Vincent Massey Advisory Council Meeting, November 19^th, 2002

Meeting at a Glance

School Principal Terry Osiowy shared the following information with parents but in much greater detail than appears in this summary:

•  The school is going to be evaluating how they are currently utilizing the Addictions Foundation of Manitoba counselor that works in the school 1.5 days per week and suggest strategies to enhance the addictions program within the school.

• Suspensions resulting from narcotics have increased this year.

• VMHS is researching the costs of installing 16 video cameras in the school and when they are installed they will be done so in a very public fashion.  The Brandon School Division is working on developing guidelines pertaining to the use of surveillance cameras in schools.

• VMHS has not implemented the random searching of lockers pending the establishment of clear locker search guidelines to protect the interests of both students and staff.

• Staffing challenges in the mathematics area.

• 2003-2004 registration deadlines are being pulled forward to assist in determining staffing needs.  

• VMHS is adopting a strict process to address those “pattern” students who are removed from or drop out of school.  Permission to renter the school will be granted only when strict guidelines such as attendance, course loading, etc. are agreed upon. 

• A copy of the school development plan was circulated and feedback was requested.

• There was a computer glitch and the attendance that was printed on the report cards was wrong in many instances.  Errors should be reported to the appropriate teachers to determine the correct attendance.  The error will be corrected on the next report card.

• Heart monitors in the school – VMHS is proceeding with the purchase of six units.  There will be guidelines and an evaluation process established for the use of the heart monitors. 

• Viking Logo Update – Terry shared that if and when the logo is reviewed it will be done in a very procedure driven way to ensure all stakeholders have an avenue to share their opinions.  The school is currently looking at gender balance with the Viking logo.

• Terry reported that the benches from the front foyer had been removed in response to a fire inspection and then again due to security issues.  Students seem determined to have benches in the foyer so the benches are being replaced with new stationary benches that have backs and the new benches should be in place when students return form Christmas break. 

• Praise was shared regarding the career options / evaluation session that was held in the school.  The students seemed to have enjoyed the session and learned from it.