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

2025 10 06 Help Shape Our Accessibility Plan

Help Shape Our 2026-2029 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan

The Limestone District School Board is committed to fostering accessibility and inclusion for all. We are currently developing our next Multi-Year Accessibility Plan and invite feedback from students, staff, families, and community members.Your input will help ensure our goals reflect the diverse needs and lived experiences across our school communities. Please visit<a href="https://bit.ly/LDSB2025-2029AccessibilityPlan" class="editor-link">bit.ly/LDSB2025-2029AccessibilityPlan</a> to provide input. The survey is open until November 10, 2025 <img src="/images/2c2c3bdb-c4c7-4e22-bf50-c8d92904a1cb?fingerprint=ppb20251217013419" alt="2025 10 06 Help Shape Our Accessibility Plan" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">

2025-10-07 14:25:11.669 +0000 UTC

Boardroom Briefs in white text on a teal background

Boardroom Briefs: September 17, 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 September 17, 2025 Regular 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" dir="ltr">Board Meetings</a>.  <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Land Acknowledgement </h2>All meetings begin with a 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 cultures and celebrate their commitment to this land.” <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Presentation</h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Facility Services Update: Summer Projects - D. Fowler, Manager of Facility Services, and C. Downie, Assistant Manager of Facility Services</h3>The Facility Services team provided an overview of the capital work that took place at schools throughout the summer. There was a total of 221 projects. Work included floor clean-up; annual testing, inspections, and reporting on fire alarm systems, heating and cooling, etc.; line painting; fencing; door replacements; millwork; access and security; windows, roofing, and cladding; masonry; mechanical services; elevator installation; a new playground at The Prince Charles School; and so much more.<img src="/images/74abffdb-00e2-4575-ac9c-83d18d1d8b44?fingerprint=ppb20251217014056" alt="New playground at The Prince Charles School" width="497" height="372" style="width:497px;height:372px;display:inline-block">The new playground at The Prince Charles School <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Private Session Report</h2><details open="false"><summary>Private Session Report - September 17, 2025</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">Trustee Lloyd: During private session at the Audit Meeting on September 15, 2025: Superintendent Young and Associate Superintendent Hedderson provided property of the board updates. There was no other business conducted, or motions passed in Private Session.Earlier this evening during Private Session: The private session minutes were approved from the following: August 20, 2025, Regular Board Meeting Trustees discussed a Personnel Update and Legal Update There was no other business conducted, or motions passed in Private Session.</div></details><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Reports from Officers</h2><details open="false"><summary>Chair's Report</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><img src="/images/3b73f535-6db0-57a4-bb4f-a5bb6232f53e?fingerprint=ppb20251217013553" alt="" width="268" height="347" style="width:268px;height:347px;display:inline-block;float:right">Chair McGregor provided the following report: "As we move into the third week of the school year, it has been truly heartening to see our schools come to life once again. Classrooms are buzzing with learning, hallways echo with laughter and conversation, and extracurricular activities are beginning to take shape—bringing students and staff together in meaningful and joyful ways. There is something special about this time of year. The early days of September are filled with renewed energy, fresh routines, and the excitement of new beginnings. Across Limestone, we are already seeing the positive impact of strong relationships, thoughtful planning, and a shared commitment to student well-being and success. We are grateful to our staff for the care and dedication they bring to their work each day, and to families for their continued partnership and support. Together, we are creating welcoming, inclusive environments where every student can thrive—both in and beyond the classroom. On behalf of the Board, thank you for all you do to make our schools vibrant, supportive places to learn and grow. We look forward to the many opportunities this year will bring. This concludes my report." </div></details><details open="false"><summary>Director's Report</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><img src="/images/959f9ebc-0553-5f56-afed-83ccf39d2906?fingerprint=ppb20251217014409" alt="" width="316" height="316" style="width:316px;height:316px;float:left;display:inline-block">Director Burra provided the following report: "Good evening, Trustees and the viewing public. Overall, and all things considered, I am very pleased to report that Limestone has had a positive start to the 2025-2026 school year. While there is always room for improvement, it is amazing to see everything come together with over 20,500 students and almost 3,000 staff starting the school year in all Limestone sites and the virtual school. Preliminary enrolment numbers are close to projections for both elementary and secondary students. Today was Day 11 of the 2025-2026 school year for students, and it has been wonderful to have students back in schools and to see various activities like sports, clubs, field trips, and great learning already underway helping to support the overall Limestone student experience. We must all recognize and have gratitude for the time and efforts of staff and community members to make all of these extracurricular activities a reality for students. Fall sports, clubs, and activities have started across the district, parent councils are kicking off their school years, and students are involved in a range of activities like the several hundred LDSB students that attended the Fall Fair last week in Kingston or the range of Terry Fox fundraising activities that will come in the next couple of weeks. I have already started my visits to schools, and I greatly look forward to seeing, hearing, and feeling the energy and excitement of learning and fun in Limestone schools.  As we start this school year it is important that we all are conscious of our legal responsibilities under the Ontario Human Rights Code. As a school board, we cannot accept any hate in schools, we must be conscious of the feelings of alienation and lack of faith in public institutions that exists for some people in the communities we serve.  