HSC College Handbook

Page 1

2023-2024

HSC College Handbook 2023-2024 1
Handbook
College

Hillfield strathallan college handbook 2023-2024

Our College community provides an environment where each student can develop intellectually, socially, morally and physically.

As in all communities, certain guidelines are necessary to ensure that the College operates effectively. Communication between the College and your home is important to us all. This handbook is intended as a guide to parents and students and includes a wide range of general information and College policies. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are familiar with all of the information contained within, including rules and regulations.

4 HSC College Handbook 2023-2024 CONTENTS hsc’s Past and Present..........................................................8 HSC Mission, Guiding Principles and Ideals 10 History of the College 11 Our Organization and Symbolism 14 Land Acknowledgment 15 Academic Life........................................................................16 Daily Routines 18 Community Time 20 Field Trips 20 IT Services 20 Communications 21 General Information 22 Transportation 23 School Closure Procedures 23 Illness and Infection Prevention and Control 24 Attendance 24 Homework 25 Health and Wellbeing Services 26 Campus Store 28 Student Life...........................................................................30 House System 32 Dress Code 34 Food Services 38 The Parents’ Guild 40 Philanthropy at HSC 41 Athletics 44 E-Week & Outdoor Education 46 Outdoor Education 48 Arts at HSC 49 Activities Snapshot 50 College Life...........................................................................52 Code of Conduct 54 Definitions 61 Privacy Statement 64 Governance 66 Campus Map 68

CONTACT INFORMATION MAIN SWITCHBOARD

SCHOOL ADMIN ASSISTANTS

NOTE: Please connect with your child's school Administrative Assistance to report absences, late/early dismissals, student messages and to book appointments with faculty.

Montessori School

Emilie Ruel emilie.ruel@hsc.on.ca ext. 193

Junior School

Heather Rodriguez heather.rodriguez@hsc.on.ca ext. 168

Middle School

Mena Sebastiano mena.sebastiano@hsc.on.ca ext. 132

Senior School School

June Jenkins

june.jenkins@hsc.on.ca ext. 196

TRANSPORTATION

transportation@hsc.on.ca

Manager of Transportation

Angela Asher angela.asher@hsc.on.ca ext. 156

a.m. Dispatcher

Jennifer Ratcliffe ext. 190

P.m. Dispatcher

Patti Denis ext. 170

CAMPUS STORE

campusstore@hsc.on.ca ext. 112

HEALTH SERVICES

healthservices@hsc.on.ca

Health Services

ext. 197

IT SERVICES

itservicerequest@hsc.on.ca

IT Manager

Brad D'Hondt

brad.dhondt@hsc.on.ca

ext. 111

ADMISSIONS

admissions@hsc.on.ca

ext. 160

Director of Enrolment

Sheriann Heath-Johnston heathsh@hsc.on.ca ext. 106

ADVANCEMENT AND COMMUNICATIONS

advancement@hsc.on.ca

communications@hsc.on.ca

Director of Advancement and Communications

Ben Chapdelaine benoit.chapdelaine@hsc.on.ca

ext. 107

Communications Manager

Katelyn Galer katelyn.galer@hsc.on.ca

ext. 239

FINANCE AND BUSINESS OFFICE

finance@hsc.on.ca

ext. 188

905-389-1367

AUXILIARY SERVICES

Summer and March Break Camps camp@hsc.on.ca

Facility Rentals rentals@hsc.on.ca

OTHER DEPARTMENT CONTACTS

Director of Athletics

Paul Masotti paul.masotti@hsc.on.ca

ext. 179

Director of arts

Nora Hammond '98 nora.hammond@hsc.on.ca

ext. 235

Director of student success

Linda Kemp linda.kemp@hsc.on.ca

ext. 180

Chair of Student wellbeing

Erica Otaguro '07 erica.otaguro@hsc.on.ca

ext. 306

Social Worker

Julie Pearce julie.pearce@hsc.on.ca

ext. 212

Chair of Experiential Learning

Sheryl Murray sheryl.murray@hsc.on.ca

ext. 295

OTHER

HSC website hsc.on.ca

HSC Online Resources myHSC

HSC College Handbook 2023-2024 5

■ Curriculum and class content

■ The latest College news

■ School calendar

■ College resource pages

■ Faculty and staff directory

■ Parents’ Guild information

■ Lunch menus

■ Transportation information

■ College Handbook

■ Health and Wellbeing Services information

■ Campus Store information

■ Co-curricular team schedules

■ Community time

6 HSC College Handbook 2023-2024 myHSC: www.hsc.on.ca/myhsc
everything you need to know
For
HSC FORMS ALL SCHOOLS SENIOR SCHOOL MIDDLE SCHOOL JUNIOR SCHOOL

LEADERSHIP TEAM

Head of College

Marc Ayotte

marc.ayotte@hsc.on.ca

ext. 182

Deputy Head of College

Jason Caruana

jason.caruana@hsc.on.ca

ext. 167

Principal, Montessori School

Danielle Hourigan '82

danielle.hourigan@hsc.on.ca

ext. 138

Director of Enrolment

Sheriann Heath-Johnston

heathsh@hsc.on.ca

ext. 106

Director of Finance

Liz Davidson

liz.davidson@hsc.on.ca

ext. 119

Principal, Junior School

Shailau Spivak

shailau.spivak@hsc.on.ca

ext. 172

Principal, Middle School

Kim Kniaz

kim.kniaz@hsc.on.ca

ext. 146

Director of Human Resources and Operations

Eleonor Kerr

eleonor.kerr@hsc.on.ca

ext. 159

Principal, Senior School

Taya Cicchetti

taya.cicchetti@hsc.on.ca

ext. 229

Director of Technology

Integration and Innovation

Linda Watson

linda.watson@hsc.on.ca

ext. 143

HSC College Handbook 2023-2024 7
8 HSC College Handbook 2023-2024
HSC College Handbook 2023-2024 9
AND PRESENT
HSC’S PAST

HSC

MISSION

Our core mission is to develop joyful, engaged students who are prepared to live with purpose. The best learning happens when students are happy to come to school, are encouraged, have opportunities to follow their passions, and can participate in deep learning experiences that truly challenge them. Joyful, engaged students develop strong relationships with their peers and with the many caring adults who spark and support their learning both inside the classroom and beyond. Their journey at HSC enables them to live with purpose—to understand their world, to inspire, lead and act, and to make a difference in their own unique, and important ways.

GUIDING PRINCIPLES

WE LEARN

• with an understanding of ourselves as learners

• with each other, and from each other

• with a blend of challenge and support

• with an expectation, and the encouragement needed, to lead

• with excellence honoured and demonstrated

• through creativity and an entrepreneurial spirit

• to think critically

• with resiliency in mind and body

• an awareness of, and engagement in, global, cultural, economic, social and environmental issues

WE LIVE BY THESE IMPORTANT IDEALS:

Integrity

• We are honest not only with our peers and colleagues but with ourselves

• We stand up for what we believe in

• We take responsibility for our actions

• We are true to our word

• We allow actions to speak louder than words

Respect

• We understand the importance of being humble

• We think beyond ourselves through empathy and kindness

• We are courteous and compassionate

• We find a sense of worth and value in others and ourselves

• We are conscious and responsible for our own and the College’s environmental sustainability

Community

• We build friendships through inclusivity and the celebration of individual differences

• We foster positive relationships at HSC and beyond our gates

• We educate ourselves and each other of issues beyond the College

• We guide and support each other through mentorship

• We create equitable and inclusive spaces for all groups

• We learn alongside each other

Determination

• We are committed and optimistic

• We encourage individuals to strive for their own excellence

• We persevere when faced with adversity

• We learn from our missteps

Individuality

• We inspire and encourage individuals to express themselves positively in the pursuit of their own unique passions

• We value creativity and innovative thinking

• We are confident in who we are and who we will become

• We celebrate our diverse experiences and their influence on us

10 HSC College Handbook 2023-2024
MISSION, GUIDING PRINCIPLES AND IDEALS

HISTORY OF THE COLLEGE

HIGHFIELD SCHOOL FOR BOYS (1901)

Mr. John H. Collinson, with the support of Lord and Lady Aberdeen, founded Highfield School for Boys in 1901. The Chairman of the Board for 19 years was the Honourable Sir John S. Hendrie, a former Lieutenant Governor of Ontario who served as a Lieutenant-Colonel.

HILLCREST SCHOOL (1920)

When a fire destroyed Highfield School in 1918, it was reestablished as Hillcrest School in 1920 by Reverend C.A. Heaven, the former Vice-Principal at Highfield.

HILLFIELD SCHOOL (1929)

Hillcrest rapidly outgrew its facilities, and after a decade of reorganization, the families supporting Highfield and Hillcrest combined under the generosity of Sir John Gibson to establish Hillfield School. The Governors acquired new premises on Main Street West on land donated by the Gibson family, and in 1929 opened Hillfield School under the headmastership of Mr. Arthur F. Killip, formerly of Upper Canada College.

STRATHALLAN SCHOOL (1923)

Meanwhile, Strathallan School was founded in 1923 by Miss Janet Virtue and Miss Eileen Fitzgerald, with the Honourable Justice Colin Gibson, a Lieutenant-Colonel in the military, serving as Chairman. In 1948 the two founders of Strathallan School retired, and the newly formed Board of Directors decided to continue instruction as far as Grade 13. The school evolved over the ensuing years to recognize the changing roles of women in society, and under the strong leadership of Miss Hilda Pierce, the school continued to flourish through to the early 1960s.

HILLFIELD COLLEGE (1959)

In 1950 Lieutenant-Colonel John P. Page was appointed Headmaster, and less than a decade later, in 1959, the name of the boys’ school was changed to Hillfield College. Hillfield School had survived the Great Depression and WWII, and Colonel Page moved the school from preparatory to full College and reintroduced the Cadet Program in Grade 13. Under his leadership, both the Honourable Vincent Massey and General Harry Crerar became Patrons of the College.

STRATHALLAN COLLEGE (1961)

In 1961, Strathallan School changed its name to Strathallan College, and the decision to amalgamate with Hillfield College was agreed upon.

HILLFIELD STRATHALLAN COLLEGE (1962)

In 1962, the two schools, Hillfield College and Strathallan College amalgamated under one Board of Governors. They acquired a 50-acre campus from the Ontario Government and erected the present buildings on Fennell Avenue West on Hamilton Mountain. While the Boards were amalgamated, the schools remained coordinated but separate Colleges.

In 1969, under the leadership of Mr. M.B. Wansbrough, Headmaster, the College was integrated into a single coeducational academic institution. The 15 acres of land located to the South of HSC’s current site was acquired in 1995 in conjunction with Mohawk College. In 1999, an addition to the campus created the current Montessori School, the enlarged Virtue-Fitzgerald Centre for the Arts and new music facilities.

HSC College Handbook 2023-2024 11

HILLFIELD STRATHALLAN COLLEGE

CENTURY

In 2001, HSC celebrated its Centenary, with fundraising initiatives and plans that eventually resulted in the building of the magnificent new Centennial Gates on Fennell Avenue. Marking not only the brand new entranceway to the College, the Gateway also recognizes more than 100 years of tradition and our celebration of a new vision for the next 100 years.

Under the leadership of Headmaster Dr. Tom Matthews (2003–2010), HSC assumed a leadership position in the education of the whole child, while preparing its students for a life of new challenges and opportunities.

In recognition of the College’s broad contribution to Canada over more than a century, HSC was granted Armorial Bearings by Rideau Hall in 2005. The official Coat of Arms and new HSC flag was unveiled for the first time on June 11, 2005, by the Honourable Lincoln M. Alexander, former Lieutenant Governor of Ontario.

In 2010, Mr. Marc Ayotte joined Hillfield Strathallan College as Head of College. Four years later, the College officially opened the Michael G. DeGroote Centre for Excellence.

Students, athletes and the HSC community can now access facilities that are the best of their kind among independent schools in Canada.

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ITS 2ND
IN
HSC College Handbook 2023-2024 13

OUR ORGANIZATION AND SYMBOLISM

COAT OF ARMS

In June 2005, Rideau Hall granted Hillfield Strathallan College Armorial Bearings in recognition of its contribution to Canada over more than a century. The official Coat of Arms consists of several elements, each with a special significance.

SHIELD OF ARMS

Hillfield Elements:

The colour green and the boar represent Hillfield.

Strathallan Elements:

The colour purple and the prairie crocus represent Strathallan.

Other Elements:

The upside-down “V” is a chevron symbolizing the Hamilton Mountain, as well as the pursuit of excellence.

SCROLLS WITH LATIN MOTTOS

From our two founding schools: Excelsior (Ever Higher) from Strathallan and Velle Est Posse (Where There’s a Will, There’s a Way) from Hillfield.

LAUREL WREATH

An ancient symbol of excellence and achievement.

HELMET AND MANTLING

Traditional elements incorporated into the Coats of Arms.

SCHOOL MOTTOS

Velle Est Posse (Where There’s a Will, There’s a Way)

Excelsior (Ever Higher)

COAT OF ARMS:

SCHOOL LOGOS:

14 HSC College Handbook 2023-2024

LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT

Hillfield Strathallan College is situated upon the traditional territories of the Erie, Neutral, HuronWendat, Haudenosaunee, and Mississaugas. This land is covered by the Dish With One Spoon Wampum Belt Covenant, which was an agreement between the Haudenosaunee, Anishinabek, and other Indigenous nations to share and care for the resources around the Great Lakes. As members of the learning community at HSC, we are committed to honouring this covenant by working alongside our Indigenous neighbours and building a sustainable relationship with the land that we all cherish.

COLLEGE PRAYER

Teach us, good Lord, to serve Thee as Thou deservest to give and not to count the cost; to fight and not to heed the wounds; to toil and not to seek for rest; to labour and not to ask for any reward save that of knowing that we do Thy will. Amen.

Ignatius Loyola

NATIONAL ANTHEM

O Canada!

Our home and native land!

