News

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Dear Students and Families,</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Due to today’s additional inclement weather day, the Semester 1 exam schedule will be pushed back by one more day. The exam period will now continue into next week and will be </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">completed on Monday, February 2</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Semester 2 will now begin on Tuesday, February 3 for students.</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We appreciate your continued understanding and flexibility as we prioritize everyone’s safety during the winter weather. Schools will communicate any school specific details or adjustments directly with students and families.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thank you,</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Talya McKenna</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Associate Superintendent K-12 Curriculum and Program Services</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Dear Students and Families,</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As we continue through the Semester 1 exam period, we would like to share an important update about </span><i><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">potential</strong></b></i><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </em></i><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">schedule changes related to inclement weather.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><i><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If</strong></b></i><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">we experience another day of bus cancellations during the exam period, the exam schedule </span><i><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">may</strong></b></i><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> continue to shift forward by one exam day, as previously communicated. </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If this happens</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, school exam schedules will need to be extended to Monday,</span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">February 2</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>nd</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. </span><i><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If this occurs,</strong></b></i><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> then students would start Semester 2 on Tuesday, February 3</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>rd</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please note that the upcoming Professional Activity (PA) Day on January 30</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>th</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> cannot be used for exams.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Should bus cancellations occur again, schools will communicate any exam schedule changes directly to families by e-mail, and updates will also be posted on school websites.</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> We encourage families to continue monitoring school communications closely throughout this period of winter weather.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We recognize that these shifts may cause disruption, and we appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to ensure the safety and well-being of students and staff. We will continue to keep students and families updated if inclement weather causes any changes to the exam schedule.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thank you,</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Talya McKenna</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Associate Superintendent K-12 Curriculum and Program Services</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Limestone District School Board is developing the 2026-2027 school year calendar. With Labour Day falling later than usual in 2026, the creation of a balanced and consistent calendar has presented more challenges than in typical years.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We continue to receive inquiries about the possibility of introducing a fall break. During the 2023–2024 school year, students, families, staff, and community members were surveyed on this topic. Due to the way the calendar year falls and contractual agreements, implementing a fall break is not something we are able to consider for the upcoming 2026-2027 school year.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In collaboration with our coterminous boards—the Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic District School Board and the Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board—we have prepared </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">four calendar options for consideration</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. We are seeking feedback from members of the Limestone community to help guide our final decision.</span></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Option 1 Overview:</strong></b></h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">First Day of School</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">: September 1, 2026</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Winter Break</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">: December 21, 2026 to January 1, 2027</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">March Break</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">: March 15 to 19, 2027</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Last Day of School</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">: June 24, 2027</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Professional Activity Days</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">:&nbsp;</span></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">August 31, 2026</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">September 25, 2026</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">October 26, 2026</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">November 27, 2026</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">January 29, 2027</span></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">May 31, 2027</span></li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">June 25, 2027</span></li></ul></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/81d9c077-e59e-40f6-b97d-eab79a798524/2026-2027-School-Year-Calendar-Option-1.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260203171850" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Click here to view School Year Calendar – Option 1</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (PDF)</span></li></ul><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Option 2 Overview:</strong></b></h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">First Day of School</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">: September 2, 2026</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Winter Break</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">: December 21, 2026 to January 1, 2027</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">March Break</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">: March 15 to 19, 2027</span><br><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please note, Friday, March 12 is a Board Holiday</em></i></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Last Day of School</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">: June 28, 2027</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Professional Activity Days</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">September 1, 2026</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">October 26, 2026</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">November 20, 2026</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">January 29, 2027</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">April 23, 2027</span></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">May 31, 2027</span></li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">June 29, 2027</span></li></ul></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/6f8a7ea2-ab83-49a2-a65e-9094dccfc607/2026-2027-School-Year-Calendar-Option-2-Final.