PARENT HANDBOOK
Welcome to Stratford Hall
We are delighted to welcome you to Stratford Hall! Here, families, students and staff come together to create a vibrant and nurturing community. Your involvement and support are essential to our success, and we deeply appreciate your presence and contributions. This handbook offers essential information about our school policies, programs and activities. We encourage you to reach out with any questions or ideas. Together, we will make this an enriching and memorable year. Thank you for being a part of our Stratford Hall community.
Our Mission
Empowering a diverse community of learners to passionately steward our changing world.
Our Vision
Inspiring minds through innovation and ingenuity
Our Values Integrity | Curiosity | Belonging
Global Citizenship at Stratford Hall
At Stratford Hall, we agree that global citizenship is an integral part of education. To be a global citizen is to understand and promote basic human rights, to know the nature of our physical and social world, and to be aware that our actions impact others and the planet. This goal is best accomplished by knowing ourselves and knowing our place in the world through the cultural backgrounds of all members of our community. Through this knowledge, we strive for a level of empathy that will direct our actions.
Pluralism at Stratford Hall
Stratford Hall endeavours to be a pluralistic community that goes beyond just being diverse. Beyond tolerance and acknowledgment there is pluralism; a place where we not only live around people of different cultures, but also actively learn from, appreciate, and incorporate their different communities, beliefs, and histories into our everyday lives and understandings of the world around us. Pluralism is being open and accepting of ideas and cultures without necessarily losing our own beliefs in an attempt to foster a school culture and climate in which all community members feel safe, accepted, and respected.
International Baccalaureate® Mission Statement
The International Baccalaureate® Organization aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect.
To this end, the IBO works with schools, governments and international organizations to develop challenging programmes of international education and rigorous assessment.
These programmes encourage students across the world to become active, compassionate and lifelong learners who understand that other people, with their differences, can also be right.
PORTRAIT OF A GRADUATE
The Portrait of a Graduate is our response to the question, 'Why Stratford Hall?'
It encapsulates the essence of investing in this educational journey. As parents, we envision our children navigating an everchanging world with purpose and authenticity. At Stratford Hall, we empower students to explore their true selves and consider how they can leverage their voices to advocate for their needs, their community, and the broader world. The Portrait of a Graduate serves as a compass, reminding us to remain steadfast in our commitment to authenticity and purpose. When our graduates leave our school, they can truly say:
I Embody Ethical Values
I actively seek diverse perspectives and respect the value of different viewpoints, exhibiting ethical integrity and compassion in all my actions.
I Celebrate Personal Growth
I continually strive to expand my knowledge, skills, and perspectives, facing challenges head-on and seizing opportunities for growth.
I Activate Positive Change
I eagerly take the initiative to create positive change, always considering ethical, cultural and environmental implications and recognising biases, to make meaningful contributions locally and globally.
I Embrace Authenticity
I genuinely express my true self in all interactions, fostering meaningful connections based on empathy, trust, and open communication.
Characteristics of Professional Excellence
Our faculty and staff demonstrate Characteristics of Professional Excellence that embody our mission and portrait of a graduate, uphold our core values, guide our efforts, and ensure that we serve our students with the highest level of standards. Our faculty and staff all know what it means to be a Stratford Hall Educator.
I Pursue Knowledge
I enthusiastically pursue a path of continuous learning for myself and my students, embracing innovative ideas and new experiences with curiosity and joy.
I Listen to Understand
I actively practise empathetic listening, seeking to truly understand the thoughts and feelings of my colleagues, students, and their families.
I Build Bridges
I passionately unite our community members, inviting diverse perspectives to create an accepting environment where mutual respect and growth flourish.
I Model Adaptability
I humbly remain open to change, valuing the profound richness that others’ unique experiences bring to our collective journey of discovery, respect and growth flourish.
At Stratford Hall, we value open and frequent communication between our school and your family. This section outlines how we will keep you informed and engaged in your child's education through newsletters, parent-teacher conferences, our website, and social media updates. We encourage you to utilize these resources and reach out with any questions or feedback to foster a supportive and collaborative community.
Office Hours
The school reception and office are open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Any phone calls made before 8:00 AM will be directed to voicemail. The office remains open year-round, except for a two-week closure during Winter Break. During the summer holidays, the office hours are adjusted to 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM.