True patriot love in all of us command. Car ton bras sait porter l’épée, Il sait porter la croix!

Ton histoire est une épopée Des plus brillants exploits. God keep our land glorious and free! O Canada, we stand on guard for thee. O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

COLLEGE SONG

Velle est Posse

Velle est Posse, Excelsior

Ever Higher,

Where there’s a will, there’s a way.

Velle est Posse, Excelsior

Ever Higher,

Where there’s a will, there’s a way.

Ever Higher, Where there’s a will, there’s a way.

COLLEGE HYMN

Praise My Soul

Praise, my soul, the King of heaven; To His feet thy tribute bring.

Ransomed, healed, restored, forgiven, Who like me His praise should sing?

Praise him! Praise him! (x2)

Praise the everlasting King.

Praise Him for His grace and favour

To our fathers in distress;

Praise Him still the same for ever, Slow to chide, and swift to bless.

Praise Him! Praise Him! (x2)

Glorious in his faithfulness.

Father-like, He tends and spares us; Well our feeble frame He knows; In His hands he gently bears us, Rescues us from all our foes.

Praise Him! Praise Him! (x2)

Widely as His mercy flows.

Angels, help us to adore Him;

Ye behold Him face to face;

Sun and moon, bow down before Him, Dwellers all in time and space.

Praise Him! Praise Him! (x2)

Praise with us the God of grace.

Henry F. Lyte, 1834

HSC College Handbook 2023-2024 15
16 HSC College Handbook 2023-2024
HSC College Handbook 2023-2024 17
LIFE
ACADEMIC

DAILY ROUTINES

The daily routines listed below can also be found on myHSC. Please check myHSC regularly for class, school and College information and updates.

MONTESSORI SCHOOL

Early Morning Care Program

Students may be brought to school as early as 7:30 a.m. Parents must walk their children into the classroom to be received by the early morning care teacher. Please notify the school admin assistant by 3:00 p.m. the day before so staffing can be arranged to accommodate for early morning drop off.

The Academic Day

8:30 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.

Within the academic day, students will have one recess break, a morning snack and afternoon snack. Lunch is at 11:15 a.m. for Casa students and 11:30 a.m. for older students.

End-of-Day Routine

Teachers accompany younger children to the buses for the 3:30 p.m. early bus run. Staff on duty accompany children to the 5:00 p.m. late bus run.

After-School Childcare Program

An after-school childcare program is offered until 5:00 p.m. Students may take the late bus home at 5:00 p.m. or be picked up in the late duty classroom by 5:00 p.m. Co-curricular activities are available for M6–M9.

Changes to your child’s daily routine Montessori must have a:

•written note; or

•phone call prior to 2:30 p.m. at 905-389-1367, ext. 139.

In the absence of a note or phone message, HSC will follow the previously established regular routine.

Pick Up

Montessori children are to be picked up at 3:20 p.m., and from the after-school childcare program, wait in our upper and lower piazza and/or late duty rooms located in the Montessori building.

JUNIOR SCHOOL

Students may be brought to school as early as 7:30 a.m. Parents must walk their children into the classroom to be received by the early morning care teacher.

The Academic Day

8:00 a.m. to 3:20 p.m.

Within the academic day, students will have two recess breaks, a morning snack and afternoon snack. Lunch begins at 11:00 a.m.

End-of-Day Routine

Teachers accompany younger children to the buses for the 3:30 p.m. early bus run. Staff on duty accompany children to the 5:00 p.m. late bus run.

After-School Childcare Program

An after-school childcare program is offered until 5:00 p.m. Students may take the late bus home at 5:00 p.m. or be picked up in the late duty classroom by 5:00 p.m. Co-curricular activities are available for Grades 1–4.

Emergency Use

If you find a need to use the program when you have not planned to do so, please be assured that we will welcome your child. Please use the transportation form to indicate end of day routines.

Changes to your child’s daily routine

Junior School must have a:

•written note; or

•phone call prior to 2:00 p.m. at 905-389-1367, ext. 168.

In the absence of a note or phone message, schools will follow the previously established regular routine.

Pick Up

When picking up your children at 3:20 p.m., please wait in the designated spot for Junior School students.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

The Academic Day

8:35 a.m. – 3:15 p.m.

The academic schedule operates on an eight-day cycle, with five 50-minute periods per day. Students begin and end the day with their home form teacher.

Within the balanced academic day, students will have five minutes travel intervals between classes, snack and a 20 minute recess at 10:20 a.m. Lunch (served in Lawson Hall) and recess run from 12:45 – 1:35 p.m.

Flex Time

2:35 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.

Students may be directed to attend a flextime session by their home form or subject teacher, particularly if they are behind in their assignments. Additionally, we run house intramurals, Middle School Assemblies, and a third recess during this time.

Early Bus Departure

3:15 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Our early bus run departs at 3:30 p.m. Many of our students stay at school for the many activities planned in Community Time.

18 HSC College Handbook 2023-2024

Community Time

3:35 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.

Community Time is a time when students and teachers can come together for a variety of planned activities that align with our school’s mission of developing the whole child. Community time activities include athletics (games and practices), instrumental music (bands and choirs), competitive clubs, recreational clubs, scholastic pursuits, academic support and extra help, student leadership opportunities, service clubs and initiatives, and student committee time.

Our balanced schedule allows student voice and choice when selecting co-curricular activities. Students have the option of skill development activities outside of the traditional class setting. Activities like soapstone carving, robotics, sewing, and board games permit students to develop their interpersonal skills of communication and collaboration as well as critical thinking and problem solving while being engaged in a chosen activity.

Late Bus Departure

4:45 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Our late bus run departs at 5:00 p.m.

SENIOR SCHOOL

The Academic Day

8:30 a.m. – 3:15 p.m.

The Senior School day begins at 8:30 a.m. The College expects students to get to their lockers, get organized and report to their first period class promptly at 8:40 a.m.

The Senior School academic schedule operates on an eight-day cycle, with four classes occurring on each of the school days. Within the academic day, students will have five minutes to travel between classes. Lunch break is 65 minutes long and is served in Lawson Hall at 11:45 a.m. for Grades 11 and 12 and 12:10 p.m. for Grades 9 and 10.

Flex Time

Senior School flextime allows students to direct their learning for 40 minutes to a subject area of their choosing. They may want to review math, or finish a painting, or work on editing an essay. Students will move to an area that supports their academic needs. This is aligned to our Strategic Plan in providing a personalized learning experience. Flextime will also allow us to ensure weekly contacts between students and their Tutorial Leader, and it will provide time for House games, time for clubs to meet and also a time for Chapel.

HSC College Handbook 2023-2024 19

COMMUNITY TIME

After School Activities

3:30 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.

Students can engage in enriching activities and learning opportunities at the conclusion of the regular academic day. This is a time when students and teachers can come together for a variety of planned purposes that align with our school’s mission of developing the whole child. Activities include varsity athletics (games and practices), instrumental music (bands and choirs), competitive clubs, recreational clubs, scholastic pursuits, academic support and extra help, student leadership opportunities, service clubs and initiatives, and student committee time.

For a snapshot of the various activities and programs which will be taking place in each of the four schools and across the College, please refer to page 50-51.

ASSEMBLIES AND CHAPEL

Senior, Middle, Early Education students and faculty participate in a whole College Chapel led by the Head of College and Student Prefect leaders on Friday mornings. Chapel reflects the College’s traditions and includes the College Prayer, the National Anthem, our Land Acknowledgement, student readings and performances. In addition to Chapel, each of the four schools holds regular assemblies.

FIELD TRIPS

Trips are listed on the electronic calendar on myHSC. Official trip forms with trip logistics, packing lists and other pertinent information are available to parents in advance on myHSC. In some cases, trip planning is

covered during fall curriculum nights or at special trip meetings. In order to participate on field trips, all students are required to have current emergency contact information on myHSC in the unlikely event this is needed.

As ambassadors of HSC, students must present a neat and groomed appearance. Parents and students will be notified by the trip coordinator as to which uniform is required, depending on the nature of the trip. This may include No. 1 Dress. HSC provides and organizes transportation. There may be an additional minimal fee for buses for day trips, depending on the nature of the trip. HSC bills the cost of entrance fees or performances to students.

Faculty chaperones and first aid–trained guides accompany students on all trips. Service organizations contracted by HSC also provide primary support as appropriate. Health Services, along with the Trip Leader and/or School Principal, meet prior to trips to discuss any health concerns.

LUNCHES

When students are off campus over lunch, they can choose to:

• pack a lunch from home, or

• take a bag lunch from Food Services (staff will organize the ordering of bag lunches, with advance notice).

Students who leave campus, or travel to activities off campus, in private vehicles must follow the Student Driver and Passenger Policy.

IT SERVICES

HSC uses a model of Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) for students in Grades 4/M9 through 12. HSC provides hardware and

20 HSC College Handbook 2023-2024

software resources for specialized programs. For specifications on acceptable devices, please review the HSC BYOD Device Selection guidance document.

IT Services supports students for BYOD for minor technical needs and connectivity issues from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

IT Services does not provide hardware or maintenance support for students’ hardware; repairs must be addressed by students/ parents due to warranty issues. Students in Grades 3/M8 through 12 are provided with an HSC user account to access approved software applications and the internet, and to store schoolrelated files and data.

All learning spaces have complete wireless access. Users may access their HSC drive off campus using “the cloud” network at cloud. hsc.on.ca.

Annually, parents and student users in Grades 1/M6 though 12 must sign the Acceptable User Agreement (AUA). Students who do not agree to the AUA may lose their access privileges, which will affect their academic experience.

EMAIL AND myHSC

We expect Middle School and Senior School students to check their HSC provided email account daily. Parents may communicate with their child’s teachers via email.

COMMUNICATIONS

myHSC

Our secure portal, myHSC, allows students and parents to view school-specific events, announcements, course or class material, assignment requirements and due dates. All parents are offered a login and training on how to use myHSC. During the year, families may also receive special announcements, updates and event reminders via email.

SCHOOL CALENDAR

The HSC online calendar is accessible on myHSC.

FEATURED CONTENT

Check the myHSC homepage for the latest news and events.

EMAILS FROM HSC

HSC will communicate to the community via the following email accounts:

events@hsc.on.ca communications@hsc.on.ca advancement@hsc.on.ca alumni@hsc.on.ca pg@hsc.on.ca

USE OF SCHOOL ACCOUNTS

Communication to and from teachers or other staff members to students is expected to use student HSC google accounts (email or chat) only. Students are not expected to use their personal email or phone contacts. Parent communication with teachers should also use the teacher’s email school email account.

IMPORTANT LINKS:

Enrolment Booklet: www.hsc.on.ca/enrolment

myHSC: www.hsc.on.ca/myhsc

Please visit myHSC to connect to the resource board (screenshot below).

HSC College Handbook 2023-2024 21

GENERAL INFORMATION

LOST AND FOUND

Labelled items can be claimed from the Lost and Found in the lower level of the Page Gym by consulting with the Administrative Assistants of each school. Middle and Senior School students may access the Lost and Found between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

STUDENT MESSAGES

To direct an important message to a student, speak with your child’s School Assistant. Messages must be received prior to 3:00 p.m.

LOCKERS

Early Education students are assigned cubbies without locks. Students in Montessori are encouraged to limit items from home to essentials. Lockers are loaned to Middle and Senior School students for use during the year. Lockers remain the property of the College and are subject to inspection by College authorities. Students will receive a lock and be billed by the Campus Store. Combinations must be registered with the College, and are kept by home form Teachers and Tutorial Leaders. Middle School students with smaller musical instruments may store them in their personal lockers, but all students will be provided with a music locker in addition to their personal locker, and all larger instruments are expected to be stored there. These lockers can be found in their music classroom. Instruments of any size should never be left in hallways or classrooms. Senior School students will be assigned a locker by tutorial and grade. Grade 10 and 11 students will be located on the second floor. Grade 9 and

12 students will be located on the first floor.

TRAFFIC AND PARKING

Please observe a 20 km/h speed limit while on HSC roadways and obey all posted signs. Visitor and parent parking for pick-ups and drop-offs is accommodated in the North Parking lot. Traffic flow in the Early Education Parking lot is one-way to support student safety. Posted fire routes, handicapped parking, as well as idling bylaws, are mandated through the local municipality.

Permit parking is restricted to staff and registered students in identified areas. HSC provides no formal supervision of the parking lot and accepts no responsibility for parked vehicles or their contents.

Students who leave campus, or travel to activities off campus, in private vehicles must follow the Student Driver and Passenger Policy.

SECURITY

HSC provides a 24-hour security program, which includes security cameras. During regular school hours, security is accessible through the Holton Receptionist at ext. 100 or the Facilities Supervisor at ext. 104. In the event of an emergency, after-hours/

evening security is available at 905-961-4977.

GENERAL ACCESS

Building access for students is available between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. on regular school days. During holidays and summer break, access is available only during scheduled office hours through Reception or the Facilities Supervisor. No after-hours access is permitted unless pre-arranged.

AFTER-HOURS SECURITY

Regular School Days: 5:00 p.m. – 9:45 p.m.

Weekends, Closures, Holidays: 8:30 a.m. – 9:45 p.m.

Summer Break: 4:00 p.m. – 9:45 p.m.

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TRANSPORTATION

Our morning bus arrivals are expected daily between 8:15 a.m. and 8:30 a.m., subject to traffic flow. Should a bus be late and return to campus due to unforeseen circumstances, students are not considered late or penalized and bus route issues will be notified to all faculty and staff. Evening departures are at 3:30 p.m. and a later run at 5:00 p.m. There are no 5:00 p.m. runs on Fridays.

Students are required to board the bus five minutes prior to departure. If your stop is in front of your house, you must be outside waiting five minutes ahead of your scheduled time.

