Welcome to a NEW school year!

In this newsletter there is information that will require some time for review and items to send back to the school. We appreciate your attention to these details as having up to date information is critical to our working collaboratively to support your child.

• Please ensure any medical information is brought to the office.

• We have ordered math and reading programs your child can access from home; SIGN UP!

• By installing School Messenger on your phone we can track attendance with ease.

• Signing up for School Cash on Line will allow you to make seamless payments for anything going on at school including hot lunches.

• If you would like to volunteer please fill out the form and send it to the office.

Do not hesitate to call the school if you have any questions.

Thank you

Rachelle Duffus

Attached is our February newsletter.

Welcome Spring; how times have changed,

These are unprecedented phases of our lives and they call for unprecedented measures.  Everything Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board is implementing is directed by the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Education.   More than ever, please make sure you stay connected to KPR at http://www.kprschools.ca/en/COVID-19.html.

Be safe and be well QE,  

Rachelle Duffus 

Dear QE Community,

We are excited to start distance learning with your child(ren) Monday.  Every member of our staff has contributed to provide students and families with all they need to continue learning. 

This is a journey we are taking together.  There are going to be bumps in our learning curve as we enter in to the new world of distance learning.  It is uncommon ground for you, or students and our teachers.  Please be patient with yourselves and us. 

You can help.  First, set time and physical work space aside for your child(ren) to learn every day.  Set up a schedule and adhere to it.  Reach out to your teachers’ and or myself if you need any support.

Second it is important that we are all respectful and mindful of the physical distancing measures in place to safeguard our health.  Both schools and all public libraries have Wi-Fi hotspots.  When you use a hot spot, please respect social distancing.   Do not gather in groups over five and stay apart by two meters.

We are in this together,

Be well QE,

Sincerely,

Rachelle Duffus

Attached is our December newsletter.

Attached is our January newsletter.

KPR’s Annual Parent Conference is returning this fall as a hybrid event, where you can choose to attend in-person or online!

This year’s conference will focus on Building Skills and Resilience in a Supportive Environment of Risk-Taking, featuring keynote speaker Dr. Colin King.

Join us Saturday, October 15, 9:30am – 12:00pm at Adam Scott CVI, 175 Langton Street, Peterborough or virtually. For more information on this FREE event, and to register, please open the attachment or go to our website. 

Dear KPR Families,

With cooler temperatures starting to set in, I am looking forward to the many new beginnings and fun learning opportunities the fall season holds for students, staff and families. It has been inspiring to see the many ways our school communities have welcomed students and families back to school over the past few weeks, hosting open houses, parent/teacher nights, school assemblies, and special events. 

Tomorrow, September 30th is National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This is a solemn day of remembrance, and a time to recognize the harm caused by residential schools, honour survivors and their families, and remember those who never returned home. Our school communities will be recognizing this day in age-appropriate ways, and engaging in discussion, reflection and learning that supports our collective journey towards reconciliation. 

As part of this observance, staff and students are invited to wear orange this Friday, and flags will be flown at half-mast at KPR schools and education centres from sunrise to sunset. 

It is important to remember that reconciliation does not focus on one day alone. Last year, KPR’s Indigenous Education team launched the Passport to Reconciliation program as a way for school communities to work together and actively engage in broad-based collective learning and action year-round. I urge everyone to learn more about the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and consider how the tools in KPR’s Passport to Reconciliation program can further support this learning, and our broader commitment to Indigenous knowledge, culture and perspectives. I also invite you to reflect on the following #WeAreKPR story, that highlights some of the ways our students and staff have engaged in the program to date. Follow @KPRIndigenous on social media for more information and to access the Passport to Reconciliation program from home. 

Lastly, I’d like to share a reminder to visit KPR’s events calendar and follow @kprschools on social media for information on upcoming days of significance next month, including Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and Two-Spirit Peoples (MMIWG2S) Honouring and Awareness Day on October 4, and Yom Kippur on October 5. 

Wishing everyone time for rest and reflection with your families. 

Sincerely,  

Rita Russo

Director of Education

KPR News

2022 Parent Conference 

Registration is now open for KPR’s Annual Parent Conference! Join us on Saturday, October 15, 9:30am – 12:00pm at Adam Scott CVI, 175 Langton Street, Peterborough or virtually. This year’s conference will focus on Building Skills and Resilience in a Supportive Environment of Risk-Taking, featuring keynote speaker Dr. Colin King. Attend in-person or online to learn about practical parent-led strategies that build resilience and hear from a panel of educators and professionals about how these skills can be supported at school and at home.

For more information about this FREE event, and to register, please visit our website. 

COVID-19 and Illness Protocol

To help maintain a healthy and safe school environment, we remind all staff, students, and visitors to self-screen daily before attending school, using the provincial screening tool. 

We are continuing to monitor daily absence trends and sharing this information with local public health units. For more information about COVID protocols, please see our Return to School Plan, which reflects the latest provincial guidance.

The learning focus for the month of October is Indigenous Film. To access weekly activities, reflection questions and resources to support your learning, visit the Passport to Reconciliation resource at the following link:

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/e/2PACX-1vQaQrE0ELENw_FtCRpm12wEWmYMynbadKW1K7eOThVYjjO4KUM7nmzLy8SvfHDwGbqyoNB6Oz3nkgAE/pub?start=false&loop=false&delayms=3000&slide=id.g1592378e483_0_47 

Dear KPR Families, 

I’ve had the wonderful privilege of visiting many schools and classrooms over the past month. Witnessing, first-hand, the smiling faces of students and staff, I know it has been a busy, but successful start to the school year! In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I want to take a moment to express my gratitude to each and every one of you for making KPR an amazing place to learn and grow as a community. I hope that the long weekend allowed you an opportunity to rest and connect with your loved ones.

