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A Catholic Community of Caring School

Mrs. W. McDowell, Principal Ms. C. Hanevy, Assistant Principal

327 Sandarac Drive N.W. Calgary, Alberta

T3K 4B2

Telephone: 403-500-2094 Fax: 403-500-2294

Website Address: www.cssd.ab.ca/schools/msgranderson

Email contact: msgranderson@cssd.ab.ca Facebook: Monsignor Neville Anderson

Twitter:@MNASchool

This agenda belongs to:

Student Name: ______________________________________________ Teacher: ____________________________________________________ Grade: ____________________________________________________

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WELCOME TO MONSIGNOR

NEVILLE ANDERSON SCHOOL The administration and staff of Monsignor Neville Anderson School extend a warm welcome to all of our returning and new students and their families. We are excited to work in a learning partnership with you this year. This combined handbook and agenda has been compiled to provide information about the philosophy and major practices that guide the daily operation of Monsignor Neville Anderson School. This agenda is specifically designed to support learning in a Catholic School. We recognize that before any meaningful learning can occur, a child must experience comfort, joy, and trust in the school environment. Our goal is to provide a quality Catholic education in a loving Christian environment; thereby enabling our students to reach their full potential. It is hoped that this handbook will answer many of the questions parents and students frequently ask. We will strive to communicate clearly, effectively, and openly with you and we trust that you will do the same. It is our belief that the job of educating our students can only be accomplished by building an active, positive partnership between home and school. The staff of Monsignor Neville Anderson School looks forward to your continued interest, support and involvement in the education of your child. Yours in Partnership, Mrs. W. McDowell & Ms. C. Hanevy

CALGARY CATHOLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT PHILOSOPHY AND

COMMITMENT

MISSION STATEMENT Living and Learning in our Catholic Faith

VALUE STATEMENT All members of our community are sacred and must be treated with dignity and respect. We value excellence in Catholic Education, guided by shared responsibility and the moral authority of the Church.

VISION STATEMENTS Faith Our Catholic schools demonstrate their constitutional right to provide and support the development, permeation and modeling of our faith.

Relationships Our Catholic schools promote shared responsibility for stewardship and resources, transparency and the success of the students in our care.

Excellence in Teaching and Learning Our Catholic schools develop students who reflect the image of God and are successful contributors to a global society.

WHO WAS MONSIGNOR

NEVILLE ANDERSON ? Monsignor Neville Anderson was born April 13, 1898 in County Cork, Ireland. When he was a young child his family immigrated to Canada and settled in Hamilton, Ontario where he attended elementary and secondary school. In 1918, he entered St. Augustine’s Seminary and was ordained a priest for the diocese of Calgary on August 10, 1925. During his 63 years as a priest, Monsignor Anderson served the Diocese of Calgary in many different capacities. Upon his arrival as a young priest in Calgary, he became the Bishop’s Secretary, Chancellor of the Diocese and started St. Angela’s parish now known as Our Lady of Perpetual Help. In subsequent years, his responsibilities included directing the St. Mary’s Boys’ Choir and teaching music in the Catholic Schools of Calgary. When Bishop Kidd left the Diocese, Monsignor Anderson was assigned to Taber where he served one year as pastor before going to Drumheller where he served for 12 years from 1934 - 1946. In an effort to better serve his people, during that time, Monsignor Anderson oversaw the construction of churches in many of the surrounding missions which sprang up around the small coal mines in the area. Following his ministry in Drumheller, the Monsignor returned to Calgary to take over St. Joseph’s Parish. St. Joseph’s continuing growth spurred the building of new churches: Corpus Christi, St. Pius X and Canadian Martyrs to name a few. Monsignor Anderson served the North Hill area until 1967 at which time he served briefly at St. Anthony’s and St. Patrick’s parishes in Calgary and in parishes in Canmore and Exshaw. Upon his retirement in 1970 and until his death in 1988, Monsignor Anderson spent much of his time recording and writing about the history of the Church in Southern Alberta. Monsignor Anderson died in Calgary on October 8, 1988 at the age of 90.

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MONSIGNOR NEVILLE

ANDERSON SCHOOL Monsignor Neville Anderson is a Kindergarten through Grade 6 School operating under the auspices of the Calgary Roman Catholic School District. Our school currently serves students from the Northwest Quadrant for Year Round Education and Sandstone, MacEwan, Country Hills Estates and Sage Hill for the Regular Calendar option.

MONSIGNOR NEVILLE ANDERSON

SCHOOL PHILOSOPHY The aim of Monsignor Neville Anderson School is to promote the development of the "whole" child. By fostering their spiritual, intellectual, social, emotional and physical dimensions, students are assisted toward developing a Christian personality and character. In partnership with home and church, Monsignor Neville Anderson School strives to develop in students the necessary attitudes, skills, knowledge and values that will enable them to function as Catholic citizens in our rapidly changing society.

CODE OF CONDUCT AND

BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS The Catholic community of Monsignor Neville Anderson School believes that by demonstrating our faith in God and respect for each other, we can create a safe, caring and collaborative environment that promotes lifelong learning and celebrates the uniqueness of all individuals. Monsignor Neville Anderson School believes that all students have the right to learn. No student has the right to choose behaviour that infringes upon the rights of others.

Students of Monsignor Neville Anderson School are expected to behave in a manner reflecting a Christian attitude. With the staff, parents and other students each learner shares responsibility for creating a safe and supportive learning environment. Students are expected to follow our school rules of:

Respect Yourself Respect Others

Respect our Environment

These rules apply in the classroom, in the lunchroom, on the playground, on the bus, on field trips and throughout the school. Although staff and students work diligently to ensure rules and expectations are followed, students may experience difficulties from time to time. In these cases we work closely with the student and his or her parent(s) to address the problem and reach a resolution. Parental support is invaluable in reaching a solution. Therefore, we extend an invitation to parents and

students to work with us as a team to address concerns early and to be proactive.

HERE AT MNA . . .

Catholic gospel values are evident, operative and celebrated.

