Queen Elizabeth School - Parent/Student Handbook
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Q U E E N E L I Z A B E T H
Queen Elizabeth School
Parent/Student Handbook
2014-2015
1905 Eastlake Avenue
Saskatoon, SK
S7J 0W9
Phone: 683-7420
http://www.spsd.sk.ca
1Q U E E N E L I Z A B E T H
Table of Contents
Welcome to Queen Elizabeth School
History of our School
Queen Elizabeth School Mission Statement
Principles for Peaceful School Communities
Values – Rights and Responsibilities
Building Cooperation in our School Learning Community
Literacy for Life
School Procedures
Home & School Communication
Staff Meetings
Our School Day
Supervision of Students
Recess/Noon Breaks
Attendance
Emergency Situations and Procedures
Student Fees, Supplies and Equipment
School Photos
Medical Alert
Nut Alert School
Pandemic Readiness
School Newsletters
Web Page
Community Bulletin Board
Assemblies
Student Telephone Use
Student Attire
Mobile Devices
Personal Belongings
Lost and Found
Bicycles, Rollerblades, Skateboards and Scooters
Lunch Arrangements
2Q U E E N E L I Z A B E T H
Student Programs and Support
Programming for Students
Locally Developed Options
Learning Resource Centre
Scheduling
Lost Books
The Resource Program
Internet Access for Students
Community Health Nurse
Before and after School Program
System Personnel
Reporting Student Progress
Standardized Testing
Student Activities
Out of School Experiences
Student Leadership
Extra-Curricular Activities
School Community Council
Crime Stoppers
Role of the School Resource Officer (SRO) In Our School
Volunteers
Parent’s Code of Ethics
Feedback Opportunity
3Q U E E N E L I Z A B E T H
HISTORY OF OUR SCHOOL AND
AN INTRODUCTION TO QUEEN ELIZABETH SCHOOL
Queen Elizabeth School was built in 1953 as an ultra-modern fourteen-room facility
designed by Frank J. Martin. The name, Queen Elizabeth, was given by Royal consent
and in September of 1954 the students and staff proudly entered their new
neighbourhood school. By choosing this Royal name the Board of Education dedicated
itself to the ideals, philosophies and principles portrayed by Queen Elizabeth II. Such a
name denoted freedom, democracy, law and order and the right of every man, woman
and child to develop his or her talents to the fullest.
The pride of those beginning years lives on today as Queen Elizabeth School moves into
the new millennium. Dedicated and caring staff continue to challenge students to
achieve, explore and learn. Enthusiastic students enjoy participating in music programs
and extra curricular activities. Queen Elizabeth School proudly remains the center of the
community.
OUR MISSION STATEMENT
At Queen Elizabeth School we are committed to:
providing a safe and caring climate
meeting the needs of all students
encouraging a partnership between school and home
PRINCIPLES FOR PEACEFUL SCHOOL COMMUNITIES
Saskatoon Public Schools are committed to creating a learning environment that fosters
respect, responsibility, excellence, joy and life-long learning.
Schools have always played an important part in our personal lives in our community.
We are all responsible for creating peaceful school communities where the emotional,
spiritual and physical safety of all students and staff is ensured.
These Principles Guide Our Practice:
Schools are for teaching and learning.
Education is a shared responsibility among students, staff,
parents, and community.
We treat one another with dignity, respect and fairness.
We all work within a framework of rights and responsibilities.
4Q U E E N E L I Z A B E T H
On the basis of these principles and the contents of Provincial laws and regulations,
Queen Elizabeth School with the contributions of the School Community Council has
developed behavioral guidelines which reflect the needs of each student.
VALUES - RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
We want students to know that with every right comes a responsibility. When students
understand this connection, they will have a solid basis for a successful future. At
Queen Elizabeth we believe every student has the following rights and responsibilities.
1. They have a RIGHT to learn at Queen Elizabeth School. It is their
RESPONSIBILITY to listen to instructions, work quietly and to ask if they have a
question, concern, or need to leave.
2. They have a RIGHT to hear and be heard. It is their RESPONSIBILITY not to
talk, shout, or make loud noises when others are speaking.
3. They have a RIGHT to be happy and respected at Queen Elizabeth School. It is
their RESPONSIBILITY not to tease or bother other people, or to hurt their
feelings.
4. They have a RIGHT to be safe at Queen Elizabeth School. It is their
RESPONSIBILITY not to threaten or physically harm anyone else.
5. They have a RIGHT to be respected. Students have the RESPONSIBILITY to
respect others.
6. They have a RIGHT to privacy and to their personal space. It is their
RESPONSIBILITY to respect the personal property of others and to accept their
right to privacy.
All adults involved in the learning and safety of children at Queen Elizabeth School have
an obligation to help maximize these rights and to enable students to meet these
responsibilities.
CHARACTER BUILDING: VIRTUES EDUCATION
Moral Virtues that are emphasized in our school include:
Respect Self-control
Caring Empathy
Trustworthiness Citizenship
Responsibility
5Q U E E N E L I Z A B E T H
Everyone at Queen Elizabeth School must realize that they have responsibilities to
others. Everyone can monitor their own behavior by asking themselves:
Am I being respectful to myself, others and the school?
Am I making choices that contribute to or enhance a positive culture in my classroom
and the school?