Communication with the School
Teachers will provide parents with weekly updates (Kindergarten to Grade 5), or a phone call to communicate with parents. To discuss any aspect of your child's progress, please contact your child’s homeroom or subject teacher. Teachers are available to meet during school hours by appointment and are generally able to meet before or after school with advance notice. Meetings may take place virtually or in person. When scheduling a meeting with a teacher, please let the teacher know what you wish to discuss so that they have the opportunity to have all necessary material readily available at the meeting.
A teacher's workday is from 8:00am until 4:00pm. Teachers cannot respond to emails or phone calls while teaching. Please respect teachers' time and avoid communication between 6:00pm and 7:00am. Your cooperation is appreciated.
In addition to teachers, there are other key individuals who would love to hear from parents, such as Principals, Vice-Principals, Counsellors, Advancement, Post-Secondary Advisors, and other staff members dedicated to supporting your child's educational journey. These individuals are also available to discuss any concerns or questions you may have.
If parents need to call the school and send a message to their child, every effort will be made to make sure the child receives it; however, we avoid disrupting class for non-urgent matters. If there is an urgent matter, please call reception.
E-Communications
As part of our efforts to reduce paper usage at the school, and to provide the most up-to-date information, Stratford Hall relies heavily on electronic communication. It is vital that we maintain reliable email addresses for families at all times. Any electronic communications we send will be sent to the email addresses we have on file. To update your email at anytime, please log in to the Parent Portal.
Each staff member has an email address, which (with some exceptions) follows the format: firstname.lastname@stratfordhall. ca. A complete faculty and staff directory can be found on our school website under About > Faculty & Staff.
All students in Grades 4-12 have access to an @stratfordhall.ca email account and should check it regularly.
E-Newsletters
Our weekly e-newsletter, The Stratford Hall Post, is sent to all families every Tuesday afternoon. It's the best way to stay updated on important information and reminders about school events. Additionally, every second Friday afternoon, the Principals send out separate e-newsletters for the Junior School and Senior School. We encourage you to read these newsletters regularly to stay informed.
School Website and Parent Portal
The School’s website, www.stratfordhall.ca, contains general information about the school. It is updated on an ongoing basis. Parents can access the Parent Portal through the website. Handbooks, policies, forms and updates can be found on the Parent Portal. A registered email address is required to access the portal.
COMMUNICATIONS
Swift K-12 Messaging Service
We are pleased to offer a text message service to parents for whole school reminders and schedule changes. This service is free and it is a one-way text and voice message from the school to your personal handheld device. We often use this service to remind you of important dates, or to update families when a schedule changes for a group of students (for example, if a sports team bus is running late and will return to school later than anticipated). All families will automatically be added to our "whole school" messaging list and will have the option to opt out if they wish.
Imprint and the Annual Report
The school publishes a school-focused magazine electronically two times per year. The Annual Report, with matriculation data and financial information, will be included in the Fall issue of Imprint
Social Media
Facebook: The school uses Facebook to share information with current Stratford Hall families as well as to connect with alumni and market to new and prospective families. We encourage you to 'like' the Stratford Hall Facebook page - Stratford Hall School - to have access to this information and see updates.
Instagram: We use Instagram to connect with our Stratford Hall community. This is an image-based platform that has gained popularity in recent years and features the use of hashtags. Follow @stratford_hall to get an inside look at daily life at the School.
Other Instagram accounts: @sabresathletics, @sh_studentlife, and @stratford_hall_alumni
X: X is used to communicate with Stratford Hall families and share information. This platform is used for short pieces of information @stratford_hall
School Policies
The school maintains a comprehensive set of policy documents that provide detailed information on a wide range of topics regarding our school programs and student welfare. The policies are thoughtfully written to uphold the school’s values, ensure adherence to the law, and respect students’ rights. To view the policies, visit the Parent Portal and select Important Documents.
Attendance and Absences
Lessons begins promptly at 8:20am. Attendance is taken at this time. All notes regarding absences (including injuries and appointments) are collected at this time. An absence note from the parent or guardian must explain the absence and the exact dates of absence. In lieu of a note, email is acceptable. This is important for the Ministry of Education student audit. Any student who arrives late must check in with their respective building receptionist. Students who leave the school early for personal business must sign out at the front door reception so the School knows who is absent in cases of emergency.
If your child will be absent, please email:
• Kindergarten to Grade 5: pypattendance@stratfordhall.ca
• Grades 6 to 10: mypattendance@stratfordhall.ca
• Grades 11 & 12: dpattendance@stratfordhall.ca
Students must not come to School when ill. Students will be supported with asynchronous learning plans in case of extended absence.
