District News

Labour Update - Friday, November 4, 2022

<img src="/images/a90720c0-3bc4-578c-b224-2a6d55ab1547?fingerprint=ppb20251217014559" srcset="/thumbnails/a90720c0-3bc4-578c-b224-2a6d55ab1547?fingerprint=ppb20251217014559 450w, /images/a90720c0-3bc4-578c-b224-2a6d55ab1547?fingerprint=ppb20251217014559 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> Dear Families, It was with a very heavy heart that we had to close all Limestone schools today for in-person learning. I appreciate how stressful this is for the students, staff, and families in Limestone. Currently, it appears a full withdrawal of services by CUPE staff will extend into the start of next week at minimum. Given these circumstances, we anticipate LDSB schools and buildings will remain closed to students and the public for Monday, November 7. CUPE employees provide critical services in LDSB schools, and we cannot safely operate without those services. As a result, we will have to continue with teachers providing asynchronous learning tasks through pre-established methods like an online platform or e-mail. As we move into next week, we will continue to action plans for distribution of resources, devices, and other supplies to further support learning. We understand labour disruptions may create worries and uncertainty for students, families, and staff. We want to assure you that we will continue to communicate regularly with families to ensure that you have as much information as possible, so that you can make informed decisions and undertake contingency planning. Families will receive an update by Communicate e-mail on Sunday evening confirming whether schools remain closed to students and the public. Limestone had hoped for a fair and mutually agreeable, negotiated settlement.  We hope that the current impasse is resolved soon, and the disruption to in-person learning and regular operations is short in duration. As we collectively navigate these unchartered waters during this current labour impasse, I appreciate your patience and understanding. Thank you, Krishna Burra Director of Education Other LDSB Labour Updates: <a href="/news/news_releases/c_u_p_e_labour_update_-_nov__3" target="_blank" title="CUPE Labour Update Nov. 3">CUPE Labour Update Nov. 3</a> <a href="/cms/One.aspx" target="_blank" title="CUPE Job Action Update Nov. 2">CUPE Labour Update Nov. 2</a> <a href="/news/news_releases/c_u_p_e_labour_update_-_potential_strike_nov__4" target="_blank" title="CUPE Job Action Update Nov. 1">CUPE Labour Update Nov. 1</a> <a href="/cms/One.aspx" target="_blank" title="CUPE Job Action - Potential Strike Nov. 4">CUPE Labour Update Oct. 31 - Potential Strike Nov. 4</a>  <a href="/news/news_releases/c_u_p_e_labour_update_oct__24" target="_blank" title="CUPE Labour Update Oct. 24">CUPE Labour Update Oct. 24</a>

2022-11-04 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

2021-2022 Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) Provincial Assessment Results