FIVE GENERAL RULES WE SHOULD USE TO GUIDE OURSELVES AT SCHOOL
1. Show up on time.
2. Be prepared.
3. Complete assignments, and ask for help if you need it.
4. Respect your own and others’ space.
5. Maintain good communication in the interests of student learning.
SPECIFIC RULES
Many people share this facility. It is, therefore, our "responsibility" to ensure the "rights"
of others are respected. The following guidelines are to be observed:
1. Muddy or wet footwear is to be removed at the entry point to the school building
and carried back to the entry point when leaving. Hats are not worn inside.
2. Student movement in any part of the building is quiet, orderly and purposeful.
3. During school hours, lunchtime, and recess, students remain on school grounds
and leave only with a supervising teacher's permission.
4. Expectations for in-building behavior are the same whether students are in the
gym, the classroom, the library, the washroom or in the hallway.
5. Some things are never allowed on the school grounds: alcohol or persons who
have been drinking, smoking or cigarettes, and weapons, whether real or toy.
6. Students are not permitted to chew sunflower seeds at school. Except for special
situations, pop and junk foods are not allowed at school. Energy drinks are never
allowed at school for students.
7. Queen Elizabeth students are expected to exercise good taste and to take pride
in their personal appearance. As examples, beach wear, short shorts, halter or
tube tops, and T-shirts with double-entendre slogans or advertisements for
tobacco or alcohol products are considered inappropriate school apparel.
6Q U E E N E L I Z A B E T H
LITERACY FOR LIFE
Saskatoon Public Schools has made a commitment to improve literacy skills for all
students. Our Literacy for Life includes three key programs: PWIM. (Picture Word
Induction Model) for primary students, Just Read, a program with a goal of developing a
culture of readers and our third program, the Read to Succeed Program.
The Read To Succeed program provides intensive instruction in reading and writing to
students who are reading below grade level and who have been nominated by their
classroom teacher. The Read To Succeed program has four major components, which
are covered daily:
1. Independent Reading
extensive reading at the student’s developed level
2. Read Aloud By Teacher
exposure to a variety of levels of non-fiction and fiction material
3. Picture Word Inductive Model (PWIM) and Specific Reading Strategies
A teaching strategy which makes use of a large photograph for the
generation of words resulting in a picture dictionary.
These words are used to build vocabulary, study word patterns and
compose sentences and paragraphs.
Reading strategies are explicitly taught, modeled, and practiced in class.
4. Writing
explicit teaching and modeling of specific strategies
guided practice writing titles, sentences and paragraphs
Some Facts
The very best readers, those who scored better than 90% of their peers on
reading tests, read for more than twenty minutes a day (about 1.8 million
words a year), while those at the 50th percentile read only 4.6 minutes a day (282,000
words yearly). The poorest readers, those children reading below the 10th percentile,
read less than one minute each day (a meager 8,000 words a year) and would require
one year to read what the best readers read in two days. (Shaywitz, 2003, p. 106) Children
learn an average of 4,000 to 12,000 new words each year as a result of book reading.
(Anderson & Nagy, 1992)
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School Procedures
HOME & SCHOOL COMMUNICATION
We appreciate the opportunity to hear concerns or well wishes directly from the parents.
Problems that exist at the school level generally need to be solved at the same level and
the sooner that we become aware of them, the sooner we can begin to solve them.
The best time to contact teachers by telephone (683-7420) is before and after school, or
by leaving a message to have a teacher return your call. We try not to call a teacher to
the phone during class hours unless it is urgent.
The following guidelines may be helpful:
If there is a need for information or there is a concern related to a child’s
classroom performance, a parent should call the teacher involved directly,
followed by a call to the principal.
Matters related to the whole school or student body should be directed to the
principal.
Our superintendent is available if parents believe further discussion is necessary.
An emergency contact person should be listed on the family record in the event if
an emergency in which the parent or guardian cannot be contacted.
STAFF MEETINGS
Staff Meetings are held every Thursday at 3:05 p.m. Students are dismissed at 3:00 p.m.
OUR SCHOOL DAY
Call to class: 8:40 a.m.
School begins: 8:45 a.m.
Morning recess: 10:30 – 10:45 a.m.
Noon hour: 11:40 a.m. - 12:25 p.m.
Afternoon recess: 2:10 – 2:25 p.m.
Dismissal: 3:15 p.m.
Early Dismissal-Thursdays: 3:00 p.m. (staff meeting every Thursday)
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SUPERVISION OF STUDENTS
Staff provide supervision for students from 8:30 to 8:45 a.m. and during recesses.
Students are requested to arrive at school no sooner than 15 minutes prior to bell time
(this includes the lunch hour) unless they are involved in a scheduled activity for which
there is supervision. Before and after school care is provided by the Boys and Girls Club
of Saskatoon for very reasonable rates. Contact information is available at the office.
Upon arrival, students may make use of the waiting rooms during inclement weather.
Students are expected to go directly home after school unless they are involved in a
classroom or school activity with the prior knowledge of their parents/guardians.
Students requested by teachers to stay beyond 3:45 p.m. will call their parents to inform
them of the delay.