We provide parents with a yearly school calendar and request that family vacations be taken during scheduled school holidays. Teachers are not expected to provide assignments prior to a personal vacation taken while school is in session, or to provide extra instructional sessions after school to make up for class time missed due to such vacation.
Emergency Preparedness
Emergency preparedness drills are practised throughout the year. They include fire and earthquake drills in addition to Hold and Secure and Lock-down drills.
The School has developed an earthquake strategy based on the following principles:
• student safety is our top priority; having up-to-date attendance is vital.
• information and knowledge are crucial when reacting to emergencies.
• in the event of a serious earthquake, injuries will be assessed, attendance will be taken, and only when everyone is accounted for will students be released to parents. Do not come to the school until 30 minutes after an earthquake has ended and upon arrival, sign your child out at the command post. The School has supplies to last 72 hours in the event of an emergency. The School will send updates through Swift Messaging Service.
Field Trips
Field trips are an integral part of the educational program. A one-time general Field Trip Consent Form is included in the Student Information Package. Parents will always be informed about field trips, but a specific form for each is not required. If a trip takes place outside school hours, or activities are beyond the normal field trip parameters, a separate permission form and informed consent form will be sent home.
Outdoor and Experiential Education (OEE)
Information will be sent home regarding all OEE trips and activities. Meetings will be held prior to trips to inform parents of details. Parents are strongly encouraged to attend these meetings.
Only students with informed consent forms signed by parents or guardians are allowed to participate in trips. These forms outline the activity and pertinent details. Anticipated risks are also identified. Parents must be aware of risks common to these sorts of activities, and if unsure, must contact the activity leader for clarification.
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Lunches and Snacks
Students are required to bring their own lunch and snacks at the beginning of the day. Junior School parents can drop-off food during the day. No outside food delivery is allowed (e.g. Skip the Dishes, Uber Eats, DoorDash). Please avoid food items that are heavily packaged and have minimal nutritional value. To reduce garbage, please pack your child’s lunch in recyclable containers. Food that is not eaten must be taken home, not stored in cubbies or lockers. Students will eat in their cohort spaces.
We are an allergy aware school. There are students who have serious life-threatening allergies to peanuts and other items, even trace amounts can be very harmful. Please do not pack anything in lunches containing nut products, including peanut butter and nut additives.
External Lunch Provider
The school provides a lunch program option, run by Calhoun’s Catering Online registration is required with: student name, homeroom and an email address that is checked at least daily for important notices. Lunch orders can be placed the night before.
It is parents' responsibility to check the Stratford Hall calendar when ordering; do not order meals on days scheduled for OEE, field trips, sports days, etc.
Leaving School during Lunch Hour
Kindergarten - Grade 7: Students in Kindergarten to Grade 7 must be signed in and out by a parent or guardian if they wish to leave school property during lunch. The parent or guardian must accompany the student at all times while off campus.
Grades 8 - 12: Students in Grades 8 to 12 may leave campus during lunch but must sign in and out with the building receptionist. All students are expected to follow school rules and represent the school positively while in the community.
Student Health and Medical Records
In all issues we defer to the local health authority (Vancouver Coastal Health). If you have questions or concerns, we ask that you refer to the Vancouver Coastal Health website, where protocols are outlined. If your child is ill, please keep them at home. If your child becomes ill at school, you will be called to pick-up your child. For this reason, it is extremely important that we have up-to-date contact information for every family. If your child has recently been exposed to, or suffered from, a communicable condition (measles, chicken pox, head lice, COVID-19, etc.), please inform the office. Please arrange for medical appointments during non-school hours, where possible. Medical Records are kept on file for each student. We request that parents keep these files current by informing the school if your child’s health information changes.
Administration of Medication
Students should not bring prescription medication to school unless under the direction of their physician. Administration of any medication while at school is completed by a staff member. Parents are required to fill out a Medical Permission Form on My Backpack for each child. There is an additional form to be filled out for those students who have life-threatening conditions. If your child has allergies or is taking any medication, the School must be informed. It is crucial the School has the appropriate information immediately accessible, and has the knowledge to avoid potential problems. All medication must be in its original container, clearly labelled with the student’s name, date and dosage to be taken.
Non-Emergencies
Students who require non-emergency care must report to a teacher or directly to a building receptionist. School staff will address the student’s needs on site and, if possible, have the student return to class. Parents will be contacted should the school determine that a student needs to go home or if parents will be asked to take their child to see a doctor. Please note that the school may insist on a doctor’s note before a child returns to school, i.e. for cases of or suspected cases of communicable diseases. We take this precautionary measure from time to time for the health and safety of all students, staff and visitors to the school.
