News

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">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, programs available, and the registration process. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Families and students are able to </span><a href="https://triboard.mybusplanner.ca/Eligibility" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">locate their student's home secondary school by visiting Tri-Board's eligibility webpage online</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">View all </span><a href="/documents/3c4be7d9-2f7c-4c37-b154-6967fd2b724b/Grade%208%20Information%20Nights%202025%20(3?fingerprint=ppb20251217013553).pdf" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">secondary school Grade 8 Parent Information Night dates and times online. </span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</em></i><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">STUDENT EXAM PROCEDURES</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">JANUARY 2025</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Check carefully the date and time of your final examinations.&nbsp; </span><i><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">All exams will be written in your regular classroom.&nbsp; </strong></b></i><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;Grades 9 and 10 will have 1.5 hour exams and Grades 11 and 12 will have 2 hour exams.&nbsp; Morning exams begin at 9:00 am and afternoon exams begin at 12:00 pm.&nbsp; Exams begin on </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">January 23 and end on January 30, 2025.</strong></b></p><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;">·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Students must be ready outside the door of the classroom 10 minutes prior to the beginning of the exam with all necessary materials needed for exam completion (ex. calculator, ruler, pen, pencil).</span></p><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;">·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Students must remain in the exam room for at least one (1) hour.&nbsp; At that time, students who have completed their exam will be dismissed by their teacher.&nbsp; Students will not be allowed to leave the exam room in the last 15 minutes of the exam time.&nbsp; Students must wait in the exam room until they are dismissed by their teacher.</span></p><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;">·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; If you are absent from an exam, you must notify the school immediately and have a doctor’s note or another official document explaining your absence.</span></p><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;">·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Buses will run on their normal schedule.&nbsp; Note that there will not be an early bus this year.&nbsp; Once you have finished your exam, you may be picked up.&nbsp; Students who are not being picked up must remain in the lower library for the rest of the day.&nbsp;</span></p><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;">·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><i><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If buses are cancelled due to inclement weather, exams scheduled on that day will be rescheduled to the next exam day.&nbsp; Subsequent exams in the exam schedule will also be rescheduled to the next exam day</strong></b></i><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. For example, if buses are cancelled on Friday, January 24</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>th</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, Friday’s exams will be held on Monday, January 27</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>th</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.&nbsp; Monday’s exams would be held on Tuesday, January 28</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>th</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, Tuesdays exams would be held on Wednesday, January 29</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>th</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, and Wednesdays exams would be held on Thursday, January 30</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>th</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><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;">·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Schools will communicate with families through email if the exam schedule needs to be adjusted due to inclement weather and bus cancellations.&nbsp; It will be important for families to watch for communication in the event of inclement weather.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students are expected to be present and available to write exams during the entire exam period, from January 23</strong></b><b><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><strong class="editor-text-bold">th</strong></sup></b><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;through January 29</strong></b><b><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><strong class="editor-text-bold">th</strong></sup></b><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> .</strong></b></p><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;">·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students cannot come to the school to write exams if the buses are cancelled.&nbsp;</strong></b></p><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;">·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Exam week is an important week for all students.&nbsp; While exams are being written, the Resource Centre (lower library) is available for quiet study and the cafeteria is available for work with small groups.&nbsp; All other areas of the school are being used for exams and are unavailable for student use.&nbsp; Students who are working directly with a teacher may be in alternate locations.&nbsp; All other areas of the school are off-limits to students.</span></p><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;"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We wish all students the best of luck in their studies and</em></i></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">encourage all of you to seek extra help where needed before your final assessments.</em></i></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If you have any questions or concerns about exam time,</em></i></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">please see your classroom teacher or Ms. Yanch in Student Services.