Transition Committee Meeting for Gatestone and Shannen Koostachin – April 23, 2024

Dear Families,

I want to update you on Transition Committee planning for Gatestone and Shannen Koostachin elementary schools.

As you will recall, HWDSB Trustees approved the final report for the Gatestone and Shannen Koostachin Boundary Review in February 2024. Click here to find a summary on the Boundary Reviews webpage.

The decision will be implemented for September 2024. HWDSB staff will continue monitoring enrolments at Gatestone and Shannen Koostachin elementary schools to support the safety and well-being of students and staff in these school communities.

Additional monitoring will be done through ongoing site visits and regular discussions with Facility Services staff, Principals and School Councils. Monitoring items include, but are not limited to:

· Health and Safety concerns

· Program delivery effectiveness

· Placement of portables

· Traffic or parking concerns in collaboration with City of Hamilton

A Transition Committee is now being formed, with a focus on best supporting students, staff, families and community members through the changes. The Transition Committee represents the community and provides recommendations, but final decisions are made by the Principal and Superintendent. Click here to learn more about Transition Committees.

Students, staff, families and community members are invited to observe the first Gatestone and Shannen Koostachin Transition Committee meeting. Please see below for details:

· Gatestone and Shannen Koostachin Transition Committee – Meeting #1

· Tuesday, April 23 at 5 p.m.

· Gatestone Elementary School Library

At this session, attendees can learn about the final report for the Gatestone and Shannen Koostachin Boundary Review, the purpose of the committee and upcoming plans. If you would like to request an interpreter, please contact your school Principal.

All Transition Committee meetings are open to the public to observe, however, public members are only able to share questions and recommendations in advance of the meeting. You can do so by contacting your school Principal or the School Council members of the Transition Committee for each school.

We look forward to seeing you! If you have any questions or want more information, please contact your elementary school office.

Thank you,
Gerry Smith HWDSB Superintendent of Student Achievement, Family of Schools 1