I’d also like to extend my appreciation to two very important, passionate members of our KPR community, Student Trustees Maria Mahfuz and Kelly Mitchell. If you have not had the opportunity to meet our Student Trustees yet, I am pleased to share an introduction in this week’s #WeAreKPR story. Their commitment to student advocacy and leadership is inspirational to us all!

As we look ahead to the end of the month, October 24 is Diwali. To everyone celebrating, may the festival of lights bring you joy and happiness. For more information on this important day celebrated by Hindu, Jain and Sikh communities worldwide, visit KPR’s events calendar and follow @kprschools on social media. 

Sincerely, 

Rita Russo, 

Director of Education

KPR NEWS

2022 Parent Conference

This Saturday, October 15th is KPR’s Annual Parent Conference! We look forward to having you join us for this FREE, hybrid event from 9:30am - 12:00pm at Adam Scott CVI, 175 Langton Street, Peterborough or virtually. 

This year’s conference will focus on Building Skills and Resilience in a Supportive Environment of Risk-Taking, featuring keynote speaker Dr. Colin King. To learn more, and to register, please visit our website. 

Labour Negotiations Update 

As many of you may know, there are ongoing labour negotiations with education sector staff across Ontario. Contracts have expired and are currently being bargained, as outlined in legislation, between the provincial government, unions, and the Ontario Public School Boards’ Association (OPSBA), which represents public school boards at the provincial table.

At the provincial level, the government and the trustees’ associations bargain central terms with teachers’ federations and education workers’ unions. These terms can include areas such as: wages, class sizes, benefits and sick leave. The provincial issues are ones that have the greatest monetary effect and they apply to all school boards across the province. Recently, you will have seen news that CUPE provincially has announced the result of a strike vote of its members and asked for a ‘No Board’ report as part of the bargaining process. CUPE represents educational support staff within our schools, and others within the province.

This does NOT mean that a strike or job action is going to occur or is happening soon. CUPE must provide significant notice of any possible labour disruption, which could include a work-to-rule, rotating or complete strike. To date, we have not been given notice of any impending strike activity.

We know that central negotiations are ongoing with this employee group and, like you, are hopeful of a resolution as soon as possible. We will continue to provide any further updates as they are known in the coming weeks. 

COVID-19 and Illness Protocol

To help maintain a healthy and safe school environment, we remind all students, staff and visitors to self-screen daily before attending school, using the provincial screening tool. 

While our schools continue to promote respectful and inclusive environments where everyone’s personal choice about wearing masks is respected, we encourage our students and staff to wear masks indoors at school, in accordance with current recommendations from our local public health partners. Parents and guardians can also find the most up-to-date information regarding community rates and recommendations through their local public health units:

Peterborough Public Health

Durham Region Health Department

Haliburton Kawartha Pine Ridge District Health Unit

Hastings Prince Edward Public Health

We continue to monitor daily absence trends and share this information with local public health units. For more information about COVID protocols, please see our Return to School Plan, which reflects the latest provincial guidance.

As always, we encourage everyone to please stay home when you are unwell, and use the provincial screening tool as a guide to when you should return to school.

Regional School Council Meetings 

• Clarington Regional School Council meetings are at Kirby Professional Learning Centre (Great Room) at 7:00pm on the following dates: October 26, November 23, January 25, February 22 and April 19.
• Northumberland/East Regional School Council meetings are at 6:30pm on the following dates: October 18, December 6, January 31, and April 11.
• Peterborough Regional School Council meetings are held virtually at 6:30pm on the following dates: October 18, December 6, January 31, and April 11.

Dear KPR Families, 

As the days get shorter, and schedules get busier, I want to take a minute to recognize a situation that may be a source of stress for many staff and families - the ongoing provincial negotiations with CUPE (Canadian Union of Public Employees). 

CUPE represents a large number of our education workers in KPR schools, including custodians, maintenance workers, clerical staff, educational workers, early childhood educators, and professional staff. CUPE staff in our schools are vital to students’ success, their safety and the effective functioning and operation of our schools and buildings each day. 

Please review the important information below in the news section, about the possibility of a full withdrawal of service, as early as late next week, if notice is received from CUPE.  

We recognize the valuable role of CUPE staff in supporting students, staff and schools. We continue to follow the provincial negotiations closely and, like you, remain hopeful that an agreement can be reached soon that will avert disruption to our students and families. 

As we move into November, KPR schools will once again recognize and celebrate November as Indigenous Peoples Awareness Month. As part of our ongoing commitment to championing Indigenous education, achievement and awareness, November was chosen because it includes several important dates, such as Treaties Recognition Week (Nov. 6-12), Rock Your Mocs Week (Nov. 14-20), Inuit Day (Nov. 7), Indigenous Veterans’ Day (Nov. 8), and Louis Riel Day (Nov. 16). While there is a dedicated focus during the month of November, this important learning takes place throughout the entire year for both students and staff. 

The Passport to Reconciliation program supports this important work and encourages staff and students to engage in learning focused on Indigenous knowledge, culture, perspective and history. The learning focus for the month of November is Treaties. Schools and classes will learn directly from authentic Indigenous voices, Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Keepers and then share their learning with others. All year long, the @KPRIndigenous account on Twitter shares valuable resources and reflections that can help us all to think deeply about reconciliation.

