News

Boardroom Briefs: January 14, 2026

Boardroom Briefs is intended to provide highlights of presentations, reports and decisions made at the regular meeting of the Limestone District School Board of Trustees. The following are highlights of the January 14, 2026 Regular Board Meeting. Agendas can be found on the website under <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/board_meetings-1719463739654" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">Board Meetings</a>.   <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Regular Board Meeting - January 14, 2026</h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Land Acknowledgement </h3>All meetings begin with a Land Acknowledgement: "The Limestone District School Board is situated on the traditional territories of the Anishinaabek and Haudenosaunee. We acknowledge their enduring presence on this land, as well as the presence of Métis, Inuit, and other First Nations from across Turtle Island. We honour their cultures and celebrate their commitment to this land."Trustee Lloyd provided personal reflections. <h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Private Session Report</h3><details open="true"><summary>January 14, 2026 Private Session</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">Trustee Lloyd stated “Earlier this evening during Private Session:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">The Private Session Minutes were approved from the December 3, 2025, Special Meeting of the Board.</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Associate Superintendent Gollogly provided a Safe Schools update and Director Burra brought a Personnel update. There was no other business conducted, or motions passed in Private Session.”</li></ul>MOVED BY Trustee Lloyd and seconded by Trustee Godkin that the Private Session Report be received. Carried.</div></details><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Approved Absences</h3>Chair McGregor indicated that regrets were received from Trustee Neill to have his absence from tonight’s meeting be approved due to illness.<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Reports From Officers</h3><details open="true"><summary>Chair's Report</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">Good evening, Trustees. I would like to begin by extending a warm welcome back to all families, students, and staff across Limestone. I hope everyone enjoyed a restful and enjoyable winter break. It has been wonderful to see our schools come alive again with students returning to classrooms to begin 2026 with renewed energy and focus. I know Trustees join me in wishing everyone a positive start to the year ahead.I am also pleased to share that registration is now open for the 2026 Limestone Skills Competitions at both the elementary and secondary levels. Each year, our district’s competition serves as the lead up to the provincial Skills Ontario events taking place in early May. Gold medalists from Limestone may be invited to represent LDSB at the Ontario Skills Competition, where top students from across the province demonstrate their expertise across a wide range of skilled trades and technological fields.The Skills Ontario Competition is a remarkable platform—students showcase their talent and determination over three days, inspiring educators, families, friends, and even future employers. Medalists have the opportunity to advance to the Skills Canada National Competition, and from there, potentially on to the WorldSkills Competition, which represents the highest level of international achievement. I am looking forward to this year’s Limestone Skills events and the opportunity to celebrate the many talented students from both elementary and secondary schools who will participate. Trustees are welcome to attend the Limestone Skills competition taking place at St. Lawrence College at the end of February if they would like to see Limestone skills in action!Finally, I am pleased to share that Kindergarten registration is open across Limestone. Our board remains committed to supporting strong foundations in early learning, with a clear focus on student achievement and well being. Families also benefit from a range of school options and programming choices that help ensure every child begins their educational journey in an environment where they feel supported, included, and excited to learn.As we begin this new year together, I want to thank our educators, staff, students, and families for everything they contribute to making Limestone a vibrant, caring, and engaging place to learn.This concludes my report.</div></details><details open="true"><summary>Director's Report</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">Good evening Trustees and the viewing public. While it is already the middle of January, and the holiday season seems like a distant memory, Happy New Year to everyone.The New Year always is a time of reflection, both thinking about the year behind, and the year ahead. In education, there is always more work to do, and as a board we continue to have significant work ahead. The stakes of our work are incredibly high when we consider the future of every student we serve.  Annual EQAO results, summaries of Human Rights Complaints, Student Census data we collected in the fall, and the myriad of work we do to serve Limestone’s communities are all a good reminder of the critical work we do for young people and families in local communities. As we continue forward with our Strategic Plan, it will be important for us to remember for whom this work matters, and emphasizing the need for all staff to make a positive difference in the lives of the students we serve. This means continuing to strive for improvement in student learning, achievement, and well-being. It also means we must continue to do what we can in making sure there is a positive culture in Limestone for the benefit of all students, families, and staff. Our work matters and makes a difference. It is always important to keep this perspective and focus when so much uncertainty lies in front of us in 2026. To name just a few: the next round of bargaining with labour partners, the Ontario School Board governance model and potential changes, and continuing School Board budget pressures, let alone larger geo-political changes we see occurring on a weekly, if not daily, basis.While it is only January, preliminary preparations are already underway for the 2026-2027 school year.  Choices program information has been shared with the community, and students will be engaging in those processes. In addition, either in December, last week, or in the very near future, secondary schools are engaging with Grade 8 students and families to provide information to further support the transition to secondary school in the fall. More senior secondary students will be considering expanded opportunities available for the fall, and the Kindergarten registration process for the youngest Limestone learners will also begin. Trustees may already have seen some of the new advertising for Limestone that we shared in December and is now on public display. This time of year also means secondary summative assessments and exams start in about a week, and report cards for students K-12 are just around the corner in February.This evening, Trustees, the agenda contains several updates: the Multi-Year Capital and School Renewal project plan, the revised estimates for quarter 1 of the 2025-2026 school year, the wrap up of the Strategic Plan End of Year Report for 2024-2025, and an update on the Math Achievement Action Plan. Thank you to all of you around this table for supporting the important work we do for the communities we serve.That concludes my update for this evening.  