Central Public School

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Hello from the Central Bear Den, </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As we near the end of January, when we are deep in the winter, the daylight is short and the temperatures plummet; we are reminded to slow down, reconnect with family and friends and to appreciate Mother Nature as she hibernates getting ready to explode into colour and rebirth in Spring. Enjoy the simple things that winter offers, a walk in the park, a warm drink, skating, building a snowman or playing board games in the warmth of your home during a snowstorm:) </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Although, we are Central Bears we are not in hibernation- we continue to be busy with new learning, clubs and activities as well as community events. Basketball teams are practicing twice weekly. We are thankful to our volunteer coaches, Ms. Kylie and Mr. Powell. Chess tournament that was postponed in December is scheduled for Thursday, 29th January. We wish all our players a great day. Felting club and gardening club are starting with projects available for students during recesses. Students have also been enjoying handball league and some intramural games during recesses. A thank you to staff who provide these additional opportunities. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Monday, 19th January was Educational Assistant recognition day. We know that the support, care and dedication of the EA's at Central allow success for many students. Thank you Ms. Lorway, Ms. Gage, Mrs. Robinson, Mr. Kennedy, Ms. Jodie and Ms. Santos for all you do each and everyday:) </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Wow! what an amazing turnout to the Queens volleyball game on Friday, 9th January. The team assisted with some coaching sessions for our school teams and we reciprocated by cheering them on against University of Guelph Gryphons. Thank you to the Gaels athletics team for a great evening filled with autographs, t-shirts, cheers and junk food!! </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Finally, on a personal note, this will be my last newsletter as principal at CPS. A warm thank you for your support over the past two years. I will miss our student community, the amazing educators I have had the privilege of working alongside and the community spirit that embodies Central Public School. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">I know you will provide a warm welcome to my colleague and friend, Ms. Ramsay. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Sincerely </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">H. Barrett</span></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Upcoming PA Day</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please note that </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Friday, January 30</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> is a PA Day. There will be no school for students as staff will be working on Term 1 report cards, which will be sent home on February 13. For all key dates in Limestone, a </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/7291ab76-99b5-43a1-8f2b-edaade7c53e8/2025-04-07-LDSB%20School%20Year%20Calendar-2025-2026.pdf" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">PDF version of the 2025-2026 School Year Calendar is available online</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. </span></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">School Calendar Survey 2026-27</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The LDSB recently sent out a school calendar survey to families for the upcoming school year, 2026-2027. Families are presented with four options to vote on. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please consider completing the survey. </span></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Central Swag! E-store is open</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="about:blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">https://specialitytrophies.ca/centralps/</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/6df9a579-7cba-4705-9fd2-eaf63263bfc8" alt="IMG 8364" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Samples of Central clothing are coming soon to purchase in the front foyer. </span></h2><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We will have various styles, sizes and colours available for immediate sale. Cash only. </span></h2><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Our e-store is open where you can choose your colour and style for later delivery to the school. </span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><br></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kindergarten Registration</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kindergarten is a wonderful new world of learning and growing. We learn how to read, how to write and we make so many new friends. Our educator teams help us along the way!&nbsp;You can feel confident your child will be cared for within safe and inclusive environments.&nbsp;</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">For more information about what is required at time of registration, and to register a new student visit&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/registration" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Register A Student.&nbsp;</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Limestone District School Board is committed to your student’s development from Kindergarten to graduation. In Limestone Kindergarten classrooms, children are involved in many activities designed to help young learners explore, discover, play and grow. Kindergarten programs across Ontario offer a full day of learning for four and five year olds. We are unique in offering both English and French Immersion programs in both Year 1 (Junior) and Year 2 (Senior) Kindergarten.</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students&nbsp;may start school in September if they turn age four (Year 1 Kindergarten) or age five (Year 2 Kindergarten) by December 31 of that year. Those students who are already enrolled in Year 1 Kindergarten do not register again. We welcome new students looking to begin Year 1 or Year 2 to our schools year-round, but we encourage parents and guardians to pre-register children in February for the upcoming school year.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><a href="https://limestone.cmdesign.imagineeverything.com/discover_kindergarten" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Discover Kindergarten&nbsp;in Limestone</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;and learn more about our Kindergarten program, resources, and tips to help your student prepare for Kindergarten.