1
Welcome to Eenchokay Birchstick School 2011-2012
General Delivery Pikangikum Ontario P0V 2L0
Tel: 807-773-5561/1008
Fax:807-773-5958
Director : Kyle Peters (807-773-1093)
Email: kylepeters57@gmail.com
Assist. Director of Education: Jimmy Keeper (807-773-5921)
Principal: Joanne Donnelly : (807-773-5561)
Email : joannedonnelly82@yahoo.ca
Secondary Vice-Principal: (807-773-9876)
Email:kurtmacrae@hotmail.com
Elementary Vice Principal: Barry Owen (807-773-5390)
Email:barpik@yahoo.ca
SCHOOL WEBSITE:
Table Of Contents
1. The first year teacher’s guide ................................................................................2
2. Phone List................................................................................................................9
3. School Year Calendar....................................................................................14 & 15
4. High School Timetable...........................................................................................18
5. Elementary Timetable-Literacy Block Schedule............................................19 &20
6. Recess Supervision Schedules................................................................21,22, & 23
7. Bus/ Dismissal Schedule........................................................................................24
8. Board and School Policy.........................................................................................25
9. Forms and Maps....................................................................................................43
10. ESL handbook.........................................................................................................56
2
Welcome to Pikangikum!
This guide has been put together by former teachers. We hope
this information will answer some of your questions, and give
you some helpful tips to ease your transition.
The reason you have a job in Pikangikum is a result of a long chain of events. The significance of the First
Nations Peoples of Canada is often ignored. You have an obligation to learn about the students you will be
teaching as well as the community you will be teaching in.
Getting to Pikangikum: You are probably asking yourself, "How do I get to Pikangikum?" Well, there are a
few options. If you have access to a vehicle, you may be interested in driving to Red Lake and then fly into
Pikangikum from there. You are able to leave your vehicle at the airport for a fee ($2.00 a day or
$25.00 a month). The flight from Red Lake to Pikangikum is approximately 15 minutes. The benefit of
driving to Red Lake is that you can bring more cargo with you, and then charter a flight ( see page 3 for
airlines) , which will save you money on mailing costs. The charters are reasonable for the amount of cargo
that you are allowed. This is especially cost effective when travelling in groups of 2 or more. Your other option
is to fly directly from your "home" airport to Pikangikum. This usually results in many stops and a restriction
on luggage.
Your plane will touch down at the Pikangikum Airport where there are only a few small buildings; nothing like
the airports in the South. Call ahead of time to let someone know your time of arrival. Contact numbers will
be given to you when you are hired, so this will save you from being left at the airport! Contacts are:
Principal: Jo-Anne Donnelly: 705-266-7133
Director: Kyle Peters 807-738-1414
Secondary Vice Principal : Kurt MacRea 773-9876
Assistant Director: Jimmy Keeper 773-5921
Elementary Vice Principal: Barry Owen 773-5390
Board Office 773-1093
School 773- 5561
Pikangikum is a "dry" reserve. This means that alcohol is prohibited in the community. There are no
exceptions, and you will immediately lose your job if you are found in possession of these substances. It is
just not worth the risk. The Pikangikum Police Constables or Ontario Provincial
Police may ask to check your baggage for prohibited substances; namely alcohol and drugs. You have
nothing to hide and therefore no reason not to comply. They will be polite and respectful of your
belongings, and your cooperation will not go unnoticed. When it's time for a "Blue"- head for Red Lake
or Winnipeg.
3
EENCHOKAY BIRCHSTICK SCHOOL : Eenchokay Birchstick School was named after two well
respected elders and leaders in the community. A fire destroyed the original building and we now
have a number of buildings that comprise the school.
CLUBS: As a member of the Eenchokay Birchstick School staff, you will be expected to take part in
a committee and organize an extra-curricular club for the students. All ideas will be welcomed and
most clubs will fit nicely into our school's activities. If you are unsure about running a club on your
own, then join forces with another staff member and co-lead a club. If you have an idea for a
new club, speak to the principal about forming it.
PACKING FOR "PIK" Packing to move up north is a new and challenging experience. You will
entrust everything you own to Canada Post or an independent carrier, and arrive in Pikangikum with
little more than the clothes on your back. NOTE: Check with your airline regarding their baggage
limit. Some airlines have strict limits on the number and weight of bags being shipped with you. The
safest bet is to charter a plane with others and bring your belongings in with you.
To make sure things arrive with little or no damage, and that you do not duplicate things
which are already waiting for you in the teacherages, follow this advice from veteran packers and
read over the list of things the Pikangikum Education Authority provides with your accommodations.
Packing suggestions:
Put anything spillable in a plastic bag before packing.
Line your boxes with a garbage bag to prevent outside water from ruining your belongings.
Make a list of the contents of all boxes so that if one is lost you can immediately look up and sees
what was lost.
Tape all the seams on your boxes — it's a long journey.
Number all the boxes so you can easily check to see if any of your boxes are missing.
Put insurance on all your boxes, even if it is only food, so you have the ability to trace it if lost.
Do not pack boxes that are too heavy or too bulky, as they get stuck in the mail system and take
longer to reach you
T.V., V.C.R., D.V.D. players can all be purchased at the Northern store, but not at a reasonable price.
Each teacher unit will be furnished with one computer. But if you have you have your own, that would
be best.
If you are travelling in a group of two people or more, a more economical way of arriving in
Pikangikum may be to charter a plane from Red Lake. Wasaya Airlines charters flights to Pikangikum for
approximately (price in spring 2008) $750.00. This includes 3250lbs of cargo. That's a lot of "STUFF".
4
Many people drive from where they live to Red Lake, but there are flight options from Air Canada and
Bearskin Airlines.
Airlines and Charters
Wasaya Airways( Cargo)……..1-807-662-1119
Superior Air……………. 1-888-959-9001
Perimeter Air ……………. 1-800-665-8986
MAILING TIPS FROM THE PROS Mail can be slow, and people should allow for 2-4 weeks for
the delivery of parcels. Regular mail is a bit faster, but expect a few days delay with both incoming and
outgoing mail. Mail is delivered to the school daily. Most teachers enjoy this mail delivery system and
thank the Pikangikum Education Authority for this service. You will have your own mail slot in the
school staff room. Mail your belongings well in advance, especially if it includes things that you will
need when you first arrive in Pikangikum. Remember there will be a lot of "TEACHER" mail coming in on
the planes in the fall, and this may cause some additional delays. Your address in Pikangikum will be:
YOUR NAME
1 EENCHOKAY BIRCHSTICK SCHOOL St.
PIKANGIKUM FIRST NATIONS
PIKANGIKUM, ONTARIO
POV 2L0
Any packages or mail, which arrives here before you, will be stored until your arrival. All things
considered it is always unwise to forward breakables or expensive items through the mail.
Sometimes things do get crushed or broken. All boxes are treated equally; so fragile stickers
may not ensure a gentle trip. Our advice: if it is something you really treasure, and you could do
without for a time, leave it at home. You'll end up happier later when it's in one piece.Mark all
your boxes with a dark marker and include a return address. To ensure your boxes are identified early
and are quickly sent on to Pikangikum, write the initials PIK on the sides of the boxes.
FINANCES There is no bank in Pikangikum. There is a banking machine at the Northern store that is cash
withdrawal only. There is a CIBC and a Bank of Nova Scotia in Red Lake. Both banks have the convenience of a
24-hour personal banking machine. If your home financial institution is the Royal Bank of Canada, Bank of
Montreal or any other, you will be able to withdraw cash only. Usually there is someone going into Red
Lake and they will take your cheque in and deposit it for you. Otherwise you will have to mail your
cheques out.
The Northern store has accounts available for customers (somewhat similar to Sears). Visa, M/C or Interac can
also pay purchases at the Northern. You may also withdraw cash from the Northern, but remember that
Interac service charges apply for each transaction. There is an Interac machine at the Northern store and
you can also set up an account with them for groceries if you so desire.
5
ACCOMMODATIONS The accommodations in Pikangikum are comfortable. With the
exception of linen, special cooking utensils, personal decoration and entertainment (stereo, T.V. and
VCR), everything from a microwave to a kettle is provided for you. Some items which you may
consider mailing along are: rubber spatulas, specialty baking items and utensils, cloths, dish towels,
place mats, oven mitts, etc. Each unit has its' own deep freeze and washer and dryer.
Each unit will contain one computer (certainly not top of the line-bring your own if you can). The
precedent has been that the teacher who arrives first receives the first choice of rooms. You
should bring some sort of mattress cover as well as bedding.
As a tenant, you have the responsibility to keep the unit clean. A box of cleaning supplies should be
included in your preparations. A broom, mop, and bucket will be provided in the unit. Pack a few
household tools as well: hammer, screwdrivers and fasteners such as nails and screws.
If you plan to bring your own computer, stereo, T.V. or VCR then a power bar with surge protection is
an absolute must as power surges are very common. Bring a flashlight and candles as power outages,
although short lived, so happen.
TELEPHONE When you find out your teacherage unit number( we will get that for you), call Bell
Canada and prearrange your phone installation. In this area most telephone installations take
