If your child is going to be away from school please refer to the following information to report it.

We will also have fridge magnets available with the information.  Grade nine students will receive the magnet and all others may obtain one from the office as needed.

To report and absence please call:  1-844-434-8119 or go to studentabsence.kprdsb.ca

You may also download the app to your mobile device:  SchoolMessenger.

If you require further assistance, please call Julie Dundas, our Attendance Secretary.  She is in the office daily from 12:15 to 3:30 p.m.

Thank you.

Please see attached flyer with information regarding opting into receiving text messages for school updates.

Come on Kenner - let's see how much participation we can get!

Monday is Comfy Day - Come wearing your best PJ's or your favorite comfy, cozy clothes.

Tuesday is Denim Day - that's easy - grab your favorite pair of jeans and show us what you've got! 

Wednesday is Purple Day - Wear a little purple or better yet wear purple EVERYTHING!!  Show your spirit and raise awareness for Rowan's Law and Concussion Awareness. 

Thursday is VSCO Girl vs Frat Boy Day - Let's see your best VSCO and Frat outfits.  

Don't forget that Thursday night is our first dance.  "Throwback to the 2000's" is the theme.  Come out from 7-10pm and enjoy some great music and good times with friends.  Dance is $5 (or free with a $50 SAC PAC). Make sure you attend all your classes on Friday to be eligible to attend the dance.  If you would like to bring a guest from another school, you must see the Principal or VP in the office before Friday. 

Monday is Orange Shirt Day to raise awareness for Residential School Survivors and their families. 

C'mon Kenner, Tomorrow is the last day to purchase your SAC PAC at lunch.  If you purchase your SAC PAC by tomorrow, you will be guaranteed THIS YEAR's Kenner tshirt design...if you purchase after tomorrow, your tshirt may be a retro design from a previous year.  

You may purchase online or bring your cash or cheque to the library at lunch tomorrow. 

$50 SAC PAC's give you all the privileges to join sports, student council and all clubs, a student card, a tshirt, a yearbook and free admittance to our September 26 dance.

$20 SAC PAC's give you the opportunity to join some clubs, a student card and a tshirt. 

Don't forget that we will also be selling SPC Discount Cards for just $10. This card will get you great savings at lots of your favorite stores and restaurants and is good all school year! Buy yours tomorrow.

International night

  Tickets for International Night are on sale now!

They will be sold TODAY at lunch, outside the Library.  You can also get them on “School Cash Online” or from any Committee Member.  Tickets are $25.00 for adults and $15.00 for students.

Get your tickets soon!

G.A.A.

Attention all female athletes:

The Girls Athletic Association would love to have you come to our first meeting of the year TODAY at the start of lunch in the Wellness Room.  Please see Ms. Dart or Emma Lustic for more information. 

Hope to see you there!

Ski & snowboard members

Ski & Snowboard Club members please pick up your forms with Ms. Hibbert in Room 223.

Completed forms are due back ASAP!

Driver education training

Are you 16 with your G1 license and no longer want to get wet feet walking to school in the snow?  Then we have an option for you to help get you closer to driving on your own.  The Kenner Driver Education Class will be held from December 2nd to 11th after school, from 2:50 to 5:45 p.m.  If you are interested in signing up for this course, please stop by the office to pick up a registration form.

The course will be taught by Road Rules Driving School and the cost is $755.00.  There is a minimum of 12 participants needed for the class to run, and it is the only Driver’s Education Course offered here at Kenner.

Register early so we know that we have enough to run the program.

For more information, please come to the office.

Student council

Attention Student Council Members:  If you would like to have input into the logo on the Student Council Spirit Wear or in choosing the colour of the clothing, please see Mrs. Moloney in the Library today.  Spirit Wear can be ordered using School Cash Online now. 

OPEN YOGA

  Open Yoga at lunch in the Wellness Room on Thursdays.  Everyone is welcome.  It’s only 20 minutes long, and you will feel relaxed and ready for your afternoon classes.

YOGA!  THIS THURSDAY!  See you there!

Ski & snowboard members

Ski & Snowboard Club forms and money are due this Friday!

Please bring your forms to Ms. Hibbert in Room 223.

Let it snow!

Effective speaking contest

The Lions & Lioness Clubs of Peterborough are hosting the “Effective Speaking Contest” in Peterborough on February 1st.  They invite and encourage all students from Grades 2 to 12 to come and participate.

Contest rules and information is available in the Guidance Office, and they are looking forward to having all schools participate.

See Ms. Johnson or Mr. Blowes in Guidance to register!

Open yoga

Open Yoga is today at lunch in the Wellness Room.  It’s only 20 minutes long. 