The teaching and learning environment is positive, safe and caring.

The diversity of all learners is accepted, facilitated and celebrated.

Leadership is shared within a collaborative environment.

Risk-taking and innovation are valued and supported by current research to promote best practice.

Students are facilitated and challenged to reach their individual academic potential.

Healthy active lifestyles are promoted and practiced.

TIPS TO HELP YOUR CHILD LEARN *Talk positively about school, teachers, education and

homework *Show an interest in what your child is learning *Help your child to apply what has been learned to

everyday life *Concentrate on improving grades, rather than getting

top marks *Provide a quiet place and time for homework *Go over your child’s work with him or her *Be a homework consultant, not a tutor. Homework is

the child’s job, not yours *Encourage your child to read at home *Develop a consistent discipline plan at home and

support the one at school *Come to school meetings

We have read the contents of the agenda and have

discussed the expectations set out by

Monsignor Neville Anderson Elementary School

Parent’s Signature:

Student’s Signature:

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SCHOOL HOURS AND BELLTIMES

8:20 a.m. A.M. Entrance Bell – All Students 8:25 a.m. Instruction Begins 10:00 a.m. Recess 11:03 a.m. Kindergarten Dismissal 11:45 a.m. Lunch 12:30 p.m. P.M. Entrance Bell – Grades 1 – 6 12:35 p.m. Instruction Begins 2:50 p.m. Dismissal Bell – All Students

DUAL TRACK TIMETABLE

Monsignor Neville Anderson School offers a Dual-Track schedule for students in Kindergarten to Grade 6. Dual-Track means that in addition to the Regular 10 month calendar (September to June) we also offer an alternative 11-month Year-Round calendar (August to June). The Dual-Track schedule runs concurrently for both Traditional and Year-Round calendars serving students with the identical Program of Studies as mandated by Alberta Education. This system has been in effect since the 1996-97 school year. In the pilot review survey (December 1997) parents, students and staff reported strong support for the Year-Round calendar. Advantages of the Year-Round calendar were reported as:

Enhanced student achievement

Continuous learning

Revitalized students and staff

Reduced stress on students and staff

Improved student and staff attendance

Greater flexibility in planning vacations

ATTENDANCE AND PUNCTUALITY The School Act states that students must be punctual and attend school regularly. Prolonged absences or sporadic attendance can result in a lack of continuity in learning. In the event of any absences, parents are requested to contact the school at 403-500-2094 to indicate the reason. In the case of a medical or dental appointment, a note can be sent in advance. Students arriving late for class must sign in at the office before proceeding to the classroom. We ask parents/guardians to notify the office before 9:00 a.m. or 12:45 p.m. if a student is absent or tardy. There is an answering machine to record after hour calls. If a parent/guardian does not call, the office will attempt to contact the parent to ensure student safety. Please make every effort to call the office as it reduces the amount of time that the office staff spends on follow up. It is important to note that students who are absent due

to a vacation will be marked as unexcused as per District Guidelines. Students who are repeatedly late or absent without a reasonable excuse are considered to be in violation of the School Act. After ten unexcused absences a meeting with the parent(s)/guardian(s), student, teacher and administration will be scheduled in an attempt to plan for successful attendance. Following this meeting if attendance does not improve the student may be referred to the school district social worker.

SCHOOL CONNECTS AUTOMATED NOTIFICATION SERVICE

Monsignor Neville Anderson is pleased to announce that we are using an automated notification service called SchoolConnects. This subscription service is provided through SynreVoice Technologies Inc. This service helps us to deliver a wide variety of messages by phone, email and SMS text to parents and staff. It is our hope that this service will help us to enhance our communication with our school community. We are using the SchoolConnects system to notify you of an absence at school. These phone calls are made in both the morning and the afternoon and this system contacts all numbers to ensure that the message is given. You will be requested to contact the school to update the reason for absence so that we can keep current attendance records. When you receive these calls and you have Call Display the number displayed could either be the school number or say Calgary Catholic School District. To avoid receiving these calls please contact the school prior to 9:00am or 12:45pm if your child will be absent. We will also be using this system to send out email messages and announcements related to the school.

SUPERVISION Outside supervision begins at 8:05 am and ends at 3:05pm. Our supervision boundaries include the front of the building by the bus zone and bike rack and wrap around the building including the structured play park. We also have a supervisor just at the corner of our parking lot and the Community rink at the end of the day until 3:05pm. Students are not to play on the rink area during our school day. We ask that students not arrive prior to supervision in the morning and go straight home afterschool unless parents are present. If you have a different plan for your son/daughter please communicate this with the school in writing so that we are aware of your family’s plan. Students will have access to the boot rooms and washrooms during the school day. All students are expected to be outdoors during recess and lunch breaks. Attempts are made to have outdoor recesses during all seasons. Parents are asked to ensure that their children are dressed appropriately for the weather conditions in Calgary. In the case of inclement

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weather, students will sit outside their classrooms and participate in free-time activities and games indoors. Supervision will be provided by teachers, administration and/or support staff.

STUDENT RECORDS AND

INFORMATION For the safety of your child, it is important that our student files and school records are kept up to date. Please notify the school of any address, phone and emergency contact changes. Parents’ work telephone numbers and emergency numbers must be current as circumstances may arise when it is critical for the school to contact parents. A student demographic form is sent home at the beginning of the year for parents to update or confirm the information and return it to school.

STUDENT ILLNESS/EMERGENCIES We do not have facilities at school to accommodate children who are ill. Children should not be sent to school if there are definite signs of ill health. Whenever a child becomes ill or sustains a serious injury, our practice will be to telephone home to request that someone pick him/her up. To ensure student safety, the school is not permitted to release a student without direct supervision. We require an emergency contact telephone number in case no one is available at home. If we cannot contact either parent or emergency contacts and we evaluate the situation as serious enough, we will phone 911 and have your child transported to the hospital. Should any of your information change during the school year please notify us immediately at 403-500-2094.

