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Winter Solstice Celebration 2024

All Self-Identified students of the Limestone District School Board and their families are invited to celebrate the Winter Solstice on December 18, 2024 from 5:30-7:30pm at the Kingston East Community Centre (779 HWY 15). This evening will be an opportunity for families to connect and share a hearty meal, take part in hands-on activities, and honour Grandmother moon. If you plan on attending, please RSVP Gillianne at<a href="mailto:mundellg@limestone.on.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">mundellg@limestone.on.ca</a>. Your RSVP helps us plan for this special evening. Transportation is available to and from this event. <figure><img src="/images/c9791674-b7c7-4c1a-8748-6d344f3fb0b0?fingerprint=ppb20251217014853" alt="Winter Solstice Celebration 2024" width="694" height="926" style="width:694px;height:926px"><figurecaption>Image description: All Self-Identified LDSB students & their families are invited to celebrate the Winter Solstice on December 18, 2024 from 5:30-7:30pm at the Kingston East Community Centre (779 HWY 15).  This evening will be an opportunity for families to connect and share a hearty meal, take part in hands-on activities, and honour Grandmother moon.  If you plan on attending, please RSVP Gillianne atmundellg@limestone.on.ca. Your RSVP helps us plan for this special evening.  Transportation is available to and from this event. </figurecaption></figure>

2024-11-26 16:13:15.621 +0000 UTC

You're Invited - Meet the LDSB Human Rights and Equity Team - Online Sessions

All families across Limestone District School Board are invited to attend one of two upcoming online information sessions to meet the LDSB Human Rights and Equity Team on November 27 or December 9 5:30 to 6:30 p.m..At each session, families will learn about the Human Rights and Equity Team roles, how to navigate the Student Human Rights Incidents and Complaints system in our schools, and where to find helpful resources on the LDSB website.Families are invited to join the online sessions here:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/ap/t-59584e83/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fteams.microsoft.com%2Fl%2Fmeetup-join%2F19%253ameeting_YTQ4YTUwMjYtNTk1NC00NzE2LTgxN2QtY2UxZjBkODM0MGMw%2540thread.v2%2F0%3Fcontext%3D%257b%2522Tid%2522%253a%2522e1f4165f-ebae-4d82-a73c-a0de593830be%2522%252c%2522Oid%2522%253a%2522f7882077-9b8d-41e9-b7b7-430b5b78c3f8%2522%257d&data=05%7C02%7Ccrothersm%40limestone.on.ca%7Cb4d4376c4f5f4835500508dd099705cf%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638677266428039144%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=cKfRMxHLZaU9fVix1%2Bo2AC26XphvJmdKNPbds1gDzJs%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link">November 27, 2024, at 5:30 p.m.</a></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/ap/t-59584e83/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fteams.microsoft.com%2Fl%2Fmeetup-join%2F19%253ameeting_YTQ4YTUwMjYtNTk1NC00NzE2LTgxN2QtY2UxZjBkODM0MGMw%2540thread.v2%2F0%3Fcontext%3D%257b%2522Tid%2522%253a%2522e1f4165f-ebae-4d82-a73c-a0de593830be%2522%252c%2522Oid%2522%253a%2522f7882077-9b8d-41e9-b7b7-430b5b78c3f8%2522%257d&data=05%7C02%7Ccrothersm%40limestone.on.ca%7Cb4d4376c4f5f4835500508dd099705cf%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638677266428062129%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=m87byBDK2Ri2EpdlhaXqBd2B8dhjEBGAQrTP2Rze1vc%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link">December 9, 2024, at 5:30 p.m.</a></li></ul>If you or your family members require accommodations to attend the meeting, please e-mail <a href="mailto:abdulkareemy@limestone.on.ca" class="editor-link">abdulkareemy@limestone.on.ca</a>.The sessions are not intended to address specific school-based concerns. If you do have a specific concern, please reach out directly to your student’s school.

