District News - Limestone District School Board Main Website

Board Message to Families - April 25, 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"> Since the start of January, schools have been required to report student absences to the Ministry of Education daily and connect with local public health units if absences cross a 30% threshold. To date, Limestone has sent KFL&A Public Health letters to six school communities. We continue to work closely with KFL&A Public Health in monitoring student absences due to COVID-19 related reasons, and have created <a href="https://app.powerbi.com/view?r=eyJrIjoiNWY0NGM4YmYtZTMyMC00NmE0LTg4ZTgtNzg5YWIxMTg3NDU3IiwidCI6ImUxZjQxNjVmLWViYWUtNGQ4Mi1hNzNjLWEwZGU1OTM4MzBiZSIsImMiOjN9">a COVID-19 Related Absence Reporting Dashboard</a> to support our school communities with information about student COVID-19 related absences within our schools. In recent weeks, this data is what we have been monitoring, and we have now made the information publicly available on <a href="/cms/One.aspx" title="LDSB COVID-19 Related Absence Dashboard">our website</a>. It is important to understand that the information presented in this 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. The dashboard only includes student COVID-19 related absences on a school level and does not include information on a grade or classroom level. Collecting and sharing voluntarily provided test results at the classroom level is problematic for two reasons:  <ol> <li>This would require us to store and share private medical information. </li> <li>Very limited PCR testing is occurring and based on reports of public health officials and medical practitioners, Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) results have become less reliable as a gauge of positive or contagious cases, even if the person is symptomatic. In other words, when a person develops symptoms does not always align with when they may test positive on a RAT.</li> </ol> Providing school level data based on COVID-19 related absences may provide greater insight into COVID activity in a school community because it encompasses testing and symptoms, while also mitigating privacy concerns. The information reported on the dashboard is voluntary and may not represent the full extent of COVID-19 cases in the Limestone District School Board. In addition, the data should not be confused with the PCR testing and reporting that was being led and tracked by KFL&A Public Health from September to December 2021. The dashboard will be updated daily with the previous day’s attendance. Friday’s absences will be reported on Monday. We have made the decision to share this information with everyone because we are tracking the numbers closely while continuing to work with KFL&A Public Health in monitoring Limestone schools. We appreciate all efforts made by staff, students, and families to accommodate the ongoing challenges and changes as we continue to navigate this together.

2022-04-25 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Whats New Sheila Watt-Cloutier Virtual event (300 × 200 px)

A Conversation with Sheila Watt-Cloutier

<img src="/images/43f0e1c6-fff2-5a06-ab27-6004f75090c7?fingerprint=ppb20251217013634" srcset="/thumbnails/43f0e1c6-fff2-5a06-ab27-6004f75090c7?fingerprint=ppb20251217013634 450w, /images/43f0e1c6-fff2-5a06-ab27-6004f75090c7?fingerprint=ppb20251217013634 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> Students in Grade 7 to 12 are invited to join Re-Imagining a New Way Forward with Intention: A Conversation with Sheila Watt-Cloutier on Monday, April 25, 2022, at 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. “Everything is connected,” says Sheila Watt-Cloutier when she is talking climate change. “Climate change is not just environmental. Climate change is about housing, it is about food security, it is about education.” Renowned environmentalist and author of <a href="https://inuit.uqam.ca/en/documents/right-be-cold">The Right to Be Cold</a>, Watt-Cloutier will share her insight about climate change, and how it affects everything, “We must now speak environment, economy, foreign policy, health, and human rights in the same breath.” During this enlightening and inspiring virtual presentation, Sheila will provide a clear, meaningful, and comprehensive understanding of the way these issues are interconnected, and what it means for the future of our planet. Teachers can register their classes to join the MS Teams Live Webinar using this link: <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2FApr25Registration&data=04%7C01%7Ccrothersm%40limestone.on.ca%7C492136758953470afda008da1d6f9ff2%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C637854662499278514%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=4rDoo3SKX6u1L%2FxYhja1RLy9BgmYBO%2BsSYK0bZgY818%3D&reserved=0">https://bit.ly/Apr25Registration</a>. Once registered, a MS Teams invite will be sent to your Board email address. This exclusive event for LDSB students has been made possible by a generous donation from the <a href="https://llf.limestone.on.ca/">Limestone Learning Foundation</a>. About Sheila Watt-Cloutier, Environmental, Cultural, and Human Rights Advocate With a focus on solutions, Watt-Cloutier brings the realities of the Arctic―where Inuit today face profound challenges to their environment, their economy, their health, and their cultural well-being―to light. The challenges they face are clearly connected to the industries we support, the disposable world we have become, and the non-sustaining policies we create. Because her Inuit culture faces the most extreme challenges of globalization, Watt-Cloutier speaks from firsthand experience, and couples that with her extensive experiences as a global leader. Drawing upon her ancient culture, and speaking from a position of strength, not victimhood, she helps audiences find common ground. Her Arctic voice–not as far away as we might imagine–enlightens and inspires. With inclusive good will, it bridges some extremely divided gaps around the world.

