Please see news below from our school and across the Limestone District School Board:
From the Timberwolves Den (September 15, 2025)
<p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/cc173c72-041d-4ebd-81d6-5f8fcecbf1ef?fingerprint=ppb20251217014905" alt="Intention" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">📝</span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Principal's Message</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Dear Timberwolf Families,</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We’ve just wrapped up our second week of school, and it’s been wonderful to see students settling into routines and re-engaging with learning. Classrooms continue to be vibrant spaces filled with curiosity, collaboration, and creativity. Whether in academics, the arts, or athletics, our students are demonstrating a strong sense of commitment and school spirit.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thank you once again to our staff for their thoughtful planning, and to our families for your continued support and partnership. We’re off to a strong start, and I’m excited to see all that we will accomplish together in the weeks ahead.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Keep up the great work, Timberwolves — have a fantastic week!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Yours in education,</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">David Allison</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Principal</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Student Arrival Times</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">There have been a number of students arriving at school before 8:45 a.m. A friendly reminder that students </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">should not arrive</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> before 8:45 a.m., as there is no yard supervision prior to that time.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Also, a reminder that for safety reasons, students are encouraged </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">not to walk or ride their bikes through the parking lot</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Terry Fox Run</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Our Terry Fox Run will be held on Thurs. Sept. 25</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>th</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> at 2:00 p.m. (rain date Sept. 26</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>th</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">). The theme for 2025 is </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Finish It</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, where we are all invited to finish the run that Terry started to fulfill his legacy. All students will gather at Ashton Park at 2:00 p.m. for this event. Parents are welcome to attend to cheer on the runners.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Terry Fox Foundation has funded research that has greatly improved outcomes for people with cancer around the world. This year, we aim to raise $1000 to support cancer research in Canada. You can support this cause by </span><a href="https://schools.terryfox.ca/107123/donate" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">donating here</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. No donation is too small.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><img src="/images/e9d64509-2c87-42a3-8538-23403f8dabdc?fingerprint=ppb20251217015139" alt="image001" width="229" height="224" style="width:229px;height:224px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Youth Programs in Loyalist Township</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Registration for autumn programming is open! We’re offering a wide variety of programs for all ages across multiple locations throughout the Township.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">👉 </span><a href="https://www.loyalist.ca/media/lf4ps1su/autumn-guide.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Loyalist Township Recreation - Autumn Programs</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">School Advisory Council (SAC)</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The first meeting of the School Advisory Council, including elections, will be held on </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">September 22nd at 6:30 p.m.</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> in the library. All are welcome to attend. If you would like to make nominations for positions on the SAC, please submit a </span><a href="https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=Xxb04a7rgk2nPKDeWTgwvvx8LcydsydDnuSAW9HPvxdUQjExMk9VMTlEV0FCV0RaUEw2SzZaSzlBNi4u" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">nomination form</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> by Friday September 19th at 12 noon.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Current SAC Members:</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Chair: Jennifer King</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Vice-Chair: Torrie Hawley</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Treasurer: Holly Jacques</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Secretary: Tasha Wallace</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Indigenous Representative: Tasha Wallace</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Fundraising Coordinator: Terri Smith</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Event Coordinator: Kelly Sparks</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Members at Large: Sherri Ashley, Cassie L. John W.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Human Development and Sexual Health Instruction</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As part of LDSB's commitment to ongoing transparency and communication with families, please follow the link to </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/b76e663d-3389-4d8e-988b-8dd34f03e071/Form-325-D-List-of-H-D-and-S-H-Instruction-Expectations-by-Grade.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014713" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Form 325-D</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> on the LDSB website. It outlines the Human Development and Sexual Health curriculum expectations for Grades 1-8. Families can request to have their child or children exempted from instruction related to </span><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Human Development and Sexual Health</em></i><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> expectations by completing and returning an exemption form for each child or children (</span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/73abdc49-2e42-402e-87ed-83d27143c065/Form-325-B-Exemption-Letter-Parent-Request.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014056" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Form 325-B</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">) five school days before the start of instruction. Prior to instruction, your child's classroom teacher will inform families when the expectations related to the </span><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Human Development and Sexual Health expectations</em></i><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> in Strand D will be covered. For a more detailed overview of this process, please refer to Administrative Procedure (AP) 325: Exemption from Human Development and Sexual Health Instruction (listed under the Policies and Procedures Student section of the LDSB website), or contact the school. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">School Staffing</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The staffing process for the 2025–2026 school year has now been finalized. While our classroom organizations will remain the same, I would like to share one update with you.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We will be welcoming Ms. Young to our staff team. Ms. Young joins us from Selby P.S. and brings with her a wealth of teaching experience and a genuine passion for supporting student learning. We are excited for the knowledge, warmth, and energy she will bring to our school community.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">At the same time, we say goodbye to Ms. Lake. We are truly grateful for the care and commitment she has shown, and we wish her every success in her new assignment.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Reporting Student Absences</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Consistent school attendance helps students build a strong foundation of knowledge, encourages a sense of responsibility, and allows teachers to better support each student's individual needs, leading to improved academic performance and a more cohesive classroom environment. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/0f928f63-3ea3-4ba0-afb1-5779b8e2ed0d?fingerprint=ppb20251217013130" alt="attendance" width="475" height="475" style="width:475px;height:475px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In some instances, students may need to be away from school for illness, appointments or other events. Parents/caregivers can use the SafeArrival system to report a full day absence, an extended student absence and also a late arrival to school. Please </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/report-a-student-absence" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">click here</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> for information on how to report a student absence using the SafeArrival system.</span></p><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Additional resources</span></h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/b56a53c0-cb7d-5ab1-a05b-d5ae6dab8775?fingerprint=ppb20251217014701" target="_blank" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Frequently Asked Questions </span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (FAQs)</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/2bd745c8-1a32-525b-80cd-cd974c6f6058?fingerprint=ppb20251217013419" target="_blank" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Using the SchoolMessenger App for Safe Arrival</span></a></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/22db7c21-fd17-5b18-8d3d-8659324125ee?fingerprint=ppb20251217013324" target="_blank" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Setting Preferences in SchoolMessenger/SafeArrival</span></a></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><a href="https://youtu.be/TSCIybbq3xc" target="_blank" title="Watch the video tutorial on how to create a SchoolMessenger account" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Watch the video tutorial on how to create a SchoolMessenger account</span></a></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><a href="https://youtu.be/IW205rwkYsc" target="_blank" title="Watch the video tutorial on how to report absences in SchoolMessenger" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Watch the video tutorial on how to report absences in SchoolMessenger</span></a></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Fall Athletics</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We’re excited to announce that our fall sports season has officially begun! This year, our intermediate students will again have the opportunity to participate in soccer, coached by Madame Daoust. Our cross country running team is open to students from grades 3-8 and is coached by Ms. Montgomery and Ms. Hilton.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">It’s wonderful to see so many students eager to take part in athletics, showing enthusiasm, teamwork, and school spirit. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our dedicated coaches for supporting and encouraging our students through these valuable opportunities.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Let’s cheer on our teams and celebrate a season of growth, effort, and fun!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Maltby Centre - Mental Health and Autism Services Workshops and Groups</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/9b944432-5224-4780-86bc-bdbc5fe2e934?fingerprint=ppb20251217014435" alt="Maltby" width="192" height="98" style="width:192px;height:98px;display:inline-block;float:left"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">At Maltby Centre, we have been providing autism and children’s and youth mental health services to Ontarians for more than 25 years. We’re an accredited, full-service agency with an extensive team of mental health professionals at our five campuses in Kingston, Napanee, Northbrook, Sharbot Lake and Sydenham, ON. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">To view our </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Fall Workshops and Groups Guides</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, please click the appropriate link below:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">👉 </span><a href="/documents/b1dba3c0-cd8d-4ca9-a8e6-92536efe6eb6/Mental-Health-Services-Fall-2025-Updated.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014637" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Mental Health Workshops and Groups Guide</strong></b></a></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">👉 </span><a href="/documents/c0ecd10e-4c53-46ad-8b21-08f3170649de/Autism-Services-Fall-2025.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014805" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Autism Services Workshops and Groups Guide</strong></b></a></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Social Media Safety Evening and Presentation to Grade 7/8 Classes</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We are pleased to welcome Paul Davis to Truedell for a workshop focused on social media and online safety. Paul will be presenting to our Grade 7/8 students at 1:30 p.m. on October 2nd, followed by an evening session for parents, which will run for approximately one hour and include a Q&A opportunity. The presentation will take place in the gym and we look forward to seeing you there. Thank you to the School Advisory Council for their support in making this opportunity possible.