News

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

Gator Tracks - September 22 to 26, 2025

<img src="/images/90ec5d92-43ef-477f-b9a0-0d72c9c52fb3?fingerprint=ppb20251217014343" alt="Gator Tracks Weekly Family Update" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><hr>AVPS Families,Thank you to our students, families, and staff for a fantastic start to the school year and for your flexibility during this week’s reorganization. It’s been wonderful to see classrooms buzzing with learning and hallways filled with laughter.This week, many Grade 5 and 6 students took part in bus patroller training—an exciting leadership opportunity that supports our Gator community. With adult supervision, patrollers will also help our youngest students find their class line-up spots each morning.Staffing UpdatesWe wish Mme. Natasha Muller (ECE, FKC) all the best in her new role at another school. Mme. Ashley Fischl (ECE) will join Cassandra Ryan (Teacher) in the classroom.Thank you to Mme. Ginette Bromhead (Teacher, FKD) as she begins a new adventure. Mme. Rachel Jaynes will join our French Immersion Kindergarten team alongside Mme. Julie Sauve (ECE).Mme. Fischl and Mme. Jaynes will officially join AVPS on Monday, September 22, 2025. We’re grateful for the positive impact Mme. Muller and Mme. Bromhead have had on our school community.Upcoming EventsPlease check out the community resources and key dates below, including our first School Advisory Council Meeting on September 25, 2025 at 6:00 PM in the AVPS library and online. Elections for the 2025–2026 SAC executive will be held at this meeting. Nomination details are included below—submissions are due by September 22, 2025.Please reach out to the school if you have any questions, we are here to support you!Admin Team Brigid Steele P, Drew Boyce VP & the AVPS Gator Staff Team<hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"> Coming Up This Week</h2><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Day</td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">What's happening at AVPS</td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Monday, Sept. 22</td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Rosh HashanahSenior Soccer Practice - Boys & Girls (10:45 a.m.)</td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Tuesday, Sept. 23</td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Rosh Hashanah</td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"> Wednesday, Sept. 24</td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Rosh HashanahSenior Soccer Practice - Boys & Girls (10:45 a.m.)</td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Thursday, Sept. 25 </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Terry Fox Walk/Run/Roll</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">First School Advisory Council Meeting (info below)</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">AVPS Family Dominoes Pizza Night (coupon below)</li></ul> </td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Friday, Sept. 26</td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Terry Fox Walk/Run/Roll (rain date)</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Wear you School Colours (Green & Gold) Friday!</li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"> Upcoming Dates: </h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;">September 2025 </h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">16 - Bus Patroller Training </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">25 - School Advisory Council meeting 6-7 pm in the AVPS Library and online (link to follow) </li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">25 - Terry Fox Run, Walk, and Roll  </li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">26 - Terry Fox Run, Walk, and Roll rain date  </li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;">October 2025 </h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">10 - PA Day No School for Students </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">13 - Thanksgiving Holiday </li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">16 - School Photo Day </li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">17 - School Photo Day </li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;">November 2025 </h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">13 - Progress Reports go Home </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">14 - PA Day </li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;">December 2025 </h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">December 22 - January 2 - Winter Break </li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;">January 2026 </h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">5 - First day of school 2026 </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">30 - PA Day No School for Students </li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;">February 2026 </h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">13 - Term 1 Report Cards go Home </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">16 - Family Day Holiday </li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;">March 2026 </h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">16 to 20 - March Break </li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;">April 2026 </h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">3 - Holiday </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">6 - Holiday </li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">17 - PA Day No School for Students </li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;">May 2026 </h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">18 - Victoria Day Holiday </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">29 - PA Day No School for Students </li></ul><hr><img src="/images/a826b5db-5e8f-4c6b-a440-2bc60c243894?fingerprint=ppb20251217014559" alt="Amherstview Playground 1" width="389" height="625" style="width:389px;height:625px;display:inline-block"> <img src="/images/51584377-7079-40b3-bac8-eb94b5cfabd3?fingerprint=ppb20251217013738" alt="Amherstview Playground 2" width="266" height="499" style="width:266px;height:499px;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/26d61a48-123d-4cca-9515-e699f215af1d?fingerprint=ppb20251217013352" alt="Amherstview