Administrative Procedure 162

SMOKE AND VAPE FREE FACILITIES

Background

The Charter Board has a responsibility to promote the health and welfare of staff and students and to act as a positive role model for students and therefore all School facilities and sites are to be smoke and vape free environments.

Procedures

1. The Tobacco Smoking Reduction Act bans smoking and vaping in all public places and workplaces including work vehicles.
2. Smoking may occur on School property outside of the facility after school hours in a clearly signed designated area, prohibited to minors, provided the area is kept tidy and clean.
3. The Charter Board prohibits smoking and vaping within five (5) meters of a doorway, window or intake of a public place or workplace.
4. With the prior approval of the Principal, the use of tobacco is permitted as part of religious/ceremonial events e.g., smudging ceremony.

References: Section 25, 26, 31, 32, 33, 52, 53, 68, 196, 197, 222, 225
Education Act Tobacco, Smoking and Vaping Reduction Act Tobacco, Smoking and Vaping Reduction
Regulation Smoke-free Places Act Tobacco and Vaping Products Act

Administrative Procedure 162 Appendix

SMUDGING/PIPE CEREMONIES

Background

The Charter Board recognizes the spiritual practices of the First Nations community. The Charter Board recognizes that smudging and the use of herbs and tobacco are a part of the traditional way of life and is, therefore, permitted in the School, subject to proper safety measures.
Definition
Smudging is a First Nations tradition which involves the burning of sage, sweetgrass and/or cedar. Smudge produces a distinct odour, but the smoke associated with it is minimal and lasts a very short time. A smudge is burned to cleanse the body, mind, spirit of any bad feelings, negative thoughts, or negative energy – cleansing both physically and spiritually.

Procedures

1. If smudging is to take place in a School building, the Principal must ensure staff, students, and parents of students understand the associated protocols and importance of smudging and pipe ceremonies as part of the First Nations traditional way of life. Because smudging is an expression of spirituality, parents must be informed and provide active (written) consent for their children to participate. Both participants and non participants are expected to demonstrate respect and consideration for the importance of smudging ceremonies in the First Nations traditions.
2. If smudging is to take place in a School building it will be in a designated area.
3. Any areas designated as smudging areas are to be in a well-ventilated area and approved by the Superintendent.
4. Designated smudging areas must contain a fully charged fire extinguisher.
5. Staff responsible must be instructed on the use of fire extinguishers.
6. When smudging ceremonies are completed the materials must be fully extinguished and disposed of in an appropriate manner.
6.1 Smoking or warm smudging materials need to burn out on their own.
6.2 Smudge remnants and matches are to be placed in a tin can and saved.
6.3 Smudge remnants are never to be placed in trash receptacles.
7. Tobacco is used in pipe ceremonies and only by a pipe carrier.

References: Section 25, 26, 32, 33, 52, 53, 68, 196, 197, 222, 225 Education Act Tobacco, Smoking and Vaping Reduction Act
Tobacco, Smoking and Vaping Reduction Regulation Smoke-free Places Act Tobacco and Vaping Products Act