Do something good for yourself and

come on out. 

Everyone is welcome!

Hope to see you there!

Christmas Hampers

Ho! Ho! Ho!  It’s that time again when Kenner students and staff pull together to help people in our school community enjoy a happy Christmas/Holiday season.

Starting Monday, we are asking everyone to bring in non-perishable food items for our Christmas Hampers.  Please make sure that they will not have reached their best before date by Christmas.  Mr. Marris’ class will be coming around in Period 1 to collect your donations.

Food can be brought in for the next two weeks. Thank you for your generosity.

Student government

There will be a Student Government executive meeting today at lunch in the Library.

Blood donors needed!

Christmas is the time for giving – giving blood, that is.  If you are 17 or older and want to donate blood, come make an appointment with Mrs. Longley, Mr. Chislett or Mr. Cook to donate blood on Friday, December 13th.  Transportation will be provided by the Peterborough Blood Donor Clinic.  You can get 5 Community Involvement Hours for donating.  Longley Harley Davidson has also donated Tim’s cards to all life savers.  Sign up today with Mrs. Longley, Mr. Chislett or Mr. Cook and return your permission forms ASAP to book your slot.

NOTICE:

Would Erik Gray and Nolan Hanes please do to the Large Gym to see Mr. Seeley at lunch today.

Kenner clothing

  All sizes are Unisex:  S, M, L, XL, 2XL

All prices include tax.

T-Shirt (Dri-Fit)  $20 (Royal Blue)

Hoodie (Dri-Fit)  $55 (Royal Blue)

Hoodie (Cotton)  $30 (Royal Blue/Royal Heather

Long Sleeve (Dri-Fit)  $25 (Royal Blue)

Name or Number on Sleeve  $7 Extra

Name on Back  $11 Extra

See Mr. Blowes in Guidance for an Order Form.

Driver education training

Are you 16 with your G1 license and no longer want to get wet feet walking to school in the snow?  Then we have an option for you to help get you closer to driving on your own.  The Kenner Driver Education Class will be held from December 2nd to 11th after school, from 2:50 to 5:45 p.m.  If you are interested in signing up for this course, please stop by the office to pick up a registration form.

The course will be taught by Road Rules Driving School and the cost is $755.00.  There is a minimum of 12 participants needed for the class to run, and it is the only Driver’s Education Course offered here at Kenner.

Register early so we know that we have enough to run the program.

For more information, please come to the office.

Student council

Attention Student Council members:  There will be a meeting today at lunch in the Library.

Jazz band & concert band

Jazz and Concert Band members are reminded that practices will resume at the start of Second Semester.

Ski & snowboard members

Ski and Snowboard Club starts this Thursday.  Sign up for the “Remind Group” if you haven’t already.

Effective speaking contest

The Lions & Lioness Clubs of Peterborough are hosting the “Effective Speaking Contest” in Peterborough on February 1st.  They invite and encourage all students from Grades 2 to 12 to come and participate.

Contest rules and information is available in the Guidance Office, and they are looking forward to having all schools participate.

See Ms. Johnson or Mr. Blowes in Guidance to register!

Lost & found

Have you lost anything at school this year?  A hat?  Sweatshirt?  Lunch bag?  Water bottle?  Boots?

If so, please check the Lost & Found box in  the Main Office all this week.

Any items not claimed will be donated to Freecycle Room.

Galapagos trip:

There will be a brief, mandatory meeting today for all students travelling to the Galapagos Islands.  The meeting will be held in Room 241 at lunch.

Ski & snowboard members

Ski and Snowboard Club starts this Thursday.  Sign up for the “Remind Group” if you haven’t already.

Jazz band & concert band

Jazz and Concert Band members are reminded that practices will resume at the start of Second Semester.

Effective speaking contest

The Lions & Lioness Clubs of Peterborough are hosting the “Effective Speaking Contest” in Peterborough on February 1st.  They invite and encourage all students from Grades 2 to 12 to come and participate.

Contest rules and information is available in the Guidance Office, and they are looking forward to having all schools participate.

See Ms. Johnson or Mr. Blowes in Guidance to register!

AMIGOS!

Meeting today at lunch.  Come on out and have some fun!

See you in the Cafeteria at lunch!

Go!  Go!  Amigos!

To the office, please:

Greta Sina &

Darren Ranawaka –

Please see Mrs. Quinlan today at lunch.

Jazz band & concert band

Jazz and Concert Band members are reminded that practices will resume at the start of Second Semester.

Effective speaking contest

The Lions & Lioness Clubs of Peterborough are hosting the “Effective Speaking Contest” in Peterborough on February 1st.  They invite and encourage all students from Grades 2 to 12 to come and participate.

