STUDENT HANDBOOK

WELCOME TO THE 2011 - 2012 SCHOOL YEAR

Welcome back Pioneer Panthers! This year promises to be another exciting, fun filled year of learning and Renaissance excitement. The key to a successful year is to have a positive attitude and to take advantage of all the wonderful things Pioneer has to offer. Remember the Powerful Panther Pledge... and "promise to strive for excellence at all times... to respect property, yourself and others above all... to recognize and be proud of the success of others and of your own successes". By doing this, you will be rewarded for your efforts, which reinforces school values and rules which ultimately result in an awesome school for an awesome year!

Pioneers Mission Statement

Pioneer Middle School is a professional learning community with high expectations, committed to ensuring that all students achieve academic, social, and emotional success and growth within a safe, caring, healthy and positive environment.

Pioneers Vision Statement

All students will learn and grow academically, socially, emotionally and physically!

2011 - 2012 SCHOOL YEAR

2011 SEPTEMBER 1......................First Day of School 5......................Stat. Holiday No School 12......................Pioneer School Council Meeting, 7 pm, Library 22......................Student Photo Day 23......................Professional Development - Staff Only 30......................Terry Fox Run OCTOBER 30......................Renaissance 1st Pep Rally 7......................No School 10......................Thanksgiving Day Holiday (No School) 17......................Pioneer School Council Meeting, 7 pm, Library 28......................Teacher Professional Development -Teaching Staff Only NOVEMBER 4......................Teacher Professional Development Teaching Staff Only 10......................Day Off In Lieu of Parent/Teacher Interviews 11......................Remembrance Day, No School 14......................Pioneer School Council Meeting, 7 pm, Library 18......................Progress Report Cards go home with students 22......................Parent Teacher Interview Evening, 5:30 to 8:30 pm 23......................Parent Teacher Interview Evening, 5:30 to 8:30 pm DECEMBER 30......................November Renaissance Academic Assembly 2......................Teacher Professional Development Teaching Staff Only 12......................Pioneer School Council Meeting, 7 pm, Library 23......................December Renaissance Pep Rally & Students last day before Christmas Break 2012 JANUARY 9......................School re-opens following Christmas Break 9......................Pioneer School Council Meeting, 7 pm, Library 30......................Professional Development Staff Only FEBRUARY 9 & 10 ............Teachers' Convention (No School) 13......................Pioneer School Council Meeting, 7 pm, Library 17......................Teacher Professional Development Teaching Staff Only 20......................Stat. Holiday -Family Day (No School) 29......................February Renaissance Pep Rally MARCH 2......................Teacher Professional Development -Teaching Staff Only 12......................Pioneer School Council Meeting, 7 pm, Library 16......................2nd Progress Report Cards go home with Students 20 & 21.............Parent Teacher Interview Evening, 5:30 to 8:30 pm 23......................Day off in Lieu of Parent/Teacher Interviews 26 30..............Spring Break No School APRIL 2......................School re-opens following Spring Break 3......................April Renaissance Academic Assembly 6......................Stat. Holiday, Good Friday No School 9......................Stat. Holiday, Easter Monday, - No School 16......................Pioneer School Council Meeting, 7 pm, Library 20......................Teacher Professional Development Teaching Staff Only MAY ......................4 Teacher Professional Development Teaching Staff Only 14......................Pioneer School Council Meeting, 7 pm, Library

2011 - 2012 SCHOOL YEAR CONT.

18......................No School 21......................Victoria Day Holiday (No School) 31......................May Renaissance Pep Rally JUNE 1......................Teacher Professional Development Teaching Staff Only 11......................Pioneer School Council Meeting, 7 pm, Library 19......................Aboriginal Day 28......................June Renaissance Academic Assembly & Last day of school for students 30......................Teacher Professional Development Teaching Staff Only

Pioneer Middle School

Renaissance Program
Renaissance inspires the acceptance and excitement for academic excellence. It is a proven school and community partnership that increases student attendance, achievement and involvement. Renaissance also encourages the involvement of parents, and local businesses to support and collaborate with the school. This focus will encourage personal and academic excellence, preparing youth for a lifetime of learning and success. A school-wide program involving on-going recognition of academic and behavioural excellence, Renaissance is comprised of both formal aspects (such as monthly and term achievement celebrations, agenda runs, and complementary course/options programs) and informal events (such as random recognition, spot checks, and school spirit activities). The five Rs of the program are: Respect, Recognition, Reinforcement, Results and Reward! Make your Pioneer experience count and get involved in Renaissance!

