District News

LDSB EQAO 2022-2023

<img src="/images/1903ce29-2cd5-57f0-8de7-08bcd346549a?fingerprint=ppb20251217013228" srcset="/thumbnails/1903ce29-2cd5-57f0-8de7-08bcd346549a?fingerprint=ppb20251217013228 450w, /images/1903ce29-2cd5-57f0-8de7-08bcd346549a?fingerprint=ppb20251217013228 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> The Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) has released its report on the 2022–2023 provincial assessments for publicly funded school boards in Ontario. Results for the Limestone District School Board are similar to provincial results with achievement across some levels continuing to improve, remaining stable or experiencing a decline. 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 Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test. The EQAO assessments have undergone significant changes, with the newest digital assessments offered entirely online through a digital platform for students over the past two years.  “We recognize the interruption in learning over the past 3 years has had an impact on students,” reports Krishna Burra, Director of Education. “We will continue to work together to close gaps in those areas of achievement, while paving the way for continued growth moving forward.” Grade 6 student achievement in Limestone continues to improve with 77% meeting the provincial standard in reading and 75% in writing – up 5% and 4% respectively compared to the previous five-year average. In math, there was a 2% increase compared to the previous five-year average with 37% meeting the standard over last year. “We are committed to focusing on making sure students are learning essential skills while also increasing student engagement to support students’ achievement.  Furthermore, we will continue using this data to support rich learning environments for every student,” says Director Burra. As an example, this year schools will continue to receive the support of Literacy coaches and Math Based Facilitators (elementary), and Instructional coaches (secondary). Schools have also received rich instructional resources to support evidence-based literacy and math programming K-12. As was the case provincially, Grade 3 student achievement saw a decrease in Limestone with 59% meeting the provincial standard in reading, 47% in writing, and 43% in math. “This new data shows a significant decline in math achievement over the last few years and that is concerning,” states Burra. “Central and school staff will dig deeper into the data for a better understanding, and this will be the focus in schools this year.” Of significant note, is the continued gains in achievement in Grade 6 reading, writing, and mathematics made by Limestone students with special education needs. “It is important to remember that results are a snapshot in time,” adds Director Burra, “Boards combine EQAO results with report card grades, classroom assessment, and student voice to provide a complete picture of student knowledge so we can move forward and implement strategies that will ensure all students are given the supports they need to succeed.” Over the coming weeks, principals will share school results with their school communities and will analyze the results in detail to identify next steps.   2023 Results  Primary Assessment (administered in Grade 3):   <table class="editor-table"> <tbody> <tr> <td> Area of Assessment </td> <td> LDSB </td> <td> Province </td> </tr> <tr> <td> Reading </td> <td> 59% </td> <td> 73% </td> </tr> <tr> <td> Writing </td> <td> 47% </td> <td> 66% </td> </tr> <tr> <td> Mathematics </td> <td> 43% </td> <td> 60% </td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   Junior Assessment (administered in Grade 6):   <table class="editor-table"> <tbody> <tr> <td> Area of Assessment </td> <td> LDSB </td> <td> Province </td> </tr> <tr> <td> Reading </td> <td> 77% </td> <td> 84% </td> </tr> <tr> <td> Writing </td> <td> 75% </td> <td> 84% </td> </tr> <tr> <td> Mathematics </td> <td> 37% </td> <td> 50% </td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   Grade 9 Mathematics Assessment: Results for the first year of Grade 9 de-streamed math in Limestone are slightly lower compared to the provincial results. For all participating students in the Grade 9 math assessment, 51% achieved the provincial standard in Limestone and 54% achieved the provincial standard provincially. Grade 9 math results improved 6% as compared to last year. Results for students with special education needs achieving the provincial standard are higher than the province at 31% for Limestone compared to 28% for the province. <table class="editor-table"> <tbody> <tr> <td> Grade 9 Mathematics Assessment </td> <td> LDSB </td> <td> Province </td> </tr> <tr> <td> Grade 9 Math Course </td> <td> 51% </td> <td> 54% </td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   “We have, and will continue, to make early literacy and math teaching and learning as well as gap closing a priority among our staff and students,” says Director Burra. “Early identification of students who are not meeting literacy and numeracy expectations continues to be a focus as we continue to support all students.” Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (administered in Grade 10):  This year, 92% of first-time eligible students wrote the test in Limestone, compared to 93% of students in the province. With this high participation rate, 79% of all students were successful, an increase of 3% compared to the 2021/22 school year and a higher rate overall compared to the five-year average success rate prior to the start of the pandemic.  OSSLT results for students with special education needs showed an improvement of 2% this year, with 59% of Limestone students being successful on the assessment.   <table class="editor-table"> <tbody> <tr> <td> Grade 10 OSSLT </td> <td> LDSB </td> <td> Province </td> </tr> <tr> <td> Participation rate </td> <td> 92% </td> <td> 93% </td> </tr> <tr> <td> Success rate </td> <td> 79% </td> <td> 85% </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Students who are not successful on their first attempt are eligible to rewrite the test the following year, as previously eligible students, or to meet the literacy requirement by taking the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Course. Students in all publicly funded schools in Ontario are required to write provincial assessments, administered by EQAO, a provincial body that tests students’ skills in literacy in Grades 3, 6, and 10 and math skills in Grades 3, 6, and 9 in relation to Ontario Curriculum expectations. Successful completion of the literacy requirement is one of the requirements to earn an Ontario Secondary School Diploma.

