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SEAC Vacancy Web 300 x 200

SEAC Vacancy

<img src="/images/1100de8f-3587-5a10-93e2-991bb5d4e43c?fingerprint=ppb20251217013147" srcset="/thumbnails/1100de8f-3587-5a10-93e2-991bb5d4e43c?fingerprint=ppb20251217013147 450w, /images/1100de8f-3587-5a10-93e2-991bb5d4e43c?fingerprint=ppb20251217013147 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> <div> <div> <p><span><span><span>The Limestone District School Board is currently seeking to fill a vacancy for a member-at-large appointment to its </span><a href="/trustees/board_committees___meetings/special_education_advisory_committee" target="_blank"><span><span>Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC)</span></span></a><span>.</span><span><span><br> </span></span><span><span><br> This application process is </span><span>in accordance with</span><span> </span></span><a href="https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/970464#:~:text=Reg.-,464%2F97%2C%20s.,exceptional%20pupils%20of%20the%20board." target="_blank"><span><span>Regulation 464/97 of the Education Act</span></span></a><span>.<br> <br> </span></span></span><span>SEAC </span><span>is responsible for</span><span> making recommendations to the Board on matters related to the provision of Special Education programs and services for exceptional students. </span><span>The Board Committee consists of representatives from up to 12 local associations and three members-at-large, who are appointed by the Board of Trustees for a four-year term.</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span><span><span> <br> </span></span><span>Letters of application for members-at-large from interested </span><span>persons,</span><span> are currently being accepted. Applicants must </span><span>reside</span><span> within the Board’s area of </span><span>jurisdiction</span><span>.<br> <br> </span><span><span>Letters of application must be received </span><span>no later than Wednesday, April 12, </span><span>2023</span><span> by 4 p.m. Please </span><span>send </span><span>to Scot Gillam, </span></span><span>Superintendent of Education, Learning for All, via </span><a href="mailto:gillams@limestone.on.ca" target="_blank"><span><span>email</span></span></a><span> or mail/hand delivered to LDSB Education Centre, 220 Portsmouth Ave., Kingston ON K7M 0G2.</span></span></span></p> </div> <span>&nbsp;</span> </div>
2023-03-21 00:00:00 +0000 UTC
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Virtual School Survey 2023-24 (300 × 200 px) (1)

Virtual School Survey 2023-24

<img src="/images/9e03da22-4ea0-5352-9356-e1bb658f3846?fingerprint=ppb20251217014448" srcset="/thumbnails/9e03da22-4ea0-5352-9356-e1bb658f3846?fingerprint=ppb20251217014448 450w, /images/9e03da22-4ea0-5352-9356-e1bb658f3846?fingerprint=ppb20251217014448 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> <div> <p><span><span><span>We recognize that virtual school remains an important choice for some families. The Ministry of Education has not yet provided direction about virtual schools for September. However, based on the information available at this time, Limestone District School Board is exploring the possibility of partnering with neighbouring public school boards to offer a Kindergarten to Grade 10 virtual school option during the 2023-2024 school year. This regional approach would allow resources and expertise to be pooled to provide online learning. By working together, the school boards could offer a wider range of courses, resources, and support services than they could individually. In addition, a regional virtual school would provide students with access to online education, regardless of where they live.<br> </span><span>The purpose of this survey is to gather information from families who intend to enrol their student(s) in virtual school next year. This information will support early planning and staffing for the 2023-2024 school year. We are also gauging interest of students and families to enrol in virtual school French Immersion programming in Kindergarten to Grade 8. If there is sufficient interest, French Immersion programming would be a 50-50 French/English program which is less French minutes than offered for in-person French Immersion programming currently at Limestone DSB.<br> </span> <span>Please note that this survey form does not replace online registration for students who will be new to the Limestone DSB next year. <br> </span> <span>Please complete one survey for each student. This form is only intended for families planning to enrol their student in virtual school next year (2023-2024). The survey remains open until&nbsp; 4 p.m. Thursday, March 23, 2023. There will be an optional link at the end of this survey to open a new survey for an additional student. </span><br> <span> Thank you for taking the time to complete the following survey.</span><br> <span> </span><a href="https://ldsb.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cUxPU04736VUxL0" target="_blank" title="Virtual School Survey">https://ldsb.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cUxPU04736VUxL0</a> </span></span></p> </div> <div> </div>
2023-03-10 00:00:00 +0000 UTC
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Message from the Director-March 2023