Thank you Chair McGregor.</div></details><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Reports</h3><details open="true"><summary>OPBSA Report</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">Chair McGregor shared that next week some of the Trustees will be attending the OPSBA Public Education Symposium. A special meeting will also take place on March 14, 2026, for the membership to vote on a new governance model. Several models have been proposed, including shifting from board‑by‑board representation to regional representation, or having regional chairs and vice‑chairs serve alongside the executive. Concerns have been raised about how boards like Limestone would be represented under these models and how communication and feedback would flow. Another option would keep one representative per board but without voting privileges, acting instead as liaisons to the regional groups. These proposals will be discussed in breakout groups at the symposium before the final vote.</div></details><details open="true"><summary>Student Trustees' Report</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">Student Trustee Comeau stated: “The Inter school Council (ISC) January 6 meeting was chaired by Rachel and Siham, it started with a presentation to teach school representatives how to write personalised Land Acknowledgements. This presentation was given by Liv Rondeau. She taught that Land Acknowledgements should be used to inform about the history of the land and Indigenous peoples who inhabit the land. She taught Land Acknowledgments should be used to form an attachment to the land. This presentation was important because if land acknowledgments are not unique and personal, they can feel routine and mandatory. Instead of being used for their purpose, being to teach and reflect on our active roles in the process of Truth and Reconciliation.This presentation has influenced a new tradition in ISC where student representatives from different schools will take on the Land Acknowledgement at the beginning of the meeting, with one they have made. The first school attempting this for the February meeting is Frontenac Secondary School. Then Rachel and Siham discussed something that they had learned at the Fall General Meeting conference, which was the use of a polling website “Mentimeter.” This website was used to ask student Trustees questions aimed at student well being within their boards. This was brought up as we plan to host polls asking similar questions to our inter school Council members, to get more board specific information about student well being. This will allow us to focus on fixing specific problems and concerns within the new year.Student Trustee elections were brought up as a reminder to advertise towards applicants within schools, as the elections will take place in the February meeting.We took up the effectiveness of winter holiday activities, which all schools had positive information to contribute upon. Some examples being: Frontenac Secondary School’s chili fest which raised $500 for the United Way. Bayridge Secondary School’s teddy bear campaign which raised $1000 and was donated to a hospital for a new ultrasound machine. LaSalle Secondary School which held a semi-formal and raised money for the children's hospital. Schools in Limestone also held many pancake breakfasts and spirit weeks. Then Andrea Barrow gave members a reminder to advertise upcoming events in Limestone during February for Black History Month, like the annual LDSB Opening Ceremony.Finally, our meeting ended with a presentation from Superintendent Stephanie Sartor and Ms. Allison Grange. Associate Superintendent Sartor contacted ISC as she is looking to interview students in schools, to bring student input from Limestone to an upcoming professional development conference in March, on being leaders as agents of change. Ms. Grange joined Superintendent Sartor to get into contact with ISC as she is looking to interview students in schools about why they love Limestone DSB and provide positive reflections on their own learning and experiences, so that everyone can see themselves in Limestone. This also ties into the communications team advertisement plan for 2026.Student representatives will be relaying this information back to their schools and provide names for interview candidates. This concludes the January Student Trustee report.</div></details><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Reports for Action</h3><details open="true"><summary>Multi-Year Capital and School Renewal Project Plan</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">Superintendent Young introduced Manager of Facility Services Dave Fowler and Assistant Manager of Facility Services Charlyn Downie to make their presentation. Manager Fowler noted that this report is presented each year, with consistent foundational information but with increasing detail for the upcoming year based on known funding. The plan, originally introduced in the 2011–12 school year, aligns its project categories with the Ministry’s asset reporting structure and outlines proposed activities across systems such as HVAC, electrical, structural, communication/IT, site improvements, accessibility, lighting, interior renovations, plumbing, and building envelope.Manager Fowler reported that the 2025–26 capital project budget totals $21.1 million. This includes $4.3 million in school renewal funding and $16.75 million in School Condition Improvement (SCI) funding. Capital projects must meet a minimum threshold of $10,000 and are intended to extend lifecycle and improve building systems. The plan categorizes projects according to Ministry-defined systems, and the board must allocate at least 70% of funding to structure, mechanical, and building envelope work, limiting the percentage available for site and interior upgrades.Assistant Manager Downie explained that the report included in the agenda package contains detailed information about school renewal and capital projects organized by school site, with the full list available in the appendix. She reiterated that updating the Multi‑Year Capital Plan and School Renewal Project Plan is an annual requirement, forming a key part of the board’s broader asset management program. This program ensures that all projects are managed consistently from the initial planning phase through to completion, using Ministry‑aligned categories and system data to guide decisions.Assistant Manager Downie emphasized that the projects listed in the appendix are not limited to summer construction activities. Instead, the list represents planned work across short, medium, and long‑term timelines, supported by funding streams specifically designated for capital renewal, School Renewal funding and School Condition Index (SCI) funding. For the upcoming year, the board has access to $16.7 million in SCI funding and an additional $4 million through school renewal allocations.The Ministry of Education reviews the condition of all schools, and the board maintains an internal database that tracks the age and condition of each system. This information forms the foundation of the capital plan, with occupant safety and the prevention of system failures serving as key priorities. School input also plays a critical role as principals work collaboratively with planning staff to identify programming