Safety
Safety is a top priority at Stratford Hall. Every member of our faculty and staff is dedicated to identifying and mitigating risks to ensure a safe environment for all. We continuously and proactively improve our safety protocols.
Our safety approach focuses on three key areas:
1. Risk Identification and Mitigation: We continuously assess and address potential risks to prevent accidents before they occur.
2. Emergency Response Informed by Hour Zero: We are prepared to respond swiftly and effectively to emergencies, ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone on campus.
3. Crisis Management: Our crisis management strategies are designed to handle unexpected situations with efficiency and care, minimizing impact and ensuring a quick recovery.
School Closure and Emergency Notification Plan
If inclement weather makes the roads dangerous, the school will close. Closure decisions are made by 6:00am and notification given to CBC (690AM), CKWX (1130AM) and CKNW (980AM) as well as placed on the school’s homepage. A text message will also go out to all families and staff through SwiftK12.
On days when the weather is poor, if public transit is operating and major city roads are acceptable, the school will stay open; however, individual families must make their own decisions, based on the conditions where they live. Safety is of the utmost importance. If children are kept home, please email reception.
In the event of a sudden mid-day blizzard or other event, a mid-day closure may be necessary. In this case, students in Grades 8 and above will be dismissed from school on their own. Kindergarten to Grade 7 students must be picked-up by a parent/guardian or other adult assigned by a parent/guardian.
UNIFORMS
FORMAL ACADEMIC UNIFORM (Assemblies and Special Events)
TOPS
White collared long-sleeved dress shirt
(Grades 2-12)
Black blazer (Grades 6-12)
Burgundy cardigan (Kindergarten - Grade 5)
Burgundy quarter zip sweater (Kindergarten - 12)
Burgundy short sleeve polo, crested (Kindergarten & Grade 1)
School tie (Grades 2-12)
BOTTOMS
Grey dress pants
Tartan tunic (Kindergarten - Grade 3)
Grey skort (Kindergarten to Grade 3)
Tartan kilt (Grade 4 - 12)
Black belt
Black crew socks
Black knee high socks or tights
Black shorts
(to be worn under kilt/tunic)
ACADEMIC UNIFORM (Any Day All Year except for assemblies and special events)
TOPS
White collared long-sleeved dress shirt (Grades 2-12)
Burgundy v-neck sweater vest or cardigan
(Kindergarten - Grade 12)
Burgundy quarter zip sweater (Kindergarten - Grade 12)
Burgundy short sleeve polo, crested
Stratford Hall branded sweatshirt
BOTTOMS
Grey dress pants
Tartan tunic
(Kindergarten - Grade 3)
Grey skort
(Kindergarten to Grade 3)
Tartan kilt
(Grade 4 - 12)
Grey dress shorts
Black crew socks
Black knee high socks or tights
Black shorts (to be worn under kilt/ tunic)
FOOTWEAR
Black dress shoes with non-marking soles
Weather appropriate outdoor shoes
ATHLETIC UNIFORM (Grades 2 to 10)
TOPS
Grey performance t-shirt, crested
Grey sweatshirt, crested
BOTTOMS
Black mesh shorts, crested
TRACKSUIT
(Mandatory if participating on an athletic team)
White athletic socks
OEE
Gym uniform
Any additional weather/activity appropriate gear
FOOTWEAR
Indoor athletic shoes (for gym days)
Outdoor athletic shoes (for park/OEE)
All items are to be purchased at InSchoolwear (7666 Winston Street, Burnaby) or online. To register for an account, you will need to enter our school code: shvs.
Please ensure your child has the correct uniform items and that they are cleaned regularly. If there is a reason a student is unable to wear the correct uniform, please write a note to the classroom teacher, indicating the reason and duration. All students are expected to wear their uniform properly at all times. Only badges and pins presented by the school may be worn on/within the school uniform.
At Stratford Hall, we are dedicated to fostering the best learning environment for our students. Our team has put a great deal of thought and research into designing a timetable that supports the optimal development and success of every child. This carefully crafted schedule reflects our commitment to providing a holistic educational experience that nurtures both academic and personal growth.
We believe that this thoughtful approach to structuring the school day will not only enhance learning outcomes but also ensure a positive and enriching experience for your child.