LEAVING THE SCHOOL Students leaving the school during regular school hours must be signed out at the office. For security reasons parents are not to proceed to their child’s classroom. The office staff will call your child to the office to meet you. When making alternate arrangements for your child, please send your child’s teacher a note indicating the change. Young children often do not remember the details when a change to their regular routine has been made.

BUILDING SECURITY With the exception of the main entrance, all outside doors leading into the building will be locked to ensure maximum security for your children. One set of boot room doors will be opened for students in the morning, at recess and during the lunch hour so students can access the washroom. Students will be assigned entry doors directly off the tarmac at the back of the school. The front doors are for staff, parents and visitors. Students

should only use the front doors of the school when they are late arriving or when all other doors are locked. While we recognize that these door closures might cause some inconvenience, we feel that the security of your children warrants it. If your child arrives late to school, they must use the front entrance and sign in at the office.

DROPPING OFF AND PICKING UP In the interest of safety over convenience we ask that parents designate a meeting place outside for student drop off and pick up such as the playground or the tarmac. This will help to make it more consistent for your child and will lessen the congestion around the school. Please do not access the staff parking lot for student pick up and drop off including the Before and After Care program. Students should not be in the parking lot at any time. Parents picking up and dropping off students are asked to use the community parking lot adjacent to the school and immediately north of the rink. There are a significant number of cars entering the school parking lot and as such parents and students are asked to walk down to the sidewalk or to walk around the back of the teacher lot to access the front entrance. Immediately in front of the school is a bus zone; please do not stop or park in this area as this too could compromise the safety and security of our students.

CHARTER BUS STUDENTS The District’s Transportation department determines eligibility for transportation. Eligibility is based on the student residing within the school boundary and living at least 1.2km from the school. A transportation fee applies. Parents are to regularly check the School District website under the transportation link for updates and route changes. During the year, it is possible that busses will be late for a number of reasons. Parents can check the website www.myschoolbusmonitor.ca for bus delays. Students riding the bus are responsible for their conduct to the bus driver and the school administration. Students who do not comply with behavioral expectations may be suspended from riding the bus. Please review with your children how they should behave and what they should do in the event the bus is very late or does not show up in the morning.

VISITORS Monsignor Neville Anderson encourages and extends a friendly welcome to all who enter our school. In the interest of keeping our school community safe, we ask that all visitors enter through the main doors. When visiting or volunteering at the school, please sign in at the office and obtain a visitor’s badge. The Volunteer Tag identifies to school staff that the visitor has registered with the office. This tag is to be worn visibly until the

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visitor signs out at the end of his/her stay. This policy is in place to ensure the safety and security of our staff and students. Visitors are asked not to assume that staff and students know who they are when they are in the building.

LUNCH AT SCHOOL Our School District does not provide cafeteria facilities for elementary school students. Microwaves and hot water are not available for student use. Students should bring a nutritional bagged lunch and recess snack. Students staying for lunch must remain on the school property and adhere to school lunch regulations, which include appropriate behaviour, eating neatly and courteously, picking up after themselves, and placing garbage and recyclables in the provided containers. The authority of the teachers and lunch hour supervisors must be respected at all times. Failure of students to respect the lunch regulations will result in this privilege being withdrawn for a specified period of time.

LOST AND FOUND

Parents are requested to mark all student’s belongings to ensure lost or misplaced articles can be located and returned. “Lost and Found” are located in both Division I & II hallways. From time to time during the year, items are displayed at the front of the school. After a period of time, any unclaimed items will be donated to a charity.

PERSONAL PROPERTY Personal items not required for educational purposes such as iPods, video games, cell phones, cameras and large amounts of money should not be brought to school. Students who ride their bicycles are expected to walk them while on school property, which extends from the wire fence at the end of the charter bus zone to the crosswalk in front of the school to ensure the safety of others. Bicycles must be stored and locked up in the racks provided. Skateboards, scooters, in-line skates, heelies, hockey sticks and lacrosse sticks are not to be brought to school. These items present a safety hazard on the tarmac and sidewalks around the school. In addition to being a possible distraction and/or hazard, the security of these items cannot be guaranteed. The school will not be responsible for lost, stolen or damaged items.

OFFICE TELEPHONE With permission from their teacher, students may use the telephone in cases of special need. To limit interruptions, please make arrangements with your children before they come to school if there is a change to the usual daily routine. Students are not to be using cell phones during normal school operating hours. We realize that cell phones serve

a valuable purpose in communication between parent and student; however, the use of cell phones during class time can have a disruptive effect on many aspects of teaching and learning. Parents needing to contact their children during the school day are requested to contact the school office. A message will be delivered just prior to dismissal at lunch or the end of the day in order to ensure minimum disruption to instructional time.

SCHOOL PATROLS School Patrollers will be on duty in the morning before school between 8:05 AM and 8:20 AM which is the last crossing. After school patrols are on duty between 2:50 PM and 3:05 PM. There will be no patrol-assisted crossings during the noon hour. Patrollers will cross students at the crosswalk in front of the school on Sandarac Drive. Students and parents who must cross Sandarac Drive should make use of this crosswalk and give patrollers their full cooperation. When the temperature drops colder than minus 18°C, with or without the wind chill factor, patrols will NOT be sent out on duty in the crosswalk. Patrols will NOT be available during Year-Round breaks. All parents, students and vehicles are expected to follow School Patrol directions. Please choose safety over convenience!

SAFETY DRILLS

Schools are required to complete both fire drills and lockdown practices over the school year. These safety drills are intended to give students an opportunity to practice procedures to be followed in the event of a real emergency and to help them develop confidence and self-control if faced with an emergency situation. Research shows that individuals will respond in an emergency the way they have been trained to do so. Please be assured the District has emergency plans in place and all school personnel have been trained in emergency preparedness.

