Walnut Grove PS
October 2019 Newsletter
Walnut Grove PS
Principal: P. Lone
Vice Principals: S. Rofaiel, F. Tulloch-Harvey
Superintedant: Patrika Daws
Trustee: Carrie Andrews
Email: walnutgrove.ps@peelsb.com
Website: http://schools.peelschools.org/1416/Pages/default.aspx
Location: 10 Pinestaff Road, Brampton, ON, Canada
Phone: 905-795-4572
Twitter: @WalnutGrovePS
About Us
Walnut Grove’s Daily Schedule
Entry Bell 9:15
Period 1 9:15 - 9:55
Period 2 9:55 - 10:35
Period 3 10:35 - 11:15
Nutrition Break A 11:15 - 11:35
Nutrition Break B 11:35 - 11:55
Period 4 11:55 - 12:35
Period 5 12:35 - 1:15
D.P.A. 1:15 - 1:35
Nutrition Break C 1:35 - 1:55
Nutrition Break D 1:55 - 2:15
Period 6 2:15 - 2:55
Period 7 2:55 - 3:35
Dismissal 3:35
School Security
All parents and visitors entering the school during school hours must be buzzed in through the front doors and sign in and out at the office.
You are also reminded to wear a visitor’s badge while you are in the school. For safety reasons, it is important that we know who is in the school at all times.
Student Absences
Your child’s safety is very important to us, for this reason please make sure to call the automated attendance line at 1-855-209-6155 for each day that your child is going to be absent from school or will be coming in late.
An attendance call can be made at anytime however you need to call before 9 a.m. for the current school day. Safe arrival calls will be made each day for students that have an unexplained absence.
Late Arrivals
If a student arrives late to school, after the 9:15 a.m. entry bell, they must report to the office to sign in and receive a late slip before going to their class. Please help your child arrive to school on time up establishing and encouraging morning routines
Medication
If your child will require to take or have any medication (eg. Epi-pens, inhalers) while at school due to asthma, allergies or other medical conditions please inform the office. You will be given a medical form that will need to be completed by your family doctor and returned to school with the medication. No medication can be administered at the school without having a current medical form completed and on file at the school.
Birthdays
There are several students and staff who have severe food allergies in our school. For that reason, we ask to you please do not send any food items as a treat for a birthday or special celebration. If you wish to celebrate, sending materials to support learning in our school such as pencils, crayons, books, etc. would be appropriate. Thank you for your understanding.
Kiss and Ride
We understand that there are a lot of cars in the morning and after school using the Drop Off lane. We are asking for your patience and understanding and to follow the guidance of the teachers on duty.
Please note that children should never exit from the driver's side and even if they are seated behind the driver they should exit from the curbside.
Thank you for helping us in making Walnut Grove a safe school for all of our students
Nutrition Break Routines
We encourage all students to remain at school during both Nutrition Breaks, to participate in the variety of extra-curricular activities offered. However, we recognize that some families want their children to come home for lunch. In order to ensure student safety at all times, we have established some expectations for Nutrition Break Routines:
· parents/guardians will be asked to complete a form indicating their wishes for daily routines for lunch for their children – these will be kept on file to ensure that routines are being followed
·anytime that those routines are changed, parents/guardians will be required to contact the school (by phone or in writing) indicating the change in routine
· if students go home for lunch, they are expected to remain home for the entire break (40 minutes)
· students are expected to return ON TIME for next period
STUDENTS WILLL NOT BE PERMITTED TO LEAVE SCHOOL PROPERTY AT NUTRITION BREAKS EXCEPT TO GO HOME FOR LUNCH WITH PARENT PERMISSION. Students will not be allowed to go to the plaza across the street, nor are they allowed to go to a friend’s house for lunch.
Help protect students with severe allergies by keeping lunches, snacks
peanut-free
Anaphylaxis is a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that affects some children. We ask that you help us take care of these students by sending lunches and snacks for your child that are free from peanuts or nuts, because these foods are the leading cause of anaphylaxis.
Please read the label of any food you plan to send to school with your child. If the label says, "May contain nuts or peanuts," please do not send it to school.
You can get a complete copy of the Peel board's anaphylaxis guideline from the school office.
Supervision in Yard
Yard supervision for students begins at 9:00 a.m. Students should not be dropped off, or be arriving on school property, prior to 9:00 a.m. When outside, students need to play in their designated area and remain visible to the supervisor in the schoolyard.