2024-11-20 21:03:12.931 +0000 UTC

Boardroom Briefs November 2024

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 November 13, 2024 Annual General Meeting and Special Meeting of the Board and the Nominations Committee Meeting and Special Meeting of the Board of November 18, 2024. Board Meeting Agendas 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">Board Meetings</a>.  All meetings begin with a Land Acknowledgement: "The Limestone District School Board is situated on the traditional territories of the Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee. We acknowledge their enduring presence on this land, as well as the presence of Métis, Inuit, and other First Nations from across Turtle Island. We honour their cultures and celebrate their commitment to this land.” <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">The Lost Birds Outreach Project and Music Presentation </h2>Rae McDonald, Elementary Equity & Inclusion and Arts Consultant welcomed the executive members of <a href="https://www.isabelvoices.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">The Isabel Voices</a>, Dianna Bristol Chair and Darrell Christie, Artistic Director to share highlights and a musical performance of the LDSB and Isabel Voices <a href="https://vimeo.com/user112080361/download/1025529210/73a4a407ea" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">"The Lost Birds." </a> Artistic Director Christie described "The Lost Birds" as a breathtaking composition for voice, piano and string quartet not only celebrating the awe-inspiring beauty of the natural worlds but also reflecting on the magnificent bird species that grace out skies - both those still soaring among us and those tragically lost. He shared that over the past month The Isabel Voices visited a dozen Grade 4 classrooms with a program celebrating collective music-making alongside environmental conservation. With the assistance of the Kingston Field Naturalists, students engaged in interactive activities to broaden their knowledge and passion about birds. Twelve classes from across the LDSB each chose a unique bird to study, leading to the creation of art projects that accompany the performance. The students' art remains on display at the Isabel Bader Centre, approximately 240 pieces in all. The Kingston Field Naturalist continue their classroom visits all this month. <h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Program highlights: </h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">80 Grade 4 students</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">12 classrooms</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">240 unique art pieces</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">1 sold out performance</li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Opening Greetings and Introductions:</h3>In accordance with Section 208 of The Education Act, and LDSB By-Laws Article II, and IV, and under the authority invested in Director Krishna Burra as the Secretary of the Board, he welcomed everyone to the Annual Meeting of the Limestone District School Board for the term ending November 14, 2024. The Director of Education acts as the presiding officer of the Annual Meeting, pending the election of the Chair of the Board. Trustees elect a Chair and Vice-Chair to serve as Executive for the next year at the Annual General Meeting. Director Burra stated:<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">"As the third year of Trustees’ four-year term of office begins, I would like to express my appreciation to the Board of Trustees for the important contributions and decisions made that support student achievement and well-being while ensuring the Board fulfills its duties under the Education Act." </h3>Trustees also formalized the appointments of Trustees Jamie Maracle and Chris Scott to the Board, with both being sworn in at the Annual General Meeting. Trustee Maracle was appointed as Indigenous Trustee by the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte, following the retirement of Trustee Kelly Maracle last month. Trustee Scott was appointed by the Board of Trustees to represent the Loyalist-Cataraqui, Collins Bay, and Bayridge Districts in the City of Kingston, filling the vacancy left by the passing of Trustee Judith Brown on October 11, 2024.<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Chair and Vice-Chair elected for 2025 session:</h3>Trustees Robin Hutcheon and Bob Godkin were elected to the roles of Chair and Vice-Chair at the Annual General Meeting of the Board <img src="/images/030ec18e-71aa-4055-a845-46cef08570db?fingerprint=ppb20251217013025" alt="Chair and Vice Chair 2025 session" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit">November 13, 2024, for the session ending November 19, 2025. Trustees elect a Chair and Vice-Chair each year of their four-year mandate. This is the third year for both in their respective roles. After her nomination, Chair Hutcheon thanked Trustee Godkin and expressed her appreciation for the strength of the LDSB team. <h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;">"We are committed to students, to their success, and to their well-being. Our staff are innovative, caring, and efficient, and our trustees are passionate and kind."</h3>She thanked the Board for the opportunity to serve, adding, "It is an honour to serve in this role." Chair Hutcheon was first elected in October 2018, now serving her second term. She has contributed to several Board committees and held roles with the Ontario Public School Boards Association.Similarly Vice-Chair Bob Godkin thanked Trustee Neill for the nomination, and said he looks forward to continuing the work of the Board. Vice-Chair Godkin is also in his second term of office, and represents the City of Kingston: Pittsburgh and King’s Town Districts, and Frontenac Islands. <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Private Session Report</h2>Vice-Chair Bob Godkin provided the Private Session Report from earlier in the evening of November 13, 2024:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">The private session minutes were approved from the Regular Board Meeting of October 23, 2024</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Associate Superintendent Gollogly gave a safe schools update.</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Executive Superintendent Young provided a property update.</li></ul>There was no other business conducted, or motions passed in Private Session.<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Reports for Information</h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Math Action Achievement Plan Update</h3>Associate Superintendent Steve Hedderson provided Trustees with an update on the continued development of Limestone’s Math Achievement Action Plan. The plan is aligned with the LDSB Strategic Plan goal of improving math learning and achievement for every student and improving student well-being/sense of belonging/engagement in class time, and time focused on learning. Actions in the LDSB Math Achievement Action Plan help to advance the following high-leverage strategies from the LDSB Strategic plan: • Create positive cultures that support student engagement & well-being in service of student learning and achievement; • Increase educator ability to foster growth in student learning and achievement; and • Support the capacity of administrators and school teams to analyze and interpret data as guidance for implementing impactful student achievement plans. Associate Superintendent Hedderson shared highlights and metrics since the last update in June 2024:<img src="/images/d0f5f5e8-2cca-48e7-87b7-11652a4f6855?fingerprint=ppb20251217014934" alt="Image of PowerPoint slide with descriptions of Mathematics on the Land and four pictures of student engaged in math. " width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit">• Additional meetings have been held with the Provincial Math Lead to discuss data analysis, possible improvement strategies, and key performance indicators to support the LDSB Math Achievement Action Plan; • Two provincial strategic planning meetings with Board Math Leads across the province to provide additional clarity on data reporting requirements; • 2 additional webinars have been held provincially to help build math content knowledge for Math Action Teams and Ontario educators in Grades 3, 6, and 9; • Deeper analysis of EQAO mathematics and other achievement data has been occurring, with a focus on system-level data; • The LDSB Math Action Team, School-Based Math Facilitators and Learning Partners have been supporting educators in schools in gathering diagnostic math data, plotting students on developmental continua and implementing 15-minutes of daily fluency instruction; • School-Based Math Facilitators and Learning Partners supported a series of math-related professional learning sessions for educators on the October 11 PA Day; • Elementary Learning Teams (Principals and Teacher Leaders) were assembled to conduct guided data analysis of math modification data and EQAO contextual and achievement data including math confidence and strands and skills reports; • A system learning focus on building data literacy for school leaders has begun to help frame the LDSB Math Achievement Action Plan, clarify expectations, and provide support for the implementation of the plan in every mathematics classroom, in every school, and • As part of the ongoing system inquiry focused on centering students in the margins, particular attention is being paid to students with modified Individual Education Plans in math and uncovering what we can do differently to improve their outcomes in math.School Math Facilitators (20 partially released and 2 fully released) continue to work alongside Grades 3, 6, and 9 math educators in 26 priority schools (22 elementary and 4 secondary) to support students’ math learning, confidence, and achievement. In addition, the facilitators also support other educators teaching math in other grades in those schools. This year, there are also 9 elementary central learning partners who support capacity building with educators in the core academic skills (Math and Literacy) in non-math priority elementary schools. Associate Superintendent Hedderson concluded the report with an overview of the new provincial metrics that will be monitored during the 2024-2025 school year.<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Nominations Committee Meeting:</h2>Trustees gathered on Monday, November 18, 2024 to select which committees they wish to serve on for the session ending November 19, 2025. There are 7 Statutory Committees: Audit, Indigenous Education Committee, Expulsion/Suspension, Parent Involvement Committee, Supervised Alternative Learning, the Special Education Advisory Committee, and the Director’s Review Committee. The following Trustees will serve on the Board’s Statutory and Standing Committees:  <h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Audit Committee (Serving year 3 of 4-year term): </h3>(1) Trustee Elliott  (2) Trustee Lloyd  (3) Trustee Ruttan  <h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Special Education Advisory Committee (Serving year 3 of 4-year term): </h3>(1) Trustee Lloyd  (2) Trustee McGregor  (3) Trustee Neill (Alternate)  <h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Indigenous Education Committee: </h3>(1) Trustee Maracle (2) Trustee Godkin (3) Trustee Hutcheon (Alternate)  <h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Director’s Review Committee: </h3>(1) Trustee [Chair] Hutcheon (2) Trustee [Vice-Chair] Godkin(3) Trustee Scott(4) Trustee Lloyd(5) Trustee McGregor<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Expulsion Hearing Committee / Disciplinary Hearing Committee Pool:  </h3>Trustees Elliott, McGregor, Morning, Ruttan, Scott and Neill <h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Parent Involvement Committee:  </h3>(1)  Trustee Godkin (2) Trustee Hutcheon (Alternate)  <h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Supervised Alternative Learning Committee:  </h3>(1) Trustee Morning(2) Trustee Scott (Alternate)  Representation on the Board’s Standing Committees are as follows:  <h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Awards Committee:  </h3>(1) Trustee  Ruttan (2) Trustee McGregor (3) Trustee  Elliott(4) Trustee Lloyd (Alternate)<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Environmental Sustainability Advisory Committee:  </h3>(1) Trustee Morning (2) Trustee Hutcheon And representatives on the following associations:<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">OPSBA (the term runs June to June):  </h3>(1) Trustee McGregor (2) Trustee Ruttan (Alternate)  <h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Food Sharing Project:  </h3>(1) Trustee Neill(2) Trustee Scott (Alternate)  MOTION: Trustee McGregor moved that the report of the Nomination Committee Meeting of November 18, 2024, as presented, be adopted.   CARRIED. <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Next Board Meeting</h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Education Policy and Operations Meeting December 5, 2024</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Regular Meeting of the Board January 15, 2025</li></ul>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. Board Meeting Agendas 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">Board Meetings</a>.