FEES The school, in collaboration with School Council, establishes a yearly fee schedule. All student fees are charged up front at the start of the school year. Fees are detailed on the Fee Schedule sent home in early September. The general fee covers the cost of school-wide presentations, conference manager and additional materials. Extended fees cover field trips and special events throughout the year. We have included all known field trips/events in the extended school fee. The Noon Supervision fees paid by all families cover the cost of noon-hour supervisors who assist with outside supervision over the lunch hour. Parents will have the option to pay selected school fees online or submit a cheque or cash to the office. Please direct any questions

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or concerns with the school fees to the School Administration Team.

STUDENT MEDICATION

The Board recognizes that some students must have prescribed medications during the school day. School staff is not permitted to administer any medications unless the proper authorization form(s) have been completed and submitted for superintendent approval. Medication will NOT be dispensed without this form on file. Please inquire through the school office for more information.

LEARNING COMMONS LIBRARY

All classes have regularly scheduled library periods and borrow books weekly. Students are expected to handle all books with care. In the event of damage or loss of any library materials, students will be expected to replace the book or make a donation to the school library. Multimedia computer stations, IPads and Chromebooks are available for students use on a sign out basis.

TECHNOLOGY All of our students have access to computers, chrome books, Smart technology and IPads. These devices are integrated into student learning in order to meet the provincial outcomes for technology. It is a general expectation that all computers used throughout the District’s network are to be used in a responsible, efficient, ethical and legal manner. All students, volunteers and staff members must sign the Acceptable Use Policy for Internet Use at the beginning of each school year. This policy indicates that the use of our technology and internet are privileges that can be withdrawn if guidelines for acceptable use are not followed. The progressive discipline policy will be in effect for repeat offences.

HEALTH SERVICES

Alberta Health Services provides a Community Health Nurse to service our school on a regular basis. The nurse acts as a health consultant and resource person in the planning and presentation of health programs offered at our school. The AHS Nurse monitors communicable diseases and other student health issues. She will be available to carry out the immunization programs and to consult with teachers and parents about health related issues.

DIVERSE LEARNER SUPPORT Teaching assistance is available for students with diverse learning needs including ELL, identified Alberta Learning Codes and those who may need additional support. The school, with parent approval, determines placements in special programs. Students are eligible to receive support during the year, depending on the child’s needs and availability of space.

SCHOOL RESOURCE TEAM (SRT) The School Resource Team (SRT) is a school based teacher support and problem solving system. SRT’s are based on current research which supports the belief that teachers have the expertise to work together in a problem solving process. It is a District expectation that schools will have regularly scheduled SRT meetings. The team includes classroom teachers, school resource teachers and administration. Program and Student Services personnel may be consulted by the School Resource Team. The SRT helps teachers work with students who have unique learning and behaviour needs. In cooperation with referring teachers, the team works in a structured process of conceptualizing and defining the problem, brainstorming solutions, planning interventions and evaluating outcomes. Throughout the process, the SRT maintains clear documentation.

STUDENT AGENDA

Every student in Grades K-6 will be provided with an agenda. The cost of the agenda is being covered by the Monsignor Neville Anderson School Council. Parents are encouraged to review the student agenda daily to familiarize themselves with their child’s activities. The agenda will be used as a communication tool between home and school; parents will be asked to sign it on a daily or weekly basis as per the homeroom teacher’s request. We believe that the use of an agenda is instrumental in helping the students develop organizational and planning skills.

INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAMS

Monsignor Neville Anderson School offers courses mandated by the Provincial Program of Studies for the Alberta curriculum. In addition, all Calgary Catholic District Schools provide Religious Education and Family Life Programs. The Core Program for elementary students includes:

Religion and Family Life

Language Arts

Mathematics

Social Studies

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Science

Physical Education and Health

Fine Arts (Music, Art and/or Drama)

French as a Second Language (division II)

CATHOLIC COMMUNITY OF CARING Catholic Community of Caring is a school-based approach that creates a stronger, healthier school climate. The goal of a Catholic Community of Caring is to create a safe and caring school environment that helps students to develop positive values and relationships within the entire school community. We plan activities that support and reinforce community spirit, Catholic values, social justice and student leadership. This year we will be creating Cross-Graded “Family Groups” where there will be students from kindergarten through grade 6 along with one of our teachers. The purpose of these groups is to give students an opportunity to know and work with students from other grade levels, to give opportunities for leadership, and to build a positive school climate and culture.

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION

Monsignor Neville Anderson expects all students to participate fully in our religious education program. In addition to the classroom program, a number of school liturgies and masses will be held throughout the year. A featured resource for the Religious Education program is the Kids In the Know program which aims to support students to reach their full potential as learners by giving them information and skills to be safe. Our Division II students also participate in Family Life through our faith based instruction. More information will follow from your child’s classroom teacher. Student Groups & Human Sexuality Topics Over the year, our school may establish a student group, which engages in discussion and activities related to diversity and justice issues, including support for students belonging to sexual minorities. In particular, within our Religious Education and Family Life Catholic Community of Caring program, students may provide leadership and receive support to continue to build inclusive communities, aligned with our Catholic social teachings. If

you wish further information, please contact the principal.

CLASSROOM PLACEMENTS

The placement of students into instructional groups is a task taken very seriously by all staff involved. We consider a variety of factors such as maturity, academic achievement, independent work habits, interpersonal skills and group relationships. We are particularly careful when we are selecting students for combined grade classes. Please trust that we have the best interests of the students at heart when we assign them to classes.

Parent requests for placement in a specific class are discouraged. Requests will be evaluated on an individual basis.