</em></i></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/faec8732-d159-4c1a-82aa-8730706ef86d?fingerprint=ppb20251217015306" alt="January 2025" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Student trustees play a crucial role that gives students a voice in the decisions that shape the school district. As a student trustee, you will have the opportunity to represent the student body and advocate for your peers. You will attend board meetings, provide input on important issues, and ensure the student perspective is heard.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If you are a senior student passionate about student government and want to advocate for student voice, this position may be for you.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The application process is straightforward and your school’s Student Council, staff advisors and current student trustees are here to help you along the way.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Applications open December 2, 2024, and close January 28, 2025.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">To learn more and submit your application visit the student trustee webpage at&nbsp; </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/student_trustees" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.limestone.on.ca/student_trustees</span></a><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;">Don’t miss your chance to be a voice for students across the Limestone District School Board.&nbsp;</span></p><iframe data-lexical-video-id="P78dBNcqkog" width="640" height="480" src="https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/P78dBNcqkog" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="true" title="Youtube video"></iframe><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">All Self-Identified students of the Limestone District School Board and their&nbsp;families are invited to celebrate the Winter Solstice on December 18, 2024 from 5:30-7:30pm at the Kingston East Community Centre (779 HWY 15).&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This evening will be an opportunity for families to connect and share a hearty meal, take part in hands-on activities, and honour Grandmother moon.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If you plan on attending, please RSVP Gillianne at</span><a href="mailto:mundellg@limestone.on.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">mundellg@limestone.on.ca</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. Your RSVP helps us plan for this special evening.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Transportation is available to and from this event.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><figure><img src="/images/c9791674-b7c7-4c1a-8748-6d344f3fb0b0?fingerprint=ppb20251217014853" alt="Winter Solstice Celebration 2024" width="694" height="926" style="width:694px;height:926px"><figurecaption>Image description: All Self-Identified LDSB students &amp; their&nbsp;families are invited to celebrate the Winter Solstice on December 18, 2024 from 5:30-7:30pm at the Kingston East Community Centre (779 HWY 15).&nbsp; This evening will be an opportunity for families to connect and share a hearty meal, take part in hands-on activities, and honour Grandmother moon.&nbsp; If you plan on attending, please RSVP Gillianne atmundellg@limestone.on.ca. Your RSVP helps us plan for this special evening.&nbsp; Transportation is available to and from this event.&nbsp;</figurecaption></figure></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">All families across Limestone District School Board are invited to attend one of two upcoming online information sessions to meet the LDSB Human Rights and Equity Team on November 27 or December 9 5:30 to 6:30 p.m..</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">At each session, families will learn about the Human Rights and Equity Team roles, how to navigate the Student Human Rights Incidents and Complaints system in our schools, and where to find helpful resources on the LDSB website.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Families are invited to join the </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">online</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> sessions here:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/ap/t-59584e83/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fteams.microsoft.com%2Fl%2Fmeetup-join%2F19%253ameeting_YTQ4YTUwMjYtNTk1NC00NzE2LTgxN2QtY2UxZjBkODM0MGMw%2540thread.v2%2F0%3Fcontext%3D%257b%2522Tid%2522%253a%2522e1f4165f-ebae-4d82-a73c-a0de593830be%2522%252c%2522Oid%2522%253a%2522f7882077-9b8d-41e9-b7b7-430b5b78c3f8%2522%257d&amp;data=05%7C02%7Ccrothersm%40limestone.on.ca%7Cb4d4376c4f5f4835500508dd099705cf%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638677266428039144%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=cKfRMxHLZaU9fVix1%2Bo2AC26XphvJmdKNPbds1gDzJs%3D&amp;reserved=0" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">November 27, 2024, at 5:30 p.m.</span></a></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/ap/t-59584e83/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fteams.microsoft.com%2Fl%2Fmeetup-join%2F19%253ameeting_YTQ4YTUwMjYtNTk1NC00NzE2LTgxN2QtY2UxZjBkODM0MGMw%2540thread.v2%2F0%3Fcontext%3D%257b%2522Tid%2522%253a%2522e1f4165f-ebae-4d82-a73c-a0de593830be%2522%252c%2522Oid%2522%253a%2522f7882077-9b8d-41e9-b7b7-430b5b78c3f8%2522%257d&amp;data=05%7C02%7Ccrothersm%40limestone.on.ca%7Cb4d4376c4f5f4835500508dd099705cf%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638677266428062129%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=m87byBDK2Ri2EpdlhaXqBd2B8dhjEBGAQrTP2Rze1vc%3D&amp;reserved=0" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 9, 2024, at 5:30 p.m.</span></a></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If you or your family members require accommodations to attend the meeting, please e-mail </span><a href="mailto:abdulkareemy@limestone.on.ca" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">abdulkareemy@limestone.on.ca</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The sessions are not intended to address specific school-based concerns. If you do have a specific concern, please reach out directly to your student’s school.