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Invitation for Applications External Members for the Audit Committee

The Limestone District School Board is seeking community members with strong financial expertise and business acumen to serve as external members of its Audit Committee for a three‑year term beginning September 2026.The Audit Committee consists of three Trustees and two independent community members. Its mandate is to assist the Board of Trustees in fulfilling its governance and oversight responsibilities. Key areas of responsibility include:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Oversight of the financial reporting process</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Review of the internal control framework</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Monitoring risk management practices</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Evaluation of the performance of internal and external auditors</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">Ensuring compliance with legislative and regulatory requirements</li></ul>The Committee meets three times per year. Orientation materials are provided to support new members in understanding the role and responsibilities of audit committees within the school board sector.<h2 class="editor-heading-h2">Candidate Eligibility</h2>Applicants must meet the following criteria:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Demonstrated experience in accounting, senior financial management, or relevant business fields, with the ability to understand public‑sector accounting and auditing standards.</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Must not be a current employee or officer of the Limestone District School Board or any other district school board or school authority.</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Must not have a parent, child, or spouse currently employed by the Limestone District School Board.</li></ul><h2 class="editor-heading-h2">How to Apply</h2>Qualified candidates are invited to submit a letter of interest and résumé by 4:00 p.m. on August 24, 2026 to:Roger Richard Acting Executive Superintendent of Corporate and Staff Services 220 Portsmouth Ave. Kingston, ON  K7M 0G2 E-mail: <a href="mailto: rrichard@limestone.on.ca" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">rrichard@limestone.on.ca</a>

2026-07-23 14:17:54.875 +0000 UTC

New Digital Tools Informed Notice Available

Limestone District School Board uses a variety of digital tools to support student learning, communication, and school operations. A new <a href="/documents/1e89801e-5ebd-4673-ad1b-b3a08a9e7451/2026-06-29-Digital-Tools-Informed-Notice.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260629183742" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Digital Tools Informed Notice (PDF)</a> is now available, providing families with information about how personal information may be collected and used through approved digital tools, the safeguards in place to protect privacy, and the board’s commitment to secure and responsible technology use. More information on the Limestone District School Board <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/privacy" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Privacy webpage</a>.

