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Trustees Vote to Have Indigenous Trustee Appointed

<img src="/images/d23e0871-4085-5a61-92c2-9486b067cb1b?fingerprint=ppb20251217014934" srcset="/thumbnails/d23e0871-4085-5a61-92c2-9486b067cb1b?fingerprint=ppb20251217014934 450w, /images/d23e0871-4085-5a61-92c2-9486b067cb1b?fingerprint=ppb20251217014934 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> At the May 18, 2022, Limestone District School Board’s Regular Board Meeting, Trustees unanimously voted to approach the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte for them to appoint an Indigenous Trustee to the Limestone Board of Trustees. The issue of representation and having an Indigenous voice at the Board level has been a topic of considerable discussion by Trustees in recent years and previously led to the addition of an Indigenous Student Trustee to start the 2020-2021 school year.  For the past three to four years, Limestone has had an Education Agreement with the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte for students from the territory attending Napanee District Secondary School.  The official motion read “That staff develop a process and recommended timeline for an Indigenous Trustee to be appointed by the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte through Regulation 462/97, including a contingency process should the number of students decrease below the regulatory requirement, and identifying policy implications for a 10th Trustee.” This motion was developed from previous consultations with the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte and the Indigenous Education Advisory Council (IEAC). The Indigenous Trustee will be appointed by the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte and ensure an Indigenous voice is at the Board table. The decision to pursue the appointment of an Indigenous Trustee is a significant milestone for Limestone District School Board and an update will be provided regarding timing of the addition of this Trustee in the coming months.

2022-05-20 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Trustees select École Maple ES as new name

<img src="/images/8627de07-7f51-5d0a-b2ed-6f856c9e0d49?fingerprint=ppb20251217014234" srcset="/thumbnails/8627de07-7f51-5d0a-b2ed-6f856c9e0d49?fingerprint=ppb20251217014234 450w, /images/8627de07-7f51-5d0a-b2ed-6f856c9e0d49?fingerprint=ppb20251217014234 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> École Maple Elementary School was chosen as the new name for École Kingston East Elementary School (ÉKEES) by Trustees of the Limestone District School Board at a regular Board Meeting May 18, 2022. École Maple Elementary School was chosen from a short list of four names provided to Trustees by the École Kingston East Elementary School (ÉKEES) Renaming Committee. The final four names –Butternut Creek, Forestview, Maple and Mapleview – were selected from a variety of suggestions provided through considerable consultation and work within the community. Trustees voted unanimously to initiate a renaming process for the former École Sir John A. Mcdonald Elementary School in June 2021. “The Board of Trustees acknowledges the ongoing pain and harm related to the use of that name within our school communities but particularly with Indigenous members,” said Board Chair Suzanne Ruttan. “A new name, I believe, is one step on the journey to truth and reconciliation.” She extended sincere appreciation on behalf of all Trustees to the members of the Renaming Committee for their diligence and commitment to the renaming process. The naming process was overseen by the ÉKEES Renaming Committee which included student, parent/guardian, staff and Indigenous community representatives. The committee sought input from the school and the greater Kingston community through a year-long consultation, including three online community surveys, a week-long collection of student voice, and a Walking the Land and school tour for Trustees. The renaming process followed a process that was used in previous school naming processes but with an emphasis on how and why the former name was harmful, and what name attributes would respect and honour the Indigenous experience. The board’s Indigenous Education Team supported a significant and age-appropriate education component for ÉKEES Kindergarten to Grade 6 students during November 2021 which is also Indigenous Education Month in Limestone. Families and community members were also provided with an education component to support their understanding of the renaming process. École Kingston East Elementary School, the interim name for the school, was the placeholder name used while the school was under construction. With the new name decided, the school will now work on a redesign of the school logo. The Majors athletic crest and school colours of red and black will remain. Given there are just a few weeks left in this school year and the need to implement a few logistical changes, the school will remain École Kingston East Elementary School for the remainder of the school year. École Maple Elementary School will officially be in place for the start of the 2022-2023 school year.

