 Niagara Catholic District School Board
OPENING OR CLOSING EXERCISES
ADMINISTRATIVE OPERATIONAL PROCEDURES
|
300 – Schools/Students
| No 302.6.1
|
| | |
Adopted Date: June 26, 2001
| Latest Reviewed/Revised Date: April 28, 2021
|
In keeping with the Mission, Vision and Values of the Niagara Catholic District School Board, the following are Administrative Operational Procedures for Opening or Closing Exercises.
PREAMBLE
Opening or closing exercises reflect Catholic beliefs and instill pride and respect for the land and our country
.
OPENING OR CLOSING
EXERCISES
Daily opening or closing exercises must include in this order:
1.
The Board approved Land Acknowledgement, read by a non-Indigenous individual to recognize the traditional territories of First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples to open the school day;
2.
The playing and/or singing of the
official lyrics
(English/French) of O Canada; and
3.
A prayer, which may include a scriptural reading and/or reflection to enhance the message for the day.
PLEDGE OF CITIZENSHIP
The Principal, after consultation with staff and the Catholic School Council, may decide to include the reciting of the pledge of citizenship in opening or closing exercises. This practice shall be reviewed on an annual basis at the beginning of each school year.
Pledge of Citizenship:
·
I affirm that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second, Queen of Canada, and to her heirs and successors, and that I will faithfully observe the laws of Canada and fulfill my duties as a Canadian citizen.
EXEMPTIONS
A student is not required to sing O Canada or recite the pledge of citizenship in the following circumstances:
·
In the case of a pupil who is less than 18 years old, if the pupil’s parent/guardian applies to the Principal of the school for an exemption from the exercises.
·
In the case of a pupil who is at least 18 years old, if the pupil applies to the Principal for an exemption from the exercises.
References:
·
Niagara Catholic District School Board Policies/Procedures
o
Safe and Accepting Schools Policy (302.6)
o
Equity and Inclusive Education Policy (100.10)
o
Religious Accommodation Policy (100.10.1)
Adopted Date:
Revision History:
| June 26, 2001
May 28, 2002
November 26, 2013
November 26, 2019
April 28, 2021
|
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Opening and Closing Exercises (302.6.1) Administrative Operational Procedures
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