Volunteers
Parents play an important role in the development and education of their children and in the success of the school community. At Walnut Grove, we welcome and encourage the participation of parents and community members, and are grateful for the countless hours our volunteers contribute throughout the school year.
To volunteer at our school, you must complete a short interview and a criminal record check. This Criminal Record Check must have been completed within the last 6 months, must include a Vulnerable Sector Screening (VSS) and must be an original copy. A police background check is required for all school volunteers in Ontario. Even if you want to accompany your child on a field trip, you need this background check.
Once you have completed the process, you are on file with the Peel District School Board as being a school volunteer. All returning volunteers will be mailed an Offence Declaration Form that must be filled out and returned to the board office each year. You will not be able to volunteer with the Peel board until you have returned this form.
If you have any questions about criminal record checks or the offence declaration form, please call the board office at 905-890-1010 ext. 2832.
Bring Your Own Device (B.Y.O.D.)
Walnut Grove students are welcome, with the permission of their parent/guardian, to bring a device from home to use at school for educational related purposes only. Students are expected to demonstrate good digital citizenship through the appropriate, responsible, legal and ethical use of technology. Parents are asked to sign a BYOD contract around the safe use of technology at school as outlined in the school’s code of conduct. Parents please look for this contract in your child’s agenda within the first few weeks of September.
If a student does not have access to a personal device, a school device (e.g., Net book, Chrome book, I Pad), may be made available for their use while on school property.
Principal's Message
We are so glad to welcome October, the cooler weather and beautiful fall colours that come with it. The start of fall always indicates a flurry of activity at Walnut Grove. There are numerous activities already underway, such as Terry Fox fundraising and Walk, Senior boys and girls Football, Eco activities, Inventors Club , to name just a few. We are so fortunate to have staff members who want to provide these valuable learning, extracurricular and social activities for students. We believe that all students should have an opportunity to develop interests and passions beyond the classroom and academics, in order to have a well rounded, healthy and balanced school experience.
As you know, every year schools across the board go though Reorganization , based on class sizes. This year, our numbers were only a bit lower than last year, and we went down 1 class in the Primary grades, and This resulted in dissolving 3 classrooms and shifting students to other existing classes to maintain Ministry required class sizes. This process is now complete, and all students are in the classes where they will remain for the rest of the school year. I want to thank all parents for their understanding when the changes affected their children.
I encourage you to read through this newsletter to familiarize yourself with everything that is happening at Walnut Grove, as well as upcoming events.
As always, I encourage you to stay active in your child’s education and communicate with teachers via class websites, phone calls or meetings. Please feel free to contact either myself or the Vice Principals as well. We are partners in your child education and school experience, and we want this year to a wonderful experience for students and their families.
On behalf of the Vice Principals, Mrs. Rofaiel and Ms. Tulloch-Harvey, I want to wish all Walnut Grove families a very Happy Thanksgiving!
School Council
School Council Elections will be held throughout the day and evening, on Thursday, October 3, between 9:00 am - 7:00 pm. We have been very fortunate to have had an amazing group of dedicated School Council members over the past years since we opened as a new school. I look forward to working positively and collaboratively with School Council again this year as we continue to support student achievement and success.
You should have received the Biographies of parents who have nominated themselves for election - if you did not receive this or have misplaced this, please contact the school office.
Upcoming dates:
Oct. 3 - School Council Elections
Oct. 4 - Winners of Election to be notified
Oct. 8 - School Council Meeting of newly elected members (meeting to determine positions)
As always, you do not have to be an elected member of School Council to attend meetings. Parents can attend any and all meetings that are held. You can also receive information by viewing our school website, as agendas and minutes of meetings are posted regularly.
2019 EQAO Results
As you know, each year, Grades 3, 6, 9, students in Ontario write EQAO provincial assessments. The results for the school, board and province are listed below, for both Grade 3 and 6 students at Walnut Grove.
As a school, we are very proud of the Grade 3 and 6 students from last year. Their performance in Reading and Writing continues to shine. We also recognize that our scores in Mathematics, while above the board and the province, do require us to continue to focus on developing stronger numeracy skills, particularly in explaining thinking and communicating understanding. Our school goal in numeracy will reflect the work we feel will help our students be successful.