Message from the Director - March 9, 2023

<img src="/images/ff0cd091-477e-51d1-b525-6174bbae493f?fingerprint=ppb20251217015329" srcset="/thumbnails/ff0cd091-477e-51d1-b525-6174bbae493f?fingerprint=ppb20251217015329 450w, /images/ff0cd091-477e-51d1-b525-6174bbae493f?fingerprint=ppb20251217015329 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> <p><span><span><b>For a version of this message to translate into additional languages, please </b><a href="https://bit.ly/MessageFromDirectorFeb16"><b>click here</b></a><b>.</b></span></span></p> <p><span><span>Dear Families,</span></span></p> <p><span><span>I am sure I am not alone in enjoying more sunshine this week and more daylight hours. This has been a nice change from the two storms last week. The week leading up to the March Break has been a time of celebration and recognition. On March 6-7 (sunset to sunset) was <a href="https://twitter.com/LimestoneDSB/status/1632833519473885187?s=20">Purim</a>, the week of March 6-12 is <a href="https://twitter.com/LimestoneDSB/status/1632829701344440323?s=20">Social Work Week</a> in Ontario, March 7 was the launch of the City of Kingston and Frontenac County’s <a href="https://twitter.com/LimestoneDSB/status/1632788215970123777?s=20">Human Trafficking Protocol</a>, and March 8 was <a href="https://twitter.com/LimestoneDSB/status/1633422490423705603?s=20">Holi</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/LimestoneDSB/status/1633422490746736643?s=20">International Women’s Day</a>.</span></span></p> <p><span><span>As the week draws to a close, and students, staff and families are looking forward to the break, I wanted to provide a short update.<br> </span></span></p> <p><span><b><span>2023-24 School Year Calendar Survey &amp; Budget Survey</span></b></span></p> <p><span><span>I would like to thank those that provided input on the 2023-24 school year calendar. There will be an update about next year’s calendar later this month or in early April.<span>&nbsp;</span></span></span></p> <p><span><span>We are now in the process of seeking feedback on the development of the 2023-2024 budget. This information will assist the Board of Trustees throughout the budgeting process and help support student and system needs in 2023-2024. While we are awaiting the provincial budget in the coming weeks, input from staff, families, and community members is a valuable part of the process.</span></span></p> <p><span><span>The 2022-2023 school year budget will form a starting point for the 2023-2024 budget and can be viewed here: <a class="editor-link" href="/documents/c3c87d52-73d3-5842-a43e-69febf509456?fingerprint=ppb20251217014816" target="_blank"> <span>2022-2023 LDSB Budget</span> </a><span>.</span></span></span></p> <p><span><span>Please take a few minutes to share your ideas by completing the short <a href="https://bit.ly/BudgetSurvey23-24">2023-2024 Budget Survey</a>. This year’s survey includes a ThoughtExchange which will allow contributors to see the thoughts submitted by others.<span>&nbsp; </span>All thoughts are voluntary and anonymous. The survey and ThoughtExchange will be open until March 24, 2023, at 4:00 p.m.</span></span></p> <p><span><span>Information collected will be summarized and reviewed at the Budget Committee meeting on April 19, 2023.<br> </span></span></p> <p><span><b><span>2023-24 Virtual School Survey</span></b></span></p> <p><span><span>If you have a student(s) currently enrolled in virtual school, you will have already received a direct email update regarding your interest in a virtual school option for the 2023-24 school year.</span></span></p> <p><span><span>If your family is <b><i>not</i></b> currently enrolled in virtual school, but you are interested in enrolling for the 2023-24 school year, please complete the <a href="https://ldsb.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cUxPU04736VUxL0">2023-24 Virtual School Survey</a>. This survey is only intended for families planning to enroll their student(s) in virtual school for next year. Please note that this survey form does not replace online registration for students who will be new to LDSB for 2023-2024.</span></span></p> <p><span><span>March Break often marks the beginning of spring for our school communities, and with spring comes the opportunity for renewal and rejuvenation. I wish all LDSB families a safe and restful week.<br> <br> </span></span></p> <p><span><span>All the best,</span></span></p> <p><span><b><span>Krishna Burra</span></b></span></p> <p><b><span><span>Director of Education</span></span></b></p>
2023-03-09 00:00:00 +0000 UTC
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Limestone District School Board

