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Please see news below from our school and across the Limestone District School Board:

2025-2026 School Year Calendar Survey

The Limestone District School Board is currently working to develop the 2025-2026 school year calendar. In collaboration with our coterminous boards, Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic District School Board and Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board, there are three options for consideration. We would like to gather the opinions of different members of the Limestone community to guide our final decision.Please take a few minutes to complete this short survey. The survey is open until Monday, February 3, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. Survey link: <a href="https://bit.ly/SchoolYearSurvey20252026" class="editor-link">https://bit.ly/SchoolYearSurvey20252026</a>If you would prefer a paper version of the survey, please contact your school and a hard copy will be provided. Your input is important to us. We appreciate your time in submitting your feedback.

2025-01-23 21:00:01 +0000 UTC

Boardroom Briefs Jan. 15, 2025

Boardroom Briefs is intended to provide highlights of presentations, reports and decisions made at the regular meeting of the Limestone District School Board of Trustees. The following are highlights of the January 15, 2025 Regular Meeting of the Board of Trustees. Board Meeting Agendas can be found on the website under <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/board_meetings-1719463739654" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link">Board Meetings</a>.  All meetings begin with a Land Acknowledgement: "The Limestone District School Board is situated on the traditional territories of the Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee. We acknowledge their enduring presence on this land, as well as the presence of Métis, Inuit, and other First Nations from across Turtle Island. We honour their cultures and celebrate their commitment to this land.” Vice-Chair Godkin chaired the meeting due to Chair Hutcheon participating remotely, as per Board Policy No. 8. <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Private Session Report</h2>Trustee Elliott provided the Private Session Report for January 15, 2025:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">The private session minutes were approved from the Annual Board Meeting Minutes (Private) – November 13, 2024</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Associate Superintendent Gollogly gave a safe schools update.</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Director Burra provided two Personnel items.</li></ul>There was no other business conducted, or motions passed in Private Session.<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Chair's Report</h2>The Chair's report was read by Trustee Godkin:"I would like to extend a Happy New Year to Trustees, senior staff students, staff and families of the Limestone District School Board. As we begin a new year, I would like to take a moment to mention the work immediately before us, including the coming 2025-2026 school year calendar, and our review and approval of the Board’s operating and capital budgets.As school board governors, trustees play a key role in shaping the conditions for a high-quality education for every student. While in office, trustees balance a range of responsibilities—setting the board’s strategic direction, creating policies, managing resources, engaging with the community, and holding our system accountable. This requires continuous learning and growth.At Limestone District School Board, we believe professional development is essential for everyone—staff, students, and trustees alike. Lifelong learning helps us all grow, ensuring we can meet the demands of our roles and responsibilities to the highest standard. For trustees, this means continuing to build knowledge and expertise—both individually and as a group—so we can guide our board effectively and tackle the complex issues we face.The Ministry of Education has also emphasized the value of professional learning for trustees. In a virtual meeting last fall, the Ministry confirmed that this kind of development is important and that public funds can appropriately be used to support it.The upcoming Ontario Provincial Education Symposium for trustees next week is a great opportunity for trustees to continue growing in our roles. This professional learning offers sessions on topics directly affecting the role of trustee, and the broader environment within which school boards operate. I am confident you will find it valuable learning.In closing, I would like to wish best of luck to secondary students on their upcoming exams, and for the successful