Period
Homeroom 8:58 8:58
1

Day One

Day Two

Day Three

Day Four

Day Five

Day Six

8:52

9:50 9:50 to 10:00 10:00 10:52 10:52 11:44 11:44 to 12:32 12:32 1:24 1:24 2:16 2:16 to 2:26 2:26 3:18 3:18 Break Break Break Break Break Break Noon Noon Noon Noon Noon Noon Break Break Break Break Break Break

TIME TABLE
3

3:30

REGULAR SCHOOL DAY BELL SCHEDULE

Warning Bell Homeroom Period 1 Break Period 2 Period 3 Noon

Nutrition Break Activity Time Warning Bell

8:48 a.m. 8:52 a.m. 8:58 a.m. 9:50 a.m. 10:00 a.m. 10:52 a.m. 11:44 a.m. 12:01 p.m. 12:27 p.m. 12:32 p.m. 1:24 p.m. 2:16 p.m. 2:26 p.m. 3:18 p.m. 8:58 a.m. 9:50 a.m. 10:00 a.m. 10:52 a.m. 11:44 a.m. 12:01 p.m. 12:27 p.m. 12:32 p.m. 1:24 p.m. 2:16 p.m. 2:26 p.m. 3:18 p.m. 3:30 p.m.

Final Bell

Period 4 Period 5 Break Period 6 Period 7

(Advisory)

Pioneers Healthy School Food and Nutrition Policy

The philosophy of Pioneer Schools Healthy School Food and Nutrition Policy is to focus on promoting nutritious food choices first and foremost.

Goal/vision: Good nutrition is essential for growth, development and learning. Our environment is one of the most important indicators determining our success in making healthy food choices. Pioneer School will therefore provide nutritious food choices first and foremost. Because we value the health of students and staff, we are responsible for ensuring that a variety of healthy foods and beverages are provided, consistent with nutrition education provided in the classroom. School Food Policy Guidelines: Pricing and Promotion: Nutritious foods and beverages are competitively priced and appropriately promoted School fundraisers: Will not rely solely on the sale of non-nutritious foods and beverages. Fundraising alternatives that support healthy eating and active living messages taught in the classroom will be promoted. Type of food and beverages: Those available for sale on school grounds, including vending machines and special events will follow standards set by the committee Energy Drinks are not allowed in school. They are not to be consumed during the school day. Energy drinks will be confiscated. Food for all: free breakfast which meets nutrition standards set by the committee Due to a number of severe allergies, Pioneer School is nut safe. This means: no peanut butter, chocolate bars with nuts, granola bars with nuts, etc.

Its all about belonging to a Safe, Caring, and Positive School

We are committed to being a safe, caring, and positive place. Making sure that all students are safe from physical and emotional harm is very important to each one of us. In fact, making our school a safe place is the key building block of our discipline policy.
The safe, caring, and positive idea can be seen in two ways: 1. Teaching / Modeling: during the regular school day, teachers and staff will take time to:
a. help you understand expectations (work, behavior, attitude, etc), b. help you understand the right ways to react to situations, and c. help you learn some problem-solving strategies.

Heres something to try: if someone is bugging you, ask them to please stop. If they continue, tell them that you do not like it and ask them again to please stop. Its really important that you are not doing some teasing back then crying wolf. If they still continue, then find an adult in the school. Tell the adult that youve asked the person twice to stop bugging you and that all you want is for it to stop.

2. Classroom and school discipline policies: By talking with students and parents, our schools rules as well as the specific rules to your classroom have been developed to make Pioneer an excellent place to learn without distraction or disruption. Obviously, it is very important that everyone does his / her best to follow the school rules.

Student Success
Homework and Study:
There will be times this year when you will have homework. Doing well with your homework has a number of key benefits:
a. b. c. d. e. You You You You You will will will will will know the subject better. get better grades. do better on tests and quizzes. find it easier to study for exams and quizzes. gain more confidence.

Try This:

We talked to some successful students and asked them how they study and do homework. Here are some of the general answers we were given: -I take something home every night. Even if I dont have homework, I study. -I find a comfortable place. -I like to have music playing in the background. -I do my homework as soon as I get home. -I always do my homework at the same time. -I use my agenda every day. I ask my parents and friends for help if I need it.

