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Kindergarten Student Registration

Grade Eight Night 2026 Information Slides

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">On Thursday February 26th, Granite Ridge staff welcomed parents and guardians of incoming grade 9 students with information regarding the transition to Secondary School, courses offered and required for graduation, and a short tour around the building. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> This </span><a href="/documents/fd8a195c-2951-42ca-812a-d3b49c6054a2/Grade-9-at-GREC-1.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">LINK </strong></b></u></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">will provide you with a PDF version of the informational slides that were shared with parents and guardians in attendance. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p>
2026-02-27 16:52:22.516 +0000 UTC
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Gryphon Gazette - February 2026

<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">February 2026</strong></b></u><br></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/19161b5b-cbd5-4f58-a946-dd4c665c9e37" alt="February" width="490" height="310" style="width:490px;height:310px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Hello Gryphon Families,</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">February marks the beginning of a new semester and term, as well as the renewal of academic pursuits across our K-12 community. With students transitioning into new courses, setting fresh goals, and teachers preparing dynamic lessons, this is a time for intellectual curiosity and growth. As we navigate the ever-changing winter weather that has kept us on our toes for the last number of weeks, we remain committed to fostering a supportive and inspiring learning environment. Let’s embrace this season as an opportunity to challenge ourselves, collaborate, and celebrate our achievements as a school. Here’s to a month filled with academic progress and enthusiasm!</span></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Before &amp; After School Program Survey Update</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A sincere thank you to all families who completed our Before and After School Program interest survey. We had a positive response rate, and are happy to share that given the responses shared, we have entered the next phase. This phase includes an Expression of Interest that has been generated by the board and shared with the City of Kingston (our municipality for Early Years). </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">From here, the city of Kingston will share the expression of interest with third party providers, who, over the next 3-4 weeks will decide if they would like to apply to provide a program at our site. When the application phase closes, we will see if we have applicants, and process applications accordingly. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">I will continue to update our school community at each phase. Any families with questions are welcome to contact the school. Please note that developing an expression of interest does NOT guarantee the establishment of a program. We still have some hurdles to jump - but we have a positive start!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">More to come...</span></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kindergarten Registration</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kindergarten registration is now underway at all schools across Limestone - and that includes at GREC! If your child was born in 2022, now is the time to register your new student to start school in September! More details regarding registration can be found here: </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/news/kindergarten-registration-is-now-open-2026" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kindergarten Registration is Now Open</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We can't wait to meet our newest group of Gryphons!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/6df55289-4150-4e36-bc51-03909395cab0" alt="kinder registration" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/c8f79d31-0515-4e9f-ba80-e022a1538cf4" alt="kinder orientation" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">GRADE 9 Information Night</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We are very excited to host our annual Grade 9 Information Night on Wednesday, February 25th, 2026! This night is a chance for all current Grade 8 students and families to find out more about what high school is all about! The night includes information sessions, tours, community resources and more.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Looking forward to seeing you there!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/c2bd2bad-7df2-4a39-8a55-c2ef70ddeaec" alt="high school" width="663" height="387" style="width:663px;height:387px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Messages from Tri-Board</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We are very thankful for our partnership with Tri-Board Transportation in getting our students safely to- and from- school each day! Please see the important information below regarding transportation for our upcoming school year!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/3fc9eb44-a631-4fd3-bc64-175ea2659678" alt="Tri Board Deadline2026" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/db2c00aa-3183-4144-8fd0-becf5d1ed270" alt="Triboard Info Handout" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><br></h2><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Dental Screening</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Members of the Oral Health Team from Southeast Public Health will be visiting GREC on Wednesday, February 25th, to complete free dental screening for all students in Junior Kindergarten, Senior Kindergarten, Grade 2 and Grade 7. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/a6e42ac1-df14-448a-92a4-1325578ef13d" alt="dental screening" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">DELICIOUS FUNDRAISERS!</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">It isn't too late to order pizza kits for home and support our Grade 8 graduation trip! </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/6bc27459-0fa3-49bc-85db-3856c6c430d6" alt="Little Caesars" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">AND HOW ABOUT SOME DESSERT?!</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/25148b24-0b22-4d6d-86ca-ecb71a42c2f1" alt="Cheesecake Fundraiser Flyer" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">MARCHING INTO MARCH!</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/39a85bca-ba4f-4b73-bb96-bcecfbbef585" alt="kinder olympics" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/90620b87-2fa0-46c5-a912-d7140586a997" alt="March Spirit Days" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Secondary Gryph Coins: Building Character</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We have recently unveiled our own school currency: the Gryph Coin! We are excited to embark on this new adventure, allowing opportunities for students to be celebrated for positive attendance and positive character! Speak with your student to find out more about how and why they have received Gryph Coins and what they can do with it!</span></p></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/a9e57872-72df-49da-b90e-cc5b05a448b7" alt="gryph" width="598" height="627" style="width:598px;height:627px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Looking forward to getting our Gryph-On!</span></p></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">HIPPY Program</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The&nbsp;Kingston Native Center and Language Nest is now offering the Indigenous Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY)&nbsp;program.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Indigenous&nbsp;HIPPY&nbsp;works with Indigenous parents/caregivers&nbsp;by&nbsp;providing an in-home school readiness program designed to empower parents/caregivers of children aged 3-5. This program empowers parents to be their child's first and most important teacher through weekly in-home visits.&nbsp;The curriculum focuses on areas of math, science, literacy,&nbsp;gross and fine&nbsp;motor&nbsp;and language.&nbsp;The program builds&nbsp;the&nbsp;parents/caregivers capacity, confidence and provides community connections.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Each week a&nbsp;HIPPY&nbsp;home visitor will meet with the parents/caregivers to provide evidence-based programing. The program is free of&nbsp;charge&nbsp;and&nbsp;we&nbsp;supply&nbsp;all materials needed including books,&nbsp;games&nbsp;and toys, which are yours to keep!&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If you have any questions, feel free to contact&nbsp;Kearstie&nbsp;Snary&nbsp;at&nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:kearstie.snary@kncln.ca" title="mailto:kearstie.snary@kncln.ca" class="editor-link"><u><span class="editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">kearstie.snary@kncln.ca</span></u></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/754ac55b-d0de-4ae3-b409-1744420c7e68" alt="HIPPY" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">An Evening with Monique Gray</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Limestone District School Board Indigenous Education Team, in partnership with the Limestone Learning Foundation and Queen’s University’s Faculty of Education, are excited to offer a valuable evening: Braiding Sweetgrass for Young Adults.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"We are pleased to welcome&nbsp;Monique&nbsp;Gray&nbsp;Smith, who will provide an in-person public talk inspired by her book,&nbsp;</span><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Braiding Sweetgrass for Young Adults</em></i><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, an adaptation of&nbsp;</span><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Braiding Sweetgrass</em></i><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;by Robin Wall Kimmerer."</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This gathering will bring together educators, families, students, Indigenous partners, teacher candidates, and community members to reflect on care, reciprocity, and connection to land and one another.