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Achieving Believing Belonging St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School May 2016 |

| St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School | 147 Mill Street West, | Acton, Ontario L7J 1G7 | Telephone: 519-853-3730 | website: schools.hcdsb.org/josa

Principal’s Note…

The month of May is a wonderful time of the year, as we are able to experience the beautiful blossoming and vivacity of new growth in the natural world around us. It is appropriate that the month of May is dedicated to Mary, the Mother of God. Let us be led by her example and work in a co-operative spirit to nurture our students to develop to the best of their abilities and to reflect the values of our Catholic faith.

To all our mothers and grandmothers: A Very Happy and Blessed Mother’s Day! (May 8)

“We celebrate Catholic Education Week from Sunday, May 1st

to Friday, May 6th. This is a week set aside to celebrate our

Catholic schools and why the connection of home-parish-school triad is an important and integral part of Catholic education. The theme of this year’s Catholic Education Week is Catholic Education: Opening Doors of Mercy. Pope Francis has declared this year to be a Jubilee Year of Mercy, as a way for Catholics world-wide to make more evident our mission of mercy in our communities and in the world.

Catholic schools are, by definition, faith-based schools, firmly rooted in the Gospel Values of Jesus Christ. What we enjoy today is due to a history of sacrifice, determination, and extraordinary work of the Bishops of Ontario, Religious Communities of Men and Women, Priests, and lay men and women, to build and preserve Catholic education in the face of all forms of opposition, both political and legal. The challenges to the existence of publicly-funded Catholic education are alive today. In an increasing secular society, there are those who see publicly-funded Catholic education as anachronistic and discriminatory despite the fact that Catholic education has contributed very significantly to Ontario and Canada in the contributions of the many wonderful graduates of our Catholic system. This week we continue to celebrate a school system which celebrates and defines itself on Faith and Mercy and embraces the message of salvation for all peoples preached by Jesus.” from the Diocese of Hamilton Catholic Education Week Message

We ask for your prayers as we come together as a faith community. May the blessings of Catholic Education inspire our students, energize educators, and serve as a beacon of hope to families everywhere. We are grateful for the support of our Pastors and Parish Staff, in their school visits, sacramental preparation, and our celebrations of the Eucharist. Let us all continue to protect this precious gift of Catholic Education that has been entrusted to us, now and always.

We invite you to take part in the many activities being held during Catholic Education Week.

Warmest regards, Mrs. S. Bien, Principal

St. Joseph Patron of Canada Parish

Sunday, May 1 is the beginning of Catholic Education Week. The theme for Catholic Education Week this year is “Opening Doors of Mercy.” Let us be merciful like the Father. Before my arrival in Acton, I had served over seventeen years as a Catholic School Board Trustee on two different boards. I also spent three years as a part-time high school chaplain. For the last four years, I have been the Deanery representative on Halton-CPIC (Catholic Parent Involvement Committee.) As a Parish Priest and a former Catholic Trustee, I firmly believe in the triad of home/school/parish. Parents are the first educators of their children in the ways of faith. This is a promise they made at their child’s baptism. Catholic schools support parents in this critical vocation by providing an over-all Christ centred education, with the parish ultimately being the heart of our on-going life-long faith journey. During this Catholic Education Week, let us celebrate with great joy and participate in as many activities as we can. If you are free, do not forget to attend our Catholic Education Week School Mass on Wednesday morning. May is also the month of Mary. St. Louis de Montfort said, “Never will anyone who says his Rosary every day be led astray.” Saint John Paul II admitted that: “the Rosary is my favourite prayer.” He urged the faithful to pray this Marian prayer regularly so that it can make a monumental difference for themselves, their families and the world. Following the advice of these great saints, during the month of Mary, let us turn to our Beloved Mother for guidance and assistance in making the world a better place for everyone. Perhaps, we can choose one day a week to pray the rosary together as a family. A family that prays together stays together. I would like to humbly take this opportunity to thank OAPCE (The Ontario Association of Parents in Catholic Education) for honouring me with the Monsignor B.W. Harrigan Award for my service and commitment to Catholic Education in Ontario. In addition to my service to Catholic Education, I am a proud product of the Ontario Catholic school system. I boldly declare that the seeds of my priestly vocation were sown by my family upbringing and especially my Catholic education. Let us not take this gift of Catholic Education in Ontario for granted.

Fr. Robert Hétu Pastor


Catholic Education Week: Sunday, May 1 to Friday, May 6

Our Catholic schools are places of growth. We all grow both in age and wisdom. As Catholics we should also grow in faith. We can nurture our faith through prayer, knowledge, and our living in a vibrant Catholic community. That is how we grow together. Community is part of who we are as Catholics.