&nbsp;</span></p><iframe data-lexical-video-id="1e0spaIrnis" width="640" height="480" src="https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/1e0spaIrnis" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="true" title="Youtube video"></iframe><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><img src="/images/f2868fc8-5abf-4bd8-9ad3-b3876b7b0128" alt="2026 01 05 Kindergarten Student Registration E Newsletter Graphic 1" width="100" height="inherit" style="boxSizing:border-box;borderStyle:none;height:inherit;maxWidth:100%;objectFit:cover;display:inline-block;width:100px"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">School Advisory Council</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Our next SAC meeting is 10th February @ 5:30 pm in the staff room at the school. Babysitting is available. All are welcome:)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Did you know that Central PS partners with Community Spirit Bingo monthly. Our school organizer of volunteers to complete two hour shifts is Zoe Bradley. Bingo raises almost $20,000 annually for our school:) </strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">These funds are used to offset bussing costs for class trips, support art and STEM initiatives in the school, purchase yard equipment, support our breakfast club as well as many other activities that enrich students lives and learning. </span></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Vaccine Clinic - PA Day (January 30th)</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Southeast Public Health has asked us to share information about their upcoming vaccine clinic on the PA Day, January 30th. Book online at </span><a href="http://kflaph.net/routine-paday" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">http://kflaph.net/routine-paday</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/fdfdc1a5-3ce7-4648-a1b0-51fff70d9b0d" alt="Screenshot 2026 01 15 at 7.34.35 PM" width="100" height="inherit" style="boxSizing:border-box;borderStyle:none;height:inherit;maxWidth:100%;objectFit:cover;display:inline-block;width:100px"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">National Non-Smoking Week</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please see the message below from Southeast Public Health.</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The nicotine industry continues to target young people through fun flavours and high-tech devices designed to increase addiction. During National Non-Smoking Week, families can help young people better understand the risks and start important conversations at home.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Parents and caregivers can watch this short video to learn more:&nbsp;</span><a href="http://www.notanexperiment.ca/parents/" rel="noreferrer" title="Original URL: http://www.notanexperiment.ca/parents. Click or tap if you trust this link." class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">www.notanexperiment.ca/parents</span></a></p><iframe data-lexical-video-id="UDMV6AQj3_Y" width="640" height="480" src="https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/UDMV6AQj3_Y" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="true" title="Youtube video"></iframe><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students who would like help quitting or cutting back on vaping, smoking, alcohol, other substances, or even technology use can book a free virtual appointment at:&nbsp;</span><a href="http://www.youthvast.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" title="Original URL: http://www.youthvast.ca/. Click or tap if you trust this link." class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">www.youthvast.ca</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This 2-minute video will tell you more about the process:</strong></b></p><iframe data-lexical-video-id="YYdjykVg2pM" width="640" height="480" src="https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/YYdjykVg2pM" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="true" title="Youtube video"></iframe><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Black History Month - Opening Ceremony</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/ba3e2fb4-fcb8-4d01-be04-de4ea67931ee" alt="Screenshot 2026 01 21 at 5.49.47 PM" width="100" height="inherit" style="boxSizing:border-box;borderStyle:none;height:inherit;maxWidth:100%;objectFit:cover;display:inline-block;width:100px"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grade 8 Information Nights</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Limestone District School Board is hosting Grade 8 Parent Information Nights at our secondary schools across the region for families and students to attend. Parent information nights include a special presentation about the secondary school, its programs, and the registration process. It is a great opportunity to learn about the wide variety of programs available for secondary students in Limestone—including expanded opportunities, French immersion, the International Baccalaureate program, and more.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/b3d3b932-5858-49de-958b-412e70897063" alt="Grade 8 nights" width="100" height="inherit" style="boxSizing:border-box;borderStyle:none;height:inherit;maxWidth:100%;objectFit:cover;display:inline-block;width:100px"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Literacy in Limestone - Oral Language</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/f58ef63d-80ff-4087-9920-2e1881c3ce7f" alt="literacy" width="100" height="inherit" style="boxSizing:border-box;borderStyle:none;height:inherit;maxWidth:100%;objectFit:cover;display:inline-block;width:100px"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Updates from Southeast Public Health </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/2d9c8ea2-1dad-4f29-8750-61e41a00ba43" alt="Dental Screening Newsletter Insert JK SK Grades 2 7" width="644" height="805" style="boxSizing:border-box;borderStyle:none;height:805px;maxWidth:100%;objectFit:cover;display:inline-block;width:644px"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/53b81cce-db34-4fb4-8fd0-7b41444d1f70" alt="2024 04 05 Dental Clinics Newsletter Insert" width="648" height="810" style="boxSizing:border-box;borderStyle:none;height:810px;maxWidth:100%;objectFit:cover;display:inline-block;width:648px"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/4961f478-a45d-4460-b9c0-f6ede8af2f4e" alt="1759546605186" width="649" height="163" style="boxSizing:border-box;borderStyle:none;height:163px;maxWidth:100%;objectFit:cover;display:inline-block;width:649px"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/25a08244-c251-44b2-a72a-e3ed64d709c4" alt="2025 