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Please see news below from our school and across the Limestone District School Board:

Free EQAO Webinar for Families of Elementary and Secondary Students

In this live webinar EQAO will present the results of the 2024-25 Primary (Grade 3) and Junior (Grade 6) Assessments of Reading, Writing and Mathematics. Participants will also learn about the latest research and resources available on eqao.com. The session is approximately 45 minutes, followed by a live Q&A with EQAO staff.  <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">EQAO Webinar for Parents and Guardians of Elementary School Students: 2024-25 Results (Oct 7 @ 6pm)</h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://eqao.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_1Te0EqD3Tl621IKhIWD4Mg#/registration" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://eqao.zoom.us/webinar/register/wn_1te0eqd3tl621ikhiwd4mg#/registration" class="editor-link">Webinar Registration - Zoom</a></li></ul> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"> EQAO Webinar for Parents and Guardians of Secondary School Students: 2024-25 Results</h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://eqao.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_oWomJPtiTUGBU5TFJM6azw#/registration" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://eqao.zoom.us/webinar/register/wn_owomjptitugbu5tfjm6azw#/registration" class="editor-link">Webinar Registration - Zoom</a></li></ul>

2025-09-22 13:05:28.045 +0000 UTC

Indigenous Caregivers are Invited to Submit an Expression of Interest to Join the Indigenous Education Committee (IEC)

The Limestone District School Board is inviting Indigenous caregivers to submit an Expression of Interest to join the Indigenous Education Committee (IEC).The IEC provides guidance on Indigenous Education initiatives throughout the district and collaborates to support Indigenous students and their families. This year, we are seeking one additional Indigenous caregiver to join this important circle.If you are interested, please complete the Expression of Interest form here: <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fforms.office.com%2Fr%2F8zsv9E9JDC&data=05%7C02%7Ccrothersm%40limestone.on.ca%7Ca0aeee05278d4e887f1408ddf52de1f3%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638936299630563795%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=6u91hjpJIfKQjm9fWKaBPNZhbw6%2FSmnBUq2bttPIjlA%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link">ttps://forms.office.com/r/8zsv9E9JDC</a> This form will be available from September 17 to September 24. Please ensure that you complete this form before the due date.We are grateful for your time and consideration.

