Friday, September 8, 2023

Parents/Guardians,

We’ve come to the end of the first week of school and everyone is settling into being back at school.  There are some important updates below.

Reorganization of Kindergarten and Primary Classes

Due to increased enrolment and large class sizes, we have been provided with an additional teacher.  This means that we will be working over the next few days to reorganize our Kindergarten, Grade 1, Grade 2 and Grade 3 classes.  We will work to minimize the impact on students, however, there will be several changes to class placements.  Please know that the staff work hard to get placements right for students to build a community, and a lot of time and effort goes into this.  Once we have a firm plan for classroom transitions we will share this information with parents.

Open House

Our Open House is scheduled for Wednesday, September 13 from 5 to 6 PM.  This will be a chance for you to visit the school and enjoy a slice of pizza (maybe two!). 

The Port Hope Police Service will be here that night completing criminal record checks for anyone who resides in Ward 1.  Anyone living in Ward 2 or Hamilton Township will need to complete the OPP form available online.  Please complete your check yearly if you’d like to volunteer with the school.  Remember to bring your ID if you would like to complete your check.

Nut Allergy

We do have significant nut allergies at the school.  Please keep this in mind when packing your child(ren)’s lunch.

Drop-off and Change to Pick-up

A reminder that there is no supervision for students prior to 9 AM.  In order to keep students safe please do not drop them off prior to this time.

If you are changing your child’s pick-up please let the office and/or teacher know prior to 3 PM.  This allows staff to make the necessary adjustment and helps to reduce confusion at the end of the day.  Thank you for your help with this.

Verification Forms

Student Verification and Information Release forms have been sent home with students.  Please review these forms and send them back to the school as soon as possible.  This information ensures that we have the correct contact information on file.

All the best

A reminder that our Open House will be tomorrow, Wednesday, September 13, from 5 to 6 PM.  There will be pizza available and it's a chance to check out your child(ren)'s classroom.  Looking forward to seeing you tomorrow!

Friday, September 15, 2023

It was great to see everyone at the Open House on Wednesday.  A big thanks to all the staff for all their work getting organized, School Council for helping to hand out pizza and the Port Hope Police Service for coming to complete records checks. 

New Staff Grade 1/2

Please join me in welcoming Katherine Nelson to the new Grade 1/2 classroom.  We are happy to have the additional staff to work with students in the classroom.

As a result of the new classroom some of our students will be moving classrooms on Monday, September 18.  We have contacted the parents of students who are moving, and these students had a chance to visit their new classroom.

Terry Fox September 28

Beatrice Strong Public School's Terry Fox Online Fundraising link: https://schools.terryfox.ca/BeatriceStrongPSPortHope

Beatrice Strong Public School is participating in the Terry Fox School Run! We are so proud to be a part of this Canadian tradition in the fight against cancer. Please support our student’s fundraising efforts and donate today at: https://schools.terryfox.ca/BeatriceStrongPSPortHope #terryfoxschoolrun @theterryfoxfoundation

Book Fair

The Book Fair is back!  We will have the Scholastic Book Fair at the school from Monday, September 25 until Thursday, September 28.  Students will have an opportunity to visit the Book Fair and all proceeds support the Library.

School Council

We will have our first School Council meeting on Wednesday, September 27 at 6 PM

Dates to Remember

Thursday, September, 28 – Terry Fox Run

Friday, September 29 – PA Day, no school for students

Monday, October 2 – Orange Shirt Day

Wednesday, October 4 – School Photo Day

Monday, October 9 – Thanksgiving, no school

Friday, September 22, 2023

Please see below for some important information about events coming up at the school.

Hot Lunch

Hot Lunch is now available to order for October using the Healthy Hunger website.  There will be Papa’s Pizzaland on Tuesday and Subway on Thursday.  You can sign up and order by visiting the Healthy Hunger website at:

https://healthyhunger.ca/

Terry Fox September 28

This year we are planning on having a “Week for Terry”, where each day will be a spirit day and all donations will go towards our Terry Fox fundraining initiative.

Here are our “Week for Terry” Spirit Days:

Monday, September 25- Stuffy Day, bring a stuffy to school for $1

Tuesday, September 26- Wear Your Hat in Class for $1

Wednesday, September 27- PJ Day, wear your PJs to school for $1

Thursday, September 28- Terry Fox Walk/Run, bring a toonie for Terry!

You can also donate online at https://schools.terryfox.ca/BeatriceStrongPSPortHope

Thank you for joining us in the fight against cancer!