2022-04-13 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Workforce Census & Climate Survey (300x200)

Workforce Census and Belonging Survey 2022

<img src="/images/a575c125-c3eb-5b01-99b4-4b8e7461270a?fingerprint=ppb20251217014531" srcset="/thumbnails/a575c125-c3eb-5b01-99b4-4b8e7461270a?fingerprint=ppb20251217014531 450w, /images/a575c125-c3eb-5b01-99b4-4b8e7461270a?fingerprint=ppb20251217014531 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> The Limestone District School Board is committed to advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion for all staff and students. We recognize that the lived experiences of our staff and students contribute to the diversity of ideas and perspectives which in turn enriches our teaching, learning, and working environments.  As we strive to have all staff and students ‘see themselves in Limestone’, we need to better understand the current composition of our workforce with the goal of creating a more representative staff, at all levels across the organization, that mirrors the diversity of the broader communities we serve. All Limestone District School Board staff are being asked to participate in the voluntary, anonymous, and confidential See Yourself in Limestone Workforce Census and Belonging Survey (WCBS). The WCBS will provide a snapshot of our current workforce and workplaces. Just as it is for students, we know that equity, diversity, and inclusion efforts are also important for staff and their workplace. The See Yourself in Limestone Workforce Census and Belonging Survey will ask questions about identity that include languages, gender, sexual orientation, religion/creed/faith, ethnicity, race, nationality, disability and socioeconomics, education, job status, role, and questions relating to opportunities, sense of belonging, safety and well-being are also included. The results of the survey will allow Limestone to better understand the makeup of our workforce and further inform the development of strategies to address gaps in employment equity through human resource planning, attraction, recruitment, retention, learning and growth, and advancement within the organization. The Workforce Census and Belonging Survey will inform the development and implementation of strategies aimed at eliminating identified gaps and barriers, increasing employee sense of belonging, and creating a more inclusive workplace where everyone sees themselves in Limestone. They survey will be available to all employees of Limestone between April 29 and June 10, 2022. It is voluntary, anonymous, and confidential. Learn more about the <a href="/board/workforce_census___belonging_survey_2022" target="_self" title="Workforce Census and Belonging Survey">Workforce Census and Belonging Survey here.</a>