2022-05-19 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Human Trafficking Is Closer Than You Think

<img src="/images/af2f4604-6f69-5fb1-abff-a73e5ff45505?fingerprint=ppb20251217014623" srcset="/thumbnails/af2f4604-6f69-5fb1-abff-a73e5ff45505?fingerprint=ppb20251217014623 450w, /images/af2f4604-6f69-5fb1-abff-a73e5ff45505?fingerprint=ppb20251217014623 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> Fast 101 (Fighting Against Sex Trafficking) is hosting two sessions (one for secondary students and one for parents, guardians, and community members) called "Break the Silence - Break the Chains - Human Trafficking is Closer Thank You Think on June 8, 2022.  Student event: A one-day conference has been organized by Doug van der Horden and members of F.A.S.T. 101 (Fighting Against Sex Trafficking) for High School students within the Limestone District School Board. The conference is called, “Break the Silence - Break the Chains” – Human Trafficking Is Closer Than You Think. It will unpack the realities surrounding Human Trafficking and on-line safety as it pertains to our youth. Two keynote speakers are lined up for the day and several community agencies that will be on site for students to explore and direct questions to. The day will include activities where students can engage, while at the same time, learn more about the current issues surrounding Human Trafficking. Date: Wednesday, June 8, 2022 Time: 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Location: Kingston Gospel Temple: 2295 Princess Street, Kingston Cost: FREE (Students are to bring a lunch) Transportation: Arranged by school – Covered by Board Office Below is an outline of the Keynote Speakers and the topics they will be covering on this day. Kelly Beale (Toronto Assistant Crown Attorney Lawyer) Kelly will be explaining what human trafficking is, identifiers of human trafficking, and how traffickers lure their victims. She will provide several examples of victims she’s worked with and the ways in which they were targeted by their traffickers. She will also discuss what can be done if you, or someone you know, is being trafficked or is at risk of being trafficked; what supports are out there and different steps that can be taken.   She will be presenting topics such as: <ul> <li>Defining Human Trafficking</li> <li>Types of Human Trafficking</li> <li>Statistics around Human Trafficking</li> <li>Luring tactics used by traffickers</li> <li>What makes one vulnerable to becoming a victim (Risk factors)</li> <li>The mindset of a victim</li> <li> Resources to get help</li> </ul> Matt Richardson, (Digital Empowerment Project) Matt will be presenting and will make students aware of online risks and how they manifest and apply online, including popular social and gaming platforms. Topics will include: <ul> <li>Cyber Stalking</li> <li>Online Grooming Tactics and Lures </li> <li>Spotting Signs of Exploitation (e.g., grooming and lures)</li> <li>Avoiding the “Wrong Kind of Attention” </li> <li>Sexting and Sextortion </li> <li>Social Media and Human Trafficking </li> <li>Getting Help</li> </ul> For each risk introduced students will be empowered with practical and fair measures to mitigate exposure to potentially dangerous situations and people encountered online. There is no limit on seating for the student event, as this venue can hold close to 1,500 people, but transportation may dictate how many students each school can realistically bring. If LDSB staff have any questions about this day, please don’t hesitate to contact Doug van der Horden, Adolescent Care Worker, Ernestown Secondary School, 613-386-3054 ext. 329 Parent, guardian, and community member event:  Parents, guardians, and community members are invited to join guest speaker Doug van der Horden, Adolescent Care Worker with LDSB and Founder of FAST 101, and learn how to prevent and eliminate human trafficking.  Date: June 8, 2022 Time: 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. Location: Tett Centre - 370 King Street West, Kingston Cost: Free If you are unable to join in-person, you can <a href="https://teams.microsoft.com/registration/Xxb04a7rgk2nPKDeWTgwvg,up48ufzhj0CKcOZI3cxuzA,6YcmEmyV3UOOcfU_zTEuEw,vcp2fd5EOk6iJjg1UGz-ZA,XzJILg65tUmXIH54O8ajrg,H8CFM81g-k2hbHzwCYaahw?mode=read&tenantId=e1f4165f-ebae-4d82-a73c-a0de593830be" title="Human Trafficking Awareness">register for the live stream here</a>.

