News

<h2 class="editor-heading-h2"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">See our Graduation Schedule</span></h2><h2 class="editor-heading-h2"><br></h2><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students may meet us at school at 8:30 a.m., or go directly to the Spire for 9:45 a.m. We will travel to the Spire together and run through a rehearsal. Afterward, students can either be picked up from the Spire or return to school for the remainder of the day to work on end-of-year classroom tasks.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><table class="editor-table" style="width: 100%; table-layout: fixed;"><colgroup><col style="width: 25%;"><col style="width: 25%;"><col style="width: 25%;"><col style="width: 25%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td colspan="4" class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: rgb(180, 167, 214); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Tuesday June 23rd, 2026</strong></b></p></td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: rgb(217, 210, 233); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Time</strong></b></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: rgb(217, 210, 233); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Event</strong></b></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: rgb(217, 210, 233); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Location</strong></b></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: rgb(217, 210, 233); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Attendees</strong></b></p></td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">8:45 AM</span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Travel to Spire</span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">City Transit</span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Graduates, Grade 8 Teachers, Support Staff</span></p></td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">10:00 AM</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">11:00 AM</span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Graduation Rehearsal</span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Spire</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">82 Sydenham St</span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Graduates, Grade 8 Teachers, Support Staff</span></p></td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">4:00 PM</span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Arrival and Photos</span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Spire</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">82 Sydenham St</span></p></td><td rowspan="2" class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Graduates and Guests (4 guests maximum)</span></p></td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">5:00 PM</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">6:00 PM</span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Graduation</span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Spire</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">82 Sydenham St</span></p></td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">7:00 PM</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">9:00 PM</span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Boat Cruise</span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Crawford Wharf</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">1 Brock St</span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Graduates, Teachers, Support Staff</span></p></td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">9:00 PM</span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Pick Up</span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Crawford Wharf</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">1 Brock St</span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Parents and Guardians</span></p></td></tr></tbody></table>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Show your school pride with official Vanier merch!</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Vanier Spirit Wear eStore</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> is live, grab your hoodies, t-shirts, and more!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Browse the collection and place your order online.</span><br><a href="https://specialtytrophies.ca/modulevanier/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Shop Our Store</span></a><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><figure><a href="https://specialtytrophies.ca/modulevanier/" target="_blank" title="https://specialtytrophies.ca/modulevanier/"><img src="/images/5c1fe850-5461-46bb-9fe1-b1cbeb19b4c4?fingerprint=ppb20251217013844" alt="https://specialtytrophies.ca/modulevanier/" width="609" height="346" style="width:609px;height:346px;display:inline-block"></a></figure></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><figure><a href="https://specialtytrophies.ca/4g/modulevanier/" target="_blank" title="Accessories"><img src="/images/5dce2da3-ec3a-4737-a1f0-9a88f916afe0?fingerprint=ppb20251217013844" alt="Accessories" width="614" height="345" style="width:614px;height:345px;display:inline-block"></a></figure></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><figure><a href="https://specialtytrophies.ca/4g/modulevanier/" target="_blank" title="Apparel"><img src="/images/da4a65b3-4128-4c60-8dad-d7b601a2aa97?fingerprint=ppb20251217015024" alt="Apparel" width="613" height="344" style="width:613px;height:344px;display:inline-block"></a></figure></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"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Elementary Progress Reports will be sent home:</span><br><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Term 1 Reports</strong></b><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Friday October 31, 2025</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thursday November 13, 2025</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Monday February 2, 2026</span><br><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Term 2 Reports</strong></b><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Friday February 13, 2026</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Friday June 5, 2026</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Wednesday June 24, 2026</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/4758dad9-fa50-44c8-8348-f5508dd8751c?fingerprint=ppb20251217013647" alt="Report Card Picture" width="198" height="200" style="width:198px;height:200px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/ec3e28bd-84f8-4020-9fe7-dfe29a93aa7a?fingerprint=ppb20260224141813" alt="Screenshot 2026 02 24 091730" width="537" height="696" style="width:537px;height:696px;display:inline-block"></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Vanier students will be putting on a production of The Imaginary Friends Detective Agency at the National Theatre School DramaFest on </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Friday, March 27th! </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This exciting festival takes place at the Thousand Islands Playhouse, and Vanier will be performing at 6:00 pm in the Firehall Theatre. Tickets for the show will be available at the door. </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for youth.