Book Fair

The Book Fair is back!  We will have the Scholastic Book Fair at the school from Monday, September 25 until Thursday, September 28.  Students will have an opportunity to visit the Book Fair and all proceeds support the Library.

School Council

We will have our first School Council meeting on Wednesday, September 27 at 6 PM

Mathletes

Our Grade 3 to 5 students will have a chance to take part in a fun day of Math learning with the Mathletes program on Wednesday, September 27.  It’s a chance for students to work together solving math challenges in small groups in a fun and engaging way.  Be sure to ask your child(ren) about it!

Dates to Remember

Thursday, September, 28 – Terry Fox Run

Friday, September 29 – PA Day, no school for students

Monday, October 2 – Orange Shirt Day

Wednesday, October 4 – School Photo Day

Monday, October 9 – Thanksgiving, no school

Friday, September 29, 2023

See below for a some updates. 

North Parking Lot and Crosswalk

Please take care and give yourself time if you are using this lot, we have students and parents who pick up on foot and use the crosswalk and we want everyone to be able to use this area safely.  If the spaces are full you can park at the church or the other ball diamond parking area and walk over to get your child(ren).  As always, walking, riding a bike or using the bus are great options that help to reduce congestion at the start and end of the day.

We’re looking at options for the parking lot and will share more details once we have them.

Hot Lunch

Hot Lunch is now available to order for October using the Healthy Hunger website.  There will be Papa’s Pizzaland on Tuesday and Subway on Thursday.  You can sign up and order by visiting the Healthy Hunger website at:

https://healthyhunger.ca/

There does appear to be an error in how to order the different Subway sandwich choices, they are in separate entries but with the same date (there are 4 choices).  This should be corrected for next month.

New Staff

Please welcome Mrs. Ingrid DeSouza to Beatrice Strong.  She is working as an Educational Assistant (EA) supporting students at the school.

Dates to Remember

Monday, October 2 – Orange Shirt Day

Wednesday, October 4 – School Photo Day

Thursday, October 5- Area Cross Country meet

Monday, October 9 – Thanksgiving, no school

Have a great weekend!

This Thursday, February 1st, there will be a Pan-Aftrican flag raising ceremony taking place at 11:00 a.m. at Port Hope Town Hall, in celebration of Black History Month.  It is a wonderful opportunity for some of our Beatrice Strong staff/parents/students to attend!  Students from our neighbouring schools will also be in attendance.  More information to come tomorrow. 

Here is the link to the media advisory that went out:

https://www.porthope.ca/en/news/pan-african-flag-raising-ceremony-to-take-place-february-1.aspx

We are so thrilled to be welcoming home our Beatrice Strong families to our NEW French Immersion Program, beginning in September 2024.  This will be a gradual implementation as we start with students in Grades K-3.  Please click on the Link for more information.  

French Immersion is coming to BSPS

April 2nd is 'World Autism Awareness Day'

Please consider wearing BLUE on Tuesday to show your support!

Check out our WAG for all the amazing engagement of our staff/students and community!  Also, see What's New and What's Ahead!

Beatrice Strong WAG 

Dear KPR families, 

Welcome back to another exciting school year in KPR!  

On behalf of the Board of Trustees and senior administration, we are pleased and excited to welcome students, staff and families back to our elementary and secondary schools on Tuesday, September 5.  

We hope during the summer that our students and families have found ways to rest, recharge and spend time together. There is nothing that brings us greater joy than welcoming thousands of students back to our schools, and sharing in their excitement and energy. 

Our schools are safe, inclusive and vibrant places where we set high expectations for success. We continue to focus on seeing all students as capable learners, sparking their curiosity and elevating their voices. We know how important it is for students to feel seen, heard and reflected in the learning resources, spaces and people around them.  

Together, we will continue our work to create equitable conditions for positive learning, well-being and success for ALL students.  We remain committed to our mission in all we do - we inspire our students to excel in learning, succeed in life, and enrich our communities.  

As you prepare your child and your family for the excitement of the first day and all of the learning and firsts for the year ahead, please know that we are as excited as you are, and we look forward to continuing to work in partnership to support student success.  

Well-being is just as important as learning, and is foundational to all types of success. In closing we are sharing the Mentally Healthy School Support Package, as a valuable resource to support student mental health and well-being as we enter the 2023-24 school year. 

Please check out the KPR website, or contact your school office, if you have questions about school or need more information. If you are on social media, you can follow us @kprschools. 