2025-09-17 13:52:43.569 +0000 UTC

Bulldog Family Bulletin - September 12th-26th

It's a big week ahead! Soccer Club, running club, picture day, hot lunches, Terry Fox event PLUS all the learning that happens in our school day! Get lots of rest Bulldogs so that you can enjoy a fun week ahead.A reminder to our grown-ups that Parent Council Elections happen this Tuesday in the library at 7:00pm - we hope to see you there! Nomination forms and information can be found below.<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/e286a9fd-c165-4634-9b69-817bcb2ad07b?fingerprint=ppb20251217015101" alt="picture day" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></h2> PICTURE DAY is coming! - Lifetouch will be coming to do school photos on Friday, September 26th. Information slips are coming home in agendas. <figure><a href="https://schools.terryfox.ca/104458" title="terry fox graphic"><img src="/images/d6886bd1-8cf8-4435-8f23-7bbe296baa20?fingerprint=ppb20251217014957" alt="terry fox graphic" width="424" height="212" style="width:424px;height:212px;display:inline-block"></a></figure>TERRY FOX RUN/WALK/ROLL - Our annual Terry Fox event will be held on Friday, September 26th at 2pm. Our community is encouraged to join us as we move together as a school community and work towards something bigger than ourselves. If you would like to donate to cancer research through our Winston Terry Fox page, you can do so<a href="https://schools.terryfox.ca/104458" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"> HERE. </a>HOT LUNCHESOur hot lunch program run by Parent Council will begin again soon! Orders are placed at through LunchBox at <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lunchboxorders.net%2FUsers.aspx&data=05%7C02%7Cborgesj%40limestone.on.ca%7C061c3cb4eb4d4d2ac0a008ddf14a6b01%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638932024120970564%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=kK%2FGmZePrI7EgH4Mby7iN4p%2FIzOcYfZB%2FNO%2BMYep2nk%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" title="Original URL: https://www.lunchboxorders.net/Users.aspx. Click or tap if you trust this link." class="editor-link">www.lunchboxorders.net</a> and our first orders are DUE Sept. 21st at noon.Lunch deliveries are Tuesday-Friday at our second nutritional break (1:05-1:25) Council has set up the following options:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Tony’s on Tuesdays (subs, wraps, chicken fingers)</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Paradiso pasta Wednesdays </li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Dominos Pizza Thursdays</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Edo Japan Fridays.</li></ul>Click here for a full Lunch Box Guide on how to order. <ie-document data-lexical-document-id="83e9a8c2-d1da-44c4-a1b1-36cea31c711a"></ie-document>A HUGE thank you to our Parent Council for setting up this service for kids and families. If there is someone who would like to volunteer to meet lunches here to help with distribution, please contact council at wcps.council@gmail.comPARENT COUNCIL - WE NEED YOUR VOICE!We will be looking to increase engagement in our Parent Council and would love for you to consider attending some meetings, or volunteering for some events, if you are able. Our Parent Council is a wonderful support and resource for our school and we appreciate all they do to support students, programming, staff and families. Our first ELECTIONS MEETING will be September 23rd at 7pm. Please consider joining us. A detailed email went home earlier this week. Their contact is <a href="about:blank" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">wcps.council@gmail.com</a>SCHOOL SAFETY - Please Close the GatesWe encourage families to drop children off at the school gates, rather than coming onto the school yard in the morning. For the safety of students, we are trying to ensure that the gates remain closed. If you do need to be on the yard, please ensure you close the gate (Earl Street Gate and McDonnell Street gate) when you leave. SAFE ARRIVAL, School Messenger and School DayPlease continue to call in to Safe Arrival, or mark your students' late/absent in the Safe Arrival App to ensure that you don't get unwanted phone calls. The system will automatically call out if you have not marked your student as being away/late. Current contact information is necessary to ensure you get school emails/texts/calls and aren't missing out. Please call the office so that our Office Administrator can update your information as needed - thank you. Information for Safe Arrival, School Messenger and School Day (online payment and permissions) is below. .FALL OPEN HOUSEOn October 8th, we will host a drop-in meet and greet with our educators after school hours. We look forward to welcoming families inside to see your child's learning space. We will be hosting a Scholastic Book fair in the library during the week of October 6-9th (10th is a PA Day) and will welcome families into the book fair October 8th from 4:30-6:30pm.Here's to another wonderful week moving forward. Once again, thank you for your support and collaboration. Yours in Partnership and Education,Joanne Borges, Principal<hr> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><img src="https://cdn.smore.com/u/thumbs/6f52/thumb-c5e064a42d63187637092abe9951daa8.png" alt="" width="195" height="258" style="border:0px solid rgb(204, 204, 204);boxSizing:border-box;-TwBorderSpacingX:0;-TwBorderSpacingY:0;-TwTranslateX:0;-TwTranslateY:0;-TwRotate:0;-TwSkewX:0;-TwSkewY:0;-TwScaleX:1;-TwScaleY:1;-TwScrollSnapStrictness:proximity;-TwRingOffsetWidth:0px;-TwRingOffsetColor:#fff;-TwRingColor:rgba(49,190,200,.5);-TwRingOffsetShadow:0 0 #0000;-TwRingShadow:0 0 #0000;-TwShadow:0 0 #0000;-TwShadowColored:0 0 #0000;display:block;verticalAlign:middle;height:258px;maxWidth:100%;maxHeight:100%;borderRadius:0.25rem;backgroundColor:transparent;objectFit:contain;width:195px;float:left">Coming Up for Week 4</h2>Monday, September 22nd - Day 4<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">After school running club - pick up at 4:15pm</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://forms.office.com/r/pkW7z1CZSb" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Parent council nominations due by noon</a></li></ul>Tuesday, September 23rd - Day 5Soccer Club - 8:00am on the field- Grade 4,5,6 with permission slips. The club will run for 3 weeks Tues/Thurs 8am-8:45am<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Running Club Practice!- 10:45am</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Parent Council Elections Meeting - 7:00pm</li></ul>Wednesday, September 24th (Day 1)Thursday, September 25th (Day 2)<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Soccer Club - 8:00am on the field- Grade 4,5,6 who have handed in their permission slips </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Running Club practice- 1:05pm</li></ul>Friday, September 26th (Day 3)<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Picture Day!</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Terry Fox Walk/Run/Roll School Event! <a href="https://schools.terryfox.ca/104458" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Donation link is here</a>!</li></ul><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Looking Ahead....</h2><h4 class="editor-heading-h4" dir="ltr">September </h4>30th- Truth and Reconciliation - Every Child Matters (Orange Shirt Day)<h5 class="editor-heading-h5" dir="ltr">October</h5>2nd - <a href="https://braveeducation.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Brave Education </a> workshops - Primary classes (Boulieris, Gladstone, Powers) -Setting Healthy Boundaries6th-9th - Scholastic Book Fair (in library)8th - Meet the Educators Open House 4:30-6:3010th - PA Day13th - No School - Thanksgiving Monday16th - Fort Henry Road Race <img src="/images/45bfd6fd-77f8-48c4-86c5-70a8d6c104f4?fingerprint=ppb20251217013647" alt="Screenshot 2025 09 17 210832" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/71fe4634-6f92-48ba-9d96-fc636d9cf265?fingerprint=ppb20251217014043" alt="Screenshot 2025 09 20 185931" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">Families are invited to participate in the child care and early years service system plan. You can do this by clicking <a href=" https://getinvolved.cityofkingston.ca/child-care-early-years-service-system-plan" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">HERE.</a><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Ontario Ministry of Education Human Development and Sexual Health Information</h2>As part of LDSB's commitment to ongoing transparency and communication with families, please follow the link to <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/b76e663d-3389-4d8e-988b-8dd34f03e071/Form-325-D-List-of-H-D-and-S-H-Instruction-Expectations-by-Grade.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014713&data=05%7c02%7cbentleyk%40limestone.on.ca%7c2a42a11524b248a4569b08ddeefe16fb%7ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7c0%7c0%7c638929497252145857%7cUnknown%7cTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7c0%7c%7c%7c&sdata=E6P4oStAHCWeiD6A23K4EO4GbtvDNDg5Y4LzicuALbg%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link">Form 325-D</a> on the LDSB website. It outlines the Human Development and Sexual Health curriculum expectations for Grades 1-8.  Families can request to have their child or children exempted from instruction related to Human Development and Sexual Health expectations by completing and returning an exemption form for each child (<a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/73abdc49-2e42-402e-87ed-83d27143c065/Form-325-B-Exemption-Letter-Parent-Request.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014056&data=05%7c02%7cbentleyk%40limestone.on.ca%7c2a42a11524b248a4569b08ddeefe16fb%7ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7c0%7c0%7c638929497252169485%7cUnknown%7cTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7c0%7c%7c%7c&sdata=2kKm39Pr5NrivPkunUSUql62gZdOFNde1E5zicENb4U%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link">Form 325-B</a>) five school days before the start of instruction. Prior to instruction, your child's classroom teacher will inform parents/guardians when the expectations related to the Human Development and Sexual Health expectations in Strand D will be covered. For a more detailed overview of this process, please refer to Administrative Procedure 325: Exemption From Human Development and Sexual Health Instruction (listed under the Policies and Procedures section of the LDSB website), or contact the school. Human Development and Sexual Health Expectations by Grade Please find below a list of Human Development and Sexual Health Expectations by Grade as outlined in The Ontario Curriculum, Grades 1-8: Health and Physical Education, 2019. The Ministry of Education provides additional information about Human Development and Sexual Health on its website at: <a href="about:blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/curriculum/elementary/health.html</a><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/b76e663d-3389-4d8e-988b-8dd34f03e071/Form-325-D-List-of-H-D-and-S-H-Instruction-Expectations-by-Grade.