District News - Limestone District School Board Main Website

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=20260727T0130Z" 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

Update to COVID-19 Public Health Protocols

<img src="/images/aea1d7db-f9fd-5903-bc41-21b348a6ef00?fingerprint=ppb20251217014623" srcset="/thumbnails/aea1d7db-f9fd-5903-bc41-21b348a6ef00?fingerprint=ppb20251217014623 450w, /images/aea1d7db-f9fd-5903-bc41-21b348a6ef00?fingerprint=ppb20251217014623 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> <div> As we approach March Break, we would like to share some important information and updates related to COVID-19 Public Health protocols.  Yesterday, the Ontario Chief Medical Officer of Health announced a number of provincial directives impacting schools.   As COVID-19 restrictions are lifted by provincial directives, students, families, and staff will have different reactions.  While these changes signal a return to more normal school circumstances, we are in a period of transition, and will need to be very conscious of differing levels of comfort for different people.   Respecting people’s individual decisions will continue to be important.  Moving forward, we will continue to stay in close contact with our local public health units to report on and monitor any changes in the local health situation.   </div> <div>   </div> <div> Below are the critical updates from the province: The provincial screening tool has been further amended to align with federal requirements, and to take into account different vaccination circumstances.  The screening tool will advise on any isolation requirements for your particular situation, but in general, household members of COVID-positive or symptomatic individuals do not have to isolate if: <div> <ul> <li> (a) they have tested positive for COVID-19 in the previous 90 days;   </li> <li> (b) are older than 18 and have received their booster dose (three doses); or   </li> <li> (c) are younger than 18 and are fully immunized (two doses).  Household members who do not meet these criteria must self-isolate.   </li> <li>    </li> </ul> </div> <a href="/cms/One.aspx" target="_blank" title="Screening Tool">SCREENING TOOLS</a> Masking and cohorting mandates for schools and on school transportation will be lifted following March Break, as of March 21, 2022.  While the masking mandate has been lifted, all students, families, and staff who choose to continue masking are encouraged to do so.  All individuals with underlying health issues are also encouraged to continue to wear a mask.  It should be noted that family members of symptomatic individuals in their household must wear a mask for 10 days and not participate in school-based activities where wearing a mask is not possible.  For example, music class or high impact athletics.  Masking is also required upon return from international travel.  Other Protocols Impacted Monday March 21: <div> <ul> <li> (a) restrictions will be lifted for athletic activities and music,  </li> <li> (b) public health capacity limits for indoor activities will be removed.  </li> </ul> </div> Rapid Antigen Tests will continue to be available for students and staff for symptomatic testing or returning from an unplanned absence.  <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.   </div> <div>   </div> <div> Please note as well that guidelines related to international travel are regulated by the Federal Government, and not necessarily impacted by provincial changes. If you are vacationing over the March Break, be sure to know what <a href="https://travel.gc.ca/travel-covid" target="_blank" title="International Travel">restrictions and isolation requirements are in place for travel</a><a href="https://travel.gc.ca/travel-covid" target="_blank" title="International Travel">.</a>   </div> <div>   </div> <div> Given the significant changes that have been announced, reactions will vary.  Given 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 Director will share some additional updates tomorrow.    </div> </div>

