Our Lady of Mount Pleasant Catholic School - School Handbook
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Our Lady of Mount Pleasant
Catholic School
School Handbook
Table of Contents
Welcome & Administrator’s Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Registration Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
School Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Bell Times . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
School Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
School Supplies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Technology Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Interviews & Report Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
PowerSchool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Google Classroom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Attendance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Student Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Student Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Athletics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Students Council & Leadership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
School/Parent Council . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Middle School Courses (grades 5-8) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
High School Courses (grades 9-12) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Graduation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Student Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Student Enrichment Activities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Appendices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
https://olmp.eics.ab.ca/
1
Welcome to Our Lady of Mount Pleasant Catholic School. We are a student centered community focusing on
faith, relationship building, and student growth. Our dedicated staff work hard to create a quality learning
environment for all students that allows them to become the best they can be. We are thrilled you have
chosen to become part of our Catholic learning community.
OLMP offers a broad-base of academic, athletic and fine arts programs as well as a wide variety of CTS/CTF
complementary programs. Some of these programs include French, Art, Drama, Guitar, Sport Performance,
Hockey Academy, Communication Technology, Foods and Construction to name a few. In addition, we have
off campus courses such as RAP and Work Experience programs that aid our students in transitioning to life
after high school.
We also offer extra-curricular programming and numerous school spirit experiences. These include a broad
range of school activities including presentations, sports, field trips, international travel, service trips and
student leadership experiences. School clubs run on student interest and we encourage students to be
involved in as many things as possible to get the most out of their schooling experience!
To all our new students: Welcome to Our Lady of Mount Pleasant School! To all our returning students: It’s
great to have you back! May God bless you and your learning journey through OLMP School.
OLMP Administration
School Contact information can be found below and on our school website:
Our Lady of Mount Pleasant Catholic School
39 Mt Pleasant Dr, Camrose, AB T4V 2M3
Phone: (780) 672-2975
Fax: 780-672-4747
https://olmp.eics.ab.ca/
2
Please note pre-registration begins in March for all students currently attending OLMP. Information will be
sent home at that time so students have the opportunity to discuss and plan with parents. Every effort will be
made to accommodate student program and course requests. Where space or resources are limited
registrations will be made on a first-come, first served basis.
Students entering OLMP from outside our system need to complete the steps below.
NEW or returning parents to the district, who do not currently have a PowerSchool account, please do the
following:
a) Go to https://eics.schoolengage.ca/#/login to access Reglink, our online registration tool.
b) Click "Sign Up" and fill out your information (not the student's) to create an account.
c) Once the account is created and you are logged in, click "Add New Student" to begin.
Parents of students who ALREADY ATTEND the district can access this tool from inside their
PowerSchool Parent Portal.
a) Log into https://powerschool.eics.ab.ca (contact your school if you do not know your Parent Portal Login
Information.
b) Click "Student Forms"
c) Click "Add New Student" to create an account for a new student (e.g. sibling) or click on your child's name if
seeking to complete another form (e.g. summer school registration).
Once you've created a student, click their name and choose the appropriate form for the school year you wish
to register for.
High School Registration
All students should be meeting regularly with our Academic Counsellor to plan their programs and discussing
their options with their parents to ensure their program meets their needs. Students finding it necessary to
revise their registration because of a change in educational plan or failure of a prerequisite course must see
the Academic Counsellor or Administration before or during the first week of the semester.
https://olmp.eics.ab.ca/
3
https://olmp.eics.ab.ca/
4
Please note our school Bell schedule below. Grade 5 & 6 students go outside at breaks. High School
Students in grade 9-12 attend TA time weekly to connect with their teacher advisor.
Daily Schedules Mon-Thurs Early Dismissal
days
MS Period 1 HS Block 1 8:25 - 9:10 8:25 - 9:04
MS Period 2 9:10 - 9:55 9:04 - 9:43
TA / Homeroom / ⅚ Recess outside 9:55 - 10:15 9:43 - 9:57
MS Period 3 HS Block 2 10:15 - 11:00 9:57 - 10:36
MS Period 4 11:00 - 11:45 10:36 - 11:15
Lunch 11:45 - 12:15 11:15 - 11:45
MS Period 5 HS Block 3 12:15 - 1:00 11:45 - 12:24
MS Period 6 1:00 - 1:45 12:24 - 1:03
Break / ⅚ Recess outside 1:45 - 2:05 1:03 - 1:17
MS Period 7 HS Block 4 2:05 - 2:50 1:17 - 1:56
MS Period 8 2:50 - 3:35 1:56 - 2:35
https://olmp.eics.ab.ca/
5
See a copy of the school map below and the teachers/classes in each room on the following page.
