2016-17 Family Handbook Click to

FAMILY HANDBOOK
2016 – 2017
Montcrest School
4 Montcrest Blvd.
Toronto, Ontario
M4K 1J7
Tel. 416- 469-2008
Fax 416-469-0934
E-mail: office@montcrest.on.ca
Website: www.montcrest.on.ca
MISSION STATEMENT
Montcrest School is a co-educational community,
small enough to honour the individual and big
enough to provide an exceptional academic
experience with balanced opportunities in
leadership,
the arts, and athletics.
Our school challenges children to discover and
acknowledge their own voices, so they can
understand and make meaningful connections
with the world.
August 2016
Welcome to Montcrest School!
Every morning, sun, rain, snow, or cold, your child will be greeted by an
adult and will be individually welcomed to begin their day. You will also
have an adult say good-bye to you at the end of the day. The care, support,
and education of your child are our primary concerns. Montcrest will provide
an exceptional academic experience with balanced opportunities in
leadership, the arts, and athletics. We acknowledge the voice of each one of
our students so they can understand and make meaningful connections with
the world. You will discover that the support that your child receives,
academically and socially, is one of the hallmarks of Montcrest School. We
want our children to grow to be confident in their abilities and their belief in
themselves.
The Family Handbook has been produced to help guide you through “life” at
Montcrest. Please take the time to review the booklet and share it with your
child. We would particularly draw your attention to the Code of Conduct. We
have tried to provide as much detail as possible. Should you have any
questions, please do not hesitate to contact the school.
In addition to this guidebook, there will, no doubt, be adjustments during the
school year. I encourage you to be a regular reader of the Montcrest Mirror
that comes out every Friday. The Mirror allows you to follow the weekly
happenings at the school, share in the joy of Montcrest, and feel a part of the
community. Go to www.montcrest.on.ca and click on “Parents” and then
“Montcrest Mirror” – user name is parent; password is montcrest.
I hope that you and your child have a great year – there is always so much to
look forward to at Montcrest as we aspire to be the leading elementary school
community in Canada at bringing out the uniqueness of each child.
Sincerely,
David Thompson
Head of School
This booklet has been produced to inform parents about "life" at Montcrest
School. While an attempt has been made to be as comprehensive as possible,
there may be some questions left unanswered. Please do not hesitate to call the
school at any time with questions that may arise.
Please review the Code of Conduct, Dress Code (students in Grades 1-8), and the
Discipline section with your child before school begins in September.
PARENTS, STUDENTS, AND THE SCHOOL
For a school to be effective, there must be a significant level of agreement
between the parents, students, and school staff about expectations. The school,
to be a good learning environment, must rely on three principles:
1.
The primary purpose of a school is to help students develop the skills
necessary to learn and acquire the knowledge they will need to reach the
goals that they set for themselves.
2.
Students must pay attention to learn, while the teacher's job is to help
students engage in the diversity of learning activities.
3.
The teacher's authority must be accepted and supported as legitimate, both
at home and at school.
Agreement with, and commitment to these principles ensures that a school staff
can focus their energy on providing interesting and exciting educational
activities. It minimizes the time spent on discipline and maximizes the time
spent teaching. It is a major reason why families choose an independent school –
to find a setting that sets reasonable expectations for students and then works
consistently to offer the greatest opportunity for those expectations to be met.
It is important that the expectations of the school must be supported in the home.
Differing expectations lead to confusion for children and they perceive any
consequences to their actions as unfair. Our objective is to guide students into
appropriate work habits and social interactions. To be successful, such habits
and interactions must be viewed as reasonable, and consequences viewed as fair
and logical.
Montcrest is an elementary school with a community feeling. Parents, staff
and students often meet informally to discuss ideas and issues. We encourage
parents to bring us their ideas and help us develop an environment that will
bring about the best academic and social development possible for each
child.
The “GRAPEVINE”
At times you may receive information that has been recycled over and over again.
Open communications are necessary to avoid turning small problems into large
problems. If you have concerns, please call the faculty member involved to hear
another side of the story. If you are dissatisfied with the response or concerned
with school policy, please do not hesitate to call the Head of School. We are all
working together to provide the best education we can for your child and will
have a far greater opportunity to do so if we speak openly and honestly with
each other and avoid "grapevine" exaggerations.