2021-2022 EQAO Provincial Assessment Results

<img src="/images/77bda117-084b-5c06-ae1d-621f90c7fa8c?fingerprint=ppb20251217014110" srcset="/thumbnails/77bda117-084b-5c06-ae1d-621f90c7fa8c?fingerprint=ppb20251217014110 450w, /images/77bda117-084b-5c06-ae1d-621f90c7fa8c?fingerprint=ppb20251217014110 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> <div> The Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) has released reports on the 2021–2022 provincial assessments for each publicly funded school board in Ontario. Results for the Limestone District School Board (LDSB) are similar to provincial results with achievement across some levels continuing to improve or remaining stable.   </div> <div> 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 (OSSLT). The EQAO assessments have undergone significant changes, with the newest digital assessments offered entirely online through a digital platform for students as opposed to being offered on paper as they have in the past. The changes in assessment structure and administration pose a challenge for comparative analysis with historical EQAO data.   </div> <div> We recognize that the COVID-19 pandemic and related learning, socio-emotional and well-being impacts due to school year disruptions may have influenced students’ performance on the 2021-2022 EQAO assessments. “Despite the ongoing interruption in learning over the past 3 years, Limestone students have displayed an improvement in literacy and math, as compared to the previous 4-year trend,” reports Krishna Burra, Director of Education. “The steady results, despite the challenges related to the pandemic, pave the way for continued growth moving forward.”   </div> <div> Grade 6 student achievement in Limestone continues to improve with 81% meeting the provincial standard in reading and 76% in writing – up 7% and 6% respectively compared to the four-year averages prior to the pandemic. In math, there was a 4% increase compared to the previous four-year average with 38% meeting the standard over last year.    </div> <div> “We are pleased to see improved student engagement and achievement and we will continue using this data to support rich learning environments for every student,” says Director Burra.   </div> <div> Grade 3 student achievement in Limestone continues to improve with 68% meeting the provincial standard in reading and 49% in math. In writing, the Grade 3 student achievement was slightly lower than the four-year average prior to the pandemic at 55%. Of significant note, is the continued gains in achievement in Grade 3 reading, and Grade 3 and 6 writing and mathematics made by Limestone students with special needs.   </div> <div> “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. We must remain focused and prioritize learning for all students to see improved outcomes.”   </div> <div>   </div> <div> 2022 Highlights  </div> <div>   </div> <div> Primary Assessment (Administered in Grade 3):   </div> <div> <table class="editor-table"> <tbody> <tr> <td>Area of Assessment</td> <td>LDSB</td> <td>Province</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Reading </td> <td>68% </td> <td>74%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Writing </td> <td>55%</td> <td>65%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Mathematics  </td> <td>49%</td> <td>59%</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div> Junior Assessment (Administered in Grade 6):   </div> <div> <table class="editor-table"> <tbody> <tr> <td>Area of Assessment</td> <td>LDSB</td> <td>Province</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Reading </td> <td>81%</td> <td>85%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Writing </td> <td>76%</td> <td>84%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Mathematics </td> <td>38%</td> <td>47%</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> <div>   </div> <div> Grade 9 Mathematics Assessment:  </div> <div> Results for the first year of Grade 9 de-streamed math in Limestone are similar to the provincial results. For all participating students in the Grade 9 math assessment, 46% achieved the provincial standard in Limestone and 52% achieved the provincial standard provincially. Results for students with special education needs achieving the provincial standard are 21% for Limestone and 26% 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>46%</td> <td>52%</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> <div>   </div> <div> “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.”   </div> <div> Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT) (Administered in Grade 10):  </div> <div> This year, 94% of first-time eligible Limestone students wrote the test, compared to 90% of the overall eligible students in the province. Limestone continues to prioritize providing as many students as possible with the opportunity to attempt the OSSLT in grade 10 to ensure flexibility for individual students in their given pathways in grade 11 and 12. With this high participation rate, 76% of all students were successful, an increase of 3% compared to the 2018-2019 school year and a higher rate overall compared to the five-year average success rate prior to the start of the pandemic.  </div> <div>   </div> <div> OSSLT results for students with special education needs showed an improvement of 12% this year, with 57% of Limestone students being successful on the assessment, a slightly higher rate than the province for students with special education needs.    </div> <div> <table class="editor-table"> <tbody> <tr> <td>Grade 10 OSSLT</td> <td>LDSB</td> <td>Province</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Participation Rate </td> <td>94%</td> <td>90%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Success Rate </td> <td>76%</td> <td>82%</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> <div>   </div> <div> 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.    </div> <div> 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.   </div> <div> Limestone District School Board is committed to offering support and strategies for students and families to close achievement gaps and improve educational outcomes for all students.   </div> <div> Instructional coaches have been introduced across elementary schools this school year to support educators in increasing awareness of and adoption of structured literacy practices that establish the foundation of learning how to read, and gap closing practices that support the fluency and the fundamentals in Math. Secondary schools also have instructional coaches this year to support educators with the implementation of Universal Design for Learning and high-yield instructional strategies that support all students in closing achievement gaps and raising the level of achievement across all de-streamed Grade 9 courses.   </div> <div> In addition to job-embedded coaching, Limestone has committed to supporting educators and administrators to deepen their understanding of early literacy instruction through professional learning sessions. For instance, over 400 educators chose to engage in asynchronous literacy courses that were funded by Limestone District School Board. Several professional learning sessions focused on early literacy and numeracy skills, are being offered to educational staff. Similarly, all elementary administrators are currently engaging in a 6-part learning series focused on leading structured literacy implementation.   </div> <div> LDSB is offering several tutoring opportunities and learning resources to students, including LDSB afterschool drop-in virtual tutoring sessions for students in Grade 1 to 6 to build literacy skills using phonological awareness and phonics activities, as well as homework help for students in Grade 7 to 10. There are also several <a href="/cms/One.aspx" target="_blank">third-party tutoring and learning resources available online to support students and families.</a>   </div> <div> Over the coming weeks, principals will share school results with their school communities and will analyze the results in detail to identify next steps.  </div>

2022-11-02 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Equity Matters - October 2022

<img src="/images/b485c3ed-4664-5fa4-b3ee-3eca6e96f03a?fingerprint=ppb20251217014701" srcset="/thumbnails/b485c3ed-4664-5fa4-b3ee-3eca6e96f03a?fingerprint=ppb20251217014701 450w, /images/b485c3ed-4664-5fa4-b3ee-3eca6e96f03a?fingerprint=ppb20251217014701 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px">With the intention of cultivating spaces where everyone can not only see that their lived experiences and identity are valued and celebrated, but also feel that same inclusiveness, October provides so many opportunities to deepen collective understanding and appreciation for each other, in meaningful and connective ways. Here is October's Equity Matters:<iframe src="https://www.smore.com/xymej-equity-matters?embed=1" title="Equity Matters"></iframe>