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/8b8b2250-c464-4d82-b8c7-df4f2e0d1907" alt="braiding sweetgrass" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Supporting Mental Health</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Free webinar series for parents/caregivers – Supporting Your Child’s Mental Health from School Mental Health Ontario</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We are excited to share a valuable opportunity to support your child’s well-being. School Mental Health Ontario is offering a&nbsp;</span><a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fhwdsb86405.acemlna.com%2Flt.php%3Fx%3D4lZy~GE5U3jM6KKsyNHIUBSg~a2mjt9vv-g1jaTJIXPL65J~_Ey7xOlr23Mn-RVfjDZo2nfEIYGg6HCKyNyYWOZw1k&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cmooreca%40limestone.on.ca%7C793a1591a7a64b0ab0fa08de6a5e7cd8%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C639065151569980217%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C4000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=mqHn8WN2yyATQv%2B5Ysq8j%2BXaENFc%2F%2BcjpLNX1hmUeg8%3D&amp;reserved=0" title="Original URL: https://hwdsb86405.acemlna.com/lt.php?x=4lZy~GE5U3jM6KKsyNHIUBSg~a2mjt9vv-g1jaTJIXPL65J~_Ey7xOlr23Mn-RVfjDZo2nfEIYGg6HCKyNyYWOZw1k. Click or tap if you trust this link." class="editor-link"><u><span class="editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">free webinar series</span></u></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;as part of the&nbsp;</span><a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fhwdsb86405.acemlna.com%2Flt.php%3Fx%3D4lZy~GE5U3jM6KKsyNHIUBSg~a2mjt9vv-g1jaTJIXPL65J~_Ey7xOlr23Mn-RVfjDZo2nfEIYGg6HCKyNyYWOZw1E&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cmooreca%40limestone.on.ca%7C793a1591a7a64b0ab0fa08de6a5e7cd8%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C639065151569999811%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C4000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=v5pdYCLQ7uXH3QdxMgSEvNZzaW9AHOK6KDgCqVUCPSU%3D&amp;reserved=0" title="Original URL: https://hwdsb86405.acemlna.com/lt.php?x=4lZy~GE5U3jM6KKsyNHIUBSg~a2mjt9vv-g1jaTJIXPL65J~_Ey7xOlr23Mn-RVfjDZo2nfEIYGg6HCKyNyYWOZw1E. Click or tap if you trust this link." class="editor-link"><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">By Your Side</strong></b></u></a><a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fhwdsb86405.acemlna.com%2Flt.php%3Fx%3D4lZy~GE5U3jM6KKsyNHIUBSg~a2mjt9vv-g1jaTJIXPL65J~_Ey7xOlr23Mn-RVfjDZo2nfEIYGg6HCKyNyYWOZw1E&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cmooreca%40limestone.on.ca%7C793a1591a7a64b0ab0fa08de6a5e7cd8%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C639065151570015040%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C4000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=j111u%2FPb9uzQW7gAegbh0COTa9lubiA7Vsdmg38zl18%3D&amp;reserved=0" title="Original URL: https://hwdsb86405.acemlna.com/lt.php?x=4lZy~GE5U3jM6KKsyNHIUBSg~a2mjt9vv-g1jaTJIXPL65J~_Ey7xOlr23Mn-RVfjDZo2nfEIYGg6HCKyNyYWOZw1E. Click or tap if you trust this link." class="editor-link"><u><span class="editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;Learning Hub</span></u></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, designed to help parents and caregivers navigate important topics to support their children’s mental health.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This expert-led series will provide insights and practical strategies on:&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">✅ balanced device use&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">✅ vaping&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">✅ body image&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">✅ anxiety&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The webinars will also include answers to questions that parents/caregivers can provide ahead of the webinar, giving you the chance to ask questions and gain practical guidance.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">📅 Sessions run March to June&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">💻&nbsp;</span><a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fhwdsb86405.acemlna.com%2Flt.php%3Fx%3D4lZy~GE5U3jM6KKsyNHIUBSg~a2mjt9vv-g1jaTJIXPL65J~_Ey7xOlr23Mn-RVfjDZo2nfEIYGg6HCKyNyYWOZw10&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cmooreca%40limestone.on.ca%7C793a1591a7a64b0ab0fa08de6a5e7cd8%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C639065151570030162%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C4000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=tv3Nj895J00HxKJuhScgcAPgE2LWMFAVgUpWNrQHltg%3D&amp;reserved=0" title="Original URL: https://hwdsb86405.acemlna.com/lt.php?x=4lZy~GE5U3jM6KKsyNHIUBSg~a2mjt9vv-g1jaTJIXPL65J~_Ey7xOlr23Mn-RVfjDZo2nfEIYGg6HCKyNyYWOZw10. Click or tap if you trust this link." class="editor-link"><u><span class="editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Register for free today</span></u></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp; &nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/7666ec10-ab05-476c-92f2-b57ee37a09dd" alt="mental health" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We encourage all parents and caregivers to participate in this informative series. Together, we can support the well-being of our children and communities.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Messages from Public Health: </span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/d0cc4eea-a4b3-4fb8-bb7c-c18d4cf3474c" alt="Eating" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/aaa27635-fa1f-4283-b34e-15606850ea22" alt="eating2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/e8d7ae5f-2c53-413b-84e2-ac4dc1e2dc18" alt="important dates" width="230" height="183" style="width:230px;height:183px;display:inline-block;float:right"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Upcoming Dates</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">February 2026</span></h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">4 - Immunization Clinic</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">9-13 - Spirit Week!</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">11 - Bake Sale</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">12 - Elementary basketball at NAEC</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">25 - Dental Screening (JK, SK, Gr 2, Gr 7)</span></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">25-26 - Grade 12 Graduation Photos</span></li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">13 - Term 1 Report Cards Go Home</span></li><li value="8" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">16 - Family Day Holiday</span></li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">March 2026</span></h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2 - Grade 8 Graduation Photos</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">16-20 - March Break</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">23 - IEPs go home (Term 2)</span></li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">April 2026</span></h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">3 - Good Friday Holiday</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">6 - Easter Monday Holiday</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">16 - Parent Council Bingo Night!</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">17 - PA Day - No school for students</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">24 – Secondary Midterm Reports Go Home</span></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">24 – Elementary Jr BB Tournament @ NAEC (tentative)</span></li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">May 2026</span></h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">18 - Victoria Day Holiday</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">19 - Welcome to Kinder Event!</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">29 - PA Day - No School for students</span></li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">June 2026</span></h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">9 - Athletic Banquet - 5:00pm</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">16-17 - Grade 12 Final Summative Evaluations &amp; Exams</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">18-24 - Semester 2 Final Examinations</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">23 - Grade 8 Graduation - 6:30pm</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">24 - Kindergarten Celebration - 1:30pm</span></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">24 - Final Elementary Reports Home</span></li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">25 - Grade 12 Graduation - 11am</span></li><li value="8" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">25 - Last day of school</span></li></ul><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">School Year Calendars</span></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" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">LDSB School Year Calendar 2025-2026</span></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" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Elementary 5-Day Calendar 2025-2026</span></a></li></ul><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Parent Council</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Dear Parents &amp; Guardians,</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We invite you to join our first Parent Council meeting on </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">the first Monday of each month, </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">which will take place in the GREC Library or online via Zoom from 5:30-6:30pm.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Parent Council is a group of parents, guardians, staff, and community members who work together to support and enhance our school environment. Through these meetings, we discuss important topics, share updates, and make decisions that shape our school community.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">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!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please consider joining us. We look forward to welcoming new and returning faces. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Prevalent Medical Conditions</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Schools are required to have a plan of care on site for any student with a prevalent medical condition. If your student has a prevalent medical condition, please take the time to fill out the appropriate form below and return the form to the school. Forms must be updated annually so that the school is aware of changes to plans.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If your student requires daily medications, these should NOT be carried in backpacks, but rather stored in the main office. If medications are to be administered by school staff, additional forms are required. Please reach out to the school if you have any questions, or to make arrangements for administration of medications.</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/6cb17e7d-afa6-5389-ba6c-8b822152fc91/Form%20311-D%20Asthma%20Plan%20of%20Care.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Asthma Plan of Care</span></a></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/8d3074f2-3d7a-5432-9e36-6488a4909f99/Form%20311-E%20Anaphylaxis%20Plan%20of%20Care.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Anaphylaxis Plan of Care</span></a></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/3145e7bf-68db-5d8e-9c6c-3986a3d947da/Form%20311-B%20Epilepsy%20Plan%20of%20Care.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Epilepsy Plan of Care</span></a></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/348c4b1c-73f6-5c1c-b5b9-945d10579288/Form%20311-C%20Diabetes%20Plan%20of%20Care.