Every class has different requirements. For example, in math, youll need a pencil while in Phys. Ed. youll need a gym strip. Successful students know what is needed for each course and make sure that they have it there. If they are running out of supplies, they make sure someone knows before they are out. The way our timetable works, there are breaks provided between periods two and three as well as six and seven. You will need to make sure you bring all the supplies you need for all classes as you will only be allowed to go to your lockers during breaks.

Focus, Focus, Focus:

During the course of the year there are a lot of things that will draw your attention away from your desire to be successful. Things like disagreements with friends, rumors, family 8 issues, fooling around, etc can sometimes cause students to lose focus. Its important to know that there are a lot of supports here for you. Use them! Successful students do their best to keep focused on their goals.

PLATINUM, GOLD, SILVER & IMPROVEMENT CLUBS: WHAT ABOUT ACADEMICS?

Students have always been expected to do their very best in all subject areas and this will continue to be our expectation. Those students who demonstrate academic achievement at or above grade expectations will win the privilege of entering the Platinum, Gold, Silver or the improvement club, where rewards are offered for their great efforts.

HOW CAN PARENTS HELP?

Sign your childs agenda daily Talk to them daily about their day and support exemplary behaviour standards for your child Ensure your child is doing their homework daily Help them organize themselves so they bring what they need to each class. Volunteer for Renaissance activities

Information and Communication

Good communication is very important so that everyone knows whats going on around the school. Communication occurs in many different ways:

Announcements: Announcements are made in the morning, before lunch, and right before

the end of school. It is critical that when the announcements come on, everyone needs to stop what they are doing and listen. Even if the announcement doesnt concern you, theres a good chance it concerns someone else in your class.

Posters: Throughout the year there will be a number of posters around the
school. These will contain important information. respect them. Make sure to read and

Newsletters: On the second Wednesday of every month, the monthly newsletter will be
available on the pioneer website www.wrsd.ca/pioneer/index/html. copies available at the office for pickup.

There will be limited

Report Cards: Report cards come out three times a year: November, March, and
June. On top of that, many teachers send home progress reports, notes, or make

phone calls. These reports are to help you know your progress. The successful student will learn from these reports and make adjustments as needed. After the report card goes home, it needs to be signed then returned to your homeroom teacher.

Parent-Teacher Interviews: These are scheduled for the week after report cards go home in

November and March. Exact dates and times are posted in the front of this agenda. The staff at Pioneer School also has an open invitation for parents and guardians to make an appointment for a meeting at any time.

There are a number of assemblies throughout the school year. As part of our Renaissance program, parents and community members aree encouraged to attend our assemblies. This is a time for Pioneer School to showcase our successes. Please remember proper etiquette during these formal and fun times.

Assemblies:

Email: Each student and staff at Pioneer will be given an email account. Successful students use

this to enhance their learning. They do not use their email accounts as electronic note passing devices. Many teachers will allow you to email assignments from home (in case your printer runs out of ink). Check with your teachers. Check out the Pioneer School web site! The address is www.wrsd.ca/pioneer.

Drop Boxes: Some of your teachers have electronic drop boxes set up so that you can
send your work to them electronically.

Telephones: There is a phone in the student gathering area that students may use

during breaks. There is also a phone in the office that students may use in case of an emergency. Cell phones and blackberries (or other text messaging devices) are to be kept off and in lockers during regular school hours. Staff reserves the right to confiscate such devices if rules are not abided by.

Sports, Clubs, and Activities

Successful students are involved students; so, we expect our students to get involved. Many different activities will be available to you this year. Be sure to listen to announcements, read the newsletter and watch for posters. Being a member of the Pioneer School community means that YOU are invited to participate. Remember, as much as we can provide the activity, its up to you to get involved. Below are some critical details about our teams, clubs, and activities.

Costs: Many of the programs will have a minimal cost. This covers some of the expenses to run the

program. Some of the programs have no cost (intramurals, library, chess / games, student council, and many more). We also believe that no student should miss out because of money. If money is an issue, see your coach / coordinator.

Hoodies, t-shirts and sweatpants will be available.

Clothing: Students will be able to purchase Pioneer logo clothing throughout the year.