Best wishes for the year ahead!  Together #WeAreKPR 

Sincerely, 

Steve Russell                                                Rita Russo 
Chairperson of the Board                         Director of Education 

KPR NEWS 

Student Busing 

As you may know, bus driver shortages have been an ongoing issue for many school boards for several years, including here at KPR. 

We are very excited that our bus operators have shared that, at this time, all KPR bus and transportation routes currently have drivers for the start of the school year, and that they continue to recruit and hire spare drivers. This good news is thanks to a targeted recruitment campaign, to attract more bus drivers in our area.  

Our thanks to staff at Student Transportation Services of Central Ontario (STSCO) who have been working with bus operators on a regular basis and throughout the summer to monitor ongoing recruitment and training efforts. 

We are pleased to be in this positive position as we begin the school year. For more information about bus routes and transportation, please visit the Student Transportation Services of Central Ontario website. 

PA Day Learning 

Throughout the upcoming school year, we will be sharing more information about how KPR staff are learning and working together on Professional Activity (PA) Days to support students’ success.   

Staff at elementary and secondary schools will be engaged in a full day of learning during the August 31 PA Day.  Among the areas of learning for staff on this day are: School Improvement Planning, Workplace Violence Awareness, Curriculum Implementation and Mental Health. 

Further details on PA Day plans can be found on our website.  

The learning focus for the month of September is Truth and Reconciliation. To access weekly activities, reflection questions and resources to support your learning, visit the resource at the following link: September Passport to ReconiliACTION - Google Slides

Hello everyone,  

Just two weeks into the new school year, students are becoming more familiar with routines and school is back in full swing. I have had the pleasure of visiting schools over the last couple of weeks and I continue to be inspired by the curiosity and determination of students, and the innovation and passion of staff. KPR truly is an awesome place to be! 

The start of the school year provides many opportunities for students to make new connections, build meaningful relationships and get involved in their school and community. Participating in activities at school and learning new skills can contribute to student well-being in many ways.  

Next weekend, KPR is participating in the Peterborough Pride Parade. Everyone is welcome to join us to show pride and allyship, and to support and celebrate people of all sexual orientations and gender identities; to honour those who have paved the way for equal rights; and to contribute to building accepting attitudes, safe and inclusive spaces in our schools and communities. Peterborough Pride Parade is Saturday, September 23, at 1:30 pm, beginning at Peterborough City Hall.  

Lastly, with several important days of significance coming up in the days ahead, including two Jewish holidays, Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, and Powley Day recognized by Métis communities, I invite you to visit KPR’s Events Calendar to learn more about these important observances and others.  

Wishing you a lovely weekend. 

Take care, 

Rita Russo 
Director of Education 

KPR NEWS 

Curve Lake Pow Wow 

The 70^th annual Curve Lake Pow Wow takes place tomorrow and Sunday. Everyone is welcome to attend the annual celebration of ceremony, dance, and song. The Curve Lake Pow Wow website contains important cultural information to inform your participation. 

Annual Parent Conference 

Save the date – KPR's Annual Parent Conference is returning the morning of Saturday, October 21 as a virtual event, featuring keynote speaker Dr. Jean Clinton!  

Through the context of building resilience and healthy relationships, Dr. Clinton will share practical strategies to empower parents and caregivers to support their children during important transitions and create conditions to help them thrive throughout their educational journey and beyond!  

More details and registration information are coming soon!  

Report IT! 

The Office of the Commissioner of Human Rights, Equity and Accessibility (COHREA) is fully accessible and available to all students, staff and families to report any issues of concern, and in particular human rights-based issues of discrimination and harassment that involve a breach of the Human Rights Code, and barriers to accessibility under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act. The Commissioner’s Office promptly reviews, assesses and determines necessary next steps for addressing all complaints.   

While we continue to encourage students, staff and families to first address concerns directly with those involved in the situation, e.g. the teacher, principal, manager or superintendent, concerns may also be reported confidentially, through the online reporting tool – Report IT!  More information about the COHREA is available on the Board website or by contacting the office directly at cohrea@kprdsb.ca  

New Language Curriculum Grade 1 to 8 – A Guide for Parents 

Ontario’s language curriculum for Grades 1 to 8 was updated last spring by the Ministry of Education for implementation beginning this September. The parent guide below provides an overview of the knowledge and skills that students will learn in each grade. Language, Grades 1 to 8: a guide for parents (gov.on.ca)  

Grade 9 English – A Guide for Parents 

A new de-streamed English curriculum was recently released. More details about the new Grade 9 English course are available on the Ministry of Education website. 

