Sir John A. Macdonald Middle School

250 Centre Street, Brampton ON, L6V 2R4

905-457-5535 Mrs. K. Flear, Office Manager Mrs. R. Manners, Principal Mrs K. Dhillon, Vice-Principal

 

September 2013

Message from the Principal and the Vice Principal

Welcome to Sir John A. Macdonald MS! Bienvenue à tous!A new school year brings many hopes and aspirations. As students begin their journey of learning with us, we will make every attempt to support students in many different areas – academic, athletic and most importantly in character building. Students will have many opportunities to demonstrate and build their skill sets thanks to our talented and committed staff members! The Office staff and the Custodial staff put forth a great effort to get the school ready for all of us and we will work hard at promoting citizenship at all times so that students can take ownership of their environments.The student agenda will provide a lot of information about the school as well as procedures that will impact your child/ren. Please read the information carefully.

Dates to Remember 

Date EventThursday September 19 School Council Meeting (6-7p.m.)Thursday September 26 Terry Fox Run all afternoon

School Open House (6p.m.-7p.m.)Friday, September 27 Gr. 7 Hep B/Meningitis

Gr. 8 Girls HPV ShotsMonday September 30 Photo Day

Monday, October 7 Babysitting Course starts (11:35-12:35)Friday, October 11 Ministry Day (no school)

Monday October 14 Thanksgiving (no school)Thursday October 31 Progress Reports Go Home

Dropping off lunches & school work?Please make sure your child’s name & class are written or attached to the item. A table is located outside the office to place your child’s lunch for pickup at lunchtime.

If Your Child Will be Absent or Late from SchoolA reminder to parents to call the school to notify us if your child will be absent or late from school. If a child is absent or arrives late without parental notification (phone call or note), you will receive an automated phone call from the school.

Student Information SheetsStudent Information sheets (OSOR) will be sent home in a few weeks. Please ensure all information is accurate and updated. If there are any changes, please send the form back to your child’s teacher with all corrected information as soon as possible.

Welcome to new staff members:Our warm welcome is extended to the following new staff members at Sir John A. Macdonald- Mr. Marentette, Ms Borsato, Mr. Goel, Ms Smereczynsky,Ms Rawes, Mr. Jeffery, Mrs Marentette (LTO), Mrs. Uppal (LTO) and Mr. P. McClung.

Farewell to former Staff members:At the end of June, we bid farewell to the following staff members who have moved on to other schools:Mr. Hepworth (Acting Vice-Principal), Mrs. Balagopal, Mrs. Dheer,Ms Marinovic, Ms P. Stansfield (retired), Mr. Dobbie, Mr. Martin, Ms Tsatsos, Ms Binsky & Mr. Bacchus.

A Warm Welcome To Our Staff of 2013-2014

Sir John A. Macdonald

Ms Alexis, 8AMrs. Borsato, 6D

Mrs. Carlone, MusicMr. D. Cooper, 7H (Extended French)

Mrs. R. Cooper, LibrarianMrs. Dhillon, V.P.Ms. Dorani, 7D

Mr. Downer, Assistant CustodianMrs. Dwyer, 7X8/GLD

Mrs. Flear, Office ManagerMr. Goel, 6E (STAC)

Ms. Holmes, 6AMrs. Houliston, BTA

Mr. Jeffery, ASDMs. Kandola, Phys.EdMs. Kunica, GuidanceMr. Lapiccirella, 7B

Mr. Leung, Art/ComputersMs. Leworthy, T.A.

Mr. Lindsay, LA/ISSPMs. Lochrie (Maternity Leave)

Mrs. Manners, PrincipalMr. Marentette, 8B

Mrs. Marentette, ISSP/LAMr. N. McClung, ELCMr. P. McClung, T.A.

Mrs. Mitchell, 6BMr. Morgadinho, ESL

Mrs. Morrison, Office AssistantMr. Nanitelamio, 7G (Extended French)Ms. Narinesingh 8F (Extended French)

Ms. Ogurian, 7AMs. O’Neill, T.A.

Mrs. Pavlovic, CustodianMrs. Piwowar, 8C

Ms. Rawes, 8DMr. Redmond, 7F (Extended French)

Mrs. Ridley, ISSPMr. Robb, Phys. Ed.

Mrs. Rowsell, TAMr. Scallen, 6C

Ms. Smereczynski, 8H (Extended French)Ms. Somanlall, T.A.

Ms. Stansfield, 7E (Extended French)Mrs. Swan, 8G (Extended French)

Mrs. Uppal, 7CMs. Willats, 8E

CODE OF CONDUCTOUR COMMITMENT

Sir John A. Macdonald recognizes that students achieve their best when they feel safe, nurtured, welcomed, engaged, respected and included. We are committed to providing a healthy learning and working environment to support student success. For learning to be successful, schools must be free of negative factors such as bullying, discrimination, intimidation, hateful words and actions as well as physical violence in any form.

One of the Peel board's projects is the implementation of six core character attributes. The attributes are taught in school, but they are also the basis of the Board's working relationships – they help to create a positive climate for learning and working.

We want our staff and students to be:

Caring – showing compassion and kindness towards others Cooperative – working collaboratively with others for a common purpose Honest – being truthful, trustworthy and sincere in your speech and actions Inclusive – treating everyone fairly and equitably Respectful – treating others, yourself and the environment with high regard and value Responsible – being accountable and reliable in your actions and commitments

We believe that parents, the school and community must all work together to help students learn to become responsible members of society being sensitive to the diversity, cultural and special needs of individual students. We must clearly demonstrate respect for social justice and human rights, and promote the values needed to develop responsible members of a democratic society.