2023-10-19 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Website Graphic - Statement Violence in Middle East (300 x 200 px) (1)

LDSB Denounces All Acts of Hate

<img src="/images/e53e7c69-0477-5598-8590-381dbb322c4d?fingerprint=ppb20251217015113" srcset="/thumbnails/e53e7c69-0477-5598-8590-381dbb322c4d?fingerprint=ppb20251217015113 450w, /images/e53e7c69-0477-5598-8590-381dbb322c4d?fingerprint=ppb20251217015113 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px">On a daily basis, staff across Limestone support student achievement and well-being, and work hard to create inclusive spaces where every student feels valued, seen and included. Our work to support all students is critical. All forms of hatred and terrorism must be denounced. Limestone District School Board (LDSB) unequivocally condemns any acts of hate and remains committed to ensuring an equitable and inclusive school environment for all students and staff, and as a school board and community we must confront acts of hate in all formats. Harassment, discrimination, and hate have no place in Limestone. We support all students, staff and the greater community by embracing safe and caring school environments. Earlier this week, Minister of Education Stephen Lecce said: “As educators and staff, we ask you to be proactive, compassionate, and determined to stop any form of hate impacting students, such as antisemitism or Islamophobia in Ontario classrooms. We ask that you remind your school communities about the ongoing importance of creating safe spaces for the students and staff that enter each day.” Many events taking place globally increase feelings of distress for students locally. It is not uncommon for students, staff and families to experience a range of emotions and to have questions about challenging world events. Reactions will vary. With that in mind, we want to provide some resources that may be helpful during this time: <a href="https://smho-smso.ca/educators-and-student-support-staff/" title="School Mental Health Ontario">School Mental Health Ontario</a> <a href="https://caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/mentalhealth/disaster?fbclid=IwAR0r3yRJL54ye5Jh2AYPnOmQaxA6G4EQUpGn2fkMODrhOx7iWRcwbRwGyxs" title="Caring for Kids: Helping children and teens cope with stressful public events">Caring for Kids: Helping children and teens cope with stressful public events</a> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ParentinginKFLA/" title="KFL&A Public Health: Parenting in KFL&A">KFL&A Public Health: Parenting in KFL&A</a> <a href="/cms/One.aspx" title="Student Mental Health Resources">Student Mental Health Resources</a> To report a human rights incident, please use the LDSB Student Human Rights Incident and Complaints tool: <a href="https://bit.ly/LDSBHumanRightsReportingTool" title="LDSB Human Rights Reporting Tool">https://bit.ly/LDSBHumanRightsReportingTool</a>. Krishna Burra Director of Education

