District News

<img src="/images/08adef0a-9a9d-5ac1-a89f-49ed9e4603a6?fingerprint=ppb20251217013050" srcset="/thumbnails/08adef0a-9a9d-5ac1-a89f-49ed9e4603a6?fingerprint=ppb20251217013050 450w, /images/08adef0a-9a9d-5ac1-a89f-49ed9e4603a6?fingerprint=ppb20251217013050 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> <div> <p><span><span>For a version of this message to translate into </span><span>additional</span><span> languages, please</span><span> </span></span><a href="https://www.smore.com/n/cxd13h" target="_blank"><span><span>click here for translation</span></span></a><span>.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span>Dear Families,</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span>With </span><span>March Break </span><span>almost upon</span><span> us, </span><span>I want to provide you with </span><span>information</span><span> about </span><span>four</span><span> important </span><span>items:</span><span>&nbsp;</span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span>Survey</span><span>: 2024-2025 School Year Budget&nbsp;</span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span>The Limestone District School Board (LDSB) is seeking feedback on the development of its 2024-2025 budget.</span><span><span>&nbsp;</span>&nbsp;</span><span><br> </span><span><span>LDSB’s students, families, staff, and community partners are invited to </span><span>participate</span><span> in a brief survey to </span><span>identify</span><span> priorities for the cost-effective, successful, and </span><span>equitable</span><span> use of LDSB’s finite financial resources.</span></span><span><span>&nbsp;</span> </span><span> </span><span><span>This information will </span><span>assist</span><span> the Board of Trustees throughout the budgeting process to ensure students’ needs are best served in 2024-2025. All information collected will be summarized and reviewed at the Budget Committee meeting on April 17, 2024.</span></span><span><span>&nbsp;</span> </span><span> </span><span><span>The survey will be open </span><span>until </span><span>Thursday, </span><span>March 28, 2024</span><span>,</span><span> at 4:00 p.m</span><span>. The survey is voluntary and anonymous. All respondents will remain confidential. To </span><span>participate</span><span> in the survey, please </span><span>click </span></span><a href="https://ldsb.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_07fKtwRC8NbasUm" target="_blank"><span><span>this </span><span>Budget Survey </span><span>link</span></span></a><span>.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span>Survey: </span><span>Interest in </span><span>Virtual School</span><span> for 2024-2025 School Year</span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span>The purpose of this survey is to gather information from families who are interested in enrolling their student(s) in virtual school next year. This information will support early planning for the 2024-2025 school year.&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span>Please note that this survey form is not for online registration. Please complete one survey for each student. This form is only intended for families who are interested in enrolling their student in virtual school next year (2024-2025). </span><span>Families who are already enrolled in virtual school would have previously received direct communication inquiring about their intentions for 2024-2025</span><span>.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span>The survey </span><span>remains</span><span> open until Monday, March 18, 2024, at 4:00 p.m.</span><span>&nbsp;There will be an optional link at the end of this survey to open a new survey for an </span><span>additional</span><span> student.</span><span> To </span><span>participate</span><span> in the survey, please click </span></span><a href="https://ldsb.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_07oZkNBnFQ11h3g" target="_blank"><span><span>this </span><span>Virtual School Survey</span><span> link</span></span></a><span>.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span>Elementary Special Education Support Model</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span>As a result of the </span><span>2023 </span><span>LDSB</span><span> Special Education Review</span><span> </span><span>which received thousands of responses from students and families, the LDSB is moving forward with a restructuring of elementary special </span><span>education services. This updated model will </span><span>reallocate staffing support from self-contained programs and itinerant support to school-based support where it is needed most</span><span>.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span>To find out more about the positive impact</span><span>s</span><span> of the new delivery model, </span><span>visit the </span></span><a href="/news/what_s_new/elementary_special_education_support_model" target="_blank"><span><span>Elementary </span><span>Special</span><span> Education Support Model page</span></span></a><span><span> on the LDSB website</span><span>.