10 01 newsletter insert does your student need glasses" width="691" height="864" style="boxSizing:border-box;borderStyle:none;height:864px;maxWidth:100%;objectFit:cover;display:inline-block;width:691px"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/b537de30-08aa-48b5-928e-869b3db00cb2" alt="2025 10 20 Child due Routine Immunizations newsletter insert" width="712" height="1101" style="boxSizing:border-box;borderStyle:none;height:1101px;maxWidth:100%;objectFit:cover;display:inline-block;width:712px"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Stay Up to Date on Bus Delays and Cancellations</span></h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Sign up for Bus Status Alerts through Tri-Board’s Student Portal</span></h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Families should sign up for bus status alerts by creating an account in </strong></b><a href="https://triboard.ca/student-portal/" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Tri-Board’s Student Portal</strong></b></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. Families can add their student to their account, so they are signed up to receive alerts for their specific bus and zone cancellations.</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">When all transportation is cancelled across the district, the notification is sent as a general notice from Tri-Board to everyone with an account. Tri-Board does their best to post this alert by 6:00 a.m.</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Tri-Board will be communicating all bus delays and cancellations. </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The LDSB will not be communicating this information directly with families</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The best way to receive communication regarding bus cancellations or delays is through the </strong></b><a href="https://triboard.ca/student-portal/" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Student Portal</strong></b></a><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</strong></b></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/e3cf2cbd-23e9-4568-a743-6e129319f224" alt="Screenshot 2025 10 25 at 7" width="701" height="661" style="boxSizing:border-box;borderStyle:none;height:661px;maxWidth:100%;objectFit:cover;display:inline-block;width:701px"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/6c3b4c2f-9300-4cf6-bb8c-6411c5f32925" alt="Central Bears" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Happy New Year Central Families!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">It is difficult to believe that we are in January 2026! We trust that you have enjoyed some relaxation and family filled time over the holiday break. We look forward to hearing student voices and laughter in our hallways again. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As for many families, December was a busy month at Central Public School. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students competed in the volleyball tournament at LCVI. They represented our school with determination and displayed sportsmanship throughout. A huge thank you to our coaches Madame Shelley &amp; Ms. Sheriff.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We learned about Bus Safety through the annual bus presentations. While we have a limited number of student using buses to get to school daily, all students ride the bus for class trips etc. so the safety reminders are an important part of our education practice each year. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Our holiday concert was an evening filled with celebration for the season and reminded us all that we can come together in peace and harmony as a community to share in the joy of hearing children voices share in song. An enormous thank you to all who attended the show. Thank you to Mr. Cotton and Ms. Melina for their musical leadership and to all staff that are part of the decoration, set up and organisation of the show. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">EQAO results were released by the Ministry of Education. Students in grades 3 &amp; 6 at Central performed extremely well on the assessment achieving above the board and provincial level in all domains. All families of students that wrote the assessment have received their individual results. We are so proud of the perseverance and determination shown by our students. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Our annual holiday shopping brought a buzz of excitement as students were given the opportunity to choose a gift for a loved one. We thanks all the "elves" who wrapped and assisted with purchases. A thank you to Ms. Campeau for all her organisation. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Over the holiday break, our hallways on both floors received a fresh coat of paint which was badly needed after the summer work. Additionally our air conditioning was hooked up and should serve us well when we enter the warmer months. Further, the plant dept installed a mechanised basketball net over the stage which will replace the old one that had to be removed each time the stage was needed. We look forward to making good use of the renovations at the school. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> We look forward to a great month ahead of consolidating and putting into practice our learning from before the Holiday break as we head towards report card time at the end of term 1. Please note that 30th January is a PD day with no school for students. This day provides the opportunity for teachers to review assessments and evaluations as they prepare for report card writing and the start of term 2. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We look forward to continuing our learning together, </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">H. Barrett &amp; Central Team</span></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/2df672f9-4410-42a3-bde5-3508c82a4fcf" alt="logo" width="194" height="180" style="width:194px;height:180px;display:inline-block;float:left"></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SAC </strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We appreciate all that our School Advisory Council does for our school. Our next meeting is January, 13th 2026. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Current updates from SAC.</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">..