needs and building improvements for their individual school communities, ensuring that facility planning is responsive to local educational priorities.Planning work is aligned with the Ministry’s system categories, which the board is required to use in its reporting. However, the board must follow funding restrictions that require at least 70% of capital expenditures to be dedicated to structural, building envelope, and mechanical systems. As a result, projects related to school sites and interior upgrades are limited in scope and scale. This distribution is reflected in the list of proposed projects for the 2025–26 year.Looking ahead, planners provide long‑term projections for school renewal funding only, as SCI funding is announced annually and cannot be predicted reliably for future years. This annual SCI allocation is essential to the board’s capital work because it is based on the age and condition of buildings. With the average school within the district being 55 years old, many systems are reaching the end of their lifecycle, which increases the board’s dependence on yearly funding announcements to maintain safe and functional facilities.Assistant Manager Downie concluded her presentation by referring Trustees to Appendix A of the report which contains the full listing of capital and renewal projects proposed for the year.  The following motion was brought forward:MOTION MOVED by Trustee Ruttan and seconded by Trustee Morning that the Board approve the Multi-Year Capital and School Renewal Project Plan; and that a revised copy of the 10-Year Capital and School Renewal Project Plan be posted on the board’s website. Carried.</div></details><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Reports for Information </h3><details open="true"><summary>2025-2026 Revised Estimates and Interim Financial Report for Q1</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">Superintendent Young called upon Manager Paula Carson to share the report on the 2025-2026 revised estimates and interim financial operating expenditures for Quarter 1 for the period ending November 30, 2025. She noted that the projected Average Daily Enrolment (ADE) for the 2025-2026 school year is the basis on which most Ministry grants are calculated and is based upon the average of enrolment at two established counts (October 31 and March 31) in the school year. Overall enrolment is expected to be 88 ADE lower in the 2025-26 school year than originally forecasted in the budget with the elementary panel decreasing by 21 students, and the secondary panel decreasing by 67 students.Manager Carson advised that the Operating Budget Revenue reflects a $3.2 million reduction in Core Education Funding Operating Allocation. $2.1 million is due to lower enrolment, and $1 million comes from a reduced allocation for teacher qualifications and experience. The Classroom Staffing Fund (CSF) is reduced by $1.8 million with $0.8 million due to lower enrolment and $1 million from decreased Teacher qualification and experience funding. Changes in the other categories listed under Core Ed is mainly due to lower enrolment.  Other Government Grants increased by $1.4 million primarily due to new Responsive Education Programs (REP) grant announcements and other supplemental grants.Manager Carson noted that Appendix 2A provides information about the REP grant announcements that are also part of other government grants. The report highlights a notable increase of $320,000 for the K-12 Cyber Protection Strategy Pilot, with this funding being announced after the initial budget release. Other Revenues decreased by $0.5 million primarily due to a decrease in temporary Educational Assistants being seconded to Jordan’s Principle.  This agency supports Indigenous students with high needs.Manager Carson reviewed the Operating Budget Expenditures which reflect a total decrease of $1.8 million. This reduction corresponds with decreased funding, as previously referenced. Other changes include additional REP funded textbooks and supplies expenditures and REP funded staff development expenditures.  The increases for short term Educational Assistants and IT devices were approved at the October 29, 2025, Board meeting.Manager Carson advised that in Quarter 1 for the period ending November 30, 2025, the Board has spent $76.5 million or 24% of our $316.9 million operating budget. This is comparable to the 24% spent in Quarter 1 of the 2024-25 fiscal year.Chair McGregor thanked Superintendent Young and Manager Carson and called upon Trustees for questions.</div></details><details open="true"><summary>Strategic Plan End-of-Year Report 2024-2025</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">Director Burra opened the presentation. Trustees were reminded of the 2022-2028 Strategic Plan framework and informed that an expanded color legend was used to better reflect areas of mixed progress. While many goals show strong advancement, some areas continue to require focused attention. He noted that last year the board was midway through the second year of the plan, and the plan is on track, and in some areas, exceeding expectations for achieving end‑of‑plan outcomes. This is especially true in core academic skills such as literacy and mathematics. Student success indicators, including graduation readiness and student perceptions of preparedness, show positive trends.Director Burra explained that certain strategic areas, such as creating positive school cultures and enhancing service excellence, will always reflect a “work in progress,” as experiences vary across schools and interactions with central office staff. These areas are continually monitored, though they are unlikely to be rated as fully achieved due to their individualized nature. He also noted that some provincial data, such as credit accumulation, was not shown because it has not yet been released. To ensure transparency and continuity of reporting, all Education, Policy, and Operations meetings and Board meetings for 2024-2025 have been catalogued and aligned with the five strategic goals. Director Burra turned the presentation over to the Senior Team to review student achievement data in greater depth.Associate Superintendents Sartor and Hedderson presented updates on literacy and math achievement, the first two goals in the Strategic Plan. They emphasized the importance of examining baseline results from 2022-2023, when post‑pandemic EQAO scores were significantly below the provincial average. These results prompted intensive, intentional, systemwide action in both literacy and math. Staff reported substantial improvements in literacy from 2023 to 2024. The gap between board and provincial averages, previously 5-13 percentage points, narrowed to 2-7.5 points. Grade 6 writing, a particular area of concern last year, was addressed through focused professional learning. In the most recent year, LDSB exceeded provincial averages in Grade 3 and Grade 6 reading and writing and approached provincial levels in Grade 10 OSSLT. OSSLT scores improved at a faster rate than the province and are on track to surpass the provincial average next year. Multi‑year data show consistent upward trends in primary literacy.Students with special education needs demonstrated notable progress. LDSB now exceeds provincial averages in primary and junior reading and writing. A 20% increase in Grade 6 EQAO writing achievement was highlighted as a significant success. Staff will continue examining which strategies have driven this growth to ensure sustainability.Perceptual data