Family Handbook 2019-20

When a capable Upper School student discloses personal information to faculty and staff and specifically requests that the conversation and its details remain confidential, it is important for 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 Student Support Team (SST) 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. Ministry Requirements for Community Involvement (Grades 9–12) In Ontario, every secondary school student must complete a minimum of 40 hours of community involvement activities as part of the requirements for an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). The purpose of the community involvement requirement is to encourage students to develop awareness and understanding of civic responsibility. Through this program, students gain an understanding of the role they can play and the contributions they can make in supporting and strengthening their communities. Another purpose of the community involvement requirement is to develop strong ties between students and their community, fostering valuable partnerships and long-term relationships. Community involvement activities may be completed at any time prior to graduation. However, students may only begin accumulating community involvement hours once they have completed their final day of Grade 8. Students who enter Havergal College from outside of Ontario in Grades 9

Last Edited: August 20, 2019 Havergal College Family Handbook 2019–20

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