Suspension Procedures

1. The principal is responsible for administering the general discipline of the school.
   He/she shall ensure that the school has developed a school discipline policy, incorporating provisions of Appendix 351A – Safe School Action Plan as part of the school’s discipline policy. School handbooks shall publish the expectations for behaviour and the discipline procedures established for use within the school.
2. For the purposes of this administrative procedure: 
   1. Suspension is the removal of a student from the classroom, school property, school activities or bus for a period of up to five (5) school days.
   2. Expulsion is the Board-approved removal of a student from the classroom or bus for a period of time longer than five (5) school days.
   3. Exceptions – Extracurricular activities such as team sports, club membership and field trips outside of school hours are considered a student privilege. A student's failure to conform to the rules  may result in the removal of the privilege. This loss of privilege is not considered a suspension under this administrative procedure. If the breach of rules is also a matter for which suspension or expulsion would otherwise be considered, these measures may also be applied.
   4. Suspension shall be considered when a student: 
      1. Exhibits open opposition to authority;
      2. Exhibits willful disobedience;
      3. Habitually neglects duty;
      4. Uses improper or profane language;
      5. Engages in conduct potentially injurious to others;
      6. Willfully damages school property;
      7. Exhibits behaviour that interferes with school- or division-approved activities;
      8. Exhibits behaviour prohibited by other Board policies, administrative procedures, the School Actor the Criminal Code of Canada; or
      9. Exhibits behaviour inconsistent with Section 12 of the School Act– responsibilities of students.

References

School Act, Section 12, 24, 25, 45, 60, 123, 124
Review by the Minister – Information Bulletin 3.5.1
Cross Reference: Policy 13 – Appeals and Hearings Regarding Student Matters
Forms: Suspension/Expulsion Form Letter Template