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260203171850" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Click here to view School Year Calendar – Option 2 </span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">(PDF)</span></li></ul><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Option 3 Overview:</strong></b></h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">First Day of School</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">: September 8, 2026</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Winter Break</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">: December 21, 2026 to January 1, 2027</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">March Break</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">: March 15 to 19, 2027</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Last Day of School</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">: June 29, 2027</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Professional Activity Days</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">September 3, 2026</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">September 4, 2026</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">October 26, 2026</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">November 27, 2026</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">February 2, 2027</span></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">May 31, 2027</span></li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">June 30, 2027</span></li></ul></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/a9b64560-2a59-483a-917d-200007782f2c/2026-2027-School-Year-Calendar-Option-3.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260203171850" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Click here to view School Year Calendar – Option 3</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (PDF)</span></li></ul><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Option 4 Overview:</strong></b></h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">First Day of School</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">: September 8, 2026</span><br><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please note that Friday, September 4, 2026, is a Board Holiday</em></i></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Winter Break</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">: December 21, 2026 to January 1, 2027</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">March Break</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">: March 15 to 19, 2027</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Last Day of School</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">: June 29, 2027</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Professional Activity Days</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">September 2, 2026</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">September 3, 2026</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">October 26, 2026</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">February 2, 2027</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">April 16, 2027</span></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">May 31, 2027</span></li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">June 30, 2027</span></li></ul></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/522f1e3e-d355-4639-9c5c-734db566fcdb/2026-2027-School-Year-Calendar-Option-4.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260203171850" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Click here to view School Year Calendar – Option 4</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (PDF)</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please take a few minutes to complete this short survey. The survey will remain open until </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">February 9 at 12:00 p.m. (noon).</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Survey link:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><a href="https://bit.ly/20262027SchoolYearCalendar" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">bit.ly/20262027SchoolYearCalendar</strong></b></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If you would prefer a paper version of the survey, please contact your school and a hard copy will be provided.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Your input is important to us, and we appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback.</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Limestone International Education is looking for families to become hosts for international students for the upcoming school year. Please consider sharing the following information in your school newsletters in the coming weeks:</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Limestone is proud of our long tradition of hosting students from other countries.&nbsp; The demand for Kingston, and Canada, as a learning destination is rapidly growing.&nbsp; Students from over 15 different countries are here now staying with great homestay families in Limestone. Our International Education team is looking for more families to become homestay hosts to great international students.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We currently have 19 students on our waiting list that have applied to Limestone for 2026-2027 and need a home. They range from one semester to one year stays and are from Germany, Spain, Japan, Brazil, Slovakia, Czechia, Italy and Denmark.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Host families will be paid a tax-free monthly stipend to host students. All students in the program attend local intermediate or secondary schools and range in age from 12 to 17 years old. Our International Education team works hard to make a great match for your family, that can last a lifetime.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Families can learn more by visiting&nbsp;</span><a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://internationaled.limestone.on.ca/become_a_homestay&amp;data=05%7c02%7ccrothersm%40limestone.on.ca%7c6718c3f0165148f85ef608de58f57ee2%7ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7c0%7c0%7c639046008601667698%7cUnknown%7cTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7c0%7c%7c%7c&amp;sdata=B%2BA1lkiEhmCVdakJpUMKkW1j/TQUztz2j/Fq/KzHyB0%3D&amp;reserved=0" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Limestone’s International Education website</strong></b></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;or phoning the International Education offices at 613-544-7745 ext. 288.</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Dear Students and Families,</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As we enter the Semester 1 exam period, we would like to remind families of how schools will adjust exam schedules if student transportation is cancelled due to inclement weather.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If buses are cancelled on an exam day, the exams scheduled for that day will automatically move to the next exam day. All subsequent exams will also shift forward by one exam day.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Schools will communicate any changes to the exam schedule directly to families by e-mail. Updated information will also be posted on school websites. We encourage families to monitor school communications closely during this period of winter weather.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students are expected to be available to write exams for the full exam window, from January 22 to January 29, 2026.</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We understand that schedule changes can be disruptive and appreciate your patience and cooperation as we prioritize the safety and well-being of our school communities.