School Success at Walnut Grove
What are our goals this school year?
- Our academic focus continues to be on further developing and deepening Numeracy skills. Students will continue to be engaged in problem solving, making meaningful connections and applications to the world around them, and to communicate their mathematical thinking and reasoning. Focus will also be on implementing Ministry expectations in numeracy, as well as maintaining our balanced numeracy program. Literacy skills also continue to be a focus and are integrated in meaningful ways throughout all areas of the curriculum.
- Engaging Modern Learners at Walnut Grove incorporates Inquiry-based learning, collaboration and the responsible and effective use of technology, to help further develop critical thinking skills in our students. Students are always encouraged to bring their own devices (BYOD), as they engage in learning using a variety of tools and resources. A new area of focus this year will be on going deeper with our STEAM activities, and design thinking.
- We continue to focus on and build upon our Bullying Prevention and Intervention plan, with student-led committees and activities, aimed at raising awareness and reducing/eliminating any instances of bullying at Walnut Grove. We have numerous extracurricular activities and programs aimed at developing positive student behaviour and effective problem solving skills. The “Your Voice Counts” survey results indicated that, while we are doing well in this area, we must continue to deepen and extend the work we are doing with students, staff and the community. Our GSA group will continue as well.
- Mental Health and Well Being will continue to be a focus for students, staff and families of Walnut Grove. We will continue to provide opportunities for learning about, and deepening our understanding and practice of mindfulness and wellness, and encourage students to develop and maintain “balance” in academics, extracurricular activities and family life.
- Our Equity and Inclusion focus will see a deepening awareness and understanding of Indigenous issues and rights, and respect and inclusiveness for all. As well, we continue to focus on We Rise Together, and anti-black racism.
Character Trait Monthly Winners
At Walnut Grove Public School we value healthy relationships where all staff, students and community members are welcomed and respected. Our monthly theme for October will be Inclusiveness and Sharing our Lives.
Inclusiveness means treating everyone fairly and equitably.
You show inclusiveness when you:
· Welcome and engage others.
· Treat everyone with respect and dignity.
· Approach situations free of prejudice.
· Reach out to others in a fair and equitable manner.
· Respect differences.
Sharing our Lives involves looking at:
How are our lives different? How are they the same? Start simply, for example, with our number of siblings, the city/town/ community we live in, or our position in the family as the oldest/ youngest/middle child. Then move deeper perhaps to what cultures we are from, or what religions or beliefs we follow (or don’t!). What do we think of as normal in our lives that might be different from someone else’s? How could we learn about each other’s lives this year?
Ask your child to share this information with you as well as what they have learned about themselves and others in school!
'CARING' Trait Winners from September
KG
Sachi, Samuel, Tanveer, Karan, Nesharaa, Matthias, Prabhleen, Avleen, Shaan, Harshleen, Yuvraj, Mithun, Armin, Angelina, Aarush M.
Grade 1
Nimer, Hargun, Gursimran, Harjot N., Amari J-A., Mannat D., Arvin S., Shreya C., Jayson A., Yashni, Veer, Aiden, Aria, Tavish, Anisha
Grade 2
Adam, Niam, Ashleen, Rania H., Hamid A., Stanford B., Thaksiga, AJ, Sukhmani, Roja, Praijon, Kareem, Ubhashnna, Eva, Khaleel, Kamsika
Grade 3
Mehar, Pari, Gurleen S., Jassica D., Riya B., Krishan S., Jasleen B., Aarmaan B., Tejas G., Anokhi C., Jayson S., Elias S., Aikamjeet, Tanisha, Neya, Chethan, Vrinda, Pooja
Grade 4
Harsahej, Riya R., Maneet, Rhea M., Nathaniel Ol, Prem G., Aarav M., Kapiison, Angelle H., Sarina, Abby, Armaan, Kiara
Grade 5
Matthew, Aarya, Avia R., Kavya K., Arvil M., Justin S., Tanvi P., Amina B., Devan B., Kabishan P., Balroop M.
Grade 6
Harvir S., Harsika S., Talon G., Sruthi, Khrithik, Sathishian, Jonathan, Nyasa, Lebron, Dewaan B., Machai S-V., Sarah C., Shivam P., Jaya C., Abhijeet K.