The Code of Conduct for Sir John A. Macdonald is aligned with and supports the principles and expectations of the Board’s Human Rights policy (Policy #51) and the Equity and Inclusive Education policy (Policy #54). At all times, this Code should be interpreted to be consistent with the Board’s policies and the Human Rights Code.

OUR CODE OF CONDUCT

The Sir John A. Macdonald Code of Conduct applies to all members of the school community including students, parents and guardians, volunteers, visitors and school staff, whether they are on school property, on school buses, at school-authorized events or activities, or in any other situation that may impact the school climate.

All members of the school community have a responsibility to respect and honour the school Code of Conduct, to behave appropriately and to take responsibility for their own actions.

OUR RESPONSIBILITIES

All members of the school community are expected to: demonstrate honesty and integrity treat one another with dignity, respect and fairness, regardless of their race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnicity,

creed, citizenship, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, ability, socioeconomic status or any other attribute

take appropriate action to help those in need, seeking assistance to resolve conflict constructively and respectfully show proper care and regard for school property and the property of others

Parent and guardian responsibilities include:

taking an active role in their child's education by ensuring their child is prepared for learning including attending school regularly and on time, promptly reporting absences or late arrivals, and ongoing communication with the school

reviewing the school Code of Conduct with their child and helping him/her follow school rules helping their child understand that it is not appropriate to tease or bully others monitoring their child’s Internet use and taking responsibility for his/her behaviour when accessing electronic resources from

home

Student responsibilities include: demonstrating a commitment to learning through punctual and regular attendance, being prepared and ready to learn practicing honesty and integrity by not participating in or encouraging plagiarism and misrepresentation of original work following school rules and taking responsibility for his/her own actions not bringing anything to school or using anything inappropriately that may harm the student or others showing proper care and respect for school and community property, as well as visiting other schools only for school-

related and authorized activities

Staff responsibilities include: helping students achieve to the best of their ability, to develop self-worth and preparing them to become responsible

citizens maintaining order in the school and holding everyone to the highest standard of respectful and responsible behaviour communicating regularly and meaningfully with parents/guardians establishing a range of clear, fair and developmentally appropriate interventions, supports, direct skill instruction and

consequences for unacceptable behaviour including but not limited to homophobia, gender-based violence, sexual harassment and inappropriate sexual behaviour

respond to and report behaviours which may have a negative impact on school climate

BULLYING PREVENTION AND INTERVENTION

We are teaching students to identify bullying behaviour and giving them strategies to deal with, and stop it from happening.

Bullying is typically a form of repeated, persistent and aggressive behaviour directed at another person that is intended to cause (or should be known to cause) fear, distress and/or harm to that person’s body, feelings, self-esteem or reputation. Bullying occurs in a context where there is a real or perceived power imbalance.

Bullying can be based on factors such as size, strength, age, intelligence, peer group power, economic status, social status, religion, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, family circumstances, gender, gender identity, gender expression, race, disability or the receipt of special education. Bullying may include the use of any physical, verbal, electronic (cyber-bullying), written or other means.

When someone experiences or observes bullying behaviour, he/she is expected to report it to a teacher, teaching assistant or school administrator immediately. Bullying behaviour will be dealt with using a progressive discipline approach.

PROGRESSIVE DISCIPLINE

Sir John A. Macdonald encourages, supports and recognizes acceptable behaviour in our students through a variety of positive practices. Progressive discipline is an approach that makes use of a continuum of interventions, supports and consequences, building upon strategies that promote positive behaviours.

We encourage students to take responsibility for their behaviour and to accept the consequences of their actions. A progressive discipline approach will be used to deal with inappropriate behaviour. This may include: oral reminders, review of expectations, contact with parent(s)/guardian(s), written reflection, volunteer services in the school community, conflict mediation and resolution, peer mentoring, and/or referral for support services.

We recognize that each student is a unique individual and that every situation that requires disciplinary action has its own set of extenuating circumstances. All factors that may have affected the student’s behaviour will be considered before progressive discipline is applied. Students who behave inappropriately will receive an age and developmentally appropriate consequence. For a student with special education or disability-related needs, all progressive discipline approaches will be consistent with his/her Individual Education Plan and his/her demonstrated abilities.

Suspension and expulsionSir John A. Macdonald also supports the use of suspension and expulsion for serious incidents as outlined in the Peel District School Board's Safe Schools Policy.

Before considering whether to impose a suspension or make a recommendation for an expulsion, a principal must consider mitigating and other factors.

The behaviours for which a principal may consider suspending a student include: swearing (written or verbal) at a teacher or at another person in a position of authority bullying, including cyber-bullying uttering a threat to inflict serious bodily harm on another person committing an act of vandalism that causes extensive damage to school property possessing alcohol or restricted drugs being under the influence of alcohol committing any act considered by the principal to:

o have a negative impact on the moral tone of the schoolo have a negative impact on the physical or mental well-being of one or more school community memberso be contrary to the school or Peel board Codes of Conduct

Incidents for which a principal will consider recommending to the board's Discipline Committee that a student be expelled include: physically assaulting another person causing bodily harm that requires medical treatment possessing a weapon or using a weapon to cause or to threaten bodily harm to another person trafficking in restricted drugs or weapons giving alcohol to a minor committing robbery committing sexual assault behaviour that:

o is significantly detrimental to the school climate and/or to the physical or mental well being of otherso causes extensive damage to school propertyo causes his/her continued presence at the school to pose an unacceptable risk to other members of the school

communityo demonstrates a pattern of behaviour so inappropriate that the student's continued presence is detrimental to the

effective learning or working environment of otherso demonstrates a persistent resistance to changes in behaviour that would enable him/her to be successfulo is a serious violation of the school or Peel board Codes of Conduct

Students who are suspended or expelled will be given an opportunity to continue their education through educational programs offered by the school board.