SCHOOL SUPPLIES All textbooks are provided for student use. Students are expected to take proper care of resources that are assigned to them. If a resource is defaced or lost the students will be expected to replace or pay for it. Students are required to provide their own school supplies. MNA offers pre-ordered supplies through SchoolKitz in the spring. For parents who pre-ordered supplies, these will be given to each student when they return to school. For parents wishing to purchase their own supplies, grade level supply lists are available on the school website: www.cssd.ab.ca/schools/msgranderson

HOMEWORK GUIDELINES The Calgary Catholic School District recognizes meaningful, carefully-planned homework can support student success and be a complementary part of a student’s overall learning program. In designing homework for students, teachers will apply the following guiding principles: • Ensure homework is purposeful and meaningful. • Plan and differentiate assignments in order to ensure students are able to complete homework independently or with minimal support. • Consider and be sensitive to the impact of homework on family life and balance the benefits of homework with respect for the value of family time. • Ensure students and parents are aware of and encouraged to use strategies for communicating challenges students may face in successfully completing homework. • When working with older students, seek their input into the structure of homework that best supports their learning and success. • Cooperate and coordinate homework assignments with other staff to identify best practices related to homework as a complement to learning and to avoid potential overload for the student at any one time. • Strive to identify interesting, engaging learning tasks for homework assignments. The Calgary Catholic School District recognizes the importance of family time, the value of celebrating religious traditions and the need to balance homework with other demands. It is therefore recommended, and supported by stakeholders, that teachers refrain from assigning homework over long weekends or holidays. Since regular weekends are often filled with many family demands, discretion should be used to ensure homework over regular weekends is no more than what might be normally assigned on a school night.

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At all levels, the time a student spends on homework may vary and individual student needs and capacity should always be considered. Keeping in mind that the first grade in each divisional range below should reflect time at the low end of the scale, with a gradual extension at the upper end of the division to the higher time range, the recommended time guidelines are: Kindergarten – Grade 3: Occasional 5-10 minutes of homework per week. Grades 4 to 6: Maximum of 30 minutes of homework per school night.

HOMEWORK DUE TO ABSENCE An absence from school usually causes a parent to be concerned about missed school work. While teachers share the same concern he/she is in the best position to determine the necessity for homework. A “rule of thumb” to consider is that 1/2 to 1 day absence does not usually require homework unless the teacher deems it necessary. Students who are absent from school on an extended holiday will not be assigned homework for their time away. We usually ask that a journal of events be kept to be shared with the class upon the student’s return to school. It is important to remember that the intention of homework is to support material covered in class not as independent study.

COMMUNICATION Regular communication between home and school is essential to the success of students. With this in mind, it is important that you talk with the person who can best respond to concerns or questions that you might have. Teachers and parents are encouraged to communicate whenever concerns or positive messages should be shared. The school will make every effort to communicate in a variety of ways including:

Weekly Parent Updates will be sent home via email. Printed copies are available upon request at the office.

Our school website www.cssd.ab.ca/schools/msgranderson

Eboard

Social Media: Facebook and Twitter

Our Community information Bulletin Board located in the front foyer by the gym.

Involvement in School Council

Student Handbook/Agenda

Orientations

Teacher emails

Phone calls, notes and surveys Your child’s homeroom teacher is the primary liaison between home and school. If parents have a concern we

ask that they contact the teacher first. In most cases the concern will be resolved. Please contact the school if you wish to meet with a teacher or administrator. The teacher’s primary responsibility is towards the students entrusted into his/her care. Please do not assume the teacher is available to meet with you when the bell rings before or after school or during recess and noon hours. Meetings can be arranged through mutual agreement.

ASSESSMENT Assessment of student learning is ongoing. Balanced assessment is a combination of teacher observation of daily work, special projects, formal and informal testing, student effort and self-evaluation. Student Learner Assessment (SLA) and Provincial Achievement Tests (PAT) are administered to students in grade 3 and 6. Grade 3 students write SLA’s in Language Arts and Math towards the beginning of each year. Grade 6 students write PAT’s in Language Arts, Math, Science and Social Studies each year. Students in Grade 4 are administered the Canadian Cognitive Abilities Test each fall. The Grade 5 students write a District Achievement Test in Religious Education

REPORTING ACHIEVEMENT Evaluation of student progress is a continuous process. Promotion is based primarily upon student’s satisfactory achievement and will always be in the best educational interests of the child as determined in continuous communication with the parent(s). Parents will be made aware of a student experiencing difficulty as early in the school year as possible. There is one Oral Conference at the beginning of the school year designed for parents/guardians to share information that would be valuable for the teachers to know to assist with planning learning experiences for their children. Parents help us to build a comprehensive learning profile for our students by keeping us informed and working with us to keep the communication between home and school open. Formal written progress reports will be issued three times in our school year with two additional conferences scheduled as well.

SCHOOL ACT

Section 12 of the School Act, Province of Alberta outlines the following code of conduct for students: “A student shall conduct himself so as to reasonably comply with the following code of conduct: a) be diligent in pursuing his studies; b) attend school regularly and punctually;

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c) co-operate fully with everyone authorized by the board to provide education programs and other services;

d) comply with the rules of the school; e) account to his teachers for his conduct; f) respect the rights of others.” Section 16.2 of the School Act, Province of Alberta also outlines the following responsibilities for parents: “A parent of a student has the responsibility: (a) to take an active role in the student’s educational success, including assisting the student in complying with section 12, (b) to ensure the parent’s conduct contributes to a welcoming, caring, respectful and safe learning environment, (c) to co-operate and collaborate with school staff to support the delivery of specialized supports and services to the student, (d) to encourage, foster and advance collaborative, positive and respectful relationships with teachers, principals, other school staff and professionals providing supports and services in the school, and (e) to engage in the student’s school community. School Act – Section 16.2

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT The district is committed to providing welcoming, caring, respectful and safe learning environments that respect diversity and foster a sense of belonging. Calgary Catholic School District’s value statement states that “All members of our community are sacred and must be treated with dignity and respect. We value excellence in Catholic education, guided by shared responsibility and the moral authority of the Church.” This statement guides all district stakeholders as we work to support student success and achievement. The school should be a positive learning environment in which students are safe, secure and successful and is reflective of section 45.1 of the School Act. When reviewing the student Code of Conduct we have also referenced section three of the Alberta Human Rights Act which prohibits discrimination on the basis of an individual’s race, religious beliefs, colour, gender, gender identity, gender expression, physical disability, mental disability, age, ancestry, place of origin, marital status, source of income, family status or sexual orientation of that person or class of persons. Any behaviour that supports this discrimination is prohibited.