JUNIOR SCHOOL (Kindergarten to Grade 5)
8:00-8:20am
8:20-9:20am
9:20-10:20am
10:20-10:50am
10:50-11:50am Homeroom
1
2 Recess Block 3
11:50 am-12:25pm 12:25-1:00pm 1:00-2:00pm
2:00-3:00pm 3:00-3:20pm Lunch (Play) Lunch (Eating)
Block 4
Block 5
Homeroom & Dismissal
SENIOR SCHOOL (Grades 6 to 12)
8:20am 9:30am 9:45am 9:50am 11:00am 11:05am 12:15pm Block A
(5 mins)
B Break (5 mins)
1:05pm 2:15pm 2:20pm 3:30pm
Block D
Break (5 mins)
Block E (On Mondays, Block E is a flex block. Assembly will be held from 2:20- 3:00pm & the Study Block (Homeroom) will be from 3:00 -3:30pm)
Dismissal (2:15pm dismissal on Wednesdays)
SNAPSHOTS FOSTERING AN INCLUSIVE AND DIVERSE COMMUNITY
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Statement
Stratford Hall is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. We value each other's identity and well-being. Together, we learn and grow by embracing and respecting multiple perspectives, experiences and cultures. Our differences are our strengths.
Diversity and Inclusion
At Stratford Hall, we are committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all students, regardless of how they identify. We encourage students to share how they would like to be addressed, ensuring that everyone feels respected and valued within our community. Our goal is to celebrate diversity and foster a sense of belonging for every student.
We celebrate the rich tapestry of cultures, backgrounds, and experiences that make up our school community. We believe that fostering an inclusive environment is crucial for the growth and development of every student. To help us build a stronger, more connected community, we kindly ask all families to upload a family photo on the Blackbaud Parent Portal. Your photo will not only help us recognize and welcome each family but also enhance our efforts to create a warm and inclusive atmosphere for all.
Celebrating our Cultural Diversity
At Stratford Hall, we welcome and celebrate all cultural celebrations as an essential part of valuing the identities of our families. We believe that honoring these traditions enriches our school community and fosters a deeper understanding and respect for diverse cultures.
We encourage students and parents to lead and initiate cultural celebrations, sharing their heritage and traditions with the school community. By embracing these events, we create a vibrant, inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and connected.
Counsellors
Our school provides dedicated support through our team of student counsellors, available for both Primary and Secondary sections. Counsellors work closely with students, families, and staff to address a range of needs and ensure a positive educational experience. You can schedule sessions with your respective school counsellor via email:
Kindergarten - Grade 5: Heather Main (heather.main@stratfordhall.ca)
Grade 6 - 8: Tamara Vincent (tamara.vincent@stratfordhall.ca)
Grade 9 - 12: Nancy Kartsonas (nancy.kartsonas@stratfordhall.ca)
Our counsellors are here to provide guidance and support throughout the school year.
Post-Secondary Advisors
Our post-secondary advisors are here to assist students in planning their educational paths beyond secondary school. They help with course selection, application processes, and navigating opportunities for post-secondary education. For personalized support, please contact:
Angela Collins: angela.collins@stratfordhall.ca
David Chiu: david.chiu@stratfordhall.ca
These advisors are dedicated to helping students achieve their post-secondary goals and making the transition as smooth as possible.
INFORMATION FOR PARENTS
Family Phone Directory
The parent/guardian phone directory uses information provided by each family. Only those who have consented are included. The directory makes it possible for families to contact students for social events, locate neighbouring families to carpool, and even locate Senior School students who live nearby for babysitting.
In accordance with the Personal Information Privacy Policy, families may use the list for school purposes only and may not share it with anyone outside the distribution group. The directories are the property of Stratford Hall and are available when families complete their consent forms.
Gifts for Teachers
On occasions, parents may wish to give a teacher a gift. Often, a group of parents in a class will pool small donations to present a group gift card. This is often organized by the class representative. Under no circumstances may cash gifts be given, and the teachers are instructed not to accept cash gifts. The maximum value of gift should not exceed $150.
Parents in the School During School Hours
During school hours, we encourage parents to call or email rather than visit the school. If you would like to discuss anything in person, please schedule an appointment in advance. This helps us maintain a focused learning environment for the students.
Board of Governors
The Stratford Hall Board of Governors safeguards the school's assets and oversees performance to enhance the school's quality and reputation. The Board sets priorities, approves annual budgets, and appoints the Head of School who, in turn, is responsible for ensuring that Stratford Hall is run in a manner that supports the mission and vision of the school. It is the job of the Board to ensure the school has perpetual funding. The Board meets monthly.
New Governors are recruited from Board committees. If you are potentially interested in volunteering as a committee member, please contact the Board Chair or Vice Chair. For more information, please visit the Governance and Leadership page on the school website.