DRUGS

The school recognizes the benefits of a smoke-free environment for all persons. By law, smoking is not permitted at Sir John A. Macdonald, on any other board property, on school buses or while attending any school-related event or activity. School property includes cars that are on school grounds and all lands to the edge of the sidewalk or street. The no smoking rule will be enforced within these areas.

Providing tobacco products to anyone under 19 years of age is illegal.

Alcohol and restricted drugs may be addictive and represent a health hazard. Possessing, using, trafficking in, or providing others with restricted drugs and/or alcohol will not be condoned at Sir John A Macdonald, on Peel board property or at any school-related event or activity at any time. Lighters and drug-related paraphernalia that can be used for substance abuse are not permitted on school property.

WEAPONS

Possessing or displaying weapons of any kind, including real, toy or replica, and all other objects that could inflict or threaten bodily harm will not be condoned at Sir John A Macdonald, on any Peel board property or at any school-related event or activity at any time.

DRESS CODE

The standards for school dress at Sir John A. Macdonald are based on common sense and are intended to support the comfort, safety and modesty of all students. There is a strong relationship between neat, clean and appropriate clothing and a positive learning environment.

USE OF TECHNOLOGY

Sir John A Macdonald recognizes the value of using Personal Electronic Devices (PEDs) to enhance 21st Century learning to support curriculum delivery. As such, we embrace the use of PEDs in a respectful and responsible manner, in keeping with the school’s Code of Conduct and the Peel District School Board’s Digital Citizenship Policy #78. The Code of Conduct and academic integrity apply to the use of technology whether students are accessing information from school, home or from a PED.

Students are able to use Board technology and their PEDs for educational purposes in classrooms, libraries, cafeterias/lunchrooms and other areas students gather to do their work, as outlined in the expectations below:

PEDs may be used in the classroom only with permission of a teacher or other staff member. PEDs may be used outside the classroom as long as these devices do not distract from school activities. As a result of bandwidth limitations, downloading or streaming of video content for non-educational purposes is not

permitted. PEDs may only be used to make and/or receive phone calls or texts in the Front Hall unless a teacher or staff member

provides permission to do so elsewhere. Students need to be diligent about safely storing their PEDs. Sir John A Macdonald is not responsible

for lost, stolen and/or damaged PEDs. Keep personal information private (e.g. age, address, phone numbers, usernames, passwords) unless approved by a

teacher and/or a parent. Use good judgment in accessing material on the Internet, and report suspicious concerns to a teacher immediately. Create, display, use and store messages, images and videos appropriately while demonstrating respect, e.g. no cyber-

bullying or using others’ passwords. PEDs may not be used for any communication or for taking photographs/video unless permission is granted by a teacher

or other staff member. Posting photographs and/or images on the Internet (including social network sites) without teacher and/or parent

permission violates the Code of Conduct. With respect to Board technology, never download or install any software without the permission of

your teacher. Do not use Board technology resources to store materials not relevant to educational purposes. Users should not expect privacy with respect to any of their activities when using the Board’s technology resources.

We have clear expectations around the appropriate, respectful use of technology. Inappropriate use of Board technology and/or PEDs may result in discipline or having the use of these services suspended or removed.

BUS TRAVEL

Students are expected to follow the standards of behaviour outlined in the Code of Conduct while they are on the school bus.

Students are required to: be at their bus stop at least five minutes before their pick-up time

go directly to their seats and stay seated follow the bus driver’s instructions and behave appropriately at all times

Students may not: consume food and drinks on the bus fight, swear or cause excessive noise on the bus engage in activities that may endanger the safety of themselves or others

Understanding your child’s Ontario Student Record

The Ontario Student Record (OSR) is an ongoing, confidential record of a student’s education progress. Authorized by the Education Act and protected by the Freedom of Information Act and Protection of Privacy Act, an OSR is established for each student enrolled in an Ontario elementary or secondary school. The record is housed at the student’s current school and moves with the student as they transition from one school to the next. If a student leaves Peel to attend another school in Ontario, the OSR is forwarded to the new school upon request.  If the OSR is not requested or the student leaves Ontario, the OSR is housed in the last Peel school that the student attended.

The OSR contains familiar documents that parents can view at any given time. OSR contents include: biographical data documentation file, containing (if applicable): verification of a custody arrangement, change-of-name

order, placements decisions, suspension letters, psycho-educational assessment report, identification and placement decision letters, and registration forms

information concerning special health conditions name(s) of student’s parent(s) or guardian(s) Ontario Student Transcript (secondary school only) – the cumulative record of a student’s successful

completion of secondary school courses photographs may also be attached record of the student’s accumulated instruction in French as a second language, if applicable report cards school(s) attended

Every student, and parents or guardians of students under 18 years of age have the right to examine the student’s OSR and receive a copy of its contents. Supervisory officers, school administration and teachers may also access a student’s OSR for the purpose of improving the instruction of the student. Written permission is requested for any outside agency or personnel to access the OSR.