2022-05-18 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Statement regarding shootings in US

<img src="/images/d8d32674-66e2-530b-9e77-38197a0f4533?fingerprint=ppb20251217015010" srcset="/thumbnails/d8d32674-66e2-530b-9e77-38197a0f4533?fingerprint=ppb20251217015010 450w, /images/d8d32674-66e2-530b-9e77-38197a0f4533?fingerprint=ppb20251217015010 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> <div> We recognize that world events impact the lives of our students, staff, and families. The Limestone District School Board is saddened to learn of the mass shootings in the United States that took the lives of at least 11 people targeted in two incidents over the weekend in Buffalo and Southern California in what police are calling racially motivated hate crimes. We offer our sincere condolences to the communities grieving in the wake of these horrific acts of hatred, and to the family, friends, and anyone affected by this tragic event.    </div> <div> We acknowledge and recognize the legacy of anti-Black and anti-Asian racism that causes harm, violence, and too often, death. This kind of hate has no place in our communities, and no place in our schools. We stand with our local African, Caribbean, Black, and Asian communities, and we remain committed to combating racism and discrimination in all its forms. We will continue to work with our school communities to promote safe and inclusive learning and working environments for all students and staff.   </div> <div> Our educational services team has prepared some tips to potentially help you support children at this time:  </div> <div> <div> <ul> <li> Recognize that children and youth may become concerned that something bad will happen to themselves, family, or friends. Explain that safety measures are in place and reassure them that you and other adults will take care of them.  </li> <li> If your student is not focused on the tragedy 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. Do not 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> In Limestone, we commit to educating our students in age-appropriate ways within a culture of caring with critical thinking, media literacy and empathy as our guide. Our goal is to create and support human rights and inclusive environments where everyone is welcomed, respected, and valued – and safe, and where democracy and peace are critical norms.     </div> </div>

2022-05-16 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Bridges to Local Employment

<img src="/images/899aa136-8566-566e-9ac8-b9483b312656?fingerprint=ppb20251217014301" srcset="/thumbnails/899aa136-8566-566e-9ac8-b9483b312656?fingerprint=ppb20251217014301 450w, /images/899aa136-8566-566e-9ac8-b9483b312656?fingerprint=ppb20251217014301 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> The Limestone District School Board, in collaboration with Specialist High Skills Major and Lennox & Addington Economic Development, are pleased to announce the Bridges to Local Employment Event, happening at Napanee District Secondary School on Thursday, May 26 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.   Grade 7 to 10 students from Lennox & Addington area schools and local industry representatives in the Transportation, Trades, Manufacturing and Heavy Equipment industry will be participating in the event. Staff from Limestone District School Board and Lennox Addington Economic Development will also be in attendance. Students will learn about the Specialist High Skills Major program offered to senior secondary students. Local industry representatives will discuss opportunities within their business and discover how students can build their pathway to these important and rewarding careers. It is an excellent opportunity for students that have interest in a career in the to interact and learn first-hand about what is available from local businesses in these sectors. Participating students will also hear from Lennox & Addington Economic Development staff about their Kidpreneur initiative, learn about entrepreneurship and potentially envision their own new Transportation, Manufacturing, Heavy Equipment, or other business venture. Lennox & Addington businesses that wish to learn more or participate in this event, please contact Craig Sindall at <a href="mailto:sindallc@limestone.on.ca">sindallc@limestone.on.ca</a> or call 613-354-3381. More information is available on <a href="https://naturallyla.ca/bridges-to-local-employment-event/" title="Naturally L&A's website">Naturally L&A's website. </a>

2022-05-16 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Community Equity Advisory Committee

