williams parkway happenings · 15th, 2016. the junior band is learning jingle bells and majestic...

1285 Williams Parkway Brampton Ontario, Canada, L63 3J8

Phone: 905-791-4324 Fax: 905-791-8861

Principal: Scott Moody Vice-Principal: Teralyn Phipps

Williams Parkway

Happenings

October, 2016

This month our Panthers came together to help out the community in several

ways. We also had exciting learning opportunities within the school. The UNICEF

organization was supported through our “Toonie Tuesday” initiative for Hurricane

Matthew and by selling snacks at the Halloween dance. We collected non-

perishable food items during Thanksgiving for a local food bank. Workshops for

kids such as Scientists in the School and Drama were provided for students.

Finally, we ended the month in a fun way celebrating Halloween.

Williams Parkway Helps Make a Difference

300 schools damaged, 100,000 children's education suspended, and damages

costing nearly 4 billion dollars, this is the outcome of Hurricane Matthew. On

October 4th 2016, Hurricane Matthew as a category 5 struck Haiti, Cuba,

Dominican Republic, and Jamaica. This caused devastation for 1.4 million

people, which is why our school accepted donations to help these countries.

100% of the money collected went to UNICEF to support this cause. “It didn’t

matter how much was donated, just to make a difference and let the

community be aware of this situation would be great”, stated Mrs. Phipps our

Vice Principal. This is an amazing effort. Great job Williams Parkway!

Thanksgiving Food Drive/Halloween Dance Supports UNICEF

Thank you to everyone who contributed to our annual Thanksgiving food drive!

Your generosity is appreciated. We were able to help provide a meal to local

commuity members duing a special time of giving. Students had a chance to

particpate in a Halloween dance or games room on Oct 31. Snacks and pizza

were sold with proceeds going to benefit the UNICEF organization. Great job

Panthers helping one another.

WP Community Outreach

“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give”, said Sir

Winston Churchill. The Community Outreach group allows our grade 6 students

to have the opportunity to give back to their community and show their

appreciation by going to their local community agencies and helping out. Any

Grade 6 students are welcome to join Ms. Lowe to help out at senior homes,

homeless shelters, animal shelters, soup kitchens and helping special needs

children monthly. Throughout this year, there will be many great opportunities to

give back to our very own neighborhood. In the past, WP has volunteered at the

Tall Pines Long Term Care Centre which is a commonly known retirement home

in Brampton. “It is a wonderful learning experience for you to feel good about

helping others in your community”, commented Mrs. Lowe. Students also learn

valuable life experiences, which they may add to their resume. It is a great

opportunity where one can take on a leadership role. This is the perfect way to

help those in need, appreciate all of what we have been provided with, and


Phone: 905-791-4324 Fax: 905-791-8861


create new experiences and skills. Students are encouraged to participate in

these various activities throughout the year.

Leadership/Mentorship at WP

This year the Leadership Students had an astonishing presentation by a former

WP student, Chris Skidmore. Chris talked about being a student at Williams

Parkway, and also how he persuaded his dream to become a professional

golfer. Currently Chris is a professional golfer who works at Magna Golf Club

located in Aurora, Ontario. In his presentation he talked about the main key

values (respect, leadership, structure, relationship skills). A quote by Chris, “ If you

just follow these simple key values, you will always be successful in life”. Although

it was difficult at times for Chris to succeed in his career he followed his passion

and was confident, and finally became what he wanted to be. He is a great

role model for our students to follow.

Mentorship Group Trip to Finlayson Field Center

At Williams Parkway we aim to help our Grade 6 students transition to middle

school. The mentorship program is a team of grade 8 students who help grade

6’s with their daily necessities and in partnership work together to ensure

success. On October 13th our Grade 8 mentors went to Finlayson Field Centre to

learn cooperative mentorship skills and how to become good role models.

These skills will be helpful for them to fulfill their role as a peer mentor.

School Curriculum/Programs

We are proud to announce that we are introducing the Mathletics Program to

every student in the school. The Peel Board initiative is to focus on Math and as a

school we are doing what we can to support this. The program is an interactive

way to learn Math, which also provides students with math resources. Mathletics

is interactive and includes lessons, videos, games and tasks designed by Dr.

Marian Small. All these lessons and tasks are online and can be marked

automatically, so students can learn in a safe environment at their own pace.

The best part about Mathletics is that they are partners with UNICEF! When you

complete activities in Mathletics, you earn UNICEF points that help provide

students with an education in Zimbabwe.

Curling: Rocks and Rings

This month Mr. O'Reilly and our PE teachers introduced a new mini unit about

curling. If you are asking how we will play this sport, we will be playing in the

gym, and instead of sliding stones on ice, we will be sliding stones on the gym

floor. The stones have wheels to move around properly. “It seems kinda cool

playing some sort of ice sport on land” stated Mr. O’Reilly. It was truly a unique

opportunity.