</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thank you to all who purchased Holiday greenery this year. The hallways smelled so festive on delivery day! Thank you to our volunteers who checked off orders and cleaned up at the end of delivery. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Wilton cheese fundraiser raised funds for our school again this year. We thank all who ordered. The cheese fundraiser raised approx. $500 to support learning initiatives at CPS. Thank you to the volunteers who made this work, we appreciate you. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SAC is continuing to support the building of the arts programming within our school. We are planning to invite artists from our community to classrooms to share their talents with students as we continue to educate in all areas of the curriculum. We are planning hands-on type learning in all areas of the arts. If you have ideas or connections please reach out to the school via email. We look forward to the Arts opportunities for our students.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Bingo raises monies to support our school. They need volunteers to ensure that our shifts are covered each week. If you can commit to a two hour shift once a month please reach out to Zoe Bradley to get more details. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Drop by for a coffee and a chat at Central Perk (front of school) the first Monday of each month. Huge thank you to The Elm Cafe for their generosity in supporting this event all year. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Hot Lunch orders on SchoolDay </span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Hot lunch orders are now on School Day. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">You can order cheese pizza on Tuesday for $4 &amp; Chicken tenders on Thursday for $7. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Orders are available online until March Break. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Orders need to be placed by Sunday evening before the upcoming hot lunch day. </span></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Attendance Matters</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Regular attendance at school is vital for student success both academically and socially. Students thrive on routine. We know that cold and flu season is upon us and with that comes absences from school. We monitor attendance as part od our ongoing school data; please reach out if you are experiencing difficulty getting your child to school. There are resources to assist available. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If you are planning an extended vacation please let your child's teacher and/or the office know. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Mental Health Resources for Youth and Families</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We continue to work together to build an awareness amongst our student population with regards to feeling a sense of belonging and to resources available in our community should they need to reach out. </span></p><h5 class="editor-heading-h5" dir="ltr"><br></h5><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/a40f3de6-2180-46e4-b2ba-b9d863c459f4" alt="Crisis Services Info EN 1152x1536" width="100" height="inherit" style="boxSizing:border-box;borderStyle:none;height:inherit;maxWidth:100%;objectFit:cover;display:inline-block;width:100px"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">How Do I Report An Absence?</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please use the Safe Arrival system to report your child's absence; if you need to call to report an absence, please call 1-855-257-9349 (see instructions below) </strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If your child will be late, please report a full day absence and then we will sign them in when they arrive. </em></i></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Computerized call outs occur around 9:30 for students absent with no reported absence in our system. This call out system is a mandatory safety feature to ensure you know your child is not at school and can follow up as needed. For this reason, if your child is late, it is important that they stop into the office so that Mrs. Thompson can change their absence to 'Late' so that you don't receive an unnecessary and worrisome phone call that your child is not at school</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">How to report your absence:</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">1. Toll-free telephone</strong></b></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Call&nbsp;</span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">1-855-257-9349</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;toll-free to report an absence using the automated phone system.</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2. School Messenger App</strong></b></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Use your mobile device to download and install the free SchoolMessenger blue app from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store, the&nbsp;</span><a href="https://go.schoolmessenger.com/#/home" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SchoolMessenger website portal</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, or from within the LDSB mobile app.</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The first time you use the app, you must select Sign Up to create your account. Please ensure you use the same email address your student’s school has on file. If you do not use that same email address, you will not be able to create an account, or may not be able to see the "Attendance" option. You may have already created an account when we introduced the Communicate broadcast system.</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Select Attendance, then select Report an Absence and follow the prompts.</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">3.&nbsp;</strong></b><a href="https://go.schoolmessenger.ca/#/account/login" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SchoolMessenger SafeArrival Website Portal</strong></b></a></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Visit the&nbsp;</span><a href="https://go.schoolmessenger.ca/#/account/login" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SchoolMessenger website portal</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The first time you use the app, you must select Sign Up to create your account. Please ensure you use the same email address your student’s school has on file. If you do not use that same email address, you will not be able to create an account, or may not be able to see the "Attendance" option. You may have already created an account when we introduced the Communicate broadcast system.