Mary Hopkins News – June 6

Hello Families,

We understand there are a lot of mixed emotions regarding the announcement of the extended school closure. Our staff is committed to continuing to engage our students in remote learning.  Please communicate with your child’s teachers if they need an individualized approach to support this engagement.  We are here to support families.

It has been a heavy news week for Canadians.  In our classrooms, teachers often use books as a way to start discussions, as they help to provide age-appropriate context and language.  For families looking to support conversations at home around Canada’s residential schools, we have included a few book links as starting points.

Kids – Indigenous History: Books for Families and Children – Hamilton Public Library – OverDrive
Indigenous Reads – Early Years Books | Hamilton Public Library | BiblioCommons
10 books about residential schools to read with your kids | CBC News

June marks Pride Month.  Mary Hopkins along with all schools in HWDSB is raising the Pride flag.  We do this as part of our commitment to creating a community of care where all staff, students and families feel safe, accepted and supported.  The Hamilton Public Library has many lists and resources that parents can choose from to support conversations.  Included is a link as a starting point. Kids – Celebrate Pride – Hamilton Public Library – OverDrive

Need Assistance – Parents can reach out by phone or email during regular office hours.  Our phones and email will be monitored remotely.  Messages will be returned in a timely manner.