2022-10-31 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Grandmother Laurel Claus-Johnson

<img src="/images/9e1bd48e-4617-5551-ba3c-d3d6d8b07607?fingerprint=ppb20251217014448" srcset="/thumbnails/9e1bd48e-4617-5551-ba3c-d3d6d8b07607?fingerprint=ppb20251217014448 450w, /images/9e1bd48e-4617-5551-ba3c-d3d6d8b07607?fingerprint=ppb20251217014448 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> With the permission of the family, the Limestone District School Board extends its condolences to the family of Grandmother Laurel Claus-Johnson and the community who loved her dearly. Grandmother Laurel was a valued and respected member of the LDSB who contributed over many decades to Indigenous initiatives and committees that advocate and care for all Indigenous students. We are grateful to have known and learned from her and to have been guided by her wisdom for so long. Her strong, trail blazing, and determined presence will be missed but her impact and legacy will continue to live on for generations in students and staff across LDSB.

2022-10-03 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Equity Matters - Sept. 2022

<img src="/images/b485c3ed-4664-5fa4-b3ee-3eca6e96f03a?fingerprint=ppb20251217014701" srcset="/thumbnails/b485c3ed-4664-5fa4-b3ee-3eca6e96f03a?fingerprint=ppb20251217014701 450w, /images/b485c3ed-4664-5fa4-b3ee-3eca6e96f03a?fingerprint=ppb20251217014701 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px">This issue is dedicated to exploring how LDSB can collectively deepen our understanding and commitment to cultivating inclusive spaces where everyone feels valued and respected. Understandably, learning spaces are buzzing with an eagerness to jump into new projects connected to this 2022-2023 academic year. However, within this refreshed start, there is also an additional opportunity to reconnect with, and learn about, each other in meaningful, collaborative ways. <iframe src="https://www.smore.com/pcgw9-equity-matters?embed=1" title="Equity Matters"></iframe>

2022-09-30 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

National Day of Truth and Reconciliation

<img src="/images/10b7393a-cd17-52a1-99ff-9bc8f540ddcf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013147" srcset="/thumbnails/10b7393a-cd17-52a1-99ff-9bc8f540ddcf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013147 450w, /images/10b7393a-cd17-52a1-99ff-9bc8f540ddcf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013147 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px">All LDSB schools, education centres and sites will lower their flags to half-mast for the remainder of this week until sunset on Friday, September 30, in observance of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. On September 26, the Limestone District School Board made the decision to hang the Every Child Matters flag below the Canadian flag at the Board Office at 220 Portsmouth Avenue. It was brought to the attention of the Indigenous Education Team that the visual of the Canadian flag above the Every Child Matters flag was harmful, upsetting, and oppressive to Indigenous members of the Kingston and surrounding communities and to survivors of the residential school system. We recognize that the Canadian flag is a symbol of colonization and that many individuals have a complex relationship with what is now known as Canada and the legacy that the Canadian flag holds.  The LDSB Senior Leadership, Krishna Burra (Director of Education), Scot Gillam (Superintendent of Indigenous Education), and Liv Rondeau (Vice-Principal of Indigenous Education and Reconciliation Lead) recognize that this was done with well-meaning intentions but that the impacts were negatively felt by members of the Indigenous community.  We want to extend our sincerest apologies for this. We understand that intent and impact are two different things.  We would also like to acknowledge the social media post that went out using the words, ‘lost children’ when referring to the genocide of Indigenous children. As a board we know better, and we can do better. LDSB is committed to both teaching and learning the truth and taking strides towards meaningful action that reflects reconciliation. As educators, we are dedicated to being on a continuous learning journey. Under the guidance and recommendations of the Indigenous Education Advisory Committee (IEAC) we have taken the appropriate action to remove the Every Child Matters flag from the flagpole at 220 Portsmouth Avenue and to fly the Canadian flag at half-mast. We will be hanging the Every Child Matters flag in the window of the Board Office where it can be a visible representation of our continued commitment to Indigenous Education, truth and reconciliation, and our support and care for the Indigenous members of the Kingston and surrounding communities.  All schools in the LDSB have been instructed to remove the Every Child Matters flag if it is flying under the Canadian flag. If schools have two flag poles, they have been asked to fly the Every Child Matters flag on a separate pole. If there is only one flagpole, schools are to take down the Every Child Matters flag and hang it in a visible space in their learning communities. We have taken this action on the recommendations of the IEAC and in the understanding that it is the right thing to do. We are thankful to the Indigenous community members for expressing their concerns surrounding the original flying of the Every Child Matters flag and the accompanied social media post.  On the cusp of September 30th, Orange Shirt Day and the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, we understand that this added additional weight to those already navigating a difficult and emotional time. We have been fortunate to have a community who is dedicated to working together and we are happy that we can rectify this situation in order to move forward in a good way.