2024-11-19 16:35:09.189 +0000 UTC

Choices at 7 Programming and Open Houses for the 2025-2026 School Year

Choices at 7 Programs for the 2025-2026 School Year

The Limestone District School Board's Choices at 7 programs offer opportunities for students entering Grade 7 to participate in a variety of unique learning environments. Depending on the availability of places in the programs, students currently in Grade 7 may also apply to join a program for their Grade 8 year. The Choices at 7 Programs that are offered include: <ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">ATLAS (Applying Technology for Learning, Aptitude and Success) </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Challenge (Gifted and Academic Enrichment Program) </li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">LEAP (Limestone Education through the Arts Program) </li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Extended French Immersion Program </li></ul>For detailed information about any of the Choices at 7 programs, please visit the <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/choices_at_7" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Choices at 7 </a>webpage.The application links for ATLAS, Challenge and LEAP will open at 9 a.m. on December 13, 2024, and close at 4 p.m. on January 13, 2025.The application links for Extended French Immersion will open at 9 a.m. on December 13, 2024, and applicants are encouraged to submit their application as soon as possible. The application link for Extended French Immersion will remain open throughout the school year.All applicants to ATLAS, Challenge and LEAP will receive an email on January 17, 2025, outlining, in detail, the next steps of the application process (i.e., task requirements, how to submit tasks, etc.).  Please contact the Registrar if you do not receive an email on this date <a href="mailto:choicesatseven@limestone.on.ca" class="editor-link">choicesatseven@limestone.on.ca</a>Applicants to the Extended French Immersion programs will receive communication directly from the school.Please read the instructions below carefully to ensure that you complete the correct application form. The application links will not be active until 9:00 am on Friday, December 13, 2024.IF YOUR STUDENT IS INTERESTED IN APPLYING TO THE ATLAS, LEAP, AND/OR CHALLENGE PROGRAMS and IS:A.    Currently Attending a School WITHIN the Limestone District School BoardIf your child currently attends a school WITHIN the Limestone District School Board, please click on the links for CURRENT LIMESTONE STUDENTS to complete the Choices at Seven Application Form. Your child must login to the Application Form using their LDSB Active Directory Username and Password.  The login must be the applicant’s login information and not a sibling, parent, etc. This is the regular login that they use to login to devices at school. If your child is unsure of their school login information, please contact their school directly. You may apply to more than one program. <a href="https://forms.office.com/r/eJB2mWda8Y" class="editor-link">ATLAS APPLICATION FORM FOR CURRENT LIMESTONE STUDENTS</a><a href="https://forms.office.com/r/cFGFLcJc3r" class="editor-link">LEAP APPLICATION FORM FOR CURRENT LIMESTONE STUDENTS</a><a href="https://forms.office.com/r/p0HzrLUDFR" class="editor-link">CHALLENGE APPLICATION FORM FOR CURRENT LIMESTONE STUDENTS</a>B.     Currently Attending a School OUTSIDE of the Limestone District School BoardIf your child currently attends a school that is OUTSIDE the Limestone District School Board, please click on the application links for NON-LDSB STUDENTS and follow the instructions to complete the Choices at Seven Application Form. You may apply for more than one program.<a href="https://forms.office.com/r/raViAnzHEA" class="editor-link">ATLAS APPLICATION FORM FOR NON-LDSB STUDENTS</a><a href="https://forms.office.com/r/7CihfU7wW4" class="editor-link">LEAP APPLICATION FORM FOR NON-LDSB STUDENTS</a><a href="https://forms.office.com/r/bTCUQSysYW" class="editor-link">CHALLENGE APPLICATION FORM FOR NON-LDSB STUDENTS</a>IF YOUR STUDENT IS INTERESTED IN APPLYING TO THE EXTENDED FRENCH IMMERSION PROGRAM and IS:A.  Currently Attending a school WITHIN the Limestone District School BoardClick on the site link below to complete the application for Extended French Immersion:<a href="https://forms.office.com/r/rdSe0tC3au" class="editor-link">HARROWSMITH PUBLIC SCHOOL APPLICATION LINK</a><a href="https://forms.office.com/r/ys3TbYjVrT" class="editor-link">MODULE DE L’ACADIE APPLICATION LINK</a><a href="https://forms.office.com/r/0wY2RrPBA9" class="editor-link">MODULE VANIER APPLICATION LINK</a>** Students currently enrolled in a LDSB French Immersion program will be automatically transferred to their immersion site.B. Currently enrolled in a school OUTSIDE of the Limestone District School BoardPlease go to the <a href="https://limestone.on.ca/" class="editor-link">Limestone District School Board website</a> to complete the new student Online Registration form. Please contact the French Immersion site if you have questions about the application form.<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Open Houses  </h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">ATLAS, Challenge, and LEAP Choices at 7 Program Open House, Calvin Park Public School</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">December 10, 2024 at 6:00 p.m.</li></ul></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Ernestown Intermediate and Secondary School Grade 7 and 8 Challenge Program Open House </li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">December 11, 2024 at 6:00 p.m.</li></ul></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Loughborough Public School Choices at 7 Challenge Program Open House   </li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">December 12, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. </li></ul></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Harrowsmith Public School Extended French Immersion Open House </li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Thursday, January 9, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.</li></ul></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Module de l'Acadie Extended French Immersion Open House </li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Tuesday, February 11, 2025 at 6:30 p.m.</li></ul></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Module Vanier Extended French Immersion Open House</li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Tuesday, February 11, 2025 at 6:30 p.m.</li></ul></li></ul>