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

Board Message to Families – April 7, 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 have entered the spring season and some warmer weather, we would like to share some important information and updates related to the current status within our school communities, COVID-19 Public Health Protocols, as well as plans for spring extracurriculars and graduation ceremonies in Limestone. Student and Staff Absences Limestone District School Board continues to work closely with KFL&A Public Health to monitor COVID-19 activity in schools and surrounding communities. Schools are a direct reflection of what is happening within the community. With an increase in COVID-19 activity within our surrounding community, there has been an increase in staff and student absences in schools over the past couple of weeks, putting pressure on school staffing, and reducing the number of students in some classes. Staff absence activity may occasionally cause schools to combine classes, or as a last resort, ‘pivot’ or ‘close’ classes for a day or two due to a lack of staff in a building. Since returning in January, we have not had to implement this measure, but it may become necessary if staff absences continue to increase.  Where we can, we will have students join classes to allow learning to continue. Sufficient supervision is particularly critical at elementary schools and requires a baseline of human power to allow schools to operate. Similar to inclement weather cancellations or closures, the decision to pivot or close classes, or schools, may have to be made first thing in the morning. Like in December, when we have an early indication of a problem, we will notify families as soon as possible.  If we have to close classes, we will use our Communicate Broadcast System to deliver messages quickly to affected families.  We recognize the pivot or closure of a class is extremely disruptive for families.  Know that we are doing the best we can to staff schools and avoid this measure.  Student safety is always our priority. The Board and school administrators (principals and vice-principals) are working to ensure the safety, supervision, and in-person learning continues during the pandemic. Certain routines may have been modified at your school(s), and these will continue to be directed by administrators on a school-by-school basis. LDSB is not the only organization experiencing staffing pressures. Tri-Board Student Transportation Services has been experiencing driver shortages as well, which has impacted the transportation schedules with delays or cancellations of routes. Tri-Board is continuously working to minimize the impact on daily transportation, but it is not always avoidable, and may cause delays or cancellations in the future. You can download <a href="https://triboard.ca/delays-and-cancellations/">Tri-Board’s App</a> to receive notifications about your student’s transportation delays or cancellations.  Like other sectors, staffing shortages due to a range of factors, and particularly related to the pandemic, are creating challenges for regular services.  We appreciate your understanding and efforts made by staff, students, and families to accommodate these ongoing challenges and changes as we navigate this together. Daily Screening for COVID-19 and Adhering to Public Health Measures <ul> <li>Daily screening for students, staff, and visitors before leaving for school or work remains in place. Students and staff must self-screen every day before attending school or work. You can access <a href="https://covid-19.ontario.ca/school-screening/">the Ontario COVID-19 School and Child Care Screening here</a>.</li> <li>We continue to strongly encourage masking to minimize the spread of COVID-19</li> <li>All household members and students should continue to self-monitor for COVID-19 symptoms and stay home if they are experiencing any symptoms. </li> <li>Continue to consistently practice good hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette. </li> <li>Get your COVID-19 vaccine if you are eligible. There are still clinics and appointments available in our community. Visit <a href="https://www.kflaph.ca/en/healthy-living/covid-19-vaccine.aspx">kflaph.ca/vaccine</a> to find a vaccine clinic near you.</li> </ul> Masking Although masks are no longer required for students, staff, and visitors in schools and on school transportation, masking continues to be strongly encouraged. It should be noted that when schools have crossed the threshold of 30% absences due to COVID-related reasons, KFL&A Public Health has issued a letter indicating that masking is recommended due to the presence of COVID in the school and community.  Masks continue to be available daily for all students, as well as PPE for all staff. Many students and staff are choosing to continue to wear masks at times, or consistently, and we support every student’s (and family’s) decision around masking.     When masking is required (as of March 21, 2022): <ul> <li>Under federal travel requirements, upon return from international travel, individuals must always wear a mask when in public spaces (including schools and childcare) for 14 days.</li> <li>Individuals who are age 11 or younger or fully vaccinated, who tested positive or had symptoms of COVID-19, can return to school or work after their 5 days of isolation if symptoms are improving. They must, however, wear a well-fitted mask in all public settings (including schools and childcare) and avoid activities where they would need to take off their mask (for example, playing a wind instrument or removing their mask for sports) until 10 days after their symptoms started or from their positive test date.</li> <li>Individuals who are a close contact of a case of COVID-19 or a symptomatic individual who are not required to isolate, must wear a well-fitted mask in all public settings (including schools and childcare) for 10 days from their last exposure to the person with COVID-19 symptoms or positive test result (or from when the symptomatic or positive person finishes their isolation).</li> <li>Please note that exposures within the school setting are no longer included in the definition of a close contact.</li> </ul> Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) Rapid Antigen Tests will continue to be available for students and staff for symptomatic testing or returning from an unplanned absence. Extra Curriculars and Graduation Ceremonies With the recent changes in the COVID-19 protocols, spectators are now permitted for school activities and extra curriculars.  Spectators and school visitors must screen prior to attending any extracurriculars or school activities.  Masking is strongly encouraged for all spectators and visitors when indoors. Planning is underway for graduation ceremonies at schools. Graduation ceremonies and celebrations might look slightly different from school to school and may not resemble graduations prior to the pandemic, but everyone is equally as excited to be able to honour this year’s graduating students and recognize their hard work in an in-person format.

2022-04-08 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Boardroom Briefs: March 30, 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 February 23, 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/9sb2w-boardroom-briefs?embed=1" title="BOARDROOM BRIEFS"></iframe>

2022-04-05 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

ÉKEES Final Renaming Survey

<img src="/images/3bebbca1-f632-5487-9b81-bc7b90211f09?fingerprint=ppb20251217013553" srcset="/thumbnails/3bebbca1-f632-5487-9b81-bc7b90211f09?fingerprint=ppb20251217013553 450w, /images/3bebbca1-f632-5487-9b81-bc7b90211f09?fingerprint=ppb20251217013553 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px">Last fall, the Limestone District School Board began the process of renaming École Kingston East Elementary School (ÉKEES). Students and their families, staff, and the broader community supplied name suggestions and feedback through two surveys, the first survey in November 2021 and a follow up survey that ranked preferences in February 2022. We thank everyone who took part and continue to support this important undertaking.  Now, the Renaming Committee, which is overseeing the consultation part of the process, is asking the school community for final input on four names. Two names that were suggested and highly ranked from the first and second survey, and two new names that came forward as additional suggestions in the second survey, all reflecting the data collected and student voices captured in conversation.  <div> <div> The ÉKEES Renaming Committee is guided by Limestone District School Board <a href="/common/pages/DisplayFile.aspx" target="_blank" title="https://www.limestone.on.ca/common/pages/DisplayFile.aspx?itemId=34187574">Administrative Procedure 552: Naming/Renaming of Schools</a><a href="/common/pages/DisplayFile.aspx" target="_blank" title="https://www.limestone.on.ca/common/pages/DisplayFile.aspx?itemId=34187574">. </a>The Renaming Committee also developed the following additional criteria to guide the name selection:  </div> <div> <ul> <li>former school name will not be considered  </li> <li> avoiding the selection of any name of an individual (even if deceased) </li> <li>will not appropriate Indigenous words/languages/names  </li> <li>ensuring a new name has a connection to nature/land to promote a sense of identity and belonging among all peoples </li> </ul> </div> </div>The  ÉKEES school community is now being asked to select their top three name choices from the following four names: Butternut Creek Elementary School, Maple Elementary School, Forestview Elementary School, Mapleview Elementary School. <a href="https://bit.ly/EKEESFinalSurvey" target="_blank" title="https://bit.ly/EKEESFinalSurvey">ÉKEES Renaming Final Survey</a> submissions will be accepted from Thursday, March 31 until Thursday, April 7, 2022 The Renaming Committee will review the results of this final survey and provide the Board of Trustees with the top three names for consideration. Trustees will make the final decision on the new name for École Kingston East Elementary School.

