Student Information Handbook
2014-2015
VAUGHAN SECONDARY SCHOOL
2014-2015 STUDENT AGENDA
1401 Clark Ave. West
Thornhill, Ontario, L4J 7R4
Telephone: 905.660.1397
Fax: 905.660.0318
vaughan.ss@yrdsb.ca
Principal
Ms. L. Leesti
Vice - Principals
Mrs. L. Borlack
Mr. S. Todd
Attendance Office: Ext 381
Guidance Office: Ext 353
Main Office Reception: Ext 300
VSS Web Site: http://www.vaughan.ss.yrdsb.ca/
YRDSB Web Site: www.yrdsb.ca
Regional Course Calendar: click on “Secondary Course Selection” on Board web site
School Council E-mail Address: vaughan.ss@yrdsb.ca
School Timetable
Period 1 & Opening Exercises
8:50 am – 10:10 am
Period 2
10:15 am – 11:30 am
Period 3
11:35 am – 12:50 pm
Period 4
12:55 pm – 2:10 pm
Period 5
2:15 pm – 3:30 pm
Welcome to Vaughan Secondary School
At Vaughan Secondary School we are committed to the fostering of intrinsic
motivation in learners to realize their passion and potential.
This agenda planner has been designed to assist your parents and you in
preparing for an exciting and successful year at Vaughan Secondary School.
This agenda contains information on the organization of the school and our
expectations of you. Please take the time to read over the contents of this
package with your parents and keep it as a resource for information and
planning throughout the school year.
The Vaughan Mission Statement
We nurture and inspire one another to be creative, thoughtful, active global
citizens with a sense of shared responsibility for the future.
Nous nous nourrissons et nous inspirons pour être des citoyens globaux
créateurs, réfléchis, actifs avec un sens de responsabilité partagée pour
l’avenir.
A Message from the Administration Team
Welcome to the 2014 – 2015 School Year!
Dear Student:
Your teachers and the Administration Team look forward to working with you
and helping you to be successful. We want you to develop the skills and
acquire the knowledge you need to realize your potential academically,
socially and emotionally. During your years at Vaughan Secondary School,
we will help you become:





Confident in your own abilities
Respectful of yourself and others
A good problem solver and decision-maker
An effective communicator
A socially responsible member of the community
Work collaboratively and treat all members of our school community with the
same level of respect that you would like and you will be taking steps to
support your own success. Best of luck in 2014 – 2015.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2014 – 2015
September 1…………………………………………………………………………………….Labour Day
September 2........................................................First Day, Grade 9 Only
September 3…………………………………………………………..…First Day, Grades 10 –12
September 10…………………………………………………………………………….……..Photo Day
September 22....................................................Professional Training Day
September 24…………………………………………………………....Guidance Assembly/WSI
October 13………………………………………………………………………………….…Thanksgiving
October 16………………………………………………………………………….…Photo Retake Day
October 16..…………………………………………………………………………………University Fair
October 16.……………………………………………………………………………..….Parents’ Night
October 22.........................................................Guidance Assembly/WSI
October 27.........................................................Professional Activity Day
November 5……..…………………………………………………….Take Our Kids to Work Day
November 5.…………………………………………...Take Our Gr. 8s to High School Day
November 6…………………………………………………………………….…..Last Day of Term 1
November 7...…………………………………..…………………………..…..First Day of Term 2
November 11.……………………………………………….…Remembrance Day & Assembly
November 14….………………………………………………………….Professional Activity Day
November 17 - 28……………………………………………………………............Grad Photos
November 19.............………………………………......………………………...Coffee House
November 19…………………………………………………….…Mid-term Report Distribution
November 26......................................................Guidance Assembly/WSI
November 26...........……………………………………………………..…Full Disclosure Date
December 10......................................................Guidance Assembly/WSI
December 11…………………………………………………………………………………..Music Night
December 22 – January 2…………………………………………………………….Winter Break
January 8 – 23.…………………………………………....Semester 1 Grade 9 Math EQAO
January 14……………………………………………………....University Application Deadline
January 15…………………………………………………………………….…Grade 8 Family Night
January 23 – 30…………………………………………………………………..Semester 1 Exams
February 1..........…………………………………………………College Application Deadline
February 2………………………………………………………………….Professional Activity Day
February 3…………………………………………………………………….….Semester 2 Begins
February 10.………………………………..……Semester One Report Cards Distributed
February 16……………………………………………………………………………………...Family Day
February 17………………………………………………………….…….….Semester 2 Photo Day
February 17 – 20...………………………………………………….………..Grad Photo Retakes
February 27 …………………………………………………………………………..Awards Assembly
March 5…………………………………………….…………………….Interim Report Distribution
March 13………………………………………………………….......…Professional Training Day
March 16 – 20………………………………………………………………………….…….March Break
March 24..……………………………………………………………………………….OSSLT Assembly
March 26…………………………………………….Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test
April 3.................................................................................Good Friday
April 6.............................................................................Easter Monday
April 9………………………………………………………………………………………..…Parents’ Night
April 13……….……………………………………………………………………….Last Day of Term 1
April 14……...……………………………………………………….……………..First Day of Term 2
April 15..............................................................Guidance Assembly/WSI
April 24.……………………………………………………….……..Mid-term Report Distribution
April 29……………………………………………………………………….………………..Coffee House
May 1..…………………………………………………………………………………………Full Disclosure
May 4 – 11.....………………………………………………………Advanced Placement Exams
May 8.…………………………………………………………………………Professional Activity Day
May 14......................................................................... Gr. 12 Assembly
May 18…………………………….........……………………………………..…………….Victoria Day
May 21…………………………………………………………………….....………Grad Dinner Dance
May 27…………………….……………………………………………………….Spring Music Concert
May 28 – June 12………………………………….……….Semester 2 Grade 9 Math EQAO
June 4..…………………………………………………………………………………...Athletic Banquet
June 10.….……………………………………………………………………………......Music Banquet
June 17 – 24………………………………………………………………………..Semester 2 Exams
June 25…...……………………………………………………….…........VSS Leaving Ceremony
June 25 – 26…………………………………………………………….Professional Activity Days
July………………………………………………………….Semester 2 Report Cards Distributed
TBD..................................................... VSS 25th Anniversary Celebrations
School Council Meeting Dates
Mon September 15, 2014
Mon October 20, 2014
Mon November 17, 2014
Mon
Mon
Mon
Mon
January 19, 2015
February 23, 2015
April 13, 2015
June 1, 2015
Code of Conduct
“Turning Dreams into Action”
Derived from the motto above, the Vaughan Secondary School Community of
Learners is committed and expected to behave in a manner that is consistent with
the following character traits and the spirit of each of the terms.
