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Please see news below from our school and across the Limestone District School Board:

A Message from Southeast Public Health

Dear Families,We are sharing the following letter from Southeast Public Health, which contains important information for families:<hr>Dear parents, guardians and staff:RE: First Influenza A Confirmed Case of the SeasonPlease be advised that Southeast Public Health (SEPH) has received laboratory confirmation of the first case of influenza A for the 2025-2026 season. We are providing this information so that you will be able to take steps to ensure the best protection possible for yourself and your family.Influenza causes mild to severe illness and can lead to serious health complications, even in healthy children and adults. Immunization is the best way to prevent influenza; even in years when there is a strain mismatch, the flu vaccine will still offer some protection. The influenza vaccine (flu shot) is available free of charge to anyone who lives, works or goes to school in Ontario who is 6 months of age and over. Contact your health-care provider or local pharmacy for your influenza vaccine if your family has not yet been immunized. For children under 5 years of age who cannot receive their immunization from their health-care provider, <a href="https://southeastph.ca/health-topics/respiratory-season-vaccines/" class="editor-link">Southeast Public Health is offering clinics</a>.Next to immunization, the single most important way to prevent the spread of infection is to clean hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizers. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers should only be used for children if they are assisted and should be stored out of reach of young children.The symptoms of influenza include:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">fever (greater than 38.0°C/100.4 °F)</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">dry cough</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">chills</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">headache</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">muscle aches</li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem">loss of appetite</li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem">sore throat</li><li value="8" class="editor-listitem">runny nose</li></ul> Young children may also experience nausea and vomiting with the above symptoms.If your child is feeling unwell, please keep them home until they are fever-free and their symptoms have improved for at least 24 hours (or 48 hours if they’ve had vomiting or diarrhea). When your child returns to school, we encourage them to wear a well-fitting mask for 10 days from when their symptoms started to help keep others healthy. To learn more about how to protect yourself, your family, and your community from respiratory illnesses, visit <a href="https://www.ontario.ca/page/protection-respiratory-illnesses" class="editor-link">Ontario’s respiratory illness page</a>.Regards,Southeast Public Health<a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/6bda65e0-3a9d-4d62-a1ab-8bec162cbe25/2025-11-05-influenza-letter-for-schools.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014016" class="editor-link">A PDF version of this letter is available online</a>.

2025-11-06 21:00:05.158 +0000 UTC

Group of LDSB representatives and more at the Collaborative Care Initiative launch

Limestone and KCHC Launch Student Support Program Backed by Community Foundation Grant

<img src="/images/1ce7164c-79ab-41b7-9799-15988886f670?fingerprint=ppb20251217013257" alt="Group of LDSB representatives and more at the Collaborative Care Initiative launch" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">The Limestone District School Board and the Kingston Community Health Centre (KCHC) are part of the new Collaborative Care Initiative, a support model for students facing challenges at school and accessing community care, featuring integrated care and educational interventions. This project is one of four new community initiatives funded by the Community Foundation for Kingston and Area, with the help of the Sisters of Providence of St. Vincent de Paul Community Impact Fund. The four new community initiatives were officially announced on October 7, 2025, at Providence Care Hospital.   “We are delighted that the efforts of so many individuals and organizations have led us to this opportunity to establish the Collaborative Care Initiative and partnership,” says Deborah Thompson, Limestone District School Board System Principal – Educational Services. “This unique and integrated approach will support students and their families to access services and programs through a streamlined and collaborative process.”  “We deeply value the opportunity to learn, work, and partner with the team at KCHC and other partners in the community to make a difference over the next three years and beyond.” An article about these community initiatives can be found on The Kingston Whig-Standard website: <a href="https://www.thewhig.com/news/local-news/community-foundation-for-kingston-area-announces-1-5-million-multi-year-grant" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">Community Foundation for Kingston & Area announces multi-year grant | The Kingston Whig Standard</a> <img src="/images/8cfab1ec-d6b9-4c45-8150-688a50225001?fingerprint=ppb20251217014314" alt="Laura Conboy Speaks at CFKA Community Collaboration Across Generations" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/40d7e7f1-6671-4b35-9bac-fc837db835f9?fingerprint=ppb20251217013621" alt="Nicola Dillard Speaks at CFKA Community Collaboration Across Generations" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">All photos provided by the Community Foundation for Kingston and Area.

2025-11-06 18:47:25.06 +0000 UTC

Level Up! Skilled Trades Career Fair Open House Dec. 2, 2025

<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">You’re Invited: Level Up! Skilled Trades Career Fair Open House </h2>Limestone families – explore student opportunities in the skilled trades! Join us for the Level Up! Open House and: Get up close: Watch skilled trades professionals in action during live demonstrations and explore using tools and machinery. Meet the experts: Chat one-on-one with employers, apprentices, tradespeople and instructors who share real-world insights and personal journeys in the skilled trades. Plan student pathways: Explore apprenticeship pathways with expert guidance and resources provided by Skilled Trades Ontario. - When: December 2, 2025, 3:00 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Where: Kingston, Slush Puppie Place, 1 The Tragically Hip Way, Kingston Who: All Limestone families welcome Cost: Free! No registration needed - About Level Up! Level Up! Skilled Trades Career Fairs are a series of dynamic, multi-day events that connect you with Ontario’s top skilled trades professionals from industry organizations, post-secondary institutions, businesses, associations and more. Visit a skilled trades career fair near you and explore Ontario’s 140+ skilled trades through interactive exhibits and hands-on activities, while hearing directly from tradespeople and local employers about rewarding, life-changing career paths. To learn more, visit <a href="https://levelupontario.ca/open-house/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">Open House - Level up!</a> <img src="/images/5a69ffae-481c-460a-9989-73f6b4e3f6d8?fingerprint=ppb20251217013831" alt="Level Up! Skilled Trades Career Fair Open House December 2 at Slush Puppie Place" width="654" height="845" style="width:654px;height:845px;display:inline-block">