CODE OF CONDUCT

All district schools have established Catholic Community of Caring programs that focus on building respectful and caring school environments, rooted in Catholic values. Catholic Communities of Caring programs align with the

School Act’s requirement to provide welcoming, caring, respectful and safe learning environments. Within our schools, we are building communities that are inclusive and celebrate respect for one another, community and diversity. This includes placing a strong value on:

Respecting all others, regardless of race, religious beliefs, colour, gender, gender identity, gender expression, physical disability, mental disability, age, ancestry, place of origin, marital status, source of income, family status or sexual orientation.

Respecting the school authority.

Respecting the school and district property, as well as the property of others.

Respecting yourself and the rights of others in the school.

Making sure your conduct contributes to a welcoming, caring, respectful and safe learning environment in the school that respects the diversity and fosters a sense of belonging of others in your school.

Refraining from, reporting and refusing to tolerate bullying or bullying behaviour, even if it happens outside of the school or school hours or electronically.

Informing an adult you trust in a timely manner of incidents of bullying, harassment, intimidation or other safety concerns in the school.

Acting in ways that honour and appropriately represent you and your school.

Attending school regularly and punctually.

Being ready to learn and actively engage in and diligently pursue your education.

Knowing and complying with the rules of your school.

Cooperating with all school staff.

Being accountable for your behaviour to your teachers and other school staff.

Contribute positively to your school and community.

Behaviours that do not support the Community of Caring program, and therefore interfere with the establishment of welcoming, caring, respectful and safe learning environments are considered unacceptable. These include, but are not limited to:

Behaviours that interfere with the learning of others and/or the school environment, or that create unsafe conditions;

Acts of bullying, cyber-bullying, harassment, or intimidation;

Retribution against any person in the school who has intervened to prevent or report bullying or any other incident or safety concern;

o Breaches of digital on-line safety; o Inappropriate use of mobile devices;

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o Inappropriate student dress; o Physical violence or threats; o Personal or sexual harassment; o Hazing; o Illegal activity such as:

gang activity; possession or use of weapons; possession, use or distribution of

illegal or restricted substances (including drugs, alcohol, tobacco, or e-cigarette products);

theft or damage to property.

Air Rifles/Guns The district prohibits students from possessing weapons or engaging in violent or threatening acts on school property, and at school sponsored functions and activities. "Weapon" means any object, device, or instrument designed or through its use is capable of threatening or producing bodily harm to oneself or others. By this definition, air rifles/guns are therefore considered weapons. As it is challenging to visually identify these weapons as air rifles/guns, school staff, Calgary Police Services and the RCMP will likely respond in the same manner as they would an actual rifle/gun. For the safety of all students, staff and visitors in the school, these items are not allowed on school property or at school-related activities under any circumstance. As outlined in Alberta’s School Act, students can be held accountable for conduct that occurs outside of the school building or school day and electronically (e.g. social media), if the conduct negatively affects a member of the school or interferes with the school environment.

PROGRESSIVE DISCIPLINE

Students who engage in unacceptable behavior will be held accountable through the school’s progressive discipline plan. Consistent and logical consequences, rather than punitive measures, are important to support students in making appropriate choices and help shape their future actions. In any disciplinary situation, each student will be dealt with on an individual basis, and will take into account the student’s age, maturity and individual circumstances. As well, parental or district involvement may be requested to support school discipline procedures. The school-wide discipline policy is designed to help students understand that they have chosen to behave inappropriately and to encourage them to acquire and apply more acceptable alternatives. Its purpose is to guide our students to develop self-control, self-direction and good work habits. To be successful, discipline requires mutual respect and trust. In assessing consequences, we do our best to treat all students fairly and consistently.

We also do our best to help students take responsibility for their actions and to support them in developing a plan of action. We use By Your Actions sheets to help students recognize what action was inappropriate, the students communicate what they could do differently if faced with a similar situation in the future and these forms may go home to be signed by parents to ensure that both home and school are aware of the lapse in judgment. Parental support by reviewing expectations of behaviour, supporting at school consequences, implementing at home consequences or having a follow up discussion with your child is a critical part of this process.

DISCIPLINARY ACTION Students who do not maintain a level of acceptable conduct may find themselves subject to corrective actions. Consequences must have a positive effect on the student’s journey through reconciliation, either formally or informally, with the school community and those affected by the student’s behaviour. The following consequences are progressive in their degree of intervention and will be enacted depending on the frequency and severity of occurrences. They will be applied consistently and equally to all students, notwithstanding the individual differences of children and the uniqueness of specific circumstances and situations. Progressive discipline is a whole-school approach that utilizes a continuum of interventions, supports, and consequences, including:

prevention measures and initiatives;

early and ongoing intervention strategies;

strategies to address unacceptable behaviour. Interventions and consequences increase when:

the concerning behavior is persistent;

the concerning behavior escalates;

there is a very serious infraction of the code of conduct.

Interventions and consequences may include, but are not limited to, the following:

informal conferences;

restriction of privileges;

parent conferences;

in-school suspensions;

risk assessment;

suspension / expulsion (AP 356);

student redirection

Behaviour Support Plan (as part of the Learner Support Plan);

involvement of Instructional Services and supports;

involvement of external services and supports.

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PROGRESSIVE DISCIPLINE STEPS AT

MONSIGNOR NEVILLE ANDERSON

Depending on the severity of the offense steps in the process may be omitted.

1. Informal Talk

School personnel will talk to the student, raise awareness to the problem and try to reach an agreement regarding how the student should behave.

2. Restriction of Privileges

The student is denied the opportunity to participate in recess, extra-curricular activities or assigned a detention. A “By Your Actions” sheet may also be completed. 3. Parent Conference

Whenever a situation is deemed serious or is unduly repetitive, a conference may be held between the student, parent and teacher. During this conference, an agreement must be reached as to how the behaviour will be corrected.