2024-11-15 17:14:18.869 +0000 UTC

Trustees Hutcheon and Godkin to serve another year as Executive of LDSB

Trustees Robin Hutcheon and Bob Godkin were elected to the roles of Chair and Vice-Chair at the Annual General Meeting of the Board November 13, 2024, for the session ending November 19, 2025. Trustees elect a Chair and Vice-Chair each year of their four-year mandate. This is the third year for both in their respective roles. Trustees also formalized the appointments of Jamie Maracle and Chris Scott to the Board, with both being sworn in at the Annual General Meeting. Trustee Jamie Maracle was appointed as Indigenous Trustee by the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte, following the retirement of Trustee Kelly Maracle last month. Trustee Chris Scott was appointed by the Board of Trustees to represent the Loyalist-Cataraqui, Collins Bay, and Bayridge Districts in the City of Kingston, filling the vacancy left by the passing of Trustee Judith Brown on October 11, 2024. After her nomination, Chair Hutcheon thanked Trustee Godkin and expressed her appreciation for the strength of the LDSB team. "We are committed to students, to their success, and to their well-being. Our staff are innovative, caring, and efficient, and our trustees are passionate and kind," she remarked. She thanked the Board for the opportunity to serve, adding, "It is an honour to serve in this role." Chair Hutcheon was first elected in October 2018, now serving her second term. She has contributed to several Board committees and held roles with the Ontario Public School Boards Association.Similarly Vice-Chair Bob Godkin thanked Trustee Neill for the nomination, and said he looks forward to continuing the work of the Board. Vice-Chair Godkin is also in his second term of office, and represents the City of Kingston: Pittsburgh and King’s Town Districts, and Frontenac Islands. Membership of trustees to the Board’s various committees will be determined at the Nominations Meeting Monday, November 18, 2024.

2024-11-14 21:03:36.681 +0000 UTC

Honouring Senator Murray Sinclair

The Honourable Murray-ban Sinclair, a renowned advocate and trailblazer for Indigenous justice and education passed away Monday, November 4, 2024. To honour this inspirational and highly influential politician, judge, Senator, and the Chief Commissioner of the Indian Residential Schools Truth and Reconciliation Commission which provided the 94 Calls to Action, all school flags will be lowered to half-mast for four days to honour Anishinabek protocol. Murray-ban devoted his life to ensuring that Indigenous truths, perspectives, and histories were heard. He believed that education was critical to paving the way for generations of people to learn from our collective history, and to do better. It was a gift to listen and experience his brilliance, wisdom, and kindness, and his passing is felt all across Turtle Island. Murray-ban Sinclair, in reference to the 94 Calls to Action said, <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">“We have described for you a mountain. We have shown you the path to the top. We call upon you to do the climbing.” </h2>He recognized that important conversations have started across Canadian schools, but we must continue learning and working towards understanding the truth of what is now known as Canada and taking action towards Truth and Reconciliation. After retiring from the Senate in 2021, His Honour served as the <a href="https://www.queensu.ca/gazette/stories/queen-s-remembers-honourable-murray-sinclair" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">15th Chancellor of Queen's University</a> from 2021to June 30, 2024, when his appointment ended.  He was the first Indigenous person to serve in the role. This CBC article provides additional accomplishments:<a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cbc.ca%2Fnews%2Fpolitics%2Fmurray-sinclair-death-1.7372862&data=05%7C02%7Cdouglasja%40limestone.on.ca%7Cf0ce80f08a9e47d1cd7008dcfda0d9d1%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638664114511665528%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=%2FQkPIFMR1ABGjxTMp5Q2273V1%2FU34MSfvxoh0XAxqc8%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/murray-sinclair-death-1.7372862  </a>A sacred fire has been lit in his honour on the grounds of the Manitoba Legislative Building. The family has asked that additional sacred fires are not lit across the country so that there is only one. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking those who are able to donate to <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mycharitytools.com%2Fgift%2Fwpgfdn%2Fdonate%3Ffund%3D5944&data=05%7C02%7Cdouglasja%40limestone.on.ca%7Cf0ce80f08a9e47d1cd7008dcfda0d9d1%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638664114511694011%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=RdLqHB5sGYwJ7Huc6bDJSYe523KMT5aFSghF9P9pVAI%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">The Murray Sinclair Memorial Fund</a> at The Winnipeg Foundation.  Their father loved and supported many community organizations, and donations will prioritize Indigenous women, children, families, and Survivors. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and community at this time. Senator Murray Sinclair - Image Credit: Kent Monkman for Queens University

2024-11-05 14:12:30.663 +0000 UTC

Take Our Kids To Work (TOKTW) Day

Limestone District School Board has not participated in Take Our Kids To Work (TOKTW) Day in recent years. This was a Provincial initiative that is no longer supported, which makes it difficult for LDSB to continue the program. We have not promoted the program within schools.Here are a few frequently asked questions and answers regarding TOKTW Day:Question: My work is allowing me to bring my child to work on November 6th for Take Our Kids To Work Day. How is their attendance marked - does this count as a school activity? Answer: If parents choose to take their LDSB students to work with them, it would be considered a parent-approved absence, as it is not a school activity.Question: I work for LDSB, at a different school then my child attends, and would like to bring my child to work on Nov 6th for Take Our Kids To Work Day. Is that ok? Answer: As LDSB is not participating, LDSB students cannot go to a school location with their parents.  LDSB isn’t participating in TOKTW, so there is no insurance coverage for LDSB students.  If families have any additional questions about TOKTW Day, please reach out to your student(s)' administration.

2024-11-01 18:15:42.865 +0000 UTC

Grey background with white text that says, Message from the Director.