</span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span>Reminder: KFL&amp;A Public Health Notice – Meningococcal Disease Type B</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span>Last week, you received </span><span>communications </span><span>from </span><span>KFL&amp;A Public Health </span><span>regarding</span><span> an increase in cases of invasive meningococcal disease type B in our community.</span><span> </span><span>This is a reminder to review the communication if you have not already. </span><span>Invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) is a serious bacterial infection that can be life-threatening. While this infection </span><span>remains</span><span> </span><span>relatively rare</span><span>, it can progress rapidly and have severe consequences if not treated promptly.&nbsp;</span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span>To learn more about invasive meningococcal disease and available vaccines, speak with a health care provider or visit </span><a href="http://caringforkids.cps.ca/" target="_blank"><span><span>caringforkids.cps.ca</span></span></a><span> or </span><a href="http://kflaph.ca/IMD" target="_blank"><span><span>kflaph.ca/IMD</span></span></a><span>.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span>I hope all students and families have an enjoyable March Break (March 11-15)</span><span>.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span>Be safe and be well,&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span></span><span><span>&nbsp;</span> </span><span>Krishna Burra</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span>Director of Education</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div>

<img src="/images/eb42f06e-076d-540a-92a2-9515471545c6?fingerprint=ppb20251217015153" srcset="/thumbnails/eb42f06e-076d-540a-92a2-9515471545c6?fingerprint=ppb20251217015153 450w, /images/eb42f06e-076d-540a-92a2-9515471545c6?fingerprint=ppb20251217015153 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"><span><span><strong>THIS SURVEY IS NOW CLOSED</strong>.<br> The purpose of this survey is to gather information from families who are interested in enrolling their student(s) in virtual school next year. This information will support early planning for the 2024-2025 school year.<br> <br> <a href="/board/l_d_s_b_virtual_school" target="_blank" title="LDSB Virtual School">LDSB Virtual School </a>option for September 2024 is primarily for students who learn best in the online environment, or require a virtual environment due to underlying medical conditions for themselves or their family members. <br> <br> Please note that this survey form is not for online registration. Please complete one survey for each student. This form is only intended for families who are interested&nbsp; in enrolling their student in virtual school next year (2024-2025). <br> <br> The survey remains open until 4 p.m. Monday, March 18, 2024.&nbsp; Please click this <a href="https://ldsb.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_07oZkNBnFQ11h3g" target="_blank" title="Link to Virtual School Survey 2024-2025">Intent to Enrol Virtual School Survey link.</a></span></span><br>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/081b44a0-d766-516b-8ea6-3252e0e33f90?fingerprint=ppb20251217013050" alt="" 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;">A Special Education Review was conducted between February 2023 and October 2023. Over 3,400 participants responded to the question: “What key supports and services are important for students with special education needs to experience success at school and reach their full potential?”  More than 4,000 individual thoughts were shared through the exchange, and participants rated 76,000 thoughts. Additionally, Educational Services staff met with small focus groups of students, parents/guardians, and staff to explore the data together. This extensive feedback was incredibly valuable, and we extend our deepest gratitude to the families and students for their participation in the review process.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This review aimed to identify the key supports and services critical for the success of students with special education needs by elevating the voices of students and families. Our goal was to use this data to inform and develop a model of support that is flexible, responsive, and tiered.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The primary reasons for the restructuring include the following:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">to provide equitable access to special education support and services within a students’ home school, and to leverage current supports to meet the needs of all students.</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">to minimize barriers to support and services such as diagnosis, identification, and geographic location.