showed that 73% of Grade 3 students believe they are good readers, but confidence declines by Grade 6. Since confidence strongly correlates with achievement, staff will explore this further and continue supporting students in recognizing their growth and building self‑efficacy.Associate Superintendent Sartor concluded her part of the presentation by sharing that OSSLT results that showed the board nearly meeting the provincial average, with consistent year‑over‑year growth. Students with special education needs now outperform provincial results in the OSSLT, and participation rates exceed the province by approximately 1%. Staff identified several key initiatives supporting recent gains, including systemwide implementation of the early reading screener, intensive tiered interventions (Lexia, Rewards, Empower), spring tutoring, and ongoing professional learning for educators and administrators. Associate Superintendent Sartor emphasized that classroom educators’ commitment and expertise remain central to student success.Associate Superintendent Hedderson presented math results beginning with the baseline year (2022-2023), when the board was significantly below the provincial average in all divisions. Only 37% of Grade 6 students met the provincial standard, and Grade 3 results were 16.5 points below the provincial average.  In 2023-2024 and again in the most recent year, the board saw notable improvements across Grades 3, 6, and 9. Grade 3 achievement rose above the provincial average at 64.5%, and Grade 6 results are now nearly equal to provincial levels. Grade 9 improvements are ongoing, though provincial results continue to shift as well. Over two years, Grade 3 achievement increased by 21.3% (representing 288 additional students), and Grade 6 rose by 14.2%—far exceeding provincial growth rates.Students with special educational needs made significant gains, particularly in Grade 3, where nearly 9% more students met the provincial standard compared to a 2.5% provincial increase. Grade 9 students with special education needs also improved at nearly double the provincial rate.EQAO perceptual data showed slight declines in confidence for Grades 3 and 6, despite strong achievement gains, while Grade 9 confidence rose by 3.7%. Associate Superintendent Hedderson noted that the relationship between confidence and achievement is bidirectional and that monitoring of these trends to explore contributing factors will continue. He highlighted initiatives that supported math gains, including job embedded professional learning in priority schools, development of an instructional progression outlining consistent classroom routines, enhanced focus on students with modified math expectations, and deeper adoption of 15minute daily math fluency routines. The board has also seen positive outcomes from targeted spring tutoring programs.Associate Superintendent McKenna shared information on graduation and pathways to student success.  She shared that the percentage of students earning 16 or more credits by the end of Grade 10 increased from 73% to 84.6%. This is attributed to weekly Student Success Team meetings, robust intervention plans, and targeted supports for students with modified IEPs. These results are expected to positively impact future graduation rates.Data showed that participation in Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM), dual credit, and apprenticeship pathways increased to 28%. Dual credit enrolment rose to 290 students, and SHSM achieved a 91% completion rate—well above the provincial rate of 63%. Associate Superintendent McKenna emphasized that participation in these programs strongly correlates with successful graduation and post‑secondary readiness.The board’s graduation rate remains closely aligned with the provincial trend at 89%. Staff noted that Ministry calculations include all Grade 9 students, including those who later leave the board, while internal data tracking only remaining students shows even higher success rates. She concluded by noting that EQAO student voice data indicates that 68% of Grade 9 and 66% of Grade 10 students feel prepared for their next steps. These insights are further supported by Grade 8 and Grade 12 exit surveys and school climate surveys.Superintendent Gillam presented on the goal of improving student well-being/sense of belonging. Participation/engagement in class time, and time focused on learning.  He shared information about the status of increasing the percentage of students in Grades 1 to 8 whose individual attendance rate is equal to or greater than 90%.  Over the past three years, the board has seen steady increases. This progress reflects significant efforts by elementary and secondary school teams, including teachers, administrators, support staff, caregivers, and community partners, who have worked collaboratively to identify and remove barriers to regular attendance.Superintendent Gillam reviewed EQAO‑reported data on student awareness of mental health services in Grades 6, 9, and 10. Results show steady improvement over two years and indicate that LDSB is at or above the provincial average, with the exception of Grade 10, which will undergo further analysis. The board will continue monitoring how newly implemented mental health literacy modules in Grades 6 to 10 support students’ understanding of available Tier 1 supports. He concluded by sharing that with new Grades 6, 7, 8, and 10 mental health literacy modules becoming mandatory, staff will work closely with schools to assess students’ knowledge of supports and to strengthen Tier 1 mental‑health instruction. The focus will be on ensuring all students, regardless of grade, know where to seek help. These results reflect positive trends in the Board’s strategic well‑being goals.Associate Superintendent Gollogly presented updated suspension data for students in Grades 4 to 12. In 2023-24, approximately 7% of students were suspended, with the highest rates typically occurring in Grades 7 to 9. In the current year, the suspension rate has decreased to roughly 6.2%, reflecting progress in reducing suspensions across the system.  She outlined that several supports are available to students who are suspended or expelled. The Student Impact Program at the YMCA served 36 students last year, resulting in the completion of 150 credits and two graduates. The Gateway Program in Napanee served seven students, generating three credits and one graduate. A newer Back on Track program, also delivered in partnership with the YMCA, provides structured support for students suspended for three to seven days, combining academic work, targeted workshops, and access to social work services. Of the 30 students who participated last year, only one required a second referral.Associate Superintendent Gollogly explained that the RISE Program continues to support students in Grades 6 to 8 experiencing challenges in school or the community.  