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January 9 2026 Family Update

<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;">Lord Strathcona Public School Family Update</h3><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;">January 9, 2026</h3><img src="/images/7c7a844c-11ef-492a-8603-c2b9e0119d6d" alt="gym floor pic" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">Principal's MessageHappy New Year! It has certainly been a strange first week back, with two snow days and an unusual January rain on Friday. We hope that next week sees a more regular return to winter and the routines of school. It is great to see everyone back, and we are extra excited to welcome some new friends who have started at Lord Strathcona in January. The new year is a great time for growth and learning, and lots of winter fun outside.G. Seiveright, Principal<hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Upcoming Dates<img src="/images/57cd3bd2-50ea-4b06-a027-f1c15671ae48" alt="calendar" width="229" height="190" style="width:229px;height:190px;display:inline-block;float:right"> </h2>Jan. 15 - School Council Meeting 4:00 (library)Jan. 15 - Grade 3 Swim to SurviveJan. 20 - Bus Safety PresentationsJan. 28-29 Brave Education WorkshopsJan. 30 - PA Day (No School)Feb. 16 - Family Day (No School)<hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Brave Education</h2>Our school continues to be committed to supporting the well-being of every student. This year, thanks to support from School Council, we are proud to again offer Brave Education workshops, which align with our school’s strategic plan, as well as the Ministry of Education’s Policy/Program Memorandum 169 and PPM 144. These workshops will help our students develop essential social-emotional skills, promoting healthier relationships and fostering positive interactions throughout our school community. Workshops:<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XHBejnoVcMhw0muHF_msLw__M45HNkTL/view" rel="noreferrer" title="Original URL: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XHBejnoVcMhw0muHF_msLw__M45HNkTL/view?usp=drive_link. Click or tap if you trust this link." class="editor-link">Building Emotional Regulation</a>: Grades 2-6 For at-home resources, please visit Brave’s <a href="https://braveeducation.com/parents/" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">resource page.</a> <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Bus Safety Presentations</h2>Buster the Bus is coming back to Lord Strathcona! On January 20 all of our students will participate in our annual Bus Safety presentations from our partners at TriBoard. This includes our friend Buster for students in grades k-3 and a game-show style presentation for students in grades 4-6. <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Bus Cancellations</h2>As we have seen several times already this year, sometimes buses are cancelled due to inclement weather. The decision to cancel buses is made by TriBoard, in consultation with the Limestone District School Board, early in the morning. This decision may be based on active weather in the morning or forecast weather for later in the day. When buses are cancelled in the morning they are cancelled for the full day. We will send an email to families in the morning when buses are cancelled, but you can also sign up for notifications at <a href="https://triboard.ca/snowdays/" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">https://triboard.ca/snowdays/</a> . Please remember that if you drive your children to school on inclement weather days our supervision begins at 8:45 a.m. and students must be picked up by 3:30. If they are staying home due to weather or bus cancellations, please report the absence through SafeArrival to avoid an attendance call. <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Dress for the weather!</h2>Families are rem<img src="/images/2970bb45-c57b-4b06-9202-edcbf39b0719" alt="winter accessories" width="140" height="151" style="width:140px;height:151px;display:inline-block;float:left">inded that we have 50 minutes of outdoor recess every day. Along with this, many classes enjoy gym time outside and also may use our many yard spaces as an outdoor classroom. Remember to send your students to school every day prepared for the weather. We will still go out in cold weather or snow, so make sure that children have boots, coats, snowpants, and mitts/hats as necessary. It is so much fun outside, especially when students are dressed for the weather! <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Hot Lunch</h2>We are currently reviewing our Hot Lunch offerings and providers for 2026. At this point we do not have any lunches scheduled, but information will be shared shortly with details about Hot Lunch for the winter. As a reminder, all orders and payments must be made online using <a href="https://www.school-day.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">School-Day</a>. You will still need to order before the deadline (10 days before the lunch). LATE ORDERS CAN NOT BE ACCEPTED. <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Office Notes</h2>Please note that our Office Administrator is on lunch from 11:30 - 12:30. Phones may not be answered during this time, and it may take longer than normal to answer the front door. Thank you for your patience and understanding.All parents dropping students off or picking students up are asked to wait in the foyer for your child. To help ensure school and student safety and to minimize disruptions, parents/caregivers are not allowed to go down to classrooms during the school day. If you need to pick your child up early from school, please notify the office before 3:10. After that regular dismissal routines start to get very busy and it can be difficult to get a message to classrooms. Thank you for your understanding.<hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Busing Information</h2>You can check your busing information and apply for any changes to transportation at <a href="https://triboard.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">https://triboard.ca/ </a>. All students must be registered for the bus in order to be able to ride. Please note that new applications and any changes take several days to process, so be sure to have alternate transportation plans in place. Please be at your child's bus stop 10 minutes before their scheduled pick-up/drop-off time to make sure you are there on time. <hr> <img src="/images/dd2cc5af-8668-4241-b8e2-085093167eff" alt="CBS AUBS Clinic Jan Feb 2026" width="470" height="608" style="width:470px;height:608px;display:inline-block"><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">School Council</h2>Our small but mighty School Council continues to meet to discuss events and fundraisers at Lord Strathcona, bring up issues with administration, and plan special opportunities for students and families. This includes the Harvest Lunch next week along with the Holiday Gift Shop in December. Our Lord Strathcona School Council includes the following executive members:Chair/Secretary/PIC Rep: Bethany HufnagelTreasurer: Carrie FentonBingo & Fundraising Coordinator: Angela McGinnisOur next School Council meeting will be held on Thursday, January 15 at 4:00 p.m. in the library. We are trying different times for our meetings this year in the hopes that new interested parents and caregivers will join us! All LSPS parents/guardians are invited to join us. <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">School Council Facebook Group<img src="/images/3a68c5ca-3aff-41de-8fb5-9da1715893d2" alt="Parent Facebook Group QR Code" width="418" height="239" style="width:418px;height:239px;display:inline-block;float:right"></h2>NEW this year is an unofficial Facebook Group for Parents and Guardians in the LSPS community to connect. Any parent or guardian is welcome to join at the QR code in the image, or by following the link: <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ffacebook.com%2Fgroups%2FLSPSparents&data=05%7C02%7Cseiverightg%40limestone.on.ca%7C00bf46f8147b4ee5684208ddef2a54ef%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638929687333782544%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=KHH2FMUOec8C%2FwTK4QvNU3VuozW%2F7OZJEz73Kq1HOn8%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" title="Original URL: http://facebook.com/groups/LSPSparents. Click or tap if you trust this link." class="editor-link">Facebook.com/groups/LSPSparents</a> This will be a place to find reminders of upcoming events and to build connections with other families in the community. This group is not monitored by the school and is not a place to ask student-specific questions or raise concerns. Please feel free to share the link with any LSPS parent or guardian you are connected with - the more the merrier! <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Daily Schedule </h2><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Time</th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Activity/learning block</th></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">8:45 a.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Supervision begins on the yard</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">9:00 to 10:40 a.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">100-minute learning block</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">10:40 to 11:25 a.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Recess and nutrition break</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">11:25 a.m. to 1:05 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">100-minute learning block</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">1:05 to 1:50 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Recess and nutrition break</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">1:50 to 3:30 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">100-minute learning block</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">3:30 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Dismissal</td></tr></tbody></table><hr><img src="/images/01363886-5906-41e2-a4a3-00637d3e1bb6" alt="Gould Lake 2026 Junior Program Brochure" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/0b056237-b9b5-42ac-8acb-6d94cb7e38fd" alt="Something for Dads Winter 2026 flyer" width="478" height="621" style="width:478px;height:621px;display:inline-block"> <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Allergen Awareness - Nut-Free School</h2>Thank you for packing nut-free snacks! Please communicate with teachers before sending any treats in for your student's class. <img src="/images/77143b36-64d5-4f80-a9f2-cf2bf339fb88" alt="Nut Free School" width="387" height="553" style="width:387px;height:553px;display:inline-block"><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">2025-2026 LDSB School Year Calendar</h2>A <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/7291ab76-99b5-43a1-8f2b-edaade7c53e8/2025-04-07-LDSB%20School%20Year%20Calendar-2025-2026.pdf" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">PDF version of the 2025-2026 School Year Calendar is available online</a>. <img src="/images/1161a439-a52c-4144-ad44-b2b141f1f967" alt="2025 2026 LDSB School Year Calendar" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"> </h2>