2026-06-29 18:41:31.903 +0000 UTC

Boardroom Briefs: June 17, 2026

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 17, 2026 Regular Board Meeting. Agendas and meeting recording can be found on the website under <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/board_meetings-1719463739654" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">Board Meetings</a>.  <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Regular Board Meeting - June 17, 2026</h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Land Acknowledgement </h3>All meetings begin with a Land Acknowledgement: "The Limestone District School Board is situated on the traditional territories of the Anishinaabek and Haudenosaunee. We acknowledge their enduring presence on this land, as well as the presence of Métis, Inuit, and other First Nations from across Turtle Island. We honour their cultures and celebrate their commitment to this land."<h3 class="editor-heading-h3">Limestone District School Board Staff Awards: Barry C. O’Connor Excellence in Education Awards, J.C. McLeod Excellence in Teaching Awards</h3>The Barry C. O’Connor Award recognizes 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, Custodial and Maintenance and Central Office Support Staff.<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Clerical and Secretarial - Tamiko Ferguson and Amy Rose presenting to Amanda MacDonald, Kingston Secondary School.</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Educational Services Support - Principal Deborah Thompson presenting to Christa Cox, Educational Services.</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Educational Assistants - Shelley Desarmia and Kim Eves presenting to Beth Malott, R.G. Sinclair Public School.</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Custodial and Maintenance - Kelly Marshall presenting to Dana Price, L.C.V.I and Calvin Park Public School.</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">Central Office Staff - Angela Seymour presenting to Principal Carrie Propper, J.G. Simcoe Public School.</li></ul>J.C. McLeod was the Director of Education for the former Lennox and Addington County Board of Education from 1969 to 1983. He recognized and rewarded excellence in teaching throughout his time as Director and on his retirement, he established a fund to continue this focus.This award recognizes the outstanding contributions of individual teachers to classroom instruction or the improvement of classroom instruction, over a number of years. This distinguished award is presented annually to one teacher in the elementary panel and one teacher in the secondary. Winners:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Carrie Kish presenting to Elementary Teacher Allison Madden, The Prince Charles Public School.</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Vice-Principal Chris Morrow presenting to Secondary Teacher Adam Lynn, Kingston Secondary School.</li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3">Delegation Funding Increase for Supports</h3>Ms. Feenstra addressed the Board on behalf of education workers, urging trustees to advocate for increased provincial funding to support staffing levels in schools. She described the significant challenges faced by students and staff, including increasing incidents of violence in classrooms, the impact of complex student needs, and the strain these circumstances place on educators, support staff, and learning environments. Ms. Feenstra emphasized that inadequate staffing levels can affect student safety, well-being, and academic achievement, while also contributing to staff burnout, absenteeism, and retention challenges.Ms. Feenstra noted that education workers frequently face situations where limited staffing requires support to be prioritized among students with competing needs. She indicated that understaffing affects not only educational assistants, but also early childhood educators, custodial staff, maintenance personnel, office administrators, and other support staff throughout the system. She stated that many students are unable to access the supports they require, which can have broader impacts on classroom learning and school operations.In closing, Ms. Feenstra called on the Board to publicly advocate for improved education funding and to support efforts aimed at increasing staffing levels, reducing workplace violence, enhancing student supports, and creating sustainable working conditions for education workers. She thanked Trustees for the opportunity to present and expressed a desire for continued collaboration in support of student success and well-being.<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Private Session Report</h3><details open="true"><summary>May 20, 2026 Private Session Report</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">Trustee Lloyd Stated “At the Private Session following the June 3, 2026, Education, Policy and Operations Committee meeting:Acting Superintendent Richard provided a property update which resulted in a motion being passed and Vice-Chair Lloyd provided two personnel updates.And earlier this evening during Private Session:The private session minutes were approved from the following:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">May 20, 2026, Regular Board Meeting</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">June 3, 2026, EPOC Meeting</li></ul>Associate Superintendent McKenna provided a Safe Schools, and Trustee Lloyd provided a personnel update which resulted in two motions being passed.There was no other business conducted, or motions passed in Private Session.MOVED By Trustee Lloyd and seconded by Trustee Elliott that the Private Session Report be received. Carried.</div></details><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Reports From Officers</h3><details open="true"><summary>Chair's Report</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">Chair McGregor stated: “As we come to the close of another school year, I would like to take a moment to thank Limestone staff, students, and families for what has been a truly positive and successful year across the Limestone District School Board.Earlier this evening, we had the opportunity to celebrate many of these contributions through the LDSB Staff Awards. The commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of every student, in every classroom, in every school was clearly felt across the district throughout the year. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I would like to express our sincere appreciation to everyone who played a role in making this school year what it was. Your dedication, care, and ongoing efforts have not gone unnoticed, and we are very grateful.I would also like to take this opportunity, on behalf of all Trustees and Senior Staff, to acknowledge the service of this year’s Student Trustees: Rachel Kolosov, Indigenous Student Trustee; Siham Ismail, Urban Student Trustee; and Mia Comeau, Rural Student Trustee.You have each made a positive difference around this horseshoe and have represented the student voice at the Limestone District School Board with integrity, thoughtfulness, and passion. Your leadership and strong advocacy have contributed meaningfully to our discussions and decision-making, and have helped ensure that student perspectives remain central to our work.All three of you are exceptional student leaders, as evidenced by your continued efforts to strengthen and elevate student voice across our district, and at the provincial level through your involvement with the Ontario Student Trustees’ Association.Next year, Urban Student Trustee Siham Ismail will be returning to KSS for her Grade 12 year. A highlight of her time as an Urban Student Trustee was noticing that student leadership looks different for every school. She is grateful to have had the chance to make meaningful conversations with communities surrounding the LDSB and be a part of uplifting voices, discovering what we can do as changemakers, even in small ways, and honouring the responsibilities she has been trusted with for students by students.Indigenous Student Trustee Rachel Kolosov will be attending Queen’s University to student Kinesiology for her undergrad with the hopes of working in the healthcare industry. A key highlight of her term in the role of Indigenous Student Trustee was facilitating a professional development session with Liv Rondeau, Vice-Principal of Indigenous Education, at an ISC meeting, where she shared her knowledge through a presentation on how to create personalized land acknowledgements. This was a very impactful session that taught students the importance of land recognition and diversity in acknowledgement. This became a routine for each ISC meeting, where schools volunteered to open with their own personalized land acknowledgement, directly implementing teachings they learned from Liv.Rural Student Trustee Mia Comeau will be pursuing Engineering at Western, and she received Advanced Opportunity for a dual Ivey business degree at Western University. A highlight for her has been being able to meet so many amazing youth leaders in Limestone at Interschool Council, and in OSTA across Ontario. It has been a great motivator and really inspiring for her.On behalf of your fellow Trustees and the Senior Staff of the Limestone District School Board, it is my honour to recognize your contributions this evening and to present honorariums to each of you in acknowledgment of your term of office and in support of your continued studies.Thank you again for your dedication and service. We wish each of you all the very best in your future endeavours.”</div></details><details open="true"><summary>Director's Report</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">Director Burra stated: “Good evening, Trustees and the viewing public.  I am pleased to provide you with my update tonight as we enter the last few days of the 2025-2026 school year. June is always a time of reflection as we complete one school year and continue preparations for the next school year. It is also a time of change as we see students graduate from secondary school, staff retire, and many staff and students prepare for transitions. It is also a time of celebration across the system as students graduate and enjoy end-of-year activities and celebrations. We were able to enjoy some celebrations this evening with the annual Limestone staff awards. This evening we heard, and saw, some great examples of people focused on doing the very best they can to support students and learning in LDSB.In recent weeks and months, many graduating Limestone students have received significant scholarships and admissions to universities, colleges, and apprenticeships or have developed work plans for next year.  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 2026.I would also like to highlight for trustees the tremendous success Limestone athletes experienced in recent OFSAA events:    In the Para events, Claire Simmers from KSS won a gold medal in ambulatory shot put and a bronze in the 800 m.   Also in the Para events Harley Moon from NDSS won a bronze in the ambulatory shot put and Liam Cleary from BSS won bronze in the a separate para shot put event.  In other OFSAA events, Wyatt Lee from FSS won Gold in the senior boys 100 m for the second year in a row, and Silver in the 200 m. Athena Andrecyk from KSS repeated as a Gold winner in the senior girls 3000 m.  Vicky Malik from KSS won Gold in Junior Girls 1500 m and silver in the 800 m.  And Levi Patterson from KSS won Gold in the Novice girls 300 m hurdle.  Other Limestone students also won one silver medal and two bronze medals.  I should also note that the LSS senior boys rugby team won their second back-to-back provincial AA gold medal. Congratulations to these winners and all of the other LDSB athletes who participated in the provincial finals. In reflecting on the 2025-2026 school year, I am reminded that 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.  The stakes are also incredibly high as we try to move forward with a compliant budget that requires very difficult decisions that directly impact students and staff.  With budget pressures we face, and underfunded areas, this is a significant challenge. This balancing act is delicate and certainly imperfect.  We have tried our best to mitigate the impact of the upcoming budget, but this is becoming increasingly more challenging as frontline needs only increase and our use of some reserves certainly helps.  Without additional funding, budget pressures will only increase moving into future years.Given June is National Indigenous History Month, and Sunday 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.  As Trustees are aware, June is also Pride month, and like the last few years, Limestone formally participated in the fifth annual Napanee Pride parade at the end of May, which was a great success, and we also had a very strong presence this past weekend for the Kingston Pride parade. We must continue to take a strong stance in support of human rights, and against hate in the communities we serve.In closing, I want to offer my congratulations to all students graduating from Limestone and to staff entering their last ten days of work with Limestone. There is much to be proud of in Limestone and I have a great deal of gratitude and humility in serving as its CEO/Director.For trustees awareness, we will be sharing a staff and family update tomorrow that includes an updated version of the budget overview that was shared with trustees last week.  It will also include any potential outcomes from the notice of motion that will be discussed later this evening.                 Thank you also to the Board of Trustees for your continued collaboration, strong support of public education, and advocacy. While all of us around this table may not always agree on everything, I think we can all be proud of the way we conduct ourselves and work together for the betterment of Limestone students. Thank you Trustees; that concludes my report for this evening.”</div></details><h3 class="editor-heading-h3">Trustee Vacancy: Declaration for Qualification and Declaration of Involvement: Joyce MacLeod-Kane</h3>Chair McGregor welcomed newly appointed Trustee Joyce MacLeod-Kane and invited her to be sworn into office. In accordance with Section 209(1) of the Education Act, Trustee MacLeod-Kane made and signed the required Declaration of Qualification prior to assuming her duties as a Trustee.Trustee MacLeod-Kane also had the opportunity to take the Oath or Affirmation of Allegiance pursuant to Section 209(3) of the Education Act. Upon completion of the declaration, Chair McGregor formally declared Trustee MacLeod-Kane legally constituted to serve as a Trustee of the Limestone District School Board for the term ending November 18, 2026. Consistent with the Board’s commitment to accountability and transparency, and the requirements of the Trustee Code of Conduct, Trustee MacLeod-Kane then provided a declaration of her involvement with external agencies, boards, committees, and community organizations for inclusion in the official record.<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Reports</h3><details open="true"><summary>OPBSA Report</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">Chair McGregor reported on the recent regional meeting, noting that Shannon Binder was elected Chair and that Trustee McGregor was elected Vice-Chair. Trustee Lloyd and Trustee McGregor were also appointed to serve on the working groups. Trustee McGregor advised that the first annual planning meeting is scheduled for August 20, 2026, and indicated that additional updates and initiatives are expected to emerge from that meeting.