A reminder about student behaviour at Greenwood’s Semi-Formal

Friday’s semi-formal is a great opportunity for community-building. Students are also looking forward to taking a break from school work, dancing and spending time with friends. Over 330 students and guests are attending the event.

 

The enthusiasm generated by important social events like the semi-formal can place students under a great deal of social pressure and temptation, which can lead to poor decision making. So, a timely reminder about the school’s policies for this event is appropriate.

 

These policies, which are listed below and outlined in greater detail in our Family Handbook, will be reviewed with students at the end of Thursday’s assembly.

1. Students may not use, possess, or be under the influence of alcohol at an event sanctioned by the school. Any violation of this policy may result in suspension or expulsion from Greenwood. Students with a previous offence of this nature who violate this policy are subject to expulsion from Greenwood.                                                
2. Students may not use, possess, or be under the influence of prohibited drugs while at a school event. Any violation of this policy will result in expulsion from Greenwood.                                                                                    
3. Students using, in possession of, or under the influence of alcohol and/or prohibited drugs will not be allowed entry to the semi-formal. Parents will be contacted and asked to take their child home.

Recent studies have shown that teenagers are influenced positively when parents talk to them about the consequences and dangers of underage drinking. Other studies also show that the teenage brain is especially sensitive to alcohol and binge drinking. Consequently, I would urge parents to set aside a few minutes prior to Friday’s event and have a conversation about your expectations for your child’s attendance at the semi-formal.

 

Parents planning on hosting pre-parties are encouraged to organize these gatherings in a manner that is mindful of our school policies and provincial laws, which prohibit the consumption of alcohol by anyone under the age of 19. Hosts who allow minors to drink at an event held on their property, may be held liable for injuries suffered or caused by a guest who is intoxicated. This is true whether the injuries occurred at the event or after the guest leaves. The courts are likely to be even more critical of an adult’s actions if you bought or provided the alcohol for the underage event.

 

Students and parents should also remember that though students may make poor choices, the consequences of these actions are real. So, let’s work together to make this year’s semi-formal a safe and positive experience for our students.