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014713" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Human Development and Sexual Health Expectations by Grade </a><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/73abdc49-2e42-402e-87ed-83d27143c065/Form-325-B-Exemption-Letter-Parent-Request.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014056" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Request for Exemption from Instruction in Human Development & Sexual Health</a>Classroom teachers will be sending home a letter (Form 235-A). Form 325-A is a formal notification to families indicating when instruction related to Human Development and Sexual Health will occur. <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Daily Schedule</h2><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Time</th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Activity/learning block</th></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">8:45 to 9:05 a.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Supervision on the yard</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">9:05 a.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Bell rings, students enter the school</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">9:05 to 10:45 a.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">First instructional block</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">10:45 to 11:05 a.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">First nutrition break</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">11:05 to 11:25 a.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Recess</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">11:25 a.m. to 1:05 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Second instructional block</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">1:05 to 1:25 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Second nutrition break</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">1:25 to 1:45 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Recess</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">1:45 to 3:25 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Third instructional block</td></tr><tr style="height: 33px;"><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">3:25 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Dismissal</td></tr></tbody></table><hr><img src="/images/0e1b6f3c-a300-4d0f-abe4-5e9c1da7b438?fingerprint=ppb20251217013130" alt="star" width="157" height="157" style="width:157px;height:157px;display:inline-block;float:left"><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Winston's All-Star Tentative Staffing Line-Up </h2>JK/SK- Ms. Mardicis, Ms. Hawley (ECE)JK/SK- Ms. Moorehead, Ms. Samas (ECE)Grade 1/2 - Ms. BoulierisGrade 1/2 - Ms. GladstoneGrade 2 - Ms. PowersGrade 3 - Ms. JohnstonGrade 3/4 - Ms. RochefortGrade 4/5 - Ms. GencarelliGrade 5/6 – Ms. KoebelGrade 5/6 - Mr. Pottery (AM)/Mr. Hardy (PM)Core French – M Fleet/Mme Parson Planning Time –Ms. van StaaldhuinenStudent Support Teacher - Ms. LamarcheIntensive Support Teacher - Ms. AbrahamEducational Assistants: Ms. Williamson (Ms. W), Ms. Basconcillo (Ms. Grace), Ms. Raison (Ms. Alaina), Mr. Veley (Chase), Ms. Prosser (Ms. Morgan), Ms. Traynor (Ms. T), .5 EA - Ms. Aiello (Ms. Rachael), Orchid/lunch supervisor - Ms. McPhedranStudent Support Counsellor - Ali O'Hearn-Keogh (1.5 days/week - Wednesday/Friday AM)Custodial Team - Sean Cockerham/Zach GauvreauOffice Administrator - Lori HanleyPrincipal - Ms. Joanne BorgesSchool Superintendent - Mr. Mike Blackburn <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;">How Can I get Information From the School?</h2>LDSB schools and school board use School Messenger to send key messages, alerts, and general communication to families. Winston uses this platform and will continue to use our Bulldog Family Bulletin to provide updates to families. This newsletters are where we will share school-specific information and highlights of student work and events in the building and is generated on our school website. This newsletter is also sent out via School Messenger so that you receive it in your in-box (sign up for alerts - email or text).<a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/report-a-student-absence" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">SchoolMessenger App</a>: Download the SchoolMessenger App to stay connected. Use your mobile device to download and install the free SchoolMessenger blue app from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store, the <a href="https://go.schoolmessenger.com/#/home" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link">SchoolMessenger website portal</a>, or from within the LDSB mobile app. *New families will be able to create their account after the first day of attendance.The first time you use the app, you must select Sign Up to create your account. Please ensure you use the same email address your student’s school has on file. If you do not use that same email address, you will not be able to create an account.<iframe data-lexical-video-id="TSCIybbq3xc" width="640" height="480" src="https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/TSCIybbq3xc" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="true" title="Youtube video"></iframe> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">School Day Online Payments and Permissions</h2>We are paperless and cashless at Winston. We use the platform School Day for online payments (field trips, milkshake days, etc) and for digital permission slip signatures. ALL families are required to sign up using their child's individual match key that will be provided within the first weeks of school. Please direct families to the office if they are having trouble signing up or registering with School Day. <hr> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">2025-2026 LDSB School Year Calendar</h2>A <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/7291ab76-99b5-43a1-8f2b-edaade7c53e8/2025-04-07-LDSB%20School%20Year%20Calendar-2025-2026.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014043" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">PDF version of the 2025-2026 School Year Calendar is available online</a>. <img src="/images/1161a439-a52c-4144-ad44-b2b141f1f967?fingerprint=ppb20251217013147" alt="2025 2026 LDSB School Year Calendar" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/7f21413f-32d2-4c5e-94d8-8fa905a1928f?fingerprint=ppb20251217014207" alt="attendance" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Allergen Awareness - Nut-Free School</h2>Thank you for packing nut-free snacks! Please communicate with teachers before sending any treats in for your student's class. <img src="/images/77143b36-64d5-4f80-a9f2-cf2bf339fb88?fingerprint=ppb20251217014110" alt="Nut Free School" width="387" height="553" style="width:387px;height:553px;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/6693894a-180a-48dd-bb94-d0f7a1063c23?fingerprint=ppb20251217013934" alt="scent free" width="360" height="536" style="width:360px;height:536px;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/ffde30f7-aa99-4a13-8dce-47d206741e16?fingerprint=ppb20251217015329" alt="E33Xl1tXwAMER WEB" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/31373966-020e-4753-9364-1a58433fa4d7?fingerprint=ppb20251217013446" alt="survivor s flag" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <hr>Bus Requests are Through <a href="https://triboard.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Triboard.ca</a>Most children in our community are within walking distance to our school and we encourage active transportation (biking, walking, scooter). Bike racks are located on the grass outside the gate of the main playground. Please encourage children to NOT cut through the parking lot as this is a busy place in the mornings and after school. Children who are out of school boundary are not guaranteed busing and families should arrange for drop off at 9:05 am and pick up at 3:25 pm. There is no supervision on the yard after 3:25 so it is important that pick ups are punctual. Morning supervision begins at 8:45am. <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;">Winston's Mabel's Labels Account - need labels? We've got you! </h2><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://mabelslabels.ca/en-CA/fundraising/support" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Order here:</a></h2><img src="/images/2d0f70e2-0482-4ea8-ba26-97104c69030a?fingerprint=ppb20251217013419" alt="mabels labels" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <hr> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;">School Clothing - <a href="https://specialtytrophies.ca/winstonchurchillps/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Order Here</a></h2><img src="/images/893ad529-cfb0-4ea3-b0f6-2bf9ddf9bfc0?fingerprint=ppb20251217014249" alt="estore" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/664fae47-d9b2-42af-b02e-bdaa09e32432?fingerprint=ppb20251217013934" alt="Do Great things" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Community Connections</h2><img src="/images/262b23ae-ed5f-40da-bec6-972edf3cdd8a?fingerprint=ppb20251217013337" alt="Screenshot 2025 09 05 101357" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <img src="/images/2c1971b7-53eb-4b6e-8871-32fe5da5e294?fingerprint=ppb20251217013419" alt="Screenshot 2025 09 02 151113" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/9973bee1-4f42-412a-8f91-04736cb06d7a?fingerprint=ppb20251217014424" alt="Screenshot 2025 09 02 151214" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <hr> <img src="/images/51613d97-8fb3-4ddd-acb0-3d060ec3e9df?fingerprint=ppb20251217013751" alt="contact" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <hr>