2025-11-03 21:34:29.391 +0000 UTC

Boardroom Briefs in white text on a teal background

Boardroom Briefs: October 29, 2025

Boardroom Briefs is intended to provide highlights of presentations, reports and decisions made at the regular meeting of the Limestone District School Board of Trustees. The following are highlights of the October 29, 2025 Regular Board Meeting. Agendas can be found on the website under <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/board_meetings-1719463739654" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">Board Meetings</a>.  <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Land Acknowledgement </h2>All meetings begin with a Land Acknowledgement. Trustee Elliott provided the following Land Acknowledgement: "The Limestone District School Board is situated on the traditional territories of the Anishinaabek and Haudenosaunee. We acknowledge their enduring presence on this land, as well as the presence of Métis, Inuit, and other First Nations from across Turtle Island. We honour their cultures and celebrate their commitment to this land. As a photographer, I’ve spent all summer and fall taking photos for various tourism groups in the region, and have experienced first-hand how lucky we are to live where we live. I’ve taken photos of people sharing parks with their friends and families, cyclists in rural areas enjoying the open road, endless landscapes and sunsets along the lake, and large events that bring the community together to celebrate and have fun. I’m thankful for these opportunities to reflect on the shared responsibility we have to respect and protect this beautiful region, and am grateful to live, work, and learn here."<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Presentation</h2>A presentation from Umoja was embedded as part of the Report for Information 13.4.1: LDSB Equity Team Action Plan.<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Private Session Report</h2><details open="false"><summary>Private Session Report - October 29, 2025</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">During private session following at the October 1 Education, Policy, and Operations Committee Meeting:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Trustee McGregor provided an OPSBA update</li></ul>There was no other business conducted, or motions passed in Private Session.Earlier this evening during Private Session:The private session minutes were approved from the following:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">September 15, 2025, Audit Committee Meeting</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">September 17, 2025, Regular Board Meeting</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">October 1, 2025, EPOC Meeting</li></ul>Superintendent Young provided a property and legal update.Trustees discussed some Personnel updates.There was no other business conducted, or motions passed in Private Session. </div></details><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Reports from Officers</h2><details open="false"><summary>Chair's Report</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><img src="/images/3b73f535-6db0-57a4-bb4f-a5bb6232f53e?fingerprint=ppb20251217013553" alt="" width="268" height="347" style="width:268px;height:347px;display:inline-block;float:right">Chair McGregor provided the following report: "I would like to begin my report tonight by extending a heartfelt thank you to everyone across Limestone who continues to create meaningful learning opportunities for students both inside and outside of the classroom. Your efforts are helping to shape inspired learners across the district. This week, Limestone was honoured to host a special Breakfast with Aaliyah Edwards, WNBA athlete and proud Limestone graduate. Aaliyah’s visit was an incredible opportunity for students to hear directly from a role model who embodies perseverance, leadership, and community spirit. We are deeply grateful to Aaliyah for taking the time to give back to the Limestone community. Limestone students also participated in Girls in Trades, a full-day event hosted by the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program at St. Lawrence College. Students explored hands-on learning in wind turbine technology, electrical, plumbing, carpentry, hairstyling, esthetics, brick and stonework, and millwork. This event is one of many that help inspire the next generation of tradeswomen and expanded career possibilities for Limestone students. Looking ahead, National Skilled Trade and Technology Week is next week – a celebration of student exploration and opportunities in skilled trades and technology. We look forward to highlighting the many ways students can engage with and pursue these pathways. Earlier today, Limestone hosted the Black, Indigenous, and Racialized Career Day for secondary students. This event was designed to amplify diverse voices and break down barriers by showcasing successful professionals from a wide range of industries. Students had the opportunity to learn about scholarship opportunities, post-secondary planning with guidance counsellors, Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program, the new Queen’s Black Mentorship Program, Specialist High Skills Major, and local employers and career pathways, and featured an inspiring group of panelists from the local community. The event was made possible through the support of the Kingston Native Centre and Language Nest, St. Lawrence College, Specialist High Skills Major, Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program, and Queen’s University. Thank you again to all Limestone employees, partners, and community members who continue to support students in discovering their passions and building their futures. This concludes my report." </div></details><details open="false"><summary>Director's Report</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><img src="/images/959f9ebc-0553-5f56-afed-83ccf39d2906?fingerprint=ppb20251217014409" alt="" width="316" height="316" style="width:316px;height:316px;float:left;display:inline-block">Director Burra provided the following report: "Good evening Trustees and members of the viewing public. I have several updates I would like to share with you this evening. Thank you, Chair McGregor, for your comments regarding Aaliyah Edward’s visit with students earlier this week, the recent Girls in Trades event, the Black, Indigenous, and Racialized Career Day for secondary students that occurred earlier today, and for reminding everyone of National Skilled Trade and Technology Week next week. These are all great events that benefit a range of Limestone students, and are just some highlights of different learning opportunities provided to students. As a reminder to Trustees and the viewing public, we are in the midst of the fall 2025 United Way fundraising campaign. Given continuing, significant economic dislocation, housing costs, and food security concerns, it is critical for those that can support this campaign to do so, to help support some of the most vulnerable children, youth, and families in the region. Limestone is a proud contributor to this annual campaign. I should note that it was my pleasure to help support the United Way engaging with the secondary Interschool Council members last week. The Interschool Council is comprised of Student Trustees and student leaders from across LDSB secondary schools. This engagement is a new Youth United campaign to increase youth awareness of the United Way and partners who receive funding to support members of the community in need. The Interschool Council went on an abbreviated ‘Seeing is Believing’ tour for student leaders to see examples of services that exist in our communities to support a range of needs. I am sure we will hear about this from Student Trustees. I look forward to seeing how this initiative evolves and the difference students, and schools, can make in this year’s campaign. Tonight we have three reports for Trustees, one for action related to a financial update, and an information update related to Limestone’s Equity Action Plan. Part of that report will include a presentation that includes greatly valued partners in support of this work.This evening, Trustees will also see an interim update report for the LDSB Strategic Plan, 2024-2028. The report this evening will focus on our continued focus on goals outlined in the Strategic Plan and the high impact strategies we are utilizing to support the goals. Given the province has yet to release the 2024-2025 EQAO results that we have to include as part of our assessment of the Strategic Plan, tonight’s report is interim and we will bring it back once we have the EQAO results and other data to support our monitoring of the plan. Our current focus continues to be on improving teaching and learning in classrooms. These points of emphasis are critical components of the provincial and board priorities, but also integral to our equity work in ensuring that each Limestone student has the skills and confidence to access their pathway of choice as they navigate through their K-12 schooling. The stakes of our work are incredibly high, and we have a legal and moral responsibility to ensure that we maintain focused attention on student achievement. It is also important for us all to remember the importance of this data particularly when it is triangulated, or overlaid, with Student Census data. As Trustees are aware, we have the second Limestone Student Census coming up in just a few weeks. Once we have the results and analysis of the Student Census data, we will have very rich information about specific groups of students in Limestone and their experiences. I look forward to continuing our critical work in Limestone with the new Strategic Plan as we move into the future, doing the best we can to make a difference in the lives of the students we serve.Thank you, Chair McGregor. That completes my update for this evening." </div></details><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Reports</h2><details open="false"><summary>OPSBA Report</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">Chair McGregor provided an OPSBA report.</div></details><details open="false"><summary>Student Trustees' Report</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">Student Trustee Ismail provided the Student Trustees' Report: "Good afternoon, Trustees and members of the public,We held our Interschool Council (ISC) meeting October 21, chaired by Mia Comeau and Rachel Kolosov. Our meeting consisted of a tour of three United Way KFL&A partner agencies for student representatives to better understand and gain new perspectives on the youth in our communities and local initiatives that support youth and families across the LDSB.To begin our day, ISC members and guests visited Youth Diversion, where Executive Director Shawn Quigley led an interactive session focused on understanding the importance of support systems in our lives. This experience helped student representatives reflect on the ways Youth Diversion’s prevention and intervention programs help students overcome challenges they may face and contribute to student well-being across our board.Our next stop was the Food Sharing Project, where ISC members learned from Andy Mills about how the organization supports equitable access to nutrition across many schools. Students were able to see the large-scale community effort that aims to help all students learn and thrive.And lastly, we visited the BGC South East, where we toured their facilities, including a robotics rink, gym, a new STEM lab, and many study and quiet spaces. The centre also offers accessible and structured programs that create a supportive environment for youth to develop skills and relationships with their peers and mentors.We discussed our schools involvement in the Youth United initiative, and schools are at different stages of launching fundraising efforts and building awareness to encourage registrations within their student bodies.The Interschool Council is looking forward to building connections between our schools and local community organizations that put tremendous effort in supporting student well-being.This concludes our October ISC meeting. Thank you." </div></details><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Reports for Action</h3><details open="true"><summary>Accumulated Surplus Financial Update - Superintendent Young</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">The purpose of this report was to provide Trustees with the latest financial information related to the Board's accumulated surplus, and propose additional investments in Limestone District School Board for 2025-2026.For a full look at background information assembled from the 2024-2025 Year End Consolidated Financial Statements, please visit page 25 in the <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/5bb14b2b-a709-4efa-9daa-9553a7b51f9a/LDSB-Regular-Board-Meeting-Agenda-October-29-2025-revised.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013831" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">Board Meeting Agenda</a>.For the 2024-2025 fiscal year, Limestone District School Board ended the year with its accumulated surplus at $1.6M higher than projected. The revised estimates projected the accumulated surplus to be $10.2M at the end of August 31, 2025. The actual accumulated surplus at August 31, 2025 was $11.8M as shown above. It is proposed that $500,000 of the additional surplus be reinvested back into school programs. At the June 11, 2025 Board meeting, Trustees approved the following programs to be supported by spending Accumulated Surplus. Expenses Equity and Inclusion Positions - Human Rights Officer and Teachers: $320,000 Short-Term Educational Assistants: $925,000 Additional IT Devices and Technology: $800,000 Cyber Security: $350,000 Educational Software: $140,000 Total Expenses: $2,535,000 As part of a calculated and planned draw down of the accumulated surplus, the projects listed below are proposed as additional investments into Limestone District School Board schools. These proposed investments are one-time expenditures that will not contribute to structural deficits within the organization. These investments are strategically placed in Special Education and Math/IT. New Expenses - for Approval Special Education Short-Term Staff Investment: $400,000 Mathematics and IT Equipment Investment: $100,000 Total Expenses: $500,000For full report, please visit pages 25 to 27 in the <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/5bb14b2b-a709-4efa-9daa-9553a7b51f9a/LDSB-Regular-Board-Meeting-Agenda-October-29-2025-revised.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013831" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">Board Meeting Agenda</a>.</div></details><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Reports for Information</h3><details open="true"><summary>Limestone District School Board Equity Team Action Plan, 2025-2028 - Superintendent McDonnell</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">The purpose of this report was to provide Trustees with an update on the LDSB Equity Team Action Plan, 2025-2028, and progress being made toward established goals. The LDSB Equity Action Plan 2nd Edition, 2020-2024, was last shared with Trustees at the October 2, 2024, Education, Policy, and Operations Committee (EPOC) meeting. On an annual basis, outcomes will be shared with Trustees at the start of each new school year. An updated plan has been developed, renamed the Equity Team Action Plan, 2025-2028. Currently, recognizing the importance of this work, the following areas of focus within the Equity Team Action Plan were highlighted for Trustees, to provide a snapshot of the progress being made in Limestone:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Addressing Discriminatory Language: Student Modules (Elementary)</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Guide on Human Rights Expectations in LDSB for Families and Caregivers</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Supporting Human Rights and Equity in Rural Schools</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Tracking Our Commitment to Black Student Equity: OHRC Dreams Delayed Action Items</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">KASSAA and Human Rights Presentations</li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Anti-Black Racism Module</li></ul><img src="/images/d33774a6-9a09-4106-aed2-0de75eb0924c?fingerprint=ppb20251217014946" alt="Human Rights and Athletics Slide from October 29 LDSB Board Meeting" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> At the end of the 2025-2028 Equity Action Plan cycle, the Community Equity Advisory Committee will review the progress made towards achieving the goals outlined herein. For full report with details of each area, please visit pages 28 to 34 in the <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/5bb14b2b-a709-4efa-9daa-9553a7b51f9a/LDSB-Regular-Board-Meeting-Agenda-October-29-2025-revised.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013831" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">Board Meeting Agenda</a>.</div></details><details open="true"><summary>Strategic Plan - Interim End-of-Year Report 2024-2025 - Director Burra</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">The purpose of this report was to provide Trustees an end-of-year status report on the 2024-2025 Strategic Plan.Senior Staff presented an end-of-school-year Strategic Plan Overview (included in the <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/5bb14b2b-a709-4efa-9daa-9553a7b51f9a/LDSB-Regular-Board-Meeting-Agenda-October-29-2025-revised.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013831" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">Board Meeting Agenda</a> starting on page 37). To assist Trustees with ongoing monitoring, a “traffic light” system has been in place to evaluate the progress. To note, Senior Staff will bring forward additional data once 2024-2025 EQAO data is released by the provincial government. Without the EQAO data, the Senior Team is currently missing a large number of indicators that are legislatively required to be included as the foundation of the LDSB Multi-Year Strategic plan and Student Achievement Plan.<img src="/images/b9e7e717-4c31-4af3-b2fa-347f08ce58ee?fingerprint=ppb20251217014726" alt="Student Achievement Plan Provincial Graphic" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">As a reminder, multiple data sets and evidence are used to evaluate the progress toward the desired outcomes. Last year’s overview of meetings is attached to the report, mapping the Strategic Plan Goals to specific meetings/committees for 2024-2025. The Senior Team will continue to provide Trustees with updates focused on important areas of work through reports shared as part of Board and Education and Policy Operations Committee and Board Meeting agendas throughout the 2025-2026 school year. Operational plan updates throughout the year will provide further opportunities to monitor the overall Strategic Plan and Provincial Student Achievement plan.For the full report, please visit pages 35 to 41 in the<a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/5bb14b2b-a709-4efa-9daa-9553a7b51f9a/LDSB-Regular-Board-Meeting-Agenda-October-29-2025-revised.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013831" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"> Board Meeting Agenda</a>.</div></details><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Notices of Motion</h2>Motion brought forward by Vice-Chair Godkin: “Given the Minister of Education's musings regarding the potential removal of some, or all, Trustees in the province of Ontario, and that we have already sent a letter to the Minister and other specific audiences, I would like to put forward a motion to expand the number of recipients of the letter to include local media outlets and other parties to be determined by the Board in discussion of this motion.” <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Adjournment</h2>The Board Meeting adjourned and Trustees returned to Private Session. A report from that session will be shared with the public at the Annual Board Meeting on November 19, 2025.