Message from the Director - October 28, 2024

On <a href="/go/d62202c2-b6b1-4715-b59b-2de1ed2264b6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" data-permalink="" class="editor-link">October 7</a>, I sent out a message recognizing the one-year anniversary of tragic events from 2023. While my intention was to focus on the wellness of all children and youth in Limestone, the October 7 e-mail failed to fully address the significant and ongoing impact on Palestinian families and others with direct connections to the region. I apologize for this under-emphasis in my initial message and any harm this caused for some local families most impacted by the Israeli military response to events from October 7, 2023, and the widening war in the region. I understand that the continuing military action has caused significant pain and distress to families in our community with direct connections to the region, some of whom have lost family members and/or friends. Regardless of who you are, the emotional toll of worrying about loved ones and witnessing suffering from afar is profound. The continuing violence in Gaza has resulted in significant loss of life, ongoing fear for loved ones, and loss of critical infrastructure. In the past year, military action has also extended to the West Bank, and more recently extended to Lebanon and Syria. Additionally, tensions have increased between Iran and Israel risking a further expansion of war in the region. It is important to acknowledge the suffering and challenges faced by all those affected by continuing hostilities and military action in the region, and the humanitarian crisis that has resulted in some areas. In these challenging times, it is crucial for us to come together as a community across Limestone. The current crisis in the Middle East is only one example of current, global challenges that have a ripple effect into our region. We must stand in solidarity with all those affected and offer our support and compassion to one another. In polarizing and divisive times, bringing people together and focusing on dialogue is critical. Limestone schools and classrooms must be places where we build bridges between people, promote kindness, empathy, cross-cultural understanding, and inclusion for all. We must support one another and continue to work together to create a safe and supportive environment for all students, families, staff, and school communities. As indicated in my October 7 message, supports are available for children and youth in need of assistance. Please do not hesitate to reach out if your child/student needs support during this difficult time. Sincerely, Krishna BurraDirector of Education

2024-10-28 18:22:24.613 +0000 UTC

Black, Indigenous, and Racialized Student Career Fair

Grade 9 to 12 students in Limestone are invited to join the Black, Indigenous, and Racialized Student Career Fair on November 15, 2024. Hear from panel speakers, have one-on-one discussions, and a free lunch! Connect with career pathways in university, college, trades, business, and the arts. Speakers include: <ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Queen's University Research Awards Officer,</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">St. Lawrence College Professors,</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">CEO and Co-Founder of Transformix Engineering Inc.,</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Local business owners and experts in the trades,</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">and more! </li></ul><a href="https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=Xxb04a7rgk2nPKDeWTgwvquSOt_Sf99BuA6e1oho4OlUQ0VLTk04NUdMRUFaWktCSk9KVDVCNVI0Ri4u&origin=QRCode" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Limestone students can register online. </a><img src="/images/6f8e7fb4-5add-4142-8567-3afbfa4d3d86?fingerprint=ppb20251217014029" alt="Black Indigenous and Racialized Student Career Fair" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit">