https://olmp.eics.ab.ca/
6
Room # Room/Class Teacher/Group
100 Main Office
148 School Chapel
144 High School Commons Area (grades 9 - 12)
117 Foods Lab Mr. Reinhart
118 Cosmetology Lab Mrs. Zimmer
121 Construction Lab Mr. Wispinski
122 Communication Technology Mr. Watson
131 Gymnasium Mr. Popowich
152 Classroom Ms. Music
140 Classroom Mrs. Clarkson
153 Classroom Ms. De Kock
139 Classroom Mr. Wispinski & Mrs. Reinhart
138 Classroom Mrs. Terlesky
151 Family Wellness Worker & Counsellors Office Mrs. Kushnerick & Mrs. Dunnigan
154 Fitness Room
156 Classroom Mr. Murphy
155 Classroom Mr. Enright
137 Fine Arts Room (Drama & Music)
136 Art Room Mr. Stacey
135 Middle School Commons Area (grades 5-8)
157 8B Homeroom Mr. Riise
158 Library Ms. Wolfe
159 7B Homeroom Mr.Ellert
160 8C Homeroom Mrs. Rodin
161 6B Homeroom Mrs. Welke
162 Classroom Mrs. Froehler
163 5A Homeroom Mrs. Petiot
164 5B Homeroom Mrs. Calhoon
166 6A Homeroom Mrs. Dunnigan
167 5C Homeroom Miss. Chizawsky
168 7C Homeroom Mrs. Burnstad
169 8A Homeroom Mrs. Delong
170 7A Homeroom Mrs. Nagy
171 6C Homeroom Mrs. Palsitt Lefler
https://olmp.eics.ab.ca/
7
School supply lists are shared with parents prior to the start of the school year. These lists contain all items
needed for students in each grade. The items not on those lists that students also need provided are
backpack, gym attire, and one-to-one technology devices. At OLMP, we also ask students to bring their own
water bottle, as our school has water bottle filling stations throughout the building. It is very important that
Grade 5 and 6 students have indoor shoes to use during each school day as they will have outdoor recess
throughout the day and are not permitted to wear shoes worn in the back green space indoors after recess.
We are a BYOD, (Bring Your Own Device) school as mentioned in the next technology use section. All
students should have their own technology as specified. Staples has provided us with some affordable leasing
and buying options that you can review at their store location.
Lockers are allocated to each student at the beginning of the school year. Locks are provided by the school at
the beginning of the school year for a cost of $7. Students can use these locks for their entirety at OLMP.
Locks not sold by OLMP must be approved by the homeroom / teacher advisor and combinations shared with
that teacher as all combinations are kept on file at the school.
https://olmp.eics.ab.ca/
8
At OLMP, we strive to keep the use of technology for educational purposes while the students are in the
classroom. With the evolution of technology and our schools 1:1 environment, we recognize the importance of
the integration of technology for educational purposes dedicated to learning and instruction. Students are
expected to follow proper etiquette in using cell phones and other electronic devices (see cell phone policy in
the policy section of this handbook).
Students will be responsible for adhering to regular rules of respect and courtesy as well as rules related to
digital citizenship. Under the Freedom of Information and Privacy Act, it is against the law to take pictures,
record or video other individuals without their consent. It is also against the law to take, possess, show or
distribute inappropriate media of yourself or others at any time. The local police may be contacted if this
occurs. All students and parents/guardians are required to sign the EICS technology use agreement on
PowerSchool. This policy is in effect for all technology use within the school.
As an EICS school, OLMP has a One to One Technology Initiative. Students from grades 4-12 are invited to
bring their own technology for use in their learning experience with the ultimate goal of supporting and
engaging all students to achieve success in a 21st Century learning environment. Students will use devices
responsibly, and only with the permission and direction of the teacher or other staff member.
Students should bring their devices to class with the following criteria:
● 6 hours of battery life
● Internet access (chrome browser preferred)
● Google apps for education downloaded
● Minimum screen size of 7 inches and physical keyboard
Students must adhere to the “responsible use agreement” and the “one to one user agreement” signed at the
beginning of the year regarding appropriate technology use on PowerSchool.
https://olmp.eics.ab.ca/
9Paper report cards are not sent home at Our Lady of Mount Pleasant school unless requested as we work to
be more environmentally conscious. Grades (for 7-12 students), as well as attendance, are available for
parents to check on an ongoing basis through PowerSchool.
Parent - teacher interviews will be held twice a year in the fall and spring as per the schedule below. An email
with a link will be sent to parents to book a parent-teacher-student conference. If a teachers interview
schedule does not work for you, please email the teacher directly to book an alternate time. Teacher emails
can be found on our website under staff.
Fall Parent - teacher interviews:
Wednesday, October 14 from 4:00-7:30pm (Virtually)
Wednesday, November 4 from 4:00-7:30pm
Spring Parent - teacher interviews:
Wednesday, March 3 from 4:00 - 7:30
Wednesday, April 14 from 4:00 - 7:30
https://olmp.eics.ab.ca/
10Powerschool is used widely within our school for the following:
● Students:
○ Checking final or assignment grades (updates are live)
○ Checking for missing or incomplete assignments
○ Reading comments from your teacher about assignments or course
○ Seeing your timetable and/or homeroom teacher
○ Registering for summer school (high school online)
○ Requesting options (for students going into grade 7-9)
● Parents
○ Paying school fees
○ Registering for transportation
○ Checking your child’s grades (updates are live)
○ Printing off report cards
○ Checking the attendance of your child (missing, late, excused, etc).
○ Excusing your child’s absence (link to Safe Arrival)
○ Completing yearly consent forms (technology, locker use, FOIP)
○ Updating medical plans & annual demographics (ex. Contact info etc.)
○ Signing Individual Support Plan (ISP) or Regulation Support Plan (RSP)
Please sign into Powerschool using the website: https:powerschool.eics.ab.ca/public .
Students:
● Username: Contact the school secretary (after registration is approved)
● Password: abcd1234 (initially - will be asked to change)
Parents will register for an account the first time they log on.
https://olmp.eics.ab.ca/
11Google Apps (G-suite) is used widely within our school from google.com such as Google Forms, Docs,
Sheets and Classroom. Students should have this app installed on their cell phone device when required.
Student username: EICS student number@eics.ab.ca
Student password: same as EICS password
Google Classroom is used for:
● Students:
○ Assignments (with attached files) may be posted - due dates are listed
○ Submitting assignments to the teacher for assessment
○ Daily topics of classes with links/videos
○ Discussion topics, etc.
