Gordon Price January Updates

Upcoming Dates

• Tuesdays – NB #2 Popcorn Sales $2.50/bag (Kernels)
• Wednesdays – NB #2 Pizza Day (Pre-orders only)
• January 14th – School Council Meeting (on MS Teams – see link sent via Messenger)
• January 23^rd  – School Spirit Day (Wear a Colour That Matches Your Emotions)
• January 24^th – P.D. Day (No school for students)

January 14^th School Council Meeting: Our School Council meeting is taking place this month on MS Teams, instead of in the school library. All are still welcome to attend – if interested, please join us virtually by accessing the meeting through the link sent via email.

School Spirit Day: On Thursday, January 23^rd, our school will host a special “Wear Your Emotions” spirit day! This unique event encourages students and staff to express their feelings through colorful outfits and accessories. Whether you’re feeling joyful, calm, energetic, or reflective, there’s a colour to match your mood. This day is all about celebrating our diverse emotions and fostering a supportive, understanding community. Join us in wearing your heart on your sleeve and showing your school spirit in a vibrant, meaningful way!

Personal Electronic Device Expectations:  Personal Electronic Devices such as iPads/tablets and cell phones are permitted to be used by students at school for educational purposes only. These electronic devices may be used with permission and supervision of the classroom teacher.  Electronic devices may not be used during nutrition breaks.

Students are responsible for storing all personal electronics securely in their lockers during instructional time, when not in use.  If a student is discovered to have an electronic device in the classroom and is using it inappropriately or without permission, they will be instructed to put the device away. Repeated offences will result in PEDs being confiscated and stored in the office for pick-up.

Cellular phones must remain off and in the student’s locker at all times during the school day unless being used for instructional purposes. Use of cell phones for phone calls and/or texting is not permitted at Gordon Price School.  Given that we are an elementary school it is vitally important for student safety and our accountability, that all necessary calls be directed through school staff and the office.

Personal iPad and cell phone cameras are not for school use. There are some students at our school without consent to photograph.  Distribution of photos may jeopardize student safety and security. All photos taken by school/board staff are screened prior to publishing and/or sharing.

Thanks in advance for your support in reviewing these expectations with your children at home as well.

Gordon Price Staff

 Cold Weather and Winter Dress:  Time spent outdoors is an integral part of the school day. There are great benefits when children experience fresh air, exercise and time spent outside. Outdoor play is also a break from the structure of the classroom.

During winter, it’s important that children come to school prepared for the cold. Students should wear boots, mittens/gloves and hats and it’s a good idea to pack extra mittens, socks, etc. in case they are needed. Students should also have an extra pair of indoor shoes to change into at school. Boots must be removed once students enter. Boots carry in snow and ice and cause floors to become wet and slippery when left on. Please help us avoid unnecessary injury by ensuring that your child brings an extra pair of shoes to school. We appreciate your support in reinforcing appropriate dress with your children.

Principals can always use their judgment to decide whether to send students outside during Nutrition Breaks. However, HWDSB asks Principals to follow the City of Hamilton recommendation that individuals stay inside when the temperature is at or below minus 15 degrees Celsius. Questions or concerns regarding winter outdoor play should be directed to the school Principal.

Severe Weather Information and Protocols:  As we enter the colder winter months, it is helpful to know our school board protocols around inclement weather cancellations, snow clearing, and cold weather at schools. For more information, please on the following link: Severe Weather | Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board (hwdsb.on.ca).

School Council: Our next School Council Meeting is taking place on Tuesday, February 11^th at 6:30 pm in the Gordon Price Library – all are welcome to attend. Hope to see you there!

V. Prpa

Principal