</div></details><details open="true"><summary>Student Trustees' Report</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">Chair McGregor invited Student Trustee Kolosov to give her report. She stated, “Good evening Trustees,It is a bittersweet kind of feeling delivering my last board update, but I know myself and my co trustees are proud of this past term and are excited for our incoming students trustee, and the amazing things they will accomplish next term!In regards to our last ISC meeting of the year on June 9, one of the main highlights was a report back from John Dipaolo from the United way, sharing that the funds raised this year though the United Way campaign and our ISC members was a great success. We also planned for next year’s ISC group to attend the Seeing is Believing tour that we had the privilege to go to this year as a group to see the impact of the fundraiser and initiative, firsthand, and the United Way campaign was confirmed to continue into next year with ISC.Our ISC members had the chance to connect and get to know one another at this meeting over many snacks and goodies brought by each member, potluck style. This way, the incoming students members were able to meet other incoming students, and also ask for advice from the outgoing students to get a sense of good strategies for things like event planning, school communication, and personal goal setting, to set them up for next year.Another highlight of our meeting was that we had Anne Marie (a retired principal) come in as a guest to promote the Unnamed Youth Project in schools and the Youth Advisory Circle to find new members for next year.Additionally, the Indigenous Leadership Circle has an amazing year with key highlights consisting of exploring career paths at the St Lawrence career fair, enjoying time in nature at the Little Catatraqui creek reservation, prepping for and attending Camp Muskoka last month, which was just as great of a time as last year’s camping trip! The Camp’s ziplining and tree trekking course remained a student favourite, as it was a clear highlight from last year. We are sad to see some of our group members continue off on their postsecondary journey, but will always carry the many dear memories we made as a team.We wish a happy summer to you all, and acknowledge what a great pleasure it was to have been a part of each board meeting to meet all you lovely folks and learn what incredible work you all do for this school boardThat concludes my report. Thank you!</div></details><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Reports for Information </h3><details open="true"><summary>Special Education Restructuring Evaluation</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">Superintendent Blackburn and members of the Educational Services team, Principal Deborah Thompson and Vice-Principal Allison Todd, presented an update regarding the restructuring of elementary special education supports and services and the associated monitoring and evaluation plan implemented following those changes. Trustees were reminded that, during the 2023–2024 school year, Educational Services conducted a comprehensive review of special education programming, resulting in a transition toward a more inclusive, needs-based service delivery model. Key elements of the restructuring included shifting supports from identification or diagnosis-based services to needs-based services, increasing school-based resources to support students within their home schools, expanding the multi-tiered systems of support framework, strengthening in-school team capacity, assigning a Special Education Coordinator to each family of schools, creating the Intensive Support Teacher (IST) role, and increasing school-based staffing through additional Educational Assistant (EA) and Student Support Teacher (SST) positions.Principal Thompson outlined the monitoring and evaluation process undertaken during the 2024–2025 school year. Information was gathered through service delivery data, special education teacher meeting data, and three interest holder surveys conducted with special education teachers and administrators, Educational Services staff, and classroom educators, including Educational Assistants and Early Childhood Educators (ECEs). Labour partners received the report, and a summary will be shared across the system. Principal Thompson noted several limitations to the data, including the absence of pre-restructuring comparison data, varying survey response rates, and the inability to isolate site-specific information. It was further noted that some service delivery models remain under development and that the survey sample was weighted heavily toward educator responses.The presentation highlighted strong participation in the survey process, particularly among Educational Assistants and Early Childhood Educators, whose perspectives are critical to understanding the day-to-day implementation of special education supports. Survey feedback reflected a high degree of appreciation for the work of special education teachers and Educational Assistants, with respondents recognizing the complexity and importance of their roles in supporting students. The data also indicated that broader system pressures beyond the restructuring itself continue to affect experiences within schools and should be considered when interpreting the findings.Vice Principal Todd reported that, while challenges remain across all school settings, the data identified several encouraging trends associated with the Intensive Support Teacher model. Schools with ISTs reported increased capacity to respond to complex student needs, and schools with multiple SSTs and an IST demonstrated lower rates of reported concerns. Data also suggested that the needs-based model enhanced schools’ ability to respond flexibly to student needs, with approximately 32% of students supported by ISTs during the 2024–2025 school year not formally identified through an exceptionality designation.The monitoring process also identified several areas requiring further attention. Survey results indicated that educators continue to require additional training and professional learning opportunities to support increasingly diverse and complex student needs. While most educators reported feeling knowledgeable and capable in supporting students with special education needs, they identified competing demands, classroom complexities, and staffing limitations as barriers to effectively applying their skills. Trustees heard that professional learning during 2024–2025 focused primarily on special education teachers, with ongoing opportunities needed to build capacity more broadly across school teams.The presentation further highlighted the importance of in-school teams as a highly valued resource for collaboration, decision-making, and implementation of multi-tiered systems of support. While respondents reported strong levels of collaboration with in-school teams, concerns were raised regarding limited time available for collaborative planning and problem-solving. Educational Services indicated that strengthening the structures and processes that support in-school teams will remain a priority.Survey findings also suggested that, during the initial year of implementation, available resources were frequently directed toward addressing urgent behavioural and safety-related needs. Although efforts during the 2025–2026 school year have expanded to support students across all tiers of need, survey data revealed differing perceptions regarding whether available supports adequately meet student needs. Classroom educators were more likely than administrators and special education teachers to report that needs exceed available supports, highlighting an area for continued investigation and system attention.Dr. Thompson also noted concerns related to the experiences of Early Childhood Educators. Survey data showed that ECEs reported lower levels of confidence in supporting diverse learners, less access to training and planning time, and lower levels of collaboration with in-school teams compared to other educator groups. In addition, approximately one-quarter of responding ECEs indicated that they regularly take on responsibilities beyond their formal role to support student needs. Trustees were advised that targeted professional learning for ECEs has already begun, including a dedicated day of training during the current school year.The presentation included qualitative feedback from respondents, including comments supporting the move toward inclusive education while emphasizing the need for sufficient resources, training, and therapeutic supports to ensure meaningful inclusion for students with exceptionalities.Looking ahead, Principal Thompson outlined several next steps. Planned actions include continuing to clarify and refine the roles of Intensive Support Teachers and Student Support Teachers, expanding Tier 1 professional learning opportunities for classroom educators, ECEs, and Educational Assistants, and further strengthening in-school teams through the implementation of best practices, system-wide guidance, and ongoing professional learning. Staff indicated that work is already underway to refine service delivery models and develop strategies informed by the findings of the monitoring and evaluation process. Following the presentation, staff responded to questions from Trustees.Chair McGregor thanked Associate Superintendent Blackburn., Principal Thompson and Vice-Principal Todd for their presentation and called upon Trustees for questions.</div></details><details open="true"><summary>Math Achievement Action Plan Update</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">Associate Superintendent Hedderson presented an update on the Board’s Math Achievement Action Plan, highlighting its alignment with the LDSB Strategic Plan priorities of supporting student achievement, building educator capacity, and strengthening the use of data to inform school improvement efforts. He reviewed the Ministry of Education’s provincial priorities for mathematics achievement, including curriculum implementation, educator professional learning, and responsive supports for students, as well as the key indicators used to monitor progress.Preliminary year-end data from the Board’s 26 priority schools indicates that student achievement continues to be concentrated within Levels 2 and 3, with encouraging movement from Level 2 to Level 3 in several schools. While achievement gains vary across schools, Associate Superintendent Hedderson noted that targeted supports continue to be responsive to local needs. He also reported that implementation of curriculum-aligned diagnostic assessments remains an area for improvement, although final data collection is still underway.Trustees received an overview of system-wide efforts to support mathematics learning, including the increasing use of curriculum-aligned resources, ongoing professional learning for educators, job-embedded support provided by mathematics facilitators and learning partners, and the use of mathematics tutors in schools. He noted that recent Ministry visits to schools confirmed increased consistency in instructional practices across classrooms and schools.Associate Superintendent Hedderson also highlighted positive engagement with digital mathematics tools. Data from Knowledgehook showed significant student and family participation outside of school hours, reflecting growing support for mathematics learning at home and continued progress toward Board goals.Trustees were advised of several collaborative initiatives, including the successful completion of the first Additional Qualification course delivered in partnership with Queen’s University, continued efforts to incorporate Indigenous perspectives into mathematics instruction, and the ongoing development of mathematics leadership among educators and administrators. He acknowledged the contributions of mathematics consultants and program staff who continue to support system-wide implementation.The report also included an update on the newly rebranded LDSB Summer Literacy and Math Program, which will support approximately 240 students entering Grades 1 to 4 across four sites this summer. Associate Superintendent Hedderson emphasized the importance of both literacy and mathematics as foundational skills that support future student success.In closing, Associate Superintendent Hedderson highlighted LDSB’s continued leadership in provincial and regional mathematics initiatives, including collaboration with the Ministry of Education, EQAO, Queen’s University, and regional school boards. He noted that Limestone educators recently shared their work at a provincial mathematics conference and that LDSB hosted a regional gathering of Eastern Ontario school boards to reflect on progress and strengthen partnerships aimed at improving mathematics outcomes for students across the region.Chair McGregor thanked Associate Superintendent Hedderson for his report and called upon Trustees for questions.</div></details><h3 class="editor-heading-h3">Business Arising</h3>Trustee Lloyd reviewed her Notice of Motion in recognition of the increasing challenges facing students, educators, and support staff in classrooms across the district. The motion requested that the Chair of the Board write to the Premier of Ontario, the Minister of Education, and the Ministry of Education to advocate for additional provincial funding to support the hiring of staff who directly support student learning and well-being. The motion further noted that the Limestone District School Board invests approximately $10 million annually beyond provincial allocations to meet special education needs.During discussion, Trustee McLeod-Kane proposed a friendly amendment to provide copies of the letter to local Members of Provincial Parliament, which was accepted by Trustee Lloyd. Trustee Godkin proposed a further friendly amendment to include Premier Doug Ford as a direct recipient of the letter, which was also accepted.In speaking to the motion, Trustee Lloyd highlighted the increasing complexity of student learning, mental health, and special education needs and emphasized the pressures these challenges place on students, families, educators, support staff, and administrators. Trustee Lloyd noted that the Board’s continued spending above provincial special education funding levels demonstrates the gap between available resources and identified needs. She stated that the motion represented a respectful and proactive effort to advocate for increased support for students and staff.Trustees discussed the importance of providing additional context within the correspondence to outline the challenges facing school boards, including staffing pressures, student supports, and broader system needs. Trustee Ruttan also noted to consider the upcoming central bargaining process and the potential value of further advocacy with other organizations including the Council of Ontario Directors of Education (CODE) which was accepted by Trustee Lloyd. Following discussion, Trustees agreed that the letter should be strengthened to include additional context and rationale while enabling the correspondence to be sent promptly. The Board directed that the finalized letter be shared with trustees for input prior to distribution.  The following motion was put forward:MOVED BY Trustee Lloyd and seconded by Trustee Hutcheon that “In recognition and acknowledgement of challenges that exist in many classrooms that impact students, frontline educators, and support staff, I move that the LDSB Board of Trustees have the Chair of the Board write a letter to the Minister of Education, Ministry of Education and Premier Doug Ford and that a copy is sent to local MPPs, Union Partners, OPSBA and CODE requesting additional funding to help support the hiring of more staff to directly support student learning and well-being in schools. The letter should include reference to Limestone DSB annually spending approximately $10 million above funding received to support special education in the board.” Carried.<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Adjournment</h3>MOTION MOVED BY: Trustee Lloyd and seconded by Trustee Hutcheon that the meeting adjourn. Carried.The Meeting Adjourned at 8:13 p.m.

