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End of January Update
Published on Jan 31, 2018 12:06
Good Morning Everyone....
It looks like old man winter is reminding us today that he hasn't forgotten us. I hope all is well with each of you as we find ourselves at the end of January...already.
Here are some updates and key dates to share:
* The Out of the Cold project was tremendously successful. Approximately 3900 items were collected and $544.50 donated to support the Out of the Cold chapters in Barrie and Alliston! Our community showed its' tremendous care for those less fortunate.
Last year in Barrie, the shelters (housed in a different church within Barrie each day of the week) provided a warm meal and a warm and safe place to sleep for over 5700 people between the months of November and April. This year, based on demand, Alliston opened its’ doors to its’ first Out of the Cold shelter and has been receiving visitors every night since its November 15th opening. With recent record cold temperatures here in Simcoe County, the shelters need our support more than ever....and we responded. I have heard that some of our students actually sacrificed some of their own snacks each day to give to this cause. Our kids are clearly learning to "treat our neighbour the way we'd like to be treated".
Mr. McCracken and Mr. Luymes' classes collected the most items and Miss Perrin and Mrs. Seller's JK/SK class collected the most money. All three classes will be treated to a pizza lunch for their efforts.... A big thank you to our community for responding so generously and to Mrs. Sponagle, Mrs. Redding and Mrs. Latour for organizing this project.
* Lots of activity happening in our school.....Our intermediate boys and girls basketball and volleyball teams are well underway. Both teams are off to great starts on their seasons. Along with our school teams, Mr. Rankin has organized a volleyball house league for girls. Our sewing club meets each Wednesday at lunch and social justice meets weekly to discuss, plan and organize their many endeavours.
* Our school will be hosting a Robotics competition in May. More details on this exciting event will be shared in the coming weeks.
* As is our tradition, a Winter Carnival will be organized by our FSL teachers Mrs. Valcheff and Mrs. Dominguez. Kids will be placed on teams and will spend a day playing organized games throughout. Weather permitting, 1/2 the activities will be outdoors. A new feature this year is the addition of the Winter Classic "beavertail"....a delicious carnival treat that can be pre-ordered. For students who choose not to order a beavertail....we will have cookies at no charge to families. Hot chocolate will also be available to the kids. Our carnival day is scheduled for Feb. 12.
A Request:
Student use of their phones is becoming more and more problematic. Kids are using their phones in the washroom texting friends and family. We've had circumstances where a parent has arrived at the school to pick up their child because the child had texted to say that he/she was ill. The teacher and office had no idea. Phone use in the school during the school day is prohibited unless the child has permission from his/her teacher.
I am aware of several incidents in schools in Barrie where cell phone usage - in washrooms for instance - has led to major issues around privacy. Please remind your son/daughter that phone usage during the school day is not allowed. Phones in the office are available to students if there is a real need to contact you. We appreciate your support with this.
Here are some key dates coming:
* Feb. 1 - Grade 8 Parent Information Night. 5:15 pm in our library. Discussing Graduation and Year end Overnight trip to Camp Kandalore.
* Feb. 1 - Catholic school Community Council Meeting. 6:30 pm in our library. All parents are welcome.
* Feb. 2 - Professional Development Day - no classes for students.
* Feb. 9 - Winter Carnival organization....students meet with their teams.
* Feb. 12 - Winter Carnival Day
* Feb. 14 - Ash Wednesday Service 9:15 am (Sponagle & McCracken classes are leading) all welcome
* Feb. 19 - Family Day in ONT. No classes.
* Feb. 21 - First Term Report Cards go home
I think that's it for now. Thanks.
Rich
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