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<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">KFL&amp;A Public Health's Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Piotr Oglaza, has shared the following letter with families:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Dear parents and caregivers,</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As a parent or caregiver, your child’s health and safety are a top priority. I want to take this opportunity to share some important information with you to help keep all children healthy throughout the school year.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Routine childhood vaccination</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In Ontario, all children going to school need to be vaccinated against certain diseases. The vaccines are publicly funded and offered at no cost to eligible individuals. Recently, there has been an increase in cases of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, both in KFL&amp;A and across the province. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the spread of pertussis and protect your child from many diseases.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">What can you do?</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Check your child's vaccine record: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">compare the records you have with the </span><a href="/documents/336f8f79-ff6a-4252-a1ce-76bbbbb5b139/2023-03-03_Immuniz-Through-Lifespan.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260428201346" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Immunization Through the Lifespan handout</strong></b></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. This handout also explains how to report your child's vaccines.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Report your child’s vaccines to KFL&amp;A Public Health</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">: it is possible that your child is up-to-date on their vaccines, but KFL&amp;A Public Health is not aware. Your healthcare provider is not required to report your child's vaccinations to public health. For more information on reporting vaccines, visit </span><a href="https://www.kflaph.ca/en/health-topics/immunization-records-and-reporting.aspx" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">kflaph.ca/ImmunizationReporting</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If your child needs a vaccine</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">: If your child does not have access to a regular healthcare provider, you can book a vaccine appointment at KFL&amp;A Public Health. For more information about our clinics visit,</span><a href="https://www.kflaph.ca/en/clinics-and-classes/immunization-clinics.aspx" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> kflaph.ca/ImmunizationClinics.</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Fall vaccines (flu, COVID-19 and RSV) and respiratory illness season</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We expect this fall and winter to be challenging with many respiratory viruses circulating at the same time – like influenza (flu), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and COVID-19. It is important to think ahead and be prepared for respiratory illness season. This is why I am sharing two important handouts to help you in the months ahead:</span></p><ol class="editor-list-ol"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> The</span><a href="/documents/bf1909e4-bfa3-4414-8757-b29c0adfe17d/OCFP_ActionsParentsCanTake.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014753" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Family Doctor Tips on Caring for Children with Respiratory Symptoms handout</strong></b></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, by the Ontario College of Family Physicians, provides practical advice to help you if your child gets sick. It offers guidance on managing symptoms at home and knowing when and where to seek medical help.</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The </span><a href="/documents/d5033f74-910d-4a3b-b8ad-4c34f7c1acf4/2023-09-21_Respiratory%20Illness%20Factsheet_8.5x14_EN.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014946" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">About Respiratory Illness handout</strong></b></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> will help you understand how to protect your family from viruses, reduce their spread, manage symptoms, and find information on treatment.</span></li></ol><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Staying up to date with fall vaccinations remains the most effective defense against many respiratory infections. Ensure everyone in your family gets the annual flu shot, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines for which they are eligible. The flu and COVID-19 vaccines are currently available for high-risk groups, including those over 65, pregnant individuals, and for children 6 months to 4 years of age, as well as for First Nations, Inuit, Métis, racialized communities, and those at high-risk of complications from respiratory illness. Flu and COVID-19 vaccines will be more widely available to the general population on Oct. 28. It is safe and convenient to receive the COVID-19 and flu vaccinations at the same time, reducing the need for multiple visits to a doctor, nurse practitioner or local pharmacy.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This year, more people are eligible for the RSV vaccine, including older adults, infants, and pregnant individuals. To find out if you're eligible, speak with your health-care provider or contact our Immunization Team at 613-549-1232, ext. 1451.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">KFL&amp;A Public Health is focusing efforts on administering flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines to children under the age of 5 who do not have access to primary care. All other eligible recipients can access these vaccines through local participating pharmacies, your primary care provider, specialist clinics or other community services depending on the specific vaccine.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thank you for taking the time to read this important information and taking the next steps to help protect you and your family this respiratory illness season. Staying up to date on routine vaccinations, getting your flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines for which you are eligible this fall, and following important public health measures, like hand washing and staying home when sick, will help protect you, your family, and others in our community.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Dr. Piotr Oglaza</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Medical Officer of Health, KFL&amp;A Public Health</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Resources from KFL&amp;A Public Health:</span></h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><a href="/documents/0983d037-6f06-44b6-9f61-3f215ae4dfde/2024_LetterfromMOHtoSchools_EN.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013102" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Letter from KFL&amp;A Public Health, MOH to Families (PDF)</span></a></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><a href="/documents/bf1909e4-bfa3-4414-8757-b29c0adfe17d/OCFP_ActionsParentsCanTake.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014753" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">OCFP Actions Parents Can Take (PDF)</span></a></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><a href="/documents/d5033f74-910d-4a3b-b8ad-4c34f7c1acf4/2023-09-21_Respiratory%20Illness%20Factsheet_8.5x14_EN.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014946" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Respiratory Illness Factsheet (PDF)</span></a></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><a href="/documents/336f8f79-ff6a-4252-a1ce-76bbbbb5b139/2023-03-03_Immuniz-Through-Lifespan.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260428201346" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Immunization Through the Lifespan (PDF)</span></a></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p>