Contest rules and information is available in the Guidance Office, and they are looking forward to having all schools participate.

See Ms. Johnson or Mr. Blowes in Guidance to register!

Lost & found

A calculator was turned in to the office yesterday afternoon.  If you have lost your calculator, please come to the office to identify and claim it.  It is not a graphing calculator

JR girls’ volleyball

The Junior Girls’ Volleyball Team is excused at the end of Period 2.

Please meet in the foyer to leave for Haliburton at 11:15 a.m.

SAC Executive

There is a SAC executive meeting today at lunch in the library. 

Effective speaking contest

The Lions & Lioness Clubs of Peterborough are hosting the “Effective Speaking Contest” in Peterborough on February 1st.  They invite and encourage all students from Grades 2 to 12 to come and participate.

Contest rules and information is available in the Guidance Office, and they are looking forward to having all schools participate.

See Ms. Johnson or Mr. Blowes in Guidance to register!

senior girls’ volleyball

Reminder to the Senior Girls’ Volleyball team that there is a lunch practice today starting at 11:30.

wrestling

After a long holiday break the Kenner Wrestling Team travelled out of our region to Uxbridge where over 250 wrestlers competed from 24 schools.

When the dust settled, Kenner had two Gold Medal winners:  Congratulations Tristan Joss at 67.5 kilograms, and Alex Kroes at heavyweight.  Both wrestled skillfully and with the utmost in determination.

Our next tournament is not until February 6th.  We will have practice on Monday.

Racquet club

Racquet Club resumes today after school.

Tennis and Badminton players go to the Large Gym

after school.

Student Trustee

Attention current grade 10 and grade 11 students....Applications for Student Trustee are now available from Ms. Moloney in the library.  Jorja Darrington (grade 11 Kenner student) is currently one of the 2 student trustees for KPRDSB and is an excellent resource to find out more about this exciting (paid) opportunity for next year.  Please see Jorja or Ms. Moloney for more information.  Applications are due Feb. 7 2020

White pine book club

If you would like to become a member of the White Pine Book Club, join us in the Library this Wednesday at lunch!

Bell Let’s talk day

On Bell Let’s Talk Day, Bell donates 5 cents towards mental health initiatives for every text, call and tweet you make.  They will also donate every time you use their Facebook frame or Snapchat filter. 

Since Bell Let’s Talk Day falls on January 29th this year, we are going to celebrate a little early.

Student council will be set up in the front foyer at lunch today giving out pamphlets, tattoos and stickers in order to spread awareness of the importance of mental health, just in time for exams.  Come drop by and share your views on what mental health means to you and pick up some helpful resources.  See you there!

exams

Exams are coming soon!  If you need to have accommodations such as a computer, scribe or reader for your exam, please talk to your teacher this week.  Accommodations must be in by this Friday.  If you have any questions, please see Ms. MacDonald.

GSA -

  Happy Monday, Kenner!

Just a reminder that the GSA Art Competition ends this Wednesday at lunch.  All submissions are due in Room 222.  The theme is, “What Does The GSA Mean To You”, and the art can be in any medium.

Prizes will be awarded!

Effective speaking contest

The Lions & Lioness Clubs of Peterborough are hosting the “Effective Speaking Contest” in Peterborough on February 1st.  They invite and encourage all students from Grades 2 to 12 to come and participate.

Contest rules and information is available in the Guidance Office, and they are looking forward to having all schools participate.

See Ms. Johnson or Mr. Blowes in Guidance to register!

Lacrosse volunteers needed:

The Peterborough Minor Lacrosse Association (Lakers) are looking for volunteers.  If you need to complete your Community Involvement Hours and enjoy lacrosse, this may be the place for you.

Please see the announcement on the Guidance bulletin board for more information about this and other volunteer opportunities!

White pine book club

Hey, Kenner!

Do you like to read?  Do you want to read some great Canadian Fiction?

Join the White Pine Book Club Wednesday at the beginning of lunch in the Library!

exams

Exams are coming soon!  If you need to have accommodations such as a computer, scribe or reader for your exam, please talk to your teacher this week.  Accommodations must be in by this Friday.  If you have any questions, please see Ms. MacDonald.

Bell Let’s talk day

On Bell Let’s Talk Day, Bell donates 5 cents towards mental health initiatives for every text, call and tweet you make.  They will also donate every time you use their Facebook frame or Snapchat filter. 

Since Bell Let’s Talk Day falls on January 29th this year, we are going to celebrate a little early.

Student council will be set up in the front foyer at lunch today giving out pamphlets, tattoos and stickers in order to spread awareness of the importance of mental health, just in time for exams.  Come drop by and share your views on what mental health means to you and pick up some helpful resources.  See you there!