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">to provide flexible and responsive support, programming, and access to resource spaces that adapt and respond to a student’s unique learning profile.&nbsp;</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As a result of these changes, elementary LDSB special education classrooms and itinerant support positions will not be continuing, and staff will be reallocated into schools. This restructuring will positively impact school-based support for students in Junior Kindergarten through Grade 8. This is inclusive of students who attend Intermediate school sites. Choices @ 7 - Challenge, LEAP, ATLAS and ECPP programs are not impacted. Over the next few months, our school and district teams will continue to support students and families with this transition. There are no current changes to the secondary special education service delivery model.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This change in the elementary service delivery model does not reflect any cost savings and in fact, this model has an overall staff increase. Through this restructuring, we will reallocate 29 special education teacher positions to schools across the district, in addition to educational assistants, literacy intervention, mental health and clinical supports.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">An overview of the new elementary service delivery model is included in the </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/971bc162-7242-5f47-a382-0ed857aa6706/02_28_2024_Regular_Board_Meeting_Agenda_February_28_2024.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014409" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Administrative Report: Elementary Special Education Support Model </span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">presented to Trustees at the February 28, 2024, Board Meeting.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Our school and district teams will continue to support students within a fully inclusive learning environment in every Limestone school.&nbsp;</span></p>

<img src="/images/523c4daa-e952-56f3-b743-7e772f755cff?fingerprint=ppb20251217013751" srcset="/thumbnails/523c4daa-e952-56f3-b743-7e772f755cff?fingerprint=ppb20251217013751 450w, /images/523c4daa-e952-56f3-b743-7e772f755cff?fingerprint=ppb20251217013751 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"><span>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.</span><br><br><span>These briefs do not serve as the official record of the meeting. Please refer to Board minutes which are approved at the next regular meeting. Community members are also invited to follow along during live tweets of regular Board meetings using the hashtag #LDSBmtg.</span><br><br><iframe src="https://www.smore.com/n/x1z6q?embed=1" title="Boardroom Briefs"></iframe>

<img src="/images/8f1a3bbf-1096-59cb-9f5f-ec4ef73261d7?fingerprint=ppb20251217014328" srcset="/thumbnails/8f1a3bbf-1096-59cb-9f5f-ec4ef73261d7?fingerprint=ppb20251217014328 450w, /images/8f1a3bbf-1096-59cb-9f5f-ec4ef73261d7?fingerprint=ppb20251217014328 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"><span>This fall, the Ministry of Education has introduced a series of three modules per grade to support the <strong>existing mental health literacy expectations</strong> within the Grades 7 and 8 <strong>Health</strong> and <strong>Physical Education</strong> curriculum. This series of three, 40-minute modules per grade will be delivered by educators to support the existing mental health literacy expectations within Strand D of the Health and Physical Education curriculum. They’re not new learning – they offer ways to enhance the delivery of the existing curriculum and focus on mental health literacy.&nbsp;<br> &nbsp;<br> This learning will help equip students with inclusive, culturally responsive, evidence-informed knowledge, skills, and strategies to support their mental health and well-being. They align with and <strong>enhance</strong> the work we do in Limestone District School Board to support student well-being.&nbsp;<br> <br> The modules were informed by extensive consultation with parents/caregivers, students, cultural and community organizations.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br> &nbsp;<br> There are important reasons to bring these modules into the classroom:&nbsp;<br> •<span> </span>Students <a href="https://smho-smso.ca/online-resources/hearnowon-2021-student-voices-on-mental-health-final-report/" target="_blank" title="#HearNowON 2021: Student Voices on Mental Health – Final Report">want</a> to learn more about mental health at school.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br> •<span> </span>This learning helps students develop skills that support positive mental health.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br> •<span> </span>Mental health learning supports learning in all other areas.