Contact your school principal for details of the procedure to review your child’s OSR.

If you would like to learn more about your child’s OSR, visit the Ontario Ministry of Education web site at www.edu.gov.on.ca.

Offence Declaration required for returning volunteers

Parents play an important role in the development and education of their children and in the success of the school community. At Sir John A Macdonald, we welcome and encourage the participation of parents and community members, and are grateful for the countless hours our volunteers contribute throughout the school year.

To volunteer at our school, you must complete a short interview and a criminal record check. A police background check is required for all school volunteers in Ontario. Even if you want to accompany your child on a field trip, you need this background check.

Once you have completed the process, you are on file with the Peel District School Board as being a school volunteer. Beginning this year, all returning volunteers will be mailed an Offence Declaration Form that must be filled out and returned to the board office each year. You will not be able to volunteer with the Peel board until you have returned this form.

If you have any questions about criminal record checks or the offence declaration form, please call the board office at 905-890-1010 ext. 2488.

Getting your questions answered

If you have any questions, concerns or suggestions about your child's education, or about education in general, anyone with the Peel board is happy to help. Here are some of the people who can help you:

If you have specific questions or concerns about the education of your son or daughter, the first person to talk to is your child's teacher. If possible, arrange a personal interview with the teacher to discuss your concerns and attempt to resolve the matter. Your child's teacher or principal can also give you more information about specific strategies being used to monitor your child's progress.

If you need extra help, or have more general questions, your school principal is there to assist. Your school principal can help if you have been unable to resolve the issue with your child's teacher. All curriculum material is available in your child's school.

If you still have unanswered questions or concerns, talk to your superintendent of education.

If you have general questions about curriculum, call Curriculum and Instruction Support Services at 905-890-1010 ext. 2559.

If you have questions about special education programs or services, contact Special Education Support Services at 905-890-1010 ext. 2345.

Of course, your local school trustee is elected to represent your interests and is always ready to hear and discuss your suggestions or concerns. If you don't know the name of your trustee, check the 'Meet your Trustee' section of the board's website at www.peelschools.org.

If you still have questions, please email communications@peelsb.com or call Communication Services at 905-890-1010 or 1-800-668-1146 ext. 2809.

September 2013

Dear Peel District School Board Families:

We all want our students to experience success and we do

this by focussing on their well being as well as their academics. If a student is facing challenges at home or school it influences how they learn, grow and interact with others. Our goal is to help our students. We have a number of resources within our schools and within the community to help students.

One of the organizations we partner with is Peel Children’s Aid, our local Children’s Aid Society whose role it is to support and help strengthen families so children are safe and well. Last year, Peel CAS worked with about 10,000 Peel families who were experiencing stressors and difficulties related to their children. Ninety percent of Peel CAS work is with children and their families.

Peel Children’s Aid is mandated under the provincial Child and Family Services Act to investigate children in need of protection and work with families to keep children safe. This Act has specific requirements which school staff must follow:

School staff do not have a choice if they suspect that a student is or may be in need of protection. Staff must report their suspicions directly and immediately to the Children's Aid Society.

When staff report concerns to Children's Aid, they must also share with them any information about the concern which might otherwise be confidential. We must share information so the Children’s Aid Society can learn more about what is happening and work with families to find solutions, whenever possible.

It is not the school's responsibility to investigate suspicions, evaluate the situation or assign blame.

Staff can be fined $1,000 for failing to report that a student is or may be in need of protection. Staff may also be subject to employment consequences and a provincial offence charge under the Child and Family Services Act.

Our staff are aware and knowledgeable of the signs of child abuse and neglect, and as such, has a legal responsibility to report any suspicions to Children's Aid. It is not necessary for staff to be sure that a student is or may be in need of protection. All that is needed is "reasonable grounds to suspect" abuse or neglect. "Reasonable grounds" is defined as being what the average person would expect given his or her training, background and experience.

The Peel District School Board is fully committed to meeting the legal requirements of the Child and Family Services Act. Staff has the full support of the board in meeting this obligation.

Keeping children safe is a shared responsibility – parents, schools, police, Children’s Aid and all members of the community. At the Peel District School Board, we are committed to the welfare of our students.

Sincerely,

Sir John A. Macdonald School Newsletter 

Schools use many strategies to keep children safe

Peel schools provide a safe environment for staff and students to work and learn. The board has many procedures to ensure safety. To keep students safe, schools use many strategies including:

requiring all parents and visitors to check in at the main office and obtain visitor passes the use of a "buddy system" – students can only leave the classroom if accompanied by

another student (for example, going to the washroom) assigning teachers to supervise inside and outside the school during recesses, before

and after school locking all exteriors doors, including the main entrance, during school hours [elementary

schools only] encouraging staff to regularly review streetproofing skills with students expecting staff and students to report unidentified individuals to the office immediately holding fire drills and "lockdown" rehearsals having evacuation plans in place ensuring that all staff and volunteers have up-to-date criminal record checks working with the police to provide education on street-proofing

We feel that it is important that you also take this opportunity to review safe procedures with your child. Peel Regional Police have provided the following safety guidelines:

Tell your children to never go anywhere with a stranger, not to talk to strangers and never take anything from them. You also have to teach them what a "safe stranger" is in case they need help. A safe stranger includes a police officer, a cashier, a fire fighter.