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/0fb9f4e6-62cf-4d6b-8949-a9b0645eb3d5?fingerprint=ppb20251217013130" alt="Screenshot 2025 09 12 at 6" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Student Accident Insurance</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><img src="/images/cc389f96-f08f-4b87-a4ac-84522155dd42?fingerprint=ppb20251217014905" alt="Student insurance" width="212" height="79" style="width:212px;height:79px;display:inline-block;float:left"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Limestone District School Board requires that students have student accident insurance in order to participate in extra-curricular activities.</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Before students will be allowed to participate in these events, parents/guardians must confirm their own coverage for items not covered under the </span><a href="http://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/public/publications/ohip/services.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Provincial Health Plan</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, or purchase an insurance plan.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Each year a Student Accident Insurance Plan is made available to all students on a voluntary basis. The plan provides protection for dental damage due to accidents, fracture benefits and other important coverage, which are not covered under the Provincial Health Plan. Some parents may have dental plan coverage through their workplace but many of these plans are limited in one way or another, while this accident coverage is not. You should compare plans to make sure you have the coverage you need or desire.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In making this plan available, the Board wishes to make its position clear in the matter of insurance. Under the </span><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Education Act</em></i><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, the Board is not permitted to provide insurance coverage for accidents to pupils, therefore, the Board recommends consideration of this plan to any parent who wishes to obtain this kind of insurance. Although the policy has all the advantages of a group plan, it is essentially a direct contract between the parent and the insurance company.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A family plan is also available for three or more students which permits the enrolment of students in the family who are attending schools outside the jurisdiction of this Board as long as at least one child in the family is attending a school within the Limestone District School Board.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If you wish to subscribe to this insurance, you may do so by completing the form handed out to students the first week of school and mailing it directly to </span><a href="mailto:imkadmin@insuremykids.com" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Reliable Life Insurance Company</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> in the stamped envelope provided. Or, for your convenience, you may purchase directly online at </span><a href="http://www.insuremykids.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">www.insuremykids.com</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/df7d9397-5d9d-4fc3-92bd-4a0ccb5f3ffb?fingerprint=ppb20251217015049" alt="original BA1E3558 1925 48A7 B298 1E440E27781A" 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"><img src="/images/838d9523-512b-4abe-b264-19fec658c1c1?fingerprint=ppb20251217014220" alt="Screenshot 2025 09 11 at 10" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">💉</span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Immunization Reporting: Reminder from Public Health</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Parents or caregivers are responsible for reporting to KFL&A Public Health each time your child receives an immunization. Your health care provider does not automatically report these records. The grade 7/8 immunization clinic at Truedell is scheduled for November 19, 2025.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/4e947e61-2c95-490b-b2b3-9dceedb67cdc?fingerprint=ppb20251217013727" alt="2025 08 28 Attention Immunization Reporting Elementary" width="519" height="803" style="width:519px;height:803px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/c0ab2df6-cb6c-44a9-bde8-d0f04f8014c1?fingerprint=ppb20251217014805" alt="ATT00001" width="276" height="66" style="width:276px;height:66px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Lunchbox is a simple, easy-to-use online platform that lets you order lunch from local favourites — delivered right to your child’s school!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">✅ You can view the full ordering calendar by logging into your Lunchbox Account.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">📖 Need help getting started? Please </span><a href="/documents/44fede8e-4cd8-434c-b9d7-320a7e936db0/How-to-Order-Guide.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013634" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">access the step-by-step guide</strong></b></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> on how to use the Lunchbox ordering platform.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">First Order Deadline:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Sunday, September 21, 2025 by 12:00 PM (noon)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">First Delivery Date:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Tuesday, September 23, 2025</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">📸 School Photos</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Fall Photos: September 29</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>th</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, 2025</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Retakes & Class Photos: November 3</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>rd</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, 2025</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Graduation Photos: March 3</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>rd</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, 2026</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">📅 Key Dates for Truedell Families</strong></b></h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">First Day of School:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Wednesday, September 3, 2025</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">PA Day: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Friday</span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">October 10, 2025</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thanksgiving Holiday:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Monday, October 13, 2025</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">PA Day: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Friday, November 14, 2025</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Winter Break:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> December 22, 2025 – January 2, 2026</span></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">PA Day: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Friday, January 30, 2026</span></li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Family Day:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Monday, February 16, 2026</span></li><li value="8" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">March Break:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> March 16–20, 2026</span></li><li value="9" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Good Friday:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Friday, April 3, 2026</span></li><li value="10" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Easter Monday:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Monday, April 6, 2026</span></li><li value="11" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">PA Day: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Friday, April 17, 2026</span></li><li value="12" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Victoria Day:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Monday, May 18, 2026</span></li><li value="13" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">PA Day: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Friday, May 29, 2026</span></li><li value="14" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Last Day of School for Students:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Thursday, June 25, 2026</span></li><li value="15" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Final PA Day:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Friday, June 26, 2026</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Professional Activity (P.A.) Days are used for various activities, including assessment, report card preparation, conferencing, school-based planning, school improvement, student achievement updates, instructional strategies to support closing the gap and high achievement, and planning linked to the Board plan for student achievement. </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">On P.A. Days, there are no classes for students. </strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">📅 </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Upcoming School Events</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">September 25th (Sept. 26th rain date):</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Terry Fox Run - more details to follow</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">October 3rd: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Little Caesars pizza fundraiser begins</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">October 3rd: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Turkey Trot</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">October 20th: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grade 5/6 Beyond Classrooms week</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">November 13th: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Little Caesars pizza delivery</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">November 19th: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grade 7/8 immunization clinic</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/0da0431f-b717-4956-8fdd-9c544cb2f575?fingerprint=ppb20251217013116" alt="Land Acknowledgement" 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>
2025-09-14 23:19:55.637 +0000 UTC
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Boardroom Briefs: August 20, 2025
<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 August 20, 2025 Regular Board Meeting. Agendas 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" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Board Meetings</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. </span></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Land Acknowledgement </span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">All meetings begin with a Land Acknowledgement: </span><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"The Limestone District School Board is situated on the traditional territories of the Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee. We acknowledge their enduring presence on this land, as well as the presence of Métis, Inuit, and other First Nations from across Turtle Island. We honour their cultures and celebrate their commitment to this land.” </em></i><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Private Session Report</span></h2><details open="false"><summary><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Private Session Report - August 20, 2025</span></p></summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Earlier this evening during Private Session:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The private session minutes were approved from the following:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">June 18, 2025, Regular Board Meeting</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Director Burra provided a Legal Update</span></li></ul><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></div></details><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Reports from Officers</span></h2><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"><img src="/images/3b73f535-6db0-57a4-bb4f-a5bb6232f53e?fingerprint=ppb20251217013553" alt="" width="268" height="347" style="width:268px;height:347px;display:inline-block;float:right"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Chair McGregor provided the following report: </span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"As we prepare to welcome students and families back into our schools on Wednesday, September 3, I want to take a moment to reflect on the excitement and promise that a new school year brings.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Each September marks a fresh beginning—an opportunity for students to grow, for families to engage, and for staff to collaborate in creating vibrant learning environments. This year, we look forward to building on our shared commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of every student, in every classroom, and every school across Limestone.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The start of the school year is not only a time of renewal but also a chance to strengthen relationships, foster innovation, and celebrate the diverse strengths of our communities. I am confident that through collaboration, dedication, and a shared vision for student success, we will achieve great things together.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">On behalf of the Board, I extend a warm welcome back to all students, families, and staff. Let’s make this year one of meaningful learning, growth, and achievement.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This concludes my report." </span></p></div></details><details open="true"><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"><img src="/images/959f9ebc-0553-5f56-afed-83ccf39d2906?fingerprint=ppb20251217014409" alt="" width="316" height="316" style="width:316px;height:316px;float:left;display:inline-block"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Director Burra provided the following report:</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"Good evening Trustees and members of the public joining us for this meeting. I am pleased to provide you with my update tonight as we prepare for the start of the 2025-2026 school year in two weeks.