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br> •<span> </span>This learning can encourage conversations and help students in need reach support.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br> •<span> </span>As caring adults in the lives of young people, we want students to be well!&nbsp;<br> <br> To support the implementation of these lessons, the Mental Health Lead has been sharing information at targeted staff meetings and hosting voluntary, weekly drop-in sessions during the month of February. Information sharing has also occurred with LDSB’s Mental Health and Substance Use Leadership Committee, Parent Involvement Committee, Special Education Advisory Committee, and the KFL&amp;A Parent Advisory Committee.&nbsp;<br> <br> If you have any questions, feel free to contact Laura Conboy, Mental Health Lead (<a href="mailto:conboylaura@limestone.on.ca" target="_blank" title="conboylaura@limestone.on.ca">conboylaura@limestone.on.ca</a>) or Scot Gillam, Superintendent of Curriculum &amp; Program Services: Student Support Services (<a href="mailto:gillams@limestone.on.ca" target="_blank" title="gillams@limestone.on.ca">gillams@limestone.on.ca</a>).&nbsp;</span><br> <div></div>

<img src="/images/3cd1499c-f485-54fd-947b-562ffd92bdc6?fingerprint=ppb20251217013553" srcset="/thumbnails/3cd1499c-f485-54fd-947b-562ffd92bdc6?fingerprint=ppb20251217013553 450w, /images/3cd1499c-f485-54fd-947b-562ffd92bdc6?fingerprint=ppb20251217013553 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"><span><span></span></span> <div> <p><span><span><span>Welcome to Kindergarten in Limestone. This is&nbsp;</span><span>a very exciting</span><span>&nbsp;time for both you and your student. Kindergarten is a wonderful experience and your student’s next phase on their journey of learning. If your student was born in 2020, you may register now so they can begin school this September.</span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span>New student registration&nbsp;</span><span>is</span><span>&nbsp;an online registration process.&nbsp;<br> </span></span><span><br> </span><span>If your student is four or five by the end of December, now is the time to register. To get started click here:&nbsp;<a href="/cms/One.aspx" target="_blank" title="new student registration webpage">https://www.limestone.on.ca/cms/One.aspx?portalId=352782&amp;pageId=639821</a></span><span><span><br> <br> </span></span><span><span>We are excited to announce that&nbsp;Limestone District School Board&nbsp;will&nbsp;now&nbsp;be accepting&nbsp;applications for open boundary Kindergarten registrations for the upcoming school year</span><span>.&nbsp;</span><span>Limestone&nbsp;encourages students to attend their area school, but we understand&nbsp;selecting&nbsp;the right educational setting for your&nbsp;new&nbsp;student is&nbsp;</span><span>a significant decision</span><span>.</span></span></span></p> <p><span><span>Selecting an out-of-boundary school for your student is a decision influenced by many factors.&nbsp;The school may be closer to a workplace or near a childcare provider that might be more convenient for drop-off and pick-up routines.&nbsp;This&nbsp;change&nbsp;to our&nbsp;Kindergarten&nbsp;registration process&nbsp;will provide&nbsp;families interested in enrolling their&nbsp;student&nbsp;in a school outside their designated residential area&nbsp;to&nbsp;do so when they&nbsp;complete the online registration process.&nbsp;Visit&nbsp;the&nbsp;</span><a href="/cms/One.aspx" target="_blank" title="Registering a student"><span><span>online student registration page</span></span></a><span><a href="/cms/One.aspx" target="_blank" title="Registering a student">&nbsp;</a>to begin.</span></span></p> <p><span><span>At select LDSB schools,&nbsp;we offer French Immersion Kindergarten programs that help children get the best possible start in school.&nbsp;Find out more information check out the <a href="/cms/One.aspx" target="_blank" title="Link to early french immersion webpage">Early French Immersion webpage</a>.&nbsp;</span></span></p> <p><span><a href="/programming/french_as_a_second_language/french_immersion" target="_blank"><span><span><span></span></span></span></a>&nbsp;</span><span>In accordance&nbsp;with</span><span>&nbsp;Board policy, by default, students will be enrolled in&nbsp;</span><span>the school&nbsp;</span><span></span><span>designated</span><span>&nbsp;within their boundary area, based on their home address.</span></p> <p><span><span><span>Students may be&nbsp;</span><span>permitted</span><span>&nbsp;to attend any school within the board when there is available student space, upon submission and approval of the proper application.&nbsp;</span><span>The Board will not be held responsible for the provision of any transportation for students outside of their regular school boundary area.</span><span>&nbsp;This applies to both students within Limestone’s geographic boundaries (out of boundary), and students who live outside of those boundaries (out of district)</span><span>.