We do not permit students in Grade 4 and under to be dropped off without an adult present. Students in Grades 5 through 8 may be dropped off without an adult present if parent/guardian permission has been provided to Transportation Services. For bus route, stop and service inquiries, please email busdispatch@hsc.on.ca or call:

Manager of Transportation

Angela Asher | ext. 156

A.M. Dispatcher

Jennifer Ratcliffe | ext. 190

P.M. Dispatcher

Patti Denis | ext. 170

In our commitment to the safety of our students, we ask that parents/guardians of all students, regardless of student age or grade, email busdispatch@hsc.on.ca when requesting to take a bus other than their assigned bus.

For answers to frequently asked transportation questions, visit www.hsc.on.ca/transportationfaq

SCHOOL CLOSURE PROCEDURES

Hillfield Strathallan College prioritizes the health and safety of all of our community members. With such a large catchment area, winter driving conditions can dramatically impact the safety of morning and afternoon commutes for students, parents, and staff. The decision to close the school based on road conditions is never made lightly, and is based upon consultations with our Transportation Manager along

with the decisions made by local school board transportation services.

In the event weather conditions necessitate school closure, families and staff will be notified as early as possible of this decision. Notification to families will be made through an email from our Communications team followed by schoollevel notifications on myHSC. Notification to staff will be made by internal email sent by the

Director of Operations once the decision has been made to close the campus.

HSC holds the continuity of teaching and learning as central to our mission. We will deliver academic programming at an age and stage appropriate level in the event of snow days or campus closures caused by weather conditions.

HSC College Handbook 2023-2024 23

MONTESSORI AND JUNIOR SCHOOLS:

• Age and stage-appropriate activities including both online group and individual offline activities

• Details as per each class page on myHSC

MIDDLE AND SENIOR SCHOOLS:

• HSC@home instruction will follow the regular schedule/ day of cycle

• All classes will include live instruction along with possible individual offline work

• Details as per each class page on myHSC

Our school-home partnership is one of the strengths of HSC’s value-added approach to holistic education. We believe that making this commitment to ensure as few interruptions to academic programming as possible based on weather conditions aligns with our core mission and is grounded in the strength of our excellent and age appropriate online learning environment.

ILLNESS AND INFECTION PREVENTION AND CONTROL

The health and safety of all members of the HSC community remain a top priority for the 2023–2024 academic year. In order to ensure the health and wellbeing of all our students and staff, HSC will continue to maintain strict infection prevention and control measures on campus and HSC transportation services.

One of the most important elements in the prevention and spread of infectious diseases such as COVID 19, influenza or other viral illnesses at school, is daily symptom screening and staying home when ill.

Parents/guardians are solely responsible for screening their children for symptoms of illness daily using Ontario’s Online School and Child Care Screening.

It is HSC's expectation that all parents, students and staff will adhere strictly to Ontario's Public Health guidelines for staying home when ill and for returning to school after illness. HSC will inform the community of any changes, updates or revisions to the current guidelines as guided by Ontario Public Health and Hamilton Public Health Services.

ATTENDANCE SCHOOL HOURS

Normal school hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. HSC, its staff and representatives will not be held responsible for the welfare of students on the campus before 8:00 a.m. for toddlers, 8:15 a.m. for Early Education students, and 8:30 a.m. for Middle and Senior School students, and after 5:00 p.m. for all students if they are not participating in an HSC-approved or scheduled activity. The College accepts responsibility for students who are involved in pre-approved programs beyond normal school hours.

ABSENCES

Absences due to non-medical, non-school-related functions must be approved in advance.

The College assumes that when a student is absent from school in the morning, that student will not be returning to school for any extracurricular clubs, programs, competitions, or varsity sports. If students are too ill to be in class, they should not be participating in co-curricular activities. The

exception to this policy would occur if the morning absence is due to a medical or previously scheduled appointment.

We do not encourage parents to take students out of school for extended periods. To ensure adequate academic support, communicate extended absences in advance to the Principal/VicePrincipal.

EXTENDED ABSENCES

Absences due to non-medical, non-school-related functions must seek permission a minimum of two weeks in advance. In Early Education and Middle Schools, this is done through the Principal. In Senior School, students are to contact their assigned Vice Principal.

Students must complete the Extended Absence Form prior to leaving.

MONTESSORI/JUNIOR SCHOOL

If your child will not attend school, please contact the Administrative Assistants before 9:00 a.m. They can be reached at ext. 193 for Montessori School and ext.168 for Junior School.

Middle school Students who arrive late must sign in with the Middle School Assistant in the Middle School Office. Direct notes regarding planned student absences or departures to the Middle School Assistant and your child’s home form teacher.

For daily student absence information, parents are required to contact the Middle School Assistant at ext. 132.

Please notify HSC, by written note, email, or by phone, if your child needs to leave the campus

24 HSC College Handbook 2023-2024

for an appointment. Students may not leave the campus unsupervised without parental authority. They are required to sign out prior to departure.

SENIOR SCHOOL

Senior School students who arrive late must sign in with the Senior School Assistant. In the event that your child will not attend school, please contact the Senior School Assistant, at ext. 196, before 9:00 a.m.

SIGN OUT/IN PROCEDURES

Senior School students leaving campus for appointments during normal school hours MUST sign out with the Senior School Assistant. Students must have either:

(1) an explanatory note for leaving, dated and signed by a parent/guardian; OR

(2) verbal permission from a parent/guardian for the student to scan out (contact the Senior School Assistant at ext. 196).

Students who wish to leave for the day, must scan out and need written or verbal permission from a parent/guardian. Students who wish to sign out due to illness MUST see a College Nurse. If the College Nurse is not available, see the Senior School Assistant. A parent/guardian will be contacted before a student is permitted to leave school due to illness.

GRADE 11 AND 12 STUDENTS ONLY

Grade 11 students with strong academic standing may scan out during their spare period without a note from their parents as long as they ensure they are back on campus on time for their next required class and/or appointment.

Grade 12 students may scan themselves out of school on their spare periods and during the lunch hour. Grade 12 students with a period one spare are excused from being on campus at 8:40 a.m. They must arrive at school in time for their first academic time of the day and must scan in at the Senior School Office.

For both Grade 11 and 12 students, if lateness is persistent, then this privilege will be removed.

HOMEWORK

MONTESSORI SCHOOL

“Homework” for Elementary students (M6–M9) is reserved for activities that do not need the manipulatives but rely on other resources such as books, websites and experiences (e.g., nature walks, museum visits). Projects that require these resources are initiated by the student to be done at home, to extend the learning experience.

JUNIOR SCHOOL

Meaningful homework tasks provide opportunities for self-directed learning as an extension of classroom learning. The homework load is kept to a level that is age and stage-appropriate.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

All students are expected to do some homework or home study each night. Homework can take the form of work not completed in class, individual assignments designed for reinforcement or enrichment, subject projects or selfdirected study. There is daily supervised homework study time provided from 3:35 to 4:45 p.m. Homework is listed on the individual myHSC course-page “Bulletin Boards” each day.

SENIOR SCHOOL

It is the responsibility of the student to record homework assignments during individual classes or at the end of the academic day. Students should assume homework as a personal responsibility.

Support for Senior School students is available through subject teacher office hours, subject cluster TAs (teacher assistants), and peer tutoring. Information about how and when these supports may be accessed is shared in classes by the faculty, posted on myHSC, and shared at fall curriculum night.

MYHSC ASSIGNMENT CENTRE

Students from Grades 5 through 12 should regularly consult the assignment centre tab in their myHSC accounts. This area provides them with the dates of upcoming assignments in each of their courses and is critical for assisting students with their long-range planning and study schedules. Parents also have full access to this information via their myHSC accounts and are encouraged to work with their children in the areas of time management and study planning.

HSC College Handbook 2023-2024 25

HEALTH INFORMATION

Student Health Information and Consent Forms must be updated annually by parents/guardians. In order for HSC staff to provide students with the best care possible while at school or while participating in school sponsored activities, it is important that the health information is accurate and up-to-date. Parents are responsible for providing Health Services with any health updates throughout the year. Health information is protected and only shared with HSC staff for the purpose of ensuring the safety and wellbeing of the student. In the event of an emergency, the student’s health information will be shared with emergency medical services personnel.

In accordance with the Ministry of Education’s PPM 161: Supporting Children and Students with Prevalent Medical Conditions in Schools, students with anaphylaxis, asthma, diabetes and/or epilepsy or seizure disorders are required to have an Individual Student Care Plan (ISCP) on file. The ISCP must be completed annually and submitted to Health Services prior to the first day of school or upon the onset of the condition.

MEDICATION

By signing the HSC Health Information and Consent Form, parents have authorized HSC Health Services to administer over-the-counter medications to treat symptoms such as pain, fever, upset stomach, nausea, vomiting and seasonal allergy symptoms. Parents are asked to refrain from sending over-thecounter medications to school

with their child(ren) as these are available through Health Services.

If a child is required to take prescription medication during school hours, parents must contact Health Services to review the medication and administration schedule. All prescription medications should be sent to school in the original pharmacy dispensed container, clearly labeled with the student’s name and administration instructions.

As appropriate, parents/guardians of Montessori, Junior and Middle School students are contacted to obtain permission prior to the administration of over-the-counter medications. It is important for parents to inform Health Services if their child(ren) are taking any prescription medications on a regular basis.

CONCUSSION MANAGEMENT PROGRAM

Health Services will contact parents/guardians whenever a student is suspected of having a concussion. If a concussion is suspected, the student will be required to be medically assessed by a physician or nurse practitioner before returning to school. Students with a diagnosed concussion will participate in HSC’s Return to School (RTS) and Return to Physical Activity (RTPA) protocols which is a gradual, monitored process to support the student’s concussion recovery. Concussed individuals may only return to full physical activity (HSC athletic teams and Phys Ed) once they have completed their Return to School component and have been medically cleared in writing by a physician or nurse practitioner to participate in all activities, including contact sports, without any restrictions.

If a student receives a hit to the head and a concussion is not suspected, the student will be closely monitored at school. Parents will be notified and asked to monitor at home and to report any symptoms to Health Services. Parents and students will also be provided with information on what to monitor for and when to seek medical care. If signs or symptoms of a concussion develop within 48 hours of sustaining the hit, the student will be required to be medically assessed and follow the procedures outlined above.

HEALTH RELATED ABSENCES

If a student is absent due to illness, injury or mental health concerns, parents/guardians are asked to contact the respective School’s Administrative Assistant and report the absence as a “health-related absence.” Parents/ guardians are encouraged to contact Health Services to provide details on the nature of the absence, to obtain guidance as to when their child can return to school after illness, or to discuss support and resources that their child may need.

LICE

Head lice infestations are common in school-aged children as they are easily spread through direct head-to-head (hair-to-hair) contact or indirectly by sharing items such as hats, combs and hairbrushes. It is strongly recommended that parents/ guardians check their child for lice and/or nits regularly throughout the school year. All cases of lice must be treated prior to the child returning to school. Cases of head lice should be reported to Health Services, the classroom teacher or the Principal for follow up as

26 HSC College Handbook 2023-2024
HEALTH AND WELLNESS SERVICES

needed. Parents are welcome to reach out to Health Services for resources on how to treat lice.

ILLNESS OR INJURY AT THE COLLEGE

HSC employs Registered Nurses to provide all students a holistic approach to their physical, mental and socio-emotional needs. As a member of the Health Services team, the Athletic Therapist is able to provide first responder services and assess and manage musculoskeletal injuries. Care is taken to ensure the wellbeing and safety of students. In case of illness, injuries and/or accidents, parents/guardians are notified as soon as possible. In such instances, students are generally expected to be taken home by parents/guardians or, if necessary, they are taken to an emergency department for medical attention.

A student who becomes ill during school hours must report to one of the two Health Services offices located in the Senior School or in the Junior/Middle School; Montessori students must report to the Montessori Matron.

IMMUNIZATIONS

By law, in accordance with Ontario’s Immunization of School Pupils Act (ISPA) and the Child Care and Early Years Act (CCEYA) students must be vaccinated against the following designated diseases: diphtheria, tetanus, polio, measles, mumps, rubella, meningococcal disease, pertussis and varicella. Parents are responsible for ensuring their child(ren) immunizations are up-to-date and for reporting all immunizations to Hamilton Public Health Services.

For students in CCEYA licensed classes, Montessori Toddler to

M5 and Junior PK2/3, proof of immunization must be submitted upon enrollment, prior to the child attending school. If the child is exempt due to medical reasons or conscientious beliefs, a letter of medical exemption or affidavit must be submitted prior to the child attending school.

ALLERGY-CONSCIOUS ENVIRONMENT

Hillfield Strathallan College is not a nut-free environment. Such conditions are virtually impossible to enforce and create a false sense of security for allergic children. However, the College is “allergy conscious” and will make every attempt to maintain a safe and healthy learning environment for all children. The College works in cooperation with parents/ guardians to understand how to best meet the needs of their children with allergies and dietary restrictions.

Families should take all due precaution in bringing food to school. Individual school administration and/or Health Services are to be consulted when bringing food from off-campus. Any such food should not be openly shared between students, especially with those who have allergies. The HSC Anaphylaxis Policy contains further specific information.

Occasionally, special College events will include the option of homemade food coming into school. These events include the Vendor's Village at Homecoming, and the Montessori Caravan. For these events, ingredient lists are required and signage raising awareness of possible allergens are posted.

COUNSELLING SERVICES

The social and emotional wellbeing of students is central to their abilities to successfully perform in an academic learning environment and to be fully engaged in the schooling experience. During school hours, students at the College have access to our College Counsellor and our Social Worker for consultation and referral services to support mental health and socio-emotional wellbeing with school related matters. In addition the College provides Social and Emotional Learning Skills to all students to build resiliency and foster wellbeing. The Health Services team is also available to support students’ socialemotional wellbeing at school.

HSC College Handbook 2023-2024 27

CAMPUS STORE

STORE MAIN ENTRANCE

The Campus Store is located in the lower level of the Strathallan Building. Access to the main entrance of the store faces the pedestrian walkway of the bus fleet and is on the north side of the campus facing Fennell Avenue.