completion of semester one." <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Director's Report</h2><img src="/images/959f9ebc-0553-5f56-afed-83ccf39d2906?fingerprint=ppb20251217014409" alt="" width="405" height="405" style="float:right;width:405px;height:405px">The New Year always is a time of reflection, both thinking about the year behind, and the year ahead. In education, there is always more work to do, and as a board we continue to have significant work ahead. The stakes of our work are incredibly high when we consider the future of every student we serve. Annual EQAO results, summaries of Human Rights Complaints, and school climate data, all of which we shared in the fall, all serve as good reminder of the critical undertakings ahead of us as a school board. As we continue forward with our LDSB Strategic Plan it will be important for us to remember for whom this work matters, and emphasizing the need for all staff to make a positive difference in the lives of the students we serve. <h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">This means continuing to strive for improvement in student learning, achievement, and well-being. It also means we must continue to do what we can in making sure there is a positive culture in Limestone for the benefit of all students, families, and staff. </h3>Last week, I had the pleasure of visiting several schools as part of the Ministry of Education Math visit to Limestone and it was wonderful to see the significant impact of our learning in this area in action in multiple classrooms. Our work matters and makes a difference. I offer my thanks and appreciation to the central team led by Associate Superintendent Hedderson, and the impressive work occurring due to the efforts of staff in Limestone schools. While it is only January, preliminary preparations are already underway for the 2025-2026 school year. In the next few weeks, we anticipate the release of provincial funding to help support our planning for next year. Choices program information has been shared with the community and students will be engaging in those processes. In addition, last week, this week, and in the next couple of weeks secondary schools are engaging with Grade 8 students and families to provide information to further support the transition to secondary school in the fall. In addition, more senior secondary students will be considering expanded opportunities available for the fall, and the Kindergarten registration process for the youngest Limestone learners will also begin. This time of year also means secondary summative assessments and exams start in the next few days, and report cards for students K-12 are just around the corner in February.Given recent cyber incidents impacting an adjacent school board, local police authorities, and the largest Student Information System providers in North America, I want to emphasize that Limestone has not been impacted by any of these incidents. Our Student Information System is Aspen, and the one PowerSchool tool we use was not impacted by their recent cyber breach. I bring this issue up for a couple of reasons: while we have not been impacted at this point, it is likely more a matter of when as opposed to if. The reality is that these types of incidents are occurring more and more frequently, and it is critical for us to continue to prioritize cyber safety and security measures. On occasion, increasing our cyber measures can impact ease of use, but this is necessary to maximize our level of protection.While teaching and learning must continue to be a focus in schools to support student learning and well-being, it important to remember the range of great activities occurring in schools: here are just a few examples, the Robotics event and competition at Calvin Park/LCVI this past weekend; the Youth Imagine the Future Festival and Gallery in December, and the recent engagement with Grade 7-12 sites to name the upcoming educational campaign focused on vaping and screen time, are just three recent and current examples. <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">OPBSA Report</h2>Trustee McGregor provided an OPBSA report. <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Student Trustees' Report</h2>Student Trustee Bukhari provided the following report:"Good evening trustees and the viewing public. Our January Inter-student Council (ISC) meeting took place on January 7, 2025, chaired by Student Trustee Kumar and Student Trustee Kolosov. To start our meeting, we were privileged to have Andrea Barrow, the LDSB Equity and Inclusion Consultant, do a presentation on Black History Month to help student groups be proactive in their plans to recognize Black History month in schools. We covered topics such as why we recognize Black History Month, the