For more information about these and other significant days coming up in the next couple of weeks, please visit KPR’s online Events Calendar. 

Thank you,

Rita Russo,

Director of Education

KPR NEWS

CUPE Labour Negotiations Update

As you may know, CUPE will be in a legal strike position on Thursday, November 3, 2022. Strike actions can include a partial or full withdrawal of service. We are, of course, very concerned about this possibility and know that our staff and families share that concern.  

To assist staff and families in their planning, we are sharing today that IF a provincial agreement is not reached next week, and IF there is a full withdrawal of service by CUPE employees, our schools would be CLOSED to students.  

We appreciate that the potential of closing our schools is difficult news, and not a decision we make lightly, but the reality is that without CUPE education workers on-site, we could not ensure safe conditions for all our students. This course of action is based on the following considerations:  

• supervision of students; 
• medical support and care for all students; 
• safe operation of water and sanitation systems, including required water flushing; 
• conditions of school buildings and classrooms, and 
• overall safety and security. 

School boards must be given five days’ notice of any possible strike action. If we receive notice from CUPE about pending strike action in the coming days, we will share further detailed information with all staff and families at that time.

2022 Parent Conference

KPR’s Parent Involvement Committee would like to thank all those who attended and contributed to this year’s Parent Conference - Building Skills and Resilience in a Supportive Environment of Risk-Taking. If you missed it, Dr. Colin King’s keynote address, the panel discussion and resources for families, are now available on our website. 

Ventilation Improvements

Student and staff well-being is our highest priority. With financial support from the federal and provincial governments for COVID-related safety improvements, all classrooms in KPR are serviced by either a stand-alone HEPA unit or a mechanical HVAC system. We continue to make ventilation improvements, including major projects at 10 elementary and secondary schools to replace older HVAC systems, and upgrades to the HVAC systems in 40 portables.

KPR’s Ministry Ventilation Report has a complete list of approved projects funded by federal and provincial grants.

Hello everyone,

Further to our CUPE Labour Negotiation Update on Friday, please find below the latest information on this issue:

• Yesterday, on Sunday, CUPE (Canadian Union of Public Employees) provided notice that if a provincial agreement is not reached during negotiations this week, they plan to begin a full withdrawal of service on Friday, November 4, 2022. 
• Today, the government of Ontario has introduced legislation that, if passed, would impose a new contract for CUPE workers, and is intended to prevent strike action.
• In response, CUPE has suggested that they may proceed to withdraw services on Friday, in protest of the legislation.

This is a rapidly evolving situation that we are following closely.  

We appreciate that this is a difficult situation, and we will continue to share further information with staff and families throughout the week once confirmed.

Dear KPR families, 

Please see below for the latest information on the provincial labour situation. 

The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) have announced that their members will not be at work on Friday, November 4, 2022, as part of a province-wide full withdrawal of service. 

IF this takes place, we will be unable to safely operate our schools for students, and all schools will be CLOSED to students on Friday, November 4, 2022.   

This is a rapidly evolving situation that we are following closely.  

We will provide confirmation to families on Thursday afternoon/evening, as soon as we are able, about school status for Friday, November 4, through School Messenger (direct email), website and social media platforms.  

We appreciate that the potential of closing our schools is difficult news, and not a decision that we make lightly, but without CUPE education workers on-site, we could not ensure our schools would be safe for all students. This course of action is based on supervision of students; medical support and care for all students; safe operation of water and sanitation systems, including required water flushing; conditions of school buildings and classrooms, and overall safety and security. 

Asynchronous Learning 

If schools are closed, teachers will provide asynchronous learning opportunities for students by sending materials home Thursday, or through their regular communication platforms (e.g., Edsby, Google, D2L). Students may complete this work any time on Friday. 

If the job action extends beyond Friday, information will be shared about a technology deployment plan. 

For students enrolled in our virtual schools, programming will proceed as usual on Friday. 

Child Care 

If schools are closed on Friday, child care centres will be permitted to remain open. Families should contact their child care operator directly for more information. 

Before and after school programs, early years centres and facility partner programs will be closed. 

Community Use of Schools/Permits 

If schools are closed on Friday, all school permits will be cancelled for the day. We will provide further information to community use groups about future permits.  

We sincerely appreciate your ongoing patience and understanding as we continue our planning in response to these provincial issues. 

If there are any positive developments between the province and CUPE that may avert Friday’s withdrawal of service, we will message families directly. This may include communications late into the night on Thursday - please check your emails regularly throughout the evening and watch for any developments reported by the media.   

KPR SCHOOLS CLOSED TO IN-PERSON LEARNING FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2022 

Dear KPR families, 

We have been monitoring the provincial labour situation closely today.  

The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) have announced that their members will participate in a province-wide full withdrawal of service tomorrow (Friday). 

As a result, ALL KPR schools will be CLOSED to students on Friday, November 4, 2022.   

We appreciate that this is difficult news, and not a decision that we make lightly, but without CUPE education workers on-site, we could not ensure our schools would be safe for all students.  

Student Learning 

Teachers will provide asynchronous learning opportunities for students. Work may have been sent home today, or it may be shared through regular communication platforms (e.g., Edsby, Google, D2L). Students may complete this work any time on Friday. 

For students enrolled in our virtual schools, programming will proceed as usual. 

If the job action extends beyond Friday, more information will be shared with families.  

Child Care 

Child care centres are permitted to remain open on Friday.  

Before and after school programs, early years centres and facility partner programs will be closed. 

Community Use of Schools Permits 

All school permits will be cancelled until further notice.  