Dear KPR Families,

September is always a flurry of activity at KPR, with many students, staff and families participating in events and community-building opportunities such as the annual Terry Fox days, school council meetings, open houses and so much more.

While this month has been filled with much energy and excitement, our school communities have spent this week engaging in reflection and age-appropriate learning and discussion about the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, which is recognized on September 30.

This is a solemn day of remembrance, and a time to recognize the tragic history and harm caused by residential schools. We honour First Nations, Métis, and Inuit children and communities impacted by the residential school system and remember those who never returned home.

In recognition of this observance, flags will be flown at half-mast at KPR schools and education centres this weekend. As a learning institution, we remain committed to Indigenous knowledge, culture, and perspectives and applying a lens of reconciliation to all that we do. More information about this day is available from the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation and the Government of Canada.

This year, we are sharing more information about how KPR staff are learning and working together on Professional Activity (PA) Days to support students’ success.

The September 29 Professional Activity (PA) Day will focus on the following areas:

• Student Safety and Well-Being (Anti-Sex Trafficking, Cyber Security and Privacy Awareness)
• Curriculum Implementation Elementary – Literacy  
• Secondary – Literacy, Assessment and Evaluation, and
• School Improvement Planning

Thank you to everyone for supporting a successful start to the school year – and especially to all KPR teachers, custodial, maintenance and trades staff who we will be highlighting in social posts next week on National Custodial Recognition Day on Monday, October 2, and World Teachers’ Day on Thursday, October 5.

For more information on days of significance coming up next month, including Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and Two-Spirit Peoples (MMIWG2S) Honouring and Awareness Day on October 4, please visit KPR’s events calendar.

Sincerely,

Rita Russo,

Director of Education

KPR NEWS

Parent Conference - What My Child’s Behaviour is Telling Me

We are excited to announce that registration is NOW OPEN for KPR’s annual Parent Conference! Join us on Saturday, October 21, from 9:30am – 11:30am for this FREE virtual event, featuring keynote speaker Dr. Jean Clinton.

Through the context of building resilience and healthy relationships, Dr. Clinton will provide parents and caregivers the opportunity to learn about self-regulation strategies, how to overcome and manage challenging behaviours and tips for supporting healthy, positive, social behaviours.

For more information about this event, and to register, please visit our website.

Rowan’s Law Concussion Awareness

The last Wednesday in September every year is Rowan’s Law Day – a day to increase awareness about the dangers of concussions. These Concussion Awareness Resources can help students and families recognize the signs and symptoms of concussions.

The learning focus for the month of October is film. To access weekly activities, reflection questions and resources to support your learning, visit the resource at the following link: October Passport to ReconciliACTION - Google Slides

Dear KPR Families,

I hope each of you had the opportunity to rest, spend time with loved ones, and enjoy the beautiful fall colours this past long weekend.

We continue to be deeply saddened by the violent, tragic events in the Middle East. This week has been very difficult, and our thoughts continue to be with all those mourning the loss of loved ones in the deadly attacks by Hamas on Israel over the weekend, and the devastating impacts of ongoing violence for all those living in the region. We recognize, for the Jewish, Israeli and Palestinian communities, the impacts are profound and deeply personal. Many KPRDSB students, staff, and families are directly affected by these horrific acts through family, community, identity, and history.

We are deeply committed to providing support and care for students, staff and families.

To help guide challenging conversations or questions, families may wish to review this resource to Support Youth Following a Traumatic Event, from KPR’s Mental Health services.

As we look ahead to next week, school communities will have the opportunity to learn more about the important role of school board trustees during Local Government Week. Students and staff are invited to visit our Board website for information about KPR’s Trustees or follow the hashtag #LocalGovWeek on social media to learn about local government.

Next week is also Child Care Worker and Early Childhood Educator (ECE) Appreciation Day, on October 17. This day recognizes the significant commitment, hard work and dedication of ECEs and all staff who work with young children. Thank you for everything you do to support students along their educational journey.

Lastly, we share a special thank you to bus drivers and transportation staff as we recognize School Bus Driver Appreciation Day on October 18. Our schools rely on the dedicated service of bus and transportation drivers each day – and we extend our sincere thanks to everyone who plays a part in school transportation!

Wishing everyone a good weekend.

Rita Russo, Director of Education

KPR NEWS

Immunization Notices

Families with students who are not up-to-date on required immunizations may have already received, or can expect to receive, an immunization reminder letter from their local public health unit.