MONTCREST FACULTY AND STAFF 2016/2017
Head of School
Mr. David Thompson
Assistant to Head of School
Ms. Maggie Zegas-Tepper
Assistant Head of School
Mr. Jeff Borsten
Director of Teaching & Learning
Ms. Nicole Davies
IEP/Gifted Education Coordinator
Ms. Elana Kerbel
Director of Advancement
Mr. Michael Dilworth
Advancement & Community Relations/
MPA Liaison
Ms. Arlette Bax
Ms. Geneva Dalley
Director of Finance
Ms. Dawn Waisberg
Finance Assistant
Ms. Gilda Bissada
Director of Admissions
Ms. Erene Augustyn
Assistant Director of Admissions
Ms. Dana Rostowsky
Director of Alumni Relations
Ms. Mary Gray
Director of Athletics
Mr. Grant Nix
Director of Performing Arts
& Cocurriculars
Ms. Lisa Swarbrick
Director of Facilities
Mr. Greg Reynolds
Student Coach
Mr. Terry Sherrard
Junior Kindergarten
Ms. Mara Berzins
Ms. Karen Bell
Senior Kindergarten
Ms. Diane Kingstone
Ms. Christine Dewhurst
Grade 1
Ms. Laurie Arseneau
Ms. Krista Cobham
Grade 2
Ms. Emily Woolner
Ms. Silvia Pauksens
Grade 3
Ms. Kerry-Ann Grant
Ms. Miriam John
Ms. Terra Sweet
Grade 4
Ms. Emily Hall
Ms. Lisa McMeans
Ms. Karen Tanod
Grade 5
Ms. Blair Livingstone
Ms. Katie Willis
Mr. David Wichman
Grade 6
Ms. Wendy Bain
Ms. Nicola Daykin
Ms. Carley Page
Grade 7
Mr. Ryan Coutts
Ms. Mufridah Nolan
Ms. Jennifer Vincent
Grade 8
Mr. Dan Bailey
Ms. Jennifer Bairos
Ms. Dawn Cohen
Grades 6-8 Science
Ms. Yvonne Boyd
Mr. Dan Bailey
Grades 7 & 8 English
Ms. Dani Klein
Ms. Mufridah Nolan
Grades 7 & 8 Math
Ms. Wendy Bain (Gr. 7)
Ms. Dawn Cohen
Mr. Peter Smith
French
Ms. Megan Smith (JK - Gr. 2)
Ms. Kerry Hooton (Gr. 3 & 4)
Ms. Emma Stewart (Gr. 5,
Gr. 6 - 8 small classes)
Ms. Jennifer Bairos (Gr. 6 - 8)
Physical Education
Mr. Nick Spence (JK - 5)
Mr. Grant Nix (Gr. 5 - 8)
Grades 7 & 8
History/Geography
Ms. Dawn Cohen
Mr. Dan Bailey
Mr. Ryan Coutts
Teacher Librarian
Ms. Sacha Neesham
Vocal Music
Ms. Karen Bell (JK/SK)
Ms. Carol Macfarlane
(Gr. 1, 3, 4, & 5)
Ms. Jennifer Vincent (Gr. 2)
Instrumental Music
Ms. Carol Macfarlane (Gr. 6)
Ms. Jennifer Vincent (Gr. 6 –8)
Drama
Mr. Ryan Coutts (JK - Gr. 2)
Ms. Lisa Swarbrick (Gr. 3 - 8)
Art
Ms. Catherine Ionno-Dias
(SK - Gr. 5)
Ms. Dara Gellman (Gr. 6 - 8)
Learning Support
Ms. Kara Williams
Ms. Sue Lincoln
Ms. Jackie MacPherson
Mr. Jay Prichard
Ms. Tricia Smith
Ms. Amy Wise
Nature Based Learning/
Teacher/Researcher
Mr. Ben Blakey
House System Coordinator
Mr. Ryan Coutts
Systems Administrator
Mr. Krishna Sukhai
Help Desk
TBA
Administrative Assistants
Ms. Laura Bazilewich
Ms. Barb Moore
Maintenance
Mr. Darcy Doone
Mr. Shannon McEwen
Aftercare Supervisor
Ms. Johanna Weinstein
After School Programs Coordinator
Ms. Karen Bell
Private Music Lessons Coordinator
Ms. Barb Moore
EMAIL
To email staff members:
first name_last name@montcrest.on.ca.
(e.g. david_thompson@montcrest.on.ca)
HOLIDAY DATES FOR THE 2016/2017 SCHOOL
YEAR
First Day of School:
Thursday, September 8, 2016
Thanksgiving Day:
Last day of classes - Thursday, October 6, 2016
Classes resume - Tuesday, October 11, 2016
Fall Midterm Break:
December Break:
Winter Midterm Break:
*Thursday November 10, 2016 is Parent/Teacher
Interview Day (no school)
No school on Friday, November 11, 2016
Classes resume Tuesday, November 15, 2016
Last day of classes - Thursday, December 22,
2016
Classes resume – Tuesday, January 10, 2017
*Thursday February 16, 2017 is Parent/Teacher
Interview Day (no school)
No school on Friday, February 17, 2017
Classes resume Tuesday, February 21, 2017
March Break:
Last day of classes - Friday, March 10, 2017
Classes resume - Tuesday, March 28, 2017
April/Easter Break:
Last day of classes - Thursday, April 13, 2017
Classes resume - Tuesday, April 18, 2017
Victoria Day:
Last day of classes - Friday, May 19, 2017
(Early Dismissal/No Aftercare)
Classes resume -Tuesday, May 23, 2017
Last Day of School:
Thursday, June 15, 2017 - Noon Dismissal
*For school events and important dates, or if you want to
know what day of the cycle it is, visit our website
www.montcrest.on.ca and click on calendar at the top of
the homepage.