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0 Band:

Aside from the regular band program that is offered, there are other ways that you can get involved in music. If you are ever unsure, talk to Ms. Hastings. Extra band programs that you can get involved in are:

Grade 6 Honour Band: Each year we encourage the Grade Six band students to get

involved in Honour Band. Students in the Grade Six Honour Band take part in pull-out rehearsals so they are prepared to perform in music festivals in Red Deer and at the final concert. They also play for incoming elementary students. Additionally they spend a day at the Red Deer College Arts

Everyone is welcome! o Jazz Band: Students involved in this program will participate in workshops, concerts, and a
performance tour. Jazz will run one early morning per week from mid Sept. Apr. 1.

Centre for Clinics on Campus where they receive instruction from professional musicians.

Woodwind ROCK: If you play the flute, the clarinet, or the oboe, this

program should excite you. Music styles for this program include jazz, pop, and folk. Musicians in this program will be able to take advantage of the same trip and extracurricular activities as students in the jazz program.

Solo and Ensemble Club: Students who want to get even more music are encouraged to participate in the Red Deer Kiwanis Festival. More information will be available in the music handbook youll receive in band class. o o Rocky Conservatory: The Band Parents Association has set up a conservatory for
private lessons through Red Deer College. Contact Mark Friesen at 845-3711 for more information

Library: Successful students know how to use the library (and they use it). Our library is open from at lunchtime and after school until 4:00. Please come in to read, study, or work on assignments. You will get a regular class period in the library that will serve to enhance your language arts program. Two books can signed out for a three week period. Please return or renew your books within this time. If a book is lost or damaged you will charged for the replacement cost of the book, and a $5 processing fee will be charged for books more than three months overdue. We have a beach reading area upstairs available for student use at lunchtime, and for ten students during scheduled class times. Be sure to check with Mrs. Irmen, our librarian, about using it.

0 Student Leadership: Our Renaissance program invites student participation.

plan activities, assemblies, and spirit days. See Ms. Dueck.

Students can help

0 Noon hour activities/games:

Many clubs and activities often develop throughout the year. Be sure to listen to announcements and get involved.

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0 Yearbook Club: 0

Each year Pioneer School produces a yearbook. Students are invited and encouraged to be part of the team that puts it all together. See Ms. Briner for more details.

Intramural Activities: Intramurals are activities that go on during lunch hours. Flag football,
indoor soccer, basketball, floor hockey and badminton are some of the ways that you can get involved. Successful students have a good balance of work, rest, and play. Ask your Gym teacher for more information.

0 Sports Clubs and Teams:

Need a good sweat? Some physical exercise? Be sure to look into one of our sports clubs. As your coaches are volunteers, we hold high expectations. Respect is essential. Listen to announcements to find out more!

Badminton Club: Badminton happens after basketball season. There are many different teams on which to play. Singles, doubles, and mixed doubles are available at each grade level. We also bring in badminton racquets (at our cost) for anyone who would like to purchase one ($15 $100). We also have a large selection of school racquets for students to borrow. Costs will be determined during the badminton season. o

0 Sports Teams:
o o o

As with the club programs, coaches for the sports teams volunteer their time. Once again, please respect this by showing excellent participation. Listed below are the sports team you will be able to join:

Volleyball: September / October - Boys and Girls Grades 6 8. Cost Basketball: December to February - Grades 6 8. Cost TBA. Track and Field: May / June Boys and Girls Grades 6 8. Track and

TBA.

Field includes: high jump, long jump, triple jump, discus, shot put, hurdles, 60m, 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, 1500m and relay. Please see Ms. Dueck more information. Cost is to be announced which includes a t-shirt and entry into divisionals.

0 School Sponsored Activities:

Many different activities will be offered throughout the school year: celebrations, theme days, dances, homeroom challenges, band trips, etc The successful student gets involved and makes the most of these opportunities. They are there for your benefit. Enjoy them. You need to know that dances, and any extracurricular event, are a privilege you earn by using your agenda, being on time, completing homework, and cooperating with staff and other students. Students who have been suspended and those who skip out of school will automatically lose these privileges.

0 Dances:

Dances are fun-filled evenings that most students enjoy a lot. There will be three dances this year.

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0 Hard Work Caf:

As part of our Renaissance program, the Hard Work Caf is available to invited students who are being recognized for their positive contributions to the school. Bring your phones, ipods, etc and enjoy your time in the caf!

0 Tuck Shop and more:

We have a tuck where you can purchase food that meets our nutrition policy. Be sure to check out the menu because it may not be open everyday. Also, we have a juice machine and milk machine. The only times you may use the machines are during breaks, before and after school, and at lunch. The machines are off limits during class time and only water is allowed during class time.