2022-09-26 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

2021-2022 Facilities Services Capital Projects

<img src="/images/0b2533a0-be69-59c2-bc0f-74906b85bcce?fingerprint=ppb20251217013102" srcset="/thumbnails/0b2533a0-be69-59c2-bc0f-74906b85bcce?fingerprint=ppb20251217013102 450w, /images/0b2533a0-be69-59c2-bc0f-74906b85bcce?fingerprint=ppb20251217013102 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> Over the 2021-2022 school year, the Limestone District School Board Facilities Services Maintenance and Construction teams worked on 223 projects at Limestone schools. With almost $20.9 million budgeted for capital projects through the School Condition and School Renewal funding, the active capital projects were completed, or are being finished at 50 schools across district. Highlights of the projects include: Schools with Capitol Projects Under the Building Envelope (Windows/Roofing/Cladding): Bayridge Public School, W.J. Holsgrove Public School, Elginburg Public School, Clarendon Central Public School, R.G. Sinclair Public School, Prince Charles Public School, Odessa Public School, J.G. Simcoe Public School, La Salle Secondary, Trudell Public School, Rideau Public School, Rideau Heights Public School, and Polson Park Public School. Clarendon Central Public School had PVC Membrane Roofing installed. This project added less weight to the roof, is more energy efficient (known as a cool roof), is environmentally friendly as it is recyclable, and is easily replaced as it is much less disruptive to the school occupants. <img src="/images/ed17aac1-f659-5b85-8d71-4a9f61a7f005?fingerprint=ppb20251217015205" srcset="/thumbnails/ed17aac1-f659-5b85-8d71-4a9f61a7f005?fingerprint=ppb20251217015205 450w, /images/ed17aac1-f659-5b85-8d71-4a9f61a7f005?fingerprint=ppb20251217015205 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> Schools with Capitol Projects Under the Mechanical Projects: Ernestown Secondary School, Granite Ridge Education Centre, The Prince Charles Public School, J.R. Henderson Public School, Odessa Public School, Polson Park Public School, Centreville Public School, Central Public School, and Fairfield Elementary School. Centreville Public School had the building’s HVAC system replaced which included a boiler replacement, fuel conversion from oil to propane, addition of classroom ventilation units which provide cooling, heating, ventilation to each classroom, reducing use of the main heating plant in the spring and fall shoulder seasons, as well as an electrical upgrade. <img src="/images/0a97bda6-c83d-5444-9747-a0d7e0b3bbb5?fingerprint=ppb20251217013102" srcset="/thumbnails/0a97bda6-c83d-5444-9747-a0d7e0b3bbb5?fingerprint=ppb20251217013102 450w, /images/0a97bda6-c83d-5444-9747-a0d7e0b3bbb5?fingerprint=ppb20251217013102 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> Schools with Capitol Projects Under Interior Improvements: Several schools had interior improvements completed including, but not limited to replacement of worn-out components, improved accessibility for students, staff, and families, improvements to classroom experiences, and to support program changes and school needs, as identified in their Facility Improvement Plans. Perth Road Public School had a renovation project that provides a better layout, controls noise, and improves accessibility by adding contrasting nosing and tactile warning strips to open stairs. <img src="/images/5ce0d68a-a7c6-5fb6-9243-c799329c01c0?fingerprint=ppb20251217013844" srcset="/thumbnails/5ce0d68a-a7c6-5fb6-9243-c799329c01c0?fingerprint=ppb20251217013844 450w, /images/5ce0d68a-a7c6-5fb6-9243-c799329c01c0?fingerprint=ppb20251217013844 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> Central Public School’s gymnasium floor was redone, as well as the ceiling and lighting. <img src="/images/9ad5331f-7e06-5daf-aa84-07ffe61d84a7?fingerprint=ppb20251217014435" srcset="/thumbnails/9ad5331f-7e06-5daf-aa84-07ffe61d84a7?fingerprint=ppb20251217014435 450w, /images/9ad5331f-7e06-5daf-aa84-07ffe61d84a7?fingerprint=ppb20251217014435 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> Katarokwi Learning Centre moved to the Limestone Education Centre to a newly renovated learning kitchen space. <img src="/images/0e638ae9-46d9-5efc-8d5e-39bd2376897e?fingerprint=ppb20251217013130" srcset="/thumbnails/0e638ae9-46d9-5efc-8d5e-39bd2376897e?fingerprint=ppb20251217013130 450w, /images/0e638ae9-46d9-5efc-8d5e-39bd2376897e?fingerprint=ppb20251217013130 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> Routine summer clean up work occurred across all Limestone sites throughout the summer months, and our Board is very thankful to the Operations Team, including both supervisors and school custodians who complete deep cleaning and organizing every summer, so our schools are ready to welcome students and staff returning in the fall. <img src="/images/2a7645d9-230b-549b-b1a9-211f05a1bea8?fingerprint=ppb20251217013406" srcset="/thumbnails/2a7645d9-230b-549b-b1a9-211f05a1bea8?fingerprint=ppb20251217013406 450w, /images/2a7645d9-230b-549b-b1a9-211f05a1bea8?fingerprint=ppb20251217013406 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> Site projects were completed at several schools, including Selby Public School, Tamworth Public School, Newburg Public School, L.C.V.I, Cataraqui Woods Elementary School, North Addington Education Centre, Bayridge Public School, Napanee District Secondary School, Prince Charlies Public School, Lancaster Public School, Ecole Maple Elementary School, J.R. Henderson Public School, Polson Park Public School, Centennial Public School, and Granite Ridge Education Centre. Many of the projects were years into the planning process, and addressed storm water management, drainage, and grading issues, replacement of worn-out components, as well as a major focus on improved accessibility (removing any obstacles and improving safety for everyone). While site improvements are underway, the Facilities Team takes the opportunity to enhance the school and student use of the outdoors, such as adding outdoor classrooms, improving playground surfaces, and walkways. <img src="/images/08f7e5c4-3be7-5bdd-bdeb-a37f3e5fca22?fingerprint=ppb20251217013050" srcset="/thumbnails/08f7e5c4-3be7-5bdd-bdeb-a37f3e5fca22?fingerprint=ppb20251217013050 450w, /images/08f7e5c4-3be7-5bdd-bdeb-a37f3e5fca22?fingerprint=ppb20251217013050 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> <img src="/images/191fdde1-9ebf-5bd7-a2c0-c5e5567abdc0?fingerprint=ppb20251217013228" srcset="/thumbnails/191fdde1-9ebf-5bd7-a2c0-c5e5567abdc0?fingerprint=ppb20251217013228 450w, /images/191fdde1-9ebf-5bd7-a2c0-c5e5567abdc0?fingerprint=ppb20251217013228 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> <img src="/images/54f869e6-026f-5be1-9f8e-dd95af547dc2?fingerprint=ppb20251217013803" srcset="/thumbnails/54f869e6-026f-5be1-9f8e-dd95af547dc2?fingerprint=ppb20251217013803 450w, /images/54f869e6-026f-5be1-9f8e-dd95af547dc2?fingerprint=ppb20251217013803 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> A big thank you to the entire Facilities Services Team who worked so hard over the last number of months to complete all these updates and projects at schools across Limestone. These projects wouldn’t be possible or successful without the collaboration, cooperation, and patience from school staff and administrators. Planning is already underway for the 2022-2023 school year, and we are very excited for what is to come.