2023-10-12 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Ways to Help Students in Response to World Events

<img src="/images/33379e35-94d4-5c2d-928e-b237a6a131b4?fingerprint=ppb20251217013501" srcset="/thumbnails/33379e35-94d4-5c2d-928e-b237a6a131b4?fingerprint=ppb20251217013501 450w, /images/33379e35-94d4-5c2d-928e-b237a6a131b4?fingerprint=ppb20251217013501 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px">Many events taking place globally increase feelings of distress for students locally. World events, like war, accidents, natural disasters, mass violence, civil disorder, and conflict can impact individuals, classes, schools, communities and beyond, depending on their nature and scope. It is not uncommon for young people, and adults, to experience a range of emotions and to have questions about challenging world events. How students react to events will vary.  <div> </div> <div><a href="https://smho-smso.ca/educators-and-student-support-staff/how-to-help-students-after-tragic-events/" target="_blank" title="https://smho-smso.ca/educators-and-student-support-staff/how-to-help-students-after-tragic-events/">School Mental Health Ontario (SMHO)</a> offers a range of supports for students, families, and educators. The resources provided by SMHO may help you support your student at this time:</div> <div> </div> <div> <ul type="disc"> <li>Listen to understand, not necessarily respond.</li> <li>If your student is not focused on the conflict do not dwell on it. Try to avoid having detailed adult conversations regarding the conflict in front of younger children. However, be available to answer questions to the best of your ability. Young children may not be able to express themselves verbally. Pay attention to changes in their behaviour or social interactions.</li> <li>For some, limiting exposure to media coverage may be important. Images of a disaster or crisis can become overwhelming, especially if watched repetitively. Young children may not be able to distinguish between images on television and their personal reality. Older children may choose to watch the news—be available to discuss what they see and to help put it into perspective.</li> <li>Be aware of your own needs. Don’t ignore your own feelings of anxiety and concern or anger. Talking to friends, family members, and mental health counsellors can help. Let them know you are concerned. You will be better able to support them if you can express your own emotions in a productive manner.</li> </ul> <a href="https://caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/mentalhealth/disaster?fbclid=IwAR2nX-jBde_pHunEphd0onEAi28sTGzVkDcaqRKycnDVjp-fOP_3TJy4yW0" target="_blank" title="https://caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/mentalhealth/disaster?fbclid=IwAR2nX-jBde_pHunEphd0onEAi28sTGzVkDcaqRKycnDVjp-fOP_3TJy4yW0">Canadian Paediatric Society </a>has also posted tips for parents/caregivers to help support children and youth who may be experiencing feelings of anxiety, sadness, distress, isolation, or fear as a result of the Middle East conflict and associated social media images and videos circulating. <div>Our top priority remains to be the safety and well-being of our students. This is a responsibility we take very seriously. Additional resources are also available here<a href="https://bit.ly/3QaDt3K" target="_blank" title="https://bit.ly/3QaDt3K">https://bit.ly/3QaDt3K</a></div> <div>   </div> </div>

2023-10-11 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Website Graphic - Statement Violence in Middle East (300 x 200 px)

Statement Regarding Violence in the Middle East

<img src="/images/eeea6531-4c9e-5dba-a364-e8f8ef633ef9?fingerprint=ppb20251217015218" srcset="/thumbnails/eeea6531-4c9e-5dba-a364-e8f8ef633ef9?fingerprint=ppb20251217015218 450w, /images/eeea6531-4c9e-5dba-a364-e8f8ef633ef9?fingerprint=ppb20251217015218 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"><a href="https://bit.ly/3QaDt3K" target="_blank" title="LDSB Mental Health Supports">https://bit.ly/3QaDt3K</a>

2023-10-10 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Boardroom Briefs -Website - Sept 20 2023

Boardroom Briefs - Sept. 20, 2023

2023-10-02 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Truth & Reconciliation Week 2023