Grade 7
Brandon R., Aliya S., Julie T., Ashon, Saanvi, Japjot, Chris, Bhakti, Joban, Inaaya K., Shelly B., Armaan S.,
Grade 8
Leon, Eric, Afhsan, Dhruv, Jia S., Josiah B., Gurleen K., Mikayla F., Rumman H., Gabrielle M., Angadveer , Meera, Arjun, Krish, Sahil A., Zakiah A., Nathaniel J.
What's Happening at Walnut Grove
Picture Day at Walnut Grove October 3rd
Photo Day will be on October 3rd. Dress to impress and don’t forget to smile!
Walnut Grove Open House - Oct. 3rd, 6:30 - 7:30pm
Pizza Lunches - Thursdays, No Cash orders accepted
Starting Thursday, October 3rd , 2019,, and continuing every Thursday, students will have the opportunity to purchase slices of cheese pizza for $2.00 per slice. The pizza will be delivered in time for the 2nd Nutrition Break at 1:35 pm. For Kindergarten students pizza will be delivered by 12:00 pm.
Pizza slices are purchased from Domino’s Pizza. This company provides pizza to many schools in our area. They have shown that the nutritional guidelines, set up by the Ministry of Education, have been met, and in many cases the ingredients, such as sodium, are significantly below the Ministry guidelines. Their products are prepared fresh daily and the cheese contains no animal products; it is all rennet-free cheese.
We only accept On-line purchasing of pizza. If you require assistance setting up your account please come into our office and we can assist you.
Mr. Sub Lunches - Oct 2nd - No Cash Order Accepted
Starting Wednesday, October 2nd , 2019, and continuing every Wednesday, students will have the opportunity to purchase Mr. Sub for $5.50. The subs will be delivered in time for the 2nd Nutrition Break at 1:35 pm. For Kindergarten students subs will be delivered by 12:00 pm.
Our school is offering sub sandwiches on Wednesday's for second nutrition break again as a fundraiser. Our subs are supplied by Mr. Sub.
Proceeds will go towards extracurricular clubs, student resources and activities.
If your child is absent, no reimbursement can be given as the food is pre-ordered.
Sub sandwiches will be offered On-Line ONLY.
On-line through Cash Online: http://peelschools.schoolcashonline.com (for weekly and multiple week orders)
*Please note that if your child is absent on Sub Day, there are no refunds or credits for your child when they return to school.
Thank you for your continued support as we strive to give our students nutritious, appetizing and fun options for lunch.
News from the ECO TEAM
Staff and Students at Walnut Grove have started another wonderful Eco Club this fall. Some of our first initiatives include a school wide campaign to raise awareness around Boomerang Lunches'. A 'Boomerang Lunch' is when any lunch waste brought in the lunch bag will go back home, and not into our school's garbage can. This is to teach children the benefits of waste-reduction for our environment. Less garbage and packaging means less garbage in our landfills and less impact on our planet.
Here are some tips to help you pack litterless lunches.
Tips for packing a litterless lunch:
- use reusable lunch containers
- buy bulk food items and send to school in reusable containers
- pack sandwiches in reusable containers
- divide larger snacks into single serving reusable containers
- remember to put in a metal spoon/fork (utensil)
Once you get into the habit, you will be amazed how easy it is to do. Mother Earth will thank you!
Traffic Safety at Walnut Grove
Kiss and Ride
- always pull your car up as far as possible to allow more cars in the K&R lane
- Never let your children out of the car in the middle lane; students can only exit a vehicle from the K&R lane closest to the school
- Drivers must remain in their cars - this is not a parking area- pull up, students get out of the car, car leaves
- SLOW DOWN
- Enter to the right, NOT the left - please follow the arrows
- Always follow the directions of the staff who are on duty - they are there to help keep your children safe
- Be patient- if everyone follows the same rules, the K&R runs quickly and efficiently
Bus Lanes at the Front of the School
- this is NOT a pick up or drop off area for cars
- DO NOT enter this driveway while the buses are loading or unloading at the beginning and at the end of each day
- DO NOT run through the bus lanes to and from the street - this VERY DANGEROUS - use the sidewalks, as it only takes an extra minute or two
Traffic on Pinestaff and Tappett
- be considerate of the Buses - do not block their entry into the front driveway, and allow them out of the driveway and back on to the road
- Please model for children how to cross the street safely - darting in between moving cars on the roads is not only dangerous, it teaches kids to ignore safety
- Cross with crossing guards, and at the lights
- Do not block entrances and exits
- Slow down
Parking Cars on the Street
- obey the signs - many parents have received tickets for parking in areas that they shouldn't
- Do not block entrances/exits
- Use sidewalks to bring children to and from the school - never dart between buses
Overall, we have staff who are out on supervision duty in the morning and after school, to ensure student safety. We are asking for your help too. Please follow the directions of the staff on duty; they are thee to help keep you and your children safe.