The grade 7 students participated in the Scientists in the School workshops on

the topic of Heat and Energy. The program teaches science in a fun and

interactive way! Students performed many hands-on activities like; making heat


Phone: 905-791-4324 Fax: 905-791-8861


powered boats, mixing hot and cold liquids, and seeing how temperature

changes in objects.

The gr 8 students had the opportunity to participate in a drama workshop

organized by Ms. Mcdougald, one of our grade 8 teachers. The students started

with simple vocal exercises. Then, they participated in sophisticated drama

roles, and tableaus to create and present a short scene. Ms. Mcdougald stated

that the purpose of this experience was, "to give students access to professional,

actors, one of who was a former Williams Parkway student, and 3 actors from

the Rose Theatre”.

Grade 8 Course Selection

Help your teen plan for grade 9 course selections for 2017-18

Soon, current grade 8 students will select their courses for grade 9. Before they

do, we want to ensure that they have the opportunity to consult with their

teachers, guidance counselor, if applicable, and their parents.

As our partners, families are encouraged to help prepare their teens for course

selection. We encourage you to become familiar with the process by creating a

myBlueprint account. Every parent and student (grades 7-12) can have access

to myBlueprint features such as:

High School – plan courses, track progress toward graduation, and instantly

identify post-secondary eligibility for opportunities in every pathway

Post-Secondary– compare detailed information on apprenticeships, college

programs, university programs and workplace sectors

Who Am I – complete surveys (including Learning Styles, Myers-Briggs

Personality, Holland Interests, Knowledge, Motivations, and Compatibility)

Portfolios – create several portfolios (e.g. Career Portfolio) and share them

with parents, teachers, or future employers. It’s simple to add work you have

completed in myBlueprint or add pictures and videos

Job Search – find real-world job and volunteering postings that relate to

occupations of interest

Goals – add interactive SMART goals and action plans

Resumes & Cover Letters – record experiences, build a resume, write a cover

letter

Occupations – compare comprehensive information on occupations

Money – build a budget to track income and expenses

Additionally, parents/guardians and students can review the Chart Your Course

document, Peel District School Board’s common course calendar (found at

www.makingmyway.ca). This guide will help you understand the course

http://www.makingmyway.ca/

selection process and provide information on the courses and programs offered

in Peel secondary schools.

The grade 9 course selection process will be open from Nov. 14 to Dec.2, 2016. If

you have questions or are looking for course suggestions, please contact your

teen’s teachers or guidance counselor

Sports at WP

Boys & Girls Volleyball

The boys and girls volleyball tournaments have had a great start. The teams

have competed against Robert J Lee Public School and Greenbriar Public

School. So far the girls and boys have won both games. The teams will soon

play against Lougheed, Earnscliffe, Lagerquist, Allan drive and Morningstar.

These competitions will be between October 25th and November 15. WP will be

hosting Allan Drive and Morningstar on November 10th and November 15th.

Stay tuned for this month’s score! Let’s go Panthers! Junior girls volleyball season

has started. Please see Mr. Peet for details.

The volleyball teams also had the opportunity to meet with guest speaker Adam

Simac. He talked about his volleyball career. He used the expression, “Rome

wasn’t built in a day” to discuss the dedication and passion Olympians have for

the sport they play. This was an inspiration for our young athletes.

Ice Hockey

The ice hockey club has started . There is no charge for this club and skill level

does not matter, every boy and girl ice hockey player is welcome to join.

Games/practices will take place at Terry Miller. Please see Mr. Marcovici for

more details.


Phone: 905-791-4324 Fax: 905-791-8861


Cross Country

Our WP cross country team had their meet on October 18 Heart Lake

Conservation. The group was training for weeks to be prepared for the meet.

Our girl’s team did very well, placing in the top 3. There several top winners. The

kids had a great day and performed to the best of their abilities.

Intramurals

All grade 6, 7, 8 WP students, Get you teams of 6 together and come out to play

handball at lunch times. See MR. Laidlaw for details.

Book Fair

The book fair took place in the library during the week of Monday Oct 17, 2016 -

Friday, Oct 21, 2016. 60% of the proceeds went towards buying new books for

the library and new supplies for the school to enhance student learning. We

have raised over $2475. With this money, we have purchased $1380 worth of

books for the library. The remainder of the funds will allow us to purchase new

technology for our maker space. Great job supporting learning.