Like in so many other areas in education and society at large, as members of the community, we must continue to emphasize the importance of respecting differences in perspective and being open to dialogue to the maximum extent possible. We must be united in respecting differences given all people share many more similarities than differences. Respect and civility need to be at the forefront. And we must continue to be unequivocally clear that Limestone stands in support of all protected grounds of the Ontario Human Rights Code. The Ontario Human Rights Code is not a checklist where some grounds outweigh others. We need to stand with all students, staff, and families, in protecting all grounds under the Code. It is important to remember that the Code is the law in Ontario, and we have a moral and legal obligation to ensure that it is upheld. Furthermore, our own data based on human rights complaints reinforces our continuing need to be committed to upholding the Code. Additionally, we will be administering Limestone’s second student census later this year which will provide further insight regarding students in the district, and needs in the system. Trustees may have noticed the Orange 'Survivors’ Flag' flying on the second flagpole at the Education Centre. Schools with a second flagpole are doing the same, and in schools without a second flagpole, the Orange flag is prominently on display in the school. Looking ahead to next two weeks, a wide range of activities will be taking place in schools and the community to honour Orange Shirt Day, and the fifth annual National Day of Truth and Reconciliation on Tuesday, September 30. This is a critical date to recognize the harm and trauma of the Residential Schools system, to honour the survivors and their families, and continue our collective learning and journey of reconciliation. Schools continue to have a critical role in supporting this journey and ensuring the truth is known about Residential Schools and their legacy in Canada. In the next couple of weeks, we will be kicking off the annual United Way of KFL&A campaign in Limestone. I invite all Trustees to join this effort. As you will hear, Limestone’s Student Trustees and their peers on the Interschool Council will also be engaging in raising funds this year to support the United Way. No amount is too little, and every dollar matters in supporting some of the most vulnerable children, youth, and families in the communities we serve. I would also like to bring to Trustees’ attention to the professional learning focus we continue to pursue in Limestone for the 2025-2026 school year. We must continue to hone our craft to best serve students. While this work will not be completed this year, I think it is critical to highlight its importance in ensuring schools are making a difference for all students today, and into their futures. We need all Limestone students to find purpose in school, to find value in school, and to find hope in school. We know this is not the case for all students. While we do have to track, monitor, and report on the 11 indicators in the provincial Student Achievement Plan, we must continue to centre those students who are currently underserved, and not currently finding success. As a result, our system focus this year for professional learning, continues to centre our attention on students, and continuing the work we started three years ago focused on three inquiry questions: First, for whom is the current education system not working and why? Second, how do I/we know? And third, what can I/we try to do differently to make a difference? It is only through improving outcomes at the individual student level that we will see macro-level improvement on the province’s three core priorities and Student Achievement Plan, and the Limestone Strategic Plan. I should note that 2024-2025 EQAO results should become public in the next couple of weeks. As educators and as a system, we have a critical responsibility in supporting children and youth in the communities we serve. Our overall purpose is well placed by emphasizing our intention to make a positive difference in the lives of every student, in every classroom, in every school; and to make sure everyone sees themselves in Limestone. All educators want to make a difference in the lives and destinies of children and youth. Our continued journey of inquiry and our united, stated intention will focus our collective efforts. I look forward to more discussion and updates regarding our progress in the coming days, weeks, months, and years. Thank you, Chair McGregor. That concludes my report." </div></details><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Reports</h2><details open="false"><summary>OPSBA Report</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">Chair McGregor provided an OPSBA report.</div></details><details open="false"><summary>Student Trustees' Report</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">Student Trustee Comeau provided the Student Trustees' Report: "Representatives from all schools came to the first meeting. Student Trustees introduced themselves and discussed the purpose of the Interschool Council (ISC). Then the council focused on goals for the upcoming school year and steps to put those goals into action. Across all goals there was a focus on improving student involvement in schools. Mr. Burra and a United Way presenter then joined the meeting to introduce United Way and discuss raising money for it in schools. ISC members then worked together to come up with ideas to implement funding for United Way so that they can be successful in their individual schools.  Finally, the description and applications for the Environmental Sustainability Advisory Committee student positions were sent out in the meeting minutes via e-mail." </div></details><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Reports for Action</h3>There were no Reports for Action.<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Reports for Information</h3><details open="true"><summary>Virtual School Update - Associate Superintendent Sartor</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">The purpose of this report is to provide Trustees with an update on Virtual School, and goals for the 2025/2026 school year. As of September 10, 2025, a total of 103 students were enrolled in elementary virtual school: 55 LDSB students and 48 Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board (KPRDSB) students. This is an increase over the 2024-2025 school year in which 86 students were registered in virtual school.The school organization currently is comprised of 5 classes which includes: <table class="editor-table" style="width: 100%; table-layout: fixed;"><colgroup><col style="width: 50%;"><col style="width: 50%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr dir="ltr"><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" dir="ltr" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245);">Class</th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" dir="ltr" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245);"># Students</th></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" dir="ltr" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245);">JK-Grade 