A suspension is a temporary removal from school for a specific number of school days. A Principal may suspend a student when a behaviour is serious enough that a formal response is required to support safety, learning and well-being within the school community.
Suspensions can range from 1 to 20 school days, depending on the situation and after careful consideration of all relevant factors.
Types of Suspensions
Short-Term Suspension (1–5 School Days)
A short-term suspension is typically used when a situation requires a clear and immediate response, while still allowing the student to return to school quickly.
During this time, the school will:
- Provide a homework package and/or access to coursework
- Offer direction on how work can be completed at home
- Work closely with you and your child to reassure routine and engagement in their school work
Families are encouraged to support students in:
- Setting aside time each day for schoolwork
- Staying organized and focused
- Reaching out to the school if support is needed
The focus remains on learning, accountability and a positive transition back to school.
Long-Term Suspension (6–10 School Days)
For suspensions lasting 6 to 10 school days, the school board provides academic support to help the student continue their learning. A classroom teacher provides academic support to ensure that your child has the opportunity to continue their education. Every effort is made to maintain their regular academic coursework throughout the suspension period.
The goal is to ensure the student continues their education while away from school.
Long-Term Suspension (11–20 School Days)
For suspensions lasting 11 to 20 school days, the school board provides both academic and non-academic supports.
In addition to academic programming, students may also receive:
- Social work or counselling support
- Behavioural support and skill-building
- Guidance to support emotional well-being
- Connections to community resources
This approach helps address not only academic needs, but also the social and emotional factors to assist your child in developing positive attitudes and behaviours that support long-term success.
Behaviours that May Lead to a Suspension
The following are examples of behaviours that may lead to a suspension under the Ontario Education Act, including those outlined in Section 306, and are intended to help families understand the expectations that support a safe, respectful and caring Catholic school community.
- Uttering a threat to seriously harm another person
- Possessing alcohol, illegal or restricted drugs, or cannabis unless medically authorized
- Being under the influence of alcohol, illegal or restricted drugs, or cannabis unless medically authorized
- Distributing, sharing, or selling cannabis or cannabis products
- Swearing at a teacher or another person in authority
- Vandalism causing damage to school or board property Bullying
- Acts that are injurious to the moral tone of the school
- Acts that are injurious to the physical or mental well-being of others
- Acts contrary to the board or school Code of Conduct
Behaviours That May Lead to Mandatory Suspension and Possible Expulsion Investigation
The following are examples of serious behaviours that may result in a mandatory suspension and possible expulsion, as outlined in the Ontario Education Act (including Section ), and reflect actions that pose significant risk to the safety, dignity and well-being of the school community.
- Possessing a weapon, including a firearm or knife
- Using a weapon to cause or threaten bodily harm
- Physical assault causing bodily harm that needs medical treatment
- Sexual assault
- Trafficking in weapons, illegal or restricted drugs, cannabis, or cannabis products
- Robbery
- Giving alcohol, drugs, cannabis, or cannabis products to a minor
- Serious conduct that creates an unacceptable risk to the physical or mental well-being of others
- Serious or repeated behaviour that is a major breach of the Code of Conduct
Can a Suspension be Appealed?
Yes. Parents/guardians, or an adult student where applicable, may appeal a suspension of 2 to 20 school days to the Board, in accordance with Ontario Regulation 472/07 under the Ontario Education Act.
Written notice of appeal must be submitted to the school Superintendent within 10 school days from the start of the suspension.
The suspension will still be served while the appeal is underway.
Suspensions of 1 to 20 school days must be served in full, even if an appeal has been initiated.
Returning to School After a Suspension
Before a student returns, the school will arrange a re-entry meeting to welcome the student back, review next steps and discuss supports for a successful return. For longer suspensions, the meeting may include the student, parent/guardian, Principal and members of the school or board team.
The purpose is to help the student feel supported, restore connection and plan for academic, social and emotional success.