Achieving Believing Belonging St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School June 2016 | Page 1

| 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…

As we enter the month of June and the end of the school year four weeks away, a number of us may find ourselves approaching crossroads of sorts. Whether a Grade 8 student, looking toward graduating from elementary school, a parent looking at moving to a new residence with their family, or a school staff member looking at moving to a new school assignment elsewhere, the crossroad you arrive at presents challenges unique to you, holding promises of new beginnings and opportunities. Whether you are a St. Joseph School student, staff member, or community member, I hope that your experiences here have been memorable, enriching, and personally rewarding.

Many individuals have contributed in various ways to make this a wonderful year at St. Joseph School. To all of you, Father Robert, St. Joseph Patron of Canada Parish, Teaching Staff, E.A.s, Support Staff, Parent Volunteers, Parents, Community Members, and Corporate/Business sponsors who have supported our many initiatives, a very sincere thank you.

To our Grade 8 graduating classes: Congratulations on your upcoming graduation! We extend our best wishes in your future endeavours. As you prepare to leave St. Joseph School and enter a new phase in your lives, keep in mind and live by the Christian values that the teachers and staff of our school have tried to instill in you. May God bless all of you with good health, good friends, and happiness.

To our staff members leaving St. Joseph School for new assignments in the fall: a sincere thank you for your contributions here and best wishes in your next assignment.

I ask our community to welcome to St. Joseph School Mrs. Laforet as your Principal in September. Mrs. Laforet is currently Principal at St. Francis of Assisi School in Georgetown.

As I prepare to take my leave, I thank you all for the many fond memories of the last five years at St. Joseph School. It has been a pleasure and a true blessing to have had the opportunity to work with each of you. I thank each and every one of you for your support, hard work, and encouragement and am proud of all we have accomplished together. May you continue to do all the good things you do. May God bless you all and grant you all a very happy, restful, and safe summer!

Warmest regards,

Mrs. S. Bien, Principal

St. Joseph Patron of Canada Parish

With the beginning of June comes good weather and the end of another school year. First, let me congratulate Mrs. Bien on her impending retirement. May God continue to bless you and your family. Thank you for a job well done!

As always, I would like to congratulate our Grade 2 and Grade 7 students who celebrated the life-changing sacraments of First Reconciliation, First Communion and Confirmation. May these sacraments be a continued source of daily grace, remind you that faith is a life-long journey! Best wishes to our graduating grade 8 students as you leave St. Joseph School for the new adventure of high school. A special congratulations to those who have chosen to continue their Catholic education at Christ the King Catholic High School.

I also would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for his or her help and support in my role as Pastor of St. Joseph Patron of Canada Parish and spiritual guide to St. Joseph School. Let us continue to build a great parish-school-family triad, which is the heart of Catholic education.

As summer vacations begin, I encourage you not to take a vacation from God. God is always there for us, so we should always be there for God. Let us share the good things we have learnt at St. Joseph School with the whole community and continue to: “Serve the Lord with gladness.” (Psalm 100)

Join us for our last Youth and Family Mass of the school year on Saturday, June 18 at 5:00 p.m. At Mass, several students will be honoured by the Catholic Women’s League and the Knights of Columbus. Mass will be followed by a Bar-B-Que Pig Roast. We asked that you pre-purchase you tickets after Mass this weekend. $10.00 for adults, $5.00 for children and $25.00 per (any size) family. For more information, call Eddie MacDonald at 905.873.5774.

Also, if you are still in town on July 1st Canada Day join us at the church for Mass at 10:00 a.m. followed by light

refreshments and a time of fellowship. Let us continually thank God for our many Canadians blessings. Shalom,

Fr. Robert Hétu Pastor

Achieving Believing Belonging St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School June 2016 | Page 2

P.A. Day: Friday, June 3

No classes will be held on this day.

Last Dates for the 2015-2016 school year

Please note the following last dates for this school year:

The last day of the Lunch Program (Pita Pit) is Friday, June 24.

The last day of the Milk Program is Friday, June 24.

The Food For Thought Program ended with the last week of May.

The last day of classes for the 2015-2016 school year is Thursday, June 30.

Classes will dismiss 90 minutes earlier at 2:00 p.m.