Music a WP

The music program at Williams Parkway is now at full swing. The Choir, Junior,

Intermediate, and Senior Bands are practicing daily to get ready for the

upcoming winter concert. The winter concert will occur on Thursday, December

15th, 2016. The junior band is learning Jingle Bells and Majestic March. The

intermediate band is learning Jolly Rockin’ Nicholas, Frosty the Snowman and

Let it Go. The senior band is learning The Kings of Swing, You Raise Me Up, and

Do you want to Build a Snowman. “The Winter Concert is an amazing

opportunity for students to showcase their talents” stated Mrs. Brown. Although

these bands are working toward the winter concert, the choir is practicing a few

songs to recite for Remembrance Day. Mrs. Brown stated that they will perform

“O Canada” and “I Will Remember You” at the Remembrance Day assembly.

Drama at WP

Drama club has started for Williams Parkway preparing for the upcoming play,

Molly and the Giant. Auditions took place this month. Students had to memorize

a monologue from a previous play or a movie. On top of memorizing their script,

students had to be able to project their voice, have appropriate facial

expressions and gestures/movements. The cast has been decided, however,

students are not aware of their roles in the play as of yet. Congratulations to this

year’s cast.

Eco Club News

The WP Eco club is continuing to encourage students to maintain our gold

standard as an eco-friendly school. The competition has started! Students are

asked to pack a lunch with re-usable items. These items include but are not

limited to; metal utensils, plastic containers and reusable water bottles“. I want

the students of Williams Parkway to bring litter-less lunches not just for the prize,

but because it’s the right thing to do” said Mrs. Saini, one of the organizers of this

event. This school wide activity occurs every Tuesday for the rest of the year. For


Phone: 905-791-4324 Fax: 905-791-8861


the month of October there was a litter-less lunch week which was from

Monday, October 17th to Friday, October 21st.

WP IBT/Technology News

The grade 6’s are working on their Dragon’s Den projects and are also making

solar cars. They are learning to help our environment by using efficient products.

Genius Hour

The grade 7 and 8 students are working on genius hour. This was an idea

originated from Google, which had a plan to let their employees get one hour

each week to work on a personal project. Mr. Vallance, a grade 8 IBT teacher

says, “In class we are told to follow instructions, but this is what a class should

look like, creativity.” The genius hour lets students be innovative, independent

and creative by letting them choose what they want to learn. Students must

come up with a general question or goal, and work towards finding an answer.

They can use various tools which incorporates 21st century learning.

Character Awards

Do Good, Be Rewarded!

At Williams Parkway students are being rewarded for doing good deeds around

the school! students are given paw power slips, where their names are entered

into a weekly draw, to possibly earn a free slice of pizza. At the monthly Spirit

Assembly, 1 of the students who earned a Paw Power Slip that month can earn

a bigger prize. Some previous prizes were a gift card to “AeroSports Trampoline

Park” and Blue Jays baseball tickets.

Hey Williams Parkway girls! Are you looking for a club where you can meet new

people and do exciting activities? Girls on the Go is an all girl’s club which takes

place every Thursday at lunch from 11:50-12:25. You may be wondering, what

kinds of activities are planned? The teachers running the program plan a variety

of fun and interactive activities for the girls each week. They base the activities

on the student’s interests, focusing on the themes of; Healthy eating, Healthy

exercise, building your self-confidence and becoming a leader. Recently, GOG

went on an exciting scavenger hunt outdoors and got some exercise at the

same time. Another activity the girls enjoyed, was customizing their own cute

cards to remind themselves that they are capable and lovable. We encourage

you to join for some of the best opportunities and experiences with an awesome

bunch of WP girls!

Lego Robotics/Mechanics

Lego robotics is a club that gives students the chance to make robots and other

mechanical creations using Lego. The club allows students to be creative in

designing and also fosters collaboration.

Animation Club

Students are focusing on creating basic hand drawings and assembling an

animation together with multiple frames. “It helps them understand how

animation works and they can use it in numerous school projects” said Mme.

McNeilage while describing the benefits of this club. Animation club takes place

in the computer lab after school on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2:30 - 4:30 pm.


Phone: 905-791-4324 Fax: 905-791-8861


Chess Club

The chess club has started. Come out and play a game of chess, learn

strategies and develop your skills. The club takes place every Tuesday and

Thursday at lunch. See Mr. Carr for details.

COY (Counting on You)

Counting on You has started. Students in grades 7 and 8 are able to attend a

program to improve basic numeracy and literacy skills. Students meet every

Tuesday and Thursday 2:30-4:15pm. Please see Ms. Onizuka for registration.

Breakfast Club

Are you hungry in the morning and don’t get the time to eat a proper

breakfast? Well we have the program for you! WP’s morning snack program is

back! All students are welcome to come on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays

from 8:00- 8:30 am in room 100.

pizza/Sub Sales

Are you interested in a variety of lunch options? Sub and pizza days are back!

Please get your orders in as soon as possible. Pizza orders-Mrs. Large, Sub rders to

Ms. N. Patel.