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thank you,</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Limestone District School Board</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Dear Students and Families,</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Ministry of Education has introduced a new initiative to recognize the contributions of students to their communities through volunteer service. Beginning with students graduating in the </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2025–2026 school year</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, students who achieve </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">50 or more community involvement hours</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> will be eligible to receive a </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Minister’s Certificate of Recognition for Community Involvement</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Overview of the Recognition Tiers</strong></b></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Bronze Certificate:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> 50 to 99 community involvement hours</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Silver Certificate:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> 100 to 199 community involvement hours</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Gold Certificate:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> 200 or more community involvement hours</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please note that the </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) requirement remains at 40 hours</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> of community involvement. The new certificates serve as an </span><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">enhancement and formal acknowledgment</em></i><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> of students who demonstrate exceptional commitment to community service.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">For additional information on Community Service Hours and the Student Tracking form, please see our </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/volunteer__community_service__hours" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Volunteer (Community Service) Hours webpage</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Sincerely,</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Talya McKenna Associate Superintendent K-12 Curriculum &amp; Program Services</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Limestone District School Board</span></p>

<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/474fd7ad-a699-440c-b07c-6f721154865c?fingerprint=ppb20260120155614" alt="LDSB Black History Month Opening Ceremony Poster" width="637" height="796" style="width:637px;height:796px;display:inline-block"><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">You're Invited: LDSB Black History Month Opening Ceremony</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">When:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Wednesday, February 4, 2026, 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Where: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">LCVI, 153 Van Order Drive, Kingston</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">All students, staff, families, and community members are invited to join us for an evening of community, connection, and celebration with food, music, and dancing! Featuring: Kids Zone with "Ruthy's Reading Room," and a performance by Cassel Miles as Josiah Henson.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This event is presented by the LDSB and the LCVI BIPOC affinity group. We hope to see you there!</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/6c58885d-c2ab-415f-98bd-e78f4d2dd19c?fingerprint=ppb20260112175113" alt="2026 2027 Parents Night Invite" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></p>

<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">What's Happening at Sydenham High School</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">January 2026</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/939609bb-0496-4f64-8fc4-886e988a21b9?fingerprint=ppb20251217014357" alt="school image" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Welcome Back </span></h2><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Hello SHS Golden Eagles and Families,</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We welcomed our students back last week, but with the disruption of several inclement weather days. We will continue to support our students in ensuring course expectations are met. Attendance is very important for student success during these last couple of weeks of the semester. Please check the exam schedule and remember that if inclement weather occurs over the exam period, exams are moved to the next day. If you have questions or wonderings about your student's progress, please reach out to their classroom teacher. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Upcoming Dates</span></h2><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Jan. 14 - Grade 9 Parent Information Night 6:30 PM Main GYM</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Jan. 15 - Stress Less Workshop by KFLA Public Health</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Jan. 19 - School Council 7 PM School Library</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Jan. 22 - 29 - Exams</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Jan. 30 - PA Day</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Feb. 2 - First Day of Semester 2</span></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/6c58885d-c2ab-415f-98bd-e78f4d2dd19c?fingerprint=ppb20260112175113" alt="2026 2027 Parents Night Invite" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/35b699cb-bda9-4e83-bb09-50577abb9b0a?fingerprint=ppb20251217013513" alt="SHS Exam Schedule Jan 2026" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/20405024-4d32-4836-851e-3cb50628c583?fingerprint=ppb20251219203440" alt="Screenshot 2025 12 18 120532" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/278fab8c-de2a-4c07-8a3a-61f534cd3731?fingerprint=ppb20251219203440" alt="Screenshot 2025 12 18 120614" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2025-2026 LDSB School Year Calendar</span></h2><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/7291ab76-99b5-43a1-8f2b-edaade7c53e8/2025-04-07-LDSB%20School%20Year%20Calendar-2025-2026.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014043" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">PDF version of the 2025-2026 School Year Calendar is available online</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/1161a439-a52c-4144-ad44-b2b141f1f967?fingerprint=ppb20251217013147" alt="2025 2026 LDSB School Year Calendar" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Concussion Protocol</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SHS is committed to student safety, injury prevention, and well-being, and supports concussion awareness, prevention, identification, management, tracking, and training. Our point of contact is Ms. Ash Ward, Vice Principal.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Our </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/concussion_protocols" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">LDSB Concussion Policy/Concussion Code of Conduct </span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">is here as well to ensure we work together to support our students if a concussion is suspected or diagnosed. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/d2d534f2-a37f-4106-a903-2977022c738c?fingerprint=ppb20251217014946" alt="thumb cef5db28763b3ff1d271b5f827629038" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Allergen Awareness - </span></h2><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Nut-Free &amp; Scent Free School</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/77143b36-64d5-4f80-a9f2-cf2bf339fb88?fingerprint=ppb20251217014110" alt="Nut Free School" width="205" height="293" style="width:205px;height:293px;display:inline-block;float:left"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/20f12d85-2a46-4137-bd1e-ab4d5273e2c1?fingerprint=ppb20251217013311" alt="Scent Free" width="206" height="256" style="width:206px;height:256px;display:inline-block;float:right"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Threat/Risk Assessment Notification and Process</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Limestone District School Board and community partners are committed to making our schools safe for students and staff. As a result, schools will respond to all student behaviours that pose a potential risk to other students, staff, and community members. The Community Violence Threat Risk Assessment Process is designed to be proactive in developing intervention plans that address the emotional and physical safety of those involved. Families are asked to review the steps of a&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/safe-caring-schools" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Threat/Risk Assessment online</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><br></p><figure><a href="https://specialtytrophies.ca/sydenhamhighschool/" target="_blank" title="Spirit Wear"><img src="/images/93a00b71-9d11-44c1-88dc-c7bfba2579cd?fingerprint=ppb20251217014357" alt="Spirit Wear" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></a></figure></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/a25e9f58-b0ae-4c6a-9c8e-96863f2e3e0a?fingerprint=ppb20251217014516" alt="New Land Acknowledgement" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Dear Families,</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">I hope this message finds you well as we approach the end of the last school week of 2025 and the upcoming holiday season. &nbsp;I wanted to share a few updates with you before we head into the Winter Break:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">EQAO Results</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Ministry of Education recently released the 2024-2025 Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) results, and we are proud to share that Limestone achieved its strongest performance in four years, with gains across every testing category.