approximately two weeks. If you are in Ontario, you can prearrange a phone line by calling Bell
Canada in Thunder Bay at 310-BELL. If you are calling from out of province, you may call collect
at 1-416-623-6464. While arranging your phone line, it is a good idea to apply for a Bell Calling Card.
These cards are extremely handy when travelling. There is cell service in the community. Call DMTS
1-807-223-1100 for information. Rogers is affiliated with this carrier. If you are sharing
accommodations, we recommend that you make a telephone log to avoid any arguments. To avoid
haggling over bills and to maintain your privacy, you may wish to consider having your own phone line
installed in your bedroom.
Please note that phones are not provided in the units, so don't forget to bring one with you.
Remind family and friends that Pikangikum is in the Central Time Zone and, therefore, their discount
period may be early for you and yours may be later for them. To get phone service quicker in
your unit, find out the phone number of the previous tenant of the unit.
TIPS FOR SHOPPING The Northern Store (open Monday — Saturday 10am to 6pm) is stocked
with a variety of goods including fully loaded fresh meat, fruit and vegetable counters to clothes,
appliances, toiletries, hardware, etc. If you have further inquiries to what the Northern Store provides,
feel free to call 807-773-5913. You will find food prices in the North are more expensive than those in the
South. The higher prices are mainly due to the fact that Pikangikum is a fly in community. To assist you in
cutting costs, and enjoying your favourite name brands, here are a few items which you may want to
consider mailing to yourself: canned goods, dry goods (pasta, rice, salt, sugar, spices), toilet paper and
bathroom tissue, garbage bags and personal toiletries. All these items are available at the Northern for a
bit more cash.
There are local stores within the community, and you are encouraged to go and visit them. This is a good
way to meet people from the community, and at the same time you are contributing to the local
economy.
6
You may wish to send a gift or card for one of the many occasions, which come up during a school year. Gift
and card selections in Pikangikum are limited, so making a list and stocking up ahead of time is highly
recommended. Keep in mind that you will make new friends here, and tucking away a few extra cards for
Christmas and birthdays is always quite handy.As a helpful tip, a piece of native beadwork also makes a
unique gift for that special someone. There are a number of local artists and artisans who make their
work available (especially around Christmas).
CLOTHING ESSENTIALS It is hard to think about it right now, but it is going to be a very cold
winter. Make sure you bring along your parka, ski pants and long johns. Don't forget the essentials
like mitts, hats and scarves. —35C is colder than you think, and that's without a windchill factor!! Kiss
footwear fashion goodbye. Sorels (good, warm boots) are a must for the winter, and the good
old fashion rubber boots and rain gear are a definite must for the fall and spring. You've never seen
mud like this before. When purchasing rubber boots, remember that some sort of identifier stands out
much better when your boots are tossed into a pile with 50 other pair. Army surplus and sporting goods
stores are good sources for this type of clothing. A school dress code does exist, and you are expected
to dress professionally. No sweats or blue jeans are allowed during school hours. There is also a school
policy regarding the removal of outdoor footwear. Students and staff are expected to leave outdoor
footwear in the mudrooms, so be sure to have a pair of indoor shoes for school. Birkenstock style
shoes are the perfect idea for indoor footwear due to the fact that they are light, and easy to take on
and off. Hangers tend to disappear from year to year so you may want to pack a handful. Laundry
facilities, irons and ironing boards are also part of your accommodation arrangements. Please note that
dry cleaning is not available within the community.
FIRST AID
It's a good idea to put together a first aid kit for your home. We suggest the
following: band aids, gauze, adhesive tape, tweezers, antiseptic ointments, creams or liquids, tensor
bandages, safety pins, pain relief tablets antacids, cold remedies,cough syrup, calamine lotion or
insect repellent, and anti histamines. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Your daily
diet has a good chance of changing while here, so you may wish to include some multivitamins.
NURSING STATION There is a nursing station within the community to deal with medical
emergencies. Should the need arise, a medical evacuation by air ambulance to Sioux Lookout, Thunder Bay
or Winnipeg can be arranged. Doctors, dentists, and optometrists visit Pikangikum on a regular basis, but
for only short periods of time. They are primarily here to provide medical services to the local residents,
but you may book an appointment to see them if you wish. You will need a health insurance card for
services at the nursing station. If you are not an Ontario resident, then you should apply for your Ontario
Health Card soon after your arrival. Application forms are available at the nursing station, or contact the
Ontario Ministry of Health for more information. If you take prescription drugs on a regular basis, then
you should acquire an extra supply from your family doctor before coming to Pikangikum.
Note: there is no drugstore in the community. If the need arises, the nurses may be able to assist you
in obtaining further medication in the future. DOCTORS, DENTISTS AND OPTOMETRISTS While
doctors, dentists and optometrists visit the community regularly, it is advisable to have your check-ups
done before you arrive in Pikangikum or while you are on your school breaks/holidays. Note: Don't
forget your T.B. test, as all teachers must have this test done once a year. New teachers are not
eligible for Insurance Claim Benefits until a 3-month period of employment has elapsed.
7
R O O MMA T E S
You will likely be sharing accommodations in Pikangikum, so here are
a few tips. During the ten months that you are here, you and your roommate will be through a
lot together. Sometime in the first few weeks you will want to sit down with your "roomie"
and establish some house rules. Who cleans what and when? What's communal and what's
not? Music, visitors, TV., sleeping and waking hours all need to be discussed. Be flexible and
independent. Don't rely on your roommate for all your social and emotional needs.
VISITORS As the new kid on the block, you will receive visitors, young and old. Your students
and other children will knock on the door and ask to visit. We do NOT recommend you allow any
students in your home ever! Be wary of setting a precedent for giving out refreshments as once
you give children water a first time they will be back again and again and again. Adult visitors
can be fun and informative. Remind them, however, of your obligations and your need to relax or
work in the evening. A few visitors may ask for a loan ….NEITHER A BORROWER NOR A LENDER BE.
Some of your visitors will be selling handicrafts. Purchasing moccasins or beadwork lets you put
some much-needed cash into the community, and provides you with gifts for family and friends.
Don't feel obligated to buy, and only purchase items you want. Do not feel obligated to have
visitors. Many teachers set a precedent of no visitors in their teacher unit. This is not rude.
You can inform students that activities can be done with them at the school. When you arrive
in Pikangikum, you may speak to administration further on this topic.
SPARE TIME
It is possible to spend all your time doing schoolwork, but fortunately it is not
likely. You'll have time for leisure activities after you get settled in, so bring books, music, guitars or
craft material to fill your spare time. Pikangikum receives two television stations, CBC and TVO, so you
may want to bring a T.V. set. You may wish to purchase a T.V. from the Northern, and a VCR is also
a great investment. In the past many teachers have invested in mini satellite dishes. Contact Bell Express
Vu or Star Choice for pricing and installation. There are community members who will help you
mount your satellite dish for a small fee. There are also video stores within the
community where you can rent up to date movies.
Games and crafts always help pass the time. The school gym is also available for sporting activities
such as volleyball, basketball and floor hockey. Don't forget to bring your hockey equipment. You
will find the opportunity to play with teachers and community members throughout the winter.
Potluck dinners, card tournaments and game nights will also become an integral part of your social
life in Pikangikum. Be sure to brush up on your trivia skills, and don't forget the great outdoor
activities such as fishing, cross-country skiing, biking, hiking and canoeing. With a little imagination
you can always create your own recreation.
8
9
Eenchokay Birchstick Phone List
Para
Kindergarten Teacher
Daniel Keeper
773-5520
Kitty Turtle
773-5123
Lucie Strang
773-5520
Darcy Peters
No Phone
MacDonald Turtle
773-5509
Tracey Quill
773-5867
Dean Peters
773-5930
Kitty Turtle
Primary Division
Grade
Teacher
Grade 1 A
Grade 1 B
Grade 1 C
Grade 2A
Grade 2B
Grade 2C
Grade 3 A
Grade 3B
Recovery
Recovery
Robin Stratton
Molly Walmsley
Amy MacEwen
Andrea Lovegrove
Chris Hayes
Dawn Collins
Amanda Bangs
Siobhan Small
Rima Siraki
Eileen Harris
Para
773-5211
773-9833
773-5389
773-5340
773-9984
Tracey Black
Dinah Quill
Ross Keeper
Aaron Quill
Fabian Strang
Sylvia Suggashie
773-5146 Ex 200
773-5940
773-5495
773-5156 EX 217
773-5057
316-1777
Shirley Keeper
773-5108
Junior/Intermediate
Grade
Teacher
Para
Grade 4A
Grade 4B
Grade 5
Grade 5
Grade 6
Grade 6
Grade 7
Grade 7
Grade 8
Grade 8
Brandy Dobin
Warren King
Leslie Turtle
Kim Strang
Kerrie Peters
Guy Strang
Andrew McDowell
Leisa McClory
Derek Granger
Danielle Lawrence
Alec Wheaton
Carolynn Loopstra
Jim Rowlinson
Melaika Soule
773-9909
773-5211
773-9822
773-5052
773-9822
773-5389
773-5976
Susan Strang
Darren Suggashie
Jean Quill
Tobi King
Fabian Strang
unlisted
773-1136
773-5057
773- 9824
773-1182
10
Senior Division
High School
Teacher
Ian Zavadil
Mike Lefebvre
Rachel Bond
Lisa Bell
Greg Weaver
Diana Trull
Teacher X
773-1041
773-9833
773-9864
773-9864
Support Positions
Programs
Personnel
Special Ed. Coordinator
Tutor Escorts
Elaine Williams
Mason Strang
Raymond Keeper
Santana Keeper
Royleena Keeper
Martina Strang
Ross Keeper
Geraldine Strang
Jonah Meekis
773-5391
No Phone
773-5426
773-5921
773-9828
773-5442
773-1143
773-1143
773-9862
Lana Quill
Gina Peters
Mario Peters