2023-2024 Budget Survey

<img src="/images/f208bfe1-d816-59ab-a2ed-84fc11504bfe?fingerprint=ppb20251217015231" srcset="/thumbnails/f208bfe1-d816-59ab-a2ed-84fc11504bfe?fingerprint=ppb20251217015231 450w, /images/f208bfe1-d816-59ab-a2ed-84fc11504bfe?fingerprint=ppb20251217015231 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"><span><span><span>The Limestone District School Board is seeking feedback on the development of its budget process.&nbsp;</span><br> <br> This information will assist the Board of Trustees throughout the budgeting process to ensure students’ needs are best served in 2023-2024.<br> <br> The current school year budget, which will form the basis for the 2023-2024 budget, can be viewed at <a class="editor-link" href="/documents/cea4d430-9094-57ad-86fc-b5281a84db06?fingerprint=ppb20251217014921" target="_blank"> <span>2022-2023 LDSB Budget</span> </a>.<br> <br> Please take a few minutes to share your ideas by completing the short anonymous <a href="https://ldsb.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1S8sosLx43vj6zs" target="_blank" title="link to 2023-2024 Budget Survey">2023-2024 Budget Survey</a><br> <br> The survey will be open until March 24, 2023, at 4:00 p.m.<br> <br> Information collected will be summarized and reviewed at the Budget Committee meeting on April 19, 2023. <br> <br> The survey is voluntary and anonymous. All responses remain confidential.<br> <br> <br> <br> For more information, please contact:<br> <a href="mailto:galta@limestone.on.ca?subject=2023-2024 Budget Survey">Angela Galt</a>, Administrative Assistant <br> to&nbsp;Craig Young, Superintendent of Business Services &amp; Treasurer&nbsp;<br> 613-544-6920 ext 338<br> </span></span> <div></div><br> <div></div>
2023-03-03 00:00:00 +0000 UTC
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Boardroom Briefs -Website Whats New

Boardroom Briefs - February 22, 2023

<img src="/images/aa281c56-9499-51f1-acfb-102b0c48a145?fingerprint=ppb20251217014559" srcset="/thumbnails/aa281c56-9499-51f1-acfb-102b0c48a145?fingerprint=ppb20251217014559 450w, /images/aa281c56-9499-51f1-acfb-102b0c48a145?fingerprint=ppb20251217014559 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.<br> <br> 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.<br> <br> <iframe src="https://www.smore.com/mgnec-boardroom-briefs?embed=1" title="Boardroom Briefs"></iframe></span>
2023-02-27 00:00:00 +0000 UTC
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Arts in Edu(Action) (300 × 200 px) (1)

“Arts in (Edu)Action” – New Program with KSOA and LDSB

<img src="/images/0bd03bb3-c921-53e2-834f-48a513e0304c?fingerprint=ppb20251217013116" srcset="/thumbnails/0bd03bb3-c921-53e2-834f-48a513e0304c?fingerprint=ppb20251217013116 450w, /images/0bd03bb3-c921-53e2-834f-48a513e0304c?fingerprint=ppb20251217013116 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><em>This program is generously funded by the Community Foundation for Kingston &amp; Area.<br> <br> </em><strong>Teaching Artists<br> </strong><a href="https://www.smore.com/a47fg" title="Link to artist biographies and workshop details">Full biographies and workshop details</a><em><br> <br> <img src="/images/e28eeaff-f597-5bda-97bd-75009e1fb8f1?fingerprint=ppb20251217015101" srcset="/thumbnails/e28eeaff-f597-5bda-97bd-75009e1fb8f1?fingerprint=ppb20251217015101 450w, /images/e28eeaff-f597-5bda-97bd-75009e1fb8f1?fingerprint=ppb20251217015101 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"><br> <br> <img src="/images/0d668216-da3a-5544-8c6d-3718cde0cdca?fingerprint=ppb20251217013116" srcset="/thumbnails/0d668216-da3a-5544-8c6d-3718cde0cdca?fingerprint=ppb20251217013116 450w, /images/0d668216-da3a-5544-8c6d-3718cde0cdca?fingerprint=ppb20251217013116 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"><br> <br> <img src="/images/2531ac6d-99ed-555c-8d32-4bdb4042e1ae?fingerprint=ppb20251217013337" srcset="/thumbnails/2531ac6d-99ed-555c-8d32-4bdb4042e1ae?fingerprint=ppb20251217013337 450w, /images/2531ac6d-99ed-555c-8d32-4bdb4042e1ae?fingerprint=ppb20251217013337 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"><br> <em>Image credit: KSOA</em></em>
2023-02-17 00:00:00 +0000 UTC
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Message from the Director - Feb 2023