We will continue to provide further updates in the coming days. 

SCHOOLS TO REMAIN CLOSED FOR DURATION OF CUPE FULL WITHDRAWAL OF SERVICE   

Dear KPR Families,   

Further to our note yesterday, and to support ongoing planning, we are confirming that KPR schools will remain closed to students throughout the province-wide full withdrawal of service by Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE). 

As we have shared, without our CUPE staff, we are unable to ensure our schools would be safe for students. As a result, schools will be CLOSED ON MONDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2022. 

We will continue to monitor the situation and will provide an update if there is any change to this status. 

Student Learning  

As part of our ongoing planning, teachers will continue to provide remote asynchronous learning opportunities for students. Work will be shared through regular communication platforms (e.g., Edsby, Google, D2L).  

Student tasks will be a continuation of the learning that is ongoing in the classroom/subject area. These assigned tasks will be completed by students at their own pace.   

As schools become aware of individual family technology needs, we will seek to address those as best we are able. 

For students enrolled in our virtual schools, programming will proceed as usual.  

Child Care  

Child care centres will remain open. 

Before and after school programs, early years centres and facility partner programs will be closed.  

Community Use of Schools Permits  

All school permits are cancelled until further notice. 

We will continue to provide further updates in the coming days.  

Sincerely,  

Rita Russo, 
Director of Education 

KPR Schools to Re-open Tuesday, November 8

Dear KPR Families,

We appreciate that the last few days have been extremely challenging for everyone. We value and appreciate all CUPE staff, and the important work they do in our schools and workplaces. 

Today, the government has announced that it will repeal Bill 28. Following that, CUPE has announced that employees will return to work and end the withdrawal of service.

As a result, I am pleased to share that all KPR schools will be OPEN tomorrow (Tuesday, November 8). 

All previously scheduled school activities and events may resume, as schools return to normal operations on Tuesday.

Provincial negotiations will continue with both CUPE and the government returning to the negotiating table, and we are hopeful an agreement will be reached soon.

We continue to follow the negotiations closely and will provide timely updates for families.

We look forward to welcoming everyone back to school tomorrow. 

Thank you,

Rita Russo,

Director of Education

Dear KPR Families,

I want to begin my message this week from a place of gratitude. During Veterans’ Week, and on November 11, KPR students and staff honour all those who have served our country, and continue to serve, to protect freedom and peace within our own borders and around the world. We appreciate and honour the bravery and sacrifice of our fellow Canadians.

As time passes and fewer veterans are alive to share their stories, an important part of remembering is discussing this part of Canada’s history with students. We remember the victories and heavy losses during World War One, World War Two and the Korean War, and significant peacekeeping efforts in many places around the world. Canadian forces continue to have an important presence here in Canada, supporting people in times of floods, storms and other disasters, and we say thank you for these incredible efforts. 

On Indigenous Veterans’ Day, November 8, we specifically recognize the contributions of thousands of Indigenous people who served during times of war and peacekeeping. Indigenous veterans, along with many women and members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, bravely fought for and supported our country, while enduring many hardships due to unfair treatment and systemic barriers at home. We remember all those from our diverse society who have served our country.

Flags at all KPR schools and buildings will be lowered to half mast on November 11, from sunrise to sunset.

As Indigenous Peoples Awareness Month continues, our school communities are engaging in important learning and discussion about First Nation, Métis, and Inuit people. We all have so much more to learn, in support of reconciliation, and we invite families to access the activities and resources available through KPR’s monthly Passport to Reconciliation program. 

Please visit KPR’s Events Calendar for a list of upcoming significant dates, including Louis Riel Day and Rock Your Mocs week.

The last week has been a stressful one for many. As we near the weekend, I hope you have a chance for some rest and relaxation. Please continue to take good care of yourselves and each other. 

Rita Russo, 

Director of Education

KPR NEWS

Community Representatives - Parent Involvement Committee 

The Board is seeking three community members, with an interest in public education, to serve on its Parent Involvement Committee for a one-year term, effective November 28, 2022.

The Parent Involvement Committee works with parents, school councils and community partners to foster parental involvement and community engagement in support of student success. The non-parent Community Representatives on the committee serve in addition to three parent members from each region of the Board (Clarington, Northumberland-City of Quinte West/Murray Ward and Peterborough). The Parent Involvement Committee meets six times a year.

Candidates interested in serving in this volunteer position are invited to submit a letter of interest by 4:00 p.m. on November 23, 2022. More details and application information can be found on the Board website.

Grade 8 Information Nights

KPR secondary schools are hosting information nights for incoming Grade 8 students. We look forward to welcoming parents, guardians and Grade 8 students to learn more about the exciting programs and opportunities KPR has to offer! Dates and times of the Information Nights are available on our website.

Wednesday, November 16, 2022 

CUPE Negotiations Update   

Dear KPR Families, 

As the provincial negotiations process continues, these remain challenging days for our staff and families, with outcomes largely beyond our control. We appreciate your continued support and understanding as we move forward.  

Today, the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) have announced that their members will not be at work on Monday, November 21, 2022, as part of a province-wide full-withdrawal of service, if they are unable to reach a new collective agreement with the provincial government. 

IF this takes place, we will be unable to safely operate our schools for students, and all schools will be CLOSED to students on Monday, November 21, 2022.  

This is an evolving situation that we will continue to follow closely in the coming days.  

It is our understanding that negotiations are continuing, and we remain hopeful that an agreement can be reached soon that would avert the potential strike. 

We will provide confirmation to staff and families as soon as we are able, about school status for Monday, November 21, 2022. 