Grade 8 Graduation

To celebrate the achievements of this year’s Graduating Class, the following events are being organized:

The Grade 8 Graduation Mass, on Thursday, June 23 at 9:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Patron of Canada Parish, for students, staff,

families, and friends.

The Grade 8 Graduation Ceremony, on Thursday, June 23 at 6:30 p.m. at St. Joseph School (gymnasium), where the presentation

of diplomas, awards, and the Valedictorian address will take place. Families, friends, and staff are invited.

The Grade 8 Graduation Dance, taking place after the graduation ceremony on Thursday, June 23 in our school gymnasium, from

approximately 8:00 p.m. to 10:45 p.m., for current St. Joseph School Grade 8 graduates only.

We invite parents to join us for the Graduation Mass, Graduation Ceremony, and to stay and have the first dance with their daughter or

son. We look forward to sharing this exciting event with you.

The Grade 8 Graduation Luncheon on Tuesday, June 28, for St Joseph graduates only.

Report Cards

Report Cards will be distributed on Tuesday, June 28.

Parents/Guardians are asked to sign and return the Report Card Response Form (page 3) to the school on Wednesday, June 29.

The Response Form is a legal document which is attached to the school’s copy of the report card and kept in the Ontario Student

Record file. We thank you for your cooperation.

A sincere ‘Thank You!’ to…

Father Robert Hétu, Pastor of St. Joseph Patron of Canada Parish, for being an important part of our faith-based community,

preparing students for the receiving of Sacraments, and celebrating Mass with our school community.

Mrs. MacDonald for supporting our students in their faith development and Sacramental preparation.

Mrs. Sanford, the Parish, CWL, and Knights of Columbus for supporting St. Joseph Catholic School community.

everyone who made our Catholic Education Week a success, from our choir to all staff and students who prepared performances

for all to enjoy, to staff who decorated and helped to facilitate the event, to the Knights of Columbus, for running the BBQ, to all

of our parents, grandparents and friends who attended during the week, joining in our celebrations.

Mrs. La Selva and all of our Food for Thought parent volunteers who worked hard throughout the year to ensure a successful

program.

Our Hot Lunch Program parent volunteers.

Mrs. Holmes for coordinating our Milk Program this year and for donating Indigo Gift Cards for our April Gotcha awards.

all of our parent volunteers for helping to support our school activities and initiatives.

our Catholic School Council members for their leadership and commitment to school improvement initiatives.

the Bethel Church Cadets for the donation of a ‘Buddy Bench’ for our school and their presentation on May 24th

.

our wonderful Grade 5 P.A.L.S. ( Playground Activity Leaders in Schools ) for running a successful P.A.L.S. program for our

Primary students.

Achieving Believing Belonging St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School June 2016 | Page 3

Congratulations to Winners of Our Education Week Theme Basket Draws

Winners of our Education Week Theme basket draws:

Angelina A. Kindergarten Outdoor Basket 1 Rheyannah D. Kindergarten Outdoor Basket 2 Mrs. Bekanovic Be Creative Basket Hannah B. Fun In The Sun Basket 1 Matty C. Fun In The Sun Basket 2 Abby W. Fun in Backyard Sun Basket Marco D. Summer Fun Basket Taylor T. Baking Delight Basket Liam S. For the Love of Books Basket Grayson T. Outdoor Fun Basket 1 Tyler S. Outdoor Fun Basket 2 Gavin P. Movie Night Basket Karina P. Keep Active Basket Mrs. Johnston Chocolate Basket Teryn A. Global Pet Food Basket Ryan C. Spirit Wear Basket Matty C. Summer Fun Basket

Proceeds of the raffle were donated to the Halton Catholic Children’s Education Foundation ($1000). We thank everyone who supported this raffle.

Preparing for the 2016 – 2017 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 the month of June, we 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 submit a written response addressed to the Principal;

these written concerns/requests will be reviewed as we begin to prepare placements for next year.

Retrieving Elementary Student Class Placement for 2015 - 2016 Elementary student class placements for the 2016-2017 school year

should be available for parents to access on the Halton Catholic District

School Board website on Friday, August 26.

Please follow the steps outlined below.