News from the Peel District School Board
Peel District School Board to recognize Orange Shirt Day on September 27th
First launched in 2013 in Williams Lake, Orange Shirt Day commemorates the history and the legacy of residential schools, and the strength and fortitude of residential school Survivors and their descendants. Although Orange Shirt Day is on Monday, September 30, 2019 Peel District School Board schools and worksites will recognize the day on Friday September 27, 2019. Students and staff are encouraged to wear orange shirts at schools in recognition of the day. Furthermore, staff are encouraged to investigate age appropriate Peel resources to help all students understand the history of residential schools.
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC) has issued 94 Calls to Action, which include calls for schools and communities to teach students about Canada’s history of residential schools. Addressing the TRC’s Calls to Action are embedded in the Peel board’s commitments to achieve inclusion for all through continuous progress on equity. These commitments are captured in the Board’s Plan for Student Success. The board is proud to support Orange Shirt Day to help engage students in learning about the Residential School System and its legacy in Canada.
For more information on Orange Shirt Day, visit www.orangeshirtday.org
How you can get involved:
The Woodland Cultural Centre in Brantford, is hosting a Survivors Gathering on September 29th, supporting the journey of Residential School survivors and their families. Please go to http://woodlandculturalcentre.ca/event/survivors-gathering-2019/ for more information.
Ready? Set? High School! A Parent's Guide to High School
Get ready for what could be the most exciting and important years your teen spends in school. For the first time, teens will have to make choices about what they will study and what career pathway to choose.
Whatever path your teen chooses, we want to make sure your entire family is ready to meet the challenges and embrace the many opportunities that await your teen upon graduation. Our Parent’s Guide to High School will provide you with a snapshot of what you need to know to help your teen be successful. To view the online booklet, visit www.peelschools.org/parents/helpyourchild/parentguide.
For more ways on helping your teen make a smooth transition, visit www.peelschools.org/parents/helpyourchild.
Walnut Grove Celebrates Islamic Heritage Month
The Government of Canada first established October as Islamic History Month in 2007 while the Province of Ontario declared the month of October as Islamic Heritage Month in 2016.
During Islamic Heritage Month, schools across Peel will participate in a number of activities that recognize and celebrate the rich heritage, history, culture and contributions of Muslim Canadians as well as Muslim communities from around the world.
Here is a list of events happening at Walnut Grove:
- daily announcements
- book display for teachers and students in Library
- resource sharing for staff
- display case
School Bus Safety Week is taking place October 21 to 25, 2019
In Ontario over 825,000 students travel to and from school safely on a school bus each and every school day.
School Bus safety week is intended to raise awareness about school bus safety and the important work our School Bus Drivers perform throughout the province in safely transporting students.
Here in Peel Region our school buses travel over 100,000 kilometers per day and deliver 60,000 students safely to and from school.
STOPR would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone to take special care and caution whenever you are approaching a school bus. Always watch out for children, especially when the school bus is stopped with its overhead flashing lights and stop arm activated and students are being picked up or dropped off.
We all play an important role in school bus safety and keeping children safe. Please watch out for "the big yellow bus" and never pass a school bus with the overhead red lights flashing.
If you have children that ride a school bus this would be a good opportunity to review with them all of the important school bus safety rules to help keep them safe.
Please check our web site (www.STOPR.ca) for important student safety information and a safety video.
Wednesday October 23, 2019 is School Bus Driver Appreciation Day.
Driving a school bus can be very challenging at times. School Bus Drivers often deal with adverse weather, traffic and road conditions all the while ensuring that the many children riding on their school bus are safe and secure.
STOPR would like to take this opportunity to say "Thank You" to all of our dedicated School Bus drivers for the incredible job they do in keeping our students safe each and every school day.
On Wednesday October 23, 2019 please take a moment to offer a word of thanks to your children’s bus driver.