Catholic Education Week begins on Sunday, May 1st, so that each school’s local

Catholic community may have an opportunity to celebrate the enduring gift of Catholic Education within the context of the Eucharistic Celebration. Each of the five days of Catholic Education Week has a special sub-theme: Monday ............. Mercy that Welcomes Tuesday ............ Mercy that Loves Wednesday ....... Mercy that Forgives Thursday ........... Mercy that Lives the Gospel

Friday ................ Mercy that Rejoices

This week we also celebrate Mental Health Week and how we, as a community, can support the mental health and well-being of children. Health Canada indicates that “signs of mental well-being” include: knowing and taking pride in who you are, enjoying life, coping with stress in a positive way, striving to realize your potential, and having a sense of personal control.

Throughout this week, we ask you to reflect on the significance of Catholic Education’s presence and its contribution in our Church and our society. We invite all members of our community, especially our parents, to participate in the celebrations and activities that will mark the celebration of Catholic Education Week.

Book Fair: Tuesday, May 3 to Thursday, May 5 – 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Thursday during Open House from 5 to 7 p.m.

Parents are invited to visit our Book Fair any time during the scheduled hours including over the lunch hour. Students will have an opportunity to visit the Book Fair during the day on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. If you are visiting throughout the day, please feel free to come to the Book Fair with your child. All classes will visit the Book Fair during the week and children will be sent home with wish lists. There is no obligation for students or parents to purchase books. Any profit from the Book Fair will be used to purchase additional materials for the library for our students to enjoy.

Open House and Barbecue: Thursday, May 5 – 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.

We invite our school community to our Open House and BBQ on Thursday, May 5 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. We especially want to recognize and appreciate the work and efforts of our wonderful volunteers – together we build a strong school community. Some of the events planned for this evening include: Volunteer Appreciation, BBQ, and Year in Review Photo Display, Classroom Visits, Book Fair, ECO Team activities, Choir Presentation, Drum Circles, Soccer Game, and more.

Please note that Food Tickets for the BBQ will not be on sale the night of the BBQ; a form to pre-order food was sent home separately.

Theme Baskets: Ticket Draw, Friday, May 6.

We are raffling off a number of unique “theme” baskets at the end of Catholic Education Week in support of School Initiatives and the Halton Catholic Children’s Education Foundation. Tickets will be available throughout the week at the cost of $1.00 per ticket. The ticket draw will take place on the afternoon of Friday, May 6th.

Monday, May 2nd

Mercy that Welcomes

Whoever welcomes one such child in my name, welcomes me. Matthew 18:5

Activities at St. Joseph on Monday:

Opening Prayer and Welcome ................ Morning Announcements

Mental Health Assembly and Liturgy ..... 1:15 p.m. in the gym

Theme Baskets Raffle tickets for sale.

Classroom Activities: Grade and Room Teacher Activity Time

Grade 1, Room1 Mr. Flood Stain Glass Windows 9:15 a.m.

Grade 1, Room 2 Mrs. Gracias Stain Glass Windows 9:15 a.m.

Grade 2, Room 10 Mrs. Liebig with Mrs. Johnston’s Grade 2’s

Making Spiral Wind Catchers 9:45 to 10:25 a.m.

Grade 4, Room 4 Mrs. Birk Roots of Empathy, Post Family Visit 9:45 to 10:20 a.m.

Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.

Matthew 5:7


Tuesday, May 3rd

Mercy that Loves

Little children, let us love, not in word of speech, but in truth and action. 1 John 3:18

Love your neighbour as yourself. Matthew 19:19

Activities at St. Joseph on Tuesday:

Book Fair in the library ........................... 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.


Girls Inc (over lunch)

BBBS Homework Club (after School)


Kindergarten, Room 16 Mrs. Flood, Mrs. Cookson Scientist in the Classroom Program a.m.

Kindergarten, Room 17 Mrs. Crowe, Mrs. Wells Scientist in the Classroom Program p.m.

Grade 2, Room10 Mrs. Johnston Building 3-D Geometric Shapes 1:00-1:40 p.m.

Grade 2, Room 11 Mrs. Beaton Building 3-D Geometric Shapes 1:00-1:40 p.m.

Grade 2/3, Room 14 Mr. Logar Building 3-D Geometric Shapes 1:00-1:40 p.m.

Grade 4, Room 5 Mr. Kohen Roots of Empathy, Pre-Family Visit 9:45-10:20 a.m.

Grade 6, Portable 3 Mrs. Nolan We Are All Here For A Reason. 1:00 to 1:40 p.m.

Grade 7, Room 7 Ms. Calderwood Students attend Spotlight Sheridan at Sheridan College

9:45a.m. to 1:40 p.m.

Grade 7, Room 9 Ms. Haley Students attend Spotlight Sheridan at Sheridan College

9:45a.m. to 1:40 p.m.

