“Faith is not merely a journey for the feet, but it is also a journey for the heart" - A.W. Tozer
Welcome Back
This time of year is always so special in education. We are excited to welcome students and staff back on Tuesday, September 3rd for a brand new year of spiritual development, learning and growth.
Every year, our Board adopts a theme that reflects our faith and guides many of our school and classroom activities. This year, our theme is "Faithful Steps—Hopeful Journeys." It is meant to echo Pope Francis's chosen theme for the 2025 Jubilee ("Pilgrims of Hope"). Learn more about Faithful Steps—Hopeful Journeys on our website. I wish everyone a safe and restful long weekend and a joyful start on Tuesday morning.
Important Code of Conduct Changes For Students
At the end of last year, the Ministry of Education made important code of conduct changes which take effect this September. The changes relate to the use of Personal Mobile Devices at school and the consequences of Tobacco Use and vaping on school property.
We strongly encourage families to carefully review this Question and Answer Document, which outlines the expectations and enforcement related to these changes. It is important to note that all families must complete a Personal Mobile Device Acknowledgement form, which will be available on your child’s SchoolDay account.
Emergency Preparedness for Families
We want to update the Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board (SMCDSB) community on our emergency preparedness protocols, specifically how we respond to threats of targeted violence. We are asking all parents/guardians to review the following information so that you are aware of our protocols and practices:
Creating a Respectful and Supportive Environment
At SMCDSB, we prioritize respect, understanding, and compassion, guided by our Catholic values. Our goal is to ensure that everyone—students, staff, families, and community partners—works positively and productively.
Our Expectations:
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Respect: Treat others with kindness and consideration in all interactions
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Open-mindedness: Understand and respect different perspectives, even when you disagree
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Active listening: Listen carefully, ask questions, and avoid assumptions
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Empathy: Consider how others might feel to foster understanding
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Confidentiality and honesty: Communicate openly while keeping discussions private when necessary
Respectful Interactions: Everyone deserves respect. Staff are not required to engage if they feel threatened or disrespected; disrespectful behaviour may result in further action.
Following these guidelines can maintain a safe and welcoming environment for all. Please see our Respectful School Environments Flyer for more information.
Parent Portal
Home2School Connect is a website that provides up-to-date information about your child's attendance, grade history, report cards and schedule. It also allows you to submit absences and safe arrival notifications. We encourage you to sign up and take advantage of this valuable tool. For more information about how to set up and activate your account, visit the Home2School Connect page on our website.
Active Transportation and Parking Lot Safety
This is a busy time of year for vehicle traffic in school zones. We encourage families to use active travel methods like walking or cycling to school to reduce environmental impact and congestion.
If you must drive your child, please ensure you follow school staff directions for safe drop-off, park in designated areas, and respect local parking rules. If you must accompany your child into the school, park in designated areas and respect local parking rules to avoid blocking driveways.
Updates and Information
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Please view this year’s School Year Calendar for information on holidays and PD Days for 2024-2025
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Accident insurance for your child is voluntary but highly recommended - the attached Insurance Letter provides information that you may wish to consider.
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It is important that your contact information is up-to-date - if there are changes to your address, phone number or email address, please let your child’s school know.