The Eagle’s Tale oakridge.dsbn.org

Oakridge School Newsletter

December 2014

November was a busy month! Much time was spent as a staff discussing and learning about effective math instruction. On our PA day, we were engaged in various activities which helped move our thinking forward. Effective math instruction acknowledges the essential fact that students learn math through “...doing, talking, reflecting, discussing, observing, listening, and reasoning” (Copley, 2000). It also encourages students to use problems and contexts to investigate mathematics and develop understanding. Our teachers are working towards this. Watch this online video if you have a chance, http://vimeo.com/110807219. The Ontario curriculum is based on “...the belief that students learn mathematics most effectively when they are given opportunities to investigate ideas and concepts through problem solving and are then guided carefully into an understanding of the mathematical principles involved. At the same time, it promotes a balanced program in mathematics. The acquisition of operational skills remains an important focus of the curriculum.” The Ontario Curriculum, Grades 1 to 8: Mathematics, 2005. As part of our School Improvement Plan, teachers are working towards helping students develop computational fluency and mental math strategies. Principles and Standards for School Mathematics states, "Computational fluency refers to having efficient and accurate methods for computing. Students exhibit computational fluency when they demonstrate flexibility in the computational methods they choose, understand and can explain these methods, and produce accurate answers efficiently. The computational methods that a student uses should be based on mathematical ideas that the student understands well, including the structure of the base-ten number system, properties of multiplication and division, and number relationships" (pg. 152). A student cannot be fluent without conceptual understanding and flexible thinking. One method for helping students develop their computational fluency is the teaching of math 'strings'. A string is a structured sequence of four to seven related computations that are designed to elicit a particular mental computational strategy (Guide to Effective Instruction pg.29). Strings are one way that teachers help students build automaticity of their math facts. Practicing daily on Dreambox and Prodigy are extremely important for students as well. Finding the time for your children to access these computer resources at home will help them to develop their skills. We want to engage all of our students in math so that they will become mathematicians. This is one of our school goals for this year. As a staff, we would like to wish our families a very happy holiday season. All the best, as you celebrate with your family and friends. Mrs. L. Klassen Principal

Winter Break December 22nd 2014 to

January 2nd 2015

Return to School:

January 5th’ 2015

BULLYING AWARENESS The week of November 17-21st marked the province of Ontario’s observation of Bullying Awareness and Prevention Week. Oakridge has ignited the engagement of students and highlighted the importance of a positive school climate with the celebration of Pink Shirt Day. The goal of Pink Shirt Day is to continue fostering acceptance among school community members and enhance awareness of the harmful effects of bullying at school. To show our solidarity, each student composed a “Pink Shirt Pledge”. Students were asked to address the following questions when writing their pledge: “What are students committing to by wearing a pink shirt?” and “How do we make the key message of Pink Shirt Day happen every day in our school?” Why is this important? The problem of bullying in schools is no longer viewed as a natural form of child's play. It is now understood as harmful behaviour with negative consequences. Bullying is part of a web of unhealthy relationships affecting children, and all of us throughout our lives and in all parts of society. We know that as parents and guardians, we care deeply about our children and that we want to do everything we can to help ensure their safety and well-being. The good news is that there is a great

deal we can do, at home, in collaboration with our school and in the community to untangle this web and help ensure that our young people are able to flourish and reach their full potential. Please check out the link below to the guide that can offer strategies for parents and guardians so that we can feel more confident taking an active and positive part in doing so. Parent information available online at: http://copahabitat.ca/en We look forward to February 25th, the official DSBN Pink Shirt day!

CHOCOLATE BAR FUNDRAISER This week we wrap up our Chocolate Bar fundraiser. Please send in the money envelopes by

Friday so that your child can be entered into the draws for prizes. Thank you to all that participated as well as to those that donated in lieu of taking a box. Your support is greatly appreciated and makes a big difference.

JUNIOR BOYS' VOLLEYBALL

Congratulations to the Junior Boys Volleyball Team on winning the Consolation Championship. This year, Oakridge was represented by: William L. Dustin N. Ben A. Garrett M. Charlie E. Timothy S. Riley W. Youssef A. Christian B. Sagar P. David S. Saurin P. Liam P. Subigya P. Great Season, boys! Mr. Game INTERMEDIATE BOYS’ VOLLEYBALL Our boys had another fantastic season making it to the league finals and DSBN semi-finals, the boys played tough in both but unfortunately lost 2 hard fought battles. Great job to the following players: Henry A. Jacob W. A.J. C. Sam R. Max H. Connor J. Hayden J.Ryan G. Ryan D. Yazeed A. Brendan B.