<img src="/images/39aa5137-2584-550f-8b62-d82f9bc5503d?fingerprint=ppb20251217013540" srcset="/thumbnails/39aa5137-2584-550f-8b62-d82f9bc5503d?fingerprint=ppb20251217013540 450w, /images/39aa5137-2584-550f-8b62-d82f9bc5503d?fingerprint=ppb20251217013540 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> <div> September 30 is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, as well as National Orange Shirt Day. This is a day to commemorate the residential school experience and honour the healing journey of the Survivors and their families. On this day, everyone is encouraged to learn more about the history of residential schools and engage in meaningful discussions about the ongoing and intergenerational effects of the residential school system and its legacy. LDSB schools will honour the day on September 29, as the 30th falls on a Saturday.   </div> <div> LDSB has a commitment to both teaching and learning the truth, and taking strides towards meaningful action that reflects living in right relations with the Indigenous community in Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox and Addington that exists beyond the day, and extends throughout the school year.    </div> <div> What can you do? Wear orange on September 30, read books written by Indigenous authors that acknowledge the residential school experience, read books that celebrate Indigenous beauty and brilliance, volunteer with Indigenous organizations and not-for-profits, support Indigenous artists, watch Indigenous films and documentaries, and attend Indigenous events that are open to the public in your community.    </div> <div> All LDSB schools, education centres and sites will lower both the Canadian, Every Child Matters, or Survivor flags to half-mast from sunrise on Friday, September 29 until Monday morning, October 2, 2023, in observance of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.   </div> <div> Public commemoration and continuous learning about the ongoing impacts of residential schools are vital actions that we must all take to live in right relations with each other on Indigenous lands. Please refrain from taking and sharing pictures of yourself or others smiling in your orange shirts. You are invited to take pictures of the ways that you are honouring this day within your classrooms or school communities.   </div> <div> We understand that some students, staff and families may wish to have additional support throughout this week. If you require immediate emotional assistance, you can call the National 24/7 MMIWG crisis line at 1-844-413-6649.   </div> <div> Mental health counselling & crisis support is available through the Hope for Wellness Hotline at 1-855-242-3310 or online. Counselling is available in Cree, Ojibway & Inuktitut, on request.    </div> <div> The IRSRHSP has a National Indian Residential Schools Crisis Line 1-866-925-4419 that provides immediate emotional support for former Indian Residential School students. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  </div>

2023-09-26 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Message from the Director - Sept. 19, 2023

<img src="/images/1f693d55-7b4f-5af2-963e-fb47a9865470?fingerprint=ppb20251217013311" srcset="/thumbnails/1f693d55-7b4f-5af2-963e-fb47a9865470?fingerprint=ppb20251217013311 450w, /images/1f693d55-7b4f-5af2-963e-fb47a9865470?fingerprint=ppb20251217013311 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> Dear Families, On a daily basis, staff across Limestone support student achievement and well-being, and work hard to create inclusive spaces where every student feels valued, seen and included. Our work to support all students is critical.  As you may be aware, there is a demonstration scheduled to take place in Kingston, and other parts of Ontario and Canada, on Wednesday, September 20. This has only come to our attention in the last few days. The protest group is in opposition to any school curriculum focused on gender identity or gender expression. In some past cases, these protests have fostered inflammatory, transphobic, and hateful behaviours against members of 2SLGBTQ+ communities. We also understand that counter-protests may take place. Our expectation is that all students will be in school tomorrow, focusing on learning. At this point, we have no reason to believe that protests will be at any school sites. It appears the protest will focus on making its way downtown, protesting in front of City Hall, and then potentially, in the late morning, moving to the LDSB Education Centre (Board Office) on Portsmouth Avenue.  Ahead of these planned demonstrations, we want to make it unequivocally clear that Limestone stands in support of all protected grounds of the Ontario Human Rights Code. The Ontario Human Rights Code is not a checklist where some grounds outweigh others, and the protected grounds include gender identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation. We stand with all students, staff, and families, in protecting all grounds under the Code. It is important to remember that the Code is the law in Ontario, and we have a moral and legal obligation to ensure that it is upheld. Harassment, discrimination, and hate have no place in Limestone. In our schools, we do not tell students who they should be, but welcome them as they are. We do this by focusing on their academic learning and fostering feelings of belonging as expected in the Ontario curriculum and the Ontario Human Rights Code.  “The Ontario Human Rights Code (Code) protects everyone from discrimination and harassment based on numerous grounds, including disability, gender identity and expression, race, and religion. In schools, following the Code means that every student has the right to a learning environment free from discrimination, harassment, or other expressions of hatred—an environment where everyone feels safe to learn, thrive, and be themselves.”  -OHRC, Statement on Anti-Hate, June 2023 We know that news of the planned demonstrations, and the demonstrations themselves, are particularly upsetting for some students, staff, and families. Additional support may be required by some students and families in response to this protest. I know school and system staff are ready to support where needed, as we do every day.  Students and/or families should reach out to their school Principal or another staff member at their school if they are in need of support.  Krishna Burra Director of Education Limestone District School Board