Playground 3" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/9599d307-65db-49b0-a826-87e801cd4df9?fingerprint=ppb20251217014409" alt="Amherstview Classroom 1" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/ab786d4f-b9b7-463b-b2cd-34ea0a82ac71?fingerprint=ppb20251217014611" alt="Amherstview Student Playing" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/19572e60-e805-4571-82f0-89a4af9a9ea0?fingerprint=ppb20251217013228" alt="Amherstview Classroom 2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/160096eb-84b8-46cc-a64d-04d06ff99074?fingerprint=ppb20251217013213" alt="Amherstview Playground 4" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/7fa86959-e586-45dc-989f-c9a05c5eaed2?fingerprint=ppb20251217014207" alt="Amherstview Bulletin Board" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Terry Fox – Run, Walk Roll</h2> Amherstview PS is holding our annual Terry Fox School Run on Thursday, September 25, 2025. Our goal is for each student to bring a “Toonie for Terry”, if possible. Families and friends can donate to our school fundraising campaign by clicking this link and donating <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fterryfox.us9.list-manage.com%2Ftrack%2Fclick%3Fu%3D9c16f8b6c2b735d53eb75ef97%26id%3Dc3df81d34c%26e%3Ddbc3e3f7b1&data=05%7C02%7Csteeleba%40limestone.on.ca%7Cde5f807f94fb429ffee008ddf5720442%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638936592264572739%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=qFiuU0%2FVQOWR43QSGDpbmo0KAyTDh3NqQfNWvdWQuP4%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link">https://schools.terryfox.ca/AmherstviewPSAmherstview</a>to help us reach our goal and support the fight against cancer! #tryliketerry #nomatterwhat #terryfoxschoolrun @terryfoxfoundation<iframe data-lexical-video-id="M4lp8G0a5XY" width="640" height="480" src="https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/M4lp8G0a5XY" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="true" title="Youtube video"></iframe><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Safety Drills</h2>Each fall in spring, LDSB schools are required to complete three practice fire drills along with other safety drills, including hold and secure and lockdown. We will begin practicing these drills next week. Educators will prepare students in development mentally appropriate ways for these important drills.   We practice these drills so that we are prepared although we hope we never have to use them.<hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day - September 30th</h2>We are reminded of our responsibility to engage intentionally in learning about the Residential School System and the true history of relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in what is currently known as Canada. This is a day to honour the children who never returned home, to stand with Survivors, and to commit to reconciliation in our classrooms and communities.In alignment with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action, which call on educators and governments to ensure that all students learn about Indigenous histories, cultures, and contributions, students at AVPS will spend time learning about this important part of history.  We have shared resources, community connections and ideas for families that you can access on our website to use at home.<img src="/images/2506e465-accf-40ad-a755-accdf18fe622?fingerprint=ppb20251217013337" alt="Amherstview Orange Shirt Day" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/5d20645d-9cd1-45b2-ab02-e779c287e4f6?fingerprint=ppb20251217013844" alt="TRC" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Concussion Awareness Week is coming up: September 21–27, 2025</h2> Please see information about what to do should a child get a concussion.<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fparachute.ca%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2019%2F06%2FConcussion-Guide-for-Athletes.pdf&data=05%7C02%7Csteeleba%40limestone.on.ca%7Cde5f807f94fb429ffee008ddf5720442%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638936592264623488%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=C9wpNHm7HCDPYJFQdskmPXGrOEO5z%2BVEsa77sC074kc%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link">Concussion guide for Athletes</a></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fparachute.ca%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2019%2F06%2FConcussion-Guide-for-Parents-and-Caregivers.pdf&data=05%7C02%7Csteeleba%40limestone.on.ca%7Cde5f807f94fb429ffee008ddf5720442%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638936592264632302%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=H97BCl6lfX%2FHSKiY2IL%2B6YuzmO8Ovary313YFNclbkU%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link">Concussion guide for parents and caregivers</a></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Ffiles.ontario.ca%2Fmtcs-rowans-law-signs-of-a-concussion-poster-en-2019-05-14.pdf&data=05%7C02%7Csteeleba%40limestone.on.ca%7Cde5f807f94fb429ffee008ddf5720442%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638936592264641219%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=GdXma93PM1UBydav2BMVLsxulMjFOLMzM5FLL3TrzkI%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link">Signs of a concussion poster</a></li></ul><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Junior Sports Update</h2>We understand that many families may have questions about the change in Junior sport within the LDSB.  At AVPS, we have many staff who are ready and eager to get involved with coaching and as we move through the school year, we will look to create opportunities for both Junior and Intermediate students to be involved in a variety of sports.Intermediate sports will continue as per last year, where students may have to tryout, depending on numbers. We are already in the swing of sports. Cross Country running and senior soccer are up and running at this point.  If your child is involved, look for communication from coaches through School Day.A huge shout out to AVPS staff Mme. Mackenzie, Mme. Bigelow, Mme. Vander Baaren, Mr. McCrea, Mme. K. Sullivan, Mme. Lecompte, Mlle. Scott and M. Greenly for stepping into coaching roles to support our students. Go Gators!<hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Human Development & Sexual Health Curriculum</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%3A%2F%2Fwww.limestone.on.ca%2Fdocuments%2Fb76e663d-3389-4d8e-988b-8dd34f03e071%2FForm-325-D-List-of-H-D-and-S-H-Instruction-Expectations-by-Grade.pdf%3Ffingerprint%3Dppb20251217014713&data=05%7C02%7Csteeleba%40limestone.on.ca%7Cde5f807f94fb429ffee008ddf5720442%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638936592264596406%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=JJiysbDQJG9GEq4dp%2FlK4JAkN5baTYm70o%2FmAL7h43E%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%3A%2F%2Fwww.limestone.on.ca%2Fdocuments%2Faf26a5ef-1a97-4814-ab57-f365e0d6b6bb%2FForm-325-B-Exemption-Letter-Parent-Request.pdf%3Ffingerprint%3D20260525T2045Z&data=05%7C02%7Csteeleba%40limestone.on.ca%7Cde5f807f94fb429ffee008ddf5720442%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638936592264605584%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=WDdVCnLxYClqxjq3erxn%2F%2F2M8Nn13nS7YU4PXpQTxFs%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.<hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Amherstview PS School Advisory Council Needs YOU!</h2> It’s that time of year! School Advisory Council elections for Executive Positions are coming up very soon!First School Advisory Council Meeting: September 25, 2025 at 6:00 pm in the AVPS library and online.Nominations are anonymous. You can nominate yourself or someone else. If you nominate someone, please ensure they agree to it and can attend the meeting. Nominations are due by 12:00 noon on Monday, September 22. Please send any nominations to <a href="mailto:amstv@limestone.on.ca" class="editor-link">amstv@limestone.on.ca</a>Please note: nominations do not count as votes; you must be present at the meeting to vote.<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Positions for election are:</h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Chair: Leads meetings, works with staff, and guides council activities.</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Vice Chair/Co-Chair: Supports the chair and helps oversee events and programs.</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Treasurer: Manages the budget and council finances.</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Secretary: Records and shares meeting minutes.</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">Indigenous Representative: Brings perspectives and ideas to this evolving role.</li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem">Member at Large (Divisional Reps): Represents a division (Kindergarten, Primary, Junior) and supports council activities.</li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem">Fundraising Coordinator: Organizes and manages fundraising initiatives.</li><li value="8" class="editor-listitem">Volunteer/Hot Lunch Coordinator: Recruits and manages volunteers and oversees the hot lunch program.</li></ul>Everyone who is part of our Gator family is welcome to attend any of our meetings this year.   Childcare will be provided.We look forward to hearing your voice! <h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Help support AVPS – and enjoy delicious pizza!!!</h3>AVPS School Council has worked with Domino's Pizza to bring this fundraiser to your family.  A portion of the proceeds come back to the school to support students.  Thank you for your support!  We will share coupons with families throughout the school year. Mark your calendars!  Family Pizza nights at Dominoes for 2025 are listed below.  We will share 2026 dates with you as we receive these.<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">September 25, 2025</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">October 23, 2025</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">November 20, 2025</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">December 18, 2025</li></ul><img src="/images/76514429-0289-41cb-99b7-141df33badd9?fingerprint=ppb20251217014110" alt="Amherstview Dominos" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Pediculosis – Lice</h2>As many know, lice love to spread in fall and spring. We are asking families to be extra vigilant and always remind your child not to share brushes, hats or other personal items.<hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Community Resources</h2><img src="/images/08cf92bd-50f2-4364-8e64-9ff9010b1103?fingerprint=ppb20251217013050" alt="Amherstview Maltby" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Jr. Hawks Basketball</h2><img src="/images/a60541a6-a79c-4e5e-a933-dacf796d1118?fingerprint=ppb20251217014545" alt="Amherstview Youth Basketball" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">Website: <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fnapaneejrhawks.ca%2F&data=05%7C02%7Csteeleba%40limestone.on.ca%7Cf3d7d54da768413a174508ddec94b8ce%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638926845779331077%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=1ErbYbayqFxHAMrn%2FaIb1T28FLNP0Vvi42En3wOaeJk%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link">https://napaneejrhawks.ca/</a>House league registration: <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fregistration.teamsnap.com%2Fform%2F37675&data=05%7C02%7Csteeleba%40limestone.on.ca%7Cf3d7d54da768413a174508ddec94b8ce%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638926845779340639%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=knvJttKslVzE0Hsz%2B4qbcID3dL6Aq%2FOUXRmgMyHQuaE%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link">https://registration.teamsnap.com/form/37675</a><img src="/images/f91c8611-d132-4f38-a3a3-3f2e1df33c6b?fingerprint=ppb20251217015306" alt="Amherstview 5 Day Calendar" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/410b6dae-ce60-44d5-9360-bcb5649264b1?fingerprint=ppb20251217013621" alt="AMherstview Attendance" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/60be2f47-65da-4f37-a0ec-8f97ffb4a125?fingerprint=ppb20251217013909" alt="Amherstview No Space for hate" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">