SCHOOL HOURS
Outdoor Supervision
8:00 - 8:20 a.m.
Doors Open
8:20 a.m.
O’Canada & Attendance
8:25 a.m.
Period 1
8:40 - 9:30 a.m.
Period 2
9:30 - 10:20 a.m.
Morning Recess
10:20 - 10:50 a.m.
Period 3
10:50 - 11:40 a.m.
Lunch
11:40 - 12:00 p.m.
Lunch Recess
12:00 - 12:30 p.m.
Period 4
12:30 - 1:20 p.m.
Period 5
1:20 - 2:10 p.m.
Recess
2:10 - 2:40 p.m.
Period 6
2:40 - 3:30 p.m.
Homeroom
3:30 - 3:40 p.m.
Dismissal
3:40 p.m.
Driveway Supervision
3:40 - 4:00 p.m.
Aftercare
3:40 - 6:00 p.m.
Office Hours
8:00 - 5:30 p.m.
ROUTINES
DROP-OFF AND PICK UP
• Guidelines must be followed in order to maintain order and safety.
• DO NOT leave your car idling at any time.
• DO NOT use neighbours' driveways to park or turn around in.
BROADVIEW AVENUE (GRADES 2 - 8)
• Enter driveway and drive as far forward as possible.
• Parents remain in cars, while staff help offload children and bags.
• Exit the driveway by TURNING RIGHT only.
• DO NOT DROP CHILDREN OFF ON BROADVIEW AVENUE!
• DO NOT turn around in the driveway of apartment buildings on the
East side of Broadview, opposite the school.
• DO NOT leave your car unattended on the driveway.
• If parked on the east side of Broadview, you must accompany your
child across the street (there is a crossing guard at the crosswalk just
north of the school).
• In the morning, parking is available on the east side of Broadview
(until 4:00 p.m.) After 9:00 a.m., parking is available on the west
side of Broadview.
MONTCREST BOULEVARD (JK - GRADE 1)
• Please park and walk children in, or stop at the gate of 4 Montcrest,
remaining in cars while staff walk children safely into the playground.
• Please use the turnaround opposite the school to turn your vehicle
around and exit Montcrest Blvd.
• DO NOT PARK on the turnaround or on the north side of Montcrest
Boulevard.
• At pick-up time, please park and walk to school to get your children.
CARPOOLS
Carpools must have one pick-up point. If your carpool includes JK/SK
students, please advise the homeroom teacher. Aftercare staff escort JK/SK
children to the backyard at 3:40 p.m. to meet their carpool. You must inform
the office in writing of drivers and children in your carpool, as well as the
designated pick-up spot, on or before the first day of school.
TIMETABLE
Montcrest’s timetable is organized on an 8-day cycle. Days 1 - 8 successively
determine what the schedule is for each class that day. The days of the cycle are
marked in the school calendar (on our website), and student agendas.
LUNCH
Students are not permitted to leave school grounds during school hours to
purchase food. Lunch is eaten in the homeroom from 11:40 to 12:00 p.m. Please
provide your child with a nutritious lunch, and minimize sweets and junk food.
The school offers a hot lunch program through an external provider, details of
which are available on our website.
AFTERCARE
Aftercare runs from 3:40 to 6:00 p.m. Any child not picked up from school by
4:00 p.m. will sign in to Aftercare. If your child will be staying on a regular
basis you will need to complete an Aftercare Registration Form. If Aftercare is
required occasionally, please notify the office as the need arises so that the
Aftercare staff may be informed. Children must be signed out of Aftercare when
being picked up.
COMMUNICATION
Website: www.montcrest.on.ca
Username: parent
Password: montcrest
EMAIL
To email staff members:
first name_last name@montcrest.on.ca.
(e.g. david_thompson@montcrest.on.ca)
PHONE
• It is essential that we have current contact details for parents.
• Should your number be unlisted, please inform the office so that we can
avoid publishing these numbers on lists that are distributed.
• The best time to reach faculty members is before and after school and
during lunch. Only in emergencies will teachers be called to the
phone. Every staff member has voicemail so messages may be left at
any time, and are usually returned the same day.
FRIDAY FILE
Most Fridays your child will bring home a "Friday File,” a folder containing
news about upcoming events. Once you’ve seen the contents, please have your
child return the “Friday File” to their homeroom teacher on Monday morning.
THE MONTCREST MIRROR
Our digital newsletter, The Montcrest Mirror is published at the end of each week,
and contains useful information about school life.
REPORTING
Communication regarding your child’s academic progress occurs through dayto-day conversations and email, written reports, and parent-teacher interviews.
Reports are distributed four times each year.
PARENT-TEACHER INTERVIEWS
Parent-teacher interviews are held in September, November, and February. In
the junior and intermediate grades, interviews include the students. Scheduling
is done online, and details are provided in advance.