Becoming Aware of Your Own Self-Care
Taking care of oneself is crucial and necessary for everyday well-being and stress management. This applies to children, youth and adults. For students who are managing multiple transitions, their daily workload, tests and deadlines, as well as navigating peer relationships, coping comes easier when their basic needs are met. For parents, educators and other adults who take on caring roles, caring for others comes easier when our basic needs are attended to as well.
Consider the following areas of self-care:
Eat: We all need to refuel. If you are under a lot of stress, be mindful of the foods you choose. Keep a healthy snack nearby so that you can refuel easily and avoid being “hangry”.
Sleep: Aim to get seven to nine hours of sleep each night. Research has shown that getting five hours or less of sleep a night can create health problems. Getting enough sleep also helps you to better deal with the stresses of everyday life.
Drink: Drink a lot of water and consider decreasing or discontinuing caffeine intake. Our body’s response to caffeine can mimic a stress reaction and can cause you to feel nervous or contribute to sleeping difficulties.
Move: The positive effects of being physically active are astounding. It increases your energy, enhances your immune system, reduces insomnia, stimulates brain growth and acts as an anti-depressant. You can achieve these benefits by as little as a 30-minute walk.
Connect: Strong social connections are one of the most powerful influences on our well-being. Those who are dedicated to spending time with family and friends show the highest levels of happiness. If you can’t see your loved ones every day, you can still leave a note, send an email, or make a phone call.
Pause: Be sure to take time for yourself during the day. Take a few deep breaths, meditate, do a few stretches, take a brisk walk, or do some other activity that helps you feel restored.
What area(s) of self-care do you find easy to prioritize? What area(s) are most difficult? What one area could you work on improving over the next month or so? Consider discussing these areas with your family members. Perhaps individual family members may want to set a personal goal or the entire family may want to work on a shared family goal.
Also, remember to repeat. Research has shown that it takes approximately 21 days to establish a new habit or routine. By focusing on just one self-care practice for the next month, it is much more likely that you will incorporate this practice into your daily routine over the long term!
For updates and to follow along with the work of the PDSB Mental Health Resource Team, find them on Twitter @MHRTPeel.
Adapted from School Mental Health Ontario (2018) tipsheet “Personal Resiliency: The Basics of Self-Care”
Regional Learning Choices programs unlock passions
Regional Learning Choices Programs offered by the Peel District School Board empower students by providing them with opportunities to develop and explore skills in a particular area of interest. Regional programs are open to all students who meet the criteria for acceptance. Students and their families are encouraged to attend the information night for the program of their choice to receive more information about the program and application details.
Transportation is not provided for students in regional programs. If students have been accepted into a regional program and they live within the school boundary, they are eligible for busing only if they meet the distance criteria outlined in the board’s Transportation Policy #39.
All regional programs include annual fees, including a non-refundable $40 application fee, except the Regional Skilled Trades and Transportation Engineering and Technology programs, which are offered at no cost.
Important dates to note:
Applications open
Applications close
ELEMENTARY
Jan. 27, 2020 at 8:30 a.m.
Feb. 10, 2020 at 3 p.m.
SECONDARY
Nov. 11, 2019 at 8:30 a.m.
Nov. 25, 2019 at 3 p.m.
Programs
Schools offered at
Starts in grade: 6,7, 9
Royal Orchard MS
Central Peel SS, John Fraser SS
Earnscliffe Sr. PS (starts in grade 6), Queen Elizabeth Sr. PS (starts in grade 7), Cawthra Park SS, Mayfield SS
Morning Star MS
T.L. Kennedy SS
Bristol Rd. MS, WG Davis Sr. PS, Erindale SS, Glenforest SS, Harold M. Brathwaite SS, Turner Fenton SS
International Business and Technology
Allan A. Martin Sr. PS, Lisgar MS, Williams Pkwy Sr. PS, Meadowvale SS, North Park SS, T.L. Kennedy SS
International and Executive Leadership Academy
T.L. Kennedy SS
Judith Nyman (starting in September 2020), West Credit SS
Centennial Sr. PS, Macville PS, Tomken Rd. MS,
Chinguacousy SS, Port Credit SS
Applewood Heights SS
Central Peel SS, Port Credit SS
Truck and Coach Engineering and Technology
Bramalea SS
For more information about program information nights, busing, fees and the
application process, visit www.peelschools.org/RegionalPrograms
Engage. Educate. Empower. Speakers Series.