2025-11-03 19:16:12.021 +0000 UTC

Message from the Director

Dear Families,It is hard to believe we are already approaching the end of October.  Excluding today and a handful of other days, we have enjoyed a beautiful and relatively warm fall. Since the start of the school year, it has been wonderful to see the momentum of learning and the wide variety of extracurricular activities taking place across Limestone schools. As we head into November next week, I want to share a few updates with you:See Yourself in Limestone – Student Census SurveyInformation was shared with families earlier this week regarding the upcoming See Yourself in Limestone Student Census. The census is a voluntary and confidential survey for students in Grades 4 to 12. Please note, there was one error in the message shared with you regarding the dates of the Student Census. The correct dates are November 24 to 28, 2025.As a reminder, families who do not want their student(s) to complete the survey must contact their school Principal by Friday, November 14, 2025. Opting out means the student will not receive the survey in their e-mail inbox.By better understanding students’ identities and experiences, we can remove barriers and better support students in accessing what they need to succeed.Learn more about the Student Census and how it supports equity in Limestone: <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/student_census" class="editor-link">limestone.on.ca/student_census</a>Reminder: Upcoming PA Day – November 14, 2025A reminder to families that Friday, November 14 is a Professional Activity (PA) Day for all Limestone students. There will be no classes for students on this day. Student Achievement Plan – Opportunity to Provide FeedbackAn update on <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/5bb14b2b-a709-4efa-9daa-9553a7b51f9a/LDSB-Regular-Board-Meeting-Agenda-October-29-2025-revised.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013831" class="editor-link">Limestone’s Student Achievement Plan is included in the most recent Board Meeting package (pages 37 through 39)</a>. This update is interim because we are still awaiting the release of 2024-2025 EQAO data and other provincial data. The plan outlines how the Board is working to support student success in three key areas:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Achievement in Core Academic Skills (literacy and numeracy)</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Preparation for Future Success (graduation rates, career pathways)</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Student Engagement and Well-Being</li></ul>Families are encouraged to <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/5bb14b2b-a709-4efa-9daa-9553a7b51f9a/LDSB-Regular-Board-Meeting-Agenda-October-29-2025-revised.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013831" class="editor-link">review the update included in the October Board Meeting package</a> and learn more about how Limestone is tracking progress and creating opportunities for all students. Once we have EQAO and other provincial data, another update will be shared.As of today (October 30, 2025), we have still not received EQAO and other provincial data for the 2024-2025 school year. As a result, based on the <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/mission__vision___values" class="editor-link">Limestone District School Board Strategic Plan</a> we have provided an interim report on our continued work to support improved student learning and well-being. Question for Families: What feedback, if any, do you have regarding the Board's goals and high impact strategies focused on improving student learning and well-being? <a href="https://ca1.voxco.com/S2/?st=fu443Fws9prNw0zfWUOKuly9F1SpkMermbTzVyZ1st8%3D&mod=0&dlang=en" class="editor-link">Share your feedback with Limestone online here.</a>Free Access to IDELLO for the French as a Second Language CommunityWe are excited to share that Télévision française de l’Ontario (TFO) is offering free access to IDELLO for families in the French as a Second Language (FSL) community!<a href="https://www.idello.org/formations-et-evenements?utm_source=Idello&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Idello2025" class="editor-link">IDELLO is a rich online platform</a> that offers virtual training, events, and resources designed to support French-language learning for educators, parents, and students. It is a great way to explore engaging content and strengthen language skills at home.In recognition of Truth and Reconciliation Day, IDELLO also features a special <a href="https://www.idello.org/002686794/journee-nationale-de-la-verite-et-de-la-reconciliation-5e-a-12e-annee?utm_source=Idello&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Idello2025" class="editor-link">resource collection for Grades 5 to 12</a>. These materials help students learn about the lived experiences of Indigenous peoples in Canada and encourage thoughtful reflection on building a better future.To request free access, families can contact TFO directly at <a href="mailto:support@idello.org" class="editor-link">support@idello.org</a>.Do not miss this opportunity to bring meaningful French-language learning and cultural reflection into your home!Ministry and Board Resources for Math and LiteracyThere are many resources available designed to support your student’s learning in math and literacy, offering engaging activities that can make learning fun and effective for students and families. <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/tutoring" class="editor-link">Visit Limestone’s Online Learning Resources and Tutoring webpage</a> to learn more. Inclement Weather SeasonAs we approach the inclement weather months (roughly early November to early April), our transportation partner, Tri-Board Student Transportation Services (Tri-Board), works closely with their school bus companies to determine if it is safe to offer school transportation on inclement weather days. School buses function differently than other vehicles, and sometimes, although it is safe for the average family vehicle to travel, it is not safe for a school bus to be on the road. Due to the geographic size of our district, weather conditions can vary significantly from one region to another. As a result, there are times when transportation cancellations may only apply to specific areas experiencing adverse conditions, while other regions remain unaffected. Having to cancel school transportation is understandably disruptive to families, but Tri-Board always puts the safety of their 30,000-plus bus riders first and foremost in their decision-making. Learn more about <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/news/prepare-for-winter-related-bus-delays-and-cancellations--20251020203640" class="editor-link">how to help make the winter season and bus cancellation days easier for families to manage on our website</a>. Thank you for the continued support and partnership as part of the Limestone community, and have a safe, and hopefully not a rainy, Halloween.Krishna BurraDirector of Education

