What's New at Sydenham Public School
View All NewsApril Newsletter
<p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/ebf7e2e1-795c-4874-9333-b7d0762d7a2f" alt="hello april (Banner (Landscape)) (1)" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Sydenham Storm Updates</span></p></h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Our Give 30 Food Bank Campaign ending this week but will have the bin until April 2nd...thank you so much for all of the donations - the bin is almost full!</span><img src="/images/1bbe0ec7-ee4f-4592-acee-7ce4905c596d" alt="Untitled design (16)" width="541" height="541" style="width:541px;height:541px;display:inline-block;float:right"></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kids On Stage practices are in full swing! Thank you to the many staff working on this event! We appreciate you! </span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Spring Fling - April 2 - See School Day for more info!</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">School Advisory Council </strong></b></h2></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Our next meeting is Monday, March 30th at 5:30 pm in the Learning Grove (first classroom on the left).</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><i><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Did you know that we work hard to keep meetings to an hour?</strong></b></i><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> We know that your time is precious and we want you to be able to come!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><i><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Did you know that we have pizza and babysitting for the kiddos while you join us?</strong></b></i><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </em></i><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We know that life can be super busy!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><i><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Did you know that you don't have to come to every single meeting?</strong></b></i><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </em></i><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We love seeing new people come out even if it is just once or twice a year!</span><img src="/images/fffc0c2a-b551-45a3-8f02-c7239e77b32a" alt="Copy of February 2026 Event Schedule" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Literacy Learning at Sydenham</span></h2></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Our Storm Kiddos have been focusing on finding 'The Gist' of a piece of text to help with reading comprehension. Check out the info below!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/f1c6a4a8-dfde-4fd8-8ac5-bd4b7ee693de" alt="April Literacy Newsletter" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Mathematics at Sydenham</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Last year we shared this website with you as a way to encourage math thinking and reasoning in a fun and non-thre</span><img src="/images/e0bf8101-ede1-485f-88da-5ec40e8c8659" alt="Math before bed" width="220" height="206" style="width:220px;height:206px;display:inline-block;float:right"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">atening way. This year in our newsletters we have been talking about math reasoning being the journey to the answer and not just the final answer. Math Before Bed is a website that displays images to spark math conversations with your children. Check it out - this might just be a great activity to add into your daily routine. </span><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">[</strong></b></u><a href="https://mathbeforebed.com/" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Click this link to access the website!</strong></b></u></a><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">]</strong></b></u></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Ask your child: </span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">What do you notice?</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">What do you wonder? </span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">How many? How do you know? </span></li></ul><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">School Mental Health Ontario Parent Webinars</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">[</strong></b></u><a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fhwdsb86405.acemlna.com%2Flt.php%3Fx%3D4lZy~GE5U3jM6KKsyNHIUBSg~a2mjt9vv-g1jaTJIXPL65J~_Ey7xOlt3XMk-RVfjDZo2nfFJ4Gg7p0KyNyYWOhy3U&data=05%7C02%7Callportm%40limestone.on.ca%7C0136817849fc48c96fe408de88e6efca%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C639098722730167197%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C4000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=LdMSmB9hzg1%2BRuBHftGhUN9opF07NFO9gvT2EB3fZ0E%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Click this link for more information on the webinars in the graphic below.</strong></b></u></a><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">]</strong></b></u></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/1da83569-4027-4808-82a3-fdd8b381882c" alt="SMHO Parent Webinars" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/6ad40596-4dcc-4efd-9410-d5b065f73c0f" alt="Postcard Sydenham Storm Kinder Reg (48 x 30 in) (5.59 x 4.33 in) (2)" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Health Unit Resources</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/826b27ce-f5c8-443f-bdbc-b6946712ff81" alt="April Health Unit" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">[The section below will be at the end of every newsletter - so if you have arrived here - thank you for reading our full newsletter - we appreciate you!]</span></h2><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">How Do I Report An Absence?</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please use the Safe Arrival system to report your child's absence; if you need to call to report an absence, please call 1-855-257-9349 (see instructions below) </strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If your child will be late, please report a full day absence and then we will sign them in when they arrive. </em></i></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Computerized call outs occur around 9:30 for students absent with no reported absence in our system. This call out system is a mandatory safety feature to ensure you know your child is not at school and can follow up as needed. For this reason, if your child is late, it is important that they stop into the office so that Mrs. Thompson can change their absence to 'Late' so that you don't receive an unnecessary and worrisome phone call that your child is not at school</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">How to report your absence:</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">1. Toll-free telephone</strong></b></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Call </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">1-855-257-9349</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> toll-free to report an absence using the automated phone system.