School Procedures
Emergency Drills: Two basic drills that students and staff will be practicing this year are
the fire drill and the lock down. Be sure to take these drills seriously as they prepare you in case there ever is a real emergency. Your teachers will show you (and there is a poster in each room) the emergency exit route. If there ever is an alarm during a break, exit the school through the safest, closest door then go immediately to where your homeroom meets.

Attendance Phone: It is the law in Alberta that students attend school and are ontime for each of their classes. If you are going to be away from school, make sure that a parent / guardian calls the attendance phone line 844-4213. If contact is not made, the school may phone your parent(s) / guardian(s) at home or at work.

Late: Successful students know that it is important to be on time. If you are late
in the morning and after lunch, you must report to the attendance secretary for a late slip. Your teachers will hold you accountable for coming late to class. Remember when the second bell rings you should already be in class ready to work.

Permission to Leave: If you need to leave during the day (between

8:45 and 3:30 which includes lunch), you need to be signed out by a parent at the office.

The school needs to know that you have permission to leave BEFORE you go. Not following this procedure will be considered skipping and result in loss of priveleges (ie: dance, panther party and assemblies)

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Medical Excuses: Make sure your teachers and the school office know of any medical

conditions with a note from your doctor or parent(s) / guardian(s). In PHYS. ED. class, the expectation is that you participate to the best of your ability, regardless of your medical condition. Instead of running, you may be asked to walk, referee, or keep score.

be cleared and you can enjoy your break in various supervised locations. Outside on school grounds, computer labs, library, etc. Students are expected to stay on school grounds, because we cannot take responsibility for you if you are not here.

Lunch: Lunches are eaten in your homeroom, after which, the hallways should

Hall / Library Passes: Each teacher has hall and library pass cards. If you need to leave the
room during class, you need to have a hall pass with you. If you need to visit the library during class, you will need to have a library pass with you.

After school dismissal: Unless you are involved in an

after school activity or event, you are expected to clear out of the school immediately after the dismissal bell.

Care of Property: Successful students have considered that our school is a home away from home. They have figured out that it is important to do the little things like throwing garbage into a garbage can and respecting equipment (band, phys. ed., CTS, computers, drama, etc). When we all pitch in, our school stays neat and tidy. Here are some ways to respect our school: o Wear only indoor shoes in the gym; it will keep the floor clean and dust-free. o Label all your school supplies. If you lose something, people will know to whom to return it. Likewise, if you find something, get it back to the person or bring it to the office. o Keep your locker neat and mold free. Its always easier to find your supplies when your locker is organized. Also, since as you will have to clean your locker at the end of the year, please do not use markers or stickers. o Wear indoor shoes in the school, especially if your outdoor footwear is wet or muddy; as it keeps the school looking clean. Lockers: School lockers are the schools property. As a result, the school has a right to search
a locker at any time without notice. If there is a big enough concern, the RCMP can be called in to conduct a search. The school will provide you with a lock. Keep the combination a secret. Only school locks can be used on a locker. All other locks will be cut off. Finally, in some cases you will be assigned a locker partner. You may not change lockers or locker partners without first getting permission from your homeroom teacher.

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Valuables: Do NOT leave valuables in an unsecured location. This can include

a locker to which many people know the combination to the lock, an unlocked locker, or (especially) a change room. If you are concerned about something going missing, you may bring the item to the office for the school to hold for you. The school is not responsible for lost/damaged or stolen items. If you bring cell phones/MP3s to school, it must remain in your locker. Any personal electronic devices (phones, MP3s etc.), and hats, should be removed and put away while at school. Should you choose not to comply, these items will confiscated and returned at the end of the day. Repeat offenders will pick the item up from the office, or be required to have a parent pick it up from the office.

Passwords:

Computer passwords need to be kept secretoccasionally the school can access websites that require a password that is specific to our school, these can be written here for easy access:

LearnAlberta: ____________________ Other: __________________________

Code of Conduct
The Law:
The province of Alberta has a number of different laws or acts. When you drive a car, you must follow the rules of the Motor Vehicles Act. When you come to school, you must follow the rules of the School Act. The School Act has a number of laws for how schools are to run. Laws for teachers, laws for bus drivers, laws for principals, etc are all part of the Act. Also part of the School Act is a section of laws for students to follow. That section (#12) states the following: A student shall conduct himself or herself so as to reasonably comply with the following code of conduct: be diligent in pursuing their studies,

attend school regularly and punctually, cooperate fully with everyone authorized by the board to provide education programs and other services, comply with the rules of the school, account to the teachers for the students conduct, and respect the rights of others.

