We do not charge a fee for textbook rentals. Parents are responsible for purchasing their own school supplies. Upon the approval of our School Council, we collect fees from students for participation in team sports, hot lunch, and other activities on a case-by-case basis.

At T.A. Norris Middle School, we are serious about making sure your child is well taken care of while he/she is in our care. 

Locked-door Policy

All school doors are locked at all times. Parents, visitors, and students are asked to come to the main doors and press the button to be let in by the office. Doors are also locked at recesses.  The recess supervisors have keys if a students needs to be let inside for any reason.

We are a safe and caring school committed to keeping our students as safe as possible. Our automated system will automatically send a phone call home if your child is marked absent.  If the status does not change throughout the day there are no automated calls sent in the PM. If you want to change the status of your childs attendance please call the school.  We would also ask to please call ahead if you know your child is sick, has a medical appointment, is late, or will be away for an extended period of time.  

We utilize an automated system to deliver text messages straight to your mobile phone. Parents can participate in this free service by texting "Y" or "Yes" to the short code 724665. In order to keep all communication lines flowing freely, we ask that you keep the school informed of any address or phone number changes.

Although parents are formally invited to special events at the school, parents are always welcome at the school any time. However, to ensure that learning is not being interrupted, please check into the office before going to the classroom or give us a courtesy call stating that you would like to spend some time in the classroom.

T.A. Norris has a designated staff member trained in the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program. This program, developed in Norway, is designed to mitigate in incidences of intimidating, taunting and excluding behaviours.  The students and staff at our school also agree to follow these rules:

• We will not bully others
• We will help students who are bullied.
• We will include students who are left out.
• When we know somebody is being bullied, we will tell an adult at school and an adult at home. 

Accidents and Illness

Should your child become injured or ill while at school, we will try to contact you at home or at work. If we cannot reach you we shall contact the Emergency Contact Person indicated on your registration form. We have an infirmary where sick children may rest until their parents arrive. We do not administer medication to children unless the doctor or pharmacist have  provide written instructions. Medication must come in original prescription bottles with clear instructions.

Students who are too ill to go outside for recess are usually too ill to be at school. This is particularly true in the case of severe colds. Sick children coming to school provide a source of infection for the other students. Sick children usually recuperate faster at home. Please keep your child at home if he/she is sick.

In an emergency which requires evacuation of the school building, students and staff will proceed to the gym of École des Quatre-Vents, Springfield Elementary or Peace River High School and will remain there until parents are able to pick students. In an emergency, whereby a student is injured, the following will occur:

• first aid treat will be given by a staff member or nurse (if available)
• parent or emergency contact person will be contacted
• if hospital treatment is required, an ambulance may be called (depending on the injury) to take the student to the hospital

Student Clothing

For example:

• Wear appropriate footwear – both inside and outside.
• Running shoes are required for gym classes. (please no black soles on shoes)
• Hoods are to stay down.
• Clothing with reference to tobacco, drugs or alcohol and clothing with messsages or pictures that are vulgar, profane, or offensive are not permitted.

T.A. Norris is Home of the Timberwolves! 

Our grade 7 & 8 students can play competitive Volleyball, Basketball, and Badminton.  Students have the opportunity to try out for the Jr. Nomads teams where T.A partners with Peace High to form teams.

Other extra-curricular sports programs which may be offered include archery, golf, cross-country running, and track and field. Swimming is part of the core curriculum for grade 5 & 6's.

The exploratory program at T.A. Norris is desgined to provide students choice and give them the opportunity to explore new topics, develop new skills and to enhance and engage in activities that they already show aptititude for. 

Exploratory Subjects

Our school is equipped with an Industrial Arts Lab and a Home Economics Room. Consequently, all our students in grade 5 & 6 take IA, Home Ec, and Art/Drama as exploratory subjects.  In grade 7 & 8, they take exploratory classes in these or other fields of study which meet learner outcomes outlined in the Alberta Education Program of Studies.

Academies

We offer Volleyball, Basketball, Badminton, Track and Field for all grades 5-8 for students of all skill levels.

Volunteering

We have always been very happy with the number of parents who become involved in school activities. Should you wish to lend a hand, please contact the office or your child's teacher. Parents are asked to check out the Peace River School Division’s policy on School Volunteers if they are interested in helping out at the school.

Some activities that you may be interested in volunteering for include:

• Help with our Nutrition Program
• Volunteering for special events
• Coaching competitive sports teams
• Becoming a volunteer driver to help athletes get to tournaments
• Supervising during field trips

Download a printable copy of our Handbook for Parents and Students