Senior School Family Handbook 2018/19 by Royal St. George's College

SENIOR SCHOOL FAMILY HANDBOOK

2018/19

SENIOR SCHOOL FAMILY HANDBOOK 2018/19

Mr. Paul Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Leary, Assistant Headmaster/Head of Senior School

Photos: Tom Stevens, Lauren Mandarino and staff, friends and family of RSGC.

THE DRAGON’S LAIR SHOPPE The Dragon’s Lair Shoppe is RSGC’s on-site school store, stocked with everything to meet your sons’ needs. The store carries a competitively priced selection of school items including blazers, grey flannel pants, belts, dress shirts, socks, and all school-crested clothing. Additionally, the Dragon’s Lair also offers selected school supplies, reeds for woodwind instruments and gifts. All net proceeds resulting from Dragon’s Lair sales are put toward improvements at RSGC. The Dragon’s Lair Shoppe’s hours vary weekly, so please visit the rsgc website for more information. Store Summer Closings: July 2 for Canada Day July 19-27 August 6 for the Civic Holiday September 3 for Labour Day Weekend

TABLE OF CONTENTS ABOUT RSGC 1 RSGC Mission and Values. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Vision ’18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Board of Governors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Georgian Parents’ Guild . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 The Guild Library. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Information Technology. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

ROUTINES & POLICIES

Daily Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Professional Learning Day Schedule. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Eucharist Schedule. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Condensed Schedule. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Chapel Routines and Expectations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Communication. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Advisors and Homeform. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

ACADEMICS

Academic Integrity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Knights’ Support. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Extra Help Sessions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Final Summative Evaluations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Course Selection and Course Load. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Course Changes and Withdrawals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Report Cards and Parent Teacher Interviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Homework Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Powerschool Learning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

STUDENT EXPECTATIONS

Bullying and Harassment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Alcohol and Drugs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Behaviour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Attendance and Punctuality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Uniform Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

STUDENT LIFE

Athletics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 House System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Clubs and Activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Outdoor Education. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Student Leadership. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

SERVICE LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

ABOUT RSGC RSGC Mission and Values Our Mission To challenge and inspire each boy to become the best version of himself The Meaning behind the Mission: To challenge and inspire…Our teachers challenge and inspire boys to reach higher and go further. Our teachers ignite, and model, a love of learning. Our programs open the minds of our boys to new horizons, new thinking and new possibilities. each boy…We value the uniqueness of each boy. Each boy will be “known and loved”. Each boy will be challenged and supported academically, athletically, artistically, socially and emotionally. to become the best version of himself… The best version of himself understands that “manners maketh men”. The best version of himself is an inquisitive, creative and collaborative problem-solver, and has a strong academic preparation that opens doors in his future. The best version of himself is engaged in a breadth of experiences, takes initiative and honours his commitments. The best version of himself is cultivated through authentic relationships with outstanding educators who are passionate about their students and learning. The best version of himself is a Georgian. We believe that our world needs more Georgians. Our school will continue to evolve so that each Georgian develops a special set of attributes. Our aspiration is that each Georgian: • • • • • • • • •

is inquisitive, creative and collaborative is resilient and able to adapt and thrive has moral character and spiritual strength is kind, polite and caring has a global mindset and community awareness takes initiative and honours his commitments values continuous learning gives back to his communities continues to be engaged in the Georgian community throughout his life.

Our Values Our organizational values are guiding beliefs and principles that inform our decision-making and behaviour throughout the School from the boardroom to the classroom. • Known and Loved: Each boy is understood and valued • Manners Maketh Men: We value manners and demonstrate respect through our actions. • The Power of Community: We believe in the power of collaboration, working together and building community. • Action with Integrity: We are guided by moral and ethical principles and are accountable for our actions. • Spirituality Matters: We celebrate our Anglican affiliation and nurture our boys’ spiritual lives. We are inclusive and supportive of our diverse and multi-faith community. • Learning Never Ends: We must continue to learn, to ask important questions, explore new ideas, and be responsive to changing needs.

The School Motto: Scientia Pietate ~ Through Knowledge and Duty The school motto, “through knowledge and duty,” is a guideline itself: strive to increase your knowledge, using it reasonably and ethically. Recognize the important duty that you have as a citizen of the world to use that knowledge to further the betterment of humanity.

Vision ’18

Through our academic programs, our boys will learn to:

Blaze Trails • • • • •

Think critically about ideas, systems or processes Generate ideas and insights Design solutions to problems Consider the purpose and ethics of actions Understand how position and experience impacts perspective

Dig In • • • • •

Use collaboration, feedback and reflection to co-construct knowledge Welcome challenge and adversity: take steps to affect change Embrace failure as part of the learning process Take full responsibility for decisions and actions Act in our local community: be a full participant

Take Risks • • • •

Build knowledge capacity in order to act with purpose Innovate and design sustainable change when required Demonstrate an understanding of literacies through creative expression Contribute positively and substantially

RSGC Board of Governors The Board of Governors is responsible for the strategic direction of the College, its facilities and its capital plan. The Board oversees the financial affairs of the College, as well as hires and assesses the Headmaster of the College. The Board members are drawn primarily from the parent and alumni community, and include ex officio representatives from the Parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Guild, the Alumni Association and the clergy. The Board meets seven times a year. The Board has a comprehensive committee structure that includes Audit and Finance, Nomination and Governance, Facilities and Advancement. Committee members include Board members and other members of the RSGC community who possess special skills/expertise. The Board has developed a â&#x20AC;&#x153;skills matrixâ&#x20AC;? that summarizes desirable skills and attributes of Governors and committee members. These notes are used as a reference to ensure a balanced and effective Board and committees, and to identify areas in which representation can be strengthened. These desirable skills and attributes include an affiliation with the College, as well as expertise in areas such as governance, financial management, project management, strategic planning, communications and education. The skills matrix also recognizes the importance of having a Board that represents the broad diversity of its community.

Georgian Parents’ Guild Mission and Purpose The Georgian Parents’ Guild is a volunteer association dedicated to supporting the academic, social, physical and spiritual environment of the students and the College, in partnership with the Headmaster and the College community. The Guild contributes to the College by providing parental volunteer support, hosting social functions and sponsoring friend and fundraising activities. Proceeds from the Guild’s fundraising endeavours are gifted to the College.

Georgian Parent Volunteer Opportunities Senior School Day of Community Service Mid-late November Mistletoe Market Mid-late November Used Textbook Sale Mid-June

School Activities The Guild provides parental volunteer support to the faculty and students in numerous ways. Volunteers assist with the Senior School Day of Community Service, the Chapel, the Band and Choir and act as Parent Ambassadors during the student admission process. The Guild communicates with parents primarily through the Grade Parent Convenor and the RSGC portal.

Membership All parents are members of the Guild and an annual membership fee is included in the student activity fee. Parents are encouraged to become involved with the Guild’s special events, regular activities and the Executive. To contact the Guild with any questions or ideas, please contact guild@rsgc.on.ca

The Guild Library Hours - Monday to Friday 7:30 am - 4:30 pm The library provides access to a selection of high quality electronic information sources including encyclopedias, article databases and e-books. Library staff strive to educate students in practical information literacy skills such as website evaluation, citation building, academic integrity and research skills. The library is a place where a culture of reading is promoted. Students have access to course-related items and recreational reading material.