Wednesday, May 4th

Mercy that Forgives

Please forgive the trespass of your servant. 1 Samuel 25:28

But you are a God ready to forgive, gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. Nehemiah 9:17

Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And do not bring us to the time of trial, but rescue us from the evil one. Matthew 6:12-13

Activities at St. Joseph on Wednesday:

Book Fair in the library ........................... 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

CEW Mass ............................................... 10:00 a.m. in our school gym

Grade 2 First Communion Photos ......... 8:30 a.m.

Grade 2 First Communion Celebration after Mass


Third Annual North Halton Parent Retreat at Holy Cross Church in Georgetown, 6:30-8:30 p.m.


Kindergarten, Room 17 Mrs. Crowe Using “Loose Parts” To Create An Ocean Scene. 11:15 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Kindergarten, Room 16 Mrs. Flood Grand Opening of the Dino-mite Museum 11:15 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Grade 3, Room 12 Ms. McReavy Jackson Readers Theatre - Commercials 11:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Grade 3, Room 13 Mrs. Medved Readers Theatre - Commercials 11:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Grade 5, Portable 1 Ms. McGilloway Doors of Mercy Book Talk and Gallery Walk 3:00 to 3:30 p.m.

Thursday, May 5th

Mercy that Lives the Gospel

Nothing graces the Christian soul so much as mercy; mercy as shown chiefly towards the poor, that thou mayst treat them as sharers in common with thee in the produce of nature,

which brings forth the fruit of the earth for use of all. St. Ambrose

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow your love; where there is injury, pardon;

where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; where there is sadness, joy! St. Francis of Assisi

Activities at St. Joseph on Thursday:

Book Fair in the library ........................... 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Walk With Jesus (Board Event) ............. 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Approximately 1,100 students, along with teachers, staff and parents of the Halton Catholic District School Board, will participate in the Board’s seventh annual Walk with Jesus. Student representatives from each of the Board’s schools will participate in the


walk, with the whole student population at each school invited to participate in a local walk during Catholic Education Week. Students will have an opportunity to exhibit a sense of community and Catholic solidarity as they walk from Jean Vanier Catholic Secondary School to Mattamy National Cycling Center (Milton Velodrome) where they will participate in mass led by the Most Reverend Daniel Miehm, Auxiliary Bishop of Hamilton.

Walk with Jesus (School Event) ............. 9:15 a.m.

All students will gather outside the back doors of the school at 9:15 a.m. We will begin with a para liturgy at 9:30 a.m. Grade 8’s will begin their walk around the school grounds, stopping at three stations for reflection and prayer. The Grade 7’s will follow with Grade 6 students coming next, and so forth until all grades have had opportunity to participate.

Theme Baskets Raffle tickets for sale


All Grades Walk with Jesus (School Event) 9:15 a.m.

Grade 4, Room 4 Mrs. Birk Are you smarter than a 4th grader? 1:40 to 2:20 p.m.

Grade 4, Room 5 Mr. Kohen Are you smarter than a 4th grader? 1:40 to 2:20 p.m.

Grade 5, Room 19 Mrs. Nevins Presenting Persuasive Commercials 1:00 p.m.

Thursday After School Activities:

Open House and BBQ ............................ 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

We cordially invite you, our parents, to come and celebrate with us. An advance order form has been sent home separately.

Theme Baskets Raffle tickets for sale

Book Fair in the library ........................... 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Classroom Visits ..................................... Parents are invited to visit classrooms to view student work, projects, and perhaps partake

in an activity. (5:00 to 7:00 p.m.)

Year in Review Photo Display in the Gym

Choir Presentation ................................... 5:30 p.m.

Grade 6 Drumming Circle ........................ 5:50 p.m.

ECO Team Activities ................................ 6:00 to 6:30 p.m.

Soccer Game (Girls Team vs. Boys Team) 6:30 to 7:00 p.m.

Acton Candlelight Tribute ...................... 7:00 p.m. Celebrating VE Day. Meeting at The Hide House Parking lot with procession to the Cenotaph on Mill St.

Friday, May 6th

Mercy that Rejoices

Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say, rejoice. Philippians 4:4

I will exult and rejoice in your steadfast love. Psalm 31:7

My spirit rejoices with God my Saviour! Luke 1:47

Activities at St. Joseph on Friday:

HFFT Breakfast Gala................................ 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. @ Oakville Conference Centre


Concluding Liturgy ................................. 1:30 p.m. in our school gym.

Theme Baskets Raffle ............................. 2:00 p.m. Raffle Draw and winners announced.


Grade 6, Portable 2 Mrs. Leung Book Talk. 9:45 to 10:20 a.m.

Grade 8, Room 8 Mr. Batic Grade 8 Catholic Leadership Conference Leadership activities at CTK Secondary School.

9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon

Grade 8, Room 18 Mrs. Bekanovic Grade 8 Catholic Leadership Conference Leadership activities at CTK Secondary School.