Picture Day

Picture day will be taking place on Nov 2, 2016

Quote of the Month

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the

world” Nelson Mandela

October Writers and Photographers: Teachers: Mrs. S. Patel, Mr. Rutherford, Mrs. Marzotto

Students: Grade 7 IBT Class

https://www.google.ca/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwisgN73h_nPAhUX7GMKHYzZAIcQjRwIBw&url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chess&psig=AFQjCNEx3eXXGZ_Dz3MqoK8uwiWx6df8jw&ust=1477591636556410

Peel Board News

Peel schools, students and staff recognize and honour First Nation Land daily

At the Peel District School Board, everything we do is designed to help each

child achieve to the best of his or her ability. The board recognizes that

encouraging, inclusive and respectful environments help students achieve to

the best of their ability.

As part of this important work, at the Regular Meeting of the board on Sept. 30, trustees approved that the following statement will be played/read each school day at all Peel schools and all board-hosted events prior to the Canadian national anthem: We would like to acknowledge that we are on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation.

The acknowledgement recognizes Indigenous heritage and the importance of

the land that we are located on. In addition to helping build awareness about

one of our local First Nation communities, the acknowledgement also honours

the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action about honouring

Indigenous people’s historical and contemporary contributions to Canada.

Students in all Peel schools will learn about the importance of the

acknowledgement through lesson plans produced in collaboration and

partnership with the Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation through the use

of the Sacred Trust resource.

Bus cancellation & closing schools due to bad weather

During the winter months, we may need to cancel buses or close schools

because of inclement weather.

Information regarding details of cancellations or closures will be announced on

radio and television stations listed below and posted at www.peelschools.org,

school websites and www.stopr.ca. Information will also be available on Twitter

http://www.google.ca/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwjGja-L_O3LAhUonoMKHWhkDfIQjRwIBw&url=http://workingwell.ca/clients/&psig=AFQjCNHGwywqrdcU7xPP3kZmzH5duNii7g&ust=1459618304825524

http://www.peelschools.org/


Phone: 905-791-4324 Fax: 905-791-8861


(@Peelschools), Facebook (www.facebook.com/peelschools) or by calling 905-

890-1010 or 1-800-668-1146.

VIRGIN RADIO FM99.9 CHUM AM1050 CFTR AM680

CFNY FM102.1/AM640 CJCL AM590 CHFI FM98.1

NEWSTALK 1010 AM EZ ROCK FM97.3 CJBC (FR) AM860

FM Z103.5 FM93.1 FM Q107

CHIN FM100.7/AM1540 CBC99.1 CTV

BREAKFAST TELEVISION GLOBAL NEWS CITYPULSE

One of the following messages will be announced (highlighted text only):

Peel District School Board buses are cancelled.

This means that schools remain open for students and staff, but buses are

cancelled. Bus cancellations could occur in all or parts of municipalities. Buses

will remain cancelled all day. All activities that require busing will also be

cancelled. Permits, night school classes, child care and other activities in schools

will operate as usual.

All Peel District School Board schools and board offices are closed.

This means that all schools and Board offices are closed to students and staff. All

activities in schools and board offices are also cancelled, including child care,

night school and permits.

All evening programs and permits at the Peel District School Board are

cancelled.

This means that all activities in schools and Board offices are cancelled,

including continuing education courses and events. The buildings will be closed.

All weekend programs and permits at the Peel District School Board are

cancelled.

This means that all activities in schools and Board offices are cancelled,

including continuing education courses and events. The buildings will be closed.

*NEW* Community Corner

Stay up-to-date with community-based opportunities

The Peel District School Board is pleased to introduce an electronic resource

page on www.peelschools.org called, Community Corner, which contains links to

information and resources in the community that may be of interest to students

and their families. This site replaces our previous method of sending promotional


materials about community clubs, camps, contests, fundraisers and events

home with students on a regular basis.

How you can access Community Corner

1. Visit www.peelschools.org/parents/communitycorner

2. Click on the “Community Corner” button, found on the main page of

school websites, as well as on www.peelschools.org.

Winter bus safety

The following winter school bus safety tips will help to keep your child safe throughout the winter months.

Allow extra time to get to your bus stop. Wear bright clothing so the bus can see you in the early morning and late evening.

Stand away from where the bus stops. Buses need extra room to stop when

there is snow and ice.

Use the handrail when boarding or exiting the bus to prevent slipping on wet

or icy steps or road surfaces.

Dress properly—winter clothing, hats, and boots will keep you warm.

Don't throw snowballs at the bus or other children waiting for the bus.

Don't slide on the snow or ice patches in driveways or on the street.

Don't push or shove around the bus. Someone could fall down on the ice

and get hurt.