Information Technology Specific Expectations of Appropriate Use Access to computers, the school network and the internet is a privilege. Students must be prepared to be held accountable for their actions and for the loss of privileges if these Expectations of Appropriate Use and/or other school policies are violated. Consequences may include loss of computer, network and/or internet privileges, prohibition from engaging in school-related activities, suspension and/or expulsion. • Students are to use computer and network resources for constructive educational goals and legitimate educational purposes only. • Students may not view, access, copy, send, download, upload, print or display materials that may be considered inappropriate to the learning environment of the school or classroom. Students must notify a member of the school faculty immediately if, by accident, they encounter materials which violate the rules of appropriate use. Inappropriate use includes, but is not limited to: 1. Inappropriate use of language, including language that is profane, racist, sexist, harassing, violent, or otherwise unacceptable at the sole and unfettered direction of the school. 2. Importation or transmission of materials including images that are pornographic, violent, profane, racist, sexist, cult, drug culture, militant, extremist, illegal, or private. 3. Harassment, bullying or cyber-bullying of anyone. Students will seek help from the Head of School, school administrators, teachers and parents if they are victimized by or witness to cyber-bullying and must report this activity. 4. Material that is insulting or that could reasonably be considered to injure a person’s feelings or reputation. 5. Any electronic communications that may cause someone to fear for his or her safety. 6. Gambling or betting. • Students must have the expressed consent of people depicted before taking or using digital photographs, videos or audio recordings. This includes, but is not limited to, recordings of teachers’ lessons. • Students must have the permission of people depicted before distributing, sharing or publishing digital images, video or audio recordings by any means including email, social media, social networks or websites. • Students must accurately cite information from the Internet. Students must not plagiarize. This is a concern in both the Junior and Senior Schools, and parents may wish to refer to the Academic Integrity section of the Senior School Family Handbook for more detail. • Students must abide by all copyright laws. Students must not download and share copyright materials including software without the copyright holder’s permission. • Students must assume that all electronic communications received from another student are private and confidential and must not disseminate them without permission of the original author. • Students must use their own name. Students must make sure they can stand up and be proud of everything they do on the school’s network. Students may only log on to school services under their own name. • Students must keep their passwords private, they must never share their login information under any circumstances. Students cannot grant another person access to their account at the school. • Students must make economical use of limited resources such as bandwidth, disk space and printing capacity. Students must be prepared to live by space restrictions on school servers if they are needed. • Outside the school, many opportunities exist for creating online communities, groups, chat rooms etc. - in creating, naming and labelling these communities, use of the name of the school, the acronym “RSGC”, the coat of arms, logo and/or athletic logo, any photographs taken on school property or during school sanctioned events, including photographs of teachers, or any other language or images that represent, refer to or allude to the school is not permitted under any circumstances without the written consent of the RSGC administration • Students should be aware that they do not have a reasonable expectation of privacy with respect to the contents of their laptop or data accessed by connection to or use of the school’s network or internet connection, including the data accessed by any other devices including smartphones and tablets. Data downloaded, uploaded, and/or 5

accessed through the school network is logged by the school’s firewall; that log may be searched and/or monitored occasionally in the course of ongoing maintenance and in response to specific concerns. The School has the right, but not the obligation, to inspect and to monitor the use of its network and devices, including, without limitation, inspecting the contents of e-mail and internet usage, including social media activity.

Specific Expectations for Laptop Users • Use of a laptop in class is encouraged, but there will also be times when the business of the class requires that laptops not be used. The teacher of any given class has the final say regarding when laptops are to be used and when they are to be set aside. • The laptop is like any other textbook – it must be with the student and in good working order, either at school or at home, to be useful. Leaving the laptop at home or at school is no excuse for failing to submit work. • Students are responsible for their own data, and should be backing their work up to some form of external storage – ie. burnable DVD, USB key, external hard drive or cloud-based storage – on a regular basis. The school does not keep any backups of laptop contents. • The consequences for those who fail to live up to these expectations will be determined by the Junior School or Senior School Head of School, as appropriate.

Specific Expectations for Cell Phone Users Use of a cell phone is permitted on campus in accordance with a responsible use policy. It should be noted that all expectations of the Appropriate Use Policy - see Information Technology, Expectations of Appropriate Use, also apply to any cell phone use. Class Rooms Cell phone use is not permitted in classrooms. The teacher of any given class has the final say regarding how cell phones are to be stored during class. ie. Storage bin, shoe bag, personal backpack, on person but not visible. Cell phones may only be used when instructed by a teacher. Otherwise, they are to be stored as directed. Chapel/Ketchum Hall/Community Gatherings Cell phone use of any kind is not permitted during Chapel, Assemblies or other community gatherings where Faculty, students or guests are addressing any part of the community. Ketchum Hall at Lunch In accordance with our responsible use policy, students may check their personal email, texts and social media feeds during lunch; however, excessive use of cell phones in Ketchum Hall will be addressed. Continued excessive use, including gaming, may result in loss of privileges. Confiscated phones Any student who cannot meet the expectations set out above, as determined by teachers and administrators, may have their phone confiscated. No warnings need to be given for a phone to be confiscated. Students who’s phones has been confiscated will be required to: • Check their phone in at the Senior School reception desk at 8:00 am each morning for a period of one week. • Phones can be checked out each day when leaving school property. • Repeat offenders will be required to check their phones in for longer periods of time. • Continued violations may lead to further consequences as deemed appropriate by the Head of Senior School.

ROUTINES & POLICIES Daily Schedule

There are four class periods each day and students see their teachers on alternate days, based on a four-day schedule. Senior School students and teachers share a common lunch period. Homeroom (until November)

7:50 – 8:10 am

Period 1

8:15 - 9:30 am

Period 2

9:35 - 10:50 am

Assembly/Chapel Advisors

10:50 - 11:30 am

Period 3

11:30 am - 12:45 pm

Lunch

12:45- 1:30 pm

Period 4

1:30 - 2:45 pm

Thursday Evensong

2:45 -3:15 pm

Monday Assembly • Formal assembly in the Chapel • Students sit with their advisor in a designated location Tuesday Chapel • Formal service in the Chapel • Students sit with their advisor in a designated location Wednesday Break • All grades on break • All Grade 9 & 10 students must remain on campus • Frequently scheduled Grade 12 university information sessions (attendance is mandatory) Thursday Break • Occassional, informal or special student-led assemblies in Ketchum Hall (attendance is mandatory) • All Grade 9 & 10 students must remain on campus Thursday Evensong (2:45 pm) • Full School formal service in the Chapel (attendance is mandatory) • Students sit with their advisor in a designated location Friday Advisors • All grades meet with advisors (attendance is mandatory) 7

Professional Learning Day Schedule

On certain days througout the academic year, all Senior School boys start the school day later than usual with classes scheduled to begin at 9:30 am. The late start allows for the Senior School faculty to participate in a professional developmnet workshop from 8:15 - 9:15 am. The school day will begin with period 2 at 9:30 am. Students will attend all remaining regularly scheduled classes (2, 3, 4) and we adhere to our standard 2:45 pm dismissal time.