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Diabetes Plan of Care</span></a></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/8ca5dae7-cc6b-55d5-a27a-515b750ed82a/Plan%20of%20Care%20Generic.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Generic Plan of Care</span></a></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Late Arrival? Early Dismissal? </span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As you can appreciate, the office can be very busy at the beginning and end of each day. We ask that you notify your student's teacher (Elementary; note, email) or the main office (Secondary) about changes to regular routines ahead of time wherever possible. If there are unforeseen changes, please notify the office </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">before 1:30pm</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. This will allow us to relay the information to the classroom in a timely manner. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">All doors of the school building remain locked during the school day. Please continue to buzz at the front door for pick ups and drop offs during the day.</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Reporting a Student Absence</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Reporting Absences: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">There are three options to use to report a student absence:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">use the SchoolMessenger App on your phone, select "Attendance", then "Report an Absence"</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">use the SchoolMessenger website portal</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Call the main office of the school</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Human Rights Reporting Tool</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/194b73ca-9423-4423-9236-2382c234d04a" alt="human rights" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Attendance Matters</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/63bfc51d-fddb-440d-9e53-c07f111df672" alt="attendance" width="685" height="669" style="width:685px;height:669px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/981f7563-db61-4bd3-8594-4f8bf65fd1b2" alt="lates" width="698" height="482" style="width:698px;height:482px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/e7cd2011-a045-49fc-9f91-0d14e4423d00" alt="land acknowledgement" width="684" height="429" style="width:684px;height:429px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/16952f8b-1566-44b1-b422-b14f522ad31e" alt="GREC Aerial" width="730" height="338" style="width:730px;height:338px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p>
2026-02-23 03:56:29.999 +0000 UTC
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Gryphon Gazette - January 2026

<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">January 2026</strong></b></u></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/a916cea4-7d76-4405-ba22-9d143fab486d" alt="winter" width="552" height="310" style="width:552px;height:310px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Hello Gryphon Families,</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The new year has definitely brought with it some weather that has kept us on our toes! As we wrap up the term/semester this month, staff and students have done their best to remain flexible and adjust to the challenges imposed by Mother Nature. Frequent days with bus cancellations have created a need to re-examine short- and long-range plans - in particular in secondary classes as students work to show demonstration of all overall course expectations before exams. As always, teachers will continue to be vigilant to ensure that students have the greatest opportunity for success. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The arrival of February will bring with it a new term for elementary students, a new semester for secondary students, and some new initiatives and opportunities for students. We continue to look forward to seeing the growth in our students. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Secondary Examinations</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A reminder that Secondary Examinations for Semester 1 begin TOMORROW - Thursday, January 22, 2026. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Evaluation/Exam Schedule:&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></b></u></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students in grades 9 -12 will be writing their exams during the exam schedule, January 22</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>nd</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;&nbsp;–&nbsp;&nbsp;28</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>th</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students who are not writing an exam should be studying at home unless they have made specific arrangements to receive help from a teacher. These arrangements need to be made in advance as most teachers are supervising an exam or have other supervision duties during the examination period.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students who need extra help before their exams should see their teachers during the review days for permission to attend afternoon sessions and should sign up in the&nbsp;main office.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">All exams will be written in the&nbsp;morning,&nbsp;and students should&nbsp;make arrangements&nbsp;to be picked up afterward or&nbsp;sign up for&nbsp;the&nbsp;early&nbsp;bus&nbsp;in the&nbsp;main office.&nbsp;Other culminating activities and oral exams/interviews will be scheduled by the teacher.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Inclement Weather:&nbsp;</strong></b></u></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The January Summative/Exam timetable has been created and includes a day to account for potential inclement weather and bus cancellations.  If buses are cancelled due to inclement weather, exams scheduled on that day will be rescheduled to the next exam day. &nbsp;Subsequent&nbsp;exams in the exam schedule will also be rescheduled to the next exam day. For example, if buses are cancelled on Friday, January 23</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>rd</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, Friday’s exams will be held on Monday, January 26</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>th</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.  Monday’s exams would be held on Tuesday, January 27</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>th</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, and&nbsp;Tuesday’s exams would be held on Wednesday, January 28</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>th</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Schools will communicate with families through email and&nbsp;LDSB&nbsp;website, if the exam schedule needs to be adjusted due to inclement weather and bus cancellations.  It will be important for families to watch for communication&nbsp;in the event of&nbsp;inclement weather.  Students are expected to be present and available to write exams&nbsp;and finish assessments&nbsp;during the entire exam period, from January 22nd through January&nbsp;28th. &nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Absences:&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></b></u></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students Under Eighteen Years of Age: If you are ill on the day of an exam, your parent or guardian must contact&nbsp;the school at&nbsp;343-283-0500&nbsp;before 8:30 a.m. to arrange an alternate time for you to write the exam.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students Eighteen Years of Age or Older: You must contact the school before 8:30 a.m. if you are ill on the day of an exam to arrange an alternate time for you to write an exam.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">All students, please remember that vacation planning,&nbsp;regular&nbsp;scheduled appointments and work schedules&nbsp;do not constitute&nbsp;emergencies and may cause you to lose the opportunity to&nbsp;demonstrate&nbsp;your&nbsp;learning on an exam.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Busing:&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></b></u></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">During exam days, two buses will&nbsp;depart&nbsp;the school at 11:30 a.m. using the late bus routes (one South bus and one North bus). Regular busses will also run on their normal routes at 2:40 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students who&nbsp;require&nbsp;the early bus must sign up in the front office&nbsp;before the start of the exam period. </span><u><i><em class="editor-text-italic editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If&nbsp;no one&nbsp;signs up,&nbsp;the bus will not run.&nbsp;</em></i></u></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students are not&nbsp;permitted&nbsp;in the school in the afternoon unless previously arranged and supervised by&nbsp;a&nbsp;teacher.&nbsp;</strong></b></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Exam Procedure:&nbsp;</strong></b></u></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students&nbsp;must arrive at the examination room by 8:25 am; all exams start at 8:30 am&nbsp;unless otherwise individually scheduled.&nbsp;</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students are expected to be on time and to bring all necessary materials to each exam (including textbooks to be returned to teachers).&nbsp;</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Cell phones are not allowed in exam rooms.&nbsp;</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students must remain in the exam for a minimum of one hour.&nbsp;</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students who have finished their exams must go directly to the Resource Centre,&nbsp;cafeteria,&nbsp;GLC,&nbsp;or&nbsp;a&nbsp;prearranged location&nbsp;in the school.&nbsp;</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Student Success Procedure:&nbsp;</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">For students who have not&nbsp;submitted&nbsp;work, there will be&nbsp;designated&nbsp;student success days for students to complete outstanding assessments.&nbsp;Mr. Donatelli will connect with students and families as needed.&nbsp;</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/83e45f14-f4ea-4f3e-b1c1-f676fc85c68b" alt="Exam Schedule" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Algonquin Language Learning</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kwey kakina</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">With the support of the Indigenous Education team, we are happy to offer the opportunity for students across all grades at GREC to take part in learning Algonquin language. Lessons will take place one day per week (Fridays) during the regular school day.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If you have interest in your student taking part in Algonquin language lessons, please reach out to the school. We are happy to provide each interested student - no matter the grade - with an opportunity to learn individually or with their peers.