● Parents
○ Once invited by the teacher or student, you will receive an email
○ Can sign up for daily notifications of the Classroom stream or upcoming and missing
assignments
○ Note: Parents cannot view specific assignments or posted materials - this must be accessed
through the student’s account.
https://olmp.eics.ab.ca/
12Regular and punctual attendance is the key to academic success. It is very important for students to be
present on all instructional days. If your child is going to be absent from school for any reason, please be sure
to report that absent preferably through the EICS App, but you can also call the school or email. A phone call,
email, or note to the classroom teacher in advance of an absence is greatly appreciated. Students must be in
attendance at the very start of every class when attendance is taken. In the event your child cannot be
accounted for, the schools attendance system will automatically call you to inform you of the absence. It is
important that your contact information be kept up to date and accurate. Contact the school secretary right
away if you have a change in contact information.
EICS App
All families are strongly encouraged to download the EICS App (School Messenger App) for quick, easy
access to:
● School Messenger, our division attendance management program,
● Powerschool Portal; to access fees, report cards, and student information,
● school and division news,
● school handbooks.
Go to: https://www.eics.ab.ca/download/188921 to download the app.
School Policy for Multiple Unexcused Absences
According to the Alberta School Act “...students will attend school
regularly and punctually.” Teachers at OLMP School wish to provide
a meaningful and enjoyable learning experience and consider regular
attendance a very important factor in determining success in school.
Irregular attendance curtails a student’s ability to contribute and may
hinder their progress.
Attendance for students in grade 5-12 is recorded in PowerSchool on
a period by period basis each day. If a student accumulates 5 or
more unexcused absences, parents will be contacted by their teacher.
Further issues with attendance will go to administration where we will
follow the process outlined in the table here after drawing up an
attendance contract.
For the purpose of tracking attendance issues four lates will equal one
absence.
https://olmp.eics.ab.ca/
13As a Catholic School, we recognize the spiritual domain of all persons. As each student is a gift from God, this
value and dignity of the person is central to dealing with each individual and individual situation. The
philosophy at OLMP is to meet the needs of all students and assist them to develop mentally, physically,
socially, and spiritually in a Catholic community living the Gospel value of “Everyone Belongs.” In our school
we follow an inclusive model where all students participate in the classroom and broader school setting. We
strive to provide a caring, supportive environment for students with behavioural, communication, intellectual,
learning, and physical challenges. Our students are encouraged to foster an understanding of their strengths
so that they can develop a strong sense of self-worth. In addition, we provide opportunities for all students to
participate in school activities so that they better understand their interrelationship with others and continue to
build on their strengths. When children are valued, listened to, encouraged, understood, and believed in, they
will be successful.
The student services staff include: Inclusive Learning, Chaplaincy, School Counselor, Academic Counselor,
C.R.C. (Collaborative Response Coordinator), ESL (English as a second language) Lead teacher,
F.W.W.(Family Wellness Worker), Addiction Counselor, and DARE officer. See below the different areas of
students services explained.
Appointments can be made with staff through emailing them directly or through the office.
Inclusive Education
Facilitation Services provided at OLMP involve a team approach, consisting of parents, teachers, educational
assistants, collaborative response workers and administrative support. We work to assist students, staff, and
parents with building accommodated, adapted, or modified programs for students who need this, as well as
building individualized program plans. Support services are available in the following areas: Occupational
Therapy; Speech and Language Therapy; Psychology; Behavioural Consulting; Assistive Technology; and.
English as a Second Language services. The following support services are available externally: Audiology;
Physical Therapy; Vision; Family and Community Services; as well as other specialized services. Students are
supported in a variety of ways, including classroom and physical accommodations, use of assistive
technologies, instructional accommodations, or testing accommodations. Students can complete a fully
modified curriculum, the knowledge and employability curriculum, or the high school diploma curriculum; or
combination of any of these.
Inclusive Learning Coordinator: Mrs. Kristy Smith
Contact email: kristys@eics.ab.ca
Chaplain
The Chaplaincy program at OLMP supports the creation of an atmosphere in which each and every student
understands that God “abandons no one” and one that encourages staff and students to place their lives in the
hands of their loving Creator. The Chaplain supports the infusion of the Catholic faith into the ethos of OLMP
School through the organization of school Masses, religious education, retreats and faith formation
opportunities for staff and students.
School Chaplain: Mr. Darby Murphy & Mrs. Lana Froehler
Contact email: darby.murphy@eics.ab.ca lanaf@eics.ab.ca
https://olmp.eics.ab.ca/
14School Counselor
The School Counselor and staff believe that school is a great “opportunity to become” and, as a result,
endeavor to facilitate and encourage this process. It is the goal of the School Counselor to promote
communication between the school, home and outside agencies, help increase students’ social effectiveness
and ability to cope, promote acceptance and tolerance within the school community, inform the school
community about available services and programs, and assist students to assume responsibility and
ownership for their actions and their learning.
School Counselor: Mrs. Stacey Dunnigan
Contact email: stacey.dunnigan@eics.ab.ca
Academic Counsellor
Our school's academic counselor assists emerging adults in grades 9 to 12 with programming and planning for
the future. They assist students in their selection of the appropriate stream of high school courses in which to
be successful; in exploring the many career paths available in the 21st century; in gaining the essential
information regarding post-secondary admission requirements and procedures; and to remain current and
informed regarding the many scholarships afforded to them via grants, bursaries and scholarships. The
academic counselor will present to classes as well as meet individually at various points throughout a student's
time in high school at OLMP School.