2025-10-30 20:00:23.001 +0000 UTC

Global News: School board hosts career fair for racialized students

Global News Kingston covered the <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/news/black-indigenous-and-racialize-career-day-october-29-2025-20251016164525" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">LDSB Black, Indigenous, and Racialized Career Fair</a> on October 29, 2025 at the Tett Centre. This empowering event was designed for Black, Indigenous, and Racialized LDSB secondary school students to highlight diverse voices and break down barriers by showcasing successful Black, Indigenous, and Racialized professionals across a wide range of industries.The Global News Kingston segment can be watched by following this link: <a href="https://globalnews.ca/video/11501062/school-board-hosts-career-fair-for-racialized-students/" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Global News Kingston: School board hosts career fair for racialized students</a>.

2025-10-30 13:39:26.782 +0000 UTC

Upcoming Student Census Survey

Dear Families,Limestone is committed to supporting every student in achieving success. To do this, we need to better understand how students’ identities, experiences, and academic outcomes are connected. That is why we are launching our second See Yourself in Limestone Student Census Survey this November.The Student Census is a voluntary survey for students in Grades 4 to 12. It gathers information about students’ identities and their experiences at school. This data is then paired with academic information to help us understand what school is like for different groups of students.It is important to note that:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">The survey is optional.</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Responses are confidential.</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Students can choose to answer as much or as little of the survey as they wish.</li></ul>The goal is to identify ways schools can better support students and ensure everyone has what they need to succeed. The insights we gain will help Limestone break down barriers and improve school experiences for all students.The census will be available from November 24 to 28, 2025, and students will complete it during class time. If you prefer that your student not participate, you can opt them out by contacting your school principal. Students who are opted out will not receive the survey in their e-mail inbox and will be provided with an alternative activity during the survey period.Opt-out deadline: Friday, November 14, 2025Watch the Student Census video and learn more about the student census online: <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/student_census" class="editor-link">limestone.on.ca/student_census</a>If you have any questions, please contact your school principal, e-mail us at <a href="mailto:StudentCensus@limestone.on.ca" class="editor-link">StudentCensus@limestone.on.ca</a>, or call 613-389-2294.Thank you for your continued support in helping us create a more inclusive and equitable learning environment.Alison McDonnellSuperintendent of Curriculum and Program Services:Early Years and Equity and Inclusion