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<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The 2023-2024 assessment results for the Limestone District School Board have recently been released by the Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO).&nbsp;LDSB results align with provincial outcomes in some areas, while showing notable improvements in others and among specific student groups.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The elementary school report provides assessments of Reading, Writing, and Mathematics written by students in Grades 3 and 6. The secondary school report provides similar information relating to the Grade 9 Assessment of Mathematics and the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grade 3 student achievement saw a 10% to 14% increase in all subject areas in Limestone, compared to the 2022/23 assessment results, with 69% meeting the provincial standard in reading, 60% in writing, and 57% in math. Results for the province showed a slight decline from the previous year for Grade 3 reading and writing, a slight increase in Grade 3 math, and were 2% to 4% higher than Limestone across Grade 3 assessments.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This new data shows improvement in all subjects, with math achievement showing the most significant difference for students in Grade 3. “These achievements reflect the efforts of both our central and teaching staff, as well as the dedication of our students,” states Krishna Burra, Director of Education. “Our students’ achievements are a result of innovative teaching strategies combined with a strong emphasis on foundational literacy and math.”&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Of significant note, is the gains in achievement in Grade 3 reading, writing, and mathematics made by Limestone students with special needs – up 12%, 14%, and 15% respectively compared to the 2022/23 assessment results. &nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">With a similar trend to the province, Grade 6 student achievement in Limestone continues to improve in reading and math with 79% meeting the provincial standard in reading and 40% in math – up 1% and 3% respectively compared to the previous assessment in 2022/23. In writing, there was a 2% decrease compared to the prior year’s assessment with 73% meeting the standard over last year. Achievement in reading and math for students in Grade 6 with special education needs in Limestone has increased by 4% and 6%, respectively since the 2022/23 assessment, and is higher than the province for reading. Achievement in writing for students in Grade 6 with special education needs in Limestone is slightly lower than the province.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“We are committed to focusing on making sure students are learning essential skills while also increasing student engagement to support students’ achievement,” says Director Burra.&nbsp; “Furthermore, we will continue using this data to support rich learning environments for every student.” As an example, this year schools will continue to receive the support of Learning Partners, School-Based Math Facilitators (elementary), and Instructional coaches (secondary). Schools have also received rich instructional resources to support evidence-based literacy and math programming K-12, along with a variety of professional learning sessions for educators to support foundational literacy and math skills.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Over the coming weeks, principals will share school results with their school communities and will analyze the results in detail to identify next steps.&nbsp;</span></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2024 Results</span></h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Primary Assessment (administered in Grade 3):</span></h3><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Area of Assessment</span></p></th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 287px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">LDSB</span></p></th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Province</span></p></th></tr><tr style="height: 33.0216px;"><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Reading</em></i></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 287px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">69%</em></i></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">71%</em></i></p></td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Writing</em></i></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 287px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">60%</em></i></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">64%</em></i></p></td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Mathematics</em></i></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 287px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">57%</em></i></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">61%</em></i></p></td></tr></tbody></table><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Junior Assessment (administered in Grade 6):</span></h3><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Area of Assessment</span></p></th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">LDSB</span></p></th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Province</span></p></th></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Reading</em></i></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">79%</em></i></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">82%</em></i></p></td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Writing</em></i></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">73%</em></i></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">80%</em></i></p></td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Mathematics</em></i></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">40%</em></i></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">50%</em></i></p></td></tr></tbody></table><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grade 9 Mathematics Assessment:</span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Results for Grade 9 math in Limestone are