HOURS OF OPERATION

Our store has regular hours of operation during the school year: Monday to Friday, 8.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m.

During the summer, our hours of operation are Monday to Thursday, 8.30 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. and Friday 8.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m.

STORE PURCHASES

During the school year, families may arrange for on account purchases by placing an order

through email at campusstore@ hsc.on.ca, or visiting the store in person during regular hours of operation.

Payment for in-person purchases can be made by Visa, MasterCard, American Express, debit card, cash or HSC student account.

Senior School students may purchase items independently via their student account. Montessori, Junior and Middle School students must have a signed note, email or text message from a parent, before purchasing items from the Campus Store.

ONLINE CAMPUS STORE

Our online Campus Store is live and available for you to make purchases of many of the items our students require, including uniforms, spirit wear and Senior School textbooks. Our online store is an important and convenient

tool open to our community to help ease the chore of visiting the College during our hours of operation.

Please visit www.hsc.on.ca/ campusstore to browse and purchase items from the online store.

Payment for online store purchases can be made by Visa, MasterCard or American Express.

Our Campus Store page found on myHSC, provides useful information with respect to our return and exchange policies and includes a link to the College Uniform Guide.

Need More Information or Help

Please contact the store by email at campusstore@hsc.on.ca or by phone at 905-389-1367, ext. 112 with questions or concerns.

Regular store Hours

Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The store is closed during the December Break.

30 HSC College Handbook 2023-2024
HSC College Handbook 2023-2024 31 STUDENT LIFE

HOUSE SYSTEM

EVERY HSC STUDENT BELONGS TO ONE OF FOUR HOUSES: CEDAR-MORE, BIRCH-EARN, PINE-YRE, AND MAPLE-TAY.

HSC is a big place. Our House System connects students through common goals and a shared sense of identity. The House System is one of our oldest and most successful traditions that we use to bring our community together. It provides a continuum for the purpose of mentoring, special activities, service and competition. Each House combination boasts its own colour (red, blue, orange or yellow) and each is named for a Canadian tree or Scottish river—a nod to HSC’s founders. Family members are placed in the same House across generations. Each House is supervised by staff members and student House officials. New students are sorted into a House before their first day on campus. Students are awarded points for achievement in academics and activities. There are awards granted at various levels of point accumulation and several prizes awarded annually for the Houses contributing the most to College life.

32 HSC College Handbook 2023-2024
HSC College Handbook 2023-2024 33

HSC DRESS CODE RULES

Proper uniform attire is required during school hours and for special College occasions. School hours are from arrival until 4:45 p.m.

PRESENTATION

Jewelry, piercings, and body art must align with the values of our College community and be appropriate for daily classroom and co-curricular activities. There may be times when a student is asked to remove or cover any piece that poses a health and/ or safety risk, or that is not in alignment with our College

NUMBER 1 DRESS

values. As ambassadors of the College, students are expected to maintain good health and hygiene practices at all times, and present themselves in a manner that reflects our community, from 18 months to 18 years.

SHOES AND SOCKS

Students must wear approved brown or black leather dress shoes that can be polished. Shoes may have a maximum 1” heel and must have a closed toe and heel. No casual shoes are permitted (this includes Birkenstocks, Blundstones, boots, Keds, Sperrys, canvas shoes or shoes with white

Every Friday (or last day of the week) and on special occasions, Middle and Senior students are expected to wear No. 1 Dress at school:

n College blazer

n White dress shirt with College, House or Pride tie

n Grey or Black Watch dress pants

n Black Watch kilt with navy tights

n Grey, navy or College tartan socks with pants

Not permitted:

n Shorts, navy pants

soles). Black leather athletic shoes are not permitted. Students must wear grey, navy, or school tartan (adult sizes only) socks with the uniform pants or shorts.

UNDERSHIRTS

If visible at the neck, they must be the same colour as the outer shirt.

HATS

Hats are NOT permitted at any time inside HSC buildings.

TIES

Only College, House and Pride ties are acceptable.

34 HSC College Handbook 2023-2024

ACCEPTABLE UNIFORM BOTTOMS

BLACK WATCH KILT and Navy Tights

The Black Watch kilts must be worn with opaque navy tights (no pantyhose) during every season and together is considered one uniform item; must be worn no more than 5” from the bottom of the knee cap (please measure starting from below the knee cap).

dress pants

Dress pants must be the appropriate colour of grey or navy, fit like dress pants, have no visual external seams and be made of dress pant material.

SHORTS

Middle and Senior School students are permitted to wear crested grey or navy shorts purchased from Lands’ End and InSchoolwear during summer dress times as announced by the Head of College.

Early Education students are invited to source grey or navy blue shorts from retailers of their choice. Black Watch shorts are available at the campus store.

ACCEPTABLE DRESS PANT/short SHADES

Not permitted

LANDS’ END and InSchoolwear PANTS AND SHORTS

HSC has partnered with Lands’ End and InSchoolwear to provide you with options for the purchase of HSC crested shorts. Both retailers also offer acceptable dress pants in grey and navy. To order simply visit their website and the items will be shipped to your home address. When the company is ready for orders, an email will be sent out with a link during the summer to purchase.

www.landsend.com

SPIRIT WEAR WEDNESDAYS

www.inscoolwear.com

On Wednesdays, students may wear the standard HSC-branded hoodie, crewneck, long-sleeved T-shirt, or House hoodie only. The standard hoodies include oxford grey (HSC or team), charcoal grey, purple or green. Alternate hoodies from clubs, teams, trips or plays may not be worn on Wednesdays, but may be worn on casual dress-down days.

UNIFORM SEASONS

The beginning and end of winter and summer dress are weather dependent. The decision is made and announced by the Head of College on myHSC.

HSC College Handbook 2023-2024 35
MEDIUM GREY DARK GREY NAVY BLUE CADET NAVY
TOO LIGHT TOO BRIGHT

PE KITS

Each school requires a specific gym kit for physical education classes. Clothing must be sized to fit and follow grade level requirements as follows:

GRADES PK/MT - GRADE 4/M9:

• Will not change into a PE kit for physical education classes. Running shoes with non-marking soles are required.

PE kits and house shirts are needed for all athletic teams and encouraged for events like Turkey Trot, Cross Country, Mile Run and House Track & Field.

GRADES 5 TO 12:

• College PE short

• HSC branded PE T-shirt or HSC logo long sleeve or HSC house shirt (no team jerseys)

• Change of athletic socks

• A pair of indoor and outdoor running shoes

• Grade 12 Team Games PE class may wear customized PE shirts

ATHLETIC APPAREL

It is mandatory for all HSC athletes who travel with competitive College teams to wear an HSC tracksuit to and from the College when travelling to compete and over their team uniform while still at HSC (in classes and Lawson Hall). Some athletic teams may require additional uniform purchases from the Campus Store (i.e., purple socks, rugby shorts etc.).

36 HSC College Handbook 2023-2024
AND PE KIT
ATHLETICS

UNIFORM LEGEND

HSC College Handbook 2023-2024 37
Long-Sleeved Polo Long-Sleeved Polo Short-Sleeved Polo Short-Sleeved Polo Cardigan Fleece Pullover Sweater Grey Pants Black Watch Pants Black Watch Shorts Navy Pants Grey Shorts Navy Shorts HSC College Oxford Grey Birch/Earn Maple/Tay Pine/Yre Cedar/More Navy Opaque Tights Black Watch Kilt College Tartan Dress Socks Grey or Navy Dress Socks Long-Sleeved Dress Shirt Short-Sleeved Dress Shirt Blazer College Tie Birch/Earn Maple/Tay Pine/Yre Cedar/More Pride Black Watch Tunic

FOOD SERVICES

The daily menu is nutritionally balanced in accordance with Canada’s Food Guide. The weekly menu is planned and posted on the Food Services Resource Board. We provide a variety of main meals, soups, salads, sandwiches, pizza and a panini of the day on a rotational schedule.

The College has committed to student nutrition with a focus on three areas: a whole food approach, shortened ingredient lists, and improved local supplier relationships. The food services program offers plenty of choice and variety, ensuring that every student will have a wide number of freshly made, healthy and delicious options to select from daily.

LUNCH TIMES

Junior School

11:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. (PK3-Gr.4)

Montessori School

Casa - 11:15 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.

Elementary - 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Senior Students

11:45 a.m. - 12:50 p.m.

Middle School Students

12:45 p.m. - 1:35 p.m.

For more information, please visit the Food Services Resource Board on myHSC.

38 HSC College Handbook 2023-2024

THE PARENTS’ GUILD

MISSION

The HSC Parents’ Guild (PG) proudly supports our vibrant school community and provides opportunities to gather and enjoy time together. We plan and host events that build school spirit while raising funds that directly impact our children’s educational experience.

PURPOSE

The purpose of the HSC Parents’ Guild (PG) is to nurture a spirit of friendship and community at HSC and to assist the Advancement Office in raising funds to enhance the HSC learning environment. The PG has been created and exists at the discretion of the Board of Governors, which has delegated the oversight of the management of the PG and its activities to the Head of College and/or their designate, the Executive Director of Constituency Relations, the Director of Advancement and Communications and the Alumni Relations Officer.

MEMBERSHIP

All parents and guardians with children enrolled at HSC are members of the Parents’ Guild. Quorum at meetings is defined as all those present. Each member of the Parents’ Guild is entitled to a single vote to be exercised at PG meetings on matters deemed to require a majority decision. Where possible, except in the election of PG Leadership, all efforts will be made to use consensus as a decision-making tool.

VOLUNTEERING

Volunteering at HSC is a longtime tradition and a wonderful way to get connected with fellow parents and your child’s school community. Hillfield Strathallan College and the Parents’ Guild have many opportunities for volunteering throughout the school year. These events benefit the students and the school. Your time is treasured at HSC. Your involvement can be as little as a few hours for one event, or a longer time commitment over a period of time such as if you were to serve on the Executive Committee.

PARENTS’ GUILD FINANCIAL SUPPORT OF HSC

Over the years, the Parents’ Guild, as a community, has had a significant impact on the College with both their time volunteering and financial support through fundraising for scholarships and bursaries.

As a not-for-profit, Hillfield Strathallan College is grateful to our generous donors and our community. The Parents’ Guild has a great impact year over year. It makes a difference for our students and the community they live in every day during the school year.

2023–2024 PG CHAIR

Parents’ Guild Executive:

Sadia Ansari Chair

Wendy Lam vice Chair

Jing Guo, Daniela Roque Past Chair

Email: pg@hsc.on.ca

PG Leadership roles:

• Used Uniforms

• NISPA Rep

• Staff Appreciation

• Volunteer Coordinator

• Social rep

• Montessorri School Rep

• Junior School Rep

• Middle School Rep

• Senior School Rep

40 HSC College Handbook 2023-2024
SADIA ANSARI

PHILANTHROPY AT HSC

HSC is a leader in independent education, in part thanks to our generous donors. Donor support provides the margin of excellence at HSC, enabling us to provide an unparalleled educational experience to our students.

When you support HSC, you are helping to create a better future. Every gift is an investment in the potential of our students. Funds are allocated across the College to meet real needs as well as to fund opportunities to enhance the learning environment at our College.

There are several ways to support the College either through the Annual Fund or the Endowment Fund.

DONATIONS TO THE ANNUAL FUND CAN BE DIRECTED TO:

Scholarships and Bursaries, which provide a combination of meritand needs-based funding to support deserving students, allowing us to enrich the fabric of our school with outstanding scholars, artists, athletes and community-minded leaders for the betterment of our entire community;

The David Tutty Joy and Innovation Fund, which invites HSC students, faculty and staff to “dream big” by submitting innovative proposals for projects and initiatives that tackle issues and challenges that impact us all and enhance learning for the entire College;

The Area of Greatest Need allows us to respond in real-time to the College’s most urgent needs. In past years we saw the creation of COVID-19 isolation rooms in the Health Centre, the purchase of classroom web cameras for remote online learning and classroom air purifiers, and the installation of additional pathways and exterior doors to facilitate physical distancing.

Top independent school communities have longstanding traditions of giving back, and many demonstrate this by supporting their school’s endowment fund. Our Endowment Fund is a compilation of funds given by loyal donors over time, for specific purposes primarily funding scholarships and bursaries. Endowed funds grow over time through a combination of donations and investment returns to meet the current and future needs of the College

WAYS TO SUPPORT HSC THROUGH THE ENDOWMENT FUND:

• A Named Endowed Scholarship/Bursary Fund is a fantastic way to make a true difference in the lives of future HSC students and cement your family’s legacy at HSC. Your gift will endow a scholarship or bursary as your Family Scholarship/Bursary Fund through HSC.

• The Inspirational Teacher Fund gives you the opportunity to honour a beloved HSC faculty, past or present. Parents learned a lot over the last few years, and for some, the biggest lesson was the value of a great teacher.

• A Full Scholarship is an incredible way to build a lasting and impactful legacy. Your gift will enable an outstanding child from a diverse background, who would not have otherwise been able to attend HSC, to receive a four-year full bursary from Grade 9 through to Grade 12 that covers four years of tuition fees as well as the purchase of books, uniforms and associated school expenses.

• HSC’s House Competition is a friendly house competition between current families, alumni and parents of alumni, challenging Birch/Earn, Cedar/ More, Maple/Tay and Pine/Yre to step into their spirit and see which house can have the largest impact on the future of HSC. This is a great way to turn the legacy of connection into a legacy of giving.

Thank you to our community members who continue to generously support philanthropy at HSC.