2023-09-20 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Raising Survivor Flag as expression of remembrance

<img src="/images/95b15b85-d48f-5577-ba69-7873dcb03bc7?fingerprint=ppb20251217014409" srcset="/thumbnails/95b15b85-d48f-5577-ba69-7873dcb03bc7?fingerprint=ppb20251217014409 450w, /images/95b15b85-d48f-5577-ba69-7873dcb03bc7?fingerprint=ppb20251217014409 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> <div> The Limestone District School Board (LDSB) has a commitment to both teaching and learning the truth, and taking strides towards meaningful action that reflects reconciliation and right relations with the Indigenous community in Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox and Addington.   </div> <div> For the month of September, LDSB schools and the education centre will display the Every Child Matters Flag or the <a href="https://nctr.ca/exhibits/survivors-flag/" target="_blank">Survivors’ Flag</a> as an expression of remembrance and to honour residential school Survivors and all the lives and communities continuing to be impacted by the residential school system in what is now known as Canada.   </div> <div> This year, National Orange Shirt Day and National Day for Truth and Reconciliation fall on Saturday, September 30, so schools will honour the day on Friday, September 29. We will be focused on Indigenous Education school-based opportunities that exist beyond the day, and extend throughout the school year, so that as a community, we are continually taking action to live in right relations with each other.  Everyone is encouraged to learn more about the history of residential schools and engage in meaningful discussions about the effects of residential schools, the ongoing impact, and the legacy they have left behind.  </div> <div>   </div> <div> For more information about LDSB Indigenous Education, please visit: <a href="/programming/indigenous_education" target="_blank">https://limestone.on.ca/programming/indigenous_education</a>   </div>

2023-09-13 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Welcome Back Message from the Director