Steps to retrieve student class placement:

visit the Board website at: http://www.hcdsb.org

click on “Schools tab” - School Listing

select your school

click on Elementary Student Placement

enter student OEN number and click search

Achieving Believing Belonging St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School June 2016 | Page 4

Monday, September 5: Labour Day

No classes held on this Statutory Holiday. Tuesday, September 6: P.A. Day No classes will be held on this P.A. Day, however, Kindergarten teachers will be conducting interviews with parents of Kindergarten

students new to St. Joseph (please see ‘Kindergarten Year 1 and Year 2 below).

Wednesday, September 7: School start for Grade 1 to 8 students

Grade 1 to 8 students return back to school on Wednesday, September 7, 2016. (Please see notes below for Kindergarten classes.)

Grade 1 to 8 First Day Back Procedure Parents should check the class placement of their child prior to the start of school on-line at the Board website (see article above). As

students in Grade 1 to 8 arrive the first day, by bus or with parents, they will be directed to their classrooms at 8:50 a.m. where their

teachers will be waiting to greet them.

Parents will be able to bring their children to their classroom on this first day. Parents are kindly requested to say good-bye to their

children at the classroom door, to allow us to begin the instructional day at 9:00 a.m.

Kindergarten Year 1 and Year 2 September School Start-up Kindergarten teachers will be holding parent/student interviews for all Year 1 and new Year 2 students on September 6 and 7.

Full entry for Year 2 Kindergarten students will begin Thursday, September 8.

Staggered entry of ½ of Year 1 Kindergarten students will begin Thursday, September 8.

The other ½ of Year 1 Kindergarten students will begin Friday, September 9.

Full entry of Year 1 Kindergarten students will begin Monday, September 12.

Notification of interview and specific entry dates will be sent home by the end of June.

Student Supplies for September The school provides all necessary supplies and resources for students to use in daily learning and curricular activities. However,

these supplies remain at school. Parents often inquire what individual supplies they may purchase for their child. The following lists,

compiled by the teachers of each division, suggest supplies that would be helpful for students to have to support work assignments

or homework completed outside of the school day. It is always appreciated when students are able to bring a box of (kleenex) tissue

to leave in the classroom for use over the school year. As well, a reminder that students require a pair of indoor shoes for use

throughout the school year.

Primary Division (Grades 1 - 3) • glue stick • handheld pencil sharpeners with shaving

catcher (Gr. 2 &3 only) • pencil box or case (Grades 2 & 3 only) • pencil crayons (Grade 2 & 3 only) • pencils and eraser

Junior Division (Grades 4 - 6) • hand held pencil sharpeners with shaving catcher • zippered pencil case • pencils • erasers • pencil crayons • glue stick • small ruler (metric) • calculator

Intermediate Division (Grades 7 - 8) • calculator with square and square root

functions • eraser • geometry set • glue stick • high-lighter • markers • pencils • pencil crayons • ruler (metric)

Student Transportation Student transportation schedules and bus stop information for the 2016-2017 school year should be available in the last half of August at www.Haltonbus.ca. Parents are reminded that they will need their child’s Ontario Education Number (OEN) to access the secure parent portal. The 2016 – 2017 School Year 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

Achieving Believing Belonging St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School June 2016 | Page 5

Catholic School Council (CSC)

Catholic School Councils are established for the purposes of developing, encouraging, and promoting activities which will enhance

the quality of school programs and improve levels of student achievement. The Catholic School Council can provide advice, where

appropriate, to the Principal and to the School Board, on issues outlined by the Ministry of Education and Training. All positions on

the Catholic School Council are for a one year term.

We invite you to consider a candidacy for the position of Parent Representative on next year's St. Joseph Catholic School Council.

Interested candidates are asked to complete the nomination form that will be sent home in September.

Should we receive fewer than 8 nominations and candidates fulfill the requirements outlined in the regulations, they will be acclaimed.

If School Council elections are required: Names of candidates and a one page information biography sheet, if available, will be

posted on the School Community Bulletin Board located in the front hallway of the school. If required, a vote will be held by secret

ballot during Curriculum Night in the new school year.

Text Books and Library Books

Many students are missing a textbook or two. Please check your homes for school books. Students who do not return their books

will be asked to reimburse the school for the cost.

Please ensure that your child has returned all school Library Books.

Working together we can ensure that we not only save parents and the school additional costs for replacement books, but also

help our students to be more responsible.

Lost and Found

All lost and found items will be organized in the hallway near the stage to al low for easier identification of items. We

encourage students to claim any personal items/clothing by Friday, June 24th

. All unclaimed items will be collected and

donated to a local charity.