</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Select Attendance, then Report an Absence and follow the prompts.</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/6c3b4c2f-9300-4cf6-bb8c-6411c5f32925" alt="Central Bears" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Greetings Families!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The time and the weather have changed but the determination and joy for learning from our Central Bears has not. We see resilience and hard work on display daily in the classrooms, gym, choir and on the yard. Our students know that they CAN do hard things!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We had a beautiful and poignant Remembrance Day ceremony last week with the talents of students on display during this solemn occasion. The voices of our school choir rang out with song, students read about the poppy 'en francais', poems were shared and each class was represented in the laying of wreaths to remember our fallen soldiers. Huge thank you to all who attended the ceremony. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Our cross country team enjoyed a wet and blustery district meet at Fort Henry with many student achieving a personal best in their race. We had a student make a top ten finish:) Many thanks to the dedication of Mdm. Shelley and Ms. Sheriff for coaching our runners. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Volleyball is our next sport and practices have begun for our junior and senior teams on Tues &amp; Thursday mornings at 8am. We have some upcoming exhibition games in the next week. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students enjoyed a Halloween dance- our grade 7/8 class provided leadership, glowsticks, music and ensured that all students enjoyed the event. Thank you to Mr. Wood and Mr. Scott for organizing the event.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Classes have taken trips to Grand theatre, City Hall and Molly Brant (culinary class) we continue to ensure that students receive a wide range of experiences in all areas of the curriculum. Four classes will trek (by bus!) to Gould lake in early December for a full day of learning on the land. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Initial Progress reports were sent home on Thursday, 13th November. We celebrate the success and learning journey of every student. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We look forward to continuing our learning together, </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">H. Barrett &amp; Central Team</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Holiday show</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/93779f0c-c086-4413-9725-48725ce53465" alt="choir2 1 " width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Our holiday show showcasing Central PS talent will take place on 16th December @ 6:30 pm. We look forward to this event. </span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/2df672f9-4410-42a3-bde5-3508c82a4fcf" alt="logo" width="194" height="180" style="width:194px;height:180px;display:inline-block;float:left"></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SAC </strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We appreciate all that our School Advisory Council does for our school. Our next meeting is January, 13th 2026. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Current updates from SAC.</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">..</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Holiday greenery is now closed. Delivery of items ordered on 25th November after 2:45 -4pm. If you are walking please remember to bring a wagon to transport your purchases home. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Wilton cheese fundraiser will be open on SchoolDay before the end of the week. Consider ordering some cheese for the holiday season or as gifts for friends and family. Delivery on December 17th.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SAC is meeting with Mr. Cotton to offer support for on-going stage productions.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Bingo raises monies to support our school. They need volunteers to ensure that our shifts are covered each week. If you can commit to a two hour shift once a month please reach out to Zoe Bradley to get more details. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Drop by for a coffee and a chat at Central Perk (front of school) the first Monday of each month. Huge thank you to The Elm Cafe for their generosity in supporting this event all year. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Hot Lunch orders on SchoolDay </span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Hot lunch orders are now on School Day. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">You can order cheese pizza on Tuesday for $4 &amp; Chicken tenders on Thursday for $7. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Orders are available online until the holiday break. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Orders need to be placed on Sunday evening before. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Update on Learning:</span></h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">LITERACY</span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Another big focus in most of our classes this fall is reading fluency! This is something you can easily practice at home! When reading to your child try some of the following to support reading fluency:</span></p><h4 class="editor-heading-h4" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">PRACTICE TOGETHER:</span></h4><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Model reading aloud:&nbsp;Read to your child with expression and clear phrasing to show what fluent reading sounds like and to make it enjoyable.</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Echo reading:&nbsp;Read a sentence or passage with expression, and have your child repeat it back, mimicking your pauses and voice pitch.</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Choral reading:&nbsp;Read a book or passage together at the same time. You can read slightly ahead so your child can follow your lead.</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Take turns:&nbsp;Read alternating sentences or pages to make reading a collaborative activity.