Student safety is our first concern. Specific seasonal expectations (rink & hill use) will
be reviewed in the school newsletter. Students should not be dropped off or picked up
in the staff parking area. Signage at the school designates No Stopping/No Parking
areas. Please respect these parking restrictions and choose safety over convenience.
RECESS/NOON BREAKS
We follow a “Fresh Air Policy”, and students are expected to go outside during
recess and noon hour breaks unless the weather is inclement (extreme cold:
-27C or colder or extreme wet conditions). Weather information is taken from
the site http://weatheroffice.ec.gc.ca/city/pages/sk-40_metric_e.html.
Please make sure your child is dressed for the weather.
On the days children remain indoors, teachers provide supervision. Students who, for
medical reasons, cannot go outside should carry a dated exemption note (short term).
For long-term exemption, the principal and teacher must be notified by a doctor’s note.
ATTENDANCE
Regular attendance and punctuality are very important. We assume that all students are
able to meet these criteria. If children must be absent, they will be responsible for
making up missed work. Appointments (i.e. dentist, doctor, etc.) should be made
outside of school time if possible. Should your child be absent for several days, please
keep his/her teacher informed regarding a return date. It is often helpful to obtain
schoolwork from the teacher(s) to enable your child to keep up with class assignments.
9Q U E E N E L I Z A B E T H
The homeroom teacher takes attendance every morning and afternoon.
Parents/guardians should phone the school or send a note explaining their child’s
absence. Please feel free to leave messages on the answering machine at 683-7420.
Students who arrive late are expected to check in at the office. It is very helpful to phone
the school before 8:30 a.m.
Students must have permission from their classroom teacher and contact parents in
order to leave school during the day.
EMERGENCY SITUATIONS AND PROCEDURES
We need to be aware of your emergency arrangements for your children. We have
requested emergency contact numbers for each student. Please help us keep them up-
to-date when changes occur. A situation may occur which necessitates
sending a child home. In the event of an emergency, we will try to
make contact with parents. If parents are not available, alternative
arrangements may become necessary. Children also need to know
about your arrangements and what your expectations are for them. Please take time to
discuss emergency procedures with your child.
Fire drills are practiced several times during the school year.
Students are expected to wear shoes at all times.
When an accident happens at school, depending on the severity, parents are
contacted. Please encourage your child to talk to a staff member when they are
injured or unwell. In the event of any head injury or blow to the head, parents
shall be contacted and always encouraged to have a medical follow-up.
If you have moved or changed your telephone number, please let us know as
soon as possible. It is important that we have up-to-date emergency contacts to
call.
If an emergency occurs where the school must be evacuated, staff will enact our
school crisis plan and accompany our students to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church at
627 Taylor Street East. In the event of such an emergency, please listen to the
radio or come to St. Paul’s Church. Parents should not call the school as staff
will be trying to reach them. Children will not be sent home unless we can be
assured of their safety. Each fall, we will practice an evacuation walk to this
facility as well as other important elements of our crisis plan.
10Q U E E N E L I Z A B E T H
STUDENT FEES, SUPPLIES AND EQUIPMENT
Student fees are no longer collected at public elementary schools. The funds provided
to each elementary school from the School Board do not include band fees, so we will
continue to collect fees for this program.
A supply list for each grade is distributed in June. Additional lists are available at the
school office and are posted on the school website.
Students are responsible for the good care and return of all books and equipment
received from the school.
SCHOOL PHOTOS
Pictures of students and staff are taken in the fall. The School Community Council has
booked spring photos for the last three years as well. Purchase of the photos is optional.
Parents will be notified by school newsletter of this date and subsequent retakes.
MEDICAL ALERT
Each year we send home a form which parents/guardians are asked to complete listing
any medical concerns (i.e. allergies, asthma, etc.) It is the responsibility of parents to
alert their child’s teacher of any medical concerns. It is very important that medical
information is kept current throughout the school year. If the child requires an EpiPen®
or other medication, it is the parents’ responsibility to ensure that the child has this
device on them and to ensure that they are current.
Please do not send cough syrup, eardrops or other medications to school with a note
asking a teacher to store or administer these substances. We are not permitted to store
or to administer any non-prescription drugs without a Medication (Provision of) form
completed and signed by parents. Please see the principal for more information.
NUT ALERT SCHOOL
Life threatening allergies (nuts, eggs, seafood, etc.) are a fact of life for some students.
Parents are asked to remind their children to not bring nut products to school and not to
share his/her lunch, but rather enjoy the food sent from home. We will update shared
information regarding this via our school newsletter.
11Q U E E N E L I Z A B E T H
PANDEMIC READINESS
There is a strong effort in Saskatoon to increase public awareness of common and
simple measures to prevent the spread of influenza. All schools have preparedness
plans to deal with this, and it is important for all families to do their part:
People with the flu must stay home.
Encourage children and adults to get into the habit of frequent hand-washing,
especially after coughing, sneezing, or nose-blowing; after touching eyes,
nose, or mouth; before preparing or eating meals.
Clean hard surfaces often such as desks, door knobs, taps and seats.
Much information on symptoms, when to seek medical attention and emergency
preparedness is available at www.saskatoonhealthregion.ca.
SCHOOL NEWSLETTERS
School newsletters will be sent home every two weeks. Print-ready items of community
interest should be submitted to the principal. It is the responsibility of the person
submitting the article to be sure the facts are correct.