9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon

Catholic Education Week Prayer God of Love and compassion, help us to open the door of mercy in our school communities, in our families and in the world.

Let mercy guide our living and bring us closer to the heart of the gospel. May we live as Jesus with mercy that welcomes, loves, forgives and calls us to live the gospel joyfully. Amen.


Sacrament Preparation

First Communion

Our Grade 2 First Communion celebrations took place on two Saturdays during the month of April. Congratulations to all of our Grade 2 Communicants. We thank Grade 2 teachers Mrs. Beaton, Mrs. Johnson, and Mr. Logar, for working with Mrs. MacDonald and Father Robert in preparing students to receive the Sacrament. We thank the Catholic Women’s League for their generous gifts of beautiful lapel pins for our Communicants.

Confirmation

Our Grade 7 Confirmation celebration will take place on Thursday, May 12th

at 7:00 p.m., at Holy Cross Parish in Georgetown.

Walk With Jesus (Board Event): Thursday, May 5

Parents are invited to join the participants for the Board’s Walk With Jesus on Thursday, May 5, 2016. Parents may join us for the opening Liturgy at 10:30 a.m. at Jean Vanier Catholic Secondary School (1145 Bronte Street South, Milton), the Walk from Jean Vanier to the Milton Velodrome between 10:45 and 11:15 a.m., and the Mass with His Excellency Daniel Miehm, Auxiliary Bishop of Hamilton, at the Milton Velodrome (a.k.a. The Mattamy National Cycling Centre - 2015 Pan Am Boulevard, Milton) at 12:30 p.m. Please note that transportation will not be provided for parents.

Grade 6 and Grade 7 students who will be representing St. Joseph at the Board’s Walk With Jesus: Julia W., Alyssa C., Teryn A., Kiersten H., Patrick B., Michael Y., Reghan G., Sumyr S., Leonardo B., Ivan B., Emily B., Lucas D., Julia M., Julia G., Taylor T., Adriana H., Abigail S., and Ryan C.

Halton Food For Thought Gala: Friday, May 6

The Halton Food For Thought Breakfast Gala will take place on May 6 from 7:30 – 9:30 a.m., at the Oakville Conference Centre. The name of the Fruit & Veggie Mascots, to which our students submitted suggested names, will be officially revealed at the Gala. Congratulations to Miss Massari and her Grade 3 students for submitting one of the winning entries! HFFT rewarded our winners with a special snack.

Kindergarten Program Parent Orientation for Parents New to Kindergarten: Thursday, May 19

Thursday, May 19, 2016 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. St. Joseph School Library

Parents new to Kindergarten are invited to attend our Kindergarten Program Parent Orientation in May. This orientation session will provide information and resources to help parents support their child’s entry into school.

Victoria Day: Monday, May 23

No classes will be held on this day.

Grade 3 and 6 EQAO Testing: starting May 25

Please note that the EQAO Provincial Assessment of our Grade 3 and 6 students is scheduled to run from Wednesday, May 25 to Wednesday, June 8. We ask that you make every effort to ensure your children are in attendance each day during the assessment. We thank you in advance, for your efforts in scheduling appointments around this block of time. The EQAO assessment results help us to continue to improve upon the quality of Catholic education offered to your children.

School Staff

We welcome to St. Joseph, teacher candidates Sarah Chalpin and Shelby Storey, who will be with us during May in Mrs. Crowe’s and Mrs. Leung’s classes.

Tell Them From Me Partners in Learning Parent Survey

In our continuing effort to improve school effectiveness, and increase parent engagement, the Halton Catholic District School Board is holding an online parent survey – Tell Them From Me (TTFM) Partners in Learning Parent Survey. Parents from all of our

elementary and secondary schools are invited to complete a, voluntary and anonymous web-based survey. The survey will be available until May 13

th.

The TTFM Partners in Learning Parent Survey is an online survey that allows parents to provide their input into school improvement initiatives in an anonymous way. The survey is based on a comprehensive questionnaire covering several aspects of parents’ perceptions of their child’s experiences at home and school, including the extent to which parents feel the school supports learning and positive behaviour and promotes a safe and inclusive environment.

The TTFM Parent Survey may be accessed on the Board’s website at: www.hcdsb.org/parents/TTFMSurvey/. Click on “Parent Survey”, and once you access the secure website, you will be asked for your username and password. The log-in information for all St. Joseph School parents is: Username: Jaces2p Password: parent2016

We value the input of our parents and greatly appreciate your support in helping us to make our school the best it can be.

http://www.hcdsb.org/parents/TTFMSurvey/


Grade 8 Ottawa Raffle

We thank everyone who supported our Grade 8 Ottawa Raffle. Congratulations to all prize winners. We thank everyone who donated prizes in support of this Grade 8 fundraiser.