She highlighted a partnership with Kingston 4 Paws, which provides a certified service dog, “Limestone Teddy,” who works daily with students in YMCA programs and visits schools during times of crisis or need. Testimonials show that Teddy’s presence improves student well‑being, reduces anxiety, and has contributed to significantly improved attendance and behaviour within the program.Director Burra concluded the presentation by noting the pride shared by the team and emphasized the seriousness with which this work is undertaken. He reminded Trustees that some provincial data takes time to be released, which explains why certain indicators, such as credit accumulation, were not yet available on slides. Administrators received the same presentation earlier in the day, and staff reiterated the importance of monitoring the cohort that was assessed in 2022–2023, as they progress into Grade 6 and 9 this year. The results from upcoming assessments will help confirm whether recent instructional strategies are having sustained impact. The gains shown represent significant and complex work across the system by educators, administrators, support staff, and central teams.Director Burra reviewed several Strategic‑Plan initiatives related to staff well‑being and efficiencies. The staff belonging and well‑being survey continues to be administered every few years, alongside adjustments to reporting processes in response to staff feedback. Updates to the internal myLDSB staff portal were highlighted, with plans to explore AI‑based tools that could help employees quickly locate information and reduce workload. The board is also expanding the use of data dashboards to provide real‑time attendance and student support information. Educator devices were replenished last year to ensure staff have the tools they need. Results from the recent corporate services staff survey will be included in next year’s report.Director Burra shared that there are plans for a family engagement survey to be conducted later this winter and spring. This will pair with other ongoing engagement processes which include the annual budget survey and the school‑year calendar consultation.  The board has expanded its communication with families around AI literacy, offering videos, resources, and tools on the board website. Families continue to receive curated learning supports every few months in areas such as math, literacy, and media literacy. Next year’s reporting will include more quantitative data related to family and staff voice.Chair McGregor thanked Director Burra and the senior team and opened the floor for questions.</div></details><details open="true"><summary>Math Achievement Action Plan</summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true">Associate Superintendent Hedderson provided an update on year 3 of the Math Achievement Action Plan (MAAP) and its alignment with the board’s strategic priorities of engagement, well‑being, and student learning. The plan focuses on improving educator capacity, supporting administrators and school teams, and strengthening student achievement in mathematics.  He reviewed the three provincial actions guiding the plan which are: ensuring fidelity to the math curriculum and high-impact instructional practices, improving educators’ math content knowledge and knowing the math learner so that tasks, interventions, and supports are relevant and responsive.Associate Superintendent Hedderson shared the four ministry‑introduced indicators which will continue to be measured this year: (1) students progressing in achievement on report cards; (2) progress for students with curriculum modifications; (3) attendance rates of 90%+ in math classes; and (4) student‑reported confidence in math.Snapshots of math learning across the system highlighted strong collaboration, increased use of digital tools, and varied resources to support conceptual understanding. Staff emphasized that many curriculum expectations now explicitly require students to use tools, making their consistent availability essential from Kindergarten through Grade 12.Associate Superintendent Hedderson shared that the board is engaged in deeper analysis using student, educator, and administrator voice alongside newly released EQAO data to understand which strategies are driving positive results. While system‑level growth is evident, achievement remains uneven across schools. Priority schools (22 elementary, 4 secondary) show overall improvement, though variation persists, prompting continued qualitative data collection to guide adjustments.Administrators continue to report several Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) multiple times per year to assess the impact of strategies and adjust supports as needed. One ongoing indicator is daily 15‑minute math fluency instruction in K to Grade 9, which continues to correlate positively with EQAO outcomes. As of December 8, 2025, 223 students are being tracked for developmental progress in foundational fluency skills.  Associate Superintendent Hedderson noted that new KPIs will monitor students’ progress toward grade‑level expectations through short cycles of improvement. Schools are currently implementing these cycles to identify existing student knowledge, intervene earlier, and support core academic skill development.Beginning Friday, the board will launch new software to support consistent, common formative assessments across grades, starting with Grades 3, 6, and 9. This initiative aims to clarify grade‑level standards, analyze student misconceptions, and improve consistency in report card data across all schools. Staff noted this will be a multi‑year effort.  The software will allow the board to gather student responses and capture students’ visible thinking to support system‑level trend analysis and guide professional learning.Associate Superintendent Hedderson shared that the board recently engaged Early Childhood Educators in professional learning on effective early mathematics instruction. This work supports preparation for the revised Kindergarten curriculum coming in the fall. Math learning partners, MAAP facilitators, and school teams will continue supporting educators directly in classrooms. Cross‑panel groups have formed to strengthen transitions into Grade 9 and improve Grade 9 math achievement. Efforts also continue to create gap‑closing resources, which are increasingly used by teachers seeking to accelerate student progress.Associate Superintendent Hedderson concluded his report by sharing that Grade 9 teachers and department heads have engaged in collaborative analysis of the December EQAO results, including on the day before the winter break. This work is informing preparation for both the January Grade 9 EQAO administration and the transition into second semester.  Next week, Senior Staff will start leading  elementary data days with administrators and teacher teams. Using the newly released EQAO results and additional dashboard data, the teams will identify students not yet achieving at grade level and determine targeted instructional strategies to support their progress.Chair McGregor thanked Associate Superintendent Hedderson for his report and called upon Trustees for questions.</div></details><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Unfinished Business</h3>Trustees reviewed the previously passed November motion that deferred the election of the OPSBA representative to the January 14, 2026, Board meeting. Given updated information that the OPSBA governance model decisions will not be finalized until the regional meeting on March 12, Trustees discussed delaying the election further.  The following motion was put forward:MOTION MOVED BY Trustee Godkin and seconded by Trustee Hutcheon: That the Board defers the election of the OPSBA representative until we receive further information from OPSBA, which is anticipated by the April 15, 2026 Board meeting, and that the current representative remains in place until that time. Carried.<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Adjournment</h3>MOTION MOVED BY: Trustee Lloyd and seconded by Trustee Hutcheon that the meeting adjourn. Carried.The Meeting Adjourned at 8:18 p.m.