2026-06-26 19:06:46.604 +0000 UTC

Message to Families - June 25, 2026

Dear Families,As we reach the final day of the school year, I want to take a moment to thank you for your continued support and partnership. It has been a year filled with learning, growth, and many memorable experiences for students across the district.I have a few updates to share with you as we conclude the 2025-2026 school year:Resources to Support Continued Learning During the Summer As we head into the summer months, there are many <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftrack.spe.schoolmessenger.com%2Ff%2Fa%2F3z3kwibBUGYnDmTDBf90Tw~~%2FAAAAARA~%2FmfsLb_bqpJ79UtI2pfKPphb0DE11EXylq6olU5R1Eev9XrQd6dF_l3P0OvwJJTCFpd7XaUBA8YGjgO2cXQyFXlt_IjlaX0VJ_yT3zam3W5wNzNvbfSfH6u5WoP9CWzYSRGtWlEMnhhaU2lso3jYZM3z3Q6mEFn3XRXpdGmNlsLi2cxRXkV6DLZ6o8Kv1bCMt&data=05%7C02%7Ccrothersm%40limestone.on.ca%7C585ea97be03c4d196aff08ded2f2a634%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C639180136847950625%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=h5%2BaY4JhJoKZmK6P%2FfkFBn74KLtjchyWA953iJhgjlQ%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link">free resources available on the Limestone website</a> to help your student practice skills, explore new interests, and stay connected to learning. Topics include digital literacy, cyber security, math, literacy, and mental health.Changes to Secondary Assessment and Evaluation (Beginning 2026-2027)Earlier this week, the Ministry of Education <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftrack.spe.schoolmessenger.com%2Ff%2Fa%2FR1nfuciNXIx6o1Man-mE5g~~%2FAAAAARA~%2FfEpd2GmwP3JNPFCjXjY9FqqwDe_z1NneYsmu5aYB7lWTW1-fmgAGdHlzgM1MqGVUC4xW3U68oW7vlCKDfvzAc07A4DY5TRkckHJNF5SUXJ0WYjK0Wv8xN8dLVWr2rMrjNxKU_-MY7Lajd8U-YzazPR9zMb6RRzIAO6tPQkkvNBzqFMJM-XtrLLAmxgLuXeKX1IZZWxymfqDPdw-H_1ohSCMD0Bp_T180CS4Xc5dShqv85fzvjnLXjj069a-d6DHc&data=05%7C02%7Ccrothersm%40limestone.on.ca%7C585ea97be03c4d196aff08ded2f2a634%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C639180136847989827%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=a%2Bpbnoqk26fuA1XiJbrrAee2k820c6MUuOVgyqWB4lk%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link">shared an update about upcoming changes that will affect how student learning is assessed and evaluated in secondary schools</a> (Grades 9 to 12), starting in the 2026-2027 school year.These <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftrack.spe.schoolmessenger.com%2Ff%2Fa%2FR1nfuciNXIx6o1Man-mE5g~~%2FAAAAARA~%2FfEpd2GmwP3JNPFCjXjY9FqqwDe_z1NneYsmu5aYB7lWTW1-fmgAGdHlzgM1MqGVUC4xW3U68oW7vlCKDfvzAc07A4DY5TRkckHJNF5SUXJ0WYjK0Wv8xN8dLVWr2rMrjNxKU_-MY7Lajd8U-YzazPR9zMb6RRzIAO6tPQkkvNBzqFMJM-XtrLLAmxgLuXeKX1IZZWxymfqDPdw-H_1ohSCMD0Bp_T180CS4Xc5dShqv85fzvjnLXjj069a-d6DHc&data=05%7C02%7Ccrothersm%40limestone.on.ca%7C585ea97be03c4d196aff08ded2f2a634%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C639180136848057310%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=xwxXegVFcBhzRGlr4X%2FTcYzJQU%2BdivYcYUFwfhjMN%2Fs%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link">provincial changes </a>are intended to create a more consistent approach to assessment and evaluation across Ontario and to support student achievement and future pathways. What this means for students and families:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Most secondary courses will include a written final exam as part of the final grade.</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">A student’s final grade will reflect:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">classroom learning and assignments</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">final evaluations (such as exams or culminating tasks)</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">attendance and participation in class</li></ul></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Excused absences will not negatively impact a student’s grade.</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Some courses (such as co-op, guidance, and certain open or workplace courses) will continue to use projects or other types of final assessments instead of a formal exam.</li></ul>Secondary families can review the updates on the <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftrack.spe.schoolmessenger.com%2Ff%2Fa%2FR1nfuciNXIx6o1Man-mE5g~~%2FAAAAARA~%2FfEpd2GmwP3JNPFCjXjY9FqqwDe_z1NneYsmu5aYB7lWTW1-fmgAGdHlzgM1MqGVUC4xW3U68oW7vlCKDfvzAc07A4DY5TRkckHJNF5SUXJ0WYjK0Wv8xN8dLVWr2rMrjNxKU_-MY7Lajd8U-YzazPR9zMb6RRzIAO6tPQkkvNBzqFMJM-XtrLLAmxgLuXeKX1IZZWxymfqDPdw-H_1ohSCMD0Bp_T180CS4Xc5dShqv85fzvjnLXjj069a-d6DHc&data=05%7C02%7Ccrothersm%40limestone.on.ca%7C585ea97be03c4d196aff08ded2f2a634%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C639180136848127352%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=eJBt6gMoFkaNIwwPFIvIXZpgTNm44AUlAjfngdFb%2FeQ%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link">Ministry of Education website</a>.These changes will come into effect for the 2026-27 school year. Over the coming months, Limestone staff will be reviewing and updating course outlines, assessment practices, and supporting resources to ensure alignment with the new provincial requirements.The Food Sharing Project UpdateDuring the 2025-2026 school year, The Food Sharing Project supported every LDSB school by providing nutritious food and resources to students each day. On average, more than 14,000 meals and snacks were served each week, over 530,000 throughout the year, with weekly food orders reaching approximately $17,500.We are grateful to the dedicated staff who make these programs possible, and to The Food Sharing Project for continuing to support student well-being across LDSB. This support is increasingly important as many families continue to face food insecurity. The Food Sharing Project is launching their <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftrack.spe.schoolmessenger.com%2Ff%2Fa%2F_HKAVGjSjDHM9B807yabng~~%2FAAAAARA~%2FXabZV0PurIbEHgj9zXstZSSWWSe8O0CIRJeWJSTeC-LXh8HfFlfYKhWRH5F5u8favJvIYZrj3RUOaWsdYf2pbFN-u70A9H7CWlMEjVcBRyarW6Eo0p22RTHQeaAgMvIBus9qE3Sj4XrSDrPYaows9JYbgFcUFfAsansO4B5CBxI~&data=05%7C02%7Ccrothersm%40limestone.on.ca%7C585ea97be03c4d196aff08ded2f2a634%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C639180136848189946%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=6jEFXRKdqaiVE56i8B3EH%2BYsumahkPWE%2BOp2dPIW9lk%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link">“Nine Cents is Nonsense” campaign</a>, advocating for support from government to increase the funding provided. <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftrack.spe.schoolmessenger.com%2Ff%2Fa%2F_HKAVGjSjDHM9B807yabng~~%2FAAAAARA~%2FXabZV0PurIbEHgj9zXstZSSWWSe8O0CIRJeWJSTeC-LXh8HfFlfYKhWRH5F5u8favJvIYZrj3RUOaWsdYf2pbFN-u70A9H7CWlMEjVcBRyarW6Eo0p22RTHQeaAgMvIBus9qE3Sj4XrSDrPYaows9JYbgFcUFfAsansO4B5CBxI~&data=05%7C02%7Ccrothersm%40limestone.on.ca%7C585ea97be03c4d196aff08ded2f2a634%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C639180136848222179%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=it9d%2FQGquDhvRkZumrbT6tmXXXL6dcyMh%2FsUZ%2BQauOk%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link">For more information about the Food Sharing Project, their campaign, and/or to donate, please visit their website.</a>Reminder: Tri-Board Transportation: School Bus Information for the 2026-2027 School Year School bus information for the 2026-2027 school year will be available to families in July through the <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftrack.spe.schoolmessenger.com%2Ff%2Fa%2Fzf28OeJNLbn7i-2DznWNhQ~~%2FAAAAARA~%2FSmCMyVe9oTOvkE2I8uhAT8ZInr63AXhBWGdTMvHGDDqcxXx_AZDMsHK7DjGXm_FLM_X4jpDWvMbAqeMyYicVl00_IsjAhaZaQVv48dJt6gbbeqm2rH1DMPPkhGvIF9mgMLgBITYxnZ6vaz-NGIln2w~~&data=05%7C02%7Ccrothersm%40limestone.on.ca%7C585ea97be03c4d196aff08ded2f2a634%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C639180136848246769%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=Yigj6cbSBfN2H8xSkk6rPMgV%2FyJd2TUyHQpp2jyqjIw%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link">Tri-Board Student Portal</a>. New students, as well as those with a change of address or school, must apply online by August 5 to ensure transportation is in place for the first day of school. Please visit <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftrack.spe.schoolmessenger.com%2Ff%2Fa%2FEtIdjN5c0F6LskTx_JcfBw~~%2FAAAAARA~%2F1_bymHvQKvO4eF5ZMnUmDPmq-I1LZaK1n8fa6GmQ99HrxRKZVyofjYCoiot9gDWeFuVTs0xJjayHPDfpzkeZLytFaIdjr-VcHhnDy-io64qTpLraTlVFSTEZHK9Zg_fT&data=05%7C02%7Ccrothersm%40limestone.on.ca%7C585ea97be03c4d196aff08ded2f2a634%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C639180136848269594%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=Kn0Y5kW9blF4S1uvdtpYzvw2FFvpX%2BmgdJYdBzilJYo%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link">triboard.ca</a> to apply for transportation and to access your student(s)’ busing details for September.First Day of School for the 2026-2027 School YearA reminder that the first day of school for the upcoming school year is Tuesday, September 1, 2026, which is a P.A. Day. We will welcome students back on Wednesday, September 2, 2026. As we close another school year, I wish all Limestone students, families, and staff a safe, restful, and enjoyable summer. Thank you again for your partnership and support — we look forward to welcoming students back in September.Krishna BurraCEO/Director of EducationLimestone District School Board