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In other words, you must do your best to do the following:

try your best in all your courses, do not miss any school and always be on time for classes, if any employee of the school board (principal, teacher, T.A., secretary, custodian, bus driver, etc) asks you to do something, you do it. follow the school rules, be respectful to everyone (even the people you dont know or like).

Student Rights and Responsibilities

Everyone who belongs to the Pioneer School Community has rights and responsibilities. Rights are the things that people can expect to have while responsibilities are the things people need to do to ensure others rights are protected. Here are some examples:
7 I have the right to learn in this school. 7 I also have the responsibility to be prepared to learn and not to interfere with others learning. AKA I need to come to class ready to learn and when Im there, I cant goof around so myself or others dont learn. 7 I have the right to be listened to. 7 I also have the responsibility to listen to others. AKA The class cannot function when everyone is talking and no one is listening. There is a reason why we have twice as many ears as mouths. 7 I have the right to be respected in this school. 7 I have the responsibility to respect the rights and feelings of others. AKA Golden Rule: Treat others as you, yourself, would like to be treated. 7 I have the right to be safe in this school. 7 I have the responsibility to ensure that no one is emotionally or physically harmed. AKA I need to make sure that everyone feels safe and cared for. I have a responsibility to do something if I see something happening that shouldnt. It might be as simple as telling someone to stop. 7 I have the right to cooperation. 7 I have to responsibility to cooperate with others. AKA If everyone cooperates, it will make this school an amazing place. With that said, you are the only person you control. If someone isnt cooperating, it doesnt mean that you shouldnt either.

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7 I have the right to ask for help. 7 I have the responsibility to ask for help when I need it. AKA If I need help, I need to ask. This might be about school work, friendship issues, life issues, etc Dont be afraid to ask. 7 I have the right to be told the truth. 7 I have a responsibility to be truthful. AKA Firstly, I need to be truthful to myself. I also need to be truthful to everyone else. Truthfulness ends rumors, deceit, and deception.

7 I have the right to know the rules and procedures of the school and the class.
7

I have the responsibility to know the rules, follow the rules, and (if necessary) accept the consequences for not living up to the rules. AKA Rules are there for a reason essentially so that everyone learns in a safe and caring environment. When someone breaks the rules, that environment is lost.

Use the space provided on this page to come up with three more rights and responsibilities. 1. 2. 3.

Discipline:
When students do not live up to the expectations of the school, discipline is required. The purpose of our schools discipline policy is to help you learn from your mistakes so that you dont repeat them. We have a zero tolerance policy towards student violence of any kind. Physical violence like pushing, shoving, tripping, fighting, and other acts of physical assault are NEVER viewed as acceptable even if they did it first, they were bugging me, or we were just fooling around. Fighting and aggressive behavior will result in a suspension (either in-school or out-of-school). Verbal violence like swearing, using racist / sexist language, put downs, teasing is also viewed as unacceptable and will be dealt with accordingly.

Actions that go against our expectations have consequences. Consequences for inappropriate behavior may include:
warning written assignment call home time out of class

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letter of apology detention repair/replacement of item formal interview in-school suspension out-of-school suspension outside agency (R.C.M.P., etc) expulsion

spoken apology work detail loss of privileges counseling parent letter parent meeting home study others

Grounds for suspension / expulsion include behaviors such as:

actions which threaten the safety of others. possession/selling of illegal drugs, alcohol, or inhalants. going against district-wide policies about harassment, smoking, attendance, and student responsibilities. open defiance of authority. interference with the orderly conduct of the school. going against the student code of conduct as per the School Act.

Pyramid of Support
Successful students constantly recognize that they are responsible for their own education. With that said, its important for student to recognize the key supporters with whom they have access. This is diagramed below:
Healthy friendships

Student
Other trusted adults (eg. aunts/uncle, etc)

Your Education Parent(s) / Guardian(s) Teachers, Principals, Teacher Assistants, etc

Think About it
them everyday?

How will my year be if I start it with the idea that I am going to do my best? How will my relationships (family, friends, classmates, etc) be if I choose to do my best to improve
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 Am I able to make a positive difference for someone this year? Will I be that difference? What will our school look like if everyone respects everyone else? How will it look if you choose not
to be respectful?