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span>We aim to accommodate family preferences, but please note that out-of-boundary placements are not guaranteed, and families will&nbsp;</span><span>be&nbsp;responsible&nbsp;for</span><span>&nbsp;organizing transportation to and from out-of-boundary schools.</span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span>We are committed to supporting you every step of the way.&nbsp;Our dedicated staff are here to&nbsp;</span><span>assist</span><span>&nbsp;you throughout this process.&nbsp;If you have any questions or need more information, please contact the school.</span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span><span>Let’s</span><span>&nbsp;embark on this exciting educational journey together!</span></span><span><br> </span><span><br> </span><span>To get started, click on the following link:<a href="/cms/One.aspx" target="_blank" title="Link to Kindergarten webpage">&nbsp;https://www.limestone.on.ca/cms/One.aspx?portalId=352782&amp;pageId=640034</a></span></span></span></p> <div><span><span><br> </span></span></div> <p> </p> <div> <div><span><br> </span></div> </div> <p></p> </div>

<img src="/images/7dfda3ac-167f-5729-8cd3-71be699586dc?fingerprint=ppb20251217014153" srcset="/thumbnails/7dfda3ac-167f-5729-8cd3-71be699586dc?fingerprint=ppb20251217014153 450w, /images/7dfda3ac-167f-5729-8cd3-71be699586dc?fingerprint=ppb20251217014153 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> <div> <p><span><span><span>A total solar eclipse will occur across the southern regions of the</span><span> </span><span>school district on April 8, 2024. </span><span>LDSB </span><span>will be in the path of</span><span> </span><span>totality, which means that these </span><span>areas, including Kingston and Napanee,</span><span> </span><span>will experience complete darkness at approximately 3:20 p.m.</span><span>&nbsp;</span><span>This is </span><span>a very rare</span><span> solar event for the local area</span><span>.&nbsp;</span><span>Maintaining a regular school day will present several challenges to staff and students </span><span>in our schools with respect to transportation and safety</span><span>.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span><span>While adjusting the school day was considered for April 8, by shifting the day by 80-</span><span>90 minutes</span><span> at the start and end of the day to accommodate students in schools during the </span><span>eclipse, two factors presented concerns: (a) given some employees, as well as bus drivers for Tri-</span><span>Board, have other employment, shifting the day could result in staffing challenges; and (b) families </span><span>would be having to adjust and accommodate two days of disruption in the same week (April 8 eclipse </span><span>day adjustment and April 12 </span><span>Professional Activity [PA] Day</span><span>).</span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span><span>As such, we consulted with our co-terminus school boards, Algonquin Lakeshore Catholic District School Board and Hastings Prince Edward District School Board, as well as Tri-Board Transportation, to propose moving the PA Day scheduled for Friday, April 12, 2024, to Monday, April 8, 2024. </span><span>The rationale being that c</span><span>ombining the </span><span>PA Day</span><span> with the date of the eclipse will </span><span>likely</span><span> provide</span><span> the least amount of disruption to families</span><span>.&nbsp;</span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span> </span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span><span><strong>This amendment has been approved by all three school boards as well as the Ministry of Education. April’s PA Day will now occur on Monday, April 8, 2024. This change does not add an additional PA Day for the school year, but simply adjusts the date of the April PA Day. Friday, April 12 will now be a regular school day.&nbsp;</strong></span></span><strong><span>&nbsp;</span></strong></span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><strong><span> </span><span>&nbsp;</span></strong></span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span><span>In advance of the eclipse, school staff </span><span>will </span><span>provide</span><span> </span><span>some</span><span> </span><span>learning for students to explain the significance of this solar event</span><span> and </span><span>maximize safety for students</span><span>. The board is collaborating with the Queen's University Physics department that has trained ambassadors for education and outreach related to the eclipse. Learning opportunities are provided in-person and online.<br> <br> Educators and the public also have access to the education bundle created by the Education and Materials committee of the Ontario Eclipse Taskforce with extensive information about safety, resources and activities.<br> <br> We thank Queen's University for providing Eclipse Glasses to all LDSB students.&nbsp;<br> <br> For more information, please visit&nbsp;<span><a href="https://www.queensu.ca/physics/2024eclipse" target="_blank" title="Queen's Physics Dept. 2024 Eclipse"><span>https://www.queensu.ca/physics/2024eclipse</span></a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.queensu.ca/physics/news-events/2024-total-solar-eclipse/education-activities" target="_blank" title="Queen's Physics Solar Eclipse Education and Activities"><span>https://www.queensu.ca/physics/news-events/2024-total-solar-eclipse/education-activities</span></a>.&nbsp;</span><br> <br> </span></span></span></p> </div>