2022-09-26 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Boardroom Briefs: September 21, 2022

<img src="/images/a9256e62-fc34-5e37-b720-dbe14f6921d9?fingerprint=ppb20251217014559" srcset="/thumbnails/a9256e62-fc34-5e37-b720-dbe14f6921d9?fingerprint=ppb20251217014559 450w, /images/a9256e62-fc34-5e37-b720-dbe14f6921d9?fingerprint=ppb20251217014559 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px">Boardroom Briefs is now available for the Regular Meeting of September 21, 2022. 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.  These briefs do not serve as the official record of the meeting. Please refer to Board minutes which are approved at the next regular meeting. Meeting agendas are available on the <a href="/trustees/board_committees___meetings/board_meetings" title="web link to Board Minutes and Agendas">website</a>.<iframe src="https://www.smore.com/0n1km-boardroom-briefs?embed=1" title="Boardroom Briefs"></iframe>

2022-09-22 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

2022-2023-Message from the Director - Whats New (1)

A Message from the Director - September 15, 2022

<img src="/images/f4ad85ed-1dca-5d84-9470-922a6097d6c3?fingerprint=ppb20251217015242" srcset="/thumbnails/f4ad85ed-1dca-5d84-9470-922a6097d6c3?fingerprint=ppb20251217015242 450w, /images/f4ad85ed-1dca-5d84-9470-922a6097d6c3?fingerprint=ppb20251217015242 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> Dear Families, I hope you and your family have had a very positive start to the 2022-2023 school year in Limestone. Preliminary enrollment numbers are showing growth within the Limestone community with an increase in both elementary and secondary students. It has been wonderful to have students back in schools and to see various activities like sports, clubs, field trips, and great learning already underway helping to support the overall Limestone student experience. A reminder for students, staff, and visitors in our schools to continue to self-screen every day before attending school using the <a href="https://covid-19.ontario.ca/school-screening/">COVID-19 school and childcare screening tool</a>. Staff and students should stay home when sick. It should be noted that for a total of 10-days after the start of any illness symptom or positive Rapid Antigen Test (RAT), students and staff are expected to wear a well-fitted mask in all public settings (including schools and childcare, unless under two years old), and avoid non-essential activities where mask removal is necessary. As a reminder, Public Health continues to encourage masking in indoor, congregate settings like schools. We continue to work very closely with KFL&A Public Health as it relates to health and safety and absences due to illness. KFL&A Public Health has created a helpful <a class="editor-link" href="/documents/43b03d80-92a7-546d-a28f-18944c96cd98?fingerprint=20260525T0545Z" target="_blank"> resource for school and childcare screening for families to use </a>. If COVID-19 protocols change, they will be communicated directly with families and updated on <a href="/cms/One.aspx">Limestone’s COVID-19 Protocol Update webpage</a>. School ventilation continues to be a priority for both the province as well as for Limestone. School ventilation systems in all Limestone schools are regularly inspected to ensure they are in good working order and are meeting provincial requirements. An outline of our <a href="/board/ventilation">multi-pronged ventilation strategy is available on our website</a>, which includes the <a class="editor-link" href="/documents/2438c6eb-96ea-5187-a7a0-e5123be6b99e?fingerprint=ppb20251217013337" target="_blank"> September 2022 Limestone District School Board Ventilation Report </a>. The Limestone District School Board expresses our sincere condolences to King Charles III, the Royal Family, the people of the United Kingdom, and Canada on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-serving British monarch and Canadian Head of State. Canadian flags at all Limestone schools, education centres, and the Board office have been flying at half-mast since the Queen’s death on September 8, 2022. Flags will remain at half-mast until sunset (end of day) on Tuesday, September 20, 2022. To align with the provincially declared day of mourning and moment of silence to honour the Queen, all schools will recognize a moment of silence around 1:00 p.m. on Monday, September 19, 2022. It should be noted that Limestone honours everyone’s individual experiences and emotions surrounding the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. We recognize that for some individuals, families, and communities, their experiences and relationships with the British monarchy may be very different and are mindful of how conversations surrounding the Queen’s passing impacts people differently and to be respectful of these differences.  I hope everyone is enjoying the start of the fall term/semester and the ongoing good weather, and I am looking forward to continuing to see student learning and success within the Limestone community throughout the 2022-2023 school year. Thank you, Krishna Burra Director of Education

2022-09-15 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Short Hold and Secure as precautionary measure

<img src="/images/5b272ef0-3109-5005-b277-ea5984bab83f?fingerprint=ppb20251217013831" srcset="/thumbnails/5b272ef0-3109-5005-b277-ea5984bab83f?fingerprint=ppb20251217013831 450w, /images/5b272ef0-3109-5005-b277-ea5984bab83f?fingerprint=ppb20251217013831 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px">Schools in the LCVI family of schools were placed in a Hold and Secure by Kingston Police in response to an incident in the vicinity of the schools September 8, 2022. At no time was there a threat directed toward students, staff, or schools.  LCVI, Katarokwi Learning Centre, Lord Strathcona, Polson Park, and Centennial Public Schools were placed into Hold and Secure for approximately 30 minutes. This stemmed from an altercation between two people at the Kingston Centre.  A <a href="/board/emergency_protocols" target="_blank" title="Emergency Protocols">Hold and Secure</a> is instituted as a precautionary measure when there is a potential threat to school safety in the vicinity of schools.  Normal operations continue inside of schools, but exterior doors are locked and students/staff are brought inside the building.   At approximately 2:15 p.m. the Hold and Secure was lifted by Kingston Police.

2022-09-08 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

2022-2023-Website-Whats New Thumbnails (1)