2025-09-15 00:23:29.614 +0000 UTC

Boardroom Briefs in white text on a teal background

Boardroom Briefs: August 20, 2025

Boardroom Briefs is intended to provide highlights of presentations, reports and decisions made at the regular meeting of the Limestone District School Board of Trustees. The following are highlights of the August 20, 2025 Regular Board Meeting. Agendas can be found on the website under <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/board_meetings-1719463739654" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">Board Meetings</a>.  <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Land Acknowledgement </h2>All meetings begin with a Land Acknowledgement: "The Limestone District School Board is situated on the traditional territories of the Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee. We acknowledge their enduring presence on this land, as well as the presence of Métis, Inuit, and other First Nations from across Turtle Island. We honour their cultures and celebrate their commitment to this land.”  <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Private Session Report</h2><details open="false"><summary>Private Session Report - August 20, 2025</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">Earlier this evening during Private Session:The private session minutes were approved from the following:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">June 18, 2025, Regular Board Meeting</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Director Burra provided a Legal Update</li></ul>There was no other business conducted, or motions passed in Private Session. </div></details><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Reports from Officers</h2><details open="false"><summary>Chair's Report</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><img src="/images/3b73f535-6db0-57a4-bb4f-a5bb6232f53e?fingerprint=ppb20251217013553" alt="" width="268" height="347" style="width:268px;height:347px;display:inline-block;float:right">Chair McGregor provided the following report: "As we prepare to welcome students and families back into our schools on Wednesday, September 3, I want to take a moment to reflect on the excitement and promise that a new school year brings.Each September marks a fresh beginning—an opportunity for students to grow, for families to engage, and for staff to collaborate in creating vibrant learning environments. This year, we look forward to building on our shared commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of every student, in every classroom, and every school across Limestone.The start of the school year is not only a time of renewal but also a chance to strengthen relationships, foster innovation, and celebrate the diverse strengths of our communities. I am confident that through collaboration, dedication, and a shared vision for student success, we will achieve great things together.On behalf of the Board, I extend a warm welcome back to all students, families, and staff. Let’s make this year one of meaningful learning, growth, and achievement.This concludes my report." </div></details><details open="true"><summary>Director's Report</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><img src="/images/959f9ebc-0553-5f56-afed-83ccf39d2906?fingerprint=ppb20251217014409" alt="" width="316" height="316" style="width:316px;height:316px;float:left;display:inline-block">Director Burra provided the following report: "Good evening Trustees and members of the public joining us for this meeting. I am pleased to provide you with my update tonight as we prepare for the start of the 2025-2026 school year in two weeks.I hope everyone found themselves with some holiday time this summer to enjoy time with family and friends. In reflecting on this summer, it is important for everyone to have the opportunity to recharge and reflect on the important work we do collaboratively to support children and youth in the Limestone community.With the summer season, schools were not running as they do for the other ten months of the year. However, there was lots of activity for students this July and August. Similar to last summer, over 260 students participated in Camp Read A lot, and over 700 secondary students participated in summer session earning credits. In addition, almost 570 students participated in outdoor education programming offered at some schools, at Gould Lake, and/or on outdoor education trips. Trustees will receive a report in the fall providing more details regarding the range of summer programs that occurred in July and August. In addition, a considerable amount of facilities work occurs in schools during the summer and Manager Fowler will provide a summary of this work in September.We are greatly looking forward to welcoming back staff and well over 20,000 students as the school year starts. While over 99% of students will be in face-to-face classrooms, Limestone continues to offer a virtual option for some students. Regardless of the format of learning, Limestone will continue to do its best to meet students where they are and support student well-being. Mental health and well-being are essential conditions for achievement and learning for all students. Schools will be reopening next week with many staff getting ready for the new school year and we look forward to Limestone schools welcoming students back on Wednesday, September 3, with a full range of activities to be available for students in the 2025-2026 school year. As a reminder, we are starting the school year with a PA day on Tuesday, September 2. With almost all labour agreements behind us, we can expect stability on that front for the next couple of years. We all know that extracurriculars like sports and clubs, full arts programming, and field trips are of tremendous value. As Trustees know, all of these student activities are made possible by the generous time provided by staff and some community members. I think I speak for everyone in expressing our gratitude to the staff and community members that provide these valuable experiences and services to Limestone students. This evening there are some routine, cyclical reports coming to Trustees, but we also look forward to sharing with you an overview of a new administrative procedure focused on Human Rights, and an award to honour the late former Trustee Judith Brown.As Trustees know, considerable work occurs by central departments: Facilities, Finance, Human Resources, and ITS during the summer months to ensure schools are ready for the school year. I would like to acknowledge staff in all of those departments for the important work they do throughout the year, but also during the summer months. Finally, I should also note that Limestone hosted its 12th successful Summer Institute earlier today with approximately 200 LDSB educators attending to learn from each other and continue to hone their craft. A wide range of learning topics were available to support educator learning K-12. We are very pleased to be able to provide this valuable learning opportunity to staff. This is just one example of learning that Limestone educators have been participating in this summer. As we all know, learning is a journey, not a destination, and we must always model learning to support the system, and do the best we can to serve every student, in every classroom, in every school. Thank you, Chair McGregor. That completes my report for this evening." </div></details><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Reports</h2><details open="true"><summary>OPSBA Report</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">Chair McGregor provided an OPSBA report.</div></details><details open="true"><summary>Student Trustees' Report</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">There was no Student Trustee report.</div></details><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Reports for Action</h3><details open="true"><summary>Short-Term Borrowing Resolution - Superintendent Young</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">The purpose of this report is to recommend a short-term borrowing resolution for the 2025-2026 school year to meet cash flow requirements. The Education Act requires the Treasurer of the Board to furnish to the bank a copy of the resolution(s) authorizing the borrowing of funds.Operating: Periodically the Board is required to borrow funds for current operating purposes to provide interim financing until revenues are received from Municipalities and the Province. The Board did not have any operating borrowing requirements during 2024-2025. The Board is subject to cash flow decisions from the Province and should have a borrowing resolution in place to provide interim financing if our cash flow situation should change.The operating resolution authorizes the signing officers of the Board to borrow operating funds when required to meet short-term cash flow needs. The dollar amount of the operating borrowing requirement has been set to a maximum of $20 Million and is the same amount as in 2024-2025. Capital: The Board is also required to arrange short-term bridge financing during the construction of major capital projects, capital additions/retrofits and for School Condition Improvement projects.The Board currently has credit facilities to cover all the required borrowing for the School Condition Improvement projects.The Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) is the Board’s primary banker, a relationship that dates back to 1966. The banking services agreement with RBC extends to April 30, 2027. Recommendations: That the Board authorize the signing officers of the Board to enter into agreements with the Royal Bank of Canada for the following:1. The borrowing of funds to meet operating requirements to a maximum of $20 million for the 2025-2026 fiscal year.</div></details><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Reports for Information</h3><details open="false"><summary>Interim Financial Report for Quarter 3 - Superintendent Young and Manager of Financial Services, Paula Carson</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">The purpose is to report on the Interim Financial Operating expenditures for the period from September 1, 2024 to May 31, 2025 (Quarter 3).The Interim Financial Report – Operating Expenditures for the period ending February 28, 2025, was presented to the Board on April 23, 2025. This report provided operating expenditures for the period from September 1, 2024 to February 28, 2025 (Quarter 2).The Interim Financial Report – Operating Expenditures for the period ending May 31, 2025 (Quarter 3), is presented in a similar format to the 2024-2025 operating budget, indicating the amount spent by expenditure category and the associated percentage. To see the full report, please review the <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/4ad0a857-4900-4c40-b16a-80546aada787/LDSB-Regular-Board-Meeting-Agenda-August-20-2025.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013714" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">Board Meeting Agenda</a> (pg. 25).As of Quarter 3, $238.96M of the $312.7M operating budget, or 76%, has been spent. This is 9% lower than the 85% recorded in the same quarter last year. The difference is primarily due to additional expenditures for Bill 124 Remedy payments included in the previous year's results.It is important to note that expenditures are calculated based on payments made within the specified period. Some expenditures may be non-cyclical, potentially resulting in higher or lower amounts within a given timeframe. For further details, refer to Appendix 1.The Board is on target to end the 2024-2025 fiscal year with a balanced budget as projected.</div></details><details open="false"><summary>Administrative Procedure 107 - Human Rights - Superintendent McDonnell and Human Rights and Equity Advisor, Yusuf Abdulkareem</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">The purpose of this report is to share with Trustees Administrative Procedure 107: Human Rights (AP 107). This administrative procedure sets out the Board’s approach to creating equitable, inclusive, and accessible learning and working environments that are free from discrimination and harassment.This administrative procedure supports the Strategic Plan goal of fostering student learning, achievement, and well-being by ensuring all members of the Limestone District School Board (LDSB) community feel respected, safe, and supported. Background In the past few years, the Ministry of Education has provided human rights training for Trustees and senior leaders in school boards. Additionally, staff have provided updates to Trustees regarding student census data, staff workforce data, school climate data, and human rights complaints’ data. The LDSB recognizes the existence and impacts of historical and ongoing systemic discrimination. AP 107 outlines the Board’s commitment to anti-colonial, anti-oppressive, anti-racist, and anti-discriminatory practices, and to creating respectful environments for students, staff, and the broader community. The procedure applies to all LDSB community members and covers conduct both within, and beyond, the physical school/work environment, including online spaces and off-site events.AP 107 affirms LDSB’s commitment to legislative and policy compliance, and upholding the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. AP 107 also respects and recognizes the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.AP 107 addresses systemic discrimination identified through LDSB Student Census results, Staff Workforce Census and Belonging Survey, Human Rights Reporting Tool data, and School Climate Surveys, which revealed disproportionalities and inequities affecting students’ access to learning, sense of belonging, and feelings of safety.AP 107 clarifies roles and responsibilities by establishing clear expectations for all community members, staff, and leaders, along with consistent complaint processes for different interest groups.AP 107 creates accountability through data collection and reporting, ensuring progress is tracked, shared, and used to inform decision-making and continuous improvement. Current Status The creation and implementation of Administrative Procedure 107: Human Rights provides clarity in the following areas:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Clear definitions of key human rights concepts such as discrimination, harassment, equity, prejudice, and reprisal.</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">A comprehensive list of protected grounds under the Ontario Human Rights Code (e.g., race, disability, creed, gender identity, age).</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Detailed forms of discrimination, including subtle discrimination, microaggressions, and systemic discrimination.</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Specific complaint mechanisms for different parties (students, employees, Trustees, members of the public).</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Defined roles and responsibilities for all LDSB community members, employees, managerial staff, the Human Rights and Equity Advisor, and the Director of Education.</li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Requirements for human rights learning and awareness, including regular training and review cycles.</li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Annual data collection, analysis, and public reporting on human rights trends.</li><li value="8" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"> Prohibitions on reprisal and vexatious complaints, with disciplinary measures for violations.</li></ul> Next Steps and Communication Plan The following are the next steps in the implementation of Administrative Procedure 107: Human Rights:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Ensure ongoing communication and awareness for staff, students, union and labour partners, families and the community on AP 107.</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Continue annual analysis of human rights data to identify systemic issues and gaps, and use this information to inform decision making.</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Publicly release the annual human rights report on the Board’s website.</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Review related administrative procedures to ensure alignment with AP 107.</li></ul>For more information, please view the <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/4ad0a857-4900-4c40-b16a-80546aada787/LDSB-Regular-Board-Meeting-Agenda-August-20-2025.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013714" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">Board Meeting Agenda</a>.</div></details><details open="true"><summary>The Judith Brown Black Excellence Award - Director Burra</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">The purpose of this report is to provide Trustees with an update on the Judith Brown Black Excellence Award.Background With the passing of Trustee Judith Brown last year, a number of members of the Limestone DSB community voiced their support for creating an award in her honour. Support for honouring Trustee Judith Brown came from Trustees, Limestone staff, and members of the Umoja Black Advisory Council that Trustee Brown helped found, and lead. Consequently, the Judith Brown Black Excellence Award was established in the spring of 2025 to honour Judith’s legacy.The Judith Brown Black Excellence Award: In honour of Trustee Judith Brown, who was a dedicated Black educator who advocated for education and equity, this award recognizes a Black student who exemplifies leadership, perseverance, and commitment to advancing inclusive education. As a champion for student success and diversity, Judith Brown worked tirelessly to promote Black Canadian and local history while creating opportunities for all learners, fostering a more equitable and inspiring learning environment. This award is given annually to a graduating Black LDSB student who demonstrates outstanding academic achievement, community involvement, and a passion for promoting Black Canadian history. Through their actions, the recipient carries forward Judith Brown’s legacy, making a meaningful impact in their school community and beyond.It should be noted that the award description was approved by Trustee Brown’s family in mid-June. Current Status The inaugural Judith Brown Black Excellence Award was proudly presented to a graduating student at Loyalist Collegiate and Vocational Institute during their June 2025 graduation ceremony. Moving forward, this award will be presented annually to one graduating Black student across the LDSB, continuing to honour Judith Brown’s legacy and celebrate excellence, leadership, and community impact.Next Steps and Communication Plan With the support of Trustee Brown’s family and Umoja, additional fundraising efforts may take place over the coming year to help establish a financial component to accompany the Judith Brown Black Excellence Award. These contributions will further honour Judith Brown’s legacy by providing meaningful support to future recipients as they continue their educational journeys and community leadership.</div></details><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Unfinished Business</h2><details open="true"><summary>Feeding Minds: Food and Beverage Policy (PPM-150) Delegation</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">Director Burra provided a copy of a letter to Madison Stewart of Food for Good acknowledging her delegation at the June 2025 Board Meeting called "Feeding Minds: Food and Beverage Policy (PPM 150)." Director Burra thanked her for sharing the information with the Board.</div></details>