</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Limestone District School Board's Choices at 7 programs offer opportunities for students entering Grade 7 to participate in a variety of unique learning environments. Depending on the availability of places in the programs, students currently in Grade 7 may also apply to join a program for their Grade 8 year. The Choices at 7 Programs that are offered include:&nbsp;</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">ATLAS (Applying Technology for Learning, Aptitude and Success)&nbsp;</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Challenge (Gifted and Academic Enrichment Program)&nbsp;</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">LEAP (Limestone Education through the Arts Program)&nbsp;</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Extended French Immersion Program&nbsp;</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">For detailed information about any of the Choices at 7 programs, please visit&nbsp;the </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/choices_at_7" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><u><span class="editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Choices at 7 </span></u></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">webpage.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The application links for ATLAS, Challenge and LEAP will open at </strong></b><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">9 a.m. on December 13, 2024</strong></b></u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, and close at </strong></b><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">4 p.m. on January 13, 2025</strong></b></u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The application links for Extended French Immersion will open at </strong></b><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">9 a.m. on December 13, 2024</strong></b></u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, and applicants are encouraged to submit their application as soon as possible. The application link for Extended French Immersion will remain open throughout the school year.</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">All applicants to ATLAS, Challenge and LEAP will receive an email on January 17, 2025, outlining, in detail, the next steps of the application process (i.e., task requirements, how to submit tasks, etc.). &nbsp;Please contact the Registrar if you do not receive an email on this date </span><a href="mailto:choicesatseven@limestone.on.ca" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">choicesatseven@limestone.on.ca</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Applicants to the Extended French Immersion programs will receive communication directly from the school.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please read the instructions below carefully to ensure that you complete the correct application form. The application links will not be active until </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">9:00 am on Friday, December 13, 2024.</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><u><i><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-italic editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">IF YOUR STUDENT IS INTERESTED IN APPLYING TO THE ATLAS, LEAP, AND/OR CHALLENGE PROGRAMS and IS:</strong></b></i></u></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Currently Attending a School </strong></b><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">WITHIN</strong></b></u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> the Limestone District School Board</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If your child currently attends a school </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">WITHIN</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> the Limestone District School Board, please click on the links for </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">CURRENT LIMESTONE STUDENTS</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> to complete the Choices at Seven Application Form. Your child must login to the Application Form using their </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">LDSB Active Directory Username and Password.</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp; </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The login must be the applicant’s login information and not a sibling, parent, etc.</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> This is the regular login that they use to login to devices at school. If your child is unsure of their school login information, please contact their school directly. You may apply to more than one program.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><a href="https://forms.office.com/r/eJB2mWda8Y" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">ATLAS APPLICATION FORM FOR CURRENT LIMESTONE STUDENTS</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><a href="https://forms.office.com/r/cFGFLcJc3r" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">LEAP APPLICATION FORM FOR CURRENT LIMESTONE STUDENTS</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><a href="https://forms.office.com/r/p0HzrLUDFR" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">CHALLENGE APPLICATION FORM FOR CURRENT LIMESTONE STUDENTS</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">B.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Currently Attending a School </strong></b><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">OUTSIDE</strong></b></u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> of the Limestone District School Board</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If your child currently attends a school that is </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">OUTSIDE</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> the Limestone District School Board, please click on the application links for </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">NON-LDSB STUDENTS</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> and follow the instructions to complete the Choices at Seven Application Form. You may apply for more than one program.