Eucharist Schedule

We host five Eucharist services throughout the year. These services are scheduled at mid-morning.

Condensed Schedule

Condensed days allow us to shorten the academic day without compromising the academic program. Condensed days are implented for Parent/Teacher interviews and before major holidays. Period 1

8:15 - 9:15 am

Period 2

9:20 - 10:20 am

Advisor meetings

10:25 - 10:40 am

Period 3

10:45 - 11:45 am

Period 4

11:50 am - 12:50 pm

Dismissal

12:50 pm

Chapel Routines and Expectations Here are some important things you should know about our Chapel service: â&#x20AC;˘ Chapel service is a special and sacred time for many; therefore, we expect nothing less than exemplary behaviour â&#x20AC;˘ Boys should enter the Chapel and be seated quietly with their advisor. Talking should be limited. Cell phone use is not permitted.

Thursday Evensong (2:45 - 3:15 pm) This service is a regular part of the school day. Parents are asked to arrange medical and other appointments around this service. Missing Chapel services is considered a skip and will be followed up as such.

Chapel attendance is mandatory for all students. Students are not required to participate actively, but they are expected to be present and respectful during the service.

Communication Office Hours The Senior School office is open from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm daily.

Telephone Inquiries & General Information • Main school phone number: • Senior School inquiries:

416.533.9481 416.533.6724

Parent Phone Numbers Please keep the office informed of any changes in home, business or cell phone numbers. Unfortunately, from time to time, emergency situations arise and we will need to contact you. Also, please make sure that you fill out the Personal/Health Information form online and advise us of any changes.

Notification of Pupil Absence - Senior School If your son is absent from school for any reason, please notify the office directly by telephone at 416.533.6724 or via email to seniorattendance@rsgc.on.ca

Attendance Verification / Safe Arrival Programme If a student is absent and no call is received, we make every reasonable effort to contact the parents. It is a great help to us to receive advance notification from parents that your son will be absent. If your son has a doctor or dentist appointment that necessitates his leaving before the end of the school day, written or verbal notice must be given to the office staff before he can leave the property. All students are required to sign-in when late and sign-out when leaving early.

RSGC Website All information related to the day-to-day operation and events of the Senior School are posted on the portal of our website (www.rsgc.on.ca). It is important that you take the time each week to read this source of information. You may also customize your settings so that you are notified with an email or text every time an announcement is posted to the portal. While logged into the portal, click on the triangle beside your name on the top right and scroll down to Settings. Under Account Settings on the left, select Notifications. From there, you can select which notifications you would like to receive and how you would like to receive them. You may decide at any time to stop receiving these notifications by going to your Account Settings.

Winter Storms If a storm is so extreme that the teachers and other staff are unable to get to the school, we may have no choice but to close the school for the day. If this happens, please check the following resources: the school’s website, Facebook and Twitter accounts, CP24, CFRB, 680 News, the Toronto Star, the Weather Network, etc.

Advisors and Homeform Structure of the Program In the spirit of our small school guarantee, when each student enters the Senior School, he is assigned an advisor. In Grade 9, boys are grouped only with other grade members. In Grade 10, they are re-assigned to a group that blends all upper grades. Many faculty members act in this advisor capacity to a small group of students. New students are assigned in a manner which balances the workload among the faculty, and efforts are made to match each student with the best advisor and group members as possible. The expectations of the advisor program are to: • Rapidly note positive or negative trends in the academic, co-curricular or social behaviour of students • Encourage and support student involvement in co-curricular programs • Establish strategies to remedy difficulties • Promote personal awareness and growth • Provide another level of academic review • Act as an advocate for each boy • Assist students in goal setting, time management, examination preparation and other academic skills • Provide a general contact for each parent

Means of Achieving the Program • Student lockers are proximate to advisor teaching locations (when possible) to encourage casual interaction • Advisors and students sit together in assembly on Monday, Chapel on Tuesday and Thursday Evensong • Weekly meetings are held every Friday as a group • Student progress is tracked through monthly academic, co-curricular and social/emotional elements of school life

Advisor Groupings and Homeforms Grade 9 The aim of the Grade 9 advisor program is to help ease the transition to the Senior School while nurturing selfdirection, independence and responsibility. Each advisor group, led by one of the Grade 9 teachers, devotes at least one session per week to developmental guidance activities, during which students can explore their personal interests, goals and concerns with a supportive group of peers. Grade 9 students attend a homeform period before academic classes commence each day. The rooms open at 7:50 am and students are expected to be in attendance no later than 8:00 am. This time is devoted to ensuring students are prepared for the day ahead. Homeform teachers take the time to go over the daily and weekly agenda and to in-service students on the functional elements of school life. After the first week of November, homeforms are available for students but are not mandatory. Grade 9 students should use this self-directed time for individual preparation. Grades 10 through 12 Having established a foundation on which to build, students entering Grade 10 are assigned to a new advisor group with whom they will remain until graduation. During these years, particular emphasis is placed on course selection and preparation for their entry into Grade 12. It is our aim that, during these three years, students will develop the skills necessary to set and pursue education and career goals, and to evaluate their achievement of these goals. Additional attention will be paid to the Grade 12 students under the guidance and direction of the Director of University Counselling. The primary focus of students in their final year at RSGC will be the university application process and post-secondary educational opportunities. Students will strive to develop effective work habits and the ability to make sound decisions, work independently, evaluate themselves realistically and explore new educational and career opportunities.

ACADEMICS Academic Integrity

RSGC makes every effort to ensure that students understand its academic integrity policy. It is the student’s individual responsibility to ensure an adherence to the letter and spirit of the school’s academic integrity policy. Students failing to adhere to these standards on examinations may be expelled; those guilty of academic dishonesty on term work or tests are subject to disciplinary action, including expulsion. Incidents of academic dishonesty include cheating or a demonstrable intention to cheat on examinations, tests or assignments. Cheating can constitute copying or paraphrasing the work of others without citation (plagiarism), viewing or using tests or examinations without permission of the teacher, bringing information in any physical or electronic form to the location of the examination or test without the permission of the instructor, sharing information in any form, including, but not limited to, orally; by physical signs; by auditory signals; by electronic signals; by copying (or allowing to be copied) answers on a test or examination; or theft of the test or examination.

Roles and Responsibilities: Teacher – If an incident of academic dishonesty is suspected, the teacher will assemble relevant evidence and interview the student. If the student has a satisfactory explanation, the process stops. If the student has no explanation and/or denies dishonesty, then the teacher will present the evidence to the head of senior school. Head of Senior School – The Head of Senior School will examine the evidence, interview the student(s) and inform parent(s). The parent(s) will be given notice of the particulars of the case at this point: what is alleged, what the policy is and what the potential outcomes are. The Head of Senior School will then determine whether the student is or is not guilty of academic dishonesty. The Head of Senior School will meet with the student and inform him of the decision and sanctions, and contact parents to inform them as well. If, based on balance of probabilities, the student is not guilty of academic dishonesty, the process ends and the student and his/her parent(s) are informed.

