INUVIK - The principal of Samuel Hearne Secondary School (SHSS) laid down the law to students Monday.

In an effort to improve the "learning environment," Roman Mahnic introduced several new rules for students, which came into effect the next day, just a few days into the school's second semester.

Samuel Hearne Secondary School principal Roman Mahnic introduces some new rules, which include a ban on electronic devices, to the Grade 7 class on Monday at the school's library. - Andrew Rankin/NNSL photo

Some of the most significant changes include a ban on electronic devices in the school, such as personal laptops, cell phones, and iPods. Those who break the rules will have their devices confiscated until the end of the school day.

In an effort to prevent diesel fumes from entering the building, SHSS's parking lot will now be barricaded so students can no longer be dropped off on school property. There is also a ban on junk food, defined as food "with excessive sugar, caffeine and fat content."

Jad Daher, a Grade 7 student, said while he supported some of the new rules, he argued more has to be done about bullying, which he said has become a serious problem at the school.

"Lots of people are bullied here and start crying," he said. "Sometimes the teachers don't do anything about it."

Mahnic, who gave presentations in the library to each grade level throughout the day, said he supports the rule changes, which the Inuvik District Education Authority (DEA) passed down to the school.

"Part of an effective school is to get all the students and staff on the same page, so we have the same expectations," he said. "We have to be consistent in how we implement policies. I think this helps a lot."

The school is still combating severe attendance problems. Grade 9 students, at 69 per cent, have the worst attendance record in the school.

Under the new rule changes students must be prepared to participate in gym class wearing gym clothes. Often, many students are sitting on the sidelines where they distract class participants. Hoods must be taken off during assemblies and classes. The school is also cracking down on lateness. Students are no longer allowed to go to their lockers in between classes.

Mahnic said he's hoping the new rules encourage more students to attend school. He's also hoping the school's new spirit program will help too.

Students will team up for different spirit activities. Dedicated students will be rewarded regularly, said Mahnic.

An Incident Management Program is also starting at the school, which keeps a behaviour log of students. Repeat offenders could face suspension. However, the program is designed to get students back on track by providing as much support as possible from teachers and counsellors, according to Mahnic.

Brianna Kirby, a Grade 7 student, said she supported the new rules. But she added most of them don't really apply to her because she's already doing well.