</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Imaginary Friends Detective Agency, by Trevor Suthers, is a heartfelt and humorous play about a teen's search for their lost imaginary companion, which leads them on a journey of adventure and introspection. This play was sourced from Drama Notebook:&nbsp;</span><br><a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dramanotebook.com%2Fplays-for-kids-and-teens%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cshawl%40limestone.on.ca%7Cabd70ae434a64f0c215e08de8b6f4807%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C639101507352692749%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=BRxXT7nJb9%2BxikBA51pQ6h8i9KImJzktSBMNCayfj8Q%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" title="Original URL: https://www.dramanotebook.com/plays-for-kids-and-teens/. Click or tap if you trust this link." class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.dramanotebook.com/plays-for-kids-and-teens/</span></a><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/6d451498-5a62-43d1-bab1-2104b2d122fa?fingerprint=ppb20260326194957" alt="bella chorus" width="308" height="230" style="width:308px;height:230px;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/e8c01554-7919-46e2-bf5e-eb8e82feaa9c?fingerprint=ppb20260326194955" alt="queen therapist" width="308" height="230" style="width:308px;height:230px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/c339a8d7-9ec9-4ff2-9ef5-dcc89dae330a?fingerprint=ppb20260326194954" alt="core cast 1" width="315" height="237" style="width:315px;height:237px;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/c142bae5-f7c0-42c7-97b1-7284c33d0d90?fingerprint=ppb20260326194952" alt="take a hike" width="316" height="237" style="width:316px;height:237px;display:inline-block"></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Limestone District School Board students showcased their outstanding skills and talent at the 2026 Skills Ontario Competition, held in Toronto on May 4 and 5, 2026.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Skills Ontario Competition offers a unique opportunity for top students from across the province to demonstrate that they are truly the best in their field. Over two and a half days, competitors impress educators, family members, friends, and potential employers through hands-on, real‑world challenges. Medalists are awarded gold, silver, or bronze medals, with some also receiving monetary awards and the opportunity to advance to the Skills Canada National Competition, and potentially the WorldSkills Competition.</span></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Limestone District School Board Participation and Results</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Limestone students returned home with an impressive showing across elementary, secondary, and post‑secondary categories:</span></p><h3 class="editor-heading-h3"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Elementary Competition</span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Limestone District School Board had 16 Elementary Students attend Skills Ontario in the areas of:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Construction</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Horticulture and Landscaping</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">VEX Robotics</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Lego Mechanics</span></li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Secondary Competition</span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In secondary Limestone District School Board had representation in the following competitions:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Coding</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Electrical Installations</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Plumbing</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Carpentry - Team - Team of 2</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Vex V5 Robotics - Team of 4</span></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Culinary Arts</span></li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Graphic Design - Presentation</span></li><li value="8" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Hairstyling</span></li><li value="9" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Photography</span></li><li value="10" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Prepared Speech</span></li><li value="11" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Home and Team Building - Team of 4</span></li><li value="12" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Auto Collision Repair</span></li><li value="13" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Auto Painting</span></li><li value="14" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Auto Service Technology</span></li><li value="15" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Cabinetmaking</span></li><li value="16" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Outdoor Powered Equipment</span></li><li value="17" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Welding</span></li><li value="18" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Baking</span></li><li value="19" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Computer Aided Manufacturing</span></li></ul><h4 class="editor-heading-h4"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Secondary Results:</span></h4><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Gold – Computer Aided Manufacturing:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Jacob O’Reilly</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Silver – Home and Team Building (Team of 4):</strong></b></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Quinn Sproule</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Clarke Lemke</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Parker Beeg</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Jasper Keller</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Bryden Thibodeau (competed with the team at Limestone Skills Competition)</span></li></ul></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Bronze – Auto Painting:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Amanda Neddow</span></li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Post‑Secondary Competition</span></h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Gold:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Alisha Haaksman</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Congratulations to all competitors, educators, and programs involved for their dedication, preparation, and commitment to excellence. Limestone is proud to see students thrive, demonstrate their skills, and represent the board so well on the provincial stage.</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Limestone District School Board is inviting families to take part in the </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Family Engagement and Climate Survey</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. This survey gives families an opportunity to share their experiences with their student’s school and with the school board.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The feedback helps us understand what is working well and where we can improve. It also supports schools and school councils in building welcoming, safe, and supportive school communities.