Prize Winner Ticket seller

Raptor Basketball Courtside Tickets Donated by Mr. J. Carr & Liftow Ltd. Justin Dennis Hailey J.

Signed Maple Leaf Peter Holland Hockey Stick Gwen Gauvreau Cody B.

Go Pro Camera Caroline Smith Autumn K.

Keg Gift Certificate Della McCarthy Autumn K.

J&D Carpet Steam Cleaning Paulo Frencillo Madison C.

Avon Basket and Super Cuts Gift Certificate Lindsay Hall Christina H.

Pet Value Dog Gift Basket Gwen Gauvreau Cody B.

Pet Value Cat Gift Basket Heather Gerrits Logan R.

MacMillians Gift Basket D. Maloney Zachary K.

Giant Tiger Gift Certificate Stephanie Brooks Hunter B.

Blue Springs Gift Certificate Heidi Gallant Carter G.

Sobeys Gift Certificate Gwen Gauvreau Cody B.

Prize for all (Blooms Away, Loblaw’s, Home Hardware, Profile Hair) Barry Hamilton Zachary K.

Shoeless Joe’s Milton Gift Certificate Gary Mandarino Zachary T.

Troy’s Diner Milton Gift Certificate Dave Pratt Callum P.

Purity Life Basket Cassandra Minicuci Janina C.

Olympics Basket Justin Dennis Hailey J.

Student Recognition

Gotcha program:

Our Gotcha program recognizes exemplary positive behaviour on a daily basis at school: respect for others, kindness and helpfulness, cooperative playing, and following school rules. Congratulations to all students who were recognized for their good deeds. We thank Twice The Deal Pizza and Pita Pit for supporting this program with gift coupons and our Catholic School Council for prize and gift certificate donations.

April Gotcha draw winners: Kindergarten: David M.K. (prize) Eve J. (prize) Cassie C-G. (pizza coupon) Primary: Adam K. (prize) Dorian C. (pizza coupon) Sofia F. (Walmart Card) Junior: Kienan F. (prize) Sophia T. (pizza coupon) Intermediate: Zachary T. (prize) Kealan K. (pizza coupon)

Discipleship Award:

Each month the Discipleship Award recognizes students in each class who have demonstrated a positive attitude towards learning and exemplify the Christian values of our Faith.

Congratulations to April Discipleship students:

Focus on Virtues

Each month, we focus on a specific "virtue." A virtue is a habit or established capacity to perform good actions. Good deeds, acts of love and kindness are constantly happening around us. With each good deed or kindness done for another, we are helping someone else feel good, which in turn will encourage that person to be kind to someone else. May virtue: Citizenship caring about others in the community.

contributing positively to one’s environment. making everyone feel welcomed, cared for and appreciated (inclusive). promoting peace and justice.

Class Student

Mrs. Crowe Brooklyn A. Karina P. Jax F.

Mrs. Flood Owen W. Rylee d’E. Emily C.

Mrs. Moore Autumn B. Mrs. Gracias Matteo M. Mrs. Beaton Ava K. Mrs. Johnston Ciara G. Ms. McReavy-Jackson Rheyannah D.

Class Student

Mrs. Medved Emma S. Mr. Logar Ryley M. Mrs. Birk Blake G. Mr. Kohen Tyler L. Ms. McGilloway Emily M. Mrs. Nevins Riley D. Mrs. S. Nolan Camila R. Mrs. Leung Julia M. Ms. Calderwood Shaun G. Ms. Haley Klaudia D. Mrs. Bekanovic Brodie D. Mr. Batic Francine B.


Student Activities

Congratulations to…

our Grade 6 students for successfully completing the B.R.A.V.O. Program. Social Justice Committee

A Minute To Win It Day took place on Thursday, April 15th raising $1994.55.

Our Social Justice Committee has raised $3571.45 this year, in support of our Free the Children campaign to build a school in Sierra Leone. We thank everyone for supporting our Social Justice initiatives.

School Spirit:

Our next School Spirit Day is on Tuesday, May 24th

: Decade Day! Dress up in your favourite 50’s, 60’s, 70’s, or 80’s outfit! ECO Club

Our Eco Team continues to work to promote Eco Initiatives: Recycling, Litterless Lunches, and Awareness.

The Eco Team thanks everyone for their participation in cleaning up the schoolyard for Earth Day. It was great to see everyone working together to keep the Earth and our school clean. We thank CTK students for coming to St. Joseph to help supervise and facilitate the cleanup.