The Board’s mandate is to focus on long-term strategic and financial goals. The Board does not get involved with daily operations nor academics. Please direct any such concerns to the appropriate member of school leadership, including the Head of School.
Parents as Volunteers
At Stratford Hall, we believe that parent involvement is key to enriching our school community. The Stratford Hall Parent Association (SHPA) is a group of engaged, caring parents who support the Stratford Hall community and its students from Kindergarten to Grade 12. SHPA helps organize and coordinate events for the benefit and enrichment of our school community. Their work happens only through the support of our family community. There is room for everyone to make a positive impact on school life.
Parents as volunteers play a vital role in supporting various school activities and events, fostering a collaborative and vibrant environment. By volunteering, you help create a nurturing and dynamic learning environment for our students. We value and appreciate your time, skills, and dedication, which make a significant difference in our school community. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact our Enrollment and Community Relations Manager, Adele Armstrong
PARENT EXPECTATIONS
Parent Code of Conduct
The Stratford Hall Parent Code of Conduct outlines the key expectations for parents and guardians within our school community. By following this code, you help create a positive, respectful, and supportive environment for students, staff and fellow families. Developed by the Stratford Hall Parents Association (SHPA) and Senior Leadership Team (SLT), this guide is designed to foster collaboration and respect, ensuring a great experience for everyone. We appreciate your cooperation and support.
General Principles
1. Respect, Inclusion and Courtesy
• Treat all members of the school community, including staff, students, and other parents, with respect and courtesy.
• Communicate respectfully, whether in person, by phone, email, or social media.
• Strive to bring community members together rather than dividing.
2. Support for School Policies
• Support and adhere to school policies, procedures, and guidelines.
• Encourage your child to follow school rules and respect school property.
3. Positive Role Modeling
• Serve as a positive role model for students by demonstrating appropriate behavior and attitudes.
• Show respect for the learning environment by arriving on time, avoiding disruptive behaviors, and promoting a positive atmosphere.
4. Constructive Communication
• Address concerns or conflicts through appropriate channels, starting with the teacher or relevant staff member.
• Avoid spreading rumors or engaging in negative discussions about the school or its members.
Specific Expectations
1. School Involvement
• Actively participate in school events, meetings, and volunteer opportunities.
• Support your child's education by attending parent-teacher conferences and staying informed about school activities and programs.
2. Student Welfare
• Ensure your child arrives at school on time, well-rested, and prepared to learn.
• Communicate any relevant health or welfare concerns to the appropriate school personnel.
3. Conflict Resolution
• Approach conflicts calmly and seek to resolve issues through constructive dialogue.
• Assume good intentions when considering the behaviours of others.
• Respect the privacy and confidentiality of students and staff during the resolution process.
4. Use of Social Media
• Use social media responsibly, refraining from posting negative or inflammatory comments about the school, staff, or other families.
• Respect the privacy of students and staff by not sharing photos or information without permission.
5. Volunteering and Events
• Follow the school’s guidelines and expectations when volunteering or attending school events.
• Respect the decisions and authority of staff during school activities.
Consequences for Non-Compliance
Failure to adhere to the Parent Code of Conduct may result in:
• A meeting with school leadership to discuss the issue.
• Restricted access to school events or volunteer opportunities.
• In severe cases, cancellation of the student’s enrolment in the school
Due Process and Appeals
It is of utmost importance that students at Stratford Hall have a great learning and social experience. Should an issue or concern arise, it is important for the school to maintain confidentiality for the sake of privacy of those involved. As such, families must adhere to the following procedure for due process and appeals.
Should a parent or guardian wish to discuss an issue or concern, it must first be addressed with the individual who made the decision. Subsequent appeals are made to the person(s) as outlined below.
The Head of School has the final authority on all matters related to the daily operations of the school. If a situation is not satisfactorily resolved with the Head of School, the Independent Schools Association of British Columbia (ISABC) provides an ombudperson, who can hear the case.
Accounting
Facilities / Transportation
Traffic Plan
The City of Vancouver requires that we have a Traffic Management Plan that aligns with input received from the Neighbourhood Parking and Transportation Branch of the Engineering Department. The School has developed its Traffic Plan with the assistance of Bunt and Associates Engineering, traffic management specialists.
We must be sensitive to the local neighbourhood and minimize our impact. Our morning drop-off results in about 350 car trips to the school in a half-hour span. The afternoon pick-up is spread out over two hours, but involves far more parked and idling cars.