On very rare occasions, buses are late because of weather conditions or

mechanical problems. Talk to your child about what to do if the bus is late. Here

are some suggestions:

When possible, wait with your child for the bus.

Make sure your child knows a phone number where he can reach you or

another trusted adult.

Teach your child how and where to get help. Talk to your child about what a

"safe" stranger is.

Help your child set up a bus stop buddy system so your child has someone to

wait with for the bus.

http://www.peelschools.org/parents/communitycorner

http://www.peelschools.org/parents/communitycorner



Phone: 905-791-4324 Fax: 905-791-8861


Is Extended French right for my child?

If your child will be starting grade 7 in September 2017, one of the important

choices you will make is whether you want to apply for the Extended French (EF)

program.

What is the program like? What are the advantages and disadvantages of the

program?

One way to help answer these questions is to attend the information meeting on

Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2016 at 7 p.m. at the EF school your child would attend.

To find out the EF school your child would attend:

visit our website www.peelschools.org/French

call the school in your area

call 905-890-1010 or 1-800-668-1146 ext. 2212

Online application

The application form for Grade 7 EF for the 2017-18 school year will be available

online at www.peelschools.org/French on Thursday, Dec. 1, 2016 at 1 p.m.

The deadline to apply is Friday, Jan. 27, 2017 at 4 p.m. Applications received

after that date will be put on a waiting list.

Important dates

Information meeting Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2016 at 7 p.m.

Application process opens Thursday, Dec. 1, 2016 at 1 p.m.

Application deadline Friday, Jan. 27, 2017 at 4 p.m.

For more information

visit www.peelschools.org/French

call your nearest Extended French school

talk with parents who have children in the Extended French program

visit the Canadian Parents for French website at http://on.cpf.ca

Peel board students have choice

Explore program options at www.makingmyway.ca

Students have different needs, interests and abilities—our schools offer great

educational opportunities to help all students achieve. For students looking for a

more focused, specialized program, here are some options:

http://on.cpf.ca/

Regional programs start in grades 6, 7 and 9

Students in regional programs still complete all of the requirements of the

Ontario curriculum, but there is an increased focus on an area of interest.

Programs include:

Actively in Motion (AIM)

Advanced Placement Arts

Arts and Technology

Graphic Design Management: Flexography

International Baccalaureate

International Business and

Technology International and Executive

Leadership Academy

SciTech Sports

Strings

Truck and Coach Technology

More options for Peel board students

co-operative education programs

provide workplace experience

extended French starts in grade 7

dual credit programs allow student to

earn college credits at the same time

as secondary school credits

alternative programs are available for

students who need flexible school

hours, are dealing with unique

situations, or require more support

Our guidance counsellors can help

students determine which courses

will best meet their needs, interests

and abilities—contact the school to

make an appointment.

For more information about regional

programs, Specialist High Skills Major

programs and other programs of

choice available to Peel board

students, visit

www.makingmyway.ca.

Train More. Rehearse More. Learn

More.

New Peel District School Board

program offers flexible school

options for student athletes, artists

Does your child/teen have an

intense sports or arts training and

competition schedule that makes it

difficult to attend school regularly?

The Peel District School Board’s new

Peel Region High Performers Program

will offer flexible timetabling to

accommodate student athletes and

artists with demanding practice,

competition, rehearsal and/or

performance schedules.

Peel Region High Performers Program

will open in September 2017.


Phone: 905-791-4324 Fax: 905-791-8861


Information nights will be offered as

follows:

Grades Information

Night

Location

4 to 5 Nov. 2, 2016

at 6:30 p.m.

Britannia

Public

School

1145

Swinbourne

Dr. in

Mississauga

6 to 8 Nov. 9, 2016

at 6 p.m.

Dolphin Sr.

Public

School

18 Brookside

Dr. in

Mississauga

Applications are now available at:

www.peelschools.org/HighPerformers.

Parent resources help you support

your child’s learning

At the Peel board, our mission is to

inspire success, confidence and

hope in each child. There is no

doubt that families play a vital role in

helping us achieve this goal. As our

partner in education, we hope you'll

stay connected to your child's

learning throughout his or her entire

school experience.

Visit www.peelschools.org/parents/h

elpyourchild to explore all resources

available to parents. There you will

find easy-to-navigate buttons that

connect families to tip sheets and

web pages on a number of different

topics, including math, homework,

special education, EQAO and

mental health.

ChooseAction on Bullying Awareness

and Prevention Week

The Peel District School Board will

recognize Bullying Awareness and

Prevention Week during the week of

Nov. 20 to 26, 2016.

This year, we ask our Peel community

to ‘#ChooseAction to Be the

Difference’ in their classes, offices,

schools, communities or world, in

order to make these spaces better

places for everyone. The Peel Board

would like to hear about the big and

small actions, the pledges, the

promises and the attitudes that our

Peel community value, and ask that

you take a moment to share your

#ChooseAction moments on social

media.