Message from the Director - February 2023

<img src="/images/21171cc9-3dba-56ac-a10c-5991eb956632?fingerprint=ppb20251217013311" srcset="/thumbnails/21171cc9-3dba-56ac-a10c-5991eb956632?fingerprint=ppb20251217013311 450w, /images/21171cc9-3dba-56ac-a10c-5991eb956632?fingerprint=ppb20251217013311 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> <div> <p><span><span><span>For a version of this message to translate into </span><span>additional</span><span> languages,</span></span><span>&nbsp;please </span><a href="https://bit.ly/MessageFromDirectorFeb16" target="_blank"><span><span>click here</span></span></a><span>.<br> </span><span><span></span></span></span></p> <div> <p><span><span><span>Dear </span><span>F</span><span>amilies, </span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p> <div> <p><span><span><span>It has been an exciting </span><span>and fast </span><span>start to 2023, and as we approach Family Day weekend, I</span><span> would</span><span> like to </span><span>provide</span><span> some updates for Limestone families</span><span>.&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p> <div> <p><span><span><span>While we are just over half</span><span>-</span><span>way through the 2022-2023 school year, we continue to </span><span>make preparations</span><span> for 2023-2024.</span><span> Kindergarten registration is underway, as is secondary course </span><span>selection</span><span>, and </span><span>enrolment in secondary expanded opportunities. </span><span>In addition, f</span><span>irst term/semester report cards for elementary and secondary students </span><span>will be sent home this week or early next week.</span></span><br> </span></p> <div> <p><span><span><span>While we continue to enjoy a more regular school year in 2022-2023, </span><span>change continues to be a very present theme. </span><span>Global events, and in particular</span><span>,</span><span> the devastating earthquakes that occurred in Turkey and Syria, </span><span>provide</span><span> us all reason to be thinking about those </span><span>impacted</span><span> on the ground, but also friends and family of those in the region that live in our </span><span>community. </span><span>It is events like this </span><span>that provide all of us with an opportunity to reflect</span><span> </span><span>on what matters in our lives and to consider the plight of other</span><span>s.</span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p> <div> <p><span><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p> <div> <p><span><span><span>2023-24 School</span><span> </span><span>Y</span><span>ear Calendar Survey Now Open with Two Options </span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p> <div> <p><span><span><span>Planning for the next school year has begun and the</span><span> </span><span>LDSB is seeking feedback from families on two potential options for the </span><span>upcoming </span><span>school</span><span> </span><span>year calendar.</span><span> </span><span>The options </span><span>include</span><span>&nbsp;one with a student and staff start date of September 5, 2023</span><span>;</span><span> or a student start date of September 6, 2023</span><span>, </span></span><span><span>after a PA Day on September 5.</span></span><br> </span></p> <div> <p><span><span><span>While we are not considering a different school</span><span> </span><span>year calendar model for 2023-2024, </span><span>we are</span><span> exploring a potential idea for </span><span>a </span><span>future school</span><span> </span><span>year calendar. Our thinking is to start the school year the week prior to </span><span>Labour</span><span> Day at the end of August</span><span>,</span><span> which would allow us to create a </span><span>f</span><span>all break at the end of October or early November. </span></span><span><span>&nbsp;</span> </span><span> </span><span><span>We are exploring th</span><span>is </span><span>option</span><span> due to increases in absences that typically occur in November for LDSB students and staff. Other well-being data also suggests that breaking up the period from </span><span>Labour</span><span> Day to the December/January break may be beneficial for students and staff.</span></span><span><span>&nbsp;</span> </span><span> </span><span><span>We</span><span> would </span><span>greatly appreciate</span><span> your thoughts</span><span> on this idea</span><span>. </span><span>For more information and to </span><span>provide</span><span> your feedback in the</span><span> survey, please visit the </span></span><a href="/news/what_s_new/school-year_survey_for_2023-2024" target="_blank"><span><span>School</span><span> </span><span>Year Survey for 2023-</span><span>20</span><span>24 </span><span>page </span><span>on the LDSB website</span></span></a><span>.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p> <div> <p><span><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p> <div> <p><span><span>Special Education Review 2023 </span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p> <div> <p><span><span>Our </span><a href="/contact_us/departments/educational_services" target="_blank"><span><span>Educational Services Leadership Team</span></span></a><span><span> is embarking on a Special Education Review between February 2023 and April 2023.</span><span> </span><span>The purpose of this review is to</span><span>:</span></span><br> </span></p> <div> <div> <ul> <li> <span>&nbsp;</span> <ul> <li><span><span><span>E</span><span>xamine our current special education supports and services and </span><span>identify</span><span> areas for refinement and enhancement to meet the needs of learners within an inclusive learning environment</span><span>.