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">LDSB Student Trustee</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Student trustees play a crucial role in giving students a voice in the decisions that shape the</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Limestone District School Board. As a student trustee, you will have the opportunity to represent the</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">student body and advocate for your peers. You’ll attend board meetings, provide input on important</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">issues, and ensure the student perspective is heard.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This role offers incredible benefits:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Gain leadership skills that will serve you for life.</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Amplify student voice and impact across the district.</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Build connections with students, staff, and leaders.</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Be an advocate for student voice and change in education.</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Attend conferences in Toronto, connecting with student leaders from across Ontario.</span></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Bursary at the end of the school year</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If you are going to be a senior student in the 2026-2027 passionate about student government and</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">want to make a difference, this position may be for you! The application process is straightforward,</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">and your school’s Student Council, staff advisors, and current student trustees are here to help you</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">along the way.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Applications opened December 1, 2025, and close January 29, 2026.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">To learn more and submit your application, visit the </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/student_trustees" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Student Trustee webpage</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Don’t miss your chance to be a voice for students across the Limestone District School Board!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/0b98308a-7c3a-4d5d-99ad-4cdee51208d4" alt="Student Trustee" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Scent Awareness</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Another reminder that our school is a SCENT AWARE space, and that scented products should not be utilized before entering the school. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Looking for some scent-free alternatives to add to your products used at home? The following products can be found at Canadian Tire and are the same cost - if not lower cost - than the alternative scented products!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/c12a365b-d213-4db3-a83b-3faf144ab8bd" alt="scent 1" width="240" height="192" style="width:240px;height:192px;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/d9707ece-6c2b-4cd0-932e-1f0141803586" alt="Scent 2" width="182" height="234" style="width:182px;height:234px;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/ebc55ace-8402-49f1-aea6-06f9ee9f6b86" alt="scent 3" width="181" height="254" style="width:181px;height:254px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/cdfed88c-f45b-499e-bd18-06f7ec4704c6" alt="scent 4" width="119" height="314" style="width:119px;height:314px;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/7912d890-2c7d-41ec-969b-55904d28882d" alt="scent 5" width="112" height="331" style="width:112px;height:331px;display:inline-block"></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2"><br></h2><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Inclement Weather Routines</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="https://spaces-cdn.clipsafari.com/ki1i576fgdvvbu6ypu8h6qr2gilb" alt="Clock Set To 8:05 Clip Art Image - ClipSafari" width="152" height="152" style="width:152px;height:152px;display:inline-block;float:left"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Communication related to these days will always be sent out in the morning to the emails of guardians and family members who are subscribed to email communication. For the most up-to-date information, families should consider following Tri-Board on social media, as well as registering for bus status alerts through the TriBoard Student Portal.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Families are remined that any students dropped off at school on inclement weather days need to be picked up by the end of the day as well. Please plan your route to ensure you can safely make it to the school by the end of the school day. Additionally, a reminder that the yard does not open for supervision in the morning until 8:05am. Students should not be dropped off at the school earlier than 8:05am.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/1ac44826-2aae-4f3b-9fdb-1633af771e88" alt="school bus" width="263" height="123" style="width:263px;height:123px;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/d07b5699-ca04-4b04-8909-2947ed94f4bc" alt="no parking" width="100" height="140" style="width:100px;height:140px;display:inline-block;float:right"></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Parking &amp; Student Pick Up - Safety Update</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thank you to GREC families and friends for being diligent with following the no parking signs on Road 38. This has helped a great deal with safety: easing the congestion near the entrance of the school, and also improving sightlines for vehicles in transit on Road 38. Out of interest of continuing to increase an eye to safety, we would also ask that folks not park on the far side of Road 38, as cars here create traffic challenges for vehicles and pedestrians.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Parents and guardians who are picking up their student are encouraged to keep regular bus transportation routines as much as possible in order to reduce the number of vehicles coming to the school at the end of the day. For those who must pick up their student, please ensure that you are staying clear of no parking zones. Please do not park in front of the school on Road 38. If you choose not to park in the school lot and wait for buses to depart, there is additional parking available at the ball diamond and rink, as well as along Dickson Crescent. These places also provide sidewalks for students to safely make their way there.</span></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Secondary Attendance Incentive Program</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Attendance is pivotal to student success. Beyond achievements in grades, regular school attendance provides numerous benefits, including&nbsp;improved academic achievement and better social-emotional development. Consistent attendance helps students build crucial skills, form positive relationships, increase their confidence, and stay on track to graduate. It also develops a sense of reliability that is valuable for future employment.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Understanding the benefits of positive attendance, we are excited to continue our Attendance Incentive Program for secondary students for which we have already distributed prizes to lucky - and dedicated! - winners. We will continue tracking attendance in 2 week periods as we start semester two. Any students who arrive on time daily, and attend all classes without absences for the two week period, will have a chance to win a gift card from stores of interest including Amazon, Best Buy, Sport Chek, Sephora, and more! In addition, other incentives will also exist for students with improved attendance habits.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As a special addition: keep an eye out for the "Gryph" coins! Coins will be given individually to students for hard work, positive attendance and positive character. Students can use these coins later in the semester as a currency for fun! </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Looking forward to celebrating Gryphons for good habits and being great humans!</span></p></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Reminder: School Phone Number Change</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A reminder to families that in the spring, the school phone system changed, and with it, the phone number for the school. The </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">new phone number for GREC is: 343-283-0500. </strong></b></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Skills Competitions</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Elementary and Secondary students in grades 4 to 12 are eligible to compete in the LDSB and Ontario Skills Competitions in the spring each year. At GREC, we would love to see students get involved in a variety of skills. </span><a href="https://expandedopportunities.limestone.on.ca/ldsb-skills" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Click here</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> for more information about LDSB Skills.</span></p><h1 class="editor-heading-h1" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Limestone Skills Competition is the lead-up to the Skills Ontario events that happen in early May each year.&nbsp; The gold medal winners from the Limestone event may be offered the opportunity to represent the LDSB at the Ontario Skills Competition.&nbsp; &nbsp;</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Skills Ontario Competition offers a unique opportunity for top students to demonstrate that they are the best in their field. Over three days, student competitors impress their educators, family, friends, and prospective employers. Winners are awarded with Gold, Silver, or Bronze medals and the opportunity to compete at the Skills Canada National Competition. From there, competitors could be headed to the WorldSkills Competition.</span></h1><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/fab03ba4-bed2-4e39-88a4-6c8f1ccc9248" alt="Skills 2026" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><i><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We already have a number of students across elementary and secondary grades who have shown interest and started preparing for the Skills Competitions. Students who are interested can speak with their classroom or subject-specific teachers to find out more! Stay tuned for more information as we get closer to the event!</strong></b></i></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Black History Month</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Each year, Black History Month honours the experiences, achievements and enduring contributions of Black communities in Canada, while deepening our collective understanding of their history and impact on Canadian society. The theme this year is,&nbsp;</span><i><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“30 Years of Black History Month: Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations — From Nation Builders to Tomorrow’s Visionaries.”