2025-09-19 18:50:59.112 +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

Gator Tracks - September 15 to 19, 2025

<img src="/images/90ec5d92-43ef-477f-b9a0-0d72c9c52fb3?fingerprint=ppb20251217014343" alt="Gator Tracks Weekly Family Update" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><hr>AVPS Families,What a wonderful first week back to full classes with your children at AVPS! We appreciate your patience as we work through all of the details related to the reorganization. All new classes will begin on Monday, September 15, 2025.A big merci to Mme. Hunt and Mme. Fischl (ECE) who will be moving onto other adventures as part of the reorganization. Welcome back to Mme. Hodgson (ECE) who has rejoined the Gator staff team.  We have included an updated staff and classroom list below for your information.Soccer and cross country will be starting soon, more information to come.A number of important forms including data verfication have been sent home with students.  Please complete these forms and return them to the school as soon as possible.We have included important information for families on our website under 'News'.  Please visit this area to see any previous updates. NEW PHOTO DAY - Oct. 16 and 17Please reach out to the school if you have any questions, we are here to support you! Admin Team Brigid Steele P, Drew Boyce VP & the AVPS Gator Staff Team <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">AVPS STAFF LIST – 2025/2026 </h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">English Classrooms </h3> JKSK - Laura Flannigan & Crystal Bedford (Early Childhood Educator ECE) <ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">1 - Chelsea Sneep </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">2/3 - Melissa Rennick </li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">3/4 - Taryn Turnbull j </li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">4/5 - Nicole Knight </li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">6/7 - Brendhon McCrea </li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem">7/8 - Elizabeth O'Rourke </li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem">Core French – Ryan Greenly </li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">French Immersion Classrooms </h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"> JKSK - Kelsey Sullivan/Gerry McGrath (ECE)</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">JKSK -  Cassandra Ryan/Natasha Muller (ECE)</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">JKSK - Ginette Bromhead/Julie Suave (ECE)</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">JKSK - Meagan Midghall/Brooke Hodgson(ECE)</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">JKSK - Natalie Romanet/Sarah Hall (ECE)</li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem">Grade 1 – Hailey  Jaynes </li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem">Grade 1 – Katharine Lemoine </li><li value="8" class="editor-listitem">Grade 1  – Meg Hawley </li><li value="9" class="editor-listitem">Grade 1/2 – Carley Sullivan </li><li value="10" class="editor-listitem">Grade 2 – Valerie Vander Baaren </li><li value="11" class="editor-listitem">Grade 2/3 - Lauren Honcoop </li><li value="12" class="editor-listitem">Grade 3 – Lyndsey Mackenzie </li><li value="13" class="editor-listitem">Grade 3 – Kim Bigelow </li><li value="14" class="editor-listitem">Grade 4  – Kim Leppick </li><li value="15" class="editor-listitem">Grade 4 – Melissa Lecompte </li><li value="16" class="editor-listitem">Grade 4/5  - Michelle Clouthier (LTO for Mark Choquette) </li><li value="17" class="editor-listitem">Grade 5 – Katrina Putos </li><li value="18" class="editor-listitem">Grade 5/6 - Cassidy Scott </li><li value="19" class="editor-listitem">Grade 6 – Matt Saunders </li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">English to Immersion </h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"> Melissa Pace </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Chris McEwen Smith </li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Melina Morhovitis (English to Immersion and English preparation time) </li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Shannon Pincevero</li></ul>Intensive Support Teacher - Kim Olive Student Support Teachers- Julie Leeder, Kate Marlow Student Support Counsellor - Carrie Amodeo <h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Educational Assistants </h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Nichola Harkness </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Kareen Ferguson </li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Jeff Dunn </li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Jeff Bilow </li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">Jyoti Sengar </li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem">Lenna Field </li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem">Nicole Penny </li><li value="8" class="editor-listitem">Kaela Simpson </li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Administration  </h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Office Administrator - Barb Rolfe </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Assistant Office Administrator – TBD</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Caretaking Staff –Tiffany Redmond, Jeff Frink, Josh Cruse</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Vice Principal - Drew Boyce </li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">Principal - Brigid Steele </li></ul><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">This Week:  </h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"> Monday, September 15 (Day 4) - New French Immersion Classes Begin, Senior Soccer Practice - Boys & Girls (10:45 a.m.)</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Tuesday, September 16 (Day 5) - Bus Patroller Training 9:30 to 10:45 a.m.</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"> Wednesday, September 17 (Day 1) - Senior Soccer Practice - Boys & Girls (10:45 a.m.)</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Thursday, September 18 (Day 2) </li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">Friday, September 19 (Day 3)  It's Gator Gear/School Colours (Green & Gold) Friday! </li></ul><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Upcoming Dates: </h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">September 2025 </h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">16 - Bus Patroller Training </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">25 - School Advisory Council meeting 6-7 pm in the AVPS Library and online (link to follow) </li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">25 - Terry Fox Run, Walk, and Roll  </li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">26 - Terry Fox Run, Walk, and Roll rain date  </li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">October 2025 </h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">10 - PA Day No School for Students </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">13 - Thanksgiving Holiday </li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">16 - School Photo Day </li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">17 - School Photo Day </li></ul>November 2025 <ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">13 - Progress Reports go Home </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">14 - PA Day </li></ul>December 2025 <ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">December 22 - January 2 - Winter Break </li></ul>January 2026 <ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">5 - First day of school 2026 </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">30 - PA Day No School for Students </li></ul>February 2026 <ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">13 - Term 1 Report Cards go Home </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">16 - Family Day Holiday </li></ul>March 2026 <ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">16 to 20 - March Break </li></ul>April 2026 <ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">3 - Holiday </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">6 - Holiday </li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">17 - PA Day No School for Students </li></ul>May 2026 <ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">18 - Victoria Day Holiday </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">29 - PA Day No School for Students </li></ul><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Recreational Programs Available in Loyalist Township</h2>There are a number of youth programs available in Loyalist Township this fall - click on the images below to access <a href="https://www.loyalist.ca/media/lf4ps1su/autumn-guide.pdf" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Loyalist Township's website to learn more</a>. <figure><a href="https://www.loyalist.ca/media/lf4ps1su/autumn-guide.pdf" title="Badminton Loyalist"><img src="/images/76d9a692-ba87-4234-8e23-c3c6b7ddacea?fingerprint=ppb20251217014110" alt="Badminton Loyalist" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></a></figure> <figure><a href="https://www.loyalist.ca/media/lf4ps1su/autumn-guide.pdf" title="Chef Loyalist"><img src="/images/e22f6517-d8c4-466b-b7db-1b973eca6b06?fingerprint=ppb20251217015101" alt="Chef Loyalist" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></a></figure><figure><a href="https://www.loyalist.ca/media/lf4ps1su/autumn-guide.pdf" title="First Aid Loyalist"><img src="/images/e6a04774-1fe9-40c8-9023-adb516913c85?fingerprint=ppb20251217015125" alt="First Aid Loyalist" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></a></figure><figure><a href="https://www.loyalist.ca/media/lf4ps1su/autumn-guide.pdf" title="Volleyball Loyalist"><img src="/images/3852dc9a-6655-40b9-9d9f-c24a256087d7?fingerprint=ppb20251217013527" alt="Volleyball Loyalist" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></a></figure>