<img src="/images/7c61f936-df29-5105-b1f3-cfb8d81de1d2?fingerprint=ppb20251217014138" srcset="/thumbnails/7c61f936-df29-5105-b1f3-cfb8d81de1d2?fingerprint=ppb20251217014138 450w, /images/7c61f936-df29-5105-b1f3-cfb8d81de1d2?fingerprint=ppb20251217014138 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> To help support everyone who learns, works, or volunteers in Limestone to value diversity, demonstrate respect for others, and commit to establishing a just and caring society, Limestone has recently formed the Community Equity Advisory Committee. The Community Equity Advisory Committee supports Limestone District School Board in identifying and eliminating barriers to an equitable and inclusive environment for staff, students, and the broader community, and determine strategies for systemic implementation of LDSB’s Equity and Action Plan. Limestone is seeking community members to apply to join the Community Equity Advisory Committee who offer diverse perspectives and/or lived experiences including, but not limited to anti-Black racism, anti-Indigenous racism, anti-Semitism, Ableism/Disabilities, Homophobia, Transphobia, Islamophobia, and/or Poverty/Classism.   If you are interested in joining this committee, you can review the <a class="editor-link" href="/documents/76f41837-66ec-558d-b7e8-a25e965680b2?fingerprint=20260525T0545Z" target="_blank"> Community Equity Advisory Committee Terms of Reference </a> and <a href="https://ldsb.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3IZDnret0sGnPee" title="CEAC Expression of Interest Form">express your interest in joining the Community Equity Advisory Committee using this form</a>.

2022-05-12 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

K-12 Foundational Literacy Skills Learning Series

<img src="/images/bc81cb70-a332-5d25-b379-24793f664270?fingerprint=ppb20251217014739" srcset="/thumbnails/bc81cb70-a332-5d25-b379-24793f664270?fingerprint=ppb20251217014739 450w, /images/bc81cb70-a332-5d25-b379-24793f664270?fingerprint=ppb20251217014739 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> Join us for these engaging one-hour sessions to learn what this aspect of a structured literacy program is, why it is important and how you can integrate it into your everyday literacy practice. You will leave with practical strategies that can be implemented immediately. Sessions will be offered in-person at the LDSB Education Centre. Sessions will be recorded and made available on Minds Online. Participants who attend in-person will receive a free resource! Space is limited to 30 participants. All sessions are currently full. Session 1: Vocabulary Come to this sharing session to learn WHAT Vocabulary is, WHY it’s important, and HOW you can integrate Vocabulary Development into your everyday literacy practice. Join in person and receive a copy of “Teaching How the Written Word Works”. Tuesday, May 17, 2022 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. Conference Room C, Education Centre Presented by: Erica Wyncoll, Erika Chesnick, and Skot Caldwell Session 2: Fluency Come to this sharing session to learn WHAT Fluency is, WHY it’s important, and HOW you can integrate Fluency into your everyday literacy practice. Join in person and receive a copy of “Know Better, Do Better”. Tuesday, May 24, 2022 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. Conference Room C, Education Centre Presented by: Erika Chesnick   Session 3: Oral Language Come to this sharing session to learn WHAT Oral Language is, WHY it’s important, and HOW you can integrate Oral Language into your everyday literacy practice (K-3 focus). Join in person and receive a copy of “Oral Language with Your Fingertips” Thursday, June 9, 2022 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. Conference Room C, Education Centre Presented by: Jenny Caldwell and Caitlyn Rutherford Session 4: Phonemic Awareness Come to this sharing session to learn WHAT Phonemic Awareness is, WHY it’s important, and HOW you can integrate Phonemic Awareness into your everyday literacy practice. Join in person and receive a copy of “Equipped for Reading Success”. Tuesday, June 14, 2022 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. Conference Room C, Education Centre Presented by: Richelle Bowen and Kate Marlow Session 5: Phonics Come to this sharing session to learn WHAT Phonics is, WHY it’s important, and HOW you can integrate Phonics into your everyday literacy practice. Join in person and receive a copy of “Bob Books Beginning Readers” or “Val Facile à lire”. Thursday, June 16, 2022 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. Conference Room C, Education Centre Presented by: Allison Gladu and Elisabeth Beaulieu