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">I hope everyone found themselves with some holiday time this summer to enjoy time with family and friends. In reflecting on this summer, it is important for everyone to have the opportunity to recharge and reflect on the important work we do collaboratively to support children and youth in the Limestone community.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">With the summer season, schools were not running as they do for the other ten months of the year. However, there was lots of activity for students this July and August. Similar to last summer, over 260 students participated in Camp Read A lot, and over 700 secondary students participated in summer session earning credits. In addition, almost 570 students participated in outdoor education programming offered at some schools, at Gould Lake, and/or on outdoor education trips. Trustees will receive a report in the fall providing more details regarding the range of summer programs that occurred in July and August. In addition, a considerable amount of facilities work occurs in schools during the summer and Manager Fowler will provide a summary of this work in September.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We are greatly looking forward to welcoming back staff and well over 20,000 students as the school year starts. While over 99% of students will be in face-to-face classrooms, Limestone continues to offer a virtual option for some students. Regardless of the format of learning, Limestone will continue to do its best to meet students where they are and support student well-being. Mental health and well-being are essential conditions for achievement and learning for all students. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Schools will be reopening next week with many staff getting ready for the new school year and we look forward to Limestone schools welcoming students back on Wednesday, September 3, with a full range of activities to be available for students in the 2025-2026 school year. As a reminder, we are starting the school year with a PA day on Tuesday, September 2. With almost all labour agreements behind us, we can expect stability on that front for the next couple of years. We all know that extracurriculars like sports and clubs, full arts programming, and field trips are of tremendous value. As Trustees know, all of these student activities are made possible by the generous time provided by staff and some community members. I think I speak for everyone in expressing our gratitude to the staff and community members that provide these valuable experiences and services to Limestone students. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This evening there are some routine, cyclical reports coming to Trustees, but we also look forward to sharing with you an overview of a new administrative procedure focused on Human Rights, and an award to honour the late former Trustee Judith Brown.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As Trustees know, considerable work occurs by central departments: Facilities, Finance, Human Resources, and ITS during the summer months to ensure schools are ready for the school year. I would like to acknowledge staff in all of those departments for the important work they do throughout the year, but also during the summer months. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Finally, I should also note that Limestone hosted its 12th successful Summer Institute earlier today with approximately 200 LDSB educators attending to learn from each other and continue to hone their craft. A wide range of learning topics were available to support educator learning K-12. We are very pleased to be able to provide this valuable learning opportunity to staff. This is just one example of learning that Limestone educators have been participating in this summer. As we all know, learning is a journey, not a destination, and we must always model learning to support the system, and do the best we can to serve every student, in every classroom, in every school. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thank you, Chair McGregor. That completes my report for this evening." </span></p></div></details><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Reports</span></h2><details open="true"><summary><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">OPSBA Report</span></p></summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Chair McGregor provided an OPSBA report.</span></p></div></details><details open="true"><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;">There was no Student Trustee report.</span></p></div></details><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Reports for Action</span></h3><details open="true"><summary><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Short-Term Borrowing Resolution - Superintendent Young</span></p></summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The purpose of this report is to recommend a short-term borrowing resolution for the 2025-2026 school year to meet cash flow requirements. </span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Education Act requires the Treasurer of the Board to furnish to the bank a copy of the resolution(s) authorizing the borrowing of funds.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Operating: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Periodically the Board is required to borrow funds for current operating purposes to provide interim financing until revenues are received from Municipalities and the Province. The Board did not have any operating borrowing requirements during 2024-2025. The Board is subject to cash flow decisions from the Province and should have a borrowing resolution in place to provide interim financing if our cash flow situation should change.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The operating resolution authorizes the signing officers of the Board to borrow operating funds when required to meet short-term cash flow needs. The dollar amount of the operating borrowing requirement has been set to a maximum of $20 Million and is the same amount as in 2024-2025.</span><br><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Capital: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Board is also required to arrange short-term bridge financing during the construction of major capital projects, capital additions/retrofits and for School Condition Improvement projects.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Board currently has credit facilities to cover all the required borrowing for the School Condition Improvement projects.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) is the Board’s primary banker, a relationship that dates back to 1966. The banking services agreement with RBC extends to April 30, 2027.</span><br><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Recommendations:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> That the Board authorize the signing officers of the Board to enter into agreements with the Royal Bank of Canada for the following:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">1. The borrowing of funds to meet operating requirements to a maximum of $20 million for the 2025-2026 fiscal year.</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"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Interim Financial Report for Quarter 3 - Superintendent Young and Manager of Financial Services, Paula Carson</span></p></summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The purpose is to report on the Interim Financial Operating expenditures for the period from September 1, 2024 to May 31, 2025 (Quarter 3).</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Interim Financial Report – Operating Expenditures for the period ending February 28, 2025, was presented to the Board on April 23, 2025. This report provided operating expenditures for the period from September 1, 2024 to February 28, 2025 (Quarter 2).</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Interim Financial Report – Operating Expenditures for the period ending May 31, 2025 (Quarter 3), is presented in a similar format to the 2024-2025 operating budget, indicating the amount spent by expenditure category and the associated percentage. To see the full report, please review the </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/4ad0a857-4900-4c40-b16a-80546aada787/LDSB-Regular-Board-Meeting-Agenda-August-20-2025.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013714" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Board Meeting Agenda</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (pg. 25).</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As of Quarter 3, $238.96M of the $312.7M operating budget, or 76%, has been spent. This is 9% lower than the 85% recorded in the same quarter last year. The difference is primarily due to additional expenditures for Bill 124 Remedy payments included in the previous year's results.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">It is important to note that expenditures are calculated based on payments made within the specified period. Some expenditures may be non-cyclical, potentially resulting in higher or lower amounts within a given timeframe. For further details, refer to Appendix 1.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Board is on target to end the 2024-2025 fiscal year with a balanced budget as projected.</span></p></div></details><details open="false"><summary><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Administrative Procedure 107 - Human Rights - Superintendent McDonnell and Human Rights and Equity Advisor, Yusuf Abdulkareem</span></p></summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The purpose of this report is to share with Trustees Administrative Procedure 107: Human Rights (AP 107). This administrative procedure sets out the Board’s approach to creating equitable, inclusive, and accessible learning and working environments that are free from discrimination and harassment.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This administrative procedure supports the Strategic Plan goal of fostering student learning, achievement, and well-being by ensuring all members of the Limestone District School Board (LDSB) community feel respected, safe, and supported. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Background</strong></b><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In the past few years, the Ministry of Education has provided human rights training for Trustees and senior leaders in school boards. Additionally, staff have provided updates to Trustees regarding student census data, staff workforce data, school climate data, and human rights complaints’ data. The LDSB recognizes the existence and impacts of historical and ongoing systemic discrimination. AP 107 outlines the Board’s commitment to anti-colonial, anti-oppressive, anti-racist, and anti-discriminatory practices, and to creating respectful environments for students, staff, and the broader community. The procedure applies to all LDSB community members and covers conduct both within, and beyond, the physical school/work environment, including online spaces and off-site events.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">AP 107 affirms LDSB’s commitment to legislative and policy compliance, and upholding the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. AP 107 also respects and recognizes the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">AP 107 addresses systemic discrimination identified through LDSB Student Census results, Staff Workforce Census and Belonging Survey, Human Rights Reporting Tool data, and School Climate Surveys, which revealed disproportionalities and inequities affecting students’ access to learning, sense of belonging, and feelings of safety.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">AP 107 clarifies roles and responsibilities by establishing clear expectations for all community members, staff, and leaders, along with consistent complaint processes for different interest groups.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">AP 107 creates accountability through data collection and reporting, ensuring progress is tracked, shared, and used to inform decision-making and continuous improvement.</span><br><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Current Status</strong></b><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The creation and implementation of Administrative Procedure 107: Human Rights provides clarity in the following areas:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Clear definitions of key human rights concepts such as discrimination, harassment, equity, prejudice, and reprisal.</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A comprehensive list of protected grounds under the Ontario Human Rights Code (e.g., race, disability, creed, gender identity, age).</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Detailed forms of discrimination, including subtle discrimination, microaggressions, and systemic discrimination.</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Specific complaint mechanisms for different parties (students, employees, Trustees, members of the public).</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Defined roles and responsibilities for all LDSB community members, employees, managerial staff, the Human Rights and Equity Advisor, and the Director of Education.</span></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Requirements for human rights learning and awareness, including regular training and review cycles.</span></li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Annual data collection, analysis, and public reporting on human rights trends.</span></li><li value="8" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Prohibitions on reprisal and vexatious complaints, with disciplinary measures for violations.</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Next Steps and Communication Plan</strong></b><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The following are the next steps in the implementation of Administrative Procedure 107: Human Rights:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Ensure ongoing communication and awareness for staff, students, union and labour partners, families and the community on AP 107.