2026-06-25 19:50:08.286 +0000 UTC

Limestone District School Board Celebrates 2025–2026 Staff Award Recipients

The Limestone District School Board is proud to recognize outstanding staff members for their dedication, leadership, and commitment to student success through its annual staff awards.Each year, the Board presents the Barry C. O’Connor Excellence in Education Awards and the J.C. McLeod Excellence in Teaching Award, celebrating individuals who make a meaningful difference in schools and across the district.<h3 class="editor-heading-h3">Barry C. O’Connor Excellence in Education Awards</h3>The Barry C. O’Connor Excellence in Education Awards recognize the vital contributions of support staff who play an essential role in creating positive learning environments for students. Established to honour excellence across a range of roles, the awards highlight the dedication and impact of staff working behind the scenes and alongside students every day.Recipients are recognized across several categories, including clerical and secretarial, custodial and maintenance, educational services staff, educational assistants, early childhood educators, central office staff and administrators, and other support staff and volunteers.Congratulations to the 2025–2026 recipients:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Central Office Staff: Carrie Propper</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Clerical: Amanda MacDonald</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Custodial and Maintenance: Dana Price</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Educational Services: Christa Cox</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">Educational Assistant: Beth Malott</li></ul>These individuals demonstrate excellence in their roles and contribute meaningfully to the success and well-being of students and school communities across Limestone.<h3 class="editor-heading-h3">J.C. McLeod Excellence in Teaching Award</h3>The J.C. McLeod Excellence in Teaching Award honours exceptional teaching and celebrates educators who inspire, support, and empower students each day.Named after J.C. (Colin) McLeod, former Director of Education for the Lennox and Addington County Board of Education from 1969 to 1983, the award reflects his longstanding commitment to recognizing excellence in teaching.Congratulations to this year’s recipients:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Elementary: Allison Madden</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Secondary: Adam Lynn</li></ul>These educators exemplify excellence in teaching through their commitment to student learning, innovative practices, and dedication to supporting every student’s success.<h3 class="editor-heading-h3">Honouring Excellence</h3>All award recipients were recognized and celebrated at the June 2026 Board Meeting, where they were presented with their awards in front of trustees, senior staff, and colleagues.The Limestone District School Board extends sincere congratulations and thanks to all of this year’s recipients for their outstanding contributions and for making a positive difference in the lives of students, in every classroom, every day.<img src="/images/479a95c7-6a1e-4428-ad1c-fc042de7599e?fingerprint=ppb20260622181720" alt="2026 06 18 Staff Awards" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">

2026-06-22 18:16:57.646 +0000 UTC

Message to Families- June 18, 2026

Dear Families,As we move towards the last week of the 2025-2026 school year, I want to share a few important updates and reminders as we wrap up the year and begin looking ahead to September.2026-2027 School Year Budget At last night’s Regular Board Meeting, the Board of Trustees approved the Limestone District School Board’s 2026-2027 budget, prepared in accordance with Public Sector Accounting Board standards. The budget includes total revenues of $340.98 million and total expenditures of $345.76 million and is compliant with Ministry of Education requirements.The full <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/budget_committee-1719463885020" class="editor-link">Budget Committee Agenda Package is available on the Limestone DSB website</a>, along with a new resource, <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/budget___financial_statements" class="editor-link">Budget Overview – Your Guide to Understanding School Board Funding available on the LDSB Budget and Financial Statements webpage.</a>The Budget overview document provides a more visual summary of the budget with highlights.Motion Passed by Board of TrusteesThe Board of Trustees passed a motion at last night’s meeting recognizing the challenges present in many classrooms and their impact on students, frontline educators, and support staff. The motion directs the Chair to write to the Ministry of Education, the Minister of Education, the Premier, local MPPs, OPBSA, CODE, and union partners, requesting additional funding to support the hiring of more frontline staff and will highlight that Limestone annually spends approximately $10 million beyond provincial funding to support special education.Reminder: P.A. Day – Friday, June 26, 2026 A reminder to families that Friday, June 26 is a P.A. Day and there are no classes for students.Tri-Board Transportation: School Bus Information for the 2026-2027 School Year School bus information for the 2026-2027 school year will be available to families in July through the <a href="https://triboard.ca/student-portal/" class="editor-link">Tri-Board Student Portal</a>. New students, as well as those with a change of address or school, must apply online by August 5 to ensure transportation is in place for the first day of school. Please visit <a href="https://triboard.ca" class="editor-link">triboard.ca</a> to apply for transportation and to access your student(s)’ busing details for September.Year-End Letter to Students and Parents from The Honourable Paul Calandra, Minister of Education and a Congratulations Letter from Edith Dumont, The Lieutenant Governor of OntarioAs we move toward the end of the 2025-2026 school year, <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/news/year-end-letter-to-students-and-parents" class="editor-link">The Honourable Paul Calandra, Ontario’s Minister of Education, has shared a message with students and families</a> to mark this occasion. We have also received a <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/news/congratulations-letter-from-edith-dumont-the-lieutenant-governor-of-ontario" class="editor-link">congratulatory letter for the Class of 2026 from Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario</a>.Thank you for your continued support throughout the school year. As we approach the final days of classes, we wish all students, families, and staff a positive end to the school year.Thank you,Krishna BurraCEO/Director of EducationLimestone District School Board