School newsletters are sent home with the youngest or only child in the family or via
email. We appreciate parents helping children understand the important notices,
reminders and up-to-date coverage of school events. Watch for classroom newsletters
that highlight programs, special activities and projects.
WEB PAGE
Our school web page is on-line at www.spsd.sk.ca. The school newsletter and other
school information will be posted on a regular basis.
COMMUNITY BULLETIN BOARD
We receive numerous flyers regarding activities for children and families. These
announcements will be approved by the principal and posted on the community bulletin
board.
ASSEMBLIES
When assemblies are planned they will be announced in classroom and school
newsletters. Please watch for details. We would like to have family members join us.
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STUDENT TELEPHONE USAGE
There is a telephone available for emergency use only. Students must have
permission from a staff member to use this phone. Students are encouraged to make
lunch, after-school play or transportation arrangements from home, prior to the school
day and in conjunction with family plans. They will not be allowed to use the school
phone to arrange play time.
STUDENT ATTIRE
We rely on the good judgment of parents/guardians in determining what kinds of clothing
children should wear to school. Clothing which has vulgar language, suggestive
thoughts; comments advocating violence, racism, sexism or use of alcohol/illegal drugs
do not reflect our expectations for school attire. We also ask students to choose clothes
that will help maintain a positive learning environment. Generally speaking, mid-thigh
shorts/skirts/skorts, and t-shirts and tank tops (with snug armholes) are appropriate.
However, loose fitting shirts with midriff or back exposed, tube tops and extremely low
risers may be more appropriate for non-school activities. Students who come to school
wearing such items will be spoken to privately and asked to change into something more
appropriate.
Students should dress for the weather and since they are encouraged to go out for
recess, this is particularly important. During spring it may be wise to send along a
change of clothing in your child’s backpack.
PERSONAL BELONGINGS
The school does not carry insurance that will cover the loss of personal
belongings of students or teachers. All articles should be labeled with the
child's name and grade level. The lost and found near the stairwell can be checked for
missing items. Students are urged to keep expensive items at home. This is especially
important for electronic items such as cell phones, ipods, gameboys, and digital cameras
as the school cannot guarantee the security of these items. School staff members
cannot easily take time away from instruction and preparation for the recovery or
investigation of loss. We do expect our students to develop a responsible attitude toward
their property.
Please assist us by labeling all coats, boots, shoes, and school supplies. All lost and
found articles are kept in special locations where students and parents may claim them.
Children are encouraged to check for missing items. Unclaimed articles are donated to
charity at Christmas time and at the end of the school year.
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If your youngster inadvertently brings home shoes or clothing items belonging to
someone else, please ensure these items are returned to school as soon as possible.
MOBILE COMPUTING DEVICES
These devices can be very useful for some parts of daily life. From time to time, a
teacher may encourage the use of smartphones in the classroom. However, these
devices are very distracting when students text or surf during instructional time. As well,
some schools in Saskatoon have seen these devices used by some students to bully
and intimidate others. Accordingly, mobile devices are not to be used during school
time by students unless their teacher requires it. This includes recess and lunch
time. Students who persist in using mobile devices during school time may have them
taken away by staff and returned to them or their parents at a later date.
Some parents may intend to maintain communication with their child by using mobile
devices. We do not want this to happen during school time, as it is a distraction to
learning. Mrs. Lindgren will always take and relay messages from the office for parents.
LOST AND FOUND
We invite you to check our “Lost and Found” box regularly. Unclaimed articles are
periodically put on display. Items that are not claimed are donated to clothing depots in
schools with greater needs.
BICYCLES, ROLLERBLADES, SKATEBOARDS AND SCOOTERS
1. The decision as to whether or not a child may ride his/her bicycle
to school is to be made by the parent. We feel that a parent is in
the best position to judge the ability and the knowledge of their children in the
operation of a bicycle.
2. We cannot guarantee the security of bicycles while left at the school. The
grounds are supervised before school and during recesses. During school hours
the bicycles are not watched, and the school staff does not have the
authorization to become involved in recovery of stolen bicycles or investigations
into vandalized bicycles. These are police matters.
3. For reasons of security we urge you to equip your child's bicycle with a lock and
license: the lock because it discourages theft, and the license because City
bylaw requires bicycles to be licensed. It also makes recovery of lost or stolen
bikes much easier.
4. Bicycles are not to be ridden on the school grounds before or after school. The
playground is a center of play activity for children. Riding bicycles in the midst of
14Q U E E N E L I Z A B E T H
that play places the operator and other children in danger of injury. Children who
disregard this rule will not be allowed to bring their bicycles to school.
5. Studies have shown that attitudes toward safety, law, and mechanical
maintenance developed by children in the operation of bicycles often transfer to
the operation of a motor vehicle. Time invested now in developing good
operating habits, respect for law and attitude for safe operation may in fact last a
lifetime. If possible, parents should go for a bike ride with their child(ren). This
allows them to model safe operation as well as check the child’s operating style.
6. Rollerblades may be used to travel to and from school. We ask that they be
taken off at the entrance.
7. Skateboards and scooters should be dismounted once on the playground and
not used at recess. Skateboards, scooters, and roller blades may not be ridden
within the school at any time; they will be confiscated if this occurs.