2025-10-28 20:30:02.593 +0000 UTC

October 24 Newsletter

<img src="/images/e2cf9da8-876f-4d80-bfaa-dca1d713b857?fingerprint=ppb20251217015101" alt="Jays Group 2" width="351" height="296" style="width:351px;height:296px;display:inline-block;float:left">We have had lots to celebrate and be thankful for at Frontenac the past few weeks. We had our largest turnout ever for Honour Awards night and were pleased with our success of Parent/Teacher night. The Arts is alive and well at Frontenac as preparation of the set design and rehearsals for Treasure Island progresses as well as another successful Coffee House this past Wednesday. Frontenac Athletics is extremely proud of our sports teams as they wrap up regular season play and work towards playoff success in KASSAA, EOSSAA and at the OFSAA level. And also, Let's go Blue Jays!! <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"> </h2> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">FSS Attendance Policy</h2>We'd like to thank parents for their ongoing assistance with attendance at FSS. Please continue using the Safe Arrival app to approve student absences, before or the day of the absence. For all absence and late reporting a day or more after please email Kerri Merriam at merriamk@limestone.on.ca. In your email please include your students full name, reason for the absence/late and the date. This helps to manually track the information outside of the automated Safe Arrival system. If students are signed out of school, they should not be on school property (i.e. parents cannot sign students out of class to study in the FSS library, or to spectate a sporting event on school property). Please contact the school if you have any questions or concerns regarding student attendance.<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"> </h2><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Student Services Updates</h2>Breakfast with FSS alum Aaliyah Edwards (WNBA)<img src="/images/2c35f742-bb36-4d1c-a840-884aeff12bb8?fingerprint=ppb20251217013419" alt="Screenshot 2025 10 24 150021" width="224" height="303" style="width:224px;height:303px;display:inline-block;float:left">This is the next LDSB Black Student Association (BSA) meeting for Black identifying students in grades 9-12. It's taking place on October 27th, 2025 from 8:45 am to 11:00 am at the Limestone District School Board Office at 220 Portsmouth Ave. If students would like to attend, please complete the registration form <a href="https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=Xxb04a7rgk2nPKDeWTgwvu3kB-e13QxCnD6oPwbU449UOURVMUxPVEVWMEhWVkhMT1lUSFY1UFdHWC4u&route=shorturl" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">here</a>.College Information Program (CIP) FieldtripRepresentatives from all the Ontario Colleges will be at St. Lawrence College on Tuesday, October 28th. We are taking a bus load of students there from 12:45-2:30 PM. There is no cost to attend. Grade 12's & Returners can sign up on School-Day now. Questions? Come see us in Student Services.Black, Indigenous, and Racialized Student Career Day<img src="/images/000a692c-026f-42f8-8c6f-727fcec7b9f5?fingerprint=ppb20251217013010" alt="Screenshot 2025 10 24 145940" width="349" height="467" style="width:349px;height:467px;display:inline-block;float:right">Black, Indigenous and Racialized LDSB secondary school students are invited to a day to explore exciting career paths, connect with professionals who reflect your lived experiences, and gain the tools to build a future with confidence. This empowering event is designed to highlight diverse voices and break down barriers by showcasing successful Black, Indigenous, and Racialized professionals across a wide range of industries—from business, healthcare, and STEM, to the arts, trades, law, media, and more. Wednesday, October 29th Tett Centre, 370 King Street West 8:45 AM to 1:45 PM Lunch Provided The link to register can be found <a href="https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=Xxb04a7rgk2nPKDeWTgwvu3kB-e13QxCnD6oPwbU449UQUYyN1c0ODRTR1BERkhPMDRNTzRWOUlYWS4u&route=shorturl" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">here </a>and closes on October 27th, 2025.IEPs were sent home with students last Thursday. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to the school. <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Halloween</h2>As we approach Halloween, we invite students to participate in our Spirit Week and Monster Mash! See the posters below for details. Please note that any costumes need to be school and culturally appropriate (traditional clothing from a specific group of people is not a costume), and can not cover the face. <img src="/images/16c89fbb-4359-4b0a-9623-d2fe13d6fcc4?fingerprint=ppb20251217013213" alt="fss october spirit week 1 " width="412" height="550" style="width:412px;height:550px;display:inline-block;float:left"> <img src="/images/5a67101e-721b-4f60-be3b-39f11618d75c?fingerprint=ppb20251217013831" alt="Monster Mash 2025 Poster" width="399" height="532" style="width:399px;height:532px;display:inline-block"><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Grad Photos</h2>Grad Photos are taking place at FSS starting on November 11th. Details can be found in the Grade 12 & Returner Google Classroom (Classroom Join Code: s4kifs7). **All graduating students should book an appointment whether they are planning on ordering copies of your photos or not**. Please use the link <a href="https://booking.edgeimaging.ca/" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">here </a>to complete your booking. The school code is FSO. Note: You will also need a Student Number in order to book - this can be found on students Grad Summaries or any previous report card. <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">OSSLT at FSS</h2>On Wednesday, November 19th, and Thursday, November 20th, grade 10 students at Frontenac will be writing the Ontario Literacy Test. Successful completion of The Literacy Test is a graduation requirement in Ontario. Students at Frontenac will be preparing for this test through a series of lessons in their regular classes geared towards reading comprehension and written communication. They will also be provided numerous resources, including access to online classrooms and supports. Information about the test, as well as practices tests and resources can be found at https://www.eqao.com/the-assessments/osslt/.  Grade 11 and 12 students who still need to demonstrate their literacy requirement will write the test on Wednesday, November 26th. Stay tuned for further information. <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">FSS Arts<img src="/images/f69d4a78-3518-4e34-b258-ae57591db878?fingerprint=ppb20251217015254" alt="P of Paints" width="418" height="208" style="width:418px;height:208px;display:inline-block;float:right"></h2>A big shout out to Parade of Paints for making a large donation of art supplies to assist with this year's production of Treasure Island. Gallons of paint, brushes and other goodies will go along way to making a fantastic set for the production! If you are interesting in supporting the musical Treasure Island, we are still looking for lots of pirate costumes. Please reach out to Charlie Tremblay.  tremblaycharlie@limestone.on.ca Look for ticket sales in February and show in March!<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">FSS Athletics</h2><img src="/images/b7a037b8-802d-4411-91f2-a2087cf4f7ad?fingerprint=ppb20251217014713" alt="thumbnail EOSSAA NoviceXCrace 0704MR" width="354" height="227" style="width:354px;height:227px;display:inline-block;float:left"> Our cross country team ran away with EOSSAA with 4 births to XC OFSAA happening November 1st! Maddi WIllman, Sam Korcok-Sogbein, Simon Breadner all qualified in their respectful age categories. Cailan McGregor finished first for the senior boys with a close finish.  We wish all the runners the best, may the wind be at your back! This year, tennis was moved and played in the Fall for the first time.  FSS had a lot of students play and achieve goals and have success.  Cooper Kezis, Violet Roy and Xavier Roy all medals and will move on to EOSSAA to represent at EOSSAA. Spectators: If you are coming to the school or field to cheer on our Falcons, please do not park in our neighbouring residential and commercial parking lots. As well, please be aware that dogs are not permitted on Limestone property. We thank you for your help in maintaining good relationships with our neighbours!<img src="/images/e3cc4a08-65ee-468e-883f-3b0e11cf1670?fingerprint=ppb20251217015113" alt="roys" width="185" height="246" style="width:185px;height:246px;display:inline-block"> <img src="/images/cf63d576-8756-4da7-9923-4e4295e812e2?fingerprint=ppb20251217014921" alt="thumbnail Screenshot 2025 10 24 at 12" width="244" height="236" style="width:244px;height:236px;display:inline-block"> <img src="/images/68f666a5-0ec9-4883-9de8-b393b3d8e321?fingerprint=ppb20251217014003" alt="thumbnail IMG 2920" width="256" height="215" style="width:256px;height:215px;display:inline-block"> <img src="/images/dc89c83b-34a3-4929-bd13-e1c0b8edcc6e?fingerprint=ppb20251217015024" alt="thumbnail IMG 2922" width="161" height="241" style="width:161px;height:241px;display:inline-block"> <img src="/images/e56a2cfa-d66b-4bf4-8e66-273fb7ffa6c3?fingerprint=ppb20251217015125" alt="thumbnail 5353285792189647948" width="219" height="291" style="width:219px;height:291px;display:inline-block">This was our first season of rugby 7's at FSS, Mr. Tremblay and Dustin Hartley took two groups to a local tournament where the girls team went 3-0 and boys 2-1.  