T.N.S. – Throw No Snow! For the safety of ALL of our students, Oakridge has a “throw no snow” policy on the playground. This policy will be STRICTLY enforced.

WINTER OUTERWEAR Please review appropriate winter dress with your child/children. Remember, to label all items that your child wears or brings to school. At this time of year, it’s also essential students have a pair of indoor shoes to wear to avoid tracking snow, ice and mud into our school.

INTERMEDIATE GIRLS’ VOLLEYBALL What a phenomenal run!

The intermediate girls’ volleyball team recently completed their successful year of competition. They went undefeated in regular season play, participated in the John Haeni Classic tournament, where they competed in the semi-finals. They were also champions of the E.L. Crossley Invitational tournament and went on to win the DSBN championship for the “A” division. The girls made great progress during the year. Their dedication and effort propelled them to success. They persevered numerous times during the year to help them win many games. They consistently showed respect for their opponents and participated with sportsmanship. We are so very proud of you girls! Mrs. Gula Mr. Whidden Members of the 2014-15 Oakridge Eagles intermediate girls volleyball team: Kelsey B. Claire H. Jenny C. Julia B. Kaiah I. Olivia N. Kit W. Katie K. Jessalyn R. Cassie W.

Vida H. Romina G.

OAKRIDGE ARTS This month is a busy one. On December 12th the choir is going to sing at the Pen at 11:00. What an exciting way to share the work they have been doing on the Nutcracker. Our production of the Nutcracker is in just a few short weeks. December 16th at Sir Winston you will have the opportunity to see what we are working on. Students are learning about Tchaikovsky's ballet and will be performing their own twist on the classical masterpiece. For admission to the concert, please bring in a new unwrapped toy or a pair of mittens or hat per family. Items will be taken to Community Care. On December 18th we are heading to Niagara Falls to see the Wizard of Oz. What a great way to see the 2014 school calendar wrap up. One more day of school after the musical and the staff and students get to say "There's no place like home"!

Our monthly assembly will be held on Thursday, Dec ember 4th, at 11:30. It will be presented by Mrs. Kennedy’s class and Mr. Beaman’s class.

PARKING LOT

Please be reminded that our front parking lot is for the use of staff and visitor parking only. Students are not to be dropped off or picked up at the beginning or the end of the day in this area.

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November was a great month at Oakridge! It was busy and fun at the same time. We had a very successful jersey day, with great team spirit shown by every class! We also had a fantastic anti-bullying week, with great pink t-shirt pledges from each class, followed up by an awesome pink day!

Throughout this month, Mr. Beaman, Mr.Game, Mr. Hanna, and Mr. Whidden wore their best moustaches in support of

Movember. The school voted for the best moustache... and the winner was Mr. Beaman! Thanks to all the participation we had, so many cool moustaches on moustache day. Looking forward to December, we have many fun activities planned. During the final week before break, we will be having a fun-filled spirit week.

Disney Day: Monday December 15 -dress up as your favorite Disney character. Ugly Christmas Sweater Day: Tuesday December 16- wear the ugliest Christmas sweater you can find. Wizard of Oz Day: Wednesday December 17- In celebration of the performance at the Scotiabank Centre. Red, White and Green Day: Thursday December 18- to celebrate the holiday season P.J. Day: Friday December 19- School dress code in effect.

HEALTHY ACTIVITY

Did you know that Canadian children/youth ages 6 - 19 spend an average of 8.6 hours/day, or 62% of their waking hours, being sedentary? Here are some ways to help your children meet the recommended 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity each day: Limit recreational screen time to no more than two hours per day. Encourage children and youth to play outdoors. Play outside with your children: Go for walks, hikes, build snowmen, and go tobogganing Introduce your child to skates or skis so they can learn to slide. Play catching games using a wide range of soft objects. For more information: www.activehealthykids.ca or www.participaction.com

We understand that sometimes students need to be picked up early from school for various reasons. If this is the case, please write a note to your child's teacher letting them know the time they are to be excused and the reason. It is

important that these arrangements be made before the school day begins. The afternoon is a very busy time in our office and it’s difficult for us to get a message to your child when you are calling at the end of day. Thank you for your cooperation in this matter.