Develop a "what if" game for children to get them thinking about how they would respond if they felt threatened or afraid.

Know who your children play with and where they go. This includes keeping a list of their friend's addresses and phone numbers.

Do not leave your child in unsupervised locations, such as cars, parks, public washrooms, arenas, malls and plazas, etc.

Teach your children where and how to get help. Go with them on their regularly travelled routes.

Find out where the pay telephones are and show your child how to use 9-1-1 (no coins required).

Your child's body is private. Tell your children that no one may touch the area their bathing suit covers. If someone tries to touch them, they should tell you immediately.

Teach your children to talk to you immediately when someone does anything that makes them feel strange or uncomfortable. Listen when your children are trying to tell you about something that bothers them and provide them with support and understanding.

For more information about safety at your school, review your school handbook or speak to your principal or teacher.

Sir John A. Macdonald School Newsletter 

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Take advantage of our electronic subscription service to automatically receive a list of activities by email on a monthly basis. Subscriptions are sent the last week of the month, plus bonuses throughout the year. Subscribing is easy just visit our website at www.peelschools.org and click on the subscription link under "Quick Links."

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Board highlightsBriefing is a newsletter with highlights of decisions made by trustees at board meetings. It is sent out on the second and fourth Thursday of every month and immediately following any special board meetings.

Job postings for non-teaching staffLearn about each new non-teaching job that is posted on the Peel board's Job Board.

Procedures help keep students safe at school

Peel schools provide a safe environment for students and staff to learn and work. The board has many procedures to ensure safety ¾ including regular fire drills, evacuation plans, criminal record checks for new staff and volunteers and lockdown drills. Together with Peel Police and the Dufferin-Peel Catholic School Board, the board developed a lockdown procedure to help keep schools safe during a potentially serious or violent incident.

Every school will review the key points of the lockdown process with students. We rehearse the drill twice per year to make sure staff and students know what to do if we have to initiate a lockdown.

During the rehearsal, the principal will make an announcement to "initiate lockdown procedure." The school bell will ring continuously for a period of time.

Students and staff inside the school will: go to the closest room, close the door and lock it, if possible turn off the lights and lie down on the floor away from doors and windows remain on the floor quietly until further directions are given

Students and staff outside the school will: move as far away from the building as possible

Sir John A. Macdonald School Newsletter 

remain outside until further directions are given

Depending on the situation, students and staff outside the building may be directed to an evacuation site. When the rehearsal is over, the principal will make another announcement.

During lockdown rehearsals or in a real lockdown situation, students and staff must not use cell phones. Cell phones can create a safety hazard by attracting attention to the area of the school where the phone is being used.

In the unlikely event of an actual lockdown, police ask that parents do not go to the school. For safety reasons, you will not be allowed to enter a school that is in lockdown. In some cases, police will designate a Parent Information Site for you to attend and get up-to-date, accurate information. To find your Parent Information Site or get further details during a real lockdown, visit www.peelschools.org or listen to local media.

If you have any questions about our lockdown drill, or any of the procedures we have in place to keep students and staff safe, please call the school.

Peel board trustees accountable to the communityThe Peel board, like every public school board in Ontario, is governed by a board of trustees. Trustees are elected by public school taxpayers every three years during municipal elections.

The Peel board currently has 12 trustees representing three municipalities:

Stan Cameron email: stan.cameron@peelsb.com Caledon 905-880-1162

Beryl Ford email: beryl.ford@peelsb.com Brampton 7/8 905-793-0800

David Green email: david.green@peelsb.com Brampton 1/3 905-495-4579

Steve Kavanagh email: steve.kavanagh@peelsb.com Brampton 4/5 905-457-3132

Brad MacDonald email: brad.macdonald@peelsb.com Mississauga 2/8 905-593-3547

Janet McDougald,Chair

email: janet.mcdougald@peelsb.com Mississauga 1/7 905-278-1402

Suzanne Nurse,Vice-Chair

email: suzanne.nurse@peelsb.com Brampton 2/6 905-495-3423

Harinder Malhi email: harinder.malhi@peelsb.com Brampton 9/10 416-659-0813

Sue Lawton email: susan.lawton@peelsb.com Mississauga 3/4 905-625-8084

Meredith Johnson email: meredith.johnson@peelsb.com Mississauga 9/10 416-706-9215

Jeff White email: jeff.white@peelsb.com Mississauga 6/11 905-267-0764

Rick Williams email: eric.williams@peelsb.com Mississauga 5 905-814-6180

What do trustees do?

advocate for the needs of the community to other members of the board help members of the community address concerns about the school system set policies in the areas of curriculum, facilities, human and financial resources

Sir John A. Macdonald School Newsletter 

explain the policies and decisions of the board to the community evaluate the board's achievement of its goals and objectives and monitor its implementation

of new policies participate in budget development, approve budget decisions and monitor its progress protect the future of the board by always considering the long-term effects of decisions

Visit www.peelschools.org and check out the ‘Meet Your Trustee’ section to subscribe to board meetingagendas and minutes and read highlights from board meeting.

Protect your kids—and your financesEach year, many of our families spend thousands of dollars when their children are injured at school, on field trips or at home. For pennies a day, this can all be avoided.

The Peel District School Board does not provide accident insurance coverage for student injuries that occur on school property or during school activities—this includes extracurricular sports. If a student is injured, parents are responsible for any costs not covered by provincial health care or their employer's health care plan. Please check with your provider regarding your coverage.