If I aim at nothing, why is it that Ill most likely achieve it? What will happen if I respond to difficult situations with a positive attitude? What will happen if I set goals and work towards them? What if I am good at goal setting but not at follow through? What if everyone worked to make one new friend? What if I only focused on the positives - not the negatives? Student Expectations
We, at Pioneer School, have high expectations of our students. Our ultimate expectation is for you to be successful. We dont consider failure to be an option for you. You will have a successful year if you are consistently: 0 making your best possible effort. 0 being considerate of others (think safe, caring, positive). 0 participating its extremely rare for a student who is very active in school activities to do poorly in school.

Here are some more specific expectations that we have: 1. Clothing: Undergarments are not to be seen. Clothing worn will not have obscene,

negative or suggestive sloans (including but not limited to alcohol, drugs and related symbols). Clothing needs to be of appropriate length as to not overtly expose the anatomy. If you are wearing clothing that is deemed unacceptable, you will be asked to change or cover-up. This might be a change into your gym clothes, borrowing something from a friend, or having something brought in from home. If none of those are possible, being removed from class is a final option. Here are some other clothing guidelines: -We are a no headgear school, so please do not wear hats, toques, hoods, bandanas, etc in the school at any time. -Please remember to have a pair of shoes for inside only. -Please place all coats and boots in your locker. -Please have a change of clothes for Phys. Ed. Class. You are at a stage when your body will stink if it gets sweaty. Please have a change of clothes for gym class and have them washed regularly. 2. Contraband Items: Contraband items are things that should never be brought to school. Items like tobacco, knives, throwing stars, fireworks, ammunition, pornography, alcohol, illegal drugs, etc are not permitted on school property. Contraband items will be confiscated. Suspension or expulsion may

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result from possession of contraband items. to deal with certain situations. 3.

The R.C.M.P. or other outside agencies will be brought in

Smoking, Consuming Alcohol, and Using Drugs: There is no reason for any student of Pioneer
School to be smoking. Not only is it illegal, it is unhealthy and it can lead to a life-long addiction. Students who smoke in the school, out of the school, on school property, or in sight of the school will be suspended. Students under the influence of, or in possession of alcohol and/or illegal drugs will be suspended from school; the parents / guardians will be required to come to the school to discuss the matter; the police may get involved, and the student may have to complete a follow-up program.

4.

Appropriate Language: Pioneer is a place of learning. As a result, we have a high standard when

it comes to language usage. Profanity, sexist, racist, rude, insulting, intimidating, and abusive language (whether written or spoken) will not be tolerated.

Gum Chewing: Gum is permitted at the discretion of the classroom teacher, like having water in class,
gum chewing is a privilegedabuse it and lose it. 5.

Showing Affection: As mentioned with the language, we are a place of learning that has a moral

standard. Romantic behavior / physical contact such as holding hands, hugging, kissing, etc is inappropriate and is not to be done. Parents, staff, and your fellow students ask that you make appropriate choices by not choosing these types of behaviors.

6.

Bullying: We recognize there are five key types of bullying: physical (pushing, shoving, tripping,

etc), verbal (swearing, name-calling, etc), psychological / emotional (put-downs, etc), relational (excluding, positioning, arm linking, etc), and technical (MSN chat, email, web pages, etc). We will NOT tolerate any of them. If you are having troubles, talk to someone or even refer back to the Try This in the Safe, Caring, and Positive section at the beginning of the handbook. 7.

Bicycles, Skateboards, Roller Blades: Students who ride bikes to school are asked to park

them and lock them at the bike rack provided. They are not to be ridden in or around the school. Unfortunately, we cannot assume responsibility for bikes parked on the school grounds. We recognize that many students like to skateboard / roller blade. Here are some quick rules about them: -please do not skate at the front of school or entrance as it blocks students and visitors. Please use the area between the basketball pad and bus lanes. -please use protective gear. -please do not set up jumps, rails, or other obstacles. 8.

Trespassing on Private Property: The properties around our school are privately owned. Please
be respectful to our neighbours by staying off their property and by not littering on/near it.

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9. Respectable Behavior: Whether on a break, walking to or from school, or out in the community, you represent our school. Please act in such a way that our community thinks positively of the students and staff at Pioneer School. 10.

Acceptable Use Policy: This year you will be provided with an internet and email account. This
technology will allow you to enhance your learning further. As much as the internet is an effective tool, it can also be a damaging one. Students are expected to use the internet and email appropriately. In order to get an account, you and your parent(s) / guardian(s) have to read and sign the Wild Rose School Public Schools Acceptable Use Policy. You will not get to use a computer until this is done.