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The survey includes questions about:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">How schools communicate and share information</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Whether families feel welcome, included, and connected</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Barriers to taking part in school activities, such as time, childcare, language, accessibility, or cost</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Safety and bullying, including reporting and follow‑up</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Licensed Before and After School Programs, including questions to help inform future planning</span></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Some questions ask about family background to help us better understand different experiences across our communities</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Participation is </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">voluntary and anonymous</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. Families may skip any questions they choose. No names or identifying information are collected. Results are shared only as grouped summaries and are used to support learning, planning, and improvement at the board, school, and school council levels.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The survey will be open from May 1 to May 11 and will be available online. Families will receive an e-mail on May 1 with a link to the survey. </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Paper copies will also be available at your school’s administrative office starting May 1.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The survey was developed with input from families and advisory committees, including the Parent Involvement Committee, to reflect a wide range of perspectives. Families are encouraged to </span><a href="https://youtu.be/kKxSsDtggew" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">watch this short video about the survey.</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thank you for sharing your voice and helping strengthen our schools and school communities.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Patty Gollogly</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Associate Superintendent of&nbsp;Curriculum &amp; Program Services: School Climate &amp; Community Engagement</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Limestone District School Board</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Dear Families,</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As we enter the spring season and final third of the school year, we are reminded of this season’s promise of renewal and growth, and the key role schools and families have together in supporting student learning and well-being. This time of </span><a href="about:blank" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">year</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> brings many opportunities for learning both inside and outside of the classroom, along with the return of outdoor extracurricular activities. While this week has been very wet and rainy, the warmer temperatures of spring are upon us.&nbsp; I would like to take this opportunity to share a few important updates with you:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">P.A. Day – Friday, April 17</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A reminder to families that tomorrow, Friday, April 17, is a P.A. Day. There will be no classes for students, and we look forward to welcoming them back to school on Monday.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Family Engagement and Climate Survey – Coming in May</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In early May, Limestone will be inviting families to take part in a Family Engagement and Climate Survey. The optional survey is anonymous, and families can choose which questions they want to answer.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The survey asks about topics such as feeling connected to school, family involvement, safety and bullying, communication, before- and after-school programming, and how technology like artificial intelligence is used in schools.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The feedback shared through this survey helps schools and the school board understand what is working well, what could improve, and what may make it harder for some families to take part. Your feedback helps strengthen communication, support student well-being, and improve school experiences for everyone.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">More information will be shared leading up to the survey being live in early May. </span><a href="https://youtu.be/kKxSsDtggew" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Families are encouraged to watch a short video</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> featuring Senior Staff and a Parent Involvement Committee (PIC) Co-Chair, who share more about the Family Engagement and Climate Survey and why family voice is so important.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Human Rights Information</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Launched in October 2022, the Limestone’s Student Human Rights Reporting Tool provides a way for students, families, caregivers, and staff to report human rights concerns involving LDSB students, including matters related to discrimination and harassment. Reviewing and analyzing this information helps support safe, welcoming, and inclusive school environments and supports the board’s obligations under the Ontario Human Rights Code. The&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/dff6803b-6f2d-4d36-a758-68758a63ceb3/2026-04-09-Student-Human-Rights-Data-Summary-for-2024-2025.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260409164623" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Student Human Rights Reports – 2024-2025 Summary is now available online</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;and can be accessed by families.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Student Census 2025 Update</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In November 2025, Limestone completed the See Yourself in Limestone: Student Census 2025, a voluntary and confidential survey that helps us better understand students’ identities and school experiences. The findings support planning and decision-making that promotes equity, well being, and student success across Limestone schools. An overview of the Student Census 2025 was presented to the Board of Trustees at last night’s board meeting. Families are encouraged to </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/news/see-yourself-in-limestone-2025-student-census-update-20260416133605" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">visit the Limestone District School Board website to review the full Student Census summary</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> and learn more about how student voice is helping shape our work.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Mental Health Supports Available for Students</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In response to tragic events, locally or globally, students may experience a wide range of emotions, including sadness, confusion, worry, or questions about what they may be hearing from others. Students may react in different ways depending on their age, experiences, and how connected they feel to the situation. With time, reassurance, and support from caring adults, these reactions often ease.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We encourage families to keep lines of communication open at home, to invite questions, and to offer reassurance as needed. If you have concerns about your student or would like support, please refer to the following resources:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://smho-smso.