Family Handbook 2018-19

parents to understand that, with the exception of an imminent risk and/or health or safety‑related  circumstances, the student’s request will be honoured. 

When a student discloses information to a faculty or staff member about her personal health or  safety‑related circumstances and the school believes there is an imminent risk to the student or to  others, the student’s right to confidentiality will not prevail and the school will comply with its legal  duty to report. This would, in most cases, involve immediately contacting the student’s parents.  Havergal has outlined steps to manage the kinds of personal disclosures that students can, and do,  make to faculty and staff. School administrators and support team members work together, as  needed and on a case‑by‑case basis, to assess a student’s risk to herself and to others and establish  a preventative action plan, when necessary.  The Principal has a duty to give assiduous attention to the health, wellness and comfort of students  under the school’s care. Educators have a common law standard of care to act as reasonably  careful or prudent parents in these circumstances.  Havergal, including its faculty and staff, is required to follow applicable laws and the policies and  protocols established by professional organizations, such as the Ontario College of Teachers, that  support the care and well‑being of school‑aged children and young adults. 

Last Updated August 17, 2018 Havergal College Family Handbook 2018–19

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