2025-09-12 19:17:53.746 +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

Gator Tracks - September 8 to 12, 2025

Dear AVPS Families, What a great first week of school!  A big thank- you to students, staff and families for all of your energy, work and smiles and we begin the 2025/2026 school year.   We love being at Amherstview PS and have had a fantastic start to the 2025-2026 school year.  We are thrilled to welcome many new families and returning students to our school community. As a staff, our goals are to place an emphasis on student wellbeing, creating a sense of belonging, student engagement, literacy and mathematics. We look forward to a great year of working with families to help your children, our students make great gains in these areas. Go Gators! A number of important forms will be sent home with students next week.  Please complete these forms and return them to the school as soon as possible.   We have included important information for families below.   Please reach out to the school if you have any questions, we are here to support you! Admin Team Brigid Steele P, Drew Boyce VP & the AVPS Gator Staff Team <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Cell Phones </h2>Please see the guidance from the Ministry of Education: <ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"> Grade 7-12: Phones must be stored out of view, powered off, or set to silent during instructional time. </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Grade 6 and below: Phones must be away. Stored out of view, powered off, or set to silent for the entire instructional day. </li></ul> If a student needs to call home for an emergency during instructional time, they must do so using the office phone. The school is not responsible for lost or damaged personal devices. <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Contacting Your Child During the School Day </h2>Please call the school office if you are needing to contact your child during the day, please call the school office. Sending a text message or phone call to a student’s cell phone is disruptive to the learning environment.  Students can use the telephones at the school when needed.   <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Social Media </h2>Some of our students do not have parental permission to have their photo posted on a social media account. If you are a volunteer at school or on a field trip, please do not post pictures of our students on personal social media accounts.  Looking Ahead: Terry Fox Run, Walk, and Roll September 2025 Our Terry Fox Run, Walk, and Roll will take place on Thursday, September 25th, rain date Friday, September 26, more information to come! We are very excited to take part in this annual tradition that supports cancer research while building school spirit. Families who plan to join us should let their classroom teachers know in advance. Thank-you for your support! <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Amherstview PS School Advisory Council Needs YOU! </h2>It’s that time of year! School Advisory Council elections for Executive Positions are coming up very soon! 📅 First School Advisory Council Meeting: September 25, 2025 at 6:00 pm in the AVPS library and online. Nominations are anonymous. You can nominate yourself or someone else. If you nominate someone, please ensure they agree to it and can attend the meeting. Nominations are due by 12:00 noon on Monday, September 22.  Please send any nominations to <a href="mailto:amstv@limestone.on.ca" target="_blank" class="editor-link">amstv@limestone.on.ca</a> Please note: nominations do not count as votes; you must be present at the meeting to vote. <h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">✨ Positions for election are: </h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Chair: Leads meetings, works with staff, and guides council activities. </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Vice Chair/Co-Chair: Supports the chair and helps oversee events and programs. </li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Treasurer: Manages the budget and council finances. </li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Secretary: Records and shares meeting minutes. </li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">Indigenous Representative: Brings perspectives and ideas to this evolving role. </li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem">Member at Large (Divisional Reps): Represents a division (Kindergarten, Primary, Junior) and supports council activities. </li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem">Fundraising Coordinator: Organizes and manages fundraising initiatives. </li><li value="8" class="editor-listitem">Volunteer/Hot Lunch Coordinator: Recruits and manages volunteers and oversees the hot lunch program. </li></ul>Everyone who is part of our Gator family is welcome to attend any of our meetings this year. We look forward to hearing your voice!  <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">KFL&A Public Health</h2> When to stay home? <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.kflaph.ca%2Fen%2Fhealth-topics%2Fcommon-childhood-illnesses.aspx&data=05%7C02%7Ccrothersm%40limestone.on.ca%7Cc8e6abfd07fb4f3d296108ddecabb112%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638926944354899229%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=7Z2nXiuHUoy7ir1FU1CX%2Fzp2pLmhZjD0eO9e0J8qO2I%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" class="editor-link">Click Here</a> for a list of KFL&A exclusions. As a reminder, children should stay home until they have no fever and their symptoms are improving for at least 24 hours (or 48 hours if they have gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting and/or diarrhea). Once symptoms start improving, they are encouraged to return to school, if they are well enough to do so. <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">School Hours & Contact Information </h2>Main Office: General hours are 8:15 am - 4:15 pm. School Phone Number: 613-389-0628 School Email: <a href="mailto:amstv@limestone.on.ca" target="_blank" class="editor-link">amstv@limestone.on.ca</a> School Hours: Our school day starts at 9:05 a.m. and ends at 3:25 p.m. We operate on a balanced day schedule with three instructional blocks of uninterrupted learning time separated by two recess/nutrition breaks. <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">End of Day Dismissal Changes for Students:  </h2>As you can appreciate, the office can be very busy at the beginning and end of each day. We ask that you notify your child's teacher (note, email) about changes to regular routines ahead of time. If there are unforeseen changes, please notify the office before 1:30 pm. This will allow us to relay the information to the classroom in a timely manner.   If you plan to pick your child up during one of our recess/nutrition break times (10:45 a.m. to 11:25 a.m. or 1:05 p.m. to 1:45 p.m.) please write a note to your child's teacher so that we will be aware that your child needs to come to the office rather than going to the yard so that they are ready for pick up from the front door of the school.  Please continue to buzz at the front door for pick-ups and drop-offs during the day. <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Parking for Families and Visitors & Pick Up for Walkers </h2>The school parking lots are CLOSED to families between 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.  Please park at the ball field across the street or a few blocks away from the school. When the bell rings at 3:25 p.m., walkers will be dismissed from the meeting spot and staff will release students to parents/guardians as they see them. Please ensure your child makes eye contact with or waves to their educator before leaving. <h2 class="editor-heading-h2">  </h2><img src="/images/1c20c71c-a91e-423a-9174-c61d0325a9e7?fingerprint=ppb20251217013244" alt="2023 03 13 Getting to school Elementary" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><h2 class="editor-heading-h2"> </h2><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">This Week:</h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"> Monday, September 8 (Day 4) </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Tuesday, September 9 (Day 5)</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Wednesday, September 10 (Day 1) </li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Thursday, September 11 (Day 2) </li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">Friday, September 12 (Day 3)</li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">It's Gator Gear/School Colours (Green & Gold) Friday! </li></ul></li></ul><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Upcoming Dates: </h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">September 2025 </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">16 - Bus Patroller Training </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">25 - School Advisory Council meeting 6-7 pm in the AVPS Library and online (link to follow) </li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">25 - Terry Fox Run, Walk, and Roll  </li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">26 - Terry Fox Run, Walk, and Roll rain date  </li></ul></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"> October 2025 </li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">10 - PA Day No School for Students </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">13 - Thanksgiving Holiday </li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">16 - School Photo Day </li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">17 - School Photo Day </li></ul></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">November 2025 </li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">13 - Progress Reports go Home </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">14 - PA Day </li></ul></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">December 2025 </li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">December 22 - January 2 - Winter Break </li></ul></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">January 2026 </li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">5 - First day of school 2026 </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">30 - PA Day No School for Students </li></ul></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem">February 2026 </li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">13 - Term 1 Report Cards go Home </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">16 - Family Day Holiday </li></ul></li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem">March 2026 </li><li value="8" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">16-20 - March Break </li></ul></li><li value="8" class="editor-listitem">April 2026 </li><li value="9" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">3 - Holiday </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">6 - Holiday </li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">17 - PA Day No School for Students </li></ul></li><li value="9" class="editor-listitem">May 2026 </li><li value="10" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">18 - Victoria Day Holiday </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">29 - PA Day No School for Students </li></ul></li></ul><hr><img src="/images/8c1fda53-43ed-4cbe-822b-a181bf79bdb2?fingerprint=ppb20251217014314" alt="BGC Education Open House" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <img src="/images/9587e398-d975-49be-9bf4-55e282d9d129?fingerprint=ppb20251217014409" alt="2025 08 28 Attention Immunization Reporting Elementary" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">