&nbsp;</span></li></ul><h4 class="editor-heading-h4" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">REINFORCE WITH REPETITION:</span></h4><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Reread favorite books:&nbsp;Encourage your child to reread books they enjoy. Repetition builds confidence, speed, and accuracy without the pressure of new material.</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Practice with familiar texts:&nbsp;Reread familiar short texts like poems, nursery rhymes, or song lyrics to help them get comfortable with rhythm and flow. It doesn't always need to be a story book or novel!</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">MATHEMATICS</span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Mathematical reasoning at home - try these examples below with your Storm Kiddo! It's all about the thinking and the discussion - not about who is right!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/7f31c2ef-1c61-40fb-8099-a622629af207" alt="reasoning" width="100" height="inherit" style="boxSizing:border-box;borderStyle:none;height:inherit;maxWidth:100%;objectFit:cover;display:inline-block;width:100px"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/d3ba094e-947c-4f71-b571-b1a6aa69739f" alt="mr1" width="100" height="inherit" style="boxSizing:border-box;borderStyle:none;height:inherit;maxWidth:100%;objectFit:cover;display:inline-block;width:100px"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Attendance Matters</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Regular attendance at school is vital for student success both academically and socially. Students thrive on routine. We know that cold and flu season is upon us and with that comes absences from school. We monitor attendance as part od our ongoing school data; please reach out if you are experiencing difficulty getting your child to school. There are resources to assist available. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If you are planning an extended vacation please let your child's teacher and/or the office know. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Mental Health Resources for Youth and Families</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We continue to work together to build an awareness amongst our student population with regards to feeling a sense of belonging and to resources available in our community should they need to reach out. </span></p><h5 class="editor-heading-h5" dir="ltr"><br></h5><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/a40f3de6-2180-46e4-b2ba-b9d863c459f4" alt="Crisis Services Info EN 1152x1536" width="100" height="inherit" style="boxSizing:border-box;borderStyle:none;height:inherit;maxWidth:100%;objectFit:cover;display:inline-block;width:100px"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2"><br></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/db1f6353-4491-4eb0-8823-48f95a371767" alt="2025 10 21 Student Census Social and Newsletter" width="100" height="inherit" style="boxSizing:border-box;borderStyle:none;height:inherit;maxWidth:100%;objectFit:cover;display:inline-block;width:100px"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">How Do I Report An Absence?</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please use the Safe Arrival system to report your child's absence; if you need to call to report an absence, please call 1-855-257-9349 (see instructions below) </strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If your child will be late, please report a full day absence and then we will sign them in when they arrive. </em></i></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Computerized call outs occur around 9:30 for students absent with no reported absence in our system. This call out system is a mandatory safety feature to ensure you know your child is not at school and can follow up as needed. For this reason, if your child is late, it is important that they stop into the office so that Mrs. Thompson can change their absence to 'Late' so that you don't receive an unnecessary and worrisome phone call that your child is not at school</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">How to report your absence:</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">1. Toll-free telephone</strong></b></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Call&nbsp;</span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">1-855-257-9349</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;toll-free to report an absence using the automated phone system.</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2. School Messenger App</strong></b></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Use your mobile device to download and install the free SchoolMessenger blue app from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store, the&nbsp;</span><a href="https://go.schoolmessenger.com/#/home" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SchoolMessenger website portal</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, or from within the LDSB mobile app.</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The first time you use the app, you must select Sign Up to create your account. Please ensure you use the same email address your student’s school has on file. If you do not use that same email address, you will not be able to create an account, or may not be able to see the "Attendance" option. You may have already created an account when we introduced the Communicate broadcast system.</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Select Attendance, then select Report an Absence and follow the prompts.</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">3.&nbsp;</strong></b><a href="https://go.schoolmessenger.ca/#/account/login" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SchoolMessenger SafeArrival Website Portal</strong></b></a></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Visit the&nbsp;</span><a href="https://go.schoolmessenger.ca/#/account/login" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SchoolMessenger website portal</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The first time you use the app, you must select Sign Up to create your account. Please ensure you use the same email address your student’s school has on file. If you do not use that same email address, you will not be able to create an account, or may not be able to see the "Attendance" option. You may have already created an account when we introduced the Communicate broadcast system.</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Select Attendance, then Report an Absence and follow the prompts.</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p>