Kerri Peters
Travis Strang
Judy Strang
Alicia Turtle
Cody Turtle
Tina Moose
Valentina Strang
Colleen Estes
Linda Klein
Bessie Suggashie
Simon Moose
Bobby Suggashie
Saleeman Moose
Martha Suggashie
Agnes Dunsford
Hilarus Moose
Jo-Anne Donnelly
Barry Owen
Kurt Macrea
773-9848
773-9870
773-5938
773-1184
No Phone
773-9883 cell 1478
773-5480
Religious Studies
Elders Program
Cultural Crafts
Computer Technician
Principal
Elementary V.P.
Secondary V.P.
773-5134
1-807-216-1785
773-5354
773-5098
No Phone
773-5020
773-5500
1-705-266-7133
773-5390
773-9876
11
Secretary
Board Numbers
Eenchokay Birchstick School
Pikangikum Education Authority
Kyle Peters- Director
Jimmy Peters- Asst. Director
Bus Garage
Custodians
Robert Quill
Paul Moose
Eli Keeisck
Bus Drivers
Johnny Keesick
Dennis King
Amos Quill
Tony Turtle
Janitors
Durrell Owen
Ernest Turtle
Marvin Suggashie
Howard Strang
Hector Turtle
Edna Quill
Levius Moose
Anthony Black
Federal /Provincial
Kwayaciiwin Education Center
Audrey James
Cheryl Kylander
Reception INAC
Barry King INAC
Rachelle Boone DCI
Frank Hovi
Donna Murray
Abbey MacKenzie
Margaret Angeconeb
Nishnawabe Aski First Nation
Ron Murano FNSSP
KNET Services
Brain Beaton
Jeannie Carpenter
Video Conferencing
NNEC
OEN
Maplewood Tech Services
ONSIS Helpline
Phone
773-5561
773-1093
1-807-738-1414
773-5921
773-5586
773-5161
Fax and or Cell
773-5958
773-1014
773-1172
773-5143(207)
773-1071
773-1071
773-5306
773-5155
773-9829
Band Office Area
Airport Road
Fishhouse
Wampees
773-1122
773-5480
No phone
773-9889
773-5381
773-5440
773-5080
773-9829
Special Education
1-866-326-1077
1-807-474-2989
1-807-624-1522
1-807-624-1500
1-800-567-9604
1-807-624-1584
Ex. 22
807-624-1565
807-624-4545
Ex. 21
1-800-465-9952
1-625-4925
1-877-737-5638
Ex. 1251
Ex.1250
EX.1387
1-800-465-3626
1-888-275-5934
1-800-265-3482
1-888-275-5934
1-807-737-3650
Inspection ED.Officer
Nominal Roll
INAC Funding Officer
1-807-623-7730
1-800-737-2614
12
MOET
Breakfast Program Pre Cambrian
Basepoint Solutions
EQAO
Janet Maxwell
Community
Band Office
Northern Store
Post Office
Hydro
Public Works
Nursing Station
Tikinagan(CAS)
Pik Hotel
POLICE
Computer Lab/Leon
Capital Management
Reserve Peacekeepers
White Feather Forest Management
Other Useful Numbers
Lachie McFadden
OLI Tracee Smith
Great West Life:Rob Kolteck
Tikinagan Red Lake
Tikinagan Sioux Look Out
NODIN
Perimeter Air
Wasaya Air
Wasaya cargo Red Lake
Porter Air
Air Canada
Superior Air
Bearskin Reservations
Bearskin Refunds
Bearskin Air Red Lake
Bearskin Timmins
Bearskin Thunder Bay
Superior Auto Body and Towing
Sobeys Red Lake
Lundy Foods
The Source
Red Lake CIBC
Red Lake Scotia bank
DRACO Red Lake
Red Lake Marine
Balmer Hotel Red Lake
1-800-465-5020
1-800-665-4223
519-439-7631
1-888-327-7377
1-800-214-1753
773-5578/5588
773-5913
773-5936
773-9965
773-9948/9947
773-5550
773-1103
773-1039
773-5008/5009
1-807-216-1301
773-5926
773-5933
773-9954
1-807-937-5350
1-647-299-7580
1866-846-7051
1-888-568-1115
1-800-465-3624
1-800-446
Toll free 1-800-665-8986
Toll Free- 1-877-492-7292
1-807-662-1119
Toll Free 1-888-619-8622
1-888-247-2262
1-807-662-4300
1-800-465-2327
1-807-577-7-1141
1-807-662-2039
1-705-268-1559
1-807-475-0006
24 hour cell 1-807-727-7278
1-807-727-2855
1-807-735-2132
1-807-727-2747
1-807-727-2688
1-807-727-2437
1-807-727-3223
Toll Free 1-877-727-9120
Toll Free 1-888-615-2161
Reading Recovery RRSSB
773-5536
773-5551
773-5989
773-9949
773-5923
773-1070
773-1197
773-5941
Agent:773-5424
Agent: 773-5988
1-807-7273-3451
1-807-727-3377
13
DMTS (Phone Service)
Dryden Fire & Security
Tiger Direct
Manav Relan Tiger Direct Rep.
Oshki Photos
Kurzweil-Bogdan
Synrevoice:Richard Fletcher
Bell re: Jan Hoffman
Janet Maxwell
Sylvia Parker
The Water Clinic
1-807-223-1100
1-807-223-3327
1-866-310-6193
1-416- 626-9701 EX 8425
1-204-415-0994
1-905-542-7232
1-800-450-5454 X 615
1-866-250-1921
1-800-214-1753X5006
1-800-214-1753X4973
1-800-664-2561
1-905-542-7242
Reading Recovery
14
Number of
Instructional
Days
Number of
Professional
Activity Days
August
2011
3
2
September
2011
16
Month
Number of
Scheduled
Examination
Days
2nd Week
3rd Week
4th Week
5th Week
M
T
W
T
F
M
T
W
T
F
M
T
W
T
F
M
T
W
T
F
M
T
W
1
2
3
4
5
8
9
10
11
12
15
16
17
18
19
22
23
24
25
P
26
P
29
30
31
1
2
5
6
7
8
9
12
13
14
15
16
19
20
21
22
23
26
M
27
M
28
M
6
7
11
12
13
14
17
18
19
20
21
24
25
26
27
28
31
T
F
29
M
30
M
H
H
October
2011
3
20
4
5
1
2
10
H
November
2011
19
December
2011
1
2
13
January
2012
16
February
2012
20
1
2
2
3
B
B H
4
1
3
E
4
E
7
P
8
9
10
11
14
15
16
17
18
21
22
23
24
25
28
29
30
1
2
5
6
7
8
9
12
13
14
15
16
19
20
21
22
23
26
27
28
29
30
T
B
B
B H B
B
B
B
5
6
9
10
11
12
13
16
17
18
19
20
23
24
25
26
E
2
E
30
P
31
2
3
6
7
8
9
10
13
14
15
16
17
20
21
22
23
24
27
28
29
1
2
5
6
7
8
9
12
13
14
15
16
19
20
21
22
23
26
27
28
29
30
B
B
B
B
B
B
5
6
9
10
11
12
E
13
E
16
17
18
19
20
23
24
25
26
27
30
8
9
10
11
14
15
16
17
18
21
22
23
24
25
28
29
30
31
27
P
28
H
March
2012
16
April
2012
17
May
2012
22
June
2012
14
2
2
3
4
H H
1
2
3
4
7
H
1
4
2
July
2012
176
TOTAL
1st Week
5
10
3
4
5
1
4
5
6
7
8
11
12
13
14
15
18
19
20
21
E
22
E
25
E
26
E
6
9
10
11
12
13
16
17
18
19
20
23
24
25
26
27
30
31
29
15
2011-2012 School Calendar of Events
AUGUST Teachers must be in the community by August 24
25 Professional Development
26 Professional Development
29
Classes Begin
SEPTEMBER
5
HOLIDAY Labour Day
20 First Semester Course Outlines, Emergency Lesson Plans, Behaviour Management Plans, & Long
Range plans due to the Office
26-30
HOLIDAY Culture Break
OCTOBER
10
HOLIDAY
Thanksgiving
27
High School Mid-Term Exams due to the Vice Principal
NOVEMBER
3&4
Secondary Exams Elementary Progress reports due to the office
7
Professional Development
10
Parent / Teacher Night – all grades (K4 to High School)
DECEMBER
19
20
Last day of school before Christmas Break-Christmas Concert day Elementary
HOLIDAY
Christmas Break
JANUARY
5
Classes resume for all grades
12
Gr.9 EQAO Math Assessment
20
High School Exams due to office
22
Second Semester Course Outlines, Emergency Lesson Plans, Behaviour Management Plans,
& Long Range plans due to the office
16
26 and 27
Semester 1 Final Exams and Elementary Report cards due to office
30
Professional Development
31
Second semester Begins
FEBRUARY
2
High School report cards due to the office
6
Parent Teacher Night
20
HOLIDAY- Family Day
MARCH
12-19
March Break
29
EQAO- Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test
APRIL
3
High school exams due to office
6
HOLIDAY - Good Friday
9
HOLIDAY -Easter Monday
12&13
High School Exams
17
Report cards due to office
19
Parent teacher night
MAY
13&14
EQAO Primary and Junior Division Assessment
21
HOLIDAY - Victoria Day
28
Grade 8 Grad trip
JUNE
3-5
Gr. 12 Graduation Trip
5
Grade 8 Trip returns
15
High School Final Exams due to the office Report Cards due to Elementary VP (9:00 am)
18
Fontas and Pinnell Testing due to office
21&22
High school Final Exams
21
K5A/K5B Graduation 10:00
17
22
25&26
Grade 8 and High School Grad
Elementary Divisional and grade 9 teachers meetings to review Literacy data and place
students for September Literacy block schedule.
IEP revision meetings
27
Professional Development Staff
Enjoy the summer!
18
EBS Draft Timetable – REVISED June 13 2011-2012
Semester 1
Greg
Block A
NBE3C
Block B
HPC3O
Block D
OLC4O
Block A
PREP
Block B
NVB3C
Block C
CHW3M
Greg
NAC2O
CGCD3M
Lisa
CHC 2P
NAC 1O
PREP
ENG 1P
AMU 3O
GLC20
CHV/20
PREP
ENG2P
CGC 1P
Mike
SSC
ENG 1P
AMU 1O
PREP
Mike
PREP
GLS10
ENG1L
HIF20
TeacherX
Ian
MAT1L
PPL 1O
MEL3E
PREP
Ian
MFM1P
PREP
BTT20
PPL 20
Diana
ASM 2O
PREP
PPZ30
AVI 1O
Diana
AVI 3O
AVI 2O
ASM 3O
PREP
Rachel
SNC 1L
SNC 2P
PREP
SNC 1P
Rachel
SNC 2P
MFM2P
PREP
SNC 1P
ENG1L
CGC 1P
Block D
ENG 4C
Lisa
TeacherX
PREP
Block C
PREP
Semester 2
PREP
SSC
19
Literacy Block Schedule when high school is in Block B
Week 1
Time
Gym
9:00-9:15
9:15-9:30
9:30-9:45
9:45-10:00
10:00-10:15
10:15-10:30
10:30-10:45
10:45-11:00
11:00-11:15
11:15-11:30
11:30-11:45
11:45-12:00
12:00-1:00
1:00-1:15
1:15-1:30
1:30-1:45
1:45-2:00
2:00-2:15
2:15-2:30
2:30-2:45
2:45-3:00
3:00-3:15
3:15-3:30
3:30-3:45
3:45-4:00
2C
2C
1C
1C
HS
HS
HS
HS
HS
HS
HS
Monday
C.E Elders
1A 1A
1A 1A
1A 1A
1A 1A
1B
1B
1B
1B
1B
1B
1B
1B
K5A
K5A
6A
6A
8A
8A
8A
2A
2A
4A
4A
7A
7A
1C
1C
1C
1C
6A
6A
6A
6B
6B
6B
Gym
HS
HS
HS
HS
HS
K4A
K4A
Tuesday
C.E
Elders
2A
2A
2A
2A
2A
2A
2A
2A
2B
2B
2B
2B
2B
2B
2B
2B
K5B
K5B
6B
6B
8B
8B
8B
3A
3A
4B
4B
7B
7B
1C
1C
6B
6B
6B
Wednesday
Gym C.E
Elders
3A
3A
3A
3A
3A
3A
3A
3A
3B
3B
3B
3B
3B
3B
3B
3B
7A
7A
7A
1C
1C
1C
6A
6A
6A
Thursday
Gym C.E
Elders
HS
4A
4A
HS
4A
4A
HS
4A
4A
HS
4A
4A
HS
4B
4B
1B
4B
4B
1B
4B
4B
4B
4B
K4B
K4B
7B
7B
7B
Gym
1A
1A
1B
1B
HS
HS
HS
HS
HS
HS
HS
5A
5A
5B
5B
2C
2C
2C
2C
2B
2B
2C
2C
2C
2C
3B
3B
5A
5A
5A
5B
5B
5B
8A
8A
5B
5B
5B
5A
5A
5A
8B
8B
Friday
C.E
Elders
K5A
K5A
K5B
K5B
K4A
K4A
K4B
K4B
20
Literacy Block Schedule when high school is in Block D
Time
Gym
9:00-9:15
9:15-9:30
9:30-9:45
9:45-10:00
10:00-10:15
10:15-10:30
10:30-10:45
10:45-11:00
11:00-11:15
11:15-11:30
11:30-11:45
11:45-12:00
12:00-1:00
1:00-1:15
1:15-1:30
1:30-1:45
1:45-2:00
2:00-2:15
2:15-2:30
2:30-2:45
2:45-3:00
3:00-3:15
3:15-3:30
3:30-3:45
3:45-4:00
2A
2A
2B
2B
2C
2C
5A
5A
K4B
K4B
7A
7A
HS
HS
HS
HS
HS
HS
HS
Monday
C.E Elders
1A 1A
1A 1A
1A 1A
1A 1A
1B
1B
1B
1B
1B
1B
1B
1B
Gym
1A
1A
1B
1B
1C
1C
Tuesday
C.E
Elders
2A
2A
2A
2A
2A
2A
2A
2A
2B
2B
2B
2B
2B
2B
2B
2B
Wednesday
Gym C.E
Elders
3A
3A
3A
3A
3A
3A
3A
3A
3B
3B
3B
3B
3B
3B
3B
3B
5B
5B
8A
8A
8A
K5A
K5A
1C
1C
1C
1C
6A
6A
6A
6B
6B
6B
7B
7B
HS
HS
HS
HS
HS
HS
HS
8B
8B
8B
7A
7A
7A
Thursday
Gym C.E
Elders
4A
4A
K4A
4A
4A
K4A
4A
4A
3A
4A
4A
3A
4B
4B
4B
4B
3B
4B
4B
3B
4B
4B
6A
6A
K5B
K5B
1C
1C
1C
1C
2C
2C
2C
2C
6B
6B
6B
6A
6A
6A
5A
5A
5A
5B
5B
5B
8A
8A
HS
HS
HS
HS
HS
HS
HS
Gym
4A
4A
4B
4B
6B
6B
7B
7B
7B
2C
2C
5B
5B
5B
Friday
C.E
Elders
K5A
K5A
K5B
K5B
K4A
K4A
K4B
K4B
2C
2C
5A
5A
5A
8B
8B
HS
HS
HS
HS
HS
HS
HS
21
22
23
24
Bus Schedule:The buses begin arriving by 8:25. Please make sure that you are there
to meet the students.
J/K Gr.1
Gr.2-4
Gr.5&6
Gr.7-12
Lunch Time
Departure
10:50
11:15
11:35
11:55
Staff Lunch
11:00-12:00
11:25- 12:25
11:45 -12:45
12:00-12:50
12:00
12:20
N/A
N/A
12:30 pm
12:45
1:00
1:00
3:40
4:00 pm
Afternoon Pickup
PM Classes begin
Dismissal
3:00
3:20
25
There is a complete policy binder in the administration document
School and Board
Policy
Our Philosophy:
Students entering Eenchokay Birchstick School shall be provided with the opportunity to gain
an education, which will guide them to be positive, contributing members of a society that
recognizes the rights and dignity of each individual. The student should develop a sense of
pride in his or her goals. Trustees, Pikangikum Education Authority leaders, school
administrators, teachers, paraprofessionals, tutor escorts and substitute teachers shall strive to
provide a learning environment which:









People value one another unconditionally.
People are fair and honest.
People see the school as a safe, beneficial educational environment.
People feel that they belong and their presence and contributions are valued.
People expect growth in themselves and others.
People view themselves as part of a cooperative team.
People seek opportunities to improve.
People support one another.
People plan and act upon plans.
OUR AIMS







To assist the student in obtaining skills and knowledge that will meet the needs of both
the student and the community of Pikangikum.
To provide a positive learning environment that encourages students in the pursuit of
learning.
To encourage use of the Ojibway Language and Culture, and pride in Ojibway heritage.
To develop pride in one’s self and to teach respect for Ojibway culture and heritage,
religion and morality.
To provide a varied school curriculum reflecting programs and activities that will
encourage civic, social and moral responsibilities.
To develop opportunities in school programming and curriculum that will encourage
students’ appreciation of their culture and heritage while also giving them the skills and
knowledge to achieve any goal they set for themselves.
To encourage excellence in teaching and a high standard of performance in learning.
26

To develop the knowledge, attitude and disposition students need for active and
successful participation in society.
To provide an environment that is concerned with the physical well-being of each student.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF PARENTS
The Pikangikum Education Authority, the school’s principal, teachers, paraprofessionals and
tutor escorts all recognize the important role that parents play in the education of their
children. Parents can assist the school in the education of their children by:
1.
Encouraging all school age children to attend school on a regular basis.
2.
Notifying staff at the school regarding the absence of their child or children and
the reason for such absence. This is something that needs to be done for every
absence.
3.
Attending Parent/Teacher meetings and conferences with school officials
regarding the progress of their children.
4.
Supporting the school staff and the education program by supervising, and
making sure students return, their homework.
5.
Encouraging their children in the pursuit of learning.
6.
Attending school committee meetings to keep informed on educational matters.
7.
Seeking interviews with teachers and school officials regarding student-related
concerns.
8.
Making sure their children get proper sleep at night.
9.
Making sure their children receive proper nutrition at home.
10.
Providing extra educational activities at home for their children like books,
puzzles and games.
11.
By reading to their children and listening to their children read books as well.
12.
By working with and helping their children on their homework.
13.
By encouraging their children in high school to attend homework club twice a
week.
STUDENT CODE OF BEHAVIOUR
Expectations of Students:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
be on time for all classes
attend school every day and provide reasons for absences;
obey all school rules and show respect for all staff members;
be polite, courteous and respectful of other students;
respect school property/refrain from writing graffiti;
conduct themselves appropriately while on school grounds and inside of school buses;
be diligent in completing assignments and meeting specific deadlines;
be clean in persons and habits;
respect and accept the disciplinary policies of the school.
27
Reasons for Expectations:
Students who meet expectations of the school show:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
consideration of others
responsibility toward school work;
positive attitudes towards responsibility;
prospective employers your potential for success;
teachers that you care;
your parents that you are mindful of their expectations for you;
respect for Elders, school authority, parents and fellow students
that you care about and respect the property and rights of others.
The Pikangikum Education
Authority
SAFE SCHOOL ACT For
Eenchokay Birchstick School
The Pikangikum Education Authority
Safe School Act was developed with
input from students, parents and
guardians, Chief and Council, Elders,
the Pikangikum Education Authority,
paraprofessionals, teachers, and
school administration, with final approval from the Board of Trustees. Contributing to its
content is the Ontario Schools Code of Conduct as well as The Lakehead District School Board of
Safe Schools Act and The Pikangikum Education Authority Code of Student Behaviour.
All students, parents, teachers and any other staff member have the right to be safe and feel
safe in the Eenchokay Birchstick School community. With this right comes the responsibility to
be law-abiding members of the community and to be accountable for actions that put at risk
the safety of others or oneself.
The Safe School Act for Eenchokay Birchstick School will follow the clear provincial standards of
behaviour outlined in the Ontario Code of Conduct. There will also be mandates in the Safe
School Act for Eenchokay Birchstick School that will be unique to some of the problems we face
in our particular school community. Our Safe School Act will specify the mandatory
consequences for student actions that do not comply with these standards.
28
The standards of behaviour in the Safe School Act for Eenchokay Birchstick School will apply not
only to students, but also to all individuals involved in the day-to-day activities of the school,
including parents or guardians, teachers, volunteers and all other staff members.
Guiding Principles
1.
Students, parents / guardians, volunteers, teachers, paraprofessionals and other staff
members are included in the Safe School Act for Eenchokay Birchstick School while they
are on school property or attending any school-authorized events or activities.
2.
All members of the Eenchokay Birchstick School community are to be treated with
respect and dignity, especially persons in positions of authority.
3.
Members of the school commuity are expected to use and promote non-violent means
to resolve conflict. Physically aggressive behaviour is not a responsible way to interact
with others.
4.
The possession, use, or threatened use of any object to injure another person endangers
the safety of oneself and others.
5.
Alcohol, illegal drugs, or solvents misused for abuse of oneself or others present a
health hazard. Our school will work cooperatively with parents, the Police and the
Nursing Station to promote prevention strategies. The school administration will take
the necessary action when school members are in possession or under the influence of
solvents, illegal drugs or alcohol.
6.
Insults, disrespect and other hurtful acts disrupt learning and teaching at our school.
Members of the school have a responsibility to maintain an environment where conflict
and difference can be addressed in a manner characterized by respect and civility.
7.
The advice and counsel of respected Elders, the school Board of Trustees and members
of the Pikangikum Education Authority is a valuable resource that is unique to our
community. Persons in authority are encouraged to consult these resources whenever
necessary.
29
Roles and Responsibilities
The Pikangikum Education Authority and School Board Trustees
a)
To provide direction to Eenchokay Birchstick School that ensures opportunity,
excellence and accountability in the community education system.
b)
Help develop policies that will state how our school implements and enforces the Safe
School Act for Eenchokay Birchstick School.
c)
To provide opportunities for all staff member to acquire the knowledge, skills and
attitudes necessary to develop and maintain academic excellence and safe learning and
teaching environments.
d)
To be prepared to advise how certain aspects of the Safe School Act for Eenchokay
Birchstick School should be carried out.
Principal and Vice Principals
a)
To take a leadership role in the daily operation of the school and administer the Safe
School Act for the Eenchokay Birchstick School under the direction of the Pikangikum
Education Authority.
b)
To demonstrate care for the students and commitment to academic excellence and a
safe teaching and learning environment.
c)
To hold everyone under their authority accountable for their behaviour and actions.
d)
To communicate regularly and meaningfully with all members of the school community.
Teachers, Paraprofessionals, Tutor Escorts and School Staff
a)
To maintain order in the school and hold everyone to a high level of respectful and
responsible behaviour.
b)
To be role models by exhibiting a high standard of behaviour for themselves.
c)
To help students work to their full potential and develop their self-esteem.
d)
To be sensitive to cultural differences.
e)
To maintain consistent standards of behaviour for all students.
f)
Demonstrate respect for all parents/guardians, students and staff members.
30
g)
To prepare students for the full responsibilities of good citizenship and to be
accountable for their actions.
Students
a)
Students are to be treated with respect and dignity. In turn, they must demonstrate
respect for themselves, for teachers, for the school environment and the law.
b)
They should come to school prepared, on time and ready to learn.
c)
They should show respect for themselves, for others and for those in authority.
d)
They should not bring anything to school that may compromise the safety of others.
e)
They should follow the established rules and take responsibility for their actions.
Parents
a)
Parents play an important role in the education of their children and have a
responsibility to support the efforts of school staff in maintaining a safe and respectful
learning environment for all students.
b)
Parents fulfill this responsibility when they:
show an active interest in their child’s school work and progress;
communicate regularly with the school:
help their child be neat, appropriately dressed and prepared for school;
ensure that their child attends school regularly and on time;
promptly report to the school of their child’s absence or late arrival;
become familiar with the Safe School Act for Eenchokay Birchstick School
and other school rules;
encourage and assist their child in following the rules of behaviour;
assist school staff in dealing with disciplinary issues.
c)
They should help teach their child to take responsibility for their actions. When the
child refuses to take responsibility for their actions or when the child is too young to
take responsibility for their actions, the parent should then be accountable to take
responsibility for the actions of their child and rectify the situation.
Police and Peace Keepers
a)
They will work alongside school authorities to make the school a safe place.
b)
They will aid the school by investigating incidents when necessary.
31
c)
They will enforce the law when it is broken by students on school property.
SAFE SCHOOLS
The Safe School Act for Eenchokay Birchstick School will be:
 reviewed annually in consultation with students, staff, parents/guardians and
community members;
 be available at all times for perusal for members of the school community;
 added to or amended only by a minimum forum of five members taken from the
following positions of authority:
o Education Authority Chairman
o Director of Education
o Assistant Director of Education
o School Board Trustees
o School Principal
o Vice Principals (only if appointed by the principal to represent school
administration);
 Founded on the principles of fairness and non-violence and focus on teaching
appropriate behaviours and having students take responsibility for their actions.
Suspensions
Suspensions can range from one day to as many as 20 days, depending on the infraction.
Limited Expulsions
Limited expulsions would extend anywhere from 21 days but must not exceed one year.
Full Expulsion
The student is not allowed to return to school until they meet specific requirements set out by
the school Board of Trustees. This would involve a strict discipline program. The Board may, at
its discretion, readmit an expelled student.
Mandatory Expulsion/Suspension
The police will be involved and the principal shall immediately suspend the students for the
following:




Trafficking in weapons or possessing a weapon;
Using a weapon to harm another person;
Committing physical assault on another person that causes bodily harm requiring
treatment by a medical practitioner;
Committing sexual assault;
32


Trafficking or possessing illegal drugs;
Committing robbery (excluding petty theft).
Procedures For Dealing With Violent Incidents
Under normal circumstances, the determination of whether violent criminal behaviour has
occurred is based on the administrator’s judgement that a criminal activity has taken place.
The principal will take into account such factors as:
o Was the student provoked?
o Has the student been disciplined previously for similar conduct?
o Are there extenuating circumstances known to the administrator?
Categories of Students, By Age
Due to the fact different legislative frameworks exist, based on age, students of differing ages
must be dealt with differently. The three age groups to be addressed are:
1.
Under twelve (12) years of age
2.
Twelve (12) to seventeen (17) years
3.
Adults – eighteen (18) years of age or older.
Students Under Twelve Years of Age
Students under twelve years of age cannot be charged with an offence under the Young
Offenders Act or the Criminal Code. For these children the Child and Family Services Act
applies.
Students Twelve to Seventeen Years Old
For students aged twelve to seventeen years, the Young Offenders Act will apply.
Adults
Students who are eighteen years or over are considered adults, and the procedures of the
Criminal Code will be followed if these students are charged with a criminal offence.
Specific Consequences for Specific Actions
Refer to Mandatory Expulsion for the most serious infractions against the Safe School Act for
Eenchokay Birchstick School.
Vandalism
Graffiti:
First Offence: School members will be asked to remove the graffiti along with any other graffiti
the person of authority asks them to remove.
Second Offence: The police will be contacted and the school member will be charged
with mischief if they are of age.
33
Damage or Destruction of School Property (which includes the teacher’s houses the PEA rents
to the teachers):The police will be contacted and a report will be filed. If the school member or
the school members’ parents agree to repair and pay for the damage, charges may be dropped.
Otherwise, the school member will be charged. They will also be given a five day suspension. If
a similar offence reoccurs, the student will face limited expulsion.
Hanging on the Back of Buses
First Offence: The school member will be suspended for three days.
Second Offence: The school member will be suspended for ten days.
Third Offence: Limited expulsion will occur.
Swearing at a Person of Authority
First Offence:
The school member will be suspended for 3 days.
Second Offence: The school member will be suspended for 5 days.
Third Offence:
Limited expulsion will occur.
Under the Influence of Alcohol, Illegal Drugs or Solvents
School members who are students who enter the building under the influence will:
First Instance: The parents of the student will be informed and the student sent home.
Administration will recommend the parent get in touch with the appropriate person at the
Nursing Station for counselling and / or treatment.
Second Instance: Administration will contact the Nursing Station directly.
The student will not be readmitted to school until there is evidence that the parent has
contacted the Nursing Station. Administration will follow up to make sure this occurs and
contact the proper authorities if this does not occur.
School members who are not students who enter the building under the influence will:

Be asked to leave building. The local police force will be called and informed of the
person’s condition.
Threat of Violence To Inflict Serious Bodily Harm
These situations will have to be properly investigated and substantiated by a credible authority.
We want to discipline students who threaten other students, at the same time guarding against
false accusations.
 1st Offense – The student who threatens will be suspended for three days.
The police will be contacted and the threat will be officially documented in case
the offender follows through with their threat in the future.
34


2nd Offense – The student will be suspended for 10 days. The police will be contacted
and administration will recommend that the victim press charges against the student
who has threatened them.
3rd Offense - The student will face full expulsion.
Malicious Physical Contact Between Staff and Students
Any student who exhibits harmful physical contact towards a teacher will receive full expulsion,
with reinstatement pending counseling and / or treatment and a strict probationary policy
determined by the Pikangikum Education Authority and the school Board of Trustees.
Any staff member who exhibits harmful physical contact towards a student or other staff
member will immediately be suspended with pay, pending a thorough investigation by the
Pikangikum Education Authority and possibly the local police. If the investigation indicates that
inappropriate contact occurred, suspension or termination could occur.
Harmful Physical Contact (serious medical attention not necessary)