<img src="/images/9e3a2eba-1326-5fce-9e6f-3e21f9f3e319?fingerprint=ppb20251217014448" srcset="/thumbnails/9e3a2eba-1326-5fce-9e6f-3e21f9f3e319?fingerprint=ppb20251217014448 450w, /images/9e3a2eba-1326-5fce-9e6f-3e21f9f3e319?fingerprint=ppb20251217014448 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"><span><span>If your student has complex education needs and starts school in September 2024, you may wish to participate in the T2K Virtual Family Workshop Wednesday, March 6 from 9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. The workshop provides families with information and resources to help prepare their Kindergarten student for the transition to school. <br> <br> Effective advocacy for your student, a peek inside a Kinder classroom, as well as parents’ perspectives on school transition and planning tips will all be discussed. <br> <br> For more information or to register for this event, contact the school your student will attend in September 2024.&nbsp;<br> </span></span>

<img src="/images/c3349d8a-40b2-5358-a9e9-0efc0a9825dc?fingerprint=ppb20251217014816" srcset="/thumbnails/c3349d8a-40b2-5358-a9e9-0efc0a9825dc?fingerprint=ppb20251217014816 450w, /images/c3349d8a-40b2-5358-a9e9-0efc0a9825dc?fingerprint=ppb20251217014816 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"><span><span><strong>A Symphony of Learning and Performance</strong></span></span> <div><span><em><span>with content contribution from S. Tooth, K. Leverette &amp; W. Moore, LLF</span></em></span></div> <div><span><span><br> The Limestone Music Celebration will be an extraordinary gathering of 400-500 secondary music students from across the Limestone District School Board. This event promises a day filled with musical enrichment, education, and an evening performance. A unique event organized by secondary school music teachers, Tourism Kingston, and the Limestone Learning Foundation.<br> <br> </span></span> <div><span><b><span>Promoting Diversity and Inclusion Through Music</span></b></span></div> <div><span><b><span><br> </span></b></span></div> <div><span><span>The Limestone Music Celebration focuses on a repertoire that reflects a wide array of voices. Works by Black composers, women, and Indigenous artists have been prioritized to ensure a rich, varied musical experience that resonates with all participants. This initiative is a step towards decolonizing our music rooms and departments, making sure every student sees themselves in the music they learn and perform.</span></span></div> </div> <div><span><b><span><br> </span></b></span></div> <div> <div><span><b><span>A Day of Musical Workshops</span></b></span></div> <div><span><span> <br> LDSB secondary students will have the unique opportunity to participate in instrument-specific workshops and clinics, led by local professional music educators and accomplished Kingston musicians Wednesday, February 21, 2024 at Grant Hall, Queen's University. This immersive experience is designed to deepen their musical skills, foster collaboration, and enhance their appreciation for diverse musical genres and techniques.</span></span></div> <div><span><b><span><br> </span></b></span></div> <div><span><span>The Limestone District School Board of Trustees is incredibly proud of this event, the community collaborations, and the opportunity it has created for LDSB students to thrive and excel in their musical endeavours. <br> <br> It was the vision of Trustees for a more comprehensive and inclusive music program that led them to invest $500,000 in surplus spending for secondary musical instruments, arts programs, and the Artist in Residence program in the fall of 2021. This support from Trustees at the time, recognized the need for an infusion into the arts and secondary music programming, knowing arts funding has not been prioritized through the Grants for Student Needs in recent years, and budget feedback from the LDSB community in the winter/spring of 2021 emphasized a desire for more arts funding. The supplementary funding enabled secondary schools to expand their music curriculum, invest in new instruments, and repair and replace supporting infrastructure - everything from new patch cords, LED lights, to new computers and soundcards for recording.