ministry's upcoming inclusion of Black History in elementary and Grade 10 history curriculums, as well as the Black History lessons that LDSB students and the equity team worked to create. During the presentation, the council had a chance to see what events different schools were planning to run to recognize Black History Month. Andrea Barrow also displayed a series of Black History Month resources that she had created to help ensure all schools would have materials to display. The council was able to provide valuable feedback on what kind of resources would be best utilized at their sites and look forward to working collaboratively with other student groups to recognize Black History Month. Schools this month begin to wrap up the work from the Youth Homelessness Initiative that began in November following an impactful presentation by Kim Hockey from KFL&A United Way.Kim’s presentation included shocking and relevant statistics about the prevalence of youth homelessness, and inspired students to take action in supporting those who were struggling and breaking down stigmas and stereotypes. Kim provided ISC with a number of posters and resources to build awareness in schools and also shared a moving student-led video project. <h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">"Council members shared a number of exciting activities and events dedicated to raising money and support for the fight against youth homelessness; including food, clothing, and toy drives, as well as fundraisers that raised over $1000." </h3>In conversation about challenges students were facing at their school sites, many schools mentioned that vandalism and vaping in the bathrooms has become an increased issue.Trustees may recall from August that vape detectors were installed in two high schools as a trial run. Council members shared that installed vape detectors in their school bathrooms were not acting as effective deterrents for vaping and were not providing accurate notices to admin. Students shared that vaping and crowding in bathrooms has remained a consistent issue throughout the school year with little change since the detector's installment.** To wrap up our meeting, we discussed the next student trustee elections happening in February and ensured that all members were on the same page about the elections. This concludes our report for the January ISC meeting. Thank you." Student Trustee Kosolov provided trustees with an update on the school visits she undertakes as the Indigenous Student Trustee for Limestone. She recently meet with self-identified Indigenous students at LCVI, and had a very productive meeting. <h4 class="editor-heading-h4" dir="ltr">**[In response to the Student Trustee Report, Director Burra and Associate Superintendent Gollogly provided trustees with an update on the installation of the vape detectors as part of the LDSB and Public Health initiative in two pilot schools, sharing that the Ministry of Education had requested installation of a different product which caused the delay of the installation of the detectors in the two pilot schools. Associate Superintendent Gollogly noted that the vape detectors were recently installed and tested at LCVI, and Frontenac S.S. would have their detectors installed shortly.]</h4><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Reports for Action</h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Multi-Year Capital and School Renewal Project Plan</h3>Superintendent of Corporate Services Young, Manager of Facility Services Fowler and Assistant Manager Downie provided the Board with the Multi-Year Capital and School Renewal Project Plan for the current school year and to make a recommendation for approval.The Facility Services Department has developed the Capital and School Renewal Project Plan based upon the VFA Building Condition reports for all schools; assessing local needs with school staff, analysis from maintenance work orders; knowledge from facilities trades and maintenance staff, and expertise from engineering and other consultants.The Multi-Year Capital plan includes an updated 2024-2025 listing of $21,071,289 projects by school. Project work estimates are based upon the best available project scope and costing information at the time of evaluation. For the 2023-2024 to 2032-2033 school years, the 10-year plan includes an estimated $4,500,000 in proposed annual school renewal project activity per year based upon prior year Ministry funding levels. This plan may/will change to reflect actual Ministry school renewal funding levels when announced.<h4 class="editor-heading-h4" dir="ltr">Recommendations: That the Board approve the Multi-Year Capital and School Renewal Project Plan and that a revised copy of the 10-year Capital and School Renewal Project Plan be posted on the board's website. Motion moved by Trustee Ruttan and seconded by Trustee Lloyd. Carried.