2022-03-31 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

2022-2023 Student trustees (300 × 200 px)

Incoming Student Trustees 2022-2023

<img src="/images/91e4956a-5ac2-5726-b59a-1eda93f8104c?fingerprint=ppb20251217014343" srcset="/thumbnails/91e4956a-5ac2-5726-b59a-1eda93f8104c?fingerprint=ppb20251217014343 450w, /images/91e4956a-5ac2-5726-b59a-1eda93f8104c?fingerprint=ppb20251217014343 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> Student Trustees for the 2022-2023 school year were recently elected by their peers through InterSchool Council. The Limestone District School Board has established three positions for Student Trustees to provide for the interests of students within its school system. One Student Trustee is elected to represent urban students, one Student Trustee is elected to represent rural students, and one Student Trustee is elected to represent Indigenous students to ensure accurate representation for all secondary students in the board.  The Student Trustee position allows students in Grades 11 or 12 to provide greater insight into student activities, programs and needs. This important role also encourages more student voice in the district’s governance activities, and a greater awareness and understanding of mutual issues between and among the Board, school staff and students. Welcome, to the 2022-2023 Student Trustees: <ul> <li>Urban Trustee Mohammed Elshrief:  Mohammed is an honour role student at Frontenac Secondary School. He is actively involved in his school and community through many roles, including: the Kingston Model U.N. COVID-19 Executive Team, volunteering at Artillery Park to help the elderly community and those with disabilities engage in meaningful activities, Arabic Tutor at the Kingston ISK helping children get the basics of Arabic language, an Arabic interpreter for immigrants and refugees to Kingston at KEYS Job Centre, and volunteering for the Liberal Party’s campaign in the 2019 election. As a first-generation immigrant from Egypt, he is an enthusiastic leader, focusing on helping to improve schools’ environments to make them more inclusive and welcoming to students.</li> </ul> <ul> <li>Rural Trustee Elayna Jackson: Growing up in a rural area and attending a rural school, Elayna understands the unique challenges rural schools face and is excited to be a voice and make an impact for rural students and school communities within the Limestone District School Board. She has actively been involved in student council initiatives from her time as an elementary student at Land O’Lakes Public School, to the present day as a student at Granite Ridge Education Centre. Having worked in the customer service industry, Elayna has developed communication skills that allow her to understand various perspectives while maintaining focus on her task of advocating for rural students as a Student Trustee. She loves to play sports, including competitive softball in Napanee, and enjoys making various connections and having access to many students’ voices both within her local community and the greater Limestone District School Board Community. </li> </ul> <ul> <li>Indigenous Student Trustee Julia Kolosov: Julia is a student at Kingston Secondary School who is focused on using her leadership skills to further advance Indigenous culture within the school board, how it is represented, acknowledged, and respected within the school community. Playing competitive water-polo for the past ten years has allowed Julia to develop resilience, self-confidence, and leadership skills, while working with teammates and friends to accomplish the same and encouraging everyone to be creative while learning from their mistakes. Julia is excited to meet with school representatives, parent council members, and school staff to advocate for what the board’s Indigenous students need to be successful.   </li> </ul>