Updates to the School & Child Care Screening Tool

<img src="/images/252d9139-d0c7-553f-bfc6-bd6811463c93?fingerprint=ppb20251217013337" srcset="/thumbnails/252d9139-d0c7-553f-bfc6-bd6811463c93?fingerprint=ppb20251217013337 450w, /images/252d9139-d0c7-553f-bfc6-bd6811463c93?fingerprint=ppb20251217013337 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> Dear Families, Yesterday, the Ministry of Health and the Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health announced updates to the <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftrack.spe.schoolmessenger.com%2Ff%2Fa%2FxCRH4wuvBWH5TfxwxNM-CQ~~%2FAAAAAQA~%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&data=05%7C01%7Ccrothersm%40limestone.on.ca%7C2fcf0f6eaf4e43f01d0808da8c556b8e%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C637976595770731008%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=p%2B%2FaG8vkpihgcE3lzabbtZ0TzlYR98BZi5hRTOLTOmU%3D&reserved=0">School and Child Care Screening Tool</a> and Management of Cases and Contacts of COVID-19. Here is a summary of the updated guidelines: <ul type="disc"> <li>Students, staff, and visitors need to continue to <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftrack.spe.schoolmessenger.com%2Ff%2Fa%2FvVIXleXBr2SRjqmBLmMErA~~%2FAAAAAQA~%2FRgRk8kQzP0QtaHR0cHM6Ly9jb3ZpZC0xOS5vbnRhcmlvLmNhL3NjaG9vbC1zY3JlZW5pbmcvVwdzY2hvb2xtQgpjCbMQEWPD9obzUhljcm90aGVyc21AbGltZXN0b25lLm9uLmNhWAQAAAAC&data=05%7C01%7Ccrothersm%40limestone.on.ca%7C2fcf0f6eaf4e43f01d0808da8c556b8e%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C637976595770731008%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=odu%2FqLhSDCqxG9YygJS5OSnkitCl31Ykab1X01hO17s%3D&reserved=0">self-screen each school day. </a></li> <li>Students and staff should stay home when sick. Anyone who is feeling sick or has any new or worsening symptoms of illness (including COVID-19 symptoms) should stay home, until: </li> <li>For a total of 10 days after the start any illness symptom, students and staff should continue to wear a well-fitted mask in all public settings (including schools and childcare, unless under two years old) and avoid non-essential activities where mask removal is necessary. </li> <li>Asymptomatic individuals with a positive COVID-19 test result do not need to stay home unless symptoms develop. If symptoms develop, they should stay home and follow the recommended guidelines above.</li> <li>Individuals attending school who are immunocompromised who are feeling sick, or have a positive COVID-19 test, should still stay home for 10 days from the start of any symptom or positive test result, whichever came first.   </li> </ul> We continue to work very closely with KFL&A Public Health as it relates to health and safety and absence due to illness. Following the revised guidelines above will help to reduce the transmission of all illnesses and help to keep students, staff, and families in Limestone healthy throughout the year. We all must continue to work together to do our best and help to mitigate transmission of illness within our schools. We hope you have a great weekend, and we are looking forward to welcoming all of our students and staff back to school next Tuesday. Limestone District School Board

2022-09-01 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Board Message to Families - August 30, 2022