Academic Counsellor: Mrs. Jaymie Reinhart
Contact email: jaymier@eics.ab.ca
Collaborative Response Coordinator (CRC)
Our school CRC ensures that ALL students are provided with an appropriate educational program. The
Collaborative Response Coordinator plays a key role in working collaboratively with teachers, students,
parents, support staff and other community members to improve the learning environment for all students in
the building. This year's focus will be on targeted literacy strategies. In collaboration with the school learning
team, the Collaborative Response Coordinator works to support student inclusion and individual support plans
(ISPs).
School CRC: Mrs. Lana Froehler (Grade 5-8) & Mrs. Jaymie Reinhart (Grade 9-12)
Contact email: lanaf@eics.ab.ca jaymier@eics.ab.ca
English as Additional Language Programing (EAL)
OLMP offers specific programming for students in our building whose first language is not English. Language
acquisition is monitored through periodic formal and informal assessments. These findings are used to deliver
ESL programming that addresses the linguistic, cultural, spiritual, and academic needs of these students. This
may be in the form of in-class support, small group lessons, or targeted classes for English Language
Learners. (ELLs)
The goal of the program is to provide these students with the necessary educational programs and academic
supports to enable them to communicate in English fluently and competently enough to complete their
education.
ELL Lead Teacher: Mrs. Helen Rodin
Contact email: helen.rodin@eics.ab.ca
https://olmp.eics.ab.ca/
15Family Wellness Worker (FWW)
The OLMP Family Wellness Worker supports students and families with emotional, social and behavioral
challenges. Our FWW is in our building a few times a week connecting with students and their families to
support a positive learning environment.
Family Wellness Worker (FWW): Mrs. Laurie Kushnerick
Contact email: laurie.kushnerick@eics.ab.ca
Addictions Counselor
OLMP School has a partnership with Alberta Health Services (AHS) where they provide an Addictions
Counselor who is available to meet with students who may be struggling with addiction issues themselves
(tobacco, drugs, alcohol, gambling) or struggling with addiction issues in a family member or friend.
Appointments are available on Monday mornings by appointment.
Addictions Counselor: Mrs. Nikki Krieger
Contact email: Nicole.Krieger@albertahealthservices.ca
School Resource Officer
Our School Resource Officer is provided in collaboration with the City of Camrose Police. Our designated
Constable works as a liaison to students, staff, and parents in solving problems that may arise at school, at
home, or elsewhere. They work to educate our school community on Bullying, harassment, drug use, and
questions about anything criminal in nature. They also teach the DARE program to grade 6 students and
additional programming at the grade 9 level.
School Resource Officer: Cst. John Fernhout
Contact email: jfernhout@camrose.ca
https://olmp.eics.ab.ca/
16As a Catholic School, we work to create an atmosphere of mutual respect between everyone in our school
community. Student policies are created to provide guidance on basic expectations and rules for students at
OLMP. They are all found below in alphabetical order.
Accidents & Illness Policy
If a student is ill or injured at school, the school may telephone and request that a parent come and pick up the
child. The school does not have any medications nor are we allowed to administer medication.
In an emergency situation, a student will be taken to St. Mary’s Hospital or an ambulance will be called at the
cost of the parent. Parents will then be notified. The school does have an epi pen at the office, but parents
should also be sure to have their medical information up to date in PowerSchool and communicate serious
health needs to the child’s teachers.
It is imperative that the school has an emergency phone number of someone local where a responsible adult
may be reached in the event that neither parent nor guardian can be contacted.
Allergy Awareness Policy
Foods such as nuts can cause severe, life-threatening reactions for some people, as a courtesy, we ask that
you:
● If items with nuts are brought into the school on special occasions, you must clearly indicate on the
container/package that it contains nuts.
● If your child has an allergy or a condition related to food, it is the parent's responsibility t o
communicate with the teacher and ensure that arrangements are made.
● Wash your hands if you eat food that may cause an allergic reaction throughout the day.
Attendance Policy
According to the Alberta School Act “…students will attend school regularly and punctually.” Teachers at
OLMP School wish to provide a meaningful and enjoyable learning experience and consider regular
attendance a very important factor in determining success in school. Irregular attendance/engagement curtails
a student’s ability to contribute and may hinder the progress of the class. Attendance for all OLMP students
will be recorded on a period-by-period basis each day. High School students must attend class regularly in
order to receive credit. For a five-credit course, a student cannot have an absence of more than 16 times
during the semester or administration has the authority to fail the student. In a three-credit course, a student
can be absent no more than 9 times during the semester. In the case of a failure, students will not receive
credit in that course. If student attendance is likely to be an issue for a student it is important that the
family/student connect with their homeroom / teacher advisor to keep them updated so they can advocate
appropriately and the school can be proactive with support.
Students who have more than 5 unexcused absences will be reported to the office and followed up with a letter
sent home and possibly a meeting with school administration to plan for any needed support.
https://olmp.eics.ab.ca/
17Cell Phone Policy:
OLMP is a one-to-one school as supported by Elk Island Cathlic School Division (EICS), however it is
important to note that Personal Communication Devices (also known as mobile phone, cellphones,
smartphones, iPhones, iPods,etc) are not a substitute for one-to-one technology. Please review all
information in the technology use section on page 9.
It is recommended that students in grades 5-8 at OLMP not bring cellphones to school. If a student feels they
need to bring their phone to school it must be locked up in their lockers at all times and only come out when
requested by the teacher for educational purposes.
High School students in grade 9 - 12 may have cell phones but only out in class when requested by the
teacher for educational purposes. When in class cellphones should be in airplane mode as outlined in the
EICS One-To-One User Agreement.
If students do not follow these rules, a teacher may remove the device from the students possession for the
duration of class or until the end of the day. Should the situation escalate or become a chronic problem, the
parent will be notified and may be required to come and pick up the device.
All students have access to the school phone in the office for emergency circumstances or when they have
permission from their teacher or school administration.