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

Virtual School 2022-2023

<img src="/images/07d02491-3638-5018-9c59-87cbe521056b?fingerprint=ppb20251217013050" srcset="/thumbnails/07d02491-3638-5018-9c59-87cbe521056b?fingerprint=ppb20251217013050 450w, /images/07d02491-3638-5018-9c59-87cbe521056b?fingerprint=ppb20251217013050 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px">The Limestone District school Board will continue to offer <a href="/cms/One.aspx" target="_blank" title="Virtual School Info">Virtual School</a> to both elementary and secondary school students. Elementary Virtual School: Families wishing to enrol their student(s) in the Elementary Virtual School (EVS) for the 2022-2023 school year will need to indicate their intentions on this survey, whether they are currently enrolled in the EVS or Face-to-face school. Families must indicate their intentions no later than March 22, 2022.  <a href="https://bit.ly/3vwjClM" target="_blank" title="EVS Survey">Elementary Virtual School Survey Link</a> Secondary Virtual School: Registration is now open for the 2022-2023 at the LDSB Secondary Virtual School (grades 9-12). Program information can be found <a href="/cms/One.aspx" target="_blank" title="SVS Information">here.</a> 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="Registration SVS">Secondary Virtual School Registration Form</a> by Friday March 25th, 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.  We will accommodate moves between models of learning if there is available space in the class/school. While we will try to accommodate all requests, it is important to note that due to class-size limits, students moving from virtual learning to in-person learning may not be accommodated in their home school. Families will be notified of any transfer outside their student’s home school before a change is made. Where space is not available, students may be placed on a wait list.  Provided space is available, we will do our best to accommodate families to the maximum extent possible.

2022-03-07 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Trustees Seek Input on the 2022-2023 Budget

<img src="/images/5f00104e-db2b-536c-a9e0-34126b1f90ba?fingerprint=ppb20251217013856" srcset="/thumbnails/5f00104e-db2b-536c-a9e0-34126b1f90ba?fingerprint=ppb20251217013856 450w, /images/5f00104e-db2b-536c-a9e0-34126b1f90ba?fingerprint=ppb20251217013856 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> The Limestone District School Board is seeking feedback on the development of its budget process. This information will assist the Board of Trustees throughout the budgeting process to ensure students’ needs are best served in 2022-2023.The 2021-2022 School Budget, which will form the basis for the 2022-2023 budget, can be viewed at <a href="/cms/one.aspx" target="_blank" title="2021-2022 Budget Report">2021-2022 LDSB Budget.</a> Please take a few minutes to share your ideas for the 2022-2023 budget by completing a short anonymous survey. <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2FBudgetSurvey2022-2023&data=04%7C01%7Chigheth%40limestone.on.ca%7Cb054710dd55b4d0c39c308d9fe0b80d6%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C637820147690508545%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=5qMsrXkVv1cnNigNzAGVR3q%2BizUogJnjVZl4oYaDCLo%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" title="Budget Survey">Budget Survey</a> The survey is voluntary and anonymous. All responses remain confidential.  The survey will be open until March 25, 2022, at 4:00 p.m. Information collected will be summarized and reviewed at the Budget Committee meeting on April 20, 2022. .

2022-03-07 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Proposed 2022-2023 School Year Calendar

<img src="/images/cca84b4f-82ab-5b9e-9e4c-387e986493ca?fingerprint=ppb20251217014905" srcset="/thumbnails/cca84b4f-82ab-5b9e-9e4c-387e986493ca?fingerprint=ppb20251217014905 450w, /images/cca84b4f-82ab-5b9e-9e4c-387e986493ca?fingerprint=ppb20251217014905 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px">Our proposed school year calendar has been approved by our Board of Trustees and is awaiting Ministry approval.  The following key dates have been proposed: First Day of School:  Tuesday, September 6, 2022 Winter Break: December 23, 2022 to January 6, 2023 March Break:, March 13, to March 17, 2023 Last Day of School: Thursday, June 29, 2023 For the proposed Professional Activity Days, Exam Days and other Holidays next year, please click on the draft calendar below. <a class="editor-link" href="/documents/1601f036-f406-5161-9352-9953a26f46e7?fingerprint=20260727T0130Z" target="_blank"> </a>

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

Boardroom Briefs Feb. 23, 2022

<img src="/images/10db006a-63b7-5ca5-9b8a-7b9d0ae08dcb?fingerprint=ppb20251217013147" srcset="/thumbnails/10db006a-63b7-5ca5-9b8a-7b9d0ae08dcb?fingerprint=ppb20251217013147 450w, /images/10db006a-63b7-5ca5-9b8a-7b9d0ae08dcb?fingerprint=ppb20251217013147 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/7usmw-boardroom-briefs?embed=1" title="BOARDROOM BRIEFS"></iframe>