D
Dedication
R
Respect
E
Empathy
A
Achievement
M
Moral purpose
S
Success
“Dreams” defines how the business of education is carried out on a daily
basis at Vaughan Secondary School.
Individuals whose behaviours violate the Code of Conduct will be held
accountable. This will result in an obligation to make things right and repair
the harm done. Restitution and possible disciplinary consequences are
required before these individuals can be welcomed back to the Vaughan
Community of Learners.
STUDENT ACTIVITIES
Student Council
Vaughan Student Council serves as the official voice of the student body. All
registered Vaughan students may vote for the Student Council. Student
Council promotes the general welfare of the students by unifying and
coordinating all student activities. In doing so, the Council works to promote
high standards in scholastic work, high ideals in all student activities,
interest and commitment in community affairs. The Student Council’s
functions include: promoting school spirit, providing financial support to
school clubs and teams, coordinating fund raising activities and the
organizing of dances and programs designed to meet the needs of Vaughan
Students. Elections for positions are held in May for the following year’s
council. Any student may run for a position on Student Council provided
that she/he meets the requirements of nomination as outlined in the Student
Council Constitution. Students may volunteer their time in the assisting and
sponsoring of council activities.
2014 – 2015 Student Council Executive
President
Vice-President
Treasurer
Secretary
Advertising Directors
Social Media Director
Event Co-ordinators
Spirit Co-ordinators
External Affairs Director
Club Liaison
Grade 10 Representative
Grade 11 Representative
Grade 12 Representative
Grade 9 Representative
Joseph Shlayen
Anisa Boland
Sam Lin
Kim Liu
Jenny Ho
Enoch Lee
Sunita Dave
Tina Tavallaeian
Vincent Tran
Eunice Chang
Vanessa Fiore
Zach Morris
Raphael Caruso
Adam Wali
Reo Bajraktari
Klesta Hoxha
TBD in Fall 2014
STUDENT COUNCIL
DANCE/GRAD DINNER DANCE/CONCERT POLICY
Vaughan Secondary School and the York Region District School Board
recognize that school dances, concerts and the Grad Dinner Dance are a vital
component of a healthy school atmosphere. It is hoped that all dances,
concerts, and the Grad Dinner Dance are well attended and that you seek to
make these events an enjoyable experience for all.
Supervision is provided by staff and, in accordance with The York Region
District School Board policies and regulations, uniformed police officers also
attend. The staff and students of Vaughan encourage and welcome parental
attendance or assistance at school events. The following regulations have
been developed by Vaughan’s Student Council so that dances and concerts
at Vaughan Secondary School, and Vaughan Grad Dinner Dance are an
enjoyable and memorable experience for all.
1. All proposals for and scheduling of dances, concerts and the Grad Dinner Dance at
Vaughan Secondary School must be sensitive to the cultural and religious diversity of
the Vaughan Community.
2. Only students who show their Vaughan Student ID Card (see #3) may purchase
tickets for or be admitted to a school dance or concert or the Grad Dinner Dance.
3. You, as a Vaughan student, may bring one guest who is not a student at Vaughan to
dances, concerts, or the Grad Dinner Dance. This guest must complete a Vaughan
Secondary School Guest Application Form that is available in the main office. This
form is not complete until it is signed by an administrator from the guest’s home
school. For guests who do not attend a Secondary School, each guest application
will be considered by a VSS Administrator and discussed with the sponsoring student
from VSS. Any guest ticket sold prior to gaining administrative approval for the
guest may be refused when presented at the event. Please follow the process as
outlined above. You must enter your name and the name of your guest on the guest
list when purchasing tickets. Guests who have not been signed in at this time will
not be admitted. You, as the sponsor of your guest, are held responsible for the
actions and behaviour of your guest while at the dance, concert or Grad Dinner
Dance. The administration of Vaughan Secondary School reserves the right to refuse
admission to an event. The administration also reserves the right to refuse
admission to any student who does not appear in a satisfactory state for attendance
at a Vaughan School function. Guest photo I.D. and prior visitor reference check will
be required.