2025-09-05 18:53:42.661 +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

Gator Tracks Family Update

<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Welcome back!</h2>Dear Gator Families,Welcome to Amherstview Public School!We are so excited to work together for an amazing school year filled with learning, wonder, and fun!Please read through this newsletter carefully as it includes important information about school start-up and first day information.Our educator staff have been busy setting up spaces and planning for learning, our office administrator staff have been busy with many tasks including new registrations and class lists. Custodial staff have been busy with summer cleaning and repair and projects happening over the - a big shout-out to Mr. Frink, Mr. Cruse, and the team of casual caretaking staff who have worked hard to get AVPS ready for students and staff.Merci to the team of families and staff who have been hard at work in taking care of our kindergarten gardens so they grew all throughout the summer and are lush heading into the fall!<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Welcome/Placement Letter to Families:</h3>Every year we experience a significant amount of movement in and out of our community due to family moves and transfers. In September, the school organization may change once we have true numbers to work with, and as such teacher/grade/student placements may require rebalancing in the first few weeks of school. On the PA Day, Tuesday, September 2nd - families will receive an email from your child's classroom. Student log-in information for Aspen will be available through your child’s classroom teacher once the school year begins.This e-mail will include:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Your student's class placement</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">How to provide medical information to the school (if applicable)</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Arrival and/or dismissal meeting places for Day 1 (maps)</li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Friendly Reminders:</h3><h4 class="editor-heading-h4" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">School property:</h4><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">is peanut-free/nut-free</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">is scent-free</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">welcomes service dogs only (on leash)</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">has accessible parking spots by permit only</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">is reserved for staff and student use only between 9:00 am and 4:00 pm</li></ul><h4 class="editor-heading-h4" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">School Supplies and Labelling:</h4>Our school will provide the necessary supplies that you will need for learning. However, if you are looking for <a href="https://limestone.on.ca/news/what_s_new/b_t_s__what_elementary_students_need_for_first_day" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link">back-to-school suggestions</a> from LDSB, here are a few things to think about bringing with you on the first day:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Backpack</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Labelled water bottle</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Lunch bag with a peanut-free/nut-free lunch and snacks</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Personal pencil case to hold any supplies you may want to bring (pencils, erasers, scissors, ruler, pencil crayons, etc.)</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Indoor shoes (with non-marking soles) to be left at school</li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Extra clothes (for our Kindergarten/primary kiddos)</li></ul>To avoid your student's clothing ending up in the lost and found, please consider labelling items, such as indoor and outdoor clothing, indoor and outdoor shoes, containers, school supplies, etc. (see the link below to our school's fundraiser with Oliver's Labels).<h4 class="editor-heading-h4" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">First Day of School Welcome Committee!</h4>School staff will be outside to greet students and families and help ensure that students find their meeting spot on the first day of school.It's going to be a great year at Gator Town!As always, should you have questions about your child's learning, please connect with classroom educators. Any general questions or wonderings about the school, don't hesitate to reach out!The school e-mail address is <a href="mailto:amstv@limestone.on.ca" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link">amstv@limestone.on.ca</a>Admin Team Brigid Steele P, Drew Boyce VP & the AVPS Gator Staff Team<img src="/images/30e6f52a-7972-4ce1-8982-0d102b810d28?fingerprint=ppb20251217013446" alt="Gators Logo" width="521" height="443" style="width:521px;height:443px;display:inline-block"> <hr><img src="/images/fb00a00f-49be-4caa-94c3-504e95bc3bcf?fingerprint=ppb20251217015319" alt="Amherstview Gym Gators" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Important Dates:</h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Monday, September 1st - Labour Day</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Tuesday, September 2nd - PA Day - Class Placement Email Sent to Families</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Wednesday, September 3rd - First Day of School!</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Friday, September 5 - It's Gator Gear/School Colours (Green & Gold) Friday!</li></ul>We encourage you to wear your Gator Gear/School Colours (Green & Gold) on Fridays.<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">School Organization and Class Placements</h2>All students have been placed into a tentative classroom organization. All classes and staffing are tentative until at least the second week of September. This means that the class and teacher your child starts out with on the first day of school may not be the same class/teacher in mid-September. Should there be a reorganization of staff and students, information will be shared with families. Classes and staff changes take place based on actual enrollment, which is sometimes different from the projected enrollment that staffing is based on in the spring. Student and family moves impact how many students are at AVPS. We will do our best to minimize disruption to student learning and will take direction from the LDSB should changes be required. Changes may be needed if classes are too small or too large, based on Ministry of Education class size requirements, which are mandated from the province.Once school starts, class numbers will be reviewed by a central committee of the LDSB to determine what, if any, changes need to be made. Any reorganization will happen after the second week of school. Families are encouraged to speak to children about the potential for change. As adults, we have the opportunity to model healthy emotions and mindsets around change, helping students to work through the emotions that may arise as an important life skill.Thanks to all AVPS students and families, in advance, for your understanding and flexibility as we determine class sizes and placements.<hr><img src="/images/cd3a08a9-6929-4d53-b2fe-a83bb37476e8?fingerprint=ppb20251217014905" alt="Lost and Found" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">This Week: </h2>Monday, September 1st<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Labour Day</li></ul>Tuesday, September 2nd (Day 1)<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">PA Day - No School for Students</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Class Placement Email Sent to Families</li></ul>Wednesday, September 3rd (Day 2)<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">First Day of School!</li></ul>Thursday, September 4th (Day 3)Friday, September 5 (Day 4)<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">It's Gator Gear/School Colours (Green & Gold) Friday!