POLICIES
ATTENDANCE
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Attendance is taken daily at 8:25 a.m.
•
If your child is going to be late or absent please let us know by calling
the attendance reporting line before 8:25 a.m. at 416-469-2008 ext.
405.
•
If the office has not been informed of a child's absence, parents will be
called.
•
Students arriving after 8:25 a.m. are marked late and must report to the
main office at 658 Broadview for a Late Slip.
•
If your child must leave early for any reason, please pick him/her up
from either one of our two reception areas having ensured that they
have been signed-out.
SECURITY
For safety reasons, the gates will be locked every school day. To gain entrance
to the school, please use the access buzzer located at our main entrances.
CHANGE IN PICK-UP ARRANGEMENTS
We request that you avoid last minute changes in pick-up arrangements. Any
change must be communicated by parents in writing to the homeroom teacher.
Teachers cannot give permission for students to go to friends’ homes, nor will
students be allowed to call home after school to make social arrangements.
UNIFORMS
Girls Number One Dress: Grades 4 - 8
Long-Sleeve Crested Oxford
Kilt (Buchanan Plaid) OR Charcoal Grey Pants
Tie (Buchanan Plaid)
Green Tights (winter) or Green Knee Socks (fall and spring)
Black Leather Dress Shoes
Girls Number One Dress: Grades 1 - 3
Long-Sleeve Crested Oxford
Crested Tunic OR Charcoal Grey Pants
Green Tights (winter) or Green Knee Socks (fall and spring)
Black Leather Dress Shoes
Boys Number One Dress: Grades 4 - 8
Long-Sleeve Crested Oxford
Charcoal Grey Pants
Tie (Buchanan Plaid)
Black Leather Belt
Grey Socks
Black Leather Dress Shoes
Boys Number One Dress: Grades 1 - 3
Long-Sleeve Crested Oxford
Charcoal Grey Pants
Grey Socks
Black Leather Dress Shoes
Girls and Boys Gym Uniform: Grades 1 - 8
Grey “Montcrest” T-Shirt
Montcrest Track Pants
Montcrest Track Jacket
White Socks
Running Shoes
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The Tuck Shop sells all items listed above excluding black shoes,
running shoes, and white socks.
The Tuck Shop sells additional seasonal uniform items.
Please ensure that all students’ belongings are LABELLED.
Any unclaimed uniforms in Lost & Found will be sold at the school
store, and other unclaimed items will be donated to a charity.
Children must come to school prepared with appropriate outerwear in
all seasons.
CASUAL CLOTHES DAYS (AKA – Grub Days)
Grub Days are days when everyone in the school wears casual clothes.
Students still need to dress appropriately for school. Everyone needs to dress
neatly, in good taste, and in a modest manner conducive to a positive
learning environment.
APPROPRIATE clothing consists of the following:
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All tops must meet the bottoms at waist level (midriff must be
covered).
Slogans on T-Shirts cannot be demeaning to any individual or group
or suggestive of actions inappropriate to school age children.
All undergarments must be covered.
No clothing worn can be see-through.
Shorts/skirts of appropriate length, must reach the tips of their
extended fingers when standing ‘at attention.’
Clothing should not be ripped.
ALLERGIES
Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can lead to rapid death if left
untreated. All schools in Ontario, by law, as of January 1, 2006, are required
to follow a protocol in regards to protecting children in our care who have
severe allergies. In recent years, anaphylaxis has increased dramatically
among children and adolescents. Peanuts and tree nut products are the most
common foods to cause anaphylaxis. We endeavour to help our students who
have these allergies by reminding families not to send food for sharing unless
it is produced in a nut-free bakery or kitchen, or if it comes to school in a
package stating that it has been produced in a nut-free factory. This means
that unless you have a nut-free home, you cannot send home-baked goods to
school with your child for sharing. Also, please do not send lunches made
with peanuts or tree nut products.
* For those of you with children who are anaphylactic and use an
EpiPen, please make sure that they bring their EpiPen to school every
day and carry it with them at all times!
Dogs may be brought to school but we request that you keep your dog on a
short leash, away from the JK/SK outdoor play area. Some children and staff
are allergic to animals, so please do not bring your pet inside the school
buildings.
DISCIPLINE IN THE SCHOOL
Appropriate behaviour, consistent completion of homework assignments and
preparation for tests, exams, projects, and culminating tasks are expectations of
Montcrest School. In cases where a student is challenged to meet the guidelines
set out by the school, parents will be contacted and strategies developed to
encourage a positive contribution by the student to the school. Should this fail,
suspension may occur or in exceptional instances, a student may be asked to
leave the school at any time during the year. Parents would be responsible for
the full year’s tuition.