</strong></b></i><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;This theme celebrates three decades of Black History Month in Canada and recognizes the enduring legacy of Black Canadians, whose leadership, creativity, innovation and resilience have shaped our past, continue to influence our present, and will inspire future generations.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/d82139bd-de42-4e5f-92e1-61aeae6dbfdd" alt="black history month" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Messages from Student Council:</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/4260c744-44b9-4f79-8893-c01527a4e894" alt="bake sale" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">There will be a Bake Sale on Wednesday, February 11th, 2026 during secondary lunch and afternoon elementary nutrition break. Proceeds will be put towards supporting future Student Council activities and events. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Spirit Week!!</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/c5cd8509-1d10-4255-856f-28ae933cba40" alt="Feb Spirit Day Poster" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><br></h2><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Messages from Public Health: </span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/504650df-8cad-4a59-92d7-a684425a5cec" alt="Public Health 3" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/fe354ba4-e1a9-48d1-8b11-3b2f4cef88c7" alt="Immunization Clinic" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/249634bf-041d-4ad9-b4d0-9882de5fed19" alt="Public Health 1" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/c22a3c36-ed23-4d2d-a0d5-d0b7714576cc" alt="Public Health 2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/e8d7ae5f-2c53-413b-84e2-ac4dc1e2dc18" alt="important dates" width="230" height="183" style="width:230px;height:183px;display:inline-block;float:right"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Upcoming Dates</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">January 2026</span></h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">5 - Back to school!</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">22-28 - Secondary Exams</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">30 - PA Day - No school for students</span></li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">February 2026</span></h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">4 - Immunization Clinic</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">9-13 - Spirit Week!</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">11 - Bake Sale</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">12 - Elementary basketball at NAEC</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">25 - Dental Screening (JK, SK, Gr 2, Gr 7)</span></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">25-26 - Grade 12 Graduation Photos</span></li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">13 - Term 1 Report Cards Go Home</span></li><li value="8" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">16 - Family Day Holiday</span></li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">March 2026</span></h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2 - Grade 8 Graduation Photos</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">16-20 - March Break</span></li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">April 2026</span></h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">3 - Good Friday Holiday</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">6 - Easter Monday Holiday</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">17 - PA Day - No school for students</span></li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">May 2026</span></h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">18 - Victoria Day Holiday</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">29 - PA Day - No School for students</span></li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">June 2026</span></h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">9 - Athletic Banquet - 5:00pm</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">16-17 - Grade 12 Final Summative Evaluations &amp; Exams</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">18-24 - Semester 2 Final Examinations</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">23 - Grade 8 Graduation - 6:30pm</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">24 - Kindergarten Celebration - 1:30pm</span></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">24 - Final Elementary Reports Home</span></li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">25 - Grade 12 Graduation - 11am</span></li><li value="8" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">25 - Last day of school</span></li></ul><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">School Year Calendars</span></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" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">LDSB School Year Calendar 2025-2026</span></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" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Elementary 5-Day Calendar 2025-2026</span></a></li></ul><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Parent Council</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Dear Parents &amp; Guardians,</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We invite you to join our first Parent Council meeting on </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">the first Monday of each month, </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">which will take place in the GREC Library or online via Zoom from 5:30-6:30pm.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Parent Council is a group of parents, guardians, staff, and community members who work together to support and enhance our school environment. Through these meetings, we discuss important topics, share updates, and make decisions that shape our school community.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">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!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please consider joining us. We look forward to welcoming new and returning faces. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Prevalent Medical Conditions</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Schools are required to have a plan of care on site for any student with a prevalent medical condition. If your student has a prevalent medical condition, please take the time to fill out the appropriate form below and return the form to the school. Forms must be updated annually so that the school is aware of changes to plans.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If your student requires daily medications, these should NOT be carried in backpacks, but rather stored in the main office. If medications are to be administered by school staff, additional forms are required. Please reach out to the school if you have any questions, or to make arrangements for administration of medications.</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/6cb17e7d-afa6-5389-ba6c-8b822152fc91/Form%20311-D%20Asthma%20Plan%20of%20Care.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Asthma Plan of Care</span></a></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/8d3074f2-3d7a-5432-9e36-6488a4909f99/Form%20311-E%20Anaphylaxis%20Plan%20of%20Care.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Anaphylaxis Plan of Care</span></a></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/3145e7bf-68db-5d8e-9c6c-3986a3d947da/Form%20311-B%20Epilepsy%20Plan%20of%20Care.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Epilepsy Plan of Care</span></a></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/348c4b1c-73f6-5c1c-b5b9-945d10579288/Form%20311-C%20Diabetes%20Plan%20of%20Care.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Diabetes Plan of Care</span></a></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/8ca5dae7-cc6b-55d5-a27a-515b750ed82a/Plan%20of%20Care%20Generic.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Generic Plan of Care</span></a></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Late Arrival? Early Dismissal? </span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As you can appreciate, the office can be very busy at the beginning and end of each day. We ask that you notify your student's teacher (Elementary; note, email) or the main office (Secondary) about changes to regular routines ahead of time wherever possible. If there are unforeseen changes, please notify the office </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">before 1:30pm</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. This will allow us to relay the information to the classroom in a timely manner. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">All doors of the school building remain locked during the school day. Please continue to buzz at the front door for pick ups and drop offs during the day.</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Reporting a Student Absence</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Reporting Absences: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">There are three options to use to report a student absence:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">use the SchoolMessenger App on your phone, select "Attendance", then "Report an Absence"</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">use the SchoolMessenger website portal</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Call the main office of the school</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Human Rights Reporting Tool</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/194b73ca-9423-4423-9236-2382c234d04a" alt="human rights" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Attendance Matters</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/63bfc51d-fddb-440d-9e53-c07f111df672" alt="attendance" width="685" height="669" style="width:685px;height:669px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/981f7563-db61-4bd3-8594-4f8bf65fd1b2" alt="lates" width="698" height="482" style="width:698px;height:482px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/e7cd2011-a045-49fc-9f91-0d14e4423d00" alt="land acknowledgement" width="684" height="429" style="width:684px;height:429px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/16952f8b-1566-44b1-b422-b14f522ad31e" alt="GREC Aerial" width="730" height="338" style="width:730px;height:338px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p>
2026-01-21 16:39:44.226 +0000 UTC
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About Our School

Welcome to Granite Ridge Education Centre, a unique Kindergarten to Grade 12 composite school located in Sharbot Lake and home of the Gryphons. We serve the areas of Sharbot Lake, Parham, Tichborne and surrounding areas. At Granite Ridge, we are committed to providing all students with a positive, supportive and stimulating learning environment in which all are encouraged to succeed.