2026-01-08 21:10:57.755 +0000 UTC

December 12 Family Update

<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;">Lord Strathcona Public School Family Update</h3><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;">December 12, 2025</h3><img src="/images/7c7a844c-11ef-492a-8603-c2b9e0119d6d" alt="gym floor pic" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">Principal's Message It is hard to believe that we have already nearly come to the Winter Break. We have had a wonderful fall and a great start to a snowy winter! Next Friday, December 19, is the last day of school for 2025. Students will return to classes on Monday January 5. We hope that everyone has a safe and restful break, and we look forward to seeing everyone back in 2026 to continue the great learning and growth that is underway this year. G. Seiveright, Principal<hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Upcoming Dates<img src="/images/57cd3bd2-50ea-4b06-a027-f1c15671ae48" alt="calendar" width="229" height="190" style="width:229px;height:190px;display:inline-block;float:right"></h2>Dec. 16 - KFLA Public Health at school for Fluoride varnishesDec. 19 - last day of schoolDec. 20 - Jan. 4 - Winter BreakJan. 5 - school resumesJan. 30 - PA Day<hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"> Dress for the weather!</h2>Families are rem<img src="/images/2970bb45-c57b-4b06-9202-edcbf39b0719" alt="winter accessories" width="140" height="151" style="width:140px;height:151px;display:inline-block;float:left">inded that we have 50 minutes of outdoor recess every day. Along with this, many classes enjoy gym time outside and also may use our many yard spaces as an outdoor classroom. Remember to send your students to school every day prepared for the weather. We will still go out in cold weather or snow, so make sure that children have boots, coats, snowpants, and mitts/hats as necessary. It is so much fun outside, especially when students are dressed for the weather! <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Hot Lunch</h2>Hot lunch has returned to Lord Strathcona! We will be offering lunch for purchase every Wednesday. The next scheduled lunch is as follows:<img src="/images/1a852065-0985-43c0-8a11-01fad6927644" alt="pizza" width="155" height="155" style="width:155px;height:155px;display:inline-block;float:right"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Wed. Dec. 17 - Tony's pizza slices (order closed)</li></ul>All orders and payments must be made online using <a href="https://www.school-day.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">School-Day</a>. You must order before the deadline (10 days before the lunch). LATE ORDERS CAN NOT BE ACCEPTED. More information about hot lunch in the new year will be shared with families in January. <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Lunch is Ready Term two registration</h2>Registration is now open for the next session of free Lunch is Ready meals for students. These lunches are provided to students on Tuesdays by the Food Sharing Project, and include a healthy meal, with halal, vegetarian, and vegan/gluten free options. All students who received lunch in the fall will be registered for the winter session. If your child did not receive lunch in the fall and you would like them to, please follow the registration link below. If you no longer want your child to receive this lunch on Tuesdays, please notify the office.Registration link: <a href="https://foodsharingproject.store/ " target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">https://foodsharingproject.store/ </a>Registration closes Dec. 19 for new registrations.<img src="/images/6311d547-c534-4e35-84d1-637b87fa2c7e" alt="LIR Sign Up term 2" width="579" height="579" style="width:579px;height:579px;display:inline-block"> <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Office Notes</h2>Please note that our Office Administrator is on lunch from 11:30 - 12:30. Phones may not be answered during this time, and it may take longer than normal to answer the front door. Thank you for your patience and understanding.All parents dropping students off or picking students up are asked to wait in the foyer for your child. To help ensure school and student safety and to minimize disruptions, parents/caregivers are not allowed to go down to classrooms during the school day. If you need to pick your child up early from school, please notify the office before 3:10. After that regular dismissal routines start to get very busy and it can be difficult to get a message to classrooms. Thank you for your understanding.<hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Busing Information</h2>You can check your busing information and apply for any changes to transportation at <a href="https://triboard.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">https://triboard.ca/ </a>. All students must be registered for the bus in order to be able to ride. Please note that new applications and any changes take several days to process, so be sure to have alternate transportation plans in place. Please be at your child's bus stop 10 minutes before their scheduled pick-up/drop-off time to make sure you are there on time. <hr> <img src="/images/dd2cc5af-8668-4241-b8e2-085093167eff" alt="CBS AUBS Clinic Jan Feb 2026" width="470" height="608" style="width:470px;height:608px;display:inline-block"><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">School Council</h2>Our small but mighty School Council continues to meet to discuss events and fundraisers at Lord Strathcona, bring up issues with administration, and plan special opportunities for students and families. This includes the Harvest Lunch next week along with the Holiday Gift Shop in December. Our Lord Strathcona School Council includes the following executive members:Chair/Secretary/PIC Rep: Bethany HufnagelTreasurer: Carrie FentonBingo & Fundraising Coordinator: Angela McGinnisOur next School Council meeting will be held on Thursday, January 15 at 4:00 p.m. in the library. We are trying different times for our meetings this year in the hopes that new interested parents and caregivers will join us! All LSPS parents/guardians are invited to join us. <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">School Council Facebook Group<img src="/images/3a68c5ca-3aff-41de-8fb5-9da1715893d2" alt="Parent Facebook Group QR Code" width="418" height="239" style="width:418px;height:239px;display:inline-block;float:right"></h2>NEW this year is an unofficial Facebook Group for Parents and Guardians in the LSPS community to connect. Any parent or guardian is welcome to join at the QR code in the image, or by following the link: <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ffacebook.com%2Fgroups%2FLSPSparents&data=05%7C02%7Cseiverightg%40limestone.on.ca%7C00bf46f8147b4ee5684208ddef2a54ef%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638929687333782544%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=KHH2FMUOec8C%2FwTK4QvNU3VuozW%2F7OZJEz73Kq1HOn8%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" title="Original URL: http://facebook.com/groups/LSPSparents. Click or tap if you trust this link." class="editor-link">Facebook.com/groups/LSPSparents</a> This will be a place to find reminders of upcoming events and to build connections with other families in the community. This group is not monitored by the school and is not a place to ask student-specific questions or raise concerns. Please feel free to share the link with any LSPS parent or guardian you are connected with - the more the merrier! <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Daily Schedule </h2><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Time</th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Activity/learning block</th></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">8:45 a.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Supervision begins on the yard</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">9:00 to 10:40 a.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">100-minute learning block</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">10:40 to 11:25 a.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Recess and nutrition break</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">11:25 a.m. to 1:05 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">100-minute learning block</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">1:05 to 1:50 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Recess and nutrition break</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">1:50 to 3:30 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">100-minute learning block</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">3:30 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Dismissal</td></tr></tbody></table><hr><img src="/images/01363886-5906-41e2-a4a3-00637d3e1bb6" alt="Gould Lake 2026 Junior Program Brochure" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/0b056237-b9b5-42ac-8acb-6d94cb7e38fd" alt="Something for Dads Winter 2026 flyer" width="478" height="621" style="width:478px;height:621px;display:inline-block"> <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Allergen Awareness - Nut-Free School</h2>Thank you for packing nut-free snacks! Please communicate with teachers before sending any treats in for your student's class. <img src="/images/77143b36-64d5-4f80-a9f2-cf2bf339fb88" alt="Nut Free School" width="387" height="553" style="width:387px;height:553px;display:inline-block"><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">2025-2026 LDSB School Year Calendar</h2>A <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/7291ab76-99b5-43a1-8f2b-edaade7c53e8/2025-04-07-LDSB%20School%20Year%20Calendar-2025-2026.pdf" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">PDF version of the 2025-2026 School Year Calendar is available online</a>. <img src="/images/1161a439-a52c-4144-ad44-b2b141f1f967" alt="2025 2026 LDSB School Year Calendar" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"> </h2>