4. Suspension from School

Certain behaviours are intrinsically serious in nature and as such a student may be removed temporarily from class, given an informal in-school suspension - where the student is not allowed in a class for a specified period of time or formal out of school suspension – where the student is not allowed at school for a specified time period up to a maximum of five days.

The principal may involve police in disciplinary matters when criminal activity has become evident. When police are involved, the principal will conduct a separate, parallel investigation at the school level and provide disciplinary action separate from any criminal charges that may be issued

STUDENT SUPPORT:

Support will be provided to students impacted by inappropriate behaviour and to those students who engage in inappropriate behaviour. This is significant because while the student code of conduct must address the consequences for inappropriate behaviour, such as bullying, it also ensures that support (not just consequences) is provided to those students who engage in unacceptable behaviour. Examples of how support could be provided to students who have engaged in unacceptable behaviour include mentoring, restorative processes, regular check-ins with teachers or schools counsellors, counselling, etc.

CONSIDERATION OF STUDENT DIVERSITY:

The School Act requires that the student code of conduct address consequences for unacceptable behaviour and

that these reasonable consequences take into account the student’s age, maturity, and individual circumstances. The specific circumstances of the situation and of the student need to be taken into account when determining appropriate consequences. For example, any diverse needs that the student has – whether they are physical, behavioural, communicational, mental health, trauma, etc. – must be considered. The age and maturity of students involved will also be considered when determining the consequences and support required.

CHARTER BUS BEHAVIOUR

EXPECTATIONS The following is the Calgary Catholic School District’s behavioral expectations regarding student conduct on school busses. Students riding on a school bus will be under the immediate authority of the driver who will report all cases of student misconduct to the school administration. The following guidelines apply:

The driver is in full charge of the bus and the driver’s directions must be obeyed.

The driver may assign specific seats to students at any time.

At no time will students extend parts of their bodies out of windows or move within the bus while it is in motion.

Students must not throw paper or other material in or out of the bus windows.

While on the bus, students must conduct themselves in a quiet and courteous manner, showing consideration for the comfort and safety of others.

Scuffling, fighting and the use of inappropriate language on the bus is prohibited.

Students must not distract the bus driver.

When leaving the bus, students who must cross the road are to do so after the bus has left the stop. Students must be able to have a clear view in all directions before crossing the road.

A student’s failure to comply with these expectations could result in disciplinary action or the loss of riding privileges for a period of time.

DRESS CODE Since Monsignor Neville Anderson School is a Catholic school we subscribe to the morals and traditions of the Catholic Faith. Therefore, students are expected to dress in an appropriate manner using standards of good grooming, good taste and common sense. Emblems, printing/writing on shirts, jackets and headwear should not be in conflict with Catholic values. This is especially relevant to T-shirts, low rider pants, short skirts, spaghetti straps and “summer wear”. Students exposing midriffs, wearing halter tops, short-shorts or muscle shirts, or

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shirts with inappropriate messages or designs printed on them will be asked to change. Hats are not to be worn in the school. During winter months, parents are also requested to ensure their children come dressed for the weather. Except on the very coldest days, students are expected to be outside for the morning and the noon hour recess. All students need to have a clean pair of indoor shoes. We recommend these be running shoes that can also be used in Physical Education classes. Students should be wearing footwear at all times for safety and health reasons.

PARTNERSHIP

All of us recognize that our role is one of service and that the school exists for students. Our school is a place where parents are recognized as partners and they are welcome at all times. A special on-going invitation is extended to all parents to attend assemblies, liturgies or special celebrations. Coming into conflict with a fellow student is part of every student’s social learning. Students come to school with differing levels of sensitivity and from a variety of backgrounds. Supporting your child through conflict situations is important and provides an opportunity for home and school to work together to build skills around self—advocacy and communication while also building resilience. If your child shares a conflict concern at home, it helps to ask your child questions to help to promote understanding of his or her perception of the situation. Questions such as: What happened? Who was involved? What was your contribution to the situation? Were others involved? Did you seek assistance from an adult? What tools did you employ? What could be done to repair the relationship? Sometimes, your child may feel confident to attempt to resolve the conflict on his or her own. Other times, support from a staff member may be required. You may wish to contact your child’s teacher to share your child’s perspective and request further investigation be pursued. Most concerns are resolved at this level however if further investigation or intervention is required the school administration may become involved. It is the expectation that school staff will keep in contact with parents as we believe that partnering with parents helps to provide your child with the best learning experience possible.

PARENT V OLUNTEERS The staff and students of Monsignor Neville Anderson School welcome active and visible parental involvement in the life of the school and the education of your children.

Volunteers enrich the learning environment of our children and the lives of those donating their time. To meet the needs of our school and the whole spectrum of volunteer interests, parents can choose to serve in many areas. The quality and variety of school programs have been enhanced by the many talents and gifts of our school volunteers. Parent volunteers help to build successful programs and self-confident students. Through the Parent Volunteer program, supervised volunteers assist teachers and school administrators in a variety of ways. The staff invites you to share your talents and time through the volunteer program. Volunteer Orientations are completed online on our website. All volunteers are required to complete this orientation prior to volunteering in the school setting. The orientation provides parents with detailed information about roles and responsibility of volunteers, school wide expectations around regulations such as Occupational Health and Safety and requires that the application form, confidentiality and internet form be completed each year. The online format has certainly allowed for a greater number of volunteers to take part in a variety of events both on and off campus. Volunteers are asked to report to the office upon arrival, sign in and wear a Volunteer name tag. Please keep the tag visible so that we know that you have checked in.

SCHOOL COUNCIL Monsignor Neville Anderson School Council is a valuable element in the decision-making process at the local and district level of our school. All parents with children registered at our school are part of the School Council. Each year, elections are held to elect members to the School Council. The elected executive helps to organize School Council events. DID YOU KNOW? School Council members help

Advise the administration team in school based decisions.

To build the school community.

Enhance existing educational programming.

Provide financial assistance.

Change the face of education through advocacy and lobbying.