</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Continue annual analysis of human rights data to identify systemic issues and gaps, and use this information to inform decision making.</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Publicly release the annual human rights report on the Board’s website.</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Review related administrative procedures to ensure alignment with AP 107.</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">For more information, please view the </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/4ad0a857-4900-4c40-b16a-80546aada787/LDSB-Regular-Board-Meeting-Agenda-August-20-2025.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013714" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Board Meeting Agenda</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p></div></details><details open="true"><summary><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Judith Brown Black Excellence Award - Director Burra</span></p></summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The purpose of this report is to provide Trustees with an update on the Judith Brown Black Excellence Award.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Background</strong></b><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">With the passing of Trustee Judith Brown last year, a number of members of the Limestone DSB community voiced their support for creating an award in her honour. Support for honouring Trustee Judith Brown came from Trustees, Limestone staff, and members of the Umoja Black Advisory Council that Trustee Brown helped found, and lead. Consequently, the Judith Brown Black Excellence Award was established in the spring of 2025 to honour Judith’s legacy.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Judith Brown Black Excellence Award: In honour of Trustee Judith Brown, who was a dedicated Black educator who advocated for education and equity, this award recognizes a Black student who exemplifies leadership, perseverance, and commitment to advancing inclusive education. As a champion for student success and diversity, Judith Brown worked tirelessly to promote Black Canadian and local history while creating opportunities for all learners, fostering a more equitable and inspiring learning environment.</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This award is given annually to a graduating Black LDSB student who demonstrates outstanding academic achievement, community involvement, and a passion for promoting Black Canadian history. Through their actions, the recipient carries forward Judith Brown’s legacy, making a meaningful impact in their school community and beyond.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">It should be noted that the award description was approved by Trustee Brown’s family in mid-June. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Current Status
</strong></b><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The inaugural Judith Brown Black Excellence Award was proudly presented to a graduating student at Loyalist Collegiate and Vocational Institute during their June 2025 graduation ceremony. Moving forward, this award will be presented annually to one graduating Black student across the LDSB, continuing to honour Judith Brown’s legacy and celebrate excellence, leadership, and community impact.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Next Steps and Communication Plan</strong></b><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">With the support of Trustee Brown’s family and Umoja, additional fundraising efforts may take place over the coming year to help establish a financial component to accompany the Judith Brown Black Excellence Award. These contributions will further honour Judith Brown’s legacy by providing meaningful support to future recipients as they continue their educational journeys and community leadership.</span></p></div></details><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Unfinished Business</span></h2><details open="true"><summary><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Feeding Minds: Food and Beverage Policy (PPM-150) Delegation</span></p></summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Director Burra provided a copy of a letter to Madison Stewart of Food for Good acknowledging her delegation at the June 2025 Board Meeting called "Feeding Minds: Food and Beverage Policy (PPM 150)." Director Burra thanked her for sharing the information with the Board.</span></p></div></details><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p>
2025-09-08 19:42:35.037 +0000 UTC
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From the Timberwolves Den (September 8, 2025)
<p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/cc173c72-041d-4ebd-81d6-5f8fcecbf1ef?fingerprint=ppb20251217014905" alt="Intention" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">📝</span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Principal's Message</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Dear Timberwolf Families,</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">What a fantastic start to the school year! It has been wonderful to see our students return with such energy, excitement, and a readiness to learn. Classrooms are already buzzing with activity, and it’s clear that students are settling into their new routines with enthusiasm. Around the school, educators are already busy getting to know their learners — using early screening tools, diagnostics, and classroom observations to help plan the next steps in learning. I've enjoyed the opportunity to connect with many students and families over the past week, and I look forward to meeting even more members of our school community as we move into the fall. A big thank you to our dedicated staff for all of their hard work in helping students feel welcomed, supported, and ready to learn. Have a great week ahead, Timberwolves!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Yours in Education, </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">David Allison - Principal</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Welcome Back to School Message from Director Burra</strong></b></h2><iframe data-lexical-video-id="hNv42N2cceg" width="640" height="480" src="https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/hNv42N2cceg" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="true" title="Youtube video"></iframe><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Reporting Student Absences</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Consistent school attendance helps students build a strong foundation of knowledge, encourages a sense of responsibility, and allows teachers to better support each student's individual needs, leading to improved academic performance and a more cohesive classroom environment. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/0f928f63-3ea3-4ba0-afb1-5779b8e2ed0d?fingerprint=ppb20251217013130" alt="attendance" width="475" height="475" style="width:475px;height:475px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In some instances, students may need to be away from school for illness, appointments or other events. Parents/caregivers can use the SafeArrival system to report a full day absence, an extended student absence and also a late arrival to school. Please </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/report-a-student-absence" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">click here</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> for information on how to report a student absence using the SafeArrival system.</span></p><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Additional resources</span></h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/b56a53c0-cb7d-5ab1-a05b-d5ae6dab8775?fingerprint=ppb20251217014701" target="_blank" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Frequently Asked Questions </span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (FAQs)</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/2bd745c8-1a32-525b-80cd-cd974c6f6058?fingerprint=ppb20251217013419" target="_blank" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Using the SchoolMessenger App for Safe Arrival</span></a></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/22db7c21-fd17-5b18-8d3d-8659324125ee?fingerprint=ppb20251217013324" target="_blank" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Setting Preferences in SchoolMessenger/SafeArrival</span></a></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><a href="https://youtu.be/TSCIybbq3xc" target="_blank" title="Watch the video tutorial on how to create a SchoolMessenger account" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Watch the video tutorial on how to create a SchoolMessenger account</span></a></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><a href="https://youtu.be/IW205rwkYsc" target="_blank" title="Watch the video tutorial on how to report absences in SchoolMessenger" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Watch the video tutorial on how to report absences in SchoolMessenger</span></a></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">🚸 Getting to School Safely</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/3f416a13-dad2-4d4e-8126-33bd311ad3bc?fingerprint=ppb20251217013609" alt="2023 03 13 Getting to school Elementary" width="504" height="653" style="width:504px;height:653px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/3cbda694-d806-43b2-ac66-5ceabc015b94?fingerprint=ppb20251217013553" alt="Screenshot 2025 09 05 at 7" width="506" height="649" style="width:506px;height:649px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">📅</span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> 2025-2026 LDSB School Year Calendar</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/7291ab76-99b5-43a1-8f2b-edaade7c53e8/2025-04-07-LDSB%20School%20Year%20Calendar-2025-2026.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014043" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">PDF version of the 2025-2026 School Year Calendar is available online</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/c3295860-dc1f-47c9-a8c9-3163e5bebe1a?fingerprint=ppb20251217014816" alt="Calendar 2526" 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"><img src="/images/35b13cff-f19a-405a-ad90-0cfcd892889e?fingerprint=ppb20251217013513" alt="Screenshot 2025 09 07 at 7" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">⚠️</span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Allergy Awareness - Nut-Free School</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A friendly reminder that Truedell Public School is a nut-free environment.</strong></b><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If you're planning to send in treats for your child’s class, please check with their teacher beforehand.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/828199ba-e98c-4c06-8f66-59aa458fa56b?fingerprint=ppb20251217014220" alt="nut free" width="437" height="624" style="width:437px;height:624px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">🚧</span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Construction on Truedell Road</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please be advised that there will be construction on </span><a href="https://getinvolved.cityofkingston.ca/truedell-road-area-transportation-improvements" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Truedell Road from Development to Danbury</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. Expect delays while the contractor completes road and sidewalk improvements.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Access: During construction there will be some lane reductions. Roads may be temporarily closed during repaving or driveway access may temporarily be unavailable for short periods during construction.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Parking: On-street parking may be reduced or not available during portions of construction.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">For updates, please visit the </span><a href="https://getinvolved.cityofkingston.ca/truedell-road-area-transportation-improvements" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">City of Kingston website</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> or view the City’s </span><a href="https://www.cityofkingston.ca/roads-parking-and-transportation/road-maintenance/road-closures/" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">weekly traffic report</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">💉</span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Immunization Reporting: Reminder from Public Health</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Parents or caregivers are responsible for reporting to KFL&A Public Health each time your child receives an immunization. Your health care provider does not automatically report these records.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/4e947e61-2c95-490b-b2b3-9dceedb67cdc?fingerprint=ppb20251217013727" alt="2025 08 28 Attention Immunization Reporting Elementary" width="519" height="803" style="width:519px;height:803px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The grade 7/8 immunization clinic at Truedell is scheduled for November 19, 2025.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </strong></b></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">🕒</span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Daily Schedule</strong></b></h2><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Time</strong></b></p></th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Activity/learning block</strong></b></p></th></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">8:45 a.m.</strong></b></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Supervision begins on the yard</strong></b></p></td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">9:00 to 10:40 a.m.</strong></b></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">100-minute learning block</strong></b></p></td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">10:40 to 11:00 a.m.</strong></b></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Nutrition break </strong></b></p></td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">11:00 to 11:20 a.m.