Rules & Expectations

At NSSSA, we uphold the following eight key concepts in our work and interactions:

  1. Positive Internal Focus: Always be optimistic. Maintain a positive focus to be successful as a group
  2. Speaker in Charge: Only one person speaks at a time, all others should listen. This is respectful and this way everyone  gets a chance to contribute.  
  3. Speak for I: Speak only for yourself. When making a statement, say: “I feel”, not “we feel”. Others might not feel the same as you. Make no assumptions.  
  4. No Killer Statements: Avoid insults and negative talk. By making fun, it may destroy the security of a group, even if only  joking. It is possible to disagree and still stay positive.  
  5. No Unfinished Business: All issues are to be discussed until satisfied. A group may get into a great discussion but might run out of time. Return to the unfinished discussion as soon as possible.  
  6. Right to Pass: Everyone has the choice whether or not to participate. Some people may feel uncomfortable in certain situations.  
  7. Leveling out: Every person in a group is equal. This means that everyone gets a chance to speak. Everyone should be on  the same level physically if possible.  
  8. Business, Never Personal: You can dislike someone’s ideas without disliking the person. Don’t let opinions get personal and affect relationships.

NSSSA conference attendees also agree to refrain from several unacceptable activities during out events, known as the “Three Ds.”

  1. No Drugs
    • Don’t consume any drug that was not prescribed to you by a doctor, or comes from the pharmacy for a valid medical reason.
    • Do not share medications.
  2. No Drinking
    • NSSSA is a high school student organization, and alcohol consumption during our events is unacceptable.
    • This includes energy drinks. Our WENDYs can provide lots of energy during your time with us. For coffee drinkers, we encourage responsible consumption: a cup or two with a meal, but not eight cups of coffee a day.
  3. No Doing It
    • Don’t even think about it. This means no kissing, no holding hands, no hugs lasting longer than five seconds, or anything that might lead to bad, bad things. For the couples: its one weekend. You can handle it.

NSSSA’s Code of Conduct

Provincial Conference attendees are expected to abide by NSSSA’s Code of Conduct. Please familiarize yourself with your responsibilities.

Code of Conduct