Reminders for Balaclava Families

Parents are reminded to use the school messenger app to report all absences, lates and excused early absences.   The new app allows you to report upcoming absences.   Please do not leave a message on the school answering machine or message any staff directly as the new HWDSB process is reporting all absences using the school messenger app.  Thank you for helping make our school a safe place to be.  Instructions for the school messenger app was included in your September package. 

Please be advised that we have students and staff in our school with LIFE THREATENING allergies to peanuts, foods containing peanut products, or tree nuts.  We would therefore ask that you send your child to school with snacks and a lunch that is free of nuts and peanut products (e.g., peanut butter, Nutella, granola bars, etc.)  Even the tiniest amount of peanut or nut products entering the body (e.g. touching a surface with traces of nut oils) of those who are allergic can produce very strong reactions.  Their faces swell, they break out in hives, and their throats swell and tighten.  Immediate medical treatment is required or they could die within minutes.  A quick review of a product’s ingredient list usually can answer any questions you may have as most foods now list whether they contain peanuts/nut products in them or not. 

This allergy is a physical condition that someone can be born with or, similar to bee allergies, can develop quickly into a potentially lethal allergic reaction.  It is a condition that requires understanding, respect, and a generous spirit.  Our lives may be inconvenience by the existence of these necessary protocols.  The individual with the allery’s life is and always will be, dictated by it.

Reminder September Packages are due at the office Friday, September 13, 2019.