</li></ul><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Upcoming Dates:</h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">September 2025</h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">1st - Labour Day Holiday</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">2 - PA Day No School for Students</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">3 - First Day of School for Students</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">16 - Bus Patroller Training</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">25 - School Advisory Council meeting 6-7 pm in the AVPS Library and online (link to follow)</li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">October 2025</h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">10 - PA Day No School for Students</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">13 - Thanksgiving Holiday</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">16 - School Photo Day</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">17 - School Photo Day</li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">November 2025</h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">13 - Progress Reports go Home</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">14 - PA Day</li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">December 2025</h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">December 22 - January 2 - Winter Break</li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">January 2026</h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">5 - First day of school 2026</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">30 - PA Day No School for Students</li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">February 2026</h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">13 - Term 1 Report Cards go Home</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">16 - Family Day Holiday</li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">March 2026</h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">16-20 - March Break</li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">April 2026</h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">3 - Holiday</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">6 - Holiday</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">17 - PA Day No School for Students</li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">May 2026</h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">18 - Victoria Day Holiday</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">29 - PA Day No School for Students</li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">June 2026</h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">18 - Tentative Grade 8 Graduation Ceremony</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">19 - Tentative Grade 6 French Immersion Farewell 2 p.m.</li></ul><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">School Year Calendars</h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><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">LDSB School Year Calendar 2025-2026</a></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/5850ce84-9e2b-4ee6-a774-c41cdc21bef1/2025-06-26-School-Year-Calendar-5-Day-Calendar.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013816" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Elementary 5-Day Calendar 2025-2026</a></li></ul><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">AVPS School Advisory Council (SAC)</h2>Dear Parents and Guardians,We invite you to join our first School Advisory Council meetings on Thursday September 25, 2025 which will take place from 6-7 pm in the AVPS Library and online (link to follow).We will hold elections for the 2025-2026 SAC Executive on September 25, 2025.The School Advisory Council is a group of parents, guardians, staff, and community members who work together to support and enhance our school environment. Through these monthly meetings, we discuss important topics, share updates, and make decisions that shape our school community.Your insights and ideas are invaluable to us. We believe that a range of perspectives strengthens our efforts, and we would love to see more voices represented. Whether you have suggestions, or questions, or simply want to listen in, your involvement makes a real difference.Please consider joining us. We look forward to welcoming new and returning faces!Lyndsay Johnson & Danielle PrestonCo-Chairs, School Advisory Council<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">AVPS SAC Executive Team for the 2024-2025 School Year</h3>Co-Chairs – Lyndsay Johnson & Danielle PrestonCo-Treasurers – Gelareh Monajemi/Karlee PetersonFundraising Chair – Sarah BryantSecretary – Matt St. JeanKinder Rep – Britta FloodDivision Rep – Lisa CassidyMembers at Large – Amanda Arbuckle, Kaileigh Babcock, Jennifer Low, Marsha Snyder, Erin Blanchard<hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Prevalent Medical Conditions</h2>To help us gather important medical information about your child, we ask that you select the correct Plan of Care form below, complete it and return it to the school as soon as possible. If you require us to administer daily medication, you will also need to complete the necessary paperwork for us to be able to do this.Daily medication will need to be dropped off at the school. Students cannot carry medications in their backpack, at any time. Please call the school to make arrangements for drop off.**Be sure to also include the supplementary forms if medication may need to be administered by school staff.Health and safety of our kids is our first priority. Thank you for helping us stay informed on your child's medical conditions and Plan of Care.<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Supplemental Forms</h3>Click below for necessary supplementary forms needed including:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/60e3258d-6179-5090-9a08-1eb1967938e1?fingerprint=ppb20251217013909" rel="nofollow noreferrer" class="editor-link">Form 314-A1 - Authorization and Request for Administration of Prescribed Medication Medical Procedures</a></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/1bf7a2f8-1a17-5321-b578-5066dc8af89b?fingerprint=ppb20251217013244" rel="nofollow noreferrer" class="editor-link">Form 314-A2 - Administration of Medication</a></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/44babf51-b927-5f03-be30-e35c10bc9297?fingerprint=ppb20251217013634" rel="nofollow noreferrer" class="editor-link">Form 314-A3 - Administration of Epi-Pen</a></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/da6321f9-6ab1-584b-983c-48dbc57b1763?fingerprint=ppb20251217015024" rel="nofollow noreferrer" class="editor-link">Form 314-B1 - The Administration of Medication and or Medical Procedures to Students Record of Procedures</a></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/5929e710-061f-5c88-9e35-a9e9a64b5c4d?fingerprint=ppb20251217013831" rel="nofollow noreferrer" class="editor-link">Form 314-B2 - Medical Procedure Form</a></li></ul><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;">New Requirements Regarding Cell Phones and Vaping</h2>To promote healthy and welcoming school environments, the LDSB, along with all Ontario school boards, is currently revising its Code of Conduct to reflect new guidelines from the Ministry of Education about cell phone/mobile device use and vaping in schools as per <a href="https://www.ontario.ca/page/school-rules-provincial-code-conduct" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link">PPM128: The Provincial Code of Conduct.</a> <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/news/new-requirements-regarding-cell-phones-and-vaping-20240822182044" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">More information is available on LDSB's website.</a><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Create a Lunchbox Account</h2>Amherstview Public School uses Lunchbox for hot lunch orders. Please <a href="https://identity.schoolcashonline.com/Account/Login?ReturnUrl=%2Fconnect%2Fauthorize%2Fcallback%3Fclient_id%3DLunchBoxClient%26redirect_uri%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.lunchboxorders.net%252Fauthorization-code%252Fcallback%26response_type%3Dcode%2520id_token%26scope%3Dopenid%2520profile%2520UserProfileInfo%26state%3DOpenIdConnect.AuthenticationProperties%253DH7OYhjn03vE_peVrj8_JF1q6dIOyTlf5RBMyo3v9ZhJQ8-JYnSIZuU3-Htq5sLi08AAvfME3GsE63ZVrvSajz93pZPEbdzAZBmhdfzS2mLInu0FHVEc2bhPqxfqRbdaHFV71MCCEIK8avK0ut7ZDHuD8Q1lXIHhiEzQw7-rogL8NtdF_hdX8B70q0bIWZWkmj0nmcAxJsMJVcHPVOdc3WWhsTg_J1PiIq6w5g6Pt_uE98qf8kIE9714pykbErGl4%26response_mode%3Dform_post%26nonce%3D638618586428696433.ZGM5MzgxNTktZmJhYS00ZmVmLThjZjQtMzEyOGFmMjE5MTBkODIxMDc0NjktODUxZC00MDQ2LTk3N2QtNzM4NjQzMzEyOTAy%26x-client-SKU%3DID_NET461%26x-client-ver%3D5.3.0.0" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">create a Lunchbox account online</a>. The <a href="https://identity.schoolcashonline.com/Account/Terms" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Lunchbox Terms and Conditions are available on the Lunchbox website.