</span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></li> </ul> </li> <li> <span>&nbsp;</span> <ul> <li><span><span><span>G</span><span>ather student, family, staff, and community partner voices to </span><span>identify</span><span> priorities and key areas which may </span><span>impact</span><span> the success of students with special education needs.</span></span><span></span></span></li> </ul> <p><span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p> </li> </ul> <div> <p><span><span><span>As with </span><span>previous</span><span> Special Education Reviews, </span><span>the </span><span>goal</span><span>s</span><span> of this review </span><span>are</span><span> to examine resource allocation, strengthen partnerships, leverage supports, and </span><span>identify</span><span> professional learning opportunities for staff.&nbsp; </span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span><span>The survey will be available</span><span> for students with special education needs and their families between February 27 and March 3, 2023, and then it will be available to Limestone staff and community members and partners starting April 24 to April 28, 2023. </span><span>Results</span><span> will be shared publicly in the </span><span>f</span><span>all of 2023. </span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span>For more information, please visit the </span><a href="/news/what_s_new/special_education_review_2023" target="_blank"><span><span>Special Education Review 2023 page on the LDSB website</span></span></a><span>.</span><br> </span></p> </div> </div> <div> <p><span><span><span>In the coming weeks, you will also receive an opportunity to </span><span>provide</span><span> inpu</span><span>t as part of </span><span>the</span><span> annual budget consultation process to help guide</span><span> the</span><span> planning for the 2023-2024 school year. </span><span>More information will follow </span><span>in </span><span>March</span><span>.</span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span>KFL&amp;A Public Health Guidelines </span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span><span>The LDSB</span><span> continues to work closely with KFL&amp;A Public Health to communicate up-to-date information about the current state of respiratory viruses and actions that students, families, and staff can take to reduce transmission of illness within our communities.&nbsp;</span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span><span>KFL&amp;A Public Health continues to encourage</span><span> public health measures</span><span>:</span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p> </div> <div> <div> <ul> <li> <span>&nbsp;</span> <ul> <li><span><span>Monitoring daily for symptoms and staying home when sick</span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></li> </ul> </li> <li> <span>&nbsp;</span> <ul> <li><span><span><span>Wearing a well-fitted mask in all indoor public spaces is strongly recommended, including schools and childcare </span><span>settings</span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></li> </ul> </li> <li> <span>&nbsp;</span> <ul> <li><span><span><span>Students and staff returning to school after being sick should wear a well-fitted mask for a total of </span><span>10 days</span><span> after the start of any illness in all public settings (including schools and childcare settings) and avoid non-essential activities where mask removal is </span><span>necessary</span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></li> </ul> </li> <li> <span>&nbsp;</span> <ul> <li><span><span>Staying up to date with vaccines</span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></li> </ul> </li> <li> <span>&nbsp;</span> <ul> <li><span><span>Washing your hands regularly</span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></li> </ul> </li> </ul> </div> </div> <div> <div> <ul> <li> <span>&nbsp;</span> <ul> <li><span><span>Cleaning high-touch surfaces regularly</span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></li> </ul> </li> </ul> </div> <div> <p><span><span><span> Masks and rapid antigen tests (RAT) continue to be available for all L</span><span>DSB</span><span> students and staff. </span></span> </span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span><span>Additional</span><span> information can be found on </span></span><a href="https://www.kflaph.ca/en/healthy-living/face-covering-frequently-asked-questions-faq.aspx" target="_blank"><span><span>KFL&amp;A Public Health’s website</span></span></a><span>. </span> </span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span><span>As this coming Monday, February 20, </span><span>2023,</span><span> is Family Day, there </span><span>will be </span><span>no classes for students and staff. </span><span>I hope you have an opportunity to enjoy </span><span>this long weekend by spending time with family</span><span> and/or friends, and to hopefully enjoy the outdoors if the weather cooperates</span><span>.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br> </span></span><br> </span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span>Enjoy the long weekend when it arrives,</span><span><span>&nbsp;</span></span><br> </span></p> </div> </div> <div> <p><span><span>Krishna Burra</span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span>Director of Education</span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div>
2023-02-16 00:00:00 +0000 UTC
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School Year Calendar Web (300 × 200 px)

