Code of Conduct

It is expected that students will conform to high standards of behaviour when at school, on the way to and from school, and while attending any school function or field trip. Students are also expected to demonstrate high standards of work habits, arriving to school and class on time, with the necessary supplies and materials, as well as completing all in-school and homework assignments.
Students are expected to be cooperative, responsible, and do the best they can, at all times. To this end, the following school code of conduct should guide student behaviour:

Treat others, as you would like to be treated yourself.
Solve problems with your head and your heart.
Demonstrate by actions and words, respect for yourself, others, property and the environment.
Unacceptable behaviours include behaviours that interfere with the learning of others, acts of bullying, harassment or intimidation, and illegal acts, such as possession, use or distribution of illegal or restricted substances, possession or use of weapons, and theft of or damage to property.

The District code of conduct is outlined in a letter from the Superintendent of Schools in your child's planner.

Consequences
The development of self-discipline is a very important goal at our school. The aim of consequences for misbehaviour is for students to learn from their experience.  Consequences for behaviour that does not meet expectations will be logical, realistic, and consistent, with each case of misbehaviour being dealt with on an individual basis. These consequences may range from a discussion, or an office referral, to a suspension from school.

Dress Code

Clayburn Middle School’s Student Dress Policy supports equitable educational access and is written in a manner that does not reinforce or increase marginalization or oppression of any group based on race, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religion, cultural observance, or body type.

The intent of a dress policy is to set expectations to assist students, staff, and parents in decision-making with respect to clothing. It is not intended to be prescriptive nor punitive, but to provide a level of clarity so that correction or discipline is not required.

The dress policy is intended to incorporate individual preferences for students and their families to dress in the manner they choose. Individual choice is however tempered by a responsibility to recognize that a school is a learning and working environment, and as such, students are expected to dress in a reasonable manner.

Clothing should be comfortable and allow a student to participate safely in activities such as physical education, explorations, and science experiments. Clothing should demonstrate a respect for the school community.

Articles of clothing that promote alcohol or drugs, that display offensive language or images, or that encourage sexism, racism or bigotry are not acceptable in our school. Clothing bearing direct or indirect messages or graphics referring to gang culture, sex or pornography, weapons or violence will not be permitted.

The following are the guidelines for school attire:

1. Clothing and accessories cannot pose a safety concern or conceal one’s identity.

2. Specific attire may be required for a variety of classrooms settings such as Explorations, PE, labs, etc.

3. Clothing must cover undergarments.

When there are differences in perspective, all involved have a duty to seek common understanding in a mutually respectful manner. Ultimately, the school administration has the responsibility to apply the dress policy when necessary. If any person dresses in an inappropriate manner, the student should be advised personally and discretely.

Abbotsford School District AP 318 – Student Dress Code and School Uniforms

Cell Phones and iPods
Students cell phones at while at school are to remain in the student’s locker between 8:00 am and 3:00 pm. Upon entering the school, students are to place their phones in their backpacks, placing their backpack in their locker. At the end of the day, outside the building, students are asked to take their cell phones out for use. Cell phones will be confiscated by teachers should students be found using them during the day.
If students bring iPods (mp3 players), they are not to be used during class time or between classes.

Copying & Plagiarism
Students are expected to present their own work in their own words. The substitution of work copied or taken from other students or from other sources such as the Internet, and presented as their own, is not acceptable and will result in appropriate consequences.

Behaviour Outside of the Classroom
Hall behaviour and language should be suitable to an institution of learning. No profanity, inappropriate remarks or touching of others.  When moving in the halls and on the stairs, students should walk quietly while keeping to the right hand side.
Public displays of affection (hugging, kissing, or holding hands) in the school setting are not appropriate.
Tackling games (Football, Rugby) and wrestling or ‘play’-fighting are not acceptable.

Valuables
Students are strongly discouraged from bringing valuables including mp3 players, gaming devices, cell phones, expensive shoes and clothing articles to school. If students bring valuables to school, these items should be locked in their locker, thereby minimizing the temptation for theft. Valuable items are brought to school at the owner’s risk; the school is not responsible for any loss or damage. 
Can I chew gum at school?
No. Gum can make a terrible mess and therefore students are not allowed to chew gum at anytime while at school.

Roller Blades, Skateboards, and Scooters
We encourage students to be physically active while at school.  Students wishing to skateboard, scooter or use roller blades must wear a helmet.  Other safety equipment e.g. knee, wrist and elbow pads, while not mandatory, is strongly encouraged, and left to the discretion of each child’s parent. Students participating in hockey games during the lunch hour, regardless of whether it is on roller blades or not, must wear eye protection.
Students are expected to use common sense in terms of the safety of other students and themselves; stay out of the parking lot / driveway, and not to use skateboards, scooters or roller blades inside the school building.