Golden Recycling Bin: Congratulations to Mrs. Birk’s Grade 4 class for winning the recycling award for April. Mr. Batic’s Grade 8

class came in second, and Ms. Haley’s Grade 7 class and Mrs. Leung’s Grade 6 classes tied for third. Halton Skills Competition

On April 5, Mrs. Haley accompanied several Grade 7 students to the Halton Skills Competition at Robert Bateman High School in Burlington. The Skills Competition is an event where students from Grade 4 - 12 from the Halton District School Board and Halton Catholic School Board demonstrate their technical skills in a friendly but competitive environment. Academic Quadrathlon

On April 13th

, Alicia B., Madison C., Patrick B., and Jack W., accompanied Mrs. McLean Downs to the annual Academic Quadrathlon. Congratulations to the team on placing first place in the competition and bringing home the trophy! Girls Inc. “Discover Leadership” Program

Girls Incorporated is an international youth organization dedicated to “inspiring all girls to be strong, smart, and bold.” W ith roots dating from 1964 and serving North Halton since 1986, they provide mentoring in school group programs for girls 5 to 18 years of age. We are delighted that Girls Incorporated Halton will once again be offering their “Discovery Leadership” program to girls in our Grade 3 and 4 classes. In “Discovery” girls are encouraged to celebrate their heritage of leadership, to explore concepts of leadership, and discover their own leadership skills through hands-on activities and discussions. “Discovery” encourages girls to work side by side, see each other as individuals, and value their contributions to their community.

Our next group of students began this great program on April 12: Kianna D., Rachel B., Justine P., Emma S., Leah L., Megan N., Kaylah H., Sydney E., Sophia D.M., and Sadie A.

School Soccer Teams

Try-outs were held for our school soccer teams, which will be taking part in a number of upcoming tournaments. We thank all students who showed an interest in this team sport.

Boys’ Soccer Team: Ryan C., Seamus D., Mark J., Bradyn T., Chase G., Micheal S., Charlie M., Elijah M., Jonah M., Ivan B., Joseph S., Eric C., Lucas D., Adam L., Johnny P., Zach T.

Girls’ Soccer Team: Abigail S., Taylor T., Julia G., Reghan G., Julia W., Claire M., Shaun G., Allyson E., Madison B., Christina S., Skye Y., Emily I., Alyssa C., Renee P., Autumn K., Lauren P.

We thank our coaches, Ms. McGilloway, Mrs. Flood, Mrs. LaSelva, and Mrs. Gould, for volunteering their time. Team Unbreakable

Team Unbreakable will be take part in the Mother’s Day Run for Mental on Saturday, May 7th

at Spencer Smith Park in Burlington. This will be the culmination of a dedicated effort by team members, who have trained since February to prepare themselves for the run. Congratulations to all participants and good running!

In our February Newsletter we introduced the Team Unbreakable initiative:


Over 50 of our Grades 6 to 8 students will be participating in a CameronHelps initiative called Team Unbreakable. This is a recreational run group in support of youth mental health. This 12 to 13 week program has been proven to show a positive correlation between physical activity and improvements in cognitive function, anxiety, and mood. Team Unbreakable will meet to learn to run together on a gradual and incremental basis. In addition to the physiological benefits of exercise, the program incorporates important elements such as social skills, mentoring, belonging, self-esteem, and personal control, as the group of peers works towards a common objective. The group will meet on Mondays and Wednesdays over the lunch hour from February to May, and depending on weather conditions and safety, will work out either indoors, on school property, or in the neighbourhood. Students will be encouraged to do a third run each week on their own time. The program culminates with a 5k running event at the beginning of May. We thank the many staff members who have volunteered to supervise and coach Team Unbreakable.

Emergency Preparedness Week: May 1 to May 7

Our Grade 6 classes are taking part in the Emergency Preparedness Week “Emergency Preparedness starts with you, Prepare YourSelfie” campaign. This campaign is designed to engage Ontarians in Emergency Preparedness, heightening the importance of accountability and action in a fun and interactive way.

Preparing for the next school year…

Students Not Returning in September

If your children will not be returning to St. Joseph School in September, please advise the school office as soon as possible. This

information is important as we plan for class/school organization for the fall. Your cooperation is very much appreciated. Class Placements for 2016-2017

During May and June staff will be preparing “tentative class placements” for the next school year. In forming class groupings the following issues are considered: Equitable balance of boys and girls in each class at any grade level. A range of academic ability and potential in each class (i.e., classes are not streamed). A mix of previous classes (so students can form new friendships, meet different academic/social challenges). Children who are best kept together and children who are best separated. Number of years in a combined class (where and when possible, students in combined grades the previous year will be placed in a

straight grade).

Class lists and school organization are typically not fully finalized until the second full week of September when senior school board administrative staff may need to respond to unanticipated increases or decreases in the student population.