School-year survey for 2023-2024

<img src="/images/d48a05bd-410e-5535-a744-b3292f3b8ea4?fingerprint=ppb20251217014946" srcset="/thumbnails/d48a05bd-410e-5535-a744-b3292f3b8ea4?fingerprint=ppb20251217014946 450w, /images/d48a05bd-410e-5535-a744-b3292f3b8ea4?fingerprint=ppb20251217014946 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"><span><strong>School-year calendar survey is closed<br> </strong><br> Planning for the next school year has begun and the Limestone District School Board (LDSB) is seeking feedback from families on two potential options for the 2023-24 school-year calendar.<br> <br> The options provided on the survey are also being submitted to Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board and Algonquin Lakeshore Catholic District School Board stakeholders, as we share busing.<br> <br> The two options are one with a student and staff start date of September 5, 2023; or a student start date of September 6, 2023, after a PA Day on September 5.<br> <br> While we are not considering a different school year calendar model for 2023-2024, the LDSB is exploring a potential idea for the future school-year calendar. Our thinking is to start the school year the week prior to Labour Day at the end of August which would allow us to create a fall break at the end of October or early November.&nbsp;<br> <br> This would not impact other traditional breaks in December/January, March, or the rest of July/August. We are exploring the fall break option due to increases in absences that typically occur in November for LDSB students and staff. Other well-being data also suggests that breaking up the period from Labour Day to the December/January break may be beneficial for students and staff.<br> <br> If you’re a student or family member in the LDSB, you are invited to provide input via this <a href="https://ldsb.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6ohi2kuiXSG24iW" target="_blank" title="Calendar Survey Link">online survey</a>.<br> <br> If you would prefer a paper version of the survey, please contact your school and a hard copy will be provided.<br> <br> The survey is open for responses until February 21, 2023 at 5:00 p.m.&nbsp;<br> <br> Your input is important to us, and we appreciate your time in submitting your feedback.</span><br> <div></div>
2023-02-10 00:00:00 +0000 UTC
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2023-01-25-Message from Director

