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Our Commitment

At Ocho Rios High School, every student is expected to uphold the highest standards of behaviour and conduct. Guided by our motto, “Per Ardua Ad Astra” — “By Steep and Toilsome Ways to the Stars,” students are encouraged to demonstrate discipline, respect, responsibility, integrity and a commitment to excellence.

This Code of Conduct applies to students while on the school compound, travelling to and from school, participating in school activities, wearing the school uniform, and engaging with members of the school community in person or online.

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1. Respect

Students must:

• Treat fellow students, teachers, staff, visitors and members of the wider community with courtesy and respect.

• Obey reasonable instructions given by teachers, administrators and other authorised school personnel.

• Use appropriate and respectful language at all times.

• Respect the rights, property and personal space of others.

• Avoid bullying, harassment, intimidation, discrimination, cyberbullying and any form of victimisation.

• Respect the school’s reputation and represent Ocho Rios High School positively at all times.

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2. Attendance and Punctuality

Students are expected to:

• Attend school regularly and arrive on time.

• Attend all scheduled classes and school activities.

• Report absences promptly through a parent or guardian.

• Remain on the school compound during school hours unless permission has been granted by the appropriate authority.

• Be punctual in moving between classes and other scheduled activities.

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3. Academic Responsibility

Every student must:

• Come to school prepared and ready to learn.

• Complete assignments, projects and other academic tasks on time.

• Participate actively and responsibly in classroom activities.

• Respect the learning environment and avoid disrupting lessons.

• Demonstrate honesty in all tests, examinations and assignments.

• Refrain from cheating, plagiarism or any other form of academic dishonesty.

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4. Uniform, Grooming and Personal Presentation

Students must:

• Wear the complete and approved school uniform correctly and neatly.

• Maintain proper personal hygiene and grooming.

• Follow all school guidelines relating to hairstyle, jewellery, accessories and personal appearance.

• Take pride in their appearance as representatives of Ocho Rios High School.

• Wear the appropriate attire for physical education, sports, laboratory sessions and other specialised activities.

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5. Safety and Non-Violence

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Ocho Rios High School is committed to maintaining a safe and peaceful learning environment. Students must:

• Refrain from fighting, assaulting, threatening or intimidating others.

• Report conflicts, threats, bullying or safety concerns to a teacher, dean, guidance counsellor or member of the administration immediately.

• Seek peaceful and respectful solutions to disagreements.

• Never bring weapons or dangerous objects onto the school compound or to school-sponsored activities.

• Refrain from bringing or using illegal drugs, alcohol, tobacco, vaping products or other prohibited substances.

• Avoid any behaviour that may endanger themselves or others.

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6. Care for School Property and the Environment

Students must:

• Respect and protect school buildings, furniture, equipment, textbooks and other resources.

• Refrain from vandalism, theft or the deliberate destruction of property.

• Keep classrooms, corridors, bathrooms and the school grounds clean.

• Dispose of garbage properly and help to maintain a clean and healthy environment.

• Respect the property of fellow students, staff and visitors.

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7. Technology and Social Media

Students must use technology responsibly. They must:

• Use electronic devices only in accordance with school rules and teachers’ instructions.

• Never use technology to bully, threaten, embarrass or harass another person.

• Avoid recording, photographing or sharing images or videos of others without appropriate permission.

• Refrain from posting or sharing content that damages the reputation, safety or dignity of members of the Ocho Rios High School community.

• Use the internet and social media in a responsible, respectful and lawful manner.

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8. Prohibited Behaviour

The following behaviours are strictly prohibited:

• Fighting, bullying, harassment or intimidation.

• Possession or use of weapons or dangerous objects.

• Possession, use or distribution of illegal drugs, alcohol, tobacco or vaping products.

• Theft, vandalism or destruction of property.

• Gambling or other unauthorised activities for personal gain.

• Use of obscene, abusive, threatening or discriminatory language.

• Sexual harassment or inappropriate conduct.

• Cheating, plagiarism or other forms of academic dishonesty.

• Leaving the school compound without permission.

• Persistent defiance, insubordination or disruption of the teaching and learning process.

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9. Consequences for Misconduct

Students who violate this Code of Conduct may be subject to appropriate disciplinary action. Depending on the seriousness and frequency of the offence, consequences may include:

• Verbal warning or counselling.

• Restorative conversation or conflict-resolution intervention.

• Parent or guardian notification.

• Detention or loss of privileges.

• Restitution for damaged or lost property.

• Referral to the Guidance Department, Dean of Discipline or school administration.

• Suspension or other disciplinary measures in accordance with school rules and applicable education regulations.

Serious offences will be addressed promptly and may result in additional action where necessary.

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10. Student Pledge

As a student of Ocho Rios High School, I should pledge to uphold the values and standards of my school. I will respect myself and others, obey school rules, pursue academic excellence, reject violence and bullying, protect school property, and conduct myself in a manner that brings honour to my family and my school. I will strive to live by our motto: “Per Ardua Ad Astra” — “By Steep and Toilsome Ways to the Stars.”