CODE OF CONDUCT
The Code of Conduct, developed by staff and students, embodies our
Standing for Character values (Respect, Responsibility, Courage,
Compassion and Integrity), and is intended to provide a guideline for the
entire community. A Montcrest citizen represents the school’s positive spirit
and contributes to its growth by:
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demonstrating honesty and integrity at all times;
respecting people and property in the Montcrest community;
accepting responsibility for work and behaviour;
conducting him/herself with courtesy, compassion, courage and
cooperation
In the event that a student is not following the guidelines established within
the Code of Conduct, or where a student is abusive, belligerent, or the safety
of others is in question, or would bring the name of Montcrest School into
disrepute, some or all of the following consequences may occur:
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The student may be placed on an in-school supervised time-out.
The student may be placed on an in-school supervised suspension.
The student may be placed on an out-of-school supervised time-out.
The student may be placed on an out-of-school supervised
suspension.
The student may be expelled from the school and parents would be
responsible for the full year’s tuition.
The student may not be offered re-registration for the following year.
Policy on Prohibited Drugs, Alcohol, and Tobacco
Possession or use of prohibited drugs is a criminal offence. Any student who
uses, possesses or is under the influence of prohibited drugs while on school
property, which includes all public areas within a one kilometre radius of the
school or at any events sanctioned by the school, will be liable for suspension
or expulsion. This includes all time spent on field trips, outdoor education
trips, athletic trips, dances and other school-sponsored extracurricular
activities. Furthermore, any student who distributes or facilitates the
distribution of prohibited drugs to any other student on school property or in
a public place within a one kilometre radius of the school, or at any school
sanctioned event, will be liable for suspension or expulsion.
The use, possession, and being under the influence of alcohol on school
property, which includes all public areas within a one kilometre radius of the
school, or at any event sanctioned by the school, is considered a serious
offence. Violators will be liable for suspension or expulsion. In the event that
a student is suspended, a subsequent violation shall result in expulsion. Any
student who distributes or facilitates the distribution of alcohol to any other
student on school property or in a public place within a one kilometre radius
of the school, or at any school sanctioned event, will be liable for suspension
or expulsion.
Smoking on school premises, including school buildings, gardens, and sports
fields is prohibited. Any student smoking in the school or in any building
associated with a Montcrest School field trip or excursion will be liable for
suspension or expulsion. In all other situations the emphasis of the
consequences will be placed on helping the student refrain from tobacco use.
However, repeated violations of the school’s tobacco ban will be dealt with
by increasingly strict responses.
Anti-Bullying Policy
We believe students have the right to feel safe and secure at school, and have
the responsibility to help prevent bullying. Bullying is defined as a form of
repeated, persistent, and aggressive behaviour, directed at an individual (or
individuals), which causes distress and/or harm. Bullying will not be
tolerated in any form at Montcrest School.
If a bullying incident is reported or observed, it will be addressed with those
concerned, and the situation will be monitored. If the problem persists,
efforts will be made to reach resolution, providing strategies and support to
prevent further conflict. If necessary, parents will be contacted, and a
meeting may be arranged to discuss further consequences, which may include
suspension, or even expulsion.
Student Cell Phone Policy
All students may use these devices on campus before school begins and after
school ends. These devices must be kept out of sight and turned off during
the school day. There may be times during the school day, and with the
permission of a faculty member, a cell phone may be used. Unauthorized use
of such devices disrupts the instructional program and distracts from the
learning environment. Therefore, unauthorized use is grounds for
confiscation of the device by school officials, including classroom teachers.
Repeated unauthorized use of such devices may lead to disciplinary action.
Acceptable Use of Technology Policy
Students in Grades 6-8 have their own laptops, purchased through the school.
The following policy applies to the use of technology regardless of location
or network. To protect the rights and safety of all, the use of technology, the
Internet, and online resources, for academic or social interactions, must
reflect the Code of Conduct. Computer storage areas including documents,
email, CD/DVDs, external hard drives and memory sticks will be treated like
school lockers. Users should not expect that files stored on servers or disks
will always be private. Faculty may review files at their discretion and
communications to ensure responsible use of the system.
During school, teachers will guide students toward appropriate materials.
Outside of school, families bear responsibility for such guidance, as they
must also exercise guidance with information sources such as television,
telephones, movies, radio, and other media. Anything produced with the use
of Montcrest technology is considered school property. Both professional and
personal use of school technology must reflect the guidelines of responsible
conduct. A review of documents, email messages, and Internet use may be
conducted on computers or personal electronic devices and network accounts
at any time. Consequences may include, but would not be limited to, any or
several of the following: a written warning, loss of privileges, repairs to
damages at a cost to the student or staff member, a requirement to attend
specific counseling, suspension or expulsion from school. All student
violations will be tracked through the IT Computer Misuse Ladder.
Conditions for reinstatement of privileges will be determined and reviewed
by school administration.
Examples of Student Consequences for Code of Conduct and Policy
Infractions
For those few students who experience difficulty in meeting the Code of
Conduct, a process of supportive and corrective actions will be followed.
