Hello from the Central Bear Den,
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:)
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.
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:)
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!!
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.
I know you will provide a warm welcome to my colleague and friend, Ms. Ramsay.
Sincerely
H. Barrett
Upcoming PA Day
Please note that Friday, January 30 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 PDF version of the 2025-2026 School Year Calendar is available online.
School Calendar Survey 2026-27
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.
Please consider completing the survey.
Central Swag! E-store is open
https://specialitytrophies.ca/centralps/
Samples of Central clothing are coming soon to purchase in the front foyer.
We will have various styles, sizes and colours available for immediate sale. Cash only.
Our e-store is open where you can choose your colour and style for later delivery to the school.
Kindergarten Registration
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! You can feel confident your child will be cared for within safe and inclusive environments.
For more information about what is required at time of registration, and to register a new student visit Register A Student.
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.
Students 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.
Discover Kindergarten in Limestone and learn more about our Kindergarten program, resources, and tips to help your student prepare for Kindergarten.
School Advisory Council
Our next SAC meeting is 10th February @ 5:30 pm in the staff room at the school. Babysitting is available. All are welcome:)
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:)
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.
Vaccine Clinic - PA Day (January 30th)
Southeast Public Health has asked us to share information about their upcoming vaccine clinic on the PA Day, January 30th. Book online at http://kflaph.net/routine-paday.
National Non-Smoking Week
Please see the message below from Southeast Public Health.
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.
Parents and caregivers can watch this short video to learn more: www.notanexperiment.ca/parents
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: www.youthvast.ca
This 2-minute video will tell you more about the process:
Black History Month - Opening Ceremony
Grade 8 Information Nights
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.
Literacy in Limestone - Oral Language
Updates from Southeast Public Health
Stay Up to Date on Bus Delays and Cancellations
Sign up for Bus Status Alerts through Tri-Board’s Student Portal
- Families should sign up for bus status alerts by creating an account in Tri-Board’s Student Portal. Families can add their student to their account, so they are signed up to receive alerts for their specific bus and zone cancellations.
- 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.
- Tri-Board will be communicating all bus delays and cancellations. The LDSB will not be communicating this information directly with families. The best way to receive communication regarding bus cancellations or delays is through the Student Portal.
