The purpose of the Lions Bay School Code of Conduct is to establish and maintain a safe, caring, inclusive and orderly learning environment where all members of the school community feel respected, valued and supported.  This Code aligns with the BC School Act, the BC Human Rights Code, and Ministerial Orders.  The code of conduct also outlines expectations for acceptable and unacceptable behaviour and conduct and approaches.  Schools will consider student needs and circumstances and will apply the Code of Conduct in a fair, supportive, and legally compliant manner.

The school will take reasonable and proactive steps to prevent retaliation against individuals who report concerns.  Follow-up support will be provided to those impacted, which may include access to appropriate resources, counselling, and ongoing monitoring.

This Code of Conduct outlines the expectations and procedures that guide behaviour and decision-making within a safe and respectful school environment. It applies to all members of the school community, including students, staff, parents/guardians, visitors, and volunteers, not only during school hours and school-sponsored or school-related off-site events, but also while traveling to and from school and in digital environments. The Code of Conduct also applies when behaviour negatively impacts the learning environment or the safety and well-being of the school community.

Lions Bay School is committed to:

• creating and maintaining a safe, caring, orderly and productive learning environment where students accept personal responsibility for themselves, their relationships with others, and the school community
• creating an inclusive environment where every student feels safe, respected, valued and a strong sense of belonging, and where positive relationships help students learn, grow and participate fully in the school community
• establishing clear expectations for student behaviour that support respectful relationships, self-regulation, co-regulation and a positive learning environment
• promoting the values expressed in the BC Human Rights Code, respecting the rights of all individuals in accordance with the law and prohibiting discrimination, harassment, (cyber)bullying, intimidation, or exclusion based on (but not limited to): appearance, indigenous identity, race, colour, ancestry, place of origin, political belief, religion, marital status, family status, physical or mental disability, sex, real or perceived sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, and age – in respect of discriminatory publication and discrimination in accommodation, service and facility in the school environment.

Acceptable Behaviour

At Lions Bay School we endeavour to:

• Respect self, others, and school property
• Engage in purposeful learning
• Contribute to a positive school culture
• Use inclusive, non-discriminatory, and respectful language and actions
• Act in ways that promote safety and well-being

Unacceptable Behaviour

At Lions Bay School we will not tolerate

• Violations of the values expressed in the BC Human Rights Code, respecting the rights of all individuals in accordance with the law and prohibiting discrimination, harassment, (cyber)bullying, intimidation, or exclusion based on (but not limited to): appearance, indigenous identity, race, colour, ancestry, place of origin, political belief, religion, marital status, family status, physical or mental disability, sex, real or perceived sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, and age – in respect of discriminatory publication and discrimination in accommodation, service and facility in the school environment.
• Threats, violence, unsafe actions, or encouraging unsafe behaviour
• Theft, vandalism, or damage to property
• Possession, use, or distribution of illegal or controlled substances, alcohol, smoking or vapor products
• Possession or use of weapons, replicas, or objects that imitate weapons (e.g., imitation firearms or knives)
• Inappropriate use of personal or school technology to harm, harass, or disrupt learning
• Interference with learning environments or school operations

Approach to Discipline including possible Consequences of Unacceptable Behaviour

Discipline at Lions Bay School is grounded in restorative practices, fairness, and progressive discipline. Responses are designed to:

• Address the harm caused
• Support student learning and growth
• Consider age, maturity, ability, and individual circumstances
• Provide opportunities for students to respond/be heard, take responsibility, and make amends

Disciplinary responses will be reasonable, proportionate, and consistent with the principles of procedural fairness.

Possible responses include:

• Informal discussions, counselling, or warnings
• Restorative dialogue or conferences
• Behaviour support plans
• Loss of privileges or temporary removal from certain environments and/or events
• In-school or out-of-school suspensions in response to serious or repeated violation
• Referral to community agencies or external support where appropriate

Dress Code

Lions Bay School is committed to providing learning environments that are safe, responsive and inclusive.  The dress code recognizes that decisions around dress reflect personal identity and cultural diversity.  To foster a respectful, safe, and inclusive learning environment, student and staff attire must adhere to the following principles:

• Respect and Safety: Clothing must support personal safety and demonstrate respect for others
• Prohibited Content: Attire must not depict or promote drugs or alcohol, violence or weapons, racism, sexism, discrimination, or offensive or inappropriate language or imagery
• Learning Environment: Clothing must not disrupt learning or compromise the safety of others
• Health and Safety Compliance: Attire must meet health and safety requirements appropriate to the activity or setting
• Expression within Guidelines: Personal identity and cultural expression are supported within these parameters

Personal Digital Devices

Personal digital devices are not to be used without the direct permission of the teacher and/or administrator for the full school day including use before school, after school and break times.