Consequences of Academic Dishonesty The consequences of academic dishonesty on any work, assignment or test, other than an examination, will be dependent upon the severity of the case of academic dishonesty, the student’s grade level and the student’s history of academic integrity policy infractions. The student may receive sanction(s) including, but not limited to: • A letter to the teacher demonstrating an understanding of the seriousness of cheating and of what to do the next time the student needs to make a decision about academic integrity • Alternative assessments, or assignments graded or not to be graded • 50% of the graded evaluation • A zero grade • Suspension of one or more days • Expulsion

Second Offences In the event of a second offence, the Head of Senior School will meet with the student and his/her parent(s). The student will receive a grade of zero on the test or assignment and will be required to meet with the disciplinary committee (please refer to page 18) to determine further sanctions and recommendations, up to and including expulsion. Repeated Offences - such conduct will result in further sanctions up to and including expulsion. The frequency of infractions of the school’s academic integrity policy is tracked for the duration of the student’s attendance at RSGC.

Knights’ Support

Knights’ Support (KS) is unique to RSGC. We require students who have not finished major assignments on schedule to attend KS after school. Here, they are given the guidance and time to complete their work.

Procedure • Students can be mandated to attend KS only for a major assignment that has been posted to the grade calendar and on the teacher’s class page • Failure to submit on the due date results in the subject teacher being able to email student names to the “Knights Support” email account. The student, co-curricular leader and advisor are then informed of the KS referral • Teachers may utilize their judgment and discretion in granting extensions and working out a plan with an individual student before submitting name to KS • The assignment must be submitted to KS by 3:00 pm on the date communicated. Students are generally given three to four days to submit once referred, although shorter notice may be given depending on assignment and circumstances. Whatever work is completed will then be evaluated. • Late assignments are given a 5% penalty per day up to a maximum of 20%. There is a graduated approach to KS: • 1st referral/term: boy has 2-3 days to clear his name (submit his assignment) before having to attend the Learning Centre for support for up to two days before the assignment is graded • 2nd referral/term: boy has 2 days to clear his name before attending the Learning Centre for support and missing any co-curricular curricular for four more days before the assignment grades 0. Parents are included on the email notification of this occurrence. • 3rd referral/term: boy must attend the Learning Centre the same day of referral (for up to two days if needed) or the following day if referred after 3:00 pm • Any subsequent referrals in a term: boy has a meeting with Head of Senior School and parents. Strategies are devised to help with work completion.

Co-curriculars and Knights’ Support Students referred to KS may continue to participate in co-curriculars; however, a student who does not submit an assignment within the allotted timeline once referred is mandated to attend KS in the Learning Centre and may not participate in co-curriculars the day(s) they are to attend. It is important that students inform their coaches and club moderators that they will not be present at practices, games, club sessions if they are to attend the LC for KS.

Consequences for Not Attending KS KS is an extension of the classroom. Students who choose not to attend will be subject to consequences associated with the skipping of any class. ** All time referrals include weekends in the count 14

Extra Help Sessions

It is the responsibility of each boy to seek out and attend extra help classes in any subject in which he has difficulty. Extra help is also recommended as a tool to improve a grade that already meets the expectations of the teacher. Extra help time slots for individual teachers and subjects are published by each teacher.

Final Summative Evaluations

Toward the end of the school year, it is the responsibility of the student to be present for all of his final evaluations. Families are asked not to make other plans during this time. A student will receive zero for a missed evaluation unless the absence is a verified, legitimate one. If he is unable to write an examination due to illness or other extenuating circumstances, his parent(s) must inform the head of senior school prior to the commencement of the examination. A doctor’s certificate may be required in the case of illness. Students are required to attend school only during the times they are scheduled to write an exam. Summer dress is permitted. Exam study guides for each course, an exam schedule and evaluation instructions for students are distributed in early May.

Course Selection and Course Load

To be in good standing, a student must maintain a minimum course load. The required course load in Grades 9 and 10 is eight. The minimum course load in Grades 11 and 12 is seven. Grade 12 students who have acquired extra credits may reduce their load to six, with the permission of the Head of Senior School in consultation with the Director of University Counselling. The course selection process for the next academic year begins in early February. Students are encouraged to seek out the Head of Senior School and/or the Director of University Counselling during the course selection process.

Course Changes and Withdrawals

Students must attend all scheduled classes as they appear on their timetable. Students wishing to change courses or withdraw from a course must consult with, and obtain approval from, the Head of Senior School. The deadline for course changes is the Friday of the Thanksgiving long weekend. Until formal approval is given, a student is still officially registered in the course and is required to attend classes.

Report Cards and Parent Teacher Interviews

Formal report cards are mailed out at mid-Febraury and at the end of June, and an interim report is posted digitally in October. Formal interviews are held with the teachers yearly. Appointments may be made for individual interviews at any time of the year. The following is a list of dates:

• Interim Reports available online: • Parent/Teacher Interviews: • First Term Reports mailed: • Parent/Teacher Interviews (at risk only): • Final Reports mailed:

Late October Mid-November Mid-February Early March Late June

Homework Guidelines

At Royal St. George’s College, our goal is to provide students with meaningful, relevant and purposeful homework. We encourage students to take ownership of their learning as they strive to balance their pursuit of excellence in academics, arts and athletics. At RSGC, effective homework... • Is a prerequisite for effective participation in upcoming classes • Engages different learning styles • Reinforces the development of previously learned skills and concepts • Is challenging but conquerable • Fosters self esteem while developing self motivation and time management • Leads to the mastery of skills or concepts • Assesses understanding • Requires frequent and effective feedback

A Parent’s Role Homework is one of the areas of school life where parents can be supportive and attain insights into their son’s day-to-day activities. Homework provides parents with opportunities to: • Encourage and supervise learning as students practice skills at home • Deepen their understanding of how their child is doing • Model the family’s commitment to education • Provide appropriate assistance As part of the relationship, it is important for parents to communicate with teachers about patterns that develop over time in reference to homework. In addition, specific and unique situations that may impact the completion of a task should also be communicated to teachers. Parents are not required to take on the role of teacher and should not be expected to provide instruction around a topic or skill. Instead, their role is more of a coach providing a supportive and encouraging environment. Parents are encouraged to take advantage of community resources to support enriched learning opportunities for their children (the public library, science centres, art galleries, museums, etc.)

Holidays In addition to the provision of carefully designed assignments and consistent homework practices, RSGC values family time and participation in artistic and athletic co-curricular activities. In an effort to balance homework with other demands, teachers will refrain from assigning homework over the holidays. In the upper grades, students may complete homework during the weekend in order to balance busy weekday schedules.

Learning Management

The school’s portal, myRSGC, is where RSGC can easily manage, connect and share information between parents, students and teachers. For the 2018/19 school year, it replaces several of the school’s old systems such as Netclassroom and Powerschool Learning (Haiku). myRSGC will now host class pages including additional course content, class announcements, homework, a calendar of major assignments and tests, and much more.

