Policy

Policy 9510 - Flags - Canada and British Columbia and National Anthem “O Canada”

1. PHILOSOPHY

The Surrey Board of Education believes the flags of Canada and British Columbia and the national anthem “O Canada” are an important part in the celebration of Canada as a country and British Columbia as a province.

The Ministry of Education recognizes the importance of these symbols of patriotism. Regulation #265/89, sections 5 (10) and 5 (11), of the School Act, specifically states:

“(10) The principal of a school shall

a)	Subject to the approval of the board, establish a program of school assemblies to be conducted at appropriate times during the school year,
b)	Ensure that assemblies are held at least 3 times in a school year, including the school day immediately preceding Remembrance Day,
c)	Ensure that the Canadian national anthem shall be sung at each school assembly, and
d)	Ensure that the Canadian flag and the British Columbia flag be displayed at each school while in session.

(11) School assemblies referred to in subsection (10) shall be established to promote loyalty to the Crown, respect for Canadian traditions, laws, institutions and human values, and shall include observation of occasions of historic or current importance to Canada and the Commonwealth, as well as appropriate references to the Canadian flag."

The board further believes singing of the national anthem develops a sense of identity and purpose for the people of Canada; with the words and melody being well known. Singing the national anthem develops pride in being a Canadian and teaches the value of traditions within the life-styles of both adults and children.

2. INTENT

Students will sing “O Canada” at least once a week in English and/or French. All students will participate in their own classrooms, or through the use of the school’s intercom system playing the national anthem. Singing of the national anthem will be included at all school functions. Copies of the words and music in both official languages will be supplied by the school district.

Revised:	2005-06-30
Approved:	1997-01-09