My apologies for the late “Week Ahead” as we return to school but our student management system was taken off-line on Friday afternoon and not restored until this morning. I am going to try something slightly different for January and provide 2 weeks of information with each weekly email. It is important to note that additional information may be added to the second week when it is resent but I am hoping this allows a better flow of information with respect to timelines. Please feel free to let me know if you like having two weeks included in the email or if you find this confusing and would prefer a return to the weekly update.

I hope everyone had a wonderful break from the often hectic pace of school, work, and extra-curricular activities but I am sure many of you are ready for a return to the regular routines again. I know teachers have already slipped back into work mode – I visited with 8 staff members when I was at the school on Saturday! I’ve peeked at the weather forecast and it appears that we will have COLD temperatures for our first week back. Please make sure your child has appropriate clothing for outside breaks. We believe it is important for students to have a movement break in the fresh air whenever possible and this is more comfortable when they have proper outside clothing. Thank you.

There are 10 weeks of learning opportunities between now and Spring Break; including many special activities during this time. We start with the author, Sigmund Brouwer, joining us for writing workshops on Friday, January 11th. Our day with Sigmund will wrap up with an engaging assembly in the school gym and I encourage those of you who are able to clear your schedule to join us for this. Next week will be our annual Dance Residency Week with Angie Pomeroy which includes a Family Dance on Thursday, January 17 from 6-8 pm. Additionally, many classes have skating sessions planned and the Grade 4 Swim Program continues with Mr. Frankham’s and Mrs. Lee’s classes heading to the pool for the next two weeks. Our Grade 6 students will also be participating in the Spaghetti Bridge Building activity so be prepared for a few blisters from the glue guns that are used.

I am still looking for a parent/guardian to be able to assist with the Breakfast Program on Thursdays from 8:30 – 9:00 am. Please contact me at the office if you might be able to help with this program.

Miss Brekkas is busy organizing for the upcoming Basketball season. We are in need of coaches for our Grade 4 team as well as the Grade 6 boys team. If you have an interest in coaching basketball and a valid Criminal Record Check, please contact Miss Brekkas at the office. Games will be held on Tuesdays and/or Thursdays and practices can be set around your schedule. Thank you!

At the end of the month we have two Non-Instructional Days – Friday, January 25 and Monday, January 28. Students and parents will enjoy a 4-day break from school while staff works on professional development and curriculum activities.

Lastly, a reminder that School Supply Fees are now overdue. It is important for you to contact the office to make arrangements for this payment. We will be sending out another reminder later this month but I am hoping that this message reminds a few of you to stop by and clear your account. Payment needs to be cash or cheque as we do not have debit available at the office. Thank you for attending to this matter.

Ms. Wright