Notable acts

Hey Kenner!

Come on out tonight to see NOTABLE ACTS presented by the Kenner Drama Class. 

Tickets are only $5.00

Doors open at 6:30 – Show starts at 7:00

AND there’s a Bake Sale!

Don’t miss out!

Effective speaking contest

The Lions & Lioness Clubs of Peterborough are hosting the “Effective Speaking Contest” in Peterborough on February 1st.  They invite and encourage all students from Grades 2 to 12 to come and participate.

Contest rules and information is available in the Guidance Office, and they are looking forward to having all schools participate.

See Ms. Johnson or Mr. Blowes in Guidance to register!

Lacrosse volunteers needed:

The Peterborough Minor Lacrosse Association (Lakers) are looking for volunteers.  If you need to complete your Community Involvement Hours and enjoy lacrosse, this may be the place for you.

Please see the announcement on the Guidance bulletin board for more information about this and other volunteer opportunities!

White pine book club

Hey, Kenner!

Do you like to read?  Do you want to read some great Canadian Fiction?

Join the White Pine Book Club today at the beginning of lunch in the Library!

exams

Exams are coming soon!  If you need to have accommodations such as a computer, scribe or reader for your exam, please talk to your teacher this week.  Accommodations must be in by this Friday.  If you have any questions, please see Ms. MacDonald.

Third side

Attention “Third Side” students: 

There will be a meeting at lunch today in Mrs Poley’s room (238)!

Bell Let’s talk day

On Bell Let’s Talk Day, Bell donates 5 cents towards mental health initiatives for every text, call and tweet you make.  They will also donate every time you use their Facebook frame or Snapchat filter. 

Since Bell Let’s Talk Day falls on January 29th this year, we are going to celebrate a little early.

Student council will be set up in the front foyer at lunch today giving out pamphlets, tattoos and stickers in order to spread awareness of the importance of mental health, just in time for exams.  Come drop by and share your views on what mental health means to you and pick up some helpful resources.  See you there!

AMIGOS!

Amigos, we will be meeting in Room 114 today at lunch.  Our meeting is going to be “for the birds”.

Go!  Go!  Amigos!

Effective speaking contest

The Lions & Lioness Clubs of Peterborough are hosting the “Effective Speaking Contest” in Peterborough on February 1st.  They invite and encourage all students from Grades 2 to 12 to come and participate.

Contest rules and information is available in the Guidance Office, and they are looking forward to having all schools participate.

See Ms. Johnson or Mr. Blowes in Guidance to register!

Racquet club

Racquet Club in the large gym today after school for Tennis and Badminton.

Junior girls’ volleyball

The Junior Girls Volleyball Team was in action at TAS last night, and they were on fire!  Outstanding offense by Esmeralda Wang-Acker, Maddy Kittle and Caitlyn Moore pushed Kenner to split games with Norwood.

The highlight of the night was splitting their match with a very competitive St. Peter’s Team.  Bridget Masterson was a serving guru, Ava Wilson was a passing queen, and Danica Harling played intense volleyball to beat St. Peter’s 26 – 24.

The rookies all played strongly, but we fell short to TAS.

Next practice for the Juniors and Seniors in Monday at 3:00.

exams

Exams are coming soon!  If you need to have accommodations such as a computer, scribe or reader for your exam, please talk to your teacher this week.  Accommodations must be in by TODAY!  If you have any questions, please see Ms. MacDonald.

Nordic Ski Team

Our Nordic Ski Team represented Kenner well at this week’s Sprint race.  Both beginner and veteran skiers gave it their all during the four heats of racing.

Eliana Schartner finished 6th for Novice Girls, followed by Bri Hines.

Emile Gennaro and Atticus Sikma finished 2nd and 3rd for Novice Boys.

For Senior Girls, Anna De Leenheer and Natasha Holy finished 3rd and 5th.

And with a solid performance in all four heats, Jack Beda finished first, followed by Aidan Stever in 5th, Josh Lee in 6th and they were closely followed by Mark Noble and Aathavan Uruthirapathy.

Well done, skiers!

See you at tonight’s practice!

Therapy dogs

If you have signed up to see Therapy Dogs next Tuesday at Lunch, we need your consent forms!  Please hand them in to Resource or the Office by the end of first period today!

Bell Let’s talk day

On Bell Let’s Talk Day, Bell donates 5 cents towards mental health initiatives for every text, call and tweet you make.  They will also donate every time you use their Facebook frame or Snapchat filter. 

Since Bell Let’s Talk Day falls on January 29th this year, we are going to celebrate a little early.