2026-06-18 20:00:01.681 +0000 UTC

Board of Trustees Approves 2026–2027 School Year Budget

At its regular meeting on June 17, 2026, the Limestone District School Board of Trustees approved a $340.5 million budget for the 2026–2027 school year. This is a deficit budget balanced through the use of reserve funds.The approved budget complies with Ministry of Education requirements and includes:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Operating expenditures of $316.8 million, representing a $73,000 decrease compared to the previous year.</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Capital expenditures of $23.7 million, allocated to school condition improvements and renewal projects.</li></ul>The vast majority of the operating budget is directed to student instruction and relates directly to classroom support. Capital funding is used to fund school condition improvements and school renewal projects.The Board continues to face financial pressures in several key areas, including:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Special Education</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Staff Replacement</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Student Transportation</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Statutory Benefits</li></ul><h2 class="editor-heading-h2">Resources:</h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/cc327962-05b2-4cac-b89e-711e1e75ca27/2026-06-16-Budget-Overview.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260623145224" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">2026-2027 Budget Overview</a> (PDF)</li></ul>

2026-06-18 13:49:18.755 +0000 UTC

Newburgh Public School Students Build Three Little Community Libraries

<img src="/images/ee7ff92e-0151-4ecf-96bc-16e5f96cf1e4?fingerprint=ppb20260617153610" alt="A little community library is displayed outside the front of Newburgh PS" width="514" height="685" style="width:514px;height:685px;display:inline-block;float:left">The Grades 6, 7, and 8 students at Newburgh Public School have built three Little Community Libraries, now installed and active in front of the school, at the local church, and at “The Hilltop” near the gas station, bakery, and pharmacy. Teacher Olivia Cotman said that students, staff, families, and community members are encouraged to “take a book, leave a book,” from these new libraries.  “The idea came to be last year during a professional development day, where I learned about the Limestone District School Board’s Expanded Opportunities (EO) team,” she says. “I learned that there were hands-on learning projects that students could take part in, which highlight different career pathways. I knew I had to bring an experience back to my class.” Cotman says she and the students spent time brainstorming a meaningful hands-on project and chose to build community libraries. “With no public transportation in this rural community, libraries are sometimes inaccessible to students,” she says. “There are many avid readers in my class who thought this would make a sustainable way for community members to recycle their books and improve access to reading.”<img src="/images/fdb2c174-3d84-46b7-9010-a01fbe93f4d3?fingerprint=ppb20260617153605" alt="Two Newburgh PS students work on the little community library project" width="370" height="493" style="width:370px;height:493px;display:inline-block;float:right">Jason Quenneville and Jeff Cardy, experiential learning consultants on the EO team, supported the project in a variety of ways including building a prototype, and providing blueprints, materials, and cut lists to help guide students. Through EO program funding, students had access to teaching support from Jason and Jeff to be able to build three libraries for the community.  Students learned how to hammer shingles, wrap weatherproofing, use staple guns, drill pilot holes, use impact drivers, saw wood on various angles, use fractions and use math as a daily practice in measuring, maintain a clean workshop, and work collaboratively as a team for the community. <img src="/images/6063e766-92bc-4582-8d92-a0197a735b1f?fingerprint=ppb20260617153609" alt="One Newburgh PS student works on the little community library project" width="348" height="464" style="width:348px;height:464px;display:inline-block;float:left">“As a finishing touch, each student group voted on a quote to represent them, and Jeff used a CNC to laser the quotes into a plaque to be displayed on each library, as well as created wooden strips with the students’ initials for each library,” Cotman says. “Students built resilience, teamwork, strategies in delegating roles, and took so much pride in their work throughout this experience.” Once the libraries were complete, Cotman extended the learning by introducing students to the many pathways available in high school, including the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program, Specialist High Skills Major programs, dual credit opportunities, and co-operative education. “We had so many rich discussions about how students can find something they love and apply it to the world of skilled trades,” Cotman says. “They were so surprised to learn how many skilled trades there are, and that they could start working toward a career path while still in high school. “These real-world connections to curriculum really help concepts ‘click’ for students and help them understand the ‘why’ behind some of our learning,” she adds. “Thank you to Jeff, Jason, and the Expanded Opportunities team for sharing your passion, talents, and expertise with us.”<img src="/images/ffa03da3-59c3-4519-a8a2-0e1301064e93?fingerprint=ppb20260617153621" alt="One Newburgh PS student smiles at the camera and holds up a laser-cut plaque qhile working on the little community library project" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/4067203d-14d0-42fd-9e0d-f34582bbf6f2?fingerprint=ppb20260617153607" alt="Two Newburgh PS students work on the little community library project" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/260e8353-eecc-41cb-abf6-2e90448e43bc?fingerprint=ppb20260617153612" alt="Three Newburgh Public School students stand beside a completed little community library they built, displayed outside of a store." width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">

2026-06-17 15:40:15.756 +0000 UTC

Congratulations Letter from Edith Dumont, The Lieutenant Governor of Ontario

The Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, Edith Dumont, has provided the following letter for the Class of 2026:As the representative of the Crown in Ontario, it is with great pleasure that I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Class of 2026.Your graduation is more than a milestone — it reflects the curiosity and perseverance you have demonstrated throughout your journey. It is a moment to celebrate not only your academic achievements, but also the friendships formed, the challenges overcome, and the confidence you have gained along the way.Take a moment to recognize those who have walked this journey alongside you — your family, your teachers, the dedicated school staff, and your friends. Their support has contributed to your success and to this moment of celebration.As you look ahead, you may be preparing to continue your studies, enter the workforce, or explore new paths yet to be imagined. Whatever direction you choose, carry with you the curiosity and the resilience you have demonstrated during your school years.Your generation has the capacity to strengthen our province by building caring and supportive communities. Your ideas, your actions, and your voices matter.Congratulations once again, Class of 2026. The future is yours — embrace it with confidence.Sincerely,Edith Dumont<a href="/documents/443705ac-c120-438d-aefe-6b3aeabf0d61/LG-Congratulations-letter-Class-of-2026.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260617152638" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Congratulations Letter from Edith Dumont, The Lieutenant Governor of Ontario - English</a> (PDF)<a href="/documents/82fc1ce8-2d6d-47a4-9c4e-256fc071a9f0/Lettre-de-felicitations-de-la-LG-Promotion-2026.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260617152718" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Congratulations Letter from Edith Dumont, The Lieutenant Governor of Ontario - French</a> (PDF)

2026-06-17 15:28:35.483 +0000 UTC

Year End Letter to Students and Parents

The Honourable Paul Calandra, Minister of Education has shared a letter for students, parents and families: Dear Students, Parents and Families,To our amazing students: well done on finishing another school year! This is a good time to celebrate everything you have accomplished over the past several months. You worked hard, took on challenges, learned new things and continued to grow. You should be proud of all you have achieved this year.As you begin your summer break, take time to rest, explore your interests, and enjoy time with family and friends. However you choose to spend your summer, I hope you make the most of the months ahead.To the graduating Class of 2026, congratulations on reaching this important milestone. Graduation marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. Whether your next step is college, university, an apprenticeship, the workforce or another pathway, I wish you every success in the years ahead.As families look ahead to September and the start of a new school year, there are a few things to keep in mind. Ontario schools will continue to focus on helping students build strong foundations in reading, writing and math while preparing them for success beyond the classroom. Students in elementary schools will learn from the same core materials and benefit from a revised Kindergarten curriculum focused on foundational literacy, math and science skills. In Grade 7 and 8, updated History courses will include new mandatory content on the history of Black Canadians.In high schools, students in Grade 10 History will have new learning about Black history, the Holocaust and Holodomor. Students will also be required to demonstrate financial literacy as part of earning their high school diploma. To help provide clearer expectations and a more comprehensive picture of student achievement, high school students will complete written final exams during a dedicated exam period, and attendance and classroom participation will form part of their final grade. Together, these changes will help students stay engaged in their learning and be better prepared for life after graduation.I hope the summer ahead provides an opportunity to recharge and enjoy some well-earned time together. I wish you and your family a safe, happy and enjoyable summer.Sincerely,The Honourable Paul Calandra Minister of Education <a href="/documents/1fba83f3-9f1b-4d60-a77c-3bc15cd094c8/Year-End-Letter-to-Students-and-Parents.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260617152216" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Year End Letter to Students, Parents, and Families from The Honourable Paul Calandra, Minister of Education - English</a> (PDF)<a href="/documents/1466db2e-00ea-40f2-b63d-8d3f65d04a0d/Lettre-concernant-la-fin-de-l-ann-e-scolaire-l-intention-des-l-ves-et-des-parents.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260617152354" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Year End Letter to Students, Parents, and Families from The Honourable Paul Calandra, Minister of Education - French</a> (PDF)