</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2. School Messenger App</strong></b></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Use your mobile device to download and install the free SchoolMessenger blue app from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store, the </span><a href="https://go.schoolmessenger.com/#/home" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SchoolMessenger website portal</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, or from within the LDSB mobile app.</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The first time you use the app, you must select Sign Up to create your account. Please ensure you use the same email address your student’s school has on file. If you do not use that same email address, you will not be able to create an account, or may not be able to see the "Attendance" option. You may have already created an account when we introduced the Communicate broadcast system.</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Select Attendance, then select Report an Absence and follow the prompts.</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">3. </strong></b><a href="https://go.schoolmessenger.ca/#/account/login" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SchoolMessenger SafeArrival Website Portal</strong></b></a></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Visit the </span><a href="https://go.schoolmessenger.ca/#/account/login" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SchoolMessenger website portal</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The first time you use the app, you must select Sign Up to create your account. Please ensure you use the same email address your student’s school has on file. If you do not use that same email address, you will not be able to create an account, or may not be able to see the "Attendance" option. You may have already created an account when we introduced the Communicate broadcast system.</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Select Attendance, then Report an Absence and follow the prompts.</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p>
2026-03-26 20:35:53.139 +0000 UTC
Read More
March Newsletter
<p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/152c7a9b-2bc9-4343-9f15-959ca4ac8bc1" alt="MArch newlster banner" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Sydenham Storm Updates</span><img src="/images/35f14621-08d1-4360-b015-46d9cd5b4a66" alt="food bank" width="558" height="195" style="width:558px;height:195px;display:inline-block;float:right"></p></h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Our Give 30 Food Bank Campaign is now underway! The donation bin is near the water fountain by the gym. </span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kids On Stage practices are in full swing! Thank you to the many staff working on this event! We appreciate you! </span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Spirit Day: Friday, March 13 will be GREEN Day</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">March Break - No School March 16 - 20</span><img src="/images/271d8a93-1904-4eda-bbcc-1007200711e7" alt="Join us" width="369" height="369" style="width:369px;height:369px;display:inline-block;float:right"></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">School Advisory Council </strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Our next meeting is Monday, March 30th at 5:30 pm in the Learning Grove - babysitting provided! All are welcome!</span></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><br></h2></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kindergarten Registration NOW OPEN!!</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/5035b90e-eff4-41c3-9e8d-cb205c0d3f96" alt="2026 01 05 Kindergarten Student Registration E Newsletter Graphic 1" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Literacy Learning at Sydenham</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Sydenham students continue to make huge gains in their literacy skills. We are continuing to focus on the basic reading and writing skills and also focusing on vocabulary and morphology. See below for more info!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">[</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Click this document link to access the live links in the graphic below</span><ie-document data-lexical-document-id="d39d190a-8a51-403b-b9c0-4e6ffacf72a3"></ie-document><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">]</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/96dbd02a-a604-4ba8-955a-9c9d9ae93679" alt="March Lit" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Mathematics at Sydenham</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In our first term newsletters, we have been sharing Math Reasoning activities for you to try with your Storm Kiddos. As we are continuing on this journey, we are adding in some activities with numbers. Similarly to previous activities, these will have multiple answers. Feel free to 'play' with the math - have them draw and/or talk about their answers. Math reasoning is about the journey to the answer and not just getting to the answer. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/e3d91c07-76fa-4bf1-90ea-092e0a63439f" alt="Math Riddles Worksheet" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Health Unit Resources</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/432d6cb4-ce36-440b-a6f8-434ebf824a34" alt="2026 02 05 Healthy Relationship with Food Body Newsletter Insert Elementary" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">[The section below will be at the end of every newsletter - so if you have arrived here - thank you for reading our full newsletter - we appreciate you!]</span></h2><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">How Do I Report An Absence?