2022-03-31 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

KASSAA Finals at SLC

<img src="/images/0aa554e3-3824-51a8-ba6e-d78de448f348?fingerprint=ppb20251217013102" srcset="/thumbnails/0aa554e3-3824-51a8-ba6e-d78de448f348?fingerprint=ppb20251217013102 450w, /images/0aa554e3-3824-51a8-ba6e-d78de448f348?fingerprint=ppb20251217013102 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> <div> <div> We are excited to share that St. Lawrence College will be hosting the <a href="http://www.kassaa.ca/" target="_blank" title="KASSAA website">KASSAA </a>Basketball and Volleyball Championship finals next Tuesday and Wednesday evenings. We are sharing this information with the district in the event secondary students and their families wish to attend. The schedule will be as follows:    <ul> <li>Junior Boys Basketball La Salle vs Frontenac: Tuesday March 29th at 5:30 pm   </li> <li>Senior Boys Basketball La Salle vs Frontenac: Tuesday March 29th at 7:30 pm</li> <li>Junior Girls Volleyball KSS vs Sydenham: Wednesday March 30th at 5:30 pm</li> <li>Senior Girls Volleyball Frontenac vs La Salle: Wednesday March 30th at 7:30 pm</li> </ul> There is no entry fee for the final games.   Spectator guidelines at St. Lawrence College are as follows: <ul> <li>Entry into the College for spectators will be through E 48 between the library and pub, and runs parallel to Portsmouth Ave. Take the pathway to the left of the main entrance.</li> <li>Parking is available in the main parking lot off Portsmouth Ave. as well as Country Club Drive. (See attached St. Lawrence floor plan for parking and spectator entrances) </li> <li>Spectators 12 and older must show proof of vaccination with identification. </li> <li>Spectators under the age of 12 are not required to show proof of vaccination.</li> <li>All spectators must wear masks at all times.</li> <li>Food and beverages are NOT permitted in the bleachers.</li> </ul> Bayridge Secondary School will be live streaming the KASSAA finals and providing commentating for all games.  This is a great addition to this year’s finals and we extend our sincere appreciation to this talented crew. You can access the live streaming link here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0Pdy90RmqjNzomh4_o2u7A?app=desktop" title=" KASSAA Finals"> KASSAA Finals</a>. The KASSAA Boys Hockey Finals will be held on Monday, March 28th at INVISTA. The game will be recorded and uploaded to the same YouTube channel for viewing afterwards. Congratulations to all finalists and good luck! </div> </div>

2022-03-25 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Equity Matters March 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 edition of Equity Matters stems from the acknowledgment that each individual's identity, coupled with personal experiences, influences perspectives and feelings.  As we move through March, let's do so with mindfulness. Everyone's story is multifaceted and unique, including our own. Let's honour the way each of us process this changing world, availing the necessary space and time to learn from each other and heal as a community.<iframe src="https://www.smore.com/7zdnjc-equity-matters?embed=1" title="Equity Matters"></iframe>