2022-02-28 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Protocols for Extra-curriculars

<img src="/images/333a797e-059f-54e0-b979-7ed04f9b43aa?fingerprint=ppb20251217013501" srcset="/thumbnails/333a797e-059f-54e0-b979-7ed04f9b43aa?fingerprint=ppb20251217013501 450w, /images/333a797e-059f-54e0-b979-7ed04f9b43aa?fingerprint=ppb20251217013501 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> We know that participation in extra-curricular activities is an important part of the school experience for many students. The Limestone District School Board continues to work closely with its partners at KFL&A Public Health (KFLAPH), the Kingston Area Secondary Schools Athletic Association (KASSAA), the Limestone Elementary Schools’ Athletic Association (LESAA) and the Algonquin & Lakeshore Catholic District School Board (ALCDSB) to ensure a continued safe return to in-person learning and the reintroduction of extra-curricular activities (sports and clubs). The changes to protocols for extra-curricular activities are as follows: The use of gymnasiums, swimming pools, change rooms, weight rooms, indoor physical education equipment and shared outdoor equipment are permitted with as much distancing as possible being encouraged. High and low contact activities are permitted with the following parameters: Masking is not required when playing high or low contact activities outdoors. Masking is required for indoor sports when not actively engaged in the activity. Masks can be removed when actively participating in the activity if they cannot be worn safely while participating. Winter seasons are currently underway and vaccination requirements were in place when these teams/groups were created for this season. Given the province has removed the vaccination passport effective March 1, 2022, the vaccination requirement will be lifted as of March 1, 2022.  Any existing teams in the current season would still require vaccinations given they were created with that condition, and it is still unclear whether community-based venues may still require proof of vaccination.  Based on current information, new teams/clubs being created, or any new season moving forward would not require proof of vaccination. However, vaccinations may still be required if external venues maintain this requirement. It should be noted that the spring season for extracurricular athletics is outdoors. At this time K-6 must remain in cohorts for extracurricular activities. To ensure students remain safe and healthy both inside and outside the classroom, we are taking important steps to prioritize the health and safety of student athletes and volunteer coaches.  Limestone will continue to update and will implement every strategy within our ability, and as recommended by public health. As we reintroduce extra-curriculars in our schools, we will continue to take reasonable steps to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and maintain a safe environment. We are committed to student and staff safety and will follow all public health directives to protect in-person learning, some of which may change over time. Thank you for your understanding as we proceed with a cautious approach to extra-curricular activities. <a href="/news/what_s_new/update_to_families__c_o_v_i_d_protocols" target="_blank" title="Update to Protocols">Detailed update to protocols as of Feburary 24, 2022</a>

2022-02-25 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Russia - Ukraine Conflict

<img src="/images/7e519ae6-fc65-5e95-a38e-1d4d95cee25e?fingerprint=ppb20251217014153" srcset="/thumbnails/7e519ae6-fc65-5e95-a38e-1d4d95cee25e?fingerprint=ppb20251217014153 450w, /images/7e519ae6-fc65-5e95-a38e-1d4d95cee25e?fingerprint=ppb20251217014153 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px">We recognize that world events impact the lives of our students, staff and families. With the recent escalation of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and its prevalence in the media, know that we have a variety of supports available through schools to support your student. We extend our sympathies to anyone affected by conflict. Our educational services team has prepared some tips to potentially help you support children at this time.  <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 conflict do not dwell on it. Try to avoid having detailed adult conversations regarding the conflict in front of younger children. However, be available to answer questions to the best of your ability. Young children may not be able to express themselves verbally. Pay attention to changes in their behaviour or social interactions.</li> <li>For some, limiting exposure to media coverage may be important. Images of a disaster or crisis can become overwhelming, especially if watched repetitively. Young children in particular may not be able to distinguish between images on television and their personal reality. Older children may choose to watch the news—be available to discuss what they see and to help put it into perspective.</li> <li>Be  aware of your own needs. Don’t ignore your own feelings of anxiety and concern or anger. Talking to friends, family members, and mental health counsellors can help. Let them know you are concerned. You will be better able to support them if you can express your own emotions in a productive manner.</li> </ul>As always, our top priority is the safety and well-being of all students. This is a responsibility we take very seriously. If you are concerned about how your student is reacting to this international event, and if you would like additional support, please reach out to your school.   <a href="https://smho-smso.ca/educators/learn-more/explore-by-topic/how-to-help-students-after-tragic-events/" target="_blank" title="School Mental Health Ontario">School Mental Health Ontario</a> offers a variety of supports for students, families and educators. The resources provided by SMHO have been shared widely with our educators.