Getting involved with School Council is a fun way to be a large part of your child’s education. This is your Council. Please support it by being involved!

ASCENSION PARISH Monsignor Neville Anderson School is part of the Ascension Parish Community located at 1100 Berkshire Blvd. N.W. Tel: 403-275-2240. All Sacramental preparation (First Communion, Reconciliation and Confirmation) is done primarily through your home parish with the support of the school.

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Throughout the year, the Priest, Assistant Pastor, Pastoral Assistant or Deacons will attend school religious celebrations and will conduct scheduled visits with our classes. Twice a year, the students will participate in a full mass. With the renovations starting at the Parish we will be hosting the masses at the school in the gymnasium. Weekend Mass Times at Ascension Parish are: Saturday 5:00pm, 7:00pm; Sunday 8:30 am, 10:30am, 12:30 pm and 5:00pm.

S4 – STAY SMART STAY SAFE

PROGRAM Classroom experience with police officers highlight the Calgary Police Service core values and recognize the importance of working together to have a positive impact in the community. Informal activities during the school day, on the playground and other school events, contribute to building positive relationships between students, families, schools, and police officers. Police officers and teachers co-facilitate lessons within the classroom to explore the question "How do we work together to keep our community safe?" Police ask students to reflect on their own tools and strategies for making good choices at school, home, and in the community. Students are encouraged to self-reflect, set goals for themselves, and discover their important role in helping those around them.

ADVENTURERS SCHOOL AGE CARE Adventurers School Age Care is an independently run program that is offered to students who are registered at Monsignor Neville Anderson school. Adventurers offers an Enhanced Kindergarten Program for the afternoon and Before and After School care options between 7:00am and 6:00pm. This is a preregistered program that works with our students and families to provide quality after school experiences for children. Adventurers programs are licenced through Calgary Area Child and Family Services and offer care before and after school, professional development days, noon dismissals and specified holidays for an additional fee. We are fortunate that this program will be working with both our Year-Round and Regular calendars; meeting the needs of our entire community. For further information please contact the program director at mnanderson@adventurers-sac.com.

PARTNERSHIP WITH PETLAND Monsignor Neville Anderson School is very excited to be continuing its partnership with Petland. Working with Petland allows us to have three maintained fish tanks in the school – two in classrooms and our large tank in the learning commons library. The students will continue to have access to unique learning and explorations

opportunities throughout the year. They will be encouraged to make observations, ask critical questions, research information, develop creative writing and artwork all while continuing to learn about the different kinds of fish that are part of our community. Thank you to Petland for their continued partnership with us.

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MONSIGNOR NEVILLE ANDERSON 2016-2017

YEAR ROUND CALENDAR

AUGUST 2 Teacher Organization Day NO CLASSES 3 First day of school for YEAR ROUND STUDENTS 29 Teacher Organization Day NO CLASSES 30 Professional Development am/District Mass pm NO

CLASSES 31 Year Round Classes in session SEPTEMBER 5 Labour Day NO CLASSES 15 Parent Teacher Conferences pm 16 Parent Teacher Conferences NO CLASSES OCTOBER 7 Professional Development Day NO CLASSES 10 Thanksgiving Day NO CLASSES 11 YEAR ROUND STUDENTS ON FALL BREAK 24 YEAR ROUND STUDENTS RETURN TO SCHOOL 31 Professional Development Day – NO CLASSES NOVEMBER 1 Faith Day NO CLASSES 11 Remembrance Day NO CLASSES DECEMBER 1 Parent Teacher Conferences – PM 2 Parent Teacher Conferences – NO CLASSES 22 Christmas Break begins – FULL DAY OF CLASSES

JANUARY 16 YEAR ROUND STUDENTS RETURN TO SCHOOL 27 Professional Development Day NO CLASSES FEBRUARY 16 Teachers Convention NO CLASSES 17 Teachers Convention NO CLASSES 20 Family Day NO CLASSES MARCH 1 Ash Wednesday 15 Parent Teacher Conferences pm 16 Parent Teacher Conferences NO CLASSES 17 Professional Development Day – NO CLASSES 20 Spring Break Begins for YRE APRIL 3 YEAR ROUND STUDENTS RETURN BACK TO SCHOOL 14 Good Friday – NO CLASSES 17 Easter Monday – NO CLASSES MAY 19 Professional Development Day NO CLASSES 22 Victoria Day NO CLASSES JUNE 29 Last day of Classes

REGULAR CALENDAR SEPTEMBER 1 First day of school for TRADITIONAL STUDENTS 5 Labour Day NO CLASSES 15 Parent Teacher Conferences pm 16 Parent Teacher Conferences NO CLASSES OCTOBER 7 Professional Development Day NO CLASSES 10 Thanksgiving Day NO CLASSES 31 Professional Development Day –NO CLASSES NOVEMBER 1 Faith Day NO CLASSES 11 Remembrance Day NO CLASSES 30 Professional Development Day NO CLASSES DECEMBER 1 Parent Teacher Conferences pm 2 Parent Teacher Conferences NO CLASSES 22 Christmas Break begins - FULL DAY OF CLASSES

JANUARY 9 TRADITIONAL STUDENTS RETURN TO SCHOOL 27 Professional Development Day NO CLASSES FEBRUARY 16 Teachers Convention NO CLASSES 17 Teachers Convention NO CLASSES 20 Family Day NO CLASSES MARCH 1 Ash Wednesday 15 Parent Teacher Conferences pm 16 Parent Teacher Conferences NO CLASSES 17 Professional Development Day – NO CLASSES 24 Spring Break begins – FULL DAY OF CLASSES APRIL 3 TRADITIONAL STUDENTS RETURN BACK TO SCHOOL 14 Good Friday – NO CLASSES 17 Easter Monday – NO CLASSES MAY 19 Professional Development Day NO CLASSES 22 Victoria Day NO CLASSES JUNE 29 Last day of Classes ** Please note that some dates may be subject to change. ** Please refer to the monthly newsletters or the school website for updates. www.cssd.ab.ca/msgranderson