They include:
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Reminders
Warnings
Time out with the teacher and/or Assistant Head of School
Telephone call home
Email home
Related written assignments
Written ‘contracts’
Loss of a privilege
Parent/teacher/student conferences
Team Meeting (Admin., teachers, parents, and in some cases, the
student)
In-school community service work
Repair/restitution for damaged or missing property
Removal from class setting
In-school suspension/out of school suspension
Police contact
Expulsion from the school
Suspension as a sanction
A student will be immediately suspended for the following actions:
1.
2.
3.
Uttering a threat to inflict serious bodily harm
Possession of illegal drugs
Acts of vandalism causing extreme damage to school property or
property located on school premises.
4. Swearing at a teacher, or other person in authority
5. Being in possession of alcohol
6. Being under the influence of alcohol
7. Persistent opposition to authority
8. Persistent truancy
9. Conduct injurious to the moral tone of the school
10. Conduct injurious to the physical or mental well-being of others in
the school
Circumstances in which suspension might be considered could include:
Repeated incidents of indiscipline in spite of warnings and counselling by
staff. Failure to recognize and submit to legitimate authority. Behaviour
which is considered to interfere with the right to learn of other students.
Particularly serious incidents which endanger the welfare of others.
Suspension is a serious sanction and should only be imposed where other
efforts to resolve a disciplinary situation have failed or where the
nature of an incident dictates that the student be removed from the school
immediately. Suspension means that a student has been required to take a
“time out” to think seriously about whether he or she wishes to still be a part
of the Montcrest community, and about whether he or she can commit to the
community values and standards. The duration of the suspension from
Montcrest school activities will vary depending on the circumstances. While
serving a suspension, a student is barred from all school privileges, including
classes, cocurricular activities, and Montcrest School sponsored events.
During their suspension, a student is expected to reflect formally in writing
on their behaviour and to set personal goals for improvement. Before their
return, the student and their parents may be required to attend a re-entry
meeting in which the student, with the support of their family, must
demonstrate that they have thought seriously about their attitude, choices,
and actions and have made a deliberate re-commitment to Montcrest
School’s values and standards.
Expulsion from Montcrest School
A student may be expelled for the following actions:
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2.
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Demonstrating a pattern of behaviour where the pupil’s presence is
injurious to the effective learning environment of other pupils or
persons
Engaging in an activity or activities that cause the student’s
presence in the school to be injurious to the physical or emotional
well-being of other students or persons in the school
Demonstrating through a pattern of behaviour (eg. neglect of duty,
truancy, or opposition to authority) that he/she has not prospered by
the instruction available to him/her and that he/she is persistently
resistant to making the changes in behaviour which would enable
him/her to prosper.
As well, the police may be involved and a student may be immediately
suspended and/or expelled for the following actions:
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Possession of a weapon including, but not limited to, firearms
Trafficking in drugs or weapons
Robbery
Use of a weapon to cause bodily harm, or to threaten serious harm
Physical assault causing bodily harm requiring professional medical
treatment
Sexual assault
For extremely serious offenses and violations of school standards
and for the failure to meet the requirements of Montcrest School’s
Code of Conduct, consideration will be given to the expulsion of the
student.
Denial of Re-registration
At the discretion of Montcrest School, a student may be denied reregistration for the subsequent year for reasons including, but not limited to,
those set out as suspendable or expellable offences.
HOMEWORK
Teachers will send home information on expectations for parental support in
homework assignments. If you have any concerns regarding homework, please
speak to the teacher concerned.
EXTRA HELP
Teachers provide specific times during the week when they are available for
extra help. At the Junior/Senior level, students are expected to take some
responsibility in seeking extra help.
SCHOOL SUPPLIES
Students are expected to bring their own supplies as outlined in the “school
supply list” available on our website. If any special supplies are required,
teachers will inform you. Homework books are supplied in Grade 1 and students
in Grades 2 - 8 will be supplied with an agenda (daily planner). These are
printed by the school and if lost, students are required to pay $10 for
replacement.
LOST TEXTBOOKS & LIBRARY BOOKS
The school provides all textbooks. The cost of lost or damaged textbooks and
library books will be charged to the parents.
BIRTHDAYS
Our school honours children’s birthdays by posting them in the Mirror every
month. Some parents bring in nut-free treats. If party invitations are to be
handed out at school, they should be given to your child's teacher for
distribution in the Friday File. It is expected that all children from your
child's class/grade, or all children of the same gender in your child's
class/grade be included. If only a few children are going to be invited, please
send the invitations out from home.
SNOW DAYS
School will only be closed if it is impossible or unsafe for staff to get to
school by public transportation. If the decision is made to close, this will be
communicated as early in the morning as possible, via an email blast as well
as on our website.
SPECIAL DAYS
These annual events honour some of our most cherished school traditions and
are open to parents and other family members.
Mini Marathon (fall) – Students wear gym clothes to school for this annual
run/jog/walk through Riverdale Park.
Muffin Morning (fall) – An opportunity to visit your child’s classrooms, see
specialty/rotary teachers, and informally tour the school while enjoying a
coffee and a muffin.
Kite Day (spring) – Students wear gym clothes; following a ceremonial
assembly they fly their kites (made in art class) in Riverdale Park.
