Dear Alexandra Families,
As we welcome October, I want to take a moment to reflect on the wonderful start to the school year. It has been fantastic to see our students engage in their studies and extracurricular activities with such enthusiasm. It was also great to meet many of you at our Open House. Congratulations to Carter Stephens who was the winner of the scavenger hunt draw!
This month, we will be focused on getting to know our students academically. We will be administering literacy screeners including mandatory reading screeners in SK- 2. For students with special education needs, Individual Education Plans (IEPs) drafts for term 1 will be shared later this month.
Please remember that our school office is closed from 11:30 – 12:00pm daily. The phones will not be answered and student pickup/drop off will not be possible. Please plan pickup/drop offs around this time.
Additionally, October is a time for reflection and growth. Let’s continue to support each other academically and socially, and remember the importance of kindness and respect within our school community.
Important Dates
Don’t miss any important dates. See our APS Events Calendar on our website.
- September 30- October 1: Grade 6 Students to Camp Muskoka
- October 8: Picture Day
- October 9: Cross Country at Ken Reid
- October 15: Individual Education Plans (IEPs) sent home electronically
- October 14: Thanksgiving Monday (No School)
- October 21: Grade 7 Inoculations
- October 25: Professional Activity Day (No School)
- October 30: Character Education Assembly
- October 31: Halloween
Welcome New Staff
We are excited to welcome several new teachers and staff members since the first day of school! Please join me in welcoming:
- Amanda Stark, Educational Assistant
- Elaine Tamlin, Designated Early Childhood Educator
- Grade ⅔ Teacher – To be Determined
Congratulations to Mrs. Wilson who has accepted a position at Parkview PS. We will miss her at Alexandra but wish her well in her new role.
Communication
We value open communication between home and school. Please feel free to reach out to your child’s teacher with any questions or concerns. If after speaking with the teacher you feel your concern is unresolved, please call the office.
Look for our monthly newsletters and updates on our school website and social media pages to stay up to date on all current events.
Pets on School Property
This is a reminder that pets are not permitted on school property during school hours. This includes the parking lot during pick up and drop off times. This policy is in place to ensure a healthy and safe distraction free environment for everyone. We understand that pets can be wonderful companions, but their presence can lead to safety concerns and allergies for some students and staff. Service animals are exempt from this policy. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. If you have any questions, please reach out to the office.
Tree Climbing on School Property
We want to remind everyone that climbing trees on school property is not permitted. While we appreciate the spirit of adventure, tree climbing can pose safety risks, lead to injuries or damage to property in the congested parking lot. Please help us keep our school and students safe by respecting this rule.
Volunteer Opportunities
We are looking for volunteers to help with various events throughout the year. If you are interested in getting involved, please contact the front office. Our school council also has smaller sub-committees as a way to get involved without overcommitting. Contact the office if you are interested in getting involved.
Morning Drop Offs and Afternoon Pick Ups
As we settle into the school year, structure and routine become an important part of our day here at APS. We are so proud of our students for transitioning back to school after a long summer and welcoming new students, new staff and some new routines. Transitions and change can be difficult and we want to make sure that everyone is arriving at school feeling safe and that they belong. Here are a few tips to help get our days started and close the end of the day:
- On your way to school talk about something fun you’ll do together when you pick them up
- Stick to a routine so that every day is predictable and the same
- Prepare everything the night before so there’s no rushing in the morning
- Communicate with teachers/ staff so that they can help if need be
- Stay confident so that they know there’s nothing to worry about
It can be tempting to stick around and wait for your child to settle. It’s also tempting to sneak out thinking that will be easier for your child. However, neither of these strategies work well. The long drawn out goodbyes increase the anxiety in our children, and the quick sneak out plays into their greatest fears about being left. Instead, create a goodbye ritual with your child, give those last hugs and kisses and tell them you can’t wait to see them after school. Then, follow through on your word and head out that door. We got them!
Halloween
We will be permitting students to wear costumes to school on October 31, 2024. Teachers will communicate whether they should be worn to school or brought in the school bag. As a school, masks, weapons and culturally insensitive costumes will not be permitted. We want all members of our community to enjoy this day! If you are sending treats please remember we are a cinnamon, peanut and tree nut, and shellfish aware school.
Health & Safety
As we begin the school year, please remember to keep your child home if they are feeling unwell. We appreciate your cooperation in keeping our school community healthy. If your child is going to be away please call 705-324-3313 and leave a message as part of the safe arrival program.
Thank you for your continued support. Together, we can make this a fantastic school year for our students!
Warm regards,
Kristi Henshall
Principal, Alexandra PS
705- 324-3313
https://aps.tldsb.on.ca/