2026-06-17 15:22:45.539 +0000 UTC

NDSS Students Gain Hands-On Medical Experience at Queen’s Clinical Simulation Centre

Grade 11 Health Care and Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) students from Napanee District Secondary School (NDSS) participated in an immersive learning experience recently at the Clinical Simulation Centre at Queen’s University, located in the New Medical Building. During the visit, students engaged in hands-on training using advanced simulation equipment and high-fidelity manikins. They practiced key clinical skills including, taking and interpreting vital signs, conducting focused patient assessments, casting techniques, neonatal care, and sterile techniques. Through guided activities with simulation facilitators, students explored how to assess patient conditions and gained a deeper understanding of the body’s compensatory responses to illness and injury. This experiential learning opportunity provided students with valuable insight into post-secondary health care training and supported their exploration of future careers in the medical field. Many thanks to everyone at the Queen’s Simulation Lab who helped make this opportunity possible.<figure><img src="/images/b1af0d90-9ef3-4413-a786-4bb130c27c54?fingerprint=ppb20260617151158" alt="Two NDSS students who learned casting techniques at the Clinical Simulation Centre at Queen's University. One student is holding up their arm cast." width="546" height="728" style="width:546px;height:728px;display:inline-block"><figcaption>NDSS students Chloe and Nara display their casting practice during their class visit to the Queen's Clinical Simulation Centre.</figcaption></figure>

2026-06-17 15:13:22.098 +0000 UTC

Limestone Students Earn Prestigious Scholarships, Including National Loran Honour