2026-01-28 14:31:24.787 +0000 UTC

January 23 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 23, 2026</h3><img src="/images/7c7a844c-11ef-492a-8603-c2b9e0119d6d?fingerprint=ppb20251217014138" 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 now had 7 snow days in the first three weeks of January! That is as many as we get some years over the entire winter season. The students seem to be enjoying all the snow in the yard, but we do hope that we will return to more regular school routines next week. Please note that next Friday, Jan. 30, is a PA Day for students so there is no school on that day. G. Seiveright, Principal<hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Upcoming Dates<img src="/images/57cd3bd2-50ea-4b06-a027-f1c15671ae48?fingerprint=ppb20251217013816" alt="calendar" width="229" height="190" style="width:229px;height:190px;display:inline-block;float:right"> </h2>Jan. 28-29 Brave Education WorkshopsJan. 30 - PA Day (No School)Feb. 12 - Movie Night (see below)Feb. 13 - Report Cards sent homeFeb. 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">School Council Movie Night</h2>Our School Council is very excited to announce a free Family Movie Night, on Thursday February 12! Please note that parents must stay with their children for this event to supervise. <img src="/images/6d73f00e-4d4d-4ece-99ba-d8638404e993?fingerprint=ppb20260122133405" alt="movie night feb 2026" width="707" height="580" style="width:707px;height:580px;display:inline-block"> <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, forecast weather for later in the day, or road conditions. 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">Possible School Time Change </h2>We are considering a change to our school day for next year. This minor change would align us with our neighbouring schools, which would help resolve some shared staffing issues. The change would mean starting 5 minutes later (9:05) and ending 5 minutes earlier (3:25). It would not change the time students are in class, but would shorten each recess by 5 minutes. This would still be within Ministry Guidelines, and would increase our supervision abilities. We also find that the last 5 minutes of recess are when the majority of conflicts happen, so we would hope this change would reduce conflicts on the yard. This proposed change would not take effect until September, and must be approved by the Board. Any feedback on this proposal can be directed to Mr. Seiveright. Lord Strathcona Daily Schedule – with proposed changes<table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Current times (2025-26)</td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"> </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Proposed changes for 2026-27</td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">8:45</td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Yard Supervision/Buses arrive</td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">8:50</td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">9:00</td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">First Block</td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">9:05</td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">10:40</td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">First Nutrition Break</td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">10:45</td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">11:00</td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">First Recess</td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">11:05</td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">11:25</td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Second Block</td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">11:25</td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">1:05</td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Second Nutrition Break</td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">1:05</td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">1:25</td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Second Recess</td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">1:25</td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">1:50</td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Third Block</td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">1:45</td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">3:30</td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Dismissal</td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 233.333px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">3:25</td></tr></tbody></table><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Black History Month</h2>February is Black History Month! Please join us Wednesday, February 4th from 4-6 pm for the 3rd Annual LDSB Black History Opening Ceremony at LCVI, 153 Van Order Drive. More info below:<img src="/images/30375ee3-4547-4b80-b485-205a2e45dc15?fingerprint=ppb20260122134743" alt="black history month 2026" width="492" height="613" style="width:492px;height:613px;display:inline-block"> <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Immunization Update</h2><img src="/images/02649cde-de6b-47db-90ca-9916c9a963ad?fingerprint=ppb20260121161418" alt="Immunization poster jan 2026 Page 1" width="457" height="586" style="width:457px;height:586px;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?fingerprint=ppb20251217013406" 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><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 upcoming Movie Night!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, March 5 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">Kindergarten Registration</h2><img src="/images/faedf7b2-c5e9-46d2-be5e-a4fa1a12892d?fingerprint=ppb20260122162325" alt="2026 01 05 Kindergarten Student Registration E Newsletter Graphic 1" width="489" height="611" style="width:489px;height:611px;display:inline-block"> <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">School Council Facebook Group<img src="/images/3a68c5ca-3aff-41de-8fb5-9da1715893d2?fingerprint=ppb20251217013540" 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><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?fingerprint=ppb20251217014110" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217014043" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217013147" 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>

2026-01-23 21:03:31.163 +0000 UTC

2026-2027 School Year Calendar Survey

The Limestone District School Board is developing the 2026-2027 school year calendar. With Labour Day falling later than usual in 2026, the creation of a balanced and consistent calendar has presented more challenges than in typical years.We continue to receive inquiries about the possibility of introducing a fall break. During the 2023–2024 school year, students, families, staff, and community members were surveyed on this topic. Due to the way the calendar year falls and contractual agreements, implementing a fall break is not something we are able to consider for the upcoming 2026-2027 school year.In collaboration with our coterminous boards—the Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic District School Board and the Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board—we have prepared four calendar options for consideration. We are seeking feedback from members of the Limestone community to help guide our final decision.<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Option 1 Overview:</h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">First Day of School: September 1, 2026</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Winter Break: December 21, 2026 to January 1, 2027</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">March Break: March 15 to 19, 2027</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Last Day of School: June 24, 2027</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">Professional Activity Days: </li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">August 31, 2026</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">September 25, 2026</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">October 26, 2026</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">November 27, 2026</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">January 29, 2027</li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem">May 31, 2027</li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem">June 25, 2027</li></ul></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/81d9c077-e59e-40f6-b97d-eab79a798524/2026-2027-School-Year-Calendar-Option-1.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260203171850" class="editor-link">Click here to view School Year Calendar – Option 1</a> (PDF)</li></ul><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Option 2 Overview:</h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">First Day of School: September 2, 2026</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Winter Break: December 21, 2026 to January 1, 2027</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">March Break: March 15 to 19, 2027 Please note, Friday, March 12 is a Board Holiday</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Last Day of School: June 28, 2027</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">Professional Activity Days:</li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">September 1, 2026</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">October 26, 2026</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">November 20, 2026</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">January 29, 2027</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">April 23, 2027</li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem">May 31, 2027</li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem">June 29, 2027</li></ul></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/6f8a7ea2-ab83-49a2-a65e-9094dccfc607/2026-2027-School-Year-Calendar-Option-2-Final.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260203171850" class="editor-link">Click here to view School Year Calendar – Option 2 </a>(PDF)</li></ul><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Option 3 Overview:</h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">First Day of School: September 8, 2026</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Winter Break: December 21, 2026 to January 1, 2027</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">March Break: March 15 to 19, 2027</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Last Day of School: June 29, 2027</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">Professional Activity Days:</li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">September 3, 2026</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">September 4, 2026</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">October 26, 2026</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">November 27, 2026</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">February 2, 2027</li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem">May 31, 2027</li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem">June 30, 2027</li></ul></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/a9b64560-2a59-483a-917d-200007782f2c/2026-2027-School-Year-Calendar-Option-3.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260203171850" class="editor-link">Click here to view School Year Calendar – Option 3</a> (PDF)</li></ul><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Option 4 Overview:</h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">First Day of School: September 8, 2026 Please note that Friday, September 4, 2026, is a Board Holiday</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Winter Break: December 21, 2026 to January 1, 2027</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">March Break: March 15 to 19, 2027</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Last Day of School: June 29, 2027</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">Professional Activity Days:</li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">September 2, 2026</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">September 3, 2026</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">October 26, 2026</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">February 2, 2027</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">April 16, 2027</li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem">May 31, 2027</li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem">June 30, 2027</li></ul></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/522f1e3e-d355-4639-9c5c-734db566fcdb/2026-2027-School-Year-Calendar-Option-4.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260203171850" class="editor-link">Click here to view School Year Calendar – Option 4</a> (PDF)</li></ul>Please take a few minutes to complete this short survey. The survey will remain open until February 9 at 12:00 p.m. (noon).Survey link: <a href="https://bit.ly/20262027SchoolYearCalendar" class="editor-link">bit.ly/20262027SchoolYearCalendar</a>If you would prefer a paper version of the survey, please contact your school and a hard copy will be provided.Your input is important to us, and we appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback.