Health & Safety

Footwear and summer clothing at school With warmer weather, we typically experience an increase in student injuries directly attributed to summer type footwear, more specifically “flip flop” footwear. Please encourage children to wear footwear that remains securely on the foot. Additionally, students should have suitable athletic shoes for gym classes.

A gentle reminder that despite the warmer weather, we continue to adhere to the Student Dress Code as outlined in the Student Agenda. In particular we bring attention to the following: Shirts and tops should cover the shoulders with no bare midriffs, halter tops, tops with ‘spaghetti’ straps, muscle shirts, cut-up or cut-off

shirts. Shorts/skirts should be of modest cut and proportions, covering mid-thigh when seated.

Pediculosis (Head Lice) For your reference, we have included the following information:

What are head lice? Head lice are tiny, wingless, grayish brown insects which live and breed in human hair. They move quickly

when you part the hair and are hard to see. The eggs are half the size of a pinhead, (.08 mm), oval in shape and grey to brown in

colour. The tiny eggs are glued firmly to the hair. Newly laid eggs are very close to the scalp. The warmth at the scalp will hatch them

in about 7 to 10 days.

What parents can do to prevent the spread of head lice:

Check your child’s hair carefully once a week for lice and eggs. They are hard to see.

Teach your child to brush/comb their hair every night.

Consider braiding long hair or putting into a ponytail.

General information as well as information on treating pediculosis can be found at the Halton Region website: http://www.halton.ca/cms/One.aspx?portalId=8310&pageId=70872

Parents should notify the school and anyone who has had close contact with the affected family member about the head lice.

Achieving Believing Belonging St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School June 2016 | Page 6

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.

May Gotcha draw winners: Kindergarten: Avril D. (pizza coupon) Tess J. (pizza coupon)

Jason N. (Indigo Card) Primary: Dylan M. (pizza coupon). (prize) Evan S. (Indigo Card) Junior: Julia G. (pizza coupon). Marek K. (Indigo Card) Sarah C. (Walmart Card) Intermediate: Brodie D. (pizza coupon). Thomas C. (Indigo Card)

We thank our Catholic School Council for funding the Walmart Cards each month for this year’s Gotcha awards. We thank Mrs. Holmes for donating Indigo Gift Cards for May Gotcha awards.

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 May 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. June virtue: Respect Honouring God and others; respecting the gift of life (creation/nature).

(Reverence) Displaying good manners, paying attention to established rules and treating others as you wish to

be treated (courtesy). Respecting each other’s differences even when they disappoint you. Showing high regard (reverence) for someone /something.

Student Activities

School Spirit:

Our Decade School Spirit Day on Tuesday, May 24th

was a lot of fun as students dressed up in favourite 50’s, 60’s, 70’s, or 80’s outfits. Congratulations to all students who participated. Placing 3

rd in class participation were the classes of Mrs. Crowe, Mrs.

Johnston, and Ms. McReavy Jackson. Placing 2nd

was Mrs. Nolan’s class. And placing 1st for participation were the classes of Mrs.

Gracias and Mrs. Bekanovic. The Social Committee will announce the winning classes in Spirit Points standings in June.

Class Student

Mrs. Crowe Gianah D. Carlos L. Landyn M. Jordyn Y.

Mrs. Flood Connor B. Jason N. Angelina A. Kingston W.

Mrs. Moore Damian D. Mrs. Gracias Jamie C. Mrs. Beaton Layla C. Mrs. Johnston Joseph L. Ms. McReavy-Jackson Avery H.

Class Student

Mrs. Medved Sophia D-M. Mr. Logar Sophie F. Mrs. Birk Rachel B. Mr. Kohen Ethan H. Ms. McGilloway Marco D. Mrs. Nevins Hayden C. Mrs. S. Nolan Josip K. Mrs. Leung Emily B. Ms. Calderwood Julia W. Ms. Haley Laek S. Mrs. Bekanovic Christina H. Mr. Batic Tomasz K.

Achieving Believing Belonging St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School June 2016 | Page 7

ECO news Golden Recycling Bin:

Congratulations to all classes for their recycling efforts during May. Placing 3rd

was Mrs. Nolan’s Grade 6 class. Placing 2nd

was Mrs. Haley’s Grade 7 class. Placing 1

st was Mrs. Beaton’s Grade 2 class.