<img src="/images/229f8ee1-3fae-574d-8061-ddc5ef691848?fingerprint=ppb20251217013324" srcset="/thumbnails/229f8ee1-3fae-574d-8061-ddc5ef691848?fingerprint=ppb20251217013324 450w, /images/229f8ee1-3fae-574d-8061-ddc5ef691848?fingerprint=ppb20251217013324 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/H8bCEyOE8HI?si=DD7pslfzG4ZoJxm0" title="YouTube video player"></iframe> <div> For a version of this message to translate into additional languages, please <a href="https://www.smore.com/ftxbu" target="_blank">click here</a>.    </div> <div>   </div> <div> Dear Families,  </div> <div>   </div> <div> Welcome back to the 2023-2024 school year! I hope you all found space for some holiday time this summer to enjoy with family and friends, and it has been a positive start to the new school year. I know my household has been a hive of activity this week as our three children returned to Limestone schools for the start of the year.    </div> <div>   </div> <div> The energy and excitement for the first week of school has been felt across the Limestone District School Board (LDSB). It is exciting to think of the knowledge, skills, friendships and memories students are about to gain.  </div> <div>   </div> <div> As we begin the school year, I would like to share some information with you:  </div> <div>   </div> <div> Updates to Reporting a Student Absence  </div> <div>   </div> <div> We have heard your requests, and we are pleased to now offer late arrival for all students (Kindergarten-Grade 12), and early departure for secondary students (Grades 9-12) as features in the SchoolMessenger attendance app.     </div> <div>   </div> <div> Now, when you report an absence for your student in SchoolMessenger, you have three options to choose from– full day, multiple day and late—with the additional option of early departure for secondary students.  </div> <div>   </div> <div> For more information and how-to instructions, please visit the <a href="/cms/one.aspx" target="_blank">Report a Student Absence</a> page on the LDSB website.  </div> <div>   </div> <div> Limestone Board Policy 13: Delegations & Submissions  </div> <div>   </div> <div> LDSB Trustees are seeking feedback on changes and additions to Policy 13: Delegations and Submissions. These changes have already been adopted as an interim policy pending public feedback.    Public input will be accepted until Thursday, September 21 with the goal of bringing feedback to the October 4, 2023, Education, Policy and Operations Committee meeting.      There are significant additions to section 1.9.0 to provide context and details on why a delegation presentation may be declined or where there are other opportunities for delegates to provide input to the Board.         </div> <div> To view the proposed changes and to provide your input/feedback, please visit the <a href="/news/what_s_new/policy_13_delegations___submissions" target="_blank">Policy 13: Delegations & Submissions</a> page on the LDSB website.  </div> <div>   </div> <div> Yesterday, Education Minister Stephen Lecce shared a letter for parents/guardians of students in Ontario. To read, please visit the <a href="https://www.ontario.ca/page/letter-ontarios-parents-minister-education" target="_blank">Ministry website</a>.  </div> <div>   </div> <div> I wish you a wonderful school year, and I look forward to connecting with you in the coming days, weeks, and months.  </div> <div>   </div> <div> All the very best,  </div> <div>   </div> <div> Krishna Burra  </div> <div> Director of Education  </div>

2023-09-07 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Policy 13 Delegations & Submissions

<img src="/images/f5140169-333d-5f6b-8f82-6e177ce9054c?fingerprint=ppb20251217015242" srcset="/thumbnails/f5140169-333d-5f6b-8f82-6e177ce9054c?fingerprint=ppb20251217015242 450w, /images/f5140169-333d-5f6b-8f82-6e177ce9054c?fingerprint=ppb20251217015242 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> <div> Trustees of the Limestone District School Board are seeking feedback on changes and additions to Policy 13: Delegations and Submissions.    Public input will be accepted until Friday, October 27, 2023.     There are significant additions to section 1.9.0. to provide context and details on why a delegation presentation may be declined or where there are other opportunities for delegates to provide input to the Board.      The edits to the policy provide greater clarity regarding process and timing and provide parameters for what information publicly comes forward as Delegations and Submissions.     <a class="editor-link" href="/documents/e574098e-8d95-5f24-8958-6276c4618a01?fingerprint=ppb20251217015125" target="_blank"> LDSB Policy 13: Delegations and Submissions with proposed changes </a><a class="editor-link" href="/documents/2c08b127-6b34-5468-8312-2fc727e57af7?fingerprint=20260525T0545Z" target="_blank"> </a>  </div> <div> <a href="https://forms.office.com/r/XdpB8GfEKa" target="_blank" title="Feedback form for Policy 13">Public Input/Feedback Form - Policy 13: Delegations and Submissions</a>  </div>

2023-09-06 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Welcome to 2023 new school year 300 x 200 (1)