slightly lower compared to the provincial results. For all participating students in the Grade 9 math assessment, 50% achieved the provincial standard in Limestone and 54% achieved the provincial standard provincially. Grade 9 math results decreased by 1% as compared to last year. Results for students with special education needs achieving the provincial standard are similar to the province at 28% for Limestone compared to 29% for the province. </span></p><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grade 9 Mathematics Assessment</span></p></th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">LDSB</span></p></th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Province</span></p></th></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grade 9 Math Course</em></i></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">50%</em></i></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">54%</em></i></p></td></tr></tbody></table><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“We recognize there is still work to be done,” states Director Burra. “Our commitment to student success remains steadfast, with early literacy, math instruction, and closing learning gaps as top priorities for both our staff and students. Early identification of those not meeting literacy and numeracy milestones is crucial, and we continue to focus on providing the support every student needs to thrive.” </span></p><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (administered in Grade 10):</span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This year, 94% of first-time eligible students wrote the test in Limestone, compared to 92% of students in the province. With this high participation rate, 81% of all students in Limestone were successful, an increase of 2% compared to the 2022/23 school year. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">OSSLT results for students with special education continue to show an improvement for the 2023/24 year, with 61% of Limestone students being successful on the assessment.</span></p><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grade 10 OSSLT</span></p></th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">LDSB</span></p></th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Province</span></p></th></tr><tr style="height: 33.0216px;"><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Participation rate</em></i></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">94%</em></i></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">92%</em></i></p></td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Success rate</em></i></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">81%</em></i></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">85%</em></i></p></td></tr></tbody></table><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students who are not successful on their first attempt are eligible to rewrite the test the following year, as previously eligible students, or to meet the literacy requirement by taking the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Course.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students in all publicly funded schools in Ontario are required to write provincial assessments, administered by EQAO, a provincial body that tests students’ skills in literacy in Grades 3, 6, and 10 and math skills in Grades 3, 6, and 9 in relation to Ontario Curriculum expectations. Successful completion of the literacy requirement is one of the requirements to earn an Ontario Secondary School Diploma.&nbsp; The EQAO assessments have undergone significant changes, with the newest digital assessments offered entirely online through a digital platform for students over the past three years.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Here is the latest update from our School Advisory Council...</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/db39a4ce-0eec-4b23-9686-df6e72f8fb13?fingerprint=ppb20251217015024" alt="CPS SAC Oct" width="inherit" height="inherit"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Cozy Closet Sale is back! Wednesday October 9th, 3:30-5:30pm in the school gymnasium. All sales are pay-what-you-can. Donations of kids outdoor and sports gear are welcome until Oct. 8th.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/0b290fa1-d0fd-497a-b9ba-6e9dd34d368b?fingerprint=ppb20251217013102" alt="cozycloset" width="inherit" height="inherit"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Find out what is happening around the school this month...</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><div monaco-code-embed=""><iframe width="100%" height="600" src="https://secure.smore.com/n/hwuj2?embed=1" title="Central News" scrolling="auto" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="true" style="min-width: 320px;border: none;"></iframe></div></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Limestone District School Board celebrates LDSB Educators' Day, Saturday, October 5, 2024. Trustees and senior staff wish to acknowledge the incredible efforts of all Limestone staff and their contributions to help our students succeed. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A heartfelt thank you to Limestone staff—educators, central and support staff, office teams, professional personnel, caretakers, facilities, and administrators—who all contribute to student achievement and sense of belonging. While UNESCO proclaimed World Teachers' Day in 1994, we honor the contributions of all staff shaping our students' future. </span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Our Terry Fox Run was a huge success! Students worked hard to continue Terry's Marathon of Hope and help raise funds for cancer research.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><img src="/images/ee544375-3cce-410b-833c-f407e0ab7f39?fingerprint=ppb20251217015205" alt="Screenshot 2024 10 02 at 10" width="451.328125" height="280.3058943868458"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Our school goal was $3,000, but we raised $7,394!! </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thank you to our enthusiastic students and generous families.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We are pleased to announce that Ms. Sheriff's class are the winners of the pizza lunch, they raised $1,464!</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day is held annually on Monday, September 30. This is a day to intentionally continue learning about the Residential School System and the truthful history of relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. This is a day to mourn the lives of the children who never came home and honour the Survivors, as well as their families and communities.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This day is part of a larger conversation of colonization and systemic inequities, and the recognition of Indigenous resiliency and resistance to colonial tactics should be included as part of this learning.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">What can you do? </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Wear orange on September 30, read books written by Indigenous authors that acknowledge the residential school experience, read books that celebrate Indigenous beauty and brilliance, volunteer with Indigenous organizations and not-for-profits, support Indigenous artists, watch Indigenous films and documentaries, and attend Indigenous events that are open to the public in your community.