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Message from the Director - February 20, 2026

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Dear Families,</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">I hope everyone had a good, short week following the Family Day Weekend. We have had a small taste of warmer weather recently, though we know there may still be more winter days to come. As we head toward the end of February, I would like to share a few updates with Limestone families:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2026-2027 School Year Calendar</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thank you to everyone who took the time to fill out the 2026-2027 School Year Calendar Survey. Approximately 3,700 responses were submitted from families, staff, and community members. We appreciate your time and providing the feedback.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As shared previously, the school year calendar for 2026-2027 presents unique challenges, with Labour Day falling unusually late on September 7, and Easter occurring just four days after March Break. Across all three school boards (Limestone DSB, Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic DSB, and Hastings and Prince Edward County DSB) Option 1 was the preferred choice, and Option 2 ranked second and third, with only marginal differences in support.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Following further review of the potential calendars, and considering potential financial implications, it was determined that implementing Option 1 would create additional costs for all three boards. Given that Option 2 very closely aligns with Option 1, differing by only one day and without the associated financial implications, all three boards supported Option 2, with the school year starting September 1 (P.A. Day) and the first day of classes for students on September 2.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">At Wednesday night’s Board Meeting, the Limestone Board of Trustees approved </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/375540e1-d8af-4e1c-a856-7035ab3f1e4b/2026-2027-School-Year-Calendar-Final.pdf" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Option 2 for the 2026-2027 school year calendar</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, and this calendar will be submitted to the Ministry of Education for final approval.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">You Are Invited: Community Event: An Evening with Monique Gray Smith, Author of </strong></b><i><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Braiding Sweetgrass for Young Adults </strong></b></i><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">– March 12, 2026</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students, families, staff, and community members are invited to a free in-person evening with author Monique Gray Smith. This special event will bring our community together to learn about care, reciprocity, connection to the land, and connection to one another. &nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Date</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">: March 12, 2026</span><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Time</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">:&nbsp;&nbsp; 6:30 p.m.&nbsp;- Vendors and refreshments</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 6:45 p.m.&nbsp;- Doors open</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 7:00 p.m.&nbsp;- Speaker begins</span><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Location</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">: Queen's University, Duncan McArthur Hall,&nbsp;511 Union St., Kingston</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Light refreshments will be provided, and the first 50 attendees will receive a free copy of her book. </span><a href="https://bit.ly/LDSBMoniqueGraySmithEvent" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Registration is required</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. Please </span><a href="https://bit.ly/LDSBMoniqueGraySmithEvent" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">register online</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> in advance — we look forward to seeing you there!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This event has been made possible with the support of the Limestone Learning Foundation, Queen’s University Faculty of Education, and the Limestone District School Board.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2026-2027 Virtual School Survey</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Families interested in enrolling their students in virtual school for the 2026-2027 school year should complete the </span><a href="https://ca1.voxco.com/S2/?st=fu443Fws9prkkUlLZrFDxwJzvjfy6JjISrxBQtOLRo8%3D&amp;mod=0&amp;dlang=en" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Virtual School Survey.</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> This helps with early planning for the next school year. This virtual school survey&nbsp;is not for registration and families will need to </span><a href="mailto:virtualk8@limestone.on.ca" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">contact Elementary Virtual School to officially register their students for next year</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. If you have more than one student interested, please complete the survey for each student. The survey will remain open until Friday, March 13, 2026. Families can </span><a href="https://ca1.voxco.com/S2/?st=fu443Fws9prkkUlLZrFDxwJzvjfy6JjISrxBQtOLRo8%3D&amp;mod=0&amp;dlang=en" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">access the survey online</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. If you require a printed survey, please contact Principal </span><a href="mailto:myerskm@limestone.on.ca" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kate Myers by e-mail</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><a href="https://ca1.voxco.com/S2/?st=fu443Fws9prkkUlLZrFDxwJzvjfy6JjISrxBQtOLRo8%3D&amp;mod=0&amp;dlang=en" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Access the survey online.</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Ministry and Board Resources for Math and Literacy</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">There are many resources available designed to support your student’s learning in math and literacy, offering engaging activities that can make learning fun and effective for students and families. </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/tutoring" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Visit Limestone’s Online Learning Resources and Tutoring webpage</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> to learn more.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thank you for your ongoing support and engagement in Limestone school communities. We truly value the strong partnership we share with families and look forward to the second half of the 2025-2026 school year continuing positively for students, families, and staff.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Krishna Burra</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Director of Education</span></p>
2026-02-20 21:00:23.337 +0000 UTC
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Boardroom Briefs: February 18, 2026

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">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 February 18, 2026 Regular Board Meeting. Agendas and meeting recording can be found on the website under </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/board_meetings-1719463739654" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Board Meetings</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Regular Board Meeting - February 18, 2026</span></h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Land Acknowledgement </span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">All meetings begin with a Land Acknowledgement: "The Limestone District School Board is situated on the traditional territories of the Anishinaabek 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."</span></p><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Private Session Report</span></h3><details open="false"><summary><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">February 4, 2026 EPOC Meeting and February 18, 2026 Board Meeting</span></p></summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustee Lloyd stated: “During Private Session following at the February 4 Education, Policy, and Operations Committee (EPOC) Meeting, Associate Superintendent Hedderson and Associate Superintendent Blackburn provided a Legal and Property Update.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">There was no other business conducted, or motions passed in Private Session.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Earlier this evening during Private Session, the private session minutes were approved from the January 14, 2026, Regular Board Meeting and the February 4, 2026, EPOC Meeting. Associate Superintendent Gollogly provided a Safe Schools, Superintendent Young provided a legal update, and Trustees discussed a Personnel update.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">There was no other business conducted, or motions passed in Private Session.”</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">MOVED BY: Trustee Lloyd and seconded by Trustee Scott that the Private Session Report be received. Carried.</span></p></div></details><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Approved Absences</span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Chair McGregor indicated that regrets were received from Trustee Morning to have her absence from tonight’s meeting be approved due to illness.</span></p><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Presentation/Delegation</span></h3><details open="false"><summary><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">LDSB Continuing Education: A Closer Look at the Personal Support Worker Program</strong></b></p></summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/1f82cff8-a9e2-40aa-aabd-7bec84bbe0a7" alt="Personal Support Worker Presentation Title Slide" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Associate Superintendent Blackburn welcomed Principal Kate Myers, staff member Caitlin Turcotte, and student Luciana Xavier Vandermeer. An overview of Continuing Education programs was provided, with a focus on the PSW program as a strong example of Ministry‑supported community partnership. Principal Myers outlined the six Continuing Education programs offered: International and Indigenous Languages, Adult English as a Second Language (ESL), Get Set (Skills Education and Training), teacher‑assisted self‑study/correspondence credits, fee‑for‑service interest courses, and the PSW program.