HSC College Handbook 2023-2024 41

SCHOLARSHIPS AND BURSARIES

To learn more about how to make your gift a reality, whether as a one-time donation or a pledge commitment over time, please contact Ben Chapdelaine, Director of Advancement and Communications at benoit. chapdelaine@hsc.on.ca, ext.107

There are several ways to donate to HSC:

1. Online: Safe and secure credit card donations can be made through the HSC website at www.hsc.on.ca/donatetoday

2. Mail or Fax: The printable gift form on our website allows donors to pay by:

• Credit card

• Cheque

• Securities

3. Phone: If you prefer to speak directly to someone at the College to make a credit card or securities donation, you can call Ben Chapdelaine, Director of Advancement and Communications at ext. 107

HSC is registered as a charitable entity with the Canada Revenue Agency and is authorized to issue tax receipts to qualified donors for gifts of $25 or more. Our charitable registration number is BN11895 7810 RR0001.

To learn more about all College advancement initiatives, or to access the online donation form or printable gift form, please visit www.hsc.on.ca/supportHSC.

Every donation to HSC is important. When pooled with the contributions of our alumni, parents, faculty, staff, volunteers and friends, your donation becomes a powerful lever for student success. Together, we leave a lasting impact on the future leaders of tomorrow!

42 HSC College Handbook 2023-2024
ALUMNI LEGACY
INSPIRATIONAL TEACHER FUND HOUSE COMPETITION Scan here to donate
THE AREA OF GREATEST NEED
PAVER
HSC College Handbook 2023-2024 43 Join your Graduate’s class today and help leave a mark for the future! 905-389-1367, ext. 107 benoit.chapdelaine@hsc.on.ca For more information: Ben Chapdelaine, Director of Advancement and Communications CELEBRATE WITH A PAVER! paver: $6k paver: $25k CLASS OF LEAVE YOUR MARK ON HSC!
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Andrew Smith ’24 The Smith Family Andrew ’24 Sarah ’27

ATHLETICS

The HSC athletic extracurricular program involves more than 50 teams playing 17 different sports, from the U9 level through to the Senior School level that compete in the Conference of Independent Schools of Ontario Athletic Association (CISAA).

For information, visit www.cisaa.ca.

SELECTION PROCESS

Students in M8 and Grade 3 to Grade 6 who register for a team will participate in practices and interschool competitions. Students in Grade 7 and Grade 8 may try out for a team and will participate in practices, however students will be divided into intrasquad and CISAA teams. In Grade 9 to Grade 12, students try out for a CISAA competitive team. Students not making the CISAA roster will have an opportunity to tryout for another CISAA team or participate in the intramural program. HSC posts tryout dates in the myHSC calendar and shares them with students and parents within each school.

COSTS OF NATIONAL, PROVINCIAL AND INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS

We notify parents at the beginning of the tryout process if their child is trying out for a team with an extra time commitment and an added financial commitment.

TRAVEL

Competitive teams travel by HSC buses and/or third-party charter services. If a team returns later than the 5:00 p.m. bus run, it is the responsibility of the athlete to notify their parents that they will need to be picked up at HSC at a predetermined time after 5:00 p.m.

PRACTICES AND GAME DAYS

Community Time Athletics are typically held between 3:45 p.m. and 4:45 p.m., although early morning practices and late practices may occur, especially in the Senior School. Practices, home and away games will be on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays in the Senior School. Practices, home and away games for Montessori, Junior and Middle School students are on Tuesdays and Thursdays and possibly

Saturdays. Students are expected to wear HSC branded athletic apparel, preferably their HSC PE kit to all practices.

TEAM UNIFORMS

With some exceptions, HSC provides uniform tops for each team. Students may have to purchase HSC specific shorts for teams like Rugby and Soccer. Students also purchase socks for Hockey, Rugby, Soccer and Field Hockey, which are billed to the student’s account. HSC tracksuits are also mandatory for all athletic team members who travel with competitive sports teams. All items available through the HSC Campus Store.

AGE RESTRICTIONS

All teams have age restrictions. For example, when a team is referred to as “U13,” all players must be under 13 years of age as of December 31 of the start of the school calendar year. Some teams also allow a grade requirement: Grade 7 is U13 or in Grade 7, and Grade 8 is U14 or in Grade 8.

44 HSC College Handbook 2023-2024
HSC College Handbook 2023-2024 45

OUTDOOR EDUCATION AND E-WEEK PROGRAMS

Every fall, at the beginning of the school year, students participate in a unique experience that we have come to call “E-Week.” The ‘E’ in E-week can mean different things to different students. It can represent enrichment, experiential learning, equity, exploration, and environmental and/or educational experiences for HSC students. As this is an integral part of the College’s program, we consider it mandatory that all students participate in their respective E-Week trips/programs.

E-WEEK PROGRAMS

HSC shares full trip details with parents and students well in advance, so that appropriate preparation may be made.

M9 AND GRADE 4 E-WEEK

Students participate in a day trip to programs in the fall, as well as a three-day, off-campus outdoor experience each spring.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

This year’s E-Week activities will run over two weeks. The schedule is as follows:

GRADE 5 E-WEEK:

September 18 and 19: Niagara Region Day Trips

September 20 and 21: Overnight trip at YMCA Cedar Glen

Program Description:

Grade 5 students participate in a number of unique enrichment experiences during E-week. They will develop their leadership skills, work on team-building skills, and foster their personal growth through these activities. The activities and trips are connected to the social studies and science curriculum. Students will experience a day trip to the Niagara Region where they will hike the Niagara Gorge and observe the Niagara River during a white water walk. They will also experience a day trip where they explore local waterfalls. The overnight trip will be held at the YMCA Cedar Glen Camp.

GRADE 6 E-WEEK:

September 18-20 at the Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) in Hamilton. September 21 to 22 is an overnight camping trip at YMCA Camp Ki-Wa-Y.

Program Description:

The Grade 6 E-Week trip is a scientific immersion into the biodiversity of the world-class

natural lands on our doorsteps. Students investigate invasive species, hike the Bruce Trail, and learn about the impacts on our freshwater and our responsibility as watershed dwellers. Our students explore the marsh in canoes, sample aquatic invertebrates to compare diversity, create works of art, and find writing inspiration in the biggest outdoor classroom in the Hamilton region.

On Thursday, September 21, students will head to YMCA Camp Ki-Wa-Y Education Center to explore high and low rope courses, canoeing, kayaking, team games, archery, and other activities that provide an excellent environment for groups to work together, build trust, and develop communication skills in a safe setting that promotes personal growth. They will also experience outdoor education that offers students the chance to immerse themselves in an outdoor classroom, with powerful kinesthetic and authentic learning opportunities. As well, they will take part in outdoor living skill activities that allow them an opportunity to develop new skills, explore the property and gain confidence in a safe, and supervised wilderness experience. Students will spend one night at the camp and head back to HSC on Friday, September 22.

46 HSC College Handbook 2023-2024
COMMUNITY TIME SNAPSHOT

GRADE 7 AND 8 E-WEEK:

September 19 to 22 at Camp Timberlane in Haliburton

Program Description: Students in Grade 7 and 8 attend Camp Timberlane together, and engage in separate rotations incorporating water activities, leadership and team-building experiences, as well as outdoor activities that connect to the school’s mathematics, science, English, French, social studies, art, and physical education curriculum. Students solve escape room mysteries, explore personal narratives in journal writing, perform French skits, to name but a few of the activities that merge fun, challenge, and school in one of Canada’s most beautiful camp settings.

SENIOR SCHOOL

The Senior School offers a variety of programs for students as they progress through each grade level. For the 2023-2024 school year, all options will run from Monday, September 18 to Friday, September 22, unless otherwise stated.

The Senior School E-week aims to provide students with holistic opportunities to build relationships, learn through experiences outside the classroom and enhance student engagement. The design was made through the lens of the strategic plan to align the opportunities offered at each grade level and allow for more choice and personalization for students from year to year. E-week offers all students from Grades 9-12 various experiences, from outdoor education to curricular, athletics, the arts, or service trips each year. Students can map their experiential

education pathway by choosing from various options year after year, from Grade 10 to Grade 12.

How E-week trips align with our strategic plan:

Among the goals of HSC's strategic plan is creating a boundless campus through grade-level experiential learning opportunities that empower student learning. Whether exploring the marshes of RBG or venturing overseas to Iceland, the E-Week program directly feeds into our strategic goals by connecting students to the key themes of personalized learning, purposeful and sustainable learning environments, resilience and wellbeing, and a whole College connected and inclusive. The experiences of E-Week positively influence learners academic success as they develop problemsolving skills, collaborative work, time management skills and a sense of belonging.

GRADE 9 E-WEEK:

September 18 at school E-week programming

September 19-22 at Camp Onondaga in Minden

Program Description:

The theme for Grade 9 E-week is Making Connections. Making connections with the outdoors and building relationships between peers and faculty, the Grade 9 E-week is an experience built for all students to come together as a grade starting on their fouryear high school journey. With new and returning students beginning high school, they must have the opportunity to settle quickly into school and build strong connections with others. Through five days of challengeby-choice activities, workshops

and tutorials, the students will have opportunities to reflect and focus on what they want to achieve through the next four years. Historically, this week has been critically important for the class to come together, welcome new students to HSC, and forge memories that last a lifetime.

GRADE 10, 11 AND 12 E-WEEK:

Curricular focused modules, Experiential Trips and Leadership Camp options.

Modules, trips and camp options run from September 18-22 Duke of Edinburgh adventurous journey runs from September 1722.

Program Descriptions:

At Grade 10 to 12 levels, the purpose of E-Week shifts slightly. Grade 10 to 12 E-Week options are designed to have the students accept more ownership of their program by looking ahead and selecting an educational experience of their design. The E-Week programs students can choose from include modules in the arts, sciences, hospitality and tourism and technology, various grade-level trip to locations such as Washington, Iceland, BC or New York, tours of various postsecondary institutions, Duke of Edinburgh adventurous journeys as well as a Camp Leadership opportunity for Grade 11 and 12 students (camp counsellors for Grade 7–8 students).

HSC College Handbook 2023-2024 47

OUTDOOR EDUCATION

We understand that a connection to nature and the outdoors is fundamental to all aspects of human development and is a key component to building optimal mental, emotional, social and physical health for every child.

We believe that this connection also represents a key building block for the future of a sustainable society, especially in the midst of a global climate crisis, and is a healthy alternative to teaching indoors. Research shows that when a child’s connection with nature is nurtured, the child flourishes: child obesity decreases, bullying rates decrease, child injury rates decrease, while academic achievement rises,

physical fitness and activity rates increase, attention spans improve, physical and social/ cultural barriers melt away, and environmental stewards of the future emerge. All of these benefits increase with more time spent outdoors in greenspace and HSC is leveraging our 50-acre campus by creating and enhancing the spaces and living infrastructure that will support these highly desired student outcomes.

To optimize these positive benefits for the academic, physical, and overall wellbeing of the entire HSC community, and enhance the resilience and adaptation of our campus to climate change, we are developing, nurturing and leveraging the power of a Learning Landscape. This intentional

and comprehensively planned approach to managing our campus will optimize its attributes for learning and curriculum support and integration, student and employee health and wellbeing, environmental sustainability, and climate change adaptation and mitigation. Our Learning Landscape will serve current and future students and employees from all four schools across every curriculum area by enhancing and enriching educational experiences, supporting biodiversity and human wellbeing, and ameliorating the impacts of climate change on our campus and community.

48 HSC College Handbook 2023-2024

ARTS AT HSC

Education and participation in the arts is an integral part of learning at HSC, where we recognize their vital role in developing creativity, self-expression and wellbeing, and in fostering empathy, innovation and good citizenship. Creative writing, design, drama, music, photography, poetry, and visual arts are just a few of the many offerings available to students at HSC during their educational journey. Students are afforded a variety of opportunities, through both curricular and co-curricular programming, to display their artistic talents for the College community, and they are encouraged to share these talents with the broader community outside of HSC.

Please refer to the activities snapshot on pages 50–51 for cocurricular arts programs.

We nurture imagination and creativity early at HSC. Courses and co-curricular activities in our arts programs are taught by accomplished specialists. Students can get involved with major theatrical productions, award-winning choral groups and bands, or visual art clubs.

OFFERINGS:

• Dramatic Arts

• Instrumental and Vocal Music

• Integrated Arts

• Design Technology

• Visual Arts

INSTRUMENT RENTAL

For students in the instrumental program, the music department can facilitate instrument rentals through Long and McQuade Musical Instruments (Hamilton and Burlington locations), which includes rent-to-own and full

school-year rental plans, and a $1 per month rental insurance plan (all rentals should include this plan). HSC is not responsible for loss or damage to any instruments rented through Long and McQuade. Music teachers will communicate all necessary information about instrument rentals.

PRIVATE MUSIC INSTRUCTION AT HSC

Our roster of private music instructors consists of professional musicians on a variety of instruments, including piano, guitar, voice, strings, woodwind/brass and drums/ percussion. Private lessons, for the pursuit of a personal musical passion or to complement our in-school instrumental studies, must be arranged directly with the instructor at a mutually convenient time during the school day (costs are in accordance with the teacher’s private teaching rates). Click here for contact info and overviews of our amazing roster of specialist instructors!

Please contact the Director of Arts at nora.hammond@hsc.on.ca.

EXPRESSIONS PERFORMING ARTS SERIES

Have a lasting impact on the students of HSC by becoming a sponsor of the Expressions Performing Arts Series— powerful musical and theatrical performances and inspirational visual arts presentations by HSC students throughout the school year. Sponsorship funds will help enhance the educational experience of students involved in the arts at HSC through initiatives such as studio recording, visual arts special guests, field trips, workshops, music retreats, connecting with industry professionals, and other enrichment opportunities.

Sponsorship opportunities

Maestro $7,500

Encore $1,000

Virtuoso $3,500

Premiere $200

Visit www.hsc.on.ca/expressions for full details.

HSC College Handbook 2023-2024 49

Activities are subject to change each year and vary within schools.