Across the Peel board, schools use

many programs and initiatives to

prevent bullying and to intervene

when bullying happens. Though the

programs vary, their messages are

consistent. Students are taught to:

http://www.peelschools.org/HighPerformers

http://www.peelschools.org/HighPerformers


Phone: 905-791-4324 Fax: 905-791-8861


define bullying

identify forms of bullying

identify the shifting roles in

bullying relationships, for

example the person who

bullies, the target, the

bystander or the trusted

advocate

determine how to safely

“choose action” to prevent

and intervene in bullying &

harassment

understand that bullying is a

relationship problem with

relationship solutions

determine positive ways to

interact with others in an

accepting, inclusive way

demonstrate character

attributes and be a leader to

help maintain positive and

safe school communities

Bullying Awareness and Prevention

Week is one of the key items

contained in Bill 13: The Accepting

Schools Act, that came into effect

on Sept. 1, 2012. For more

information, visit: www.peelschools.org/aboutus/safeschool

s/bullying/ or

www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/safeschools/prev

ention.html.

Traffic safety in our

community

Safety is a top priority at our school.

Here is a list of traffic tips to keep

students, staff and parents safe while

commuting to and from school.

Respect traffic signs and road

markers around the school.

Drive slowly and with caution

on and near school property.

Adhere to the posted speed

limits on any surrounding

streets used by students on

their way to and from school.

Always yield to pedestrian

traffic. Wait for students, staff

members and parents to cross

before driving past them.

When dropping your child off

at the school, use the

Kiss'n'Ride area. This is a

supervised area that is

designed to keep students

safe.

Do not double park or do

anything else to block traffic or

draw your child off the curb

and into traffic. Do not take

shortcuts over curbs.

Have your child ready to exit

the car when you reach the

curb. Say goodbye to your

child before you park at the

curb to let your child out of

your car.

During regular drop-off times,

students are to remain in the

car until it is safe for them to

exit the car onto the curb.

Follow the directions of staff or

volunteers on duty in the

school parking lot and treat

staff, students, volunteers,

passengers and other drivers

with respect.

Consider parking off site and

walking a short distance to

school. This will give you time

http://www.peelschools.org/aboutus/safeschools/bullying/Pages/default.aspx

http://www.peelschools.org/aboutus/safeschools/bullying/Pages/default.aspx

http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/safeschools/prevention.html

http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/safeschools/prevention.html


Phone: 905-791-4324 Fax: 905-791-8861


to talk to your children about

their day, review new

vocabulary words, math

concepts, etc.

Remind your child to only cross

the street at an intersection or

crosswalk. They should never

“jaywalk” by crossing in the

middle of the street.

Students who bike to school

should always wear a helmet,

and follow all traffic laws. They

should only cross the street at

a crosswalk or intersection—

never in the middle of the

road.

Prevent the flu. It's in your

hands. Hand washing is the most important

way to prevent the spread of

infection. Always wash your hands

with soap and water when they are

dirty.

Clean your hands before:

i. touching your eyes, nose or

mouth

ii. touching/preparing food or

drinks

iii. eating or drinking

iv. caring for someone in your

home who can easily get sick

(baby, elderly or someone

who has an unhealthy immune

system)

v. first aid

Clean your hands after: i. touching pets or other animals

ii. touching raw meat,

particularly chicken

iii. touching surfaces such as a

railing or grocery cart

iv. touching money

v. touching objects sick people

have touched

vi. touching blood or body fluids

such as urine, vomit or feces

vii. contact with those who have

a cold, the flu, diarrhea or virus

of any kind

viii. changing diapers

ix. wiping your own or a child's

nose

x. sneezing or coughing

xi. using a facial tissue

xii. using the washroom

xiii. removing gloves

xiv. cleaning

xv. gardening

What to do when you cough or

sneeze: i. cover your mouth and nose

with a tissue or your sleeve

ii. put used tissues in the

wastebasket

iii. clean your hands with soap

and water or a hand sanitizer

For more information call Peel Health

at 905-799-7700 or visit

www.peelregion.ca/flu.

Custodial and Maintenance Workers

Appreciation Day

Nov. 25 opportunity to say 'thanks' to

Peel Custodial & Maintenance

Workers Day. In 2014, the board of

trustees declared the last Friday in

November as the Peel Custodial and

Maintenance Workers’ Day. This

year, the recognition day falls on

Friday, Nov. 25, 2016. Take this

opportunity to thank the important


Phone: 905-791-4324 Fax: 905-791-8861


work of custodial and maintenance

workers and their hard work and

commitment to well-being and

safety.