2022-03-25 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

What you need to know for Monday, March 21

<img src="/images/8c9b4e1a-9716-5a1a-b468-8813451cf56c?fingerprint=ppb20251217014314" srcset="/thumbnails/8c9b4e1a-9716-5a1a-b468-8813451cf56c?fingerprint=ppb20251217014314 450w, /images/8c9b4e1a-9716-5a1a-b468-8813451cf56c?fingerprint=ppb20251217014314 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> We hope that students, staff and families have been able to enjoy time together over the March Break, and we look forward to welcoming students back both in-person and virtually. As COVID-19 restrictions are lifted by provincial directives, students, families, and staff will have different reactions. We recognize that adapting to this new reality will take time and that not everyone will have the same level of comfort as measures are lifted. It is okay to be anxious about the coming weeks and it is also okay to be excited and hopeful. Respecting people’s individual decisions will continue to be important.   For Monday, we wanted to remind you of some of the changes and provide some additional information on how Limestone will implement the lifting of COVID-19 health and safety measures as announced March 9 by the Chief Medical Officer of Health (CMOH), the Ministry of Education, and our local KFL&A Public Health.  Here's what you need to know as we return to in-person learning after March Break, March 21:   <ul> <li>Lifting of Health and Safety Measures in Schools: Measures including cohorting, distancing, immunization disclosure, confirmation of screening and more will be lifted as of Monday, March 21.</li> </ul> <ul> <li>Masks in Schools: As of March 21, masks will no longer be required to be worn in schools, or on student transportation, although they are strongly encouraged. The Ministry of Education will continue to provide free medical masks to students on request, and personal protective equipment, including medical and N95 masks, face shields and glasses, for staff until the end of this school year.</li> </ul> <ul> <li>Daily Screening (revised): KFL&A Public Health has updated its <a href="https://www.kflaph.ca/en/healthy-living/resources/Infection-Prevention-and-Control/Coronavirus/school-protocols/COVID-19-Screening-for-Child-Students.pdf" target="_blank" title="COVID-19 screening tool">COVID-19 screening too</a>l for schools and childcare settings to align with the new direction from the CMOH. Students, staff, and visitors should continue to do a daily self-assessment with this screening tool before coming to school and should stay at home if they are experiencing any new or worsening symptoms of illness.  </li> </ul> <ul> <li>For Families Returning from Travelling Abroad: Under current federal travel regulations, individuals returning from international travel (including the U.S.) who are exempt from quarantine must wear a mask when in public spaces (including schools and childcare), maintain a list of all close contacts for the first 14 days of their return to Canada, and monitor for signs and symptoms of COVID-19. Visit the <a href="https://travel.gc.ca/travel-covid/travel-restrictions/exemptions" target="_blank" title="Government of Canada website">Government of Canada</a> website to learn more about international travel restrictions and exemptions. </li> <li>Cohorting and Physical Distancing: Cohorting and distancing will no longer be required in schools. Assigned seats and cohorting will no longer be required on student transportation. </li> <li>Gradual Changes in Schools: Each school community will have different wants and needs. As measures are lifted, activities such as fundraising, volunteering, excursions, events such as open houses, art performances and spectator sports will be resumed in a thoughtful and gradual way. Adjustments to classroom setups or use of shared materials and spaces will be determined at the school level after the March Break. </li> <li>Isolation Guidance: The province has updated their household <a href="https://covid-19.ontario.ca/exposed" target="_blank" title="Isolation measures">isolation measures</a> to indicate that in some cases, household members may not need to isolate if there is a positive case of COVID-19 in their home, depending on their vaccination status. Instructions for what to do if you have been exposed to COVID-19 as a <a href="https://www.kflaph.ca/en/healthy-living/resources/Infection-Prevention-and-Control/Coronavirus/PDFs/COVID19_Instructions_For-Close-Contacts.pdf" target="_blank" title="close contact">close contact</a> has also been updated. </li> <li>Visitors and Volunteers: We ask that all visitors remain patient as schools gradually begin to welcome community members back into schools. Families and visitors are reminded that they must check in at the office to sign in and out. Visitors will be required to do a COVID-19 self-assessment.  </li> <li>Short-term Virtual School: LDSB will continue to consider accommodating requests for a short-term remote learning option within current teaching capacity in virtual learning, and in alignment with provincial guidance. Families should connect with their home school the week of March 21 if they wish to make a change. </li> <li>Unchanged Measures: As per direction of the Ministry of Education, the following health and safety measures will continue to remain in place: <div> <ul> <li> <ul> <li>Students, staff, and any school visitors are expected to complete a daily <a href="https://www.kflaph.ca/en/healthy-living/resources/Infection-Prevention-and-Control/Coronavirus/school-protocols/COVID-19-Screening-for-Child-Students.pdf" target="_blank">COVID self-assessment</a> before coming into a LDSB building. Students in Grades 7-12 will continue to receive a daily COVID-19 self-assessment screening email</li> </ul> </li> <li> <ul> <li>Enhanced cleaning</li> </ul> </li> <li> <ul> <li>Optimizing air quality and ventilation</li> </ul> </li> <li> <ul> <li>Encouraging hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette, such as coughing into your sleeve</li> </ul> </li> <li> <ul> <li>Reporting daily absences of staff and student and notifying KFL&A Public Health when absences due to illness exceed 30%</li> </ul> </li> <li> <ul> <li>Distributing Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) provided to those who become symptomatic at school or returning from an unplanned absence</li> </ul> </li> <li> <ul> <li>The province will continue to provide medical masks for use by students upon request, and medical masks and/or N95 masks and other PPE for staff on request until the end of the school year</li> </ul> </li> <li> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.kflaph.ca/en/healthy-living/resources/Infection-Prevention-and-Control/Coronavirus/PDFs/COVID19_Instructions_Tested-or-Symptoms.pdf" target="_blank" title="Symptomatic students/staff">Symptomatic students/staff</a> at school will continue to isolate and be sent home based on criteria in screening too</li> </ul> </li> </ul> </div> </li> </ul> <div> <div></div> </div> Screening daily for COVID-19 symptoms continues to be a requirement.  Staff and students are directed to stay home if they are experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms.  While masking is no longer mandatory under the provincial directive, we strongly encourage those wanting to continue wearing masks to do so, and particularly, immediately following the break. Respecting and accepting individual choices will continue to be critical on the path ahead. Moving forward, we will continue to stay in close contact with our local Public Health to report on and monitor any changes in the local health situation.   Given the significant changes that have been announced, reactions will vary.  With the experience with COVID-19 for the last two years, we recognize that for some people these public health measures represented protections, while for others they represented restrictions.  Continuing to exercise patience, kindness, and respect for others will continue to be important.  The Limestone District School Board remains committed to supporting a healthy, safe, and respectful environment for all students and staff. Thank you for your continued patience and support. We look forward to welcoming students back next week.