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Supporting-your-childs-well-being.pdf" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Supporting Your Child’s Well-being</span></a></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://smho-smso.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Caring-for-yourself-while-caring-for-others.pdf" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Caring for yourself while caring for others: A parent’s guide to self-care</span></a></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://smho-smso.ca/parents-and-caregivers/" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">By Your Side</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (parent/caregiver resources to support mental health learning)</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://maltbycentre.ca/" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Maltby Centre</span></a></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://onestoptalk.ca/" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">One Stop Talk</span></a></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://kidshelpphone.ca/" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kids Help Phone</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (Call 1-800-668-6868 or Text “Connect” to 686868)</span></li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://211ontario.ca/" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2-1-1 Ontario</span></a></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If you are worried about your student’s immediate safety, or the safety of others, please seek urgent assistance by calling 9-1-1, your local mobile crisis service (613-354-7388), or by going to the nearest emergency department.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thank you for your continued support of Limestone schools and their communities. Your partnership, feedback, and engagement play an important role in strengthening student learning and well-being across Limestone. Limestone staff remain committed to collaborating with families to create safe, inclusive, and supportive school communities where every student can learn and see themselves in Limestone.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Krishna Burra</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><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"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></p>

<h2 class="editor-heading-h2"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A vibrant event celebrating neurodiversity with inspiring talks, creative spaces, and an inclusive community experience.</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Now entering its third year, Neurovibes is a community event celebrating neurodiversity through engaging talks, creativity, and connection.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Attendees can hear from inspiring speakers, explore interactive spaces, and connect with community partners and vendors in a welcoming, inclusive environment. The event is designed to support different sensory needs while bringing people together to learn, share, and celebrate neurodivergent experiences.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">When: April 29, 2026, 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. (Doors open at 4:00 p.m.)</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Where: Queen's Biosciences Complex, 116 Barrie Street, Kingston</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Register now at:&nbsp;</strong></b><a href="https://bit.ly/Neurovibes2026%20" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">bit.ly/Neurovibes2026</strong></b></a><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</strong></b></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2"><br></h2><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/0d9fba3e-4cf2-480e-973b-7617e4932a7f?fingerprint=ppb20260416161028" alt="Neurovibes 2026 Poster" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Vanier students will be putting on a production of The Imaginary Friends Detective Agency at the National Theatre School DramaFest on Friday, March 27th! This exciting festival takes place at the Thousand Islands Playhouse, and Vanier will be performing at 6:00 pm in the Firehall Theatre. Tickets for the show will be available at the door. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for youth.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Imaginary Friends Detective Agency, by Trevor Suthers, is a heartfelt and humorous play about a teen's search for their lost imaginary companion, which leads them on a journey of adventure and introspection. This </span><a href="https://www.dramanotebook.com/plays-for-kids-and-teens/" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">play was sourced from Drama Notebook</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/575b1635-82b8-4717-a38d-8e5aee46a604?fingerprint=ppb20260327131707" alt="core cast 1" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/c249ed2f-9047-46cb-9e08-9a453f470695?fingerprint=ppb20260327131707" alt="bella chorus" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/b4a2023d-b96d-40de-a522-ee77cbc27d56?fingerprint=ppb20260327131705" alt="queen therapist" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/198da797-fae7-49dd-8d96-34c43d46436c?fingerprint=ppb20260327131705" alt="take a hike" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><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;">With March now underway, and March Break fast approaching, I would like to share a few updates with families:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">School Year Calendar is Approved</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Ministry of Education has approved Limestone’s recommended 2026-2027 school year calendar. The school year will begin with a P.A. Day on September 1, 2026, with the first day of classes for students on September 2, 2026. A </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/school-year-calendar" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">printable version of the calendar is available 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;">Budget Survey</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustees are seeking feedback on the Limestone District School Board budget planning process for the upcoming 2026-2027 school year. Families are encouraged to take a few minutes to provide feedback on areas or priority. The survey is anonymous and can be accessed online at </span><a href="https://bit.ly/2026-2027LDSBBudgetSurvey" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">bit.ly/2026-2027LDSBBudgetSurvey</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> . The survey closes March 23, 2026.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Video: Limestone’s Student Achievement Plan in Action – EQAO Highlights</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As previously shared, the Ministry of Education released the 2024-2025 Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) results in December, and we are pleased to share that Limestone has 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 are consistent with provincial trends in many areas and show meaningful improvement in others, including among specific student groups. In fact, Limestone is performing 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 results reflect the collective efforts of Limestone educators, Educational Assistants, program teams, and school leaders—supported by the ongoing commitment of students and families across our district. We are extremely proud of the dedication and hard work that contributed to these achievements.