</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please use the Safe Arrival system to report your child's absence; if you need to call to report an absence, please call 1-855-257-9349 (see instructions below) </strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If your child will be late, please report a full day absence and then we will sign them in when they arrive. </em></i></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Computerized call outs occur around 9:30 for students absent with no reported absence in our system. This call out system is a mandatory safety feature to ensure you know your child is not at school and can follow up as needed. For this reason, if your child is late, it is important that they stop into the office so that Mrs. Thompson can change their absence to 'Late' so that you don't receive an unnecessary and worrisome phone call that your child is not at school</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">How to report your absence:</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">1. Toll-free telephone</strong></b></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Call </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">1-855-257-9349</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> toll-free to report an absence using the automated phone system.</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2. School Messenger App</strong></b></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Use your mobile device to download and install the free SchoolMessenger blue app from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store, the </span><a href="https://go.schoolmessenger.com/#/home" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SchoolMessenger website portal</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, or from within the LDSB mobile app.</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The first time you use the app, you must select Sign Up to create your account. Please ensure you use the same email address your student’s school has on file. If you do not use that same email address, you will not be able to create an account, or may not be able to see the "Attendance" option. You may have already created an account when we introduced the Communicate broadcast system.</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Select Attendance, then select Report an Absence and follow the prompts.</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">3. </strong></b><a href="https://go.schoolmessenger.ca/#/account/login" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SchoolMessenger SafeArrival Website Portal</strong></b></a></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Visit the </span><a href="https://go.schoolmessenger.ca/#/account/login" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SchoolMessenger website portal</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The first time you use the app, you must select Sign Up to create your account. Please ensure you use the same email address your student’s school has on file. If you do not use that same email address, you will not be able to create an account, or may not be able to see the "Attendance" option. You may have already created an account when we introduced the Communicate broadcast system.</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Select Attendance, then Report an Absence and follow the prompts.</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p>
2026-03-01 16:31:16.708 +0000 UTC
Read More
February STORM Update
<p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/1f0b0662-fdcb-44d9-82ca-cb6a63d1ddd6" alt="February 2026 Event Schedule (1)" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p>
2026-02-08 23:55:54.055 +0000 UTC
Read More
Upcoming Events
About Our School
Welcome to Sydenham Public School, nestled in Kingston's downtown. Our school is one of Ontario's oldest continuing schools first opened in 1853 as Kingston County Grammar School. We host students from Kindergarten to Grade 8 including a core French program which begins in Grade 1.
Learn MoreWhat's New at the District
View All NewsMessage from the Director
<p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Dear Families,</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As we enter the spring season and final third of the school year, we are reminded of this season’s promise of renewal and growth, and the key role schools and families have together in supporting student learning and well-being. This time of </span><a href="about:blank" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">year</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> brings many opportunities for learning both inside and outside of the classroom, along with the return of outdoor extracurricular activities. While this week has been very wet and rainy, the warmer temperatures of spring are upon us. I would like to take this opportunity to share a few important updates with you:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">P.A. Day – Friday, April 17</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A reminder to families that tomorrow, Friday, April 17, is a P.A. Day. There will be no classes for students, and we look forward to welcoming them back to school on Monday.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Family Engagement and Climate Survey – Coming in May</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In early May, Limestone will be inviting families to take part in a Family Engagement and Climate Survey. The optional survey is anonymous, and families can choose which questions they want to answer.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The survey asks about topics such as feeling connected to school, family involvement, safety and bullying, communication, before- and after-school programming, and how technology like artificial intelligence is used in schools.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The feedback shared through this survey helps schools and the school board understand what is working well, what could improve, and what may make it harder for some families to take part. Your feedback helps strengthen communication, support student well-being, and improve school experiences for everyone.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">More information will be shared leading up to the survey being live in early May. </span><a href="https://youtu.be/kKxSsDtggew" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Families are encouraged to watch a short video</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> featuring Senior Staff and a Parent Involvement Committee (PIC) Co-Chair, who share more about the Family Engagement and Climate Survey and why family voice is so important.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Human Rights Information</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Launched in October 2022, the Limestone’s Student Human Rights Reporting Tool provides a way for students, families, caregivers, and staff to report human rights concerns involving LDSB students, including matters related to discrimination and harassment. Reviewing and analyzing this information helps support safe, welcoming, and inclusive school environments and supports the board’s obligations under the Ontario Human Rights Code. The </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/dff6803b-6f2d-4d36-a758-68758a63ceb3/2026-04-09-Student-Human-Rights-Data-Summary-for-2024-2025.pdf" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Student Human Rights Reports – 2024-2025 Summary is now available online</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> and can be accessed by families. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Student Census 2025 Update</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In November 2025, Limestone completed the See Yourself in Limestone: Student Census 2025, a voluntary and confidential survey that helps us better understand students’ identities and school experiences. The findings support planning and decision-making that promotes equity, well being, and student success across Limestone schools. An overview of the Student Census 2025 was presented to the Board of Trustees at last night’s board meeting. Families are encouraged to </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/news/see-yourself-in-limestone-2025-student-census-update-20260416133605" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">visit the Limestone District School Board website to review the full Student Census summary</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> and learn more about how student voice is helping shape our work.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Mental Health Supports Available for Students</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In response to tragic events, locally or globally, students may experience a wide range of emotions, including sadness, confusion, worry, or questions about what they may be hearing from others. Students may react in different ways depending on their age, experiences, and how connected they feel to the situation. With time, reassurance, and support from caring adults, these reactions often ease.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We encourage families to keep lines of communication open at home, to invite questions, and to offer reassurance as needed. If you have concerns about your student or would like support, please refer to the following resources:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://smho-smso.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Supporting-your-childs-well-being.pdf" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Supporting Your Child’s Well-being</span></a></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://smho-smso.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Caring-for-yourself-while-caring-for-others.pdf" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Caring for yourself while caring for others: A parent’s guide to self-care</span></a></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://smho-smso.ca/parents-and-caregivers/" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">By Your Side</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (parent/caregiver resources to support mental health learning)</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://maltbycentre.ca/" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Maltby Centre</span></a></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://onestoptalk.ca/" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">One Stop Talk</span></a></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://kidshelpphone.ca/" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kids Help Phone</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (Call 1-800-668-6868 or Text “Connect” to 686868)</span></li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://211ontario.ca/" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2-1-1 Ontario</span></a></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If you are worried about your student’s immediate safety, or the safety of others, please seek urgent assistance by calling 9-1-1, your local mobile crisis service (613-354-7388), or by going to the nearest emergency department.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thank you for your continued support of Limestone schools and their communities. Your partnership, feedback, and engagement play an important role in strengthening student learning and well-being across Limestone. Limestone staff remain committed to collaborating with families to create safe, inclusive, and supportive school communities where every student can learn and see themselves in Limestone.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Krishna Burra</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Director of Education</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p>
2026-04-16 20:30:19.127 +0000 UTC
Read More
Neurovibes Celebrates Neurodiversity April 29, 2026
<h2 class="editor-heading-h2"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A vibrant event celebrating neurodiversity with inspiring talks, creative spaces, and an inclusive community experience.</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Now entering its third year, Neurovibes is a community event celebrating neurodiversity through engaging talks, creativity, and connection.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Attendees can hear from inspiring speakers, explore interactive spaces, and connect with community partners and vendors in a welcoming, inclusive environment. The event is designed to support different sensory needs while bringing people together to learn, share, and celebrate neurodivergent experiences.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">When: April 29, 2026, 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. (Doors open at 4:00 p.m.)</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Where: Queen's Biosciences Complex, 116 Barrie Street, Kingston</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Register now at: </strong></b><a href="https://bit.ly/Neurovibes2026%20" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">bit.ly/Neurovibes2026</strong></b></a><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</strong></b></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2"><br></h2><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/0d9fba3e-4cf2-480e-973b-7617e4932a7f" alt="Neurovibes 2026 Poster" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p>
2026-04-16 16:10:44.021 +0000 UTC
Read More
Message from the Director - March 5, 2026