4. The doors close 30 minutes after the start of the dance, concert or Grad
Dinner Dance. After that time, there is no admission except for those students who
have signed a late list when purchasing tickets.
5. The contents of all purses, bags, coats etc. are subject to examination upon entry.
6. Any person who leaves the building for any reason during the event will not be readmitted.
7. The use of alcohol and/or drugs at school events is strictly prohibited by both school
regulations and by the law. Infractions will result in suspensions from school, and
possible charges being laid by the police.
8. Smoking is not permitted on school property.
9. Refreshments purchased at the dance, concert, or Grad Dinner Dance must be
consumed in designated areas.
10. While in attendance at school events, you are allowed only in designated areas.
11. Attending police officers will check cars in the parking lot and patrol the outside area
around the building.
VAUGHAN ATHLETIC COUNCIL
The VSS Athletic Council is a group of spirited physical and health
education students who organize various events throughout the year.
Activities include fundraising, intramural sports, dances and the Athletic
Awards Banquet. Volunteers from all grades are welcome to join.
Athletics
In order to participate on a school team, students must have a student
I.D. card. The athletic fee is $65.00 for the first team, and $10.00 for
each additional team. All athletes are invited to celebrate the year’s
achievements at the June Athletic Banquet.
A CODE OF BEHAVIOUR FOR SPECTATORS
Athletic events are tests of skill, fitness, teamwork and training. They
provide challenging encounters for athletes and exciting entertainment for
fans. Being a spectator at school events is a privilege, not a right, which
may be withdrawn because of inappropriate behaviour.
Spectators are expected to do the following:
 Treat the premises, students, staff, players, and the officials with
courtesy and respect.
 Abide by the decisions of the officials whether or not they are in favour
of your team.
 Respond politely to the requests of officials.
 Remain seated in designated spectator areas and leave the playing
surface clear at all times.
 Be polite and courteous in action and language.
 Refrain from behaviour that may distract athletes or interfere with the
game’s progress.
 Applaud good plays; never make derogatory remarks about any
officials, players or coaches.
 Good athletes compete fiercely to the best of their ability and limits of
their training.
 Good spectators respect the commitment of the athletes enough to
cheer every good play and appreciate the effort, time and dedication
contributed by the members of all competitors.
HAVE A GOOD TIME CHEERING FOR YOUR TEAM, AND ENJOY
THE GAME NO MATTER WHO WINS OR LOSES!
Athletic Points
Possible Awards: Junior Letter, Senior Letter, Service Award
Points System
 All sports will be rated according to the length of season and/or
amount of time spent in practice. As a result, a sport may be declared
a 1, 2, or 3 point sport.
 In a 3 point sport, for example, the coach of that team will decide to
award each athlete, a maximum of 3 points for his/her efforts during
that season.
 The coach may decide to award the maximum points to all his/her
athletes or may determine that some are more deserving than others.
 The Athletic Association will maintain point records for all athletes who
compete for VSS.
 When athletes attain the required number of points for an award, that
award shall be presented at the Athletic Banquet during the year in
which the correct number of points is acquired.
Bonus Points: YRAA Championship: Medal Recipient: 1 Point
OFSAA Championship: 1 Point
Junior Letter
Any athlete who accumulates a total of 20 points during his/her athletic
career is awarded a junior athletic letter.
Senior Letter
Any athlete who accumulates a total of 28 points during his/her athletic
career is awarded a senior athletic letter.
Service Award
Is awarded to a person who contributes time and organizational skills to
the operation of VSS athletic programs.
The Athletic Contribution Award
Shall be presented to any person who accumulates a total of 15 points in
his/her career at Vaughan. Points are awarded for the following
activities.
Athletic Association max 3 points
Managers max 3 points
MUSIC PROGRAM
The Music Department hosts many events and activities throughout the
school year. There are many opportunities for you to become involved
and to perform various styles of music in a number of different
ensembles, at assemblies, concerts, musicals, local schools, and festivals
across the province. At VSS, two annual concerts take place.
The VSS Music Council is a core group of elected music students who play
an integral role in organizing Music Department activities. Come out and
become involved!
SCHOOL POLICIES
Assessment and Evaluation Policy
Purpose
Vaughan SS is committed to providing an engaging and dynamic learning experience for our
students and we are dedicated to ensuring the success of every student. Vaughan SS strives to
recognize and respect the whole student while endeavoring to foster commitment and
responsibility and develop strong time management skills.
The primary purpose of assessment is to improve student achievement. Our assessment
practices are intended to be fair and equitable. Our communication about assessment will be
ongoing and meaningful. You will learn most effectively when you believe that you can achieve
high levels of success and when you participate actively in assessment activities.
The Vaughan SS Assessment and Evaluation Policy follows the principles of Growing Success
and is derived from the YRDSB Policy & Procedures 305.0, 305.1, 305.2, and 305.3
Value Statement
Vaughan Secondary School students are expected to think independently and behave honestly.
True learning in an intellectually stimulating environment is enhanced when students
consistently demonstrate respect for the intellectual property rights of others. Consequences for
academic dishonesty will involve a combination of both behavioural and academic responses.
Definitions of Assessment
Assessment as learning
Assessment as learning is the process of developing and supporting student meta-cognition.