We appreciate that the potential of closing our schools is difficult news, and not a decision that we make lightly, but without CUPE education workers on-site, we could not ensure our schools would be safe for all students. This course of action is based on supervision of students; medical support and care for all students; safe operation of water and sanitation systems, including required water flushing; conditions of school buildings and classrooms, and overall safety and security. 

We are currently finalizing our learning plan for Monday, if needed, and will share further information with families in the coming days.  

For students enrolled in our virtual schools, programming will proceed as usual on Monday. 
 

Child Care 

If schools are closed on Monday, child care centres will be permitted to remain open. Families should contact their child care operator directly for more information. 

Before and after school programs, early years centres and facility partner programs will be closed. 

Community Use of Schools/Permits 

If schools are closed on Monday, all school permits will be cancelled for the day. We will provide further information to community use groups about future permits.  

We appreciate your patience and understanding as we continue our planning in response to these provincial issues. 

If there are any positive developments between the province and CUPE that may avert Monday’s announced withdrawal of service, we will message staff and families directly.  

This may include communications late into the night on Sunday - please check your emails regularly throughout the evening and watch for any developments reported by the media.    

Sincerely, 

Steve Russell                                               Rita Russo 

Chairperson                                                Director of Education 

KPR SCHOOLS MAY BE CLOSED TO IN-PERSON LEARNING MONDAY 

Dear KPR families, 

Further to our message earlier this week, and to support ongoing staff and family planning, we are confirming that CUPE (Canadian Union of Public Employees) has announced their members will participate in a province-wide full withdrawal of service on Monday, November 21, if a provincial agreement is not reached before then. 

If the withdrawal of service occurs, ALL KPR schools will be CLOSED to students on Monday, November 21, 2022.   

We appreciate that this is difficult news, but without CUPE education workers on-site, we could not ensure our schools would be safe for all students.  

Student Learning 

Teachers will provide remote learning opportunities for students on Monday as we prepare for synchronous learning beginning on Tuesday. Work may be sent home with students, or it may be shared through regular communication platforms (e.g., Edsby, Google, D2L). Students may complete this work any time on Monday. 

Synchronous (live/virtual) learning will begin on Tuesday if the situation remains unresolved. 

As schools become aware of individual family technology needs, we will seek to address those as best we are able. 

For students enrolled in our virtual schools, programming will proceed as usual. 

Child Care 

Child care centres are permitted to remain open on Monday.  

Before and after school programs, early years centres and facility partner programs will be closed. 

Community Use of Schools Permits 

All school permits will be cancelled for Monday evening if the full withdrawal of service takes place. If the withdrawal continues beyond Monday, permits will be cancelled until further notice.  

We continue to monitor this provincial situation closely and we understand that negotiations are continuing, with a deadline of 5:00pm on Sunday. We will provide an update at that time, and share further updates as new information becomes available. 

Steve Russell                                            Rita Russo  

Chairperson of the Board                        Director of Education 

Dear KPR families,

It’s been an incredibly difficult week for our KPR community and our thoughts remain with the Thomas A. Stewart students, staff and families, and all those in our schools and communities with connections to the MacHart (Hart & MacDonnell) family. So many people have been affected by this terrible tragedy and our hearts and minds are with all those who have been impacted. We continue to hold Rowghan MacHart in our thoughts as she remains in hospital.

As we approach December, there are a number of important days that support our work in creating safe, inclusive schools. I invite you to visit our Events Calendar to learn more.

Bullying Awareness and Prevention Week (November 20-26) is an opportunity to learn more about bullying and cyberbullying, and its effects on student learning and wellbeing. Bullying is a deliberate act that is persistent over time, with an intent to harm. When bullying is based on race, gender, creed, sexual orientation or other factors identified in the Ontario Human Rights Code, it is a form of discrimination. KPR schools are committed to providing safe, caring and restorative schools to support student learning, achievement and wellbeing. We encourage people to report all incidents of bullying as soon as possible to your school principal. KPR's online Report IT! Tool also continues to be available to students, staff and community. 

Today is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and December 6 is the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, in memory of the  14 young women killed at Polytechnique Montréal and the many others who were injured because of their gender. Many women, girls, 2SLGBTQIA+, and gender-diverse individuals in our communities continue to experience violence and discrimination. As an educational organization, we must confront issues of gender inequality in all the forms in which they are found. To acknowledge the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women KPR schools will join others across our country and lower our school flags on December 6.

On December 10, International Human Rights Day, we recognize the important work the KPR community has done to raise awareness, effect meaningful change and positively influence human rights movements. This is a day to celebrate the signing of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948, a day when we should all think about what human rights means to our daily lives. We know there is still much more to do, and we are committed to taking action in support of systemic change. KPR’s Commissioner's Office of Human Rights, Equity & Accessibility (COHREA) was established last year as a resource for all members of the Board community to be part of the human rights conversation. COHREA provides human rights education, information, assistance and advice in fostering and supporting an inclusive culture free of discrimination and harassment.

Thank you for your support of safe and inclusive school environments.

Rita Russo
Director of Education

KPR NEWS

Letter from the Chief Medical Officer of Health and Masking Recommendations

Due to an increase of respiratory illnesses, Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health is strongly recommending masks for all indoor public settings, including schools and childcares. KPR schools are mask-friendly environments. Along with our local public health unit partners, we strongly encourage masking, while also respecting individual choice about wearing masks. Schools continue to have 3-ply masks available for students. Please use the screening tool, stay home when you are sick and clean your hands often to help keep everyone healthy.