<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Dear Families,</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">With March now underway, and March Break fast approaching, I would like to share a few updates with families:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">School Year Calendar is Approved</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Ministry of Education has approved Limestone’s recommended 2026-2027 school year calendar. The school year will begin with a P.A. Day on September 1, 2026, with the first day of classes for students on September 2, 2026. A </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/school-year-calendar" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">printable version of the calendar is available on Limestone’s website</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Budget Survey</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustees are seeking feedback on the Limestone District School Board budget planning process for the upcoming 2026-2027 school year. Families are encouraged to take a few minutes to provide feedback on areas or priority. The survey is anonymous and can be accessed online at </span><a href="https://bit.ly/2026-2027LDSBBudgetSurvey" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">bit.ly/2026-2027LDSBBudgetSurvey</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> . The survey closes March 23, 2026.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Video: Limestone’s Student Achievement Plan in Action – EQAO Highlights</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As previously shared, the Ministry of Education released the 2024-2025 Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) results in December, and we are pleased to share that Limestone has achieved its strongest performance in four years, with gains across every testing category.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Limestone’s results are consistent with provincial trends in many areas and show meaningful improvement in others, including among specific student groups. In fact, Limestone is performing at or above the provincial average in nearly all measures.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">These results reflect the collective efforts of Limestone educators, Educational Assistants, program teams, and school leaders—supported by the ongoing commitment of students and families across our district. We are extremely proud of the dedication and hard work that contributed to these achievements.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We are pleased to share a </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q1qQcIXSyFU" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">video update with families on Limestone’s Student Achievement Plan in Action – EQAO Highlights</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. This </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q1qQcIXSyFU" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">short video</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> provides an overview of Limestone’s Student Achievement Plan and how it guides our shared work to support student learning and well-being.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Through insights from members of the Limestone Senior Team, families will learn about the key priorities shaping our efforts, the thinking behind our actions, and how collaboration, evidence, and reflection help us improve. The video highlights how data, professional learning, and shared leadership work together to move learning forward, while keeping students, belonging, and continuous growth at the centre. It offers a look at how planning connects to practice as we work together toward positive outcomes for all Limestone students.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Revisions to Grades 7, 8, and 10 History Curriculum</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Minister of Education has announced updates to the Grades 7, 8, and 10 History curriculum for the upcoming 2026-2027 school year.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">With these updates, in Grades 7, 8, and 10, students will learn about significant contributions of Black individuals and communities to Canada’s foundation as a nation, and the obstacles they faced in the pursuit of building an inclusive and prosperous country. The Grade 10 History course will also have new learning on extreme political and social ideologies, the Holocaust and rising antisemitism, and the Holodomor famine in Ukraine.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Learn more about the updated curriculum on the </span><a href="https://www.dcp.edu.gov.on.ca/en/" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Ministry of Education’s Curriculum and Resources website.</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Become a Homestay and Host an International Student: A Meaningful Experience for You and Your Family</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Each year, LDSB welcomes more than 120 international students into schools across the district from countries around the world, including Brazil, Italy, China, Germany, Japan, Mexico, France, Vietnam, Rwanda, and many others. Hosting an international student is a meaningful way to bring the world into your home while making a positive difference in a young person’s life. Limestone homestay families are carefully matched with students and supported by dedicated Limestone staff throughout the placement, so families are never on their own. Hosting offers opportunities for cultural exchange, the development of lasting relationships, and a monthly stipend to help offset costs. To learn more about how hosting works, the supports in place, and why many local families choose to open their homes, visit </span><a href="https://internationaled.limestone.on.ca/become_a_homestay" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">internationaled.limestone.on.ca/become_a_homestay</strong></b></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Ministry Resources for Reading and Math</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">There are many resources available to support your student’s learning in math and literacy, offering engaging activities that make learning both fun and effective for students and families. To explore these tools, visit Limestone’s </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/tutoring" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Online Learning Resources and Tutoring webpage</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thank you for your continued partnership and support of student learning and well-being across Limestone. We are grateful for the role families play in helping students feel supported, connected, and successful, and we look forward to continuing our work together.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Krishna Burra</span></p>
2026-03-05 21:30:00.475 +0000 UTC
Read More
Land Acknowledgement
The Limestone District School Board is situated on the traditional territories of the Anishinaabek 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 culture and celebrate their commitment to this land.