STUDENT EXPECTATIONS - CODE OF CONDUCT RSGC has a set of standards by which all members of the school are expected to abide. These expectations are intended to guide students and faculty alike in their activities within the school community. For our community to function successfully, we must all work together to support the aims of the school. None of these standards, however, are absolute. In all cases, common sense will prevail. This handbook provides students with an overview of our guidelines. Students are expected to behave in a manner consistent with the Georgian Code, which states that the foundation of our community is based on three basic principles: respect, responsibilities and voice.

GEORGIAN CODE RESPECT

That all members of this community show a sincere respect toward one another. RESPONSIBILITY

That all members of this community take responsibility for their actions and behave accordingly. VOICE

That all members of this community have a voice that is heard.

Bullying and Harassment Bullying, including harassment, particularly in schools, has become an increasing problem in Canada. A safe and inclusive learning environment in schools is critical for students to achieve academic success. Parents and students must be confident in knowing that the school environment is free from harassment, violence, intolerance and intimidation, all of which are forms of bullying. The Education Act states: “bullying” means the severe or repeated use by one or more pupils of a written, verbal, electronic or other form of expression, a physical act or gesture or any combination of them if it is directed at another pupil and if it has the effect of or is reasonably intended to have the effect of, 1. causing physical or emotional harm to the other pupil or damage to the other pupil’s property, 2. placing the other pupil in reasonable fear of harm to himself or herself or damage to his or her property, 3. creating a hostile environment at school for the other pupil, 4. infringing on the legal rights of the other pupil at school, or 5. materially and substantially disrupting the education process or the orderly operation of a school; (“intimidation”) According to the Act, bullying shall be deemed to occur in a school if it occurs: 1. on a school site or public property within 50 metres of a school site; 2. during the course of an activity, function or program that is conducted for a school purpose, whether or not it takes place at a school site; 3. through the use of technology or an electronic device provided to pupils by a school; or 17

4. (through the use of technology or an electronic device that is not provided to pupils by a school if the bullying has the effect of or is reasonably intended to have the effect described in the definition of “bullying”. Bullying and/or harassment will not be tolerated at Royal St. George’s College. Disciplinary action will be taken against those found to be acting in a bullying or intimidating manner and may include suspension or expulsion.

Alcohol and Drugs

Students will not have any alcohol in any form or illegal drugs on the school grounds at any time. Students who give indication that they are under the influence of drugs or alcohol inside or on the school property will be subject to disciplinary action. There are serious consequences if students are found to be in possession or under the influence of drugs or alcohol at any school-sanctioned event. If a student is behaving inappropriately and is either refused entry or asked to leave an event, an adult will supervise the student in a safe place. The student’s parent/guardian will be contacted to attend to and pick up the student. Disciplinary actions will follow.

Tobacco and Vaping

• In compliance with the Smoke-Free Ontario Act and in support of staff and student health, possessing, holding or smoking tobacco is prohibited within the prescribed boundaries around the school campus. • Chewing tobacco and any other smoke-free tobacco products are also prohibited within the prescribed boundaries around the school campus. • Vaping products are also prohibited within the prescribed boundaries around the school campus. • The school extends the prohibited boundaries to include the perimeter of Wells St., Howland Ave., Barton Ave. and Albany St.

Behaviour

In accordance with the Georgian Code, all members of the Georgian Community are expected to behave respectfully toward others both in and out of the classroom. This includes fellow students, faculty, staff members, parents, neighbours and student/adult visitors to the College. Disruptive behaviour will result in the following: Minor - Moderate Incidents: Will be dealt with directly by the teacher, coach or staff advisor. May be referred to the Head of Senior School. Major Incidents: Will be referred to the Head of Senior School.

Disciplinary System As a general rule, the severity of consequences will be consistent with the nature and degree of the offence, although each case will be treated individually. No two actions or misdemeanors are exactly alike nor are the needs of the people involved.

Discipline Committee Any student who is involved in repeated violations of school rules or who has been involved in a major incident that may result in expulsion may appear before a disciplinary committee at the discretion of the Head of Senior School. The committee will be comprised of three staff members at the discretion of the Head of Senior School. The student and his parents/guardians are invited to be present. They may also elect to have the student’s advisor present. The 18

committee will commence with the student being given the opportunity to explain his actions or involvement and to answer any questions from committee members. Parents/guardians will also be invited to comment on the actions or involvement of the student. The committee members will then privately discuss the information with the Head of Senior School, who will present their recommendations to the Headmaster. These recommendations may be accepted, rejected or modified by the Headmaster, who will make the final decision regarding any disciplinary action.

Consequences Loss of Privileges: a student may have normal privileges withdrawn for a specified time period (including but not limited to leaving school property, library use, dining hall use, leadership positions, participation in sports or other co-curriculars and attendance at social events). In-School Suspension: a student is required to be at school; however, he may not attend classes. Assignments due during this period may receive a mark of zero but, at the discretion of the teacher, may be handed in (with the corresponding late mark penalty) when the student is permitted to return to classes. Out-of-School Suspension: a student will be required to remain at home under the supervision of the parents/ guardians for a specified period of time. Assignments due during this period may receive a mark of zero but, at the discretion of the teacher, may be handed in (with the corresponding late mark penalty) when the student is permitted to return to classes. Expulsion: a student will be withdrawn from the College.

Attendance and Punctuality

All students are expected to arrive on time and attend all scheduled classes. Any student who misses a class without a valid reason provided by a parent or legal guardian will be assigned a mandatory study hall session. The student will not be permitted to attend any activity or participate in athletics if a study hall session is assigned for that day. Failure to attend a scheduled study hall will result in further disciplinary action as determined by an Administrator.

Parents Please be sure to send a written note, email or make a phone call to the school excusing your son from his class or classes PRIOR to an appointment. We cannot dismiss any student without parental consent. Emails should be sent to seniorattendance@rsgc.on.ca

Attendance Policy Academic success is directly correlated with attendance and participation in class. Students are expected to attend all classes and school activities such as Chapel services, advisor meetings, assemblies, house league, and spirit and activity days. Punctuality shows respect for peers, faculty and school. Students should strive to be on time for classes, Chapel, assemblies, special meetings and practices.

Attendance and Co-curricular/School Events At the discretion of the Head of Senior School, any student who either skips or is parentally excused from academic classes may not participate in any co-curricular or other school activities on that day.

Late Arrival and Early Departure A student who is late for period 1 (8:15 am) or who leaves before the school day ends must register with the office. We may not dismiss a student without prior consent via written note, email or phone call.