Commercial Drive is a busy major street in Vancouver. Extra care must be taken when on or near Commercial Drive. There are several specific areas we must attend to:
1. The safety of our students, parents and staff
2. The safety of others
3. The efficient flow of traffic around the school
4. Proper use of areas for drop-off and pick-up
5. Zero impact on our nearby neighbours
We encourage parents to arrange car pools, use our bus service or allow/encourage their child(ren) to take transit or ride a bike.
Pick-up and Drop-off
Students are expected to stay on the sidewalks if walking along any of the streets. Parents may pick-up and drop-off along Commercial Drive. All students must enter and exit the school via their assigned entrance and exit.
Parking on the east side of Commercial Drive, in front of the PYP, MYP, or DP Buildings during drop-off and pick-up times is strictly prohibited. If you wish to park and walk your child to school, please park in the marked spots at the Croatian Cultural Centre.
Parking is available at the Croatian Cultural Centre, Monday to Friday between 8:00 -8:45am and 3:00 -3:45pm. Please only park within the marked spots.
We expect that students will be dropped-off and picked-up, and not escorted into and out of the school by parents. Please remember to drop students off at the curb, never in the driving lane, or at the Croatian Cultural Centre parking lot.
Please drive legally and follow signage instructions.
Bike Storage
Staff and Visitor Parking
Stratford Hall owns the parking under the Skytrain between 13th and 16th Avenues. This is for staff or school bus parking only. For school functions after 6:00pm, all available staff parking spaces and parking spaces around the school may be used.
The parking that is immediately behind the DP Building is reserved for:
• School visitors: This can include a school parent if that visit occurs during school time and is for a meeting at the school. It may not be used for an extended stay. Please register your car with the DP building receptionist.
• Handicapped parking
• Head of School parking
• Loading bay
Being a Good Neighbour
All Stratford Hall buildings are located on Commercial Drive between East 14th and East 16th Avenues. However, one of the biggest issues for city planners is the traffic impact on the neighbourhood. Considering this, it is imperative that Stratford Hall be viewed by neighbours as a positive addition to the area. That means families and staff should reduce reliance on cars by increasing carpooling and using public transit.
Administrative staff act as car service volunteers, and parents as crossing guards.
Extra traffic on 14th or 15th Avenues will generate complaints to the City, and our present and/or future status in the area may be jeopardized.
Alternative Methods of Transportation
Transit: The School is well served by public transit. The Skytrain is a five-minute walk away, and the #20 bus stops very nearby. We encourage older students to use transit.
Bicycles: Stratford Hall provides convenient bicycle parking at key locations across the campus. Bicycle parking spaces are available at the entrance of each building and in the secure bicycle storage area located behind the middle building. Students must bring their own bike locks.
* While the secure bicycle storage area offers enhanced security, it is not continuously monitored. Students are responsible for securing their bicycles with a reliable lock.
Secure Bike Storage Access Schedule:
Morning Access
• 8:00am: Bike storage open
• 8:30am Bike storage closed
Dismissal Time Access
• 3:00pm: Bike storage open
• 4:00pm: Bike storage closed
• After 4:00pm: Students will need to contact DP Reception for access.
After School Dismissal and Leaving School Early
Kindergarten
Grade 1
Grade 2
8:00am PYP Front Entrance 3:05pm PYP Front Entrance
8:00am PYP Front Entrance 3:10pm Commercial Drive
8:00am PYP Front Entrance 3:15pm 2M - East 15th Avenue | 2S - Commercial Drive
Grade 3 8:00am PYP Front Entrance 3:20pm 3F - East 15th Avenue | 3S - Commercial Drive
Grade 4 8:05am PYP Front Entrance 3:20pm MacInnes Park (North Side of 15th)
Grade 5 8:05am PYP Front Entrance 3:20pm Commercial Drive
Please note siblings can be dropped off and picked up at the same time from the same door.
Students in the PYP are released by teachers directly to someone on the Contacts for pick-up or Emergency List. PYP students must be picked up from the assigned outside pick-up location after school promptly, or after any supervised club or sports activity. Students not picked up within their 10 minute window will be brought back to their class. Parents and guardians are to wait in line if they are late for their child to be brought back down again.
If students are not picked up by 3:30pm, they will be placed in After School Care and the fee for the time spent there will be charged. After saying goodbye to their teachers and waiting to go home, students are under the supervision of their parents who must ensure their child(ren) is/are behaving safely and appropriately on the sidewalks outside.
Students leaving early must leave through the main entrance on Commercial Drive and must sign out at reception. Except in an emergency, no other exits may be used.
