Dear Parents,
As I write this email, two beautiful red cardinals are perched on a tree branch outside our kitchen window. Nature, undeterred by the coronavirus, continues to provide for its children. So do we.
As we enter week five since our school was closed, I want to thank our staff and our families for all the amazing efforts they are making to provide for our kids–educationally, nutritionally, socially and emotionally. What we are experiencing is not easy but together, we continue to model for our students the importance of demonstrating resilience, maintaining hope and finding joy in the little things.
Re-Entry Plan Update
The YCDSB is working on updating it’s re-entry plan with important information related to the anticipated date of return on February 11, 2021. Communication will be shared with you once it is finalized. What I can share with you at this time is that students in JK/SK will be encouraged to wear masks and it will be mandatory for all students in Grades 1-8 to wear masks while at school. You may want to start preparing for this.
February Marks the Beginning of Black History Month
February is a time for Canadians to celebrate the many achievements and contributions of Black Canadians who, throughout history, have done so much to make Canada the culturally diverse, compassionate and prosperous nation it is today. It is also an opportunity to recognize historic and present forms of anti-Black racism in Ontario and challenge negative stereotypes and systems of oppression. At St. Mary, February is the month we highlight the vital role Black Canadians play in our history. We celebrate the successes of current Black Canadians, and in a particular way, we are going to celebrate our St. Mary students of African heritage and members of their families who contribute to the fabric of our community. We have many activities organized throughout the month and we look forward to Celebrating Black Excellence Week activities planned during the week February 22-26. More information will follow. Let us remember our shared responsibility to eliminate systemic barriers and racism not just this month but every day.
Term 1 Elementary Report Card Distribution Update
Our school will be delivering report cards electronically on Tuesday, February 16th (after 12:00 PM) via the Parent Portal.
Parents are encouraged to sign-on to the Parent Portal in advance of February 16th, 2021 to ensure your username and password will allow access.
To access this portal, please visit our school’s website St. Mary Catholic Elementary School – Striving For Excellence and click on the parents link in the top banner. From the Parents page, you will find a link to “Maplewood Parent Portal ConnectEd” on the right hand side.
For detailed instructions on registering, using the portal, and to seek support, please visit: https://sites.google.com/
Thank you for your attention to this important matter.
Monday, February 1, 2021 is a PA Day
Teachers will be engaged in professional development opportunities on Monday. There will be NO remote learning for students. We encourage students to take a break from screen time on Monday and enjoy some time outdoors or enjoying their favourite pastime.
The two cardinals in the tree outside my window are currently practicing “social distancing.” Nevertheless, as a species, when faced with a threat, such as cold or lack of food, cardinals flock together for mutual protection. We continue to learn from the natural world around us. Thank you for flocking virtually to support our students, our school and one another.
Have a wonderful week!
Mrs. D’Andrea