DSBN’s goal is to provide a school environment free from substances that can make a student unfit for learning or a staff member or volunteer unfit for duty. The District School Board of Niagara (DSBN) Code of Conduct prohibits the possession, distribution or use of substances (alcohol, illicit drugs, legal drugs – cannabis, misuse of medication and prescribed medication that renders an individual to be unfit). This applies to any person on school property or out of school sanctioned programs and events. The DSBN also will not condone behaviour that suggests that a staff, student or volunteer is under the influence of a substance. There are staff exceptions to alcohol consumption addressed in Policy C-01 Community Use of Schools - General. Disciplinary measures will be taken for violation of this policy within the framework provided by the DSBN Code of Conduct and student discipline policies, and Provincial and Federal laws and regulations.
In accordance with Ministry of Education Curriculum Policy Documents, the DSBN will provide educational programs and evidence-based strategies that address the needs of all students, regardless of where they fall on the continuum of use. These programs and strategies seek to provide accurate information and raise awareness about the dangers of substance use and abuse, as well as assist students in developing the skills and attitudes they need to make healthy decisions.
Schools and DSBN personnel will work with other community agencies to raise student awareness regarding the serious consequences of alcohol, drug and substance abuse.
The Provincial Code of Conduct, the District School Board of Niagara (DSBN) Code of Conduct, the Education Act, Policy Program Memorandum (PPM) 128 (Provincial and school board codes of conduct), and 145 (progressive discipline), together with the DSBN’s discipline policies create expectations for behaviour for all persons on school property, The Human Rights Code of Ontario has primacy over provincial legislation and school board policies and procedures, such that the Education Act, regulations, Ministry of Education Program Policy Memoranda, and DSBN’s policies and procedures are subject to, and shall be interpreted and applied in accordance with the Human Rights Code of Ontario.