2</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">16</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" dir="ltr" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245);">Grade 3-4</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">19</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" dir="ltr" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245);">Grade 4-6</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">21</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" dir="ltr" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245);">Grade 6-7</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">22</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" dir="ltr" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245);">Grade 7-8</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">25</td></tr></tbody></table>To date, LDSB has registered 28 students from other districts which include Durham DSB, Renfrew County DSB, Trillium Lakelands DSB, Chippewas of Rama First Nation/Simcoe Muskoka Catholic DSB, Waterloo Catholic DSB, Greater Essex County DSB and Simcoe DSB. Next steps include:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Staff professional learning focused on building strong math and language programs that close gaps for those students in risk using short cycles of learning and ongoing progress monitoring. Learning will include: o implementing Knowledgehook (an online Math program) with students and offering family information sessions o using math diagnostic data to identify and provide targeted fluency activities as part of the daily math program. o participating in short math cycles to improve math pedagogy o using early reading screeners and diagnostic data to identify literacy learning gaps and then provide targeted instruction </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Implementing a targeted approach to address students with higher academic needs. This support is accomplished through Student Support Teacher (SST) meetings, small group instruction with classroom teachers and the support of St. Lawrence College (SLC) placement students </li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Building a positive attendance plan by building relationships with students and families </li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Reinforcing the importance of daily attendance in the online learning platform through regular communication with students and families For more information, please view the <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/a78fcc81-6237-4919-9439-33ea4be4e29a/LDSB-Regular-Board-Meeting-Agenda-September-17-2025.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014545" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">Board Meeting Agenda</a>.</li></ul></div></details><details open="true"><summary>Summer Programming - Program Leadership Team</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">The purpose of this report is to provide Trustees with an update on summer programming that was offered to Limestone DSB students and staff during July and August 2025. The LDSB continues to offer a wide variety of summer programming options for K12 students. The Program Leadership Team provided updates on the following programs:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Summer Literacy Program (Read-A-Lot)</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Focus on Youth Program - YMCA of Eastern Ontario</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Summer Credit Programs (Secondary)</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Back to School Transitions</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Literacy Camp Support</li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Adolescent Care Worker for Summer School and Read-A-Lot Summer Literacy Program</li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Learning Program Support for Summer School</li><li value="8" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Sundance Youth Facility</li><li value="9" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Social Work Support</li><li value="10" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Psychiatry Pilot</li><li value="11" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Intensive Skills Y-Training</li><li value="12" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Behaviour Management Systems Training</li><li value="13" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Violence Threat Risk Assessment Level 1 Training</li><li value="14" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">MH Lit - Mental Health in Action</li><li value="15" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Gould Lake Outdoor Education</li><li value="16" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Nature Camp for Students in Grades 1 to 4</li><li value="17" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Outdoor Escape for Students in Grades 5 to 6</li><li value="18" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Quest for Students in Grades 7 to 8</li><li value="19" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Girls Adventure Program for Students in Grades 7 to 8</li><li value="20" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Outreach for Students in Grades 9 to 10</li><li value="21" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Outdoor Pursuits for Students in Grades 10 to 11</li><li value="22" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Outdoor Skills for Students in Grades 10 to 11</li><li value="23" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Wilderness Instructor Course for Students in Grades 11 to 12</li><li value="24" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Kayak Instructor Course for Students in Grades 11 to 12</li></ul> For more information, please view the <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/a78fcc81-6237-4919-9439-33ea4be4e29a/LDSB-Regular-Board-Meeting-Agenda-September-17-2025.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014545" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">Board Meeting Agenda</a>.<img src="/images/4cc033ae-9dd1-46f5-b0b3-1c36dff64904?fingerprint=ppb20251217013727" alt="A group of students preparing canoes next to water" width="573" height="322" style="width:573px;height:322px;display:inline-block"> </div></details><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Notices of Motion</h2>Motion brought forward by Trustee Lloyd: “With the support of Trustees, the Chair of the Board write a letter indicating that the Board of Limestone DSB Trustees affirm the critical role of Trustees as democratically elected and accountable public officials, and calls on the Minister of Education and the provincial government to abandon any potential proposal to systematically remove Trustees or abolish elected district School Boards. Additionally, that this letter be communicated to the Minister of Education, Ministry of Education, all Ontario School Boards, Trustee associations, Student Trustee associations and local MPPs.”