Message from the Director - January 2023

<img src="/images/26db4517-d01c-5bb1-96f4-08713186da94?fingerprint=ppb20251217013352" srcset="/thumbnails/26db4517-d01c-5bb1-96f4-08713186da94?fingerprint=ppb20251217013352 450w, /images/26db4517-d01c-5bb1-96f4-08713186da94?fingerprint=ppb20251217013352 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> <p><span><span><strong><span>For a version of this message to translate into additional languages, </span></strong><a href="https://www.smore.com/8yrwk"><span>please click here.</span></a><strong><span> </span></strong></span></span></p> <p><span><span><br> <br> <br> <br> Dear Families,</span></span></p> <p><span><span>I hope all families were able to enjoy some time to recharge over the December/January break and were able to connect with friends and family. During the past two weeks, it has been great to see students, staff, and school communities jump right back into the school routine, engaging in valuable learning experiences and extracurricular activities. Unfortunately, the weather has not been cooperative in allowing safe transportation to/from school on a handful of days which has created some disruption. There are a number of updates I would like to share with you as we transition into the second half of the school year: </span></span></p> <p><span><b><span>Inclement Weather Protocol and A Reminder for Bus Riders to Subscribe to Tri-Board’s Alert System</span></b></span></p> <p><span><span>As a reminder to families on inclement weather days, when Tri-Board transportation is cancelled due to poor weather and/or road conditions, Limestone schools remain open. When buses are cancelled in the morning, they are cancelled for the entire day. Families who choose to walk or drive their student(s) to school that day, must ensure they pick them up at dismissal time.</span></span></p> <p><span><b><span>Families that have a student or students who take a bus to and from school should know their route number, subscribe to Tri-Board’s alert system to receive up to date information on delays and cancellations, and follow @BusDelayNCancel on Twitter. </span></b></span></p> <p><span><span>More information on <a href="/cms/one.aspx">LDSB’s inclement weather protocol is available on our website.</a> </span></span></p> <p><span><span><br> <b>Initial Meeting of the Board and Historic Addition of an Indigenous Trustee</b></span></span></p> <p><span><span>In November, Limestone welcomed the new Board of Trustees who will serve from November 2022 to November 2026 at the Initial Meeting of the Board. Three new trustees joined the seven incumbents on the Board of Trustees for the four-year term, including the historic addition of the first Indigenous Trustee, Kelly Maracle, appointed by the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte. <a href="/news/what_s_new/new_board_of_trustees_elected_for_term_2022-2026">Additional information on the Board of Trustees and their area schools is available on our website.</a> </span></span></p> <p><span><b><span>&nbsp;</span></b></span></p> <p><span><b><span>Kindergarten Registration for Future Students</span></b></span></p> <p><span><span>If you have a student that is four or five by the end of December 2023, now is the time to <a href="/cms/One.aspx">register them to start Kindergarten in September 2023.</a> Schools typically welcome new families and students to orientation events in May of each school year. Individual schools will share more about these opportunities directly with you once your student is registered. Starting Kindergarten is a very exciting time for everyone, and we are ready to welcome your next student to a wonderful new world of learning and growing. If you have any questions about registration, please do not hesitate to contact your school directly. </span></span></p> <p><span><b><span>&nbsp;</span></b></span></p> <p><span><b><span>Student Human Rights Incidents and Complaints</span></b></span></p> <p><span><span><span>Students, parents, families, staff, and community members are encouraged to speak up when they experience or witness a human rights incident or have a complaint that involves a Limestone student. </span>Students and families can access the <a href="https://ldsb.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0J0faTRewWA6Pau">Student Human Rights Incident and Complaint form online.</a></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span>To learn more about the human rights investigation process, students and families are welcome to contact your student’s teacher, principal, vice-principal, superintendent, or the Human Rights and Equity Officer, Yusuf Abdulkareem by e-mail at </span><a href="mailto:abdulkareemy@limestone.on.ca">abdulkareemy@limestone.on.ca</a><span> or by phone at 613-544-6920, ext. 256.</span></span></span></p> <p><span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p> <p><span><span>Good luck to all secondary students as they approach the end of the first semester and are finishing their summative assignments and/or studying for their upcoming examinations. I continue to be grateful for Limestone students, families, and staff for the continued efforts, collaboration, and advocacy for student wellness, innovation, and collaboration across our school communities. It is because of everyone’s commitment that we are able to successfully support our system and provide a great learning environment for Limestone students and school communities.</span></span></p> <p><span><span><br> Krishna Burra</span></span></p> <p><span><span>Director of Education </span></span></p> <p><span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p>
2023-01-25 00:00:00 +0000 UTC
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2023-01-24-KFLA PH Guidelines

KFL&A Public Health Guidelines

<img src="/images/98ae2a27-ff0e-54a0-b9f5-ef2f7af8bb12?fingerprint=ppb20251217014424" srcset="/thumbnails/98ae2a27-ff0e-54a0-b9f5-ef2f7af8bb12?fingerprint=ppb20251217014424 450w, /images/98ae2a27-ff0e-54a0-b9f5-ef2f7af8bb12?fingerprint=ppb20251217014424 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> <p><span><span>For a version of this message to translate into additional languages, <a href="https://www.smore.com/10u46">please click here</a>.<br> </span></span></p> <p><span>Dear Families,</span></p> <p><span>While public health guidance has not changed since November, Limestone continues to work closely with KFL&amp;A Public Health to communicate up-to-date information about the current state of respiratory viruses and actions that students, families, and staff can take to reduce transmission of illness within our communities. As we know, some members of our communities, including students and staff in schools, are more susceptible to illness so limiting spread is important.&nbsp; </span></p> <p><span>KFL&amp;A Public Health continues to encourage getting back to the basics that we know work to help limit the transmission of illnesses in our community, including:</span></p> <ul> <li><span>Monitoring daily for symptoms and staying home when sick.</span></li> <li><span>Wearing a well-fitted mask in all indoor public spaces is strongly recommended, including schools and childcare settings.</span></li> <li><span>Students and staff returning to school after being sick should wear a well-fitted mask for a total of 10 days after the start of any illness in all public settings (including schools and childcare settings) and avoid non-essential activities where mask removal is necessary. &nbsp;</span></li> <li><span>Staying up to date with vaccines.</span></li> <li><span>Washing your hands regularly.</span></li> <li><span>Cleaning high-touch surfaces regularly.</span></li> </ul> <p><span>Masks and rapid antigen tests (RAT) continue to be available for all Limestone students and staff. </span></p> <p><span><a href="https://www.kflaph.ca/en/healthy-living/face-covering-frequently-asked-questions-faq.aspx"><span>Additional information is available on KFL&amp;A Public Health’s website.</span></a></span></p> <p><span>Thank you to students, families, and staff for your continued efforts to practice public health recommendations to help keep our schools and school communities safe – we are all in this together.</span></p><span><span><span>Limestone District School Board</span></span></span>
2023-01-24 00:00:00 +0000 UTC
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2023-01-24-Choices at 7-FRENCH Immersion-Whats New Web Story