</span></span></div> <div><span><b><span><br> </span></b></span></div> <div><span><span><strong>An Inspiring Composition</strong></span></span></div> <div><span><b><span><br> </span></b></span></div> <div><span><span>The event will feature a special highlight: an original&nbsp;composition by Ernestown Secondary music teacher, Tim Stiff. His work, specifically crafted for a Massed Ensemble with inclusive and uplifting lyrics, is designed to celebrate the unity and diversity music brings to our lives.&nbsp; <br> <br> The concert will be live streamed on February 21 from 7 pm – 8:30 pm by students of Bayridge Secondary School, Computer Science program. With limited seating available at this venue, watching virtually will be the best way for the public to see the culminating performance. &nbsp;</span></span></div> <div><span><b><span><br> </span></b></span></div> <div><span><b><span>A Partnership in Excellence in Education</span></b></span></div> <div><span><b><span><br> </span></b></span></div> <div><span><span>In yet another amazing example of collaboration, the Limestone Learning Foundation is honoured to support the Limestone Music Celebration with a grant of $10,000!&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span></div> <div><span><b><span><br> </span></b></span></div> <div><span><b><span>Our Shared Vision</span></b></span></div> <div><span><b><span><br> </span></b></span></div> <div><span><span>The Limestone Music Celebration 2024 embodies the vision of the Limestone Learning Foundation of making arts education a vibrant and essential part of students' lives. By supporting this event, the LLF wis honoured to provide a platform where students can experience the transformative power of music beyond the classroom, in a setting that encourages collaboration, celebrates diversity, and builds community.</span></span></div> <div></div> </div>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Boardroom Briefs is now available for the Regular Meeting of January 2023. 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.&nbsp;</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">These briefs do not serve as the official record of the meeting. Please refer to Board minutes which are approved at the next regular meeting. Meeting agendas are available on the&nbsp;</span><a href="/trustees/board_committees___meetings/board_meetings" title="web link to Board Minutes and Agendas" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">website</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p>

<img src="/images/6d7e7646-a2be-54f7-9e42-bd025e90bcff?fingerprint=ppb20251217014016" srcset="/thumbnails/6d7e7646-a2be-54f7-9e42-bd025e90bcff?fingerprint=ppb20251217014016 450w, /images/6d7e7646-a2be-54f7-9e42-bd025e90bcff?fingerprint=ppb20251217014016 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> <div> <p><span><span><span>The Limestone District School Board is currently working to develop the 2024-25 school year</span><span> calendar</span><span>. In collaboration with our coterminous boards, A</span><span>lgonquin and Lakeshore Catholic District School Board</span><span> and H</span><span>astings and Prince Edward District School Board</span><span>, there are three options for consideration. We would like to gather the opinions of different members of the Limestone community to guide our final decision.<br> <br> <span>Please note: Option 3 has a different start date, and all calendar options have different PA days.</span><br> </span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span><span>Please take a few minutes to complete this </span><span>short survey</span><span>. </span></span><span><span>The survey is open until Monday, February 12, </span><span>2024</span><span>,</span><span> at 12:00 p.m.</span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span>Survey link: </span><a href="https://bit.ly/LDSB24-25CalendarSurvey" target="_blank"><span><span>https://bit.ly/LDSB24-25CalendarSurvey</span></span></a><span><span>&nbsp;</span><br> </span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span>If you would prefer a paper version of the survey, please contact your school and a hard copy will be provided.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span><span>Your input is important to us. We appreciate your time in </span><span>submitting</span><span> your feedback.</span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div>

<img src="/images/384c39e7-fe4e-59ee-b2b9-089e7bc9ebc3?fingerprint=ppb20251217013527" srcset="/thumbnails/384c39e7-fe4e-59ee-b2b9-089e7bc9ebc3?fingerprint=ppb20251217013527 450w, /images/384c39e7-fe4e-59ee-b2b9-089e7bc9ebc3?fingerprint=ppb20251217013527 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"><span>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.</span><br><br><span>These briefs do not serve as the official record of the meeting. Please refer to Board minutes which are approved at the next regular meeting. Community members are also invited to follow along during live tweets of regular Board meetings using the hashtag #LDSBmtg.</span><br><br><iframe src="https://www.smore.com/u4cxp9?embed=1" title="Boardroom Briefs"></iframe>