2022-03-19 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Letter Requesting Extension of Mask Requirements

<img src="/images/5ba71b8e-2b42-550d-a84a-87d0351b1d0a?fingerprint=ppb20251217013831" srcset="/thumbnails/5ba71b8e-2b42-550d-a84a-87d0351b1d0a?fingerprint=ppb20251217013831 450w, /images/5ba71b8e-2b42-550d-a84a-87d0351b1d0a?fingerprint=ppb20251217013831 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px">UPDATE:  The province has responded to Trustees request for 2-week extension of mask requirements, noting all policies related to masking in schools is the responsibility of Ontario government. March 17, 2022 Dear Premier Ford, Minister Elliott, Minister Lecce, Dr. Moore and Dr. Oglaza: This letter is a response to the CMOH statements of March 9, 2022 and the Ministry of Education memorandum of March 9, 2022 lifting public health measures in publicly funded K-12 schools in Ontario. In a Special Board Meeting held on March 16, 2022, Limestone District School Board Trustees unanimously approved a motion requesting a two-week extension of the masking requirements for Grades 1-12. Limestone Trustees fully recognize that as the pandemic evolves, public health measures need to adjust. However, we are gravely concerned about the timing of the lifting of masks as students and staff return to schools after the March Break. It should be noted that these concerns echo those expressed by the Children’s Health Coalition that includes CHEO and Sick Kids. Extending the masking requirement for two-weeks would add a layer of protection that would mitigate the impact of COVID incubation time and align with the two-week masking requirement for anyone who has traveled internationally. While the provincial directives from March 9 have been received differently by families, a significant number of families feel abandoned by the removal of public health measures. With the removal of masking requirements, Limestone Trustees request additional direction and communication regarding how schools can protect student and staff who are immunocompromised or who have complex medical needs, and students who are under age 5 and are currently unable to be vaccinated. In addition, Limestone Trustees are very concerned about the misalignment of masking requirements being maintained on public transportation, but not on school buses. If the close confines of public transportation are a high-risk context, why are school buses deemed differently? It does not stand to reason that students riding a city bus to school would have to mask, while students on school buses can unmask. Furthermore, extending masking requirements from March 21 to April 4 would also allow a greater number of students 5-11 years old to be fully vaccinated, and a greater number of 12-17 year old students to receive a booster shot. Limestone Trustees request your urgent consideration of these requests, and a prompt response to our concerns. Granting our request for a two-week extension to masking requirements would provide an additional layer of safety, and help protect the health of students, staff, and families served by Limestone DSB, and across Ontario.  Sincerely, Suzanne Ruttan, Chair, Limestone District School Board <a class="editor-link" href="/documents/c13f9e27-250d-5503-835b-724c538337ca?fingerprint=20260525T0545Z" target="_blank"> Chief Medical Officer of Health Letter of Response to Trustees, March 18, 2022 </a> <a class="editor-link" href="/documents/95ef7303-258d-581a-9826-eca607e48f69?fingerprint=ppb20251217014409" target="_blank"> Dr. P. Oglaza, Medical Officer of Health KFLAPH Letter of Response to Trustees, March 18, 2022 Medical Officer of Health KFLAPH Letter of Response to Trustees, March 18, 2022 </a> <a class="editor-link" href="/documents/58af9b50-8ade-573c-b7f3-93301475ea99?fingerprint=ppb20251217013816" target="_blank"> Chair's Letter to Province Requesting Extension to Mask Requirements March 17, 2022 </a>

2022-03-17 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Director's Message to Families March 2022