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The PSW program, normally tuition‑based, has been tuition‑free for approximately five years through Ministry funding, currently committed until March 31, 2026. The program operates as a “living classroom” in partnership with the County of Lennox and Addington at the John M. Parrott Centre long‑term care home, supported through multiple funding waves, with an additional application pending. The accelerated five‑month program emphasizes dignity, respect, compassion, and real‑world learning, integrating students early into the long‑term care environment. The program includes 330 hours of theory and lab instruction, 110 hours of supervised placement, two additional 100‑hour unsupervised placements, and the opportunity to earn six secondary school credits where applicable. Successful completion of the provincial PSW exam is required.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Since September 2024, 78 students have enrolled, with a 71% completion rate and a 100% employment rate among graduates, exceeding provincial targets. Wrap‑around supports help reduce barriers by covering items such as scrubs, footwear, transportation, rent, and groceries. Strong provincial and local demand for PSWs was noted, particularly in light of upcoming long‑term care builds. The program meets provincial curriculum standards and has completed quality assurance certification. Ms. Turcotte spoke to the supportive learning environment, the value of the living classroom model, and the program’s focus on dignity, independence, individualized care, privacy, and safety. Ms. Xavier Vandermeer shared her experience as a recent graduate, highlighting the program’s high standards, strong supports, and impact on her personal and professional development.</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Chair McGregor thanked the team for their presentation and opened the floor to questions.</span></p></div></details><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Reports From Officers</span></h3><details open="false"><summary><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Chair's Report</span></p></summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"As we gather for our February meeting, I want to take a moment to recognize the energy across our schools as we begin a new semester. Hallways and classrooms are buzzing, and it’s been wonderful to see students engaged in winter activities that support learning, well-being, and connection during these colder months.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Looking ahead, we will soon be launching our 2026-2027 budget survey. This is an important opportunity for members of the public to share their feedback and perspectives as we begin planning the budget for the next school year. Community input plays a meaningful role in informing our budget-making process, and we encourage families and community members to participate when the survey opens.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">I would also like to highlight Pink Shirt Day on February 25. Schools across the district will be recognizing this day as a visible show of our shared commitment to kindness, inclusion, and respect. We are proud of the many ways our schools foster safe and welcoming environments where every student feels they belong.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thank you to our students, staff, and school communities for the positive start to the semester and for the important work happening each day across our district. That concludes my report.”</span></p></div></details><details open="false"><summary><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Director's Report</span></p></summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Director Burra stated: “Good evening Trustees and the viewing public. It is hard to believe, but we are already a few weeks into the second half of the 2025-2026 school year. First term and first semester report cards have been sent home or are going home this week, secondary students are making course selections for next year, Choices at 9 programs have completed their processes, Choices at 7 programs will be making decisions soon, March Break is just around the corner, and planning is well underway for the 2026-2027 school year. Preparations for next year will continue to ramp up and we eagerly await the release of the budget for next school year that may well be delayed given Queen’s Park is in recess until March 23. I have a number of highlights and upcoming events that I would like to share this evening.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">One significant highlight occurred on February 4 just before our EPOC meeting when a Black History kick-off event was held at LCVI. While I know Senior Staff and some Trustees were able to attend the most of the event due to our EPOC meeting, there were several performances highlighting the significance of Black History in Canada and the local region.&nbsp; It should also be noted that this February is the 30th anniversary of Black History Month in Canada. A big thank you to teacher consultant Andrea Barrow and students and staff of LCVI for hosting this event. I should also note that the very impressive banners highlighting significant Black Canadians that were displayed at the event are now part of a travelling historical exhibit that will be making the rounds at different secondary schools this month and some elementary schools in the spring. Andrea Barrow has also created a range of resources to support Black History Month in LDSB schools, as well as resources to support curriculum delivery in schools.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A significant upcoming event is what we are hoping will be an outstanding Skills Competition at St. Lawrence College next week on February 25 and February 26. Almost 500 Limestone students, Grades 4 to 12, will be participating across over 25 secondary events and six elementary events. The Skills Competition is yet another example of community partnership that showcases critical skills events and the local community college.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Winter KASSAA seasons have either ended or will be ending prior to March Break. Tomorrow evening the girls volleyball championships will be held at St. Lawrence College, and Friday evening St. Lawrence hosts the boys’ basketball finals. It should be noted that LDSB has one team in two of the finals and both teams in the other two finals.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">I would like to also highlight Limestone’s participation in larger community initiatives that involve multiple local partners in supporting more services for children and youth in areas across Limestone. The Unnamed Youth project and the ACES and Resilience Coalition of KFL&amp;A. Both of these initiatives bring together partners to better serve children and youth. This is exciting work that provides hope and support for many youth requiring improved services and/or access to services.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">One final highlight that I will draw Trustees’ attention to is our continued emphasis on collecting voice from the communities we serve. Tonight, Associate Superintendent Gollogly will share an overview of the school year calendar feedback and look for Trustee approval of the 2026-2027 calendar. As mentioned by Chair MacGregor, in the next couple of weeks or so, we will be providing an opportunity for input on the 2026-2027 budget. Additionally we will also gauge interest from families in virtual school programming for next year. And finally, in the spring, all Limestone families will have the opportunity to respond to a family engagement survey. Limestone school communities and staff are critical partners, and our schools are representative of the communities we serve; we have a responsibility to be responsive to community voice and changing circumstances.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">And on a final note, I would like to thank all Limestone staff who contributed to the 2025 United Way campaign. We just received the final tally and LDSB staff contributed almost $50,000 to the campaign which provides critical supports to meet the needs of some of the most vulnerable people in KFL&amp;A, including students and families we serve.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thank you, Chair McGregor. That concludes my report."</span></p></div></details><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Reports</span></h3><details open="false"><summary><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">OPBSA Report</span></p></summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Chair McGregor shared that she will be attending the OPSBA regional meeting scheduled for February 28, to be held virtually. The meeting will review proposed draft changes to the organizational structure including an opportunity to provide input regarding the inclusion of representation from each board at local regional tables. Following this meeting, the membership will vote on the proposed amendments on March 12, 2026.</span></p></div></details><details open="false"><summary><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Student Trustees' Report</span></p></summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Student Trustee Ismail stated: “Good afternoon, Trustees and members of the public. We held our Interschool Council (ISC) meeting February 10, chaired by Mia Comeau and Rachel Kolosov. It was a special meeting to host elections for incoming Student Trustees for the 2026-2027 school year.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This year, elections took place differently, as there were partial Tri-Board Transportation cancellations on that day. As a result, the elections took place in a hybrid format. Candidates were able to participate in the elections remotely or in-person to ensure the elections remained accessible for students.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We’ve had a total of 13 candidates; three Indigenous, four Rural, six Urban, who’ve shown interest and took part in elections for the Student Trustee. It has increased from previous years and shows that more students are feeling empowered to take part in governance and student leadership. During the election period, we had set a goal to increase visibility and the number of applications, made possible especially thanks to the efforts of the communications team. Within the Council as well, we have spent time during our meetings to brainstorm ways schools can raise awareness for the positions as well.