2025-09-08 19:42:35.037 +0000 UTC

Bulldog Family Bulletin - September 8th

<img src="/images/9f71cafb-fb45-48c5-85d8-33f624e7ea20?fingerprint=ppb20251217014502" alt="027c5706b22a3b9563f4e5f026a75e1e" width="273" height="256" style="width:273px;height:256px;display:inline-block;float:right"><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">A Wonderful First Week Back for our Bulldogs!</h2>What a wonderful first week back to full classes with your children! We spent the week familiarizing ourselves with routines and expectations, reconnecting, building our community and beginning our learning journey together. It was so great to see our classrooms and school yard full of laughter and learning and we finished the week with a little dance party outside on the pavement. Kinders had their dance party at their last recess break and showed us their moves! CLASS ORGANIZATIONS AND STAFFING As you know, each September schools submit enrollment information and the central staffing committee of the LDSB makes determinations about class sizes at each site. Our numbers this year do not warrant a reorganization of our classes, which is lovely news! We remain at 10 classrooms with the current staffing and class organizations below. If there are any staff changes this will be communicated once the staffing committee of LDSB places teachers. We know that students can feel excited, nervous, thrilled or sometimes even sad when they don't get the educators they think they 'want' or don't have their current friend grouping with them. We appreciate that families are speaking positively about students' class placement and this is an opportunity to make new connections with staff and peers within the classroom, and reconnect with old friends at recess on the yard. Building resilience is important and students will settle in with the support of their adults. We are not making classroom switches at this time as all classes are full and moving a student creates a ripple effect.SCHOOL SAFETY - PARKING LOTS AND SPEEDIf you are a motorist around our school, please monitor your speed. By-law officers may be by to monitor parking (there are no parking areas around the school), and speed. The safety of our children and the community is so important. Please slow down and follow traffic rules. A reminder to all that there is no supervision on the yard before 8:45am and children should not arrive to school before that time. Likewise, there is no supervision after 3:25 and end of day pickup is scheduled for that time. Thank you for adhering to our school times.SAFE ARRIVAL, School Messenger and School DayPlease continue to call in to Safe Arrival, or mark your students' late/absent in the Safe Arrival App to ensure that you don't get unwanted phone calls. The system will automatically call out if you have not marked your student as being away/late. Current contact information is necessary to ensure you get school emails/texts/calls and aren't missing out. Please call the office so that our Office Administrator can update your information as needed - thank you. Information for Safe Arrival, School Messenger and School Day (online payment and permissions) is below. PARENT COUNCIL - WE NEED YOUR VOICE!We will be looking to increase engagement in our Parent Council and would love for you to consider attending some meetings, or volunteering for some events, if you are able. Our Parent Council is a wonderful support and resource for our school and we appreciate all they do to support students, programming, staff and families. Our first ELECTIONS MEETING will be September 17th at 7pm. Please consider joining us. Their contact is <a href="about:blank" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">wcps.council@gmail.com</a>EMERGENCY PROCEDURESMore information will be shared in the next Bulldog Family Bulletin around emergency procedures and drills that we will practice. We give plenty of opportunity for practice, and staff prepare students in age-appropriate ways .RUNNING CLUB IS UP AND RUNNINGBig thanks to Ms. Koebel and her parent volunteers for starting up running club! Practices are at morning recess on Tuesday and afternoon recess on Thursday. There is one afterschool practice on four different Mondays. Pick up from these practices is promptly at 4:15pm. Interested students in Grades 3-6 have received information to take home and permission is required to attend practices. Information was sent home with students who are interested in practicing for the Fort Henry Road Race October 16th. FALL OPEN HOUSEOn October 8th, we will host a drop-in meet and greet with our educators after school hours. We look forward to welcoming families inside to see your child's learning space. We will be hosting a Scholastic Book fair in the library during the week of October 6-9th (10th is a PA Day) and will welcome families into the book fair October 8th from 4:30-6:30pm. Here's to another wonderful week moving forward. Once again, thank you for your support and collaboration. Yours in Partnership and Education,Joanne Borges, Principal<hr> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><img src="https://cdn.smore.com/u/thumbs/6f52/thumb-c5e064a42d63187637092abe9951daa8.png" alt="" width="195" height="258" style="border:0px solid rgb(204, 204, 204);boxSizing:border-box;-TwBorderSpacingX:0;-TwBorderSpacingY:0;-TwTranslateX:0;-TwTranslateY:0;-TwRotate:0;-TwSkewX:0;-TwSkewY:0;-TwScaleX:1;-TwScaleY:1;-TwScrollSnapStrictness:proximity;-TwRingOffsetWidth:0px;-TwRingOffsetColor:#fff;-TwRingColor:rgba(49,190,200,.5);-TwRingOffsetShadow:0 0 #0000;-TwRingShadow:0 0 #0000;-TwShadow:0 0 #0000;-TwShadowColored:0 0 #0000;display:block;verticalAlign:middle;height:258px;maxWidth:100%;maxHeight:100%;borderRadius:0.25rem;backgroundColor:transparent;objectFit:contain;width:195px;float:left">Coming Up for Week 2</h2>Monday, September 8 - Day 4<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Welcome to our first full week of school for 2025-2026 - gets lots of rest!</li></ul>Running club forms must be in by Thursday.Tuesday, September 9th - Day 5<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">1st Running Club Practice!- 10:45am</li></ul>Wednesday, September 10th (Day 1)Just another great day at Winston!Thursday, September 11th (Day 2)<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Running Club practice- 1:05pm</li></ul>Friday, September 12th (Day 3)<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Theme Day! Wear your school colours - maroon/black/grey</li></ul><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Looking Ahead....</h2><h4 class="editor-heading-h4" dir="ltr">September </h4>17th - Parent Council Elections Meeting30th- Truth and Reconciliation - Every Child Matters (Orange Shirt Day)<h5 class="editor-heading-h5" dir="ltr">October</h5>2nd - <a href="https://braveeducation.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Brave Education </a> workshops - Primary classes (Boulieris, Gladstone, Powers) -Setting Healthy Boundaries6th-9th - Scholastic Book Fair (in library)8th - Meet the Educators Open House 4:30-6:3010th - PA Day13th - No School - Thanksgiving Monday16th - Fort Henry Road Race<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Daily Schedule</h2><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Time</th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Activity/learning block</th></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">8:45 to 9:05 a.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Supervision on the yard</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">9:05 a.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Bell rings, students enter the school</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">9:05 to 10:45 a.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">First instructional block</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">10:45 to 11:05 a.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">First nutrition break</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">11:05 to 11:25 a.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Recess</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">11:25 a.m. to 1:05 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Second instructional block</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">1:05 to 1:25 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Second nutrition break</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">1:25 to 1:45 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Recess</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">1:45 to 3:25 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Third instructional block</td></tr><tr style="height: 33px;"><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">3:25 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Dismissal</td></tr></tbody></table><hr><img src="/images/0e1b6f3c-a300-4d0f-abe4-5e9c1da7b438?fingerprint=ppb20251217013130" alt="star" width="157" height="157" style="width:157px;height:157px;display:inline-block;float:left"><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Winston's All-Star Tentative Staffing Line-Up </h2>JK/SK- Ms. Mardicis, Ms. Hawley (ECE)JK/SK- Ms. Moorehead, Ms. Samas (ECE)Grade 1/2 - Ms. BoulierisGrade 1/2 - Ms. GladstoneGrade 2 - Ms. PowersGrade 3 - Ms. JohnstonGrade 3/4 - Ms. RochefortGrade 4/5 - Ms. GencarelliGrade 5/6 – Ms. KoebelGrade 5/6 - Mr. Pottery (AM)/Mr. Hardy (PM to start the year until Sept. 15th staffing)Core French – M Fleet/Mme Parson Planning Time – TBD (Ms. Cotman to start the year until final Staffing Sept. 15th)Student Support Teacher - Ms. LamarcheIntensive Support Teacher - Ms. AbrahamEducational Assistants: Ms. Williamson (Ms. W), Ms. Basconcillo (Ms. Grace), Ms. Raison (Ms. Alaina), Mr. Veley (Chase), Ms. Prosser (Ms. Morgan), Ms. Traynor (Ms. T), .5 EA , Orchid/lunch supervisor - Ms. McPhedranStudent Support Counsellor - Ali O'Hearn-Keogh (1.5 days/week - Wednesday/Friday AM)Custodial Team - Sean Cockerham/Zach GauvreauOffice Administrator - Lori HanleyPrincipal - Ms. Joanne BorgesSchool Superintendent - Mr. Mike Blackburn <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;">How Can I get Information From the School?</h2>LDSB schools and school board use School Messenger to send key messages, alerts, and general communication to families. Winston uses this platform and will continue to use our Bulldog Family Bulletin to provide updates to families. This newsletters are where we will share school-specific information and highlights of student work and events in the building and is generated on our school website. This newsletter is also sent out via School Messenger so that you receive it in your in-box (sign up for alerts - email or text).<a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/report-a-student-absence" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">SchoolMessenger App</a>: Download the SchoolMessenger App to stay connected. Use your mobile device to download and install the free SchoolMessenger blue app from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store, the <a href="https://go.schoolmessenger.com/#/home" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link">SchoolMessenger website portal</a>, or from within the LDSB mobile app. *New families will be able to create their account after the first day of attendance.The first time you use the app, you must select Sign Up to create your account. Please ensure you use the same email address your student’s school has on file. If you do not use that same email address, you will not be able to create an account.<iframe data-lexical-video-id="TSCIybbq3xc" width="640" height="480" src="https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/TSCIybbq3xc" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="true" title="Youtube video"></iframe> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">School Day Online Payments and Permissions</h2>We are paperless and cashless at Winston. We use the platform School Day for online payments (field trips, milkshake days, etc) and for digital permission slip signatures. ALL families are required to sign up using their child's individual match key that will be provided within the first weeks of school. Please direct families to the office if they are having trouble signing up or registering with School Day. <hr> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">2025-2026 LDSB School Year Calendar</h2>A <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/7291ab76-99b5-43a1-8f2b-edaade7c53e8/2025-04-07-LDSB%20School%20Year%20Calendar-2025-2026.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014043" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">PDF version of the 2025-2026 School Year Calendar is available online</a>. <img src="/images/1161a439-a52c-4144-ad44-b2b141f1f967?fingerprint=ppb20251217013147" alt="2025 2026 LDSB School Year Calendar" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/7f21413f-32d2-4c5e-94d8-8fa905a1928f?fingerprint=ppb20251217014207" alt="attendance" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Allergen Awareness - Nut-Free School</h2>Thank you for packing nut-free snacks! Please communicate with teachers before sending any treats in for your student's class. <img src="/images/77143b36-64d5-4f80-a9f2-cf2bf339fb88?fingerprint=ppb20251217014110" alt="Nut Free School" width="387" height="553" style="width:387px;height:553px;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/6693894a-180a-48dd-bb94-d0f7a1063c23?fingerprint=ppb20251217013934" alt="scent free" width="360" height="536" style="width:360px;height:536px;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/ffde30f7-aa99-4a13-8dce-47d206741e16?fingerprint=ppb20251217015329" alt="E33Xl1tXwAMER WEB" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/31373966-020e-4753-9364-1a58433fa4d7?fingerprint=ppb20251217013446" alt="survivor s flag" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <hr>Bus Requests are Through <a href="https://triboard.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Triboard.ca</a>Most children in our community are within walking distance to our school and we encourage active transportation (biking, walking, scooter). Bike racks are located on the grass outside the gate of the main playground. Please encourage children to NOT cut through the parking lot as this is a busy place in the mornings and after school. Children who are out of school boundary are not guaranteed busing and families should arrange for drop off at 9:05 am and pick up at 3:25 pm. There is no supervision on the yard after 3:25 so it is important that pick ups are punctual. Morning supervision begins at 8:45am. <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;">Winston's Mabel's Labels Account - need labels? We've got you! </h2><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://mabelslabels.ca/en-CA/fundraising/support" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Order here:</a></h2><img src="/images/2d0f70e2-0482-4ea8-ba26-97104c69030a?fingerprint=ppb20251217013419" alt="mabels labels" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <hr> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;">School Clothing - <a href="https://specialtytrophies.ca/winstonchurchillps/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Order Here</a></h2><img src="/images/893ad529-cfb0-4ea3-b0f6-2bf9ddf9bfc0?fingerprint=ppb20251217014249" alt="estore" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/664fae47-d9b2-42af-b02e-bdaa09e32432?fingerprint=ppb20251217013934" alt="Do Great things" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Community Connections</h2><img src="/images/262b23ae-ed5f-40da-bec6-972edf3cdd8a?fingerprint=ppb20251217013337" alt="Screenshot 2025 09 05 101357" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <img src="/images/2c1971b7-53eb-4b6e-8871-32fe5da5e294?fingerprint=ppb20251217013419" alt="Screenshot 2025 09 02 151113" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/9973bee1-4f42-412a-8f91-04736cb06d7a?fingerprint=ppb20251217014424" alt="Screenshot 2025 09 02 151214" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <hr> <img src="/images/51613d97-8fb3-4ddd-acb0-3d060ec3e9df?fingerprint=ppb20251217013751" alt="contact" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <hr>