EcoSchool Certification:

Thanks to the continued efforts and initiatives of our Eco Club and students and staff, in conserving energy, minimizing waste, greening the school and embedding an environmental perspective into the classroom, St. Joseph has maintained Gold status as an EcoSchool. Bike Month:

June is Bike Month. Cycling is an environmentally friendly method of getting around. We remind cyclists to cycle safely and for drivers to be cautious and keep an eye out for cyclists. Yard Greening:

Our Eco Club helped Halton Conservation plant an additional tree on the south side of the school yard. Over the last few years we have planted over 50 trees and shrubs in the yard to help ‘green’ the yard. To help enjoy the some of the results of our efforts we have also had three benches installed. Kindergarten Playground:

Plans have been made for an extensive remake of the Kindergarten playground. We hope to see construction begin in July with work finished for the new school year. Soccer

Our school soccer teams are putting forth a good effort in tournaments to date. Congratulations to team members.

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 to coach. Team Unbreakable

Team Unbreakable members took part in the Mother’s Day Run for Mental Health on Saturday, May 7th

at Spencer Smith Park in Burlington. Congratulations to all team members on completing the run and for their perseverance and dedication in training for the run since February. Track and Field

Our Track and Field Team is preparing for Regional and Board Track & Field Meets later this month. We wish our team success, with the wind at their backs. We also thank our teachers, Mr. Batic, Mrs. Bekanovic, Mrs. Nolan, Mr. Kohen, Mr. Lannan, Ms. McReavy Jackson, and Mrs. LaSelva for volunteering to coach our young athletes.

The Track and Field Roster and events: 1500 m Patrycja N., Tomasz N., Madison B., Laek S. 800 m / 400 m Autumn K., Brodie D., Allyson E., Lucas D., Reghan G., Marek K., Emma M., Corbin M. 200 m Hailey J., Mathew A., Renee P., Ivan B., Emilie T., Seamus D., Audrey C., Hayden C. 100 m Abby M., Jack W., Shaun G., Thomas C., Adrianna H., Michael Y., McKenna J., Tavis L. 4x100 Relays Marek B., Jack F., Zachary K., Zachary O. Abby M., Alicia B., Janina C., Patrycja N. Thomas K., Jack W., Autumn K., Hailey J. Alyssa C., Renee P., Claire M., Shaun G. D.J. L., Ivan B., Thomas C., Joseph S. Michael S., Daniel B., Julia W., Ally H-C. Reghan G., Lindsay H., Adrianna H., Kayla G. Michael Y., Dylan J., Mateo D., Marek K. Cole F., Ryan C., Abby S., Julia G. Shayne K., Kristina L., Audrey C., Stacy E. James M., Marco D., Tavis L., Justin O., Hayden C., Emma M., McKenna J. Long Jump Jack W., Patrycja N., Michael S., Maria C., Michael Y., Reghan G., Emma M., Corbin M. Softball Throw Abigail S., Brandon H., Emily M., Cyprian N. Shotput Carter G., Christopher H.

Achieving Believing Belonging St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School June 2016 | Page 8

Health & Safety

Footwear and summer clothing at school With warmer weather, we typically experience an increase in student injuries directly attributed to summer type footwear, more specifically “flip flop” footwear. Please encourage children to wear footwear that remains securely on the foot. Additionally, students should have suitable athletic shoes for gym classes.

A gentle reminder that despite the warmer weather, we continue to adhere to the Student Dress Code as outlined in the Student Agenda. In particular we bring attention to the following: Shirts and tops should cover the shoulders with no bare midriffs, halter tops, tops with ‘spaghetti’ straps, muscle shirts, cut-up or cut-off

shirts. Shorts/skirts should be of modest cut and proportions, covering mid-thigh when seated.

Pediculosis (Head Lice) For your reference, we have included the following information:

What are head lice? Head lice are tiny, wingless, grayish brown insects which live and breed in human hair. They move quickly

when you part the hair and are hard to see. The eggs are half the size of a pinhead, (.08 mm), oval in shape and grey to brown in colour. The tiny eggs are glued firmly to the hair. Newly laid eggs are very close to the scalp. The warmth at the scalp will hatch them in about 7 to 10 days.