After 18 years, the Peel District School Board is revamping its annual parent conference. After hearing from participants, we are changing the traditional full-day workshop model to a multi-evening speaker series focused on a specific subject, where parents and caregivers will hear from a keynote speaker followed by a panel who will take audience questions. We will also invite Peel board departments, groups and community partners to share their information in an exhibitor area. The Engage. Educate. Empower. Speaker Series is co-presented by the Peel Elementary Teachers’ Local. Without their support, this free learning event for parents/caregivers would not be possible. Date and Time Location Topic and Speaker Monday, Nov. 4, 2019 5 to 8 p.m. HJA Brown Education Centre, 5650 Hurontario St., Mississauga Digital citizenship and online safety featuring Jesse Miller Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2020 Chinguacousy Secondary School, 1370 Williams Pkwy., Brampton TBA Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2020 Mayfield Secondary School, 5000 Mayfield Rd., Caledon East TBA *These free events are open to all Peel board parents of students at all grade levels. Reserve your spot for the first session starting Oct. 7, 2019 at www.peelschools.org/parents/conference.
Jump start your future with Explore High Skills
Explore High Skills is a Peel District School Board pathway program that allows secondary schools with Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) programs to offer a unique specialized program choice for grade 9 and 10 students.
These sector-related programs are available to students in all skill levels and in all pathways. Specialized programs in grade 9, like Explore High Skills, provide unique learning experiences to engage students as they transition to high school. Students can focus their learning on an area of interest as they build self-confidence, learn essential skills, and develop a sense of belonging in school and in the community.
To enroll in the Explore High Skills program, students will indicate their interest when selecting high school courses in the fall. For more information about the program and participating schools, go to www.peelschools.org/ExploreHighSkills
Peel District School Board program offers flexible school options for students
Does your child/teen have an intense sports or arts training and competition schedule that makes it difficult to attend school regularly? The Peel District School Board’s Peel Region High Performers Program will offer flexible timetabling to accommodate student athletes and artists with demanding practice, competition, rehearsal and/or performance schedules.
Peel Region High Performers Program is offered at:
- Britannia Public School (grades 4 to 5)
- Dolphin Sr. Public School (grades 6 to 8)
- Mississauga Secondary School (grades 9 to 12)
Information nights will be offered as follows:
Location Information Night
Nov. 7, 2019 from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Nov. 6, 2019 from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Nov. 5, 2019 from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
For more information, visit www.peelschools.org/HighPerformers.
Videotaping on school premises
Peel board recognizes Peel Principals and Vice-Principals’ Day
In 2018, the board of trustees declared the second Wednesday of October as Peel Principals and Vice-Principals’ Day. This year, due to a holy day conflict, this date will be celebrated on Oct. 2. This day allows the community to recognize the important work of principals and vice-principals, and to acknowledge the lasting contributions that they make in the lives of students, families and community members. Take a moment to let your principal and vice-principal know they are truly appreciated.
Celebrate Teachers’ Recognition Day in Peel
Oct. 23 opportunity to say ‘thanks’ to bus drivers
Peel schools will pay tribute to bus drivers on Bus Driver Appreciation Day on Oct. 23, 2019. The day will be celebrated with special activities and events that provide teachers, students and parents an opportunity to thank the people who safely transport over 36,000 students to and from school each day.
If your child rides the bus to school, take this opportunity to thank the bus driver for his or her contribution and ask your child to do so too. The Peel board appreciates the important job bus drivers do each school day and Oct. 23 provides an opportunity to give these individuals the recognition they deserve.
Get involved in your child’s education
Research shows parent involvement positively affects student success. Becoming more involved brings many benefits. You will get to know teachers, the principal and other parents better. You will be able to share your talents, experiences and ideas. You will inspire youth—and be inspired by them. You will show your child how much you value education. You will gain insights that can help you to boost your child's learning. And you could develop skills and knowledge that can help you in your own career.
There are many ways to be involved. Attending the Peel District School Board's annual parent conference, volunteering at your child's school, talking to your teen about their school day and reading with your child at night are all forms of parent involvement. Visit www.peelschools.org/parents/involved to learn more.