2025-12-12 18:20:24.043 +0000 UTC

November 28 Family Update

<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;">Lord Strathcona Public School Family Update</h3><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;">November 28, 2025</h3><img src="/images/7c7a844c-11ef-492a-8603-c2b9e0119d6d" alt="gym floor pic" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">Principal's MessageIt is hard to believe that we have come to the end of November! With the arrival of December next week, we will run our annual Food Drive for the Partners in Mission Food Bank. We will gratefully accept any donations of non-perishable food items, which can be dropped off to the front office. Our week will wrap up with the Jingle Bell Walk on Friday, which is a school-wide fit break in the afternoon. We are also getting ready for our annual Winter Gift Shop on December 10. More information about these events can be found below. G. Seiveright, Principal<hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Upcoming Dates<img src="/images/57cd3bd2-50ea-4b06-a027-f1c15671ae48" alt="calendar" width="229" height="190" style="width:229px;height:190px;display:inline-block;float:right"></h2>Dec. 1-5 Food Drive weekDec. 3 - School Photo RetakesDec. 5 - Jingle Bell Run/Walk/WheelDec. 10 - Winter Gift ShopDec. 20 - Jan. 4 - Winter Break<hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Winter Gift Shop</h2>Our annual Gift Shop will be open again this year for one day in December! On Wednesday December 10, all students will have the opportunity to visit the gym and select one gift for a family member, which we will help them wrap and send home. We are now accepting new and gently used gift items including home decor, games, or other small gift ideas. We are also looking for donations of gift wrap, tissue paper, and gift bags, to help with the wrapping. Thank you for your support - we look forward to this event!<hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Jingle Bell Run/Walk/Wheel and Food Drive</h2>Every December, we run a food drive in December that ends with our Jingle Bell Run/Walk/Wheel. On Friday, December 5, the whole school will participate in a festive fit break in the afternoon. Ahead of that, all next week we are collecting donations of non perishable food items to support our local community. Thank you in advance for your support!<img src="/images/eee836f1-9522-4141-b268-ddfc5e17144a" alt="jingle bell walk" width="769" height="283" style="width:769px;height:283px;display:inline-block"> <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"> Dress for the weather!</h2>Families are rem<img src="/images/2970bb45-c57b-4b06-9202-edcbf39b0719" alt="winter accessories" width="140" height="151" style="width:140px;height:151px;display:inline-block;float:left">inded that we have 50 minutes of outdoor recess every day. Along with this, many classes enjoy gym time outside and also may use our many yard spaces as an outdoor classroom. Remember to send your students to school every day prepared for the weather. We will still go out in light rain or snow, so make sure that children have boots, coats, and mitts/hats as necessary. It is so much fun outside, especially when students are dressed for the weather!<hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Hot Lunch</h2>Hot lunch has returned to Lord Strathcona! We will be offering lunch for purchase every Wednesday. The next scheduled lunches are as follows:<img src="/images/1a852065-0985-43c0-8a11-01fad6927644" alt="pizza" width="155" height="155" style="width:155px;height:155px;display:inline-block;float:right"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Wed. Dec. 3: Tony's Hamburgers (order closed)</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Wed. Dec. 10: Tony's Panzarottis (order closes Nov. 30)</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Wed. Dec. 17: Tony's Pizza (order closes Dec. 7)</li></ul>All orders and payments must be made online using <a href="https://www.school-day.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">School-Day</a>. You must order before the deadline (10 days before the lunch). LATE ORDERS CAN NOT BE ACCEPTED.<hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"> Lunch is Ready Surveys</h2>From our partners at the Food Sharing Program: We’re now over halfway through our Free Lunch Program Lunch is Ready!, and we’d love to hear your feedback on how things are going at your school. Your school community's input is incredibly valuable as we work to improve the program for the rest of the year and develop future models to expand to other schools.To help us gather well-rounded feedback, we’ve created short surveys for parents and students:Parent Survey: Please complete this short survey to tell us what you think of the program. To encourage participation, we’re including a giveaway draw for parents/guardians who complete the survey: <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fforms.office.com%2Fr%2F21VcZxFnJr&data=05%7C02%7Cseiverightg%40limestone.on.ca%7Cd228d76a629b453135bd08de215dcbde%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638984883905157397%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=fKTd2XS4yCj%2FKzMnMP8VQ1rnAmcuM2OPLdjnQ3wsJoI%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" title="Original URL: https://forms.office.com/r/21VcZxFnJr. Click or tap if you trust this link." class="editor-link">https://forms.office.com/r/21VcZxFnJr</a>Student Survey: We would also love to hear from students who receive the Lunch is Ready! meals. The student survey includes photos of meals and star ratings for easy feedback. <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fforms.office.com%2Fr%2FjdU7nBsqE3&data=05%7C02%7Cseiverightg%40limestone.on.ca%7Cd228d76a629b453135bd08de215dcbde%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638984883905199379%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=qKbexbGXp0VvOABtwnJg%2B5nHbmogbI2r86XfYttH9aQ%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" title="Original URL: https://forms.office.com/r/jdU7nBsqE3. Click or tap if you trust this link." class="editor-link">https://forms.office.com/r/jdU7nBsqE3</a><hr><img src="/images/acac33e2-4c3d-45e5-81b5-0cab4c6249f5" alt="choices at 7 info nights" width="554" height="783" style="width:554px;height:783px;display:inline-block">For more information about Limestone's Choices at 7 programs visit:<a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/choices_at_7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"> https://www.limestone.on.ca/choices_at_7 </a><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Office Hours</h2>Please note that our Office Administrator is on lunch from 11:30 - 12:30. Phones may not be answered during this time, and it may take longer than normal to answer the front door. Thank you for your patience and understanding.<hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Busing Information</h2>You can check your busing information and apply for any changes to transportation at <a href="https://triboard.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">https://triboard.ca/ </a>. All students must be registered for the bus in order to be able to ride. Please note that new applications and any changes take several days to process, so be sure to have alternate transportation plans in place. Please be at your child's bus stop 10 minutes before their scheduled pick-up/drop-off time to make sure you are there on time. <hr> <img src="/images/dd2cc5af-8668-4241-b8e2-085093167eff" alt="CBS AUBS Clinic Jan Feb 2026" width="470" height="608" style="width:470px;height:608px;display:inline-block"><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">School Council</h2>Our small but mighty School Council continues to meet to discuss events and fundraisers at Lord Strathcona, bring up issues with administration, and plan special opportunities for students and families. This includes the Harvest Lunch next week along with the Holiday Gift Shop in December. Our Lord Strathcona School Council includes the following executive members:Chair/Secretary/PIC Rep: Bethany HufnagelTreasurer: Carrie FentonBingo & Fundraising Coordinator: Angela McGinnisOur next School Council meeting will be held on Thursday, January 15 at 4:00 p.m. in the library. We are trying different times for our meetings this year in the hopes that new interested parents and caregivers will join us! All LSPS parents/guardians are invited to join us. <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">School Council Facebook Group<img src="/images/3a68c5ca-3aff-41de-8fb5-9da1715893d2" alt="Parent Facebook Group QR Code" width="418" height="239" style="width:418px;height:239px;display:inline-block;float:right"></h2>NEW this year is an unofficial Facebook Group for Parents and Guardians in the LSPS community to connect. Any parent or guardian is welcome to join at the QR code in the image, or by following the link: <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ffacebook.com%2Fgroups%2FLSPSparents&data=05%7C02%7Cseiverightg%40limestone.on.ca%7C00bf46f8147b4ee5684208ddef2a54ef%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638929687333782544%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=KHH2FMUOec8C%2FwTK4QvNU3VuozW%2F7OZJEz73Kq1HOn8%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" title="Original URL: http://facebook.com/groups/LSPSparents. Click or tap if you trust this link." class="editor-link">Facebook.com/groups/LSPSparents</a> This will be a place to find reminders of upcoming events and to build connections with other families in the community. This group is not monitored by the school and is not a place to ask student-specific questions or raise concerns. Please feel free to share the link with any LSPS parent or guardian you are connected with - the more the merrier! <img src="/images/4ede37a8-6dcf-4560-bee4-0711ce1eacda" alt="PIC meeting dec 4 2025" width="510" height="637" style="width:510px;height:637px;display:inline-block"><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Daily Schedule </h2><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Time</th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Activity/learning block</th></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">8:45 a.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Supervision begins on the yard</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">9:00 to 10:40 a.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">100-minute learning block</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">10:40 to 11:25 a.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Recess and nutrition break</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">11:25 a.m. to 1:05 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">100-minute learning block</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">1:05 to 1:50 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Recess and nutrition break</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">1:50 to 3:30 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">100-minute learning block</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">3:30 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Dismissal</td></tr></tbody></table><hr><img src="/images/01363886-5906-41e2-a4a3-00637d3e1bb6" alt="Gould Lake 2026 Junior Program Brochure" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Allergen Awareness - Nut-Free School</h2>Thank you for packing nut-free snacks! Please communicate with teachers before sending any treats in for your student's class. <img src="/images/77143b36-64d5-4f80-a9f2-cf2bf339fb88" alt="Nut Free School" width="387" height="553" style="width:387px;height:553px;display:inline-block"><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">2025-2026 LDSB School Year Calendar</h2>A <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/7291ab76-99b5-43a1-8f2b-edaade7c53e8/2025-04-07-LDSB%20School%20Year%20Calendar-2025-2026.pdf" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">PDF version of the 2025-2026 School Year Calendar is available online</a>. <img src="/images/1161a439-a52c-4144-ad44-b2b141f1f967" alt="2025 2026 LDSB School Year Calendar" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"> </h2>