Celebrating Faith and Culture

Backgrounder

November 2016

The Peel District School Board is a

mosaic of many cultures and faiths

from all over the world. To

commemorate this diversity, the

board recognizes special faith and

culture days of our communities.

November 2016 has several special

faith and culture days to celebrate

and remember:

November - Gwilatkw and Freezing

Moon in Aboriginal Spirituality

This season is celebrated by Nisga'a

people of the Nass Valley in

northwest British Columbia. It is a

time when the earth is blanketed

with the first snow and also prepares

itself to be covered for the long

winter months.

The eleventh moon is known as the

Freezing moon by the Ojibwe

people. This period is a reminder for

the people to devote themselves to

spiritual paths through sacred

learnings and teachings.

November 1 - Birth of the Báb in

Bahá'í

Bahá'ís around the world celebrate the Birth

of the Báb, on this day. It is one of 11 holy

days in the Bahá'í calendar where adherents

suspend work. They often refer to the Báb as

the herald of the Bahá'í faith, because they

believe it was his mission to prepare the way

for Bahá'u'lláh, the founder of the Bahá'í

faith. The Báb called upon the people to

purify themselves for the coming of the day

of God.

Bahá'ís celebrate the birth of the Báb in

various simple but joyous ways. In most

communities, celebrations are held. After

beginning with prayers and devotional

readings, these celebrations can take any

number of forms. Most often they are simply

social gatherings.

November 1 - All Saints' Day in

Christianity

All Saints' Day began as the Feast of

All Martyrs on May 13, 609 A.D. All

Saints' Day is a universal Christian

feast that honours and remembers

all Christian saints known and

unknown. It is celebrated on Nov. 1

in the West. In medieval England, the

festival was known as All Hallows,

hence the name Halloween (All

Hallows' eve) for the preceding

evening - October 31. How churches

observe the Feast of All Saints differs

widely.

November 1 - Samhain in Wicca

Samhain (pronounced saw-an),

commonly referred to as Halloween,

is a religious holiday celebrated by

the followers of the Wicca faith and

celebrates the Celtic New Year. The

festival traditionally includes

gathering of families in love and


Phone: 905-791-4324 Fax: 905-791-8861


remembrance, including ancestors

for a festive meal.

November 2 - Birth of Baha’u’lláh in

Bahá'í

The followers of Báhá'í faith

commemorate the Birth of

Baha’u’lláh, the founder of the

Báhá'í faith.

Baha’u’lláh was born in Teheran in

August 1817 into a noble family. He

declined the ministerial career of his

father that was open to him in

government and chose instead to

devote his energies to a range of

philanthropies which had, by the

early 1840s, earned him a reputation

as “Father of the Poor.” Baha’u’lláh

founded the faith in 1852 from the

roots of many world faiths.

There are no set practices or services

to commemorate the various holy

days of the Báhá'í faith. Different

communities may organize

devotional days of prayers and

readings appropriate to the event.

November 3 to November 21 - The

month of Qudrat in Bahá'í

In the Bahá'í calendar, there are 19 months

of 19 days each. Each month represents an

attribute of God. November 3 is the

beginning of Qudrat, the thirteenth month of

the Bahá'í calendar, signifying "power."

The Bahá'í day starts and ends at sunset.

The first day of each month is known as a

Feast Day.

November 5 - Gnan Panchami in

Jainism

Gnan Panchami is the celebration

that takes place on the 5th day of

the first month of the Jain year. On

this day, the scriptures, which impart

knowledge to the people, are

worshipped with religious devotion.

Svädhyäya (group discourses and

prayers), meditation, and

Pratikraman (asking forgiveness) are

carried out.

November 11 - Remembrance Day

in Canada

Canada honours the memory of

men and women who have served

our country in times of war, conflict

and recent peace duties on this

day. It remembers those lost during

World War 1, World War 2, the

Korean War and other recent

conflicts by observing a moment of

silence at the 11th hour. Poppies are

distributed Red ones as flowers of

remembrance and White ones for

peace.

November 14 - Dev Diwali or

Lokashah Jayanti in Hinduism and

Jainism

Dev Diwali is celebrated on the full

moon day in the month of Kartik (first

month in Hindu/Jain calendar). Tulsi

Vivah (marriage of Tulsi - Mahalaxmi

incarnate with Lord Shaligram -

Vishnu incarnate) is celebrated on

this festival. Followers of the two

faiths, resolve on this day, to give up

negative traits like ego, anger,


Phone: 905-791-4324 Fax: 905-791-8861


greed, etc. in pursuit of spirituality.

On this day, Jains remember their

spiritual leaders and also

commemorate the liberation of

Tirthankara Mahavir by lighting

lamps and reading the scriptures.