Student council will be set up in the front foyer at lunch today giving out pamphlets, tattoos and stickers in order to spread awareness of the importance of mental health, just in time for exams.  Come drop by and share your views on what mental health means to you and pick up some helpful resources.  See you there!

Effective speaking contest

The Lions & Lioness Clubs of Peterborough are hosting the “Effective Speaking Contest” in Peterborough on February 1st.  They invite and encourage all students from Grades 2 to 12 to come and participate.

Contest rules and information is available in the Guidance Office, and they are looking forward to having all schools participate.

See Ms. Johnson or Mr. Blowes in Guidance to register!

Bell Let’s talk day

On Bell Let’s Talk Day, Bell donates 5 cents towards mental health initiatives for every text, call and tweet you make.  They will also donate every time you use their Facebook frame or Snapchat filter. 

Nordic Ski Team

There will be a mandatory meeting for those skiers attending this week’s night race on Friday.  Please meet in the Fitness Room at the beginning of lunch.

Overtime:

OVERTIME has been moved to Wednesday this week!

Therapy dogs

East Central Therapy Dogs will be at our school tomorrow at lunch in the POD!  Today is the last day to hand in your consent forms.  If you have not handed one in, you will not be included on the list.  Hand your forms in to the Main Office.

Exams 

Exams begin this Thursday.  Remember Thursday is a modified day with period 1 exam in the morning and then shortened classes after for a full school day.  

Bell Let’s talk day

On Bell Let’s Talk Day, Bell donates 5 cents towards mental health initiatives for every text, call and tweet you make.  They will also donate every time you use their Facebook frame or Snapchat filter. 

East central therapy dogs:

Today is the day!

East Central Therapy Dogs will be bringing in six furry friends at lunch time! Meet them in the POD for your 20 minute assigned time slot.  Lists will be posted in front of the Main Office and the POD to remind you of your time slot.  Please be on time and remember not to bring any food to our session.  Our furry friends don’t need the distraction. 

See you there!

Heart & art:

Express yourself through heart and art!

For youth who identify as female, ages 13 to 18.  Build resilience and promote self-esteem.  This 10 week group will be working with horses!  See Guidance or Mrs. Fox-Comery if you are interested.

Overtime:

OVERTIME has been moved to Wednesday this week!

EXAMS

Exams begin this week on Thursday.  Period 1 exam is Thursday at 9 am with shortened period 2, 3 and 4 after.  Thursday is the last day of classes.

Period 2 exam is Friday at 9 am

Period 3 exam is Monday at 9am

Period 4 exam is Tuesday at 9am

See the letter posted on the school website (and sent home with students) for more information and details on what to do if there's a snow day during exams. 

Good luck.  Study hard. 

Bell Let’s talk day

On Bell Let’s Talk Day, Bell donates 5 cents towards mental health initiatives for every text, call and tweet you make.  They will also donate every time you use their Facebook frame or Snapchat filter. 

AMIGOS!

Our meeting today is in Mr. Dove’s Room, #116.  Bring your dancing shoes!

Go!  Go!  Amigos!

parking:

Students and staff who park on the school side of Gillespie Street: 

Please make sure your vehicle does not block our neighbours’ driveways! 

It’s difficult with the snow, so be sure to check where you park!

Heart & art:

Express yourself through heart and art!

For youth who identify as female, ages 13 to 18.  Build resilience and promote self-esteem.  This 10 week group will be working with horses!  See Guidance or Mrs. Fox-Comery if you are interested.

Overtime:

OVERTIME has been moved to today after school!

Locker clean out!

It’s that time!  The end of the Semester.  Please clean out your locker.  All food and garbage is to go in the garbage bins provided in the halls at 9:45 today.  Teachers – please let students out of class at 9:45. 

Also, today is a very good day to return all borrowed school items: uniforms, equipment and texts.  Best of luck on your exams tomorrow!

Get a good night’s sleep!

Effective speaking contest

The Lions & Lioness Clubs of Peterborough are hosting the “Effective Speaking Contest” in Peterborough on February 1st.  They invite and encourage all students from Grades 2 to 12 to come and participate.

Contest rules and information is available in the Guidance Office, and they are looking forward to having all schools participate.

See Ms. Johnson or Mr. Blowes in Guidance to register!

Exams

Exams begin tomorrow with the hybrid day. Period 1 exams from 9-11:15, lunch 11:15-12, period 2 starts at 12:00 followed by period 3 and period 4.  

Friday we begin standard exam schedule with just one exam in the morning.  Period 2 exam Friday 9am. Period 3 exam Monday 9am, Period 4 exam Tuesday 9am.  