2022-05-11 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Umoja Black Advisory Committee Potluck

<img src="/images/5435fb0a-f70d-51fe-a1b2-89335286e61d?fingerprint=ppb20251217013751" srcset="/thumbnails/5435fb0a-f70d-51fe-a1b2-89335286e61d?fingerprint=ppb20251217013751 450w, /images/5435fb0a-f70d-51fe-a1b2-89335286e61d?fingerprint=ppb20251217013751 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> <div> The Limestone District School Board (LDSB) and Family and Children’s Services of Frontenac, Lennox, and Addington (FACSFLA) maintain an ongoing commitment to provide excellent and high-quality educational and child welfare services to children, youth and families of diverse backgrounds that are free from discrimination, racism, and oppression. Both LDSB and FACSFLA also maintain an ongoing commitment to provide equitable access to educational and child welfare services via responsive approaches to the unique identities and needs of children, youth and families, and communities that we serve.  Judith Brown, a Trustee of the Limestone District School Board, and long-standing member of the Kingston Black community says this initiative is as a major step in addressing anti-Black racism. “One realizes just how early attitudes are formed and it is by addressing issues at the earliest stage that one has the best chance of helping persons in the formation of their attitudes. In my lived experiences as a teacher, I have been subjected to such incidences, so I am very aware of just how early attitudes are formed.”  Both organizations recognize that addressing the unique needs of Black children, youth and families is crucial to address the disproportionate and disparity of outcomes faced by members of this group in both educational and child welfare systems. “We are proud to partner with the LDSB as we recognize the unique needs of Black children, youth and families in both the educational and child welfare system,” states Sonia Gentile, Executive Director-FACSFLA. “By taking the time to understand the culture of Black children, youth, and families, it enriches our community as we learn from someone else’s experiences that are different than our own.” The Umoja Black Advisory Committee will provide a forum to advise, support and hold LDSB and FACSFLA accountable in the implementation of their equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) initiatives to ensure better outcomes for Black children, youth and families involved in both systems. “The establishment of this committee recognizes the value and importance of hearing from those we serve and acknowledges the unique experiences and needs of Black children and families,” states Yusuf Adulkareem, LDSB Human Rights and Equity Officer. “This committee will facilitate better communication and increase information exchange between Black communities, FACSLA, and LDSB, and ensure that Black children and families face no prejudice in service delivery.” Msenwa Mweneake, Manager of Equity & Transformation FACSFLA adds, “Black people have been telling us repeatedly about the barriers they face when accessing child welfare and educational systems among other systems in KFLA. Our systems have not been nice to Black people, and the only way to address disproportionality and disparity of outcomes for Black people, is for systems to start intentionally working together alongside the Black community, for them and not against them.” The Kwanzaa celebration is an important part of the Black community’s end-of-year holiday, and its first principle “Umoja” means unity. Umoja means striving for and maintaining unity in the family and community. A powerful guiding principle that will transform and inspire a re-work of the way LDSB and FACSFLA interact with children, youth, and families from the Black community. Umoja Black Advisory Committee is hosting a potluck to share information, network, empower each other for a better future for our children, and eat great food. There will be guest speakers from LDSB, FACSFLA, and Black community leaders. Everyone is welcome: Black children and youth, their parents, mentors, coaches, uncles, and aunties. Trustee Brown concludes, “With community involvement it will help change to come about more quickly. I strongly encourage members of the Black community and allies to join this committee. Your voice matters.”  The potluck will be held Thursday, May 26, 2022, from 6 – 8:00 p.m. at the offices of FACSFLA 817 Division Street, Kingston. Membership is open to anyone who identifies as Black or People of African Descent, including families of Black children and youth.   RSVP: <a href="https://bit.ly/UmojaPotluckMay26" target="_blank" title="link to LDSB website story">https://bit.ly/UmojaPotluckMay26</a>   Who We Are: The <a href="mailto:umojabac@gmail.com?subject=umojabac@gmail.com">Umoja Black Advisory Committee </a>is a collaboration between Family and Children’s Services of Frontenac Lennox and Addington (FACSFLA) and the Limestone District School Board (LDSB). The purpose of this committee is to improve supports and services for families from the Black community who interact with the LDSB, FACSFLA and other organizations within the Kingston Frontenac Lennox and Addington (KFLA) community. </div>

