Code of Conduct

Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board (HWDSB) is committed to making each and every one of its schools a caring place that is safe for learning.

Every student deserves to feel and be safe in a school, on the school grounds, on the school bus and at school events and activities. At HWDSB, we know safety is essential to good learning. Students learn and teachers teach more successfully when schools are safe.

Click here to read the full HWDSB Code of Conduct.

What is a Code of Conduct?

The HWDSB Code of Conduct establishes standards of behaviour that are consistent with the Provincial Code of Conduct and applies to all members of the school community.

The Code of Conduct promotes respect within the learning and teaching environment. It sets clear Board and school standards of behaviour for Principals, Staff Members, Students, Parents, School Councils and Volunteers.

Purpose of The HWDSB Code of Conduct: 

1. To ensure that all members of the school community, are treated with respect and dignity, regardless of, for example, race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, sex, disability, creed, family status, or socio‐economic status.
2. To promote responsible citizenship by encouraging appropriate participation in the civic life of the school community.
3. To maintain an environment where conflict and difference can be addressed in a manner characterized by respect and civility.
4. To encourage the use of non‐violent means to resolve conflict.
5. To promote the safety of people in the schools.
6. To prohibit the use of alcohol, illegal drugs, weapons and firearms.

2024-25 Code of Conduct Updates

In April 2024, the Ministry of Education announced its plan to reduce distractions in classrooms and improve the health of children. This strategy involves the implementation of provincewide measures and mandatory learning to address cell phones and vaping in schools.  

Beginning this September, HWDSB will take specific steps to ensure students are well supported in the classroom focused on their learning and well-being. 

New Code of Conduct posters, included on this page, will be displayed in all schools to help members of school communities understand expectations. Please see the different sections below for more information about Mobile Devices, Social Media, Vaping and Student Dress Guidelines.

Mobile Devices

Students must not use their personal electronic devices (e.g., cell phones, laptops, and tablets) during the instructional day. Please see below for more information about different expectations for different grade levels:  

• Students in Kindergarten to Grade 8 must have their devices stored out of view and powered off (or on silent mode) throughout the full instructional day (school day), including nutrition breaks unless permitted by the educator.  
• Students in Grades 9 to 12 must have their devices stored out of view and powered off (or on silent mode) during instructional time (class time) unless permitted by the educator as outlined below:
  • For educational purposes, if explicitly permitted by the educator. 
  • For health and medical purposes, as outlined in a medical plan of care. 
  • To support special education needs, as documented in the student’s Individual Education Plan (IEP). 

Students are responsible for their personal mobile devices and how they use them. If an educator sees a personal mobile device not stored out of view and powered off, the student must hand it in for the instructional day (elementary) or instructional period (secondary). It will be placed by the student in a storage area in a location designated by the educator. 

Social Media 

Social media platforms can only be used by students at school for educational purposes, directed by an educator. By mid-September, student access to social media platforms on school networks and school devices will be restricted. More information about social media restrictions will be shared in the coming weeks.  

Vaping

Research is evident of the harmful and addictive effects of vaping. The Smoke-Free Ontario Act, 2017 applies at all times and in all circumstances for all students (including summer school and evening continuing education students), staff, contractors and the public. It prohibits: 

• Smoking of tobacco and cannabis as well as vaping any substance in public schools and on public school property (grounds) or in private schools or on private school property, that is specifically annexed/used by the private school (e.g., a playground).  
• Smoking and vaping within 20 metres from the perimeter of school property.  

Students cannot possess or use tobacco, nicotine, cannabis or vapour at school. If these products are found in the possession of students, families will be notified and students must surrender the item(s) to staff.

Student Dress Guidelines

In September 2024, all HWDSB elementary and secondary schools will be introduced to updated Student Dress Guidelines. Developed with input from students across Hamilton, as well as staff and families, they are rooted in fairness and respect for all cultures and identities. Click here to explore the full Student Dress Guidelines.

These guidelines were developed with a strong focus supporting students in their dress as it relates to human rights, safety, mental health, well-being, compassion, dignity and belonging. By supporting personal expression and self-identity, schools can become safer and more welcoming environments for every student.