This letter from Dr. Kieran Moore, Chief Medical Officer of Health, to Ontario parents and caregivers, shares some important information and reminders to help protect against the spread of respiratory infections. 

Parents Reaching Out GrantsAll school boards receive Parents Reaching Out grant funding annually from the provincial government to support parent involvement and to lead projects with a focus on the identification and removal of barriers that prevent parents and families from participating and engaging fully in their children's learning. School councils are encouraged to submit applications for projects that will engage parents and families in their communities. Applications should be submitted by December 23 to be eligible for funding. More information is available in the Parent section of KPR’s website.

IMPORTANT NOTICE FOR PARENTS: ALL KPR SCHOOLS AND BUILDINGS CLOSED FRIDAY, DECEMBER 23

As a result of the significant storm and extreme weather forecasted to develop over the course of this evening and tomorrow, (flash freezing, damaging winds, blizzard conditions) all KPR schools, buildings, and worksites, including Education Centres, are CLOSED Friday, December 23, to students and staff.

School-based child care programs (for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers) may choose to operate on Friday. Parents/Guardians should contact their individual child care providers for further information.                 

Dear KPR Families, 

As we have shared, as a result of the significant storm warnings and extreme weather forecasted, all KPR schools and buildings will be closed Friday - we encourage everyone to take steps to stay safe during the stormy weather over the next few days.

The end of the year is an opportunity to reflect on all of the special moments, learning, and memories of 2022. It has been heartwarming to see pictures and to hear stories from so many of our schools that have supported their communities this month by participating in charitable activities, such as food drives, writing letters and other acts of kindness. Many have also taken part in seasonal events and activities that have supported learning about the diverse celebrations, traditions, and spiritual significance of December. For those interested in learning more about these celebrations and upcoming days of significance in the new year, KPR’s Events Calendar is a great resource!

While our schools have been buzzing with excitement in anticipation of the holidays, we continue to remember that this time of year can be a hectic, stressful or difficult time for some of us. Keeping this in mind, I encourage students and families to find time over the holidays to rest and take care of yourselves and those around you. School Mental Health Ontario offers many valuable resources including a list of self-care tips over the winter break. Inspired by students and written for students, but certainly these strategies are relevant for us all! Please reach out to a friend, family member or colleague if you need support.

Whether you are celebrating Winter Solstice or Hanukkah this week, or Christmas or Kwanzaa in the days ahead, or you are simply looking forward to some quiet time - it is my hope that you will find many opportunities for all the things that bring you happiness. I extend my sincere wishes for a safe and enjoyable holiday and may 2023 be a year of good health, happiness and renewed energy for us all. 

Sincerely,

Rita Russo, 

Director of Education

KPR NEWS

Holiday Greeting from Minister of Education, Stephen Lecce

We have been asked to share the following holiday greeting video message from Minister of Education, Stephen Lecce. Minister of Education video message.  

Virtual School Registration 

This Friday, December 23 is the final day for families to contact their home schools to request to transfer to Virtual Elementary School (VES) or Virtual High School (VHS) for Term 2/Semester 2. 

The start date for any families requesting this change will be February 6, 2023.

In-person learning, which means learning face-to-face in school facilities, is the ideal learning model for students and the model we value at KPR. While our focus remains on having as many students as possible attend in-person, we also recognize that virtual learning is a preferred option for some families.

Students who are already registered for virtual school will remain registered there for the rest of the school year unless they request a transfer back to in-person learning. Should a VES/VHS student want to return to their home school, home schools will continue to accommodate these student/family requests.

COVID and Illness 

Over the Winter Break, families can find the most up-to-date information regarding COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses, as well as current recommendations, through their local public health unit:

Peterborough Public Health

Durham Region Health Department

Haliburton Kawartha Pine Ridge District Health Unit

Hastings Prince Edward Public Health

Following the Winter Break, we will continue to remind all students, staff and visitors to self-screen daily before attending school, using the provincial screening tool to help maintain a healthy and safe school environment.

Dear KPR Families, 

It’s so wonderful to have our students and staff back together and engaged in the many daily activities that make KPR such a special place! 

As we get back into daily school and work routines this month, we want to continue to emphasize the importance of taking good care of our mental health. It’s important that we talk about, and keep talking about, mental health.  During the month of January, KPR will be talking and connecting about mental health and wellness using #KPRLetsConnect on social media. We also have specific resources available for students, including strategies and tips for talking, listening and connecting in support of good mental health.

As we begin to plan for next year, please let your friends and family know they can visit kprschools.ca to register for Kindergarten and to learn more about KPR’s awesome Kindergarten classrooms, where children, and their learning, are supported by caring, professional educator teams.

This month includes a number of significant events and observances, including Lunar New Year on January 22 and Family Literacy Day on January 27. Literacy is a foundational skill that affects all aspects of life, and opens up doors to many kinds of success. For more information about days of significance, please visit the KPR Events Calendar on our website.

I hope everyone has an enjoyable weekend. 

Rita Russo, 
Director of Education

KPR NEWS

2023-24 School Year Calendar

We invite KPR students, staff and families to provide feedback on the proposed 2023-24 school year calendar through an online survey by January 31. After we review the survey results, the calendar will be brought to the Board and submitted to the Ministry of Education for final approval. 

Kindergarten Registration

It’s Kindergarten registration time at Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board. KPR schools offer warm, welcoming Kindergarten programs that stimulate and encourage children to reach their full potential. Visit kprschools.ca/kindergarten for online registration information and to learn more about KPR’s safe, inclusive classrooms, where children learn through play!  