November 14 - Birth of Guru Nanak

in Sikhism

This day, one of the biggest

celebrations in the Sikh faith, honours

the birthday of Guru Nanak, the

founder of the Sikh religion. To

celebrate, followers of Sikhism read

the Sikh holy book, the Guru Granth

Sahib, continuously from beginning

to end. This is done by a team of

men and women, each reading for

two to three hours over 48 hours,

ending early on the morning of Guru

Nanak’s birthday.

The gurudwaras are decorated with

flowers, flags and posters depicting

various aspects of Sikhism. Sikhs join

together to sing, pray, offer and eat

special foods like karah prashad, a

sweet made from semolina, sugar

and ghee (clarified butter).

November 16 - Louis Riel Day in

Aboriginal Spirituality

This day is celebrated in memory of

Louis Riel, the Metis leader who

helped his people form a

government and become part of

the newly created Dominion of

Canada in 1870, and preserve Metis

rights and culture. Today his name is

a symbol of native independence.

November 22 to December 10 - The

month of Qawl in Bahá'í

In the Bahá'í calendar, there are 19 months

of 19 days each. Each month represents an

attribute of God. November 22 is the

beginning of Qawl, the fourteenth month of

the Bahá'í calendar, signifying "speech."

The Bahá'í day starts and ends at sunset. The

first day of each month is known as a Feast

Day.

November 24 - Martyrdom of Guru

Teg Bahadur in Sikhism

This day pays homage to the martyr,

Guru Teg Bahadur, the ninth guru,

who willingly sacrificed himself for

the right to practice the Sikh faith.

To celebrate this day, followers visit

gurudwaras (Sikh places of worship)

and observe the martyrdom of this

guru with prayers, processions and

kirtans (religious songs). Langar or

community lunch is served, and is

open to people from all walks of life

and all faiths. Volunteers serve food

with a spirit of seva (service) and

bhakti (devotion).

November 25 - Day of Covenant in

Bahá'í

On this day, Bahá'ís commemorate

the establishment of the covenant

that their founder, Bahá'u'lláh, made

with his followers in order to prevent

division of the faith into sects and

denominations. He designated his

son, 'Abdu'l-Bahá, as the "center of


Phone: 905-791-4324 Fax: 905-791-8861


the covenant" and Shoghi Effendi, as

"the guardian" of the faith.

November 27 - Ascension of 'Abdu'l-

Bahá in Bahá'í

On this day Bahá'í followers

commemorate the passing of

Abdul'Báha, son of the Prophet-

Founder of the Bahá'í Faith. He died

in Haifa, Palestine in 1921.

November 27 or 28 (J) - First day of

Advent (Christmas fast) in Christianity

Christmas or winter fast is the Lenten

Season observed from Nov. 27 up to

Dec. 24. The followers of the

Gregorian calendar begin their fast

from Nov. 27. It is a period of

fasting, praying and reflecting – in

preparation and anticipation of the

coming of Christ and Christmas. The

followers of the revised Julian

calendar begin their fast from Nov.

28th and observe it over a 40 day

period.

November 27 - First Sunday of

Advent in Christianity

The Western Christian church year

begins with Advent which is also a

time when Christians prepare to

celebrate the birth of Christ. Advent

begins on the Sunday closest to

November 30 and lasts until

Christmas Eve.

Many churches include an advent

wreath in their Advent services. The

wreath consists of four candles

(three purple and one rose)

arranged in a circle of evergreen

which symbolizes eternal life. The

candles are lit progressively as

follows:

* First Sunday: one purple

candle

* Second Sunday: two purple

candles

* Third Sunday: two purple

candles and the rose candle

* Fourth Sunday: all four candles

The rose candle is also called the

"Joy" candle and it comes out of the

history of Advent. The Advent fast

was broken on the third Sunday in

anticipation of the great event to

come. Often a fifth white candle is

placed in the center of the circle.

This is the Christ Candle, symbolizing

Christ's birth, and it is lit on Christmas

Eve or Christmas Day.

Ideas for celebrating special faith

and cultural days in your school

If you have a colleague who

celebrates one of these days, don't

forget to offer them best wishes! If

you have students in your school

who are followers of any of the listed

religions:

- Make sure the dates are included

on your school calendar

- Have your principal announce the

day over the PA system

- Hold an assembly to talk with

students about the importance of

these days

- Include a mention of these days in

your school newsletter


Phone: 905-791-4324 Fax: 905-791-8861


- Include information on your school

website

- Display student artwork

announcing these days or depicting

their ideas about these days

- Invite a member of a local faith

group to come in and discuss the

significance of this day with students

- Have class discussions about these

days

- Ask some of your students who

celebrate certain holidays to write a

short essay on how they celebrate

this day at home. Have them read it

to the class to share this celebration

with the other students.

- Have parents offer a cultural session

williams parkway happenings · 15th, 2016. the junior band is learning jingle bells and majestic...

Documents