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><a href="https://forms.office.com/r/raViAnzHEA" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">ATLAS APPLICATION FORM FOR NON-LDSB STUDENTS</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><a href="https://forms.office.com/r/7CihfU7wW4" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">LEAP APPLICATION FORM FOR NON-LDSB STUDENTS</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><a href="https://forms.office.com/r/bTCUQSysYW" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">CHALLENGE APPLICATION FORM FOR NON-LDSB STUDENTS</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><u><i><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-italic editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">IF YOUR STUDENT IS INTERESTED IN APPLYING TO THE EXTENDED FRENCH IMMERSION PROGRAM and IS:</strong></b></i></u></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A. &nbsp;Currently Attending a school </strong></b><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">WITHIN</strong></b></u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> the Limestone District School Board</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Click on the site link below to complete the application for Extended French Immersion:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><a href="https://forms.office.com/r/rdSe0tC3au" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">HARROWSMITH PUBLIC SCHOOL APPLICATION LINK</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><a href="https://forms.office.com/r/ys3TbYjVrT" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">MODULE DE L’ACADIE APPLICATION LINK</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><a href="https://forms.office.com/r/0wY2RrPBA9" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">MODULE VANIER APPLICATION LINK</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><i><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">** Students currently enrolled in a LDSB French Immersion program will be automatically transferred to their immersion site.</strong></b></i></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">B. Currently enrolled in a school </strong></b><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">OUTSIDE</strong></b></u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> of the Limestone District School Board</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please go to the </span><a href="https://limestone.on.ca/" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Limestone District School Board website</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> to complete the new student Online Registration form. Please contact the French Immersion site if you have questions about the application form.</span></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Open Houses&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">ATLAS, Challenge, and LEAP Choices at 7 Program Open House, Calvin Park Public School</strong></b></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 10, 2024 at 6:00 p.m.</span></li></ul></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Ernestown Intermediate and Secondary School Grade 7 and 8 Challenge Program Open House</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 11, 2024 at 6:00 p.m.</span></li></ul></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Loughborough Public School Choices at 7 Challenge Program Open House</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 12, 2024 at 6:00 p.m.&nbsp;</span></li></ul></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Harrowsmith Public School</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Extended French Immersion&nbsp;Open House</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thursday, January 9, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.</span></li></ul></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Module de l'Acadie</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Extended French Immersion Open House</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Tuesday, February 11, 2025 at 6:30 p.m.</span></li></ul></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Module Vanier</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Extended French Immersion Open House</strong></b></li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Tuesday, February 11, 2025 at 6:30 p.m.</span></li></ul></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustees Robin Hutcheon and Bob Godkin were elected to the roles of Chair and Vice-Chair at the Annual General Meeting of the Board November 13, 2024, for the session ending November 19, 2025. Trustees elect a Chair and Vice-Chair each year of their four-year mandate. This is the third year for both in their respective roles. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustees also formalized the appointments of Jamie Maracle and Chris Scott to the Board, with both being sworn in at the Annual General Meeting. Trustee Jamie Maracle was appointed as Indigenous Trustee by the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte, following the retirement of Trustee Kelly Maracle last month. Trustee Chris Scott was appointed by the Board of Trustees to represent the Loyalist-Cataraqui, Collins Bay, and Bayridge Districts in the City of Kingston, filling the vacancy left by the passing of Trustee Judith Brown on October 11, 2024. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">After her nomination, Chair Hutcheon thanked Trustee Godkin and expressed her appreciation for the strength of the LDSB team. "We are committed to students, to their success, and to their well-being. Our staff are innovative, caring, and efficient, and our trustees are passionate and kind," she remarked. She thanked the Board for the opportunity to serve, adding, "It is an honour to serve in this role." Chair Hutcheon was first elected in October 2018, now serving her second term. She has contributed to several Board committees and held roles with the Ontario Public School Boards Association.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Similarly Vice-Chair Bob Godkin thanked Trustee Neill for the nomination, and said he looks forward to continuing the work of the Board. Vice-Chair Godkin is also in his second term of office, and represents the City of Kingston: Pittsburgh and King’s Town Districts, and Frontenac Islands. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Membership of trustees to the Board’s various committees will be determined at the Nominations Meeting Monday, November 18, 2024. </span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Honourable Murray-ban Sinclair, a renowned advocate and trailblazer for Indigenous justice and education passed away Monday, November 4, 2024. To honour this inspirational and highly influential politician, judge, Senator, and the Chief Commissioner of the Indian Residential Schools Truth and Reconciliation Commission which provided the 94 Calls to Action, all school flags will be lowered to half-mast for four days to honour Anishinabek protocol. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Murray-ban devoted his life to ensuring that Indigenous truths, perspectives, and histories were heard. He believed that education was critical to paving the way for generations of people to learn from our collective history, and to do better. It was a gift to listen and experience his brilliance, wisdom, and kindness, and his passing is felt all across Turtle Island.