Rugby is alive and well at FSS!Congratulations to Marley Heyman who represented Frontenac at OFSAA golf for the second year in a row! Thank you to coaches Leanne Smith and Josh Smith for coaching and travelling with the team.Our Special Olympics team is getting ready for the Spring Track and Field season already! Our students put in the work and have fun doing it! KASSAA playoffs are just around the corner with volleyball, basketball, football, field hockey, all entering into quarters, please check the kassaa website for dates, times and locations to follow the FALCONS. We want to see lots of garnet and grey to support our teams. <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Math Tutoring and Support</h2>Need some extra support in math? Every Monday evening from 7:00–8:00 pm in Room 118, our FSS math teachers run a Math Tutorial to help students strengthen their skills, review concepts, and prepare for upcoming assessments. This drop-in program is open to all grade levels and provides a supportive environment for students to ask questions and build confidence.<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/6fdb7b66-8b22-496b-ad48-93b558756b31?fingerprint=ppb20251217014029" alt="Europe image" width="423" height="211" style="width:423px;height:211px;display:inline-block;float:left">FSS to Europe</h2>Frontenac is heading to Central Europe!  We still have a few spaces available for this year's March Break Trip. Come see the landmarks and experience the culture of Germany, Prague, Slovakia, and Vienna with Ms. Cavers, Mr. Conway, Ms. Dembinski, and Mr. Tallon.   For more information, check out the full itinerary here <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.eftours.ca%2F2893818VH&data=05%7C02%7Cmckennam%40limestone.on.ca%7Cb35ccfe79d4c4ff801e008ddf6132107%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638937284191553864%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=rri2qaakUrEuVcAkWSfVvdowrp4nulJB%2BZ2ro5P2n7Y%3D&reserved=0" title="Original URL: http://www.eftours.ca/2893818VH. Click or tap if you trust this link." class="editor-link">www.eftours.ca/2893818VH</a>, or email Ms. Cavers at caverse@limestone.on.ca for details! For students who are already enrolled, don't forget to check our Google Classroom and hand in your paperwork to Ms. Cavers as soon as possible!  <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">FSS Business Department</h2>DECA CompetitionWe’re so proud to announce that our DECA team had an outstanding performance at the Mock Regional competition at KSS last night! Rida Atif, Reese Berman, Ayanna Crisostomo, and Natalie George each earned 2nd place in their respective categories. Their success sets a high bar as we look ahead to the upcoming regional competition.<img src="/images/5e6640a7-c67e-4ac2-a67d-f37fa93f7c0d?fingerprint=ppb20251217013856" alt="DECA 2" width="191" height="254" style="width:191px;height:254px;display:inline-block"> <img src="/images/7ed7fe87-b90e-4845-af7e-400a02f2a1be?fingerprint=ppb20251217014153" alt="DECA 3" width="338" height="254" style="width:338px;height:254px;display:inline-block"> <img src="/images/0a625235-82e9-408e-8bc6-2746ebd4c732?fingerprint=ppb20251217013102" alt="DECA" width="337" height="253" style="width:337px;height:253px;display:inline-block"> Specialist High Skills Major in Business Now Offered at Frontenac Secondary School We’re proud to offer the Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) in Business at Frontenac Secondary School—an exciting opportunity for students to gain real-world experience, develop sector-specific skills, and explore career pathways in business. If your child is interested in learning more about this exceptional program, they are encouraged to speak with Ms. McCormick in the Business Office.Business CompetitionThe Waterloo Financial Literacy Competition will be held in early December this year. It is a great opportunity to learn about a diverse range of financial literacy topics. If students are interested in signing up, please see Ms. Wang for more information. <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">OPHELIA Club - Girl's Night is coming!</h2>The Ophelia Club invites all female students to join us for a fun and relaxing evening at Frontenac on Friday, November 28 from 5pm-11pm.Enjoy a night filled with exciting activities, including:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Games</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Karaoke</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Therapy dogs</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Pizza</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Zumba</li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Arts and crafts</li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">A school-wide scavenger hunt...and much more!</li></ul>Cost: $20 per participant Spots are limited, so be sure to register early.To sign up and get more details, check your email from School Day. We can't wait to see you there!<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">FSS PAL and School to Community </h2><img src="/images/44b79cc7-53ea-44e1-b56d-440aa51ec509?fingerprint=ppb20251217013634" alt="IMG 5987" width="267" height="356" style="width:267px;height:356px;display:inline-block;float:left">It’s almost Poinsettia time here at FSS! The School to Community classes will be selling poinsettias as a fundraiser to help supplement the cost of Special Olympics events and field trips. The poinsettias will be coming from Rekker’s Garden in Toronto, who have always supplied us with beautiful plants year after year. There is a wide selection of sizes and colours to choose from and can be ordered directly on School Day at <a href="http://www.school-day.com/" target="_blank" title="http://www.school-day.com" class="editor-link">www.school-day.com</a>. Orders will be due on Friday, November 21th, 2025 and will be delivered to the school for pick up from the cafeteria on Tuesday December 2nd, 2025 between 3-6pm. Please contact Krista Richardson at richardskl@limestone.on.ca if you have any questions. Thank you for your support!<img src="/images/94966121-c4d4-4dc5-abec-17f31ac0fb34?fingerprint=ppb20251217014357" alt="GetAttachmentThumbnail" width="602" height="188" style="width:602px;height:188px;display:inline-block"><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">FSS Student Council News</h2>The Student Council FSS Merch Shop is now open on School Day!  The shop will remain open for orders until Thursday, November 13th.  Orders received by this date will arrive in time for the holidays.  Ask a member of Student Council if you have any questions. Join Us for an Exciting Game Day with the Kingston Frontenacs! Sunday, November 2 | 4:05 PM | Slush Puppie Place Freddy the Falcon is taking over the Frontenacs game as he joins Barrack the Bear to celebrate Barrack’s 10th Birthday! Show your school spirit and be part of the celebration with an exclusive ticket offer. Special Rate: $20 per ticket (taxes and fees included) for all Frontenac Secondary School students, staff, family, and friends. How to Get Your Tickets: Click the link below or scan the QR code on the graphic to grab your seats today. Ticket Link: <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fam.ticketmaster.com%2Ffrontenacs%2Fbuy%2Fquickbuy%3Fid%3DMTY4NQ%3D%3D&data=05%7C02%7Cmckennam%40limestone.on.ca%7Ccfadc071a0464cda08f108de132b966d%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638969275124288024%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=Px7UPr971J%2F2qBRfP8Tzo57gmNWfsW8Hs8YT8wZ0zkE%3D&reserved=0" title="Original URL: https://am.ticketmaster.com/frontenacs/buy/quickbuy?id=MTY4NQ==. Click or tap if you trust this link." class="editor-link">https://am.ticketmaster.com/frontenacs/buy/quickbuy?id=MTY4NQ==</a> Don’t miss a night of hockey, celebration, and community spirit. We can’t wait to see you there!”<img src="/images/cd2188bc-1c51-487b-8eed-0c7059de7c67?fingerprint=ppb20251217014905" alt="thumbnail Nov2 1920x1080 FSS" width="462" height="260" style="width:462px;height:260px;display:inline-block"> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Bus Driver Appreciation Day: October 22</h2>Thanks to all our bus drivers for safely transporting all of our Falcons each day to and from school. You are appreciated!! <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Upcoming Events at FSS: </h2>Week of October 27th FSS Spirit WeekOctober 30th: FSS Business Trip to Ottawa October 30th: Parent Council Meeting 6:30pm (Library)November 4th: DECA Exams at FSSNovember 5th: Blitz Day for FSS StudentsNovember 10th: Photo Retakes at FSSNovember 11th: Remembrance Day November 11th: Grad Photos BeginNovember 12th: Math Contest for Intermediates and SeniorsNovember 14th: PA Day (No school for students) <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">News from LDSB</h2>Help Shape Our Accessibility PlanThe Limestone District School Board is committed to fostering accessibility and inclusion for all. We are currently developing our next Multi-Year Accessibility Plan and invite feedback from students, staff, families, and community members.Your input will help ensure our goals reflect the diverse needs and lived experiences across our school communities. Please visit bit.ly/LDSB2025-2029AccessibilityPlan to provide input. The survey is open until November 10, 2025