2022-02-24 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Update to Families: COVID Protocols

<img src="/images/2d5589f3-a16c-5f61-a808-03525c02ac0e?fingerprint=ppb20251217013419" srcset="/thumbnails/2d5589f3-a16c-5f61-a808-03525c02ac0e?fingerprint=ppb20251217013419 450w, /images/2d5589f3-a16c-5f61-a808-03525c02ac0e?fingerprint=ppb20251217013419 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> The Ministry of Education has updated COVID-19 guidance for school operations.  In the coming weeks or months, we anticipate additional changes that we will communicate at that point.  These current changes have been reviewed with KFL&A Public Health and will result in the following adjustments for Limestone schools:  Masking in Kindergarten: KFL&A Public Health has removed the mandatory masking for kindergarten students implemented in December 2021.  However, KFL&A Public Health continues to strongly encourage masking for Kindergarten students.For Kinder, masking will now revert to what was in place prior to December 2021 based on the August 2020 motion from the LDSB Board of Trustees: That all students in the LDSB, including Kindergarten, wear masks inside schools and on buses, allowing for appropriate medical exemptions.For younger students in Kindergarten, staff will explore alternatives, such as face shields, for students who are unable to wear masks. Staff will work toward compliance among younger students with compassion and a focus on education. There will be no disciplinary action for students in Kindergarten having difficulty complying with this direction. Assemblies: While secondary schools are permitted to have assemblies, given the current room capacity limits that require spacing, only small assemblies would be permitted. Assemblies at elementary schools must remain virtual at this time.  Larger School Spaces: KFL&A Public Health has indicated that secondary schools may utilize larger spaces within the school during lunch or break times for students.  Grade 7-12 sites are encouraged to cohort while eating; however, this is not mandatory. Students will be permitted to use larger spaces within the school, like cafeterias, so long as physical distancing is maintained, and room capacity limits are respected. Given some of these larger spaces are being utilized for classroom spaces in some schools, there will be some variation in how these spaces are used during break or lunch times. Music Classes: Students will now be able to play wind instruments with as much distance between students as possible being encouraged. For elementary students, cohorts must be maintained and two meters, or more, should be maintained. Masking will be required when not playing the instrument. Singing is now reinstated. For elementary students masking and cohorting is required, and two meters distance must be maintained. For secondary students, masking is required with as much distance as possible maintained between individuals. Physical Education Classes:  The use of gymnasiums, swimming pools, change rooms, weight rooms, indoor physical education equipment and shared outdoor equipment are permitted with as much distancing as possible being encouraged. High and low contact activities are permitted as follows:   <ul> <li> Masking is required for indoor sports when not actively engaged in the activity. </li> <li>Masks can be removed when actively participating in the activity if they cannot be worn safely while participating.</li> <li>Masking is not required when playing high or low contact activities outdoors.</li> </ul> Extra-Curricular Activities and Vaccinations: The provisions for physical education classes also apply to extracurricular athletics.Winter seasons are currently underway and vaccination requirements were in place when these teams/groups were created for this season.  Given the province has removed the vaccination passport  effective March 1, 2022, the vaccination requirement will be lifted as of March 1, 2022.  Any existing teams in the current season would still require vaccinations given they were created with that condition, and it is still unclear whether community-based venues may still require proof of vaccination. Based on current information, new teams/clubs being created, or any new season moving forward would not require proof of vaccination. However, vaccinations may still be required if external venues maintain this requirement. It should be noted that the spring season for extracurricular athletics is outdoors.At this time K-6 must remain in cohorts for extracurricular activities.