2025-11-28 19:50:07.06 +0000 UTC

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About Our School

Welcome to Lord Strathcona Public School! We serve a diverse, Kindergarten to Grade 6, urban population of 200 students. We strive to prepare students to be critical thinkers, life-long learners, physically active, environmentally responsible and productive citizens in a changing world.

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Kindergarten Registration is Now Open

Welcome to <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/kindergarten-early-learning" class="editor-link">Kindergarten in Limestone</a>. If your student was born in 2022, now is the time to <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/registration" class="editor-link">register your new student</a> to start school this September.Kindergarten is a wonderful new world of learning and growing and a very exciting time for both you and your student. We learn how to read, how to write and we make so many new friends. Our educator teams of a teacher and early childhood educator, help us along the way. You can feel confident your child will be cared for within safe and inclusive environments. <iframe data-lexical-video-id="1e0spaIrnis" width="640" height="480" src="https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/1e0spaIrnis" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="true" title="Youtube video"></iframe> Limestone has an open boundary administrative procedure, [<a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/policies-procedures" class="editor-link">Section 300 – Students AP305 Student Transfers</a>], for student registrations. Limestone welcomes all students, promoting and encouraging families to attend their area school, but we understand that it is best interest of some students to attend an out-of-boundary school and that selecting the right educational setting for your new student is a significant decision.Selecting an out-of-boundary school for your new student is a decision influenced by many factors. The school may be closer to a workplace or near a childcare provider that might be more convenient for drop-off and pick-up routines. In accordance with board policy, by default, students will be enrolled in the school designated within their boundary area, based on their home address.We aim to accommodate family preferences, but please note that out-of-boundary placements are not guaranteed, and families will be responsible for organizing transportation to and from out-of-boundary schools.Students may be permitted to attend any school within the board when there is available student space, upon submission and approval of the proper application. The board will not be held responsible for the provision of any transportation for students outside of their regular school boundary area. This applies to both students within Limestone’s geographic boundaries (out-of-boundary), and students who live outside of those boundaries (out-of-district).   We are committed to supporting you every step of the way. Our dedicated staff are here to assist you throughout this process. If you have any questions or need more information, please contact the school.Let us embark on this exciting educational journey together! <a href="https://limestone.cmdesign.imagineeverything.com/discover_kindergarten" class="editor-link">Discover Kindergarten in Limestone</a> and learn more about our Kindergarten program, resources, and tips to help your new student prepare for school.  <img src="/images/f05f0e70-9777-4085-8ef0-aac5affa75ab" alt="LDSB Kindergarten Student Registration Website Graphic" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">