2025-10-24 20:03:14.583 +0000 UTC

Prepare for Winter-Related Bus Delays and Cancellations

During the potential inclement weather months (roughly early November to early April), our transportation partner, Tri-Board Student Transportation Services (Tri-Board), works closely with their school bus companies to determine if it is safe to offer school transportation on inclement weather days. School buses function differently than other vehicles, and sometimes, although it is safe for the average family vehicle to travel, it is not safe for a school bus to be on the road. Due to the geographic size of our district, weather conditions can vary significantly from one region to another. As a result, there are times when transportation cancellations may only apply to specific areas experiencing adverse conditions, while other regions remain unaffected. Having to cancel school transportation is understandably disruptive to families, but Tri-Board always puts the safety of their 30,000-plus bus riders first and foremost in their decision-making.<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Tips to help make the winter season and bus cancellation days easier for families to manage:</h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Sign up for Bus Status Alerts through Tri-Board’s Student Portal</h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Families should sign up for bus status alerts by creating an account in <a href="https://triboard.ca/student-portal/" class="editor-link">Tri-Board’s Student Portal</a>. Families can add their student to their account, so they are signed up to receive alerts for their specific bus and zone cancellations.</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">When all transportation is cancelled across the district, the notification is sent as a general notice from Tri-Board to everyone with an account. Tri-Board does their best to post this alert by 6:00 a.m.</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Tri-Board will be communicating all bus delays and cancellations. The LDSB will not be communicating this information directly with families. The best way to receive communication regarding bus cancellations or delays is through the <a href="https://triboard.ca/student-portal/" class="editor-link">Student Portal</a>.</li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Have a backup plan for cancellations</h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Tri-Board understands that cancelling transportation is inconvenient for families.</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Tri-Board recommends creating a backup plan for alternative travel or childcare when busing is not available. If a student is taken to school when buses are not running, it is the family’s responsibility to arrange for their travel home at the end of the day.</li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Timing and duration of cancellations</h3>Tri-Board’s decision-making process occurs every morning and they do not normally decide to cancel transportation the night before. This is because conditions change, and Tri-Board wants to make the best decision closest to the time buses are actually on the road in the morning. To avoid students being taken to school by bus and then stranded without transportation home, Tri-Board cancels the transportation for whole day, even if inclement weather is only expected for part of the day. Sometimes weather is not as predicted and this is understandably very frustrating, but student safety is always the priority for Tri-Board.<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">School attendance</h3>The cancellation of school buses does not mean schools are closed. Should the need to close a school arise, that information will be communicated by the LDSB and the individual schools.All parents/guardians are asked to report their student’s absence regardless of the reason, including during bus cancellations. Often, bused students find alternative ways to school, and we want to make sure we know the whereabouts of every student to ensure their safety and well-being. Knowing who is supposed to be at school will allow school office staff to make certain all students are accounted for. Students are asked to ensure they report to their first period class for attendance.Please use the Inclement weather (all transportation types and walkers) option when reporting absences for your student for any inclement weather days when your student will not be attending school.<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Secondary Exam Schedule January 22 to January 28, 2026</h2>If buses are cancelled due to inclement weather at the school, exams scheduled on that day will be rescheduled to the next exam day. Subsequent exams in the exam schedule will also be rescheduled to the next exam day.Schools will communicate with families directly through e-mail if the exam schedule is adjusted due to inclement weather and bus cancellations. Information about rescheduled exams will also be posted on school websites. It will be important for families to watch for communication in the event of inclement weather. Students are expected to be present and available to write exams during the entire exam period, from January 22 to January 28, 2026.<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Visit Tri-Board’s website for more information, including:</h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://triboard.ca/student-portal/" class="editor-link">Sign up for their student portal</a> to view transportation details for specific students and subscribe to bus status alerts for delays and cancellations</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://triboard.ca/snowdays/" class="editor-link">Prepare for winter-related bus delays and cancellations</a></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://triboard.ca/alerts/weather-zones/" class="editor-link">Familiarize yourself with Tri-Board’s Weather Zone Map</a></li></ul><img src="/images/1ae83177-dcaa-491c-b5d0-4d8f5b8a56f3?fingerprint=ppb20251217013244" alt="2025 10 01 Sign up for Tri Board Student Portal" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">

2025-10-20 20:37:39.63 +0000 UTC

Black Student Association - Breakfast with Aaliyah Edwards

<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Breakfast with Aaliyah Edwards (WNBA)</h2>Date: Monday, October 27, 2025Time: 8:45 to 11:00 a.m.Location: LDSB Education Centre, 220 Portsmouth AvenueRegistration: <a href="https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=Xxb04a7rgk2nPKDeWTgwvu3kB-e13QxCnD6oPwbU449UOURVMUxPVEVWMEhWVkhMT1lUSFY1UFdHWC4u&route=shorturl" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Register online</a><img src="/images/89268c41-7395-439a-9798-6da06bfe8b42?fingerprint=ppb20251217014249" alt="Screenshot 2025 10 21 092215" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">

2025-10-16 16:56:09.554 +0000 UTC

Black, Indigenous, and Racialized Career Day - October 29, 2025

This empowering event is designed for Black, Indigenous, and Racialized LDSB secondary school students to highlight diverse voices and break down barriers by showcasing successful Black, Indigenous, and Racialized professionals across a wide range of industries.Lunch and snacks provided.Students will learn about: <ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Scholarship opportunities</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Post-secondary Planning (Guidance Counsellors)</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">NEW Queen’s Black Mentorship Program</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">Specialist High Skills Major</li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem">Other local employers</li></ul>Time: 8:45 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. - Tett Centre, 370 King Street WestRegistration: <a href="https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=Xxb04a7rgk2nPKDeWTgwvu3kB-e13QxCnD6oPwbU449UQUYyN1c0ODRTR1BERkhPMDRNTzRWOUlYWS4u&route=shorturl" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Register online by October 27, 2025</a>Panelists:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Jimmy Hassan (City Councillor)</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Sumaiya Karim, PhD</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Kaamraan Islam (LDSB Alumni, 2nd Year Med Student)</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Brandon Maracle (Executive Director of Kingston Native Centre and Language Nest)</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">Moustapha Alayan (Graduate Researcher in Targeted Cancer Therapeutics)</li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem">Ronny Musikitele ( Founder, Skyline Sports Global)</li></ul> <img src="/images/1473e831-f19c-41ec-83ff-8940b403414a?fingerprint=ppb20251217013201" alt="Career Day 2025 " width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">