2025-09-06 15:20:04.066 +0000 UTC

Bulldog Family Bulletin-Start Up 2025

<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" style="text-align: start;"> </h2><img src="/images/4f057d6a-0511-43b7-ac34-c00bf58da468?fingerprint=ppb20251217013727" alt="Welcome" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;">Our Intention: Making a positive difference in the lives of every child</h2> <hr><img src="https://cdn.smore.com/u/thumbs/6f52/thumb-c5e064a42d63187637092abe9951daa8.png" alt="" width="283" height="374" style="border:0px solid rgb(204, 204, 204);boxSizing:border-box;-TwBorderSpacingX:0;-TwBorderSpacingY:0;-TwTranslateX:0;-TwTranslateY:0;-TwRotate:0;-TwSkewX:0;-TwSkewY:0;-TwScaleX:1;-TwScaleY:1;-TwScrollSnapStrictness:proximity;-TwRingOffsetWidth:0px;-TwRingOffsetColor:#fff;-TwRingColor:rgba(49,190,200,.5);-TwRingOffsetShadow:0 0 #0000;-TwRingShadow:0 0 #0000;-TwShadow:0 0 #0000;-TwShadowColored:0 0 #0000;display:block;verticalAlign:middle;height:374px;maxWidth:100%;maxHeight:100%;borderRadius:0.25rem;backgroundColor:transparent;objectFit:contain;width:283px;float:left">Welcome Back to the 2024-2025 Winston Churchill Public School school year with our amazing school team of Difference Makers! <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link">LDSB's board wide intention</a> is "To make a positive difference in the lives of every student, in every classroom, in every school" and we look forward to collaborating with families to provide a supporting, inclusive and rich learning experience for all learners at all levels. We truly value the partnership with our families and look forward to working with you and your children this year. Please don't hesitate to reach out to your child's classroom educators as needed, and be sure to read our weekly newsletter from the school. Important information will be shared in each newsletter that will help answer questions and keep you informed. As well, classroom teachers also share communication with families. Thanks for taking the time to read these updates!At Winston, our community has worked hard to help create a culture of support, kindness and care and we will continue to help guide children to make responsible choices and act in kindness. We are excited to start this year's adventures with you all and we appreciate your positive conversations with your children around their class placement. Staff will be e-mailing families on Tuesday so that children know who to greet on the playground on Wednesday morning. The first few weeks will require us to all be flexible and supportive as we get to know the kids and the dynamics in our building. Please trust that educators place children where they feel they will thrive the best academically, socially and emotionally. Our final organization will be determined based on the LDSB staffing committee decisions when final enrolment has been established. Should we need to reorganize some classrooms to best support learners, we will inform our community ASAP. Please do not forward requests at this time.We will be looking to increase engagement in our Parent Council and would love for you to consider attending some meetings, or volunteering for some events, if you are able. Our Parent Council is a wonderful support and resource for our school and we appreciate all they do to support students, programming, staff and families. Our first ELECTIONS MEETING will be September 17th -more details to come. Please consider joining. Their contact is Here's to a wonderful year ! I look forward to serving this community for another year as Principal of Winston Churchill Public School and am looking forward to supporting staff, children and families along the way. Please reach out, when needing assistance, or please come say hello on the playground in the mornings!Yours in Education,Joanne Borges, Principal <hr> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Coming Up for Week 1</h2>Monday, September 2nd<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Labour Day (no school)</li></ul>Tuesday, September 3rd<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">PA Day for staff - last day of 'holidays' for children</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Families will get an email from their child's September teacher</li></ul>Wednesday, September 4th (Day 1)<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">The start of an incredible school year!</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">What do you need? Indoor shoes, water bottle, nut free lunch/snacks, other personal items used for school, if wanted.</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Toys, pokemon cards, cell phones must remain at home</li></ul>Thursday, September 5th (Day 2)<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"></li></ul>Friday, September 6th (Day 3)<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Theme Day! Wear your school colours - maroon/black/grey</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">First Friday dance party end of day 3:15-3:25pm - feel free to join us!</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">If you are a parent volunteer with a current CPIC and interested in supporting the coaching of soccer teams, please let us know by emailing<a href="mailto:winsc@limestone.on.ca" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link"> winsc@limestone.on.ca</a></li></ul> <hr> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Daily Schedule</h2><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Time</th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Activity/learning block</th></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">8:45 to 9:05 a.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Supervision on the yard</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">9:05 a.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Bell rings, students enter the school</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">9:05 to 10:45 a.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">First instructional block</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">10:45 to 11:05 a.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">First nutrition break</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">11:05 to 11:25 a.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Recess</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">11:25 a.m. to 1:05 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Second instructional block</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">1:05 to 1:25 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Second nutrition break</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">1:25 to 1:45 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Recess</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">1:45 to 3:25 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Third instructional block</td></tr><tr style="height: 33px;"><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">3:25 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Dismissal</td></tr></tbody></table> <hr> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"> </h2><img src="/images/0e1b6f3c-a300-4d0f-abe4-5e9c1da7b438?fingerprint=ppb20251217013130" alt="star" width="157" height="157" style="width:157px;height:157px;display:inline-block;float:left"><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Winston's All-Star Tentative Staffing Line-Up </h2>JK/SK- Ms. Mardicis, Ms. Hawley (ECE)JK/SK- Ms. Moorehead, Ms. Samas (ECE)Grade 1/2 - Ms. BoulierisGrade 1/2 - Ms. GladstoneGrade 2 - Ms. PowersGrade 3 - Ms. JohnstonGrade 3/4 - Ms. RochefortGrade 4/5 - Ms. GencarelliGrade 5/6 – Ms. KoebelGrade 5/6 - Mr. Pottery (AM)/Mr. Hardy (PM to start the year until Sept. 15th staffing)Core French – M Fleet/Mme Parson Planning Time – TBD (Ms. Richard to start the year until final Staffing Sept. 15th)Student Support Teacher - Ms. LamarcheIntensive Support Teacher - Ms. AbrahamEducational Assistants: Ms. Williamson (Ms. W), Ms. Basconcillo (Ms. Grace), Ms. Raison (Ms. Alaina), Mr. Veley (Chase), Ms. Prosser (Ms. Morgan), Ms. Traynor (Ms. T), .5 EA , Orchid/lunch supervisor TBDStudent Support Counsellor - Ali O'Hearn-Keogh (1.5 days/week)Custodial Team - Sean Cockerham/Zach GauvreauOffice Administrator - Lori HanleyPrincipal - Ms. Joanne BorgesSchool Superintendent - Mr. Mike Blackburn <hr> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">2025-2026 LDSB School Year Calendar</h2>A <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/7291ab76-99b5-43a1-8f2b-edaade7c53e8/2025-04-07-LDSB%20School%20Year%20Calendar-2025-2026.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014043" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">PDF version of the 2025-2026 School Year Calendar is available online</a>. <img src="/images/1161a439-a52c-4144-ad44-b2b141f1f967?fingerprint=ppb20251217013147" alt="2025 2026 LDSB School Year Calendar" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/7f21413f-32d2-4c5e-94d8-8fa905a1928f?fingerprint=ppb20251217014207" alt="attendance" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Allergen Awareness - Nut-Free School</h2>Thank you for packing nut-free snacks! Please communicate with teachers before sending any treats in for your student's class. <img src="/images/77143b36-64d5-4f80-a9f2-cf2bf339fb88?fingerprint=ppb20251217014110" alt="Nut Free School" width="387" height="553" style="width:387px;height:553px;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/6693894a-180a-48dd-bb94-d0f7a1063c23?fingerprint=ppb20251217013934" alt="scent free" width="360" height="536" style="width:360px;height:536px;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/ffde30f7-aa99-4a13-8dce-47d206741e16?fingerprint=ppb20251217015329" alt="E33Xl1tXwAMER WEB" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/31373966-020e-4753-9364-1a58433fa4d7?fingerprint=ppb20251217013446" alt="survivor s flag" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <hr> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">School Day Online Payments and Permissions</h2>We are paperless and cashless at Winston. We use the platform School Day for online payments (field trips, milkshake days, etc) and for digital permission slip signatures. ALL families are required to sign up using their child's individual match key that will be provided within the first weeks of school. Please direct families to the office if they are having trouble signing up or registering with School Day. <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Bus Requests are Through <a href="https://triboard.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Triboard.ca</a></h2>Most children in our community are within walking distance to our school and we encourage active transportation (biking, walking, scooter). Bike racks are located on the grass outside the gate of the main playground. Please encourage children to NOT cut through the parking lot as this is a busy place in the mornings and after school. Children who are out of school boundary are not guaranteed busing and families should arrange for drop off at 9:05 am and pick up at 3:25 pm. There is no supervision on the yard after 3:25 so it is important that pick ups are punctual. Morning supervision begins at 8:45am. <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;">Winston's Mabel's Labels Account - need labels? We've got you! </h2><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://mabelslabels.ca/en-CA/fundraising/support" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Order here:</a></h2><img src="/images/2d0f70e2-0482-4ea8-ba26-97104c69030a?fingerprint=ppb20251217013419" alt="mabels labels" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <hr> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;">School Clothing - <a href="https://specialtytrophies.ca/winstonchurchillps/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Order Here</a></h2><img src="/images/893ad529-cfb0-4ea3-b0f6-2bf9ddf9bfc0?fingerprint=ppb20251217014249" alt="estore" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/664fae47-d9b2-42af-b02e-bdaa09e32432?fingerprint=ppb20251217013934" alt="Do Great things" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <hr> <img src="/images/51613d97-8fb3-4ddd-acb0-3d060ec3e9df?fingerprint=ppb20251217013751" alt="contact" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <hr>

2025-08-28 18:34:38.638 +0000 UTC

Paul Calandra, Minister of Education, Back to School Letter 2025

As the 2025-26 school year begins, Paul Calandra, Minister of Education, has prepared a message for Ontario parents, students, teachers and staff:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><a href="/documents/6945a4f5-a106-44cd-be02-1e7f55228fc8/Back-to-School-Letter-2025.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014003" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">English Letter</a> (PDF)</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><a href="/documents/30337950-d8c1-4a70-9e10-6abbd4957e51/Lettre-pour-la-rentr-e-scolaire-2025.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013433" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">French Letter </a>(PDF)</li></ul>

2025-08-28 14:45:32.665 +0000 UTC

2025 07 10 Summer Institute 2025 Graphic

Summer Institute August 20 for LDSB Educators

<img src="/images/a970c8cc-cd06-4565-ad5b-3e34d2c1d300?fingerprint=ppb20251217014559" alt="Graphic promoting LDSB Summer Institute" width="605" height="605" style="width:605px;height:605px;display:inline-block">The Limestone District School Board (LDSB) is hosting Summer Institute, a voluntary professional learning opportunity for LDSB educators and administrators, on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at Kingston Secondary School. The theme for this year's Summer Institute is "Accelerating Growth in Limestone."If you are an LDSB educator or administrator who is interested in learning more and registering to participate in this year's Summer Institute, please check your LDSB e-mail inbox, as well as myLDSB for details.

2025-07-10 19:54:04.488 +0000 UTC

Free French Learning Opportunity This Summer: Smash French Camp

Limestone District School Board students are invited to take part in Smash French Summer Camp — a dynamic and engaging way to review, catch up, or get ahead in French before the new school year begins!This free online program is available now through August 14 and is open to all students, whether they’ve used Smash before or are brand new to the platform.<h4 class="editor-heading-h4" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;">Program Highlights:</h4><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">A wide range of CEFR-aligned French classes</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Interactive, motivating activities to build confidence and language skills</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Flexible access from home — anytime, anywhere</li></ul><h4 class="editor-heading-h4" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;">Getting Started:</h4><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Current users can log in and begin right away.</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">New users can create an account and start learning in just a few minutes.</li></ul>A step-by-step guide with instructions and class codes is available to help students get started quickly and easily.We encourage families and educators to take advantage of this exciting opportunity to support French language learning over the summer.For more information, visit <a href="https://www.smasheducation.com/" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">www.smasheducation.com</a> or contact Abraham Bravo, Co-Founder & Head of Implementation Success, at <a href="mailto:abraham.b@smasheducation.com" target="_blank" class="editor-link">abraham.b@smasheducation.com</a>.