Unexcused Lates (per term) 3rd late Student counseled by Adminstrator, plus parent notification 4th late Mandatory study hall, escalation to tiered reponse

Explanation of Tier System Should a student accrue five unexcused lates in a term, he will be put into a tiered response system. Any subsequent unexcused lates that term will escalate to the next tier. Tier 1: Study Hall (5 lates) Tier 2: In-school Suspension (6 lates) Tier 3: Out of School Suspension (7 lates) Tier 4: Meeting with Headmaster

Daily Attendance The regular school day runs from 8:00 am to 2:45 pm and 3:15 pm on Thursday. If a student is absent from school, his parent/guardian must call the school at 416.533.6724. Please call in each day that the student is absent or email seniorattendance@rsgc.on.ca All students must attend the morning Chapel/Assembly/Advisor session each day. Attendance at Chapel and Eucharist services is compulsory for all students. Every effort is made to include all members of the Georgian community during these services. Students and parents are asked to arrange medical and other appointments outside the regular school day and Chapel Services. The academic calendar year allows ample time for families to plan holidays. RSGC strongly discourages families from extending vacations beyond the allotted holiday time. Doing so is likely to create academic difficulties for the student. Any special consideration for extended absences of any kind shall be discussed with the head of senior school well in advance of the holiday.

Off Campus Privileges • Grade 9 students are not allowed to leave school property during the school day • Grade 10 students may be off property at lunch time only • Grade 11 and 12 students may be off campus during lunch, Wednesday break, Thursday break when no Assembly is announced and spare periods • Students must sign out and back in at the office before leaving and upon returning to campus on spare periods • Off campus privileges may be revoked at the discretion of the Head of Senior School

Uniform Policy

Pride in the school is demonstrated in many ways. Personal appearance is important, thus students and staff are expected to wear appropriate dress and look presentable at all times.

Hair Students are expected to keep hair clean, tidy and off the face at all times. Hair reaching below the collar must be tied back. Excessive styles and colours are not permitted. No headgear, such as caps, bandanas or headbands, is permitted.

Uniform Timing and Description Summer Dress For the month of September and following an announcement in the spring, students may choose to wear summer dress as described below. Both the pants and the shirt can be worn all year round as part of the #1 dress uniform. • • • • • •

White, cotton, short-sleeve button-down No tie required Lighter weight version of RSGC grey flannels (if desired) Dress socks (any colour) Black dress shoes that have a closed heel and can be polished Black belt

#1 Dress To accommodate cooler weather, students should be in #1 Dress at all times when on campus. The school blazer may be removed once students are in a classroom. Hoodies and fleece jackets will not be accepted as alternatives nor as supplements to the school blazer. • Navy blue, school-crested blazer • Pressed, clean, fully buttoned, tucked-in white shirt (short or long sleeves are acceptable) • Clean, unwrinkled official school, prefect or steward tie • Pressed grey flannels, belted at the waist with black belt • Personal choice of dress socks, but no white or ankle socks are allowed • Black dress shoes, with a closed heel and able to be polished • Navy blue, school-crested sweater or sweater vest is an optional layer under the blazer • No headphones may be worn in school We encourage all students to wear the RSGC school uniform with pride. Students who are not in complete uniform will not be admitted to class and will report to the Head of Senior School and then be sent to The Dragon’s Lair Shoppe or possibly home to obtain proper attire. Repeated, unacceptable dress will lead to consequences.

Casual Dress Days and Spirit Days

The final Friday of each month is designated as a casual dress day. Care should be taken to ensure there are no inappropriate or offensive elements to the casual attire. At the discretion of the Head of Senior School, additions or changes to the guidelines above may be issued from time to time. 21

STUDENT LIFE The mission of Royal St. George’s College is to challenge and inspire each of our students to become the best version of himself. The co-curricular program is designed to support this mission in providing ongoing opportunities for students to experience authentic academic, emotional, physical and social growth outside the classroom while at school. The underlying premise of the co-curricular program is student directed in both inception and leadership. Many of the programs that operate out of the school do so as a response to student initiative. This philosophy reflects an inquiry-based approach and supports the authenticity of our programs.

Athletics

By participating on school teams, students have the opportunity to combine athletic excellence with their academic programs. Students also have the chance to develop their skills, fitness and self-confidence. Studentathletes learn to appreciate the value of discipline, dedication, teamwork, commitment and conducting themselves as representatives of the school. Such students also make a contribution to school spirit and help to develop a positive self-image and identity for themselves and the school. Students interested in competing in any sports should read the sports bulletin board outside the gymnasium for sign-up lists and announcements concerning practice times and games. This information is also listed on the RSGC website. In addition to varsity teams, RSGC has many other intramural athletic activities available to students in all grades.

Concussion Care Plan We have collaborated with the Concussion Centre at Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital to ensure our boys receive the best support and specialist care if a concussion is sustained. It is our goal that all students complete a baseline concussion test with Holland Bloorview to get a full picture of brain and body performance using a range of measurements prior to a concussion. This baseline test becomes valuable if a concussion occurs and will assist the physician and health care professionals at Holland Bloorview to make a more informed decision about return to school and activity for students. Baseline testing is also an opportunity to educate students about concussion signs and symptoms, and the importance of reporting a suspected concussion. This has always been an important mandate for RSGC students and with the recent passing of “Rowan’s Law”, it is now mandatory for all Ontario schools and sports organizations to provide concussion education to their youth. In the event of a concussion, these steps will be taken to ensure each child receives proper physician-led care and return to school and activity guidance. In the event that you suspect your child has a concussion outside of school hours or over the summer, please follow these steps as you will still have access to care at Holland Bloorview for one year after the baseline test with your child is completed at the beginning of each school year. 1. If a suspected concussion occurs, student must visit an emergency room/walk-in clinic/family physician to diagnose the concussion and rule out anything more serious as soon as possible. Note: Holland Bloorview does not have an emergency room. 2. If diagnosed with a concussion, ask the physician to fax a referral to see the specialist physician at Holland Bloorview using the Holland Bloorview referral form. www.hollandbloorview.ca/baselinetesting. Once the referral form is faxed to Holland Bloorview, an Intake Coordinator will contact you to set up an appointment. If you have 22

questions about your referral, please contact 416-425-6220 x 3239 or x 6490. 3. Receiving post-injury care. The importance of our baseline testing program lies in the physician-led post-injury care which is provided at no cost to each family. This program offers an initial assessment with a physician who specializes in pediatric brain injury and support from rehabilitation professionals. The physicians interpret all aspects of a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s function (clinical history, neurological assessment and comparison of post-injury to baseline test results) and combine it with their clinical expertise to assess concussion recovery and make the most appropriate return to learn and play decisions. Please ensure to communicate recovery accommodations with school support staff set out at medical appointments as needed and as appropriate. 4. Please note that all students must complete the proper return to school and activity guidelines set out by Holland Bloorview physicians and clearance decisions in order to get back safely to school and sports as needed.

House System

The purpose of the House system is to promote school spirit and provide an opportunity for students to compete in a variety of activities: academic; athletic; dramatic and musical. We hope that each student does become involved and will take advantage of these opportunities to build upon current strengths and develop new interests. Students and staff are assigned to one of four Houses. The Houses represent the four major cathedrals in England The Houses compete in such activities as the cross country run, House debating and House drama competition. There are other activities such as House league games, food and book drives, and various clubs where an individual can make a contribution to his House. Spirit week in February is the highlight of House competition. Individual contributions are recorded and the student accumulates personal points. As certain point totals are CANTERBURY Red

WESTMINSTER White

WINCHESTER Yellow

YORK Blue

reached, the student is awarded a chevron to wear with his House pin.