To help protect your family, the Peel board has arranged to have student accident insurance available exclusively through Reliable Life Insurance Company. This program offers a variety of plans and benefits at affordable prices.

The coverage can include: dental expenses, and future costs (resulting from an accident) total and permanent disability paralysis/loss of use of limbs special disability benefits ambulance fees

The provincial health care system does not cover costs which are commonly related to accidents including dental work, ambulance fees, casts and crutches, and physiotherapy. All of these are covered by Reliable Life’s student accident insurance plan.

It is strongly recommended that all families consider this coverage, especially if your child participates in extracurricular activities. Annual plans, which provide 24 hours a day, 365 days a year coverage, range from $13.00 to $31.00 per year. Through the application only you can be covered for the school day only as low as $6.00 per year. Family rates for three or more children are available.

The insurance agreement is between you and Reliable Life Insurance Company.

You can apply for coverage online at www.insuremykids.com. For more information call Reliable Life Insurance Company toll free at 1-800-463-KIDS (5437).

Sir John A. Macdonald School Newsletter 

Join our school council—share your ideas

Every Peel school has a school council—a group focused on helping students succeed. School councils provide a voice for parents and the community and offer advice to the school principal on a number of topics.

We are holding school councils elections on September 25th 2013

If you would like to know more or are interested in joining our council, please contact Rita Manners, the Principal.

How to register at a Peel school  Here’s what you need to know about registering your child for school  Who can attend? The Peel board serves children age 4 and older.  Our schools

Peel has more than 230 elementary and secondary schools. You can find the name and location of your local school by calling our Planning and Accommodation department at 905-890-1010 or 1-800-668-1146, extension 2212.  Where to register

If your family is new to Canada, your child may need an orientation interview to register for school. To assist you with registration, we offer three Welcome Centres. Please call 905-366-8791 to talk to our staff and book your appointment. There is no fee for registration. Documents to bring to registration Proof of child's age

Canadian birth certificate Canadian passport citizenship card/certificate Permanent Resident Card Record of Landing  confirmation of permanent residence work permit refugee permit

 Proof of address

purchase agreement utility bill bank statement/client slip (directly from financial institution) credit card statement federal government forms (e.g. Social Insurance Number, Service Canada documents)

Sir John A. Macdonald School Newsletter 

Ontario driver's licence

Proof of custody – children must live with their parent(s) unless provided documentation supports an alternate living arrangement Proof of immunization – proof that your child has been immunized/vaccinated Missing documents? If you are missing some documents, you can still visit the We Welcome the World Centres, and our staff will help you with all registration requirements. Your child’s first day of school Once the orientation interview is complete, you will get an appointment card with the date your child can start school. Please bring this card with you on your child’s first day, so that he or she can receive a new school schedule to complete the registration process. International students International students attend the Peel Academy for International Students at Clarkson Secondary School. The academy provides a unique, world-class program that integrates students from around the world into the dynamic and welcoming learning environment at Clarkson. International students interested in our program should visit www.studyincanada-peel.ca or call 1-800-668-1179 ext. 1252.

School doors will remain locked during the school dayNew buzzer system as of Sept. 2013

Beginning this September, the front doors of our school will be locked during the school day. This is part of the Safe Welcome program announced by the government in December 2012 for elementary schools in Ontario. As part of this program, portable doors will also be locked during the school day. A letter explaining this program was sent home to all families in June 2013.

We have long had the practice for Peel schools that all outside doors, with the exception of the front door, would be locked during the school day. While we acknowledge that locking doors will not in itself prevent all risks to the safety of students and staff, it is an important step in providing an additional level of security.

A camera and buzzer unit will be installed by the front door and will be linked to a monitor in the main office of the school. Anyone who wishes access to the school once the school day has begun—parents, Peel board staff and visitors—will request entry by pressing the buzzer. Staff in the main office will be able to see and speak to the person, and release the door lock to provide access.

We understand that this new practice will require some adjustment. In particular, you may have to wait briefly at the front door before the buzzer is answered. Also, please note that lunchtime at our school is between 11:36 and 12:36 During this time, students are in the office answering phones and greeting visitors. Students will not release the door lock to provide access to any visitor. Instead, they will answer the buzzer and ask the visitor to wait while they

Sir John A. Macdonald School Newsletter 

locate an adult. Because there may be a delay in providing access during this time, you may wish to choose another time to visit our school.While this new program will lead to changes in routines, we are confident that the increased security it provides will be reassuring to students, families and staff. As a result of this new practice, we ask that parents be patient when waiting to enter the school.

Thank you for your continued support for the safety and well-being of all students and staff in our schools.

Keep your child safe on the Internet

Even without trying, children can come across materials on the internet that are obscene, pornographic, violent, hate-filled, racist or offensive in other ways.

Here are some steps to help you ensure that your children use the internet as safely as possible:

make sure your children understand what sites are appropriate for them keep the computer in a common area of the home like the kitchen or family room discuss the meaning of an ‘unsafe’ site with your children explain to your children what they should do if they reach an unsafe site make exploring new websites a family activity pay attention to the games your children may download or copy look into software or online services that filter out offensive materials or sites

It's important to review safety tips with children regularly. It is possible for children to meet unsafe strangers on the internet. Ensure your child knows the following rules:

never give out personal information (including name, address, phone number, age, school name or location)

never arrange a face-to-face meeting with someone they meet online never use bad language or send mean messages never respond to e-mail messages that make them feel confused or uncomfortable tell an adult immediately if something on the internet makes them feel uncomfortable

11 tips for helping children cope with fears, anxieties

Parents can help children learn techniques to manage anxiety. Here are some tips to try:

Sir John A. Macdonald School Newsletter 

Reduce stress: Excessive stress and tension in your home can have a negative effect on your child. Look for ways to reduce stress by doing calm activities together and deal with conflict as it arises, avoiding raised voices or arguing around children.