2024-10-28 17:14:55.558 +0000 UTC

Boardroom Briefs October 23, 2024

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 October 23, 2024, Committee of the Whole Board Meeting. Board Meeting Agendas 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">Board Meetings</a>.  All meetings begin with a Land Acknowledgement: "The Limestone District School Board is situated on the traditional territories of the Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee. We acknowledge their enduring presence on this land, as well as the presence of Métis, Inuit, and other First Nations from across Turtle Island. We honour their cultures and celebrate their commitment to this land.” <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">YSIP and Short-Term Suspension Program Presentation </h2>Associate Superintendent Gollogly and Rob Adams, CEO of the YMC of Eastern Ontario provided the Trustees with an overview of of the YMCA Student Impact Program. <h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Program highlights: </h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Maintaining an 85% attendance rate</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Approximately 20 field trips</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">30 unique participants to date</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">8 Students Graduated in June 2024</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">7 from grade 8</li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">1 from grade 12</li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">1 student applied to college</li><li value="8" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">3 students volunteer with the YMCA</li><li value="9" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">1 student got their first job with the YMCA</li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Program testimonials from students attending: </h3>I attend the Student Impact Program at the YMCA.  I enjoy the room, with my anxiety, I struggle to walk into a normal classroom with students. Having the personal space to work on schoolwork has helped me feel more comfortable. Talking with Ashley and having the support of the teacher has made a big impact on my life; makes me feel that I’m not alone. I have felt supported emotionally, and socially;  has helped with decision-making.” - Grade 11 Student“I’m a Grade 12 Student and have been attending since I was in Grade 11. I struggle to focus classroom; a normal classroom, often getting distracted or not motivated to complete the work. In the SIP class, I have the help of a teacher who helps keep me on track, and Ashley who has helped with decision-making and life-skills outside of the classroom.” -  Grade 12 Student "I like the classroom; it’s a nice space and I enjoy going swimming at the YMCA. Our class goes swimming every 2 weeks and it’s something I look forward to the most when I come to class.” - Grade 10 Student<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Private Session Report</h2>Vice-Chair Bob Godkin provided the Private Session Report for October 23, 2024:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">The private session minutes were approved from the Regular Board Meeting of September 18, 2024</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Associate Superintendent Gollogly gave a safe schools update.</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Director Burra gave a legal update.</li></ul>There was no other business conducted, or motions passed in Private Session.<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Chair's Report</h2><figure><img src="/images/dea058a1-e5d6-46f9-a75e-2526a81dc7b3?fingerprint=ppb20251217015036" alt="A photo of Chair Robin Hutcheon " width="333.5971374511719" height="432.2246070958264" style="float:right"><figurecaption>Image of Robin Hutcheon, Chair of the Board</figurecaption></figure>It is with sadness that I begin tonight’s meeting paying respect to our valued colleague and friend Trustee Judith Brown, who passed away October 11th.It is difficult to be gathered around this horseshoe, without her presence. The Board of Trustees and Limestone staff extend our sincere condolences to Judi’s family and friends, and the students and schools she served.  Trustee Brown had an unwavering commitment to student success and advocacy for Black voice within our schools and the broader community, leaving a lasting legacy.Judi took great pride in her role as a trustee and approached it with unwavering diligence, always focused on our shared responsibility to strengthen and enhance public education across the district.I would like to acknowledge the trustees and staff who were able to attend the internment last Thursday.  Our understanding is that the family will be hosting a celebration of life at a future date.For staff and Limestone community partners now, who wish to share thoughts and memories of Trustee Brown, there is a Book of Condolence set up in the foyer here at the Education Centre.  The passing of Trustee Brown is an immense loss that will be profoundly felt throughout our school board and the entire City of Kingston. I would now ask that we share a moment of silence.And this concludes my report.<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Director's Report</h2><figure><img src="/images/959f9ebc-0553-5f56-afed-83ccf39d2906?fingerprint=ppb20251217014409" alt="" width="368.6259765625" height="368.6259765625" style="float:right"><figurecaption>Image of Krishna Burra, Director of Education</figurecaption></figure>Good evening Trustees and members of the viewing public. I have several updates I would like to share with you this evening. Thank you, Chair Hutcheon, for your comments regarding the significant loss we face with the passing of Trustee Judi Brown. In my mind, Trustee Brown was a true legend. She was famous for her groundbreaking work, her passion, her moral compass, and her dedication to continuous improvement. She was also adored and admired by everyone who had the good fortune of knowing her or working with her. I know all of us will miss her wisdom, her passion, and her wonderful smile. For me, I know when I face future challenging or difficult decisions, which undoubtedly will arise, I will ask myself what would Trustee Brown do? I know LDSB senior staff and members of the LDSB equity team all feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with, and be led by, Trustee Brown. As a reminder to Trustees and the viewing public, we are in the midst of the Fall 2024 United Way fundraising campaign. Given continuing, significant economic dislocation, housing costs, and food security concerns, it is critical for those that can support this campaign do so, to help support some of the most vulnerable children, youth, and families in the region. Limestone is a proud contributor to this annual campaign.This evening, Trustees will see the initial annual report for the LDSB Strategic Plan, 2024-2028, and we will take a closer look at the 2023-2024 EQAO results. As Trustees are aware, Limestone saw some Good to Excellent improvement in 6/8 provincial EQAO measures, and slight declines in two. Our current focus on improving teaching and learning in classrooms are critical components of the provincial and board priorities, but also integral to our equity work in ensuring that each Limestone student has the skills and confidence to access their pathway of choice as they navigate through their K-12 years. While this data breaks down to percentage points, it is important to remember that each percentage equates to 14 or 15 students who have taken the assessment. These numbers add up. The stakes of our work are incredibly high, and we have a legal and moral responsibility to ensure that we maintain focused attention on student achievement.  I look forward to continuing our critical work in Limestone with the new Strategic Plan as we move into the future, doing the best we can to serve students and families. This evening, Trustees will also receive a report on the current Trustee vacancy and make some decisions regarding next steps to address this vacancy. And finally, I would like Trustees to be aware that a message I sent to families on October 7 met with a range of reactions. There is no question that the current crisis in the Middle East is directly impacting families in LDSB. I do feel compelled to share some additional messaging next week to better reflect the expansive and increasing impact of these events on some local Palestinian students and families. I apologize for this under-emphasis in my initial message and any harm this caused for some of the local families most impacted by this continuing and expanding war.Thank you, Chair Hutcheon. That completes my update for this evening.<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">OPBSA Report</h2>Trustee McGregor provided an OPBSA report. <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Student Trustees' Report</h2>Good evening trustees and the viewing public. Our October Inter-Student Council meeting took place on October 15th chaired by student Trustee Kumar and student Trustee Kolosov.To start this meeting, we had a PD Session on Identity and Allyship from Andrea Barrow, who is the LDSB Equity and Inclusion Consultant. This presentation was aimed to help student leaders be better prepared to support their student bodies with the upcoming board wide culture week in November. This session also provided students with the opportunity to examine the idea of cultural appropriation versus appreciation as Halloween draws closer and schools often encourage dress-up days as a part of their celebrations and events.In support of culture week plans, ISC representatives have been made aware of the Black and Racialized student affinity groups at their schools and affirmed their willingness to reach out and connect with these groups to help support them throughout their various culture week events. This collaboration aims to help support inclusion within schools and improve student connections at each site.To further help ensure that ISC remains mindful in event planning and is able to accurately represent student voice, invitations to join Inter-Student Council by sending a representative to our monthly meetings will be extended soon to various board wide affinity groups such as the Black and Racialized student affinity group, The GSA group, and the Indigenous Student Leadership Circle. Our goal is to ensure that we are capturing a range of student voices and that we are able to provide support to group initiatives where needed.We concluded our meeting with discussing the opportunity to create a board-wide fundraiser or charity event where all schools could raise money and awareness towards a specific goal or initiative within the community. As a team we have reached out to United Way KFL&A to invite a speaker to talk to ISC members about youth homelessness in November and open the opportunity for schools to plan their own ways of supporting the fight against youth homelessness.That concludes our report for our October ISC meeting, thank you.<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Reports for Information</h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Strategic Plan Update</h3>Director Burra and members of senior staff provided Trustees with an update on the strategic plan, focusing on equity and excellence in student learning, achievement, and future success within a positive culture. A summary of the strategic plan goals were outlined along with the 2023-2024 EQAO results that provide a foundation for the plan and the provincial Student Achievement Plan. <img src="/images/c9aa057e-6835-4029-874c-2bae9a674b15?fingerprint=ppb20251217014853" alt="LDSB's Strategic Plan Goals with supporting icons" width="918.546875" height="502.2195631242902" style="float:undefined">After the focus on EQAO results, Director Burra reviewed examples of Limestone's responsiveness to family voice over the 2023-2024 school year, including but not limited to: <ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Special Education Model Changes After Consultation</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Budget Survey and Feedback</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">New Board and School Websites</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">School Year Calendar Consultation</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Continuing Virtual School</li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Continued Enhancements to Reporting Tools</li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Strategic Plan Consultations/Feedback</li><li value="8" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Regular Family Updates</li><li value="9" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Expanded Translation Services Incorporated into Communication Tools</li></ul>As well as responsiveness to staff voice and creating a culture of service excellence (2023-2024), including but not limited to: <ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Satisfaction Survey</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Continued to promote FSL teacher recruitment, partnering with Queen's FSL Multi-Session Program</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Leadership resources developed for administrators </li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Continue mentoring program for new principals and vice-principals</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Aspiring Leaders workshops provided for teachers who are contemplating administration</li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Provided equity, diversity and inclusion training to elementary occasional teachers</li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Provided Human Rights training for investigations with K-12 Administrators</li><li value="8" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Streamlined Online Incident Reporting process</li><li value="9" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;">Developed MyLDSB </li><li value="10" class="editor-listitem">Refined facilities improvement process</li></ul>The <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/e829b223-42a3-408a-9769-20a4ccb806ca/LDSB%20Regular%20Board%20Meeting%20Agenda%20October%2023%202024.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217015139" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">full report can be found in the Agenda Package</a>. <h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Trustee Vacancy </h3>With the passing of Trustee Judith Brown on the evening of Friday, October 11, a seat at the Board of Trustees became vacant. Consequently, based on the Education Act and LDSB Procedural Bylaws, Article III, a replacement for Trustee Brown is required.LDSB Procedural Bylaws, Article III, outline the necessary Board decisions required to fill the vacant Trustee seat. Article III is based on the requirements outlined in the Education Act. Historically, during the last 20 years, when a Trustee seat has become vacant, the Board has decided to make an appointment to fill the seat. As just two examples, Hamilton Wentworth DSB has a by-election set for January 2025; Durham DSB appointed a trustee in the spring of 2024.Trustee vacancies fall within the Education Act but provide the options of a by-election or appointment. A final decision on filling a vacancy rests with the Board of Trustees, and requires a formal motion. Article III of the LDSB Procedural Bylaws is rooted in legislation outlined in Section 221 (1) & (2) of the Education Act.The guiding Principles outlined in the Bylaws (Article III) for filling a trustee vacancy are as follows: (a) Timing of the vacancy relative to the previous/subsequent elections; (b) Relative support of the 2nd-place finisher in a previous election; (c) Financial cost associated with a by-election; (d) Representation of a particular geographic area on the board; and (e) Diversity of representation on the board at the time of the vacancy.Trustees will need to make a decision regarding how they would like to fill the vacant seat through a by-election or through an appointment. Staff will support the Board’s decision and take the next logistical steps to fill the vacancy.Trustee Morning presented the following motion: Being that just over two years remain in this current Board term and the financial cost of a by-election is prohibitive, I move that our Board fill Trustee Judith Brown’s Loyalist-Cataraqui Collins Bayridge and Meadowbrook-Strathcona ridings by offering it to  the second place candidate and if declined, offer it to the third-place finisher in the 2022 election.The motion passed. <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Meeting Recording</h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">October 23, 2024 Limestone District School Board Regular Board Meeting</li></ul><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Next Board Meeting</h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">November 13, 2024 (Annual Meeting)</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">November 18, 2024 (Nominations/Special Meeting)</li></ul>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. Board Meeting Agendas 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">Board Meetings</a>.