2026-01-23 20:45:40.551 +0000 UTC

LDSB Black History Month Opening Ceremony

<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/474fd7ad-a699-440c-b07c-6f721154865c?fingerprint=ppb20260120155614" alt="LDSB Black History Month Opening Ceremony Poster" width="637" height="796" style="width:637px;height:796px;display:inline-block"> You're Invited: LDSB Black History Month Opening Ceremony</h2>When: Wednesday, February 4, 2026, 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.Where: LCVI, 153 Van Order Drive, KingstonAll students, staff, families, and community members are invited to join us for an evening of community, connection, and celebration with food, music, and dancing! Featuring: Kids Zone with "Ruthy's Reading Room," and a performance by Cassel Miles as Josiah Henson.This event is presented by the LDSB and the LCVI BIPOC affinity group. We hope to see you there!

2026-01-20 15:59:57.563 +0000 UTC

Kindergarten Student Registration Website Image

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?fingerprint=ppb20260115184001" 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

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?fingerprint=ppb20251217014138" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217013816" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217013406" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217015036" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217013540" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217013010" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217013102" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217014110" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217014043" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217013147" 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

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?fingerprint=ppb20251217013406" 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

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?fingerprint=ppb20251217014138" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217013816" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217013406" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217013244" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217013923" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217015036" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217013540" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217013010" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217013102" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217014110" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217014043" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217013147" 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

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" dir="ltr">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" dir="ltr">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" dir="ltr">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" style="width: 100%; table-layout: fixed;"><colgroup><col style="width: 60.1124%;"><col style="width: 18.7266%;"><col style="width: 21.161%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr style="height: 33px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Area of Assessment </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">LDSB  </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Province </td></tr><tr style="height: 33px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Reading </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">75% </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">74% </td></tr><tr style="height: 33px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Writing </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">65% </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">65% </td></tr><tr style="height: 33px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Mathematics </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">65% </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">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" style="width: 100%; table-layout: fixed;"><colgroup><col style="width: 60.1124%;"><col style="width: 18.7266%;"><col style="width: 21.161%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr style="height: 33px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Area of Assessment </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">LDSB  </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Province </td></tr><tr style="height: 33px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Reading </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">88% </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">86% </td></tr><tr style="height: 33px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Writing </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">87% </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">85% </td></tr><tr style="height: 33px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Mathematics </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">51% </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">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" style="width: 100%; table-layout: fixed;"><colgroup><col style="width: 60.1124%;"><col style="width: 18.7266%;"><col style="width: 21.161%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr style="height: 33px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Grade 9 Mathematics Assessment </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">LDSB  </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Province </td></tr><tr style="height: 33px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Grade 9 Math </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">55% </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">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" style="width: 100%; table-layout: fixed;"><colgroup><col style="width: 56.513%;"><col style="width: 20.0401%;"><col style="width: 23.4469%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr style="height: 33px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Grade 10 OSSLT </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">LDSB  </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Province </td></tr><tr style="height: 33px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Participation Rate </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">95% </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">94% </td></tr><tr style="height: 33px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Success Rate </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">84% </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">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

Education Minister Calandra's Letter to Parents - EQAO and Student Achievement Advisory Body

The following message by the Honourable Paul Calandra, Ontario Minister of Education, is for parents and guardians regarding EQAO results and the appointment of a Student Achievement Advisory Body.Please select the following link to read (PDF): <a href="/documents/2a916cd2-b224-4a93-a4b3-b0a57ae98e62/Letter-to-Parents-EQAO-Dec-3-2025.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013406" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">Letter to Parents and Guardians</a>