Discipline Policy
At OLMP School, maintaining the dignity of each person, in all situations, is crucial in managing behavior.
Effective discipline focuses on the belief that teaching individuals to take responsibility for their behavior is far
more effective than teaching individuals to be obedient in order to avoid punishment.
We believe in the responsibility model of discipline. By implementing appropriate and progressive
consequences, and by providing students with opportunities to become responsible and caring members of the
community, they will learn about their behaviors, their choices, and their impact on others while still
maintaining their dignity. Discipline matters will be handled on a case by case basis.
Our Goal:
To build a safe and caring culture, where students, staff, and parents encourage, value, feel safe and support
one another. Bullying, abuse, and discrimination are unacceptable.
Bullying is:
● When a person is the target, over time, of repeated negative actions.
● When one person has more power, so the person being victimized feels that they can’t defend
him/herself.
● When a person, who is the target, may feel embarrassed, hurt, scared, and/or angry.
Discipline issues that are referred to the office will be tracked through the office and recorded. Administration
will work with student services (CRC, FWW, School Counselors, etc.) to determine student need while taking a
restorative approach to building in consequences. If necessary, a student may serve a detention or in school
suspension, in which case the student will not have access to any technological devices. A suspension is
followed up with by a reentry meeting prior to the student returning to school.
https://olmp.eics.ab.ca/
18Dress Code Policy
As a Catholic School, it is expected that students clothing be appropriate to our setting. Students are asked to
show good judgment by wearing suitable clothing in accordance with the policy.
The following are NOT appropriate to the professional atmosphere of our school workplace:
● Clothing that exposes undergarments, back, chest, and stomach.
● Shorts or skirts that are revealing or are of inappropriate length.
● Clothing with inappropriate, illegal or offensive messages, images or symbols.
Students arriving at school dressed inappropriately will be asked to change into something more suitable; or
alternative clothing will be provided for them and/or parents will be contacted.
Gym Use and Fitness Centre Policy
Students should not be using the gym without teacher approval and without supervision. The gym is not
available for student use after school. Equipment use will be under the discretion of the athletic director,
teacher or supervisor in the gym at the time, but all equipment should be returned to where it came from at the
conclusion of its use.
Hat Policy
At OLMP, we do allow students to wear hats/hoods/headwear when they enter the building. However, we do
ask that as a sign of respect students remove this during O’Canada and prayer/faith activities or when in the
church/school chapel. In the individual classrooms, this policy is at the teacher's discretion.
Homework Policy
Homework is practice given by teachers to supplement the learning that has occurred in the classroom. We
believe homework is an opportunity to practice and review concepts learned in class. For any homework
assigned, class time will be given so students can access teachers for guidance, support, and feedback.
Lockers and School Lock Policy
Lockers are allocated to each student at the beginning of the school year. Locks are provided by the school at
the beginning of the school year for a cost of $7. Students can use these locks for their entirety at OLMP.
Locks not sold by OLMP must be approved by the homeroom / teacher advisor and combinations shared with
that teacher as all combinations are kept on file at the school. All students must have a combination lock and
not a key lock. If we do not have an accurate lock combination and need to get into a locker please know the
lock could be cut off at the student/parents expense.
Each student is responsible for the condition of the inside and outside of his or her locker and the contents
must be school appropriate. Authorized school personnel have the right to examine the contents of a locker at
any time.
Lost and Found Policy
Students are responsible for all personal property. All unclaimed lost and found items may be donated to local
charity during the Fall Break, Christmas Break, Spring Break, and at the end of the school year. The school is
not responsible for loss or damage to personal property. Students should be keeping personal/valuable items
locked up in their assigned lockers.
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19Lunch Policy
Students in grades 5 and 6 eat lunch in their homeroom classes. Grade 7 and 8 students are free to eat in a
homeroom class, middle school commons and courtyard, but not in the hallways. All students are expected to
clean up their spaces appropriately.
All students will have access to the school concession and common microwaves in their respective common
spaces. On hot lunch days students will line up and collect their lunches as directed by volunteers and
teachers on site. Students in grades 5/6 are to be dismissed early so they can get their lunches in order to
have enough time to eat and get outside for recess.
High School students staying on campus at lunch can eat in their High School Commons or classrooms.
Medication Administration Policy
The school is unable to purchase or administer any medication without an approval. Over the counter
medications should not be kept in student lockers nor dispensed by other students. Staff is not able to
administer any medication to students unless the parents complete the appropriate forms on powerschool and
informs school administration of the circumstances.
Missing/Late School Work Policy:
Student work in grades 7-12 is considered missing or incomplete if it is not handed in on the due date either
because the student does not have the work or because the student is absent (unexcused). The following
process will be followed in the case of missing or incomplete student work unless otherwise stated in the
program of studies:
● Missing or incomplete work may be recorded in PowerSchool as a “missing” with a placeholder zero
until the terms of the arrangement between the teacher and student are met.
● Upon receiving the completed work or at the expiration of the pre-arranged agreement, a mark
indicating achievement earned (without penalty) will be recorded
● If missing assignments becomes a chronic issue parents will be notified.
When a student is absent, it is his/her responsibility to check with teachers and/or students to find out what
work was missed. It is recommended that students and parents access the Powerschool website to monitor
homework and marks.
Teachers in grade 5-6's will communicate with parents regarding any missing school work directly.
Parking Policy
The lane at the front of the school is for buses only. Those needing to pick up and drop off students during the
day should do so in the student parking lot southwest of the building or along Mount Pleasant Drive. School
parking lots adhere to the same municipal regulations as other lots around the city.