2024-10-25 13:22:28.154 +0000 UTC

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Message from the Director - October 24, 2024

Dear Families, I hope all Limestone District School Board (LDSB) families continue to have a good start to the 2024-2025 school year. It is hard to believe we are almost eight weeks into the school year. As we move towards the end of October, I have some updates I would like to share with you:  Communication Regarding Bus Delays and Cancellations from Tri-Board Student Transportation During the potential inclement weather months (roughly early November to early April), our transportation partner, Tri-Board Student Transportation Services, works closely with their school bus companies to determine if it is safe to offer school transportation on inclement weather days. School buses function differently than other vehicles, and sometimes, although it is safe for the average family vehicle to travel, it is not safe for a school bus to be on all, or some of, the roads on a route. Having to cancel school transportation is understandably disruptive to families, but Tri-Board always puts the safety of their 30,000-plus bus riders first and foremost in their decision-making.  To help make the winter season and bus cancellation days easier for students and families to manage, families should sign up for bus status alerts by creating an account in <a href="https://triboard.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Email-Subscription-Instructions.pdf" class="editor-link">Tri-Board’s Student Portal</a>. Families can add their student(s) to their account, so they are signed up to receive alerts for their specific bus and zone cancellations. Families can also follow Tri-Board on social media: <ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://x.com/triboardbus" class="editor-link">X/Twitter @TriBoardBus</a> </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/triboardbus/" class="editor-link">Facebook Tri-Board Student Transportation Services</a> </li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/triboardbus/" class="editor-link">Instagram @TriBoardBus</a> </li></ul>When all transportation is cancelled across the district, the notification is sent as a general notice from Tri-Board to everyone with an account. Tri-Board does their best to post this alert by 6:00 a.m. The cancellation of school buses does not mean schools are closed. Should the rare need to close a school arise, the information will be communicated by the LDSB and the individual schools.  Learn more about inclement weather days, timing and duration of cancellations, and more on <a href="https://triboard.ca/alerts/snowdays/" class="editor-link">Tri-Board’s website</a>.   2023-2024 EQAO Results and Strategic Plan Update  The 2023-2024 assessment results for the LDSB were released earlier this month by the Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO). The elementary school report provides assessments of Reading, Writing, and Mathematics written by students in Grades 3 and 6. The secondary school report provides similar information relating to the Grade 9 Assessment of Mathematics and the Grade 10 Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test. LDSB results align with provincial outcomes in some areas, while showing notable improvements in others and among specific student groups. Learn more about <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/news/2023-2024-eqao-results-show-notable-improvements-20241007203759" class="editor-link">Limestone’s EQAO results on our website</a>.  At last night’s Board Meeting, Trustees were provided with a Strategic Plan Year-End Report for the 2023-2024 school year, reflecting the first year of the new LDSB Strategic Plan (2023-2028), and the progress reported for each goal. The 2023-2024 EQAO results provide a foundation for the plan and the provincial Student Achievement Plan. Families are encouraged to review the <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/e829b223-42a3-408a-9769-20a4ccb806ca/LDSB%20Regular%20Board%20Meeting%20Agenda%20October%2023%202024.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217015139" class="editor-link">Administrative Report provided by senior staff at the Board Meeting available on pages 22 to 31 in the Board Agenda Package</a>.  Limestone families are invited to provide feedback on the LDSB Student Achievement Plan for 2024-2025 through an online ThoughtExchange survey. You may have more than one response, so you are welcome to submit as many thoughts as you would like, but please only submit one idea at a time. Other people will see your idea(s) and will have the opportunity to indicate how much they agree with your submission(s). You will also have the opportunity to rate submissions from others. This survey is open now until November 22, 2024, at 4:00 p.m. Your input is greatly valued, and we thank you in advance for your participation.  To participate, please visit: <a href="https://bit.ly/LDSBSurveySAP2024-2025" class="editor-link">https://bit.ly/LDSBSurveySAP2024-2025</a>.   KFL&A Public Health Update KFL&A Public Health has provided Limestone with a <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/news/keeping-children-healthy-throughout-the-school-year-kfl-a-public-health-20241023134302" class="editor-link">letter from Dr. Piotr Oglaza, Medical Officer of Health</a>, as well as helpful resources to share with you on how to stay healthy during respiratory illness season. To view information from KFL&A Public Health, please use the following links: <ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/news/keeping-children-healthy-throughout-the-school-year-kfl-a-public-health-20241023134302" class="editor-link">Letter from Dr. Piotr Oglaza</a> </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/bf1909e4-bfa3-4414-8757-b29c0adfe17d/OCFP_ActionsParentsCanTake.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014753" class="editor-link">OCFP Actions Parents Can Take</a> </li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/d5033f74-910d-4a3b-b8ad-4c34f7c1acf4/2023-09-21_Respiratory%20Illness%20Factsheet_8.5x14_EN.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014946" class="editor-link">Respiratory Illness Fact Sheet</a> </li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/336f8f79-ff6a-4252-a1ce-76bbbbb5b139/2023-03-03_Immuniz-Through-Lifespan.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260428201346" class="editor-link">Immunization Through the Lifespan</a>  </li></ul>I wish you a wonderful end of October, and I thank you for your continued support and partnership as part of the Limestone community. All the very best, Krishna Burra Director of Education