Children who receive a letter are overdue for immunizations required for school under the Immunization of School Pupils Act. Students who do not have the required immunizations could be suspended from school if they do not provide a record of vaccination to local public health departments.

Families can visit their local public health unit’s website for more details on how to update their records or where to access upcoming immunization clinics.

Durham Region Health Department

Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit 

Hastings Prince Edward Public Health

Peterborough Public Health 

Parent Conference - What My Child’s Behaviour is Telling Me

KPR’s annual Parent Conference is Saturday, October 21, from 9:30am – 11:30am. Join us for this FREE virtual event, featuring keynote speaker Dr. Jean Clinton!

Through the context of building resilience and healthy relationships, Dr. Clinton will provide parents and caregivers the opportunity to learn about self-regulation strategies, how to overcome and manage challenging behaviours and tips for supporting healthy, positive, social behaviours.

For more information about this event, and to register, please visit our website.

Dear KPR families, 

Leading up to the winter break, our schools will continue to be filled with vibrant energy as students, staff and families come together in different ways, taking part in learning activities, events, concerts, performances, and spreading kindness through community involvement, food drives and other charitable activities. 

With many different cultures and backgrounds in our KPR community, we are so fortunate to have the opportunity to learn about and share in each other’s celebrations and traditions. To those currently observing Chanukah, and those looking forward to celebrating Winter Solstice, Christmas and Kwanzaa in the coming weeks – we wish you all a joyful celebration! KPR’s Events Calendar is a great resource to learn more about these days of significance and others.  

While many of us may be feeling the excitement of the holiday season, I want to acknowledge that for some people, the holiday season may be a stressful or difficult time of year for many reasons. Let’s be kind to one another and check in on friends and neighbours.  

Lastly, it is my pleasure to share with you a small glimpse into the dedication and passion of our Student Trustees, Jillian Thomas and Albatoul Alshraideh. In their message to fellow KPR students, they share insight into their leadership journey and encourage all students to continue to reach out and share their voice! Keep an eye out for future #WeAreKPR spotlight videos highlighting the amazing contributions of our students, staff and volunteers. 

Wishing everyone an enjoyable and restful weekend.  

Rita Russo 
Director of Education 

KPR NEWS 

Change to April PA Day  

The Board has approved a change to the 2023-2024 School Year Calendar, reflecting that the scheduled April 26, 2024 Professional Activity Day has been moved to April 8, 2024. 

A total solar eclipse will be affecting all regions of the Board on April 8, 2024, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., causing diminished levels of daylight as it progresses. The peak of the eclipse will occur during dismissal time across the school board, increasing student safety concerns for safe travel and potentially damaging eye exposure to the sun at that time. Resources to support learning and student safety on that day will be shared throughout the school board community.   

High School Grade 8 Information Nights  

KPR secondary schools are hosting information sessions for parents, caregivers and students between November and January. Grade 8 families can learn everything they need to know about schools, programs, courses and the many exciting opportunities that are available! For event details, including a list of dates and times, students and families can visit the Board website.  

Dear KPR Families,

As the year draws to a close, I want to extend my sincere best wishes for a restful and joyful holiday break.

Yesterday was Winter Solstice, a day to mark the return of the sun’s presence in the sky, and a day with important significance in Indigenous cultures and communities. It is recognized as a time of renewal and reflection.    

On behalf of myself and the senior administrative team, Chairperson of the Board Jaine Klassen Jeninga, and KPR’s Board of Trustees, Merry Christmas, Happy Kwanzaa and Happy Holidays to all who are celebrating in the coming days. Information about Days of Significance is available on the KPR Events Calendar.  

As a school district, we remain committed to helping students find success and a sense of well-being and belonging at school and we know there is always more we can do toward these shared goals. I look forward to the start of the new year, filled with many more opportunities to inspire excellence in learning, life and community!   

Sincerely,

Rita Russo
Director of Education

KPR News 

Greetings from the Minister of Education 

Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education, has asked us to share this holiday greeting video with families and students in our schools.  https://youtu.be/t1GnF_-j_qU?si=Bz5lPOIWpGxlAnDz  

Dear KPR Families,

Welcome Back! I hope each of you had a restful and enjoyable break, and that you’ve had a positive first week back at school despite the overdue arrival of winter weather!

With the new year, I’d like to take the opportunity to share an exciting update about KPR’s new Strategic Plan. After widespread consultation with students, staff, families and communities, and many months of dialogue and visioning among our Board of Trustees and Senior Administration – we are pleased to introduce KPR’s Strategic Plan for 2023-26: Inspiring Excellence in Learning, Success in Life and Community.