</h4><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Reports for Information</h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">2024-2025 Revised Estimates and Interim Financial Report for Q1</h3>Superintendent Young and Manager of Financial Services Carson provided trustees with the 2024-2025 revised estimates and interim financial operating expenditures for the period ending November 30, 2024 (Quarter 1).The report provides an update on enrolment and staffing changes since the budget was approved by the Board in June 2024. Also included, were updated operating and capital sections of the budget, reflecting revenue and expenditure information at revised estimates.Manager Carson provided an itemized account and line-by-line explanation of those areas that either had a net increase or decrease. Operating Budget Revenues and Expenditures as well as Capital Budget Revenue and Capital Budget Expenditures were reviewed. The interim financial operating expenditures for the period ending November 30, 2024 (Quarter 1) are presented in a similar format to the 2024-2025 operating budget, indicating the amount spent by expenditure category and the associated percentage, and meets all Ministry of Education requirements. As at Quarter 1, $74.7M of the $312.7M operating budget or 24% has been spent. This is comparable to the 26% results from the same quarter last year.The report was received for information purposes.<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Mental Health Operational Plan 2024-2025</h3>Superintendent Gilliam, Mental Health Lead Conboy and Special Education Coordinator West provided the Board with an update of the 2024-2025 Mental Health and Substance Use Strategy Action Plan and progress on the 2025-2028 Mental Health Substance Use and Addictions Three Year Strategy.The 2025-2028 Mental Health Substance Use and Addictions Strategy is in its initial review phase with the LDSB Mental Health and Substance Use Leadership Committee and will be released soon. As part of this three-year plan, the 2024-25 Mental Health and Substance Use Strategy Action Plan details the goals associated with the current school year and actions that will support student well-being and mental health across the district.As in previous years, the goals are collated under keys areas of focus. For the 2025-2028 three-year plan and the 2024-25 one-year plan, the areas of focus are:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Mental Health, Substance Use and Addictions Support</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Engagement and Collaboration</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Pathways to/through/from Mental Health, Substance Use, and Addictions Care</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Identity-Affirming Practice</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">Equip and Support Staff</li></ul>Key elements of both the 2025-2028 three-year plan, and the current 2024-2025 Mental Health and Substance Use Action Plan, include supporting the implementation of both the mandatory Grade 7 and 8 Mental Health Modules that support the Health and Physical Education curriculum and the revisions to the existing Career Studies (GLC20) curriculum. Both the Grade 7 and 8, and Grade 10 GLC20 revisions are designed to enhance mental health literacy, and equip students with culturally responsive, evidence-informed knowledge, skills and strategies to support their mental health and well-being, both in school and on-going.<img src="/images/0838300c-e912-4dbd-95d5-17851522ce70?fingerprint=ppb20251217013050" alt="Image of mental health self-referral postcard and a list of other school-based supports" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit">Trustees were provided with a detailed list of school-based resources and supports for students including postcards that will be distributed to Grade 9 students so they know who their supports are, and increasing opportunities to talk about mental health and substance use at school. Another key element of both plans is supporting the system in implementing Dr. David Tranter’s Third Path: A Relationship-Based Approach to Student Well-Being and Achievement. While this work is not new, and has been a focus for several years, many schools have initiated the use of this resource as a foundation to improving relationships within the school context to encourage and support improved attendance and parent/caregiver engagement.The report was received for information purposes. The meeting adjourned and Trustees moved into private session for a personnel item. Trustees will Rise and Report at the next, scheduled Regular Board Meeting on February 19, 2025.

