Principal Update Feb 15

Hello,

The weather continues to be a challenge this week. In addition to the closure days, the school grounds have been heavily impacted by the weather. A huge thank you to our caretaking and HWDSB Facilities staff who have worked hard to keep the building operational in some difficult circumstances. Unfortunately the ice on the playground has required recess to be indoors. Hopefully the weather cooperates a bit more in the coming weeks.

On Thursday, the power went out in much of the Meadowlands neighbourhood and impacted the school. Just so families are aware, schools can continue to operate without electrical power but the situation is monitored closely. During the power outage, students stay in homerooms with a teacher. Staff constantly monitor the hallways. The school is also in constant communication with Board-level staff to monitor the situation. The priority is always on student safety. Yesterday the power outage lasted just over an hour.

Today the school practice our second Lockdown drill of the year. Our Liaison Officer from Hamilton Police was present from the drill.  Our staff and students did a great job.

Another aspect of student safety is related to the pick up and drop off times. The school can focus on safety on the school property but all members of the community are responsible for safe driving around the school. Please follow the posted road signs. There is no parking/ stopping in front of the school and around the crosswalk, please do not use these areas for drop off or pick up. This is for the safety of all students and every driver has a responsibility.

Some important upcoming dates:

Mon Feb 18 – Family Day (no school)

Tues Feb 26 – School Council (6:30pm) and Home & School (7:30pm)

Fri Mar 1 – PA Day (no school for students)

Our School Council has received a provincial Parent Reaching Out grant to develop a parent resource lending library. They have a quick online survey to gather parent input on potential useful resources. Please take a moment to complete it https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/9HPQJF3

Report cards went home yesterday, it is an important midyear check in of student progress. Please feel free to contact your child’s teacher if there are any questions or concerns.

Have a great Family Day weekend.

Simon Goodacre, Principal