Recess Policy (for grades 5-6)
All grade 5 & 6 students are expected to go outside for recess at their assigned recess times and must dress
appropriately.
At this time students will exit the school into the back green space behind the school for recess. Indoor shoes
should not be worn in the back green space at recess as this area can get muddy. Boot racks are available
next to the middle school commons exit for students to use.
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20Students are not permitted to play at the front of the school or in or next to the parking lots at the side of the
building. Equipment will be provided for the students to use during recesses. The purpose of recess is to give
students fresh air, time to run/play and have a break from their regular class work.
Elk Island Catholic Schools has an inclement weather policy (administrative policy 134) that guides school
administration and staff as to when recesses are indoor or outdoor recesses. The suggested guideline
provides direction on inclement weather due to continuous rain, extreme wind and/or extreme cold. School
staff work to monitor cold days and will not have students go outside if the temperature is - 25 C or colder; or if
the temperature and wind chill factor are -20° C or colder.
School Access Policy
The school is open at 8:00am on every school day, but please know hallway supervision and staff are not in
place until 8:15. Students arriving before 8:15 can be at their locker or assigned common room space if their
teacher has not opened the room yet, but MUST be respectful and responsible while in the building. Students
must be out of the building by 4:00 when the school will be locked. Any students in the building for
extra-curricular activities etc. will be under the direction of the assigned teacher.
Substance Abuse Policy
Gambling and the possession, use and trafficking of alcohol, tobacco, cannabis and other drugs are
unacceptable and will not be tolerated on school property, on school buses or during school-related activities.
It is also not acceptable for anyone to be on site under the influence in any way. The School Board considers
the non-medical use, possession and/or trafficking of drugs and/or alcoholic beverages by students on school
property or at school sponsored activities, illegal. Smoking or vaping is not permitted in the school, on the
school grounds, near the school or at a school-sponsored event.
To create a safe and caring school environment, free from alcohol, tobacco, other drugs and gambling, the
following are prohibited while on school property, while on school buses, or during school related activities.
● Use or possession of tobacco products
● Consumption or possession of alcohol
● Inhaling of solvents
● Use or possession of pharmaceutical drugs for non-medical purposes
● Use or possession of illicit drugs
● Use or possession of drug related equipment (syringes, bongs, pipes, vaping tools, etc.) unless
intended for legitimate medical purpose (must be confirmed by staff)
● Gambling for money or items of value
● Being in the presence of other individuals while those individuals are violating the school policy as
listed in the seven points above.
If a student violates Our Lady of Mount Pleasant School’s Policy, the following actions will be taken:
● A school staff member will respond to the students’ immediate safety and medical needs.
● The School Principal will validate the facts of the incident by interviewing relevant staff and students.
● Any alcohol, drugs or tobacco involved will be confiscated and properly managed until it can be
disposed of or turned over to the police.
● Parents or guardians will be contacted and informed of the situation. If appropriate, parents or
guardians will be asked to pick their child up from the school. If the parent or guardian is unavailable, a
school staff member will phone an emergency contact, local law enforcement or Children’s services.
● The School Principal or Administrator Designate can search the student’s locker if deemed necessary.
https://olmp.eics.ab.ca/
21Technology Use Policy:
● As an EICS school OLMP has a One to One Technology Initiative. Students from grades 4-12 are
asked to bring their own technology for use in their learning experience with the ultimate goal of
supporting and engaging all students to achieve success in a 21st Century learning environment.
● Students will use devices responsibly, and only with the permission and direction of the teacher or
other staff member.
● Students should bring their devices to class with the following criteria:
○ 6 hours of battery life
○ Internet access (chrome browser preferred)
○ Google apps for education downloaded
○ Minimum screen size of 7 inches and physical keyboard
● Students must adhere to the “responsible use agreement” and the “one to one user agreement” signed
at the beginning of the year regarding appropriate technology use on PowerSchool.
● Students must be using the EICSPOD wifi network during school hours.
● Students that do not have their own devices should:
○ Look into the EICS leasing program (low fee or waiver for those in need)
○ Have their teachers provide an alternative (ex. ecampus, paper copies, etc.)
● Personal Communication Devices (also known as mobile phone, cellphones, smartphones, iPhones,
iPods,etc) should not be used in class without teacher permission. If they are used in class they must
always be in airplane mode. If a student does not follow this rule they will first get a warning, if caught
again the teacher will take it away (time frame at their discretion), and the third time will result in parent
contact.
Textbook Policy
Students are expected to take normal care of their textbooks and when textbooks are misused or lost, students
will be required to replace them. A new textbook will not be issued until the lost one is paid for.
Students are responsible for lost or damaged textbooks or library books. Replacement costs are dependent
upon the condition of the book and are charged directly on PowerSchool after notification has been provided.
Visitors & Off Campus Policy
OLMP is a closed campus, meaning that all guests must sign in at the office. In order to ensure the safety of
the students and staff we require all visitors to stop and check in at the office (Everyone except students
and staff are visitors). This includes parents bringing forgotten materials or picking up students for
appointments. All students will be called to the office to pick up their forgotten items. All visitors will be required
to check in at the office and wear a “Visitor” lanyard. Checking in helps us reduce interruptions to instructional
time and prevents unauthorized people from speaking with students. Any students from other schools are not
permitted during school hours on school grounds.
During the school day Middle School students in grade 5 - 6 are expected to stay on school grounds unless
they are signed out of the office with permission from a parent/guardian. Students in grades 7 - 12 can leave
school grounds during lunch or where specified in their school schedule (ex. during spares).
https://olmp.eics.ab.ca/
22OLMP will compete competitively in the 2A ASAA League. Our emphasis is on skills, sportsmanship,
competition, and teamwork. With each sport we field both boys and girls teams.