<img src="/images/f4ad85ed-1dca-5d84-9470-922a6097d6c3?fingerprint=ppb20251217015242" srcset="/thumbnails/f4ad85ed-1dca-5d84-9470-922a6097d6c3?fingerprint=ppb20251217015242 450w, /images/f4ad85ed-1dca-5d84-9470-922a6097d6c3?fingerprint=ppb20251217015242 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> Dear Families, I hope all Limestone families have been able to enjoy summer, and the opportunity to connect with friends and extended family. For over two school years, Limestone students, families, and staff have demonstrated resiliency and flexibility in responding to changes to public health and workplace safety measures throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. With the 2022-2023 school year starting for students in next week, I wanted to provide a short update. We are greatly looking forward to welcoming all returning and new students back to school. We are hopeful for all of the critical student activities like sports, clubs, field trips, and celebrations continuing like this past spring to support the overall student experience in schools. All of these activities require the support of staff and community members, and we always greatly appreciate their time and efforts to support these important experiences. As you are likely aware from media coverage, earlier in August the province released its outline of Health and Safety measures for the 2022-2023 school year: “On the advice of the Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health, for the 2022-23 school year, most health and safety requirements remain unchanged from the previous direction provided to school board partners at the end of the 2021-2022 school year.” While the updated guidance resembles the status in schools from mid-March to the end of June this past spring, here is a summary: <ul type="disc"> <li>Based on the advice of the Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health, masks will not be required for students, staff, and visitors in schools, school board offices, or on student transportation. KFL&A Public Health continues to encourage the wearing of masks in indoor, congregate settings. Appropriate hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette will continue to be promoted and integrated throughout the school day.</li> <li>Staff, students, and visitors should continue to self-screen every day before attending school using the <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftrack.spe.schoolmessenger.com%2Ff%2Fa%2FudqwJFbKpDMGR_mps5R_jw~~%2FAAAAAQA~%2FRgRk75JDP0QtaHR0cHM6Ly9jb3ZpZC0xOS5vbnRhcmlvLmNhL3NjaG9vbC1zY3JlZW5pbmcvVwdzY2hvb2xtQgpi8sNeDmN9PCi1Uhljcm90aGVyc21AbGltZXN0b25lLm9uLmNhWAQAAAAC&data=05%7C01%7Ccrothersm%40limestone.on.ca%7C7c6e24a2715e4ecdb25c08da8aba2f5e%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C637974829529359593%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=om7Q%2FVGqdL84m77%2B7XVRPIeYUHVCt2XD1NLfYch9YoM%3D&reserved=0">COVID-19 school and childcare screening tool.</a> Following public health guidance, individuals should stay home if they are feeling ill to prevent the spread of illness.</li> <li>The government will continue to provide free high-quality masks for students and staff, eye protection for staff, as well as rapid antigen tests to be used in accordance with provincial testing guidance.</li> <li>Schools and <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftrack.spe.schoolmessenger.com%2Ff%2Fa%2FxTIPvuzVO3jvZvorKDg0Sg~~%2FAAAAAQA~%2FRgRk75JDP0QUaHR0cHM6Ly90cmlib2FyZC5jYS9XB3NjaG9vbG1CCmLyw14OY308KLVSGWNyb3RoZXJzbUBsaW1lc3RvbmUub24uY2FYBAAAAAI~&data=05%7C01%7Ccrothersm%40limestone.on.ca%7C7c6e24a2715e4ecdb25c08da8aba2f5e%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C637974829529359593%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=gv4xlcJtPhBJ9VqtUUqenh4akGV0GsMp4TnDqjCU6%2Fc%3D&reserved=0">school vehicles</a> will continue with cleaning protocols requiring cleaning/disinfecting high-touch surfaces at least once daily.