What parents can do to prevent the spread of head lice:

Check your child’s hair carefully once a week for lice and eggs. They are hard to see. Teach your child to brush/comb their hair every night. Consider braiding long hair or putting into a ponytail.

General information as well as information on treating pediculosis can be found at the Halton Region website: http://www.halton.ca/cms/One.aspx?portalId=8310&pageId=70872

Parents should notify the school and anyone who has had close contact with the affected family member about the head lice.

SEAC – Special Education Advisory Committee – SEAC SOUNDByTES

Raising awareness of the Special Education process at HCDSB

Transition Planning

As the school year draws to a close, many of us look forward to the transition from school year routines to summer routines and activities. This is an exciting time for many, students and teachers alike.

However, the process of transitioning and change can be a very stressful and anxious time for children with special needs and their families. Stressful transition periods include entry/exit from school, changing grades, and changing schools whether in a new neighbourhood or between elementary/ secondary/post-secondary.

These challenges can be reduced by transition planning, an integral part of special education services. Transition plans must be developed for all students with an IEP and are incorporated into the plan. Plans may also be developed for students without an IEP who access special education services. In order to be successful, planning should start well ahead of the anticipated transition. Critical and required components to a transition plan include: specific transition goals support needs actions required to achieve the goals roles and responsibilities and timelines for the implementation and/or completion of each of the identified actions In addition to major life events, transition planning can also be used to address transitions occurring throughout the day or other short term periods (ie. between activities or classes). While transition planning can address many different situations, it is required in all cases (for students with an IEP) for transition to postsecondary activities. Transition planning is also required for day to day as well as long term transitions for all students with autism spectrum disorders.

If you feel that your child has difficulty transitioning, whether in day to day scenarios or between major events, speak to your child’s teacher, SERT or Principal about incorporating transition planning into their education plan.

Submitted by Maria Lourenco, SEAC Member representing Association for Bright Children (ABC) Ontario

Achieving Believing Belonging St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School June 2016 | Page 9

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

June is Bike Month

Bike Safety Tips & Information

Learn more about safe cycling: General Bike Safety Information (Halton Region): http://www.halton.ca/living_in_halton/roads_transportation/cycling___walking/general_bike_safety_information/

Cycling Skills: Ontario's Guide to Safe Cycling: a detailed handbook of rules and safety standards for all bike riders. http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/safety/pdfs/cycling-skills.pdf

Young Cyclist's Guide: a kid-friendly handbook of cycling safety tips and rules for young riders. http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/safety/pdfs/young-cyclist-guide.pdf

Environmental Stewardship:

Sunday, June 05, 2016 is World Environment Day

World Environment Day is held each year on June 5. It is one of the principal vehicles through which the United Nations (UN) stimulates worldwide awareness of the environment and enhances political attention and action. Visit: http://www.wed2016.com/

Achieving Believing Belonging St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School June 2016 | Page 10

Calling all mothers, guardians, aunts, big sisters or mentors of girls in Grades 7 to 10!

You are both invited to share a special afternoon intended to rejuvenate your

mind, body and soul.

Sunday June 12, 2016. Holy Cross Parish Hall, 14400 Argyll Road

1:30 to 4:30 pm

The afternoon will include the following activities: 1. Activities and discussion around faith and what it means facilitated by Eddie MacDonald,

2. Yoga session lead by Josephine Connor

3. Guided meditation to allow each participant to tap into their inner passion, followed by a craft

related to the meditation. This session will be led by Natasha Rebelo.

Feel free to come at Sunday 12pm Mass which has a wonderful Praise & Worship Rock Choir Snacks, refreshments, yoga mats and craft materials will be available. Cost: $5.00 per participant (will be collected at the event) Due to space limitations, please RSVP your attendance, as well as any questions, to ctkfamilyofschoolsffc@gmail.com. Registration is on first-come, first-served basis. Registration closes June 8th, 2016. This event is brought to you by Christ the King Family of Schools Faith Formation Committee.