Students are actively engaged in this assessment process: that is they monitor their own
learning; use assessment feedback from teacher, self, and peers to determine the next steps;
and set individual learning goals. Assessment as learning requires students to have a clear
understanding of the learning goals and the success criteria. Assessment as learning focuses
on the role of the student as the critical connector between assessment and learning (Growing
Success).
Assessment for learning
The ongoing process of gathering and interpreting evidence about student learning for the
purpose of determining where students are in their learning, where they need to go, and how
best to get there. The information gathered is used by teachers to provide feedback and adjust
instruction and by students to focus their learning. Assessment for learning is a high-yield
instructional strategy that takes place while the student is still learning and serves to promote
learning (Growing Success).
Assessment of learning
The process of collecting and interpreting evidence for the purpose of summarizing learning at a
given point in time, to make judgments about the quality of student learning on the basis of
established criteria, and to assign a value to represent that quality. The information gathered
may be used to communicate the student’s achievement to parents, other teachers, students
themselves, and others. It occurs at or near the end of a cycle of learning (Growing Success).
A Successful Student
A successful student at Vaughan SS can do the following things:
·
arrive to class on time
·
demonstrate learning by completing all assessments to the best of one’s ability
·
review feedback provided by teachers in order to improve and achieve greater success
·
participate in classroom activities
·
challenge oneself to meet the learning goals of the curriculum
·
respect their teachers, their peers and their community
·
achieve to high standards given sufficient time and support
·
support my school and community by actively participating in school life inside and
outside of the classroom
Achievement Chart
The achievement chart in Growing Success Assessment, Evaluation, and Reporting in Ontario
Schools will guide assessment. All teachers will assess, evaluate and report student
achievement using the 4 categories of the achievement chart: Knowledge and Understanding,
Thinking, Communication, and Application.
Assessment activities indicate student achievement of curriculum expectations. The knowledge
gained through their completion also assists the students to succeed in their final evaluation. In
order to provide both students and parents with an accurate statement of student progress,
students are expected to complete all assigned work within the timelines indicated by the
teacher. At Vaughan Secondary School, we believe students need to develop a sense of
responsibility as well as time management skills in order that they achieve success in their
studies.
If you miss a pre-scheduled test, quiz, or performance task, you must see your teacher
immediately on your next day in class to discuss reasons for the missed assessment and to
determine next steps which may include immediately completing the test, quiz, performance
task, or comparable assessment. If notification is given in advance for a legitimate reason, for
example a medical appointment, field trip, athletic event etc, the teacher and the student will set
an agreed upon date and time to complete the evaluation. If an evaluation is not completed as
agreed upon by the teacher, student and parent, the student may receive a mark of zero.
Academic Honesty
Definitions
Academic Honesty refers to students providing original evidence of their learning and
appropriately acknowledging the work of others.
Cheating is the attempt to gain an unfair advantage, which may misrepresent the
demonstration of a student’s learning or the learning of others. Cheating includes giving away
one’s own work knowing it will be misrepresented.
Plagiarism refers to representing someone else’s ideas, writing or other intellectual property as
one’s own. Any use of the work of others, whether published, unpublished or posted
electronically, must include proper acknowledgment.
Procedure for Suspected Academic Dishonesty


The student and teacher, in consultation with parents and administration, will engage in a
conversation to seek information and understand the circumstances.
The teacher, in consultation with administration, will determine academic and behavioural
consequences that maintain the integrity of the learning.
Consequences and Responses to Academic Dishonesty
Consequences for academic dishonesty will involve a combination of both behavioural and
academic responses.
 Academic Responses
i. Re-do the original in whole or in part, or complete an alternate assignment in order to
demonstrate learning of the expectations; if the alternate assignment is not completed
within timelines communicated to the student and guardians, a mark of zero will be
assigned;
ii. Complete an assignment about academic honesty;
 Behavioural Responses
Disciplinary restorative action that supports the student’s awareness of and accountability
for his or her actions that may include:
i.
Communication with parents and referral to administration
ii.
Detention or time in the Guided Learning Centre
iii.
Restorative reflection, which may take the form of an appropriate assignment
Learning Skills: Responsibility, Organization, Independent Work, Collaboration,
Initiative and Self-Regulation
The Ministry of Education and Training has identified various learning skills which have a direct
impact on the potential for academic success. Teachers will work with students and their
parents/guardians to help them develop these six learning skills and work habits:
 responsibility
 organization
 independent work
 collaboration
 initiative
 self-regulation
Each learning skill and work habit is evaluated on the report cards using the following scale:
E = Excellent
G = Good
S = Satisfactory
N = Needs Improvement
Developing good learning skills is crucial to student success; such skills will be assessed and
tracked separately from achievement. Teachers will provide ongoing constructive feedback on
your performance in learning skills at various points in the semester. Strong learning skills and
positive work habits are often an indicator of future success in school, at home, and in life in
general.
Homework and Extra Help
Homework is an important part of assessment. Homework is assigned to prepare for next steps
in the course and/or to reinforce concepts. Homework is frequently checked, collected, and
discussed.
From time to time, students may fall behind for various reasons; however, we encourage
students to use the resources available to ensure the successful completion of the course.
These resources include extra help sessions with subject teachers, connection with the Student
Success teacher, access to the Guided Learning Centre, Guidance Services, or a peer tutor.