House Points House points are awarded to individuals for participating in extra-curricular activities involving Royal St. Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s College. These activities may include but are not limited to: clubs; sports teams; drama productions; debating; extra-curricular music; serving; school leaders and miscellaneous events.

Chevron Awarded Gold Pin Gold Silver Bronze White

2750 points 2200 points 1650 points 1100 points 550 points

To put things in perspective, a student who participates in at least one team and one club activity per term, with three terms per year, over four years, would accumulate around 1200 house points.

The House standings are determined by summing the point totals of the students in that House. The House competition culminates when the J. L. Wright Cup is awarded to the House that has amassed the most points and the Gilbride Cup to the individual who has earned the most points.

Clubs and Activities

Students have the opportunity to develop self-confidence and artistic expression through involvement in any of the wide variety of clubs and activities that are available. Any student wishing to organize a club must consult with the Dean of Students prior to doing so. Activity House Points

Clubs

50 per term

Debating

100 per term

Drama

50-200 per production

Extra-curricular Music

75 per term

House Captains

75 per term

Prefect

150 per term

Serving

50 per term

Sports Teams

100 per term

Stewards

100 per term

Miscellaneous Events

Determined by level of participation

Outdoor Education Overview and Philosophy At Royal St. George’s College, we believe young men learn as much outside the classroom as they do within the walls of the school. Research and experience show that experiential, kinesthetic and interactive learning has a great and long-lasting impact on personal, interpersonal and values development. The old adage, “you learn more about a person in an hour of play than in a lifetime of work” proves true time and time again. In this spirit, we provide our young men with ongoing opportunities to learn in alternate settings and become more active participants in their learning.

Grade 9 Community Building – Where do I Fit In? The Grade 9 class spends its first week of the school year at Camp Arowhon in Algonquin Park. Though many begin the week as strangers, after a week of team building activities, shared meals and community building workshops, the return to school the next week reveals all the new connections that have been established. This trip serves as a foundation for the group journey on which the students are embarking for the next four years.

Grade 10 Self Discovery and Skill Development – What Do I Have to Offer? The Grade 10 program allows students to explore their personal interests and challenge themselves to develop skills that they may draw from to begin contributing to the school community. There are a variety of options available ranging from physical challenge to skill development. The end goal is for each young man to try something new that will challenge him, improve his skill set and increase his confidence.

Grade 11 Personal Adventure and Leadership Development How Can I Contribute? The pinnacle experience is our Grade 11 trip to British Columbia. The group spends a week exploring outdoor adventure activities such as hiking, sea kayaking, mountain biking, rock climbing and exploring First Nations culture. These activities serve as a crucible for the class as it moves into its senior year and become leaders in the school. The focus is on recognizing moments when leadership is needed and the different styles needed in varied contexts. The expectation is that all students will come to recognize the leadership strengths that they possess and grow in their confidence in using them.

Student Leadership Prefects The concept of servant leadership guides the student leadership model at RSGC. Students learn through experience that the best leaders put themselves at the service of others in order to improve the community in which they live and operate. One way to offer to service to the school is through the role of Prefect. Prefect candidates are asked , “Why do you want to be a prefect? What are you prepared to “give” to the school? What are your personal goals? How serious are you in following through on the responsibilities as outlined below?” They are encouraged to discuss these thoughts with parents, advisors and other teachers.

Prefect Criteria*: In order for a student to stand for prefect the following criteria must be met: 1. 2. 3. 4.

Academic average of at least 75% Involvement in extra-curricular activities at least two out of three terms each year Active participation in all school spirit days A clean disciplinary record. A student may not apply if he has appeared before a disciplinary committee or been suspended more than once for disciplinary matters during his time at RSGC 5. Consistent Chapel and Assembly attendance 6. 40 hours of community service 7. 600 house points * Students transferring from other schools after Grade 9 may have special consideration based on their participation at their previous school. This is at the discretion of the Headmaster.

General Responsibilities • Contribute in a positive way to improving school life. Be a role model for students in both schools and maintain the school’s traditions • Be a supporter of school rules and The Georgian Code • Maintain duties in Chapel, Ketchum Hall, assemblies and other specified areas of school • Establish contact with prefects and leaders of other schools • Assist the Headmaster, Parents’ Guild, admissions and alumni association with social functions • Set a positive role model for participation and support of the House system • Support the community service programs of RSGC • Support involvement in the extra-curricular life of school • Speak in Chapel • Prefectship, and other leadership positions, may be suspended or revoked should these responsibilities not be met. • Decisions regarding suspension or revokation will be made by the Head of Senior School and Headmaster pursuant to proper process

House Captains House Captains are involved in creating spirited extra-curricular activities for their peers. There are two Grade 11 Captains selected for each house by student voting in September.

Stewards Stewards show leadership that benefits other students over a prolonged period of time. Staff nominate stewards based on their observations of on-going, significant leadership.

Team Captains Many school teams select team captains as a leadership role to support and promote the values of the school through sport.

Club Leaders Many clubs are student-led to support and promote the values of the school through co-curricular activities.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Philosophy RSGC is a university preparatory school. We believe students are more likely to be successful in their application to university when they are actively involved in meaningful community involvement. We expect students to do more than the minimum in all aspects of school life. RSGC focuses on providing our boys with opportunities to give of their time and talents. We promote the philosophy that community involvement is a lifestyle. Students are encouraged to find their niche – what it is that they do well and enjoy – and determine how they could utilize their interests to help others.

Procedures for Students Students must complete the 40 hours of community involvement activities at any time during their secondary school program. They may count hours acquired during the summer prior to their Grade 9 year. They may also complete any number of activities, as long as those activities result in the completion of 40 hours of community involvement. To determine what services are deemed ‘ineligible activities”, please refer to the list provided. At RSGC, we recommend that a minimum of 10 hours be completed during each school year. In addition, we encourage continued commitment to volunteerism during the summer vacation. Students are required to complete and submit an online Community Involvement Record Form in order to have their hours of service recorded on their report card. Students can access these online forms through the RSGC portal. It is essential that students take the time to fill in each field on the form as well as check their entry for spelling errors. Since these entries will appear on their Community Involvement Report and are useful for university and job applications, the more detailed information provided, the better. In addition to the online entry, students must print a copy of the submission form and have it signed by their supervisor during their volunteer commitment.

Criteria for Community Involvement In order for community involvement hours to be recognized, the following criteria must be met: it must be for altruistic reasons, ie. neither monetary gain nor certification (such as CIT or LIT programmes); it must be for someone other than a family member; and it must be linked to a charitable or social justice organization. Each submission will be approved by the coordinator of community service.

Components of the Programme Grade 9 and 10 students are encouraged to participate in co-educational community involvement activities in large groups, in an attempt to develop team building and promote the idea that community involvement can be fun. Grade 11 students are encouraged to give back to the College; for example, students can serve as tutors in the Junior School through our Mentoring Programme. Grade 12 students are encouraged to volunteer for a social organization/agency that involves a training component whenever possible.