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Murray-ban Sinclair, in reference to the 94 Calls to Action said, </span></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“We have described for you a mountain. We have shown you the path to the top. We call upon you to do the climbing.” </span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">He recognized that important conversations have started across Canadian schools, but we must continue learning and working towards understanding the truth of what is now known as Canada and taking action towards Truth and Reconciliation.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">After retiring from the Senate in 2021, His Honour served as the </span><a href="https://www.queensu.ca/gazette/stories/queen-s-remembers-honourable-murray-sinclair" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">15th Chancellor of Queen's University</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> from 2021to June 30, 2024, when his appointment ended.&nbsp; He was the first Indigenous person to serve in the role.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This CBC article provides additional accomplishments:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cbc.ca%2Fnews%2Fpolitics%2Fmurray-sinclair-death-1.7372862&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cdouglasja%40limestone.on.ca%7Cf0ce80f08a9e47d1cd7008dcfda0d9d1%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638664114511665528%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=%2FQkPIFMR1ABGjxTMp5Q2273V1%2FU34MSfvxoh0XAxqc8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/murray-sinclair-death-1.7372862&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A sacred fire has been lit in his honour on the grounds of the Manitoba Legislative Building. The family has asked that additional sacred fires are not lit across the country so that there is only one. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking those who are able to donate to </span><a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mycharitytools.com%2Fgift%2Fwpgfdn%2Fdonate%3Ffund%3D5944&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cdouglasja%40limestone.on.ca%7Cf0ce80f08a9e47d1cd7008dcfda0d9d1%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638664114511694011%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=RdLqHB5sGYwJ7Huc6bDJSYe523KMT5aFSghF9P9pVAI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Murray Sinclair Memorial Fund</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> at The Winnipeg Foundation. &nbsp;Their father loved and supported many community organizations, and donations will prioritize Indigenous women, children, families, and Survivors.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and community at this time.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><i><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Senator Murray Sinclair - Image Credit: Kent Monkman for Queens University</strong></b></i></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grade 9 to 12 students in Limestone are invited to join the Black, Indigenous, and Racialized Student Career Fair on November 15, 2024. Hear from panel speakers, have one-on-one discussions, and a free lunch! Connect with career pathways in university, college, trades, business, and the arts. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Speakers include: </strong></b></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Queen's University Research Awards Officer,</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">St. Lawrence College Professors,</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">CEO and Co-Founder of Transformix Engineering Inc.,</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Local business owners and experts in the trades,</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">and more! </span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=Xxb04a7rgk2nPKDeWTgwvquSOt_Sf99BuA6e1oho4OlUQ0VLTk04NUdMRUFaWktCSk9KVDVCNVI0Ri4u&amp;origin=QRCode" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Limestone students can register online. </span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/6f8e7fb4-5add-4142-8567-3afbfa4d3d86?fingerprint=ppb20251217014029" alt="Black Indigenous and Racialized Student Career Fair" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Dear Families,&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">I hope all Limestone District School Board (LDSB) families continue to have a good start to the 2024-2025 school year. It is hard to believe we are almost eight weeks into the school year. As we move towards the end of October, I have some updates I would like to share with you:&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;">Communication Regarding Bus Delays and Cancellations from Tri-Board Student Transportation</strong></b><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;">During the potential inclement weather months (roughly early November to early April), our transportation partner, Tri-Board Student Transportation Services, works closely with their school bus companies to determine if it is safe to offer school transportation on inclement weather days. School buses function differently than other vehicles, and sometimes, although it is safe for the average family vehicle to travel, it is not safe for a school bus to be on all, or some of, the roads on a route. Having to cancel school transportation is understandably disruptive to families, but Tri-Board always puts the safety of their 30,000-plus bus riders first and foremost in their decision-making.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">To help make the winter season and bus cancellation days easier for students and families to manage, families should sign up for bus status alerts by creating an account in </span><a href="https://triboard.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Email-Subscription-Instructions.pdf" class="editor-link"><u><span class="editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Tri-Board’s Student Portal</span></u></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. Families can add their student(s) to their account, so they are signed up to receive alerts for their specific bus and zone cancellations. Families can also follow Tri-Board on social media:&nbsp;</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://x.com/triboardbus" class="editor-link"><u><span class="editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">X/Twitter @TriBoardBus</span></u></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/triboardbus/" class="editor-link"><u><span class="editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Facebook Tri-Board Student Transportation Services</span></u></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/triboardbus/" class="editor-link"><u><span class="editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Instagram @TriBoardBus</span></u></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><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.