2025-12-03 16:57:22.383 +0000 UTC

Boardroom Briefs: November 2025

Boardroom Briefs is intended to provide highlights of presentations, reports and decisions made at the regular meeting of the Limestone District School Board of Trustees. The following are highlights of the November 19, 2025 Annual Board Meeting, and November 24, 2025 Nominations Committee Meeting. Agendas can be found on the website under <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/board_meetings-1719463739654" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">Board Meetings</a>.   <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Annual General Meeting - November 19, 2025</h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Land Acknowledgement </h3>All meetings begin with a Land Acknowledgement: "The Limestone District School Board is situated on the traditional territories of the Anishinaabek and Haudenosaunee. We acknowledge their enduring presence on this land, as well as the presence of Métis, Inuit, and other First Nations from across Turtle Island. We honour their cultures and celebrate their commitment to this land."<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Call to Order</h3>Director of Education Krishna Burra: "In accordance with Section 208 of The Education Act, and LDSB By-Laws Article II and IV, and under the authority invested in me as the Secretary of the Board, I welcome everyone to the Annual Meeting of the Limestone District School Board for the term ending November 19, 2026. This evening Trustees will elect a Chair and a Vice-Chair to serve as Executive for the next year. I shall be the presiding officer of this Annual Meeting, pending the election of the Chair of the Board, and therefore call this meeting to order." <h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Student Performance</h3>To open the Annual Board Meeting, Grades 7 and 8 students from the Calvin Park Public School Challenge program, led by teacher Catherine Tang, performed "Viva La Vida," by Coldplay on <img src="/images/79826ca8-da0b-4e0b-827c-eaa603baad69?fingerprint=ppb20260107212204" alt="Calvin Park PS Students Performing in LDSB Boardroom for 2026 Annual Board Meeting" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Annual Declaration of Involvement</h3>Director Burra: "Trustees of the Limestone District School Board are committed to accountability and transparency. The Trustee Code of Conduct states, 'Trustees shall declare any conflict of interest or involvement, financial or otherwise, between their personal life and/or business interests and their position on the Board.' In support of this, Trustees annually declare their ongoing involvement with agencies, boards, and committees in organizations outside of the Limestone District School Board and declare verbally at the Annual Meeting of the Board for inclusion in the minutes."<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Election of the Chair</h3>Karen McGregor was re-elected as Chair. Chair McGregor, who has been Chair since June 2025, represents LDSB schools in the Townships of Central Frontenac, Addington Highlands, and North Frontenac. “Trustees play a critical role as a bridge between the communities we serve and the Board, ensuring that families have a direct channel to raise local concerns, seek guidance and influence decisions that affect their children's education,” says Chair McGregor. “I am honoured to be re-elected as Chair for the coming year, to work with a Board of Trustees determined to make a positive difference in the lives of every student in our district.” <img src="/images/3b73f535-6db0-57a4-bb4f-a5bb6232f53e?fingerprint=ppb20251217013553" alt="Karen McGregor Portrait" width="277" height="359" style="width:277px;height:359px;display:inline-block"> Chair Karen McGregor<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Election of the Vice-Chair</h3>Tiffany Lloyd was elected as Vice-Chair. Vice-Chair Lloyd represents LDSB schools in the Town of Greater Napanee. "I’m honoured to serve as Vice-Chair, and I’m grateful for my colleagues’ confidence,” says Vice-Chair Lloyd. “I look forward to working together as we support our schools, listen to our communities, and make decisions that truly benefit the students and families we serve." <img src="/images/02ea62dd-f2f2-5bdf-8bf4-95704c83d5d1?fingerprint=ppb20251217013025" alt="Tiffany Lloyd Portrait" width="274" height="355" style="width:274px;height:355px;display:inline-block"> Vice-Chair Tiffany Lloyd<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Nominations Committee Meeting - November 24, 2025</h2>Trustees gathered on November 24, 2025 to select which committees they wish to serve on. There are seven Statutory Committees, and four Special Committees. The following Trustees will serve on each committee:<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;">Statutory Committees</h3>(a) Audit Committee (serving year 4 of 4-year term): (1) Trustee Elliott (2) Trustee Lloyd (3) Trustee Ruttan   (b) Awards Committee: (1)  Trustee Elliott (2)  Trustee McGregor (3)  Trustee Neill (4) Trustee Ruttan (Alternate)   (c) Special Education Advisory Committee (serving year 4 of 4-year term): (1) Trustee Lloyd (2) Trustee McGregor (3) Trustee Neill (Alternate)  (d) Environmental Sustainability Advisory Committee: (1) Trustee Morning (2) Trustee Scott (e) Parent Involvement Committee: (1) Trustee Godkin (2) Trustee Hutcheon (Alternate)   (f)  Indigenous Education Committee:   (1) Trustee Maracle (2) Trustee Hutcheon  (3) Trustee Neill (Alternate)  (g) Director’s Review Committee (June to June term): (1) Trustee McGregor (2) Trustee Lloyd (3) Trustee Elliott (4) Trustee Scott <h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Special Committees</h3>(a)  Supervised Alternative Learning: (1) Trustee Morning (2)  Trustee Neill (Alternate)  (b)  Expulsion Hearing Committee/Disciplinary Hearing Committee Pool The following Trustees indicated that they would like to be placed in the Expulsion Hearing Committee/Disciplinary Hearing Committee Pool: (1) Trustee Elliott(2) Trustee Hutcheon (3) Trustee McGregor (4) Trustee Ruttan (5) Trustee Scott  (c) OPSBA (Term from June to June): Selection of the OPSBA Representative has been deferred to the January 14, 2026 Board meeting. Trustee McGregor will continue in her role until that time.   (d) Food Sharing Project: (1) Trustee Neill (2) Trustee Scott (Alternate)

2025-12-01 15:58:06.915 +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?fingerprint=ppb20251217014138" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217013816" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217015218" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217013406" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217013244" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217014611" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217015036" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217013540" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217013727" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217013010" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217014110" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217014043" 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?fingerprint=ppb20251217013147" 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

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

Boardroom Briefs: January 14, 2026

January 23 2026 Family Update

2026-2027 School Year Calendar Survey

LDSB Black History Month Opening Ceremony

Kindergarten Registration is Now Open

January 9 2026 Family Update

Message from the Director - December 17, 2025

December 12 Family Update

Limestone’s EQAO Results Improve Across All Categories

Education Minister Calandra's Letter to Parents - EQAO and Student Achievement Advisory Body

Boardroom Briefs: November 2025

November 28 Family Update