2025-10-06 19:45:48.094 +0000 UTC

October Newsletter

<img src="/images/a83aa9c8-238b-4873-89fe-57d4d25fd541?fingerprint=ppb20251217014559" alt="Orange and Black Simple Newsletter Email Header" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Sydenham Storm Updates</h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">It was so great to see everyone at Open House!! We know that this was just a short meet and greet with your child's classroom teacher. Please feel free to connect with us if you wish to chat further about your child's learning. </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Many classes participated in activities in their classrooms about why we wore orange shirts yesterday. Please ask your child about the stories and activities they did to honour National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and to further their (and our) understanding of this important day.</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Visit the School Day app/website to order hot lunches - we are trialling having hot lunches 3 days each week (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday) with orders being due on Sundays. We use the funds raised from hot lunch to assist in paying for experiential learning opportunities for our students such as field trips, guest speakers, materials for special projects and so much more!<img src="/images/d65c90d6-9059-4f00-8318-77e2d78e6363?fingerprint=ppb20251217014957" alt="LEts Celebrate" width="100" height="100" style="width:100px;height:100px;display:inline-block;float:right"></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">89.5% of our Storm Kiddos were at school for a minimum of 90% of the school days in September! This is a great feat and we are so proud of you all for making this happen!! Read our Attendance Matters Section below for more information on how important attendance is.</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">Our Storm Families are fundraising with a flurry for Terry Fox - please visit our school page to donate by clicking this <a href="https://schools.terryfox.ca/105038" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">TERRY FOX SCHOOL LINK!</a></li></ul><img src="/images/735c8914-a746-49c6-a1b7-830400bdc5e6?fingerprint=ppb20251217014056" alt="Rain or shine" width="231" height="231" style="width:231px;height:231px;display:inline-block;float:left"> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Rain or Shine</h2>We value and appreciate our time outside as a much needed brain break from learning. We will go outside for most recesses even if it is raining. In the event of heavy rain (or storm), we will call an indoor recess. October can often be rainy, so please consider having your child wear or bring a water resistant coat. Extra clothes in the backpack is a great idea in case there are muddy puddles to play in!! <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">School Advisory Council Update</h2>Our first meeting had an amazing turn out! Thank you to all who joined us! Our next meeting is Tuesday, October 21 at 5:30 pm - babysitting provided! and we will be discussing preparations for our Boo Bash on Friday, October 24, from 5:30-7pm. <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;">Update on Learning:</h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">LITERACY</h3>Staff are continuing to target word attack strategies as we work on developing reading skills for our Sydenham Storm Kiddos. Soon information will be coming home with grades SK-2 students around the school board's early literacy screening strategy. Sydenham Storm Staff did this screening in the first three days of the school year - and as you know, Sydenham Storm Staff always go above and beyond - we are using this screening strategy across all grades as we mentioned in our September Newsletter. With this early screening, we have been able to identify and target each child's area of need. Using this early screening strategy and targeted intervention, we are already seeing growth and improvement in our Storm Students' reading skills. The graphic below shows some of those word attack strategies we are working on. We love to talk literacy! Reach out to any one of our amazing Storm Staff if you want more things you can do to support your child's literacy journey at home. Click Here for a copy of the document with clickable links ----><ie-document data-lexical-document-id="da89e915-d4a9-4b26-9c90-e271f10cebd1"></ie-document><img src="/images/e4045bd1-38e5-4b33-9dad-bac76b4848f9?fingerprint=ppb20251217015113" alt="Oct lit" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">MATHEMATICS</h3>Mathematical reasoning sounds scary - especially if you didn't like math or struggled with math growing up! But it is really about thinking - and we all think everyday!! We can practice this with our kids (AND help our kids to understand that thinking and talking about thinking is really what math is all about) by beginning to talk about things that don't seem like 'math'. Try this example below (second graphic) with your Storm Kiddo! It's all about the thinking and the discussion - not about who is right!