See exam letter posted on website and sent home with students for more information and information on what to do if we have a snow day. 

Grad Photo Retakes - February 6 - Sign up in the Guidance Office. A $30 sitting fee is required and needs to be handed into the photographer if you want to have 10 poses and the grad composite. Yearbook sittings are free. This will be your last opportunity to have a grad photo taken this school year.  Pictures will be taken in the Wellness/Yoga Studio - Room 160.

New Phone Number, Web Address, Phone App Coming for Reporting Absences

At KPR, student safety is our highest priority, and we thank families for adopting the automated safe arrival system to help ensure students arrive safely at school each day. 

Starting this September, we will be introducing a new automated Student Absence Reporting System.  Therefore, you will need to create a NEW account to report your children’s absences online. 

You will receive an email in August with instructions on how to create your new account and download the mobile app.  You also will receive a magnet in September with the new Student Absence Reporting System details.  Unfortunately, since ownership of the reporting software has changed, we cannot simply transfer your child’s information to the new system.

Watch for more information in the summer.

Many parents and guardians have been wondering what effect the legalization of marijuana will have on  KPR schools. In short, KPR schools will treat cannabis in much the same way they treat alcohol: students of any age will not be allowed to use marijuana at schools, on school buses or field trips. 

 Once the new federal law comes into effect this October 17:

• non-medical marijuana use will be legal only for those age 19 and older 
• any student, at any age, could be suspended for possessing or being under the influence of cannabis at school
• any student who shares marijuana with others younger than 19 could be expelled from school
• it will be illegal for adults to use cannabis on, or within 20 metres of, school grounds
• it will be illegal to drive under the influence of cannabis, and drivers age 21 or under will not be allowed to have any cannabis in their system.

 If you have any questions about cannabis at school, please speak with your principal or vice-principal.  Further information on the new law is available at Ontario.ca/cannabis.  Information on how to talk to your child about cannabis can be found at Cannabis Information – CAMH.

KPR wishes everyone a happy holiday. We hope that this time allows for some much needed rest for students, staff, parents and guardians, and allows families opportunities to celebrate together.

While the holidays can be joyous, they can also be difficult for some.  We wanted to provide families with some resources you may find useful over the holiday season. Our mission is that all students remain safe, and this includes their mental and physical well-being.

Mental health is a state of well-being; it is relevant to all of us.  According to the Mental Health Commission of Canada, in any given year, one in five people in Canada experiences a mental health crisis or illness.  It is important to us that we remind everyone to use resources that are accessible to all.  These include:

• the Be Safe App, a free mobile app that aims to help young adults make healthy decisions during a crisis; it can be downloaded onto cell phones from https://besafeapp.ca/
• Kids Help Phone, also available 24/7, at 1-800-668-6868 or text “CONNECT” to 686868
• Four County Crisis line, available 24/7 for Northumberland and Peterborough County residents at 1-866-995-9933
• Durham Mobile Crisis Services, available 24/7 for anyone experiencing a crisis, at 905-666-0483 or 1-800-742-1890
• Connex Ontario Mental Health Helpline, provides information about mental health services in Ontario 24/7, at 1-866-531-2600 or www.connexontario.ca
• Ontario 211, a free helpline that connects people to community and social services in your area, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, by calling 2-1-1.

Your family also has access to your closest hospital, as well as to regional supports serving specific areas of KPR.

Let's keep our mental health and the mental health of those we love and care about in the forefront.  We encourage you to use community support services if you ever find yourself or someone near and dear to you struggling and in need of assistance.

Once again, we wish everyone season’s greetings, a Merry Christmas, and safe holidays.

Grief Resources

Is your child experiencing loss and grief?  Here are some resources recommended by our School Board Counsellors:

http://www.kprschools.ca/en/students/well-being/mentalhealth/grief.html

Do you have concerns about your child’s social, emotional or mental health that may be hindering their ability to thrive at school?

KPR schools have skilled clinicians who can support your child and you in finding answers. School Board Counsellors have professional degrees and specialize in work with children, youth and families. Please contact your School Principal for more information.

http://www.kprschools.ca/en/students/well-being/mentalhealth/schoolboardcounsellorservices.html

Mental health is an important part of our overall well-being.  Students experiencing mental health issues may have problems with mood, focus, behaviour and their ability to relate to peers, maintain friendships, do well in school and participate in activities.

But where can parents and guardians go for help if they are concerned about their child's or teen's mental health?  For more information, and suggestions for helpful resources, visit: 

http://www.kprschools.ca/en/students/well-being/mentalhealth.html

Hey, KPR Family: We missed you! We're looking forward to seeing everyone back at school September 3. If you moved over the summer, or have questions for school staff, please contact the school office between August 22-29. Otherwise, September 3 is the big day for KPR students to get back into the swing of things!