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Limestone’s results align with provincial outcomes in many areas and show notable improvements in others, including among specific student groups. In fact, Limestone’s performance is at or above the provincial average in nearly all measures.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">These accomplishments reflect the collective efforts of Limestone’s educators, Educational Assistants, program teams, and school leaders—along with the commitment and support of students and families across the district. I am deeply proud of the dedication shown by Limestone staff, students, and families in achieving these results.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">More information on EQAO results is </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/news/limestone-s-eqao-results-improve-across-all-categories-20251205185556" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">available on Limestone’s website</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, including a </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/2a916cd2-b224-4a93-a4b3-b0a57ae98e62/Letter-to-Parents-EQAO-Dec-3-2025.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013406" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">letter to families from Minister of Education, Paul Calandra</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grade 8 Information Nights</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Limestone District School Board is hosting Grade 8 Parent Information Nights at secondary schools across the region for families and students. These events include a special presentation about the school, its programs, and the registration process.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Information nights are also a great opportunity to learn about the wide variety of programs available for secondary students in Limestone—including expanded opportunities, French immersion, the International Baccalaureate program, and more. We are very proud of the range and choice of different secondary programs we provide to the communities we serve.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Upcoming </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/news/grade-8-information-nights-20251208194333" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">information night dates can be found on Limestone’s website</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Inclement Weather Reminder/Tri-Board Transportation Reminder</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We are now well into the inclement weather season and have already experienced some transportation cancellation days. Our transportation partner, Tri-Board Student Transportation Services (Tri-Board), works closely with school bus companies to determine whether it is safe to operate on days with adverse weather.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">School buses function differently than family vehicles, and sometimes, even when roads seem safe for cars, conditions are not suitable for buses. Given the geographic size of our district, weather can vary significantly from one region to another. As a result, cancellations may affect only certain areas while others remain unaffected.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We understand that transportation cancellations can be disruptive for families, but safety is always Tri-Board’s top priority for the 30,000-plus students who ride the bus each day. </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/news/prepare-for-winter-related-bus-delays-and-cancellations--20251020203640" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Learn more about how to prepare for winter weather and manage bus cancellation days on our website.</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Ministry and Board Resources for Math and Literacy</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">There are many resources available designed to support your student’s learning in math and literacy, offering engaging activities that can make learning fun and effective for students and families. </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/tutoring" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Visit Limestone’s Online Learning Resources and Tutoring webpage</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> to learn more.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Director’s Annual Report 2024-2025</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Director’s Annual Report offers a concise overview of the teaching and learning that occurred across the Limestone District School Board during the 2024-2025 school year. It highlights ongoing progress toward the Board’s strategic priorities, shares student achievement data, and showcases key initiatives and accomplishments from across the district and is </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/director-s-annual-report-2024-2025-" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">available on Limestone’s website</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We hope all Limestone families enjoy a restful winter break filled with time with those who matter most in your lives. We look forward to welcoming students and staff back to school on Monday, January 5, 2026, ready for an exciting new year of learning.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Krishna Burra</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Director of Education</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This past Sunday, at &nbsp;KFPL, several SHS students received recognition for their artistic contributions to </span><i><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Youth Imagine the Future</strong></b></i><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;2025 </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Gallery Exhibit and Contest&nbsp; YIF is a contest which challenges young people in the region to imagine a future in writing and visual arts which inspires and present solutions in areas of climate change solutions, environmental sustainability, protection of biodiversity, and inclusivity and equality.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;These students are:&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Jacey Andrew, Finalist</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Caitlin Ball, 2</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>nd</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;overall</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Alexia Hotner, Finalist</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Ellora Outwater, 1</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>st</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;overall</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Arianna Phillips, Honourable Mention</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Leah Rines, Participant</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Scotlyn Slack, Participant</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Nora Wagar, Honourable Mention</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Congratulations to all of our students and a big thank you to Mr. Shaw for supporting our talented artists.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/64ef37e8-8fa8-44a4-8088-f89b26d2f663?fingerprint=ppb20251217013934" alt="IMG 4992" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/89d6cf84-c987-40c0-b2b9-54909d31aa19?fingerprint=ppb20251217014301" alt="Holiday Spirit Week 2025" width="816" height="1075" style="width:816px;height:1075px;display:inline-block"></p>