie%ement o8 E;pe(ted Learning <ut(omes carts te studentAs pro+ress and acie,ement
in relation to te e:pected learnin+ outcomes for te current reportin+ period. Learnin+
outcomes define @at students are e:pected to *no@ and be able to do in a particular sub=ect
area.
#or Grades 1-7? pro+ress is reported usin+ A? /? . or D as described belo@ and
accompanyin+ (omments tat i+li+t te studentJs academic stren+ts and needs? and
pro,ide su++estions.
Reporting Codes and 'es(riptors 8or Grades 1=7>
A &e student demonstrates acie,ement @it torou+ understandin+ and application of
concepts and s*ills in relation to te e:pected learnin+ outcomes.
/ &e student demonstrates acie,ement @it +ood understandin+ and application of
concepts and s*ills in relation to te e:pected learnin+ outcomes.
. &e student demonstrates acie,ement @it basic understandin+ and application of
concepts and s*ills in relation to te e:pected learnin+ outcomes.
D &e student demonstrates acie,ement @it limited understandin+ and application of
concepts and s*ills in relation to te e:pected learnin+ outcomes. &e student as not met
e:pectations.
-;A -ot applicable at tis time.
3-S 3nsufficient e,idence to report on acie,ement of te e:pected learnin+
outcomes.
32
&e Pro,incial &emplates for 0rades )%12 communicate a summary of student acie,ement in
te form of a percenta+e +rade. &is percenta+e +rade communicates acie,ement in relation to
criteria as stated in te reportin+ rubric )%12.
Demonstration of performance in relation to te e:pected learnin+ outcomes for tis course.
)1%111D &e student demonstrates e.%ellent or outstandin+ performance.
$1%$)D &e student demonstrates +ery )ood performance.
41%4)D &e student demonstrates )ood performance.
'1%')D &e student demonstrates satis&a%tory performance.
81%8)D &e student demonstrates #ini#ally a%%eptable performance.
/elo@ 81D &e student as not met minimal reBuirements.
3n 0rades 1%12? anecdotal comments are included in te reportin+ process. &ese comments
pro,ide more detailed information to elaborate on te final +rade? @eter a letter or percenta+e
+rade.
&e structure of anecdotal comments @ill include statements tat identify te studentAs5
stren)t'(s) 6 @at te student *no@s and is able to do in relation to curriculum outcomes
need(s) 6 an area(s! te student needs to @or* on in relation to curriculum outcomes
s))estion(s) &or i#pro+e#ent 6 a strate+y to pro,ide possibility for impro,ement in
relation to te area of need.
Pro,incial &emplates from 0rades P%12 also document studentsA social de,elopment and @or*
abits relatin+ to attributes identified on te Learner Pro8i/e section of te report card. &e final
reportin+ code for te Learner Profile is a letterK .? G? S or 2 tat identifies acie,ement in
relation to te social de,elopment; @or* abits for eac indi,idual student.
&e follo@in+ reportin+ code is used from 0rades Primary to 0rade 12.
4+e Learner Pro8i/e
. % consistently demonstrates
G % usually demonstrates
S % sometimes demonstrates
2 % rarely demonstrates
-;A % not applicable
33
Student-Parent Porta/
&e 3nternet%based portal allo@s students? parents and +uardians to see attendance? +rades?
assi+nments? teacerJs comments and upcomin+ scool e,ents online.
Po1erS(+oo/: an initiati%e o8 iNS(+oo/
PowerSchool is part of a province-wide initiative called iNSchool. This initiative is led by the
Nova Scotia Department of Education, in partnership with the provinces eight school boards.
The aim of iNSchool is to use technology to better support student achievement through one
common, province-wide, student information system.
The Student-Parent Portal enables parents, guardians, and students to monitor attendance,
grades, assignments, teacher comments, and upcoming school events online.
&o learn more about i-Scool and Po@erScool? +o to te Department of 9ducation i-Scool
@ebsite.
FIRE ALARMS AND FIRE DRILLS
The first week of school students will receive instruction with regards to the fire alarm, and the
location of the exits from the school. The first fire drill will be announced but others will be held
without an announcement.