</strong></b></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Recess</strong></b></p></td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">11:20 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.</strong></b></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">100-minute learning block</strong></b></p></td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">1:00 to 1:20 p.m.</strong></b></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Nutrition break</strong></b></p></td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">1:20 to 1:50 p.m.</strong></b></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Recess</strong></b></p></td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">1:50 to 3:30 p.m.</strong></b></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">100-minute learning block</strong></b></p></td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">3:30 p.m.</strong></b></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Dismissal</strong></b></p></td></tr></tbody></table><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/c0ab2df6-cb6c-44a9-bde8-d0f04f8014c1?fingerprint=ppb20251217014805" alt="ATT00001" width="276" height="66" style="width:276px;height:66px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Lunchbox is an easy-to-use online ordering platform featuring local favourites - delivered straight to your child’s school. View the full ordering calendar on your Lunchbox Account. Please </span><a href="/documents/44fede8e-4cd8-434c-b9d7-320a7e936db0/How-to-Order-Guide.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013634" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">click here</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> to access a guide with information on how to use the online ordering platform. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">📸 School Photos</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Fall Photos: September 29</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>th</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, 2025</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Retakes & Class Photos: November 3</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>rd</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, 2025</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Graduation Photos: March 3</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>rd</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, 2026</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">📅 Key Dates for Truedell Families</strong></b></h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">First Day of School:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Wednesday, September 3, 2025</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">PA Day: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Friday</span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">October 10, 2025</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thanksgiving Holiday:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Monday, October 13, 2025</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">PA Day: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Friday, November 14, 2025</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Winter Break:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> December 22, 2025 – January 2, 2026</span></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">PA Day: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Friday, January 30, 2026</span></li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Family Day:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Monday, February 16, 2026</span></li><li value="8" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">March Break:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> March 16–20, 2026</span></li><li value="9" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Good Friday:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Friday, April 3, 2026</span></li><li value="10" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Easter Monday:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Monday, April 6, 2026</span></li><li value="11" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">PA Day: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Friday, April 17, 2026</span></li><li value="12" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Victoria Day:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Monday, May 18, 2026</span></li><li value="13" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">PA Day: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Friday, May 29, 2026</span></li><li value="14" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Last Day of School for Students:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Thursday, June 25, 2026</span></li><li value="15" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Final PA Day:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Friday, June 26, 2026</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Professional Activity (P.A.) Days are used for various activities, including assessment, report card preparation, conferencing, school-based planning, school improvement, student achievement updates, instructional strategies to support closing the gap and high achievement, and planning linked to the Board plan for student achievement. </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">On P.A. Days, there are no classes for students. </strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">📅 </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Upcoming School Events</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">September 25th (Sept. 26th rain date):</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Terry Fox Run</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">October 3rd: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Little Caesar's fundraiser begins</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">October 3rd: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Turkey Trot</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">October 20th: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grade 5/6 Beyond Classrooms week</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">November 13th: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Little Caesars delivery</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">November 19th: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grade 7/8 immunization clinic</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/0da0431f-b717-4956-8fdd-9c544cb2f575?fingerprint=ppb20251217013116" alt="Land Acknowledgement" 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>
2025-09-06 15:34:17.846 +0000 UTC
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Welcome to the 2025/2026 School Year
<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Welcome Back to School!</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/46395731-dd27-54ee-b5be-a69cd969a6b1?fingerprint=ppb20251217013647" alt="" width="841" height="388" style="width:841px;height:388px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Principal's Message</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Dear Timberwolf Families,</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">I hope everyone enjoyed the beautiful long weekend. The weather has been wonderful! I am very excited to be joining the Truedell Timberwolf community this year. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The staff at Truedell Public School are excited to welcome students back for the 2025-2026 school year. A special welcome to all new students and families joining us this year!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A quick reminder: Tuesday, September 2nd is a Professional Activity Day, so staff will be participating in professional development activities. The first day of school for students is Wednesday, September 3rd.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">On Wednesday morning, all staff will be on the school yard to greet students. Please remember, yard supervision begins at 8:45 AM, and students should not be dropped off before that time.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We look forward to a fantastic school year ahead!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Yours in Education,</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">David Allison</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Principal</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2025-2026 LDSB School Year Calendar</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A </strong></b><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/7291ab76-99b5-43a1-8f2b-edaade7c53e8/2025-04-07-LDSB%20School%20Year%20Calendar-2025-2026.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014043" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">PDF version of the 2025-2026 School Year Calendar is available online</strong></b></a><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/c3295860-dc1f-47c9-a8c9-3163e5bebe1a?fingerprint=ppb20251217014816" alt="Calendar 2526" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Allergen Awareness - Nut-Free School</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A friendly reminder that Truedell Public School is nut-free. Please check with teachers before sending in any treats for your child's class.</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/828199ba-e98c-4c06-8f66-59aa458fa56b?fingerprint=ppb20251217014220" alt="nut free" width="437" height="624" style="width:437px;height:624px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Construction on Truedell Road</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please be advised that there will be construction on </strong></b><a href="https://getinvolved.cityofkingston.ca/truedell-road-area-transportation-improvements" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Truedell Road from Development to Danbury</strong></b></a><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. Expect delays while the contractor completes road and sidewalk improvements.</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Access: During construction there will be some lane reductions. Roads may be temporarily closed during repaving or driveway access may temporarily be unavailable for short periods during construction.</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Parking: On-street parking may be reduced or not available during portions of construction.</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">For updates, please visit the </strong></b><a href="https://getinvolved.cityofkingston.ca/truedell-road-area-transportation-improvements" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">City of Kingston website</strong></b></a><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> or view the City’s </strong></b><a href="https://www.cityofkingston.ca/roads-parking-and-transportation/road-maintenance/road-closures/" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">weekly traffic report</strong></b></a><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </strong></b></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Daily Schedule</strong></b></h2><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Time</strong></b></p></th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Activity/learning block</strong></b></p></th></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">8:45 a.m.</strong></b></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Supervision begins on the yard</strong></b></p></td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">9:00 to 10:40 a.m.</strong></b></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">100-minute learning block</strong></b></p></td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">10:40 to 11:00 a.m.</strong></b></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Nutrition break </strong></b></p></td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">11:00 to 11:20 a.m.</strong></b></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Recess</strong></b></p></td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">11:20 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.</strong></b></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">100-minute learning block</strong></b></p></td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">1:00 to 1:20 p.m.</strong></b></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Nutrition break</strong></b></p></td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">1:20 to 1:50 p.m.</strong></b></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Recess</strong></b></p></td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">1:50 to 3:30 p.m.</strong></b></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">100-minute learning block</strong></b></p></td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">3:30 p.m.</strong></b></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Dismissal</strong></b></p></td></tr></tbody></table><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Tentative</strong></b></u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> School Organization</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please note that all class assignments are tentative until the third week of September.</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kindergarten: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Emily Cameron</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kindergarten: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Tracy Pouliot, Cheri St. John (ECE)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grade 1: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Cheryl Dempster</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grade 1/2: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Carly Stong</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grade 2/3: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Charlene Hendricks</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grade 3/4: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Lindsay Hilton</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grade 4: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Shawn Broome</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grade 5: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Tina Hilton</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grade 5/6: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Lisa Phippen</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grade 6/7: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Jade Lake</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grade 7/8A:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Cory Keeler</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grade 7/8B: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Meghan Squarebriggs</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Core French:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Fiona White</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Core French:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Amy D'Aoust</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Planning Time: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Suzanne Kirk, Joy Olding</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Educational Assistants: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Stephanie Shunk, Karen Nolan, Brandy Armstrong</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Student Support Teacher:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Kerry Montgomery</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Nexus: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Andrew Dale</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Custodian: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Sarah Sleeth, Jesse Herr</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Office Administrator: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Teresa Farrell</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Principal:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> David Allison</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p>