Parents may want to share specific information regarding their child’s personal development in order to assist us in the placement process. If you have concerns or questions regarding class placement, please leave a written response at the office; your input and written concerns will be reviewed as we begin to prepare placements for next year. 2016 – 2017 School Year Calendar

The Ministry of Education approved the Board’s 2016-2017 Calendar:

Monday, September 5, 2016 Labour Day Tuesday, September 6, 2016 P.A. Day (School Improvement Planning) Wednesday, September 7, 2016 First day of Classes Friday, October 7, 2016 P.A. Day Monday, October 10, 2016 Thanksgiving Day Friday, November 25, 2016 P.A. Day Monday, December 26, 2016 – January 6, 2017 Christmas Break Friday, February 3, 2017 P.A. Day Monday, February 20, 2017 Family Day Friday, March 10, 2017 P.A. Day Monday, March 13 – Friday, March 17, 2017 March Break Friday, April 14, 2017 Good Friday Monday, April 17, 2017 Easter Monday Friday, April 28, 2017 P.A. Day Monday, May 22, 2017 Victoria Day Friday, June 2, 2017 P.A. Day Friday, June 30, 2017 Last day of classes


SEAC – Special Education Advisory Committee – SEAC SOUNDByTES

Raising awareness of the Special Education process at HCDSB

WHAT is EQAO?

EQAO is the Education Quality and Accountability Office. It is an independent government body that develops and oversees reading, writing and mathematics tests that Ontario students must take in grades 3, 6, 9 and 10.

Some students with special needs may be exempt from writing the EQAO test. These students have usually been identified through an IPRC (Identification, Placement and Review Committee) meeting and have Individual Education Plans (IEPs).

EQAO was created to provide accurate and reliable information about student achievement in publicly funded schools and make recommendations to improve learning and teaching. The tests give parents, teachers, principals and school boards information about how well students have learned what the province expects them to learn in reading, writing and mathematics. The results for each student are sent to the school where the testing took place. EQAO also releases provincial, school board and school results.

Students with special needs may have “accommodations” to help them write the EQAO tests. The accommodations could include more time to write, a quiet setting or having someone read instructions or questions to the student.

The principal must consult with parents about making accommodations or exempting a student from taking an EQAO test.

For more information, please visit http://www.hcdsb.org/Programs/Research/Pages/EQAO.aspx

Submitted by Brenda Agnew, SEAC Alternate Member, representing Easter Seals Ontario

St. Joseph School Healthy Snack Committee would like to thank the following

LOCAL businesses for their support of our Food for Thought program:

SMEREK FAMILY GARDENS

Our program runs smoothly and efficiently thanks to the help of our amazing Parent Volunteers! We thank them for all they do for all our students!

Myla Csaki Bev Miller Diana Yanuzzi Heather Canali Deb Scott Shelley Todaro Jennifer Pelitis Deb Martins Michelle Dimech Teresa Gataveckas Lisa Jean Joanne Knight Karen Godden Karen Curmi Sandra Toste Nancy Gauley Jennifer Allen Erin Barr Danielle O’Connor Carol Lemoine Lina Garcia Lee Ann Vidler

http://www.eqao.com/AboutEQAO/AboutEQAO.aspx?Lang=E

http://www.eqao.com/results/?Lang=E

http://www.hcdsb.org/Programs/Research/Pages/EQAO.aspx

http://www.google.ca/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CAcQjRxqFQoTCLOs3tHUw8gCFYlsPgod-SkNqw&url=http://www.raisingtowin.com/announcement-letter/&bvm=bv.105039540,d.cWw&psig=AFQjCNFbXcKmvUplwEaLdtzO3ofrU6TIRQ&ust=1444970373262598


Summer Program Registration forms must be submitted to the Thomas Merton Oakville Campus by June 17.

Christ the King Catholic Secondary School Council Presents:

Reducing Stress and Increasing Resilience in Teens by Dr. Susan Williams, Psychologist

Looking for tips on how to reduce your teen’s stress and build resilience for life? Dr. Williams will provide suggestions to help your teen improve their well-being and reduce their anxiety.

Dr. Williams will also provide an overview of how to reduce stress. She will discuss teen development and help parents understand when they should seek additional professional support for their teens and increase resilience in teens.

May 3, 2016 – 7:00 p.m.

Irene McCauley Theatre

Christ the King Catholic Secondary School Dr. Williams is currently the Director of the Halton Centre for Cognitive Therapy and Stress Reduction in Oakville. She maintained an appointment for 8 years as Assistant Professor (PT) in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences at McMaster University where she conducted research on prevention and intervention with anxious and depressed children, provided treatment in the child, adolescent, and adult hospital programs, and trained residents and interns in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). She has worked on the CBT Unit at the former Clarke Institute of Psychiatry in Toronto (now CAMH), at the Anxiety Treatment and Research Centre at St. Joseph’s Healthcare in Hamilton, the Mood Disorders program at the former Hamilton Psychiatric Hospital, the Adolescent Program and Eating Disorders Clinic at McMaster University Medical Centre, and the Child and Family Centre at Chedoke Hospital, Hamilton.


| St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School | 147 Mill Street West, | Acton, Ontario L7J 1G7 | Telephone: 519-853-3730 | website: schools.hcdsb.org/josa

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Sixth Sunday of Easter

St. Joseph Parish Mass at 9 & 11 a.m.