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We are pleased to share a </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q1qQcIXSyFU" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">video update with families on Limestone’s Student Achievement Plan in Action – EQAO Highlights</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. This </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q1qQcIXSyFU" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">short video</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> provides an overview of Limestone’s Student Achievement Plan and how it guides our shared work to support student learning and well-being.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Through insights from members of the Limestone Senior Team, families will learn about the key priorities shaping our efforts, the thinking behind our actions, and how collaboration, evidence, and reflection help us improve. The video highlights how data, professional learning, and shared leadership work together to move learning forward, while keeping students, belonging, and continuous growth at the centre. It offers a look at how planning connects to practice as we work together toward positive outcomes for all Limestone students.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Revisions to Grades 7, 8, and 10 History Curriculum</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Minister of Education has announced updates to the Grades 7, 8, and 10 History curriculum for the upcoming 2026-2027 school year.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">With these updates, in Grades 7, 8, and 10, students will learn about significant contributions of Black individuals and communities to Canada’s foundation as a nation, and the obstacles they faced in the pursuit of building an inclusive and prosperous country.&nbsp;The Grade 10 History course will also have new learning on extreme political and social ideologies, the Holocaust and rising antisemitism, and the Holodomor famine in Ukraine.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Learn more about the updated curriculum on the </span><a href="https://www.dcp.edu.gov.on.ca/en/" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Ministry of Education’s Curriculum and Resources website.</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Become a Homestay and Host an International Student: A Meaningful Experience for You and Your Family</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Each year, LDSB welcomes more than 120 international students into schools across the district from countries around the world, including Brazil, Italy, China, Germany, Japan, Mexico, France, Vietnam, Rwanda, and many others. Hosting an international student is a meaningful way to bring the world into your home while making a positive difference in a young person’s life. Limestone homestay families are carefully matched with students and supported by dedicated Limestone staff throughout the placement, so families are never on their own. Hosting offers opportunities for cultural exchange, the development of lasting relationships, and a monthly stipend to help offset costs. To learn more about how hosting works, the supports in place, and why many local families choose to open their homes, visit </span><a href="https://internationaled.limestone.on.ca/become_a_homestay" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">internationaled.limestone.on.ca/become_a_homestay</strong></b></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;">Ministry Resources for Reading and Math</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">There are many resources available to support your student’s learning in math and literacy, offering engaging activities that make learning both fun and effective for students and families. To explore these tools, visit Limestone’s </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/tutoring" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Online Learning Resources and Tutoring webpage</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thank you for your continued partnership and support of student learning and well-being across Limestone. We are grateful for the role families play in helping students feel supported, connected, and successful, and we look forward to continuing our work together.</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;">The Limestone District School Board (LDSB) is pleased to announce the appointment of its 2026–2027 Student Trustees, who will be formally welcomed at the April meeting of the Board.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Student trustees play an important role in bringing student perspectives to board-level discussions, helping ensure that student voice is reflected in decision-making across the district. For the upcoming term, LDSB looks forward to working with three engaged and passionate student leaders who represent rural, urban, and Indigenous student communities:</span></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Audrey Bateman – Rural Student Trustee</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A message from Student Trustee Bateman:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> I'm so excited to be your rural student trustee this year. This role is such a great place to create lasting change for the current and future classes. I'm really looking forward to connecting with the trustees and students from across the board to try and make school a&nbsp;more fun, inclusive, and memorable experience where we can. &nbsp;Everyone's voice matters!</span></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Victoria McCourt – Indigenous Student Trustee</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A message from Student Trustee McCourt</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">: I applied for the Indigenous student trustee position because I feel that having a voice to represent Indigenous students, their issues and concerns is important. I would like to help celebrate and honour the Indigenous students in the Limestone District School Board. I look forward to helping create more opportunities for Indigenous students and I want our youth to feel proud of who they are and their Indigenous identity.&nbsp;</span></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Mathew Katz – Urban Student Trustee</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A message from Student Trustee Katz</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">: I applied to become a student trustee to advocate for issues that both I and students from across LDSB are passionate about. I specifically hope to be able to work on issues related to environmental sustainability and anti-racism. Ultimately, I want to ensure students’ voices are heard and meaningfully represented.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Limestone District School Board congratulates Audrey, Victoria, and Matthew on their appointments and looks forward to welcoming them at the April Board meeting as they begin their term as student trustees for the 2026–2027 school year.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/6101cb72-005e-4aad-b211-341230a8738b?fingerprint=ppb20260304144748" alt="2026 2027 Student Trustees" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p>