<img src="/images/b6e16dbe-fd74-45bb-9468-2d5a468774dd?fingerprint=ppb20251217014713" alt="Mathematical reasoning" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <img src="/images/6f52787c-89c9-4215-9428-2cd0fd91bd32?fingerprint=ppb20251217014029" alt="MR PRactise" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Calendar of Events</h2><a href="https://sydenhamps.limestone.on.ca/calendar" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Please click this link to our school's calendar of events </a>- we will keep this calendar updated with events happening at Sydenham. From time to time we will also give you a heads up in our newsletters - but in a pinch, you can always go to the calendar if you can't find the newsletter the info was in.Terry Fox Event - October 9 - 2pmPA Day - October 10 - No School - Teachers will be in professional developmentThanksgiving - October 13 - No SchoolPicture Day - October 15Cross Country @ Fort Henry - October 16Diwali - October 20SAC Meeting - October 21 - 5:30pm - All Welcome! (Babysitting provided)Boo Bash - Friday October 24 - 5:30-7:00 - families are invited to join us for family and community building time organized by our amazing SAC committee! Students must bring their grown up(s) with them as this is a family function! Wear a costume, black and orange, or your regular clothes-we just want to spend time with you!<img src="/images/ef6abd2a-a851-4e06-b40d-ed42bfeb3080?fingerprint=ppb20251217015218" alt="attendance matters lost time" width="523" height="734" style="width:523px;height:734px;display:inline-block;float:left"><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Every Day Counts! </h2>Did you know the impact of missing a day or two each month? Check out the info on the left! Each time your child is away or late, they are missing valuable learning time. Our school board's goal is to have every student at school for at least 90% of the school days. Our Sydenham Storm Staff may reach out to families to see if support is needed to help improve attendance if we start to see your child begin to dip below this goal line. This is not punitive! We want to help you and support where we can so that we can have every minute possible with your child and for their education!If students are feeling well enough to participate at school, then they can come to school - even with a little sniffle or cough! Please refresh your child's memory on how to cover up a sneeze or cough when they have a little cold. There are very few reasons schools ask students to stay home - we do follow public health school health guide lines that ask students to stay home for fever, vomiting or diarrhea. If you ever wonder - 'Should my child go to school today?' - give us a call - we are happy to chat with you to figure it out together! <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">[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!]</h2><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">How Do I Report An Absence?</h2>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) If your child will be late, please report a full day absence and then we will sign them in when they arrive. 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 schoolHow to report your absence:1. Toll-free telephone<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Call 1-855-257-9349 toll-free to report an absence using the automated phone system.</li></ul>2. School Messenger App<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Use your mobile device to download and install the free SchoolMessenger blue app from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store, the <a href="https://go.schoolmessenger.com/#/home" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link">SchoolMessenger website portal</a>, or from within the LDSB mobile app.</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">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.</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Select Attendance, then select Report an Absence and follow the prompts.</li></ul>3. <a href="https://go.schoolmessenger.ca/#/account/login" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link">SchoolMessenger SafeArrival Website Portal</a><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Visit the <a href="https://go.schoolmessenger.ca/#/account/login" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link">SchoolMessenger website portal</a>.</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">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.</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Select Attendance, then Report an Absence and follow the prompts.</li></ul>