LUNCH ARRANGEMENTS
Queen Elizabeth School provides a supervised lunch program for students who are
unable to go home at noon hour. We believe that children need a break from school
routines over the lunch hour, if at all possible. However, lunchroom privileges are
available for the following reasons:
Students bussed to our school.
Distance from school exceeds 1.6 km.
Emergencies.
Inclement weather (1 km to travel in an extreme wind chill).
Exceptional circumstances – please contact the principal.
Students are expected to conduct themselves in a responsible manner while in the lunch
program. Our students are expected to agree to the following:
We will wash our hands before eating and we will remember there is no sharing
of food (allergy concerns).
We will respect food and property.
We are responsible for our own clean up.
We will show responsible behaviour.
We will stay on the school grounds during the lunch hour unless our parents
indicate otherwise by a dated note to our classroom teacher.
After we are dismissed, we will walk outside to the playground unless it is an
“inside day”. We know we are expected to dress for the weather and that we are
expected to get some fresh air during the noon hour.
We will respect our lunch supervisors and we will follow their instructions.
15Q U E E N E L I Z A B E T H
If a student is having difficulty meeting these expectations he/she may require a break
from the program and alternate lunch arrangements may need to be made for a defined
length of time. In these situations, parents will be contacted. Student may purchase
milk at noon hour by way of milk cards available from the office. The lunchroom is
microwave-free. Students are expected to bring lunches that do not require heating. We
believe this supports healthier lunches and more student time to eat.
Student Programs and Support
PROGRAMMING FOR STUDENTS
At our school, we implement Saskatchewan’s Core Curriculum from Kindergarten to
Grade 8. This includes required areas of study (language arts, math, science, social
studies, health, arts education and physical education). The six Common Essential
Learnings (C.E.L.s) are also a major focus. All Saskatchewan curriculums can be viewed
online at http://www.education.gov.sk.ca/.
LOCALLY DEVELOPED OPTIONS:
At Queen Elizabeth School, we also provide programming for our students based on
locally determined options. These programs and supports include:
Band (Grade 6-8)
Core French (Grade 5-8)
Home Economics (Grade 8)
Industrial Arts (Grade 8)
Learning Resource
English as an Additional Language
CULTURAL AWARENESS
All Saskatoon Public Schools emphasize growing and learning in
Cultural Awareness at every grade level, in every subject. This
means that our goal is that every subject taught will have some
element of FNIM (First Nations, Inuit, Metis) teachings, information, cultural knowledge,
and ways of knowing.
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Learning Resource Centre
RESOURCE BASED LEARNING
The primary function of our Learning Resource Centre’s program and the major task of
the teacher librarian is the promotion of resource based learning among our students.
This means that, as well as helping students develop a love of reading and learning, the
teacher librarian is attempting to provide them with the skills that they will need to
become confident, independent, lifelong learners. These skills involve accessing
information through a variety of sources, interpretation and critical evaluation of that
information and the ability to present what they have learned in a variety of ways. The
teacher-librarian works in collaboration with classroom teachers to integrate the teaching
of these skills into the various units of study that will be taught throughout the year.
Currently our library is staffed with a half-time teacher librarian and a half-time library
technician.
SCHEDULING
We have a flexible schedule in our LRC. During regular school hours, teachers
schedule their classes into the LRC as required for book exchanges, research and
learning projects. Students may also come individually or in small groups to read, do
research or exchange books during regular school hours.
LOST BOOKS
Books are a valuable resource. We appreciate the fact that students try to be
very responsible with the material they borrow. However, no matter how
careful we are, books sometimes get misplaced or accidents happen. In order
to keep as many items as possible available, and in circulation, we will send a reminder
home with students once the books they have borrowed are overdue. Following the
second reminder, payment will be requested to cover the replacement cost for lost or
damaged books. Should the missing item later be found, a refund will be issued for the
amount paid.
THE RESOURCE PROGRAM
The Resource Program is designed to support the instructional needs of students who
learn differently due to a variety of exceptionalities in learning styles and strengths. This
support may be by direct instruction from the resource teacher or indirectly through
collaborative planning with the classroom teacher or the school team of educational
psychologist, speech pathologist and counselor. As well, the resource teacher may also
act in conjunction with the classroom teacher and other out-of-school professionals to
design an appropriate individual education program for a student requiring different
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academic support. Often, the areas of direct instruction by the resource teacher include
reading, spelling, math, study skills and learning strategies to reinforce appropriate
behaviours. Every effort is made to reinforce a child’s positive self-image. A process of
referral by teacher, parent and other professionals for assessment is part of the protocol
of the Resource Program. Parents or guardians who have serious concerns regarding
their child’s academic progress may request that a referral be made for an academic
assessment. Currently a half-time teacher staffs the Resource Program.
Internet/Wireless Services Acceptable Use Procedures for Students 2014-2015
School Year
Saskatoon Public Schools believe that the use of the Internet and/or personal digital
devices supports relevant and challenging life-long learning for our students. All activity
conducted on hardware owned by Saskatoon Public Schools is logged. Activity logs
may be viewed and used where necessary to ensure our Administrative Procedure 140
– “Computer/Online Services Acceptable Use” is followed.