1. Fire drills are for your protection and must be taken seriously.
2. Know the fire exit and alternate exit for each room of the school that you enter.
3. When the fire alarm rings, stop work immediately. Leave possessions behind, and file
out of the room in an orderly fashion towards the exit posted. Leave the building and
stand in line with your class and teacher in the designated areas several meters from the
school. If you are not with your class when the alarm rings, leave by the nearest exit, and
immediately join your class outside, or report to the Administrative Assistants at the front
of the school near the bus loop.
4. Ringing of a false alarm is an indictable offense, and will result in suspension, and
possible prosecution.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Announcements will be broadcast by SCA-TV each morning at 8:50. All announcements to be
read by the student newscasters must be signed by a teacher or supervisor and passed in at the
multimedia centre by 8:15 am. Notices will also be displayed on the large screen televisions in
the forum, library, office, and over the school network throughout the day.
VISITORS
Visitors to South Colchester Academy during the school day are required to report to the main
office upon arrival. Visitors cars are to be parked in the designated parking spaces adjacent to
the building. Students from other schools will not be permitted to visit their friends at SCA
during the school day or sit in on their classes. An exception would be activities coordinated by
SCA.
34
35
BUS AND STUDENT TRANSPORTATION
It is policy of the Chignecto-Central Regional School Board that all students travel on assigned
buses. The school is unable to grant student or parent requests to travel home with a friend on
another bus or go to town, etc.

Students are required to have a parental consent form completed before they are permitted to
participate in an extracurricular trip involving bus transportation. Teachers arranging these trips
will provide forms to students, and these forms, along with a list of names of students, will be
filed at the office prior to the scheduled trip.
MEDICATIONS
Unless authorized by a physician and appropriate CCRSB forms are completed, school
staff will not administer any over the counter or prescription medication.
SECURITY AND VIDEO SURVEILLANCE
South Colchester Academy is equipped with several security cameras, which continually monitor
areas inside and outside of the building. The purpose of this system is to provide an opportunity
to monitor movement, and activities within and around the building during the school day, as
well as after school hours. This system will enhance our efforts to provide safety and security
for our occupants, their possessions, the building and equipment.
SCHOOL ZONES
South Colchester Academy has been designed to support the needs of our middle school students
in grades 7 and 8, as well as provide a distinct learning environment for senior high school
students in grades 9, 10, 11 and 12. It is important for everyone to recognize this school within
a school, and respect the areas designated for each group. The lower corridor adjacent to nodes
one and two is used primarily for the middle school and will be referred to as the middle school
corridor. The upper corridor and instructional areas are to be primarily for the senior high
school. The stairways, vestibules and exits at the end of each node are out of bounds, and are to
be used only for emergencies and fire drills.
Middle school students are required to enter the building in the morning using the main entrance
adjacent to their classroom in nodes one and two, move directly to their lockers where they must
leave their book bags, backpacks, and outside clothing. Senior high students are required to
enter the building using the entrance adjacent to the student services department, move directly
to their lockers on the second floor in nodes 4, 5 and 6, where they must leave their book-bags,
backpacks, and outside clothing. Senior high students are required to use the stairways in the
forum when accessing their classroom or moving to areas on the first floor.
36
Middle school students will enter and exit the library from the middle school corridor adjacent to
node two. There will be no through traffic from the middle school corridor through the library
to the forum. Middle school students will access the gymnasium, cafetorium, family studies and
technology education labs, the music room, learning centre and office areas along the same
corridor.
Senior high students will access the gymnasium, cafetorium, family studies and technology
education labs, the music room, the dance/drama classroom, and offices using the stairwells in
the forum and will avoid using the middle school corridor.
SCHOOL CAMPUS
We are proud of the impressive school campus, and the potential that the many areas and
facilities hold for the school community. Everyone is encouraged to take full advantage of our
outdoor facilities including the benches, tables, amphitheatre, basketball courts and the terrace
adjacent to the cafetorium. Students may access these areas from the main entrance or the
terrace entrance off the cafetorium. Littering will not be permitted, and garbage cans have been
put in place to ensure the campus remains clean and orderly.
The area to the rear of the school extending from the walkway along the bus loop to the back of
the gymnasium is to be used under the supervision of staff only. Middle school students are
required to remain on school property in designated areas at all times.