Limestone District School Board graduates have received significant scholarships to support their post-secondary education. Nathan KashiraKingston Secondary School (KSS) graduate Nathan Kashira has been selected as a <a href="https://loranscholar.ca/scholars/nathan-kashira/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link">2026 Loran Scholar</a>, out of more than 5,400 applicants across Canada. Of the 36 selected to become the Class of 2026, Nathan is among the nine from Ontario who were selected. Nathan owns and operates a drone photography and videography company. He also leads a church volunteer team dedicated to supporting the community through food security initiatives, sports programs, and social services. In addition to his entrepreneurial, volunteer work, and fundraising efforts, Nathan works in both food service and construction, and captains the KSS football team. <figure><img src="/images/cbb7d05d-cdf2-4f71-bb15-e031d213cf0b?fingerprint=ppb20260616151434" alt="Nathan Kashira" width="260" height="344" style="width:260px;height:344px;display:inline-block;float:right"><figcaption>Nathan Kashira</figcaption></figure>The Loran Award offers a four-year leadership-enrichment program, financial support for undergrad of approximately $100,000 total, diverse opportunities for experiential learning, and a long-term supportive community of peers and mentors. For more information about Nathan’s achievements, please visit the following coverage: <ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.thewhig.com/news/kingston-student-awarded-prestigious-national-scholarship" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link">Kingston student awarded prestigious national scholarship | The Kingston Whig Standard</a> </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.kingstonist.com/news/kingston-secondary-school-senior-named-a-loran-scholars-finalist-update/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link">Update - Selected as Loran Scholar: Kingston Secondary School senior named a Loran Scholars Finalist – Kingston News</a> </li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://globalnews.ca/video/11648903/building-bright-futures-kingstons-nathan-kashira-named-a-loran-scholars-finalist/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link">Building Bright Futures: Kingston’s Nathan Kashira named a Loran Scholars finalist | Watch News Videos Online</a> </li></ul> Athena AndrecykAthena Andrecyk, also graduating from KSS, has received a full four-year athletic (Cross Country/Track and Field) and academic scholarship (Honors College - Biochemistry) to the University of Alabama.  Athena is a multiple OFSAA champion in Cross Country and Track, and U20 National Champion who has represented Team Canada in the U20 World Cross Country Championship.     She was also on MPP Ted Hsu’s Constituency Youth Advisory Council for four years and was co-chair last year. During that time, the group worked on municipal projects supporting food banks and youth engagement. Athena has successfully completed the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, and is grateful to everyone at KSS for helping her prepare for her post-secondary journey. For more information about Athena’s achievements, please visit the following coverage: <ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.visitkingston.ca/stories/athletes-of-kingston-athena-andrecyk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link">Visit Kingston | Athletes of Kingston: Athena Andrecyk</a> </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://runningmagazine.ca/sections/runs-races/16-year-old-running-star-wins-canadian-u20-xc-title/" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Canadian Running magazine: 16-year-old running star wins Canadian U20 XC title</a></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://kss.limestone.on.ca/news/three-gold-medals-at-ofsaa-track-and-field-championships" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link">Three Gold Medals at OFSAA Track and Field Championships</a> </li></ul><figure><img src="/images/c223b26f-4907-4b15-875c-542826a35a63?fingerprint=ppb20260616151557" alt="Athena Andrecyk and KSS Coaches" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><figcaption>Athena Andrecyk (seated), with coaches Kim James, Morgann Rymall, Griffin Sawchuk, and Marc Carriere.</figcaption></figure> Haleigh KnetschErnestown Secondary School graduate Hayleigh Knetsch has been awarded the <a href="https://www.queensu.ca/registrar/financial-aid/application-required/future-students/admission-bursaries/promise-scholars" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link">Queen's University Promise Scholarship</a>, valued between $60,000 to $100,000 over four years (depending on the program of study) to cover tuition, living costs, and educational expenses. <figure><img src="/images/46d3af77-73af-48ac-aa5c-4518f9d71888?fingerprint=ppb20260616152501" alt="Hayleigh Knetsch" width="200" height="250" style="width:200px;height:250px;display:inline-block;float:left"><figcaption>Haleigh Knetsch</figcaption></figure>This scholarship includes guaranteed paid summer internships after the first, second, and third year. It also provides access to specialized mentorship, tutoring, and dedicated staff support to help students transition to and thrive in university.  Hayleigh is also a recipient of the <a href="https://kss.limestone.on.ca/news/2025-2026-limestone-student-achievers-award-" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link">2025-2026 Limestone Student Achievers Award</a>, which recognizes outstanding achievements of secondary students whose exceptional accomplishments merit recognition beyond school-level awards. Recipients demonstrate exemplary achievement in the following areas: leadership; positive attitude, energy, and school spirit; and academic standing.  <figure><img src="/images/f0ef0855-d0cb-4732-bd70-498434ad010b?fingerprint=ppb20260619160141" alt="Kayl Vankoughnett" width="227" height="302" style="width:227px;height:302px;display:inline-block;float:right"><figcaption>Kayl Vankoughnett</figcaption></figure>Kayl Vankoughnett  Sydenham High School graduate Kayl Vankoughnett has earned the <a href="https://www.queensu.ca/registrar/financial-aid/application-required/future-students/major-awards" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link">Queen’s University Chernoff Family Award</a>. To receive this award, students must demonstrate various qualities including superior academic ability and proven leadership qualities. Students must also be involved in school and community activities and be original and creative thinkers. Award winners receive a total value of $48,000 to $72,000 depending on the program.  Kayl was also a recipient of this year’s Limestone Student Achievers Award.  <figure><img src="/images/b33467ef-6a0c-421a-b785-6d88e942a623?fingerprint=ppb20260619160143" alt="Ava Sauve" width="186" height="236" style="width:186px;height:236px;display:inline-block;float:left"><figcaption>Ava Sauve</figcaption></figure>Ava Sauve  Sydenham High School graduate Ava Sauve has also earned the <a href="https://www.queensu.ca/registrar/financial-aid/application-required/future-students/major-awards" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link">Queen’s University Chernoff Family Award</a>. To receive this award, students must demonstrate various qualities including superior academic ability and proven leadership qualities. Students must also be involved in school and community activities and be original and creative thinkers. Award winners receive a total value of $48,000 to $72,000 depending on the program.   <figure><img src="/images/f2cdcd21-2d14-4e2c-aa60-d99d8ebd83a7?fingerprint=ppb20260619160159" alt="M. Ho Michelle Leake" width="191" height="241" style="width:191px;height:241px;display:inline-block;float:right"><figcaption>Minh Ho</figcaption></figure>Minh Ho  Loyalist Collegiate and Vocational Institute (LCVI) graduate Minh Ho has won the <a href="https://www.uottawa.ca/study/fees-financial-support/international-english-scholarship" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link">University of Ottawa’s International English Admission Scholarship</a> of $7,500 per term for up to 12 terms. This scholarship is to assist newly admitted international students beginning their first term of studies in Winter 2026 or later and undertaking their university studies in English in an approved undergraduate program at the University of Ottawa. <figure><img src="/images/b71f5370-123e-4dc9-88cf-325eb993bb65?fingerprint=ppb20260619160214" alt="T. Waseem" width="188" height="238" style="width:188px;height:238px;display:inline-block;float:left"><figcaption>Tooba Waseem</figcaption></figure>Tooba Waseem  LCVI graduate Tooba Waseem is the recipient of the Queen’s University Engineering International Admission Award of $10,000 to $25,000 per year. This is awarded based on academic achievement to international students entering first year of any first-entry undergraduate degree program in Smith Engineering. The award is renewable for three subsequent years provided the student continues to be registered full-time in a program of study within Smith Engineering.  <figure><img src="/images/0070d873-8045-4cc2-9292-5183efc5e1cf?fingerprint=ppb20260619160219" alt="Y. Feng" width="188" height="239" style="width:188px;height:239px;display:inline-block;float:right"><figcaption>Yuyue Feng</figcaption></figure>Yuyue Feng  LCVI graduate Yuyue Feng has been awarded the University of Calgary’s Seymour Schulich Academic Excellence Scholarship for Students Outside the Calgary Area. This scholarship totals $30,400, renewable in the second and third year, and is offered annually for academic excellence to undergraduate students entering first year at the Schulich School of Engineering. <figure><img src="/images/76bab155-7a85-46a5-bc0d-cd3322097ec1?fingerprint=ppb20260619160156" alt="H. Kim" width="188" height="250" style="width:188px;height:250px;display:inline-block;float:left"><figcaption>Hannah Kim</figcaption></figure>Hannah Kim  LCVI graduate Hannah Kim has won the <a href="https://horatioalger.ca/scholarships-and-services/undergraduate-scholarships/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link">Horatio Alger National Entrepreneurial Scholarship</a> worth $25,000. It is awarded to 10 students across Canada who demonstrate a strong commitment to pursue and begin a Bachelor’s degree program at an accredited university in Canada starting fall 2026, the desire and ability to be entrepreneurial in a chosen field, who have been involved in co-curricular activities and community service, and who display integrity and perseverance in overcoming adversity. <figure><img src="/images/6dd377bc-9795-494e-8ccc-48a7f4b45079?fingerprint=ppb20260619160211" alt="M. Rouse" width="185" height="233" style="width:185px;height:233px;display:inline-block;float:right"><figcaption>Malika Rouse</figcaption></figure>Malika Rouse  LCVI graduate Malika Rouse has been awarded McMaster University’s <a href="https://registrar.mcmaster.ca/aid-awards-for-black-students/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link">Brighter World Entrance Award</a> of $5,000. This award was established in 2020 by the university to celebrate the achievements of Black students entering an undergraduate program.   <figure><img src="/images/807c331a-1ff3-40c9-aae1-d0a3c99a7490?fingerprint=ppb20260619160150" alt="C. Christopher" width="190" height="240" style="width:190px;height:240px;display:inline-block;float:left"><figcaption>Clara Christopher</figcaption></figure>Clara Christopher  LCVI graduate Clara Christopher has been awarded the Ken and Ann Watts Memorial Foundation Scholarship of $3,000. This scholarship is awarded to students who will be entering a Canadian college or university program which will provide training for an arts career.     Students must have participated in a National Theatre School of Canada’s District Festival production in the year of the application, and have demonstrated exceptional talent in, and commitment to, the arts in their school and community.  Community Foundation for Lennox and Addington Student Awards 2026  On Tuesday, June 9, 2026, the Community Foundation for Lennox and Addington held its annual “Take It for Granted” evening in Selby.  This year, $84,000 in student awards were presented to Limestone District School Board graduating students from Lennox and Addington County who are heading to post-secondary school.   Since inception, the Foundation has distributed $2.16 million to charitable causes and student awards thanks to the generosity of donors. <figure><img src="/images/4887ab46-c977-4bb0-b8e4-0ed91153566b?fingerprint=ppb20260616153438" alt="Group of students who were awarded Community Foundation for Lennox and Addington Student Awards 2026" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><figcaption>Image provided by the Community Foundation for Lennox and Addington</figcaption></figure>Charlotte Uens Student AwardEstablished in 2009, this award is made possible by the donation of Stuart Uens in remembrance of his mother, Charlotte. The Uens family understood the value of working hard. It is designed to help those students who share the Uens’ values of hard work and education by providing annual awards to graduates of Napanee District Secondary School (NDSS) for their post-secondary education.  Maya Bellegarde, Katie Buchan, Jocelyn Corriveau, Abby Kelsey, Natasha Kennedy-Eros, Chloe McArthur, Elizabeth Miller, Finlay Paul, Laney Wansborough, Vienna Ballance-Hinch, Megan Delarosbil, Richard James Punchard, Ryder Steven Punchard, Autumn Ramwood, Noah van der Werf  Mary Jo Field Indigenous Student Award Established in 2024, this student award is made possible by the donation of David Field and family in remembrance of his wife Mary Jo. The Field family understand the value of working hard. They also made education a priority. Understanding that the cost of education could be prohibitive for some students, they established this fund. It is designed to help an Indigenous student, who shares the Fields’ values of hard work and education, to take the next step to a post-secondary school education. Abby Scott, North Addington Education Centre (NAEC)  Werk Poole Student AwardEstablished in 2004, The Werk Poole Student Award was introduced as a tribute to Werk Poole, a leader in the Napanee community for many years. This fund annually disburses an award to a graduating secondary school student, resident of Lennox and Addington County, who has been accepted into a Leadership Training Program. The student will have demonstrated knowledge of, and interest in, the qualities inherent in leadership roles. Significant community ties and volunteer experience would be possible indicators of a student’s commitment to a leadership program. Chloe Mazurski, NAEC  Camden East Women’s Institute Student AwardEstablished in 2006, this fund will provide an annual award for a Napanee District Secondary School student to attend a community college as follows: this student should be a resident of Camden East Ward #1 / Newburgh Ward #2 areas and awarded based upon criteria set out by the Camden East Women’s Institute. Candidates will be recommended by Napanee District Secondary School. Devan Maxwell  Goodyear Student Award  Established in 2002, the Goodyear Award provides an award to a graduating high school student from Lennox and Addington County, for the purpose of post-secondary education and training in technical education. Ryder Steven Punchard, NDSS  Rotary Club of Napanee Service Above Self Student Award Established in 2024, the Napanee Rotary “Service Above Self” Award recognizes one graduating student from each Lennox and Addington high school who is planning on attending post-secondary education. It is designed to support a student who has demonstrated a dedication to serving their community by leading or actively participating in initiatives which improve an aspect of their community in a meaningful way. The three successful students will be chosen by their high schools – NDSS, Ernestown Secondary School (ESS), and NAEC. Karlee Hickey, ESS Abby Kelsey, NDSS Chloe Mazurski, NAEC  Ross and Helen Oliver Student Award   This award is made possible through the donation of John and David Oliver in loving memory of their father, Ross and mother, Helen. The Olivers were both passionate about education and its amazing platform that helps shape the future and personal growth of our young people.  Students must be attending NDSS pursuing post-secondary education in the upcoming school year. Abigail Misevicius Nara Rickard  The Val Brooks-McEwen Memorial Award Established this year, 2026, in memory of Val Brooks-McEwen, recognizing 40 years of service at NDSS. Presented to a graduating NDSS student who exemplifies kindness, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to inclusion. Lauryn Card Ellah Reynolds  Congratulations to all scholarship winners!

2026-06-16 15:35:37.764 +0000 UTC

Kindergarten Registration