50 HSC College Handbook 2023-2024
College Prefects Service Council House Captains Ambassadors Board Games Wellness Club Homework Club Badminton Service Clubs Tennis Chess Club Fitness Club Crafts Club Co-Ed Recreational Games Book Club Yoga Student Newspaper Quills Literary Magazine Choirs Photography Spring Theatrical Production Stage Crew Media Club Art Club Wind and Jazz Ensembles Grade 9 Concert Band Musicals Business Club STEM Chapter Science Contests Vex Robotics Model UN HOSA Reach for the Top Math Contests
ACTIVITIES SNAPSHOT
HSC College Handbook 2023-2024 51 Rugby Basketball
Swimming Tennis Soccer
Volleyball Slo Pitch Rowing
Badminton
Hockey
Golf Snowboarding Skiing Field Hockey Wrestling Cross Country Track and Field Green Team Volunteering IDEA Committee
+
Black Students' Association Asian Students' Association Empowerment Squared Muslim Students' Association Indigenous Students and Allies Association
Elev8 Inclusivity+
Adelaide Hoodless Community Outreach Best Buddies Wee Braveheart Peer Tutoring Community Outreach
Recreational Activities Arts Competitive Clubs Community Leadership School Leadership inter-school athletics (cisaa & ofsaa)
Colin B. Glassco Foundation International Student Advisory English Conversation Circle
52 HSC College Handbook 2023-2024
HSC College Handbook 2023-2024 53 COLLEGE LIFE

CODE OF CONDUCT

Hillfield Strathallan College endeavours to foster a safe, respectful and nurturing environment for all members of our community, at all times. Becoming a member of the HSC community means committing to fair and equitable treatment for all, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, nationality, economic or social status, gender, gender identity or expression, or ability/disability. HSC takes this commitment seriously, and transgressions against this expectation will result in appropriate disciplinary action as outlined below. Transgressions may include, but are not limited to, microaggressions, digital and online offenses, and direct or indirect interactions involving an individual or group.

The Code of Conduct at HSC outlines the social and behavioural norms that every member of the College community is expected to follow in order to ensure that the school can meet its mission of being a safe, respectful, accepting and engaging learning environment. To this end, the College is committed to fostering leadership, academic excellence and community involvement in an environment that prepares students for academic and personal success and active citizenship. The College believes that all students should enjoy our school equally and feel safe and accepted and that each student, teacher, staff member, and parent has the responsibility to contribute in a positive way to the broader learning community at HSC.

By enrolling at Hillfield Strathallan College, students and parents automatically assume the obligation to comply with the Code of Conduct. At the heart of the Code of Conduct is the understanding that each member of the HSC community will follow certain standards of behaviour. Honesty, respect,

integrity, tolerance, self-discipline, and a willingness to accept responsibilities for one’s actions are all central tenets underlying HSC’s Code of Conduct.

In order to help promote a culture of care at HSC, the School Life Coordinators and Administrative Leadership Teams in each of the four school divisions actively work to promote and develop a values education program that provides students with opportunities for community gatherings, global awareness, social responsibility, active citizenship, servicelearning and positive leadership development. At the core of the values, the program is the expectation that all members of the community will develop awareness for the needs and sensitivities of others and that they will exhibit behaviours that support mutual respect.

The following elements are essential to the HSC Code of Conduct:

• Hillfield Strathallan College is a community that prides itself on providing a school environment that is inclusive, safe, and respectful at all times. When the behaviours and/or actions of an HSC community member disrupt the school’s climate and negatively impact the culture of the College, HSC will respond to these negative influences and actively work to manage the situation.

• HSC expects all students, faculty, staff and parents to be courteous and respectful to everyone in the College community at all times. Rudeness, disrespectful behaviours, harassment, inappropriate language, and demonstrating a general lack of consideration for others are

not acceptable at the College.

• Students are expected to treat all of the resources, equipment and property of the College with respect and consideration. The same expectation extends to the personal and private property that each HSC community member brings to the campus.

• The HSC community is expected to adhere to this Code of Conduct at all times during the school day, whether on campus or while representing the College at off-campus events such as co-curricular tournaments, E-Week trips, field trips, community functions, etc.

ADDRESSING CODE OF CONDUCT INFRACTIONS

All members of the HSC community are responsible for observing both the letter and spirit of the College’s Code of Conduct policies and procedures. When incidents occur that involve a breach of the HSC Code of Conduct, the College will undertake actions to responsibly investigate, document, communicate, and remediate the situation.

A breach of the HSC Code of Conduct can come to the school’s attention in a variety of ways:

• Direct observation of a teacher, staff member, or administrator that is reported by that individual to his/her appropriate Vice-Principal/ Principal or supervisor.

• Informal report of an infraction made by a student, parent or other HSC community member to the appropriate Vice-Principal/Principal. These informal reports are typically verbal reports, based upon an

54 HSC College Handbook 2023-2024

incomplete set of facts and are being provided in an effort to make the school aware of a potential infraction to the Code of Conduct.

• A formal report of an infraction made by a student, parent, teacher, HSC community member, or law enforcement agency. These formal reports must be made directly to the appropriate Vice-Principal/ Principal and can occur via written communication, person-to-person telephone conversation, or in a face-toface meeting with the VicePrincipal/Principal.

Once a breach of the HSC Code of Conduct has been reported, the Vice-Principal/Principal will determine what type of investigation into the allegations is best suited to the particular reported situation. That VicePrincipal/Principal will either lead the investigation or delegate this task to other members of his/her Administrative Leadership Team. In the event that the alleged matter is of a highly serious nature, the Vice-Principal/Principal will inform the Deputy Head of College and Head of College about the reported circumstances, as well as the investigative process that the Vice-Principal/Principal intends to follow to look into the matter.

Investigations, both formal and informal, will require the VicePrincipal/Principal and/or their delegates to speak to all of the parties reported as being involved in the alleged situation. This includes any individuals directly involved in the incident, along with any reported witnesses or other individuals who may have relevant information related to the incident. In all cases, the administrator(s) conducting the investigation will make detailed notes as to what the

individuals being interviewed have said regarding the matter, keeping track of dates, times, locations, individuals involved, sequences of events, etc.

When a student is being interviewed or questioned as part of an investigative process, either as a possible witness or because they are believed to be directly involved in the matter, the Vice-Principal/Principal and/ or their delegate(s) will ensure that the parents/guardians of that student are made aware of the fact that their child had been spoken to by the school as part of its investigation into a disciplinary matter. Depending on the age of the child, and the nature of the alleged matter, the College may opt to inform the parents prior to interviewing the student or the College may elect to inform the parents after discussing the matter with the student. As appropriate, the College may also elect to interview the student with their parents present for that interview, whether that is in person or via teleconference. In all cases, the administrator leading the interview will ensure that the student has the opportunity to present fully and fairly their version of the events, with full respect and no prejudgment.

In situations where safeguarding specific student identities is in the best interests of the investigation, the Vice-Principal/Principal will do their best to keep these names in confidence; however, Hillfield Strathallan College cannot guarantee that the identity of a specifically named person in an investigation will remain unannounced.

Beyond student interviews, the investigative process may also involve the school’s

direct reviewing of cell phone communications, social media posts, associated photos and videos, and any other sources of information that the College may deem useful in gathering information related to the alleged incident. This would include the searching of school-owned lockers.

The investigative process will commence as soon as possible after an alleged incident has been reported to the Vice-Principal/ Principal. Typically, this means an investigation will begin within an hour of the Vice-Principal/ Principal being made aware of a situation; however, depending on circumstances and timing, it may not be possible to launch an investigation until the next opportunity when all possible parties are present. Investigations into minor incidents can normally be concluded within the school day, whereas investigations into more serious incidents typically require days to complete.

In those situations where the College deems the alleged incident to be of a highly serious nature, the Vice-Principal/Principal will inform all of the parties directly related to the incident to remain at home during the investigative process.

Once the College has completed its investigation into the alleged incident, the VicePrincipal/Principal will review the investigative findings and determine what consequences and next steps are best suited to the situation. In matters of a highly serious nature, the Vice-Principal/Principal will collaborate with the Deputy Head of College and Head of College to determine the consequences. After final consequence decisions

HSC College Handbook 2023-2024 55

have been made by the College, the Vice-Principal/Principal will communicate these to the appropriate students and their families in a formal meeting, following up with a formal written communication to the student and their parents to document the incident.

EXTERNAL REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

Hillfield Strathallan College and its representatives have a legal responsibility to report any and all violations of the Child, Youth and Family Services Act or other applicable legislation. In cases where students have committed a criminal act, the College is also bound to follow its legislated responsibilities and contact Police Services as required.

CONSEQUENCES FOR OCCURRENCES OUTSIDE OF THE CODE

When members of the HSC community behave in ways that are counter to the College’s Code of Conduct, the school considers a number of factors prior to assigning consequences. Those factors include, but are not limited to, the following:

• The severity of the behaviour/ action

• The intent of the behaviour/ action

• The previous disciplinary history of the student(s) involved

• The honesty demonstrated by those involved and their willingness to take responsibility for their actions

• The mitigating circumstances that may have influenced the behaviour

• The age and maturity of the student(s) involved

• The overall impact of the

behaviour/action on the school

• The disruptiveness of the behaviour/action on the learning environment of other students

• The risks that the behaviour/ action had on the safety of the HSC community or selected members of HSC

After thorough investigation, a full review of the known details, and careful consideration of the circumstances surrounding the incident, the College will assign a series of consequences to the individual(s) involved in the matter. Typically, these consequences are assigned to serve three outcomes:

1. DISCIPLINARY OUTCOME

For all but the most serious of incidents, HSC follows a system of progressive discipline by which the school assigns disciplinary consequences in an incremental fashion, taking into account an individual’s circumstances and prior behavioural history. As such, there is a range of assigned consequences, which may include one or more of the following:

• Formal written apology

• Removal from school activity, trip or co-curricular privilege

• Detention (after school or during break times)

• Loss of senior sign-out privileges

• Financial restoration (in the event property damage has occurred)

• Behavioural Agreement (signed by the student, parents/guardians and school administration)

• In-school suspensions/ supervised work periods

• Out-of-school suspension (ranging from one to 10 days)

• Probation (where the reenrolment of a student is withheld until such time as the College is confident that the student will be able to fully comply with the HSC Code of Conduct and be a responsible member of the school community)

• Expulsion from the school and withdrawal of educational services by HSC

The College reserves the right to withdraw educational services from a student when the continued attendance of that student would not be in the best interest of that student or the school. The College also reserves the right to withdraw educational services from a student when their behaviour seriously jeopardizes the school’s ability to guarantee the dignity and safety of its students, interferes with the learning environment, represents a breach of the HSC Code of Conduct, or involves conduct that is damaging to the moral tone, values and reputation of Hillfield Strathallan College. In these circumstances, the school will make reasonable efforts to assist the student in securing suitable alternative educational arrangements.

2. EDUCATIONAL OUTCOME

The overall goal of HSC’s disciplinary approach is to correct behaviours and put specific supports in place so that students avoid repeating the same negative behaviours. When a student makes a poor choice, they need to take ownership for their actions and learn from the situation. As such, HSC may include one or more of the following educational consequences as an outcome of a breach in the Code of Conduct:

• Preset, regular meetings are arranged between the

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student(s) and an HSC home form teacher, tutorial leaders, Student Success counsellor, or administrator. These meetings are used as checkin opportunities and provide the student with a forum for discussing their progress and management of the postincident situation.

• Mandated student involvement in an appropriate social action project, research, or community awareness program that is directly related to the nature of the incident. This allows the student to become better informed about the issue and also promotes developing empathy.

• Using the tenets of selfregulation, working with the student to determine what stressors and mitigating circumstances in their daily lives may have influenced and/ or accelerated their negative behaviours. As insights surface, secondary actions and supports may be required to assist the student in better managing their triggers and stressors.

• Preset, regular meetings with the HSC counsellor. These sessions allow the student to receive more in-depth socialemotional coaching.

• Meeting(s) with the College’s Police Liaison Officer. When incidents occur that are of a more serious nature, Police Services can be called upon to provide educational counselling for the student(s) involved.

• Mandated external counselling for the student(s) by an appropriate outside professional or professional agency. This could include accessing services such as anger management training,

psychotherapy/psychiatric support, or addiction counselling.

3. RESTORATIVE OUTCOME

Hillfield Strathallan College acknowledges the importance of applying a restorative framework to situations in which a community member has breached the HSC Code of Conduct. In the end, it is essential that the individual(s) who are responsible for the situation, along with the individual(s) affected by the situation, and the whole HSC community, find ways to heal and restore the positive culture and climate of the school.

In situations that the College deems appropriate, a restorative approach may be utilized either during the investigative stage of a disciplinary situation or as an outcome of that situation after other consequences have been applied. This restorative approach may take a variety of forms but is based upon the following principles:

• Victim(s), offender(s) and their support people (e.g., teachers, parents, administrators, and possibly outside professionals) need to be part of a mutual process in managing negative behaviour situations.

• The offender is accountable when they assume responsibility for their actions.

• The process focuses on problem-solving, liabilities/ obligations and the future— what can be done to move forward as a community.

• The process is driven by dialogue and negotiation between all of the parties involved, with the goal of developing a more holistic

understanding of how the negative actions and behaviours directly impacted each of the individuals involved in the situation.

APPEAL PROCESS

In the event that a student and/ or parent/guardian is not satisfied with the process that was followed to investigate, document or communicate a disciplinary situation, they have the ability to provide a written appeal to the Deputy Head of College detailing their concerns. The Deputy Head of College will then review all of the steps taken by the school in investigating the incident and ensure that the policies and processes outlined in the HSC Handbook, under the Code of Conduct section, have been properly followed.

SPECIFIC CODE OF CONDUCT INFRACTIONS

A) ACADEMIC DISHONESTY/PLAGIARISM

All academic dishonesty should be reported to the appropriate gradelevel VP to review.

Academic honesty requires students to acknowledge the efforts, thoughts or ideas of others that have been used to complete a task. At all levels where research is required, appropriate acknowledgment and documentation methods are taught so that students can clearly distinguish their own work from that of others.