Make a routine: A regular routine for meals, homework, quiet time and bedtime can be comforting to an anxious child.

Give consequences: Anxiety does not excuse inappropriate behaviour. It is important to set limits and expectations and follow-through with realistic consequences, rewards and praise. Children are happier when they know what the rules are and what will happen if they break them.

Be supportive: It is difficult for children to face their fears. Don't laugh at your child or minimize your child's fears. Let your child know it is normal to have fears and listen to your upset child and let them know it is okay to talk about feelings. Help your child figure out ways to handle difficult situations. Ask, "How can we make this easier for you?"

Encourage independence: Although it is tempting to do things for your child when they are anxious or fearful, it is much more beneficial to help children learn to do things for themselves and take some risks. By doing this, you will help your child develop the skills and abilities to cope with life. This can include giving your child responsibilities around the house or brainstorming ideas for solving problems. Be supportive but don't take over.

Avoid giving excessive help and reassurance: Giving constant help and reassurance can prevent your child from learning how to cope on his own. Teach your child to answer their own questions and model problem solving for them.

Build self-confidence: Praise your child for their accomplishments in facing their fears. Involve your child in activities that help him feel proud.

Have realistic expectations: It is important your child is taking steps forward, even if they are small steps. Help your child set and achieve goals that can be more easily met, perhaps at a slower pace. Have realistic expectations for your child.

Take care of yourself too: It can be very difficult dealing with an anxious child. Make sure you manage your own reactions and take care of yourself. Remember the basics of eating well, getting enough rest and give yourself permission to take some time off.

Take risks: Model brave behaviour for your child by trying new things together. Anxious children need to try new things and take some risks in order to develop increased confidence and skills.

Avoid avoidance: Anxious children want to avoid things that cause them anxiety. Although this temporarily decreases distress, it also allows fears to grow and can make coping more difficult in the future. It is better to support your child in facing their fears-small steps at a time.

Sir John A. Macdonald School Newsletter 

Source: Anxiety BC website (www.anxietybc.com)

Six steps to help your teen solve problems

Teenagers can get used to sizing up a problem and coming up with commonsense ways to solve it. Here’s a six-step method that works and can be done easily at home by parent and child.

Step 1: What is the problem? —This is a first, often overlooked, step in problem solving. You have to be able to state the problem and, if there’s a conflict, the opposing views. For example: for a teen, it might be whether to go to a certain party; for a parent, whether to ask for a raise.

Step 2: What can be done about it?—This is when you come up with a variety of solutions. Brainstorm as many solutions as possible without judging which ones are better than others. Just keep the ideas coming.

Step 3: What are the good points and bad points of these solutions?—This is when you judge the different solutions. What are the pros and cons of each one? You’re making judgements and assessing the possible solutions, in light of your experience and the way the world works.

Step 4: Making the decision—This is the moment you choose a solution to try. Pick one or perhaps two, based on the decisions made in step 3. Talk about why you selected these solutions.

Step 5: Putting the decision into action—Now you put your decision to the test. In advance, talk about what will happen and what might be expected. What obstacles can you anticipate? What assistance or support can you expect? How can traps be avoided by building on the support?

Step 6: How did it go?—This is the follow-up, the evaluation of your solution. How did it work? What changes must be made in it so that it will work better? It’s possible a decision that sounded good will not work as well in real life.

Visit www.peelschools.org/parents/helpyourchild for more Parent Tip Sheets.

Celebrating Faith and Culture September 2013

DATE CELEBRATION FAITH AND CULTURE

Sir John A. Macdonald School Newsletter 

September Genuuqwilkw Aboriginal SpiritualitySeptember 1 Installation of Guru Granth Sahib SikhismSeptember 2 Labour Day CanadaSeptember 3 Paryushan Parva JainismSunset September 4 to 6 Rosh Hashanah JudaismSeptember 5 Farvardegan ZoroastrianismSeptember 8 to 26 the month of `Izzat Bahá'íSeptember 8 or 9 Ganesh Chaturthi/Vinayak Chauth HinduismSeptember 10 Samvatsari JainismSeptember 10 to 19 Daslakshan Parva JainismSeptember 11 Nayrouz ChristianitySeptember 19 Kshamavani JainismSeptember 12 to 16 Ghambar Paitishahem ZoroastrianismSunset September 13 to 14 Yom Kippur JudaismSeptember 18 Anant Chaturdashi Hinduism and JainismSeptember 19 Powley Day Aboriginal SpiritualitySunset Sept 18 to 24 Sukkot JudaismSeptember 22 Mabon /Harvestide WiccaSeptember 22 Shuki-Sorei-Sai ShintoSunset September 25 to 27 Simchat Torah JudaismSeptember 27 to October 14 the month of Mashi'yyat Bahá'í

Here is the link outlining the fall programs at Peel Children's Centre. 

http://data.logograph.com/PeelCC/docs/Document/11113/Fall%20Groups%202013%20Revised%20v2.pdf

September 2013

Dear Parent,

At the Peel District School Board, everything we do is designed to help each child achieve to the best of his or her ability. Using web 2.0 tools is an essential component of teaching and learning in today’s world. Web 2.0 tools can include Internet sites where users interact and collaborate in online environments, websites where users log in, and/or applications for tablets. The Peel board believes that these online services are key tools in aiding students and teachers in the development of 21st Century teaching and learning skills.