Ineligible Activities The Ministry of Education has developed a list of activities that may not be chosen as community involvement activities. These are referred to as “ineligible activities”. An ineligible activity is an activity that: • Is a requirement of a class or course in which the student is enrolled (eg., cooperative education portion of a course, job shadowing, work experience) • Takes place during the time allotted for the instructional program on a school day. However, an activity that takes place during the student’s lunch breaks or “spare” periods is permissible • Takes place in a logging or mining environment, if the student is under 16 years of age • Takes place in a factory, if the student is under 15 years of age • Takes place in a workplace other than a factory, if the student is under 14 years of age and is not accompanied by an adult • Would normally be performed for wages by a person in the workplace • Involves the operation of a vehicle, power tools or scaffolding • Involves the administration of any type or form of medication or medical procedure to other persons • Involves handling of substances classed as “designated substances” under the Occupational Health and Safety Act • Requires the knowledge of a trades person whose trade is regulated by the provincial government • Involves banking or the handling of securities, or the handling of jewelry, works of art, antiques or other valuables • Consists of duties normally performed in the home (ie. daily chores) or personal recreational activities • Involves activities for a court-ordered program (eg. community-service program for young offenders, probationary program)

Recognition of Excellence For those Senior School students who surpass the prescribed requirement, pins will be awarded for achieving 100, 200 and 500 community involvement hours during a special assembly. During the graduation ceremony a member of the graduating class will receive the St. Alban’s Community Service Bursary for having made an exceptional contribution to community involvement while at RSGC. The $100 award will be donated, in the name of the recipient, to the charity of his choice. In addition, the Lieutenant Governor’s Award is awarded to a student who makes an outstanding contribution to the outside community.

SERVICE LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES We are no longer solely Canadian citizens but also Global citizens and as such, our knowledge of global issues as well as our participation on the global stage is essential. RSGC understands the growing importance of preparing its students to participate in issues of development, equity, social and environmental justice and peace.

Student Exchange Programs Students may participate in exchanges with RSGC’s partner institution. Exchange programs afford RSGC students unique opportunities to partner with other students from around the world, study and use other languages, and enrich their knowledge of diverse cultures. Many exchange students are impacted not only by the academic life but also by living and learning in a community, an essential aspect of many international programs.

George Watson College in Edinburgh, Scotland Exchange Opportunity Through living and studying in another country, the George Watson College exchange program in Edinburgh, Scotland offers students an opportunity for experiential learning and personal development. The George Watson College exchange program is open to Grade 9 students. RSGC students will host their guests in the fall of their Grade 9 year and then travel to our partner school over March Break. Placements in each location are approximately two weeks in length.

Exchange to France Opportunity In partnership with OSEF (Organisme de Séjours Éducatifs Francophones), our Grade 10 students have the opportunity to participate in a cultural and linguistic exchange with students from France and Belgium. Our students host their partners from the end of August until the beginning of October, and then travel to Europe from the beginning of February until the end of March (7 weeks total including the March Break). All Canadian exchange participants travel together and begin their experience with a 2-day visit to Paris before continuing on to their exchange partner’s home town. Students will attend classes at the host’s school and participate in daily life as a member of their partner’s family. This is a fantastic opportunity for students to improve their French communication ability, develop their independence as well as create greater global cultural awareness.

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES The purpose of Student Support Services is to coordinate support for students in order to promote optimum success. It strives to provide effective, appropriate, meaningful and accessible services to all students.

Head of Senior School The Head of Senior School provides leadership to faculty and students by overseeing all aspects of the operation of the School. Together with the instructional leader, the Head works to provide programmatic excellence.

Director of University Counselling Our Director of University Counselling works with students and parents in all grades to help them prepare for the university application and admission process. This process intensifies early in the fall of the graduating year with a series of individual counseling appointments and an advisor time devoted to arranging visits to university campuses and completing applications for admission and scholarship. Every fall, RSGC arranges for a host of presentations at the school by university representatives, both Canadian and international. Additionally, we arrange three parent information nights: one for parents of graduating students; one for parents of students in Grades 8 through 11 and one specifically geared towards â&#x20AC;&#x153;competitiveâ&#x20AC;? university admissions (US, UK or selective Canadian programmes).

Learning Centre Coordinator Our learning centre coordinator works with students in all grades helping them learn to manage their time effectively, develop appropriate study habits and create strategies to support their individual learning styles. She collaborates with subject teachers to deliver a variety of workshops related to study skills, test preparation and organization. The learning centre coordinator also provides specialized support for students with learning exceptionalities and designs Individual Education Plans (IEPs) for students who have up-to-date assessments on file.

Chaplain Our school has a full-time chaplain on staff who is prepared to assist students, of any faith, at any time, for any reason. He coordinates our religious services and counsels students on spiritual or other matters.

Counselling Services Our school social worker promotes awareness of matters relating to personal well-being. She is also available to counsel students and families on any issues that may affect a studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s achievement and his emotional development.

Global Partnerships and Real World Connections Coordinator Our Global Partnerships and Real World Connections Coordinator works with students, staff and parents to help connect with the community through such areas as community service, international travel, summer credit courses and GAP year opportunities. Each year, RSGC plans a Day of Service for Senior School students to volunteer their time with a local charitable organization. During the March Break and at the end of the school year in June, students are able to participate in a variety of international experiential and cultural travel programs. Additionally, we offer a travel and experiential fair where students and families can explore summer and GAP year opportunities.

The Learning Centre The Royal St. George’s College Learning Centre is committed to providing support to every Senior School student. Our classrooms are inclusive and welcome a diversity of learning styles. Learning Centre policies are designed to ensure that the special education needs of individual learners are met within this context. All students are welcome to use the Learning Centre throughout the school day. Coaching sessions related to organizational, time management, executive functioning and study skills are scheduled after school. Additional academic support is also provided on a drop-in basis for students before school, during lunch hour, after school, as well as during spare periods for students in Grades 11 and 12. The main focus of student support provided through the Senior School Learning Centre is to ensure that students are supported so that they can experience academic success as they progress through Grades 9-12 at RSGC. The Learning Centre team ensures students with exceptional learning needs are identified and accommodated through an Individual Education Plan (IEP). The team will work with the teachers to ensure that differentiated instruction is provided in the classroom for all students in Grades 9-12. In addition, more personalized support will be provided to students with exceptionalities both in and out of the classroom. The student plays an important role in this process. He will come to understand that learning differences are part of our diverse learning environment at RSGC. Part of a student’s role is to learn to self-advocate. The Learning Centre team promotes self-advocacy and works will students as they learn to apply these important life skills.

Summary of Services Provided through the RSGC Learning Centre • Individual student support • Small group support • Executive functioning skills coaching • Remedial support in all subject areas • Study skills development • Counselling for text anxiety • Assistance for students with documented learning needs • Parent consultation • Faculty consultation • Test supervision • Workshops/training sessions • Tutor referral • Psycho educational testing referral • Individual education plans