EXAMINATIONS
All students must write their examinations at the scheduled time. Individual
exams are never re-scheduled. If a student is ill for their scheduled exam, a
Doctor’s note must be provided before the student is given the opportunity
to sit the exam. Vacation, employment and/or appointments must
not be scheduled during the examination period. Students must be
available throughout the exam schedule in the unforeseen event that
any exams need to be rescheduled. If a student misses their exam, they
will be given a mark of “zero.”
It is the responsibility of each student to confirm scheduled examination
time, date, and location with his/her course teachers.
Should any exam day be cancelled, all evaluations of that day will be rescheduled during the exam period.
ATTENDANCE POLICY
You are expected to attend all scheduled classes, to arrive on time, and to
obtain authorization for absence. Attendance records are maintained for
each class, and unauthorized absences are reported as truancies to the
home by means of an automated telephone message.
Reported Absences
Absences for religious holidays and school-sponsored activities, such as field
trips and athletic events, are excused absences and are not included in the
total number of absences indicated on your report card.
Authorizing Absences
To authorize an absence, bring a note to the Attendance Office. The note
must be signed by a parent or guardian and indicate the current date; the
date(s) and, if necessary, the time of the absence; and the reason for the
absence. You will be issued an Admit Slip to indicate to your teacher(s) that
an absence was authorized. If you are 18 years of age or older, you may
submit your own note.
Absences may also be authorized by a telephone call to the Attendance
Office at 905 660 1397, extension 381 or by email to vaughan.ss@yrdsb.ca.
If you have authorization to arrive late or leave early, you must sign in/out
at the Attendance Office.
If you become ill during the day, immediately report to the Attendance
Office. If necessary, arrangements will be made with a parent or guardian
for you to go home.
For planned absences of 5 days or more, you must obtain and complete a
Request for Extended Absence form which is available in the Attendance
Office and is to be returned there well in advance of the absence. Extended
absences are not permitted during examinations.
Lates
If you are late within the first 15 minutes of class time, report directly to
class. If you arrive after the first 15 minutes of class you must go to the
Attendance Office to receive an admit slip.
FIELD TRIPS AND ACTIVITIES
Field trips are an integral part of many courses. It is your responsibility to:
 Obtain permission forms to be signed and returned, along with money,
48 business hours before the trip (Students who fail to return signed
sheets and money in a timely fashion may not be able to participate);
 Inform your teachers, in advance, of upcoming absences;
 Complete school work, such as assignments, tests and homework,
missed as a result of attending the field trip;
 Arrange alternate due dates, in advance, when there are assignments,
tests, presentations, or any other deadline that must be met; and
 Display exemplary behaviour as you represent VSS.
Since field trips and activities can require you to miss important lessons,
please remember the following:
 Teachers are fair and accommodating. The sooner you approach them
about an absence, the easier it is to negotiate changes in deadlines.
 There are times that in-class activities should not or cannot be missed,
and take precedence over most out-of-class activities. This is most
relevant to final summative assessments.
 Academic success is in your hands. Choose out-of-class activities
carefully.
 Failure to comply with school and Board behavioural codes and
expectations will result in disciplinary action and may result in
exclusion from future field trips and activities.
 You must take responsibility for your own actions and choices.
Field Trip Transportation
Students must accompany their class or team to and from the out-of-school
activity on the school bus or taxi provided.
BAD WEATHER DAYS
Schools are traditionally open on bad weather days although school bus
service may be cancelled or delayed. Information will be communicated
through the radio stations by 6:45 AM. It is your parent/guardian’s decision
whether or not to send you to school on these days. Please read the
attendance policy regarding absences.
CYBERBULLYING
Be aware that neither the Vaughan Secondary School network nor the
broader Internet (whether accessed at school or at home or after school
hours) may be used for the purpose of harassment. All forms of harassment
in cyberspace are unacceptable.
Cyberbullying includes, but is not limited to, the following misuses of
technology: harassing, teasing, intimidating, threatening, or terrorizing
another person by sending or posting inappropriate and hurtful email
messages, instant messages, text messages, digital pictures or images, or
Web site postings. Often the author (sender or poster) of the inappropriate
materials is disguised (logged on) as someone else.
Technology and the Learner
To enhance learning and empower our students, we must all be skillful users
of the tools related to information technology. Modern, responsive learning
environments integrate technology seamlessly into all aspects of learning.
Throughout our educational community, all users must recognize the
strengths of technology and know when to appropriately use it for
instruction both inside and outside of the classroom.
Community members who feel that they have been the victims of such
misuses of technology should not erase the offending material from the
system. They should print a copy of the material and immediately report the
incident to their parent/guardian and school authorities such as the school
administration team, and/or teacher.
Consequences may include, but are not limited to, the loss of computer
privileges, counselling, and other consequences as determined by the
administration that follow the policy of progressive discipline.
TECHNOLOGY USE POLICY
Acceptable Use
At Vaughan, use of the Internet supports research and the opportunity for
collaborative work. Transmission of any material in violation of any
Canadian regulation is prohibited (this includes copyrighted material and
threatening or obscene material). The intent of this policy is to eliminate
problems with viruses, copyright violations, and conduct injurious to the
moral tone of the school.
The Internet and School Network
1. All rules and expectations of Vaughan’s Code of Conduct are in effect
when using the Internet.