To support additional learning opportunities, Saskatoon Public Schools has also
provided Internet wireless access in all schools and initiated broad education efforts
related to “Digital Citizenship in the 21st Century”. Students are provided with
individualized computer accounts and passwords to access computers and
online/wireless services to support their learning. Students who elect to bring personal
digital devices to school have the ability to access the Internet with their account. This
access is subject to the school’s overall rules regarding personal digital devices.
Examples of personal digital devices include cell phones, smart phones, MP3 players,
Ipods, Ipads, and notebook computers.
When using digital devices, students must adhere to the following principles:
Digital devices are to be used to enhance the learning that takes place in
schools. They are not to disrupt that learning.
Digital devices are to be used in a manner that is respectful of all students and
school staff. For example, students using digital devices to photograph or
video any member of the school staff or students in the school without the
permission of those staff or students is considered disrespectful.
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1. Access to the Internet and wireless services, either with school division or
personal digital devices is an individual privilege enjoyed by students, not a
right.
2. A student's conduct on the Internet and wireless services, either with school
division or personal digital devices, is governed by the same expectations
which guide his or her behavior at school.
3. In elementary schools, access to the Internet with school division digital
devices is provided only when students are supervised.
4. In collegiates, students may access the Internet with school division digital
devices without supervision.
5. If students choose to bring personal digital devices to school (at both the
elementary and secondary level) they can access the Internet (whose sites
have been filtered as per point 7 below) without supervision during non-
instructional time (e.g. lunch hour, before or after class). During instructional
time they can access the Internet with their teacher’s permission.
6. Students who choose to bring personal digital devices to school should be
aware of the following:
In the event the digital device is used in an inappropriate manner, (or
inappropriate use is suspected), the digital device itself can be
confiscated and may be searched by a member of the school’s
administrative team. If parents/students do not agree with this condition
students should not bring the digital device to school.
Schools are not responsible for the theft or loss of personal digital devices
that students may choose to bring to school.
7. Saskatoon Public Schools actively blocks access to inappropriate Internet
sites. If a student deliberately seeks to access inappropriate material or uses
the computer services provided in a malicious manner, the consequences are
governed by the Saskatoon Public Schools’ Administrative Procedure 140 –
“Computer/Online Services Acceptable Use” - which can be found on the
Saskatoon Public Schools’ public website at
www.spsd.sk.ca/files/board/AdministrativeProceduresManual.pdf
19Q U E E N E L I Z A B E T H
Consequences are outlined in Administrative Procedure 140 and appear in
the student version of the procedure as follows:
What can happen to me if I break the rules?
1. I won’t be able to use the computers.
2. I might be disciplined.
3. I might have to pay for what I broke.
4. The police may be called.
8. If you do not want your son/daughter to access the Internet at school, please
contact the school and request the Internet Use Denial Form. This form is
then signed by the parent or guardian and returned to the school.
COMMUNITY HEALTH NURSE
Our school nurse provides immunization, hearing and health assessments, counseling
and is willing to teach about health related topics. Please feel free to contact her at the
health unit office at 655-4167.
BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM
The Boys and Girls Clubs of Saskatoon offers before and after school care as well as
PD days. This is a fee-based service. Parents are encouraged to contact the school for
registration information.
SYSTEM PERSONNEL
We have numerous personnel in our system who provide support for our students. We
work closely with our educational psychologists, school counselors, school social
workers and speech and language pathologists. Also, we have consultants and
coordinators who assist our teachers with programming needs. Parents are always
consulted regarding supports. Informed consent requirements are scrupulously observed
regarding communication and student contact.
REPORTING STUDENT PROGRESS
Saskatoon Public Schools, with guidance from teachers and parents, have established a
philosophical foundation and reporting document for a new reporting system.
20Q U E E N E L I Z A B E T H
Vision
Student progress reporting is based on the belief that student evaluation:
Integrates teaching and learning.
Communicates information to the student, parent(s)/guardian(s), and educators.
Describes performance in relation to the student’s ability and other students’
achievement and the program objectives.
Responds to changes in the school programs.
Guiding Principles
Student progress reporting:
Involves dialogue that is shared, open, clear, honest and on-going. It is done in a
caring sensitive way.
Recognizes the whole child. Children are developing individuals whose dignity is
respected while evaluating academic, personal and social growth.
Responds and is adaptable. It is a dynamic and responsive process flexible to
changes in the program and instruction while adaptive to individual school and
community needs.
Builds on foundations and elements that establish expectations and reports
performance in relation to the student’s ability, other students’ achievement and
program objectives.
Highlights
Reporting student progress to families is a year-long process. It is a commitment to
dialogue that includes the following components for kindergarten to grade 8:
Contacting parents early in the school year.
The Three-way Conference where the parents, student and teacher meet to
share information and identify one or two goals for the child.
A second conference, which may be teacher or parent initiated, where
information is shared and goals are updated.
The in-depth reports (November, March and June for grades 1 to 8 and in March
and June for Kindergarten) where student progress is communicated to the
parents and others.