Academic dishonesty/plagiarism is the failure to acknowledge this distinction by submitting any work representing that student’s effort and thought that was entirely or in part produced by some other person or means, including professional

HSC College Handbook 2023-2024 57

scholars, other students, parents, purchased services and electronic reproduction. The use of direct quotation or indirect paraphrase without appropriate citation and copyright infringement is also included in this definition.

Sharing files or folders of work to be submitted between students without permission from the teacher is not permitted and can be considered academic dishonesty. Students are expected to keep their individual work confidential unless group work is assigned.

Dealing with Academic Dishonesty in the Middle School

• Students will be corrected by the subject teacher.

• Parents will be informed of the infraction by phone or in writing.

• The student may have the chance to redo the assignment for an identified percentage of the full credit.

Dealing with Academic Dishonesty in the Senior School

The academic integrity policy aims to set students up for success, allow students to learn from their mistakes, and ensure fairness between students in evaluations. The Senior School remains invested in our students learning by providing educational sessions at the start of the year and integrating lessons into our curriculum that support and aid in the understanding of what academic integrity stands for.

Academic integrity requires students to acknowledge the efforts, thoughts or ideas of others which have been used to complete a task. At all levels where research is needed, appropriate acknowledgment and documentation methods are

taught so that students can clearly distinguish their work from that of others.

Academic dishonesty/plagiarism is the failure to acknowledge this distinction by submitting any work representing that student’s effort and thought that was entirely or in part produced by some other person or means, including professional scholars, other students, parents, purchased services and electronic reproduction. The use of direct quotation or indirect paraphrase without appropriate citation and copyright infringement is also included in this definition.

Sharing files or folders of work to be submitted between students without permission from the teacher is not permitted and can be considered academic dishonesty. Students are expected to keep their work confidential unless group work is assigned.

THE PROCESS:

All academic dishonesty should be reported to the appropriate gradelevel VP to review.

1. The teacher will notify the student’s tutorial leader and Grade Level Vice Principal (GLVP) via email if they encounter a suspected case of plagiarism. This notification should only occur after the teacher has spoken privately with the student to gain insight and feedback from the student in question. For consistency across subjects, sections, and disciplines, all cases must be referred to the GLVP. The student is given the opportunity to speak to their parent/guardian before the steps below take place.

2. 2. The teacher will provide

the GLVP with a copy of the plagiarized assignment, highlighting the areas of dishonesty from which the student plagiarized.

3. Once the facts have been established in collaboration with the subject teacher, the GLVP will determine the infraction's severity and administer consequences appropriate to the offence level.

4. Depending on the severity, the teacher or GLVP will communicate to the student, parent/guardian, and the TL outlining the consequences, next steps, and details about the infraction.

5. The final step is for the GLVP to meet with the student to discuss the matter.

ACCOUNTABILITY MEASURES:

1. In the case of a minor infraction, communication with the student’s family will be undertaken by the teacher involved, cc’d to the GLVP and the tutorial leader.

2. If the incident represents a clear major case of academic dishonesty, the teacher or the GLVP (depending on the circumstances) will communicate with the student’s parents/guardians, copying the TL, explaining the incident and outlining the consequences.

3. In each major case, the student will meet with the GLVP to discuss the consequences, details of what happened, what was unethical about the behaviour, and what they have learned from the process.

4. Should the same student be caught with repeated academic dishonesty, the

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situation will be managed as a “Major Infraction of Code of Conduct,” thus formally involving parents and imposing consequences.

ACADEMIC CONSEQUENCES:

1. First offence - based on their professional judgment, the teacher can opt to give the student a redo assignment or complete a modified version of that assignment on the student's own merits to demonstrate to the teacher that they have grasped the learning expectations assessed via the particular assignment. The work will be awarded up to 50% of the original assignment mark.

2. Second offence - The work will be assigned a penalty of up to 100% of the mark, meaning the student can expect a mark of 0, without being allowed to redo the work.

3. If there are further incidents of plagiarism, the student will receive an automatic zero (0), and progressive consequences will be put into place, which could result in an Academic Agreement for the student. Please note, when assigning consequences, the Grade Level Vice Principal will factor in a number of considerations. The goal is to assist students in developing academic integrity.

The grade level Vice Principal will consider:

1. The circumstances surrounding each case.

2. The extent of the violation:

a. Inevitably, the actions that constitute specific offences of academic honesty (e.g., plagiarism, cheating) vary in terms of severity.

b. Some instances of academic dishonesty constitute only minor infractions while others represent the most extreme form of violation.

c. Penalties should correspond to the nature of the offence.

d. Penalties may be imposed singularly or in combination for any offence.

3. The level of the student's academic experience.

4. Whether or not the student admits guilt, accepts responsibility for their action, and is amenable to educative remedies.

5. Prior/multiple incidents: If the offence is a second (or subsequent) one for the student and/or is in combination with another offence, then a more severe penalty should be considered.

B) BULLYING

Bullying is a form of repeated, persistent and negative behaviour directed toward an individual or individuals that is intended to cause fear and or distress and/ or harm to another person’s body, feelings, self-esteem or reputation. Bullying often occurs in a context where there is a real or perceived power imbalance. Bullying may also involve the use of social media and/or other electronic communication sources to purposefully target an individual (cyber-bullying). Bullying is not mutual conflict, social rejection, dislike or single episode acts of nastiness, meanness or aggression.

Acts of hazing or student initiation are not tolerated at Hillfield Strathallan College. These forms

of behaviour are both demoralizing and degrading to the individual or individuals being targeted and they do not reflect the respectful, safe, and inclusive school climate promoted by HSC. The College proactively educates the student body about the importance of conducting oneself in a respectful, caring and accepting fashion so that all members of the HSC community feel welcome and included. When a student fails to act in this expected manner, and their behaviour falls outside of the HSC Code of Conduct, the College will take action.

Definition of Student Bullying

“Student Bullying” involves the aggressive and typically repeated behaviour by a pupil where,

(a) the behaviour is intended by the pupil to have the effect of, or the pupil ought to have known that the behaviour would be likely to have the effect of,

(i) causing harm, fear or distress to another individual, including physical, psychological, social or academic harm, harm to the individual’s reputation or harm to the individual’s property, or (ii) creating a negative environment at a school for another individual, and

(b) the behaviour occurs in a context where there is a real or perceived power imbalance between those involved.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Students, faculty and parents have a responsibility to ensure a safe, respectful and nurturing environment for all students.

HSC College Handbook 2023-2024 59

STUDENTS

Students are encouraged to identify the various forms of bullying and report such incidents to their teachers. Additionally, students are encouraged to demonstrate assertive and positive response skills related to bullying. Through awareness, collective support, and building a culture of non-tolerance for bullying, students have a significant ability to deter and discourage potential bullies from becoming active in their school. Through various student groups and College-supported programs, HSC students are provided with the opportunity to help foster a positive and supportive school climate and eliminate bullying behaviours.

PARENTS

Parents must recognize and address the warning signs that could possibly indicate bullying. They are also responsible for reporting suspected incidents to the College in a timely manner. We remind parents to recognize that the College may need time to investigate the matter thoroughly. Working in partnership with the College will help to ensure a positive outcome.

TEACHERS AND ADMINISTRATORS

HSC will continue to outline specific procedures and expectations for faculty with respect to the reporting of such incidents and the subsequent action plan. While always seeking a positive outcome, in the most serious instances, suspension and/or expulsion are possible consequences.

BULLYING POLICY PROCESS: INFORMAL ADVICE AND CONSULTATION

Any member of the Hillfield Strathallan College community may seek assistance or advice from any teacher, VicePrincipal, Principal, Deputy Head, Supervisor, Manager, the Director of College Initiatives, Human Resources or the Head of College. All information will remain confidential and no action will be taken unless the complainant is willing to be identified and have the complaint documented in writing, or unless otherwise required by law. In most cases, offending behaviour may cease if it is made clear to the harasser or bully that their actions are not welcome and that such conduct is forbidden by law/College policy.

C) VIOLENT BEHAVIOUR

Extremely violent behaviour, which includes fighting, kicking, punching, slapping, cuffing and pushing—in short, inappropriate behaviour of a violent (and/ or sexual) nature directed toward another student—is a rare occurrence at HSC. It is taken extremely seriously and is not tolerated anywhere on campus, whether onsite, on its transportation services, or other locations. In the event of such behaviour, HSC’s administration will fully investigate the issue and, based on such an investigation, reserves the right to suspend, and/ or withdraw its services and expel any student(s) who has initiated/ participated in such activity.

As part of the investigative process into violent behaviours, the administration reserves the right to suspend any and all participants from HSC until its investigation is complete. Likewise, HSC reserves the right to involve its police liaison and counselling services.

D) SUBSTANCE ABUSE POLICY

TOBACCO AND VAPORIZERS

Smoking or the use of a vaporizer device, or providing a vaporizer to other students is not allowed on HSC property or while participating in College events. At all times, students will adhere to the SmokeFree Ontario Act and Electronic Cigarettes Act, which ban smoking and the use of vaporizers on College property anywhere, by anyone, at any time. This rule extends to all school buses, sporting events, E-Week trips, field trips and any other school event.

ALCOHOL AND RECREATIONAL CANNABIS

Alcohol and recreational cannabis are legal substances, but under provincial law, possession and use of either of these two products by individuals under the age of 19 is illegal. At HSC, students are forbidden to have alcohol and/or recreational cannabis on campus or to be under the influence of these substances at any time. The campus shall include any location or vehicle where a regular College program is being carried out under the supervision of the College, be that an E-Week (long-term excursion), sports fixture, field trip or any other College-related activity. During school days the campus is also considered to be any place off the campus for which the student has temporarily signed out, or left campus for any reason.

Parents of students found in breach of the rules on alcohol and recreational cannabis will be immediately notified and requested to pick up their child.

A full report of the incident or incidents will be made in writing by the relevant staff and students. Subject to the investigation,

60 HSC College Handbook 2023-2024

consequences may include withdrawal of services, ranging from suspension to expulsion. A case involving the distribution of alcohol or cannabis to others will result in more serious consequences including the possibility of expulsion.

ILLEGAL DRUGS

The use, possession and possible distribution of illegal drugs are criminal offences as defined under the Criminal Code of Canada. Hillfield Strathallan College recognizes illegal drugs as those defined under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.

At HSC, students are forbidden to have such illegal drugs on campus, be involved in the distribution of illegal drugs during the school day, and/or be under the influence of illegal drugs at any time while under the care of the school. The campus shall include any location or vehicle where a regular College program is being carried out under the supervision of the College, be that an E-Week (long-term excursion), sports fixture, field trip or any other College-related activity. During school days the campus is also considered to be any place off the campus for which the student has temporarily signed out, or left campus for any reason.

Parents of students found in breach of the rules on illegal drugs will be immediately notified and requested to pick up their child. A full report of the incident or incidents will be made in writing by the relevant staff and student(s).

Subject to the investigation, the likely consequence for a breach of the rules on illegal drugs will be a withdrawal of services and expulsion.

Moreover, should the HSC administration believe—and hold evidence of the fact—that a student is actively involved in promoting, selling or transporting alcohol, marijuana or illegal drugs of any kind, whether via an online format or in person, which the administration believes present a threat to the safety of HSC’s students, the community, and/or its reputation, the College, likewise, reserves the right to withdraw services from such student(s). Furthermore, the College reserves the right to inform its police liaison services of such activities, whether they occur “on campus,” which includes its transportation services, as well as at gatherings of its students, which can take place off-site.

The College administration also reserves the right at any time to search a student’s locker and/ or their bags, should they have a reasonable suspicion that an individual is storing or carrying an illegal substance.

E) THEFT

In keeping with our ideals, Hillfield Strathallan College strives to be a community in which trust, respect and honesty are the core tenets that guide the behaviours, actions, and decisions of every member of the HSC community. When we treat others and their personal property with respect, a positive school climate is created which helps to reduce the incidence of theft and/or damage to people’s belongings.

While acts of theft are rare at HSC, the College does provide students with lockers to keep their valuables and other items safe during the school day. It is the student’s responsibility to have a

lock for their locker and to keep that lock closed, ensuring that the combination to the lock is not shared with others. Students should not leave equipment (e.g., musical instruments, backpacks, computers, etc.) on top of the locker or unattended in the hallways. By following these guidelines, students can better assure the safety of their possessions.

In the event that a student’s possessions do go missing, the student is expected to report the matter to a school administrator immediately. An investigation into the situation will then be initiated and, should the College determine that a theft occurred, the College will apply an appropriate consequence to the individual(s) responsible for the theft. Given that theft is a criminal offence, HSC regards all acts of theft as a major infraction of the HSC Code of Conduct and, as such, consequences for those involved can include the full range of disciplinary outcomes from a multi-day suspension through to expulsion and the withdrawal of educational services. When there is theft on campus, the notification and involvement of Police Services may also be required.

F) RESPECT AT THE COLLEGE

HARASSMENT AND VIOLENCE

Hillfield Strathallan College is committed to providing and maintaining an environment that is based on respect for the dignity and rights of everyone at the College. It is our goal to provide a healthy and safe environment that is free from any form of harassment or violence.

SCOPE

HSC College Handbook 2023-2024 61

This policy applies to all staff and students of the College and is applicable in any situation that occurs:

• in the workplace/educational environment

• during work- or school-related travel

• at restaurants, hotels or meeting facilities that are being used for College purposes

• in any College-owned or leased facilities

• during telephone, email or other communications

• at any work-related/Collegerelated social event, whether or not it is College-sponsored

This policy also applies to situations in which one is harassed or subjected to violence in the workplace/educational environment from individuals who are not employees of the College, such as customers, visitors, parents, contractors and suppliers, although available remedies may be constrained by the situation.

DEFINITIONS

DISCRIMINATION

Discrimination includes any distinction, exclusion or preference based on the protected grounds in the Ontario Human Rights Code, which nullifies or impairs equality of opportunity in employment, or equality in the terms and conditions of employment.