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">All LDSB schools, education centres and sites will lower both the Canadian, Every Child Matters, or Survivor flags to half-mast from sunrise to sunset on Monday, September 30, 2024 in observance of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Public commemoration and continuous learning about the ongoing impacts of residential schools are vital actions that we must all take to live in right relations with each other on Indigenous lands. Please refrain from taking and sharing pictures of yourself or others smiling in your orange shirts. You are invited to take pictures of the ways that you are honouring this day within your classrooms or school communities.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We understand that some students, staff, and families may wish to have additional support throughout this week. If you require immediate emotional assistance, you can call the support lines shared below:&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The National Indian Residential School Crisis Line provides 24-hour crisis support to Survivors and those affected by the Residential School System at 1-866-925-4419.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Individuals impacted by the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, Two-Spirit, Transgender, and gender diverse people’s crisis are encouraged to contact the MMIWG Crisis Line toll-free at 1-844-413-6649.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">First Nations, Inuit and Métis seeking immediate emotional support can contact the Hope for Wellness Help Line toll-free at 1-855-242-3310, or by online chat at </span><a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hopeforwellness.ca%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cdouglasja%40limestone.on.ca%7C6e6935ea693545d8f7db08dcde3a0b7f%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638629588075796503%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=STYsNbeW6qjd6EKft%2FNXIGK7tKBaUzikIVxLtWaHuGY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">hopeforwellness.ca</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.&nbsp;</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day is Monday, September 30, 2024. This is a day to intentionally continue learning about the Residential School System and the truthful history of relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. This is a day to mourn the lives of the children who never came home and honour the Survivors, as well as their families and communities.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This day is part of a larger conversation of colonization and systemic inequities, and the recognition of Indigenous resiliency and resistance to colonial tactics should be included as part of this learning.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">What can you do? </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Wear orange on September 30, read books written by Indigenous authors that acknowledge the residential school experience, read books that celebrate Indigenous beauty and brilliance, volunteer with Indigenous organizations and not-for-profits, support Indigenous artists, watch Indigenous films and documentaries, and attend Indigenous events that are open to the public in your community.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">All LDSB schools, education centres and sites will lower both the Canadian, Every Child Matters, or Survivor flags to half-mast from sunrise to sunset on Monday, September 30, 2024 in observance of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Public commemoration and continuous learning about the ongoing impacts of residential schools are vital actions that we must all take to live in right relations with each other on Indigenous lands. Please refrain from taking and sharing pictures of yourself or others smiling in your orange shirts. You are invited to take pictures of the ways that you are honouring this day within your classrooms or school communities.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We understand that some students, staff, and families may wish to have additional support throughout this week. If you require immediate emotional assistance, you can call the support lines shared below:&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The National Indian Residential School Crisis Line provides 24-hour crisis support to Survivors and those affected by the Residential School System at 1-866-925-4419.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Individuals impacted by the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, Two-Spirit, Transgender, and gender diverse people’s crisis are encouraged to contact the MMIWG Crisis Line toll-free at 1-844-413-6649.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">First Nations, Inuit and Métis seeking immediate emotional support can contact the Hope for Wellness Help Line toll-free at 1-855-242-3310, or by online chat at </span><a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hopeforwellness.ca%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cdouglasja%40limestone.on.ca%7C6e6935ea693545d8f7db08dcde3a0b7f%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638629588075796503%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=STYsNbeW6qjd6EKft%2FNXIGK7tKBaUzikIVxLtWaHuGY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">hopeforwellness.ca</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.&nbsp;</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">CANCELLED: Unfortunately, we have had to cancel the Indigenous Family Night scheduled for October 9, 2024. We will be sharing an update on future opportunities shortly. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">All self-identified Indigenous students and their families are welcome to join us in celebrating fall and the harvest on Wednesday, October 9, from 5:30-7:30pm at the Kingston East Community Centre (779 Hwy. 15, Kingston). </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Cultural activities for all ages, baking, arts and crafts.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We invite you to connect with other Indigenous families, find out what is happening in the community and in schools in Limestone, and share a meal with friends and family.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">RSVP by emailing Pat Vanderholst at </span><a href="mailto:vanderholstp@limestone.on.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">vanderholstp@limestone.on.ca</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Transportation is available.</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Here is what's going on at the school in the month of September...</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><div monaco-code-embed=""><iframe width="100%" height="600" src="https://secure.smore.com/n/07ahy?embed=1" title="Central News" scrolling="auto" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="true" style="min-width: 320px;border: none;"></iframe></div></p>