2022-02-24 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Seeking Local Artists for Equity Arts Initiative

<img src="/images/6173fb3c-828a-5da7-ab08-8edeb09da225?fingerprint=ppb20251217013909" srcset="/thumbnails/6173fb3c-828a-5da7-ab08-8edeb09da225?fingerprint=ppb20251217013909 450w, /images/6173fb3c-828a-5da7-ab08-8edeb09da225?fingerprint=ppb20251217013909 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> Expanding Horizons is a program dedicated to providing LDSB staff and students opportunities to build capacity in arts education, by working alongside local artists as part of a collective creation cultivating  “Equity of Hope”.  As part of Stage 1, we are collecting expressions of interest from arts educators in Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox, and Addington to take part in the Limestone District School Board's Equity Arts Initiative, Expanding Horizons: Sharing Stories, Spring 2022. <div>This initiative aims to provide learning opportunities for students to:</div> <div> </div> <div> <ul> <li>share their own stories, connecting to and building community with those around them, using the arts as a form of expression;</li> <li>explore both equity-related topics and the creative process, through identity-affirming arts experiences;  </li> <li>engage in meaningful interactions with professional artists/arts organizations.</li> </ul> </div> <div> </div> <div>In these arts series, students will be able to share their personal and collective stories, experiences, and perspectives in memorable and valuable ways. Not only will “Expanding Horizons” open opportunities for students to learn more about themselves, but they will also recognize how their work can have a positive, lasting impact on the communities around them. Interested artist should complete this <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSetCEcl_Jr84EcRvJWZ0fINnNh3F3dg8gj6DjlzN0di3stqDg/viewform" target="_blank" title="Expression of Interest form"> </a> <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSetCEcl_Jr84EcRvJWZ0fINnNh3F3dg8gj6DjlzN0di3stqDg/viewform" target="_blank" title="Expression of Interest form">Expression of Interest to be submitted by Monday, March 7, 2022. </a></div>

2022-02-23 00:00:00 +0000 UTC

Kindergarten Registration for September 2022

<img src="/images/91329407-d9bf-52fe-9a8c-3e5a48ee0009?fingerprint=ppb20251217014343" srcset="/thumbnails/91329407-d9bf-52fe-9a8c-3e5a48ee0009?fingerprint=ppb20251217014343 450w, /images/91329407-d9bf-52fe-9a8c-3e5a48ee0009?fingerprint=ppb20251217014343 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"><a href="/cms/One.aspx" target="_blank" title="Welcome to Kindergarten">Welcome to Kindergarten</a>! This is an exciting time for both you and your student.   Limestone’s Kindergarten programs help children get the best possible start in school. Your student will be challenged and encouraged to do their very best.   In Kindergarten classrooms, a teacher and an early childhood educator work together as a team. This partnership helps to create a nurturing learning environment; giving every student the opportunity to learn in the way that is best suited to their individual strengths and needs. Our caring team of educators is with them every step of the way!  If your student is four or five by the end of December, now is the time to <a href="/cms/One.aspx" target="_blank" title="register for September 2022">register for September 2022</a>.  Schools typically welcome new families to orientation events in May of each year. Schools will share more about these opportunities once your student is registered. In the meantime, if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact your neighbourhood school.   We want everyone to see themselves in Limestone. You can feel confident your student will be cared for in a safe and inclusive environment.   Starting Kindergarten is an exciting time for everyone, and we are ready to welcome your student to a wonderful new world of learning and growing.   Thank you for choosing the Limestone District School Board.    We look forward to meeting you. <div></div>

2022-02-23 00:00:00 +0000 UTC