2025-10-01 12:01:16.291 +0000 UTC

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day

<a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/national-day-truth-reconciliation.html&data=05%7c02%7cgrangea%40limestone.on.ca%7c87ce6a439c57468efa6808ddff5a75bd%7ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7c0%7c0%7c638947486305511600%7cUnknown%7cTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7c0%7c%7c%7c&sdata=DIS/a3j7GXvfLU7XuNmOfbfr7jBc1v0hrJHWCPn7JCc%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">National Day for Truth and Reconciliation</a> and <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://orangeshirtday.org/&data=05%7c02%7cgrangea%40limestone.on.ca%7c87ce6a439c57468efa6808ddff5a75bd%7ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7c0%7c0%7c638947486305538772%7cUnknown%7cTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7c0%7c%7c%7c&sdata=zM/pcw3PwSVsqhpvx3UIpu%2B5mDKSfePkXStX8saJIJc%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">Orange Shirt Day</a> are held annually on September 30.This day invites us to engage intentionally in learning about the Residential School System, and the true history of relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in Canada. It is a time to mourn the children who never returned home, and to honour the Survivors, their families, and their communities.  This day is part of a broader conversation about colonization and systemic inequities. As we learn, it is essential to recognize and uplift Indigenous resilience and resistance, which continue to shape and strengthen communities across the country. On September 30, all LDSB schools, education centres, and sites will lower all school flags to half-mast, in observance of this day. The LDSB Indigenous Education team has put in significant work for supporting a wide range of learning across the system, including the recent launch of Limestone's access to On-Core. On-Core is an online learning platform that provides teachers with high-quality, curriculum-aligned resources. This site will help ensure that all staff have access to meaningful tools that support culturally responsive and inclusive teaching. In addition, LDSB Indigenous student-designed shirts were being sold this past weekend at the <a href="https://www.kncln.ca/news/orange-shirt-day-2025" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">Kingston Native Centre and Language Nest</a>, located at 218 Concession Street, during their Maawnjiding Market. Shirts will also be available today at Confederation Park 1:00-5:30 p.m. for Kingston National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. In addition to wearing an orange shirt on September 30, you can: <ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;">Review the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://ehprnh2mwo3.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Calls_to_Action_English2.pdf&data=05%7c02%7cgrangea%40limestone.on.ca%7c87ce6a439c57468efa6808ddff5a75bd%7ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7c0%7c0%7c638947486305562068%7cUnknown%7cTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7c0%7c%7c%7c&sdata=5/cv5t9jAJ%2Bt%2BhF00F%2BOrJqCgEMa1oXpxhj15UUH/KI%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">94 Calls to Action.</a>  </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;">Read books that share authentic Indigenous voices and experiences. </li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;">Volunteer with Indigenous-led organizations that support community healing and empowerment. </li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;">Support Indigenous artists by purchasing their work and sharing their stories. </li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;">Watch Indigenous films and documentaries to deepen your understanding through storytelling. </li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;">Attend public Indigenous events in the community to listen, learn, and build respectful relationships. A list of events can be found on the <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://www.queensu.ca/indigenous/truth-and-reconciliation/2025-events-and-initiatives&data=05%7c02%7cgrangea%40limestone.on.ca%7c87ce6a439c57468efa6808ddff5a75bd%7ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7c0%7c0%7c638947486305572555%7cUnknown%7cTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7c0%7c%7c%7c&sdata=r9mKZzUysW89JAS7XaTFx2gviOCdwWr017jgbRwk0zM%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">Queen's University Office of Indigenous Initiatives</a> web page.  </li></ul>We understand that some students, staff, and families may wish to have additional support throughout this week. If you require immediate assistance, you can call the support lines shared below:    <ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;">The National Indian Residential School Crisis Line provides 24-hour crisis support to former Indian Residential School students and their families toll-free at 1-866-925-4419.    </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;">Individuals impacted by the issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls are encouraged to contact the MMIWG Crisis Line toll-free at 1-844-413-6649.    </li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;">First Nations, Inuit and Métis seeking immediate emotional support can contact the Hope for Wellness Help Line toll-free at 1-855-242-3310, or by online chat at <a href="https://www.hopeforwellness.ca" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">hopeforwellness.ca</a>.  </li></ul>For more information about Indigenous Education with Limestone, please visit the <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://www.limestone.on.ca/indigenous-education&data=05%7c02%7cgrangea%40limestone.on.ca%7c87ce6a439c57468efa6808ddff5a75bd%7ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7c0%7c0%7c638947486305582894%7cUnknown%7cTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7c0%7c%7c%7c&sdata=RAkrwy0A7pchgVAfGCoS3FCiPZBWzay4IzmDWiSfw7Q%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">Indigenous Education page</a>.