2. All use of the Internet must be in support of research or consistent
with the educational purposes of VSS.
3. Use of the Internet for personal and private business is prohibited.
4. Users should not provide information of a personal nature to anyone
on the Internet.
5. No student may download any software programs without the express
permission of the teaching staff.
6. Use of any information obtained via the Internet is at your own risk.
VSS specifically denies any responsibility for the accuracy or quality of
information obtained through the school accounts.
7. Information (including text, graphics, video, etc.) from the Internet
sources used in student papers and reports should be cited the same
as references to printed materials. Plagiarism will not be
tolerated.
Internet Safety – Social Networking Sites
In our Internet generation, children are interacting with the world around
them in ways many adults might never have imagined. The benefits of
Internet access are enormous, but unfortunately there are also serious risks.
Unsupervised, some children may be downloading inappropriate information.
We have also become aware of some students uploading information about
themselves (e.g. pictures, personal information and family details) onto
social networking sites. This practice has been known to lead to many
personal tragedies.
Parental involvement is the key to keeping children safe online. Engaging in
dialogue, installing filters to block objectionable websites, spying or even
keeping children off the Internet are tactics that some parents have
employed, with greater or lesser success. However, none of these are as
effective as engaging your children in ongoing conversation about what they
are doing online. Try to keep the lines of communication open about this
important aspect of their lives. For more information about keeping your
children safe on the Internet, visit the York Regional Police website at
www.police.york.on.ca and click the Crime Prevention for Parents heading
and follow the materials under the heading “Be Net Aware”.
Violations of Policy
Any user found to be in violation of the above policy may have computer
privileges revoked and accounts locked for a period of time to be
determined.
Violation of Board or school policies, damages or criminal activities such as
copyright violations and software piracy or vandalism will be considered
violations of the Code of Conduct and will be addressed by the school
administration.
Vaughan Dress Code
York Region District School Board believes that school is a place of learning
and, to be successful, students must focus their attention and energy on
school related matters. For this reason, it is important that students dress
appropriately for the task of learning. Clothing which demonstrates respect
for self and others is expected at all times.
At Vaughan Secondary School, students are expected to dress in neat, clean
clothing appropriate for a school environment. Students may not wear
clothing that is revealing or provocative. Midriffs will remain covered at all
times. Language or graphics on clothing will not display obscene, racist, or
sexist slogans, promote criminal activity or violence or refer to drugs,
alcohol, smoking or sex. Bandanas or any gang related clothing bearing
gang insignias is unacceptable. Hoodies, do-rags, bandanas, and sunglasses
are also not permitted on school property. Consequences for violations of
the school dress code will be determined on a case by case basis through the
school administration.
FOOD AND ALLERGY POLICY
CAFETERIA
The cafeteria is provided for our convenience and offers meals, light lunches,
snacks and beverages. You may eat lunches brought from home in the
cafeteria provided you place all garbage in the garbage and recycling
containers provided. Your assistance in keeping the cafeteria clean is
appreciated.
Food may not be consumed in the classrooms or in the hallways.
Food and drink are to be consumed only in the cafeteria, and are not
permitted elsewhere in the building. Bottled water is permitted outside of
the cafeteria.
We promote a Healthy and Safe Environment
You are responsible at all times for cleaning up and using the
garbage/recycling containers supplied both inside and outside the school for
all litter.
ALLERGIES
Many members of our school community have severe allergies that can be
life-threatening. Out of respect for these people, please be conscientious
about cleaning up garbage in the cafeteria, and please thoroughly wash
hands after eating. This will help to prevent cross-contamination of
potentially dangerous food items to other parts of the school building.
If you have a severe allergy (anaphylactic), you must inform the Main Office
about the medical situation so that proper emergency information is
maintained. If an Epipen is required, you must carry it with you at all times
so that it is easily accessible in an emergency situation.
AWARDS
GENERAL INFORMATION
Academic Awards
There are many special proficiency awards, individual subject awards,
memorial scholarships and York Region awards available to you in all years.
You are advised to make an appointment with a guidance counsellor to seek
information about these scholarships, awards and prizes.
BICYCLES, SKATEBOARDS & ROLLER BLADES
If you bring your bicycle to school, ensure that it is secured by a quality
locking device using the bike racks located around the school grounds. For
the safety of all students, skateboards, and roller blades are not be used in
driveway areas, or on sidewalk areas especially near school access points.
No bikes, skateboards or rollerblades are to be used inside the school.
COMMUNICATION WITH PARENTS
Communication with parents occurs regularly with “Letters of Concern”, emails, Report Cards, and phone calls. In addition, Vaughan’s SynerVoice
system calls daily to the home of a student who has been absent from class.
As well, we send out a monthly e-bulletin which contains updates on school
activities. If you want to receive the e-bulletin please inform the school of
your current e-mail address. As well, our website is an excellent source of
information.
ELEVATOR
Elevator use is available for injured students or those unable to use the
stairs. Conditions of use are decided by Administration. When an elevator
key is loaned to a student a $30.00 deposit and medical note are required.
The deposit is reimbursed upon the return of the key. Students and staff
are not to use the elevator during fire alarms, but are to follow their prearranged exit procedures.
FIRE ALARM
Always assume that a fire alarm bell signals an emergency; therefore, all
people in the building must vacate immediately by the designated
exit. Misuse of a fire alarm is a criminal offence. (Criminal Code: Sections
433/434)
LOCKDOWN PROCEDURE
If you are instructed to enter lockdown, remain calm and follow these
instructions.