Tips to ensure the safety of students
At the Peel District School Board, the safety and well-being of students remains our top priority. While staff do their best to support students at school, parents are encouraged to remind their child(ren) to not touch or pick-up any unfamiliar or sharp items found at the school or elsewhere. This includes needles, syringes, plants, animals and more. When a child encounters any unfamiliar items, they should notify an adult.
Here are some helpful tips for parents/guardians to share with their child(ren):
Leave unfamiliar or sharp items alone. Items include:
Broken glass
Sharp metal or splintered wood
Live or dead animals
Needles or syringes
Barrels, cans or buckets
Spray cans
Heavy objects
Plants, such as poison ivy
If they encounter such items, inform an adult so they may notify proper authorities or dispose of it safely.
Educate your child(ren) to identify unfamiliar items. Talk to them about why they should not be touching these items.
Let nature be natural.
Leave nature materials alone: logs, leaves, branches, sticks, etc.
Do not dig up big items. Digging may lead to erosion.
What happens when you touch an unfamiliar item.
If a child touches any of these objects or hurt themselves, they should notify an adult immediately. Even a small cut can become infected.
Be mindful of your surroundings. Children can find unfamiliar items in familiar settings, such as their neighbourhood or school grounds. Remind them to notify an adult when they encounter any of these items.
Protect your kids — and your finances
Each year, many of our families spend thousands of dollars when their children are injured at school, on field trips or at home. Government health care plans and group insurance plans often provide limited coverage for accident expenses. Sometimes, expenses are not covered at all! This means that you, the parent/guardian, are left financially responsible.
To help protect your family, the Peel board has arranged to have student accident insurance available exclusively through Old Republic Insurance Company of Canada’s insuremykids® student accident insurance program.
The coverage can include:
• dental expenses, and future costs (resulting from an accident)
• total and permanent disability
• paralysis/loss of use of limbs
• special disability benefits
• ambulance fees
The Peel District School Board does not provide accident insurance coverage for student injuries that occur on school property or during school activities—this includes extracurricular sports. If a student is injured, parents are responsible for any costs not covered by provincial health care or their employer's health care plan. Please check with your provider regarding your coverage.
The provincial health care system does not cover costs, which are commonly related to accidents including dental work, ambulance fees, casts and crutches, and physiotherapy. All of these are covered by insuremykids® student accident insurance program. They offer three plans with a variety of benefits at affordable rates.
It is strongly recommended that all families consider this coverage, especially if your child participates in extracurricular activities. The insurance agreement is between you and Old Republic Insurance Company of Canada.
For more information, please visit www.insuremykids.com or call toll free at 1-800-530-5446
Our work has just begun.
The Peel Learning Foundation’s mission is to raise funds to enable Peel District School Board students to achieve personal excellence by providing resources that help them overcome barriers. We officially launched in February 2019, and to date, the foundation has supported more than 200 students.
Did you know that 1 in 5 students in Peel Region face barriers related to poverty.
That’s more than 27,000 Peel board students.
Through the Student Emergency Needs program and Student Backpack program, the support we provide can be as simple as providing funds for food or transportation, a winter coat, or a backpack filled with school supplies. This type of support can enrich a student's school experience and help them achieve success. Any teacher, staff or support person can speak confidentially to their school’s principal, vice-principal or supervisor when they encounter a student in need, who will then reach out to us to ask for help.
There are many ways that you can support the foundation. A gift will help us achieve great things for students. To learn more, visit www.peellearningfoundation.org/how.
You can help us create hopeful tomorrows.
www.PeelLearningFoundation.org l 905-890-1010 ext. 2461 l foundation@peelsb.com
@PeelLearningFDN l /PeelLearningFDN
Tips for being a smart trick-or-treater
Halloween is a fun and exciting time, but safety should be the number one concern. Here are some safety tips for children:
Wear a properly fitted costume that is bright and non-flammable. Use reflective tape on your costume so you can be seen in the dark.
Use face makeup or enlarge the eyes on your mask so you can see well. When wearing a mask, push it up on your head while walking.
Teach children to visit the front door of well-lit homes and never go inside.
Help your child plan a route and a time to be home.
Remind children to always walk on the sidewalk, and obey traffic and pedestrian signals.
Have an adult check treats at home before allowing children to eat them.
Younger children should go trick-or-treating with an adult. Older children are reminded to trick-or-treat in groups.
Teach children their home phone number and how to call 9-1-1 if they have an emergency or become lost.