2022-05-10 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Board Message to Families - May 5, 2022

<img src="/images/2322975e-189a-5910-b233-11a792056945?fingerprint=ppb20251217013324" srcset="/thumbnails/2322975e-189a-5910-b233-11a792056945?fingerprint=ppb20251217013324 450w, /images/2322975e-189a-5910-b233-11a792056945?fingerprint=ppb20251217013324 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> As we enter the remaining weeks of the school year, and as spring feels like it is settling in, we would like to share some important information and updates with families. The last couple of months of the school year can be the busiest and most exciting time of the school year. Many extracurricular activities are currently occurring and preparation for end of year celebrations/graduations are well underway. Mental Health Week This week is the Canadian Mental Health Association’s Mental Health Week. Schools across Limestone have been recognizing Mental Health Week in a range of activities/events including daily school announcements and challenges for both staff and students focusing on physical self-care, emotional self-care, social self-care, spiritual self-care, and helping a friend. It has been wonderful to see different activities within schools and on social media as schools engage in a range of activities/events in recognizing Mental Health Week and honouring the importance of mental health for all students and staff. With the ongoing challenges created by the pandemic and the affect it has had on students, staff, and families, it is more important than ever to prioritize everyone’s mental health and well-being. We continue to support and appreciate all efforts made by staff, students, and families to accommodate the ongoing challenges being faced every day, and actively participating in Mental Health Week. Education Week The first week of May, on an annual basis also marks Ontario Education Week. It is a time for students, school staff, and families to celebrate excellence in public education and student achievement. This year’s theme is Moving Forward. Limestone has much gratitude, respect, and appreciation for the dedication and hard work of all Limestone staff in serving students, families, and communities. COVID-19 Update In an update in early April, we shared concerns regarding student and staff absences, and the need to potentially close or pivot classrooms/schools due to insufficient staffing. The past two to three weeks have been much more manageable in terms of staff absences, and there has been a steady decline in student absences due to COVID-19 related reasons. Staff absences are also trending down, although there does continue to be days that are higher due to a range of reasons including some extracurricular activities that must occur during the school day. In addition, while student/staff absences have been lower in recent weeks at the system level, there are a handful of schools that have more absences relative to other schools. We will continue to closely monitor absences. Student safety is always our top priority, and we continue to work very closely with KFL&A Public Health to monitor COVID-19 activity in schools and in surrounding communities. Importance of Daily Screening for COVID-19 and Adhering to Public Health Measures Daily screening for students, staff, and visitors before leaving for school or work continues to be critical and remains in place. Students and staff must screen every day before attending school or work. Access the daily <a href="https://covid-19.ontario.ca/school-screening/">Ontario COVID-19 School and Child Care Screening online here</a>. Isolation Guidance and Return to School Protocols When Isolation is Required Because of COVID-19 Symptoms <a href="https://www.kflaph.ca/en/healthy-living/resources/Infection-Prevention-and-Control/Coronavirus/school-protocols/COVID-19-School-Protocol-Return-to-School-or-Child-Care.pdf">KFL&A Public Health has clear isolation guidance and return to school protocols</a> required for students due to COVID-19 or COVID-19 related symptoms.  People experiencing symptoms must follow the screening expectations.  Staying at home when symptomatic and contagious is critical to reduce spread in schools and in the broader community.  Masking While there is no longer a masking mandate, masking continues to be strongly encouraged and recommended by public health officials for all students, staff, and visitors while in schools and on school transportation. When schools cross the threshold of 30% absences due to COVID-19 related reasons, KFL&A Public Health has issued a letter indicating that masking is recommended due to the presence of COVID-19 in the school and community. Masks continue to be available daily for all students, as well as PPE for all staff. Additional information on masking is available on <a href="https://www.kflaph.ca/en/partners-and-professionals/covid-19-resources.aspx?_mid_=127373">KFL&A Public Health’s website, including when masking is required.</a> COVID-19 Related Absence Reporting Dashboard Limestone recently launched a <a href="/cms/One.aspx">COVID-19 Related Absence Reporting Dashboard</a> to support our school communities with information about student COVID-19 related absences within our schools. The information presented on the dashboard is provided on a voluntary basis by parents or guardians when reporting their student’s absence from school due to a COVID-19 related reason. Limestone is providing this school level data to provide additional insight into the COVID-19 activity within our school communities. The Board and school administrators are working to ensure safety, supervision, and in-person learning continues as we near the end of the school year. We appreciate the continued efforts made by staff, students, and families following KFL&A Public Health guidelines to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 within our community. Limestone remains cautiously optimistic about our current status of continuing to support in-person learning across all our schools for the balance of this school year. Following the guidance outlined in this communication are the best ways to ensure schools remain operational for in-person learning and limiting the impact of the pandemic on the wider community.