2024-10-24 20:15:13 +0000 UTC

Two students playing outside in the winter

Keeping Children Healthy Throughout the School Year - KFL&A Public Health

KFL&A Public Health's Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Piotr Oglaza, has shared the following letter with families: Dear parents and caregivers,As a parent or caregiver, your child’s health and safety are a top priority. I want to take this opportunity to share some important information with you to help keep all children healthy throughout the school year.Routine childhood vaccinationIn Ontario, all children going to school need to be vaccinated against certain diseases. The vaccines are publicly funded and offered at no cost to eligible individuals. Recently, there has been an increase in cases of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, both in KFL&A and across the province. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the spread of pertussis and protect your child from many diseases.What can you do?Check your child's vaccine record: compare the records you have with the <a href="/documents/336f8f79-ff6a-4252-a1ce-76bbbbb5b139/2023-03-03_Immuniz-Through-Lifespan.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260428201346" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Immunization Through the Lifespan handout</a>. This handout also explains how to report your child's vaccines.Report your child’s vaccines to KFL&A Public Health: it is possible that your child is up-to-date on their vaccines, but KFL&A Public Health is not aware. Your healthcare provider is not required to report your child's vaccinations to public health. For more information on reporting vaccines, visit <a href="https://www.kflaph.ca/en/health-topics/immunization-records-and-reporting.aspx" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">kflaph.ca/ImmunizationReporting</a>If your child needs a vaccine: If your child does not have access to a regular healthcare provider, you can book a vaccine appointment at KFL&A Public Health. For more information about our clinics visit,<a href="https://www.kflaph.ca/en/clinics-and-classes/immunization-clinics.aspx" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"> kflaph.ca/ImmunizationClinics.</a>Fall vaccines (flu, COVID-19 and RSV) and respiratory illness seasonWe expect this fall and winter to be challenging with many respiratory viruses circulating at the same time – like influenza (flu), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and COVID-19. It is important to think ahead and be prepared for respiratory illness season. This is why I am sharing two important handouts to help you in the months ahead:<ol class="editor-list-ol"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"> The<a href="/documents/bf1909e4-bfa3-4414-8757-b29c0adfe17d/OCFP_ActionsParentsCanTake.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014753" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"> Family Doctor Tips on Caring for Children with Respiratory Symptoms handout</a>, by the Ontario College of Family Physicians, provides practical advice to help you if your child gets sick. It offers guidance on managing symptoms at home and knowing when and where to seek medical help.</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">The <a href="/documents/d5033f74-910d-4a3b-b8ad-4c34f7c1acf4/2023-09-21_Respiratory%20Illness%20Factsheet_8.5x14_EN.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014946" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">About Respiratory Illness handout</a> will help you understand how to protect your family from viruses, reduce their spread, manage symptoms, and find information on treatment.</li></ol>Staying up to date with fall vaccinations remains the most effective defense against many respiratory infections. Ensure everyone in your family gets the annual flu shot, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines for which they are eligible. The flu and COVID-19 vaccines are currently available for high-risk groups, including those over 65, pregnant individuals, and for children 6 months to 4 years of age, as well as for First Nations, Inuit, Métis, racialized communities, and those at high-risk of complications from respiratory illness. Flu and COVID-19 vaccines will be more widely available to the general population on Oct. 28. It is safe and convenient to receive the COVID-19 and flu vaccinations at the same time, reducing the need for multiple visits to a doctor, nurse practitioner or local pharmacy.This year, more people are eligible for the RSV vaccine, including older adults, infants, and pregnant individuals. To find out if you're eligible, speak with your health-care provider or contact our Immunization Team at 613-549-1232, ext. 1451.KFL&A Public Health is focusing efforts on administering flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines to children under the age of 5 who do not have access to primary care. All other eligible recipients can access these vaccines through local participating pharmacies, your primary care provider, specialist clinics or other community services depending on the specific vaccine.Thank you for taking the time to read this important information and taking the next steps to help protect you and your family this respiratory illness season. Staying up to date on routine vaccinations, getting your flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines for which you are eligible this fall, and following important public health measures, like hand washing and staying home when sick, will help protect you, your family, and others in our community.Dr. Piotr OglazaMedical Officer of Health, KFL&A Public Health <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Resources from KFL&A Public Health:</h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><a href="/documents/0983d037-6f06-44b6-9f61-3f215ae4dfde/2024_LetterfromMOHtoSchools_EN.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013102" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Letter from KFL&A Public Health, MOH to Families (PDF)</a></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><a href="/documents/bf1909e4-bfa3-4414-8757-b29c0adfe17d/OCFP_ActionsParentsCanTake.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014753" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">OCFP Actions Parents Can Take (PDF)</a></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><a href="/documents/d5033f74-910d-4a3b-b8ad-4c34f7c1acf4/2023-09-21_Respiratory%20Illness%20Factsheet_8.5x14_EN.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014946" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Respiratory Illness Factsheet (PDF)</a></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><a href="/documents/336f8f79-ff6a-4252-a1ce-76bbbbb5b139/2023-03-03_Immuniz-Through-Lifespan.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260428201346" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Immunization Through the Lifespan (PDF)</a></li></ul>

2024-10-23 15:12:26.133 +0000 UTC

Kindergarten Registration