We are notifying you of your child’s possible use of these sites in the coming year.A list of commonly used web 2.0 tools can be found on the board’s BYOD information webpage: http://www.bit.ly/byodparentresources. A link to this webpage can also be found on the school’s website. In addition to information about web 2.0 tools, this BYOD webpage provides a variety of information about the use of technology in our schools to support student learning.

Sir John A. Macdonald School Newsletter 

Please refer directly to the resource’s website for further information. Information submitted to the site is stored on a server in the location identified and users are subject to the laws of that jurisdiction. Please be aware of the requirement of the User Agreement for each site, which will be followed in the school by all users.

IF YOU DO NOT WISH TO PERMIT YOUR CHILD TO ACCESS THESE SERVICES, KINDLY NOTIFY YOUR SCHOOL PRINCIPAL IN THIS REGARD AT YOUR EARLIEST CONVENIENCE.

PLEASE BE ADVISED OF THE FOLLOWING:

These services are beyond the care and control of the Board and that the Board cannot be held responsible for any consequences/misuse of any information posted through these services.

No confidential/personal information should be posted with these services, as any such information may be disseminated.

All users are required to abide by the Board and school’s Code of Conduct and the Board Digital Citizenship policy when using any of these services. If a user engages in any inappropriate or illegal activity while using these services, the user risks discipline and/or having the use of these services suspended or removed.

The user must also abide by any applicable User Agreement in respect of the services.

Board technology resources and all data stored on Board technology are owned and may be accessed by the Board. Data stored on Board technology, including email, electronic files, and information in computer systems, is Board property and may be reviewed, monitored and accessed by authorized individuals, as needed. Data is also subject to relevant legislation and may be accessed through Freedom of Information requests.

A user cannot expect privacy with respect to any activities when using the Board’s computer and/or telecommunication property, systems, or services. Use of passwords or account numbers by users does not create a reasonable expectation of privacy and confidentiality of information being maintained or transmitted. The Board reserves the right to review, retrieve, read, and disclose any files, messages or communications that are created, sent, received, or stored on the Board’s computer systems and/or equipment. The Board’s right to review, also called monitoring, is for the purpose of ensuring the security and protection of business records, preventing unlawful and/or inappropriate conduct, and creating and maintaining a productive work environment.

If policy violations are discovered, this will result in an investigation and necessary action will be taken where appropriate.

The Board cannot be held responsible for any injury to persons or loss of or damage to property of others which may be or be alleged to be caused by or suffered as a result of the provision of or as a result of the use of these services.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR INQUIRIES REGARDING THIS NOTIFICATION, KINDLY CONTACT US AT THE SCHOOL.

Sir John A. Macdonald School Newsletter 

ECLYPSE YOUTH CENTRE 60 WEST DRIVE, SUITE 101, BRAMPTON (905) 790-7707

September 2013

September 2013

September 2013

September 2013 September 2013

2 3 4 5 6

Hair & Spa Program! Guys & Girls (12-24yrs)

Facials, Nails, Hairstyling

Music Production 4-7pm

Step Dance4-6pm

Photography orModern Batik

4-7pm

Photoshop or Visual Arts

4-7pmGuys Domain 5-7pm

AYSP - R.A.I.N. 5-7pm

Drama 4:30-6:30pm

Rec Night4-8pm

9 10 11 12 13

Hair & Spa Program! Guys & Girls (12-24yrs)

Facials, Nails, Hairstyling

4-7pm

Music Production 4-7pm

Step Dance4-6pm

Photography orModern Batik

4-7pm

Photoshop or Visual Arts

4-7pmGuys Domain 5-7pm

*Substance Abuse 4-5pm*AYSP - R.A.I.N. 5-7pm

Drama 4:30-6:30pm

Rec Night4-8pm

16 17 18 19 20

Hair & Spa Program! Guys & Girls (12-24yrs)

Facials, Nails, Hairstyling

4-7pm

Music Production 4-7pm

Step Dance4-6pm

Photography or Modern Batik

4-7pm

Photoshop or Visual Arts

4-7pmGuys Domain 5-7pm

AYSP - R.A.I.N. 5-7pm

Drama 4:30-6:30pm

Rec Night4-8pm

23 24 25 26 27

Hair & Spa Program! Guys & Girls (12-24yrs)

Facials, Nails, Hairstyling

4-7pm

Music Production 4-7pm

Step Dance

Photography orModern Batik

4-7pm

Photoshop or Visual Arts

4-7pmGuys Domain 5-7pm

AYSP - R.A.I.N. 5-7pm

Drama 4:30-6:30pm

Rec Night4-8pm

30

Hair & Spa Program! Guys & Girls (12-24yrs)

Facials, Nails, Hairstyling

Hours of OperationMonday – Friday1:00pm – 8:00pm

CONTACT INFOYouth Workers:

Lisa Bertinlbertin@rapportyouth.com

Sarah Francoissfrancois@rapportyouth.co

mPhone: 905 790 7707

Follow Useclypsebramalea.tumblr.com

All Services Are FREE!