2022-05-05 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

2022-2023 School Year Calendar

<img src="/images/d33cb60b-623b-53e9-b477-dd782820ef84?fingerprint=ppb20251217014946" srcset="/thumbnails/d33cb60b-623b-53e9-b477-dd782820ef84?fingerprint=ppb20251217014946 450w, /images/d33cb60b-623b-53e9-b477-dd782820ef84?fingerprint=ppb20251217014946 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> The Ministry of Education has approved the Limestone District School Board’s 2022-2023 School Year Calendar. Provincial regulations require that the school year shall start on or after September 1 and end on or before June 30. Every school year shall include a minimum of 194 school days. The following key dates have been approved: <ul> <li>First Day of School: Tuesday, September 6, 2022</li> <li>Winter Break: December 23, 2022, to January 6, 2023</li> <li>March Break: March 13, to March 17, 2023</li> <li>Last Day of School: Thursday, June 29, 2023</li> </ul> A printable <a class="editor-link" href="/documents/3c062e86-15d2-5a36-a98e-836a7857c9d6?fingerprint=20260525T0545Z" target="_blank"> 2022-2023 School Year Calendar is available here. </a> <a class="editor-link" href="/documents/3c062e86-15d2-5a36-a98e-836a7857c9d6?fingerprint=20260525T0545Z" target="_blank"> </a>

2022-05-02 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Boardroom Briefs: April 27, 2022

<img src="/images/04cf3516-ab01-5efb-9a89-e022c2732478?fingerprint=ppb20251217013037" srcset="/thumbnails/04cf3516-ab01-5efb-9a89-e022c2732478?fingerprint=ppb20251217013037 450w, /images/04cf3516-ab01-5efb-9a89-e022c2732478?fingerprint=ppb20251217013037 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px">Boardroom Briefs is now available for the Regular Meeting of April 27, 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/g6dmz-boardroom-briefs?embed=1" title="BOARDROOM BRIEFS"></iframe>

2022-04-29 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Equity Matters April 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">April avails opportunities to learn about each others' beliefs and traditions. This month's overlapping of interfaith holidays only happens about every 30 years. "The rare convergence of such a wide array of holy days is an opportunity for all of us to share what we hold sacred with our neighbors from other traditions as a way of building understanding and bridging divides," - Eboo Patel<iframe src="https://www.smore.com/8cxr4-equity-matters?embed=1" title="Equity Matters"></iframe>

2022-04-27 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Kindergarten Registration