We want to provide this update to inform our parents of ongoing negotiations with our transportation providers.                                                                       

STSCO (Student Transportation Services of Central Ontario) manages transportation services for 26,100 students every day on behalf of the Conseil scolaire catholique MonAvenir, Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington Catholic District School Board, and the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board.

Daily service is delivered by local school bus companies contracted by STSCO, and we have been in discussion with our providers for a number of months to reach new contract terms.

Negotiations are continuing and we are working towards reaching an agreement with local school bus operators for the coming school year.

It is our goal to arrive at new contracts that recognize the important and professional service our bus drivers provide in transporting our students safely to and from school.

We remain optimistic that normal bus service will be in place for students for the start of the school year. Should this situation change, we will inform parents/guardians as soon as possible.

Regular updates on this matter will be posted by STSCO at stsco.ca and on Twitter at @stsco_ca and shared by the school boards and local media. 

STSCO (Student Transportation Services of Central Ontario) and local school bus companies contracted by STSCO have reached a tentative agreement on new contract terms.

As a result, there will be normal bus service for students for the start of the school year.  Please visit stsco.ca for further information.

The KPR Board is committed to providing safe learning environments for all. When students behave inappropriately, principals use progressive discipline to change behaviour. When student behaviours pose a potential threat to safety or serious harm, KPR’s Violence Threat Risk Assessment (VTRA) protocol helps principals take immediate steps to protect student well-being.  While such incidents are rare, the VTRA outlines how we work with local police, mental health providers and community agencies to keep students safe. Read more about the protocol, including notification requirements, in the Safe, Caring and Restorative Schools section of kprschools.ca .  As always, student safety is our first priority.  Should you have any questions, please speak with your principal.

Calling all parents and caregivers: join us the morning of Saturday, October 19 at Port Hope High School for KPR’s free, annual Parent Conference! Dr. Michael Ungar, world renowned expert on building resiliency in children and youth, will talk about The Risk-Taker’s Advantage: How to Make Kids More Resilient by Not Bubblewrapping Them. Take advantage of this rare opportunity to hear his engaging advice, while also enjoying free child minding for ages two and older, light refreshments and information booths staffed by local organizations serving families. Stay tuned for more information and registration details later in September at www.kprschools.ca

KPR welcomes parents of students ages 12-17 to register for a free, two-day Mental Health First Aid course, September 23-24 in Peterborough.  Space is limited. For details and registration, visit https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/mental-health-first-aid-tickets-71846457689  

Now’s your chance to register for KPR’s free, annual Parent Conference, featuring internationally renowned resilience researcher Dr. Michael Ungar!

Registration continues until October 11 at www.kprschools.ca for:

2019 Parent Conference

The Risk-Taker’s Advantage: How to Make Kids More Resilient by Not Bubblewrapping Them

Saturday, October 19

9 a.m.-11:30 a.m.

Port Hope High School, 130 Highland Dr., Port Hope

With Keynote Speaker: Dr. Michael Ungar

Plus light refreshments, child minding for ages 2 & older, & booths by agencies serving families

Don't miss this rare opportunity to hear Dr. Michael Ungar, a funny and engaging speaker who is considered one of the top experts on resilience in Canada and internationally.

It’s all FREE. If you need assistance, have questions or if there are accommodations that would make the conference more accessible for you, please call 705-742-9773 or toll-free 1-877-741-4577, ext. 2001, or email judy_malfara@kprdsb.ca

Thursday, October 3, 2019

Parent Update: CUPE Strike Action – School Closures

Further to our message yesterday, and after extensive consideration, we are writing to inform parents that if a provincial agreement is not reached over the weekend, and CUPE (Canadian Union of Public Employees) staff begin their announced full withdrawal of service, schools will be closed to students on Monday, October 7, 2019. 

We share your concern and disappointment with this possibility, and wanted to provide an update on our plans as soon as possible to allow parents to make alternative arrangements if needed.

Student safety is always our first priority. This decision has been made because we do not believe we can provide safe and secure learning environments for all students in the event of a full CUPE strike.

Our considerations include:

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

We are pleased that negotiations have been reported to be continuing on Friday. We remain hopeful that a provincial agreement can be reached this weekend to avert disruption to our students and families.

We will continue to monitor developments closely and will provide confirmation to parents about school status for Monday as soon as we are able. This will likely be on Sunday evening, through:

• School Messenger
• Local news media
• Our website and social media platforms: www.kprschools.ca, @kprschools on Twitter, and Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board on Facebook.

