Administrative Procedure: 156
VISIT PROTOCOL
Background
The Superintendent has been given the responsibility to ensure positive internal and external communications are developed and maintained. Proper protocol is to be followed for visits that occur within the District.
Procedures
1. Royal and Other Dignitary Visits
1.1 While rare, school boards or schools occasionally may be included in royal visits (including those of Canada’s Governor-General and/or British Columbia’s Lieutenant Governor); visits by the Prime Minister or Premier; senior cabinet ministers; ambassadors; First Nations leadership (Chief and or Council) or other First Nations provincial leaders or other prominent dignitaries. In such circumstances, the formal protocol of either the Government of Canada or Province of British Columbia takes precedent. Information on proper protocol in these special circumstances can be obtained from the Government of British Columbia. The Superintendent must be contacted in these instances.
1.2 In these circumstances, it is expected local event organizers will ensure trustees are properly recognized and included in the event whenever possible.
2. Special Visits
2.1 The District, in recognizing its responsibilities to share educational experiences, welcomes visitors to the school system.
2.2 Visits to schools by persons from outside the school system shall be arranged by such officials as the Superintendent may appoint. Such visits will be arranged in consultation with the principals and teachers concerned.
2.3 The Superintendent will extend to visitors, at District expense, such courtesies as s/he may deem desirable.
3. General Visits
3.1 All visitors to a school are expected to make their presence known to the Principal or designate.
3.2 Signs indicating this expectation, and the direction to the school office, are to be posted at each unlocked entrance, and at other visible points in the school.
3.3 The Principal determines right of access to the school. Principals may have to restrict or refuse permission for an individual or group to visit the school.
Reference: Sections 20, 22, 65, 85 School Act
Provincial Government Protocol
Federal Government Protocol
Revised: May 31, 2022