Please Note: Event dates listed in the following calendar are subject to change
37
September
Sat Mon Tue Wed Thur Fri Sat
31 1
Labour Day
Holiday
2
Staff Only
(Orientation)
3
Staff Only
(P.D.)
4
Classes Begin
5 6
7 8 9 10 11
Parent-Teacher
6-8 PM
12
School Pictures
13
14 15 16 17 18 19 20
21 22 23 24 25 26 27
28 29 30
Notes/Reminders:
38
October
Sat Mon Tue Wed Thur Fri Sat
1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10 11
12 13
Thanksgiving
NO CLASSES
14 15 16 17 18
19 20 21 22 23 24
Prov. Conference
NO CLASSES
25
26 27 28 29 30 31
Notes/Reminders:
39
November
Sat Mon Tue Wed Thur Fri Sat
1
2 3 4 5 6 7 8
9
10
Mid-Term
Reports
11
Remembrance
Day
NO CLASSES
12 13
Parent-Teacher
6-8 PM
14
P.D. in AM
Parent Teacher
1-3 PM
NO CLASSES
15
16 17 18 19 20 21 22
23 24 25 26 27 28
In-Service
NO CLASSES
29
Notes/Reminders:
40
December
Sat Mon Tue Wed Thur Fri Sat
1 2 3 4
Holiday Concert
7PM (Tentative)
5 6
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
14 15 16 17 18 19
Last Day before
Christmas Braek
20
21 22 23 24 25 26 27
28 29 30 31
Notes/Reminders:
41
January
Sat Mon Tue Wed Thur Fri Sat
1 2 3
4 5
Classes Resume
6 7 8 9 10
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
25 26
Exams Begin
27 28 29 30
Assessment &
Evaluation Day
NO CLASSES
31
Notes/Reminders:
42
February
Sat Mon Tue Wed Thur Fri Sat
1 2
2
nd
Semester
Begins
(subject to
change)
3 4 5 6 7
8 9 10
Report Cards
Distributed
11 12
Parent-Teacher
(Grades 7-9)
Eng. 10//Math 10
6-8 PM
13 14
15 16
Holiday
(No Classes)
17 18 19 20 21
22 23 24 25 26 27 28
Notes/Reminders:
43
March
Sat Mon Tue Wed Thur Fri Sat
1 2 3 4 5 6
Site Based P.D.
NO CLASSES
7
8 9 10 11 12 13 14
15 16
March Break
Week
NO CLASSES
17 18 19 20 21
22 23 24 25 26 27 28
29 30 31
Notes/Reminders:
44
April
Sat Mon Tue Wed Thur Fri Sat
1 2 3
Good Friday
NO CLASSES
4
5 6
Easter Holiday
NO CLASSES
7 8 9 10 11
12 13 14
Mid-Term
Reports
15 16
Parent-Teacher
(6-8 PM)
17
P.D. in AM
Parent-Teacher
NO CLASSES
18
19 20 21 22 23 24 25
26 27 28 29 30
Notes/Reminders:
45
May
Sat Mon Tue Wed Thur Fri Sat
1 2
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
17 18
Victoria Day
NO CLASSES
19 20 21 22 23
24
31
25 26 27
Senior High
Awards Night
28
Grade 6 Orient.
No Classes Gr. 7
29 30
Notes/Reminders:
46
June
Sat Mon Tue Wed Thur Fri Sat
1 2 3 4 5 6
7 8 9 10
Athletic Awards
Night (Tentative)
11
Music Concert
(Tentative)
12 13
14 15 16 17 18
Senior High
Exams Begin
Prov. Eng. 10
CCRSB Math12
(AM Only)
19
Prov. Math 10 &
Math@Work 10
CCRSB Eng.12
& EngCom. 12
(AM Only)
20
21 22 23 24 25
SCA Prom
&
Exam Make-Up
Day
26
NO CLASSES
27
28 29
Senior High
Graduation
NO CLASSES
30
Report Cards &
Awards Pres.
9-10 AM
Notes/Reminders:
47
Monthly Reminders
September
October
48
November
December
49
January
February
50
March
April
51
May
June
52