OPSBA Award Nominations

Know an amazing trustee, teacher, education worker, student or community member who deserves to be recognized for making a difference in their local school or community?

Nominations for the 2023 Ontario Public School Boards Association (OPSBA) Awards are now open! The nomination form and more information about the awards can be accessed online.

Immunization Information

Due to the pandemic, some students are not up-to-date on all immunizations needed to ensure protection against vaccine-preventable diseases. If your student received an immunization reminder letter from your local public health unit, this means that they are overdue for immunizations required for school under the Immunization of School Pupils Act. 

Families can visit their local public health unit’s website for more details on how to update their records or where to access upcoming immunization clinics.

Durham Region Health Department

Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit 

Hastings Prince Edward Public Health

Peterborough Public Health 

Dear KPR Families,

On this very cold PA Day, and with the conclusion of secondary exams, I hope all students are enjoying an early start to the weekend. To families of secondary students who participated in exams and culminating activities, we know this can be a stressful time and we thank you for your support of students.

The Education Act requires the Director of Education to produce an annual report to identify the actions of the board during the previous year. It is also an opportunity to highlight the great work that happens daily in our schools and buildings. With the 2022 Annual Report, I am very proud to share a sampling of the incredible accomplishments of our students and staff - engaged and excelling in learning, inspiring each other to succeed in life, and enriching our communities. Please take a moment to read and watch some of these wonderful stories that make KPR such a special place.

February is Black History Month, a time for celebration and recognition of the achievements, contributions and lived experiences of Black Canadians and their communities. In our learning this month and beyond, we recognize the value of celebrating Black history every day. Throughout the month of February, KPR will be highlighting resources to support learning and growth. For example, learn more about Rosemary Brown, who was the first Black woman to be elected as a member of the provincial legislature in Canada. During Black History Month, and every month, we continue the important work of being culturally relevant and responsive in our schools and classrooms. 

For information about upcoming days of significance this month, please visit KPR’s Events Calendar.

Stay warm everyone!

Rita Russo
Director of Education

KPR NEWS

Students in Grades 9-12 are invited to register for the LEAP ZONE Student Entrepreneurship @KPRDSB Club. This club will offer four live virtual after-school sessions with the Innovation Cluster to help students leap out of their comfort zone and into an entrepreneurial experience. Sessions on Ideation and Creativity, Business Basics, and Marketing and Brand Development will help shape the thinking of our young entrepreneurs and will culminate in a regional event of celebration and networking. 

Selected students will then represent KPRDSB at an Ontario-Wide Showcase and Networking Event. 

More information and registration is available on our website.

Kindergarten Registration

It’s Kindergarten registration time at Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board. KPR schools offer warm, welcoming Kindergarten programs that stimulate and encourage children to reach their full potential. Visit kprschools.ca/kindergarten for online registration information and to learn more about KPR’s safe, inclusive classrooms, where children learn through play!  

OPSBA Award Nominations

Know an amazing trustee, teacher, education worker, student or community member who deserves to be recognized for making a difference in their local school or community?

Nominations for the 2023 Ontario Public School Boards Association (OPSBA) Awards are now open! The nomination form and more information about the awards can be accessed online.

Dear KPR Families,

I know you join me in continuing to hold close in our thoughts and hearts all those affected by the devastating earthquakes in Turkey and Syria. We know that we have many students, staff and families in our communities who have friends and loved ones impacted by this disaster. Recognizing that these events can affect students in different ways, if your child needs support, please reach out to your teacher or school principal and they will help arrange for support and resources. 

As we continue to highlight Black excellence in our schools this month, students are learning about many people who have made significant contributions to Canadian history and culture. The Ontario Black History Society is dedicated to the study, preservation and promotion of Black history and heritage with educational resources that celebrate the contributions of the Black community in Ontario and Canada. In particular, Black women have shaped their own identities while advocating for change - creating and leading important organizations that have advanced equity and human rights. Learn more about the legacy and impact of these women and organizations.

February 22 is #PinkShirtDay, when we wear pink to stand up against bullying. It’s also a time to celebrate our differences while promoting kindness and compassion to ensure our schools continue to be safe and inclusive places for everyone. It’s important that we stand up against bullying every day, all year long. Throughout Canada, the third week of February is also known as Kindness Week, an occasion that many of our schools are celebrating with acts of kindness in their schools and communities.

For more information about upcoming days of significance, please visit the Events Calendar on our website.

Wishing everyone a safe and enjoyable  Family Day weekend! 

Sincerely,

Rita Russo
Director of Education

KPR News

OYAP Virtual Information Night

KPR is hosting a virtual information session on March 1st from 6:30pm – 8:00pm for students in Grades 9-11 to learn about apprenticeship opportunities, including the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP). More information and registration is available on our website. 

Secondary School Report Cards

Semester One report cards are now available under students’ profiles on Edsby. Report cards can be accessed on any computer or mobile device with Internet access. If you cannot access the report card, a copy may be requested from the school office.

Kindergarten Registration

Kindergarten registration is continuing! Families are encouraged to register early to begin a successful school journey and to support school level planning. KPR schools offer warm, welcoming Kindergarten programs that stimulate and encourage children to reach their full potential. Visit kprschools.ca/kindergarten for online registration information and to learn more about KPR’s safe, inclusive classrooms, where children learn through play!  

School Screening Tool Update

There have been minor updates to the School and Child Care Screening Tool, to align with current Ministry of Health recommendations. We continue to ask that all students and staff use the screening tool regularly and stay home when it is advised. Thank you for your help in keeping schools healthy and safe.