2025-09-01 16:02:23.975 +0000 UTC
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Paul Calandra, Minister of Education, Back to School Letter 2025
<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As the 2025-26 school year begins, Paul Calandra, Minister of Education, has prepared a message for Ontario parents, students, teachers and staff:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><a href="/documents/6945a4f5-a106-44cd-be02-1e7f55228fc8/Back-to-School-Letter-2025.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014003" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">English Letter</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (PDF)</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><a href="/documents/30337950-d8c1-4a70-9e10-6abbd4957e51/Lettre-pour-la-rentr-e-scolaire-2025.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013433" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">French Letter </span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">(PDF)</span></li></ul>
2025-08-28 14:45:32.665 +0000 UTC
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Summer Institute August 20 for LDSB Educators
<p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/a970c8cc-cd06-4565-ad5b-3e34d2c1d300?fingerprint=ppb20251217014559" alt="Graphic promoting LDSB Summer Institute" width="605" height="605" style="width:605px;height:605px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Limestone District School Board (LDSB) is hosting Summer Institute, a voluntary professional learning opportunity for LDSB educators and administrators, on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at Kingston Secondary School. The theme for this year's Summer Institute is "Accelerating Growth in Limestone."</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If you are an LDSB educator or administrator who is interested in learning more and registering to participate in this year's Summer Institute, please check your LDSB e-mail inbox, as well as myLDSB for details. </span></p>
2025-07-10 19:54:04.488 +0000 UTC
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Free French Learning Opportunity This Summer: Smash French Camp
<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Limestone District School Board students are invited to take part in Smash French Summer Camp — a dynamic and engaging way to review, catch up, or get ahead in French before the new school year begins!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This free online program is available now through August 14 and is open to all students, whether they’ve used Smash before or are brand new to the platform.</span></p><h4 class="editor-heading-h4" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Program Highlights:</span></h4><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A wide range of CEFR-aligned French classes</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Interactive, motivating activities to build confidence and language skills</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Flexible access from home — anytime, anywhere</span></li></ul><h4 class="editor-heading-h4" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Getting Started:</span></h4><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Current users can log in and begin right away.</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">New users can create an account and start learning in just a few minutes.</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A step-by-step guide with instructions and class codes is available to help students get started quickly and easily.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We encourage families and educators to take advantage of this exciting opportunity to support French language learning over the summer.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">For more information, visit </span><a href="https://www.smasheducation.com/" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">www.smasheducation.com</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> or contact Abraham Bravo, Co-Founder & Head of Implementation Success, at </span><a href="mailto:abraham.b@smasheducation.com" target="_blank" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">abraham.b@smasheducation.com</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p>
2025-07-03 18:21:54.362 +0000 UTC
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Message from the Director
<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;">As we reach the end of the 2024–2025 school year, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks for your continued support and partnership.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Each school year brings its own unique experiences, and I hope this one has been filled with meaningful learning, growth, and connection for your student(s) and your family.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">I hope you have had the opportunity to enjoy the recent graduation ceremonies and year-end celebrations. These moments are a wonderful time to reflect on the journey and look ahead to the future with optimism. Congratulations to all intermediate and secondary graduates across Limestone—we are very proud of your accomplishments.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">I have a few updates for you as we move into the summer months:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Tri-Board Student Transportation for 2025-2026 School Year</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">School bus information for 2025-2026 will be available to families in July on Tri-Board’s portal.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If your student currently has school bus transportation and there is no change to their school or address in September, families do NOT need to take any action or reapply for transportation through Tri-Board Student Transportation. Current school bus transportation will remain in place unless families are contacted by Tri-Board Student Transportation directly.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">New students and students with a change of address or school need to</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">apply online by August 6, 2025, to have busing set up for the first day of school</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. Please visit </span><a href="http://www.triboard.ca/" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">triboard.ca</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> to apply for transportation and access your student(s)’s busing details for September.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Messages from the Ministry - Celebrating the End of the School Year</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We are pleased to share a special </span><a href="https://youtu.be/6YHXUF3UtHc?si=qym1IQLmi8-QYVIU" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">video message from The Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, as well as letters from Minister of Education Paul Calandra addressed to families and graduating students across the province. These messages recognize the hard work, resilience, and accomplishments of Ontario students throughout the year:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/793cbd5d-ca02-4bf9-b367-f9e8a5ff0c1a/Year-End-Letter-to-Parents.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014125" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Message for families from Minister of Education, Paul Calandra</span></a></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/61248391-bed1-499b-bcc8-3e977d928d99/Graduation-Letter-2025.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013909" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Message for graduating students from The Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario</span></a></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We encourage you to take a moment to view and read these messages as we wrap up another successful school year together.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Learning about Artificial Intelligence (AI)</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This past school year, Limestone started further exploring AI tools and their potential benefits. There is no question that AI creates a range of potential challenges and opportunities for learning and in society. Further exploration will resume in 2025-2026. </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/artificialintelligenceinlimestone" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please take a look at some of the work that has started in Limestone in this area on our website.</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> If you are interested in learning more about Artificial Intelligence and media literacy or sharing some learning with your student(s), </span><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Media Smarts: Canada’s Centre for Digital Media Literacy </em></i><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">has a range of worthwhile resources about AI and other digital media. These resources can be found at </span><a href="https://mediasmarts.ca/" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">on the Media Smarts website.</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">First Day of School – Wednesday, September 3, 2025</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As we look ahead, please note that the </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">first day of school for students for the 2025–2026 school year is Wednesday, September 3, 2025</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. </span><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Tuesday, September 2 is a Professional Activity (P.A.) Day, and there will be no classes for students on that day.</em></i></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As we look ahead to the 2025–2026 school year, I hope we continue to nurture a love of learning, curiosity, kindness and compassion in all students.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thank you for being an essential part of the Limestone education community. When we work together to support student learning and well-being, we create the strongest foundation for success. Your ongoing support makes a meaningful difference, and I am excited for the opportunities and adventures that await our school communities in the school year ahead.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Wishing all students and families a safe, restful, joyful summer, and time with those people that matter most in your lives.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </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><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Limestone District School Board</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p>
2025-06-26 20:30:05.204 +0000 UTC
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Boardroom Briefs June 18, 2025