Please take a moment to watch this short video message from Chairperson Jaine Klassen Jeninga and myself introducing the Strategic Plan. Our new plan charts a purposeful course towards even stronger outcomes for our students, staff and school board. Throughout our online and in-person engagement, we heard strongly about the need to focus not only on academic achievement and success for students, but also to support differentiated and diverse learning pathways to meet the unique strengths, skills and needs of all students. 

We hope everyone can see themselves reflected within these priorities, which reflect our common, core values of student achievement and success, well-being and belonging, and relationships. More information about the strategic plan, our process and culmination of the engagement process across the district can be found on our Board website.

Lastly, I want to extend a special thank you to all those who took the time to share their voices and experiences, which greatly contributed towards the development of our new strategic priorities. I look forward to continuing to work together as we bring these commitments to life over the next three years!

Sincerely,

Rita Russo
Director of Education

KPR NEWS

2024-25 School Year Calendar Survey

We invite KPR students, staff and families to provide feedback on the proposed 2024-25 school year calendar through an online survey by February 5th. After the survey closes, the calendar will be brought to the Board of Trustees and then submitted to the Ministry of Education for final approval.

Highlights of the proposed calendar include the following dates:

• The first day of school for students is Tuesday, September 3, 2024.  
• The last day of classes before winter break will be Friday, December 20, 2024.
• The proposed winter break is from December 23, 2024 - January 3, 2025, and students will return to class on Monday, January 6, 2025.
• Students would be off school for March Break beginning Friday, March 7 through Friday, March 14, 2025.

Pediculosis Regulation and Guideline Review

Based on public health guidance, changes are being recommended to operational practices around pediculosis (head lice) in schools. School councils, staff and families are invited to review the proposed changes and provide feedback using an online form, by March 24, 2024.

High School Grade 8 Information Nights 

KPR secondary schools host information sessions for parents, caregivers and students between November and January. Grade 8 families can learn everything they need to know about schools, programs, courses and the many exciting opportunities that are available! For event details, including a list of dates and times, students and families can visit the Board website. 

Dear KPR families,

One of the many things I am grateful for in my role as Director of Education is being able to share stories of our success as a school district, through the Director’s Annual Report.

The 2023 Director’s Annual Report includes student and staff stories that highlight moments of inspiration, accomplishments and incredible growth across our Board. I invite you to watch this brief video from Chairperson Jaine Klassen Jeninga and myself, providing a glimpse into the report and some of the incredible stories you will come across through its pages. These stories celebrate success in math and literacy, community involvement, student voice, our commitment to inclusivity and belonging, Indigenous education, and so much more! Another important highlight of the report is the recognition of our amazing KPR employees who contribute to student success in countless ways every day. In particular, we shine the spotlight on three #WeAreKPR heroes who each go above and beyond in their roles as Head Custodians: Lee Anne at Dr. Ross Tilley PS, John at Kawartha Heights PS, and Margaret at Roseneath Centennial PS.

As we move forward with this school year, I’d like to reiterate the importance of taking good care of our mental health. Many of our students and staff have been participating in mental health and wellness activities this week, as part of #KPRLetsConnect and broader conversations about mental health and well-being happening across Canada. It’s important that these discussions continue beyond this week. I also want to remind everyone of resources available for students.

In addition to focusing on mental health and wellness in January, there are several significant events and observances this month, including Family Literacy Day, Holocaust Remembrance Day, and the Remembrance of the Quebec City Mosque Attack and Action Against Islamophobia. More information about these and other days of significance is available on the KPR Events Calendar on our website.

I would like to end my message by extending best wishes to secondary students completing exams and culminating tasks next week.

Sincerely,

Rita Russo
Director of Education

KPR News

Kindergarten

It’s Kindergarten registration time at Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board. KPR schools offer warm, welcoming Kindergarten programs that engage and encourage children to reach their full potential. Visit kprschools.ca/kindergarten for online registration information and to learn more about KPR’s safe, inclusive classrooms, where children learn through play! 

Share your Feedback!

We invite KPR students, staff and families to provide feedback on the following:

1. The proposed 2024-25 School Year Calendar: The proposed school year calendar is available on our website, and the online survey will be available until February 5. After the survey closes, the calendar will be brought to the Board of Trustees and then submitted to the Ministry of Education for final approval.
   