</li> <li>Continued use of HEPA ventilation units in areas without full mechanical ventilation and/or without MERV-13 filtration, maximization of fresh-air intake into all buildings, the running of ventilation units beyond the time buildings are occupied, and continued improvements to existing ventilation infrastructure.</li> <li>Continued collaboration with <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftrack.spe.schoolmessenger.com%2Ff%2Fa%2FU50muSgyMIDrYqOahbsPjw~~%2FAAAAAQA~%2FRgRk75JDP0QjaHR0cHM6Ly93d3cua2ZsYXBoLmNhL2VuL2luZGV4LmFzcHhXB3NjaG9vbG1CCmLyw14OY308KLVSGWNyb3RoZXJzbUBsaW1lc3RvbmUub24uY2FYBAAAAAI~&data=05%7C01%7Ccrothersm%40limestone.on.ca%7C7c6e24a2715e4ecdb25c08da8aba2f5e%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C637974829529359593%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=5uE%2F2Tld8KcRQc0B7cPTQ8Jhw3Rb7sxnMYJIBPE9CvM%3D&reserved=0">KFL&A Public Health</a> as it relates to health and safety, and absences due to illness. </li> </ul> The pandemic continues to evolve, and a wide range of perspectives based on differing voices and sources of information exist across the communities we live in. As a public school system, we need to serve all families across Limestone, and this requires respecting and accepting a range of perspectives. Consequently, without a mandate related to different measures, we need to respect the decisions people make as they continue to navigate the pandemic as it relates to several measures, including being mask friendly. Limestone schools must continue to be respectful, welcoming, and inclusive environments for all students, staff, and families.     Change is always challenging. Everyone’s experience of these past two years has been personal. Respecting and accepting individual choices will continue to be critical on the path ahead. If the past couple of years have taught us anything, it is the continued need for flexibility. While the return to more normal school operations from March to June this past school year did not result in us having to pivot or close schools due to insufficient staff, the staffing shortages across a range of sectors may impact us at some point if we see periods of increased staff illness.  Limestone recognizes that personal and family health circumstances can change and/or be impacted by the status of public health measures. Any families wanting to either return to in-person learning, or to move to the virtual school should connect with their current school this week to request a change. We will do our best to accommodate requests within our existing staffing parameters. We hope you continue to have a safe, happy, and healthy summer with your friends and family, and we greatly look forward to welcoming students returning to Limestone next week on Tuesday, September 6. Thank you, Krishna Burra Director of Education <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftrack.spe.schoolmessenger.com%2Ff%2Fa%2FZTF6xwcAA2vAx0FeYAbI9Q~~%2FAAAAAQA~%2FRgRk75JDP0QraHR0cHM6Ly93d3cueW91dHViZS5jb20vd2F0Y2g_dj1vS3BjUldRcDc2NFcHc2Nob29sbUIKYvLDXg5jfTwotVIZY3JvdGhlcnNtQGxpbWVzdG9uZS5vbi5jYVgEAAAAAg~~&data=05%7C01%7Ccrothersm%40limestone.on.ca%7C7c6e24a2715e4ecdb25c08da8aba2f5e%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C637974829529359593%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=eDzym5QNwtWVSLCTcMHHG4UodOnoVN8arjqT1wyhREc%3D&reserved=0" title="Welcome Back Message">Watch Director Burra's Welcome Back Message to All Families</a>

2022-08-30 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Kindergarten Registration

Labour Update - Friday, November 4, 2022

2021-2022 EQAO Provincial Assessment Results

Equity Matters - October 2022

Grandmother Laurel Claus-Johnson

Equity Matters - Sept. 2022

National Day of Truth and Reconciliation

2021-2022 Facilities Services Capital Projects

Boardroom Briefs: September 21, 2022

A Message from the Director - September 15, 2022

Short Hold and Secure as precautionary measure

Updates to the School & Child Care Screening Tool

Board Message to Families - August 30, 2022

Kindergarten Registration