You may not be aware but Bill 157 requires that all school staff who become aware of inappropriate student activity must notify the Principal "as soon as reasonably possible". Staff must complete a copy of a new form, called the Safe Schools Incident Reporting Form whenever a report is made to the Principal regarding student misconduct which can lead to suspension or expulsion. Members could potentially face discipline for failure to comply with these new obligations and the Principal is required to provide an acknowledgement of receipt of a report filed. FOR YOUR OWN PROTECTION, ETFO IS ADVISING MEMBERS THAT THIS ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RECEIPT OF A REPORT IS A CRUCIAL DOCUMENT, AND SHOULD BE KEPT BY THE MEMBER.
Principals may suspend students if they believe the pupil has engaged in any of the following activities while at school, at a school-related activity or in other circumstances where engaging in the activity will affect the school climate:
1. uttering a threat to inflict serious bodily harm on another person;
2. possessing alcohol or illegal drugs;
3. being under the influence of alcohol;
4. swearing at a teacher or at another person in a position of authority;
5. committing an act of vandalism that causes extensive damage to school property at the pupil's school or to property located on the premises of the pupil's school;
6. bullying;
7. any other activity that is an activity for which a principal may suspend a pupil under a policy of the board.
For further information contact your Local (519-641-3936) or ETFO Professional Relations (416-962-3836 or 1-888-838-3836).
ETFO THAMES VALLEY OCCASIONAL TEACHERS' LOCAL