STANDARDIZED TESTING
Over the course of elementary schooling various standardized tests are given. Parents
should be aware that:
21Q U E E N E L I Z A B E T H
In September students in grades 4 and 8 write the CAT4 (Canadian Achievement
Test, 3rd Edition) test. This is an achievement test which provides a profile of
students’ skills. The TCS (Test of Cognitive Skill) will also be administered to
these same students. This is a scholastic ability test. When teamed with the
CAT4, the TCS provides predicted achievement scores which identify students
whose achievement levels are lower or higher than would be expected, given
their cognitive skill level.
The Provincial Ministry of Education requires a series of large-scale common
tests in various subjects, referred to as Assessment for Learning. This testing
varies by grade and subject and occurs in the late spring.
In addition, individual testing may be given by our resource teacher, education or
speech and language psychologist/pathologist to help us to best meet a student’s
needs.
If you have any questions concerning these tests, please contact your child’s teacher or
our resource teacher. Testing requiring parent consent will always be shared, at a later
date, with parents.
Student Activities
OUT-OF-SCHOOL EXPERIENCES
We value learning that takes place inside and outside the classroom. Out-of-school
excursions will be planned but can only occur with the support of parents/guardians.
This is particularly important when camps are organized. Students must display
responsible, respectful behaviour through all stages of any out-of-school activity.
STUDENT LEADERSHIP
Our school is blessed with tremendous students throughout all grades. Our student
leadership program will involve our older students in leadership roles throughout the
school and community. Involvement typically requires a commitment of time that
includes a bi-weekly noon hour meeting and various organizational meetings for events
taken on within and for the school’s student body.
EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Extra Curricular activities are an important part of our educational program:
22Q U E E N E L I Z A B E T H
Students in grades 7 & 8 will have the opportunity to participate in inter-school
sports such as volleyball and basketball.
Grades 5 - 8 students are able to participate in cross country, indoor relays and
outdoor track and field.
The school staff is supportive of various clubs and activities responding to
student interests in the course of the year.
Students who join a team or activity are expected to demonstrate sportsmanship,
teamwork and commitment to their academics as well as their closed activities.
Fees may be collected to cover costs.
School Community Council
This handbook has been sponsored in part by the Queen Elizabeth School Community
Council. This parent-school organization supports and encourages positive experiences
of all students and families at Queen Elizabeth School. The School Community Council
endeavors to provide both community and educational formats that appeal to all grade
levels.
The School Community Council also allows for the exchange of information with the
teachers/staff of Queen Elizabeth School. It is a great way to learn what is happening at
our school both academically and socially for all students.
Please feel welcome to attend any or all of the meetings throughout the year.
Please check the school newsletters for dates and times of meetings.
School Community Councils will help to strengthen the capacity of schools to improve
children’s learning. By helping families to support their children’s learning and by
gathering the resources of the community to ensure student well-being, Councils will
make a valued contribution to the learning success of Saskatchewan students. School
Community Councils will replace all other entities as defined in legislation.
School Community Councils are established within the authority of Boards of Education
to ensure alignment of accountability, authority and responsibility among the schools of
the Division.
23Q U E E N E L I Z A B E T H
The purpose of the School Community Council is to:
develop shared responsibility for the learning success and well-being of all children
and youth; and,
encourage and facilitate parent and community engagement in school planning and
improvement processes.
The Vision for School Community Councils
School Community Councils are an essential feature of educational planning and
decision-making. They are part of the school system and are a primary link between the
home, community and school. The Vision for School Community Councils guides their
formation, initiatives and evaluation.
The School Community Council is an integral, purposeful and valued component
of School Division governance.
The School Community Council is:
created through an election process;
integrated into the Board of Education decision-making processes; and
guided by common standards included in legislation. Boards of education address
flexibility through policy and procedure.
The School Community Council is inclusive of the community and representative
of the students in the school.
The School Community Council:
membership is representative of students in the school and representative of the
community; and
appointed positions are included to support the implementation of the School.
The School Community Council roles are clear and well understood.
The School Community Council:
develops shared responsibility for learning success and well-being of children and
youth;
encourages and facilitates parent and community engagement in school planning
and improvement processes; and
provides guidance and direction from a lay perspective to the school, the Board and
community organizations and agencies.
24Q U E E N E L I Z A B E T H
The School Community Council responsibilities address key matters that make a
difference in student learning and well-being.
The School Community Council:
focuses its attention on the areas of the School Strategic Plan where the
parent/community perspective and efforts are more appropriate and needed; and
monitors its activities to support continuous improvement in the areas of student
learning and well-being.
The School Community Council aligns its work with Provincial and Division goals
and initiatives.
The School Community Council:
aligns its work with the Provincial overarching accountability framework and focuses
on related Division goals and initiatives; and
aligns its work with Provincial and Division learning and well-being outcomes for
students.
The School Community Council is accountable, transparent and responsive in its
relationship with parents and school community.
The School Community Council:
actively engages parents and community members in matters of concern related to
public education.
reflects the nature of the community in which it is situated by collecting and sharing
appropriate information with others; and
regularly reports on its activities to parents, the school, and the community.
From Chapter 1
A Handbook for School Community Councils
25Q U E E N E L I Z A B E T H
How it works
1. A Crime is committed in your school or neighborhood.
2. You know who was responsible or somebody who
might know who was responsible.
3. Call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or
leave a secure tip online at
www.saskatooncrimestoppers.com.
4. Your information will be taken in strict confidence.
Your anonymity is guaranteed.