Parent Stuff
Role of the Parent:
Parents / Guardians have such an important role in their childs success. We encourage and expect regular communication between teachers and parents through phone calls, notes, meetings, and the use of this agenda. Success at school is largely determined by the support of parents at home. Here are a few suggestions to help guarantee your childs success:

Be in regular contact with your childs teacher. All teachers have a voice mail account. Call 845-2468. Be involved in your childs learning / education. Get involved in school life (visit the school and the teachers whenever possible).

Give your child the support he/she needs: monitor homework, ask how they are doing, ask what they learned (and dont accept nothing as an answer), reward accomplishments with loving praise, etc). Attend Parent Teacher Interviews. Limit TV watching and computer game time. Encourage at least 15 minutes of daily free reading time. Provide a healthy diet and adequate rest. Demand regular attendance. Demand that your child does his/her best. Provide a functional study area. Attend School Council Meetings.

Become familiar with school and school board policy, review them with your child, and cooperate with us to make them work.

Visiting:

We encourage parent(s) / guardian(s) to visit the school regularly as an active way to monitor

their childs education. We ask that all visitors check in at the office before going to the classroom. For interviews / meetings, please contact your childs teacher.

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Pioneer School Fee Schedule - 2011 - 2012

In addition to the Mandatory School fees which have been established under Wild rose School Division #66 Administrative Procedures (AP #501), Supplementary and Voluntary School Fees will apply at Pioneer School. Mandatory School Fee Mandatory fees are levied by the jurisdiction to assist schools in covering a portion of the costs associated with: Locker upkeep and locks Co-curricular field trips Workbooks Use of community facilities Textbook replacement and renewal Visiting performers & guest speakers Mandatory fees are set at: $40 for students in grades 6 $70 for students in grades 7-9 Supplementary fee Supplementary fees are charged on a cost recovery basis for materials and other related costs in the following courses. Amounts may vary depending on projects/activities chosen.

Band the grade 6 band fee is $60. This is used to assist in the cost of instrument maintenance. This does not include reeds, which may be purchased from the office. Students will also receive a band method book and set of CDs. These include: tuba, baritone, french horn, bari sax, bass clarinet and bassoon.

The grade 7 and 8 band fee is $40. This money covers bussing for the band activities. Grade 7 & 8 Band School-owned Instruments. For students who use school-owned instruments, the fee is $125. Reeds and related supplies may be purchased at the office. Environmental and Outdoor Education (EOE 7 & 8) Students will receive information in class about costs for specific trips. Career and Technology Studies (CTS 7 & 8) Depending on the projects and activities students choose in each of the CTS areas of Woods and Metals Designs, Fabrics and Foods, or Design Studies material vouchers will need to be purchased from the office.

Ceramics 8 students will be required to pay $25 for clay costs. Leather Tooling 7 & 8 costs will vary depending on the project. Other Complimentary course fees will be announced in class.

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Voluntary Fee Voluntary fees are charged to students on a cost recovery basis, should they choose to participate in a number of activities or take advantage of the following services and products (costs will vary). All fees are payable at the office by cash, cheque or debit card.

Yearbooks School photos Extra-curricular clubs and teams Special grade/class trips

Pioneer School Council

Every parent / guardian of a Pioneer Middle School child is not only invited, but encouraged to attend School Council meetings. At the meeting you will be actively involved in decisions which directly affect all aspect of your childs education. Meetings are held on the second Monday of each month.

Pioneer School Councils Values:

1. Provide a home environment conducive to learning. This includes: proper nutrition, adequate rest,
and a regular, established routine for study. 2. Ongoing timely communication and involvement with the school including: attendance at Parent/Teacher Interviews, reading the school newsletter, being familiar with the student agenda, attendance at School Council meetings, and volunteering at school functions. 3. Support expectations of school administration and staff with regard to regular, punctual attendance and enforcement of school rules.

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PARENTS, PLEASE USE THIS BOOK

To monitor homework
To communicate with teachers To reinforce school rules To help your child with organizational skills The following section contains numerous ideas that you might find to be a valuable resource. We trust you will encourage your son or daughter to use the suggestions given. We would appreciate you signing below and returning this page to the office, as it would let us know that you have gone through the handbook and have discussed it with your son or daughter. _____________________________ Student signature _____________________________ Parent / Guardian signature

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