2025-07-03 18:21:54.362 +0000 UTC

Message from the Director

Dear Families,As we reach the end of the 2024–2025 school year, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks for your continued support and partnership.Each school year brings its own unique experiences, and I hope this one has been filled with meaningful learning, growth, and connection for your student(s) and your family.I hope you have had the opportunity to enjoy the recent graduation ceremonies and year-end celebrations. These moments are a wonderful time to reflect on the journey and look ahead to the future with optimism. Congratulations to all intermediate and secondary graduates across Limestone—we are very proud of your accomplishments.I have a few updates for you as we move into the summer months:Tri-Board Student Transportation for 2025-2026 School YearSchool bus information for 2025-2026 will be available to families in July on Tri-Board’s portal.If your student currently has school bus transportation and there is no change to their school or address in September, families do NOT need to take any action or reapply for transportation through Tri-Board Student Transportation. Current school bus transportation will remain in place unless families are contacted by Tri-Board Student Transportation directly.New students and students with a change of address or school need to apply online by August 6, 2025, to have busing set up for the first day of school. Please visit <a href="http://www.triboard.ca/" class="editor-link">triboard.ca</a> to apply for transportation and access your student(s)’s busing details for September. Messages from the Ministry - Celebrating the End of the School YearWe are pleased to share a special <a href="https://youtu.be/6YHXUF3UtHc?si=qym1IQLmi8-QYVIU" class="editor-link">video message from The Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario</a>, as well as letters from Minister of Education Paul Calandra addressed to families and graduating students across the province. These messages recognize the hard work, resilience, and accomplishments of Ontario students throughout the year:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/793cbd5d-ca02-4bf9-b367-f9e8a5ff0c1a/Year-End-Letter-to-Parents.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014125" class="editor-link">Message for families from Minister of Education, Paul Calandra</a></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/61248391-bed1-499b-bcc8-3e977d928d99/Graduation-Letter-2025.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013909" class="editor-link">Message for graduating students from The Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario</a></li></ul>We encourage you to take a moment to view and read these messages as we wrap up another successful school year together. Learning about Artificial Intelligence (AI)This past school year, Limestone started further exploring AI tools and their potential benefits.  There is no question that AI creates a range of potential challenges and opportunities for learning and in society.  Further exploration will resume in 2025-2026. <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/artificialintelligenceinlimestone" class="editor-link">Please take a look at some of the work that has started in Limestone in this area on our website.</a> If you are interested in learning more about Artificial Intelligence and media literacy or sharing some learning with your student(s), Media Smarts: Canada’s Centre for Digital Media Literacy has a range of worthwhile resources about AI and other digital media. These resources can be found at <a href="https://mediasmarts.ca/" class="editor-link">on the Media Smarts website.</a>   First Day of School – Wednesday, September 3, 2025As we look ahead, please note that the first day of school for students for the 2025–2026 school year is Wednesday, September 3, 2025. Tuesday, September 2 is a Professional Activity (P.A.) Day, and there will be no classes for students on that day.As we look ahead to the 2025–2026 school year, I hope we continue to nurture a love of learning, curiosity, kindness and compassion in all students.Thank you for being an essential part of the Limestone education community. When we work together to support student learning and well-being, we create the strongest foundation for success. Your ongoing support makes a meaningful difference, and I am excited for the opportunities and adventures that await our school communities in the school year ahead.Wishing all students and families a safe, restful, joyful summer, and time with those people that matter most in your lives. Krishna BurraDirector of EducationLimestone District School Board