<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 June 18, 2025 Regular Board Meeting. Agendas 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" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Board Meetings</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. </span></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Land Acknowledgement </span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">All meetings begin with a Land Acknowledgement: </span><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"The Limestone District School Board is situated on the traditional territories of the Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee. We acknowledge their enduring presence on this land, as well as the presence of Métis, Inuit, and other First Nations from across Turtle Island. We honour their cultures and celebrate their commitment to this land.” </em></i></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Presentation</span></h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Limestone District School Board Staff Awards</span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The 2025 Limestone District School Board (LDSB) Staff Awards include the Barry C. O'Connor Excellence in Education Awards, and the J.C. McLeod Excellence in Teaching Awards. Trustee Ruttan introduced award nominators and recipients.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Barry C. O'Connor Awards</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> recognize excellence in education as provided by support staff throughout the district. This award was established to recognize support staff in the following categories: Clerical and Secretarial, Educational Services Staff, Educational Assistants, and Central Office Support Staff. The recipients are:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Tracy MacVicar, Kingston Secondary School - Clerical and Secretarial Category</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Nancy Gourdier-Golle, LDSB Educational Services - Educational Services Support Category</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Shannon Gambicourt, Winston Churchill Public School - Educational Assistants Category</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Jody Fitz, LDSB Education Centre - Central Office Support Category</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">J.C. McLeod Excellence in Teaching Awards</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> are presented to two outstanding educators in the Limestone community. J.C. McLeod was the Director of Education for the former Lennox and Addington County Board of Education from 1969 to 1983. He recognized and rewarded excellence in teaching throughout his time as Director, and on his retirement, he established a fund to continue this focus. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This award recognizes the outstanding contributions of individual teachers to classroom instruction or the improvement of classroom instruction, over several years. It is presented annually to one teacher in elementary, and one teacher in secondary. The recipients are:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Tara Murphy, Centennial Public School - Elementary Teacher</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Tammy Hagerman, Katarokwi Learning Centre - Secondary Teacher</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/87967a22-e1a3-469d-8d09-e2ccab360306?fingerprint=ppb20251217014249" alt="2025 LDSB Staff Award Recipients" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><i><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">From left: </strong></b></i><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Tara Murphy, Tammy Hagerman, Nancy Gourdier-Golle, Jody Fitz, Shannon Gambicourt, and Tracy MacVicar</em></i></p><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Recognition of Outgoing Student Trustees</span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Vice-Chair Godkin acknowledged the service of the 2024-2025 Student Trustees, Rachel Kolosov, Ayesha Bukhari, and Siya Kumar. Indigenous Grade 11 Student Trustee Kolosov will be returning to the role for the 2025-2026 school year, while Urban Student Trustee Kumar, and Rural Student Trustee Bukhari are graduating. Rural Student Trustee Bukhari was recognized with a bursary for her role with the Limestone Learning Foundation Grants Committee. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/8bab5481-4e23-4e68-847c-55fd3b255cdc?fingerprint=ppb20251217014301" alt="2025 LDSB Student Trustees" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Feeding Minds: Food and Beverage Policy (PPM-150) Delegation</span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Madison Stewart from Food for Good Program presented remotely.</span></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Private Session Report</span></h2><details open="true"><summary><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Private Session Report - June 18, 2025</span></p></summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustee Ruttan provided the Private Session report for June 18, 2025:</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">At the Special Meeting of the Board, May 27, 2025: Director Burra provided a personnel update.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">At the Education, Policy, and Operations Meeting, June 4, 2025: Director Burra provided a personnel update</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Earlier this evening during Private Session:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Private Session minutes were approved from the following:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The May 21, 2025, Regular Board Meeting</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The May 27, 2025, Special Meeting of the Board</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The June 4, 2025, Education, Policy, and Operations Committee Meeting</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Associate Superintendent Gollogly provided a Safe Schools update.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustee Lloyd provided a personnel update which resulted in a motion being passed.</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></div></details><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Reports from Officers</span></h2><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"><img src="/images/972606b7-b2d1-52c6-962b-7190b39ee44f?fingerprint=ppb20251217014409" alt="" width="258" height="334" style="width:258px;height:334px;float:right;display:inline-block"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Vice-Chair Godkin provided the following report: </span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"As we approach the end of another remarkable school year, I want to take a moment to reflect on and celebrate the incredible efforts and achievements of our Limestone community. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">June marks not only the closing of the academic year but also a time of celebration, reflection, and gratitude. Across our district, students have been wrapping up their studies, showcasing their learning, and participating in a wide range of extracurricular activities that highlight their creativity, leadership, and school spirit. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to our students for their resilience, enthusiasm, and dedication throughout the year. Your hard work and perseverance have been truly inspiring. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">To our educators, support staff, and administrators—thank you for your unwavering commitment to student success. Your passion and professionalism continue to shape a learning environment where every student feels supported and empowered. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">To our families and caregivers—your partnership and encouragement have been vital. Thank you for being such an integral part of our students’ journeys. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This month, we’ve also seen vibrant celebrations of diversity and inclusion across the district. Pride events have brought our communities together in powerful and joyful ways. A special thank you to everyone who participated in the Greater Napanee Pride Parade and the Kingston Pride Parade. Your presence and support send a strong message of love, acceptance, and unity. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We were also proud to support the second annual Inclusive Fun Fair hosted by the Inclusive Play Project at Shannon Park on June 7. This free, family-friendly event brought together community members of all ages and abilities to celebrate inclusion, accessibility, and connection. With live entertainment, a bustling vendor market, interactive games, and a vibrant KidsZone, the fair raised awareness and funds for Kingston’s first fully inclusive playground. Events like this remind us of the power of community and the importance of creating spaces where everyone feels welcome and valued  </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As we look ahead to the final days of the semester, let’s continue to lift each other up and celebrate the many successes—big and small—that have defined this school year. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Wishing everyone a safe, restful, and joyful summer ahead."</span></p></div></details><details open="true"><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"><img src="/images/959f9ebc-0553-5f56-afed-83ccf39d2906?fingerprint=ppb20251217014409" alt="" width="316" height="316" style="width:316px;height:316px;float:left;display:inline-block"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Director Burra provided the following report:</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"Good evening, Trustees and the viewing public. I am pleased to provide you with my update tonight as we enter the last ten days of the 2024-2025 school year.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">June is always a time of reflection as we complete one school year and continue preparations for the next school year. It is a time of change as we see students graduate from secondary school, staff retire, and many staff and students prepare for transitions. It is also a time of celebration across the system as students graduate and enjoy end-of-year activities and celebrations. We were able to enjoy some celebrations this evening with the annual Limestone Staff Awards. This evening, we heard and saw, some great examples of people focused on doing the very best they can to support students and learning in LDSB.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In recent weeks and months, many graduating Limestone students have received significant scholarships and admissions to universities, colleges, and apprenticeships or have developed work plans for next year. I would be remiss to not mention the fact that Student Trustee Bukhari deserves to be recognized for being a TD Scholarship recipient, and the Trustee Laurie French Student Leadership Award from the Community Foundation for Lennox and Addington. Congratulations Student Trustee Bukhari. With secondary graduations just over a week away, I know Trustees and senior staff can look forward to hearing the plans of LDSB grads at those celebrations and honouring the graduates of 2025.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">I would also like to highlight for Trustees the tremendous success Limestone athletes experienced at the provincial finals in Track and Field. Wyatt Lee from FSS won gold in the Senior Boys 100m and 200m, Athena Andrecyk from KSS won gold in the Senior Girls 3000m, and the Junior Girls 4x100m relay team from KSS also won gold. That team consisted of Caitlyn Wimmer, Mara Barrow-McLagan, Amaya Barrow-McLagan and Marina Playter-Tuffs. Limestone students also won two silver medals and four bronze medals. I should note that the LSS Senior Boys won provincial AA gold. I should also note that LSS and KSS hosted provincial soccer championships. Congratulations to these winners and all of the other LDSB athletes who participated in the provincial finals.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In reflecting on the 2024-2025 school year, or any other school year, I think it is important to again remember Kathy Freston’s wise words: “The goal is progress, not perfection.” In education, the stakes are always high for each learner, and there is always more we can do to serve each student. While there is always much to celebrate, there is also always room for improvement in realizing our LDSB intention of making a positive difference in the lives of every student, in every classroom, in every school.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Given June is National Indigenous History Month, and Saturday is National Indigenous Peoples Day, Trustees should be aware that there are a range of activities occurring in the community this weekend, and at Confederation Park. This information has been shared with schools.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As Trustees are aware, June is also Pride month, and like the last few years, Limestone formally participated in the fourth annual Napanee Pride Parade earlier this month, which was a great success, and we also had a very strong presence this past weekend for the Kingston Pride Parade. We must continue to take a strong stance in support of human rights, and against hate in the communities we serve.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In closing, I want to offer my congratulations to all students graduating from Limestone and to staff entering their last ten days of work with Limestone. There is much to be proud of in Limestone and I have a great deal of gratitude and humility in serving as its Director. Thank you also to the Board of Trustees for your continued collaboration, strong support of public education, and advocacy. While all of us around this table may not always agree on everything, I think we can all be proud of the way we conduct ourselves and work together for the betterment of Limestone students. Thank you, Trustees. That concludes my report for this evening."</span></p></div></details><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Correspondence</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Board of Trustees received correspondence from Trustee Hutcheon indicating her resignation from her role as Chair. The Board accepted her resignation, and held an election for the position of Chair of the Board for the remainder of the term, ending November 19, 2025. Trustees Godkin, McGregor, and Ruttan were nominated for the role of the Chair. Trustees Godkin and McGregor accepted the nominations, and Ruttan declined.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustees voted and Trustee McGregor was elected Chair of the Board for the remainder of the term.</span></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Reports</span></h2><details open="false"><summary><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">OPSBA Report</span></p></summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Chair McGregor provided an OPSBA report.</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 Kolosov provide the Student Trustees' Report.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We had our last Inter-School Council (ISC) meeting on the third of this month. At this meeting, we celebrated our success as a group this past school year, where the school representatives from each school brought their incoming reps for next year. This gave us the chance to meet and get to know our ISC team for next year.