5. You will be given a tip number. You must keep this
secret to ensure anonymity.
6. After three weeks, call back to the 1-800-222-TIPS
(8477) number. Refer to your secret tip number and you
will be updated as to the progress of your tip.
7. If your tip leads to the crime being solved, you will qualify for a cash reward.
8. You will be given instructions on how to receive your reward. Remember, all rewards are
paid in cash since we will not have your name.
Tips for Student Security
1. Avoid bringing large amounts of money to school.
2. Avoid bringing expensive accessories to school - outerwear, jewelry, etc.
3. Students should not reveal their lock combination to anyone.
4. Students lockers should be closed and locked at all times unless they are present.
5. During physical education classes and athletic events ensure that all personal belongings
are locked in a gym locker or a basket.
6. Bicycles brought to school should be properly secured in the bicycle parking area.
7. Portable audio equipment should not be left visible in your parked car while at school.
8. During school events do not leave valuables on the bleachers or seats if you leave for a
while.
9. Whenever possible mark all personal belongings.
10. Report all acts of theft, vandalism, violence, and alcohol or drug abuse in and around your
school administration.
26Q U E E N E L I Z A B E T H
The Role of the School Resource Officer (SRO) in our School
The Saskatoon Police Service School Resource Officer (SRO) Program is a
community policing initiative with police officers serving as daily resources to
staff, students, parents, guardians and the community within the school
environment.
The goals of the School Resource Officer Program include:
developing positive attitudes and relationships between children, youth
and the police;
helping to create a safe school environment;
serving as a resource for the school community in the areas of law, the
police role in the community, and legal consequences; and
liaising with other sections of the Saskatoon Police Service to share
information and provide assistance when required.
School Resource Officers:
serve as a positive role model to students and school staff;
establish and maintain open lines of communication with students,
parents, guardians, and school staff;
provide education on safety, substance abuse, life skills, and the justice
system to both elementary and high school students;
reduce crime through education, enforcement and personal interaction
with students and staff;
take reports and investigate incidents within the school. In some cases,
mediation, warnings, and diversion from the criminal justice system may
lead to a successful resolution to a complaint. In other cases, a criminal
charge may result.
Six School Resource Officers divide their time between all of the public and
separate elementary and high schools in Saskatoon.
27Q U E E N E L I Z A B E T H
Parent volunteers provide invaluable assistance in our school. We have parents who assist
in the library, work with children with special needs, produce materials that are used in
instruction, design bulletin boards or help in other ways. If you have time to become
engaged in the learning process as a volunteer in our school, please call your child’s teacher
or the secretary.
Student safety is a primary concern for both families and staff in our school. In keeping with
this, our school division requires that volunteers who will be involved in the direct supervision
of children will need to provide the principal with a current police security check, including a
vulnerable sector search. An example of a common situation where this applies is for
camping trips or those situations where a volunteer will be with students away from the
general supervision of one of our staff members.
There is currently no charge for a volunteer security clearance check. In our school division,
we consider the valid length of a clearance check to be one calendar year. We will use the
following process to make the application for clearance checks as easy as possible:
Process
1. The volunteer brings to the school, two pieces of identification – one with a picture
and one government issued piece of identification that verifies the birth date.
2. At the school, the security check application form is completed (or you can go to
http://www.police.saskatoon.sk.ca/pdf/general/Criminal_Record_Check.pdf
to download and complete the form and bring it to the school). There is a section on
the form where your signature permits the police service to send the clearance
directly to the school.
3. The two pieces of identification are photocopied. The Principal certifies that the
identification indeed belongs to you.
4. The Principal delivers the applications to Saskatoon Police Services.
5. Please note: if a criminal record does exist for the applicant, the letter will not be
given to the school, but will be sent directly to the applicant.
Thank you for thinking about being a volunteer in our school and for understanding why, in
some instances, we may ask you to complete the process described above. Just as for you,
student wellness and safety is always our first priority!
28Q U E E N E L I Z A B E T H
A Parent’s Code of Ethics
I WILL establish a direct and personal contact with my child’s school by visiting it
and getting first-hand knowledge of its teaching activities and facilities.
I WILL demonstrate constructive attitudes towards the school and its programs,
by supporting and cooperating with the teaching staff and the school board to the
fullest possible extent.
I WILL make no criticism of the school without ensuring that I have accurate and
first-hand information.
I WILL encourage a positive attitude on the part of my child and will refrain from
criticism of the teachers or the school in his or her presence.
I WILL expect nothing for myself or for my child that is contrary to the interests of
the entire school.
I WILL accept my share of responsibility for the partnership of home and school
in the education of children.
I WILL provide conditions favorable to study at home.
I WILL cooperate with the school in developing and protecting the health and
character of children.
I WILL seek to learn about educational aims and methods so that I may better
understand my child’s role.
Courtesy of Code of Ethics;
Canadian Home and School Association
Parent-Teacher Association.
29Q U E E N E L I Z A B E T H
FEEDBACK OPPORTUNITIES
Feedback is welcomed throughout the school year. Recommendations are considered and
wherever possible included in our school’s strategic plan.
Handbook Suggestions Sheet
When revising the handbook for publication please consider the following:
Return to school principal no later than May 15, 2015.
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