2025-01-17 17:27:47.127 +0000 UTC

Immunization Update

Under the ISPA, parents or guardians of students attending school in Ontario must provide proof of immunization, or a valid exemption from immunization to SEHU for designated diseases. Last year, our ISPA compliance went from 89.4% in January to 97% in June — all your hard work is making a big difference in our community! <img src="/images/6bb75f13-bdf4-4cb0-86bb-bbb3ffc333e5?fingerprint=ppb20251217014016" alt="PA day vaccine clinic" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit">

2025-01-10 13:12:08.697 +0000 UTC

Grade 8 Information Nights

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. Families and students are able to <a href="https://triboard.mybusplanner.ca/Eligibility" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">locate their student's home secondary school by visiting Tri-Board's eligibility webpage online</a>. View all <a href="/documents/3c4be7d9-2f7c-4c37-b154-6967fd2b724b/Grade%208%20Information%20Nights%202025%20(3?fingerprint=ppb20251217013553).pdf" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">secondary school Grade 8 Parent Information Night dates and times online. </a>

2025-01-07 21:29:51.182 +0000 UTC

January 2025 Exam Schedule and Procedures

STUDENT EXAM PROCEDURESJANUARY 2025·         Check carefully the date and time of your final examinations.  All exams will be written in your regular classroom.   Grades 9 and 10 will have 1.5 hour exams and Grades 11 and 12 will have 2 hour exams.  Morning exams begin at 9:00 am and afternoon exams begin at 12:00 pm.  Exams begin on January 23 and end on January 30, 2025. ·         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). ·         Students must remain in the exam room for at least one (1) hour.  At that time, students who have completed their exam will be dismissed by their teacher.  Students will not be allowed to leave the exam room in the last 15 minutes of the exam time.  Students must wait in the exam room until they are dismissed by their teacher. ·         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. ·         Buses will run on their normal schedule.  Note that there will not be an early bus this year.  Once you have finished your exam, you may be picked up.  Students who are not being picked up must remain in the lower library for the rest of the day.  ·         If buses are cancelled due to inclement weather, exams scheduled on that day will be rescheduled to the next exam day.  Subsequent exams in the exam schedule will also be rescheduled to the next exam day. For example, if buses are cancelled on Friday, January 24th, Friday’s exams will be held on Monday, January 27th.  Monday’s exams would be held on Tuesday, January 28th, Tuesdays exams would be held on Wednesday, January 29th, and Wednesdays exams would be held on Thursday, January 30th. ·         Schools will communicate with families through email if the exam schedule needs to be adjusted due to inclement weather and bus cancellations.  It will be important for families to watch for communication in the event of inclement weather.  Students are expected to be present and available to write exams during the entire exam period, from January 23th through January 29th . ·         Students cannot come to the school to write exams if the buses are cancelled.  ·         Exam week is an important week for all students.  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.  All other areas of the school are being used for exams and are unavailable for student use.  Students who are working directly with a teacher may be in alternate locations.  All other areas of the school are off-limits to students. We wish all students the best of luck in their studies andencourage all of you to seek extra help where needed before your final assessments.If you have any questions or concerns about exam time,please see your classroom teacher or Ms. Yanch in Student Services. <img src="/images/faec8732-d159-4c1a-82aa-8730706ef86d?fingerprint=ppb20251217015306" alt="January 2025" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit">

2025-01-06 18:16:29.07 +0000 UTC

Student Trustee Elections for 2025 school year

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. If you are a senior student passionate about student government and want to advocate for student voice, this position may be for you. 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. Applications open December 2, 2024, and close January 28, 2025.   To learn more and submit your application visit the student trustee webpage at  <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/student_trustees" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link">https://www.limestone.on.ca/student_trustees</a> Don’t miss your chance to be a voice for students across the Limestone District School Board. <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>

2024-11-27 18:59:08.544 +0000 UTC

Winter Solstice Celebration 2024

All Self-Identified students of the Limestone District School Board and their 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). 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. If you plan on attending, please RSVP Gillianne at<a href="mailto:mundellg@limestone.on.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">mundellg@limestone.on.ca</a>. Your RSVP helps us plan for this special evening. Transportation is available to and from this event. <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 & their 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).  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.  If you plan on attending, please RSVP Gillianne atmundellg@limestone.on.ca. Your RSVP helps us plan for this special evening.  Transportation is available to and from this event. </figurecaption></figure>

2024-11-26 16:13:15.621 +0000 UTC

You're Invited - Meet the LDSB Human Rights and Equity Team - Online Sessions

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..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.Families are invited to join the online sessions here:<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&data=05%7C02%7Ccrothersm%40limestone.on.ca%7Cb4d4376c4f5f4835500508dd099705cf%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638677266428039144%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=cKfRMxHLZaU9fVix1%2Bo2AC26XphvJmdKNPbds1gDzJs%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link">November 27, 2024, at 5:30 p.m.</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&data=05%7C02%7Ccrothersm%40limestone.on.ca%7Cb4d4376c4f5f4835500508dd099705cf%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638677266428062129%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=m87byBDK2Ri2EpdlhaXqBd2B8dhjEBGAQrTP2Rze1vc%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link">December 9, 2024, at 5:30 p.m.</a></li></ul>If you or your family members require accommodations to attend the meeting, please e-mail <a href="mailto:abdulkareemy@limestone.on.ca" class="editor-link">abdulkareemy@limestone.on.ca</a>.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.