Sincerely,

Diane Lloyd, Chairperson of the Board
Jennifer Leclerc, Director of Education

Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board is excited to offer three travel for credit courses in July 2020. The first course, Civics and Careers, is offered to students currently in grade nine. The second course, English, Grade 11, University Preparation, is offered to students entering grade eleven. The third course, French immersion and core is offered to students entering grade eleven. You are invited to attend an information session in your region for more information.

RSVP to the meeting at: www.eftours.ca/creditinfo

Contact: John Ford 1-877-741-4577, ext. 3124

…to register for KPR’s Parent Conference coming to Port Hope HS Saturday, October 19, 9-11:30 a.m. The child minding service is full, but there are still some seats left for the adults to hear world-renowned resilience expert Dr. Michael Ungar. A funny and engaging speaker, he will talk about The Risk-Taker’s Advantage: How to Make Kids More Resilient by Not Bubblewrapping Them. Register by October 15 from our home page at kprschools.ca

All families and community members are invited to attend three free events being held in honour of KPR's 3rd annual Indigenous Peoples Awareness Month. 

Each evening event is a film screening followed by a panel discussion, as follows:

  Thursday, November 14, 7 p.m.
  Adam Scott Collegiate Vocational Institute, Peterborough 
  Screening & discussion of Colten Boushie Documentary

  Thursday, November 21, 7 p.m.
  Port Hope High School 
  Screening & discussion of Rumble

 Thursday, November 28, 7 p.m.
 Bowmanville High School 
 Screening & discussion of Our People Will Be Healed

Pre-registration is not required.  Drop in at these free events!

Parents and caregivers:

Registration opens November 8 for the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board’s Parent Workshops on Kids Have Stress Too!  

The workshops will run from 10-11:30 a.m. at three locations:

              Friday, November 29 at the Education Centre in Peterborough

              Tuesday, December 10 at KPR’s Kirby Professional Learning Centre in Clarington

              Tuesday, March 31 at Port Hope High School

Visit kprschools.ca after November 8 for details and to register for one of these workshops!

Meet HGTV star Kate Campbell while learning about opportunities in the skilled trades at Women in Trades & Technology. This event, of particular interest to female students in Grades 7-12, will take place at Fleming College in Peterborough as follows:

Tuesday, November 19
6 p.m.
Kawartha Trades & Technology Centre, Fleming College

Meet successful skilled tradespeople and have your questions answered, tour the Trades & Technology Centre, and listen to advice from HGTV star carpenter and keynote speaker Kate Campbel, and enjoy refreshments and giveaways.

To register, visit https://flemingcollege.ca/women-in-trades-and-technology  

KPR is seeking comments from students, parents, guardians, staff and community members regarding the proposed school year calendar for 2020-21. Three possible options are being considered, and KPR would like to know which option our stakeholders prefer. Please review the proposed calendar options and comment online at www.kprschools.ca by Friday, December 6. If you are not able to access the online survey, please contact your school office for a paper copy.

Saving money for your child’s education after high school may seem impossible. But there is money available from the Government of Canada that can help.

When you open a Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) for your child, the government can add money to it, to help you save. For example, the Canada Learning Bond is available for children from low-income families, born in 2004 or later. It pays up to $2,000. To receive it, you just need to name your child as a beneficiary in the Registered Education Savings Plan. You don’t have to contribute additional funds of your own into the RESP if you are not able to do so.

Other government money may also be available. If you do contribute additional funds into the RESP, you may also qualify for a Canada Education Savings Grant.

Having a RESP will help you save for your child to attend a trade school, apprenticeship program, college or university after high school. There are lots of options. You can find out more at Canada.ca/education-savings, by calling 1-800-622-6232, or by visiting a Service Canada Centre near you.

Families: now’s the time to register your child for Kindergarten! If your child will turn four before the end of December, make sure you register online at www.kprschools.ca/kindergarten 

We also encourage you to take advantage of the coming regional Kindergarten Information Session closest to you. Sessions will be held from 5:30-7 p.m. as follows:

Tuesday, February 11 – C.R. Gummow Public School, 311 Cottesmore Ave., Cobourg

Wednesday, February 19 – Harold Longworth PS, 350 Longworth Ave., Bowmanville

Tuesday, March 3 – Duke of Cambridge PS, 47 Liberty St. N., Bowmanville

Tuesday, March 10 – Otonabee Valley PS, 580 River Rd. S., Peterborough

The sessions are free, and pre-registration is required, to ensure sufficient take-home resources for every participating family. The evening will offer you a peek into the Kindergarten classroom and give you resources to help prepare your child for school. You also will be able to meet with community agencies and partners that serve families in your area.