Student athletes are expected to be in good standing in all their subjects meaning they maintain an acceptable
grade and attendance as specified by their teacher. Concerns by classroom teachers will be directed to
coaches who will then address this concern with the athlete. Poor grades and attendance may result in an
athlete not being able to participate. Academics must be the primary focus of all students.
Depending on the interest and number of athletes trying out for our teams, we will be offering the following
sports:
Middle School Teams High School Junior Teams High School Senior Teams
(grades 5-6) (grades 7-9) (grades 10-12)
● Volleyball ● Volleyball ● Volleyball
● Basketball ● Basketball ● Basketball
● Track and Field ● Badminton ● Badminton
● Cross Country Running ● Track and Field ● Track and Field
● Indoor Running Games ● Golf ● Golf
● Badminton ● Curling ● Curling
● Cross Country Running ● Cross Country Running
● Indoor Running Games ● Handball
● 6 Man Football Team
https://olmp.eics.ab.ca/
23Student voice is important at OLMP School! We have opportunities for students to participate in how our
school operates and what activities we do throughout the year through various school leadership activities.
This is done at both the middle school and high school level. In High School students can join the High School
Leadership Club and Middle School students can apply to be homeroom representatives each year where they
become members of the Student Council. Both levels of student leadership involvement work to build school
spirit, do service work and run various fundraising efforts over the course of a school year.
High School Leadership Club
Students can opt to join the High School Leadership Club at any point during the school year, however if they
want to earn credits and get more involved it is recommended they schedule this into their timetable at the
beginning of the school year or semester. When scheduling leadership into their timetable students can take
leadership at any point in their school day for 3 credits. If students want to take leadership for credits and
cannot fit it into their timetable there is also the option to take it off schedule and they would complete work on
their own time. When taking leadership for credit students will join the google classroom and complete this
work at their own pace similarly to how our off campus high school programming works (see high school
course section for more info). Students can also sign up to join the High School Leadership Club without
receiving credit if they just want to volunteer and get involved when it works for them.
All students involved in High School leadership meet once a month all together over a lunch period to plan and
share the work that they are doing in the whole group. Then students sign up to join committees of interest to
them and plan activities and events throughout the year. Committees meet as need and plan various school
activities for the whole school and for club members. Club members also assist in running the Student
Council.
Student Council
The Students Council is a group of dynamic students organized to represent the interests of the entire student
body. This group’s main objectives are to demonstrate and promote student leadership, and foster good
relations between students, staff, and the community. Meetings are held on a monthly basis to help facilitate
these objectives. Through a large number of student activities and projects, students build school spirit and
raise awareness on various topics. Our Student Council consists of High School Leadership students and a
minimum of 2 room representatives from each homeroom class. Committees are struck from within the group
to carry out the objectives and goals of the Council when needed. Middle School students are invited to apply
to be room representatives during the first weeks of the school year, but those not selected to sit on the
Student Council will have opportunities to be involved in all activities organized by the group.
Activities run by our student leaders include, but are not limited to: school assemblies, holiday activities
(Halloween, Christmas, Easter, etc.), school dances, lent fundraisers, service trips, wake-a-thons, etc..
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24School councils were legislated in 1995 under Alberta’s School Act and are mandatory for all schools in the
public education system. The Government of Alberta recognizes the value of parents and the community to be
engaged in the education of children. It is through school council that parents, community members and school
staff have a means of participating in decisions that impact student learning success.
OLMP School Parent Association would like to ask you to consider joining them as they meet throughout the
year to support the various programs and activities at OLMP School. This School Council is composed of
students, parents, teachers and school administrators. The purpose of this council is to advise the Principal
and the Board with respect to matters relating to the school. We encourage parents to become involved in
helping set directions for the school through active participation in this council. Current School Council
information can be found on our website or by contacting the school office. Those interested are also
encourage to attend our Open House / Meet the Teacher Night in September where we hold our first meeting
of the school year.
For more information on School Councils visit:
https://www.albertaschoolcouncils.ca/public/download/documents/40732
https://olmp.eics.ab.ca/
25At OLMP our Middle School Program is made up of grades 5 - 8. Student scheduling is done in the spring for
existing students in order to plan for the upcoming school year. School fees associated with programming can
be found on the school website under “students and parents” and then “school finance”.
Below we have listed the courses taken for each middle school student throughout their school week. For
further details on what exactly they will learn in each class go to:
https://www.learnalberta.ca/content/mychildslearning/
Homeroom Class
Homeroom time is embedded into every regular school day at every grade level at OLMP and is a time in the
day where students can connect with the same teacher all year. This time aligns with Elk Island Catholic
Schools Connections Project, part of the Classroom Improvement Fund project, focusing on building
relationships with students, families and staff. Connections aims to improve student mental health and
students' sense of belonging. Homeroom time will also be used throughout the year as a time to handout and
collect forms to students and run school wide faith/wellness/enrichment activities.
Homeroom Seminar Period
Homeroom / Seminar time is a period that teachers use to plan for enhanced learning opportunities where they
work to improve skills in other courses and/or connect with their homeroom class on various activities
throughout the school year. Homeroom Seminar time takes place on Thursdays at OLMP that are not early
dismissal or school assembly days.
Core Subjects
All middle school students will be required to take the following compulsory courses:
● English Language Arts
● Mathematics
● Social Studies
● Science
● Health
● Physical Education
Course descriptions for core courses are not included here, but can be found on the alberta education website
under program of studies: https://education.alberta.ca
Grade 6 students will write the Provincial Achievement Tests (PAT) at the end of June. Teachers will keep
students updated with dates, times and expectations.