</a> <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">School Hours</h2>Main Office: General hours are 8:15 a.m. - 4:15 p.m.School Hours: Our school day starts at 9:05 a.m. and ends at 3:25 p.m. We operate on a balanced day schedule with three instructional blocks of uninterrupted learning time separated by two recess/nutrition breaks.<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Schedule</h3>9:05 to 10:45 a.m. - Instruction10:45 to 11:25 a.m. - Recess/Nutrition Break11:25 a.m. to 1:05 p.m. - Instruction1:05 to 1:45 p.m. - Recess/Nutrition Break1:45 to 3:25 p.m. - Instruction<hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Late Arrival? Early Dismissal?</h2>End of Day Dismissal Changes for Students: As you can appreciate, the office can be very busy at the beginning and end of each day. We ask that you notify your child's teacher (note, email) about changes to regular routines ahead of time. If there are unforeseen changes, please notify the office before 1:30 p.m. This will allow us to relay the information to the classroom in a timely manner.If you plan to pick your child up during one of our recess/nutrition break times10:45 a.m. to 11:25 a.m. or 1:05 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. please write a note or send an email to your child's teacher so that we will be aware that your child needs to come to the office. Please do not go to the yard to pick your child up as school staff need to ensure that student attendance is tracked through the office.Please continue to buzz at the front door for pick-ups and drop-offs during the day.<hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Reporting a Student Absence</h2>Reporting Absences: There are three options to use to report a student absence:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">call the automated attendance phone line at 1-855-257-9349</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">use the SchoolMessenger App on your phone (see below), select "Attendance" then "Report and Absence"</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">use the SchoolMessenger website portal (see below).</li></ul>SchoolMessenger App: 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.<a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/report-a-student-absence" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Report a student absence.</a><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><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Parking for Families and Visitors and Pick Up for Walkers</h2><img src="/images/19d5bcea-6b99-457b-93c1-ef967924efcd?fingerprint=ppb20251217013228" alt="Crosswalk" width="184" height="109" style="width:184px;height:109px;display:inline-block;float:left">The school parking lots are CLOSED to families between 8 to 4 p.m. Please park at the ball field across the street or a few blocks away from the school.<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">When the bell rings at 3:25 p.m., walkers will be dismissed from the meeting spot and staff will release students to parents/guardians as they see them. Please ensure your child makes eye contact with or waves to their educator before leaving.</li></ul><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Human Rights Reporting Tool</h2>Harassment, discrimination, and hate have no place in Limestone schools. As a school board, we are committed to providing all students, staff, and families with a positive school community environment.As a reminder, the LDSB has the <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Ffilerequestpro.com%2Fup%2Fldsb-student-human-rights-incidents-and-complaints--school-safety-reporting-form&data=05%7C02%7Csteeleba%40limestone.on.ca%7Cf10da27adfef40ad715608dd4146f067%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638738495156262456%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=rAVcsSjtIZs%2B%2F2gaO49QGnjNIF13s%2FnhMbWmpm9jP2I%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link">Student Human Rights Incidents and Reporting Tool</a> available to students and families to report any incidents or complaints.<img src="/images/42be3525-a583-4fe1-8e0d-3cbab16a96d6?fingerprint=ppb20251217013621" alt="Human Rights Poster" width="683" height="1049" style="width:683px;height:1049px;display:inline-block"><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Gator Gear</h2><a href="https://specialtytrophies.ca/amherstviewpublicschool/" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Order your Gator Gear online through our online eStore</a>. <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Allergy Alert</h2><img src="/images/304406c4-13da-4ab8-876b-796e07254644?fingerprint=ppb20251217013433" alt="Allergy Aware School" width="180" height="129" style="width:180px;height:129px;display:inline-block;float:left">We have several students with life-threatening allergies. A reminder that our school is nut aware: please ensure that your child's snacks and lunch do not contain any nut products. Classroom teachers will communicate any additional food allergies that families will need to be aware of. Thank you for your support in keeping all of our students safe! <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Attendance Matters</h2><img src="/images/519d365c-7cc2-40a6-a6e8-272f20e9f64c?fingerprint=ppb20251217013751" alt="Attendence Matters" width="674" height="674" style="width:674px;height:674px;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/caa8955f-ccd4-4d57-be7c-44a5c16108d7?fingerprint=ppb20251217014853" alt="Why being late to school matters" width="681" height="474" style="width:681px;height:474px;display:inline-block"> <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Visitors</h2>All visitors must buzz at the front door and sign in in the visitor book in the front foyer. Once this is done, please proceed to the main office to receive a visitor tag. Please note all volunteers require a CPIC with vulnerable sector check.<hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Indigenous Self-Identification </h2>Please see the link below for more information and to self-identify, if you wish: <a href="https://ldsb.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9U2iaUl9GIFILb0" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link">https://ldsb.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9U2iaUl9GIFILb0</a><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Join Team Gator</h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Looking for Paid Yard Supervisors & Food Share Volunteers</h3><img src="/images/8db8dac0-af95-4ddd-9853-89a637d35a71?fingerprint=ppb20251217014314" alt="Help wanted" width="146" height="97" style="width:146px;height:97px;display:inline-block;float:left">We are looking for people to work as lunch and yard supervisors for 1 or 2 hours a day. Please call the school or e- mail <a href="mailto:amstv@limestone.on.ca" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link">amstv@limestone.on.ca</a>Criminal Police Background Check (CPIC) with vulnerable sector check required.We are also looking for volunteers to assist with food preparation for our Food Share program. Please email the school if you are interested in helping out!<hr><img src="/images/011bb370-40a2-4668-aa0b-c38c3eceda5c?fingerprint=ppb20251217013010" alt="No space for hate" width="722" height="379" style="width:722px;height:379px;display:inline-block"><hr><img src="/images/c17e98fd-ca86-490c-bd70-0cc594ad2781?fingerprint=ppb20251217014805" alt="Getting to School" width="654" height="846" style="width:654px;height:846px;display:inline-block"><hr><img src="/images/ae4ab792-7e8e-4f6b-99d7-afcd13ae3623?fingerprint=ppb20251217014623" alt="Land Acknowledgement" width="667" height="431" style="width:667px;height:431px;display:inline-block"><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;">At Amherstview, We Care!</h2>

2025-08-27 13:38:09 +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

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

Free EQAO Webinar for Families of Elementary and Secondary Students

Gator Tracks - September 22 to 26, 2025

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

Gator Tracks - September 15 to 19, 2025

Boardroom Briefs: August 20, 2025

Gator Tracks - September 8 to 12, 2025

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

Gator Tracks Family Update

Summer Institute August 20 for LDSB Educators

Free French Learning Opportunity This Summer: Smash French Camp

Message from the Director

Boardroom Briefs June 18, 2025