October 21st, 2024

Cougar Chronicles – Principals’ Report  

 

Dear families and guardians, 

We hope you are enjoying the lovely Fall colours and the warmth of October. Please note that this newsletter is probably better viewed on our school website where the links are accessible: https://jfc.wrdsb.ca/

Pizza – Pizza ordering for the month of November is now up and running on School Day. Please use School Day to order and pay for pizza. Please note that pizza ordering will close on Oct. 29th. Our first pizza day for the month of November will be Oct. 31 (Thursday) as November 1st is a PD Day. 

Our school was recently gifted two Scientists in School workshops recently. At our last staff meeting on the PD Day, we drew names and the winners of the workshops are Mrs. Bannon’s Kindergarten class and Mrs. Grant’s Grade ⅔ class.  They are looking forward to enjoying some fun in science class in November. We are so lucky!

We would also like to share that our local Tim Hortons store at Victoria and Westmount street has generously committed to donating a case of 72 bagels and a large brick of cream cheese for our students who need food for breakfast club as well as throughout the day. We are so thankful for their generosity and for making a big difference in the lives of our students. 

Canadian Down Syndrome Week – October 20-26

This Canadian Down Syndrome Week, join us as we explore the importance of social connections to our health and happiness and how societal barriers contribute to social isolation in the Down syndrome community. Feeling ignored or misunderstood by society is a reality many youth and adults with Down syndrome face, especially once school is over and routines change. The amount of time spent sitting rises, time outside the home decreases, and new relationships are harder to establish.

When we spoke to the community about how people can help to foster inclusion in their daily lives, we found that small acts of kindness were essential in making people feel valued and included.

Our Community Closet event is approaching and will take place on Wednesday, November 20th. It’s that time of year, when we dig through our closets to see what still fits. This year, instead of donating to local thrift stores we would love it if you brought your clothing and outdoor gear (e.g.,mitts, hats, snow pants, coats & boots) to school! We are currently collecting clean children’s clothing donations. The event will occur before and after school on this day. School council will also be hosting a book ‘swap’ where children are welcome to take home books to keep. 

Between now and mid November you can start sending in your clean, gently used or new donations to your child’s classroom teacher or the office.

Everyone in our JFC community is welcome to come out and join us, try on some items, and take home some new-to-you clothing!

Warmly, 

Ms Jaime Demsey (Vice Principal) and Mrs. Leah Pullen (Principal)

Community Flyers

The WRDSB offers community organizations and not-for-profits the opportunity to share information on their programs and services with our schools on our Community E-Flyers website. 

Student Absences (from last week – important!)

We are noticing an increase in student lates and absences. Please remember to email or call the school to report lates and absences. This helps us to know where your child is as well as eliminate a phone call home to check in on where your student might be. Remember, an email can be sent at any time, day or night, or even ahead of time if you know your child will be absent for an appointment.

Email: jfc-attendance@wrdsb.ca

Phone: 519 578 8450 and press 1 to report an absenceDates happening this week: 

  • Canadian Down Syndrome Week, October 20-26, 2024
  • Waste Reduction Week, October 21-25, 2024
  • National School Bus Safety Week, October 21-25, 2024
  • Media Literacy Week, October 21-25, 2024
  • Take Me Outside Day, October 23, 2024
  • School Bus Driver Appreciation Day, October 23, 2024
  • Shemini Atzeret, October 23-24, 2024
    • Simchat Torah, October 24-25, 2024
  • Child Care Worker and Early Childhood Educator (ECE) Appreciation Day, October 24, 2024
  • Dress Purple Day, October 25, 2024 – Child abuse prevention awareness day