2026-01-15 16:49:15.209 +0000 UTC

Message from the Director - December 17, 2025

Dear Families,I hope this message finds you well as we approach the end of the last school week of 2025 and the upcoming holiday season.  I wanted to share a few updates with you before we head into the Winter Break:EQAO ResultsThe Ministry of Education recently released the 2024-2025 Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) results, and we are proud to share that Limestone achieved its strongest performance in four years, with gains across every testing category.Limestone’s results align with provincial outcomes in many areas and show notable improvements in others, including among specific student groups. In fact, Limestone’s performance is at or above the provincial average in nearly all measures.These accomplishments reflect the collective efforts of Limestone’s educators, Educational Assistants, program teams, and school leaders—along with the commitment and support of students and families across the district. I am deeply proud of the dedication shown by Limestone staff, students, and families in achieving these results.More information on EQAO results is <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/news/limestone-s-eqao-results-improve-across-all-categories-20251205185556" class="editor-link">available on Limestone’s website</a>, including a <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/2a916cd2-b224-4a93-a4b3-b0a57ae98e62/Letter-to-Parents-EQAO-Dec-3-2025.pdf" class="editor-link">letter to families from Minister of Education, Paul Calandra</a>.Grade 8 Information NightsThe Limestone District School Board is hosting Grade 8 Parent Information Nights at secondary schools across the region for families and students. These events include a special presentation about the school, its programs, and the registration process.Information nights are also a great opportunity to learn about the wide variety of programs available for secondary students in Limestone—including expanded opportunities, French immersion, the International Baccalaureate program, and more. We are very proud of the range and choice of different secondary programs we provide to the communities we serve.Upcoming <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/news/grade-8-information-nights-20251208194333" class="editor-link">information night dates can be found on Limestone’s website</a>.Inclement Weather Reminder/Tri-Board Transportation ReminderWe are now well into the inclement weather season and have already experienced some transportation cancellation days. Our transportation partner, Tri-Board Student Transportation Services (Tri-Board), works closely with school bus companies to determine whether it is safe to operate on days with adverse weather.School buses function differently than family vehicles, and sometimes, even when roads seem safe for cars, conditions are not suitable for buses. Given the geographic size of our district, weather can vary significantly from one region to another. As a result, cancellations may affect only certain areas while others remain unaffected.We understand that transportation cancellations can be disruptive for families, but safety is always Tri-Board’s top priority for the 30,000-plus students who ride the bus each day. <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/news/prepare-for-winter-related-bus-delays-and-cancellations--20251020203640" class="editor-link">Learn more about how to prepare for winter weather and manage bus cancellation days on our website.</a>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. Director’s Annual Report 2024-2025The Director’s Annual Report offers a concise overview of the teaching and learning that occurred across the Limestone District School Board during the 2024-2025 school year. It highlights ongoing progress toward the Board’s strategic priorities, shares student achievement data, and showcases key initiatives and accomplishments from across the district and is <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/director-s-annual-report-2024-2025-" class="editor-link">available on Limestone’s website</a>.We hope all Limestone families enjoy a restful winter break filled with time with those who matter most in your lives. We look forward to welcoming students and staff back to school on Monday, January 5, 2026, ready for an exciting new year of learning.Krishna BurraDirector of Education