Concerts – These showcase our vocal and instrumental music and are held in
December and May or June. Students wear #1 Dress uniforms on these days.
COCURRICULARS
At Montcrest School, we are committed to offering a rich and diverse cocurricular program. Cocurriculars help students to discover their interests,
develop confidence, and build their athletic, artistic, and leadership skills.
The cocurricular program is driven by our mission statement’s promise to
provide balanced opportunities in leadership, the arts, and athletics. The
program provides a wide array of offerings for students to participate in,
beginning in Kindergarten.
Students are encouraged to participate in the cocurriculars of their choice
during any or all of our three terms. Participation is voluntary and based on
each student’s interests and comfort level.
At the start of each term, all cocurricular offerings are presented at Clubs
Assembly. Students are free to participate in as many cocurriculars as they
can successfully balance with their academics, and can choose to be more
committed in one term than another. The Director of Performing Arts and
Cocurriculars and the Director of Athletics work collaboratively with
students, homeroom teachers, and teachers offering cocurriculars to help each
student identify new or existing areas of interest, and make a plan that best
suits them. Parents are also invited to encourage their children to become
involved in cocurriculars throughout the year.
CLUBS
Teachers offer a variety of clubs, run at all three recesses, however, certain
activities for Grades 4 - 8, such as teams or Montcrest Singers, are held
before or after school. At the start of each term, the new clubs are announced
at a Clubs Assembly and a cocurricular calendar is posted in the Montcrest
Mirror. Students are encouraged to get involved with at least one club, and
for Grades 6 - 8, students are expected to be involved in one club per term.
SPORTS TEAMS
Teams at Montcrest foster a sense of cooperation and school spirit. The teams
compete in a variety of sports against other independent schools within the
Conference of Independent Schools’ Athletic Association (CISAA).
In the fall, Montcrest will be fielding teams in co-ed cross-country running (Grades
3-8), U10 boys’ soccer (Grades 3&4) U12 boys’ soccer (Grades 4-6), U14 boys’
soccer (Grades 7&8), co-ed field hockey (Grades 6-8), and girls’ basketball, U10
(Grades 3-4), U12 (Grades 5-6) and U14 (Grades 7&8).
During the winter term, Montcrest will be offering U10 co-ed basketball (Grades
3&4), U12 boys’ basketball (Grades 4-6), U14 boys’ basketball (Grades 7&8), U12
girls’ volleyball (Grades 4-6), and U14 girls’ volleyball (Grades 7&8), and curling
Grades 6-8).
During the spring term, we will have the co-ed track and field team (Grades 3-8),
co-ed ultimate Frisbee team (Grades 7&8), U12 boys’ softball (Grades 4-6), U14
boys’ softball (Grades 7&8), U10 girls’ soccer (Grades 3&4), U12 girls’ soccer
(Grades 5&6), U14 girls’ soccer (Grades 7&8), and co-ed tennis (Grades 6-8).
HONOUR PINS
Honour Pins are awarded to recognize students in Grades 4 - 8 for
outstanding contributions to our cocurricular program. Students accumulate
points for each club/team in which they participate, as well as for community
service to the school. Those who have sufficient points will earn a silver or,
very rarely, the Rene Pantalone Gold Honour Pin, named after a longstanding
member and past chair of our Board of Governors. Honour Pin presentations
take place at assembly, and these pins may be worn on the uniform.
HOUSE SYSTEM
Students and staff at Montcrest School belong to one of four houses. The
houses offer additional opportunities for our community to work and play
together and our house system emphasizes cooperation over competition. In
addition, each of the houses represents one of the shared values of Respect,
Responsibility, Integrity, Compassion, and Courage from our “Standing for
Character” initiative. Each house is named for a great individual who,
through determination and courage, brought about significant positive and
lasting change. FOX (Terry Fox - a Canadian Hero), LIVINGSTON
(Katherine Livingston - Montcrest School's first Principal), MASIH (Iqbal
Masih - the inspiration for "Free the Children") & MCLUNG (Nellie
McClung - a champion of women's rights).
HOUSE SPIRIT DAYS
These days are an infusion of house spirit in which the whole school comes
together for a short time to work and play together. These days will also
provide leadership opportunities for Grade 8 students. House Spirit Days will
consist of a variety of pre-planned, cooperative, competitive, and fun interhouse activities. To accommodate for these days, there will be an accelerated
schedule in which students attend shortened classes with House Spirit Day
commencing at 2:00 p.m. and ending at 3:30 p.m.
AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS (Beyond The Classroom)
Montcrest School organizes fun, interesting, and interactive after school
programs for students. Information is posted in the Mirror as well as on our
website, ParentPortal, and flyers are distributed in the Friday File.
PRIVATE MUSIC LESSONS
Private music lessons are available for students in Grades 1-8 during all recesses
or after school. Registration forms are available on our website.