2024-11-20 21:03:12.931 +0000 UTC

Choices at 7 Programming and Open Houses for the 2025-2026 School Year

Choices at 7 Programs for the 2025-2026 School Year

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: <ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">ATLAS (Applying Technology for Learning, Aptitude and Success) </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Challenge (Gifted and Academic Enrichment Program) </li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">LEAP (Limestone Education through the Arts Program) </li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Extended French Immersion Program </li></ul>For detailed information about any of the Choices at 7 programs, please visit the <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/choices_at_7" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Choices at 7 </a>webpage.The application links for ATLAS, Challenge and LEAP will open at 9 a.m. on December 13, 2024, and close at 4 p.m. on January 13, 2025.The application links for Extended French Immersion will open at 9 a.m. on December 13, 2024, 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.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.).  Please contact the Registrar if you do not receive an email on this date <a href="mailto:choicesatseven@limestone.on.ca" class="editor-link">choicesatseven@limestone.on.ca</a>Applicants to the Extended French Immersion programs will receive communication directly from the school.Please read the instructions below carefully to ensure that you complete the correct application form. The application links will not be active until 9:00 am on Friday, December 13, 2024.IF YOUR STUDENT IS INTERESTED IN APPLYING TO THE ATLAS, LEAP, AND/OR CHALLENGE PROGRAMS and IS:A.    Currently Attending a School WITHIN the Limestone District School BoardIf your child currently attends a school WITHIN the Limestone District School Board, please click on the links for CURRENT LIMESTONE STUDENTS to complete the Choices at Seven Application Form. Your child must login to the Application Form using their LDSB Active Directory Username and Password.  The login must be the applicant’s login information and not a sibling, parent, etc. 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. <a href="https://forms.office.com/r/eJB2mWda8Y" class="editor-link">ATLAS APPLICATION FORM FOR CURRENT LIMESTONE STUDENTS</a><a href="https://forms.office.com/r/cFGFLcJc3r" class="editor-link">LEAP APPLICATION FORM FOR CURRENT LIMESTONE STUDENTS</a><a href="https://forms.office.com/r/p0HzrLUDFR" class="editor-link">CHALLENGE APPLICATION FORM FOR CURRENT LIMESTONE STUDENTS</a>B.     Currently Attending a School OUTSIDE of the Limestone District School BoardIf your child currently attends a school that is OUTSIDE the Limestone District School Board, please click on the application links for NON-LDSB STUDENTS and follow the instructions to complete the Choices at Seven Application Form. You may apply for more than one program.<a href="https://forms.office.com/r/raViAnzHEA" class="editor-link">ATLAS APPLICATION FORM FOR NON-LDSB STUDENTS</a><a href="https://forms.office.com/r/7CihfU7wW4" class="editor-link">LEAP APPLICATION FORM FOR NON-LDSB STUDENTS</a><a href="https://forms.office.com/r/bTCUQSysYW" class="editor-link">CHALLENGE APPLICATION FORM FOR NON-LDSB STUDENTS</a>IF YOUR STUDENT IS INTERESTED IN APPLYING TO THE EXTENDED FRENCH IMMERSION PROGRAM and IS:A.  Currently Attending a school WITHIN the Limestone District School BoardClick on the site link below to complete the application for Extended French Immersion:<a href="https://forms.office.com/r/rdSe0tC3au" class="editor-link">HARROWSMITH PUBLIC SCHOOL APPLICATION LINK</a><a href="https://forms.office.com/r/ys3TbYjVrT" class="editor-link">MODULE DE L’ACADIE APPLICATION LINK</a><a href="https://forms.office.com/r/0wY2RrPBA9" class="editor-link">MODULE VANIER APPLICATION LINK</a>** Students currently enrolled in a LDSB French Immersion program will be automatically transferred to their immersion site.B. Currently enrolled in a school OUTSIDE of the Limestone District School BoardPlease go to the <a href="https://limestone.on.ca/" class="editor-link">Limestone District School Board website</a> to complete the new student Online Registration form. Please contact the French Immersion site if you have questions about the application form.<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Open Houses  </h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">ATLAS, Challenge, and LEAP Choices at 7 Program Open House, Calvin Park Public School</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">December 10, 2024 at 6:00 p.m.</li></ul></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Ernestown Intermediate and Secondary School Grade 7 and 8 Challenge Program Open House </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">December 11, 2024 at 6:00 p.m.</li></ul></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Loughborough Public School Choices at 7 Challenge Program Open House   </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">December 12, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. </li></ul></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Harrowsmith Public School Extended French Immersion Open House </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">Thursday, January 9, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.</li></ul></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Module de l'Acadie Extended French Immersion Open House </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">Tuesday, February 11, 2025 at 6:30 p.m.</li></ul></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Module Vanier Extended French Immersion Open House</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">Tuesday, February 11, 2025 at 6:30 p.m.</li></ul></li></ul>