2025-10-16 16:48:30.35 +0000 UTC

October 10 Newsletter

We are very pleased to have had the nice September weather continue into early October. We hope all of our members of the Frontenac community have a great Thanksgiving with friends and family. To stay current with all events happening at Frontenac, please read our latest updates below and as always, click this link to see our <a href="https://frontenacss.limestone.on.ca/daily-announcements" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">daily morning announcements </a>for upcoming events and activities all year long at FSS! <img src="/images/d2cdd3fa-7022-4d90-9960-84d4cb7016c5?fingerprint=ppb20251217014946" alt="IMG 2688" width="372" height="279" style="width:372px;height:279px;display:inline-block;float:right"> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Honour Awards </h2>On Wednesday, October 8th we celebrated many academic achievements of our students from the 2024-2025 school year. At this event, we recognized those students who were on the honour roll and/or earned subject awards as well as other special awards. Any students who were unable to attend should stop by the student services office next week to pick up their certificates. Congratulations Falcons! <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">FSS Attendance Policy</h2>We'd like to thank parents for their ongoing assistance with attendance at FSS. Please continue using the Safe Arrival app to approve student absences, before or the day of the absence. For all absence and late reporting a day or more after please email Kerri Merriam at merriamk@limestone.on.ca. In your email please include your students full name, reason for the absence/late and the date. This helps to manually track the information outside of the automated Safe Arrival system. If students are signed out of school, they should not be on school property (i.e. parents cannot sign students out of class to study in the FSS library, or to spectate a sporting event on school property). Please contact the school if you have any questions or concerns regarding student attendance.<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/22f6b421-1513-4071-bd23-de5ed8ab6995?fingerprint=ppb20251217013324" alt="gr9day3" width="305" height="229" style="width:305px;height:229px;display:inline-block;float:right">Parent/Guardian Night, Oct. 15- Sign up on School Day </h2>Frontenac will host our semester 1 parent/guardian night on Wednesday, October 15 from 5:30pm-8:00pm. This evening consists of two optional workshops (5:30-6:00pm) as well as parent/teacher conferences (6:00pm-8:00pm). Bookings are open now. Schedule your interviews on School Day. The plan for the evening is as follows:5:30pm-6:00pm- Optional Family Workshops<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Thriving as a Falcon- This workshop will be geared toward supporting students who are new to F.S.S. Whether you are in grade 9 or new to the area, come learn about the support available and how to thrive at school this year! Location: FSS Cafeteria</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Navigating the Post-Secondary Application Process- This workshop is to support grade 12 families who are looking at applying to college, university or entering the trades for next year. Come learn the basics about applications, finances and the transition to next year. There will be an opportunity for families to ask questions after the presentation is over. Location: Library Learning Commons</li></ul>6:00pm-8:00pm- Parent/Teacher Conferences<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Appointment bookings opened on School Day October 8th. Parents are always encouraged to reach out to teachers via email or to leave a message with our Student Services team to facilitate a connection if you missed out on Parent Teacher night. We look forward to seeing many families for the evening at FSS on October 15th. </li></ul><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">FSS Arts</h2><img src="/images/936feba9-be77-4e58-a153-f9b630188fef?fingerprint=ppb20251217014357" alt="thumbnail IMG 2853" width="175" height="233" style="width:175px;height:233px;display:inline-block;float:right">On Sep 29-30, 46 Frontenac students from grades 9-12 participated in the second annual Frontenac Arts Camp. The theme this year was the integration of art and nature, and the weather couldn’t have been more compliant. It was gorgeous. The students built shelters, shot arrows, painted, wrote poetry and canoed outside in the beautiful surroundings of Camp Iawah. Between camp activities, students played volleyball, tetherball, and jumped on the trampolines; they also randomly broke out into song and dance, helped along by Ms Martin and Mr Runions. Students had a chance to bunk overnight with their friends and the food at camp was top notch, there was something for everyone.  <img src="/images/82ab0ae9-ecd7-4cab-bfd6-bdbf4e5a65f0?fingerprint=ppb20251217014220" alt="DSC00501" width="285" height="190" style="width:285px;height:190px;display:inline-block;float:left">Some highlights of the camp included the evening skit performances, where each house team showed their version of our theme. We saw talent shows, light humour, dark humour, a psychotic octopus, and some very overly dramatic spoken word. The teachers were not to be outdone either. They  showed off their talents, teamwork, and flexibility and of course Misters Tremblay and Runions had to perform a Dirty Dancing lift, of sorts. The evening closed around the campfire with Mr Tremblay leading the whole camp in a large game of Traitors.<img src="/images/0b336a99-f47d-48ab-8f2a-37edb985aa55?fingerprint=ppb20251217013102" alt="DSC00474" width="278" height="185" style="width:278px;height:185px;display:inline-block;float:right">Another highlight of the camp was the leadership of our senior students. They stepped up to the plate, corralling their groups and making sure that everyone was included in all the activities. <img src="/images/a2bb7d79-b041-4aad-948e-162cdef6f4cb?fingerprint=ppb20251217014516" alt="DSC00502" width="280" height="186" style="width:280px;height:186px;display:inline-block;float:left">A huge thank you goes out to Mr Davey for ensuring this program happened this year and for recertifying his NLS so that the students had a chance to go in the water and canoe. Thanks to all the arts teachers in the school, including those who do not teach arts courses, for providing such enriching opportunities at Frontenac. We can’t wait to see everyone out at the Coffee House on October 22. <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"> Math Tutoring and Support</h2>Need some extra support in math? Every Monday evening from 7:00–8:00 pm in Room 118, our FSS math teachers run a Math Tutorial to help students strengthen their skills, review concepts, and prepare for upcoming assessments. This drop-in program is open to all grade levels and provides a supportive environment for students to ask questions and build confidence.<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/6fdb7b66-8b22-496b-ad48-93b558756b31?fingerprint=ppb20251217014029" alt="Europe image" width="423" height="211" style="width:423px;height:211px;display:inline-block;float:left">FSS to Europe</h2>Frontenac is heading to Central Europe!  We still have a few spaces available for this year's March Break Trip. Come see the landmarks and experience the culture of Germany, Prague, Slovakia, and Vienna with Ms. Cavers, Mr. Conway, Ms. Dembinski, and Mr. Tallon.   For more information, check out the full itinerary here <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.eftours.ca%2F2893818VH&data=05%7C02%7Cmckennam%40limestone.on.ca%7Cb35ccfe79d4c4ff801e008ddf6132107%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638937284191553864%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=rri2qaakUrEuVcAkWSfVvdowrp4nulJB%2BZ2ro5P2n7Y%3D&reserved=0" title="Original URL: http://www.eftours.ca/2893818VH. Click or tap if you trust this link." class="editor-link">www.eftours.ca/2893818VH</a>, or email Ms. Cavers at caverse@limestone.on.ca for details! For students who are already enrolled, don't forget to check our Google Classroom and hand in your paperwork to Ms. Cavers as soon as possible! <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">FSS Business Department</h2>The Grade 12 Sports and Entertainment Marketing class had the valuable opportunity to gain insight into the municipal decision-making process surrounding the future of Centre 70. City Councillor Wendy Stephen visited the class to share her expertise and walk students through the steps the City of Kingston takes when evaluating potential uses for public spaces. During the session, students also had the chance to present their own creative ideas for the site, engaging in a meaningful dialogue with Councillor Stephen about community planning. Senior business students are invited to take part in an exciting experiential learning opportunity at the Canadian Tire Centre. This full-day field trip will offer students a behind-the-scenes look at careers in the sports and entertainment industry, a visit to the Tanger Outlets, and will conclude with an Ottawa Senators game. Students enrolled in a senior business course next semester who are interested in joining the trip should speak with Mr. Stephen or Ms. McCormick in the Business Office for more details.Specialist High Skills Major in Business Now Offered at Frontenac Secondary School We’re proud to offer the Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) in Business at Frontenac Secondary School—an exciting opportunity for students to gain real-world experience, develop sector-specific skills, and explore career pathways in business. If your child is interested in learning more about this exceptional program, they are encouraged to speak with Ms. McCormick in the Business Office.Business CompetitionThe Waterloo Financial Literacy Competition will be held in early December this year. It is a great opportunity to learn about a diverse range of financial literacy topics. If students are interested in signing up, please see Ms. Wang for more information. <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">OPHELIA Club - Girl's Night is coming!</h2>The Ophelia Club invites all female students to join us for a fun and relaxing evening at Frontenac on Friday, November 28 from 5pm-11pm.Enjoy a night filled with exciting activities, including:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Games</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Karaoke</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Therapy dogs</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Pizza</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Zumba</li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Arts and crafts</li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">A school-wide scavenger hunt...and much more!</li></ul>Cost: $20 per participant Spots are limited, so be sure to register early.To sign up and get more details, check your email from School Day. We can't wait to see you there!<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">OSSLT at FSS</h2>On Wednesday, November 19th, and Thursday, November 20th, grade 10 students at Frontenac will be writing the Ontario Literacy Test. Successful completion of The Literacy Test is a graduation requirement in Ontario. Students at Frontenac will be preparing for this test through a series of lessons in their regular classes geared towards reading comprehension and written communication. They will also be provided numerous resources, including access to online classrooms and supports. Information about the test, as well as practices tests and resources can be found at https://www.eqao.com/the-assessments/osslt/.  Grade 11 and 12 students who still need to demonstrate their literacy requirement will write the test on Wednesday, November 26th. Stay tuned for further information. <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">FSS PAL and School to Community </h2>The FSS School to Community program and the PAL class headed to LCVI for a Special Olympics Soccer tournament. Despite the cool weather, the students lit it up on the field, with many impressive goals and memories of a fun day!<img src="/images/393227fb-674c-4f62-9487-3fa13ca28147?fingerprint=ppb20251217013527" alt="IMG 2629" width="314" height="418" style="width:314px;height:418px;display:inline-block;float:left"><img src="/images/82fe1f46-a929-4e8e-b7e0-18d9e7c0bf64?fingerprint=ppb20251217014220" alt="IMG 2689" width="382" height="286" style="width:382px;height:286px;display:inline-block"><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">FSS Student Council News</h2>The Student Council FSS Merch Shop is now open on School Day!  The shop will remain open for orders until Thursday, November 13th.  Orders received by this date will arrive in time for the holidays.  Ask a member of Student Council if you have any questions. <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Upcoming Events at FSS: </h2><img src="/images/6ca6543d-35cd-43fd-a48c-f7d2794f72e8?fingerprint=ppb20251217014016" alt="thumbnail IMG 2844" width="314" height="419" style="width:314px;height:419px;display:inline-block;float:right">October 10th: PA Day (No school for students)October 13th: Thanksgiving MondayOctober 15th: Parent/Guardian NightOctober 22nd: FSS Coffee House (Library)October 30th: Parent Council Meeting 6:30pm (Library)November 10th: Photo Retakes at FSSNovember 11th: Remembrance Day November 14th: PA Day (No school for students)

2025-10-10 19:03:15.265 +0000 UTC