Before School Care - Kindergarten to Grade 5
At Stratford Hall, we recognize that many of our community members start their workday early. To support our working families, we're pleased to offer Before School Care for students in Kindergarten to Grade 5, beginning September 9, 2024. Parents can enroll their children in Before School Care up to 12 hours in advance using SchoolBuddy. The entry window for Before School Care will be from 7:30 to 7:40am. After this time, doors will be locked until 8:00am. Please note that daily fees will apply. Advance registration is required.
After School Care and Day Camps - Kindergarten to Grade 7
We are pleased to offer after school care for students in Kindergarten to Grade 7 every day from school dismissal time, (3:20pm for Kindergarten to Grade 5 and 3:30pm for Grades 6 and 7) until 5:30pm.
Our After School Care program is run by a team of support staff who are an integral part of our school community. Programs are developed based on student interest and are designed to engage students with each other and with the supervising staff.
Our program is run within the school facilities allowing students to have access to a variety of resources and materials. Our program is divided into three unique groupings: Kindergarten - Grade 2, Grades 3-5 and Grades 6-7. Pre-paid registration will occur per term: September-December, January-March, and April-June. All students must be picked up by 5:30pm.
Drop-in After School Care is available. Please email asc@stratfordhall.ca as well as the child’s teacher if you require this service.
Day Camps: The school will hold day camps for Junior School students during part of November Mid-Term Break, Winter Break, Spring Break and Summer Break. Registration notices will be available through The Stratford Hall Post
Co-curricular Activities
Students will engage in co-curricular activities. Most of these take place after school and are run by both Stratford Hall teachers and external providers. The school encourages every student to find at least one activity in which to be involved. Activities will be multi-age, but may be restricted by a minimum and/or maximum age.
The activities have been thoughtfully developed to complement the academic and experiential courses that students participate in during the school day and provide students with further opportunities to develop interests and abilities. External clubs offered by outside organizations/instructors are vetted by the Principal. They have a separate fee and may take place offsite.
In the Junior School, most activities take place between 3:30pm and 4:30pm (please pick-up at 4:30pm after these activities). Most of the activities start mid-September. Membership in these activities is driven by student and teacher interest. The School’s Code of Conduct applies to co-curricular activities and clubs.
In school sports will take place after school from 3:30 to 4:30 or 5:00pm.
Treats and Special Occasions
Often, parents, students or teachers want to mark special occasions with food and treats. Celebrations are important, and we want to celebrate in all ways, not just with food. Because the frequency and type of food treats can impact student learning, and not all students may be able to participate, these requests will be monitored by classroom teachers. To bring treats, parents are required to seek permission from the Homeroom teacher in advance. At times, health and safety regulations may restrict outside food being brought into the school.
Class Parties: Class parties are permitted before the winter break and before the last day of school. Class parents are asked to request permission to host a class party by writing to the teachers and Principal two weeks or more in advance.
Signing Out Early
Grade 6-10 MYP students must have a note from and be accompanied by a parent or guardian for personal appointments during the course of a school day.
During the school day, Grade 11 and 12 DP students may sign out for personal appointments that are supported by a parent or guardian’s note or email. Please email the DP attendance to dpattendance@stratfordhall.ca. Students in Grades 11 and 12 may leave campus and walk down Commercial Drive (going as far as East Broadway) during the lunch break and must sign in and out with the respective building receptionist.
Students and Cars
In unique circumstances, it may be necessary for Grade 12 students to drive to school. All drivers must be in full compliance with the graduated driving regulations of British Columbia at all times. Students may NOT park in the faculty parking lots and must abide by all parking enforcement regulations in the neighbourhood. Furthermore, as active leaders in our commitment to environmental responsibility, it is highly encouraged that all Senior School students utilise public transportation in getting to and from school. DP students are not permitted to drive at any time during the school day.
Cell Phone and other Smart Devices Usage
PYP and MYP: PYP and MYP students are not permitted to use their cell phone, earbuds or smart watches for personal use between the hours of 8:20am-3:30pm. If students need to communicate with parents or guardians, they are able to use the phone at the MYP reception. Teachers may guide curricular use of cell phones within the classroom.
DP: DP students are permitted to use their cell phone for personal use during lunch time. They are not permitted to use their cell phones, earbuds or smart watches for personal use during class time; however, teachers may guide curricular use of phones within the classroom. DP students occupying an MYP space must abide by the MYP cell phone use policy (no phones between 8:20am3:30pm).