Dear KPR Families, 

It’s been wonderful to see students participating in a wide variety of winter activities these past few weeks, exploring the outdoors in school yards and KPR’s Outdoor Education Centres. Thank you to our staff and many volunteers who have been supporting these experiential learning opportunities, and a special thank you to custodians for keeping schools clean and safe during the messy winter weather!

Although Black History Month has come to an end, our learning and recognition of Black excellence, communities, histories, and cultures will continue far beyond this month. Over the past several weeks, our schools and classrooms have centered Black voices and lived-experiences in many different ways – some of which included inviting guest speakers, classroom lessons,  art projects, and engaging with resources and materials shared through KPR’s social media throughout the month.

As we reflect on this learning, it is important to consider how we can reframe our perspective on this month-long observance, and commit to continuing anti-racist practices and highlighting Black excellence year-round. 

The Month of March is full of important dates of significance, like International Women’s Day, International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination and International Transgender Day of Visibility, to name just a few. We will continue to share information via our social media channels, to help support our collective learning and continue to foster inclusive, welcoming environments for students, staff and families. Information about upcoming days can also be found on our website’s Events Calendar.

Wishing everyone a restful weekend. 

Sincerely,

Rita Russo,
Director of Education

KPR NEWS

Regional Kindergarten Information Sessions

Families of Kindergarten students starting school this September are invited to attend one of KPR’s upcoming regional information sessions! The sessions will provide an overview of the Kindergarten program and an opportunity for parents and caregivers to ask questions, connect with community partners, and tour a classroom. For more information, including dates, times and registration details, please visit our website. 

2023-24 School Year Calendar

At the Board meeting earlier this week, the draft 2023-2024 School Year Calendar was approved. It will now be submitted to the Ministry of Education for final approval.

Highlights of the approved calendar include:

• 1st day of classes – Tuesday, September 5, 2023
• Last day of classes – Thursday, June 27, 2024
• Winter Break – Monday, December 25, 2023 (Friday, December 22, 2023 will be the last day of school) through to Friday, January 5, 2024 (Monday, January 8, 2024 will be the first day of classes)
• March Break – (March 8 to March 15, 2024)

For a full listing of key calendar dates, including PA Days and secondary exams, please visit our website.

Dear KPR Families,

Spring has definitely sprung these past couple of weeks, with many bugs, bees, flowers and trees coming to life! It is wonderful to see students and staff exploring the changing seasons, and learning about the cycles of growth in our natural environments.

Renewal continues to be our focus as an organization as we collaborate with students, staff, families and communities about priorities for our next Strategic Plan. Nearly 2,000 people have shared their thoughts and applied over 77,000 ratings in our online Strategic Planning conversations! 

There’s still time to share your thoughts and prioritize ideas related to these two questions: How can we best support the unique and diverse learning needs of all students?

How can we best support wellness, belonging and overall success for students, staff and communities?

Please take a few minutes to Share Your Voice and participate in both of these online conversations. It’s easy and confidential - your thoughts will be shared, but not your identity. The theme for KPR’s strategic planning is Your Voice, Your Plan because we want to ensure that our plan and future direction reflects the voices and lived experiences of all students, staff, families and communities.

We also invite interested students, staff, family and community members to participate in our Online Focus Group session, where you can share your thoughts in facilitated conversations about learning, well-being and relationships. Registration is required for this event, taking place May 31, from 6:00-7:30 pm. Learn more about Strategic Planning opportunities for input on our Portal Page. 

Earlier this week, we recognized the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia. Too many people continue to face gender-based violence and discrimination that is rooted in ignorance, fear and hate. As a school board, we continue to foster education that combats all forms of discrimination and creates safe and inclusive spaces for everyone. For information about Days of Significance, please visit the Events Calendar on our school board website.

This long weekend is Hiawatha First Nation’s 27th Annual Traditional Powwow. The celebration is taking place at the Lakeview Ceremonial Grounds located at 126 Paudash Street. All are welcome to join in the celebration of Michi Saagiig culture with Hiawatha First Nation.

I hope everyone has an opportunity to do something they enjoy during the long weekend, as we prepare for the last stretch of the school year.

Best wishes,

Rita Russo,

Director of Education

Summer School

Summer School registration is now open for a wide variety of in-person courses. Guidance Departments at every secondary school are available to help students register. Students can enroll in recovery credits, half or full credit courses this summer. More information is available on the school board website.

2023-24 School Year Calendar

The 2023-24 School Year Calendar has now been approved by the Ministry of Education. 

Highlights of the approved calendar include:

• 1st day of classes – Tuesday, September 5, 2023
• Last day of classes – Thursday, June 27, 2024
• Winter Break – Monday, December 25, 2023 (Friday, December 22, 2023 will be the last day of school) through to Friday, January 5, 2024 (Monday, January 8, 2024 will be the first day of classes)
• March Break – (March 8 to March 15, 2024)

The full elementary and secondary calendars are available on the Board website. 

Teachers for Kids

Teachers For Kids, Teachers For Kids (TFK) has been supporting the social, emotional, and physical wellbeing of students in KPR since 1986. The organization raises funds to enable students to participate in school activities, extracurriculars, and field trips, and also provides school supplies, medical support, and personal care items to those in need.

Kawartha Pine Ridge is the only school board to have Teachers For Kids - serving students in the entire board. TFK is a registered charity that relies entirely on donations, with all funds going directly to students. Donations of $25 or more come with tax receipts. To learn more about TFK, please visit the TFK website.