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The cancellation of school buses does not mean schools are closed. Should the rare need to close a school arise, the information will be communicated by the LDSB and the individual schools.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Learn more about inclement weather days, timing and duration of cancellations, and more on </span><a href="https://triboard.ca/alerts/snowdays/" class="editor-link"><u><span class="editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Tri-Board’s website</span></u></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><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;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2023-2024 EQAO Results and Strategic Plan Update&nbsp;</strong></b><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 2023-2024 assessment results for the LDSB were released earlier this month by the Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO). 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 Grade 10 Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test. LDSB results align with provincial outcomes in some areas, while showing notable improvements in others and among specific student groups. Learn more about </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/news/2023-2024-eqao-results-show-notable-improvements-20241007203759" class="editor-link"><u><span class="editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Limestone’s EQAO results on our website</span></u></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">At last night’s Board Meeting, Trustees were provided with a Strategic Plan Year-End Report for the 2023-2024 school year, reflecting the first year of the new LDSB Strategic Plan (2023-2028), and the progress reported for each goal. The 2023-2024 EQAO results provide a foundation for the plan and the provincial Student Achievement Plan. Families are encouraged to review the </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/e829b223-42a3-408a-9769-20a4ccb806ca/LDSB%20Regular%20Board%20Meeting%20Agenda%20October%2023%202024.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217015139" class="editor-link"><u><span class="editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Administrative Report provided by senior staff at the Board Meeting available on pages 22 to 31 in the Board Agenda Package</span></u></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Limestone families are invited to provide feedback on the LDSB Student Achievement Plan for 2024-2025 through an online ThoughtExchange survey. You may have more than one response, so you are welcome to submit as many thoughts as you would like, but please only submit one idea at a time. Other people will see your idea(s) and will have the opportunity to indicate how much they agree with your submission(s). You will also have the opportunity to rate submissions from others. This survey is open now until November 22, 2024, at 4:00 p.m. Your input is greatly valued, and we thank you in advance for your participation. &nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">To participate, please visit: </span><a href="https://bit.ly/LDSBSurveySAP2024-2025" class="editor-link"><u><span class="editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">https://bit.ly/LDSBSurveySAP2024-2025</span></u></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. &nbsp;</span></p><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;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">KFL&amp;A Public Health Update</strong></b><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;">KFL&amp;A Public Health has provided Limestone with a </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/news/keeping-children-healthy-throughout-the-school-year-kfl-a-public-health-20241023134302" class="editor-link"><u><span class="editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">letter from Dr. Piotr Oglaza, Medical Officer of Health</span></u></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, as well as helpful resources to share with you on how to stay healthy during respiratory illness season. To view information from KFL&amp;A Public Health, please use the following links:&nbsp;</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/news/keeping-children-healthy-throughout-the-school-year-kfl-a-public-health-20241023134302" class="editor-link"><u><span class="editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Letter from Dr. Piotr Oglaza</span></u></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/bf1909e4-bfa3-4414-8757-b29c0adfe17d/OCFP_ActionsParentsCanTake.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014753" class="editor-link"><u><span class="editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">OCFP Actions Parents Can Take</span></u></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/d5033f74-910d-4a3b-b8ad-4c34f7c1acf4/2023-09-21_Respiratory%20Illness%20Factsheet_8.5x14_EN.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014946" class="editor-link"><u><span class="editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Respiratory Illness Fact Sheet</span></u></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/336f8f79-ff6a-4252-a1ce-76bbbbb5b139/2023-03-03_Immuniz-Through-Lifespan.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260428201346" class="editor-link"><u><span class="editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Immunization Through the Lifespan</span></u></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">I wish you a wonderful end of October, and I thank you for your continued support and partnership as part of the Limestone community.</span></p><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;">All the very best,&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Krishna Burra&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Director of Education&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p>

<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>

<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>