The protected grounds of discrimination are:

• Race, colour, ancestry, citizenship, ethnic origin or place of origin

• Creed, religion

• Age

• Sexual orientation

• Gender identity

• Family, marital (including a same-sex partnership) status

• Disability or perceived disability

• A record of offences for which a pardon has been granted under the Criminal Records Act (Canada) and has not been revoked, or an offence in respect of any provincial enactment

SEXUAL HARASSMENT

Sexual harassment includes conduct or comments of a sexual nature that the recipient does not welcome or that offend the individual. It also includes negative or inappropriate conduct or comments that are not necessarily sexual in nature but are directed at an individual because of their gender identity. Both men and women can be victims of sexual harassment, and someone of the same or opposite sex can harass someone else.

Some examples of sexual harassment are:

• Sexual advances or demands that the recipient does not welcome or want

• Threats, punishments or denial of a benefit for refusing sexual advances

• Offering a benefit in exchange for a sexual favour

• Leering (persistent sexual staring)

• Displaying sexually offensive material such as posters, pictures, calendars, cartoons, screensavers, pornographic or erotic websites or other electronic material

• Distributing sexually explicit email messages or attachments such as pictures or video files

• Sexually suggestive or obscene comments or gestures

• Unwelcome remarks, jokes, innuendos, propositions or taunting about a person’s body, clothing or sex

• Persistent, unwanted attention after a consensual relationship ends

• Physical contact of a sexual nature, such as touching or caressing

• Sexual assault

BULLYING

Bullying is not mutual conflict, social rejection, dislike or single episode acts of nastiness or meanness. Typically, bullying is a form of repeated, persistent and aggressive behaviour directed toward an individual or individuals that is intended to cause fear and/or distress and/or harm to another person’s body, feelings, self-esteem or reputation. Bullying occurs in a context where there is a real or perceived power imbalance.

DISCRIMINATORY HARASSMENT

Discriminatory harassment includes comments or conducts based on the protected grounds in the Ontario Human Rights Code, which the recipient does not welcome or that offends the individual.

Some examples of discriminatory harassment include:

• Offensive comments, jokes or behaviour that disparage or ridicule a person’s membership in one of the protected grounds, such as race, religion or sexual orientation

• Imitating a person’s accent, speech or mannerisms

62 HSC College Handbook 2023-2024

• Persistent or inappropriate questions about whether a person is pregnant, have children or plan to have children

• Inappropriate comments or jokes about an individual’s age, sexual orientation, personal appearance or weight

Harassing comments or conduct can poison someone’s working/ educational environment, making it a hostile or uncomfortable place to work or study, even if the person is not being directly targeted. This is commonly referred to as a “poisoned environment” and is also a form of harassment.

Some examples of actions that can create a poisoned work/educational environment include:

• Displaying offensive or sexual materials such as posters, pictures, calendars, websites or screen savers

• Distributing offensive email messages, or attachments such as pictures or video files

• Practical jokes that embarrass or insult someone

• Jokes or insults that are offensive, racist or discriminatory in nature

MICROAGGRESSIONS

Microaggression is the term used to describe any verbal, behavioural or environmental slights that appear through statements, actions, jokes, or questions that communicate hostile, derogatory, or negative attitudes towards stigmatized and/or marginalized groups or towards individuals that may identify with those groups. These actions target one or more aspects of someone’s identity, which may include their gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religion, class, body shape, age, mental health, (dis)ability etc.

HSC College Handbook 2023-2024 63

While these actions may not explicitly intend to hurt another person, they actively undermine, belittle, stereotype and/or insult the groups they are used against. A microaggression does not have to be directed at a specific member of that specific identity or group to have a negative impact. Microaggressions may alternatively appear subtly through backhanded comments and “compliments,” and their impact may not be initially understood.

Some examples of microaggressions are:

• Commenting on language skills or ability (ex. saying “you speak good English!” to a racialized student)

• Referring to stereotypes

• Invalidating someone’s cultural identity based on their skin colour

• Asking people with hidden disabilities or aspects of their identity to identify themselves in a class or group

• Presuming another person’s background based on their appearance

• “Where are you really from?” or “What are you?”

• Offensive cultural imitation

• “I’m not racist, I have friends who are Black”

• Harmful comments that disregard or belittle major events (i.e., The Holocaust, Residential Schools, Chinese Exclusion Act, etc.)

Strategies for addressing microaggressions include:

• Ask for more clarification

» “What did you mean by that?” “Why do you believe that?”

• Challenge the discriminatory attitudes and behavior, rather than the person.

» Challenging the person directly may cause them to become defensive and escalate the situation

• Understanding that impact is more important than intent.

• Stopping unintentional microinsults and rephrasing comments.

» If something you said has offended someone, apologize and recognize it, and if possible, take the opportunity to rephrase your comment

• Provide accurate information to challenge stereotypes and biases in the moment whenever possible.

Microaggressions primary are seen in three (3) forms:

1. Microassaults:

• Actions or slurs that target identity Microassaults are deliberate and intentional slights or insults that are meant to hurt the intended victim through abusive language, name-calling, jokes, criticism or observations that mock or degrade, as well as avoidant behavior and purposeful discriminatory actions.

2. Microinsults:

• Verbal and nonverbal communication that target identity by rude and insensitive

64 HSC College Handbook 2023-2024

comments often based on assumptions about a group or an individual member of a group.

3. Microinvalidations:

• Communications that subtly disregard, exclude and nullify the thoughts, experiences, and feelings of members of minority groups and often attempt to rationalize, discredit or minimize the experiences of a group or a person who is from an underrepresented group.

Microaggressions are covered by the Code of Conduct, and the College reserves the right to take intervention including but not limited to reflection, education, and restorative practice to prevent their occurrence. If the behaviour is not rectified after the initial intervention, repeated microaggressions become Code of Conduct offenses and will be dealt with accordingly.

Questions regarding microaggressions can be addressed to your home room teacher/tutor, guidance counsellor, school counsellor, or Vice Principal.

PARENTAL HARASSMENT

Parental harassment is defined as the use by parents/guardians of confrontational tactics which attack a teacher or staff member, which have the consequences of reducing the teacher or staff member’s ability to conduct themselves effectively within the College, and which harm the teacher or staff member’s wellbeing or professional reputation.

Some examples of parental harassment include:

• Unwanted comments

• Intimidating or aggressive behaviour

• Verbal or emotional abuse

• The application of force or physical assault

• “Bullying,” which is an attempt to undermine an individual through cruel or humiliating behaviour

• Badgering emails/phone calls

• Defamatory social media posts

THE TEST OF HARASSMENT

It does not matter whether you intended to offend someone. The test of harassment is whether you knew or should have known that the comments or conduct were unwelcome to the other person. For example, someone may make it clear through their conduct or body language that the behaviour is unwelcome, in which case you must immediately stop that behaviour.

PREVENTING HARASSMENT AND VIOLENCE

It is our mutual responsibility to ensure that we create and maintain a harassment- and violence-free community. HSC will do its part by not tolerating or condoning discrimination, harassment or violence at the College. This includes making our community aware of what behaviour is and is not appropriate, assessing the risk of violence, investigating complaints and imposing suitable corrective measures.

PRIVACY STATEMENT

Hillfield Strathallan College is committed to protecting the privacy of our families, students, employees, alumni, donors, stakeholders and other individuals about or from whom we collect

personal information. We value the trust of those we deal with, and of the public, and recognize that maintaining this trust requires that we be transparent and accountable in how we treat the information that you choose to share with us. It also requires that our students also respect and maintain the privacy and confidentiality of personal information that may come to the attention or knowledge of students, directly or indirectly.

Hillfield Strathallan College embraces the principles of the Canadian Standards Association Model Code for the Protection of Personal Information to ensure that all personal information is properly collected, used only for the purpose for which it’s collected, and is disposed of in a safe and timely manner when no longer required.

During the course of our various projects and activities, we frequently gather and use personal information. Anyone from whom we collect such information should expect that it will be carefully protected and that any use of or dealing with this information is subject to consent. Our privacy practices are designed to achieve this.

To respect this policy and to protect the privacy of our families, students, employees, alumni, donors, stakeholders and other individuals, it is expected that any student who is involved with the collection of personal information on behalf of the College, or to whom personal information is disclosed, whether directly or indirectly, and even if such disclosures are made accidentally or inadvertently, will not disclose or communicate or use that personal information for any

HSC College Handbook 2023-2024 65

purpose that is not authorized by the College.

In the event that a student becomes aware of the unauthorized disclosure or use of personal information collected or maintained by the College, it is expected that the student will advise the College. In keeping with our privacy policy, student disciplinary, academic and personal matters are kept in the utmost of confidence. These matters are disclosed only to (a) those parties who have the consent of the student to receive such information (where the student is of age), (b) parents (where the student is under age or where the parent is a contracting party to the enrolment contract at the College), (c) HSC personnel insofar as such matters are dealt with as part of their professional responsibilities and (d) those who are entitled or required to be advised by law (e.g., CAS, subpoena to witness, etc).

myHSC ACCOUNT, VOICEMAIL AND EMAIL

All staff members can be contacted through either voicemail or email. In addition, all students in Grade 3/M8 and above have an email account. The email addresses for all members of the school community are accessible through your myHSC account by clicking on the Progress tab.

myHSC is our “one-stop-shop” learning management system and our primary means of communication for students and parents. myHSC is used to distribute information such as student schedules, co-curricular information, school-specific bulletins, assignment and homework due dates, course curricula, information about field trips and other special

announcements. The “News” and “Resources” tabs on the top task bar of your myHSC account also direct users to key information about the many programs and departments at the College. Parents and students should check their myHSC account on a daily basis and always use it as their primary source for accessing HSC information. Questions may be directed to our IT department at itservicerequest@hsc.on.ca

Beyond the information contained in myHSC, the College may also periodically use email to communicate important information to parents. Please ensure that we have your current email address on file. Parents who do not have access to email will be able to obtain information from the Main Office at 905-389-1367.

CANADIAN ANTI-SPAM LEGISLATION

The Canadian Anti-Spam Legislation (known widely as “CASL”) prohibits the sending of commercial electronic messages unless the sender has the implied or express consent of recipients and sets out certain information in the message, together with an unsubscribe function. CASL addresses the following:

• Installing unwanted computer programs (e.g., spyware and viruses)

• Altering transmission data

• Providing false or misleading information in a message

• Harvesting addresses

• Collecting personal information Messages that contain commercial content may constitute Commercial Electronic Messages (CEMs) under the CASL. However, the legislation does not apply to messages solely

related to HSC’s core activities, because these activities are not “commercial” in nature.

CASL does not impact regular non-commercial electronic messages sent to families for informational purposes (e.g., notices regarding a student’s progress). These emails will continue to be sent without the need for prior consent from the recipient. It also does not apply to messages sent by the College for the primary purpose of raising funds. Messages from the College can come from several different sources: the Office of the Head of College, the four schools, the Parents’ Guild and Alumni Relations, to name just a few.

Parents/guardians of current students are interpreted to have supplied HSC with implied consent to receive CEMs from the College. All messages sent by the College that are deemed to be CEMs by HSC Administration will comply with CASL’s consent and unsubscribe requirements. If you choose not to opt-in, or if you later unselect specific notifications from HSC, you may not receive important information from the College, including information on community events and news (e.g., Homecoming, concerts and plays, Carol Service, Summer Camps)

Should you wish to opt back in at a later date, simply log back into your myHSC account and update your e-communication preferences. Questions about the CASL may be directed to Ben Chapdelaine, Director of Advancement and Communications, ext. 107 or by email at chapdebe@hsc.on.ca

STUDENT PHOTOGRAPHS AND IMAGES POLICY

HSC is a dynamic environment with a busy event calendar.

66 HSC College Handbook 2023-2024
3 FENNELL AVENUE WEST GARTH STREET T v vi ii iii 5 6 7 4 3 2 1 B 1 2 3 7 5 9 10 11 4 8 6 C A D A1 A2 A3 1 3 4a 4b 4b 2 i main entrance foxcroft circle bus lane only B iv iv 8 HILLFIELD STRATHALLAN COLLEGE 299 Fennell Ave W, Hamilton, ON., L9C 1G3 905-389-1367 hsc.on.ca

NOTES

HSC College Handbook 2023-2024 69
fields: 1. Athletic Field 1 2. Athletic Field 2 3. Athletic Field 3 4. Athletic Field 4 5. Athletic Field 5 6. Athletic Field 6 7. Athletic Field 7 8. Auxiliary Field gyms: A. Athletic Complex and Community Centre A1. King Gym A2. Siggi Gym A3. Spallacci Gym B. Page Gym C. DeGroote Gym D. Early Education Gym parking: i. Auxiliary Parking ii. North Parking iii. South Parking iv. Maintenance Parking v. Turf Parking (North) vi. Turf Parking (South) entrances: 1. Main Reception 2. Senior School 3. Virtue-Fitzgerald Center for the Arts 4a. Early-Ed: Montessori School 4b. Early-Ed: Junior School buildings: 1. Holton Main Office 2. Strathallan Building 3. Lawson Hall 4. Young Building 5. Heaven Building 6. Kilip Building 7. Kilip Extension 8. Montessori Building 9. Collinson Building 10. Artsplex 11. Michael G. DeGroote Senior School
T. Tennis Courts transportation: B. Bus Depot
courts:

HSC College Handbook

2023-2024

Hillfield Strathallan College

905-389-1367

905-389-6366

www.hsc.on.ca

Respect. Integrity. Community. Individuality. Determination.

Our core mission is to develop joyful and engaged students who live life with purpose.

The best learning happens when students are happy to come to school, have opportunities to follow their passions, and participate in deep learning experiences that challenge them.

Joyful, engaged students develop strong relationships with their peers and with the caring adults who spark and support their learning both inside the classroom and beyond.

Their journey at HSC prepares students to live with purpose— to understand their world, inspire, lead, act, and make a difference in their own unique ways.

70 HSC College Handbook 2023-2024
299 Fennell Avenue West Hamilton, ON L9C 1G3
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