First Offense
The result will be a two day suspension and a session with the
School’s Guidance Counsellor before returning to class.
Second Offense
The result will be a four day suspension and a session with the
School’s Guidance Counsellor before returning to class.
Third Offense
The student will not be readmitted to the school until they have
done some form of an anger-management counselling session with the Nursing Station.
This will be followed by a meeting between the Parents/Guardians, the Education
Authority and school administration.
Initiating the School Fire Alarm
If a student pulls the school fire alarm, the following will be the results of such action:


First Offense
Second Offense
The student will be suspended for ten days.
The student will receive full expulsion.
ATTENDANCE:
 Elementary teachers will enter their attendance
into Dada Van no later than 9:15 and no later than
1:15 in the afternoon.
35
 Secondary teachers will enter their class attendance within the first 10
minutes of the beginning of class
Student Absences
Parents/guardian responsibilities
1. Notify the School (807-773-5561) between 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 on the day of absence.
2. Provide the student’s name, grade and reason for the absence.
Student Lates
Punctual attendance is critical to classroom success, an important job skill and a courteous
social attribute. All students are expected to punctually attend all classes unless they are
excused by either their parents or the school. The process outlined below is intended to
reinforce that expectation.
Late to Class
Students are considered late for class if they are not in the classroom, prepared to work,
when the bell rings.
1st late – teacher warning
2nd late – teacher assigns a consequence
3rd late – teacher contacts parents and assigns a consequence
4th late – student is referred to a Vice–principal who assigns a
consequence
th
5 late – parents are contacted; student is placed on an in-school suspension one day
6th late – student is suspended for 2 days; a parent conference is held
Skipping Class
Absences are considered truancy if students are away without permission, or in the case of 18
years olds, a reason that is not considered valid by their teacher or Vice-principal.
1st skip – teacher contacts parents and assigns a consequence
2nd skip – student is referred to a VP, parents are contacted and a
consequence is assigned
3rd skip– parents are contacted and the student is placed on an in-school suspension
4th skip– parents are contacted and the student is suspended for
1 day.
Student Illness
Students who become ill during the day are required to go to the Attendance Office.
These students will be allowed to sign out only after parental permission has been
received.
Leaving the school without signing out through the office is recorded as truancy.
36
18 Year Olds
Students who have attained the legal age of majority (18 years old) may sign their own notes
for absences or sign outs as long as they have a valid reason. The same procedures for absences
and sign outs apply to students who are 18 years old or over (i.e. submit absence and sign out
notes to the attendance office before your first class). The school administration reserves the
right to ask at any time for proof of valid reason for absence or sign outs.
Day Absences and After School Activities
Students who are absent all day due to truancy may not attend extra or co-curricular activities
after school.
Staff Absences: Call the school between 7:30 and 8:00 a.m. and leave your name, the
reason for your absence, and information about where the lesson materials are or if you want
us to use an emergency lesson plan. All staff must provide a note from the nursing station
for a medical absence.
Leaves of Absence
All staff must submit leave applications 2 days prior to the leave date. All leave requests
must be submitted to administration first for approval and then to the PEA.
All staff is expected to be contributing to an extracurricular activity and to be available for the
students until 4:00 p.m.
Staff Standards of Behaviour
All school members must:










respect and comply with all applicable federal, provincial and Pikangikum Band Bi-Laws;
demonstrate honesty and integrity;
respect differences in people, their ideas and opinions;
treat one another with dignity and respect at all times, especially when there is a
disagreement;
respect and treat others fairly, regardless of their race, ancestry, colour, ethnic origin,
citizenship, religion, gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy status, disability or place of
origin (for example, Pikangikum, Poplar Hill, Toronto, etc.);
respect the rights of others;
show proper care and regard for school property and the property of others;
take appropriate measures to help those in need;
respect persons who are in a position of authority;
respect the need of others to work in a safe environment of learning and teaching;
37
 show proper and due respect to the culture, traditions, Elders and political leaders of
Pikangikum’s Ojibwa community.
 All staff are to sign in and out sheets in the main office.
 All staff must report for work by 8:10 and proceed to their assigned yard
or bus duty.
 All staff must remain at school until 4:00 p.m and attend all meetings or
professional development sessions
 All teachers should let the school know by 7:45 a.m. if you will be absent.
All teachers are expected to conduct themselves as outlined in: The complete
Foundations of Professional Practice as outlined by the Ontario College of
Teachers .This can be found on the College web site at www.oct.ca
All teaching staff will be supported through the Ontario Teacher Performance
Appraisal as outlined in the technical manual that can be found at:
http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/teacher/pdfs/TPA_Manual_English_september2010
l.pdf
38
Assessment and Evaluation
GROWING SUCCESS :
ASSESSMENT ,EVALUATION AND
REPORTING IN ONTARIO SCHOOLS
http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/policyfunding/growSuccess.pdf
FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES
POLICY
To ensure that assessment, evaluation, and reporting are valid and reliable, and that they lead
to the improvement of learning for all students, teachers use practices and procedures that:
• are fair, transparent, and equitable for all students;
• support all students, including those with special education needs, those who are learning the
language of instruction (English or French), and those who are First Nation, Métis, or Inuit;
• are carefully planned to relate to the curriculum expectations and learning goals and, as much
as possible, to the interests, learning styles and preferences, needs, and experiences of all students;
• are communicated clearly to students and parents at the beginning of the school year or course
and at other appropriate points throughout the school year or course;
• are ongoing, varied in nature, and administered over a period of time to provide multiple
opportunities for students to demonstrate the full range of their learning;
• provide ongoing descriptive feedback that is clear, specific, meaningful, and timely to support
improved learning and achievement;
• develop students’ self-assessment skills to enable them to assess their own learning, set specific goals
and plan next steps for their learning.
We use the following assessment, evaluation and reporting at the
school:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
JK/SK- WBTT
Fountas and Pinnell Literacy Tool
Full Participation in EQAO testing
Reporting System-Dada Van
Markbook
39
HIGH SCHOOL TEACHER PREPARATION FOR CLASSROOM INSPECTION
We are a private school that grants high school credits. As such the high school undergoes a rigorous
inspection process annually. The Ministry of Education inspector gathers evidence, in part through
classroom visits, in order to enable him/her to complete Section 3 of the Inspection Report template,
2010-2011, entitled “Classroom Evidence: Instruction of Classroom Expectations, Assessment and
Evaluation of Student Achievement” Each classroom visit will be approximately 20-30 minutes.
Students should be made aware that the inspector might wish to talk with them.
On the day of the inspection please provide a place for the inspector to sit (desk, chair).
Teachers must have the following materials easily accessible for the period September 1st,
2010 to August 31, 2011:






Pupil attendance records
Course outlines, daily lesson plans and unit plans for all courses taught
Evidence of student daily work (e.g. student notebooks, folders, portfolios)
Records of student achievement
Samples of assessment and evaluation tasks (e.g. tests, projects, assignments etc.)
including those for the final evaluation
Samples of assessment and evaluation tools (e.g. rubrics, checklists, etc
DATE TO BE ANNOUNCED........................................
PARAPROFESSIONALS AND TEACHERS : A PARTNERSHIP
From K4 to Grade 8, there are two adults in every class who can contribute their expertise
towards the children’s education.
The paraprofessional brings a knowledge of the children, the community and the language. She
or he may also have one or more years of classroom experience as well as some formal
university training in teaching the Native Language or in working as a Classroom Assistant or
Tutor Escort. The paraprofessional is responsible for planning and teaching one lesson of
Ojibwa each day and assisting the teacher throughout the rest of the day. The
paraprofessionals can work with individual children, small groups or the whole class. They can
40
explain new or difficult concepts in the children’s first language. They can provide extra help
for children who have missed some school or work on an enrichment activity with children who
need to be challenged. As we develop our bilingual program, the paraprofessionals are also
taking on more responsibility for teaching in Ojibwa, in Science and Social Studies.
The teacher brings a knowledge of child development, planning, teaching methods and
resources obtained through university study and teaching practice. He or she may have many
years of classroom experience or none. The teacher is responsible for the overall planning and
implementation of the curriculum in the classroom.
The ideal relationship for these two experts is a PARTNERSHIP in which each person makes a
contribution and each person learns from the other.
Suggestions for an Effective Partnership
Planning:
Schedule a regular time at which to meet and discuss long range plans, units and lessons. Some
people do this right after school each day. Others meet in the evenings or on weekends.
During this time the teacher can learn about aspects of the community and local knowledge
and values which should be included in the plans and the paraprofessional can think about the
kinds of help which she or he may need to give children with a particular topic or concept.
Classroom Space and Resources: Share the space and resources. Some people share one
“teacher’s desk” others prefer separate areas. Some bulletin boards can be created jointly,
others individually. It’s important for both partners to be familiar with the materials available
in the classroom and the school and to have a place in which to keep their own teaching
supplies.
Student Assessment: Have regular discussions about students’ progress. Each person may
notice different aspects of children’s strengths and weaknesses and may have suggestions for
how to help a child. It is particularly important for non-Ojibwa speaking teachers to find out if
children show different skills and behaviours in their first language, than are apparent when
they are using English.
Classroom Management: Work together to establish expectations, routines and consequences.
Do not hesitate to approach each other with suggestions and concerns. Remember that there
are cultural differences in ways which children are brought up in different communities but
there are also many shared expectations as to appropriate behaviour in school and towards
other people and property. Try to find ways to combine the most effective approaches from
each culture.
41
Community Involvement: Work together to come up with ideas on how to bring parents,
grandparents and other community members into the classroom – to see what the children are
learning or share their knowledge with the students.
Sample Para-professional TIME TABLE
TIME
8:20-9:00
DAY 1
DAY 2
DAY 3
DAY 4
DAY 5
Get Breakfast: Sign in by 8:20. Staff not on yard duty get breakfast and bring it in to
class and distribute it to students. Yard duty teachers shuffle students inside the
building.
9:00-9:25
Morning Routine: Prep para-professional is expected to be in the class for this time
doing tasks from the teacher if needed (ex. Translating words, photo copying, phone
calls, reading tests, etc). When there are no chores to be done the time can be used to
plan Native language or attend to other matters within the class.
9:25-9:55
First Lesson: Para-professional will work with students that the teacher has
designated and/or circulate the class helping students meet expectations. Para might
also help by delivering the lesson or aspects of it in Ojibway.
10:02-10:25
Second Lesson: Para-professional will work with students that the teacher has
designated and/or circulate the class helping students meet expectations. Para might
also help by delivering the lesson or aspects of it in Ojibway.
10:25-10:40
10:50-11:15
11:20-12:20
1:00-1:25
Recess: Supervise students outside or inside depending on the situation
Third Lesson: Para-professional will work with students that the teacher has
designated and/or circulate the class helping students meet expectations. Para might
also help by delivering the lesson or aspects of it in Ojibway.
Lunch Break
Afternoon Routine: Attendance, Get Lunch and prep. After getting lunch paraprofessional is expected to be in the class for this time doing tasks from the teacher if
needed (ex. Translating words, photo copying, phone calls, reading tests, etc). When
there are no tasks to be done the time can be used to plan Native language or attend
42
to other matters within the class.)
1:15-1:55
1:55-2:25
Native Language: Teach Native Language circulate the class to help students.
Fourth Lesson: Para-professional will work with students that the teacher has
designated and/or circulate the class helping students meet expectations. Para might
also help by delivering the lesson or aspects of it in Ojibway.
2:25-2:40
2:40-3:20
Recess
Physical Education / Art: Assist teachers with set up and clean up. Help students get
involved and achieve expectations.
Christian Ed: Supervise students
Elders: Supervise the students
43
44
45
Credit Extension Program
Eenchokay Birchstick School Student Success
Date:_________________________
Student Name:_________________________________________
Grade and Subject:_____________________________________
Final Percentage Mark for the Course:______________
Mark book percentage assignment breakdown attached
Recommendation for completion
Units to be completed: ________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
Culminating Activity to be completed:_____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
Attendance Expectations: As there is limited enrolment in the Student Success class students who
accumulate 3 or more unexcused absences will be withdrawn from the program.
Evaluation: The evaluation will be based on the completed assignments and or culminating activity.
Subject Teachers Comments:
Student Signature:
________________________________
Parent Or Guardian Signature:
__________________________________
Principal`s Signature:
________________________________
46
RE-ENTRY CONTRACT
Habitual Absenteeism
Student Name:__________________________ I understand that I am being readmitted to
Eenchokay Birchstick School under the following conditions:
1. I will attend all classes every day.
2. If I am absent my parent or guardian must contact the school and provide a doctor’s
note indicating the reason for my absence. My parents or guardian will be contacted if
I have an unexplained absence and I will not be readmitted until we have met with
administration.
3. I will attend all classes on time.
4. I will be respectful to my classmates and teachers.
5. I will complete all assignments on time.
6. I will respect the property of the school and that of my fellow classmates.
Student Name _________________________
Date:_____________
Parent or Guardian_______________________
Date:_____________
Principal: Jo-Anne Donnelly: __________________________________
Vice Principal: Kurt MacRae: ___________________________________
Vice Principal: Barry Owen ____________________________________
47
School Maintenance Request
Date:______________
Submitted by:__________________________________
Health and Safety concern:
Security concern
Please indicate the location and nature of the concern:
Principal’s Signature:__________________________________________________
48
Eenchokay Birchstick School
General Delivery, Pikangikum, ON P0V 2L0
Telephone: 807-773-5561 or 807-773-1008
Fax: 807-773-5958
Principal: Joanne Donnelly
Vice-Principals: Barry Owen & Kurt MacRae
STUDENT IN SCHOOL SUSPENSION NOTICE
Date:___________
To:
__________________________________________________________
This is to notify you that____________________________ has been placed on an in school suspension
for _______.
Reason(s)
Conditions for Re-admission to class: The student will meet with the Principal prior to being
readmitted to the class. During the period of suspension the student will be working under
supervision to complete work assigned.
Principal/Vice-Principal/Acting Principal
c.c.
Kyle Peters:Education Director
Teachers:________________________________________________
_______________________________________________
________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
49
Eenchokay Birchstick School
General Delivery, Pikangikum, ON P0V 2L0
Telephone: 807-773-5561 or 807-773-1008
Fax: 807-773-5958
Principal: Joanne Donnelly
Vice-Principals: Barry Owen & Kurt MacRae
STUDENT SUSPENSION NOTICE
Date: ________________
To:
__________________________________________________________
This is to notify you that____________________________ has been suspended from school for
:______ days, from ________________________________.
Reason(s) for Suspension:
Conditions for Re-admission to School: The student will meet with the Principal prior to being
readmitted to the school. During the period of suspension the student may not attend any school
events or enter on school property at any time.
Principal/Vice-Principal/Acting Principal
The Ontario Education Act, Section 23 (1) states:
A principal may suspend a pupil because of persistent truancy, persistent opposition to
authority, habitual neglect of duty, the wilful destruction of school property, the use of
profane or improper language, or conduct injurious to the moral tone of the school or to the
physical and mental well-being of others in the school”
c.c.Kyle Peters:Education Director
Teachers
Student’s OSR File
50
House – Work Order
Name:___________________________________
Date:______________________________
Work to be Done:
Principal/Vice –Principal Signature:___________________________________
Work Completed by: _____________________________ Date:_________________________
51
Pikangikum Education Authority
Pikangikum First Nations
Leave Application
Type Of Application
Original
Leave Code
Date o Request
Given name
S.I.N.
Amendment to Original
Surname

Vacation
Code Hour D M Hour D M Total Number of Days
100

Sick(Uncertified)
200

Sick (Certified)
300

Sick ( Without Pay)
4oo

Compensatory
500

600

Family
Responsibilities
Other paid Leave

Leave Without Pay
800
TYPE
700
For All Leave types
provide reasons
Sick Leave Declaration: I declare on my honour that due to illness or injury I was incapable of performing the
duties of my position during the entire period of my absence for which leave is requested or indicated.
Physician’s Certificate: Completed and attached
To Follow
Unobtainable
Employee’s signature : ______________________________________ Date:____________________
Recommended by: _________________________________________ Date: ____________________
Request leave as stated above
Employee’s signature
Date:_______________________
Approved by authorized officer:
Officer’s signature
Date:_________________________
52
Parent Contact Log
Teacher:
Student:__________________________ Date :________ Time: ______ Message Left
Concern:
Student:__________________________ Date :________ Time: ______ Message Left
Concern:
Student:__________________________ Date :________ Time: ______ Message Left
Concern:
Student:__________________________ Date :________ Time: ______ Message Left
Concern:
Eenchokay Birchstick School
53
Community Centre Use Protocol
The following rules must be followed when using the community center for gym:
1.
Students will enter the gym through the side entrance, facing the school
facility.
2.
There is no prep for staff members during scheduled gym time. Both the
teacher and the paraprofessional must go with the class to the Community
Centre.
3.
The facility must be left in pristine condition each time you are done using it.
4.
Your students must be well-behaved when they use the facility. If they
misbehave, they will lose their gym time for the rest of the year. There are
offices in the building as well and I do not want anyone disrupted. I also want
the community to observe our students behaving well, with our staff members
exhibiting great classroom management.
5.
You are only to use the community centre during your scheduled time. You
are not to take your students over whenever you please, outside of your
scheduled gym time.
6.
If you are scheduled to use the facility for an event outside of school hours,
proper security of the doors must be in place.
7.
If you want to schedule an event in the community center for a school-related
event, please do this through the principal.
8.
Keep in mind, if a community event is scheduled by John-Louie Suggashie
during your gym time, it is the community event that will take priority.
There will be times when school use will be cancelled due to situations like
this. Have an alternative activity always planned in advance for your students
during your scheduled gym time.
54
The PEA provides a comprehensive Health Benefits and Retirement package through Great
West Life. You will receive a briefing during the first few weeks of school from one of the
company’s representatives. It is important to note that the retirement package is not
transferrable to the Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan. Claim forms are avialble in the
Administration building or by downloading them at:
http://www.greatwestlife.com/001/Client_Services/Group_Plan_Members/Forms/Standard
_Claim_Forms/index.htm
Understanding the English Language Learners of
Eenchokay Birchstick School
55
This handbook was written to give new teachers in Pikangikum an understanding of
where their students are in their language development and what they can do to support this
development. As a new teacher to this school, you should know a number of things.
In terms of language, the students’ first language is Ojibwa. It is a beautiful language
based on a syllabic system. Their alphabet consists of 40 characters which make up the
phonetic sounds used in the language. Our students’ knowledge of their language is mainly in
the oral form; however, many of the students are not proficient in their writing or reading of it.
Therefore, as English Language Learners the students would be classified as ELD
learners. ELD is a term that means “English Language Development”, ELD learners are students
whose first language is other than English and who have had limited opportunities to learn or
develop literacy skills in any language. (Government of Ontario: Supporting ELLS, 18)
Research states that the average ELL must learn in 15 months what native English
learners are required to learn in 10 months. This delay arises from the fact that students are
attempting to learn English in its different forms, its conventions, and the content of the
different subject areas. To learn the content required in the Ontario curriculum and the English
language at the same time is a large task for anyone. In addition to this learning there are a
number of other challenges that our students face in learning English and content area
material:
1. Our students speak Ojibwa to their peers and families. However, most of the academic
instruction that they receive is in English.
2. As well, the students converse in Ojibwa at school with their peers. Therefore, their oral
English does not develop on the playground but is limited to the oral language that is
spoken in the classroom by the teacher.
3. Ojibwa is primarily an oral language and many students have underdeveloped literacy
skills in their first language. This lack of literacy skills transfers to the learning of their
second language and subsequently to their learning of all subjects.
4. As well, student truancy is a large problem.
Section Two:
Supporting our English
56
Language Learners
Interventions- Web-based Teaching Tool
The goals of WBTT are as follows:



To increase student achievement in Ontario
To close the early achievement gap
To support the classroom based model
In 2011-2012 our school will be utilizing the Web based Teaching Tool. The tool is
specifically geared to students in the early years of school (K-2) to find out which ones are “at
risk” for having learning difficulties. This system was developed to help teachers use the DSIM
process which involves screening, flagging, implementing interventions and monitoring student
progress.
The screening portion of WBTT is quite comprehensive and it involves a number of
assessments that are aimed at the following areas:









In-class distractibility
Verbal fluency
Interest + Participation
Letter identification
Printing skills
Phonemic awareness
Phonological awareness
Math screening
Oral reading fluency
The flagging portion of WBTT is designed to catch students who fall below the provincial
standards in the above areas. Once students are flagged, teachers are given next steps and
interventions that are specific to the needs of each student. These students are then
continually monitored and interventions change depending on the development of the
individual student(Walmsley, 1-5).
Literacy in all subject areas
57
There is no magic formula or special recipe for teaching your students English. However, there
are some things that you can do to give your students the support they need. In fact, your
literacy program needs to include certain elements for it to be effective.
Jim Cummins, a very well known researcher in this domain states that an effective literacy
program needs to be an
immersion in a rich literacy environment where students have ample encouragement and
opportunity to read [and write] extensively [because this] is crucial for the development
of reading comprehension and academic language proficiency. This is true for all students
but it is particularly significant for ESL students who are attempting to catch up to nativespeakers in academic language proficiency (Jim Cummins, 6).
Therefore, it is important as a teacher that you create in your classroom a “rich literary
environment”. As well you need to teach the conventions of English to your students.
Research also shows that opportunities to learn must be “real and meaningful” because
students learn best when they can make connections between the learning and their lives.
Later in this booklet there is a list of activities and strategies that can help you create this
environment.
Prime Conditions for Language Learning
As a teacher there are things to keep in mind to ensure that you are giving your students what
they need to develop their language skills. To provide your students with the best conditions for
learning here is a list to consider:
-
Students need to have daily opportunities to read, write and speak in a variety of
meaningful ways.
-
You need to be careful that you speak to your students using simple sentences and
vocabulary that they can understand.
-
Do not correct your students’ grammar often as this can stop students from speaking at
all. Rather expand on what your students are saying and encourage them to speak in
full sentences. Be patient: most of your students are shy!
(Coelho, 147-148)
Staff and Research Supported Strategies and Ideas that Work with Our Students
58
This section is based on the joint input of our teachers and research that was collected from ESL
textbooks. Intuitively the teachers of our school listed strategies and activities that were listed
in the textbooks. Here is the list. It is very generic so that it can be used by teachers of many
different grades. For more specific grade level material speak with other teachers in your
division.
ART - First of all, our students love Art. It is a great way for students to express themselves
and it works well to accompany language based activities. Art is also universal and can be
incorporated into all subject areas.
Labeling - one of the first ways students learn a second language is by labeling. In the primary
grades this can be done on objects around the classroom. Labeling can be extended into all
subject areas.
Lists - are found everywhere and can be used in any subject area.
Make and display charts- Charts are great because they are versatile and may include words
and pictures along with definitions.
Make dictionaries - Dictionaries can be created at all levels to explain vocabulary.
Unfortunately, Ojibwa does not have all of the academic words that English does. However,
pictures and diagrams can be used if there is no equivalent in Ojibwa. For instance, there is no
Ojibwa word for Photosynthesis.
Use games - They are not just time wasters. Ventrigila, a researcher in English language
development, states that children who are learning a second language do so best in speaking
with one another and in games. As well, it is important to have fun with students as it builds
positive experiences with your students.
Use audio material - Whenever applicable use audio material as it is great for grabbing the
attention of its audience and holding it. Short video clips can make great hooks for a lesson. As
well, videos can be great ways of reviewing concepts or for comparing books that you have
read in class.
Songs, chants and rhymes - can be great for memorizing facts or learning new words.
Patterned language texts - use texts where certain language structures are repeated again and
again. This will help children to memorize language structure.
Framed sentences or cloze passages - Help students form sentences with the proper grammar.
They can be used to stress a tense or teach conjugations. Cloze passages model proper
sentence structure and allow for students to express their knowledge of a concept.
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Graphic organizers - graphic organizers are very helpful in teaching ELD students because they
help students to get their ideas on to paper. A blank page can be very intimidating to an ELL.
(Barbara Law and Mary Eckes 91)
Tips for Talking
to your
students
Many of the new teachers
mentioned the difficulties that
they faced in speaking to their
students. Here are some tips that
will help you.
-
-
-
Many of your students will be shy and will not speak to you right away. Over the course
of the year your students will become more talkative.
Speak naturally at a relaxed rate.
Reduce the use of idioms. They can be very confusing to ELLs.
Use the active voice and positive sentences. Negatives statements can be confusing for
ELLs.
Keep your sentences short so they are easier to understand.
Simplify your vocabulary whenever possible, except for specific technical words that
relate to content area that is central to the concept being taught.
Use key words. Choose several words that are central to the concept you are teaching
and write them on the chalk board. Then reuse these words frequently throughout the
lesson.
Expand the one-word or two-word sentences that students produce. When a student
says, for example, “book home” you can respond “your book is at home? Here, use this
one.”
Use more than one method. Give assignments and lectures orally as well as writing
them on the chalkboard. Also draw pictures. A picture is worth a thousand words.
Allow some “wait time” for students to hear, understand, and formulate responses.
Use non-verbal cues to give feedback, such as a nod, a frown, or a look of bewilderment,
so students know how well they are getting their attempts at communication across.
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- Check often for comprehension
(Coelho, 1840
Your Students Will Make Mistakes
As a new teacher it is helpful to know what to do when your students make mistakes. It is very
important to realize that mistakes are part of the learning process; therefore, you need to
respond appropriately.
Respond first to the message that your student is communicating. Remember that
language is learned best through meaningful interaction and you want to encourage your
students’ attempts to communicate. As well, do not correct every error that your students are
make because this can break your student’s train of thought and make it more difficult for your
students to communicate.
In written language, focus on one type of error at a time. Think back to when you were
in school. It can be quite frustrating to have your work “torn apart” with a red pen.
As a teacher it is important to realize that language learning is a process that takes years
to accomplish. Therefore, think of yourself as a member of a team. You are not alone and to be
effective you need to be patient with your students and realize their limitations in learning
English. As well, corrections are only useful in so far as students are given appropriate feedback
and are given the opportunity and instruction to fix their mistakes.
(Barbara Law and Mary Eckes 71-72 and Coelho 159)
Creating a Stress Free Environment
One of the prerequisites for learning is that students feel safe. If this need is not met your
instruction will not be effective. Your students need to trust you in order to communicate
positively with you. Here are some helpful tips for creating a stress free classroom.
-
-
Show a genuine interest in your students, their language and the culture.
Make your students feel secure. Reassure them with interest and concern through
gestures and tone of voice.
Allow them to verbalize in their own language. Try not to feel threatened when a
student speaks in Ojibwa to you. Respect the language and tell the student that you
cannot understand them.
Avoid forcing students to speak (you won’t be able to anyways). Your students will talk
when they are ready.
Make students feel that they should never be embarrassed or ashamed of their errors.
Don’t correct grammatical or pronunciation errors. Again, meaning is more important
than form. Use the errors to show you what your students need to learn in the future.
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-
Continually reinforce the students’ progress. Show them how far they have come.
Encourage your students to share their culture and language with you.
(Barbara Law and Mary Eckes, 112)
Section Three:
Assessment
Tips for Assessing ELLs
One of the challenges that you will
face in teaching ELLs is the area of
assessment. As a new teacher it is
difficult to know how to assess your
students. How can you find out what
your students know when they are not
fluent in any language? Research
suggests that ineffective testing of ELLs
has led to a disproportionate number
of them in Special Education.
Proper assessment of your students is of huge importance. Your ability to assess them properly
makes a big difference in terms of their success as students. As such, here is a list of tips that you can
use when developing assessment materials for your students. This list is taken from Coleho’s Adding
English
-
-
Focus on content rather than language to assess what a student knows. Learn to read past the
student’s language ability to look for meaning.
Allow students to write in different forms. Do not expect students to always write in complete
sentences, paragraphs or essays, provide support for written responses. These can take the
form of cloze passages, charts, and other visual organizers,
Phrase questions as simply as possible.
Assess performance by assigning tasks that involve many different aptitudes or talents.
Avoid multiple choice and true false questions that involve a lot of reading, as well as trick
questions.
Before the test offer opportunities for practice and feedback.
-
Give the students practice tests to work on in groups. The next day administer a similar test.
Invite groups to design problems or questions for a test.
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Create performance-based tasks
-
Show learners models of acceptable and outstanding performance.
Give the students the rubric that you plan to use and explain the differences in achievement.
Invite students to assess their own work using a rubric.
Portfolio assessment
-
Assess students using a wide variety of assignments.
Provide thinking time
-
Students need time to process questions.
(Coelho, 145)
Conclusion : It is my hope
that this book will provide you
with a reference point to begin
your teaching in Pikangikum.
The information that has been
included is to help you on your
way.
Bibliography
Coelho, Elizabeth. Adding English: A Guide to Teaching in Multilingual Classrooms.
Cummins, Jim. Reading and the ESL Student.
63
Goldenberg, Claude. Teaching English Language Learners What the Research Does—and Does Not—Say.
Law, Barbara and Eckes, Mary. The More-Than-Just-Surviving Handbook: ELL for Every
Classroom.
The Ministry of Education in Ontario: Supporting English Language Learners: A Practical Guide
for Ontario Educators Grades 1 to 8.
Walmsley, Molly. Notes on WBTT.