Welcome to a new school year

The new school year is about to begin, and we are excited to welcome new and returning students and families to what we hope is a year of discovery and fulfillment.  Families of kindergarten-aged students or families new to the area can register their students to Limestone by completing the <a href="/cms/One.aspx" target="_blank" title="new student registration webpage" class="editor-link">online registration form</a>. All school offices reopen Monday August 28 to assist students. Not sure where to enroll? <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/school-finder" rel="noreferrer" title="map of LDSB schools" class="editor-link">Find a map of our schools here</a> Students who are returning to their registered schools are not required to register again. Teacher and class assignments will be shared once schools are reopened.  Kindergarten Students who are turning four or five by the end of December are eligible for Limestone's Kindergarten program, offered in both English and French. Visit the <a href="/cms/One.aspx" target="_blank" title="link to Kindergarten webpage" class="editor-link">Kindergarten page</a> to learn more. LDSB schools will be offering a staggered start to all new Junior Kindergarten students during Tuesday September 5 through Thursday September 7, 2023. On Friday, September 8, all JK students will attend. Schools will be in contact with all families next week (August 28) regarding the scheduled day for your new JK student. At Limestone, our staff and trustees are committed to ensuring the highest standard of education in a safe and inclusive environment that promotes achievement, equity and wellbeing. We recognize that schools play an essential role in the promotion of mental health and as such, have made a commitment to putting student well-being first. Limestone has developed a comprehensive <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=%2FUserFiles%2FServers%2FServer_352698%2FFile%2FStudents%2FHealth%2520%26%2520Wellness%2F2021-2024%2520MHSU%2520Strategy.pdf&data=05%7C01%7Cdouglasja%40limestone.on.ca%7Cb09821f6006644abac6708dba406d427%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638284121448010433%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=mpBKWX%2BEz29FJ%2Bfyy2ebVacaU8BeBYK6L194CXLKC3E%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" class="editor-link">Mental Health and Substance Use Strategy</a> to help promote mental health, identify issues early, reduce stigma, and provide pathways to both board and community-based supports for students. In-school mental health and substance use support staff are available for students to access. We embrace our important role in helping to shape the learners of today into the leaders of tomorrow. Limestone schools are open the week of August 28 for registration, and assistance. Classes begin Tuesday, September 5, 2023. Welcome to the new school year!

2023-08-24 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Back to School 2023: What elementary students need for first day

<img src="/images/73123808-9304-5126-afe4-afcf8f41f563?fingerprint=ppb20251217014056" srcset="/thumbnails/73123808-9304-5126-afe4-afcf8f41f563?fingerprint=ppb20251217014056 450w, /images/73123808-9304-5126-afe4-afcf8f41f563?fingerprint=ppb20251217014056 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> We hope everyone is having a safe and healthy summer and has been able to spend time with family and friends. As Limestone District School Board finalizes our school readiness to welcome back students on Tuesday, September 5, 2023, we know families are busy preparing for the new school year as well. Here is a suggested list of what elementary students need to prepare to bring on their first day of school: Kindergarten <ul> <li>A full-sized backpack/knapsack to carry everything they will need to pack up everyday.</li> <li>An insulated lunch bag, and a water bottle with spout.</li> <li>A peanut free/nut free lunch and snacks.</li> <li>Indoor and outdoor shoes they can put on and off themselves (e.g., Velcro or slip on)</li> <li>Comfortable clothes and a complete change of clothes in a Ziploc bag, just in case.</li> <li>Everything labelled with your child’s name.</li> <li>Schools will supply all school supplies such as pens, pencils, markers, crayons, erasers, glue sticks, etc.</li> </ul>LDSB schools will be offering a staggered start to all new Junior Kindergarten students during Tuesday September 5 through Thursday September 7, 2023. On Friday, September 8, all JK students will attend.  Schools will be in contact with all caregivers during the last week of August regarding the scheduled day for each new JK student (Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday).  Elementary Students <ul> <li>A full-sized backpack/knapsack to carry everything they will need to pack up everyday.</li> <li>An insulated lunch bag with a peanut free/nut free lunch and snacks and a water bottle.</li> <li>Indoor and outdoor shoes.</li> <li>Optional for Grade 1 to 8 – Any personal school supplies, such as: pens, pencils, markers, crayons, eraser, glue stick in a pencil case or box. We will also supply these to students when needed.</li> </ul>

2023-08-23 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

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