Extended French Immersion Open Houses

<img src="/images/502761e0-c2d3-599a-8ca5-c08187039954?fingerprint=ppb20251217013738" srcset="/thumbnails/502761e0-c2d3-599a-8ca5-c08187039954?fingerprint=ppb20251217013738 450w, /images/502761e0-c2d3-599a-8ca5-c08187039954?fingerprint=ppb20251217013738 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> <p><span><span>All students and families interested in applying for a position in the Extended French Immersion Choices at 7 Programs for Grade 7 in September 2023 are invited to attend the Open Houses:</span></span></p> <p><span><span><strong>Module de l’Acadie</strong> – Wednesday, February 22, 2023, 6-7 p.m. (Western Region)<br> <br> </span></span></p> <p><span><span><strong>Module Vanier</strong> – Wednesday, February 22, 2023, 6-7 p.m. (Kingston Region)<br> <br> </span></span></p> <p><span><span><strong>Harrowsmith Public School</strong> – Thursday February 23, 2023, 5:30-6 p.m. (Northern Region)<br> <br> </span></span></p> <p><span><span><span>Additional information about <a href="/cms/One.aspx" title="Choices at 7 Extended French Immersion Open Houses">Extended French Immersion is available on the Choices at 7 webpage.</a></span></span> </span></p>
2023-01-24 00:00:00 +0000 UTC
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Kinder 2023 Whats New 300 x 200

Kindergarten Registration for Sept. 2023

<img src="/images/c081273b-b773-55cf-8587-cbd613c6d805?fingerprint=ppb20251217014805" srcset="/thumbnails/c081273b-b773-55cf-8587-cbd613c6d805?fingerprint=ppb20251217014805 450w, /images/c081273b-b773-55cf-8587-cbd613c6d805?fingerprint=ppb20251217014805 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"><span><span><span><span><span>Kindergarten offers a wonderful new world of learning and growing. We learn how to read, how to write and we make new friends. Our educator teams help us along the way. Do you have a </span><span>4- or 5-year-old</span><span> ready for school this September? We are now accepting registrations at </span></span><a href="https://bit.ly/Kinder_2023" target="_blank"><span><span>https://bit.ly/Kinder_2023</span></span></a><br> <br> Limestone Kindergarten programs, offered in both French Immersion and English, aim to nurture the whole child. The Kindergarten program allows children to develop emotionally, socially and physically: to grow creatively, and to engage in rich oral language opportunities and celebrate their learning.&nbsp;<br> <span><br> In Limestone, students can begin French Immersion in Year 1 Kindergarten, Year 2 Kindergarten or Grade 1. The French Immersion program is designed for students who are learning French as an additional language. The program is an inclusive environment for rich language development and designed for students who do not speak French at home. Parents and guardians are not expected to be French speaking themselves. There is nothing extra that you need to do to prepare your student for French Immersion. All students are welcome!<br> <br> </span><span><span>Feel confident your child will be cared for </span><span>within safe and inclusive environments</span><span>. Welcome to Limestone.<br> For more information about what is required at time of registration, and to register a new student visit <a href="/cms/One.aspx" target="_blank" title="Register A Student">Register A Student</a><br> <br> Find more information about our Kindergarten programs here: <a href="/programming/kindergarten___early_learning" target="_blank" title="Kindergarten &amp; Early Learning">Kindergarten &amp; Early Learning webpage.</a></span></span><br> <span><span></span></span></span></span></span>
2023-01-18 00:00:00 +0000 UTC
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Kindergarten Registration

Discover Kindergarten in Limestone and register your student for the 2026-2027 school year today!

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