2025-12-17 21:30:52.297 +0000 UTC

Limestone’s EQAO Results Improve Across All Categories

The Limestone District School Board (LDSB) has achieved its strongest Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) performance in four years, with gains in every testing category for the 2024-2025 school year. LDSB’s EQAO results align with provincial outcomes in many areas, while showing notable improvements in others and among specific student groups. Limestone’s 2024-2025 results are at, or above, the provincial average in almost all measures. Results show an upward trend and momentum across all eight areas of assessment for students in Grades 3, 6, 9, and 10, including those with special education needs, underscoring the Board’s intention of making a positive difference in the lives of every student, in every classroom, in every school.    "These results reflect the daily dedication of Limestone educators, educational assistants, program teams, and school leaders,” says Krishna Burra, LDSB Director of Education. “I want to acknowledge the efforts of those who have focused on implementing evidence-informed practices, providing targeted supports, and collaborating across schools to ensure student achievement and success.” The elementary school report provides assessments of Reading, Writing, and Mathematics written by students in Grades 3 and 6. The secondary school report provides similar information relating to the Grade 9 Assessment of Mathematics and the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT). <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Results at a Glance </h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Grade 3 Improvements: LDSB students showed a 5% to 8% increase in Reading, Writing, and Math, with 75% meeting the provincial standard in Reading, 65% in Writing, and 65% in Math, outperforming provincial averages. Students with special education needs improved by 8% to 9% in these subjects.  </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Grade 6 Gains: Achievement rose in all areas, with 88% meeting Reading standards, 87% in Writing, and 51% in Math, matching or exceeding provincial rates. Students with special education needs made significant advances, especially in Writing with a 22% increase.  </li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Grades 9 and 10 Results: LDSB’s Grade 9 Math scores were slightly below provincial levels but increased by 5% from the previous year, with students with special education needs performing better than students with similar needs in other jurisdictions. The Grade 10 OSSLT saw 95% participation and 84% success, a 3% rise, with continued improvement among students with special education needs.   </li></ul><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Grade 3 EQAO Results </h2>Grade 3 student achievement saw a 5% to 8% increase in all subject areas in Limestone, compared to the 2023/24 assessment results, with 75% meeting the provincial standard in Reading, 65% in Writing, and 65% in Math.  Results for the province showed a slight increase from the previous year for all Grade 3 subjects and were slightly lower than Limestone across Grade 3 assessment subjects.  This new data shows improvement in all subjects, with Math achievement showing the most significant difference for students in Grade 3.  Of significant note are the gains in achievement in Grade 3 Reading, Writing, and Mathematics made by Limestone students with special education needs – up 9%, 8%, and 9% respectively, compared to the 2023/24 assessment results.  <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Grade 6 EQAO Results </h2>Grade 6 student achievement in Limestone also continues to build momentum with improvements in all subject areas.  In Reading, 88% of students met provincial standard in 2024/25 – an increase of 9% from the 2023/24 assessment and a higher rate than the province for 2024/25.  Results in Writing showed an increase of 14% over the previous assessment year, with 87% of students meeting provincial standard, at a higher rate than the province.  In Math, results were equal to the province, with 51% of students meeting the provincial standard, an increase of 11% for Limestone compared to the previous assessment year.  Like the Grade 3 assessment results, achievement in all subject areas for students in Grade 6 with special education needs in Limestone has increased, with significant gains in Reading and Writing by 12% and 22%, respectively, since the 2023/24 assessment. This increase in achievement for students in Grade 6 with special education needs is higher than the province by 3% to 10% across all subject areas.  “Limestone students and staff have worked hard to achieve these gains across Reading, Writing, and Mathematics, including the strong improvements for students with special education needs,” says Burra. “The momentum we are seeing is the result of consistent, evidence‑informed practice—targeted instruction, early interventions, collaborative professional learning, and a sharp focus on what happens in classrooms every day. “We are proud of this progress, and we are committed to sustaining it by continuing the practices that work and adjusting where they do not,” he adds. “Our goal remains steady improvement over time, not one‑year spikes, for every student, in every classroom, in every school.” <h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Primary Assessment (administered in Grade 3): </h3><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr style="height: 20px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 321px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Area of Assessment </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 85px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">LDSB  </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 113px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Province </td></tr><tr style="height: 20px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 321px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Reading </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 85px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">75% </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 113px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">74% </td></tr><tr style="height: 20px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 321px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Writing </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 85px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">65% </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 113px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">65% </td></tr><tr style="height: 20px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 321px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Mathematics </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 85px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">65% </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 113px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">64% </td></tr></tbody></table><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Junior Assessment (administered in Grade 6): </h3><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr style="height: 20px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 321px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Area of Assessment </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 85px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">LDSB  </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 113px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Province </td></tr><tr style="height: 20px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 321px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Reading </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 85px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">88% </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 113px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">86% </td></tr><tr style="height: 20px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 321px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Writing </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 85px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">87% </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 113px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">85% </td></tr><tr style="height: 20px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 321px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Mathematics </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 85px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">51% </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 113px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">51% </td></tr></tbody></table><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Grades 9 and 10 EQAO Results </h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Grade 9 Mathematics Assessment: </h3>Results for Grade 9 Math in Limestone are slightly lower compared to the provincial results. For all participating students in the Grade 9 Math assessment, 55% achieved the provincial standard in Limestone, and 58% achieved the provincial standard provincially.  Limestone’s Grade 9 Math results increased by 5% as compared to last year. Results for students with special education needs achieving the provincial standard are higher than the province at 34% for Limestone, compared to 32% for the province. <table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr style="height: 20px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 321px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Grade 9 Mathematics Assessment </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 85px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">LDSB  </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 113px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Province </td></tr><tr style="height: 20px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 321px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Grade 9 Math </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 85px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">55% </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 113px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">58% </td></tr></tbody></table>“Grade 9 Mathematics continues to be a priority area,” says Steve Hedderson, LDSB Associate Superintendent of Human Resources and Curriculum and Program Services: Math and FSL. “Limestone’s five‑point improvement year‑over‑year shows the work is taking hold. We are deepening supports in Grade 9 Math—explicit instruction, daily practice, and timely interventions—and aligning professional learning so teachers have the tools they need. We are focused on building Math confidence and competency for every student.” <h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test - Administered in Grade 10: </h3>This year, 95% of first-time eligible students wrote the test in Limestone, compared to 94% of students in the province. With this high participation rate, 84% of all students in Limestone were successful, an increase of 3% compared to the 2023/24 school year.  OSSLT results for students with special education needs continue to show an improvement for the 2024/25 year, with 65% of Limestone students being successful on the assessment. <table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr style="height: 21px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 282px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Grade 10 OSSLT </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 97px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">LDSB  </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 117px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Province </td></tr><tr style="height: 21px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 282px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Participation Rate </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 97px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">95% </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 117px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">94% </td></tr><tr style="height: 21px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 282px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Success Rate </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 97px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">84% </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 117px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">85% </td></tr></tbody></table>“Strong Grade 10 Literacy outcomes begin with strong participation,” says Stephanie Sartor, LDSB Associate Superintendent of Curriculum and Program Services: Literacy Focus. “With 95% writing and 84% successful, up three points from last year, we are encouraged by the trajectory, including the continued improvement for students with special education needs. Literacy is a shared responsibility across subjects, and we will keep pairing explicit instruction with targeted supports so every learner can demonstrate success.” Students in all publicly funded schools in Ontario are required to write provincial assessments, administered by EQAO, a provincial body that tests students’ skills in Literacy in Grades 3, 6, and 10 and Math skills in Grades 3, 6, and 9 in relation to Ontario curriculum expectations. Successful completion of the Literacy requirement is one of the requirements to earn an Ontario Secondary School Diploma. The EQAO assessments have undergone significant updates, with the newer digital assessments offered entirely online through a digital platform for students over the past four years.   “The dedication of Limestone educators, educational assistants, program team members, and school leaders will remain foundational to continued efforts moving forward,” says Burra.

2025-12-05 19:00:45.215 +0000 UTC

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 culture and celebrate their commitment to this land.