Liturgy and

Mental Health Assembly 1:15 p.m. (school gym)

Roots of Empathy Mrs. Birk 9:45

Food For Thought

Book Fair

8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Scientist In School Program Kindergarten a.m. & p.m.

Gr. 7: Spotlight Sheridan

Roots of Empathy Mr. Kohen 9:45

Girls Inc. BBBS Homework Club

Pizza Lunch

Book Fair

8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

1st

Communion Photos 8:30 individual / 11:00 group

Catholic Education Week Mass 10:00 a.m.

3rd

Annual Catholic Education Parent Retreat

6:30-8:30 p.m. Holy Cross Church

Food For Thought

Book Fair

8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Walk With Jesus (Board event 9:00 – 3:00)

(school event 9:15)

Therapy Dog visit Mr. Kohen 9:20

Open House & BBQ 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.

Acton Candlelight Tribute celebrating VE day

7:00 p.m.

Halton Food For Thougt

Breakfast Gala

Closing Liturgy 1:30 p.m. (school gym)

Catholic Leadership Conference at CTK

Gr. 8 (9:00 a.m. to noon)

Team Unbreakable Mother’s Day Run

For Mental Health at

Spencer Smith Park

Youth and Family Mass

St. Joseph Parish Mass at 5:00 p.m.

Pot Luck Dinner after

8 9 10 11 12 13 14

Ascension of the Lord


Mother’s Day

Food For Thought

Kindergarten (SK) Grad Photos


Gr. 7 Confirmation Rehearsal at Holy Cross Church 11:00 a.m.


Sub Sandwich Lunch

Food For Thought

Dairy Presentations

Gr. 7 Confirmation Celebration at Holy Cross Church

7:00 p.m.

Pita Pit Lunch

St. Joseph Parish

Mass at 5:00 p.m.

15 16 17 18 19 20 21

Pentacost Sunday (Easter season ends)


(ordinary time begins)

Girls Soccer Tournament

Oakville

Food For Thought

Boys Soccer Tournament Oakville

Roots of Empathy

Mr. Kohen 9:45


Pizza Lunch

Gr. 7 Religion Assessment

Council of Chairs

6:30 p.m. Holy Trinity S.S., Oakville

Food For Thought

Scientist in School Program Gr. 5. a.m. & p.m.

Gr. 7 Religion Assessment

Kindergarten Orientation

7:00 p.m.


22 23 24 25 26 27 28


Victoria Day (No Classes today)

NO Food For Thought


Gotcha Assembly 10:45 a.m.

Spirit Day: Decade Dress up


Sub Sandwich Lunch

Gr. 3 & 6 EQAO testing

Kindergarten fieldtrip Butterfly Conservatory

Gr. 5 Mass

at church

Gr.7 Fundraiser

Spring Plant pickup

Food For Thought


Gr. 5 fieldtrip Living Arts Centre

Family Math Night

Pita Pit Lunch


School Ground Greening Tree Planting with Halton

Conservation

Hydro Presentation


29 30 31



Gr. 7 Camp Trip

Active Chef

Food For Thought


Gr. 7 Camp Trip

Roots of Empathy Celebration 9:30

Girls Inc.

Our families are encouraged to actively practice our faith. Mass times at St. Joseph Parish: Saturday evening at 5:00, Sunday at 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. The Liturgy of the Word with Children is offered during the 11:00 Mass.

Reconciliation takes place on Saturday from 4:00 to 4:30 p.m., or by appointment.

Please check the Parish’s website for changes: http://stjosephpatronofcanadaacton.weebly.com St. Joseph Patron of Canada Parish, 64 Church Street East, Acton.

Rectory telephone: 519-853-0784

Our School Trustee: John Mark Rowe, 1-800-741-8382 x7186 email: [email protected] Our Superintendent of Education: Tim Overholt, 1-800-741-8382

b

Our monthly school newsletter is available online at: http://schools.hcdsb.org/josa/Pages/Newsletter.aspx Follow us on twitter: @StJoesActon

SAFE ARRIVAL PROGRAM: Please call the school to report all student absences and late arrivals. Dial 519-853-3730. If calling outside office hours or your call will be directed to our voice mail system. Please follow the prompts to leave a message: clearly state student name, grade, teacher, reason and length (if known) of the absence. If no notification is received, we will call home/workplace/emergency contact numbers to determine your child’s location. (Please keep contact numbers current.)

Catholic Education Week

http://stjosephpatronofcanadaacton.weebly.com/

mailto:[email protected]

http://schools.hcdsb.org/josa/Pages/Newsletter.aspx

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