Achieving Believing Belonging St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School June 2016 | Page 11

Last year, the Halton Hills Community Bike Challenge managed to have thousands of participants of all ages and abilities to log about 384,000 kms of total riding distance over the summer months, equivalent to the distance from the Earth to the Moon! This year’s goal is to bring it home, and ride 400,000 kms back to the Earth plus a victory lap around Canada – just because we can! Once again there is a huge community reward for reaching this extraordinary goal. Generous sponsors have pledged a total of $85,000 to the Georgetown Hospital Foundation but the money doesn’t flow until we reach our goal. This is a free, fun event and there is no fundraising by our participants. For individuals that want to participate, all they need to do is log onto www.haltonhillsbikechallenge.ca create an account either as an individual, a classroom, a school, or a family, and then start logging kilometres. Please sign up and spread the word, because every kilometre counts. If you like, this event can also be coupled with your Bike to School week events if you are participating. For anyone without the means to acquire a bike, check out www.haydensrebicycling.com, this volunteer group can help you out. The Bike Challenge is a project of the Halton Hills Bicycle Friendly Community Committee. For more information check out the website at

http://haltonhillsbikechallenge.ca/

Achieving Believing Belonging St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School June 2016 | Page 12

| 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 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

Pizza Lunch

Grade 7 students return from

Camp

Grade 4 Mass at Church

Roots of Empathy 9:45 a.m.

Bingo Fundraiser for

Ft. McMurray Disaster

CTK Summer Blast 4:00-8:00 p.m.

P.A. Day (No Classes today)

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

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

World

Environment Day

Active Chef Session after school

CSC Meeting 7 p.m. in Library

Gr. 4 Risk Watch Summer Blitz

Girls Soccer

Tournament @ CTK

Sub Sandwich Lunch

North Halton

Track & Field Meet (Bishop Reding S.S.)

Grade 2 Mass @ Church

Roots of Empathy 9:45 a.m.

North Halton Track & Field Meet (Bishop Reding S.S.)

Rain Date

X Movement Presentation/Activities

Pita Pit Lunch

System Track & Field Meet & Special Olympics

(Corpus Christi C. S.S.)

X Movement

Presentation/Activities

St. Joseph Parish

Mass at 5:00 p.m.

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

The CTK FOS Faith Formation Mother Daughter

Retreat @ Holy Cross Parish Hall, Georgetown 1:30 to 4:00 p.m.

Student Parliament Speeches and Gotcha Assembly

and Spirit Day 10:45 a.m.

System

Track & Field Meet & Special Olympics

(Corpus Christi C. S.S.) Rain Date

Active Chef Session

after school

Roots of Empathy 9:45 a.m.

Grade 1 trip to Springridge Farms,

9:30 – 12:00

Pizza Lunch

Grade 8 Ottawa Trip

Kindergarten and Grade 1 trip to visit Church

Gr. 7 Therapy Dog Visit

Grade 8 Ottawa Trip

Kindergarten Teddy Bear Picnic with

Reading Buddies

Grade 8 Ottawa Trip

Junior Science Olympics

Youth and Family

Mass St. Joseph

Parish Mass at 5:00 p.m.

BBQ Pig Roast after

(Please pre-purchase tickets after Mass Sunday 5

th May)

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

Father’s Day

National Aboriginal Day

Gr. 6 and 7 Therapy Dog Visit

Active Chef Session after school

Summer Solstice

Summer starts at 6:34 p.m.!

Gr. 8 Grad Rehearsal (gym)

Kindergarten Visit to Library (Mrs. Crowe/Mrs. Wells class)

Sub Sandwich Lunch (Last day for Hot Lunch)

Grade 3 Mass @ Church

Kindergarten Visit to Library (Mrs. Flood/Mrs. Cookson’s

class)

Kinder Play Day

Gr. 8 Grad Mass St. Joseph Church 9:00 a.m.

Gr. 8 Graduation Ceremony

6:30 p.m.

Grade 6 Trip to Mountsberg Conservation

Pita Pit Lunch (last day)

Last Day for Milk Program

Acton Library Summer Reading Presentations

1:00 p.m.

St. Joseph Parish

Mass at 5:00 p.m.

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

Talent Show 1:15 p.m. (dress rehearsal 10:45)

Gr. 8 Grad Luncheon

SK Graduation 1:45 p.m.

Report Cards sent home.

End of Year Mass

School Gym, 10:00 a.m.

Report Card

Response Form (pg. 3) due at school

Year End Assembly

Last Day of Classes. Dismissal at

2:00 p.m.

Our School Trustee: John Mark Rowe, 1-800-741-8382 x7186 email: rowem@hcdsb.org 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.)