LEARNING SUPPORT
Learning Support Specialists provide guidance and support in literacy, math,
writing, and assistive technologies to homeroom teachers as they differentiate
the academic program to support a range of student needs. These specialist
teachers, in consultation with the Director of Teaching and Learning,
IEP/Gifted Education Coordinator, and homeroom teachers, assess and
identify students who are experiencing academic difficulties. Working oneon-one or in small groups, they provide specific, research-based intervention,
using a variety of strategies. Learning Support Specialists support students as
they transfer their developing skills to their daily work.
MONTCREST PARENTS' ASSOCIATION (MPA)
Every parent who has a child at Montcrest School is an automatic and valued
member of the Montcrest Parents’ Association. Our primary purpose is to
enrich the lives of our children at school by building a strong and nurturing
community. We organize, volunteer, and provide support for the following
events and programs that help build our community:
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Fall Fair
Class Cocktail Parties
Family Fun (past events include Bingo Nights, Pancake Breakfast,
Dance Night)
Welcome Back Coffee Morning
Tuck Shop*
Pizza Lunch*
Climbing in the Gym
Class Parent Representatives
Parent Ambassadors
New Family Orientation
Parent Spring Social & Fundraising
Recess Surprise Treats for the Kids
Lice Checks
*MPA’s primary sources of income
2016/17 MPA Executive and Officers
Executive
Chair
Vice Chair
Past Chair
Secretary
Alison Cook
Claire Adams
Kirsten Posehn
Heather MacInnis
alison.cook@sympatico.ca
cadams@bristowglobalmedia.com
posehn1145@rogers.com
h_macinnis@yahoo.com
Communications
Coordinator
School Liaison
Caroline Coulson
carolinecoulson@mac.com
Geneva Dalley
geneva_dalley@montcrest.on.ca
Officers
Tuck Shop Volunteer &
Refreshment Coordinator
Tuck Shop Merchandiser
Used Uniform
Coordinator
Spring Event
Coordinator
Fall Fair Coordinator
Pizza Lunch Coordinator
Jacquie Gardner
jgardner@rogers.com
Geneva Dalley
Joanne Sterling
geneva_dalley@montcrest.on.ca
joanneandjazz@yahoo.com
Andy Cleghorn
Kirsten Cooney
Caroline Coulson
Heather Abbott
andycleghorn@gmail.com
kirsten.cooney@rogers.com
carolinecoulson@mac.com
abbott.heather101@gmail.com
Family Fun Night
Coordinator
Lost and Found
Coordinator
Community Service
Coordinators
Sue ten Brummeler
sue@onlinecottagerental.com
Nancy Hollyoak
nhollyoak@rogers.com
Connor Turnbull
Kirsten Cooney
connorturnbull@hotmail.com
kirsten.cooney@rogers.com
Interguild Representative
Advertising Coordinator
Parent Ambassador
Coordinator
Connie Costillo
Craig Shibley
Cari Steinberg
lorenzofamily@rogers.com
Carrie Weston – JK/SK
Erika Veh - Gr. 1
Connor Turnbull - Gr. 2-5
Jacquie Gardner - Gr. 6-8
Christina Tuns (small
classes)
cweston29@gmail.com
erikaveh@rogers.com
connorturnbull@hotmail.com
jgardner@rogers.com
christinatuns@yahoo.ca
Parent Ambassadors
cshibley@interlog.com
cari.steinberg@live.com
We are always looking for volunteers and new ideas! Please feel free to
contact any of the MPA Officers by email or join us at an MPA meeting.
During the 2016/2017 school year, MPA meetings will be held at 8:30 a.m.
on the following Thursdays: Sept. 29, Oct. 27, Nov. 24, Jan. 26, Feb. 23,
Apr. 27, & May 25.
All parents in the Montcrest community are welcome and encouraged to
attend these informative and interactive meetings. If you cannot attend in
person, please note that minutes from each meeting will be posted on the
Montcrest website under the “Parents” banner and in the MPA sub-section
shortly after each meeting.
BOARD OF GOVERNORS
The Board is charged with the responsibility of ensuring the continuing success
of the school. Among its members are lawyers, accountants, entrepreneurs, and
educators, whose valuable expertise benefits the Board and the school as a
whole. Most are either current or former Montcrest parents who are very
familiar with the school. A mix of both men and women serve to provide a
balance of viewpoint and experience. Over the years, the number of members
has varied from 9 to 15, generally serving one or more three-year terms. In
addition, outside advisors often serve, making an important contribution, and the
Head of School serves "ex officio." While the Board may be the least visible of
the school's constituents, it is a group of dedicated volunteers who give a great
deal of time and thought to what is best for Montcrest.
LIFE AFTER MONTCREST
We support the transition to high school with our Grade 8 students and their
families in the following ways:
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By providing a high school information package in the fall
By hosting “Life After Montcrest”, a night in October where you
can hear parents of graduates from the previous year talk about their
experiences with high school
Administration and teachers provide ongoing counselling
Mock interviews are conducted to prepare students for the admission process in independent high schools