2025-09-30 15:35:20.266 +0000 UTC

Terry Fox Thumbnail Sydenham Public School 2

Sydenham Supports Terry Fox

<img src="/images/fdc4beca-c9a4-4223-9aff-a8160b397e62?fingerprint=ppb20251217015319" alt="School Run Facebook Banner" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> Our Terry Fox campaign continues, and we need your support!<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">The grade 5/6 class is selling milkshakes from Reid's Dairy to support Terry. The milkshakes will be delivered to the school on October 6th. You can purchase a milkshake on the <a href="https://www.school-day.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">School Day</a> payment system. Deadline to purchase: September 30th.</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Terry Fox t-shirts (with the "Finish It" theme) are available for purchase on the <a href="https://www.school-day.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">School Day</a> payment system. Both youth and adult sizes are available. Deadline to purchase: September 30th.</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Make a donation or set up your own personal fundraising page to track donations to our campaign. Go to our <a href="https://schools.terryfox.ca/105038" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">school campaign page</a> to get started.</li></ul> <img src="/images/a17f7bac-4cf8-4a4a-b792-518840c16b3f?fingerprint=ppb20251217014502" alt="Social Post School Run 1" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">

2025-09-26 12:10:15.298 +0000 UTC

City of Kingston School Travel Survey

The City of Kingston, in partnership with community agencies and local school boards, including Limestone DSB, are conducting an optional survey to better understand how students travel to and from school in Kingston. By taking part, you will also enter your school in a chance to win a free bike rack!Your responses will provide valuable insights into travel patterns and help inform future active school travel initiatives, such as new policies, programs, and infrastructure improvements. This survey is intended to be conducted at regular intervals in the future to determine how travel patterns may be changing over time.All responses will remain anonymous, and the data will be used to improve safety, accessibility, and convenience for families.The survey will take about 5-10 minutes to complete. We recommend you use a larger screen, if possible, like a laptop or monitor.Access the survey online before October 13, 2025: <a href="https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/452743b308de44aab7f667f8957f0861?portalUrl=https://cityofkingston.maps.arcgis.com" target="_blank" class="editor-link">Take the survey online</a>.Thank you for your time and your feedback.

2025-09-24 20:00:30.096 +0000 UTC

Orange Shirts Designed by LDSB Students Available Locally

<img src="/images/9dc007ac-516c-4323-a906-a61997af3154?fingerprint=ppb20251217014448" alt="KNCLN Orange Shirt Day Graphic" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">Graphic provided by the Kingston Native Centre and Language Nest. Two LDSB students designed these orange shirts! As we approach Orange Shirt Day and National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30, these shirts are now available for purchase locally through the Kingston Native Centre and Language Nest. Every purchase goes directly toward strengthening Indigenous-led community programming.Sizes Youth S to XL sizes and Adult small to 5XL sizes. Shirts are $20 each.To purchase, please visit <a href="https://www.kncln.ca/news/orange-shirt-day-2025" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">kncln.ca/news/orange-shirt-day-2025</a>.

2025-09-24 19:35:10.695 +0000 UTC

Parent Involvement Committee Co-Chair Elections

Parent Involvement Committee (PIC) Co-Chair Elections are scheduled for the first PIC meeting on Thursday October 23, 2025. If you wish to apply, nominations are due by Thursday, October 9, 2025 at 4:00 p.m., and must be accompanied by a short biography (maximum 250 words).Nominations and biographies can be emailed to Patty Gollogly, Associate Superintendent, at <a href="mailto:golloglyp@limestone.on.ca" class="editor-link">golloglyp@limestone.on.ca</a>.  Alternatively, nomination packages can be submitted at the LDSB Education Centre at <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2Fmaps%2Fsearch%2F220%2BPortsmouth%2BAvenue%3Fentry%3Dgmail%26source%3Dg&data=05%7C02%7Ccrothersm%40limestone.on.ca%7Cfc613dade0b84a977f3508ddf9d9ff00%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638941436870017940%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=%2BJZOj2ySfNzFnUGnNvG26QShwyIKhJaXjO0Ki89SjzI%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link">220 Portsmouth Avenue</a> (either mailed or dropped off).  If you have any questions you can call: 613 544 6925, ext. 31319. An ideal PIC Co-Chair will be an active and engaged participant in the Board’s PIC as well as their school with the school and board-specific background necessary to effectively guide the various activities of the PIC. If a Co-Chair candidate does not meet these qualifications, the PIC membership may choose, via the normal voting process, to move forward with an election or to extend the advertisement for Co-Chair candidates by a period of two weeks, after which an election will be held.