2024-11-15 17:14:18.869 +0000 UTC

Trustees Hutcheon and Godkin to serve another year as Executive of LDSB

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. 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. 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.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. Membership of trustees to the Board’s various committees will be determined at the Nominations Meeting Monday, November 18, 2024.

2024-11-14 21:03:36.681 +0000 UTC

Honouring Senator Murray Sinclair

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. 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. Murray-ban Sinclair, in reference to the 94 Calls to Action said, <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">“We have described for you a mountain. We have shown you the path to the top. We call upon you to do the climbing.” </h2>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. After retiring from the Senate in 2021, His Honour served as the <a href="https://www.queensu.ca/gazette/stories/queen-s-remembers-honourable-murray-sinclair" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">15th Chancellor of Queen's University</a> from 2021to June 30, 2024, when his appointment ended.  He was the first Indigenous person to serve in the role. This CBC article provides additional accomplishments:<a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cbc.ca%2Fnews%2Fpolitics%2Fmurray-sinclair-death-1.7372862&data=05%7C02%7Cdouglasja%40limestone.on.ca%7Cf0ce80f08a9e47d1cd7008dcfda0d9d1%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638664114511665528%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=%2FQkPIFMR1ABGjxTMp5Q2273V1%2FU34MSfvxoh0XAxqc8%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/murray-sinclair-death-1.7372862  </a>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 <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mycharitytools.com%2Fgift%2Fwpgfdn%2Fdonate%3Ffund%3D5944&data=05%7C02%7Cdouglasja%40limestone.on.ca%7Cf0ce80f08a9e47d1cd7008dcfda0d9d1%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638664114511694011%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=RdLqHB5sGYwJ7Huc6bDJSYe523KMT5aFSghF9P9pVAI%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">The Murray Sinclair Memorial Fund</a> at The Winnipeg Foundation.  Their father loved and supported many community organizations, and donations will prioritize Indigenous women, children, families, and Survivors. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and community at this time. Senator Murray Sinclair - Image Credit: Kent Monkman for Queens University

2024-11-05 14:12:30.663 +0000 UTC

Black, Indigenous, and Racialized Student Career Fair

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. Speakers include: <ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Queen's University Research Awards Officer,</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">St. Lawrence College Professors,</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">CEO and Co-Founder of Transformix Engineering Inc.,</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Local business owners and experts in the trades,</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">and more! </li></ul><a href="https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=Xxb04a7rgk2nPKDeWTgwvquSOt_Sf99BuA6e1oho4OlUQ0VLTk04NUdMRUFaWktCSk9KVDVCNVI0Ri4u&origin=QRCode" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Limestone students can register online. </a><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">

2024-10-28 17:14:55.558 +0000 UTC

North Addington Education Centre