Religious Education
Students attending OLMP Catholic School are required to take Religious Studies courses. As members of our
Catholic school community, we believe our students will benefit from a Christ-centered learning environment.
They will have opportunity to explore religious thought, develop their faith and grow in their relationship with
Christ Jesus in an atmosphere of gospel values and Catholic heritage.
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26Students are invited to openly discuss their faith and to learn about the history, tradition and issues
related to the Catholic Church. It is through this atmosphere of openness, honesty and mutual
respect that we believe our students will become responsible citizens capable of making intelligent
decisions in an increasingly complex world. As students work their way through OLMP Catholic
School, it is our hope that the light of Christ will mark the path that they will choose to follow.
French as a Second Language (FSL) Programming
All students in grades 5 & 6 take French at OLMP. In grades 7 & 8 this is an optional course and students can
opt to take it during their options period.
French as a Second Language (FSL) refers to a course sequence in which the French language is taught as a
subject. French as a Second Language (FSL) courses provide students with definite benefits. Being able to
understand and use French is an important aspect of being a Canadian and a global citizen. By learning
French, students are able to develop the necessary knowledge, skills and attitudes needed to communicate in
a variety of real-life contexts. French, one of Canada’s two official languages, is spoken by more than 250
million people in 33 countries around the world. The ability to understand, speak, read and write French allows
students to communicate with French-speaking people around the world, to understand and appreciate the
history and evolution of their cultures, to benefit from travel and to develop a competitive advantage in the
workforce. Second language learners tend to be more flexible and adaptable to new situations which is an
asset in an ever-changing world. Research has shown that students studying a second language perform
better in other subject areas, such as mathematics and English language arts.
Fine Arts Programming
Throughout the grades, an articulated Fine Arts program involves students as creators, performers, historians,
critics and consumers. The Fine Arts enable students to enhance the depth and breadth of their expression
and intuitive response to fine art.
All students in grades 5 & 6 take Art & Music. In grades 7 - 12 fine arts programs such as Art, Drama, and
Music are an optional course and student can opt to take them during their options period.
https://olmp.eics.ab.ca/
27Technology - ICT Programming
The Alberta ICT program of studies emphasizes technology as a ‘way of doing things’ – the processes, tools
and techniques that alter human activity. As a curriculum it specifies what students from Kindergarten to grade
12 are expected to know, be able to do, and be like with respect to technology.
(https://education.alberta.ca/information-communication-technology/program-of-studies/)
At OLMP we address this curriculum in grade 5 & 6 through an embedded program in core subjects. In grades
7 & 8 this curriculum is covered as a separate class where students will be taught to use specific technologies
to enhance their work in core subjects. For example they might learn to make a movie in a media player for a
project they are doing in English Language Art class.
Complementary CTF Courses
Students will have an opportunity to participate in complementary courses that assist in enriching their learning
experience at OLMP.
In grade 5 students will alternate through 3 of the following options throughout the school year:
● Technology
● Outdoor Education
● Art
In grade 6 students will alternate through 4 of the following options throughout the school year:
● Sports Performance
● Technology
● Foods
● Art
In grade 7 & 8 students can choose from the following options:
● Foods
● Drama
● Art
● Outdoor Education
● Construction
● Cosmetology
● Sports Performance
● Music (Piano / Guitar)
● French
● Technology
Middle School Grade 5&6 Student Assessment & Parent Communication
Student learning at OLMP will be communicated to grade 5 & 6 parents at 4 formal times throughout the year:
● Fall Parent-Teacher Interviews
● Mid-Term (January) Report Card time
● Spring Parent-Teacher Interviews
● Final (June) Report Card time
More informal communication will take place throughout the year and student agendas will be used to facilitate
communication between home and school.
All students in grades 5 & 6 will have evidence of learning portfolios. Evidence of learning communicates
student strengths and areas of growth and is aligned with the curricular outcomes. The combination of teacher
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28feedback and student reflections provides parents with the opportunity to be more involved in and aware of
their child’s progress. Information about student portfolios will be shared with all parents prior to the first
parent teacher interviews.
Evidence of learning portfolios can be hard copy or digital, as determined by the homeroom teacher. Portfolios
will contain 1 - 2 summative assessments with 1 - 3 related formative assessments per core area per interview
period. They will also contain embedded student self reflections that will encourage students to think about
their own thinking (metacognition).
Along with the Evidence of Learning Portfolios that will be provided to parents to communicate student learning
parents will also receive a report card mid way through the school year and at the end of the school year.
Below is a web link to the program of studies that communicates what your child is learning in their different
subject areas and you can also see two visuals that will assist in understanding the report card. The first
visual shares competencies that we work to develop in all students at every grade level and the second is our
levels of achievement, which shares how students at the grade 5 & 5 level are evaluated.
Alberta Program of studies:
https://education.alberta.ca/programs-of-study/programs-of-study/
Growth as a learner competencies:
https://olmp.eics.ab.ca/
29Levels of Achievement:
Middle School Grade 7&8 Student Assessment & Parent Communication
Student learning at OLMP will be communicated to grade 7 & 8 parents at 4 formal times throughout the year:
● Fall Parent Teacher Interviews
● Mid-Term (January) Report Card time
● Spring Parent Teacher Interviews
● Final (June) Report Card time
The reporting of student achievement will be based upon the learning outcomes in the Alberta Program of
Studies (can be referenced in the link below). Teachers will use percentages to reflect student achievement.
Teacher’s professional judgment and rubrics will be used to assess student effort, participation, attitude and
other behaviours.
Alberta Program of studies:
https://education.alberta.ca/programs-of-study/programs-of-study/
https://olmp.eics.ab.ca/
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