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Last month, the Interschool Council was invited to support a board initiative connected to a provincial conference for Directors and Supervisory Officers across Ontario, centered on the theme Leaders as Agents of Change. The goal of the project, run by Associate Superintendent Sartor and Ms. Grange was to create a short compilation video that gathers student voices and lived experiences.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We were able to gather participants from Kingston Secondary School, Granite Ridge Education Centre, and Napanee District Secondary School, and over the past few weeks, those students shared their thoughts and experiences to a variety of prompts. Their voices, representing local student perspectives, are valued and being brought to conversations provincially. This concludes our February ISC report. Thank you.</span></p></div></details><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Reports for Action</span></h3><details open="false"><summary><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Recommended School Year Calendar 2026-2027</strong></b></p></summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Associate Superintendent Gollogly presented a report recommending approval of the 2026-2027 school year calendar. It was reported that approximately 3,700 responses were received through the consultation process, with the majority submitted by families (approximately 80%), followed by staff (approximately 20%), and a small percentage from other community organizations.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">It was noted that, across the three boards, Option 1 was consistently rated as the preferred calendar. However, Option 1 was identified as having financial implications for certain employee groups due to a proposed August start date. As a result, alternative options were reviewed to balance interest group feedback with operational and financial considerations.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Option 2 was presented as the recommended calendar, as it most closely aligns with Option 1 while avoiding significant financial impact. It was noted that Option 2 begins on September 1, includes standard Professional Activity days, provides a board‑designated break day prior to March Break, and concludes with a Professional Activity day on June 29. Based on consultation feedback and operational considerations, approval of Option 2 for the 2026-2027 school year calendar was recommended.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">MOTION MOVED by Trustee Ruttan and seconded by Trustee Neill that Trustees approve the recommended Calendar Option 2 for the 2026-2027 School Year Calendar. Carried.</span></p></div></details><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Reports for Information </span></h3><details open="false"><summary><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustee Distribution</strong></b></p></summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Superintendent Young presented a report regarding Trustee determination and distribution in preparation for the 2026 municipal election. It was noted that this report is brought forward on a cyclical basis and that Trustees who served during the previous review in 2021-2022 were acknowledged for their work, as the last process involved extensive discussion and adjustments to electoral boundaries.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustees were directed to the agenda package, which includes background information on electoral boundaries, legislative requirements, and key timelines related to the upcoming municipal election. It was reported that the Ministry has advised that it will not be issuing a new Trustee determination and distribution report for 2026, therefore, the existing 2022 report remains the reference document. Key dates outlined in the report provide a general timeline for nominations, filings, and voting, noting that specific dates may vary slightly.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Superintendent Young reported that LDSB currently has nine elected Trustee positions, consistent with provincial legislation governing boards with an electoral population between 100,000 and 149,999. Based on current projections, the Board’s electoral population for 2026 is approximately 141,856, and as a result, the allowable number of elected Trustees will not change for the upcoming election. The Board will continue with nine elected Trustees, in addition to the Indigenous Trustee.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Legislative requirements were reviewed, including the Board’s obligation to pass a resolution regarding the designation of low‑population municipalities. It was noted that Limestone has, for several elections, designated the northern portion of the Board as low‑population municipalities in order to ensure reasonable representation, and this approach remains consistent with past practice.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustee responsibilities in advance of the 2026 election were outlined, including finalizing the determination and distribution, approving Trustee honoraria for the next term, and appointing a compliance audit committee. These items will be brought forward in future reports for Trustee approval.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustee distribution maps and population data were reviewed, including ward‑level information for Kingston. It was noted that there has been no notification of changes to Kingston’s electoral wards and that only minor population variations were identified since the previous election. While some student populations were not fully reflected in the current data, these figures will be updated in a subsequent report. Overall, it was reported that the existing ward‑to‑Trustee distribution remains well-balanced, reflecting the effectiveness of the adjustments made during the previous review.</span></p></div></details><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Adjournment</span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">MOTION MOVED BY: Trustee Lloyd and seconded by Trustee Godkin that the meeting adjourn. Carried.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Meeting Adjourned at 7:00 p.m.</span></p>
2026-02-20 15:21:55.775 +0000 UTC
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Summer 2026 Travel for Credit: Grade 10 Civics and Careers in the Canadian Maritimes

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Limestone District School Board is excited to share that we have partnered with EF Tours Travel for Credit program again this summer.&nbsp;Students currently in Grade 8 or Grade 9 can earn their Civics and Careers credits this summer by participating&nbsp;in three weeks of virtual (asynchronous) learning plus one week of travel with EF Tours with stops in Halifax, Moncton, and Charlottetown.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Key Dates:&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Summer School Dates:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Monday, June 29 to Friday, July 24, 2026&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Travel Dates:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Wednesday, July 8 to Tuesday, July 14, 2026</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Visit the&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.eftours.ca/tour-website/3029510AX" target="_blank" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Canadian Maritimes Trip website</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;for&nbsp;additional&nbsp;information, or&nbsp;</span><a href="https://rsvp.eftours.ca/hkdhxy2?utm_source=ptk_meeting_1&amp;_gl=1*sram2m*_gcl_aw*R0NMLjE3NzEwMDUwNDYuRUFJYUlRb2JDaE1Jb3MzTzVJUFhrZ01WREZuX0FSMnZUUm1fRUFBWUFTQUFFZ0xOUWZEX0J3RQ..*_gcl_au*OTU0NTk4NzA2LjE3Njg1NzQwMDEuMTkxNzA3OTA4MC4xNzcxMDA1MzQ3LjE3NzEwMDUzNDc.*_ga*MjExMTE0NjU0MS4xNzY4NTc0MDAx*_ga_9JLH500JCE*czE3NzEwMDUzNDkkbzUkZzEkdDE3NzEwMDU2MjckajQkbDAkaDA." class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">join us for an upcoming virtual information session</strong></b></a><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">to learn more about this exciting opportunity. The session will cover everything you need to know about summer school dates, structure, travel dates, destinations, itineraries, pricing, and more.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Travel for Credit Information Session&nbsp;</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Date</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">: Thursday, February 26, 2026&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Time </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">6:30 to 7:30 p.m.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Location</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">: Online Teams Meeting&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Families must register online in advance for the Information Session</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">:&nbsp; </span><a href="https://rsvp.eftours.ca/hkdhxy2?utm_source=ptk_meeting_1&amp;_gl=1*sram2m*_gcl_aw*R0NMLjE3NzEwMDUwNDYuRUFJYUlRb2JDaE1Jb3MzTzVJUFhrZ01WREZuX0FSMnZUUm1fRUFBWUFTQUFFZ0xOUWZEX0J3RQ..*_gcl_au*OTU0NTk4NzA2LjE3Njg1NzQwMDEuMTkxNzA3OTA4MC4xNzcxMDA1MzQ3LjE3NzEwMDUzNDc.*_ga*MjExMTE0NjU0MS4xNzY4NTc0MDAx*_ga_9JLH500JCE*czE3NzEwMDUzNDkkbzUkZzEkdDE3NzEwMDU2MjckajQkbDAkaDA." class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Register today!</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Ask Questions: If you have questions, contact&nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:%20summer912@limestone.on.ca" target="_blank" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kate Myers by e-mail.</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/47774c9d-80ff-42ef-a493-bd6161b430a1" alt="2026 02 13 2026 Travel For Credit" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p>
2026-02-17 21:00:25.025 +0000 UTC
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Land Acknowledgement

The Limestone District School Board is situated on the traditional territories of the Anishinaabek 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 culture and celebrate their commitment to this land.