1. Remain in or go to the nearest secure area.
2. Remain quiet.
3. Turn cell phones off.
4. Only call 911 if you have specific information regarding the threat or
injuries.
5. DO NOT answer the door.
6. Wait for the “all-clear”.
Tragic Events Response Team
Tragedies occur which affect the school community. A plan of action and a
West TERT Team exist to help deal with a crisis and to provide support for
those involved.
The team will:




Provide an organized, systematic, but flexible approach to dealing with
tragedy;
Provide support to members of the school;
Bring consolation and comfort to the group; and
Provide follow-up resources for survivors, as needed.
FREEDOM OF INFORMATION AND PROTECTION OF
PRIVACY ACT (FOI/POP)
On January 1, 1991 the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of
Privacy Act came into existence. It affects local governments, including the
York Region District School Board. The law relating to the information
contained in Ontario Student Records and in suspension letters has not
changed. Parents and students have access to this information until the
student reaches the age of 18. Thereafter, parents have access only with
the consent of the student. For other personal information about a student,
parents may access personal information about their child held by the Board
until the child reaches the age of 16. At the age of 16, students may make
a written request to prevent the disclosure of specifically identified
information to parents/guardians.
FULL-TIME STUDENT
The philosophy of Vaughan Secondary School is that all students should
maintain full-time status for the entire school year. Students who
maintain a full timetable tend to be our most successful students because
they do not encounter time management problems arising from unassigned
periods each day. If you wish to complete your courses part-time, you can
do so through other York Region District School Board facilities. The
Guidance Department can provide information on these programs.
Full-time status is defined as:
 Grade 9, 10, and 11 students must be enrolled in a minimum of 8
courses (4 per semester); and
 Grade 12 students must be enrolled in a minimum of 6 courses.
If you wish to drop below the requirements for full-time status, you must
provide the Principal with a written rationale of why you should be permitted
to do so. The Principal will arrange a meeting with you to discuss the
situation. Decisions are considered on an individual basis, and in specific
situations the change in status/timetable may be permitted solely at the
Principal’s discretion.
GUIDANCE AND CAREER EDUCATION
Guidance Services assist students with personal, educational and career
decisions which may include selecting a program, planning academic futures,
dealing with personal or family concerns, acquiring better study skills and
developing job search techniques. You may make an appointment with a
counsellor by coming down to the Guidance Office to book one with the
Guidance Secretary Parents may make appointments by phoning the
guidance secretary at 905 660 1397 ext. 353.
LASER PENS
Laser pens are forbidden on YRDSB property. These devices will be
confiscated until retrieved by your parent/guardian. Consequences may
include parent contact, detention, and/or suspension.
LIBRARY RESOURCE CENTRE
The Library contains a substantial, diverse non-fiction collection. The fiction
collection covers both current novels and classics. The Library also
subscribes to over 25 current magazines, covering a wide variety of
interests.
Electronic resources available in the Library:
The library encourages students to use databases to find material that is
otherwise difficult to obtain in print format. The Library has access to
Knowledge Ontario, a database of newspaper and journal articles from
around the world.
Loan Period:
3 weeks;
Reference: In-Library use only
Library Hours:
8:30 AM – 3:45 PM
Photocopying:
10 cents per page.
Printing:
10 cents per page (BW), 75₵ per page (Colour)
Fines:
25 cents per day, per book, to a maximum of
$5.00 per item.
POLICIES:
1. Student card is required to check out Library materials.
2. All students must present a student card to sign in during lunch or
study hall/spare, or present their current timetable with other photo
identification.
3. Students must leave their student card at the circulation desk to sign
out space at one of the computers in the library.
4. Game playing and other associated or inappropriate sites are not
permitted on the computers.
5. Students may borrow six (6) books – 3 per topic.
6. Lost items: dependent on the replacement cost of the item. Minimum
cost is $20.00.
7. Unattended items will be sent to the Main Office, or kept on site in the
Library lost and found.
8. No food or drinks are permitted in the Library.
LOCKERS
Lockers are assigned during the first week of classes. Only two students
may share a locker. For your protection, do not share your
combination with anyone or use a locker as a communal storage
area. All non-school locks will be removed. Remember that lockers are
school property and are therefore subject to search at any time. You
must use the locker registered to you and require office permission to make
any changes. Always lock your locker for the protection of your property.
Please refrain from bringing expensive possessions to school. The
school cannot accept responsibility for the disappearance of
personal property from lockers or classrooms.
LOST AND FOUND
Found articles should be turned in to the Main Office and may be claimed
there.
PARKING
The VSS parking lot is monitored regularly and vehicles in violation of VSS
policy will be ticketed and/or towed. To park in the VSS parking lot you
must have a student ID card. Students may only park their cars in student
designated parking spaces at the back of the school. Students may not park
in front of the school (e.g. visitor or daycare spaces). Students who conduct
themselves improperly or drive their vehicles in an unsafe manner, are loud,
or cause disturbances, may be refused the privilege to park at VSS.
Anyone visiting Vaughan must sign in at the Main Office. Parking is
prohibited in Fire Routes or loading zones under By-Law 134-87. Any
violation of Vaughan parking policy will result in ticketing/towing. By-law
officers regularly patrol school property and ticket for these
infractions.