2025-06-26 20:30:05.204 +0000 UTC

Boardroom Briefs June 18, 2025

Boardroom Briefs is intended to provide highlights of presentations, reports and decisions made at the regular meeting of the Limestone District School Board of Trustees. The following are highlights of the June 18, 2025 Regular Board Meeting. Agendas can be found on the website under <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/board_meetings-1719463739654" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">Board Meetings</a>.  <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Land Acknowledgement </h2>All meetings begin with a Land Acknowledgement: "The Limestone District School Board is situated on the traditional territories of the Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee. We acknowledge their enduring presence on this land, as well as the presence of Métis, Inuit, and other First Nations from across Turtle Island. We honour their cultures and celebrate their commitment to this land.” <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Presentation</h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Limestone District School Board Staff Awards</h3>The 2025 Limestone District School Board (LDSB) Staff Awards include the Barry C. O'Connor Excellence in Education Awards, and the J.C. McLeod Excellence in Teaching Awards. Trustee Ruttan introduced award nominators and recipients.The Barry C. O'Connor Awards recognize excellence in education as provided by support staff throughout the district. This award was established to recognize support staff in the following categories: Clerical and Secretarial, Educational Services Staff, Educational Assistants, and Central Office Support Staff. The recipients are:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Tracy MacVicar, Kingston Secondary School - Clerical and Secretarial Category</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Nancy Gourdier-Golle, LDSB Educational Services - Educational Services Support Category</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Shannon Gambicourt, Winston Churchill Public School - Educational Assistants Category</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Jody Fitz, LDSB Education Centre - Central Office Support Category</li></ul>The J.C. McLeod Excellence in Teaching Awards are presented to two outstanding educators in the Limestone community. J.C. McLeod was the Director of Education for the former Lennox and Addington County Board of Education from 1969 to 1983. He recognized and rewarded excellence in teaching throughout his time as Director, and on his retirement, he established a fund to continue this focus. This award recognizes the outstanding contributions of individual teachers to classroom instruction or the improvement of classroom instruction, over several years. It is presented annually to one teacher in elementary, and one teacher in secondary. The recipients are:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Tara Murphy, Centennial Public School - Elementary Teacher</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Tammy Hagerman, Katarokwi Learning Centre - Secondary Teacher</li></ul><img src="/images/87967a22-e1a3-469d-8d09-e2ccab360306?fingerprint=ppb20251217014249" alt="2025 LDSB Staff Award Recipients" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">From left: Tara Murphy, Tammy Hagerman, Nancy Gourdier-Golle, Jody Fitz, Shannon Gambicourt, and Tracy MacVicar<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Recognition of Outgoing Student Trustees</h3>Vice-Chair Godkin acknowledged the service of the 2024-2025 Student Trustees, Rachel Kolosov, Ayesha Bukhari, and Siya Kumar. Indigenous Grade 11 Student Trustee Kolosov will be returning to the role for the 2025-2026 school year, while Urban Student Trustee Kumar, and Rural Student Trustee Bukhari are graduating. Rural Student Trustee Bukhari was recognized with a bursary for her role with the Limestone Learning Foundation Grants Committee. <img src="/images/8bab5481-4e23-4e68-847c-55fd3b255cdc?fingerprint=ppb20251217014301" alt="2025 LDSB Student Trustees" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Feeding Minds: Food and Beverage Policy (PPM-150) Delegation</h3>Madison Stewart from Food for Good Program presented remotely.<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Private Session Report</h2><details open="true"><summary>Private Session Report - June 18, 2025</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">Trustee Ruttan provided the Private Session report for June 18, 2025: At the Special Meeting of the Board, May 27, 2025: Director Burra provided a personnel update.At the Education, Policy, and Operations Meeting, June 4, 2025: Director Burra provided a personnel updateEarlier this evening during Private Session:The Private Session minutes were approved from the following:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">The May 21, 2025, Regular Board Meeting</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">The May 27, 2025, Special Meeting of the Board</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">The June 4, 2025, Education, Policy, and Operations Committee Meeting</li></ul>Associate Superintendent Gollogly provided a Safe Schools update.Trustee Lloyd provided a personnel update which resulted in a motion being passed.There was no other business conducted, or motions passed in Private Session. </div></details><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Reports from Officers</h2><details open="false"><summary>Chair's Report</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><img src="/images/972606b7-b2d1-52c6-962b-7190b39ee44f?fingerprint=ppb20251217014409" alt="" width="258" height="334" style="width:258px;height:334px;float:right;display:inline-block">Vice-Chair Godkin provided the following report: "As we approach the end of another remarkable school year, I want to take a moment to reflect on and celebrate the incredible efforts and achievements of our Limestone community. June marks not only the closing of the academic year but also a time of celebration, reflection, and gratitude. Across our district, students have been wrapping up their studies, showcasing their learning, and participating in a wide range of extracurricular activities that highlight their creativity, leadership, and school spirit. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to our students for their resilience, enthusiasm, and dedication throughout the year. Your hard work and perseverance have been truly inspiring. To our educators, support staff, and administrators—thank you for your unwavering commitment to student success. Your passion and professionalism continue to shape a learning environment where every student feels supported and empowered. To our families and caregivers—your partnership and encouragement have been vital. Thank you for being such an integral part of our students’ journeys. This month, we’ve also seen vibrant celebrations of diversity and inclusion across the district. Pride events have brought our communities together in powerful and joyful ways. A special thank you to everyone who participated in the Greater Napanee Pride Parade and the Kingston Pride Parade. Your presence and support send a strong message of love, acceptance, and unity. We were also proud to support the second annual Inclusive Fun Fair hosted by the Inclusive Play Project at Shannon Park on June 7. This free, family-friendly event brought together community members of all ages and abilities to celebrate inclusion, accessibility, and connection. With live entertainment, a bustling vendor market, interactive games, and a vibrant KidsZone, the fair raised awareness and funds for Kingston’s first fully inclusive playground. Events like this remind us of the power of community and the importance of creating spaces where everyone feels welcome and valued  As we look ahead to the final days of the semester, let’s continue to lift each other up and celebrate the many successes—big and small—that have defined this school year. Wishing everyone a safe, restful, and joyful summer ahead."</div></details><details open="true"><summary>Director's Report</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><img src="/images/959f9ebc-0553-5f56-afed-83ccf39d2906?fingerprint=ppb20251217014409" alt="" width="316" height="316" style="width:316px;height:316px;float:left;display:inline-block">Director Burra provided the following report: "Good evening, Trustees and the viewing public. I am pleased to provide you with my update tonight as we enter the last ten days of the 2024-2025 school year.June is always a time of reflection as we complete one school year and continue preparations for the next school year. It is a time of change as we see students graduate from secondary school, staff retire, and many staff and students prepare for transitions. It is also a time of celebration across the system as students graduate and enjoy end-of-year activities and celebrations. We were able to enjoy some celebrations this evening with the annual Limestone Staff Awards. This evening, we heard and saw, some great examples of people focused on doing the very best they can to support students and learning in LDSB.In recent weeks and months, many graduating Limestone students have received significant scholarships and admissions to universities, colleges, and apprenticeships or have developed work plans for next year. I would be remiss to not mention the fact that Student Trustee Bukhari deserves to be recognized for being a TD Scholarship recipient, and the Trustee Laurie French Student Leadership Award from the Community Foundation for Lennox and Addington. Congratulations Student Trustee Bukhari. With secondary graduations just over a week away, I know Trustees and senior staff can look forward to hearing the plans of LDSB grads at those celebrations and honouring the graduates of 2025.I would also like to highlight for Trustees the tremendous success Limestone athletes experienced at the provincial finals in Track and Field. Wyatt Lee from FSS won gold in the Senior Boys 100m and 200m, Athena Andrecyk from KSS won gold in the Senior Girls 3000m, and the Junior Girls 4x100m relay team from KSS also won gold. That team consisted of Caitlyn Wimmer, Mara Barrow-McLagan, Amaya Barrow-McLagan and Marina Playter-Tuffs. Limestone students also won two silver medals and four bronze medals. I should note that the LSS Senior Boys won provincial AA gold. I should also note that LSS and KSS hosted provincial soccer championships. Congratulations to these winners and all of the other LDSB athletes who participated in the provincial finals.In reflecting on the 2024-2025 school year, or any other school year, I think it is important to again remember Kathy Freston’s wise words: “The goal is progress, not perfection.” In education, the stakes are always high for each learner, and there is always more we can do to serve each student. While there is always much to celebrate, there is also always room for improvement in realizing our LDSB intention of making a positive difference in the lives of every student, in every classroom, in every school.Given June is National Indigenous History Month, and Saturday is National Indigenous Peoples Day, Trustees should be aware that there are a range of activities occurring in the community this weekend, and at Confederation Park. This information has been shared with schools.As Trustees are aware, June is also Pride month, and like the last few years, Limestone formally participated in the fourth annual Napanee Pride Parade earlier this month, which was a great success, and we also had a very strong presence this past weekend for the Kingston Pride Parade. We must continue to take a strong stance in support of human rights, and against hate in the communities we serve.In closing, I want to offer my congratulations to all students graduating from Limestone and to staff entering their last ten days of work with Limestone. There is much to be proud of in Limestone and I have a great deal of gratitude and humility in serving as its Director. Thank you also to the Board of Trustees for your continued collaboration, strong support of public education, and advocacy. While all of us around this table may not always agree on everything, I think we can all be proud of the way we conduct ourselves and work together for the betterment of Limestone students. Thank you, Trustees. That concludes my report for this evening."</div></details><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Correspondence</h2>The Board of Trustees received correspondence from Trustee Hutcheon indicating her resignation from her role as Chair. The Board accepted her resignation, and held an election for the position of Chair of the Board for the remainder of the term, ending November 19, 2025. Trustees Godkin, McGregor, and Ruttan were nominated for the role of the Chair. Trustees Godkin and McGregor accepted the nominations, and Ruttan declined.Trustees voted and Trustee McGregor was elected Chair of the Board for the remainder of the term.<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Reports</h2><details open="false"><summary>OPSBA Report</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">Chair McGregor provided an OPSBA report.</div></details><details open="false"><summary>Student Trustees' Report</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">Student Trustee Kolosov provide the Student Trustees' Report.We had our last Inter-School Council (ISC) meeting on the third of this month. At this meeting, we celebrated our success as a group this past school year, where the school representatives from each school brought their incoming reps for next year. This gave us the chance to meet and get to know our ISC team for next year.On June 10, after a lot of hard work from ISC members, we were able to run the LDSB Community Pride Event. During this event, we had a number of school groups coming in to host tables with some arts, crafts, and games, as well as community organizations like the Kingston Public Library. We were also thrilled to have the Queens Faculty of Education GSA come in, as well as Kingston Youth Pride, and LDSB’s Alyssa Vernon who did some collaging with guests. Student-run booths included face painting, flag painting, bracelet and keychain making, and more. It was such an amazing experience to see all of the students and families coming together to enjoy an evening of celebration to kick off Pride Month. We would like to extend a big thank you to all of the community members who came in, staff who helped support the event, the KSS custodial team for helping set up, and all of the students who helped make the event possible and the great success it was!We also had Pat Vanderholst do a PD session on Indigenous land teachings, with a tour around Lake Ontario Park, sharing different teachings connected to the land. On behalf of ISC, I’d like to thank Pat for sharing his time and knowledge with us.On behalf of the incoming Student Trustees, we look forward to what the next term of ISC will bring next school year!Thank you!</div></details><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Reports for Action</h3>There were no Reports for Action.<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Reports for Information</h3><details open="true"><summary>Operational Plan: Integrated Technology Services (ITS) - Associate Superintendent Hedderson</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><img src="/images/035f32a1-6d40-45c9-8050-ab09485fac19?fingerprint=ppb20251217013025" alt="2025 ITS Dept Common Culture Graphic" width="259" height="309" style="width:259px;height:309px;float:left;display:inline-block">This report updates Trusteed on the Integrated Technology Services (ITS) Operational Plan and how it supports the goals of the LDSB Strategic Plan. The report was presented by Kelvin MacQuarrie, Manager of Information and Communications Technology, Laura Alward, Manager of Innovation and Digital Transformation, and Steve Hedderson, Associate Superintendent of Curriculum and Program Services: Math Focus.ITS Operational Plan: The three departmental pillars of Customer Service Excellence, Data Integrity, and Learning Environment and Infrastructure Improvements continue to drive forward the team's main objective of supporting students and staff of LDSB within the 2023-2026 timeframe. These pillars help guide project priorities and business decisions and are a focus within the department’s operational plan. The presentation outlined various initiatives, including:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Learning Technology Refresh: Reliable Devices</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Learning Technology Ticket Counts by School Year</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Monitoring of Aging Classroom Projectors</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">New Data Backup Solution</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Microsoft 365 Copilot</li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Reporting Tool Efficiencies</li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Elementary Staffing App Efficiencies </li><li value="8" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Next Steps in Learning Technologies</li><li value="9" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Supporting Monitoring of the Student Achievement Plan</li></ul>The full report is available in the <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/458f1305-a251-48f2-bc45-18d43569c0ce/LDSB-Regular-Board-Meeting-Agenda-June-18-2025-AMENDED.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013647" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">Agenda Package</a>.</div></details><details open="true"><summary>Math Achievement Plan - Associate Superintendent Hedderson</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">This report updates Trustees on the continued development of Limestone’s Math Achievement Action Plan.Satellite data are high-level indicators that we are making progress towards our goal of improving math learning and achievement for every student.<img src="/images/12a3a14d-6c42-4061-af3e-1492f75c1306?fingerprint=ppb20251217013147" alt="Monitoring Math Achievement in the SAP and Strategic Plan: EQAO Results" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">Since the last update in <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/61c13ecb-20b2-4600-84ea-c6440667d365/LDSB%20Regular%20Board%20Meeting%20Agenda%20March%2026%2C%202025.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013909" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">March 2025</a>:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Additional meetings have been held with the Provincial Math Lead to discuss data analysis, impact of current improvement strategies, and key performance indicators to support the LDSB Math Achievement Action Plan</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Strategic planning sessions with other board Math Leads and teams from across the province</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">School-Based Math Facilitators and Learning Partners have been supporting educators in schools in gathering content diagnostic data to plan for meaningful math learning and assist in closing achievement gaps, with particular attention on students with modifications or recently removed from modifications</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">School-Based Math Facilitators and Learning Partners also continue to support math-related professional learning sessions for educators at staff meetings, “lunch and learns,” and Professional Activity Days</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Weekly meetings and capacity building with School Math Facilitators and ongoing learning and support for Learning Partners about the Math Achievement Action Plan strategies</li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Professional learning focus on fluency tasks and supporting the use of concrete and visual representations for students</li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Much more</li></ul>Next Steps and Communications Plan:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">The Ministry confirmed that board will continue with Math Achievement Action Plans during the 2025-26 school year with the same priority schools </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Given the late arrival of the 2025-26 school year budget, the staffing of the 2025-26 Math Action Team is ongoing</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Share the final report on the 2024-25 LDSB Math Achievement Action Plan with the Provincial Math Action Team in mid-July</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Prepare for the introduction of targeted use of a new complementary digital math tool that uses AI to support the implementation of the LDSB Instructional Progression of Mathematics</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Much more</li></ul>The full report is available in the <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/458f1305-a251-48f2-bc45-18d43569c0ce/LDSB-Regular-Board-Meeting-Agenda-June-18-2025-AMENDED.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013647" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">Agenda Package</a>.</div></details>

2025-06-24 20:57:55.816 +0000 UTC

Messages from the Ministry - Celebrating the End of the School Year

As we approach the end of the 2024–2025 school year, we want to take a moment to celebrate the achievements of all our students and extend our heartfelt congratulations—especially to our graduates.We are pleased to share a special <a href="https://youtu.be/6YHXUF3UtHc?si=qym1IQLmi8-QYVIU" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">video message from The Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario</a>, as well as letters from Minister of Education Paul Calandra addressed to families and graduating students across the province. These messages recognize the hard work, resilience, and accomplishments of Ontario students throughout the year:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><a href="/documents/793cbd5d-ca02-4bf9-b367-f9e8a5ff0c1a/Year-End-Letter-to-Parents.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014125" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Message for families from Minister of Education, Paul Calandra</a></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><a href="/documents/61248391-bed1-499b-bcc8-3e977d928d99/Graduation-Letter-2025.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013909" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Message for graduating students from The Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario</a></li></ul>We encourage you to take a moment to view and read these messages as we wrap up another successful school year together.

2025-06-19 12:00:14 +0000 UTC