   
2. Pediculosis Regulation and Guideline Review: Based on public health guidance, changes are being recommended to operational practices around pediculosis (head lice) in schools. School councils and families are invited to review the proposed changes and provide feedback using an online form, by March 24, 2024.

Dear KPR families,

Our schools are full of positive opportunities for reflection this month.

We are currently celebrating Black History Month - a time for intentional recognition of the achievements, contributions and lived experiences of Black communities. In our learning at KPR, we recognize the value of celebrating and highlighting Black History and Black Excellence every day.

As we honour and celebrate the history, achievements, and excellence of Black communities around the world, we are mindful, in our schools and through our social media posts, to share multi-faceted stories that do not limit or reduce narratives of the Black Experience to trauma, struggle, and/or oppression, because there is so much more to the stories of Black communities.

Yesterday, the Ontario government announced new mandatory learning in Grades 7, 8 and 10 history on the exceptional contributions and history of Black Canadians, beginning September 2025. This new learning is welcomed and will complement the work already happening in our schools.

Throughout the next couple of weeks, we have opportunities to celebrate family, love, and friendship, in all their forms.  For more information about upcoming days of significance, please visit KPR’s online Events Calendar.

Finally, I’d like to wish a Happy Lunar New Year to everyone in the KPR community celebrating this weekend.

Sincerely,

Rita Russo,

Director of Education

KPR NEWS

Elementary Report Card Change - Language Mark

Families of elementary students will be receiving their child’s Term 1 Report Card (Grades 1-8) or Communication of Learning (Kindergarten) between February 15-20. 

One change that families of Grade 1- 8 students may notice is that Language learning will be shared as one mark (as opposed to what was previously separate marks for reading, writing, oral communication and media literacy).  This change is due to the release of the revised Grades 1-8 Language curriculum, which was implemented in September 2023 across Ontario.  The curriculum outlines what students should know and be able to do by the end of each grade in Language, reflecting new strands of learning and new expectations that differ from the previous Language curriculum. 

In all grades, the Language curriculum has been intentionally designed to ensure that students:

• build solid foundations in language and literacy.
• develop their analytical and critical thinking skills, and reflect on their learning.
• acquire knowledge and skills across the four strands in order to understand, respond to, appreciate, and create a full range of texts.

This shift aligns with the use of one mark in other areas such as Math, Science and Social Studies over the past few years. As always, as part of intentional planning and instruction, educators will be able to speak to the curriculum expectations addressed this term and how students demonstrated this learning.

Kindergarten Virtual Information Series

Families planning for Kindergarten next school year are invited to attend our free virtual information series! Our Kindergarten team will guide you through everything you need to know about starting Kindergarten at the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board. 

The first virtual session is Wednesday, February 21, 2024 from 6:30pm - 7:15pm. Registration is now open: https://www.kprschools.ca/en/learning-and-programs/kindergarten-virtual-information-series.aspx

OPSBA Awards

The 2024 Ontario Public School Boards Association (OPSBA) Awards are an opportunity to recognize exceptional contributions made in our local schools or school communities!

Any member of the public education system can be nominated - teachers, education workers, school administrators, trustees, students, or community members.

To highlight and celebrate those who go above and beyond, fill out the online nomination form by April 5, 2024, at 4:30 pm.

For more details about the OPSBA Awards Program, click here.

Dear KPR Families,

March is upon us and spring is on the way! The changing of the seasons is a wonderful time to reflect on our relationship with the land, water, trees and natural world. It is also a great time for us to appreciate the work of KPR’s custodial staff for their dedicated efforts to keep our schools clean during wet weather!

During February, schools participated in Black History Month by intentionally recognizing the achievements, contributions and lived experiences of Black communities. Our students and staff engaged in meaningful learning through discussions, school-based activities, guest speakers, presentations and resources. As we continue this learning at KPR, we recognize the value of celebrating and highlighting Black History and Black Excellence every day.

February 28 was Pink Shirt Day in KPR schools – an opportunity to celebrate our differences and promote kindness and compassion to ensure our schools continue to be safe and inclusive places for everyone.

During Social Work Week from March 4-10, we want to purposefully recognize and value the important work of Mental Health Clinicians and Professional Services Staff in our schools. We extend our appreciation to all KPR Professional Services staff for their essential contributions and the profound impact they have in the lives of students. 

Also coming up in March are Black Mental Health Week (March 4-10) and International Women’s Day on March 8, among many other days of significance and celebration. We continue to recognize important dates through our social media channels @kprschools. For more information about upcoming Days of Significance, please visit KPR’s Events Calendar on the KPR website.