<img src="/images/f7d6500e-9680-5d43-92ae-4200f2d4c664?fingerprint=ppb20251217015254" srcset="/thumbnails/f7d6500e-9680-5d43-92ae-4200f2d4c664?fingerprint=ppb20251217015254 450w, /images/f7d6500e-9680-5d43-92ae-4200f2d4c664?fingerprint=ppb20251217015254 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> <div> Dear Families, <div></div> This is a follow up to the update you received yesterday regarding a number of changes to provincial health measures in schools.  While we are cautiously optimistic about a return to more normal school circumstances, we also acknowledge and fully understand the range of responses to these changes.  Although some are relieved, others are concerned.  While masking is no longer mandatory under the provincial directive, we strongly encourage those wanting to continue wearing masks to do so, and particularly, immediately following the break.  I know my own family will continue to mask after the March Break. Masks will continue to be available for all staff and students who want one for the balance of this school year. I would note that returning from March Break on March 21, will be the fifth or sixth transition point during this pandemic. At each point of transition there has been heightened concerns that risks were too high to return to school/work or to face changes. In the previous situations, these concerns dissipated within a short period of time after returning to school or work and a ‘new normal’ was established. Whatever your reaction is to these changes, it is justified. Change is difficult at the best of times. 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. We also recognize that these provincial changes may result in some families wanting to either return to in-person learning, or to move to the virtual school.  Please ensure you connect with your school the week of March 21 if you would like to make a change.  We will do our best to accommodate requests within our existing staffing constraints.   I also need to provide some information on a number of other items as we enter the final three months of this school year, and continue to plan for the 2022-2023 school year. </div> The 2022-2023 School Year calendar has been sent to the Ministry for approval. For details on our proposed calendar for next year, please visit the <a href="/" target="_blank" title="LDSB Website">LDSB website</a>. Registration for Kindergarten is underway, and the online process can be accessed through our <a href="/news/what_s_new/kindergarten_registration_for_september_2022" target="_blank" title="Kindergarten Registration">website</a>. Virtual School 2022-2023: The board has begun planning for September 2022 including the continuation of our Virtual Schools for K to 12 students who learn best in the online environment or require a virtual environment due to underlying medical conditions for themselves or for family members.  Families wishing to have their elementary school student(s) enrolled in the LDSB Elementary Virtual School for September 2022, will need to complete the <a href="https://ldsb.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5AzMVuUCoPe4wGq" target="_blank" title="EVS Survey">EVS Surve</a><a href="https://ldsb.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5AzMVuUCoPe4wGq" target="_blank" title="EVS Survey">y</a> to confirm their interest by March 21, 2022, even if their student was in the Elementary Virtual School this year. Registration is now open for the 2022-2023 LDSB Secondary Virtual School (grades 9-12). Program information can be found here. Families/students intending to register for Secondary Virtual School are asked to complete the following registration form: <a href="https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=Xxb04a7rgk2nPKDeWTgwviRBvq59gH5JlCH_ceQSgMdUQllTOUVYWUE0VzNHVVlOWlBCSVEyMTFETi4u" target="_blank" title="SVS Registration">Secondary Virtual School Registration Form</a> by Friday March 25, 2022. You can also reach out to Secondary Virtual School directly by emailing virtual912@limestone.on.ca or by calling the school at 613-542-7369 Budget Survey: 2022-2023 school year: Trustees are seeking input and feedback to support the budgeting process to ensure students’ needs are best served. Please consider providing your ideas by completing our <a href="https://ldsb.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8qQecdOnycrUJwO" target="_blank" title="Budget Survey">budget survey</a>. The link to the survey is posted on our LDSB website. New Secondary Online Learning Requirement: The Ministry of Education has issued a new online learning graduation requirement for secondary students effective February 1, 2022.  This change requires students to complete two online courses prior to graduation.  Students in grade 10 during the 2021-2022 school year are the first group of students required to complete this new e-learning graduation requirement.  It should be noted that this cohort of students have been deemed by the Ministry to have completed one of the two required online learning courses due to the online learning period that occurred in the spring of 2021.  Most students will take online courses during their grade 11 and/or grade 12 year, but some may elect to complete the online learning requirement during Summer School. Families who determine that online learning is not appropriate for their student(s) will have the opportunity to opt out of this requirement in their graduating year. Opt-out forms will be available through school guidance departments beginning September 2022. Please refer to the <a href="/students/education___career__life_planning/graduation_requirements" target="_blank" title="Online Learning Requirement">LDSB website</a> for further details. If families have questions about the new eLearning graduation requirements, they can email <a href="mailto:program@limestone.on.ca?subject=online learning ">program@limestone.on.ca</a> Extra-curriculars: Due to the changes in COVID-19 protocols, spectators are now permitted for school activities. Vaccination attestation is no longer required for participants and spectators in our schools.  Short-term Virtual School: Since returning to in-person learning in January, we have been offering a short-term virtual option to those who wanted to temporarily learn from home. We saw a very significant decrease in the number of families accessing this option for the past few weeks.  However, we also recognize the lifting of some provincial health measures may result in some families wanting to access this option immediately following March Break for a short period of time.  In addition, students who cannot attend in-person learning due to COVID-19 symptoms, or isolation requirements, will continue to be supported by their teachers for the recovery/isolation period.  We will continue to assess the need for this option later in March/early April. Tutoring: We are currently developing a variety of tutoring models that will start in April. These tutoring supports will include summer learning, a focus on reading, math, and other foundational skills as well as targeted initiatives to support student learning. The release of the Ontario Human Rights Commission <a href="https://www.ohrc.on.ca/en/right-to-read-inquiry-report/executive-summary#:~:text=It%20includes%20the%20ability%20to,with%20different%20forms%20of%20communication." target="_blank" title="Right to Read Report">Right to Read Inquiry Report</a> focuses attention on the importance of targeted, explicit, and research-based literacy instruction. In Limestone we will continue to align our teaching of reading with instructional approaches based on research and commit to pursuing the recommendations provided by the Right to Read inquiry report.  The continued Russian invasion of Ukraine is very concerning. We will continue to provide support and resources to those who require it. I want to extend my thoughts and sympathy to anyone directly affected by this conflict. March Break often marks the beginning of spring for our school communities, and with spring comes the opportunity for renewal and rejuvenation. ILike all seasons, spring is a season of change, and we are certainly entering a period of transition in schools.  We will communicate any updates that may occur over the next week. I wish all Limestone families a restful and safe March Break.  Be well, <div> Krishna   </div>

2022-03-11 00:00:00 +0000 UTC