PERSONAL COMMUNICATION DEVICES
At any time our school has a great deal of person traffic in the halls and
atrium which requires individual attention so that people do not collide with
each other. For this reason we require personal communication devices
being used for telephone use not be used anywhere in the school, except
for the front and rear vestibules.
Students may not interrupt the learning environment with the use of
electronic devices. Please ensure these items are turned off while you are in
class unless the teacher has explicitly directed the use of any of these
devices as part of the lesson being presented.
Cell phones and tablets with camera functions/cameras and recording
devices are not to be used on school property without the explicit
permission of the Principal or designate.
The school is not responsible for personal items that go missing.
Any violations of the Electronic Devices Policy will be treated as a
violation of the Code of Conduct.
REPORTING STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT
There are three reports generated each semester. The Interim Reports are
prepared after the first few weeks of school, while the mid-semester reports
are issued in November and April with the final reports being issued in
February and June.
PROGRAMS
ELITE ATHLETE AND PERFORMANCE PROGRAM:
This program is designed to meet the needs of those students who are
engaged in activities that function at the provincial, national, or professional
level. Students complete an application and once in the program, may
receive the following support:



Adaptable school timetable to fit training, performance and
competition needs where possible
Consultation with a Guidance Counsellor for educational and career
planning
Liaison with Administration around absences due to performance or
competition
ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) AND PRE-ADVANCED
PLACEMENT PROGRAM
The Pre-AP program in grades 9 and 10 is an enriched program that leads to
the Advanced Placement courses in grades 11 and 12. Both the Pre-AP and
AP programs follow the Ontario curriculum but are richer in depth and
breadth and allow more time for enrichment activities. There are many
benefits in taking AP classes. Students have a greater opportunity to
explore abstract and theoretical thinking. Students also get a head start on
work that they will encounter in university. After sitting AP exams students
may be eligible to receive advanced standing in university programs. The
following is a list of Pre-AP and AP courses offered at Vaughan SS.
Grades 9 & 10
Grade 11
Grade 12
Pre-AP
Pre-AP
AP
English
Math
Science
English
Math
- Functions & Relations
Science
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
English
Math
- Advanced Functions
- Calculus & Vectors
Science
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- French
FRENCH IMMERSION (FI)
The French Immersion program is designed specifically for students whose
first language is not French and who have completed the elementary French
Immersion program (minimum of 3800 hours of instruction in French).
Les étudiants voulant obtenir un Certificat en immersion française devraient
suivre et compléter un total de 10 cours en Immersion française dont 4
devraient être en langue et littérature (FIF1DF; FIF2DF; FIF3UF; FIF4UF sont
obligatoires) et dont un minimum de 6 cours facultatifs sont enseignés en
français.
Students wishing to obtain a certificate in French Immersion should
successfully complete a total of 10 courses in French Immersion, four of
which must be the following: FIF1DF; FIF2DF; FIF3UF; FIF4UF. A minimum
of six other subjects taught in French should also be successfully completed/
9e année FI Sélection





FIF1DF – Français
CGC1DF – Géographie
BTT1OF – Introduction aux
technologies de l’information et
de la communication
AVI1OF – Arts visuels
SNC1DF - Sciences
11e année FI Sélection



FIF3UF – Français
CGG3OF – Voyages et tourisme
BDI3CF – L’entrepreneuriat
10e année FI Sélection
*
*
*
*
*
*
FIF2DF – Français
CHC2DF – Histoire
CHV2OF – Citoyenneté (1/2 course)
GLC2OF – Carrières (1/2 course)
BBI2OF – Introduction aux affaires
AVI2OF – Arts visuels
12e année FI Sélection
* FIF4UF – Français
* FIF4UE – Français - AP
TEXTBOOKS
You are responsible for returning intact all textbooks and library books
issued to you during the school year. Lost and damaged textbooks must be
paid for in full.
TRESPASSING
Trespassing is unauthorized entry onto school property. All students who
cease to be enrolled during the school year are only allowed on school
property with permission from an administrator. If you bring or encourage a
trespasser to come onto school property and the trespasser engages in any
unacceptable behaviour, both the trespasser and you will be held
accountable under the Safe Schools Policy.
UPDATING PERSONAL INFORMATION
Notify the Main Office immediately if there are changes to personal
information such as your address or phone number.
USE OF BULLETIN BOARDS AND POSTING OF SIGNS
Nothing may be placed on, or removed from, the bulletin boards except with
express instructions/approval of a member of the administration. Approved
signs/posters will be signed by an administrator.
VIDEO SURVEILLANCE
Video surveillance cameras are located throughout the school and the
premises are monitored on a regular basis.
VISITORS TO THE SCHOOL
Visitors (other than guest speakers) are not permitted to attend classes. All
visitors must report to the main office as soon as they enter the building.
WSI (WHOLE SCHOOL INITIATIVE) DAYS
WSI at Vaughan seeks to improve student performance using a crosscurricular approach. Eight days throughout the year are dedicated to
lessons and activities on literacy, numeracy, career pathways, and character
matters.
YEARBOOK
Vaughan Secondary School’s yearbook provides a profile of the school year
and can be ordered in the fall.
BEST WISHES FOR A SUCCESSFUL SCHOOL YEAR!