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">On June 10, after a lot of hard work from ISC members, we were able to run the LDSB Community Pride Event. During this event, we had a number of school groups coming in to host tables with some arts, crafts, and games, as well as community organizations like the Kingston Public Library. We were also thrilled to have the Queens Faculty of Education GSA come in, as well as Kingston Youth Pride, and LDSB’s Alyssa Vernon who did some collaging with guests. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Student-run booths included face painting, flag painting, bracelet and keychain making, and more. It was such an amazing experience to see all of the students and families coming together to enjoy an evening of celebration to kick off Pride Month. We would like to extend a big thank you to all of the community members who came in, staff who helped support the event, the KSS custodial team for helping set up, and all of the students who helped make the event possible and the great success it was!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We also had Pat Vanderholst do a PD session on Indigenous land teachings, with a tour around Lake Ontario Park, sharing different teachings connected to the land. On behalf of ISC, I’d like to thank Pat for sharing his time and knowledge with us.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">On behalf of the incoming Student Trustees, we look forward to what the next term of ISC will bring next school year!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thank you!</span></p></div></details><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Reports for Action</span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">There were no Reports for Action.</span></p><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Reports for Information</span></h3><details open="true"><summary><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Operational Plan: Integrated Technology Services (ITS) - Associate Superintendent Hedderson</span></p></summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/035f32a1-6d40-45c9-8050-ab09485fac19?fingerprint=ppb20251217013025" alt="2025 ITS Dept Common Culture Graphic" width="259" height="309" style="width:259px;height:309px;float:left;display:inline-block"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This report updates Trusteed on the Integrated Technology Services (ITS) Operational Plan and how it supports the goals of the LDSB Strategic Plan. The report was presented by Kelvin MacQuarrie, Manager of Information and Communications Technology, Laura Alward, Manager of Innovation and Digital Transformation, and Steve Hedderson, Associate Superintendent of Curriculum and Program Services: Math Focus.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">ITS Operational Plan: The three departmental pillars of Customer Service Excellence, Data Integrity, and Learning Environment and Infrastructure Improvements continue to drive forward the team's main objective of supporting students and staff of LDSB within the 2023-2026 timeframe. These pillars help guide project priorities and business decisions and are a focus within the department’s operational plan.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The presentation outlined various initiatives, including:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Learning Technology Refresh: Reliable Devices</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Learning Technology Ticket Counts by School Year</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Monitoring of Aging Classroom Projectors</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">New Data Backup Solution</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Microsoft 365 Copilot</span></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Reporting Tool Efficiencies</span></li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Elementary Staffing App Efficiencies </span></li><li value="8" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Next Steps in Learning Technologies</span></li><li value="9" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Supporting Monitoring of the Student Achievement Plan</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The full report is available in the </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/458f1305-a251-48f2-bc45-18d43569c0ce/LDSB-Regular-Board-Meeting-Agenda-June-18-2025-AMENDED.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013647" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Agenda Package</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p></div></details><details open="true"><summary><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Math Achievement Plan - Associate Superintendent Hedderson</span></p></summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This report updates Trustees on the continued development of Limestone’s Math Achievement Action Plan.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Satellite data are high-level indicators that we are making progress towards our goal of improving math learning and achievement for every student.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/12a3a14d-6c42-4061-af3e-1492f75c1306?fingerprint=ppb20251217013147" alt="Monitoring Math Achievement in the SAP and Strategic Plan: EQAO Results" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Since the last update in </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/61c13ecb-20b2-4600-84ea-c6440667d365/LDSB%20Regular%20Board%20Meeting%20Agenda%20March%2026%2C%202025.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013909" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">March 2025</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Additional meetings have been held with the Provincial Math Lead to discuss data analysis, impact of current improvement strategies, and key performance indicators to support the LDSB Math Achievement Action Plan</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Strategic planning sessions with other board Math Leads and teams from across the province</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">School-Based Math Facilitators and Learning Partners have been supporting educators in schools in gathering content diagnostic data to plan for meaningful math learning and assist in closing achievement gaps, with particular attention on students with modifications or recently removed from modifications</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">School-Based Math Facilitators and Learning Partners also continue to support math-related professional learning sessions for educators at staff meetings, “lunch and learns,” and Professional Activity Days</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Weekly meetings and capacity building with School Math Facilitators and ongoing learning and support for Learning Partners about the Math Achievement Action Plan strategies</span></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Professional learning focus on fluency tasks and supporting the use of concrete and visual representations for students</span></li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Much more</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Next Steps and Communications Plan:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Ministry confirmed that board will continue with Math Achievement Action Plans during the 2025-26 school year with the same priority schools </span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Given the late arrival of the 2025-26 school year budget, the staffing of the 2025-26 Math Action Team is ongoing</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Share the final report on the 2024-25 LDSB Math Achievement Action Plan with the Provincial Math Action Team in mid-July</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Prepare for the introduction of targeted use of a new complementary digital math tool that uses AI to support the implementation of the LDSB Instructional Progression of Mathematics</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Much more</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The full report is available in the </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/458f1305-a251-48f2-bc45-18d43569c0ce/LDSB-Regular-Board-Meeting-Agenda-June-18-2025-AMENDED.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013647" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Agenda Package</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p></div></details>
2025-06-24 20:57:55.816 +0000 UTC
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Messages from the Ministry - Celebrating the End of the School Year
<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As we approach the end of the 2024–2025 school year, we want to take a moment to celebrate the achievements of all our students and extend our heartfelt congratulations—especially to our graduates.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We are pleased to share a special </span><a href="https://youtu.be/6YHXUF3UtHc?si=qym1IQLmi8-QYVIU" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">video message from The Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, as well as letters from Minister of Education Paul Calandra addressed to families and graduating students across the province. These messages recognize the hard work, resilience, and accomplishments of Ontario students throughout the year:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><a href="/documents/793cbd5d-ca02-4bf9-b367-f9e8a5ff0c1a/Year-End-Letter-to-Parents.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014125" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Message for families from Minister of Education, Paul Calandra</span></a></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><a href="/documents/61248391-bed1-499b-bcc8-3e977d928d99/Graduation-Letter-2025.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013909" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Message for graduating students from The Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario</span></a></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We encourage you to take a moment to view and read these messages as we wrap up another successful school year together.</span></p>
2025-06-19 12:00:14 +0000 UTC
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Three Gold Medals at OFSAA Track and Field Championships
<p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/d8c51901-16c1-4623-8968-bfd0467fbd7e?fingerprint=ppb20251217015010" alt="KSS Relay Team" width="624" height="491" style="width:624px;height:491px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">From left: Mila Stos, Marina Playter-Tuffs, Amaya Barrow-McLagan, Coach Morgann Rymal, Mara Barrow-McLagan, and Caitlyn Wimmer of KSS.</em></i></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Limestone District School Board had an outstanding showing with three golds and other notable placements at this year's </span><a href="https://www.ofsaa.on.ca/championship/track-field/" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">OFSAA Track and Field Championships</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, held at the Toronto Track and Field Centre (York University) in Toronto from June 5 to June 7, 2025. </span><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Gold Medals</span></h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Frontenac SS (FSS): </span></h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Wyatt Lee finished 1st in Senior Boys 100 and 200m</span></li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kingston SS (KSS):</span></h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Junior Girls 4 x 100m relay team finished 1st - Caitlyn Wimmer, Mara Barrow-McLagan, Amaya Barrow-McLagan and Marina Playter-Tuffs</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Athena Andrecyk finished 1st in Senior Women's 3000m</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Other Notable Results:</span></h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">KSS:</span></h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Vicky Malik finished 2nd in Novice Girls 800/1500m</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Eva Andrecyk finished 4th in Womens 3000m Novice</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Claire Simmers finished 4th in Women's 800m Ambulatory</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Amaya Barrow-McLagan finished 4th in Women's 80m hurdles</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Luqmaan Brewster finished 4th in Junior Men's Triple Jump</span></li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">LCVI: </span></h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Sierra Carroll finished 3rd in Intellectually Imp. Shot Put </span></li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">FSS:</span></h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Declan Cowan finished 3rd in Junior Boys Disc Throw</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Congratulations to all Limestone athletes!</span></p>
2025-06-18 17:40:00.715 +0000 UTC
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School Bus Services 2025-2026 School Year
<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">School bus information for 2025-2026 will be available to families in July on </span><a href="https://triboard.ca/" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Tri-Board’s portal</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">New students and students with a change of address or school need to </span><a href="https://triboard.ca/" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">apply online</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> by August 6 to have busing set up for the first day of school. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please visit</span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </strong></b><a href="https://triboard.ca/" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">triboard.ca</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> to apply for transportation and access your student(s)’s busing details for September.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/d39f4838-d728-446a-a486-9289f808ef7d?fingerprint=ppb20251217014946" alt="School Bus Services 2025-2026 School Year" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p>
2025-06-16 13:14:45.509 +0000 UTC
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