Ramadan begins on Sunday, March 10 at sundown and ends at sundown on Tuesday, April 9 and is an important time in the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims. Ramadan is a time for fasting, spiritual reflections, prayer, doing good deeds, and spending time with family and friends.

Schools make prayer space available for all students, of all faiths, who wish to pray at certain times of the school day, or certain times of the school year in accordance with their religious beliefs. We encourage families to let their classroom teacher know if there are any accommodations the school can provide to support your child during Ramadan.

Sincerely,
Rita Russo
Director of Education

KPR NEWS

School Year Calendar – 2024-2025 

At this month’s Board meeting, the 2024-2025 School Year Calendar was approved. It will now be submitted to the Ministry of Education for final approval. 
Highlights of the approved calendar include: 

1st day of classes – Tuesday, September 3, 2024 
Last day of classes – Thursday, June 26, 2025 
Winter Break – Monday, December 23, 2024 through to Friday, January 3, 2025
(Friday, Dec 20, 2024 will be the last day of school and Monday, January 6, 2025 will be the first day of classes)  
March Break – March 7 to March 14, 2025 

Final approval by the Ministry of Education is expected later this spring.

Voter Information

As of January 1, 2024, Elections Ontario is responsible for managing voter information for provincial and local elections. Go to RegisterToVoteON.ca to confirm, update or add your information to the Register (Voter List). This website is also where the Ontario Register of Future Voters (ORFV) is kept – the list of eligible 16- and 17-year-olds who will be automatically added to the Register when they turn 18. Voter lists were previously the responsibility of the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC), which is still responsible for school support notification.

Dear KPR Families,

Welcome back from March Break!

With just over three months left of the school year, it won’t be long before students, staff, and our school communities will start planning for end-of-year school events and activities! This can be an especially exciting and busy time of year, with much learning and opportunity ahead of us.

There are many opportunities for learning, reflection and celebration of our individuality and diverse voices tied to days of significance this month. Those recognized this week included Nowruz, International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination and World Down Syndrome Day, among several others which can be found on the Events Calendar on our Board website.

Earlier this month, we recognized the beginning of Ramadan. As this observance continues, and we recognize other important days in the week ahead, including Good Friday and Easter, National Indigenous Languages Day and International Transgender Day of Visibility, we welcome these opportunities to continue to learn about one another, and provide safe, responsive, and inclusive schools and workplaces.

I hope everyone has an enjoyable weekend.

Sincerely,

Rita Russo

Director of Education

KPR NEWS

Total Solar Eclipse – April 8, 2024

On April 8, 2024, a spectacular and rare celestial event is set to unfold over Canada, the United States and Mexico – a total solar eclipse! Although schools will be closed to students on April 8^th as a Professional Activity (PA) Day, this exciting event presents a unique opportunity.

The Government of Canada website has resources available to support discussions about the solar eclipse, including information about how to observe the eclipse safely and a toolkit for youth with age-appropriate activities.

Parent’s Guide to Ontario’s Education System

The Ministry of Education recently launched a new resource to support families in actively participating in their children’s education: Parent’s Guide to Ontario’s Education System.

The guide covers a number of areas that support parental involvement in education, and the full guide can be found at Ontario.ca/educationguide.

2024 OPSBA Awards

Do you know an amazing teacher, education worker, school administrator, trustee, student or community member who deserves to be recognized for making a difference in their local school or community?

Nominations for the 2024 Ontario Public School Boards’ Association (OPSBA) Awards are now open! The online nomination form is available until April 5, 2024 at 4:30pm.

More information about the OPSBA Awards Program is available on the OPSBA website.

Public Health Announcement

Peterborough Public Health (PPH) and Haliburton Kawartha Pine Ridge (HKPR) District Health Unit have announced that they will seek provincial approval to voluntarily merge.  

The HKPR District Health Unit and PPH have an extensive history of collaboration and share similar geographic, demographic, health status and population characteristics. Both organizations are united in a commitment to reduce health inequities and address the most pressing public health challenges faced by the communities we serve. 

If approved by the Ministry of Health, planning for the creation of a new joint health unit will be initiated in early Fall 2024, with a target implementation date of January 1, 2025. 

We appreciate the collaborative and ongoing partnerships we have with public health partners across the Board. 

The learning focus for the month of April is Land. To access weekly activities, reflection questions and resources to support your learning, visit the resource at the following link: April Passport to Reconciliation