STUDENTS OF THE MONTH-RESPONSIBILITY FDK1 Brody S., Katharine D. FDK2 Maria F., Rylan K. 1 / 2 Cole L., Capri T. 2 / 3 Noah R., Emma P. 3 / 4 Thomas A., Tabitha H., Emily F. 5 /6 Alex J., Alexa P., Will

LePage, Mackenzie M. 7 / 8 B Ryan D., Olivia N., Frank W. 7 /8 H Hayden J., Griffen M., Thomas B., Katie R. 8F1 Kate B., Steeley E., Abby M. 8F2 Samantha S., Kaiah I., Cassie P.

French Immersion Registration

The French Immersion program (offered at French Immersion sites) is open to all students in Senior Kindergarten. If you want your child to develop a high proficiency and fluency in Canada’s two official languages, French Immersion has a great deal to offer. FEATURES OF THE FRENCH IMMERSION PROGRAM:

Development of French language skills in speaking, listening, reading and writing from grades one

to twelve;

Designed to be a second language program for children whose first language is NOT French;

Current enrolment of over 2,000 elementary students;

Certificate of French Immersion Studies awarded upon successful completion of the elementary and

secondary Immersion program;

Promoting understanding of different cultures;

Providing additional opportunities for employment using French as the working language;

An increased ability to communicate and interact with confidence in French.

Registration will open January 5th, 2015 at 12:00 p.m. and will close February 17th, 2015 at 9:00 a.m. For more information about French Immersion in the District School Board of Niagara visit www.dsbn.org/fi or speak to your school principal. Parent Information evening sessions will be held in January. Parent Visitations to the Grade 1 French Immersion classrooms will occur during designated daytime hours if desired. *N.B. – With recent revisions to the French Immersion program at the DSBN, McKay Public School in Port Colborne, is the only site accepting Grade 4 entry registrations. Please note, beginning September 2016, the DSBN will be a single entry program with French Immersion starting only in Grade 1.

St. Catharines (Central & South) and Thorold Jeanne Sauve Public School (Grade 1 entry)

1) Parent Information Night:

Wednesday, January 7, 2015 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

2) Grade 1 French Immersion Classroom Visits (if desired):

Thursday, January 8, 2015 9:45 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. & 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, January 14, 2015 9:45 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. & 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, January 20, 2015 9:45 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. & 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m..

AN IMPORTANT MESSAGE ABOUT INCLEMENT WEATHER PROCEDURES

There may be times during the school year where inclement weather or other situations could cause transportation cancellations or school closures. At times when student transportation has been cancelled and schools remain open, the decision of whether or not to have children in school on that day rests with the parent or guardian.

Should you decide not to send your child to school in the event that transportation is cancelled but schools remain open, or if your child is ill or late, please ensure that you call your child’s school to inform them of your child’s absence. A key resource in any emergency is the DSBN Emergency Information form that you filled out at the beginning of the school year. Please let the school know of any changes in contact information or procedures you wish to be followed throughout the school year. For secondary schools it may become necessary to cancel late buses. Notice will be provided via school announcements and on the websites and subscription features by 11:30 a.m. Information about transportation cancellations and school closures will be available as soon as it is available through the following channels: Websites: www.dsbn.org www.nsts.ca Subscription Features: DSBN Facebook or Twitter NSTS Transportation Delay or Cancellation Alerts Phone: Niagara Student Transportation Services 905-346-0290 Voice Auto Attendant Radio Stations:

CKTB (610 AM) St. Catharines CHRE (105.7 FM) St. Catharines

WAVE (94.7 FM) Hamilton CHTZ-FM (97.7 FM) St. Catharines

CKOC (1150 AM) Hamilton CKEY (105.1 FM) Niagara Falls/Fort Erie

CHML (900 AM) Hamilton K-LITE-FM (102.9 FM) Hamilton

CHAM (820 AM) Hamilton GIANT FM (91.7 FM) Welland

Y-108(107.9) Hamilton

Television Stations:

CHCH – Hamilton CTV Toronto

CityTV Breakfast Television Cogeco Channel 10