2025-09-22 13:21:46.047 +0000 UTC

Free EQAO Webinar for Families of Elementary and Secondary Students

In this live webinar EQAO will present the results of the 2024-25 Primary (Grade 3) and Junior (Grade 6) Assessments of Reading, Writing and Mathematics. Participants will also learn about the latest research and resources available on eqao.com. The session is approximately 45 minutes, followed by a live Q&A with EQAO staff.  <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">EQAO Webinar for Parents and Guardians of Elementary School Students: 2024-25 Results (Oct 7 @ 6pm)</h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://eqao.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_1Te0EqD3Tl621IKhIWD4Mg#/registration" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://eqao.zoom.us/webinar/register/wn_1te0eqd3tl621ikhiwd4mg#/registration" class="editor-link">Webinar Registration - Zoom</a></li></ul> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"> EQAO Webinar for Parents and Guardians of Secondary School Students: 2024-25 Results</h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://eqao.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_oWomJPtiTUGBU5TFJM6azw#/registration" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://eqao.zoom.us/webinar/register/wn_owomjptitugbu5tfjm6azw#/registration" class="editor-link">Webinar Registration - Zoom</a></li></ul>

2025-09-22 13:05:28.045 +0000 UTC

Event Notice Thumbnail Sydenham Public School

Storm Event Update Sept 19-30

2025-09-19 00:57:45.555 +0000 UTC

Indigenous Caregivers are Invited to Submit an Expression of Interest to Join the Indigenous Education Committee (IEC)

The Limestone District School Board is inviting Indigenous caregivers to submit an Expression of Interest to join the Indigenous Education Committee (IEC).The IEC provides guidance on Indigenous Education initiatives throughout the district and collaborates to support Indigenous students and their families. This year, we are seeking one additional Indigenous caregiver to join this important circle.If you are interested, please complete the Expression of Interest form here: <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fforms.office.com%2Fr%2F8zsv9E9JDC&data=05%7C02%7Ccrothersm%40limestone.on.ca%7Ca0aeee05278d4e887f1408ddf52de1f3%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638936299630563795%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=6u91hjpJIfKQjm9fWKaBPNZhbw6%2FSmnBUq2bttPIjlA%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link">ttps://forms.office.com/r/8zsv9E9JDC</a> This form will be available from September 17 to September 24. Please ensure that you complete this form before the due date.We are grateful for your time and consideration.

2025-09-17 13:52:43.569 +0000 UTC

Terry Fox Campaign at Sydenham

<img src="/images/fdc4beca-c9a4-4223-9aff-a8160b397e62?fingerprint=ppb20251217015319" alt="School Run Facebook Banner" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">Our 2025 Terry Fox fundraising campaign is kicking-off! The theme this year is “Finish It”, which symbolizes our shared commitment to help finish Terry’s marathon against cancer.This is the 45th anniversary of Terry’s Marathon of Hope, so our goal is to raise at least $2,450 for the Terry Fox Foundation. Since 2005, our little school has raised almost $35,000 towards this important cause!If we meet our fundraising goal, students will earn 100 minutes of free time and a variety of activities!<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Here is how our school families can participate:</h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Set up a personal fundraising page, and start collecting donations! Head to <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fschools.terryfox.ca%2F105038&data=05%7C02%7Csyden-StaffServices%40limestoneschools.onmicrosoft.com%7Caefe269a47b8408eb50a08ddf1a534b0%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638932414059456805%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=g8bs136AnBFLp8jZ1B2wV29JeUZDCVIRMrFLtxB%2FWuY%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link">schools.terryfox.ca/105038</a> to set up a page with your child, and spread the words to collect donations. Click on “start fundraising” and then either “set up a personal page” or “join a classroom/team” to join your teacher’s team.</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Buy a T-Shirt! Sales from the t-shirts are added to our school’s fundraising total. Adult ($31) and youth ($26) sizes are available. Buy your t-shirt on the School Day system by Tuesday, September 30th.</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Download the brand-new fundraising app! The Terry Fox School App makes it easy (and fun!) to crush your fundraising goals. Once you’ve set up a personal page under our school link, download the App to track your fundraising progress, tell your story, send quick messages to friends and family, and share on social—anytime, anywhere! Available exclusively to Terry Fox School Run participants.</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Join us for our Terry Fox celebration event on Thursday, October 9th at the Cricket Field.</li></ul>Thank you in advance for supporting this important school event.

2025-09-15 20:20:41.357 +0000 UTC